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Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui (1) Capaian Nilai Siswa sebelum diterapkan PjBL Blended Tutor Sebaya di kelas XI (2) Penerapan PjBL Blended Tutor Sebaya di kelas XI. (3) Capaian Nilai Siswa Setelah Penerapan BjBL Blended Tutor Sebaya pada kelas XI (4) Perbedaan Nilai siswa sebelum dan setelah penerapan PjBL Blended Tutor Sebaya kelas XI DPIB SMK Ganesha Tama Boyolali. Penelitian menggunakan metode kuantitatif eksperimen dengan seluruh populasi sebagai sampel. Data diperoleh melalui observasi dan tes hasil belajar, mencakup tiga aspek: pengetahuan, keterampilan, dan sikap, yang dianalisis menggunakan uji Paired Sample T-Test. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan rata-rata nilai awal siswa: aspek pengetahuan 57, keterampilan 59, dan sikap 58. Setelah perlakuan, rata-rata meningkat menjadi 82 untuk pengetahuan, 77 untuk keterampilan, dan 75 untuk sikap. Model ini memiliki delapan sintak, termasuk pre-test, penentuan kelompok, pelaksanaan proyek, hingga evaluasi. Peningkatan rata-rata pada aspek pengetahuan sebesar 20%, keterampilan 17%, dan sikap 18%, dibuktikan dengan nilai signifikan (2-tailed) sebesar 0,000 (

Abstract The growing energy demand and lack of access to clean energy sources call for the development of more energy for cooking in households, briquettes produced using agricultural materials and related biomass have the capacity for utilization as an energy source. This study aims to introduce briquettes as an alternative energy source for cooking within conflict-affected communities in Borno State, northeastern Nigeria, where factors relating to the high cost of charcoal, security constraints, and the environmental impact of tree cutting have sparked apprehension and raised concerns. The study demonstrates the likelihood of adopting briquettes as a cooking fuel alternative in communities recovering from insurgency. Using assessment tools such as household surveys, Key Informant Interviews (KIIs), and Focus Group Discussions (FGDs), involving a total of 536 questionnaires administered to respondents; KII was administered to 37 respondents and 9 FGDs with cooperatives and dealers in traditional fuel were conducted. From the results 73% of the community relies on charcoal as their primary fuel source, since the majority (68.7%) appeared to be low-income households, 24.1% reported that the high cost of charcoal is a major hindrance to continued usage. However, despite the communities showing potential in briquettes, only 3.7% are aware of briquettes as an alternative option for cooking energy indicating the adoption of briquettes being low in the region. A situational assessment was carried and sensitization strategies were recommended as means to enhance livelihoods and build resilience within the community.

This study examined how fermentation and roasting alter the amino acid profile of infant food created from mixtures of sorghum and soybean. Sorghum and soybean were fermented, roasted and both fermented and roasted before milling into flours. Untreated sorghum and soybean flours were also produced to serve as the control. Except for the control samples, each blend had 5% malted sorghum flour added. Weaning foods were prepared with these blends, and their amino acid profiles were determined. The contents of essential amino acids, including histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, threonine, tryptophan, and valine, ranged from 2.03 to 2.48 g/100g, 3.39 to 5.22 g/100g, 8.16 to 11.21 g/100g, 4.18 to 6.38 g/100g, 1.45 to 2.41 g/100g, 4.22 to 6.34 g/100g, 3.41 to 5.86 g/100g, 2.98 to 4.30 g/100g, and 4.01 to 6.33 g/100g, respectively. The contents of non-essential amino acids, including alanine, arginine, aspartic acid, cystine, glutamic acid, glycine, proline, and serine, varied between 3.31-6.13 g/100g, 4.93-7.32 g/100g, 10.23-14.33 g/100g, 1.38-2.35 g/100g, 13.64-16.84 g/100g, 3.99-6.35 g/100g, 3.59-5.34 g/100g, and 2.94-4.88 g/100g, respectively. The fermentation and roasting processes were found to significantly enhance the amino acid content of weaning foods with inconsistent effects. Therefore, optimizing these conditions is recommended for weaning blends to maximize health and nutritional benefits for infants and young children.

Globally, rural women farmers benefited from only 5% of agricultural extension information, and also only 10% of the agricultural extension facilities, this affects their engagement in agricultural development resulting in an increased rate of poverty and lack of the necessary knowledge of agricultural practice. This study aimed to determine the internal and external factors influencing rural women farmers’ participation in agricultural activities in rural areas of Malaysia. The study was conducted in Ranau, Sabah, Malaysia. A sample size of 248 rural women farmers was selected using simple random sampling. A five-point Likert scale questionnaire was used for data collection. Collected data were subjected to descriptive and factor analysis using Statistical Packages for Social Science (SPSS) version 26. The findings indicated that the factors affecting rural women’s participation in agricultural activities in Ranau, Sabah, encompassed access to financial and agricultural inputs, social culture, land rights, access to land, technology adoption, participation in farm management decisions, limited scope of agricultural policy and access to resource and support for women in agriculture. The present study has provided insights into the factors contributing to women’s participation in agriculture activities. The study suggests that a theoretical model should be proposed to test the relationship between these factors and women’s participation in agriculture, along with research to identify solutions for reducing identified barriers.

This research investigated the influence of board characteristics on corporate social responsibility of listed oil and gas companies in Nigerian Exchange. Variables examined are bord size, independence, gender diversity, activity, professionalism and equity ownership of board members. While corporate social responsibility was proxy by CSR expenditure. The population consists of twelve (12) listed oil and gas firms from which five (5) firms have consistently published their annual reports within the period covered and extracted data from their respective annual reports. Panel corrected standard error was used for analysis. Findings revealed both board size and board activity have no significant impacts on CSR while in contrast, board independence, female gender, board professionalism and board equity ownership have a significant effect on CSR. It was recommended that the management of listed oil and gas companies need to have more independent outside directors on the board to enhance monitoring and CSR performance. Also, higher participation of female on the board will improve CSR performance because of their concern for environmental issues. In addition, having more members with professional expertise will improve the decision making of the board and equally shape CSR performance. Board members with equity stake will align the interest of the managers with those of shareholders and likewise, focus more on long-term goals of the firm. Listed oil and gas firm should maintain appropriate board size and required number of board meetings as stipulated by code of corporate governance.

Cissus populnea Guill. & Perr. (Vitaceae) is used in traditional medicine to treat microbial infections, venereal diseases and infertility, among others. The aim of this research is to isolate and characterize the antimicrobial constituent(s) from the stem of C. populnea. The n-butanol fraction of C. populnea, being most active, was subjected to silica gel column chromatography, which led to the isolation of white solid and white crystalline substances coded compounds C1 and C4C5, respectively. Spectral analysis (1D and 2D-NMR) of the isolated compounds and comparison with the literature data indicated C1 to be Bis-(2-ethyloctyl)-phthalate and C4C5 to be a mixture of stigmasterol and β-sitosterol; C4C5 exhibited a zone of inhibition ranging from 24 to 29 mm against the test organisms with Candida albicans being the most sensitive organism while Trichophyton rubrum was the least sensitive organism. Of the standard drugs, ciprofloxacin had 27–37 mm while fluconazole and fulcin exhibited zones of inhibition ranging from 34 mm to 29–32 mm, respectively. The MIC and MBC/MFC values for C4C5 ranges from 12.5 to 25.0 µg/cm3 and 25.0 to 50.0 µg/cm3 against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus. aureus, Escherichia coli, Candida albicans, Trichophyton rubrum and Trichophyton mentagrophyte, respectively. In conclusion, Bis-(-(2-ethyloctyl)-phthalate) and a mixture of stigmasterol and β-sitosterol were identified for the first time from the stem of C. populnea.

Introduction Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a growing public health problem causing a significant amount of disability and mortality in Nigeria. Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are common complications associated with DM. However, studies on the prevalence of MSDs and their associated factors are limited in Nigeria, particularly in the northwest region. The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of MSDs and their associated factors among individuals with DM in northwest, Nigeria. Material and methods A retrospective cross-sectional survey of medical case records of all consecutive patients with DM attending a diabetic clinic in Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital, Zaria was conducted be-tween February 2015 and September 2021. Data on sociodemographic and clinical variables was collected using a researcher-designed questionnaire and analysed using descriptive statistics and logistic regression models. Results Four hundred eighty-nine cases (170 men [34.8%], 319 females [65.2%]; mean age: 51.4 ±12.3 years) were analysed. The majority of the participants had type 2 DM (96.7%), with a mean DM duration of 7.02 ±5.05 years. The overall prevalence of MSDs was 32.7%, with the highest prevalence found for lumbosacral spondylosis (11%) followed by knee osteoarthritis (8.4%). Among the different potential predictors examined, only duration of DM was significantly associated with overall MSDs (AOR: 1.76, 95% CI: 1.04–2.98; p = 0.035) whereas both duration of DM (AOR: 2.64, 95% CI: 1.19–5.89; p = 0.018) and body mass index (AOR: 7.461, 95% CI: 1.33–43.8; p = 0.023) were significantly associated with lumbosacral spondylosis. Conclusions Approximately one-third of the study participants had MSDs, with lumbosacral spondylosis being the most frequently occurring disorder. Being obese and having a longer duration of DM were associated with MSDs. Clinicians in Nigeria need to pay attention to MSDs and related factors in DM patients by conducting routine assessments and implementing early treatment.

The study examined published works on the contribution of agricultural extension to the empowerment of women for agricultural development. It also explored the theoretical and practical implications. A systematic search in Scopus using relevant sets of keywords, including “agriculture extension”, “capacity building”, “women’s empowerment”, “women’s agency”, “women farmers”, “gender” and “agriculture”, identified 77 pertinent articles published between 1987-2023. The findings revealed that research on women’s empowerment in agriculture through capacity building had grown steadily since 1987, with leading journals being Gender, Technology and Development and the Journal of Agricultural Education and Extension. Quisumbing, Mudege, and Ponnusamy emerge as prolific authors, while India boasts the most distributed studies. Beyond a comprehensive review, this work introduces a novel concept for understanding women’s empowerment in agriculture. The concept comprised of five extension methods designed to empower women farmers, emphasising informed decision-making and leveraging the various forms of capital. The new conceptual framework aims to drive a collaborative approach towards achieving Sustainable Development Goal 5 – Gender Equality. Additionally, the review offers a comprehensive systematic review of gender studies, particularly in agriculture. It highlights the need for intercultural studies to examine the effectiveness of the proposed framework across diverse cultural contexts and regions.

Packaging does not only protect a product but also provides directions for using the product, as well as relevant information about its content and nutritional value. This study was undertaken to assess Granulated Cassava (Gari) sellers’ perception, profitability and determinants of packaging in Ashanti Region. The study area was purposively selected because of the active participation and contribution of marketing activities. A structured questionnaire was administered in the form of interview to obtain primary data from the respondents. Data was generated using binary and multinomial logit regression model and Garret ranking technique. The results showed that there is 0.11% difference in the gross margin of both ventures which is also statistically significant at 1%. Years of education, legal requirement, and durability of the packaging material and cost of packaging material were the significant factors that influence sellers’ choice of packaging. Lack of technical know-how, cost of capital equipment and lack of knowledge on packaging equipment and/or material were the most limiting constraints affecting Gari packaging. The study recommends that investors should invest in the Gari packaging business since it has a relatively higher rate of returns as compared to the unpackaged one.

Palmoplantar pigmentation is a rare clinical presentation of alkaptonuria, a rare inborn error of phenylalanine and tyrosine metabolism. Alkaptonuria occurs owing to a deficiency of an enzyme homogentisic acid oxidase inherited as an autosomal recessive disorder. We report a case of alkaptonuria, which presented with palmoplantar pigment pigmentary nail changes and the involvement of the spine and joints. He was advised of ascorbic acid along with symptomatic management and detailed counselling.

Clinicians frequently study arterial Doppler velocimetric waveforms depicted by Doppler sonography of the kidneys, the heart, the brain, and the feto-maternal circulation to assess the well-being of the aforementioned vital organs. The waveform interpretation of the Doppler indices can be studied using a mathematical model. The developed models serve as teaching tools and for easy comprehension of the regulatory mechanism of the organs. It will also obtain accurate wall shear stress (WSS) and likely atherosclerotic sites can be predicted early. The aim of this review is to reveal the imperatives of mathematical models in the study of the physical interpretation of Doppler velocimetry. The models will explore sonographic Doppler velocimetry and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) in determining the segments of the arteries that are prone to the development of atheromatous plaque. It will be achieved by comparing and computing the measurement differences of the WSS. A thorough literature review was carried out between 1971 and 2021 on the mathematical modeling of blood dynamics and Doppler velocimetry of different blood vessels, across various electronic databases including NC AHEC Digital Library, PUBMED, ERIC, MEDLINE, Free Medical Journals, and EMBASE. The results of the literature search were presented using the PRISMA flow chat. The narrative review of the mathematical models of arterial blood dynamics is based on incompressible Navier-Stokes equations, the Windkessel model, and CFD. It was deduced that the blood flow velocity decreased with time across the varying frequency from 0.2Hz to 0.50Hz in the interlobar arterial channels. The review also revealed that adult humans' Doppler indices of the renal-interlobar artery agree with developed models of renal interlobar arterial blood dynamics. The mathematical model measurements of the great vessels matched the sonographic Doppler velocimetry with

Objective: To look for migraine headaches and associated factors in patients being managed for psoriasis at a tertiary healthcare setup in Rawalpindi, Pakistan. Study Design: Comparative cross-sectional study. Place and Duration of Study: Department of Dermatology, Pak Emirates Military Hospital, Rawalpindi Pakistan, from Mar 2021 to Feb 2022. Methodology: One hundred and forty patients of psoriasis being managed at our Dermatology Unit were included in the analysis. All patients were screened with the Migraine Screen Questionnaire (MS-Q), and those having scores equal to or more than four were evaluated by medical specialists, and diagnosis of migraine was established based on the International Classification of Headache Disorders diagnostic criteria for migraine. An association of relevant risk factors was established with migraine among these patients. Results: Out of 140 patients with psoriasis, 75(53.4%) were male, while 65(46.6%) were female. Eighty-five (60.7%) patients had migraine confirmed by clinical criteria, while 55(39.3%) had no migraine. Statistical analysis revealed that more body surface area involvement and longer duration of psoriasis had a statistically significant relationship with migraine among the study participants (p-value

Faulty board configurations associated with risk management practices are alleged to be the primary sources of most corporate failures. Therefore, experts have suggested that firms should adopt holistic risk management practices. This study investigates the interactive effect of board characteristics with risk management activities on the performance of listed Nigerian non-financial firms. The study is anchored on the agency theory perspective. It is designed as ex post facto inquiry with a population of 113 companies, from which a sample of 96 firms was drawn from firms with a complete set of data. Secondary data were extracted from the NSE Factbook and Thomson Reuter’s DataStream for 2010–2019. The static panel regression technique was utilized to analyze and estimate the interaction between the variables. The findings show that all the independent variables positively impacted ROA of the listed firms. Nevertheless, concerning market evaluation (Tobin-Q), except for board financial experts and audit committee meetings, risk management committee meetings and the presence of chief risk officer showed an insignificant impact. The combined implication is that although firms have complied with the provision of the CG codes on risk governance structure, the improvements associated with risk management aimed at enhancing market evaluation are nonetheless not deeply embedded in these firms. Firms are suggested to implement effective risk management practices to achieve competitive advantages and substantiality. More studies are advocated to extend the literature by expanding the scope.

As the clamour for a Net Zero carbon energy economy increases, it is necessary to harness the potential of renewable energies in powering buildings to lower fossil power plants' contributions to the overall energy mix. This paper aims to present an energy balance load sensitivity analysis and multi-criteria method for sizing a green energy system for powering two office complexes that house space research laboratories. The energy component considered includes battery storage (BAT), captive diesel generator (DG), fuel cell (FC), hydrogen storage (H2T), solar photovoltaic (PV), and wind turbine. Using HOMER, the techno-economic features and the hourly operational details of the energy components were obtained. The efficacy of Entropy- Additive Ratio Assessment was deployed on the outputs from HOMER to obtain the most preferred energy system based on more than one criterion. The result of the study indicates that the most preferred energy system for Abuja is a PV, WD, FC, DG, and BAT, having a total net present cost (TNPC) of $220,930. In contrast, the most suitable energy system for the energy in the Anyigba office consists of PV, FC, and BAT, with its TNPC at $106,955.

This research aims to analyse the effect of online-based interactive digital learning media Word Wall on primary school student Pancasila and Citizenship Education learning outcomes. The method in this research used quantitative methods and quasi-experimental models with non-equivalent control group design. The research instrument used was test questions through pre-test and post-test. The data analysis technique used descriptive quantitative. The results of this research indicate that the interactive digital learning media Word Wall has an effect on improving student Pancasila and Citizenship Education learning outcomes as evidenced by statistical data from hypothesis testing using t-test with a significance value of 0.01 t-table which is 5.809 > 2.042. So, it can be said that the use of interactive digital learning media Word Wall in learning can improve the Pancasila and Citizenship Education learning outcomes of elementary school students.

Expansive soils are inherently known for exhibiting significant volumetric change in response to slight variation in the moisture content. In this study, medical waste material in the form of bottom ash (BA) was investigated as a potential stabilizer for expansive soil. The unique characteristics of BA, such as its cost-effectiveness and availability as a residue, establish it as a potent stabilizer for expansive soils compared to other alternatives. The locally collected expansive soil from Muscat was identified to be of poorly clay type with high plasticity (CH) based on the USCS, and A-6 according to AASHTO classification. The BA was obtained from the medical waste treatment plant of the Be’ah Company in Oman. Samples were prepared by treating the expansive soil with BA in percentages of 6%, 8%, 10%, and 12% by mass. It was found that the pH level of the treated soil continued to reduce with increasing BA content, which was indicative of the reaction between the expansive soil and BA particles. The unconfined compression strength (UCS) test yielded a 57.63% increase over that of untreated expansive soil at 28 days of curing. Similarly, the California Bearing Ratios (CBR) of the treated soils were up to two times higher than the untreated soil, both in its unsoaked and soaked conditions. Based on the results of the UCS, CBR and linear shrinkage tests, the optimum quantity of BA required for treating the expansive soil was determined to 10%, beyond which no further enhancement in the UCS, CBR or shrinkage attributes of the soil was observed. Overall, the outcomes of this research highlight the potential of medical waste material, specifically bottom ash, as a sustainable stabilizer for expansive soil in construction applications.

Introduction: The issues of incorrectness and incompleteness for written prescriptions may result to dispensing errors and unintended outcomes of care. The objective of the study was to assess the legibility of handwritten prescriptions and adherence to W.H.O. prescription writing guidelines in Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital Zaria. Method: A cross-sectional prospective study design was used, and existing prescriptions were sampled from selected in-patient and outpatient pharmacy units of Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital Zaria. This was approved by the ethics and research committee of the institution. The prescriptions were then evaluated for quality based on the layout, legibility, and clarity of the details in the prescriptions and screened for medication errors. Result: The extent of prescribing drugs by generic name was (68.37%), the legibility percentage was moderate and the percentage of prescriptions in which details of the drug, route of administration, and duration of treatment were complete was 85.23%, 80.80%, and 82.40%, respectively. The doctor's signature (84.87%) was present in the prescriptions. Many of the prescribers did not use to indicate patients’ weight, age, and clinic on prescriptions, these are deviations from good prescribing practices while total medication error was 38.01%. Conclusion: Prescribers have a duty of care to their patient and a professional duty to their colleagues (pharmacists) to ensure drug prescriptions are readily identifiable. Interventional techniques such as the use of printed or electronic prescriptions can improve the ease of interpreting information and reduce medication errors.

Objective: To compare the efficacy of double-dose oral Terbinafine and Itraconazole in treating dermatophytic infections. Study Design: Randomized controlled trial (ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT04880980). Place and Duration of Study: Department of Dermatology, Pak Emirates Military Hospital, Rawalpindi Pakistan, from Mar 2021 to Mar 2022. Methodology: One hundred and twenty patients with dermatophyte infections of the skin (i.e., tinea corporis and cruris) diagnosed by clinical presentation and KOH mount were included in this study. After randomization, patients were divided into two groups. Group-A was managed with double-dose oral Terbinafine, while Group-B was managed with double-dose oral Itraconazole. Clinical response and side effects were seen and recorded initially at two weeks and then at four weeks.Efficacy and adverse effects were compared in both groups at the end of four weeks. Results: Out of 120 patients with dermatophyte infections of the skin included in the study, 59(49.2%) took double-dose oral Terbinafine while 61(50.8%) took double-dose oral Itraconazole after randomization. It was revealed that Itraconazole was more efficacious in achieving cure at the end of 4-weeks as compared to double dose Terbinafine (p-value=0.001), while adverse effects studied were not statistically significant or different in both the groups (p-value>0.005). Conclusion: This randomized controlled trial showed that double dose oral Itraconazole was more efficacious in treating dermatophyte infections of the skin (i.e., Tinea corporis and cruris) compared to double dose oral Terbinafine. Adverse effects were minimal in both groups and were not specially related to any of these medications.

This paper conducted a systematic review of succession planning (SP) articles published over the last decade. The Systematic Quantitative Assessment Technique was used to identify 174 SP articles. The review covered five key issues: 1) Time distribution, 2) Geographic distribution, 3) Article type, 4) Data collection methods, and 5) Themes explored. The findings revealed that interest in SP fluctuated over the last decade, and that South America and Oceania were the least represented by SP scholarship. The spread between conceptual and empirical SP articles were skewed towards the former, and survey was the most popular data collection method. Five themes were identified, with the most striking finding being that that if the ‘going concern’ principle of organizations is to be achieved, management must make deliberate efforts to formalize the SP process with the clear understanding that it is a continuous, transparent and participatory process, and thus a crucial management imperative.

Summary The throwaway culture related to the single‐use materials such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET) has created a major environmental concern. Recycling of PET waste into biodegradable plastic polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) creates an opportunity to improve resource efficiency and contribute to a circular economy. We sequenced the genome of Pseudomonas umsongensis GO16 previously shown to convert PET‐derived terephthalic acid (TA) into PHA and performed an in‐depth genome analysis. GO16 can degrade a range of aromatic substrates in addition to TA, due to the presence of a catabolic plasmid pENK22. The genetic complement required for the degradation of TA via protocatechuate was identified and its functionality was confirmed by transferring the tph operon into Pseudomonas putida KT2440, which is unable to utilize TA naturally. We also identified the genes involved in ethylene glycol (EG) metabolism, the second PET monomer, and validated the capacity of GO16 to use EG as a sole source of carbon and energy. Moreover, GO16 possesses genes for the synthesis of both medium and short chain length PHA and we have demonstrated the capacity of the strain to convert mixed TA and EG into PHA. The metabolic versatility of GO16 highlights the potential of this organism for biotransformations using PET waste as a feedstock.

The present works describe a stable and facile biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) from Allium sativum (A. sativum) cloves extract deposited on graphene oxide (GO). The AgNPs with different concentrations of [Ag(NH3)2]+ solution were synthesized under solar irradiation to catalyze the growth of AgNPs prior to the deposition on GO. Their adsorptivity was tested against methylene blue (MB) dye in aqueous media. Characterization analyses revealed that the silver nanoparticle-graphene oxide, Ag:GO-100 (S) nanocomposites were crystalline with asymmetrical spherical-shaped and well-dispersed on GO surfaces. The anchoring of AgNPs on GO sheets acts as spacers for the enhanced nanocomposites’ surface area and synergistically achieved almost a complete removal of MB dye in 5 min. The best rate constant of 4.97816 g mg−1 min−1 was obtained from the pseudo second-order kinetic model. The spontaneous adsorption mechanism was affirmed, and the nanocomposite potential could be exploited as an efficient, cost-effective, and feasible approach in the remediation of contaminated water, as a result of their outstanding performances.

This study empirically reviews ICT and mathematics learning in Nigeria through a systematic literature review. Relevant articles and journals were identified to examine international students' teaching and learning experiences. Research shows that even if teachers believe that students need to understand mathematics or that the use of ICT improves students' development, students still need to solve problems. It may indicate that They do not incorporate her ICT into math classes or use it in traditional ways to impart knowledge. Her effective use of ICT in mathematics education may lead to more learner-centered classroom practices. These changes are widely believed to impact mathematics teaching and to learn positively. For example, ICT can enrich students' mathematics learning experience, increase their interest in mathematics, and change their attitudes toward mathematics. With the proliferation of online e-teaching, flipped classrooms are becoming a new trend in digital learning. The study recommends that ICT tools be made available by all parties to teachers and students with appropriate Internet access to achieve solid academic performance in mathematics. Governments at all levels need to increase their budgets for education and ensure that the money allocated for education is entirely spent.

This paper presents a density-based traffic light signal system that performs timing signal that changes automatically based on the amount of traffic at each of its intersections. However, as traffic congestion is a pertinent problem on all of Ahmadu Bello University’s (ABU) gates, it is time to advance from the traditional technique to an automated system that has self-decision capabilities. The current technique used on the traffic system is based on the traditional technique, which works based on time scheduling; this system is inefficient if one lane is operational while the others are not operational. The intelligent traffic control was prototyped in order to solve this perennial problem of ABU’s gate. When there is a high density on one lane of the intersection, it causes a longer waiting time on the other lanes than the regular permitted time. As a result, a process was designed through which the time periods for the green and red lights were assigned based on the traffic densities on each of the lanes at that time. Infrared (IR) sensors were used to perform this task. The Arduino Uno Microcontroller was used for allocating the glowing period of green lights once density had been calculated. Sensors were used for monitoring the presence of vehicles and communicating information to the microcontroller, which determines the duration for which a signal will change or a flank will remain open. Also displayed is the operating principle of the density-based traffic signal control system, which shows the prototype’s efficiency.

Acute Myocardial infarction is a non-communicable disease representing the leading cause of death in Saudi Arabia. Studying the ethnicity in its risk factors has been poorly investigated.ObjectivesTo compare risk factors among Saudi nationals and expatriates.MethodsA retrospective cohort study for patients admitted to the Cardiac Care Unit of one of the largest tertiary care hospitals in Tabuk diagnosed with acute myocardial infarction from September 2018 to August 2019. Risk factors were compared among groups on the basis of their ethnicity.ResultsIn total 18,746 patients were included. Gender and age were the predominant risk factors; Male (p < 0.05) and age >50 years (p < 0.05). There were significant differences between Saudis and expatriates in all measurable parameters indicating that a genetic factor contributes to the risk factors, which was proved by the significant differences between the Middle East North Africa and South Asia subgroups. Interestingly, the mean values of laboratory results were higher than Saudi populations.ConclusionsThe disparity in lipid profile among the studied groups addresses the patient ethnicity should be considered during education programs for the risk factors of cardiovascular disease.

Butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) performs a significant function in Alzheimer’s disease progression. Experimental studies have shown that the function of BChE in the attenuation of cholinergic neurotransmission is essentially altered in brains of advanced AD patients. Here, using the complimentary methods of enzyme kinetic studies, molecular modeling and protein-ligand interaction profiling, we sought to reveal the mechanistic and structural features of BChE-methyrosmarinate interactions. Molecular docking simulations revealed that methylrosmarinate dwelled well in the active centre of BChE, where it got involved in stabilizing non-covalent associations with myriad subsites. Enzyme kinetic experiments showed that the Vm and Ks values were 156.20 ± 3.11 U mg−1 protein and 0.13 ± 0.01 μM, respectively. The inhibition studies showed that methylrosmarinate apparently inhibited BChE in a linear mixed manner, with an IC50 value of 10.31 μM and a Ki value of 3.73 ± 1.52 μM. Taken together, the extremely reduced Ki value and the increased number of BChE–methylrosmarinate interactions presuppose that methylrosmarinate is a good inhibitor of BChE, despite the fact that the mechanism for the effect of BChE inhibition on several pathological conditions in vivo remains unexplored.

The development of renewable energy, especially solar, is essential for meeting future energy demands. The use of a wide range of the solar spectrum through the solar cells will increase electricity generation and thereby improve energy supply. However, solar photovoltaics (PV) can only convert a portion of the spectrum into electricity. Excess solar radiation is wasted by heat, which decreases solar PV cells’ efficiency and decreases their life span. Interestingly, thermoelectric generators (TEGs) are bidirectional devices that act as heat engines, converting the excess heat into electrical energy through thermoelectric effects through when integrated with a PV. These generators also enhance device efficiency and reduce the amount of heat that solar cells dissipate. Several experiments have been carried out to improve the hybrid PV-TEG system efficiency, and some are still underway. In the present study, the photovoltaic and thermoelectric theories are reviewed. Furthermore, different hybrid system integration methods and experimental and numerical investigations in improving the efficiency of PV-TEG hybrid systems are also discussed. This paper also assesses the effect of critical parameters of PV-TEG performance and highlights possible future research topics to enhancing the literature on photovoltaic-thermoelectric generator systems.

Packaging does not only protect a product but also provides directions for using the product, as well as relevant information about its content and nutritional value. This study was undertaken to assess Granulated Cassava (Gari) sellers’ perception, profitability and determinants of packaging in Ashanti Region. The study area was purposively selected because of the active participation and contribution of marketing activities. A structured questionnaire was administered in the form of interview to obtain primary data from the respondents. Data was generated using binary and multinomial logit regression model and Garret ranking technique. The results showed that there is 0.11% difference in the gross margin of both ventures which is also statistically significant at 1%. Years of education, legal requirement, and durability of the packaging material and cost of packaging material were the significant factors that influence sellers’ choice of packaging. Lack of technical know-how, cost of capital equipment and lack of knowledge on packaging equipment and/or material were the most limiting constraints affecting Gari packaging. The study recommends that investors should invest in the Gari packaging business since it has a relatively higher rate of returns as compared to the unpackaged one.

Background: Vitiligo is an acquired pigmentary disorder of the skin and mucous membranes which manifests as white macules and patches due to selective loss of melanocytes. This condition can affect the patients' psychology, leading to an impairment of quality of life (QOL). Recently, much attention is been given to the emotional and psychological issues in the affected subjects. Aim of the Study: This was to assess the QOL impairment among Nigerian patients with vitiligo using a disease-specific quality of life index questionnaire (VitiQoL). Materials and Methods: Seventy seven adults aged 18 years and above with vitiligo attending the Dermatology Clinic of a tertiary health center were included in this cross-sectional study. The QOL was assessed using the vitiligo quality of life questionnaire (VitiQoL). Disease severity was assessed using Vitiligo Area Severity Index (VASI). Results: The mean age of the study participants was 38.97 ± 13.2 years, comprising of 32 (41.6%) and 45 (58.4%) females. Almost half of the vitiligo patients belong to the lower socioeconomic class, 37 (48.1%). The mean age of first onset of vitiligo was 33.5 ± 14.84 years, with 32 (41.6%) of the participants having age of first onset between 24 and 42 years. The mean VitiQoL score was 30.51 ± 15.74 (range 3–64). There was a significant relationship between VASI score and VitiQoL (P = 0.036, r = 0.517). Other factors such as age, gender, socioeconomic status, disease activity, family history of vitiligo, duration of the disease and educational attainment were significantly associated with VitiQoL score (P < 0.05). Conclusion: QOL is impaired significantly in Nigerian patients with vitiligo. Focusing on patient's QOL is an essential aspect in the management of patients with vitiligo.

Objective To compare physical activity level and traumatic exposure between normotensive and hypertensive pregnant women in an armed conflict region of Nigeria. Methods 130 normotensives and hypertensive pregnant women comprising of 65 participants per group participated in the study. Harvard Trauma Questionnaire and Pregnancy Physical Activity Questionnaire were used to assess traumatic events and physical activity respectively. Results Significant difference was observed on total traumatic event (p = 0.008) and all domains and intensities of physical activity except inactivity and sedentary (p > 0.05). Household activities (OR: 0.989; 95% CI: 0.981–0.996), occupational activities (OR: 0.936; 95%CI: 0.879–0.996) and sport/exercise activities (OR: 0.898; 95%CI: 0.832–0.969) were associated with a decrease hypertensive pregnancy. Conclusion Despite exposed to traumatic events, physical activity is associated with normotensive pregnancy in an armed conflict region.

Greater disparities and inadequacies of English proficiency (EP) may influence the educational process for EFL teachers of different cultural backgrounds. This study aims at describing the condition of 104 English as a Foreign Language (EFL) teachers’ EP in the Southern Region of Sumatra in relation to such variables as education level (EL), cultural backgrounds, teaching assignment level, and gender. Using English test scores of teachers’ teaching status (pre-service and in-service), EL, gender, multicultural education questionnaire, and teaching assignment, teachers’ EP is described. This study reveals that EL affects EP and also becomes the best predictor of their cultural knowledge and experience, such as personal development, leadership, curriculum instruction, general sensitivity, and cultural awareness. Furthermore, teachers teaching at higher levels of education appear to be better in EP than those teaching at lower levels, and in-service teachers are also better than pre-service teachers in their teaching responsibility. Although there is no difference in gender in their EP as a whole, females’ EP, listening skill, and personal development are significantly correlated. The implication of the findings indicates that to be proficient in English and culturally developed with integrity, teachers must have at least a master’s degree in addition to having an in-service status of teaching employment.

Background Coronary artery disease was hitherto a rarity in Africa. Acute coronary syndrome (ACS) accounts for coronary artery disease–related morbidity and mortality. Reports on ACS in Africa are few. Methods and Results We enrolled 1072 indigenous Nigerian people 59.2±12.4 years old (men, 66.8%) with ACS in an observational multicentered national registry (2013–2018). Outcome measures included incidence, intervention times, reperfusion rates, and 1‐year mortality. The incidence of ACS was 59.1 people per 100 000 hospitalized adults per year, and comprised ST‐segment–elevation myocardial infarction (48.7%), non–ST‐segment–elevation myocardial infarction (24.5%), and unstable angina (26.8%). ACS frequency peaked 10 years earlier in men than women. Patients were predominantly from urban settings (87.3%). Median time from onset of symptoms to first medical contact (patients with ST‐segment–elevation myocardial infarction) was 6 hours (interquartile range, 20.1 hours), and only 11.9% presented within a 12‐hour time window. Traditional risk factors of coronary artery disease were observed. The coronary angiography rate was 42.4%. Reperfusion therapies included thrombolysis (17.1%), percutaneous coronary intervention (28.6%), and coronary artery bypass graft (11.2%). Guideline‐based pharmacotherapy was adequate. Major adverse cardiac events were 30.8%, and in‐hospital mortality was 8.1%. Mortality rates at 30 days, 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year were 8.7%, 9.9%, 10.9%, and 13.3%, respectively. Predictors of mortality included resuscitated cardiac arrest (odds ratio [OR], 50.0; 95% CI, 0.010–0.081), nonreperfusion (OR, 34.5; 95% CI, 0.004–0.221), pulmonary edema (OR, 11.1; 95% CI, 0.020–0.363), left ventricular diastolic dysfunction (OR, 4.1; 95% CI, 0.091–0.570), and left ventricular systolic dysfunction (OR, 2.1; 95% CI, 1.302–3.367). Conclusions ACS burden is rising in Nigeria, and patients are relatively young and from an urban setting. The system of care is evolving and is characterized by lack of capacity and low patient eligibility for reperfusion. We recommend preventive strategies and health care infrastructure‐appropriate management guidelines.

A 35-year-old highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART)-naïve woman diagnosed 2 years earlier presented with complaints of cough, fever and progressive weight loss of 5 months and skin rashes of 2 months. Clinical examination revealed a chronically ill-looking young woman who was wasted and pale, with purplish flat-topped papules and nodules on the skin of her neck, trunk, forearms and thighs. She also had a single lesion on the hard palate. Chest examination shows reduced breath sounds with crepitations. Sputum acid-fast bacilli were positive, and skin biopsy taken for histology confirmed Kaposi's sarcoma (KS). The patient recovered fully on antiretroviral and antituberculosis therapy without the need for any specific chemotherapy for KS. We report this case to elucidate the role of immune reconstitution as a treatment modality for AIDS-related KS, as well as to point out the possibility of multiple opportunistic conditions coexisting amongst patients with advanced HIV disease.

Background: Ultrasound scanning presently forms an integral part of antenatal care around the globe. It is a common investigative tool in most public and private health facilities in developing countries. Routine obstetric ultrasound has been one of the most important advances in antenatal care worldwide. It is also useful in the early detection and monitoring of the conditions that give rise to fetal and maternal compromise and has become an indispensable adjunct to the management efforts of practitioners in this regard. Therefore, utilization of this innovation by pregnant mothers is paramount toward good outcome. Objective: The objective is to determine the factors affecting utilization of ultrasound by pregnant mothers attending antenatal care in Zaria Local Government, Kaduna State, Northern Nigeria. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional descriptive was used to carry out the study among 200 pregnant mothers selected through multistage sampling technique. This study was conducted over a period of 6 months from November 6, 2017, to May 6, 2018, after approval was given by the ethical committee of Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital, Zaria, Nigeria. A structured interviewer-administered, validated questionnaire was administered to each participant to ascertain the factors affecting utilization of obstetric ultrasound by pregnant women in Zaria Local Government, Kaduna State. Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS 22. Results: The data obtained from the questionnaire were scored for proper evaluation. Furthermore, all collected data were carefully tallied, various frequencies, ranges, and mean (standard deviation) were determined. Most (29.5%) of the respondents aged 20–24 years, majority (95.5%) were homemakers that are not gainfully employed. Majority of the respondents were Hausa (94.5) and Muslims (96.5%). The findings of this study have shown that educational status, husband occupation, and knowledge affect the utilization of ultrasound by respondents. Conclusion: The common factors that affect the utilization of obstetric scan in Zaria were knowledge, education background, and husband occupation. Attitude, age, and the occupation of the respondents do not affect the utilization of obstetrics scan in Zaria.

Purpose – to research the effect of the corporate social responsibility (CSR) on the corporate financial performance (CFP) of quoted banks in Nigeria. Design/Method/Research approach. Using data of corporate social responsibility expenditure as a proxy for CSR and the trio of return on assets (ROA), return on equity (ROE), and bank earnings per share (EPS) as a proxy for CFP, regression analysis was conducted. ROA, ROE, and EPS data were collected from the banks’ financial statements for the period 2012 – 2016. Findings. In particular, our analysis and findings suggest that CSR expenditure had no significant effect on all the three proxies of CFP of quoted banks in Nigeria. It supports the arguments in the literature that financial performance alone does not justify expenditure on CSR activities by the quoted Nigerian banks. Practical implications. Our results show that there is a need for banks to consider other factors to see if the case for CSR activities exists. If they do not, the banks should stop engaging in these activities to increase the banks’ profitability. Paper type – empirical.

A graphical user interface (GUI) called the task allocation scheme simulator (TASS) for simulation of sensor nodes in wireless sensor networks (WSNs) using the real-time fault-tolerance task assignment scheme (RFTAS) and the modified real-time fault tolerance task assignment scheme (mRFTAS) is developed to carry out the performance evaluation of tasks or resources assignment in networks that are for sensor nodes. This paper focuses on the development of mRFTAS using the technology of backup (active-backup) for simulation of WSNs. Malicious attacks and the risk of sensors node failures are known to create a profoundly negative consequence on WSNs considering real-time events. The RFTAS is developed to address these issues, however, it has the problem of processing time delay. This is attributed to the characteristic of the passive backup copy technique adopted for the RFTAS in which the copies of backups tasks are activated when the copies of the primaries tasks have failed. Delay in the activation of copies of the backups tasks, of the primary tasks in tasks allocation execution processes as a result of a failure of sensor nodes or the primary tasks, will consequently lead to disastrous penalties if the systems under observation are safety-critical, such as aircraft, detecting fire burning in the forest, nuclear power plant, monitoring military battlefield. The mRFTAS is therefore enhanced using the active replication backup technique where both the primary and backup copies of tasks are executed concurrently. The analyses of the RFTAS and mRFTAS are conducted using total execution time of the task and energy consumption. The performance of mRFTAS shows an improvement over RFTAS in terms of minimizing task execution time by 28.65% and a trade-off in energy consumption by -17.32%.

ABSTRACT This study provides information on the effect of corporate social responsibility (CSR) on the corporate financial performnce (CFP) of quoted banks in Nigeria. Using corporate social responsibility expenditure as proxy for CSR and the trio of return on assets (ROA), return on equity (ROE), and bank earnings per share (EPS) as proxy for CFP, regression analysis was conducted. ROA, ROE and EPS data were gathered from the financial statements of the banks for the period 2012 – 2016. In particular, our analysis and findings suggest that CSR expenditure had no significant effect on all the three proxies of CFP of quoted banks in Nigeria. This supports the arguments in the literature that financial performance alone does not justify expenditure on CSR activities by the quoted Nigerian banks. We conclude that there is the need for banks to weigh other factors to see if the case for CSR activities exists. If they do not, the banks should stop engaging in these activities where the purpose was to be for increasing the profitability of the banks.

INTRODUCTION: The most recently discovered severe acute respiratory syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-COV-2) that causes COVID-19, subjected the entire world in turmoil health-wise and economically. With higher burden of malaria in Nigeria and other Sub-Saharan African countries coupled with fragile healthcare system and delivery, these may pose a threat in the diagnosis and management of COVID-19 patients co-infected with malaria. Free radicals have been implicated in the progression and pathogenesis of malaria and COVID-19 through Fenton’s reaction and cytokine storm respectively. METHODS: the current research comprises of seventy-four (74) participants; 20 apparently healthy controls and 54 COVID-19 patients (20 among which were co-infected with malaria). Serum levels of 8-iso PGF2α and Alphatocopherol were determined among the study participants using ELISA technique and colorimetric assay, respectively. RESULTS: results revealed statistically significant elevation of 8-iso PGF2α in COVID-19 patients co-infected with malaria compared to COVID-19 patients only, and this may be due to increase production of free radicals. Furthermore, a significant decrease of Alphatocopherol was observed in COVID-19 co-infected with malaria compared to COVID-19 patients due to increase utilization of antioxidants in counterbalancing the negative effect of free radicals generated. CONCLUSION: conclusively, SARS-COV-2 patients co-infected with malaria might be predisposed to oxidative stress and low Alphatocopherol. The increase in oxidative stress is proportional to malaria parasite density and inversely related to Alphatocopherol levels. This implies that oxidative stress is notably higher and such patients may have a severer form of the COVID-19. Increased 8-iso-PGF2α in co-infection and decreased alphatocopherol levels can reflect the severity and adverse outcomes compared to COVID-19 naïve because of their tremendous involvement in the pathogenesis and progression of diseases.

Background: Previous studies that evaluated the prevalence, awareness and treatment of hypertension in Nigeria were either localized to some specific regions of the country or non-standardized thereby making evaluation of trend in hypertension care difficult. Methods: We used the World Health Organization (WHO) STEPwise approach to chronic disease risk factor surveillance to evaluate in a nationally representative sample of 4192 adult Nigerians selected from a rural and an urban community in one state in each of the six geo-political zones of the country. Results: The overall age-standardized prevalence of hypertension was 38.1% and this varied across the geo-political zones as follows: North-Central, 20.9%; North-East, 27.5%; North-West, 26.8%; South-East, 52.8%; South-South, 44.6%; and South-West, 42.1%. Prevalence rate did not differ significantly (p > 0.05) according to place of residence; 39.2% versus 37.5 %; urban vs rural. Prevalence of hypertension increased from 6.8% among subjects less than 30 years to 63.0% among those aged 70 years and above. Awareness was better (62.2% vs. 56.6%; P = 0.0272); treatment rate significantly higher (40.9 % vs. 30.8%; P < 0.0001) and control similar (14 vs. 10.8%) among urban compared to rural residents. Women were more aware of (63.3% vs. 52.8%; P < 0.0001); had similar (P > 0.05) treatment (36.7 vs. 34.3%) and control (33.9% vs. 35.5%) rates of hypertension compared to men. Conclusion: Our results suggest a large burden of hypertension in Nigeria and a closing up of the rural-urban gap previously reported. This calls for a change in public health policies anchored on a primary health care system to address the emerging disease burden occasioned by hypertension.

Objective: To determine the impact of shisha and cigarette smoking on lungs functions and compare the pulmonary function test parameters between shisha, cigarette smokers and non-smokers. Methodology: This cross-sectional study was conducted at Aziz Fatima Medical and Dental College Faisalabad from January to September 2018. Ethical approval was taken from the Institutional Ethical committee. This study consisted of 100 male college students of age 18 to 25 years. Participants were enrolled on voluntary basis. Prior to study, students of Faisalabad based colleges were invited for study. A detailed interview of subjects was taken. Subjects were questioned regarding the smoking habits using pre designed proforma. Subjects who currently smoked cigarettes were classified as cigarette smokers. Subjects using shisha were categorized as shisha smokers. A third category was formed which included subjects using both shisha and cigarettes, subjects without any type of smoking were non-smokers Anthropometric measurements including height and weight were taken and BMI was calculated by formula weight in kg/ height in m2. Pulmonary function tests including forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in first second (FEV1) and FEV1/FVC were performed by digital spirometer. Data was analyzed by SPSS22. Values of FVC, FEV1 and FEV1/FVC were presented as mean ± SD and compared by ANOVA. P value ? 0.05 was considered as statistically significant. Results: Study comprised 100 participants of mean age 20.71±1.87 years. Out of the total study participants 16(16%) were cigarette smokers, 11(10.3%) were shisha smokers, 22(20.7%) were users of both cigarettes as well as shisha and 51(48,1%) were non-smokers. All three parameters of lung functions including FVC (p value = 0.005), FEV1 (p value = 0.046) and FEV1/FVC (p value = 0.023) were lower in cigarette smokers and significantly different from non-smokers. All three lung parameters of shisha smokers were also lower than non-smokers but statistical difference was found only in FVC values (p value = 0.000). FEV1 (2.73 versus 1.5, p value= 0.66) and FEV1/FVC (63 versus 50.5, p value= 0.449) was higher in shisha smokers as compared to cigarette smokers but the difference was statistically not significant. FVC value of shisha smokers was lower than cigarette smokers (2.42 versus 2.89) but no significant difference was noted (p value =0.59). Conclusion: Lung function parameters FVC, FEV1 and FEV1/FVC, were reduced in cigarette and shisha smokers as compared to non-smokers. Shisha and cigarette both adversely affect lung functions, however shisha is less harmful than cigarette smoking.

There is a decline in the quality of graduates from secondary schools in Nigeria. A situation where some secondary school graduates cannot write a very good letter is a cause for concern. Secondary School teachers, parents and the society have always complained about the quality of school products. All these are alarming signals which portends danger for the country. A number of issues could have led to these problems and the most pronounced among them is examination malpractice. Examination malpractice has eaten deep into the Nigeria education system. The purpose of this study therefore was to examine the issue of examination malpractice in Nigeria. The use of secondary sources of data was the main method of data collection adopted in this research work. The secondary sources adopted in this study include materials like Newspapers, magazines, textbooks, internet, journals, government publications, official documents etc. After analyzing the data, it was deduced that collusion among candidates, impersonation, giraffing, inscription, scientific malpractice and bribery were some of the forms of examination malpractice in Nigeria. This study also found that fear of failure, craze for certificates, desire of parents to choose the profession and university, pressure on students to pursue courses which they have no aptitude for were some of the causes of examination malpractice in Nigeria. This study also found that the examination malpractice has a negative effect on the society, leads to irreversible loss of credibility, has negative consequences on the individuals and institutions of learning, leads to moral decadence and brain drain, leads to corruption, it discourages hard work among students. This study also found that measures of curbing examination malpractice include: societal reengineering and re-orientation to revamp moral values, retraining and reassessment of teachers, appropriate recognition and remuneration of teachers and examination officials. Curbing examination malpractice depended on our will power. This study revealed that examination malpractice is not perpetrated by Angels but human beings. Based on the findings above, this study recommended that aggressive campaign should therefore be mounted, educating all the stakeholders about the dangers in engaging in the act and let them be informed of the dignity in having a clean examination system, the Federal Government should try and make the salary of teachers reasonable, qualityand affordable education should be made available for all, this study concluded that Parents should not celebrate success without a commensurate input and that examination malpractice should be discouraged entirely.

Workplace diversity (WPD) is a holistic concept that denotes the differences that exist between people working within an organisation. It describes the complex physical, sociological or psychological attributes such as gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, religious or political beliefs that define an individual or group. Therefore, WPD transcends the recruitment, representation or preferential treatment of people within an organisation. The complexity of WPD has become one of the most challenging issues currently of critical importance in business and organisational management. Therefore, the paper presents the critical issues currently impacting on WPD in modern day organisations. It identified and highlighted the various prospects and challenges of WPD. The results revealed that diversity in the workplace enhances the critical thinking, problem-solving, and employee professional skills. Furthermore, it enables organisations to attract talent, improve corporate attractiveness, productivity. However, it is currently hampered by the hostility, disrespect and discrimination people with diverse background encounter in the workplace. Such behavioural attitudes as ascribed to prejudices and biases towards people with varied lifestyle choices, ethnic and cultural differences, disabilities, and generational gaps. These factors can stifle morale, teamwork, profitability and the attractiveness of the organisation. Consequently, modern day organisations need to address the causes of these issues to exploit the benefits of WPD. These can be addressed strategies that foster an empowerment culture, build communication and team spirit with organisations. These efforts will promote acceptance, productivity, and profits in future organisations.

Background: Cerebral palsy (CP) is a common neurodevelopmental motor disorder resulting from early childhood brain insult. Nutrition in children is very important for growth and development. This is more so in those with chronic illnesses such as CP. This study was conducted with the aim of assessing the anthropometry and anthropometric indices of CP children. Materials and Methods: This comparative, cross-sectional study recruited 150 children with CP matched for age and sex, with 150 children without CP (as controls). The participants' socio-demographic and CP-related data were collected using a pre-tested questionnaire designed for the study. The weight and height of the subjects were measured. Nutritional status was determined using the World Health Organization Z-scores. Results: Overall prevalence of malnutrition in CP subjects was 86%. This was significantly higher than in controls, whose prevalence was 55.3% (χ2 = 34.027,P < 0.0001). The prevalence of stunting, wasting and underweight in CP subjects was 53.3%, 57.5% and 66.9%, respectively. These were also significantly higher than those of controls who had prevalence of stunting being 16.7%, wasting 8.5% and underweight 14.8%. Conclusion: This study found a high prevalence of malnutrition (especially under-nutrition) and therefore underscores the need for more emphases on nutritional assessment, counselling and management in CP patients.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to sonographically measure and compare the pronator quadratus muscle thickness (PQMT) in apparently healthy volunteers between two occupational groups and to assess the influence of hand dominance on the PQMT. METHODS: A total of 180 apparently healthy volunteers were enrolled in the study. The volunteers were grouped into repetitive (90) and nonrepetitive (90) workgroups. They were scanned with a B-mode ultrasound machine and linear transducer. RESULTS: The mean PQMT was significantly higher (P < 0.05) in the repetitive workgroup than in nonrepetitive workgroups. Similarly, a significant difference in mean PQMT was observed between dominant and nondominant hands in the repetitive workgroups (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: The mean PQMT among repetitive workgroup is significantly higher when compared with nonrepetitive workgroups in the study area.