British Journal of Multidisciplinary and Advanced Studies

Adoption of Livestock as a Component in the Farming System of Mid Hill in NEPAL

Pankaj Raj Dhital — 2024-03-19

The goal of this study conducted in 2019 was to thoroughly look into the local farming methods, population demographics, and physical features in the Panchadewal-Binayak Municipality and Turmakhand Rural Municipality of the Achham district in Nepal through an initial field survey. Using a multi-stage purposive random sampling strategy, 130 sample households representing agricultural communities were chosen, with an emphasis on the different geophysical zones next to the Karnali River. Achham, a least developed region in Nepal's far-western mid-hills, was the study's main focus. The study looked at a number of socioeconomic variables to see how they related to farmers' adoption of livestock enterprises. Findings showed that the adoption of livestock was negatively impacted by the head of the household's gender, ethnicity, size of family, and farmers' interaction with extension agents. On the other hand, the major occupation of the head of the household and availability to financial facilities or credit were found to be associated with a greater likelihood of adopting livestock. The study highlights the significance of addressing these critical drivers in technology distribution and supporting extension initiatives for increased farmer engagement in the livestock enterprise, acknowledging livestock as a vital component of the farming system.

Taxability of Agricultural Income in India: A Study

Pradip Kumar Das — 2024-03-30

Tax contributes substantial amount of revenue to the Government. Income Tax Act,1961 exempts agricultural income from taxation. The Act benefits the rural agriculturalists with exiguous income, but large scale farmers and agricultural companies essentially manipulate it and, thus, violate the motive of the clause. While the economists and Government-appointed committees firmly contend for levy of taxes on agricultural income in India on equity and efficacy cogitations, many others withstand cold-bloodedly. There appears monophonic dun to empower the Central Government to levy taxes precisely on agricultural incomes. Apropos the proposed taxation of agricultural income, the present paper examines different aspects of taxation of agricultural income under the Act besides certain primal concerns. Persistent under-taxation of agricultural sector in India precipitates solemn deformity and causes modest overall tax compliance. The researcher, therefore, suggests taxation of agricultural income with others under the Central Government.

Measuring the Causality on Cooperatives Membership, Livelihood Diversification and Determinants Among Poultry Farm Holders: A Case Study of South West Nigeria

D. P. Popoola — 2024-04-20

Cooperative membership and livelihood diversification has been observed to influence households’ economic situations, while little is known about their interplays as a matter of mutual unexclusivity when they both occurs. This study was hence conducted to investigate the level of cooperative performance, and how cooperative membership influences livelihood diversification alongside some other imperative hypothesized determinant factors, using data collected from 210 poultry farm holders via multistage sampling procedure and analysed with econometric, parametric, and non-parametric analytical tools at 95% confidence interval. Result showed that; majorities of the cooperator respondents are satisfied with; Access to loan (72.38%), Loan repayment (67.62%), Transportation (68.10%), Marketing (67.14%), Training (69.5%), patronage (70%), and Political interference (69.05%) while a relatively large proportion of the respondents (59.04%) are diversified, while a majority (89.52%) of this diversified category secondarily diversifies into non farming activities. Also, the proportion of the cooperator diversified poultry farming household (59.41) narrowly exceeds the noncooperator category (58.72) hence, further econometric analysis conducted showed that; gender of household head, level of formal education, primary labour source, primary occupation, and cooperative membership negatively influenced livelihood diversification, but otherwise for multidimensional poverty, all significant at P≤0.1, P≤0.5%, P≤0.01%, P≤0.01%, P≤0.01%, and P≤0.1% probabilistic levels respectively. Finding based recommendations were further proffered.

Transformative Leadership Strategies in Healthcare: A Panacea for Fostering a Positive Work Environment

Feyisayo Lanase Moyinoluwa — 2024-03-22

Promoting a positive work environment through effective communication, emotional intelligence, bias, and cultural awareness are crucial in healthcare leadership. This paper looks into the transformative potential of leadership strategies in healthcare, emphasizing their role as a panacea for cultivating positive work environments. The study adopts a desk research to explores the dynamic interplay of communication efficacy, emotional intelligence, and cultural competence within healthcare leadership. Drawing on empirical evidence and experiential insights, this research discovered that cultural disparities, emotional intelligence, and personal biases could significantly impact how healthcare professionals interact with patients and deliver services the paper advocates for transformative leadership as a solution to fostering inclusive, compassionate, and thriving work environments. By championing effective communication, nurturing emotional intelligence, and embracing cultural diversity, healthcare leaders can play a pivotal role in enhancing team dynamics, staff morale, and ultimately elevating patient care outcomes.

Exploring QSARs for inhibitory effect of a set of EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors by GA-MLR and molecular Docking simulations

Omar Deeb — 2024-03-30

In this study, EGFR as a target for the anticancer activity of a series of 113 inhibitors were taken from the literature. Current work aims to derive statistically robust and appropriately validated multiple QSAR models using easily interpretable molecular descriptors and molecular docking analysis. It will be simpler to identify important structural trends and how they relate to anticancer activity as a result. The MLR model has been used to suggest some novel compounds with improved activity. It has been demonstrated how the predicted compounds interact with the enzyme using the docking study. All predicted compounds were discovered to have several hydrogen bonds with the receptor and involve their bulky groups in strong steric interactions with specific places of the enzyme. The proposed compounds exhibit good pharmacokinetic properties, according to the analysis of their pharmacokinetic profiles.

Factors Influencing Neonatal Health Conditions in Zambia: A Systematic Literature Review

Erastus Kobia Rukwaru — 2024-03-30

Neonatal mortalities and health outcomes among infants are serious health conditions facing public health practice in Zambia and hindering the attainment of SDG 3 and target 3.2 by 2030. To address the problem of neonatal mortalities and health conditions in Zambia and inform relevant intervention, the present systematic literature review aimed to investigate the factors influencing neonatal mortalities and health conditions in Zambia. Methodology: A systematic literature review was done in order to assess factors influencing neonatal disorders in Zambia to document findings other researchers in Zambia had reported. The search strategies involved reviewing literature from Zambia using Google scholar and PubMed data bases. Selection of studies considered as eligible by this systematic literature review tool three steps namely topics only, abstracts and full articles. A CASP systematic review checklist 2018 tool was used to appraise included studies validity, results and relevance of results to the local situation. Findings of the articles selected for inclusion on the study were analyzed thematically based on themes generated from the study objective and presented in a narrative form. A data extraction table utilized and included among others a critical appraisal section for the included studies. Findings: On the prevalence of neonatal mortalities and health conditions among newborns in Zambia, the present systematic literature review found that in Zambia, neonatal mortalities and health disorders are a very serious public health problem among new borns in the nation and that majority of Zambian neonates die in a span of seven days after birth in with the rural regions which are underdeveloped bearing the brunt of these neonatal deaths and health conditions. The health conditions among Zambian neonates include respiratory syncytial virus, sepsis, premature births and respiratory dysfunctions among others. Regarding the factors influencing neonatal disorders among newborns in Zambia, the review found that in Zambia, neonatal mortalities and health conditions are caused by several factors namely neonatal sepsis, intrauterine infections, birth asphyxia, bacterial infections, premature deliveries and low-birth weight as the main factors while others include but are not limited to maternal level of education, being a male infant, severe intrapartum incidents respiratory syncytial virus, twin pregnancies and placental abruption. The study therefore concludes that neonatal mortalities and disorders are very prevalent among Zambian newborns with neonatal sepsis and low birth weight being some of the key causes of these health outcomes.

Counter-Insurgency in Nigeria, Efforts and Inhibitors: The Boko Haram Example, 2000-2020

Charles Okeke Okoko — 2024-03-19

The paper broadly examined counter-insurgency, and narrowed it downed to counter-terrorism efforts and inhibitors using Nigeria and the Boko Haram sect as the core study area and subject, respectively. It sought to integrate and synchronize the political, security, economic and informational components as veritable factors in countering subversion and violence of all sorts by sects. Agreeing that government must seize initiative, have overall plan, clear political aim, act in accordance with the dictates of the law, and give priority to defeating political subversion, all efforts, so far, geared towards defeating Boko Haram in Nigeria did not yield results. The paper concluded that all military and non-military measures were undermined by poor inter-agency cooperation and coordination; poor inter-agency intelligence information management; poor civil-military relations; and funding constraints and corruption in Defense Budgetary processes and arms procurement. The paper was written with primary documents and commentaries. Secondary sources served complementary purposes.

The Essence of Giving Feedback on the Saudi Students' Reading Performance at Taibah University

Mohammed Hassan Abdel Rahman — 2024-03-07

The key characteristics of how to raise first-year university students' reading performance comprise basic pedagogical knowledge and understanding, awareness of expressive classroom practices, and linguistic and communicative competence. Nurturing these traits amongst learners is a challenging issue, specifically when they have a prior lack of English language proficiency. One way of improving learners' poor reading skills is the effective feedback given to them. This study investigates the efficiency of giving feedback to students to increase their reading abilities at the Foundation Institute in Taibah University. 15 EFL instructors who teach these students participated in the study. The descriptive method was applied and questionnaires were given to instructors to collect their views about the effects of feedback on students' reading skills. The data was analysed via content analysis. The findings revealed that constructive feedback had made remarkable progress in students' reading performance.

Attitudes of EFL Learners towards Communicative Language Teaching

Sayeed Asif Akramy — 2024-03-07

Communicative Language Teaching, as a responsive teaching approach to the needs of learners, has been extensively recognized as a favorable approach to EFL teachers and learners around the world. The main purpose of this study is to investigate the attitudes of EFL students towards CLT in an Afghan EFL setting. It also attempts to determine the effects of CLT activities on their motivation and CLT challenges by their demographic profile. The data were collected from 201 English major undergraduate students from the Faculty of Language and Literature at Takhar University purposefully through a questionnaire which consists of 30 items. For answering the research questions, descriptive statistics, sample T-test, and a one-way ANOVA test were employed. The findings revealed that Afghan EFL students have positive attitudes towards CLT approach. The study also showed that the attitude of the students towards CLT is positive in terms of their gender. Moreover, there is no statistically significant difference among the group factors (age, first language, and English learning experience) of the participants.

The Impact of Online Tools in Teaching Sign Language to Undergraduate University Students in Bamenda

Enow Parris Cecilia Bechem — 2024-03-22

The teaching and learning of sign language is a daunting task to 25 first year university students. They face problems remembering vocabulary, memorising signs, applying grammatical and syntactic rules, developing fluency and utilising non-manual markers. A sequential mixed method approach was employed in conducting the research. Descriptive statistics (SPSS version 17) was used to analyze quantitative data, and Huberman (2004) three analytical stages of data reduction process for qualitative data. Findings reveal that of the 25 students, 7 (28%) had difficulties with vocabulary acquisition, 5(20%) grammar and syntax, 8(32%) fluency issues and 5(20%) spatial difficulties. 3(33%) teaching techniques and downloaded digital resources were mostly exploited: www.startasl.com., Signschool App and ASL dictionary for better comprehension. Observations and questionnaires reveal that 20(80%) students who owned cell phones and practiced out of the classroom had positive outcomes whereas 5(20%) had negative impact. The above results are in line with learning expectations suggested by Vygotsky's Socio-cognitive theory.

Differentiating Commonality Particles from Individuality Particles

Yansha Yu-Sandstrom — 2024-03-30

The Same Completely Inclusive Faith with Its Principium of Natural Laws of the Compounding-Corresponding-Trinity Presents and Unfolds Through Different Ways and Methods in Science, Philosophy, Religion, etc.” (Abbreviated as Principium. clarify that: The particles not only have the distinction between Commonality Particles and Individuality Particle; any particle compounding and corresponding, also have four major natural standpoint- attributes. Among them, “The Commonality Particle” consistently demonstrate higher stability than “The Individuality Particle” through compounding and corresponding. Similarly, the destruction of “The Commonality Particles” would cause greater harm to humans and nature, potentially even leading to human destruction. Only by adhering to “The Three Great Natural Complementary Laws” of Principium, can humans expand their lives and human society with clarity of mind, saving time and effort while ensuring safe operations

Library Support: Implications on Student Well-being

Sittie Jalalia Pananggilaan Samo — 2024-03-22

Fostering healthy, supportive contexts that holistically enrich growth is fundamental to the central mission of educational institutions. This study evaluated how college students perceive library support across various dimensions and its influence on their well-being, involving 303 students from a private institution in Cagayan de Oro City, Philippines. Utilizing a researcher-made questionnaire and focus group discussions, it explored the relationship between library support and student well-being. The study revealed that the participants' assessment of library support across physical, intellectual, social, and environmental dimensions was generally high, reflecting satisfaction with resources, assistance, social environments, and the library's ambiance. They also reported high well-being levels in physical, cognitive, and social aspects, indicating a positive overall self-assessment. The participants' library support assessment significantly influenced their well-being levels, suggesting that high-quality library support contributes to higher well-being. Key themes from the students' library support experiences included a conducive environment, technological support, collaboration opportunities, and distractions. This study emphasizes the significant role of academic libraries in enhancing student well-being, advocating for comprehensive library services and a holistic approach to student welfare in higher education. It points to institutions to provide welcoming and collaborative library spaces by applying a "therapeutic landscape" ethos across education, and conducting further research on the influence of library support on well-being across different contexts.

Unveiling the Hidden Dynamics: exploring causative factors and impact of employee turnover on organisational performance.

Samuel Bangura — 2024-03-07

Employee turnover is a widely recognised subject in an organisational setting. Although academics and organisational human resource departments have accepted the fact that employee turnover can have a disastrous impact on the organisation, there are limited studies conducted on the causative factors and effects of employee turnover in organisations. Therefore, this study helped to highlight some of the causative factors triggering employee turnover and their impact on an organisation. In addition, the study also suggests vital strategies for mitigating and reducing employee turnover. In line with the preceding assertion, the cross-sectional qualitative study taking into consideration conference papers, government periodicals, chronological documents, and mainly secondary and primary sources were used. Online search engines such as Scopus, EBSCO, Emerald, science direct, and unrestricted web service search engines such as google scholar and Mendeley demonstrated to be valuable database resources. The finding indicated that performance appraisal feedback, job insecurity, stress and work overload, death, and compensation are significant factors responsible for employee turnover was also deduced that employee turnover can affect organisational performance through ineffectuality in the delivery of service, increase in workload, errors in work processes and reduction in sense of loyalty. However, findings also postulated that training and development, competitive benefits and compensation, effective leadership, and job satisfaction are key procedures that help in reducing and mitigating employee turnover.

Human Resource Accounting and Performance of Civil Servant in Osun State, Nigeria

J. O. Adewoye — 2024-03-19

The main objective of the study was to examine the effect of human resource accounting on performance. The effect of HRA learning costs (on the job training, special training and development programmes) on performance was examined. The studied examined the effect of on-the-Job Training costs on performance of Civil servants in Osun State, Nigeria; evaluates the effect of Special Training Costs on performance and examined the impact of Development Program Costs on performance of the respondents. Primary and secondary data were used for the study. Simple random and purposive sampling was used to select three hundred and ten (310) respondents. Ordinary Least Square Regression analysis (OLS) was used to analyze all objectives of the study. The HRA learning cost (on-the-job training cost) have positive and significant effect on employee competence; development program cost have a significant effect on employee competence while special training cost does not have significant effect on the level of competence of the employees. HRA learning cost collectively has positive and significant effect on performance of the respondents. The study concluded that HRA affects organizational performance positively and significantly.

Institutional Constraints Affecting Small Businesses in South Africa

Taofeek Adejare Owoseni — 2024-03-22

This study explores the perception of institutional constraints in South Africa. It delineates the constraints into critical socio-cultural, political, and economic dimensions that impact entrepreneurs and their micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). The paper utilises an exploratory interview approach with thirty-two entrepreneurs from Cape Town, Durban, and Johannesburg and the emergent themes generated with ATLAS.ti. The study identified fourteen constraints that might affect the enterprise development process. The paper is original, with three main contributions. It first identifies constraints along institutional dimensions of socio-cultural, political, and economic contexts. Second, deriving the constraints through qualitative methodological inquiries with inductive and deductive analytical tools according to institutional variables is a unique methodological contribution. Third, the paper proposed context-specific focused policy interventions. The findings promote an understanding that South African MSMEs require continuous, needs-based, responsive, and adaptive institutional support.

Best Practices for Building Trust in Virtual Business Negotiations

Michael Santos — 2024-03-22

Virtual discussions have become a common practice in the corporate sector. This article aims to outline the most effective strategies that can be used to establish trust in virtual discussions. To achieve this goal, several techniques were employed, including direct observation, interviews with negotiators, analysis of 2,000 virtual conversations, and monitoring a company's virtual negotiations for around 24 months. Based on a thorough analysis of the content, the main findings highlighted effective strategies that can build trust in remote negotiations. These include selecting the appropriate form of virtual communication, providing multiple contact options, ensuring reliable and high-quality connections, maintaining constant accessibility, and creating an organized and conducive environment for communication, free from interruptions. This article offers a fresh perspective on virtual business negotiations that is useful to academics, negotiators, and other professionals. It presents practical strategies for establishing trust in virtual negotiations.

Socialization Process in the Brazilian Public Sector: The Case of Petrobras

Roberto Aylmer — 2024-04-20

This research explores socialization in the Brazilian public sector (BPS) and Petrobras, the largest semi-public company in the country. It investigates the challenges faced by new employees and the factors influencing socialization in the public sector. Using Behavioral Event Interviews with experts, the study aims to understand how dissatisfied employees handle their relationship with work and the company when they perceive no risk of being fired. It also explores the situation when new employees reach their limit of coping but choose not quitting the job due to the high investment and benefits. The study also examines how the socioeconomic context influences socialization in the public sector, as new employees expect to spend their entire productive years in the company until retirement.

Nonmarket Negotiations: Leveraging performance when negotiating with Governments, Influencers, Media, NGOs, Communities and other key stakeholders

Rodrigo Navarro — 2024-04-20

This work highlights the primary effects of externalities on businesses, organizations, and teams. It then discusses the necessity for adapting and complementing traditional concepts, models, and theories of negotiation in this increasingly diverse and complex nonmarket arena. A third topic focuses on strategic negotiations with Governments, one of the most potent components among nonmarket forces. Finally, the work provides a list of practical recommendations for negotiators in the new era of externalities’ impacts and nonmarket prominence.

Marketing Analysis for a Footwear Company– Part 1

Laran Chetty — 2024-04-20

The purpose of this paper was to conduct a marketing analysis of a Footwear Company in Durban, South Africa. Environmental analysis tools such as PEST and SWOT were utilised in order to identify the factors that can impact the performance of this company. Porter’s five forces that shape industry competition and consumer behaviour and decision making was also explored. The significant findings revealed that the Footwear Company is susceptible to threats from larger international brands and its market share is dependent mainly on the population of South Africa. A marketing plan to address these threats will be presented in a future paper.

Impact of Presidential Amnesty on Militancy in Nigeria: An Appraisal of the Presidential Amnesty Programme in Delta State (2009-2015)

Victor Chukwunwike Okocha — 2024-03-19

The Federal Government of Nigeria introduced the policy of amnesty to the militants in south south Nigeria as a solution to insecurity and wanton destruction of lives and properties especially on critical infrastructures of Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation. This article, however, assessed the impact of Presidential Amnesty on security challenges in Niger Delta. Utilizing Frustration Aggression theory, the paper argued that the long accumulated frustrations of the people of Delta rising from the long-time neglect and under development of the State by various regimes and administrations have led to the continuous agitations and violence in the State. The Amnesty programme was basically oriented towards enhancing the security situation in the State for the purpose of increasing crude oil production. Employing qualitative method and relying mainly on primary and secondary sources, relevant data were generated and analyzed using thematic content analyses. The study therefore contended that there was nexus between the Amnesty Programme, national security and increase in crude oil production in Nigeria. Based on these finding therefore, it is our recommendation that the federal government should urgently and comprehensively tackle the underlying economic and social problems of Delta State in particular and Niger Delta region so as to prevent a relapse into crisis.

From Adolescence to Motherhood: Understanding the Plight of Teenage Mothers

Roanie Galleposo — 2024-03-30

Teenage motherhood continues to be a pressing societal issue because it significantly impacts lives of adolescent girls as they transition to motherhood. Using a qualitative transcendental phenomenology, this study explored the lived experience of senior high school teenage mothers in one of the schools in Bukidnon. Data were collected through phenomenological in-depth interview with strict adherence to ethical principles. The data were analyzed using Hyper Research software to determine the code, categories, and themes. For the participants, teenage motherhood can be summarized into three emerging themes such grappling with motherhood, social dilemmas and support, and appreciating motherhood. Grappling with motherhood involved balancing family and student life, understanding the occurrence of pregnancy, and hurdling the challenge of teenage motherhood. Furthermore, the participants as a teenage mother have to face social dilemmas and such as various family-related struggles. However, they also received a lot of family support. In the long run, the participants have appreciated motherhood as they became aware of the joy of motherhood as they made their dreams and contentment of the life of being a teenage mother. Based on the findings, several recommendations are proposed. The lived experience of the teenage mothers provides valuable insights about the challenges these young mothers face, the positive learning experiences they gain, and their aspirations for the future. Understanding these aspects is crucial for developing comprehensive support systems, challenging societal stereotypes, and empowering teenage mothers to navigate their roles as parents and individuals successfully. It is recommended that future researchers may conduct longitudinal research on the long-term outcomes and interventions for teenage mothers.

Christian Faith and Doctrine: A Tool for Sustaining Peace in Nigeria

Adebola Racheal Ayoola — 2024-04-20

Nigeria is a nation of three major religious groups that has different faith dynamism and practices. The history of Nigeria as a country will not be complete without a research on the issues currently threatening the peace of the nation. More so, over the years, the issue of the diversity in the ethnic groups and tribes has contributed to the division among Nigerians and has done more harm than good in fostering peace and unity in the country (Nweke 2018). Religious and ethnic sentiment has also contributed negatively to the growth and developmental sustainability of Nigerians a whole. What is Christian faith and doctrine? What constitutes the Christian doctrine? What are the teachings and values expected of a Christian in order to bring peace to the country? What role can Christian faith, teachings and practices play in the sustainability of peace in Nigeria? This paper provides succinct answers to these questions. The paper adopted a descriptive and analytical research approach. The research revealed that Christianity just like the other two religions in Nigeria is an advocate of peace and they it also creates a sense of dependence and oneness among human beings (Churchill & Michael 2023). The paper concludes that Christianity is an indispensable tool in sustaining peace in Nigeria since it comes with teachings and practices worth emulating. This paper recommends that people should be sensitized about the importance of sustaining peace in Nigeria. However, the effective teaching of religious studies and uplifting of moral and spiritual values by the religious leaders will go a long way to bring about peace in Nigeria.

An Intrinsic Exploratory Case Study of Parenting Children at Risk (CAR)

Rosalie A. Conol — 2024-04-20

The presence of children-at-risk (CAR) in some of the Filipino home challenges parenting. Using a case study design, this study explored select parents-beneficiaries of Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) in Ozamiz City ways of parenting Children-at-Risk (CAR). Purposeful sampling was employed to choose the 13 participants. Data were collected from multiple sources such as Focus Group Discussion (FGD), In-depth Interview (IDI), Key Informant Interview (KII), and material artifacts. Trustworthiness was observed. Reflexivity statement was written to disclose the role of the researcher. To determine the codes, categories, and themes, data were analyzed using HyperResearch software. The findings highlight the following themes such as corrective-supportive parenting, ways of addressing CAR’s transitional struggles, and establishing open communication. From these themes, it can be inferred that parenting styles may differ from other parents because parenting children-at-risk has neither set of techniques nor gold standard. Parents need to be skillful, creative, and be attentive listeners to the unspoken feelings and desire of their children. Future research may be conducted to determine patterns of parenting and children’s behavior in other cities and municipalities with cases of CAR.

Private and Public Investment: Are they Substitute or Complementary in Driving Economic Growth in Nigeria?

Olanipekun Emmanuel Falade — 2024-03-22

The paper investigates the relationship between government and private investment with a view to ascertaining their complementarity or substitutability in driving economic growth in Nigeria for the period of 1981-2021. To achieve the objective, nonlinear autoregressive distributed lags (ARDL) models and nonlinear Granger causality tests were employed to analyze annual secondary data which were sourced from the Central Bank of Nigeria Statistical Bulletin. Findings show that government investment expenditure displayed a positive and long-term influence on private investment, suggesting a “crowding-in” effect where increased public investment stimulates private investment thereby fostering overall economic growth. Economic adversities or reduced public investment exerted a substantial negative impact on private investment, underscoring the complementarity of government investment expenditure in driving economic growth in Nigeria. Also, the nonlinear Granger causality tests reveal unidirectional relationship as government investment expenditure causes private investment across various embedding dimensions, emphasizing the positive influence of government investment on private investment. The findings generally suggest the need for balanced fiscal policies, prioritizing productive government investments, encouraging private investment, controlling inflation, and making time-sensitive policy decisions to promote economic growth in Nigeria.

Addressing Multi-objectives Search Challenges in Code Search Systems using CROPS Algorithms

Bassey Asuquo Ekanem — 2024-03-19

One of the biggest challenge in software reuse is the huge amount of time and efforts required by re-users to evaluate the suitability of reusable components in a search before they are selected for reuse. This becomes more challenging especially where large number of Pareto solutions are generated based on multiple objectives of a reuse scenario. This could lead to wrong choice of components and low quality products where the re-user is not patient enough to evaluate the long list of partially ordered components presented by the code search engine. In addressing this challenge, many multi-objective evolutionary algorithm (MOEA) frameworks have been introduced namely non-dominated sorting genetic algorithms, MOEA based on decomposition, preference-based MOEAs and many others. In this research, a type of preference-based MOEA named CROPS (Components Ranking Optimization and Selection) Algorithm is presented. CROPS uses functional requirements and the preferential order of non-functional requirements together with high-level objectives for filtering and sub-ranking of components to generate distinctive ranks of Pareto sets based on components suitability. Using this approach, time and efforts required by a re-user to search, rank and select quality components for reuse in a given re-use scenario is minimized.

Application of Zeolite in the Catalytic Cracking of Waste Vegetable Oil for the Production of highly Volatile Liquid Fuel

Princessruth Temidayo Temofeh — 2024-04-20

In this study, zeolite was used as a catalyst in a catalytic cracking reaction of waste cooking oil, which generates compositions similar to gasoline. This reaction was catalyzed by batch distillation of WCO in a hydrothermal reactor with zeolite catalyst synthesized using local clay sediment. The catalytic cracking was carried out under ambient conditions using 100-ml distillation apparatuses placed on a heating mantle and 50g of oil-added variable catalyst loading from 2 to 10 Wt% with zeolite as catalyst. The heating rate, residence time, and catalyst loading influenced the product yield. The physicochemical properties of the product, such as the density, the flash point, and the kinematic volumetric viscosity, were examined for fuel suitability. Chemical gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) determined the chemical composition of the compounds present in the cracked product. The overall study showed that the product's optimum zeolite loading, cracking temperature, and cracking rate were 8 wt%, 380 oC, and 0.0048 min-1, respectively. The study on zeolite catalytic cracking revealed that local clay synthesizes the zeolite catalyser, which is effective in WCO catalytic cracking for liquid fuel formation.

Production of Biogas from Plantain Peels, Using Cow Dung as Substrate

Samuel Adesina Durogbade — 2024-04-20

In a biodigester setup, the researchers investigated the production of methane gas using plantain peel and cow dung as substrates. Two buncher flasks, corks, a glass tube, and a calibrated conical flask comprised the biodigester setup. The setup involved anaerobic digestion processes, analyzing different ratios of cow dung and plantain peel to produce biogas. The main anaerobic digestion process was carried out in Buncher flask one, after which the methane gas formed was sent to Buncher flask two through a rubber tube, where the by-products such as carbon dioxide and hydrogen sulfide were absorbed from the methane gas and the refined biogas was stored in a storage tube. For this study, there were seven setups of cow dung and plantain peel in digester1, digester2, digester3, digester4, digester5, digester6, and digester7 in the ratios of 0g;100g(100%), 10g(10%): 90g(90%), 20g(20%): 80g(80%), 30g(30%): 70g(70%), 40g(40%): 60g(60%), and 50g (50%): 50g(50%), respectively. After 15 days of retention, the slurry with the highest yield is digester 1, with 574 ml/day. The obtained kinetic modeling indicates a rise in yield as the retention time increases. Furthermore, it was observed that continuous mixing boosted the biogas production yield. The results provided valuable insights into the potential for biogas production from agricultural and animal wastes through anaerobic digestion, highlighting the impact of functional groups on biogas yield.

Identification of Three Novel Lipid Metabolism-Related Long Non-Coding RNAS (GHRLOS, Lnc-GHRL-3:3, and LINC00852) As Potential Biomarkers and Regulators for Diabetic Dyslipidemia

Dalia M. Anbari — 2024-04-20

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a metabolic disease that affects both young and old people. The prevalence of T2DM is increasing worldwide and is reaching epidemic proportions. It is associated with a dysregulation of lipid metabolism that favors the development and progression of many diseases, including diabetic dyslipidemia. Therefore, in-depth studies are needed to understand the epigenetic mechanisms of diabetic dyslipidemia, especially at the molecular level. However, the underlying mechanisms are still largely unknown. In the current investigation, we aimed to elucidate novel potential lipid metabolism-related long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) that regulate diabetic dyslipidemia development and provide novel signatures for its prognosis and precise treatment. HbA1c levels and lipid profiles were analyzed in 71 T2DM patients and 32 non-diabetic controls using established assays. The expression patterns of the genes GHRLOS, lnc-GHRL-3:3, and LINC00852 were detected by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR).The results showed that the expression levels of the lncRNAs GHRLOS, lnc-GHRL-3:3, and LINC00852 were significantly (P < 0.0001) higher in diabetics compared to non-diabetics. Pearson’s correlation analysis showed that the expression levels of GHRLOS, lnc-GHRL-3:3, and LINC00852 were significantly and negatively correlated with HbA1c, TC, TG, LDL, and VLDL and positively correlated with HDL. The results of the linear regression analysis confirmed the correlation in the same direction and the significance value of Pearson coloration coefficient analysis. Finally, it can be concluded that the lncRNAs GHRLOS, lnc-GHRL-3:3, and LINC00852 show a significant correlation with dyslipidemia in T2DM patients, indicating their potential roles as biomarkers and regulators of diabetic dyslipidemia.

Adapting to Change: Challenges and Opportunities of Hairdressing Students in A National Secondary Technical School

Shiela Kris T. Pepito — 2024-03-07

Students faced significant challenges in acquiring practical hairdressing skills as schools transitioned to distance or blended learning. The findings revealed two themes: transitional challenges and beneficial effects. Challenges during the transition include adjustments, drawback, financial constraints, feeling of inadequacy and limited equipment. The shift from modular to face-to-face learning introduced issues like time management struggles and dissatisfaction with the modular approach. These issues lead to more concerns about academic setbacks and motivation upon the transition to face-to-face classes called new normal. Moreover, financial constraints due posed a challenge. Despite these hurdles, participants found the transition beneficial as they appreciate the enriched learning, hands-on interactions, and engagement in extracurricular activities. The new normal was recognized for its practical engagement, facilitating networking, and attracting clients which led to improving communication skills and creating job and entrepreneurial opportunities. The study's findings strongly support the notion that hairdressing students thrive and excel when immersed in a hands-on, face-to-face learning environment. This suggests the need for further research to better improve their experiences and skill development.

Influence of Information Needs and Information Seeking Behavior on Graduate School Students' Literacy Skills

Krystal Kay D. Valmores — 2024-04-20

In today's intricate and swiftly changing information landscape, possessing information literacy skills is crucial for the academic endeavors of graduate school students. This study explored the influence of information needs and information seeking behavior of graduate school students on their information literacy skills. The research looked at how graduate students in a private higher education institution in Cagayan de Oro, during the first semester of the 2023-2024 school year, use and seek information. The study used a questionnaire answered by 347 participants from various courses. Findings show that the participants appeared a strong awareness of their information needs, indicating clarity in what they were looking for. They understood the importance of checking and confirming information to make sure it is reliable. The study also found that participants actively searched for information, considering their thoughts, feelings, and experiences in the process. Importantly, the participants demonstrated high skills in information literacy, including evaluating information, using effective search strategies, accessing online databases, and citing sources correctly. This suggests that they have a good understanding of key concepts related to information literacy and are proficient in using these skills. The study concluded that there is a significant connection between students' information needs, how they search for information, and their information literacy skills. Those who have higher information needs and actively seek information are more likely to have better information literacy skills. Overall, the research highlights the complex relationship between these factors in the academic environment.

Counselling Approaches and Educational Support for Business Education in Students with Visual and Hearing Impairments: Enhancing Accessibility and Learning Outcomes

Modupe Oluwatoyin Olowe — 2024-04-20

This qualitative study delves into the counselling and educational support for Nigerian business education students with visual and hearing impairments through interviews with 15 professionals, including educators, counsellors, and administrators. It reveals a critical lack of accessible educational resources and assistive technologies, highlighting the suboptimal effectiveness of existing support due to insufficient trained staff. Professionals suggest a comprehensive approach to improvement, advocating for the creation of accessible materials, enhanced training, investment in technologies, and policy reforms to overcome these barriers. The study calls for immediate systemic changes to facilitate better accessibility and proposes future research to encompass longitudinal studies, the impact of socio-economic factors, and broader inclusion of student and family perspectives to foster a genuinely inclusive educational environment.