Building Resilience in Individuals Undergoing Potential Threat of Perceived Job Uncertainty Because of Artificial Intelligence (Ai): Development of a Psychological Model
Nitika Lal1, Priyanka Tiwari1, Taranjeet Duggal2
Background: The advancements in the field of Artificial Intelligence (AI) have taken over the world. We seem to be facing an uncertain global economy and slow revenue growth, contributing to a pervasive sense of job uncertainty and mass layoffs. This uncertainty has led to increased anxiety and aversion towards technology among many individuals., Objective: This psychological model attempts to assist individuals experiencing job uncertainty or job loss by promoting holistic development and reducing technology aversion. It further aims to foster an understanding of the crucial role mental health plays in influencing behavior and physiological symptoms., Methods: The intervention consists of a pre-and post-intervention module that would work on four levels of an individual’s functioning: cognitive, physiological, self-care, and behavioral. The structured model includes 8 sessions in total, each designed to enhance psychological resilience by focusing on diverse aspects of self-development., Results: The anticipated outcomes of this intervention are improvements in mental health, holistic development, reduced anxiety related to job uncertainty, and a more positive attitude towards technology. By addressing various dimensions of an individual's life, the model aims to build resilience and support overall well-being., Conclusion: This mental health support model offers a comprehensive approach to mitigating the negative impacts of job uncertainty. By fostering cognitive, physiological, self-care, and behavioral development, it aims to equip individuals with the tools needed to navigate economic challenges and embrace technological advancements by providing a different perspective.
"Comparative Analysis of Analgesic Efficacy Between Ketoprofen Transdermal Delivery and Oral Administration in Postoperative Pain Management Following Multiple Premolar Extractions in Orthodontic Patients: A Randomized Crossover Study"
Dr.Vinod Thangaswamy.S, Dr.Rekha.M, Dr.Vijay Thiyagarajan.J, Dr.Venkatesh Praveen. M, Dr.Roshini
Background: Orthodontic interventions frequently necessitate therapeutic extraction of premolars to achieve optimal dental occlusion. Adequate management of post-operative analgesia is crucial for patient comfort and adherence to orthodontic treatment protocols. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ketoprofen are routinely employed for analgesia following these procedures. However, a comprehensive comparison of the efficacy and safety of different ketoprofen delivery systems—oral capsules versus transdermal patches—remains limited.Objective:To systematically evaluate and compare the analgesic efficacy of oral ketoprofen capsules versus transdermal ketoprofen patches in a cohort of orthodontic patients undergoing multiple premolar extractions. Additionally, the study aims to assess patient compliance and document any adverse events associated with each therapeutic modality.Methods:This study will employ a randomized, crossover design involving orthodontic patients scheduled for therapeutic premolar extractions. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either oral ketoprofen capsules or transdermal ketoprofen patches during one treatment phase, followed by a washout period, and then crossover to the alternate treatment. Pain intensity will be quantified using validated pain assessment scales, and patient adherence will be evaluated through self-reported compliance measures. Adverse events will be systematically recorded and analysed.Results:The primary endpoint will be the comparative assessment of analgesic efficacy between the two ketoprofen delivery methods, as determined by changes in pain scores. Secondary endpoints will include rates of patient compliance and the frequency and severity of adverse effects.Statistical analysis of pain relief scores and pain intensity scores demonstrated similar trends for both oral ketoprofen capsules and transdermal ketoprofen patches. Over the three postoperative days following extraction of premolars in all four quadrants, there was a gradual increase in pain relief scores and a gradual decrease in pain intensity scores observed with both formulations. Conclusion:This investigation aims to elucidate the relative therapeutic benefits and safety profiles of oral versus transdermal ketoprofen in the context of post-operative pain management in orthodontic patients. The findings of this study suggest that both oral ketoprofen capsules and transdermal ketoprofen patches provide effective analgesia following orthodontic extractions. However, patients reported greater comfort and satisfaction with the transdermal patch due to its oncedaily application over three days,compared to the more frequent dosing regimen of oral capsules. Furthermore, the transdermal patch showed advantages in terms of better patient compliance, fewer systemicadverse effects, and reduced incidence of gastric discomfort and burning sensation.
Unveiling Human Mental States from EEG Signals: A Machine Learning Perspective
Swati Chowdhuri, Dibyendu Mal
The present study investigates the efficacy of EEG signal analysis in gauging human mental stress across distinct attention stages. The primary objective is to discern EEG-based markers and employ appropriate classification methodologies capable of delineating brainwave patterns based on their intensity or frequency, thus facilitating the identification of varying mental states crucial for enhancing human-machine interaction. The research endeavors to classify three distinct mental states—relaxation, neutrality, and concentration—utilizing an Emotiv headset equipped with four EEG sensors (TP9, AF7, AF8, and TP10). A dataset comprising sessions of one-minute duration for each attention category was compiled, encompassing data from five individuals. To refine and assess various techniques, an array of feature selection algorithms was employed initially on a pool of 2100 features. Subsequent application of diverse classifiers, including Bayesian Networks, Support Vector Machines, and Random Forests, enabled the reduction of the feature set to 44 critical factors, resulting in an overall classification accuracy of 87%.
Effect of Firm Characteristics on Environmental Disclosure of Listed Non-Financial Companies in Nigeria
Ivungu, John Ayoor Prof. Ugwoke, Robinson O. Iornenge, Terdoo Jeremiah Agor, Member Christiana Ashiko, Evelyn Iember
As a result of stakeholders increased demand for information about firms’ efforts in preserving the environment for the current generation and generations to come, companies have keyed into disclosing environmental information even though this form of disclosure is not mandatory. This paper examined the effect of firm characteristics on environmental disclosure of listed non-financial companies in Nigeria. Ex-post facto design was adopted and secondary data sourced from forty-five (45) out of a population of one hundred and eight (108) listed non-financial firms in Nigeria from 2013-2022. Firm characteristics (independent variable) was proxied using firm age, firm size, profitability, leverage and Institutional ownership while environmental disclosure (dependent variable) was measured using environmental disclosure index (EDI). Series of diagnostic tests such as skewness and kurtosis, Shapiro-Wilk test, histogram of residuals, pnorm and qnorm were used to test normality of the data while correlation matrix and VIF statistics were performed to test collinearity and multicollinearity issues amongst the independent variables. Link test was used to test for model misspecification while Hausman test was conducted to choose between fixed and random effects model to use. Following these procedures, the fixed effect model was adopted for the analysis. Result shows that firm size, firm age and profitability have a positive and significant effect on environmental disclosure of the studied companies. On the other hand, leverage has a negative and insignificant effect on environmental disclosure of sampled companies while institutional ownership has a positive but insignificant effect on the environmental disclosure of the studied companies. The study concludes that firm characteristics drives environmental disclosure of listed non-financial companies in Nigeria. The study recommended that stakeholders should demand environmental accountability from companies and enforce this accountability by punishing the companies that are not environmentally sensitive. This punishment can be in form of non-patronage as well as withdrawal of investment from and services from companies that are not environmentally accountable. When this is done, Management of listed non-financial companies in Nigeria will take environmentaldisclosure seriously so as to earn legitimacy status from stakeholders.
Effects of Tax Revenue and External Debt on Economic Growth in Nigeria
Mr. Onyiah, Ifeanyichukwu Arthur Prof. Ugwoke, Robinson O. Dr. Nwangwu Chibuike Emmanuel
This study assesses the Effects of Tax Revenue and External Debt on Economic Growth in Nigeria. The research design adopted for this study is Ex post facto research design. The study relies mainly on secondary data gathered from various issues of statistical bulletin of the Central bank of Nigeria,the budget office of the federation (BOF) and Office of the Accountant General of the federation. The data consist of annual time series from 2006 to 2022. The study adopts External Debt from World Bank Group of Creditors (WBGC) as proxy for external debt and Value Added Tax (VAT) as proxy for taxation. The data collected were analyzed using Simple and Multiple regression analysismethods of Ordinary Least Square techniquewith the aid of SPSS.Test of statistical adequacy, such as the t-statistic, F-statistic, adjusted R-square, Durbin-Watson were executed to find the relative acceptability, significance of the variables and the dependability of model estimation factors. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to test the hypothesis. The study revealed that Tax Revenue and External Debt have positive andsignificant effect on Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in Nigeria. The study concluded that there is significant effect of Value Added Tax on Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in Nigeria. Also there is significant effect of External Debt from World Bank Group of Creditors on Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in Nigeria. It was recommended that: Value Added Tax (VAT) needs an economic and constitutional reform like empowering state and local governments to engage in VAT collection, administration and usage autonomy. The Nigerian government should concentrate on inward financing of her economic growth by utilizing mostly domestic debts than External Debt from World Bank Group of Creditors.
Spatio-temporal Dynamics of Grey Mullet (Mugilcephalus) in Response to Cyclical Cues in a Tropical River
Agi-Odey, Edak1, Otogo, Godwin2, Ifon, Honor3
Predators are known to express rhythmic patterns in behavior and habitat use to optimize foraging success; these rhythms usually vary with abiotic conditions, including diel, lunar, or tidal cycles. We tagged 20 Grey mullets (Mugilcephalus) with depth and accelerometer loggers in June 2022 within a robust tidal river channel to examine the effects of these cycles on the use of space, activity (acceleration), and swimming depth, and recaptured tags in May 2023. Spatio-temporal solid variation reflected diel, tidal, and lunar cycles. Specifically, at nighttime, the used space was much higher than during the daytime, suggesting that foraging is highly nocturnal, peaking with flood tides and the Full Moon phase. The diel and tidal cycles model with 50% KUD for core space use indicated that mullet explored larger areas nocturnally than in the day. Space use was also found to increase due to flood tides. The interaction of diel and tidal cycles in the model explained more variation (45.2%) than the fixed factors (7.5%) in driving mullet activity and habitat use. The leading model explained 15.8% of the variation and contained the lunar cycle and an interaction between the tidal and diel activity cycles. The activity levels were highest in the full moon and lowest in the First Quarter and Waning Gibbous phases. And, as by proportion, the Fish ID represented a more important source of influence on activity with respect to the months, with the influence ranging from Rc = 0.9% to Rc = 2.3% for them, respectively. The most important source of influence on activity was the interaction of the diel and tidal cycles, with Rc = 8.0%. A third model was used to test swimming depth, including the top model of interacting effects of tidal and both diel and lunar cycle; the explained variance was 36.0%. At this hierarchical level, the variable Fish ID accounted for more variation in the model than the variable Months (Rc = 9.0% and Rc = 7.2% respectively). The second largest significant effect on swimming depth was the interaction of diel and tidal cycle: Rc = 29.4%. These findings highlight the complicated interplay of environmental factors on mullet behavior, and by noting that this could lead to spatiotemporal heterogeneity of predation pressure, they indicate the need to understand such dynamics. The gained knowledge would place this fish in the overall knowledge of ecology and fish behavior in changing estuarine environments and help current-day conservation and management policies.
Dignity as a Determinant of Depression and Suicidality
1Temiloluwa Arotiba, 1Bennedict Agoha,1Oluwatomilola Adewunmi, 1Olusegun Adeeko, 1Deborah Olarinde
The global prevalence of depression affecting over 300 million individuals highlights its profound impact. Characterized by energy loss, appetite and sleep changes, concentration difficulties, and feelings of worthlessness, depression correlates with rising suicide rates, particularly in countries like Nigeria ranking 13th in mortality due to suicide. This study in Ota, Ogun State, Nigeria, surveyed 315 residents using self-worth and respect as facets of dignity, alongside depression and suicidality assessments. Statistical analysis revealed dignity as a significant predictor of both depression and suicidality, indicating an inverse relationship: higher dignity associated with lower risks. Understanding dignity's role in psychological health could inform new psychotherapeutic interventions crucial for addressing these complex mental health challenges.
Biopsychosocial-Spiritual Predictors of Relapse Tendency among Substance use Disorders Patients in Selected Rehabilitation Centers in South-West, Nigeria
1Olusegun Adeeko; 1Adedayo Odukoya;1Temiloluwa Arotiba; 1Oluwatomilola Adewunmi; 2Tomiwa Ajao
Studies show that relapse or uncontrolled return to drugs among patients diagnosed with substance related disorders following competent treatment has been a severe problem. This has remained a major challenge to substance abusers and the treatment teams. The objective of this research aimed at accessing the Biopsychosocial-Spiritual Predictors of Relapse Tendency among Substance Use Disorder Patients in selected Rehabilitation Centers in South-West, Nigeria. The predictors included Body Mass Index, Gender, Impulsivity, Stigma and Religiosity. The study is a cross-sectional survey design targeting 177 inpatients receiving treatment for substance use disorder at two selected rehabilitation centers in South-West, Nigeria. Purposive sampling was adopted as it gives more freedom with selection of patients. The Study was investigated by adopting the Advanced Warning of Relapse Scale (AWARE), the barratt impulsiveness scale short-form (BIS-11 sf), the perceived stigma towards substance users scale (PSAS) and The Centrality of Religiosity Scale (CRS). Data collected was analyzed by statistical software (SPSS version 25) using linear regression to test the hypotheses. Research discovered impulsivity to be the only predictor of Relapse Tendency [R2 = .327, F(1,175) = 84.919, p<.001]. Study suggested that Impulsivity is a significant predictor of Relapse Tendency among patients with substance use disorders therefore making it risk factor to be considered during treatment. There is need for more focus to be placed on the psychological variables that could be a risk factor towards Relapse while still maintaining the Biopsychosocial-Spiritual view in treating Relapse.
Parentsasa Key Factor to Improve Adolescent Cognitive Behavioural Evolution and Trauma Prevention
1Omah Onyekachi Nehemiah &2Norsuhaily Abu Bakar
In this study, we present the viewpoint of parental engagement, conceptualised as a framework for incorporating the parental approach to child development in line with the principles of the holistic approach to pedagogy. Family as the basis for moral education and religious life, the family is a crucial integral part of our community and society in general. Parents play an important role in the upbringing of young people. In many ways, the way a child is brought up is strongly influenced by parents and members of the extended family. In the family, the first educational environment is the parental home, as the children who live there are taught and nurtured first. In education, an important goal is to ensure that children are well brought up and natured. There is no fixed form that is maintained by the physical and mental functions of the individual until the stage of achievement.The predictability of adolescentsemotional distress, cognitive behaviour in relation to well-beingsituation, personality traits and interrelated child development.A total of 390 respondents provided relevant information on the standardised questionnaires. SPSS software was used to analyse the hypotheses put forward. The analysis revealed that the adolescents who reported greater difficulties in coping with their emotion when it comes to parental relationship attributed to parental parenting practises as an adaptive approach. This was also reflected in the question of the extent to which parental care and family bonding were important for the child's development. 41% agreed that parental care is not sufficient to promote the emotional development of the adolescent. Furthermore, the results showed that emotional and traumatic problems in adolescents have more to do with a poor parenting approach than with personality traits.AlsoIn terms of the contribution to addressing social stability, employment disparity exists in youth participation in workforce to curb with Adolescent and family economic stress, this research draws attention to the significance of aggressive approach along with the improvement and deployment of policy implementation delivery service to effect the teaming growing young people for both economic value, improvement in cognitive behaviour and national development.The evolution of a nationally coherent and evidence-based theoretical account for young people's wellbeing is a laudable goal for policy makers. By recognising this population as a distinct segment with specific needs, policy makers can develop goals, strategies and recommendations that will improve the combination of physical and emotional outcomes for young people for nation development purposes.
Addressing Human Relations Management Theory:Facilitating a Paradigm Shift in Building Political Leadership in Nigeria
1Opara,Oguchialu .U,2Nwaosu, Adaugo,3Ezeji, Nkeiru .R, 4Ezenwa, Chike A
The study examined the impact of human relations management theory in facilitating a paradigm shift in building political leadership in Nigeria. The study explored on the practice of human relations management theory bypolitical leadership that ought to have a moral obligation to initiate political governance based on humanistic social order.Application of human relations management theory that is void of impartial considerations will provide just conditions for the fulfillment of human well-being. The new paradigm shift has become necessary in creating an effective human relations management theory in the political governance in Nigeria. This is an exploratory research that employed qualitative methodology which benefited from library sources.
On the Fractional Triple Aboodh Transform and its Properties
I. A. Almardy1, R. A. Farah1, M. A. Hamad2
In this work we introduce and prove the different properties and theorems of the fractional triple Aboodh transform like the linearity property, the first and the second shifting properties, the convolution theorem, the periodic function property and the operational formula. We also give an application of this new concept to solve a factional partial differential equation in three dimensions satisfying given initial and boundary value conditions.
Paediatric Neoplasms of Oral Cavity-A Explanatory Review
Dr.Dhivya. S.; Dr.Sara Trisha. P.; Dr.Jayaprakash Reddy; Dr.Karthika Shankar; Dr.AhsanaAsif; Dr.Pavithra Suresh
Paediatric neoplasms are important part in paediatric dentistry were diagnostic and treatment are challenging. Appropriate treatment planning and early diagnosis is the key feature in paediatric neoplasms. As these are rare and only constitutes 1-2% of overall adult neoplasms the dentist should have better awareness and knowledge over the clinical diagnosis aspect.Various neoplasms mainly of salivary gland tumours and some rare neoplasms of mesenchymal origin have high mortality rate. Some oral carcinomas are very early in children. This review article emphasises on various rare paediatric neoplasm arising in oral cavity.
Clinical Risk Factors Associated with Peripartum Maternal Bacteremia: A Comprehensive Review
Dr Juhi Godara, Dr Hamdah Meer, Dr Fazeela Ansari, Dr Sudheer Pratap Godara
Peripartum maternal bacteremia is a serious condition with significant consequences for maternal and neonatal health. This review aims to elucidate the clinical risk factors associated with peripartum bacteremia by integrating demographic, obstetric, medical, and molecular data. The peripartum period, encompassing late pregnancy to the early postpartum weeks, involves substantial physiological changes that increase susceptibility to infections. Key risk factors include maternal age, socioeconomic status, obstetric history, pre-existing medical conditions, and pregnancy-associated factors like preterm labor and prolonged rupture of membranes. The mode of delivery, particularly emergency cesarean sections, further influences bacteremia risk. Postpartum hemorrhage and surgical site infections also contribute to this condition. At the molecular level, the interplay between host immune responses and bacterial virulence factors such as those from Group B Streptococcus, Escherichia coli, and Staphylococcus aureus is critical. Understanding these factors is essential for developing targeted prevention, diagnosis, and treatment strategies to improve maternal and neonatal outcomes. This comprehensive synthesis provides valuable insights for clinicians and researchers, guiding future research directions and enhancing clinical practices to address this significant public health challenge.
Impact of Yoga Training on Selected Motor Abilities among Pubertal Tribal Students
Mrs. K. Sobha Dr. P. Nandhini
The intention of this investigation was to find out the impact of yoga training on selected motor abilities among pubertal tribal students. To achieve the purpose of the study, thirty girls students from Government higher secondary school, Kalpetta, Wayanad, Kerala, India were selected as subjects. Their age ranged from 12 years to 17 years. Two equal groups of 15 participants each were formed by randomly dividing the chosen subjects. Group-I underwent yoga training, Group-II acted as control group. Sit and reach test and Groningen reaction time test was used to measure the chosen dependent variable's flexibility and reaction time both before and after training. Through the use of a paired 't' test, the evaluated data from the two groups was analysed. The magnitude (%) of the changes was also computed. To abolish the early mean disparity, the two group’s data (Pre & Post) were calculated through ‘T’ test. The confidence level 0.05 was set. Due to the effect of yoga training flexibility and reaction time of girls students were notably progressed.
A Multipurpose Space Regainer- Case Report
Dr Pooja R, Dr Joyson Moses, Dr Sharanya R, Dr Swaliha Althaf
Primary teeth are essential for promoting alveolar growth and creating space for the successful eruption of permanent teeth, ensuring proper dental alignment and accommodation. The transition from primary to permanent dentition often encounters challenges such as early loss of primary teeth, premature exfoliation, arch length-tooth size discrepancies, and irregular tooth eruption sequences. These issues can lead to misalignment and other orthodontic problems, necessitating careful monitoring and early intervention. Premature space loss, especially the loss of the primary second molar, results in the loss of "E space," disrupting the alignment and eruption of permanent molars. Timely intervention is crucial to prevent malocclusion and ensure proper dental development. Space regainers are designed to recover lost space by moving teeth mesially or distally, thereby ensuring proper eruption of permanent teeth in their correct positions. These appliances are critical for maintaining dental alignment and preventing malocclusions. In suitable cases, effective space regainers can achieve molar distalization, correct arch discrepancies, and restore normal molar relationships, playing a key role in optimal dental alignment and function. This paper discusses an innovative use of an orthodontic appliance, initially employed as a space regainer and later repurposed as a space maintainer for retention purposes. A case report of a nine-year-old female patient illustrates this application. The patient, who had a history of tooth extraction, presented with mesial migration of tooth 36 into the edentulous space, causing insufficient space for the eruption of the permanent second premolar. A modified Hotz lingual arch with a U-loop was used to achieve targeted distalization while ensuring arch stability. After six months, successful distalization allowed proper eruption of the second premolar. The appliance was then used for retention for an additional three months, resulting in a total treatment time of nine months. This case highlights the importance of primary teeth in maintaining space for permanent teeth and demonstrates the effectiveness and versatility of space regainers in orthodontic treatment.
Impact of Risk Management on Project Implementation of Construction Companies in Nigeria
Salisu Saranu1; Ogedengbe, Frank Alaba2 & Ajalie, Stanley Nwannebuife3
The connection between risk management and organizational performance is fundamental to the growth of the construction industry. The essence of this study is to examine the impact of risk management practices on organizational performance of listed construction companies in Nigeria: The Julius Berger Perspective. This study made use of a quantitative survey research design. The population consists of 487 executive and non-executive staff, of which 400 was selected as sample for the study. The research adopted stratified sampling techniques due to the different categories of staff. Regression analysis was performed on the data that were collected using a five-point Likert scale structured questionnaire. Risk management practices was captured in four proxies namely, risk identification, risk assessment and analysis, risk mitigation, and risk monitoring and control. The results showed that risk identification has a positive impact on project success while risk assessment and analysis significantly influence project success by 0.322%. Risk mitigation was observed to have positive impact on project success by about 0.244% and is statistically significant at 1% level. It was further noted that risk monitoring and control has positive influence on project success and is also statistically significant at 1%. Findings from the study show that the effective management of the elements of risk management practices enhance productivity. The study recommends that organisations should give conscious and critical attention to risk monitoring and control and make frantic efforts to sustain it
From Forests to Families: Exploring the Benefits andChallenges of Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFPs)
Vincent T.Ebu1*, Regina A.Anoh1, Sijeh A. Asuk2,Beshel A.Urim3, Victor I.Moyim1,Edimorphy T.Kejuo1, John E.Odey4,Peter E.Esor3 & James A.Nandi5
Background: Global demand for Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFPs) is leading to over-exploitation, resulting in dwindling species populations, and negatively affecting biodiversity. Many NTFPs are harvested destructively, potentially leading to species extinction. Aim: This study focused on the utilization, prospects, and challenges of non-timber forest products (NTFPs) in Ogoja Local Government Area (LGA) of Cross River State (CRS), Nigeria. Method: The study involved a sample of 140 household heads in three purposively selected communities at 10% sampling intensity, chosen through systematic sampling method. Data were collected via interviews, field observations, focus group discussions, and questionnaires, and analysed using descriptive statistics. Results: Findings indicated that numerous NTFPs were utilized for food and income generation, supporting children's education, skills acquisition, and farm development in the study area. Key NTFP species in the communities included vegetables such as Gnetumafricanum, Piper guineensis, and Gongronemalatifolium, bush mango (Irvingiagabonensis), birds, fuelwood, and snails, all serving as safety nets in various ways.Prospects for the sustainable management of NTFPs appeared promising due to the adequate availability and quality of land, straightforward and affordable land acquisition, known cultivation techniques, and the overall affordability of the processes. Major challenges included a lack of awareness about establishing NTFP farms, unsustainable harvesting methods, and insufficient value addition in marketing collected NTFPs. Conclusion: Increase awareness of sustainable harvesting techniques and training programs for youths on domesticating NTFPs could motivate them to establish NTFP farms.
Exploring the Significance of Fish Nutrients in Human Health: A Review
Komal and Sharali Sharma
The present review explains the importance of fish for human nutrition and health by thoroughly examining their nutritional and biochemical makeup. This study emphasizes the distinct nutritional profile of fishes by means of a thorough evaluation of the literature and an investigation of important biochemical elements such proteins, carbohydrates, fats, minerals, amino acids and omega-3 fatty acids. The possible health advantages of fish consumption were also examined, including the prevention of cardiovascular disease, improvement of cognitive function, and anti-inflammatory qualities. Fish is a nutritionally significant food, providing essential omega-3 fatty acids, DHA and EPA, crucial for brain development, coronary protection, and immune response. Rich in vital minerals and vitamins like iron, zinc, magnesium, and Vitamins A, B12, C and D, fish supports immune function and overall health, particularly important as people age. Comprehending the complex makeup of fishes is crucial for making informed dietary recommendations, as well as for developing sustainable fishing methods and aquaculture tactics that advance environmental preservation and public health. Fish consumption helps address nutrient deficiencies, especially in populations with limited food diversity, and supports broader socio-economic and environmental goals through sustainable fisheries and aquaculture. Establishing fishing industries in rural areas further enhances regional development and well-being.
"Effectiveness of Static Cycle Training on Dynamic Balance in Hemiplegic Stroke Subjects"
Dr. Shantanu Sharma1, Dr. Hari Narayan Saini2, Dr. Anuja Choudhary3, Dr, Manoj Kumar Mathur4, Dr. Ajeet Kumar Saharan5, Dr. Amruta Sharma6
Background: To do daily tasks normally, one must possess dynamic balance, which is the capacity to carry out an action while keeping a steady posture. It may be affected in persons with stroke which have reduced limits of stability, thereby affecting their independent functioning. Static cycle training has been recently employed to improve various aspects in stroke like gait, muscular strength in the lower limbs etc. The objective is to ascertain the impact of static cycling training on improving dynamic balance in stroke subjects.Methodology:This is pre-and post-design experimental-control study.30 subjects of both genders with unilateral involvement, and having ability to A control group (N = 15) and an experimental group (N = 15) were randomly assigned to sit or stand without assistance for a minimum of one minute.The experimental group additionally underwent a daily 20-minute session of static cycle training in addition to the standard therapeutic regimen that all individuals received. Duration of treatment in both groups was 60 min/day, 5 days/week for3 weeks.The Berg Balance Scale (BBS) was used for overall balance assessment, while the Functional Reach Test (FRT) was used for dynamic balance assessment.Result:The experimental group showed considerable improvement in the within-group comparison, as did the control group. (p<0.001) with respect to Berg Balance Scale (experimental group 23.73+3.24 to 28.80+3.99, control group 22.40+2.95 to 25.67+3.37) and Functional Reach Test (experimental group 3.29+0.73 to 7.55+0.94, control group 3.40+0.70 to 5.69+0.44). But the experimental group showed more significant improvement in BBS (21.4%) and in FRT (129.5%) than the control group (BBS – 14.6%, FRT-67.4%), demonstrating better improvement of dynamic balance in experimental group.Conclusion:These findings suggest that stroke patients can improve their dynamic balance after a short duration of static cycle training. Hence, static cycle training is a promising physiotherapeutic intervention that can be applied successfully to enhance the dynamic balance in stroke patients.
Assessing the Effect of Indirect Compensation on Employees Performance in the Transmission Company of Nigeria, Abuja
Abel Ehizojie Oigbochie (Ph.D)1, Stanley Nwannebuife Ajalie (Ph.D)2, Saji George (Ph.D)3 & Princewill Okwara(Ph.D)4
The aim of this study is to examine the effect of indirect compensation on implementation mechanisms in the Transmission Company of Nigeria. The sustainability of men in every society cannot be divorced from the compensation gotten from service rendered. Regrettably however, most public organisations in Nigeria have fallen below the standard expectation of compensation, judging from the prevailing economic situation, which has seen inflation climbing up to 28.5%. As such, it is not surprising that the public space is inundated with agitations for improved compensation. This article identified leave allowance, life insurance, daily feeding and free transport facility as the bone of contention for improved compensation in the Transmission Company of Nigeria. Extracting responses from a sample of 214 respondents through a structured questionnaire, the study showed a significantly high implementation of indirect financial compensation in the Transmission Company of Nigeria. Data was analysed using regression analysis via the statistical package of social sciences (SPSS). Findings from the study showed that Leave allowance (LAW) = .78-0.63, Life insurance (LIN) = .78-0.9, Daily feeding (DF) =.78-0.24 and Free transport facility (FTF) = .78-0.14 all have a significant effect on employees performance in the Transmission Company of Nigeria.The study recommends that management should consider other forms of indirect compensation such as taking care of the personal needs of employees like child care services and domestic partner benefits to promote productivity of employees.
Technology Adoption and Employee Performance of Central Bank of Nigeria
Raymond Ebu Mofam1,Igwe Anthony Aniagbaoso1
This study aims to investigate the effect of technology adoption on employee performance of Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). A total of 10,748 staff members of CBN were selected for this study. Data were collected from a sample of 228 using stratified random sampling and snowballing techniques. The latent constructs reported good composite reliability values, which ranged from 0.794 (adaptive performance) to 0.911 (perceived technology usefulness). Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. For the test of hypotheses, the partial least squares (PLS) SEM method was used. Finding revealed that technology readiness, acceptance, usability, perceived ease of use, and perceived usefulness all significantly influence employee performance and outcomes. It was concluded that employees with high technology readiness produced higher quality work, suggesting that fostering a technology-friendly culture is beneficial. Moreover, it is important for the CBN to strategically adopt technology in their operations and create a technological-enabled environment that fosters high employee performance, engagement, and overall success.
From Scalpels to Robotics: A Systematic Review of Modern Advancements in Cholecystectomy Techniques and Clinical Implications
1Dr.Ravikiran HR, 2Dr.Ashwini NS
This systematic review and meta-analysis examine recent innovations in cholecystectomy techniques, including laparoscopic, robotic, single-incision, and NOTES approaches. We evaluate their effectiveness, safety profiles, and impact on patient outcomes to provide a comprehensive analysis of their implications in clinical practice. Our findings highlight substantial improvements in surgical outcomes such as reduced hospital stays and enhanced recovery times, underscoring the ongoing need for technological advancements in this field.
Recent Advances and Diverse Approaches in Inguinal Hernia Repair: A Comprehensive Review of Contemporary Strategies
1Dr.Ravikiran HR, 2Dr.Ashwini NS
Inguinal hernia repair is a common surgical intervention with evolving techniques aimed at optimizing outcomes and minimizing complications. This systematic review explores recent innovations in surgical approaches, mesh types, fixation methods, and their impact on postoperative complications and long-term results. The review synthesizes evidence from studies published between 2010 and 2023, identified through a systematic search of PubMed, Cochrane Library, and relevant databases. Key findings highlight advancements in both open and laparoscopic techniques, including the durability of the Lichtenstein and Shouldice methods, the emergence of minimally invasive procedures such as Totally Extraperitoneal (TEP) and TransabdominalPreperitoneal (TAPP) repair, and the introduction of robotic-assisted hernia repair. Mesh innovations, such as lightweight, absorbable, and biological meshes, are also discussed, along with comparative studies on fixation methods (glue vs. sutures) and their implications for chronic pain and recurrence rates. The systematic analysis underscores the importance of tailored approaches in inguinal hernia repair to enhance patient outcomes and refine clinical practice.
Asymmetric Volatility Structure: A Study on Indian Stock Exchange
Farhat Akhtar 1 N.S. Malik 2
The goal of this study is to investigate the persistence and asymmetric volatility structure of the Indian stock market based on the collected data from January 2002 to March 2022. The purpose of this strategychooses daily, weekly, and monthly return prices of Nifty 50 as the benchmark of the Indian equity market. Severalsymmetric and asymmetric variations of the GARCH family model were usedto evaluate thevolatility dynamics. We showed Engle and Ng Joint test “results, that serve as good justification for estimating GARCH model which allows for Asymmetric volatility. Our results demonstrate thatNifty 50 daily and weekly price series are found to respond to good and bad news asymmetrically, but not likely in monthly returns. Similarly, we observed that volatility is highly persistent in daily and weekly returns, and the effect of shocks disappearsover the period when the data set is extended. However, this stylistic fact indicates that past volatility is having a significant impact on future volatility and the emergence of unfavourable news in the market constantly impacts investors’ emotions and behaviour patterns.These results are important for policymakers, fund managers, and investors for hedging and diversifying their portfolios to understand the sentiment of the market.
Efficacy of Therapeutic Exercise Versus Muscle Energy Technique in the Rehabilitation of Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction of Knee: A Pilot Study
Danishta, Nitesh Kumar Meena, Ajeet Kumar Saharan, Mayank Kumar
The Purpose of the Article: To compare the efficacy of therapeutic exercise versus muscle energy technique in rehabilitating improved ROM, decreased pain, and improved quality of life of the Anterior Cruciate ligament reconstruction of the knee. Materials and Methods: In this study total of 12 patients with post-ACL reconstruction will be divided into two groups, one group will receive therapeutic exercise with high-frequency TENS and the other will receive muscle energy technique with high-frequency TENS. The treatment will be given for 5 weekly sessions for five weeks and a one-monthfollow-up. The assessment will be done on 1st day of treatment, the second assessment of 3rdweek of treatment, and 5th assessment at the end of treatment. Result: There was a positive correlation between Group A and Group B NPRS (r2=0.968), Goniometer (r2=0.9964) and KOOS-Pain(r2=0.8014), Symptom(r2=0.968), ADL (r2=0.9441), Sports & Recreation (r2=0.9593) and quality of life (r2=0.9576). Conclusion: This study showed that therapeutic exercise with high-frequency TENS has a better effect than the muscle energy technique with High-frequency TENS, on improving pain, ROM, and quality of life in patients after ACL reconstruction of the knee.
Productive Activity Habits of Retired Educators (A Study of College Teachers of Punjab)
Dr. Sewa Singh Bajwa Dr. Amit Sangwan
This study explores the past-time habits of retired college teachers, aiming to understand how these individuals navigate the transition from active professional careers to retirement. The study seeks to identify the most common hobbies, activities, and interests pursued by this demographic once they leave the academic sphere. The findings reveal that retired college teachers often engage in a mix of intellectually stimulating and leisurely activities that reflect their lifelong passion for learning and teaching. Our data indicates that the most frequently reported past-time habits include reading, traveling, volunteering, participating in continuing education courses, and engaging in creative pursuits such as writing, painting, and music. Additionally, many retired educators take up physical activities like walking, yoga, and meditation to maintain their health and well-being. These not only provide a sense of fulfillment and purpose but also foster social connections and community involvement, significantly contribute to their overall quality of life. The study also highlights the role of technology in facilitating these pursuits, with many retirees using digital platforms for learning, socializing, and entertainment. Volunteering emerged as a particularly meaningful activity, allowing retired teachers to apply their skills and experience in new contexts, thereby continuing their legacy of contributing to society. Traveling offers retirees opportunities for cultural enrichment and lifelong learning, broadening their perspectives and enriching their post-retirement lives. This study contributes to the broader understanding of retirement as a dynamic and evolving stage of life, offering practical implications for retirement planning and policy development focused on the well-being of retired educators.
Job Analysis and Performance of Deposit Money Banks in South-East, Nigeria
Onoh Chizoba Chuzzy1, Prof. Charity Ezenwakwelu2, Okoro Ngozi Uchenna3, Grateful Itiowe O.4
This study critically examined Job Analysis and Performance in Deposit Money Banks in South-East, Nigeria. Job analysis as a process which involves collection of information about responsibilities and duties of a given specific jobs, the required skills needed to perform the job efficiently as well as the appropriate environment appropriate to employer’s skills and capability to discharge the assigned duties effectively. Specifically, this study soughtto ascertain the effect of job specification on employee recruitment, to assess the effect of job description on employee productivity, to determine how job description affects employee job satisfaction,in Deposit Money Bank in South East, Nigeria. The target population of the study consists of 7140 senior and junior staff of the selected Deposit Money Banks in South-East, Nigeria. The sample size of 550 was determined using the Cochran statistical formula. Primary data were obtained from structured questionnaire ad secondary data were obtained from books, journals ad internet. The questionnaire was designed on five points Likert Scale format. The finding revealed that Job specification has positive effect on employee recruitment (β = 15.884, p = 0.000 < 0.05), that Job description has positive effect on employee productivity (β= 60.151, p = 0.004< 0.05), thatjob description has positive effect on employee job satisfaction. (β =81.226, p = 0.000 < 0.05),of Deposit Money Banks in South-East, Nigeria.Based on the findings, it was recommended that management of Deposit Money Banks should always analyze the jobs and persons who are to perform it, in order to sustain and maintain performance of the Deposit Money Banks in South-East, Nigeria. The management and human resource managers of the Deposit Money Banks should at all times describe and specify the jobs and the persons who will do the jobs of the organizations in order to ensure a holistic development of the Deposit Money Banks performance in South-East, Nigeria.
Negative Binomial Regression Model for Over-dispersed Fertility Count Data
1Srinu Setti*, 2B. Muniswamy, 3B. Punyavathi
Background: Researchers have long been concerned about the steady rise in the number of caesarean section deliveries in several nations, including India. Many medical professionals and the general population now choose to have caesarean section deliveries due to the growing medicalization of human health. In light of this, the proposed study looks at the main factors that influence caesarean deliveries in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh.The study's primary goal is to use Poisson regression model (PRM) and negative binomial regression model (NBRM) to estimate parameters and to identify the significant factors influencing the number of caesarean-section deliveries amidst women in Andhra Pradesh, India, who are between ages of 15 and 49. Methods:The analysis makes use of the fertility count data set, real-world input of 2019–2021 Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS) phase VII input, National Family Health Survey (NFHS–5) input. The Generalized Linear Models (GLM) used in this study to fit the number of caesarean-section deliveries model in PRM and NBRM. The R package Modern Applied Statistics with S (MASS) is used for the analysis. Results: The parameters are estimated using both PRM and NBRM; that are Intercept (-1.0742; -1.0776 ), “Breech Presentation” (“Yes and Don’t know”) (-0.3199 and 0.5194; -0.3227 and 0.5149), “Currently has heart disease” (“Yes”) (-0.8527; -0.8644), “High blood pressure” (“Yes and Don’t know”) (0.0305 and 0.0263; 0.0328 and 0.0230), “Prolonged labour” (“Yes and Don’t know”) (-0.0699 and -0.7673; -0.0684 and -0.7589), “Child is twin” (“1st multiple, 2nd multiple, 3rd multiple”) (0.2146,0.1041, -11.4900; 0.2182, 0.0997, -18.4904), “Age” (0.0222; 0.0223), “Educational level” (“Primary, Secondary,Higher”) (0.1070, 0.4918, 0.7000; 0.1039, 0.4910, 0.7003) of PRM and NBRM respectively. According to the outcomes of applying the Akaike Information Criterion (AIC) and Bayesian Information Criterion (BIC), the AIC (7052.4) and BIC (7147.556); AIC (7062.1) and BIC (7151.32) are of NBRM and PRM, respectively. At the 0.1 level of significance, the variable "Currently has heart disease" (Yes) is significant. At the 0.001 level of significance, the variables "Age," "Educational level" (“Secondary and Higher”), "Prolonged labour" ("don't know"), and "Breech Presentation" (“Yes and don't know") are significant. Conclusion: The parameters impacting the number of caesarean section deliveries include "Currently has heart disease" (“Yes”), "Breech presentation" (“Yes and don't know"), "Prolonged labour" (“Don’t know”), "Age," and "Educational level" (Secondary and Higher) in the model fitted using PRM and NBRM. The health of women (those in the age range of 15 to 49) must be a priority for the governmental authorities that make policies for women's welfare. The NBRM exhibits a relatively better match with “NCSD” than the PRM. It is advised to compare PRM with various models that predict over-dispersion in count data in order to do additional study.
Assessing the Effectiveness of Ai-Powered Apps on Health Information Dissemination among Academic Staff of Prince Abubakar Audu University, Anyigba
1James Dada Mohammed, 1Victoria Anum (PhD), 1Kenneth Udeh (PhD), 1Comfort Ajuma Ogwo (PhD), 1Fidelis Otebe (PhD), 1Damian Amana
This study assessed the effectiveness of AI-Powered Apps on health information dissemination among academic staff of Prince AbubakarAudu University, Anyigba. AI-Powered Health Apps represents a prominent example of AI-powered technology in the healthcare domain, offering personalized health advice and information to users. This study aims to explore how these apps impact the delivery of health information among the respondents. Technology Determinism theory served as the theoretical framework. The study adopted quantitative survey design to gather data from 200 out of 364 members of academic staff of Prince AbubakarAudu University, Anyigba using purposive and convenient sampling techniques. The researchers analyzed data regarding the level of awareness, adoption, and the effectiveness of AI-Powered Apps for health information. Findings of the study revealed a growing awareness of AI-powered health information apps. However, the ability to name specific apps was lower, highlighting the need for increased education and outreach about available resources. The study revealed a moderate adoption of AI health information apps among the respondents. There was a positive perception of the apps’ accuracy, knowledge acquisition benefits, and user-friendliness. The study recommended that Prince AbubakarAudu University should organize workshops or seminars to educate academic staff about the potential of AI-powered health information apps.
Bacterial Pathogens of Farmed Catfish (Clariasgariepinus) in some Fish Farms in Calabar Metropolis, Nigeria
1Inyang-Etoh, A. P?.,1Eteng, S.U.,2Inyang-Etoh, P. C., and 1Ekanem, A. P.
Catfish production is a good source of income in Nigeria but bacterial fish pathogen can make the business a very challenging one. The present studywas to isolate, screen, identify and also determine the antibiotic susceptibility test of isolated bacterial pathogen of farmed catfish (Clariasgarriepinus) in some fish farms in Calabar Metropolis. A total of 20 farms comprising of 10 farms in Calabar Municipality and 10 farms in Calabar South Local Government areas were investigated betweenMarch 2017 to February 2018. A two-stage sampling procedure was adopted for the study. The first stage was the selection of the 10 fish farms by simple random sampling technique in each of the Local Government Areas in Calabar Metropolis. The second was the random sampling of 24 fishes (2 fishes per month) from each farm in each of the two Local Government Areas. Sampled fishes weighing 100-250gramswere collected and taken to the Fish Pathology Laboratory in the Faculty of Oceanographyfor analysis. The samples were sacrificed by cardiac puncture, tissues from skin, gills, gall bladder, stomach, kidney and liver were excised under aseptic conditions, inoculated in Brain Heart Infusion (BHI) broth and incubated at 37oC for 24hrs. They were subsequently sub-cultured onto MacConkey and Blood agars, and incubated at 37oC for 24 hrs. Bacterial colonies that grew on the media were picked and molecular identification of the suspected isolates was done using Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) analysis. Antibiotic susceptibility testing on the bacteria isolates was done using 6 broad spectrum antibiotics. A total of 28 (5.83%) fishes had bacterial infection comprising of 17(7.08%) for Calabar Municipality and 11 (4.58%) for Calabar South LGA. There was no significant difference in the prevalence of bacterial fish pathogen between the rainy and dry season in Calabar Municipality (P≥0.005) and Calabar South (P≥0.005)respectively. Most of the bacterial isolates were 100% sensitive to Levofloxacin, Ceftazidime, Ceftriazone, Cipioflocacin and Gentamicin. This study has shown that Pseudomonasaeroginosa, Alcaligenes faecalis,Aeromonas veronii, Pseudomonas sp, Aeromonas jandaei, Aeromonas sp, Comamonassp, Alcaligenes sp, Peudomonasxiamenensis and Comamonas testosterone are common fish pathogens in fish farms in Calabar metropolis and were most sensitive to Ceftazidime(CAZ),Ceftriaxone (CRO), Ciprofloxacin (CIP) and Gentamicin (CN). It is recommended that fish farmers should do routine random screening of their fish ponds to guard against outbreak of bacterial fish diseases.
Working with Families for Improved Functional Outcomes in Teenager Group with Developmental Delays
Aarti Nair1, Dr Ajeet Saharan1 (Ph.D Scholar), Dr Shantanu Sharma1, Dr Anuja Chaudhary1, Dr Manoj Mathur1, Diya Nair2
This study reviews the importance of working with families for improved functional outcomes in teenager group with developmental delays. Collaboration with families of children with developmental delays, by providing information about prognosis and long term improvements, encouragement and optimism effects functional outcomes for their wards. Employment and independence for their child is the ultimate goal for every parent. By using a systematic format of periodic assessment and focusing on individuals strengths and job matching, it is possible to achieve this ultimate goal. Addressing the challenges faced and making it the main focus for improved functional outcomes is the step towards long term goal of successful inclusion. Data on persons with disabilities are hard to come by in almost every country. Specific data on their functional outcomes are even harder to find. Yet persons with disabilities face the same predicament everywhere. The data for this study is culled from assessments and from reports, provide an anecdotal picture of the current situation. While teenagers with disabilities can make valuable contributions in community work places, they typically experience challenges in low rates of paid employments on being included in same social and ability parameters. Objective: A retrospective study to examine the importance of working with families can lead to improved long-term outcomes for teenagers with developmental delays. The study is aimed to examine challenges faced by teenagersso as to improve their functional outcomes by collaborating with families. Design: A qualitative research design utilizing observations and in-depth interviews and evaluations was conducted with teenagers in the age group of 13-19 years, using the Functional Assessment Checklist for Programming (FACP) tool. Conclusion: This study represents a concerted effort to better meet the needs of youth with disabilities as they transition towards employment and successful inclusion. Teenagers with disabilities can contribute, they need understanding, support, opportunities not charity or misplaced sense of compassion.
The Factors Affecting the Skyrocketing Cost of Living in Ethiopia and Policy Implications: The Case of Addis Ababa City Administration
Workenh Eshatuu Sime
The cost of living in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia has been rising rapidly, causing significant hardship for residents. This study examined the impacts, driving factors, and policy responses to this crisis. The research used a mixed-methods approach, including cross-sectional surveys of a diverse sample of 365 Addis Ababa residents, public servants, and government employees. The data analysis found that rising living costs did not significantly impact lower and middle-income groups, likely due to their existing financial constraints and lower living standards. Furthermore, higher-income groups were not as affected, likely due to factors like financial stability and flexible spending. Notably, the study found that the younger age group and those with lower education levels experienced greater burdens from the rising cost of living. These disparate impacts across age and education groups highlight the need for policymakers to develop more equitable solutions. To address these challenges, the study recommends that the Addis Ababa city administration implement two key interventions: 1) a financial literacy and planning program to empower residents across income levels with budgeting and savings skills, and 2) specialized job creation initiatives to provide stable employment and financial independence amidst high living costs. These complementary efforts to build individual capabilities and expand economic opportunities have the potential to deliver more equitable and sustainable solutions for Addis Ababa residents facing the sckyrocketing cost of living crisis.
Leveraging You Tube as a learning tool for Periodontal Procedures
1Dr. Priyanka Pampani 1Dr. Indhu Krishnamoorthy 1Dr. Harini Jeyakumar 1Dr.Selvakumar J 1Dr. Farzana Syed Sadiq 1Dr. D. Kalaiselvan
Background:Periodontics, a crucial branch of dentistry, demands a profound understanding to master the treatment of conditions affecting oral tissues. The digital era has transformed learning, with YouTube emerging as a pivotal platform for educational resources. However, concerns persist regarding the source and reliability of dental educational content on YouTube. This study explores YouTube efficacy in enhancing periodontal procedure learning among dental students. Materials and methods: A survey was conducted among dental undergraduates to assess YouTube utilization for periodontology learning. Questions gauged YouTube usage patterns, its impact on knowledge retention and examination scores, faculty recommendations. Results: Out of 250 respondents, a significant majority (99.2%) used YouTube, with 89.2% leveraging it for periodontal learning. Females (67.6%) and third year students (38.4%) exhibited higher utilization rates. YouTube positively impacted familiarity with instruments, diagnostic understanding, and nonsurgical procedures. Notably, 73.2% of participants relied on faculty recommendations to use YouTube. Discussion: Comparisons with prior studies underscored dental students’ reliance on YouTube for clinical learning, aligning with broader trends in health education. Visual aids on YouTube aided comprehension of abstract concepts and diversified clinical approaches. Faculty endorsement significantly influenced students’ adoption of YouTube for educational purposes. Conclusion: The study reveals You Tube’s widespread use among dental students for periodontal education. It emphasizes the platform’s potential to supplement traditional teaching methods, especially in visualizing complex concepts. Recommendations include integrating YouTube – based learning strategies into dental curricula to enhance comprehension and clinical preparedness. However, caution is warranted in assessing content quality and ensuring guidance from experienced mentors.
"Effect of Perioral Stimulation on Feeding Performance and Weight of the Preterm Infant in Neonatal Intensive Care Unit"
1Ms. Sonali Kumari, 2Dr. Ajeet Kumar Saharan, 3Dr. Shantanu Sharma, 4Dr. Anuja Choudhary, 5Dr. Dharmita Yogeshwar, 6Dr. Drishti Sheokand
Background: Preterm Birth: WHO defined “any birth that occurs before 37 full weeks of gestation, or <259 days after the start of last menstrual cycle”. In the NICU, neonatal physiotherapists assist the newborn's posture and movements appropriate for their gestational age, as well as the functional and structural integrity of their body parts and systems, as defined by the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF).Objective:To determine the effectiveness of peri-oral stimulation on improving feeding qualityt and weight of preterm in NICU. Methods:It wasexperimental design study, prospective with random allocation of subjects. Infants were recruited from premature unit under department of neonatology at NIMS hospital in Jaipur, Rajasthan. All preterm Infants of less than 37weeks of gestation criteria were taken for the study. The infants were exclusively fed by either an orogastric or nasogastric tube, and were also getting oxygen through a high-flow nasal cannula owing to their premature birth. The mother's breast milk was employed as the feeding source. Pre-intervention assessment was taken on the first day before the intervention and post-assessment was taken after the 20th session of the intervention using outcome measures like,the evaluation of feeding performance included measuring the total amount of milk consumed per kilogram of body weight (ml/kg/feed) and the speed at which milk was transferred (ml/min)and weight was assessed by electronic weighing scale. Result and Discussion: The efficacy of perioral stimulation with conventional physiotherapy shown in table 8 (Group A) was compared to conventional physiotherapy alone (Group B) using paired t-tests. In Group A, the pre-intervention volume of feed was measured at 30 ± 7.984 and increased significantly to 32.88 ± 8.21, post-intervention (t = -15.213, p < 0.00001). Similarly, weight gain improved from 1.878 ± 0.335 to 2.239 ± 0.346 (t = -11.451, p < 0.00001). All changes observed in Group A were deemed statistically significant. In Group B, although there was an increase in the volume of feed from 29.71 ± 6.101 to 30.529 ± 6.06 (t = -6.424, p < 0.00001), the effect size was smaller compared to Group A. Weight gain also showed a smaller improvement from 1.957 ± 0.381 to 1.969 ± 0.39 (t = -2.308, p= 0.03471). This suggests that, while both interventions yielded positive outcomes, the addition of perioral stimulation to conventional physiotherapy significantly enhanced the results in terms of both feed volume and weight gain. Conclusion: Perioral stimulation has a substantial impact on the weight and feeding performance of preterm neonates in the NICU.
Evaluating the Correlation between Blood and Salivary Glucose Tolerance Test Levels in Young Adults: A Comparative In-vitro Study
1Devi.M 2Mathevi Mavetha.M.U 3Shamala Ravikumar.S 4Janani.I
Objectives: This study aims to estimate and compare the levels of serum and salivary glucose tolerance test (GTT) among young adults. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted in the Department of Oral Pathology and Microbiology after obtaining approval from the institutional ethical committee. A total of 40 samples were studied, comprising two groups: 20 males and 20 females. Age and gender-matched healthy individuals were included. Serum and un-stimulated salivary GTT levels were analyzed using the glucose oxidase-peroxidase (GOD-POD) enzymatic method. Samples were collected during fasting and at 1-hour intervals for 2 hours. The samples were subjected to centrifugation at 10,000 rpm, and the supernatant was separated and used for analysis. The final values were spectrophotometrically analyzed at 540 nm. Results: Data obtained were entered into an Excel sheet and subjected to statistical analysis using the one-way ANOVA test. A highly significant P-value (P < 0.05) was observed in females compared to males. A distinct difference was observed between blood and salivary glucose levels. Conclusion: This study attempted to compare salivary and serum glucose levels in young adults, revealing that salivary glucose levels can potentially serve as a diagnostic aid in analyzing glucose levels.
An Analytical Study of Imtiaz Ali's film 'Chamkila'
Dr. Sewa Singh Bajwa* Mr. Ajay Singh**
Biopic are significant in film making because they educate, inspire, and humanize historical figures, celebrating diversity and preserving legacies while showcasing talent and reflecting cultural contexts. These films play a crucial role in immortalizing the stories of influential individuals, making history more relatable and ensuring their impact is remembered for generations to come. Biopic endeavor to recreate different moods of the times it represents. Amar Singh Chamkila has long been forgotten in Punjab though his music continues to enthrall the audience. This research Paper is a sincere effort to discuss in detail the cinematic and thematic treatment of Imtiaz Ali directed film “Chamkila”. It is a biopic based on the life and deeds of slain Punjabi folk singer Amar Singh Chamkila who was assassinated by anonymous elements when he was at the peak of his singing career. Imtiaz Ali and A.R. Rehman have combined to make a film on mostly forgotton legendry Punjabi Singer Amar Singh Chamkila.
Sustainable Green Economy and Pro-poor Growth in Nigeria
1Dr Sigah, Donny Marclary Ayibazuomuno & 2Dr Peter Adamu
This study focuses on the link between a sustainable green economy and pro-poor growth in Nigeria. This followed the growing awareness of the role of a green economy in sustainable development. Thus, the effects of renewable energy use, forest area and electricity access on poverty headcount were examined in this study. The datasets were obtained from the World Bank and National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) and analysed using descriptive statistics, pre-estimation tests and the autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) model. The findings from the unit root test showed that the variables are mixed-integrated with the I(0) and I(1) series. Long-run relationship also exists among the variables from the bounds cointegration test result. The ARDL results showed renewable energy use affected poverty headcount poverty in the long run. This finding could be attributed to the poor level of transition to renewable energy sources to bolster poverty reduction in Nigeria. Similarly, the results showed that forest areas and electricity access contributed positively to poverty headcount in both the short and long run. This finding could be attributed to the inconsistent and unstable power as well as the increase in underserved areas which have worsened the problem of energy poverty with a negative implication on the poverty reduction efforts. This is not surprising following the prevalence of deforestation and energy poverty that has continued to undermine the goal of pro-poor growth in Nigeria. Owing to the findings, this study concludes that the benefit of a sustainable green economy in the form of poverty reduction is yet to be achieved in Nigeria. Therefore, it is recommended that policymakers prioritise investments in clean and sustainable energy to enhance renewable energy use and create opportunities for pro-poor growth.
The Impact of Maitland and Mulligan Mobilizations on Individuals Suffering from Chronic Low Back Dysfunction
1Dr. Hari Narayan Saini, 2Dr. Shantanu Sharma, 3Dr. Manoj Kumar Mathur, 4Dr. Anuja Choudhary, 5Dr. Ajeet Kumar Saharan, 6Dr. Manisha Saharan
Background and Objectives: One of the most prevalent complaints among people in their working years is chronic low back dysfunction (CLBD). A wide range of causes contribute to CLBD, many of which have unclear etiologies. When it comes to treating CLBD, both Maitland and Mulligan procedures are regarded as effective manual therapy methods. However, it's unknown how effective the two approaches vary from one another. The goal of this research was to assess the effects of Maitland and Mulligan treatments on patients with CLBD's range of motion and dysfunction level. Methods:For this study, thirty patients were randomly assigned to one of two groups (group A and group B). Those who are around the ages of thirty and fifty. There were 15 patients in Group A, having a mean age of 40.0 (±4.81) years (8 men and 7 women). The patients in this group underwent standard physical therapy along with Mulligan method. The 15 patients in Group B had a mean age of 42.93 (±6.68) years, with 5 males and 10 women. They were treated with a normal physical therapy program and the Maitland approach. Outcome assessment:Measures of outcome include the modified Shober test for ROM and the visual analogue scale(VAS) used for assessing pain level. Results:The result indicated that there was no-significant variance in range of motion, pain or dysfunction between the Maitland and Mulligan methods. Conclusion:Terms of pain relief and increased range of motion in those with CLBD, between the Mulligan and Maitland approaches, there was no statistically significant difference.
Evaluation of the Biocidal Effect of the Seed Extracts of Xylopiaaethiopica (Negro Pepper) and Piperguineensis (Uziza Seed) Against Sitophilusoryzae (Rice Weevil)
Ukaoma A.A1 (Ph.D)*., Iwu I.C2(Ph.D)., Nnodim, N.N1(Ph.D)., Ajuruchi V.C1(Ph.D)., & Nnadozie, R. I1(Ph.D)
Sitophilus oryzae is a major insect pest that threatens stored grains like rice, leading to significant economic losses. This study investigated the insecticidal potential of seed powders from Xylopiaaethiopica and Piper guineenseagainst adult S. oryzae. Qualitative and quantitative phytochemical analysis was done using standard methods. Seed powders of the plants at different concentrations (10-100 gm/kg) with 0 gm/kg concentration as control were applied in this study. Insect mortality was determined at various time intervals (24 hrs, 48 hrs, 72 hrs, 96 hrs and 120 hrs). Phytochemical evaluation revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, terpenoids, cardiac glycosides, steroids, saponins, and tannins in varying concentrations. Quantitative phytochemical analysis revealed P. guineense exhibited significantly higher (p<0.05) concentrations of alkaloids (3.14±0.67%), flavonoids (3.21±0.46%), terpenoids (5.68±0.81%), cardiac glycosides (5.91±0.32%), and steroids (4.46±0.81%) compared to X. aethiopica. The insecticidal efficacy was evaluated by exposing S. oryzae adults to varying concentrations (0-100 g/kg) of the seed powders over 120 hours. X. aethiopica induced dose-dependent and time-dependent mortality, with the highest concentration (100 g/kg) causing 16.28 mean dead insects at 120 hours. P. guineense demonstrated significantly superior (p<0.05) insecticidal activity, achieving 20.00 mean dead insects at 100 g/kg after 120 hours. The combined use of both seed powders exhibited a synergistic effect, with P. guineense contributing more substantially to mortality. Statistical analysis showed a significant difference (p<0.05) in the number of insect deaths at the various tested concentrations and time intervals.Statistically, P. guineensis demonstrates a significantly higher contribution to mortality compared to Xylopiaaethiopica. These findings highlight the promising potential of X. aethiopica and P. guineense seed powders as eco-friendly alternatives for controlling S. oryzae infestations in stored grains, aligning with sustainable agriculture and integrated pest management practices.
Green Human Resources Practices and Green Work Engagement of Manufacturing Firms in South-East Nigeria
Chukwu Benjamin Ibe1, Oghenerhiakporohwo Deman Moroh1
This study aims to examine the effect of green HRM practices on green work engagement (GWE) of manufacturing firms in South East Nigeria. This study adopted a descriptive survey design to enable the researchers to establish the relationship between variables. The quantitative analysis of the study was conducted using descriptive and inferential statistics. Findings showed that green recruitment practices have a significant positive effect on employee commitment in manufacturing firms across Southeast Nigeria. Green training practices play an important role in affecting employee emotional involvement, emphasizing the crucial integration of sustainability principles into HR and training strategies. The research findings also highlight the potential for green reward practices to drive positive behavioral changes among employees. The study highlights the transformative potential of incorporating sustainability into HR practices, enabling firms to not only attract and retain environmentally conscious talent but also drive positive change towards a more sustainable future.
How Foreign Influence Undermines Nigeria's Elections: Evaluating Aspects of the 2015- 2023 Presidential Polls
Chike A. Ezenwa , Archana S. Njoku & Udensi A. Vitalis
Elections into public offices in Nigeria since the first republic and regrettably to date have been characterized by disquieting malpractices and violence. Available evidence indicates that during elections, political parties always strive to win at all cost even to the point of breaching official rules of engagement. In the bid to capture power, no amount of intrigue is spared between and among competing parties. As a result, politicians in Nigeria usually appeal to ethnic, religious and other primordial sentiments including resort to violence to manipulate the outcome of elections. These internal pitfalls ordinarily appear to define Nigeria’s electoral process over the years. However this research is probing the apparent covert role of foreign influence on Nigeria’s elections which indeed tend to pose more damaging impact than the internal disruptive activities of political parties. This streak of foreign influence could manifest as overt or covert interventions, bilateral and multilateral aid packages, technical assistance, veiled threats and open sanctions against the targeted country. This paper therefore addresses and interrogates the overarching and yet barely recognized level of influence exerted by foreign elements on elections in Nigeria by evaluating the effects of foreign influence on the 2015, 2019 and 2023 presidential polls. The qualitative research method was engaged and data were mainly collected from secondary sources in the forms of written documents, high profile texts, declassified intelligence reports and the internet.
An Investigation on TPACK Level of Public Course Teachers in China - A Case Study of College Teachersin China
Yuanyuan Yang1*, Wan Nurul Elia Haslee Sharil2, Kaarthiyainy Supramaniam3 & Muhamad Nur Fariduddin Abdul Aziz4
This paper investigates the development of Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge (TPACK) among college public course teachers in Hebei Province, China. Through a questionnaire, the researcher investigated whether there are significant differences in TPACK levels based on teachers' educational backgrounds and the subjects they teach. The findings suggest that there is no significant difference in TPACK levels among public course teachers in college. However, the average TPACK values follow this order: Pedagogical Knowledge (PK) (5.19) > Pedagogical Content Knowledge (PCK) (5.08) > Content Knowledge (CK) (5.04) > Technological Knowledge (TK) (4.81) > Technological Pedagogical Knowledge (TPK) (4.80) > TPACK (4.67) > Technological Content Knowledge (TCK) (4.54). In conclusion, public course teachers demonstrate a strong understanding of subject matter and teaching methodology but show a deficiency in technical knowledge. Therefore, in teacher training program, we should still focus on enhancing teachers' ability to apply technical knowledge.
Critical Discourse Analysis of Pronominal in Political Discourse: An Examination of Inaugural Speech of Nigerian President, Ahmed Bola Tinubu
Patricia Nneka Ogbuehi
This study examines the use of pronouns in political discourse. In political speeches, politicians often employ personal pronouns to strategically categorize the discourse participants as either in-group or out-group, legitimizing self and delegitimizing others. The study framework is hitched on critical discourse analysis of legitimization of self and delegitimization of others as proposed by Chilton (2004, p. 47). The inaugural speech of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu constituted the data for the study. Quantitative and qualitative research approaches were utilized to analyses the data collected for the study. The findings revealed that the singular pronouns: I, me,andmy were deployed by the President to foster his positive self-image of tolerance, humility, respect, patriotism, and dominance. The plural person pronouns such as we, our, and us, were deployed to advance his administration’s positive image of inclusiveness, collective purpose, effort, and responsibility. While the plural pronouns such as they, them, and their were used to downplay the positive image of his opponents, negatively categorizing them as intolerant, combatant, unpatriotic, and selfish. The study therefore concludes that the president effectively used the pronouns in his inaugural speech to legitimize self -image of himself and to delegitimize his opponents’ self- other representation. The study recommends for further work out on the use of pronouns in political speeches in a comparative study across cultural context in order to give another perspective on how pronouns are deployed in the construction and maintenance of political identity and power dynamics.
Group Synergy and Employee Performance of Small and Medium Enterprises in Kogi State- Nigeria
Yusufu Ojochenemi Sunday, Caroline Aturu-Aghedo, Otajele Abune Abel, Akuh Joy Iyeh
When people collaborate, their combined efforts frequently produce better results than the sum of their individual contributions. This study looked into the connection between group synergy and employee performance of small and medium enterprises in kogi state. The population of the study consists of [938740] registered small and medium enterprises, making up the entire population. The sample size of four hundred (400) was obtained by applying the Slovins sampling procedure. The study used survey research design. Four hundred (400) copies of questionnaires were distributed, while three hundred and fifty two (352) copies of questionnaire were correctly completed and returned.The model was estimated using multiple regression analysis, which was also used to test the null hypothesis. Based on the findings, small and medium enterprises employee performance is significantly (.000) impacted by team trust. It was also discovered that employee performance in small and medium enterprises is significantly (.000) impacted by team spirit. The study came to the conclusion that employee performance in small and medium enterprises is significantly impacted by group synergy. The research suggested that small and medium enterprises should actively fosters a culture of trust among group members through transparent communication, reliability, and effective conflict resolution strategies will contribute significantly to enhancing employee performance. It was also recommended thatbuilding on the positive influence of team spirit, Small and medium enterprises should cultivate a positive team culture.
The Impact of Politics on Nigeria's Development: A Critical Review From 2015-2024
Chike A. Ezenwa
In contemporary Nigeria, politics has become both a career and indeed an industry that is not predicated on production. It is regarded as a highly lucrative occupation, not necessarily as a call for service to the nation, but as an opportunity for expropriation of the common wealth through primitive accumulation of capital. The struggle to get into politics in Nigeria is almost akin to warfare. Contestants and competitors engage in all manner of intrigues including violence, appeals to ethnic and religious sentiments and outrageous manipulation of elections to attain political positions. They control and manipulate the state coercive instruments of power for their personal and class aggrandizement. These politicians include Presidents, Governors of states, Members of the National and State Assemblies, Local Government Chairmen, Political Parties’ Chieftains, top government functionaries and the ever increasing multitude of political appointees. The cost of governance balloons to unconscionable heights as the government of the day borrows endlessly with devastating strings from external bodies to balance the National budgets. It is against this backdrop that this study is primed to interrogate the debilitating impact politics has on Nigeria’s development within the period under study. Extant literature maintains that the country’s development has been retarded over the years as a result of colonialism, neocolonialism and failure of leadership. These factors are merely symptoms of a deeper and all embracing root cause. This study posits that the nature and character of Nigerian brand of politics has adversely affected Nigeria’s development trajectory. This apparent contradiction has given rise to high double digit inflation, massive devaluation of currency, poverty, insecurity and a spiral of underdevelopment. To facilitate this study, the qualitative research method is adopted since we are dealing with human behavior patterns and manifestations.
Deconstructing EITI/2020 NEITI Report: Validating Local Government as Better Galvanizer of ''Community Participation" than Civil Society/NGOs in Nigerian Oil/Gas Sector (Advocacy Treatise)
Ikemefuna Taire Paul Okudolo
The thesis-of-thesis of this advocacy treatise is that the Extractive Transparency Initiative (EITI) formal recognition of civil society as demonstrative of “community participation” in the oil/gas business is somewhat impracticable in the Nigerian context. Inferentially, EITI Standards grasp civil society/non-governmental organizations (NGOs) as expressive of community participation vis-à-vis economic democratization. Whereas, from deductive reasoning from the Nigerian Extractive Industry Transparency Initiative (NEITI) context, local government is more suited to galvanize community participation in oil/gas commerce and not civil society/NGOs. Construing data from the NEITI 2020 Oil and Gas Report, this treatise decrypts local government(s) as an independent statutory structure for expediting oil/gas rents and proceeds. Nothing of civil society/NGO is said in the Report. The 2020 NEITI Report somewhat treats civil society/NGOs as dependent non-statutory appendages subjected to federal bureaus’ accommodation, thereby conflicting with the EITI's notion of community participation. The practice whereby civil society/NGO engagements in Nigerian oil/gas business are not directed by local governments who by proximity best superintend oil-producing communities’ vagaries cum tenets of public/citizen participation will continually produce contradictory outcomes to community participation.
Virality Distribution Strategy and Customer Retention of Small and Medium Enterprises in North-Central Nigeria
Ahungwa, Philip Aondona1, Ogbo, Anastasia Ifechukwudebelu2, Chinda, Collins Chimkamma3, Ajoh, Theresa Nguvan4 Ugbam, Ogechukwu Charles5, Adibe, Timothy Nnaemeka6
This research aims to determine the effect of virality distribution strategy on customer retention among small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in North-Central Nigeria. Social media platforms such as Facebook, WhatsApp, YouTube, Instagram, and Snapchat were considered indices of virality distribution strategies, while customer commitment and satisfaction were used as indicators of customer retention. The study employed a descriptive survey design, targeting 13,378 SME owners. Using Bill Goden's formula for sample size determination, 411 respondents were selected. Data was collected using a five-point Likert scale closed-ended questionnaire. Multiple regression analysis was conducted to test the hypotheses using SPSS Amos version 25. This study has shown that social media platforms like Facebook and WhatsApp significantly enhance customer commitment and satisfaction. The results indicate that these platforms are vital in improving business and customer relationships by offering interaction, engagement, and communication channels. By utilising these platforms' distinctive features and broad reach, businesses can build stronger emotional connections with their customers, increasing commitment and satisfaction. Given the findings, it is recommended that small and medium enterprises actively pull social media platforms such as Facebook and WhatsApp to enhance their relationship with customers. By fully exploiting these platforms' exceptional features and widespread reach, businesses can create more chances for interfacing, commitment, and contact. This approach will help build stronger emotional connections with customers, increasing allegiance and satisfaction.
Recreational Facilities and Health Promotion in Southwest Nigeria: The Role of Nonmedical Intervention
1Chinonso Chiamaka Iwuagwu, 2Ngozi Ezenagu, 3Adeyemi J.Ademowo
The usage of non-biomedical intervention otherwise known as recreational facilities is a new strategy employed to enhance patient recovery in hospitals. These facilities such as board games, gym facilities, arts, reading room and music, helps engages patient in different recovery activities. Therefore this study is set to investigate recreational facilities as nonmedical intervention for patient health promotion as reported by health professionals. Six hospitals were selected in Southwest using stratified and purposive sampling techniques. While data was elicited using 362questionnaire through snowball sampling technique and six (6) participants were interviewed using purposive sampling technique. Data analysis utilized descriptive, thematic, and inferential statistics. The findings (β=0.672, t=7.717 and P<.001) indicate that the availability of recreational facilities have positive effect on patient health promotion. This nonmedical interventions effectively reduced the levels of stress, anxiety, and depression in patients. They also decreased hospital readmission rates, shorter recovery periods and provide a necessary diversion from the monotony of hospital routines. Health professionals consider it beneficial for patient to engage in recreational facilities/nonmedical interventions in the hospital. The study provides valuable insights into how these interventions can augment hospitals' clinical treatment and enhance health promotion, thereby strengthening the region's healthcare sector and foster a holistic approach to healthcare in Southwest Nigeria.
To Evaluate the Impact of Intermittent Fasting on Psychological Health, Spiritual Well-Being, and Aggression among Healthy College Students: A Cross-Sectional Study
Danishta1 , Mayank Kumar2, Ruma Rajbhar3 , Bandita Gupta4, Ishika Upadhyay5 & Ajeet Kumar Saharan6
Aim: To evaluate the impact of intermittent fasting on psychological health, spiritual well-being, and aggression among healthy college students. Objective: To evaluate how intermittent fasting affects Mental health, one’s Spiritual Well-being, and an individual level of hospitality. Method: This cross-sectional study's universe comprises well-being volunteers who registered at NIMS University Rajasthan, Jaipur, and said they intended to fast intermittently for two weeks in 2024. A questionnaire form including a sociodemographic, Goldberg's General Health Questionnaire (GHQ), Palutzian-Elison's Spiritual Health Questionnaire, and Buss and Perry Aggression Questionnaire was formed. The online questionnaire was used to obtain the data via email and smartphone. The study was conducted during the summer of April 2024. The survey was conducted on the same healthy volunteer group. Result: Our findings using this methodology demonstrate a significant improvement in spiritual dimensions, emotional stability, and mental clarity following the fast. Conclusion: Combining qualitative and quantitative data suggests that fasting practices may positively influence students' growth in spiritual well-being, mental fortitude, and reduced levels of animosity.
Determinants of the Adoption of Rural Land Management Practices: The Case of North Achefer District, North West Ethiopia
Yismaw Assefa Lakew
Despite the practices of the introduced land management measures, the study district was prone to serious land degradation. The need for identifying the key determinant factors for adopting rural land management technologies for better impact often was not communicated. Accordingly, the present study intended to investigate determinant factors for adopting the rural land management practices in north Achefer district.The study employed a cross-sectional research design composed of both quantitative and qualitative research approaches.It used random,Purposive and stratified sampling techniques to select sample households. Household surveys, key informant interviews, and focused group discussions were conducted to collect primary data. A total of 132 households were covered by the questionnaire survey.Thedata were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The major findings confirmed that the practices of land management were stone bund, soil bund, stone faced soil bund, hill side terrace, cut-off drain, stone gabion and check dam. The binary logistic regression results showed six out of thirteen explanatory variables: Educational status, extension services, awareness, farm size, labor availability and involvement in off-farm activities were among the determinants for adopting rural land management technologies in the study area.In conclusion, the determinants of rural land management practices are complex and call for multifaceted interventions.So, there is a need to consider those physical, institutional, economic, and social factors in the practice of rural land management.
Gender Inequality in the Nigeria Police Force
Chijioke Sunday Ogbodo & Helen Uchenna Agu
The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) is saddled with responsibilities which include but not limited to the protection of live and properties. However, a lot of factors inhibit the performances of the NPF in the discharge of their duties. Among these factors is gender inequality, popularly called gender discrimination or gender imbalance. Such discriminations obviously noticeable in the areas of appointments, postings and promotion adversely affects the performances of the NPF. Asidefrom exploring factors responsible for gender inequality in NPF, this paper delved into the obligations of states to ensure that inequality is discouraged. Doctrinal method is adopted in thisstudy and relevant laws, case laws, journal articles, and online materials were analysed to highlight gender inequality issuesThestudy finds that gender inequality in NPF puts women police officers at a disadvantaged position against male officers. It was observed that gender inequality dampens the morale of female officers and adversely affects their performances. This paper recommends that indulging in practices and policies that enhance gender equality and nondiscrimination is one of the things needed to improve police performances in Nigeria.
Application of Kamal Transform to Constant Coefficient Ordinary Differential Equations with Piecewise Continuous Functions
1Onuoha N.O. & 2Onyeze V.C.
In this paper, Kamal transform was applied to solve constant coefficient ordinary differential equations with piecewise continuous functions. Piecewise continuous functions that are not unit step functions were changed to unit step functions. It has similar characteristics with Laplace transform. The initial conditions were used before the final solution as in Laplace transform, Elzaki transform and Rohit transform; and it reduced the differential equations to algebraic equations which are later solved to obtain the solutions. The results obtained showed that Kamal transform is an efficient and less computational mathematical technique that can be applied to differential equations.
The Future of Sustainable Aviation Fuels
1Artem Shashkov, 2Natalia Veselitskaya, 3Dina Malekova
The possibility of using alternative energy sourcesin aviation has been widely discussed in recent years due to the need to reduce carbon dioxide emissions into the atmosphere, as well as the desire of many countries to achieve carbon neutrality.While much research has focused on technological opportunities and resource availability for producing sustainable aviation fuels, less attention has been paid to comparing the prospects of different fuels. This study aims to address this gap by evaluating the prospects and forecasting the use of alternative aviation fuels in the short, medium and long term. We present a comparative analysis of the potential use of various alternative energy sources in the aviation industry. Through bibliometric and SWOT analysis, as well as an examination of case studies of international initiatives at different levels (national, industry, corporate), and foresight projects, the prospects of alternative aviation fuels are assessed. The study has identified promising types of aviation fuel with the potential for large-scale use in the coming years, as well as a set of factors that hinder a rapid and complete transition to alternative fuels.
The Mediating Role of Job Satisfaction in the Link between Transactional Leadership Style and Service Quality in the Public Sectors of Amhara Regional State, Ethiopia
Destaw Amare Lakew, Matebe Tefere Gedifew
This study attempted to examine the relationship among transactional leadership style, job satisfaction and service quality. The quantitative research approach and correlational design were used in this study. The study also involved 354 respondents in the data collection endeavor. Close-ended multifactor leadership questionnaire, job satisfaction survey and service performance (SERVPREF)instruments were employed to gather data. In the case of data analysis, PLS-SEM was used. Hence, the path analysis result demonstrated that transactional leadership style has a positive and significant influence on both job satisfaction and service quality directly. Moreover, job satisfaction also exhibited a positive relationship with service quality. Besides, job satisfaction mediates the relationship between transactional leadership and service quality partially. Therefore, to become effective in service quality practice directly or through job satisfaction, leaders in public organizations are recommended to utilize transactional leadership appropriately.
Technological capabilities are defined as a set of skills that are technical, managerial, and organizational that firms require to effectively utilize hardware and software of technology. There are two types of technological capabilities required in
Oladunmoyeoluranti Mobolaji
Fathered by Frederick Law Olmsted in 1994, the concept of green infrastructure was adopted to offer sustainable environmental landscaping solutions, with the aim of achieving ecological and social balance in the environment. Green Infrastructure features support for plant and animal growth, provide space for the protection of historic sites, bridge the gap between humans and nature, as well as provide conservation corridors, green belts, recreational corridorsscenic corridors, utilitarian corridors, trails, and reserves. They are also accountable for preserving ecological and cultural/historical sites. The aim of this research paper is to examine the role of green infrastructure in combatting urban floods in Nigeria. Using a case study of Lagos, green infrastructure is discussed as a foolproof solution for recurrent flood issues. It begins with a background reviewing the historical overview of Green Infrastructure, and it goes on to highlight the Aesthetic, Social, Health, Environmental, Ecological, Functional, and Economic benefits of green infrastructure. It further reviews the history of flooding in Nigeria, stating its causes and negative impact which lead to food shortage, loss of property, health hazard, economic distress, aesthetic malfunction, and land distress. The research assesss the present state of landscape in Lagos state, and concludes by suggesting the best green infrastructure practices and materials for ensuring environmental sustainability.
Cross-Border Acquisitions and Technology Transfer: AMO Framework
Neelam Rani & Wilfred I. Ukpere
Technological capabilities are defined as a set of skills that are technical, managerial, and organizational that firms require to effectively utilize hardware and software of technology. There are two types of technological capabilities required in any firm – production, and innovation. During acquisitions, acquirers transfer technology to the target to raise the target’s productivity. This paper aims to conduct a systematic literature review. The paper also advances related propositions that are based on Scientometric and bibliometric analysis of all articles related to technology transfer in cross-border acquisitions. Articles related to technology transfer were downloaded from Scopus and later on, analyzed with the help of VOS Viewer. This facilitated the researchers to identify 4 clusters and main author keywords. These 4 clusters gave rise to 3 different strands of research. The first cluster is Merger, Technology Transfer Foreign Direct Investment, and Multi-national Enterprise, China. The second cluster focuses on Cross-border, Industry, and International Trade, the third cluster focuses on mergers and acquisitions, Knowledge Transfer, and Knowledge Management whereas the fourth and last cluster focuses on M&A and Innovation.
Foreign Remittances, Foreign Investment Inflow, Trade Openness and Economic Growth Rate in Africa's Two Frontier Economies: Does Divestment Matter?
Ebere Ume Kalu Augustine C, Arize Florence U Nwafor Wilfred Isioma Ukpere
This study investigates in a country-specific and comparative manner the interactions among foreign remittances, economic growth rate, foreign direct investment inflow and foreign trade giving attention to the impact of divestment. This study that is contextualised in Africa’s two leading economies of Nigeria and South Africa covers the period 1971 to 2019. Using the Autoregressive Distributed Lag Model as the estimation method, it was discovered principally that divestment creates leakages on growth, FDI, openness while it shares an insignificant relationship with remittance. On a different token, positive changes in growth rate, FDI, and openness stem the tide of divestment in both Nigeria and South Africa.
Effects of Human Capital Development on Poverty Reduction in Nigeria
1Ayodele Oluwole Ojebiyi 1Taiwo Adewale Muritala 1Umar Abbas Ibrahim 1Akeem Adewale Bakare
This paper determines the effects of Human Capital Development on Poverty Reduction in Nigeria. The proxy of poverty reduction which is the dependent variable is unemployment. Life expectancy, GDP per capita, Infant mortality rate, and fertility rate are the independent variables using a model for the regression and the relationship among the variables, the study make use of descriptive statistics, augmented Dickey-Fuller test statistic to check the unit root. Nigeria as a whole is the population. The research sourced and analysed its’data from the world bank indicator from 1990 to 2023. The study finds that there are negative relationship between life expectancy, GDP per capita, Infant mortality rate and Poverty reduction (Unemployment) while fertility rate positively influenced poverty reduction (Unemployment). The study how ever conclude that improving human capital development (HCD) leads to decrease in poverty and to improve fertility rate of the Nigeria residents. Major policy implication is that to reduce poverty and ensure a considerable improved and better society, government at all levels should pay more attention to life expectancy, GDP per capital and Infant mortality rate of average Nigerians.
Entrepreneurial Attributes and Self-reliance among Higher Institution Students in Seychelles
Juliet Jackson Kakoshi & Dr. Muraina Kamilu Olanrewaju
This paper examines the influence of Proactiveness, Creativity and Risk-taking entrepreneurial attributes on self-reliance among higher institution students in Seychelles, studying Business and Vocational courses. Despite being trained, most of these individuals cannot invest in themselves but wait to be employed, thus moving from one job to another and never getting satisfied with what they do. Sequential Pragmatic Mixed Research Methods were employed. The SPSS 26 was used to analyse quantitative data. Mean and Standard Deviation were used for research questions while frequency and percentage were employed for demographics. The Web-based 5-point Likert scale survey questionnaire which included demographics with five (5) sections of 46 items was administered to 277 students. An in-depth Interview tool with demographics and eight (8) sections with 31 items was used on a second Sample consisting of 17 staff who were purposively and conveniently drawn as participants. The tools were accessed online via WhatsApp and email while interviews were done according to the preferences of a participant. Cronbach’s alpha was used to test internal and content consistency for the items included in the quantitative data collection tools. To establish the real causes of gaps in this research, another study is recommended to cater for previous cohorts of students. Four (4) research questions were raised and answered showing low levels of risk-taking among students, moderately creative and proactive which indicate a negative effect on students’ self-reliance after graduating.
The Impact of Teaching Practice on the Productivity of Quality Teacher in Social Studies at Secondary School Level in Ikere Ekiti, Ekiti State Nigeria
Daramola C. Oladayo, Fasiku, M. Adesola
Education is the key to development; however, it is impossible to think that the quality of education without having academically qualified and professional responsible teachers. Teaching practice is an integral component of teaching training in Nigerian Universities and Colleges. Teaching practice in Nigerian Universities and Colleges is organized in the faculty/schools of education and is mandatory for all students who pursue education courses as a carrier. It becomes the bedrock on which the aspiring teachers once certified and employed build their professional identities. The main objective of this study was to examine the impact of teaching practice on the productivity of quality teachers in Social Studies in secondary school levelin Ikere Ekiti. Survey type of descriptive research design was used for the study. The sample size of Seventy (70) respondents was used for this study. The simple random sampling technique was used, the data gathered from the administered questionnaire was analysed using the descriptive statistics of frequency counts, mean and standard deviation was used to answer the research questions of the study and ANOVA was used to test the hypotheses. It was concluded that teaching practice as an important component in productivity of government teachers because it exposes them to the actual teaching and learning environment in which they can contextualize their theoretical knowledge gained during training and mentoring. It also affords trainee teachers an opportunity to determine whether the appropriate career choice has been made or not. Recommendations were made that educators should ensure the students in social science education programme acquire adequate skills and receive effective monitoring before embarking on teaching practice exercise.
Newspaper Representation of RUGA Programme of Buhari Administration
Galadima Audu Bala Amina Abana & Safiya Kaka Muhammad Dagaci
This research examined newspaper representation of the RUGA programme of the Federal Government of Nigeria, under the leadership of President Muhammadu Buhari. The work analyzed the contents of four selected newspapers in Nigeria along the two regional divides (North and South). The newspapers examined are Daily Trust, Leadership, The Guardian and Punch. The work was anchored on the Framing theory. The study adopted mixed research method with the aid of quantitative content analysis to carry out a census of the selected newspapers within the period the programme was introduced and suspendedwhile additional data were sourced through anin-depth interview. The findings are presented in tables and text format. The analysis was done using simple percentage and textual analysis. The major findings of this work include, among others, low representation of the RUGA programme especially by the northern newspapers. The result shows a predominantly negative representation of the RUGA programme. The work therefore recommended, among others, that the newspapers should eschew regional sentiment in presenting government programmes, no matter the region it seeks to benefitand to endeavor to emphasize the benefits of government programmes and policies to encourage mass mobilization towards public acceptance. This study has thus provided additional literature and empirical basis to the media representation research, especially as it concerns the short-lived Federal Government’s RUGA programme in Nigeria.
Sustaining Higher Levels of Educational Excellence in Universities as Alma Matri: The Inalienable Role of the Alumni/Alumnae
Osayamen S. Imhangbe, Oyaziwo Aluede, Jane Oviawe
This paper examined the role of sustaining higher levels of educational excellence in universities as Alma Matri. Making copious use of secondary sources, it attempted to find out in the existing relevant literature the role and place of the alumni/alumnae in the overall, health and competitiveness of the university alma mater. While employing the expository cum exploration research method, it identified some areas the university alumni can be of help to their Alma Matri in charting and maintaining referenceable excellence in learning engagement and related functions. It also attempted to find out how graduating university students can be seamlessly enlisted in their alma mater associations, identify with these associations, and become active participants in them. It was found that university alumni/alumnae not only abound but are successful actors in different fields of human endeavor. The study further revealed that alumni/alumnae existing as role models for undergraduates not only reserve the capacity and cognate clout to offer financial and material support for the development of their university Alma Matri but also to provide direct skilled labor and intellectual resources that inform and enhance teaching and learning. The study, therefore, suggested that universities must see in their alumni/alumnae inalienable resources to be freely tapped to not only pursue excellence in university education and related involvements but also in extending and sustaining it.
Effects of Risk Management on Performance of Select Telecommunications Companies in Nigeria
Nkeiru Aikpokhio Biosa, Taiwo Adewale Muritala, Hauwa Lamino Abubakar, Stanley Nwannebuife Ajalie
This study investigates the impact of risk management practices on the cost performance of telecommunications companies in Nigeria, utilizing regression analysis on a sample size of 375 firms. The analysis examines the effects of Risk Identification (RI), Risk Assessment (RA), Risk Mitigation (RT), and Risk Monitoring (RM) on cost performance. Results indicate that RI, RA, and RT significantly positively influence cost performance, highlighting the crucial role of proactive risk management strategies in enhancing financial outcomes. However, RM does not exhibit a statistically significant effect on cost performance, suggesting potential areas for refinement in monitoring practices. The collective explanatory power of these risk management practices, as indicated by a relatively high R-Square value, underscores their substantial contribution to understanding and optimizing cost performance dynamics within the telecommunications sector. Based on these findings, recommendations are made for telecommunications companies in Nigeria to prioritize the enhancement of risk identification, assessment, and mitigation processes while ensuring ongoing vigilance and compliance through effective risk monitoring. By integrating these recommendations into their operational strategies, telecommunications firms can fortify their resilience and optimize financial performance in the dynamic Nigerian market.
Comprehensive Printmaking Course Influence on Art Teaching
Liu Yuan Zheng Apollo A. Endrano
Printmakingart as a visual art, is a form of painting expression based on various materials through artist conception. This study is designed to explore its creative and cultural influence in art education in five primary schools in Tianjin. Mixed method was used, a questionnaire where 40 teachers participated and 5 selected expert printmaking teachers were interviewed to validate and explain the results. The impact level of integrated printmaking courses on art courses on creative exploration is effective which indicated that integrated printmaking courses can enrich art education. The interplay historical, geographical and technological factors as variables showed the cultural impact level of integrated printmaking which is effective and it has a cultural significance and relevance within diverse cultural contexts. Overall, this study aims to empower art educators with the knowledge and skills to effectively incorporate printmaking into their teaching practices, encouraging students to explore their creativity, cultural heritage, and social awareness through this versatile and impactful medium.
Changing Social Norms on Child Marriage through a Legislative Change: A Case Study of the Revised Family Code Enforcement in Ethiopia
Workenh Eshatuu Sime
The Ethiopian Government took a major step to end the practice of child marriage in 2000 with the revision of the old 1960 Family Code. The revision pulled up the minimum legal age for marriage from 15 to 18 and made the practice of child marriage punishable in the criminal code for the first time. Revising the Family Code, however, was not going to end the practice by itself. The purpose of this case study is to find out hurdles that had to be addressed and overcome, and supplementary policies that were adopted to help end the practice of child marriage. The study identifies a long list of barriers to the effective implementation of the Revised Family Code including the existence of harmful social norms and practices, capacity gaps in the legal system, and limitations in access to media in large parts of the country. To overcome these and other “delivery challenges”, the leaders of the government and the civil society engaged the citizens and community leaders in public awareness campaigns, developed programs to empower women and children in local communities, and improved the judicial system, among other things. These interventions led to changes in social norms and public attitudes regarding child marriage, and more importantly, to a substantial reduction in child marriage throughout the country.
Impact of Foreign Direct Investment and Official Development Assistance on Economic Growth of Sampled African countries: System GMM approach
Workenh Eshatuu Sime
Based on existing research, it is unclear how Official Development Assistance and Foreign Direct Investment specifically affect economic growth. Therefore, this study aims to investigate their long-term impact on economic growth in selected African countries, as well as their simultaneous effects. The researchers sought to answer the following questions: What is the long-term impact of Official Development Assistance and Foreign Direct Investment on economic growth in these African countries, and what are their simultaneous effects? The study utilized secondary data from the World Bank and the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) for the period from 1985 to 2014. The researchers employed a method called System GMM, which addresses issues of endogeneity, data dynamics, and utilizes internally generated instrument variables. The findings of the study reveal that Official Development Assistance has a positive and statistically significant impact on the growth rate of GDP per capita. On the other hand, Foreign Direct Investment has a positive impact, but it is not statistically significant in relation to the growth rate of GDP per capita. Additionally, the study found that governance and the initial level of per capita GDP growth rate have a negative impact on the growth rate of GDP per capita. However, the variable of political stability has a statistically positive effect on per capita GDP growth rate. To enhance the positive impact of political stability, it is recommended that African leaders establish democratic institutions within their macroeconomic sphere. Furthermore, it is advisable to develop mechanisms and institutions that facilitate the effective utilization of Official Development Assistance.
Future of Almajiri Educational Programme in Mando, Kaduna State, Northern Nigeria
Hilary C. Achunike, Emmanuel K. Okonkwo
NA
The Impact of Physical Activity Levels and Mental Health Status on Academic Performance among Higher Vocational Students in China
Shang Yanfeng1, Ooi Boon Keat2
Higher vocational education in China is critical for developing skilled professionals. Understanding the factors that influence academic performance in this context is essential. This study aims to investigate the impact of physical activity levels and mental health status on the academic performance of higher vocational students in China. By synthesizing existing literature, the study seeks to identify key factors and propose strategies to enhance student health and academic outcomes. This study employs a systematic review approach to analyze existing research on the relationship between physical activity, mental health, and academic performance. The review includes studies from various databases, focusing on those that provide empirical evidence on the topic. Inclusion criteria were established to select high-quality studies that address the research questions. Data extraction and quality assessment were conducted systematically, and the findings were synthesized using thematic analysis. The review reveals that both physical activity and mental health significantly influence academic performance among higher vocational students. Regular physical activity is associated with improved cognitive function, reduced stress levels, and better academic outcomes. Similarly, positive mental health status is linked to enhanced concentration, motivation, and overall academic achievement. The findings highlight the mediating role of achievement emotions in the relationship between physical activity, mental health, and academic performance. The study provides evidence-based recommendations for educators, policymakers, and practitioners in higher vocational education. To improve academic performance, it is crucial to promote physical activity and mental health initiatives within educational institutions. Strategies such as incorporating regular physical education, providing mental health support services, and fostering a positive emotional environment can significantly benefit students' academic success. These insights can guide the development of holistic educational policies and practices that support the well-being and academic achievement of vocational students in China.
Cultivating Success: Exploring Community Support and Collaboration in Igbo Apprenticeship Systems for Sociocultural Sustainability of Igbo SMEs in Southeast Nigeria
Juliet Anuri Onwuchekwa1, Chris Chukwuebuka Emeali2, Timothy Nnaemeka Adibe3,Ignatius Okoro Odo4
The study examined Community Support and Collaboration in Igbo Apprenticeship Systems for Sociocultural Sustainability of Igbo SMEs in Southeast Nigeria. The study adopted a survey research design. The sample size was determined using Cochran's formula for sample size determination in survey research, resulting in a sample of 305 participants: 100 SME owners, 150 apprentices, and 55 community leaders. Regression analysis was used for data analysis at 5% level of significance. Findings revealed that Community support and collaborative efforts within the Igbo apprenticeship system positively and significantly influence the success and sustainability of SMEs in Southeast NigeriaTop of Form. The study recommended that communities should establish and support community investment programs that pool resources to provide financial backing for new entrepreneurs emerging from the IAS. This can involve community savings schemes or cooperatives that offer low-interest loans or grants to apprentices who are ready to start their businesses.
Phytoplankton Distribution, Abundance and Diversity in a Tropical Aquaculture Ponds in Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria
Aniema Inyang-Etoh1, Bassey Etim Job2,Sunday Urom Eteng3& Samson Samuel Urom4
Phytoplankton are mainly unicellular plant-like organisms and usually known to drift on the surface layer of the euphotic zone of aquatic ecosystem. Their abundance, distribution and diversity was studied in Onesky Fish Ponds in Calabar, Nigeria. Three of the production ponds were randomly selected for the study. Surface water samples were collected by filtration method and microscopically analyzed in the laboratory. Results revealed that the ponds were inhabited by six major phytoplankton families namely: Bacillariophyceae, Chlorophyceae Chrysophyceae, Xanthrophyceae, Euglenophyceae and Charophyceae. In general, the Bacillariophyceae were the most abundant and diverse phytoplankton in the ponds.This was followed by Chlorophyceae, Euglonephyceae, Chrysophyceae, Xanthophyceae and Charophyceae with the following distribution pattern: Bacillariophyceae (466:38.0%) > Chlorophyceae (249:20.31%) > Euglenophyceae (172:14.03%) > Chrysophyceae (156:12.72%) > Charophyceae (87:7.10%). Margalef's index for the Bacillariophyceae was 1.690 in pond 1, with 2.006 in pond 2 and 2.060 in pond 3. Forthe Chlorophyceae, Margalef's index had a value of 1.70 (Pond 1), 1.78 (Pond 2) and 1.53 (Pond 3). Chrysophyceae had Margalef's index of 1.07 (Pond 1), 0.77 (Pond 2)and 0.954 (Pond 3). For the Xanthophyceae, Margalef's index was 1.16 (Pond 1), 0.093 (Pond 2) and 1.08 (Pond 3). Euglenophyceae had Margalelef's index of 1.50 (Pond 1), 1.28 (Pond 2) and 1.18 (Pond 3), Charophyceae was observed to have Margalef’s index of 0.314 (Pond 1), 0.290 (Ponds 2 and 3), respectively. For the Bacillariophyceae, Shannon-Wiener index was 1.98 (Pond 1), 2.09 (Pond 2) and 2.22 (Pond 3), with 1.68 for Chlorophyceae (Pond 1), 1.68 (Pond 2) and 1.912 (Pond 3). For Chrysophyceae, Shannon-Wiener index was 0.53 (Pond 1), 1.64 (Pond 2) and 1.77 (Pond 3), with 1.68 for Xanthophyceae (Pond 1), 0.93 (Pond 2) and 1.08 (Pond 3). Euglenophyceae had Shannon-Wiener index of 1.63 (Pond 1), 1.59 (Pond 2) and 1.76 (Pond 3), while for Charophyceae, Shannon-Wiener index was 1.36 (Pond 1), 1.47 (Pond 2) and 1.79 (Pond 3). Simpson’s index had a value of 0.0055 (Pond 1), 0.0051 (Pond 2) and 0.0031 (Pond 3) andfor Bacillariophyceae, it was 0.014 (Pond 1), 0.009 (Pond 2) and 0.006 (Pond 3). For Chlorophyceae, 0.012 (Pond 1), 0.0051 (Pond 2) and 0.0046 (Pond 3) for Chrysophyceae, 0.014 (Pond 1), 0.012 (Pond 2) and 0.007 (Pond 3) for Xanthophyceae, 0.014 (Pond 1), 0.012 (Pond 2) and 0.007 (Pond 3) for Euglenophyceae and 0.004 (Pond 1), 0.002 (Ponds 2 and 3, respectively) for Charophyceae. The results of the present study revealed generally that the ponds are ecologically stable for enhanced aquaculture production. Further studies are however recommended on the physico-chemical parameters, seasonal abundance, distribution and diversity of phytoplankton and chlorophyll-a concentration in the pond ecosystem, generally.
Empowering Change: Harnessing AI, Block chain & Mobile Technology for Social Entrepreneurship
Preeti Malik, Anviti Rawat
The intersection of technology and social entrepreneurship, encapsulated by the term "Tech for Good," is fundamentally reshaping the terrain of social impact initiatives. Social entrepreneurs are progressively harnessing cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence, block chain, and mobile applications to forge scalable and efficacious solutions for addressing urgent societal challenges. Artificial intelligence, heralding a paradigm shift, is revolutionizing sectors like healthcare, education, and poverty alleviation by endowing intelligent systems with the capacity to scrutinize data, discern patterns, and enrich decision-making processes. Blockchain technology, distinguished by its decentralized and transparent attributes, is metamorphosing the establishment of transparency, accountability, and trust within initiatives, particularly in realms such as supply chains and philanthropy.The omnipresent nature of mobile applications in contemporary society empowers social entrepreneurs to connect with and engage communities on an unprecedented scale, proffering solutions in healthcare, education, and financial inclusion. However, amid the propitious landscape of Tech for Good, inherent challenges such as the digital divide, algorithmic biases, and ethical considerations revolving around data privacy necessitate meticulous attention.This research paper delves comprehensively into the transformative impact of technology on social entrepreneurship, navigating through opportunities, challenges, and ethical dimensions. It aims to contribute substantively to the comprehension of forging a more equitable and sustainable future.
Effect of Risk Management on Business Performance in Outsource Global Technologies Abuja, Nigeria
Stanley Nwannebuife Ajalie, Abel Ehigozie Oigbochie, Frank Alaba Ogedengbe, Nasir Adam
This study examined the effect of risk management on business performance of outsource global technology in Abuja, Nigeria. All over the world, understanding risks and risk management is important for performance of businesses since their work becomes more effective when they can reduce risk and adapt to it. To this end, risk management and business performance in outsourcing global technology company in Abuja has not perform well in the areas of risk identification, risk monitoring and risk evaluation. The study adopted a descriptive survey research design and the population comprised all 291 staff in the company and the sample size was the entire 291. Primary data was used to collect information from the respondents by using a structured questionnaire. Also, the Cronbach’s alpha and the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20.00 was employed in this work to regressed the data gotten from the respondents and it showed that there was a positive and significant result after the findings on effect of risk management (risk identification and risk evaluation) on business performance (efficiency) of outsourcing global technology in Abuja, Nigeria. Risk management (risk identification (RII = .03+0.15) and risk evaluation (RIE = .03+1.15) was found to be positively significant. While risk management (risk monitoring (.03-0.14) on business performance (efficiency) was found to be negatively significant. Therefore, the study recommends that for the business to perform well, the organization should be strongly advised that the management of Outsourcing global technology renew their priority and invest in effective risk monitoring and control procedures.
Getting Ecumenical Dialogue Right in Nigeria- An Exploration of Raimon Panikkar's "Dialogical Dialogue"
Chidimma Jessica, Allison, Rosemary Ngozi Okolo, Geoffrey Chiazo, Nganwuchu
NA
Technostress: Its Effects to the Bachelor of Physical Education Major Students of Baguio Central University
1Michelle C. Alumno, 2Jomard C. Calamba, 3Jhoana H. Guinoo
There search employed a descriptive research design under quantitative research. A total of 80 respondents from the Bachelor of Secondary Education major in Physical Education. This study investigates the impact of technostress on Bachelor of Physical Education (BPED) major students at Baguio Central University. Technostress refers to the stress experienced due to the use of technology, and this research specifically examines its effects on students' physical, emotional, and social wellbeing. Utilizing a descriptive survey design, data were collected from BPED students across different year levels through questionnaires. The findings indicate significant levels of technostress among students, attributed to prolonged computer use, which result sin physical symptoms such as headaches, eye strain, and muscle tension. Additionally, the study reveals that excessive screen time before bedtime disrupts sleep patterns, and a preference for face-to-face interactions over virtual meetings highlights the social impact of technostress. The research under scores then ecessity for educational institutions to address technostress by promoting ergonomic practices, encouraging regular breaks, and fostering in-person communication skills to mitigate its negative effects on students' health and well-being.
African Winged Termitemeal Can Also Promote Growth of Sharp-Tooth Catfish (Clarias Gariepinus)
Aniema Paul Inyang-Etoha, Sunday Urom Etenga, Honor Tajoes Ifonb
Sharp-tooth catfish with initial average weight of 280.95g were fed one of the four iso-nitrogenous diets with inclusion levels of 0 g/kg, 50g/kg, 100g/kg, and 150 g/kg of African winged termite meal (TM) as fishmeal replacement for 105 days. Results revealed that all the feeding groups exhibited similar (P>0.05) growth parameters and nutrient digestibility of crude protein, crude lipid, amino and fatty acids. Feeding with different inclusion levels of termite meal did not negatively affect growth parameters such as daily growth, specific growth, feed conversion, visceral somatic index, condition factor as well as nutrient digestibility index of the fish. The study therefore concludes that diets prepared with TM can successfully be used to promote growth performance and nutrient digestibility of the Sharp-tooth catfish.
National Innovation Investments and the Growth of SMEs: A Case Study of BRICS Economies
Ladi Daodu, Dr. Amiya Bhaumik
National innovation investments have been identified as a key driver for the growth of SMEs. Reducing bottlenecks in investment, especially for SMEs drives the overall national economy. This study investigated the drivers of national innovation investment in BRICS countries. Data was obtained from the Global Innovation Index and World Bank from 2013 to 2022. Econometric tools such as inferential statistics, Random effect models, and post estimation test was used. The result shows that there is a significant difference in national innovation between countries. Factors such as investment in research and development, inflation rate, and ease of getting credit influenced national investment among BRICS countries. The study recommends strategies that would prevent the misallocation of resources that can stifle innovation and growth.
Building Solid Family Relationships through Parent-Child Counselling: Strategies for Cultivating Stronger Bonds and Positive Values at Home
Olufunke Chenube1 Florence Omumu2 Aderinola Abidoye3 Olujide Adekeye4 Oyaziwo Aluede5
NA
Trihelix Appliance: A Novel Alternative for Expansion- A Case
1Dr Pooja R 1Dr Joyson Moses 1Dr Sharanya R 1Dr K Bavidhraa Devi
Maxillary transverse discrepancies affecting approximately 7.7% of children during primary and mixed dentition stages, present significant challenges due to their complex nature and the necessity for individualized treatment. Factors such as patient age, skeletal maturity, severity of the discrepancy, and associated syndromes must be considered to prevent these deficiencies from progressing into adulthood, where they can lead to pronounced functional and aesthetic issues. Maxillary constriction impacts dental alignment and the overall facial profile, often resulting in occlusal disharmony and aesthetic concerns. Functionally, it can narrow the pharyngeal airway, leading to compromised breathing patterns and increased nasal resistance affecting airflow efficiency. Additionally, maxillary constriction can alter tongue posture, contributing to retrognathic tongue positioning and mouth breathing. Severe crowding due to maxillary constriction complicates oral hygiene, increasing the risk of periodontal problems like gingivitis and periodontitis. Pierre Robin sequence, characterized by mandibular micrognathia, glossoptosis, and often cleft palate, exemplifies the complexity of treating maxillary transverse discrepancies in syndromic contexts. This sequence, first described in 1891 and further characterized by Pierre Robin in 1923 and 1934, begins with an underdeveloped lower jaw, leading to tongue displacement and preventing palatal shelf fusion during intrauterine growth. About 50% of patients with Pierre Robin sequence have an incomplete cleft of the palate, adding to the treatment complexity. A case report of a fourteen-year-old female patient with Pierre Robin sequence illustrates the multifaceted approach required for successful treatment. The patient had mandibular micrognathia, aglossia, a constricted maxillary arch, retained deciduous teeth, and severe dental crowding. Her treatment plan involved extracting retained deciduous teeth, followed by maxillary and mandibular expansion, mandibular advancement, speech therapy, and surgical rehabilitation for aglossia. Due to restricted mouth opening, a custom trihelix appliance was used for slow maxillary expansion, activated every 15 days over six months. This approach resulted in significant improvements in interpremolar and intermolar widths, demonstrating successful maxillary expansion. This case underscores the importance of a tailored and multidisciplinary approach in treating maxillary transverse discrepancies, particularly in patients with complex syndromic conditions. Early intervention and comprehensive management are crucial to improving patient outcomes and quality of life.
Challenges of Leadership in the Implementation of the National Children's Policy of Ethiopia at Bahir Dar City Administration Women, Children and Social Affairs Department
Yosa Abiye, Matebe Tafere
The purpose of this research was to identify the major challenges of Leadership in the implementation of the national children’s policy of Ethiopia, at Bahir Dar City Administration Women, Children and Social Affairs Department. To identify the major challenges of leadership in the implementation of the policy, constructivist research paradigm, qualitative research approach and phenomenological research design was employed. Interviews and focus group discussions were the basic tools of data collection. Both primary and secondary sources of data were used. Purposive sampling technique and thematic data analysis are employed. The challenges of leadership in the implementation of the national children’s policy in the study area are multi-faceted. But according to the findings of this study, they are grouped into four themes. These are: economic challenges, socio-cultural challenges, lack of awareness and political and legal problems. To overcome the challenges of leadership in the implementation of the policy, the following recommendations were given. These were: providing education and health facilities for children, providing school feeding for children, creating awareness about the rights of children for all stakeholders, increasing the economic level of families, building recreational centers for children, allocating enough financial and human resources for children affairs, increasing children role and participation in decision making processes affecting them, giving due attention for the rights of children by the government and providing effective justice system for children.
Optimizing Pedagogy: A Study of Diverse Learning Resources in the School of Criminal Justice and Public Safety, University of Baguio
Filibert Patrick F. Tad-awan, Immanuel Jesus Fernandez
The used of PowerPoint presentations during class, the use of Instructional materials for each course/subject and Books are required to be Read and outlined were the ones evaluated as very much utilized and very much effective learning resources used by the teachers of . Overall, the findings suggest that the teachers in are proactive in utilizing a combination of traditional and modern learning resources to optimize the learning experience for their students. By incorporating multimedia presentations, instructional materials, and assigned readings, these educators are fostering a dynamic and engaging learning environment that caters to diverse learning styles and preferences. The emphasis on effective utilization of resources reflects a commitment to enhancing teaching capability and ultimately improving student outcomes within the field of criminal justice and public safety.
Fish Bacterial Management in the University of Calabar Fish Farm
Eteng Sunday Urom Mrs. Inyang-Etoh A.P.
The research study is to control fish bacterial diseases or infections through application of bio control methods such as vaccines etc several methods have been tried to control fish diseases including the use of antibiotics but their haphazard use is associated with potentially negative effects as drug resistance and drug residues. The Clariidae is a freshwater fish family of the Siluroidei which apparently originated from Africa. The Clariidae are the African catfishes - so-called because of their whiskers resemble those of cats. Their geographical range currently extends to the Middle East and South-east Asia. The genus Clarias occurs in both Africa and Asia. Listed 12 african genera with 74 species. The catfish are the preferred candidates for aquaculture in Nigeria accounting or over 60% of total aquaculture production of approx 88,000 metric tonnes. The advantages they bring to culture include their air-breathing capabilities which enables then to withstand oxygen- deficient conditions which characterize most culture conditions, generally hardy nature and resistance to diseases and fairly rapid growth-rate. As a result of these, they can be adapted for intensive production at densities of over 1000kg/m³. Market acceptability due to the large size, firm flesh and good taste add to the mix.The culture of catfishes currently is in the increase in Nigeria mainly due to the current availability of commercial feeds though at a high cost. I received funding from the International Foundation for Science (IFS) Based in Sweden for research into the pathogen problems militating against increase hatchery production of the various species of catfishes cultured in Nigeria and Africa as a whole. Our research disclose a range of important pathological conditions inimical to the culture of African Clariidae. In general single cell, direct life cycle pathogens more likely to cause harm to cultured fish on account of the high densities and the lack of need for an intermediate host or vector. In spite of myriad pathogens capable of infecting catfishes, here we shall concentrate on those capable of causing harm under culture conditions particularly intensive culture systems.
Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Employee Engagement in Access Bank Plc, Abuja, FCT, Nigeria
Oluseye Taiwo Adepoju Taiwo Adewale Muritala Hauwa Lamino Abubakar Akeem Adewale Bakare
This study examined the effect of artificial intelligence on employee engagement in Access bank plc, Abuja, FCT, Nigeria. All over the world, the business environment is rapidly changing and constantly evolving as such artificial intelligence tools have become a must have if businesses are to remain competitive and survive. To this end, it has become imperative for organizations to equip and effectively engage their workforce if they are to achieve their goals and objectives efficiently. The study adopted a descriptive survey research design and the population comprised of 126 staff of Access bank. The sample size was the entire 126 staff of the bank. Data was collected using a structured likert scale questionnaire. Data was analysed using multiple regression via the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 27. Findings from the study showed that artificial intelligence had a positive and significant effect on employee engagement. The statistical findings showed that artificial intelligence accounts for 48% variations in employee engagement at R=.693, R2=.48 at p <.000. Artificial intelligence (uniqueness (UI = 2.2+0.27) was found to be positively significant. While artificial intelligence (inimitability (IM =2.2+0.23) and sustained advantage (SA = 2.2+0.07) on employee engagement (dedication) was found to be positive but insignificant. Therefore, the study recommends that for the business to perform well, the organization should be strongly advised to sensitize and effectively engage its employees on the use of artificial intelligence tools that can effectively aid in achieving their performance objectives.
Teacher Education in Nigeria in the 21st Century: Issues and Future Directions
Osayamen S. Imhangbe Tunde Dayo Oke Oyaziwo Aluede, Jane I. Oviawe, Gabriel Obinyan
This article highlights the need for significant efforts to address the challenges and issues faced by teacher education in 21st century Nigeria. It emphasizes the importance of elevating the program to a level that can effectively measure up to and compete with similar high-quality programs in other locations. Therefore, the paper strongly asserts that in order for teacher education in Nigeria to serve as a foundation and catalyst for significant national progress and development in the 21st century, it is imperative to actively seek and pursue new strategies and investment approaches. The paper proposes that stakeholders and investors in education should prioritize and allocate resources to enhance teacher education in Nigeria in the 21st century. This should involve making the content and delivery of teacher education more appealing and of high quality. Additionally, efforts should be made to ensure that the products of teacher education are of high quality and possess diverse skills that contribute to national growth and increase the country's global competitiveness
Igbo Apprenticeship System and Entrepreneurial Development in Southeast Nigeria
Anthony Chukwuma Nwali1, Chris Chukwuebuka Emeali2, Magnus Ugwa3, Ignatius Okoro Odo4
The study investigated Igbo Apprenticeship System and Entrepreneurial Development in Southeast Nigeria and adopted a survey research design. The sample size was determined based on Cochran’s formula for sample size determination, resulting in a total of 650 respondents, with 130 participants from each of the five states. The sample included 450 apprentices, 200 entrepreneurs who had completed the apprenticeship, and are now mentors. The study used regression analysis for data analysis at 5% level of significance. Findings revealed that Igbo Apprenticeship System significantly and positively enhance Entrepreneurial Development in Southeast Nigeria.Top of Form The study recommended adoption of policies that formally recognize and support the Igbo Apprenticeship Business Model, including legal protections for apprenticeship agreements and incentives for participating entrepreneurs.
Process Benchmarking, Strategic Benchmarking and Organizational Performance of Secondary Schools in South-East Nigeria
1Nwadike Stanley Chukwuma 2Ugwueke,Euzebus Ifeanyi 3Vincent A Onodugo
The broad objective of the study was to examine the effect of Process and Strategic Benchmarking on Organizational Performance of Secondary Schools in South East Nigeria. The study adopted descriptive survey research design. The population of the study was 325 staff of the selected secondary schools; Census Method of data collection was used for the research. Data were collected from primary and secondary sources. Primary data were collected through structured questionnaire while secondary data were sourced from journals, books and internet. The primary instrument for data collection was designed on a 5-point Likert scale in line with the objectives of the study. A total of 325 copies of the questionnaire were distributed, out of which 220 copies were correctly filled and returned. Validity of the instrument was carried-out using content validity, and this was done by three management experts. The hypotheses were tested using simple linear regression analyses at 5% probability level of significance. The findings revealed that: Process benchmarking had a significant positive effect on students’ performance; and Strategic benchmarking had a significant positive effect on schools’ long-term survival. The study concluded that process and strategic benchmarking had a significant relationship and effect on organizational performance. The study recommended that Organizations should take process benchmarking seriously if they want to improve their work processes and procedures and should look out for best practices carried out by other organizations that have stayed for longer period in order to adopt quality standards for all to follow and improve performance. Organizations should look out for leading organizations in their industry doing well and find a way to adopt their best practices using key performance indicators and finally, that strategic benchmarking must be incorporated in the corporate visioning of the organization for long term survival
Comparative Study on the Hatchability Performance Growth and Survival of African Catfish (Clarias Gariepinus) Larvae Produced, using Ovaprim and Catfish Pituitary Hormone
Eteng Sunday Urom
This research work on the Comparative Study on the Hatchability Performance and Survival of African Catfish (ClariasGariepinus) Larvae Produced, Using Ovaprim and Catfish Pituitary Hormone was carried out in the Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture Hatchery, University of Calabar, Nigeria. To determine between bio (natural) and synthetic hormones hypophisation, the one with the best yielding outcome that will catfish larvae production. Artificial breeding technique was adopted for this experiment and using Natural bio hormone (pituitary). The two experiments were successfully carried out with mean weekly length, weight growth and mortality rate recorded as follows for tank 'O' recorded an average length variation of 7.40mm, 10.60mm, 14.00mm and 18.00mm, while tank 'P' recorded 8.33mm, 10.97mm, 12.83mm and 16.70mm for the first, second, third and fourth week respectively. It was also observed from the same table that “O” recorded a mean weekly growth of 2.40, 3.20, 3.40 and 4.00 while tank 'P' records 3.33, 2.60, 1.86 and 4.40 for the first, second, third and fourth week respectively. Results were analysed using regression analysis and it shows that there was slight difference between the hypophisation "O" (injecting female with ovaprim) and "P"(injecting female with pituitary). Where "O" is best adopted in terms of growth rate, mortality rate and survival rate. In conclusion, there's is a slight difference between "O" and "P". And "O" is best suitable for production.
Analysis of Factors Influencing Local Made Products Purchase in Nigeria
1 Abubakar Zubairu & 2Khairul Anuar Mohammad Shah
The main objective of this study was to explore factors influencing buying behaviours of Nigerian consumers towards purchase of locally made products. Existing literatures show that consumers in developing countries particularly Nigeria prefer imported products to locally manufactured ones. Based on the literature reviewed, Engel, Blackwell & Miniard (EBM) Model was used to conceptualize the relationship between the variables. Quantitative methods were used to analysed data collected from a sample of 422 consumers. The study found that factors influencing consumers towards purchase of local made products are cultural factors (culture, sub-culture, social status) While social factors ( reference group, family , role and status) did not exhibit a statistically significant influence in this study. This findings have implication for both thoery and practice.
Moderating Role of Entrepreneurial Education on Innovative Work Behaviour and Resilience of SMEs
1Sunday Alewo Omale, 2Oyenuga Michael Oyedele, 3Abdullahi Dauda & 4 Madu Ikemefuna
Objective: The study's main objective is to examine how entrepreneurial education fosters innovative work behaviors and the resilience of SMEs in the North Central Zone of Nigeria. Research Design: The study utilized a quantitative research design. To calculate an appropriate sample size, 7,329 (74.8%) valid samples were chosen from a total of 9,800 questionnaires distributed using a non-probabilistic convenience sampling method. Straightforward regression is used in data analyses. Findings: The results show that innovative work behavior does not always translate into effective outcomes, resilience, or performance in SMEs. Yet, additional findings suggest that entrepreneurial education has positive combined effects on innovative work practices and the resilience of SMEs. This suggests that SMEs' adaptability and innovative work practices will decline in direct proportion to a lack of or any loss in entrepreneurial education. Research Implications and Recommendations: The study has established the contribution of entrepreneurial education and/or educators' behavioral dispositions toward the resilience and innovative work behaviors of SMEs by expanding the body of literature on this topic. A strong entrepreneurial education program at tertiary institutions and the establishment of training facilities that promote an entrepreneurial mindset while meeting industry demands are among the policy initiatives advised to spur economic growth. Contribution/Value Added: The study has illustrated its relevance and application in the context of SMEs' resilience by showing how the theory of planned behaviors can forecast innovative work behavior.
Green Climate Finance and Industrial Development in Africa (2017-2023)
Okwor E.Emmanuel, Eneoli O.Calistus, Anichebe.N.A., Aniakor Cosmas .C, Onyeka Stanley Chukwuedo, Nkama .O.Nkama
The investigation analyzed the impact of green climate finance on industrial development in Africa from 2017 to 2023. Green climate finance refers to funding acquired from various financial sources, to support climate change adaptation and mitigation efforts for the benefit of humanity. It was considered as the independent variable.The process of developing and expanding industries in an economy through the utilization of innovative technologies that enhance efficiency, speed, and quality of work, resulting in a rise in a company's production levels and profitability. Industry (including construction) value added represent Industrial development as the dependent variable. Inflation was utilized as the control variable in the analysis. Previous studies in this area often overlooked including all African countries benefiting from green climate finance in their sample, thus motivating this study. The sample comprised the African countries that received aid through green climate finance during the specified timeframe. Several preliminary tests were conducted, including panel unit root test, parameter stability test, co-integration test, and error correction model. Hypotheses were assessed using panel ARDL model. The coefficient of the explanatory variable is 6.5731 and its corresponding probability value is 0.5712 .There is evidence of positive and non-significant impact of green climate finance on industrial sector contribution to GDP in Africa. The study recommend that donors and host countries should jointly be engaged during the implementation stage for proper accountability.
A Literature Review on Various Gingival Lesions Caused by use of Tobacco Related Products
Dr. Supreeda. S1,Dr. Priya Ramani2,Dr. Bhuvaneshwari. M3, Dr. Abhiraamavarman. M4, Dr. Vijila. K.V 5, Dr. Pravin Dhas. M6
Periodontitis is a connective tissue consisting of 4 Components.1. Gingiva, 2. Periodontal ligament, 3. Cementum, 4. Alveolar bone. Periodontium is also known as periodontal tissue and its main function is to support the teeth. The use of tobacco is a universal public health problem. Tobacco is consumed in different form, from smoking to smokeless. Cigarettes, E- cigarettes, cigar pipe, chillum, hookah and beedi are some of the smoking forms of tobacco. Plain tobacco, khaini, gutkha and pan masala are smokeless forms of tobacco. The use of tobacco leads to various systemic disorders, malignant and potentially malignant lesions. This article aims in classifying all the gingival related lesions caused by the use of tobacco.
Assessing the Perceived Organizational Support for Diversity and its Effects on Employee Job Satisfaction
Chiamaka Deborah Odazie, Alade Abidemi Oluwafunmilayo, Temitope Megbuwawon.
The study assessed the perceived organizational support for diversity and its effects on employee satisfaction in the U.S. public sector. Data were collected from 240 public sector employees using an online survey distributed through LinkedIn, X, WhatsApp, and email. The survey included POS for Diversity and job satisfaction measures using a 5-point Likert scale. Descriptive statistics and linear regression analyses were conducted to assess the relationships among these variables. Our result indicated a significant positive relationship between POS and job satisfaction, with POS, explaining 92.1% of the variation in employee satisfaction (p < 0.01). Additionally, POS for diversity was found to have a positive but smaller effect on job satisfaction, accounting for 11.9% of the variation (p < 0.01). Our findings suggest that while all-purpose organizational support greatly enhances job satisfaction, support specifically for diversity also contributes positively, notwithstanding to a minor degree. Employing flexible work schedules, mentoring programs for minority groups, and other tailored support mechanisms can improve inclusive job satisfaction and organizational commitment. The conclusions highlight the inevitability of organisations fostering an inclusive environment supporting diversity to increase employee satisfaction and retention.
Examination of the Nexus between Six Sigma and Sustainability of Manufacturing Firms in South-East Nigeria
1Benjamin Ibe Chukwu, 2Akpan Gift Ifeyinwa & 3Chia Innocent Igbadoo
The study investigated the nexus between Six Sigma and the sustainability of manufacturing companies in southeast Nigeria. The main goals were to analyse the correlation between cycle time management and customer satisfaction and ascertain the relationship between top management commitment and competitiveness of food and beverage manufacturing companies in South East Nigeria. From a population of 1675, a sample of 313 was selected using Freund and William's statistical technique. A well-structured questionnaire was used to elicit data from the respondents. The study instrument was validated through face and content validity. The instrument's reliability was established via the test-retest method and Cronbach's Alpha Statistic. The results indicated that all the values were over 70%. With SPSS version 26, the hypotheses were used in the regression analysis technique at a significance level of 5%. The results showed that cycle time management has a positive and significant impact on customer satisfaction in food and beverage manufacturing firms in Southeast Nigeria (β = 0.943; p < 0.05) and that top management commitment has a positive and significant effect on competitiveness (β = 0.916; p < 0.05).The study concludes a robust positive relationship between Six Sigma and the sustainability of manufacturing enterprises in South East Nigeria. Among others, the study recommends that businesses should enhance the dedication of their senior management to improve productivity, enhance employee involvement, cultivate an influential workplace culture, and ultimately enhance overall success.
Evaluating Earnings and Profitability Performance of Ethiopian Insurance Companies Using CARAMEL Parameters: A Ten-Year Analysis
Demilie Eshetu Mahmud1 & Jaladi Ravi2
A business organization is invariably founded with the primary objective of generating profit through its activities. Profit serves as the lifeblood of any business, driving its growth, sustainability, and overall success. Without the ability to earn profit, a business faces significant challenges in maintaining its operations, let alone expanding or achieving stability in the long term. The study aims to investigate the earnings and profitability performance of selected insurance companies within the Ethiopian context from 2013 to 2022, utilizing indicators from the CARAMEL framework. Based on secondary data sourced from annual reports of selected insurance companies, journals, and websites, eight insurance companies were examined. The analysis centered on key variables including return on equity, claims/loss ratio, expenses, and combined ratios.For the analysis of data, descriptive statistics was used and ANOVA has been applied to see the significance in performance in terms of the selected variables between the insurance companies and over the study period. The study revealed significant differences in performance between companies and over the study period in all the parameters selected for the study except in the expense ratio. while the expense ratios showed significant differences between companies, such disparities were insignificant over the study years.
Passing the Torch: Evaluating the Challenge of Intergenerational Shifts in Career Paths for Igbo Apprenticeship System and the Implications for Business Succession of SMEs in Southeast Nigeria
Linus Adama1, *Chris Chukwuebuka Emeali2, Helen Ijeoma Nwachukwu3,Chidinma Adanso Onyemachi4
The study investigated the challenge of intergenerational shifts in career paths for the Igbo apprenticeship system and its implications for business succession of SMEs in Southeast Nigeria. Using a survey research design, the study encompassed a total population of 300 SMEs operating under the Igbo apprenticeship model. The entire population was sampled using census sampling, with stratified sampling method employed to cover different states in the Southeast Region. Data were analysed using regression analysis at a 5% significance level. Results indicated that intergenerational shifts in career paths among Igbo youth negatively impact the sustainability of the traditional Igbo apprenticeship system and pose significant challenges for business succession in SMEs. The study recommended that stakeholders in the Igbo apprenticeship system develop and implement policies to revitalise the traditional system, making it more attractive to the younger generation through modernised training and incentives.
Covid -19 Pandemic and Impact on Teaching and Learning of Technical College Students in Ekiti State, Nigeria
Ogunmilade J .O., Adameji J.O, Abiodun E.O
The study examined the covid-19 pandemic and impact on teaching and learning of technical college students in Ekiti State, Nigeria. The population was (3,425) for 2018/19 academic session. The descriptive research of the survey design was employed. Validated instrument of covid-19 pandemic and impact on teaching and learning of technical college students questionnaire (CPITLTCQ) was employed to gather the necessary data. The research instrument was validated using face and content validity. The questionnaire contains 15 items in the 4-point worth scale and information about respondents. The questionnaire were properly filled and coded into SPSS. Cronbach alpha was used to obtain 0.64 reliability coefficient showing that the instrument was stable. Mean and standard deviation was used to analyze the data collected for the study. Based on the findings, it was recommended among others, that Government and other relevant educational bodies and stakeholders should provide stable electricity, quality and standard internet connection. Training and seminars should be organized for the teachers to be updated, remote learning challenges should be looked into so that technical education can be improved in Ekiti State
Impact of Financial Development on Carbon Emissions: Evidence from Middle Income Countries (1991-2022)
1Nkama Orji Nkama, 2Chukwuma Nnate Eke, 3Obasi Ama Ibiam, 4Chikwe, Goddey C., 5Isreal Odion Edewele, 6Dickson Ben Uche
The study examines the impact of financial development on carbon emissions: Evidence from middle income countries. This research applies the system generalised method of moments (SGMM) to examine the impact of financial development on carbon emissions in 63 middle income countries from 1991 to 2022. The study adopted four indicators of financial development - domestic credit to the private sector percentage of GDP (FD1), total financial system deposits to GDP (FD2), deposit money bank assets to GDP (FD3), and liquid liabilities to GDP (FD4). Research findings: The conclusion of our research reveal that for lower middle income, trade openness, foreign direct investment and urbanisation have insignificant effect on carbon emissions in all specifications The results show that financial development increases carbon emissions in the middle income countries. Additionally, financial development has an inverted U-shaped relationship with carbon emissions. Finally, the evidence from the study shows that the curvilinear effect of financial development on carbon emissions differ across income groups. The outcome of our research does not only increase insight, however it presents a number of policy suggestions for environmental sustainability. This study are vital from the view point of developing and industrialising countries which have allowed a number of policy implications. To escape the damaging effect of financial development on environmental sustainability, some integral weaknesses of the middle income countries’ financial system such as misallocation of financial resources should be resolved to reverse the adverse effect of financial development on the environment. The financial sector, especially the banking sector should be encouraged to engage in interest discounts for investment in technology development that are energy cost-efficient. The financial sector should place more emphasis on effective and useful actions that stimulate more low-carbon financing among firms and households
The Mediating Role of Motivation on Work-Life Balance and Employee Well-Being in Bamenda, Nort-West Region of Cameroon
Awa Marshall Teneng1, Prof. Fomba Emmanuel Mbebeb2, Dr. Tayong Desmond Minba3& Gordon Ubebah4
The paper discusses the critical importance of work-life balance in contemporary organisational research, particularly in Bamenda, Cameroon, where both public and private institutions coexist. Despite growing recognition of the significance of work-life balance, there is a lack of empirical research on its effects on employee well-being in Bamenda. Specifically, the impact of personal, family, and community life balance and the mediating role of motivation have not been adequately explored.To address this gap, the study aims to determine the mediating role of motivation on work-life balance and employee well-being in Bamenda. It utilises a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews with Bamenda employees from various institutions. Statistical analyses, including regression and mediation analyses, were conducted to examine the relationships among variables.The study finds significant positive associations between motivation, work-life balance, and employee well-being. Higher motivation levels correlate with better personal life balance and enhanced employee well-being. Regression analysis indicates that motivation partially mediates the relationship between personal life balance and employee well-being, emphasising its importance in the context of Bamenda.Based on the findings, the study recommends promoting work-life balance initiatives that address Bamenda's organisations' personal, family, and community needs. It also suggests creating a motivational work environment to improve employee well-being and organisational outcomes. These insights are valuable for policymakers, human resource practitioners, and organisational leaders in developing effective strategies to support employee well-being and enhance organisational performance in Bamenda.
Evaluation of Proximal Femur Geometry Using Digital Radiography and Dry Bone Measurements with its Clinical Implications
Dr Poulomi Banik1 , Ashwini NS2 ,Bhavyasree P3, Anil Kumar Sakalecha4 & Gaurav Kumar5
The femur is the longest and strongest bone in the human bodythat includes the head, neck, greater trochanter, and lesser trochanter, forming the ball-and-socket synovial hip joint. The angle formed by the neck's longitudinal axis with the shaft's longitudinal axis is known as the neck shaft angle, typically ranging from 115° to 140° in adults. Deviations from this range, such as coxavalga (angle >135°) or coxavara (angle <120°)can impact hip function.Orthopaedic procedures on the proximal femur aim to achieve a painless and functional hip in the long term. However, incorrectly reconstructed hip anatomy can lead to various complications, necessitating revision total hip replacement. To address this, focus on studying proximal femoral morphology to select implants that match the native hip anatomy closely is necessary. Conducting studies on proximal femur geometry in the Indian population, using radiographic and dry bone analyses, shall provide valuable insights to improve surgical outcomes. This knowledge can inform the development of implants tailored to the anatomical characteristics of the Indian population, enhancing patient satisfaction and reducing the risk of complications. The objective of the current study was to assess the morphology of the proximal femur, including its diameters and angles, and to compare the external and internal geometry of the femur as determined from radiographs with actual measurements on dry specimens within the Indian population. We found that the Femoral Head Length (FHL) was 49.62±3.515 for dry bone and 40.56±3.25 for radiographs, consistent with previous studies conducted in North India and elsewhere. Similarly, the femoral neck proximal, middle, and distal anterior lengths were determined, showing differences between dry bone and radiographic measurements. The mean Neck-Shaft Angle (NSA) values for dry bone and digital radiography were 130.42±85 and 128.6±71, respectively, indicating statistical significance.Other proximal dimensions, such as femoral head offset and vertical offset, also exhibited differences between dry bone and radiographic measurements. Notably, the Intertrochanteric Line Length (ITLL) was compared between dry bone and digital radiographs, showing significant differences.Interestingly, in our study, the Femoral Neck Anterior Length - Proximal (FNAL-P) values for dry bone (44.29±7.34) were higher than FNAL-M (24.48±3.74), suggesting variation in proximal femur morphology within the Indian population.These findings highlights the importance of assessing proximal femur morphology using both dry bone and radiographic analyses to understand differences and inform surgical interventions accurately.
Bridging Tradition and Modernity: An Examination of the Effect of Lack of Modernization of Traditional Igbo Business Model on SMEs in Igboland
Chidinma Adanso Onyemachi1, Chris Chukwuebuka Emeali2, Magnus Ugwa3 & Humphrey Okebaram Chibo4
The study examined the effect of Lack of Modernization of Traditional Igbo Business Model on SMEs in Igboland. The study adopted a survey research design with a total population of 300 SMEs engaged in Igbo Apprenticeship Business Model. Census sampling technique was adopted, which meant that the entire population was used. The study adopted stratified sampling technique to reach out to the different states in the Southeast Region where these indigenous SMEs engage in their various enterprises. Regression analysis was used for data analysis at 5% level of significance. Findings revealed that lack of modernization of the traditional Igbo business model had a significant negative effect on the sustainability of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) in Igboland. The study therefore recommended, among others, that relevant stakeholders, including government agencies, NGOs, and business development centers, establish comprehensive training programs for these SMEs. These programs should focus on providing contemporary management techniques, marketing strategies, and operational efficiencies for these SMEs. This could be achieved by providing practical workshops and mentorship opportunities.
Re-Emergence of Military Takeover in West Africa
Okaiyeto Simon Ayodele, Dr. Ejirefe, Ulo Edafe
This paper discusses there-emergence of military take-over in West Africa as threat to democracy.It argued that coups d'état and attempted coups have resurfaced in the last five years in democratic nations like Chad, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Guinea-Bissau, Madagascar, Mali, Mauritania, Bukina Faso, Niger and Gabon due to the peoples reawakened aspirations for a better living, strong government, and quick progress. Unfortunately, leadership inability to respond to the socioeconomic and security concerns, massive corruption, inadequate infrastructure, instability, and visionless leadership have made the economy dragging, resulting in widespread poverty, filth, and suffering in these West African countries threatened. The paper used historical qualitative method, one in which secondary data such as text books, journals, periodicals, newspapers, magazines, reports and other online resources. The paper reveals that the re-emergence of military coup in West Africa has negative implications such as unlawful replacement of a democratic government, increase insecurity, alteration of the state's social and economic policies due to sanctions and development, oppression of the citizenryas well as loss of reputation which obviously spells doom for the region. In the light of the findings, the paper recommended that the military should focus on their functions and restrain from interventionist move towards state’s politics. Democratic leaders should allow the citizenry to participation in the political processes and avoid election rigging that may undermine security that may attract military takeover. Democratic leaders should also make deliberate efforts to grow the economy to avoid inflationary or deflationary trend as economic collapse and institutional decay may attract the military to power. Additionally, ECOWAS and the African Union should unequivocally denounce and reject illegitimate government changes, and be consistent in their implementation of sanctions to prevent aiding illegal regime transitions intentionally or inadvertently.
Strategic Shift in the Government Innovation Policy: India Interim Budget 2024
Aruna Pain
In the Union Budget 2024, the Union finance minister has announced Rs 1 lakh crore corpus to promote research and development by the industry in the private sector. Till recently the Indian government was primarily using tax incentives to encourage private R&D. This announcement by the finance minister marks a strategic change in the government R&D policy. This paper first briefly reviews the effectiveness of the different policy instruments used to stimulate R&D. The paper then reviews the R&D policy pursued by the government in the recent times. With this background this study attempts to assess how effective the recently announced giant corpus will be in boosting R&D by the private sector in India.
Effect of Employee Benefits and Rewards on Employee Engagement of Selected Construction Companies in Abuja
Mina Alfred Ikiba, Taiwo Adewale Muritala (Ph.D., CPFM, FBDFM)* , Hauwa Lamino Abubakar, Akeem Adewale Bakare
This study examined the effect of benefits and rewards on employee engagement, focusing on flexible work arrangements, health insurance coverage, and retirement benefits. With project performance as the proxy for employee engagement. Utilizing a descriptive survey design and census sampling technique, the research targeted employees from Setraco and Julius Berger, with a sample size of 650 respondents. Data was collected through structured questionnaires and analyzed via regression analysis using SPSS software. The findings reveal that health insurance coverage and retirement benefit have a significantly high positive impact on employee engagement compared to flexible work arrangement, (1.8205) and the two showing a mean score of 1.9291 and 1.9921 respectively Health insurance coverage was identified as crucial in alleviating financial stress related to medical expenses, thereby enhancing employee well-being and engagement. Retirement benefits were also found to significantly boost engagement, reflecting the importance employees place on long-term financial security. Although flexible work arrangements positively influence engagement, their impact was less pronounced than that of health insurance and retirement benefits. This study highlights the paramount importance of comprehensive health insurance coverage and robust retirement benefits in driving employee engagement. The study recommends Organizations to ensure that employees have access to extensive health benefits to reduce financial stress and enhance well-being. And also adopt and promote flexible working policies to accommodate the diverse needs of their workforce, thereby boosting engagement.
Audit Committee and Earnings Quality Reporting of Listed Oil and Gas Firms in Nigeria
Obafemi, Tunde Olutokunboh, (Ph.D) Araoye Felix Ebun (Ph.D, FCA, ACTI) Oyesanmi, Bosede Oladunni, (MSc., FCA)
The study examines the effect of audit committee on earning quality reporting of listed oil and gas firms in Nigeria. The population of the study consists of eleven (11) oil and gas companies listed on the Nigerian Exchange Group (NXG) as at 31st December, 2022. The sample of eight listed companies was made from the population between 2013 and 2022. Secondary source of data was used to obtain ten (10) year audited financial statements. The study employed correlation and ordinary least square regression statistical technique in analyzing the obtained data. The findings revealed a significant relationship between audit committee and earnings quality reporting of the listed oil and gas firm in Nigeria. It is therefore recommended that the board should try and maintain the board size and the existing proportion of audit committee accounting expertise members while the number of female directors represented in the audit committee should be reduced.
Studies on Bacterial Diversity and PGP Activity from Soils of North-Western Part of India
Sheetal Kumar, Tamanna, Raghuvir Singh and Ram Prakash Pandey
In the current research, attempts were made to isolate the potential plant growth-promoting bacterial (PGPRs) strains from the agricultural field soils from Udhampur (Jammu and Kashmir) and Gharuan (Punjab). A total of 9 bacterial strains were isolated, out of which 5 were isolated from the soil of the Jammu region and 4 from the Punjab region. In plant growth promotion tests out of the total, 55% of isolateswere found positive for HCN production while only 66% of isolates were positive in siderophore production. 55% and 88% of isolates show phosphate and zinc solubilization respectively and IAA was recorded only in the 66% of isolates. Isolates were identified at the molecular level using amplification and sequencing of 16S rRNA sequences. The DNA sequences were submitted to NCBI GenBank and accession numbers were obtained. A total of 5 isolates exhibited 4 or more than 4 plant growth-promoting traits and were inoculated with wheat varieties DBW 327, PBW 752, and Barley PL 426 grown in sterile pots containing soil and sand mixture. It was observed that the inoculated crop varieties show significant increases in 9.3%,15% and 9.9% height, 25%, 29%, and 40.2% increment in wet weight and 8.6%, 1.7% and 4.1% increment in chlorophyll content in the Wheat DBW-327, Wheat PBW-752 and Barley PL-426 crop varieties respectively than the uninoculated control plants. These isolates could become very crucial for the growth and yield of Wheat and Barley crops with sustainable agriculture. However, field trials are required to uncover the potential of isolates for plant growth and yield in an open uncontrolled environment.
The Cobweb of skilling in India
Ganapathiraju Pavani Devi
India, with its young population, boasts a demographic dividend. However, this advantage is overshadowed by a persistent challenge - youth unemployment. Many scholars in India attribute mass unemployment to lack of skills or a mismatch between the skills that job seekers possess and those that the industry requires. While skilling the youth can provide them with valuable skills and improve their employability, it alone is not sufficient to solve the unemployment problem due to various economic and structural factors. This paper goes further and argues that the root cause of the problem is not just a lack of skills but rather the inherent instability of capitalist production, which cannot always guarantee full employment. Additionally, Indian institutions that address the unemployment problem may not be effectively addressing the issue, which compounds the problem.
The Study on Competitive Performance Effects of Psychological Skill Training Program among Athletes
Birhanu Wondewossen Mekurya,Prof. N. Vijay Mohan
This study investigates the impact of a 12-week psychological skill training program on the performance and psychological skill abilities of 400m runners. Utilizing a pre-test/post-test one-group experimental design, six athletes aged 19 to 25 from the Ethiopian Sport Academy participated in the intervention targeting imagery, relaxation, and self-talk. Performance and psychological skills were assessed before and after the intervention using standardized measures and the Psychological Skills Inventory for Sports. Descriptive analysis revealed a slight improvement in performance times post-intervention, with significant enhancements in relaxation and self-talk abilities. However, imagery ability remained relatively unchanged. Paired samples t-tests confirmed the statistical significance of these differences. These findings suggest that the intervention positively influenced both performance and psychological skill abilities. They align with previous research demonstrating the efficacy of psychological skill training in sports performance en8hancement. Further research is recommended to refine interventions for optimal effectiveness.
A Comparative Study on the Effect of Deep Transverse Friction Massage and Ultrasound in Reducing Pain in Plantar Fasciitis
Dr, Manoj Kumar Mathur, Dr. Ajeet Saharan, Dr. Shantanu Sharma, Dr. Anuja Choudhary, Dr Hari Narayan Saini
Background: Inflammation of the fascia that covers the plantar area and the tissues around it is known as plantar fasciitis. The main reason for discomfort in the heel, which is found near the base of the foot, is plantar fasciitis. The pain and suffering linked to this illness can significantly affect physical mobility. The cause of this illness is not well known and is likely to be influenced by multiple factors.1This is a frequently occurring injury caused by over use.2The terms "jogger's heel," "tennis heel," and "policeman's heel" are other names for plantar fasciitis.The measurement is 4 feet and 5 inches. This study seeks to assess the advantages of 2 therapeutic approaches, DTFM and ultrasound method and it would be advantageous to compare their effectiveness in order to determine which technique is more suitable for relieving pain in patients with Plantar fasciitis. Method: This interventional study was conducted on a sample of 30 individuals who met the inclusion criteria for plantar fasciitis. Regarding the condition of plantar fasciitis. This study included 30 individuals who were randomly assigned to two groups. Each group consisted of 15 subjects. Subjects in Group A received Deep transverse friction treatment, Those in the B group were treated with ultrasound. Both groups were evaluated for pain using a VAS. The pretreatment visual analog scale (VAS) score was recorded prior to administering the treatment during all six sessions.The after treatment VAS rating was evaluated after each of the 6 sessions of therapy. Result: In the intergroup analysis, Group A has a mean rank of 8 and a total of ranks (R1) equal to 138.50. On the other hand, Group B has a mean rank of 8 and a sum of ranks (R2) equal to 300. The Mann- Whitney U test yielded a value of 165.0 and a matching value for P equal 0.0015.This P value indicates statistical significance, as it is less than the predetermined threshold of 0.0015. The analysis demonstrates that Group B (Ultrasound) is superior to Group A (Deep transverse friction) in alleviating pain. Conclusion: This study concludes that Ultrasound is more efficacious than DTFM in relieving the pain caused by plantar fasciitis. Both groups had a reduction in pain levels during the treatment session. Specifically, Group B saw a significant reduction in pain immediately following the therapy. Ultrasound is a useful therapy for treating pain in persons with plantar fasciitis.
Analysis of Constructivist Learning Management and Scholastic Satisfaction of Secondary Students in a Hyflex Learning Modality
Thea P. Suaco, Elvira Christiana L. Sta Maria
Following the conclusion of the Covid-19 pandemic as a public health crisis, the Department of Education has recognized the importance of reintroducing face-to-face classes in a gradual manner. This decision aims to enhance the academic growth and overall well-being of learners. The primary objective of this research was to assess the level of agreement among high school students regarding the concept of constructivist learning, as well as their satisfaction with their academic progress. This evaluation took place within the Hyflex learning environment at UB Science High School.This research study is highly relevant and responsive to local development as it specifically addresses the current needs of the educational sector.It aims to enhance and strengthen new procedures that are being implemented to achieve the utmost attainment of SDG 4. The sample size for this study consisted of 408 respondents who were chosen through random sampling, in accordance with the cross-sectional research design. The findings of this study are significant and indicate that students strongly agree that communication, interaction, building relationships, developing skills, managing time, evaluating performance, and teaching and learning are all present during the Hyflex modality. This implies that the Hyflex modality provides students with an avenue and freedom to express their thoughts, make decisions, communicate with their teachers and peers, and most importantly, participate in decision-making processes. Furthermore, the data reveals that there is a substantial positive link between teaching and assessment (r=0.78), as well as a moderate correlation between teaching and overall satisfaction (r=0.54) and assessment and overall satisfaction (r=0.54), respectively. These findings suggest that there is sufficient evidence to support the notion that the teaching and assessment methods employed in the school have a direct impact on the overall satisfaction levels of the students.
The Digital Competence of the University of Baguio Pre-service Teachers
Jerrel Panayo , Dean Marc Aguado
The information age demands competencies that respond to an increasingly digitized world. Pre-service teachers are not exempt from this imperative. This study aims to assess the digital competence of pre-service teachers of the University of Baguio across the Digital Competence (DigComp) domains and propose a training program to address identified areas of improvement. Through the descriptive quantitative design, this study assessed the DigComp levels of 68 pre-service teachers via a self-reported DigComp questionnaire. Thefindingsindicate a moderate level of Digital Competence overall, with notable strengths observed in Safety, Information and Data Literacy, Communication and Collaboration. However, areas of improvement were identified in Digital Content Creation and Problem Solving. This study contributes to the gap in the literature on Filipino pre-service teachers’DigComp. The insights from the study served as the foundation for targeted interventions aimed at enhancing pre-service teachers’ digital skills.
Beyond Formal Education: Investigating the Implications of Limited Formal Education of Igbo Apprentices in the Era of Globalization on the Sustainability of SMEs in Southeast Nigeria
Juliet Anuri Onwuchekwa, Chris Chukwuebuka Emeali, Anthony Chukwuma Nwali,Lorna Nnamani
The study examined the impact of lack of formal education of Igbo apprentices on the sustainability of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Southeast Nigeria. The study adopted a survey research design with a total population of 650 local SMEs engaged in Igbo Apprenticeship Business Model. Census sampling technique was used, which meant that the entire population was used. The study adopted stratified sampling technique to reach out to the different states in the Southeast Region where these local SMEs engage in their various enterprises. Regression analysis was used for data analysis at 5% level of significance. Findings revealed that Lack of Formal Education has a significant negative impact on the Sustainability of SMEs.There should be partnerships between the government, educational institutions, and the private sector to create specialized training centers that offer both formal education and apprenticeship training. These centers should be equipped with modern facilities and staffed by experienced educators and industry professionals to ensure high-quality training of the apprentices.
Educational Value of African Folktales
Ikechukwu Anthony Kanu, PhD
African people are story telling people. And these stories, usually about nature- plants, animals, the other aspects of the environment, are employed in daily conversations to mirror the ideas of the African people and their general outlook of life, conduct and morals. It is such that they carry the traditions, culture and life of the African people- not only as means for the preservation of the African values but also as a means of communicating them to the next generation. This piece attempts at studying the nature of African folktales, its types and educative value. For the achievement of the aim and objectives of this work, the phenomenological and hermeneutic methods of inquiry will be employed. The Igwebuike theoretical framework will be used for the interpretation and understanding of the African reality and its relationships. This research discovered that apart from the African system of education which is tied to roles such as farming, hunting, firewood gathering etc., the African got much more instruction through tales, which has for centuries before the advent of Western education, served as an integrated classroom. It further recommended the employment of African indigenous folktales in educational institutions in Africa, more importantly, at the primary and secondary levels. In this way, the African will be taught within categories that he or she understands and appreciates.
Perceived Dynamics in Economic Environment and Entrepreneurship in Nigeria
Benjamin Ibe Chukwu, Chia Innocent Igbadoo, Akeem Tunde Nafiu, Tojue Obianuju Grace
This study focused on the economic environment and entrepreneurial development. The study adopted a surveyre search design, where377 participants were randomly selected. Data were gathered and analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The study used descriptive statistics to analyse the demographic characteristics of its participants. Model fit was evaluated using the data in the study, which used a route modelling technique based on the Structural Equation Model (SEM). Among others, findings showed that the unemployment rate has a significant positive effect on entrepreneurial development and that a moderate inflationary rate has a significant positive effect on the market expansionof SMEs. The study recommended that the government establish targeted support programmes that facilitate entrepreneurship education, mentorship, and access to resources for the unemployed population and that policymakers implement measures that mitigate the impact of inflation on SMEs.
Alternative Learning Strategies and Effectiveness of Tertiary Institutions During Covid-19 Pandemic in Kwara State, Nigeria
Atolagbe Adedapo Adetiba (Ph.D.), Lawal Abdbulmumin Abubakar(Ph.D.) , Ojo Olubukola James(Ph.D.) ,Murtala Abdulyaqin .Tukur(Ph.D.) , Oyeniran Saheed(Ph.D.), Tijani, Adebayo Abdulganiyu(Ph.D.)
The outbreak of COVID-19 in 2020 brings about disruption of academic calendar because of the suspensions placed on schools across the states in the country. In order to bridge the learning gap and prevent further disruption in the academic activities, alternative learning strategies which are digital in nature was introduced. Thus, the study examined alternative learning strategies and effectiveness of tertiary institutions during COVID-19 pandemic in Kwara State, Nigeria. The study was guided by five research objectives. Employing descriptive survey design, the study analysed data gathered from 744 students from University of Ilorin and Kwara State College of Education, Kwara State Nigeria. Multi-stage sampling technique was used to select the respondents for this study. The findings of the study among others revealed that the major challenge of alternative learning strategies adoption was the high running of data and subscription cost; the level of effectiveness of tertiary institutions in Kwara State was high; and there was a significant relationship between alternative learning strategies and the effectiveness of tertiary institutions during COVID-19 pandemic in Kwara State, Nigeria.
Retention Factors of Smoking Behaviour among Terengganu's Youth: Implications for Free Smoking Zone Planning in Coastal City
Mohd Syaiful Nizam Abu Hassan , Mohd Khairul Amri Kamarudin, Ahmed Ahmed Olaitan, Paramjit Singh Jamir Singh
Smoking behaviour is considered a social problem that is widely discussed in society as it is a form of violation of the norms of life established in the social system. Smoking habits lead to addiction and harm to health (Sa'ari, et al., 2007). Therefore, they will continue smoking habits as a daily routine and continue to be detrimental to their health (Komasari et al., 2000). The purpose of this study was to identify factors affecting smoking behaviour among youth in Terengganu and find out mechanism for free smoking zone planning. Researchers use quantitative techniques to get more accurate answers. The total number of respondents was 437 men who participated in this study and all were from Terengganu. They were asked to complete the Smoking Consequences Questionnaire (SCQ) in this study. Researchers use factor analysis to identify the dominant factors in the retention of smoking behaviours and implications for social work. The results show that there are 18 dominant factors that influence smoking retention. The findings from this study can be used and applied to the public to stop smoking behaviour. A healthy society will advance and develop the country (Shafii, 2008).
Factors and Obstacles Affected the Participation of Suburban Youth in Employment: A study in Hulu Terengganu, Terengganu, Malaysia
Nur Ain Mohd Zain, Mohd Syaiful Nizam Abu Hassan
The issue of youth employment faces a worldwide predicament. This study discusses the challenging youth unemployment situation in suburban areas of Terengganu. The study strives to explore the vital factors that contribute to these incidents, exploring the socioeconomic dynamics that influence employment opportunities for young adults in suburban areas. This study explores the complex concerns and obstacles that impact the participation of suburban youths in employment, including personal factors, family influence, and environmental effects, from an academic perspective. The study implemented a qualitative methodology, interviewing ten youth informants from Hulu Terengganu, Malaysia. Based on previous research and statistical data, the study provides possible approaches and strategies to diminish unemployment among young people in suburban areas. It aims to promote long-term economic progress and inclusive societal advancement.
An Empirical Study of Drug Use, Smoking and Local Government Policy: An Example of Adolescents in Yunnan Province, China
Bao Meiyu, Mohd Syaiful Nizam Bin Abu Hassan, Ahmed Ahmed Olaitan
Since the beginning of human history, the drug problem has been an important factor affecting the survival and development of human beings. How to prevent the harm brought by drugs is still a long and difficult task we face. Through research, it is found that many drug habits are formed in adolescence, and bad habits at a young age can have a lifelong impact. In addition, Yunnan Province is the most prolific province in China, with the largest number of drug users and the most serious situation.Therefore, this paper will investigate and analyze the causes of drug use among adolescents under 25 years old in Yunnan Province, so as to find out the current situation and characteristics of drug use among adolescents under 25 years old in Yunnan Province in 2023, as well as the causes of drug use, so as to propose a series of countermeasures to prevent the problem of drug use among adolescents.We distributed 100-150 questionnaires in 13 compulsory isolation and community drug treatment facilities in Yunnan Province, and a total of 1083 questionnaires were distributed and 1022 valid questionnaires were returned. In this paper, we will analyze the causes of drug use mainly from two aspects: the smoking status of adolescent drug users, and the local government policy on drug use. The degree of drug use is used as the dependent variable, while every adolescent goes through the student years, so the school environment for drug prevention education is used as the moderating variable.The above data were then analyzed empirically, the results were analyzed and discussed, and finally, specific countermeasures were proposed on how to prevent drug use among adolescents at the individual, school, and government levels, respectively.
Changes in Serum Cardiac Biomarkers Levels of Different Extracts of Terminalia Catappa and Aspirin in Diabetic Rats
Ezekiel E. Ben, Asuquo E. Asuquo, Idowu O. Owemidu, Negedu M. Nafiu, Elizabeth O. Dangana
Background: Myocardial abnormalities silently exist in diabetes mellitus and assessment of some cardiac bio markers are used to achieve early diagnosis and management. Aim: To investigates changes in cardiac biomarkers in diabetic rats treated with different extracts of Terminalia catappa leaves. Method: A total of Fifty-four (54) male Wistar rats were randomly shared into 8 groups of 6 rats per group. Group 1 (control) received 5ml/kg body weight of distilled water orally. Group 2 was treated with aqueous leaf extract of T. catappa at 130mg/Kg body weight orally while Group 3, diabetic untreated group orally received distilled water, 5ml/Kg body weight. Groups 4 and 5 were diabetic rats treated respectively with 130mg/Kg body weight of aqueous leaf extract of T. catappa and subcutaneous administration of insulin, 0.75U/Kg body weight. Group 6 received methanol extract of T. catappa leaf extract; 130mg/Kg body weight, group 7 received ethanol extract of T. catappa leaf extract; 130mg/Kg body weight and group 8 was administered orally with 30 mg/Kg body weight of aspirin. Diabetes was induced with streptozotocin; 65 mg/Kg body weight. Results: Increase in CKMB was significant (p < 0.05) while the increase in Troponin, LDH and BNP were marginal in diabetic untreated group. A significant reduction was observed in CKMB and LDH in aqueous extract treated but significant increase in serum levels of Troponin, CKMB, LDH and BNP in ethanol extract, methanol extract and aspirin treated groups. Conclusion: Aqueous extract of T. catappa reduces cardiac biomarkers to ameliorates myocardial injury while ethanol and methanol extracts cause cardio-toxicity in diabetic rats.
Growth of Total Exports and Imports in India and Iraq
Husham Mohammed Khalaf , Prof. G. Nagaraja
The energy trade relation between India and Iraq has witnessed substantial growth and has become an integral part of their bilateral ties. Both countries are major players in the global energy landscape, with India being one of the world's largest energy consumers and Iraq possessing significant oil reserves. India heavily relies on imports to meet its growing energy demands, and Iraq has emerged as one of its key suppliers. Oil forms the backbone of their energy trade, with India importing a significant amount of crude oil from Iraq. The Indian refineries are well-equipped to process the Iraqi crude, making it a mutually beneficial partnership. Over the years, India and Iraq have signed several agreements and memoranda of understanding (MOUs) to further strengthen their energy cooperation. These agreements cover various aspects, including exploration, production, refining, marketing, and investment in the energy sector. Both countries have also collaborated on enhancing oil infrastructure and storage facilities.
Iraq and India Energy Trade
Husham Mohammed Khalaf , Prof. G. Nagaraja
India and Iraq's energy trade relationship has grown significantly and is now a crucial component of their bilateral relations. Iraq has substantial oil reserves, while India is one of the world's biggest energy consumers. Both nations are important participants in the global energy scene. India is becoming more and more dependent on imports to fulfil its expanding energy needs, and one of its main suppliers is now Iraq. Their energy commerce is based primarily on oil, with India importing a sizable amount of crude oil from Iraq. The relationship is advantageous to both parties because the Indian refineries are capable of processing the crude from Iraq. To deepen their energy cooperation, India and Iraq have signed a number of agreements and memorandums of understanding (MOUs) throughout the years. These agreements address a number of topics, such as investment in the energy sector and exploration, production, refining, and marketing. Additionally, both nations have worked together to improve oil storage and infrastructure.
Uses and Gratification of Online Shopping of Youth in India: A Study
Dr. Sewa Singh Bajwa , Mokhalad Ali
Social media has become an insurmountable force in modern society. More than half the global population uses social media. An average person spends more than two hours on it every day. It can be said that it has altered our lives and life styles. It has given us new ways to get connected. On social media we come together and stay connected. It is a media of self expression. Basically it is the community interaction among people in which they virtually live. They create and share information and ideas in these virtual communities. It has become the basic need of human beings. It has greatly satisfied the need of human beings to be social. It has given us new ways to stay connected. It is a wonderful medium of self expression. It has changed our relationships and our thinking style. People depend too much on social media. There is trend of online shopping everywhere. There are advertisements on social media sites. They give information regarding products and make people buy them. Marketers spread messages on social media. People see the advertisements. They purchase the items they need. Experts say that social media advertisements affect youth more than other people. This research work studies the uses and gratification of online shopping of the youth of Punjab state of India which is known to be the most developed and prosperous Indian state.
Unveiling the Role of Indigenous Women Leaders in Odishas Political Landscape: Challenges, Strategies, and Impact
Sudama Lenka , Dr. Dipak Kumar Dash
This paper explores the multifaceted role of indigenous women leaders in shaping Odisha's political landscape, focusing on the challenges they encounter, the strategies they employ, and the impact of their leadership on indigenous communities and broader society. Drawing on a comprehensive review of literature, case studies, and empirical data, the paper examines the unique challenges faced by indigenous women leaders, including gender discrimination, limited access to resources, and cultural barriers. It highlights the strategies employed by indigenous women leaders to navigate these challenges, including grassroots organizing, capacity-building, advocacy, and coalition-building. Moreover, the paper analyzes the impact of indigenous women's leadership on political representation, policy-making, community development, and environmental stewardship in Odisha. It argues that indigenous women leaders play a pivotal role in advancing indigenous rights, promoting gender equality, preserving cultural heritage, and advocating for sustainable development. By amplifying indigenous women's voices, recognizing their contributions, and supporting their leadership, policymakers, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders can foster more inclusive and equitable governance structures that honor the rights and dignity of indigenous peoples in Odisha and beyond.
Policy Recommendation: Fostering Sustainable Growth through Industrial Park Development in Ethiopia
Workenh Eshatuu Sime (PhD)
Industrial park development projects are commonly employed by policymakers and decision-makers as a strategic approach to foster economic growth. Within Ethiopia, there are presently 32 industrial parks located across diverse zones and city administrations. This study examines the economic impact of industrial park development in Ethiopia by employing a difference-in-difference (DID) methodology. Specifically, the study distinguishes between treated zones, which encompass zones and city administrations with industrial parks, and controlled zones, which represent areas without industrial parks. The findings of the analysis indicate that the establishment and operation of industrial parks have yielded positive effects on various macro-economic indicators, with the exception of domestic capital formation. Consequently, it is highly recommended that the government devise tailored policies and incentives to encourage domestic investors to engage in Ethiopian industrial parks. Such measures would contribute to further leveraging the economic benefits associated with industrial park development in the country. This study provides valuable insights for policymakers and stakeholders, shedding light on the potential of industrial park initiatives as catalysts for economic growth and suggesting targeted strategies to maximize their impact in Ethiopia.
Marketing Capabilities and Innovation Performance of Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises in South-West, Nigeria
Ayo, Mofoluwake Folasayo Samuel, Mercy Buloere Adesuyi, Isaac Oludoyi, Isaac Olakunle
Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) play a crucial role in driving economic growth in countries, yet in Nigeria's Southwest region, their innovation performance has lagged. This study investigated the impact of marketing capabilities on innovation performance among selected SMEs in this region. Through a descriptive research design, 377 SME owners/managers across selected states were surveyed. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics and multiple. Results indicated that marketing capabilities (customer engagement, market sensing, product management, and selling) positively influenced SMEs' innovation performance. Specifically, these capabilities significantly affected product innovation, market development, and process innovation. The study concluded that enhancing marketing capabilities could significantly boost innovation performance among SMEs in Southwest Nigeria, thereby promoting sustainable growth. Recommendations included prioritizing efforts to strengthen customer engagement, improve market sensing abilities, enhance product management practices, and bolster selling capabilities. These actions can empower SMEs to innovate more effectively, fostering their long-term viability and contributing to the region's economic advancement.
Adverse Childhood Experiences, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and Offending Behaviour among Correctional Facility Inmates in Southwest, Nigeria
Oluwatomilola Adewunmi; Sussan Adeusi; Olusegun Adeeko; Temiloluwa Arotiba; Deborah Olarinde;
Nigeria is one of the top twenty least tranquil countries in the world due to its high offending rates. Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) are often cited as risk factors for offending behaviour. Research on their prevalence and association is of major importance for early intervention and reduction in the rate of offending in Nigeria. Therefore, the goal of this research was to find out the prevalence of ACEs and ADHD, and the associations among ACEs, ADHD and offending behaviour among inmates in Southwest, Nigeria. A cross sectional research design was adopted. The Adverse Childhood International Questionnaire (ACE-IQ), Adult ADHD Self-reported Screener Version 1.1 (ASRS-V 1.1) and Self-Reported Delinquency Scale were adopted and administered to 307 inmates in Southwest Nigeria. Results shows that, 182 (59.3%) had experienced one or more childhood adversity while 16 (5.3%) screened positive for adult ADHD. ACEs and ADHD explained 35% variance in offending behaviour. The study shows that ACEs and ADHD are prevalent risk factors among the inmates and might have moderating effect on the course of offending behaviour. The study made relevant contributions and suggestions for further studies.
Soft Skills for Curriculum Development towards Classroom Management in Teacher Education Practice in Universities in Nigeria
1Victor Ojorka Akor (PhD); 1Hadiza Alami Musa (PhD) 1Samuel, Mohammed Enefu (PhD); 1Damian Monday Ogwuche (PhD) 2Atuzie Chioma; 1Joseph Ojoniko Ameh; 1Dominic Solomon Ojonugwa (PhD)
The study was soft skills for curriculum development towards classroom management in teacher education practice in universities in Nigeria. It aimed to determine the place of soft skills in curriculum development and how it enhances classroom management. Descriptive survey design was adopted for the study with tworesearch questions and a hypothesis that guided the study. The population was made up of 300 postgraduate students in the Faculty of Education, Prince Abubakar Audu University, Anyigba and Rivers State University, Nkpolu- Port Harcourt. A sample size of 100 postgraduate students was drawn using the proportionate stratified random sampling technique. The instrument for data collection was a 15- item questionnaire which was validated by three experts and it gave a reliability coefficient of 0.83 which was obtained using Cronbach Alpha method. The data collected were analyzed with mean and standard deviation while the hypothesis was tested using Z-test. The findings showed that the lecturers have high level of soft skills and that there is significant difference between the level of soft skills among the lecturers in the north central and those in the south-south. Thus, the following recommendations were made that lecturers should consolidate on the areas of strength in soft skills that they have currently, lecturers should do well to engage in studies and other self-improvement means to be better at areas where they are weak, the students should help the lecturers improve on their interpersonal relationship skills by creating friendship opportunities etc.
Impact Assessment of the Extension and Community Outreach Services in a Higher Education Institution in Baguio City
Dr. Isagani A. Paddit, Ms. Shayana G. Elipane, Mr. Oliver Richard C. Celi
Extension and community outreach services fulfill an organization's corporate social responsibility by assessing livelihood, skills, health, computer literacy, and advocacy programs. Descriptive statistics were employed to assess the impact of the extension outreach program, integrating a 4-point Likert scale with 67 respondents from Barangay Lucnab. The findings show that respondents regarded the success of the program and subsequent assessment of the value and application of community extension services as particularly significant. A finding that transpired in the study is that most respondents had a highly positive response to the computer literacy program, leading to substantial improvements in their capabilities. It recommends that program activities should be aligned with community needs for meaningful impact, and future research proposals should mirror program objectives to assess effectiveness. Furthermore, extension services significantly boost institutional awareness through policy advocacy, fostering relationships and community trust in its outreach programs.
Implications of Folk Songs for Education in Africa
Ikechukwu Anthony Kanu
The study of African songs have moved beyond dispassionate inquiry and the antiquated perspective that considered it a subject fit only for speculation by idle minds. With the present development in the area of African renaissance, acknowledging and claiming the African cultural heritage, the occasion has arisen to once again study African traditional songs to see their contributions towards the development of education in Africa. There are several works investigating African traditional songs from a variety of perspectives, however, the beauty of the present work is the connection it makes between education and African traditional songs. The burden of this work is to study African traditional songs, its dimensions or types and its contribution, particularly, to the area of education. To achieve this, the phenomenological and hermeneutic methods of inquiry were employed. This research discovered that African traditional songs, handed down from one generation to another orally, permeates every facet of African life, and thus occupies a fundamental place in the African traditional educational heritage. It further recommended the employment of African indigenousfolk songsin educational institutions in Africa, more importantly, at the primary and secondary levels. In this way, the African will be taught within categories that he or she understands and appreciates.
Job Design and Employee Performance in Benue State Civil Service
Dennis Ekpe Ogbu1, Emmanuel Kalu Agbaeze2, *Chris Chukwuebuka Emeali3
The study examined the effect of job design on employee performance in Benue State Civil Service, Makurdi. The specific objectives were, to: determine the effect of task variety on employee productivity in Benue State Civil Service; investigate the extent to which job autonomy affect employee engagement in Benue State Civil Service; and evaluate the extent to which feedback mechanism affect job satisfaction in Benue State Civil Service. The study adopted a survey research design with a total population of 657. Census sampling technique was used, which meant that the entire population was used. However, a total number of 650 duly completed and returned copies of the questionnaire were used for data analyses. The study adopted stratified sampling technique to reach out to the different ministries selected. Regression analysis was used for data analysis at 5% level of significance. Findings revealed that job design had a significant positive effect on employee performance in Benue State Civil Service, Makurdi. The study therefore recommended, among others, that Benue State Civil Service should implement job rotation and enrichment programs to introduce task variety and enhance productivity within the Benue State Civil Service.
Efficacy of Physiotherapy Intervention for Management of Primary Dysmenorrhoea- A Pilot Study
Smruti Swagatika Dash, Dr. Annie Thomas, Dr. Gyanendranath Dash
Objectives: To evaluate preliminary effects of a structured physiotherapy program on pain and quality of life in women with primary dysmenorrhoea. To assess feasibility of methodological procedures and obtain preliminary data (effect size) to estimate the sample size for a future randomised control trial. Methods: Eighteen women aged 18-25 years were divided into two groups(experimental group and control group) by lottery method. Women assigned to experimental group performed a set of structured supervised exercises for 3 days a week for 8 weeks whereas women in control group were educated with verbal instructions on managing menstrual pain and they continue their own home management. Participants were assessed at the end of 0th week, 4th week and finally at 8th week on the outcome measures of pain (NPRS) and quality of life (SF -36). Results: The study findings revealed that there was a significant difference in the numeric pain rating scale between groups (p=0.001), there was a significant difference in pvalue between all sub-scales of SF-36. Conclusion: A structured physiotherapy intervention helped young women with managingsymptoms of dysmenorrhoea which greatly impacted their quality of life. Their pain levels also came down after completion of the protocol.
Greater Omentum- A Cadaveric Study on Morphology, Development and Rare Variants of Omental Mass and their Role in Flap Reconstructive and Vascular Surgeries
Venkateshu K V1, Ravikiran HR2, Ashwini N S3
Introduction: The greater omentum, a peritoneal fold resembling an apron, serves diverse functions including fat storage, immune defense through "milky spots," and safeguarding the peritoneal cavity from infections. Despite its clinical importance, inconsistencies in understanding its morphology persist, leading to underexplored aspects. Beyond its role in lymph drainage and infection resistance, the omentum has proven valuable in medical interventions. Pedicledomentoplasty, coupled with skin grafting, effectively addresses antibiotic-resistant osteoradionecrotic ulcers. Recent global studies have revealed the omentum's dynamic physiological nature and therapeutic potential, challenging historical perceptions of its inertness. Materials & Methods: The study aims to investigate the morphology, variations, embryology, and developmental aspects of the greater omentum in 20 human cadavers. The dissection of the anterior abdominal wall was carried out, focusing on exposing the peritoneum to observe the folds of the greater omentum. Results: This study endeavors to comprehensively explore anatomical variations in the greater omentum and rare omental mass, offering updated insights for optimal application in the evolving field of surgery. Conclusions: The detailed examination includes an exploration of the morphology, embryological connections, and clinical significance of the greater omentum. Variations in the greater omentum were also identified. The study is designed to contribute valuable insights to the rapidly evolving field of surgery.
Appraisal of Ozioma Onuzulike's Stoneware and Terracotta Ceramic Keloids at the March 29 - May 6, 2021 Ko Art Exhibition, Lagos, Nigeria
Alu, Nkem Fortyunes1, Ubah,RitaDoris Edumchieke1 Anikpe, EkenechukwuAnazor1, Aji, Yakubu Stephen2
Ozioma Onuzulike’sceramic keloidsexhibited in 2021 at the Ko art space,Lagos, Nigeria, is the swivel of this content analytical study. The original schedule being: Ngozi Omeje Ezema (Jan 28 - Feb 11), Eva Obodo (Feb 25 - March 11), and Ozioma Onuzulike (March 25-April 8), Onuzulike’s phase later held from March 29-May 6, 2021. 2 genres were identified in Onuzulike’sworks: the ceramic palm kernel shells, and the yam seedlings. The specific objectives were to ascertain: (i) the genre most prevalent with colouration, stylisation and space integration, (ii) the prevalent calibre of balancing of art elements, (iii) the significance of the genres with Nigerian public issues, (iv) thelucidity ofthe genres for documenting ‘The way we are’, and (v) the most consistent theme with plurality. The study instruments were the:OnuzulikeStoneware and Terracotta Ceramic Keloids Map Questionnaire (OSTCKM-Q), Preliminary Data Desk (OSTCKM -PDD), and Frequency Percentage Rating Desk (OSTCKM -FPRD). Findings revealed the Yam series as most prevalent with colouration, stylisation and space integration; asymmetric balancing is dominant; both genres are significant with Nigerian public issues, and lucidly documents ‘the way we are’. Political themes are the most consistent with plurality.
Impact of Women Entrepreneurial Training on Performance: A Case Study of South-East Nigeria
Chinyere Jane Nwobilor1, Gambo Nasamu2, Ifeoma May Nwoye3, Hauwa Lamino Abubakar4,Umar Abbas Ibrahim5
Despite efforts to promote women's entrepreneurship, female entrepreneurs in the region face significant challenges, including limited access to education, finance, training, and markets. This study investigates the impact of entrepreneurial training on the performance of women-owned businesses in Southeast Nigeria. The study aims to assess the influence of networking, people management, marketing, and business risk management training on business growth among women entrepreneurs. A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 1,334 respondents from registered women-owned enterprises across five southeastern states. The data was analyzed using multiple regression analysis. The findings reveal positive and statistically significant relationships between the identified training needs (networking, people management, marketing, and business risk management) and business growth. The study highlights the transformative potential of targeted capacity-building initiatives in empowering women entrepreneurs and driving sustainable business growth. Policy recommendations emphasize the development of holistic entrepreneurship programs, establishment of support systems, promotion of collaborative ecosystems, and fostering enabling environments to address the unique training needs of women entrepreneurs. By prioritizing these interventions, policymakers can contribute to the economic empowerment of women, promote inclusive growth, reduce gender disparities, and unlock the entrepreneurial potential of women as drivers of development in Southeast Nigeria.
Intrapreneurial Behaviour as a Drives for Achievement and Product Development in Small and Medium Enterprises in Southeast, Nigeria
1Ephraim Augustin Mina; 2Emmanuel Kalu Agbaeze; 3Ekoja Geoffrey Owoicho
The study examined intrapreneurial behaviour as a drives for achievement and product development in small and medium enterprises in southeast, Nigeria it main objective of the study. The study adopted the descriptive survey design andthe study purposively sample all 528 employees from the 10 selected small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the South-East Nigeria. Data was collected through a structured and self administed questionnaire. A five-point Likert scale of strongly disagree to strongly agree was used to solicit responses. The finding showed that drives for achievement had significant effect on product development of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the South-East Nigeria.The study concluded that productdevelopment is unaffected by drive for achievement. The study recommend that among others that small and medium enterprises in South-East, Nigeria should intensify efforts to meet the tastes of their customers with a standard practice to work on aspects that improves their products' acceptability.
Efficacy of Collagen Plug for Haemostasis and Socket Preservation after Tooth Extraction: A Systematic Review
1Dr. Akshaya Subhashinee Dhanasekaran; 1Dr. Shri Krishna Prasanth, 1Dr.Muthalagappan P L; 1Dr. Krishna Kumar Raja, 1Astha Agarwal; 1Angshumita Mahanta; 1Nethra Suryanarayanan
Background: Extraction is a minor surgical procedure performed for therapeutic removal of teeth. Haemostasis is the mechanism of cessation of the extravasation of blood after tooth extraction. Socket preservation is a procedure done to reduce the amount of bone loss post-extraction., Aim: To assess the efficacy of Collagen plug as a haemostatic agent and for socket preservation., Methods: A literature search, using the MeSH terms – Alveolar bone preservation ANDHemostatics AND Collagen was performed, which includes research papers in databases such as Google Scholar, PubMed, Science Direct, and Wiley, were taken into the study for review, Results: Of the 540 articles, after duplicates were removed from the electronic database, a systematic review was carried out and five articles were included in the review. It was found that there was better wound closure and preservation of residual bone in extraction site in patients where collagen plug was placed., Conclusion: In the available literature, the use of collagen plug as a haemostatic agent has demonstrated positive outcomes, contributing to enhanced wound healing and reduced postoperative pain and preserving extraction socket to enable that area to receive a prosthesis.
Project Risk Management and Performance of Public Building Projects in North Central Nigeria
Umar Abbas Ibrahim & Mr. Abdulkarim Ahmed Bukar
Project risk management provides a robust approach for managing project risks from the start to the end to help ensure that intended objectives are realized. This approach is still at the infant stage in developing countries and Nigeria is not left out. This can be viewed from the report of project failures and abandonments leading to cost and time overruns recorded by Nigeria in 2022 when about 56000 public projects were valued at N17 trillion (CIPMN). The study critically examined the impact of risk identification on project performance, determined the impact of risk assessment on project performance, assessed the impact of risk response on project performance, and evaluated the impact of the mediating effect of knowledge management in the relationship between risk management and project performance. The study used a cross-sectional survey research design and a closed-ended questionnaire of a 5-point Likert scale, with 5 being strongly agree and 1 being strongly disagree based on the population of 1156 where a sample size of 297 comprising the contracting companies, consulting firms and the client was drawn. The data was analyzed using Smart PLS-SEM 4. The results from testing the hypotheses using p-values are Ho1 (p<0.000), Ho2 (p<0.000, Ho3 (p<0.000) and Ho4 (p<0.000) indicating that all the null hypotheses were rejected based on the significance value or level of 5% (0.05). Thus, it shows that the impact of risk management on the performance of public building projects in the North Central Nigeria region is statistically significant. It is, therefore, recommended that the practice of project risk management should and must be imbibed by all the stakeholders such as contractors, consultants, clients and regulators of public building projects for the delivery of more successful projects.
Remote Work and Performance of Employees of Deposit Money Banks in Southeast, Nigeria
Emmanuel Kalu Agbaeze1, Martins Arua Oko2, *Chris Chukwuebuka Emeali3
The study investigated the effect of Remote Work and Performance of Employees of Deposit Money Banks in Southeast, Nigeria. The specific objectives were: to analyse the extent to which virtual marketing of banking products affect achievement of employee’s key Performance Indicators (KPIs); to assess the degree to which online withdrawal confirmation affect the reduction in incidence of bank fraud; and finally, to examine the extent to which working from home affect operational cost efficiency. The study adopted survey research design. The population of the study was 1703 staff of selected banks in Southeast, Nigeria. A sample size of 313 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. Data analysis was conducted using regression analysis with the aid of SPSS. The study found that Remote Work had a significant positive effect on the Performance of Employees of Deposit Money Banks in Southeast, Nigeria, and recommended inter alia, banking institutions invest in robust virtual marketing strategies to enhance employee performance.
Regulatory Dynamics and Financial Sustainability of National Microfinance Banks: A Case of Central Bank Regulation in Nigeria
Abdulaziz Aliyu1, Nasamu Gambo (Ph.D)2,Saranu Salisu3 Adewumi, Babatunde Akinade4, Lawal Gumel Makama5 & Musa Mohammed Adamu6
This study explores the complex interplay between business size, regulatory dynamics, and their effects on the long-term viability of the finances of Nigeria's National Microfinance Banks (NMBs). Within the evolving landscape of microfinance institutions, regulatory frameworks, particularly Prudential Ratios established by the Central Bank of Nigeria, play a pivotal role in ensuring the stability and solvency of these banks. This study employs an ex-post facto research design, drawing on data from annual financial reports over six years, covering 2000 to 2022. Multivariate Analysis of Variance (MANOVA) serves as the analytical tool to investigate the influence of Prudential Ratios on key financial performance indicators, including Returns on Assets (ROA), Returns on Equity (ROE), and the Ratio of Micro Loans to Total Loans (RMLTL). The findings unequivocally reveal that adherence to Prudential Ratios significantly influences these financial performance indicators, emphasizing the critical role of regulatory compliance in shaping the financial and developmental aspects of NMBs. Intriguingly, firm size, considered a control variable, does not exhibit a statistically significant impact on financial performance, highlighting the dominance of regulatory factors. The study recommends that regulatory authorities, especially the Central Bank of Nigeria, should focus on enhancing and enforcing prudential ratios in the microfinance sector, continually monitoring, and updating them to improve the financial performance and sustainability of microfinance banks, while also urging microfinance institutions to remain strongly committed to complying with these crucial regulatory standards.
''Dietary Consumption and Lifestyle Choices in Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome: A Case Study''
Dr.Anuja Choudhary1, Dr.Ajeet Kumar Saharan2, Dr. Manoj Kumar Mathur3, Dr.Shantanu Sharma4,Dr. Hari Narayan Saini5 & Dr.Manisha Saharan6
Background: One of the most prevalent endocrine metabolic illnesses affecting women who are fertile is classical polycystic ovarian syndrome, or PCOS. It is somewhat upsetting because we are still unable to identify the precise etiology of this disease, making a full recovery impossible. Only by lifestyle adjustment (diet and exercise) and the availability of effective medications it can be managed and its symptoms lessened. Despite being uncommon, this sickness is manageable because the majority of these reasons are treatable. As a result, it's vital to look for these disorders aggressively and treat them quickly.Case presentation:In March 2023, a 33-year-old lady was diagnosed with polycystic ovarian syndrome, which led to irregular menstruation, hirsutism, and amenorrhea. The blood pressure was elevated. Investigation revealed elevated levels of LH and testosterone. The FSH to LH ratio was 3:1. There was a reduction in the quantity of sex hormone binding globulin, or SHBG.Conclusion and Outcome:Exercise and diet were best treatment choice for Poly Cystic Ovarian Syndrome patient that requires further examination before to being suggested on a long term basis and successful treatment outcome.
Safety Management Practices and Employee Performance in Manufacturing Firms in Southeast, Nigeria
Ngozi Uchenna Okoro1, Lovlyn Ekeowa Kelvin-Iloafu2, Nneka Jacinta Abugu3, Juliet Anuri Onwuchekwa4,*Chris Chukwuebuka Emeali5, Ann I. Ogbo6
The study investigated Safety Management Practices and Employee Performance in Manufacturing Firms in Southeast, Nigeria. The specific objectives were: to analyse the effect of Safety policies on employee engagement in the Manufacturing Firms in Southeast Nigeria; and to assess the effect of Safety Training Programmes on Employee Compliance in the Manufacturing Firms in Southeast Nigeria. The study adopted survey research design. The target population of the study was members of staff of ten selected manufacturing firms in the Southeast Nigeria, which was 3371 and sample size of 626 was determined from that population using Krejcie and Morgan Sample formula. Cronbach's alpha reliability test was conducted to ascertain the reliability (internal consistency) of the research instrument of which the coefficient was 81.7%. Regression analysis was used for data analysis with the aid of SPSS. The study found that: Safety policies have a significant effect on employee engagement in the Manufacturing Firms in Southeast Nigeria; Safety Training Programmes have a significant effect on Employee Compliance in the Manufacturing Firms in Southeast Nigeria. In line with the findings, the study therefore concluded that Safety Management Practices have significant positive effect on Employee Performance in Manufacturing Firms in Southeast, Nigeria.
The Impact of Personal Income Tax on State Internally Generated Revenues: Empirical Analysis of South-West States, Nigeria
1Adekoya A. Augustine 2Olayinka Ifayemi M
State Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) has been a tropical issue because of its immense importance to financial viability, budget implementation, and sustainable development.However, over reliance on federal allocation by states has resulted in paucity of IGR and total financial resources. Many studies have been conducted on IGR at state level, but with less emphasis on the impact of Personal Income Tax (PIT). Therefore, this study examined the probable impact of PIT on IGR of South-West states, Nigeria. Ex-post facto research design was adopted for the study while secondary data used were extracted from Nigeria Bureau of Statistics annual report (2013-2022). Data were analyzed with descriptive and inferential statistics at 5% level of significance. The study revealed that PIT has positive impact on IGR of South-West states, Nigeria (Adj.R2=0.988, F(2,10)=2634.37, p=0.000).The study concluded that PIT has significant influence on IGRas it contributed (61.95%) maximally and becomes an important source to IGR of South-West states, Nigeria. Also, individually, Pay As You Earn (PAYE)contributes maximally (57.85%) and Direct Assessment (DA) minimally (4.1%)toIGR of South-West states, Nigeria. The study recommends that State government should adopt better revenue generation mechanism, monitoring techniques, and information technology to enhance DA collectionsfrom the informal sector to boost IGR. Besides,revenue enlightenment, good governance, and provision of public goods and services will boost taxpayers trust, tax morale and tax compliance behaviour. Likewise, government should ensure continuous training of tax officers and updating oftaxpayers’ data with Tax Identification Number (TIN).Word count:248
Integrating Macroeconomic Policies for Achieving SDGs in India During the Post- Pandemic Period
Dr. Jamil Ahmad & Abid Hussain
Macroeconomic policy (monetary and fiscal policy) is the key drivers to mitigate the negative effects of COVID-19 Pandemic and achieve the sustainable development goals (SDGs). Indian economy faces extremely difficult economic challenges to overcome from the novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. The unprecedented shock disturbs the pace and pattern of development in the Indian economy. Indian economy faces the problems of a low GDP growth rate, high inflation, rising fiscal deficit, and environmental challenges that further increase the vulnerabilities. Traditional macroeconomic policies are not enough to cope with this problem. In the face of these shocks, India's economy needs to build robust fiscal and monetary policies and efficient use of remaining resources towards strengthening resilience to protect their people. Economic resilience might be effective to overcome such external shocks and favorable support for the recovery of all countries, especially India economy. Post-pandemic action is thus becoming more important, especially with restrained scope for fiscal and monetary stimulus. Monetary and fiscal policy is the key drivers to mitigate the negative effects and achieve sustainable development goals (SDGs). To achieve 17 goals of sustainable development, proper macroeconomic policy should be needed.The purpose of this paper is to highlight the role of fiscal and monetary policy to achieve some important goals of Sustainable development. The paper also examine how the monetary and fiscal policy useful to achieve SDGs 2030 agenda. The coordination of fiscal and monetary policy is very important for overall macroeconomic policy to achieve sustainable development goals. Paper also analyses the tools of the macroeconomic policy to achieve SDGs (Goals- 1,2,3,8 and 10,) by adopting the macroeconomic analysis, the research attempted to reveal the role of fiscal and monetary policy throughoutt the COVID-19 period and post-pandemic to build a stronger economy. Finally, to provide the future agenda for policy makers to address sustainable development goals.
Navigating Tradition in a Digital World: Analyzing the Impact of Digital Transformation of Igbo Apprenticeship Business Model on the Survivability of SMEs in Southeast Nigeria
Chris Chukwuebuka Emeali1, Anthony Chukwuma Nwali2, Magnus Ugwa3 & Gideon Chizoba Okeke4
The study investigated the Impact of Digital Transformation of Igbo Apprenticeship Business Model on the Survivability of SMEs in Southeast Nigeria. The specific objectives were:to analyse the extent to which digital infrastructure affect the financial performance of SMEs within the Igbo apprenticeship system; to assess the degree to which adoption of digital tools enhance market adaptability of SMEs operating within the Igbo apprenticeship system; and finally, to examine the extent to which effective management of cultural resistance to change affect innovation capacity among SMEs in Southeast Nigeria.The study adopted survey research design with a total population of 197 SMEs. Cronbach’s Alpha Statistic was used to test the reliability of the instrument, of which the results were all above 90% respectively. Data analysis was conducted using regression analysis with the aid of SPSS. The study found that Digital Transformation of Igbo Apprenticeship Business Model has a significant positive impact on the Survivability of SMEs in Southeast Nigeria. Based on the findings of the study, it was recommended, inter alia, that policymakers and stakeholders prioritize initiatives aimed at fostering comprehensive digital transformation within the Igbo apprenticeship system to enhance the survivability and resilience of SMEs in Southeast Nigeria.
Improving the Yield of Crops in Integrated Apicultural Farming for Health Benefits and Modern Production using Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT)
Veronica Ibitola Makinde & Pius Olanrewaju Ogunjobi
The study focused on improving the yield of crops in integrated apicultural farming for health benefits and modern production using cognitive behaviour therapy. Specifically, the study investigated the effectiveness of cognitive behaviour therapy (restructuring therapy) on students' learning outcome. The research design for this study was quasi-experimental using pretest, posttest control group. The population of this study consisted of 200level students who were offering GST 213. Basic Skills in Agriculture in BamideleOlumilua University of Education, Science and Technology, IkereEkiti, Ekiti State. The sample for this study comprised 363 students drawn from the three colleges in the University. Participation was voluntary as the respondents were not allowed to give their identities on the instrument for data collection. A research instrument, Honey Production Performance Test (HPPT) was used to collect data for the study. Ethical Clearance was sought for and collected from the Centre for Research and Development of BamideleOlumilua University of Education, Science and Technology Ikere – Ekiti. The instrument was subjected to face and content validity. The reliability of the instrument was established through Cronbach Alpha method which yielded reliability coefficient of 0.86. The data obtained were analyzed using descriptive statistics of mean and standard deviation. Inferential statistics of analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) was used to test the hypothesis at 0.05 level of significance. The findings of the study revealed that there was significance difference in the post test mean scores of students in the experimental group. Based on the findings of this study, it was recommended that cognitive behaviour therapy should be used to teach both theory and practicals in order to foster skills development among students in the University. Also, it was recommended that cognitive behaviour therapy should be employed to improve students’ learning outcomes. There should be collaborative partnerships between agricultural researchers, practitioners, and mental health professionals to further explore the potential benefits of integrating CBT techniques into agricultural interventions and programs. The study recommended regular counselling sessions, seminars, and workshops to educate the intending apiarists (students) on modernizing bee rearing practices to adopt technology capable of improving the life of bee households, and sustain bee resources for future generation as it would increase the production of hygienic honey for both local consumption and exportation purposes
Work-Life Interface and Performance of Health Workers in Federal Government Hospitals in North Central Nigeria
Akeem Tunde Nafiu1, Charity Amechi Ezenwakwelu1, Juwon Johnson Orugun2
Managing work-life interface is critical to improving the performance of healthcare workers. Effective management of work-life interface helps healthcare workers to maintain a healthy work-life balance, reduce stress and burnout, and ultimately improve job performance. Despite the benefits of managing work-life interface, there are still persistent issues relative to job performance in the federal government hospitals in Nigeria. The study therefore examined the nexus between work-life interface and the performance of healthcare workers in federal government hospitals. The specific objectives of the study were to determine the effect of inter-role conflict on productivity; and ascertain the effect of role ambiguity on emotional stability. The study used the survey research design. The sample size of the study was 298. The study used the simple random sampling technique to select the sample size. The study employed face validity.The study instrument's reliability was determined using the Cronbach alpha test.The study employed ordinal logistic regression to test research hypotheses. Findings revealed that inter-role conflict has no significant negative effect on the productivity, and role ambiguity has a significant negative effect on emotional stability. The study concluded that managing work-life interface can play a pivot role in influencing the performance of healthcare workers, as it shapes the behavioral patterns of workers. It was recommended that federal government hospitals focus on enhancing role clarity and communication to further support staff effectiveness, and establish a well-defined role to lessen the negative effects of role ambiguity on the emotional stability.
Exchange Rate Dynamics and Foreign Portfolio Investment in Developing
Kehinde Adekunle Adetiloye1, Bukola Bolanle Awogbenja2 & Benjamin Ighodalo Ehikioya3*
This studyexamines how exchange rate fluctuations relate to foreign portfolio investment in Nigeria. We analysed the data gathered from the Central Bank of Nigeria, Nigeria Exchange Group and World Development Indicatorsof the World Bank from 2014 to 2021 using GARCH, Johansen Cointegration and Vector Error Correction Model. The result demonstrates a long run relationship between foreign portfolio investment and exchange rate volatility. The result shows that exchange rate volatility adversely impacts foreign portfolio investment flows to Nigeria. In addition, market capitalisation exerts a positive butinsignificant link with foreign portfolio investment in Nigeria. This finding implies that the government, through the Apex Bank,should adopt an improved exchange rate management policy to stabilise the rate. Moreover, it is vital for the stakeholders, especially the policymakers, to continue to develop the capital market and improve the business environment to attract foreign investment inflows.
A Study to Assess the Effectiveness of Video Teaching Programme on Knowledge Regarding Brushing Techniques on Oral Hygiene among School Children Between 8-11 Years in a Selected School at Krishnagiri District
Mrs. Archana1, Dr. S. Rajalakshmi2
Background: Oral hygiene is the practice of keeping your mouth clean and disease –free. It involves brushing and flossing your teeth as well as visiting your dentist regularly for dental X-rays, exams and cleanings. Aim:Assess the Effectiveness of Video Teaching Programme on Knowledge Regarding Brushing Techniques on Oral Hygiene Among School Children. Methods: Quantitative research approach and one group pre-test, post-test quasi experiment design was selected for the study. The population for present study included children from DK SAMY Matriculation School at Krishnagiri district. The total sample size was 50 school children selected using non probability purposive sampling technique. Results:The data analysis showed that among 50 samples 2 (4%) of them had adequate knowledge, 33(66%) samples had moderate knowledge and 15 (30%) were had inadequate knowledge. The pre-test mean score reducing knowledge on brushing technique among school children is 12.5 and in the post test mean score on improved knowledge on brushing technique was 27.34 with mean difference of 14.84. the calculated paired ‘t’ value is 28.416 which is significantly higher than the table value 1.677 at p≤0.05. Conclusion: It is concluded that information education and communication were effective in the level of knowledge regarding brushing technique on oral hygiene among school Childrens. There was a significant association between the pre-test score on knowledge regarding brushing technique on oral hygiene.
Uses and Gratification of Online Shopping of Youth in India: A Study
Dr. Sewa Singh Bajwa & Mokhalad Ali
Social media has become an insurmountable force in modern society. More than half the global population uses social media. An average person spends more than two hours on it every day. It can be said that it has altered our lives and life styles. It has given us new ways to get connected. On social media we come together and stay connected. It is a media of self expression. Basically it is the community interaction among people in which they virtually live. They create and share information and ideas in these virtual communities. It has become the basic need of human beings. It has greatly satisfied the need of human beings to be social. It has given us new ways to stay connected.It is a wonderful medium of self expression. It has changed our relationships and our thinking style. People depend too much on social media. There is trend of online shopping everywhere. There are advertisements on social media sites. They give information regarding products and make people buy them. Marketers spread messages on social media. People see the advertisements. They purchase the items they need. Experts say that social media advertisements affect youth more than other people. This research work studies the uses and gratification of online shopping of the youth of Punjab state of India which is known to be the most developed and prosperous Indian state.
Integrating Sustainability Reporting Education into the Accounting and Finance Curriculum: A Review of Literature
Capntan Philemon Mbakbuin, Francis Odianonsen Iyoha, Michael Chidiebele Ekwe, Siliya Pedkuna Queenta, Moses Ogaba Igodo, Winner Ayanate
Although there has been increasing discussion on sustainability's role in the business curriculum, the debate has remained excessively comprehensive, avoiding the possibility that quantitative fields like accounting and finance are especially dependent on established practices. To this purpose, this article will examine the existing level of sustainability reporting education in the domains of business school finance and accounting, as well as identify and examine some of the challenges that have been experienced in this effort. An extensive literature study is presented here, summarizing prior studies on the topic of sustainability's integration into business school curricula and the difficulties that arise while doing so. In this article, we conduct a comprehensive review of the literature on the ways in which accounting and finance programs include a focus on sustainability in their curriculum. This article shows that institutional commitment is often a fundamental condition for the successful complete integration of sustainability and that accounting and finance lag other management disciplines when it comes to implementing sustainability.The authors of this study argue that aspiring accountants, financial managers, and general managers might benefit from innovative approaches to integrating sustainability into accounting and finance curricula.This paper provides a new analysis of the relevant literature in the context of integrating sustainable education into the accounting and finance curriculum at business schools, and it proposes a conceptual framework for doing so.
A Review of Road Connectivity in Ogbomoso North Local Government Area, Oyo State, Nigeria
Babalola Obasanjo James & Afolayan Isaac Olayinka
This study focuses on the review of the road network connectivity in Ogbomoso North Local Government Area (LGA) using graph theory principles. The topological structure of the road network is considered a pivotal factor influencing urban dynamics and emphasizing the importance of reviewing road network characteristics in urban transportation planning. The study divides the case study into ten (10) wards using advances in geographical information system (GIS) and employs the Network Analyst extension of ArcGIS to compute various connectivity indices, including cyclomatic number, alpha index, beta index, gamma index, network density, and completeness. The analysis reveals Osupa ward with the highest connectivity indices and congestion but the second-highest network density result, while Okelerin ward, with the highest network density, exhibits the lowest connectivity indices. Furthermore, road types are delineated, highlighting Ogbomoso-Ilorin as the only highway with secondary and primary designations, devoid of bridges. Additionally, a modest correlation is observed in the degree of nodes and edges across all connectivity indices. Osupa ward, with superior connectivity indices, exhibits the highest degree of nodes and edges. In contrast, Abogunde ward, with the lowest degree, still demonstrates slightly better connectivity indices than Okelerin ward, identified with the lowest connectivity indices. The completeness of road connectivity is inversely proportional to other connectivity indices, as demonstrated by Osupa ward's 0% completeness in contrast to Abogunde's 4%. In conclusion, these findings contribute valuable insights into varying degrees of connectivity, density, and road types, enhancing our understanding of road network dynamics.
The Post-Cold War Political Relations between China-Sudan
Mohd Jameel Dar
This paper deals the political relations of China and Sudan since the post cold war. It identifies and analyzes key manifestation of China’s relationship with Sudan with regard to non-interference, Human rights, China’s position in the Darfur conflict the cost of development induced displacement and China-Sudan military cooperation and China’s shading of the Sudanese government from the allegation of international criminal court, is discussed Not surprisingly, bilateral relations between countries invariably encompass interests and constraint. China-Sudan, post cold war economic and political relations has posed both challenges and opportunities. China’s non-interference principle, protecting the Sudan regime from pressure of international community caused confrontation with the Western countries. Using the principle as a tool to prevent others not to intervene, it provided weapons, in exchange of oil money and investment opportunities. Consequently, using the military hard-wares imported from China the regime enhanced gross violations of human rights, such as, torture, mass killings and detention. Embargoes, sanction and resolution on the Sudan regime for its human rights catastrophe were annulled and acquitted by China arguing that responding the Situation in Sudan is an internal problem deserved to be solved internally. Furthermore, the two countries’ have forwarded their political interest globally; Sudan supported China’s membership in the UN Security Council in 1970s, and it was defeated its human rights allegation in 1980s at the UN human rights council by the support of African countries including Sudan. On China part, it was supported a unified Sudan, opposing the South Sudan independency. The objective of the thesis is to explore the political relationships between the two countries in the post cold war period. To ascertain this, predominantly qualitative with minimal level of quantitative research methodologies are employed. Both primary and secondary sources of data are utilized. By doing this, the study demonstrated issues such as, Western pressure on China to drag its diplomatic ally, internal dynamics in Sudan such as, security factor and the secession of South Sudan, as obstacles for their relations.
Effects of Two Techniques of Pattern Drafting (Flat and Cad) on the Academic Achievement, Interest and Retention of Home Economic Education Students of Universities in South-East Nigeria
Ugwu Eunice Ifenyinwa1, Attah Blessing Ijeoma1*, Gera Nguvan Patience2, Ezeaku Margret Ndidiamaka1,Ifeanyichukwu Obioma Irene3, Emmanuel Chekwube Eze, Emeghebo Udochukwu M, Nwafor Eucharia Chinwendu & Eze Ngozi Mary1
The study investigated the effects of two techniques of pattern drafting (Flat and CAD) on the academic achievement, interest and retention of Home Economics Education students of Universities in South-East, Nigeria. The design of the study was pre-test, post-test and retention test quasi experimental design. The study was conducted at public universities in the South-East, Nigeria. Three research questions and three null hypotheses guided the study. The population for the study was 58 undergraduate students comprising of second and third year students from three public universities that offer Home Economics Education. (26 from University of Nigeria, 28 from Micheal Okpara University of Agriculture Umudike and 4 from Ebonyi State University). The instrument used for data collection was pattern drafting techniques achievement test (PDTAT). The instrument had three versions: pre-test, post-test and retention test which were the same except for the reshuffling and swapping of the questions and options of the 40 objective questions used for the study. The instruments were subjected to face and content validation. Five experts validated the instruments. The reliability coefficient using Kuder Richardson (K-R 20) was 0.78. The reliability test was conducted using 20 students from Delta state university. The data was collected with the aid of two research assistants. Data collected for the study were analyzed using mean with standard deviation to answer the research questions. Analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) was used to test the null hypotheses at 0.05 level of significance. The major finding of the study among others was that students taught with CAD have a better academic achievement, interest and retention when compared to those taught with Flat method. There was statistically significant difference (F=24.71, P = 0.00<0.05) between the mean academic achievement, (P>0.05) the mean interest and (P<0.05) the mean retention of Home Economics Education students that were taught through CAD and those that were taught through Flat pattern drafting techniques. Based on the finding, it was recommended that the curriculum planners should inculcate in the curriculum the use of CAD and lecturers should adopt the use of CAD during teaching and learning of pattern drafting.
Influence of Instructional Materials in Teaching and Learning Foundry Craft Practice in Enugu State, Nigeria
Dr.Oguejiofor Victor Ikechukwu, Mole Lilian Chinese, Dr.Omego Godfrey & Udogu Kingsley Chimezia
Instructional materials play a very important role in teaching and learning foundry craft practice in Nigeria technical colleges. Foundry craft practice plays vital roles for national development in the area of science and technology. The study analyzed the influence of instructional materials in teaching and learning foundry craft practice in Government Technical Colleges in Enugu State, Nigeria. Three research questions and three null hypotheses guided the study. The study adopted survey research design. Primary data were collected through a structured questionnaire administered on 20 purposively sampled teachers and students across the technical colleges that do foundry craft practice. The questionnaire was face-validated by three experts. Reliability test was carryout using Cronbach Alpha approach, which yielded an index of 0.85. Copies of the questionnaire were administered on the respondents through direct contact. The return rate of the instrument was 100%. The data collected for the study were analyzed with mean, standard deviation and t-test. Mean and standard deviation were used to answer the research questions, while t-test was used to analyze the null hypotheses. The major finding was that instructional materials play vital and positive impacts in the teaching and learning of foundry craft practice in technical colleges in Enugu State, Nigeria. Based on the finding, it was recommended that the government should give enough funds to the technical colleges for the provision of the needed instructional materials for effective teaching and learning of foundry craft practice.
Prevalence and grading of Hirsutism in females; A Systematic Review
Mrs.Resmi.C.R1, Dr.Muralee Damodaran2,Dr.Usha V Menon3, Dr.K.T.Moly4 & Dr.Sunil.M5
Introduction: Hirsutism is the presence of terminal (coarse) hairs in females in a male-like pattern, affecting 5–15% of women surveyed. It is extremely distressing, especially in young women undergoing the upheaval, both psychosocial and emotional, of adulthood. Hirsutism is usually associated with or a sign of an underlying endocrine disorder. It can also be an isolated condition, referred to as idiopathic hirsutism.1This systematic review intends to study prevalence and grading of hirsutism in females. Materials and Methods: The researcher did a thorough study of the previous research literature from journals, research articles, theses and dissertations of their findings. Twenty-one research studies were selected and the sampling technique was the purposive sampling technique. A focus synthesis was used for analyzing the extracted data and publication bias was assessed using the Quadal tool, .Result and Discussion: After reviewing the previous research literature, it was found that several hirsutism scores for women have been proposed based on visual assessment of hair type and growth. Out of these methods, the modified Ferriman-Gallwey score (mFG) proposed by Hatch et al. is considered as the gold standard for the evaluation of hirsutism., 2Conclusion: This systematic review highlights the prevalence and grading of hirsutism in females.
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