bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Going Green with Policy Incentives: Comparing the Use of Subsidies and Taxes to Reduce Transportation Emissions
Authors: Hines Miranda
Published: April 2020

This article addresses the need for the United States to reduce emissions from the transportation sector. In order to concisely evaluate the political discussion of promoting renewable energy use and discouraging reliance on fossil fuels, this article focuses on the adoption of electric and hybrid vehicles as a means of illustrating the larger policy challenge of how to maximize policy effectiveness at reducing emissions while minimizing economic disruption. The article estimates the magnitude of electric and gas-powered vehicles purchases in response to either a subsidy or a tax and discusses the positive and negative outcomes of each policy approach. The article finds that while a tax on carbon emissions may be most effective in removing gas-powered vehicles from the road, it will disproportionately affect lower-income households. Implementing substantial subsidies for electric vehicles, funded through a smaller tax on carbon emissions, is suggested as a solution to reduce the regressive impacts of a standalone carbon tax.
Necrotizing Fasciitis of the Upper Back Presenting with Left Shoulder Pain
Authors: Mohamad Isa Mohamad Zikri , Mohamed-Yassin Mohamed-Syarif , Abdul Kadir Roqiah Fatmawati
Published: April 2020

Necrotizing fasciitis is a severe and progressive infection of deep soft tissues which results in destruction of the fascia and overlying subcutaneous fat. We report a case of a 45-year-old diabetic gentleman who initially presented with left shoulder pain, which was treated symptomatically. Upon representation, he had fever and the pain extended to his left upper back. There was a warm, firm and mildly tender purplish swelling on his mid to the left upper back. Blood tests revealed significantly elevated white cell counts and C-reactive protein. A CT thorax showed extensive soft tissue gas within the deep and superficial fascial layers of his left upper back. Necrotizing fasciitis was confirmed intraoperatively. The diagnosis of this condition is often difficult as early symptoms can be mild and nonspecific. A high Laboratory Risk Indicator for NECrotizing fasciitis (LRINEC) score may be helpful to rule in this diagnosis and guide further management.
Critical shoulder angle is intrinsically associated with the development of degenerative shoulder diseases: A systematic review
Authors: Stamiris Dimitrios , Stamiris Stavros , Papavasiliou Kyriakos , Potoupnis Michail , Tsiridis Eleftherios , Sarris Ioannis
Published: April 2020

Aim of this study was to investigate the potential influence of Critical Shoulder Angle (CSA) as a predisposing factor for the development of degenerative full-thickness rotator cuff tears (DRCT) or primary glenohumeral osteoarthritis (PGOA). A systematic review of the Pubmed, Scopus, Mendeley, ScienceDirect and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials online databases was performed for literature regarding CSA and its association with DRCT and PGOA. In order to evaluate solely the relationship between CSA as a predisposing factor for the development of the aforementioned degenerative shoulder diseases (DSDs), we precluded any study in which traumatic cases were not clearly excluded. Our search strategy identified 289 studies in total, nine of which were eligible for inclusion based on our pre-established criteria. Quality assessment contacted using the Newcastle Ottawa Scale for case-control studies. There were a total of 998 patients with DRCT and 285 patients with PGOA. The control groups consisted of a total of 538 patients. The mean CSA ranged from 33.9° to 41.01° for the DRCT group, from 27.3° to 29.8° for the PGOA group and from 30.2° to 37.28° for the control group. All studies reported statistically significant differences between the DRCT and PGOA groups and the respective control groups. Our study results showed that there is moderate evidence in the literature supporting an intrinsic role of CSA in the development of DSDs. Level of evidence: IV. Systematic review of diagnostic studies, Level II-IV.
Calreticulin mutation survey by high resolution melting method associated with unique presentations in essential thrombocythemic patients
Authors: Liu Yi-Chang , Lee Ching-Ping , Yeh Tsung-Jang , Gau Yuh-Ching , Hsieh Chieh-Yu , Ke Ya-Lun , Du Jeng-Shiun , Lin Ming-Hui , Wang Hui-Ching , Tang Shih-Hao , Cho Shih-Feng , Hsu Jui-Feng , Hsiao Samuel Yien , Hsu Chin-Mu , Hsiao Hui-Hua
Published: April 2020

Somatic mutations of exon 9 of calreticulin gene (CALR) were diagnosis and prognosis importance found in patients with JAK2V617F-negative essential thrombocythemia (ET). We survey CALR and JAK2 mutations in our ET patients and study the relationship between mutations and clinical presentations.

A total of 60 ET patients were enrolled in the study, and CALR mutations were studied by high resolution melting (HRM) methods and sequencing in JAK2V617F-negative group retrospectively. Clinical manifestations were reviewed retrospectively from chart records.

Twenty-one CALR mutations showed eight types of specific melting curves detected by the HRM method and sequencing validation among 26 JAK2 V617F-negative patients. Compared with JAK2 mutations, patients with CALR mutations were younger and had a higher platelet count, lower white cell counts, and lower hemoglobin levels significantly (p<0.05).

From our study, HRM methods revealed unique curve types in screening for CALR mutations screening even for complicated mutations. The mutations can be identification rapidly, and cost-effectively by HRM method than other tools. The clinical presentations of CALR mutations from JAK2 mutations showed significant differences and should be checked in ET patients.
Equine practice the "in practice" handbooks
Authors: Kirkpatrick R. D.
Published: April 2020

No abstract available.
Atlas of diagnostic radiology of exotic pets
Authors: Still J.
Published: April 2020

No abstract available.
Encephalitozoon infection in a still-born foal
Authors: Van Rensburg I. B.J. , Volkmann D. H. , Soley J. T. , Stewart C. G.
Published: April 2020

A stud Clydesdale foal was still-born near full term. Macroscopic examination revealed a normal placenta, pulmonary atelectasis and faint white mottling of the kidneys. Microscopically there was severe lymphoplasmacytic interstitial nephritis. Numerous organisms resembling Encephalitozoon cuniculi were present in the affected kidneys. The organisms occurred in the areas of inflammation as well as in the renal glomeruli and intracellular cysts in the renal tubular epithelial cells and exhibited Gram positive staining. Ultrastructurally the organisms posessed a polar vacuole and a spiral filament typical of Microsporidia. The organisms were not detected in sections of the other organs examined.
Canine practice the "in practice" handbooks
Authors: Kirkpatrick R. D.
Published: April 2020

No abstract available.
Feline husbandry diseases and management in the multiple cat environment
Authors: Van Heerden J.
Published: April 2020

No abstract available.
Dogs and cats - A health guide
Authors: Eckersley G. N.
Published: April 2020

No abstract available.
Changes in Psychotropic Prescribing for Patients With Dementia, 2014–2016: Potential implications for Pharmacists
Authors: Early Nicole , Fairman Kathleen , Ma Justin , Hong Kevin
Published: April 2020

OBJECTIVE: To assess changes in psychotropic pharmacotherapy for patients with dementia over a three-year period.
 SETTING: National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey, physician office visits from 2014 to 2016.
 PRACTICE DESCRIPTION: Retrospective analysis of publicly available, nationally representative data on patient characteristics; diagnoses, including comorbidities; and treatments, including medications. Included were patients with a diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease or dementia who were 18 years of age or older. No sample exclusions were applied.
 INTERVENTION: Time period, comparing calendar year (CY) 2014 versus the calendar years 2015 and 2016 using Pearson chi-square tests.
 MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S): Prescribing rates of psychotropic medications, grouped by therapy class.
 RESULTS: The sample included 647 patients (337 in 2014 and 310 in 2015-2016). A majority (69.5%) of the patients were 75 years of age or older; 62.4% were female. Prescribing rates remained relatively stable for antipsychotics (15.1% in 2014 to 12.9% in 2015-16;P= 0.607); antidepressants (35.0% to 27.7%;P= 0.263); acetylcholinesterase inhibitors (38.6% to 33.9%;P= 0.446); and memantine (19.4% to 16.8%;P= 0.551). Significant increases were noted for sedatives (11.9% to 21.7%;P= 0.037) and anticonvulsants (10.0% to 27.6%,P= 0.001).
 CONCLUSION: Clinically significant increases in the prescribing of anticonvulsants and sedatives suggest the possibility that these agents are used to combat behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia in patients with dementia. Further research is required to assess the rationale, efficacy, and safety of these uses.
Среднее число решений систем уравнений
Authors: Kazarnovskii Boris Yakovlevich
Published: April 2020

Пусть $V_1,…,V_n$ - конечномерные пространства гладких функций на гладком $n$-мерном многообразии $X$. Для систем уравнений $\{f_i=a_i\mid f_i\in V_i, a_i\in{\mathbb R}, i=1,…,n\}$ устанавливается связь между средним числом решений и смешанными объемами выпуклых тел. Для этого мы, предполагая пространства $V_i$ нормированными, строим 1) меры в пространствах систем уравнений и 2) банаховы выпуклые тела в $X$, т. е. семейства центрально симметричных выпуклых тел в слоях кокасательного
расслоения многообразия $X$. Объемом банахова выпуклого тела мы называем симплектический объем объединения этих тел. Оказывается, что среднее число решений равно смешанному симплектическому объему банаховых выпуклых тел, соответствующих пространствам $V_i$. При этом в правой части равенства могут появляться произвольные гладкие строго выпуклые банаховы тела.
Ранее рассматривался случай евклидовых пространств $V_i$. В этом случае банаховы тела являются семействами эллипсоидов.
Prudential bank regulation: a post-Keynesian perspective
Authors: Docherty Peter
Published: April 2020

Banks play an important role in the post-Keynesian theory of endogenous money but post-Keynesians have not paid much attention to the prudential regulation of banks. Do post-Keynesian insights into the role of banks cast any light on the way they ought to be regulated, or can the conventional treatment of prudential bank regulation be grafted onto post-Keynesian theory without any significant modification? This paper begins a process of reflection on these questions. It argues that conventional prudential regulation theory can be utilised by post-Keynesians but with important modifications including a renewed emphasis on liquidity and greater recognition of endogenously generated systemic risk. A post-Keynesian approach to prudential bank regulation is shown to be characterised by both liquidity and capital requirements, as well as by a macroprudential framework that facilitates the counter-cyclical adjustment of these requirements in response to endogenous variations in systemic risk.
Construction and Operation Technique of Tagahu for nike (Awous melanochepalus) Fishing in Gorontalo Bay, Gorontalo City
Authors: Fachrussyah Zhulmaydin Chairil
Published: April 2020

This study aims to describe the construction and operation of tagahu techniques in nike fishing in Gorontalo City. This research was conducted on January 5 to March 15, 2019 in Pohe Village and Leato Village in Gorontalo City, Gorontalo Province. The method used in this study is a descriptive method. The results of the study found that Tagahu is a long-shaped 4-piece jar with a pocket in the middle. Parts of the tagahu section are: 1) Main net, 2) Upper and lower Ris rope, 3) Buoy, 4) Ballast, 5) Buoy rope and Ballast Rope, 6) Capture rope, and 7) Buoy rope and Ballast Rope. The principle of Tagahu operation is generally similar to the operation of payang which is to wrap a net wing on a group of fish, then the net is pulled towards the boat. Tagahu catching can be done both at night and during the day. Tagahu's operation consists of: 1) searching of fish hordes, 2) dropping nets, 3) withdrawal and removal of nets, and 4) retrieval of catches.

Keywords: Tagahu, Nets, Nike Fish
Macro Alga Community in Wakal Village Beach, Central Maluku District
Authors: Silaban Rosita
Published: April 2020

Algae communities in life in the marine environment, among others, are used by various types of fish and other organisms as a place to live, forage, and spawn. Some types of macro algae also contain lime which plays a role in building coral reefs. As for humans, algae are used as food ingredients, both directly as vegetables and processed first as gelatin. The purpose of this study was to describe the composition of macro algae species found, to calculate density, population size, maximum biomass, and distribution patterns of macro algae communities in the coastal waters of Wakal Village. Taking algae macro samples is done by using the Linear Squares Transect method. Identification results of macro algae samples found 15 species classified into 3 divisions, 3 classes, 9 orders, 10 families, and 12 genera. The total density of macro algae species by individual is 2.86 ind / m2, with the highest density of species owned by Padina minor species and lowest Gelidiella acerosa, Galaxaura filamentosa, Halimeda opuntia, Ulva conglobata, Hypnea pannossa, Hypnea valentiae, and Acanthophora specifera. The total density of macro algae species based on biomass is 68.48 gr / m2 where Padina minor has the highest biomass density value and the lowest is Acanthophora specifera. The total population of macro algae based on individuals is 7.71 ind / ha, with Padina minor having the highest value of the highest and lowest population Gelidiella acerosa, Galaxaura filamentosa, Halimeda opuntia, Ulva conglobata, Hypnea pannossa, Hypnea valentiae, and Acanthophora specifera. The total macro population of algae based on biomass is 184.90 gr / ha with the highest biomass owned by species Padina minor and the lowest is Acanthophora specifera. The total maximum macro biomass of algae is 1008.18 gr / ha with the highest maximum biomass owned by species Padina minor and the lowest maximum biomass is owned by the species Acanthophora specifera. The pattern of macro spread of algae in Wakal Village is in groups (Ip = 0.5).
Stimulation of Molting on Coconut Crabs (Birgus latro, Linnaeus 1767) with Artificial Feed Enriched Fitoekdisteroid
Authors: Murhum Mufti Abdul , Wahono Budi , Widiyanti Sri Endah
Published: April 2020

One of the problems in coconut crab cultivation is its slow growth. Artificial feed can be an alternative in the development of coconut crab cultivation (B. latro). The purpose of this research is to analyze the formula of artificial feed that gives the best stimulation on the growth of coconut crab. Three artificial feed with protein content A (20%), B (25%) and C (27%) and D (fresh coconut meat) as control. During the study, the test crabs were individually maintained in confinement containers that were specially designed to be as comfortable as in nature and not loose out. The results of the study, formulated feed can be eaten by crab test with the highest molting percentage in crab test treated with artificial feed of formula C 100%, followed by treatment A or B each 75% and D 25%. In conclusion that the feed made can be eaten and allegedly able to induce molting in coconut crabs.
Community Structure of Gastropods in Seagrass Meadows at Coastal Area of Nusi and Gersen, Nabire Regency
Authors: Souisa Marce , Leatemia Simon P. , Talakua Selfanie
Published: April 2020

Gastropods plays an important role in the food chain on seagrass ecosystem and its existence are depend on the physical-chemical factors in the seagrass ecosystem. This study aims to determine the density and diversity of gastropods associated in seagrass habitat in Nusi and Gersen coastal waters. The measurement results of some physical-chemical waters variables, are still quite good for the life of gastropods. Species composition of gastropod in Nusi at higher than at the Gersen, but instead of individual density in Gersen more higher than Nusi. Diversity index of gastropods at Nusi station is higher (3,757) than Gersen (3.053), on the contrary the eveness and dominance index are higher at Gersen station than Nusi station. Community similarity index by species is low between the two stations, which indicates that the species of gastropods at both stations is quite different. The influence of human activity and higher utilizatin of gastropods in Nusi has lowered the density of gastropods in seagrass habitat, so it needs awareness efforts on the importance of gastropods and the seagrass habitat for coastal ecosystem.
Social Media as Predictor of Job Search Skills among Undergraduates of Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun State, Nigeria
Authors: Tolulope Francisca Agun , Adeola Olusegun Atoyebi
Published: April 2020

The study investigated the level of job search skills among undergraduates of Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife Osun state and determined the predictive ability social media on job search skills. It examined the influence of the social media on job search skills of undergraduates of the university, Further, it investigated the influence of demographic variables (sex, age and level) and area of specialisation on job search skills of the undergraduate students. These were with a view to providing information on the factor that could improve the job search skills of O.A.U undergraduate students.The study adopted a descriptive survey research design. The population for the study comprised 26,000 undergraduates of the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun State as at 2016/2017 academic session. The study sample comprised 496 students were selected using a multi-stage sampling procedure. Out of the thirteen faculties, four faculties were selected using simple random sampling technique. Four departments were selected from each of the selected faculties using simple random sampling technique. Purposive sampling technique was used to select graduating students (Parts 4 or 5) from each of the faculties selected. One hundred and twenty-five undergraduates were selected from each faculty, using convenience sampling technique. An instrument titled “social media of Job Search Skills” was adapted from existing standardised instruments and used to collect data. Data collected were analysed using percentage, frequency counts, mean, standard deviation, linear regression, and ordinal logistic regression.The result showed that 21.4%, 55.6% and 23.0% of undergraduates of Obafemi Awolowo University students demonstrated low, moderate and high levels of job search skills respectively. Also, the predictive ability of social media showed that social media (0.323, p< 0.000) had a significant influence on students’ job search skills. The study concluded that social media could improve the job search skills among undergraduates of OAU.
Foreign Portfolio Investment and Performance of the Nigerian Capital Market
Authors: Ikezam Nwonodi Daniel
Published: April 2020

This study examined the effect of foreign portfolio investment on the performance of Nigerian capital market. The specific objectives are to investigate the impact of Net Foreign Portfolio Investment, Foreign Portfolio Investment in Equity, Foreign Portfolio Investment in Bonds, Foreign Portfolio in Government Securities and Nigerian Exchange Rate per US Dollar on the performance of Nigerian Capital Market. The required data were sourced from Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Statistical Bulletin and Stock Exchange Annual Report. The study has All Share Price Index and Market Capitalization as proxy for Capital market performance while Net Foreign Portfolio Investment (NFPI), Equity Investment (PIE), Bond Investment (PIB), Portfolio Investment in Government Securities (PIGS) and Exchange Rate as predictors variables. The Ordinary Least Square multiple regressions with econometric view were used as data analysis techniques. Cointegration test, Granger Causality Test, Augmented Dickey Fuller Test and Error Correction Model were used to examine the variables and its relationship to the dependent variables. Model one  revealed that foreign portfolio investment in bonds and foreign portfolio investment in government securities have negative relationship with All Share Price Index while Net Foreign Portfolio investment, foreign portfolio investment in equities and exchange rate have positive relationship with All Share Price Index. Model two revealed that Net Foreign Portfolio Investment, Portfolio Investments in Bonds and Government securities has negative relationship with market capitalization while equity investment and exchange rate have positive relationship with market capitalization. The study concludes that foreign portfolio investment have significant relationship with Nigerian capital market performance. It therefore recommends that policies should be devised to enhance the operational efficiency of the Nigerian capital market, to attract foreign investors.
The Unsung Heroines of India's Freedom Struggle
Authors: Ganie Zahied Rehman , Sisodia Shanti Dev
Published: April 2020

The history of Indian Freedom Struggle would be incomplete without mentioning the contribution of women. The sacrifice made by the women of India will occupy the foremost place. They fought with true spirit and undaunted courage and faced various tortures, exploitations and hardships to earn us freedom. When most of the men freedom fighters were in prison the women came forward and took charge of the struggle. The list of great women whose names have gone down in history for their dedication and undying devotion to the service of India is a long one. Woman's participation in India's freedom struggle began as early as in1817. Bhima Bai Holkar fought bravely against the British colonel Malcolm and defeated him in guerilla warfare. Many women including Rani Channama of Kittur, Rani Begum Hazrat Mahal of Avadh fought against British East India company in the 19th century; 30 years before the “First War of Independence 1857” The role played by women in the War of Independence (the Great Revolt) of 1857 was creditable and invited the admiration even leaders of the Revolt. Rani of Ramgarh, Rani Jindan Kaur, Rani Tace Bai, Baiza Bai, Chauhan Rani, Tapasvini Maharani daringly led their troops into the battlefield. Rani Lakshmi Bai of Jhansi whose heroism and superb leadership laid an outstanding example of real patriotism .Indian women who joined the national movement belonged to educated and liberal families, as well as those from the rural areas and from all walk of life, all castes, religions and communities. Sarojini Naidu, Kasturba Gandhi, Vijayalakmi Pundit and Annie Besant in the 20th century are the names which are remembered even today for their singular contribution both in battlefield and in political field.
A Small Macro-Econometric Model
Authors: Bidabad Bijan
Published: April 2020

Different sizes of macro-econometric models are used for different policy purposes. In this paper, we introduce a small macro-econometric model that includes macro-aggregates variables that can be solved dynamically and be used as a sample model to be estimated for other countries.
It-Based Usury Free Financial Innovations
Authors: Bidabad Bijan , Allahyarifard Mahmoud
Published: April 2020

Despite development and extension of different ways of financing in financial markets, encompassing Islamic and conventional financing, the mechanism of Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) of  project financing both as borrowed and non-borrowed methods has not been considered at most. Moreover overall IT infrastructures development namely Real Gross Settlement System (RTGS), Automatic Clearing House (ACH), Scriptless Security Settlement System (SSSS) and International Bank Account Number (IBAN) for authentication process and the international meta bank network of Single Euro Payment Area (SEPA) and also international integrated banking networks including the Society For Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunication (SWIFT) and Interbank Information Transfer Network (Shetab), and other accomplished endeavors are not efficient in absorbing international contributions for project financing through foreign exchange funds in the different countries, satisfactory E-Payment mechanism in informative portal systems for investment projects are weak. In this way, the role of applying E-Payment systems for attracting foreign investment through retail resources mobilization and design of financial instruments with the capability of transacting in the secondary markets should be reconsidered. In this paper by having a glance at different types of investment project financing, we introduce a new project financing mechanism based on E-Payment with non-usury financial instruments to complete investment project financing chain in the form of Rastin Profit and Loss Sharing (PLS) banking.Sharia compliance of financing instruments in one side and accessibility in absorbing international retail foreign exchange sources on other side are two fundamental discussible items in this paper. In this way by designing a new system of "Non-Usury Scriptless Security Settlement System" (NSSSS) with non-usury mechanisms -avoiding legislative (Sharia) circumvention- can provide the two cited goals in designing non-usury financing instruments through IT-based non-usury financial innovations which includes of Rastin Certificates in Rastin PLS banking, and Non-Usury Bonds namely Rastin Swap Bonds.
Organizational Culture and Personality Trait Inferences about Organizations
Authors: Aliyu Ibrahim , Malacky O. D. Y.
Published: April 2020

The use of personality traits to describe organization left managers and researchers with the problem of identifying its source in order to take advantages of positive ones and avoid the disadvantages of negative ones. One of the possible sources of personality inference about an organization is organizational culture. Thus, the study identifies the influence of organizational culture on personality trait inference about organizations. Data were collected from 210 staff members of SAJ Food Limited Zaria and analyzed using Multiple Regression on SPSS version 18. The result revealed that organizational culture leads to personality trait inference about an organization. It was also recommended that managers should mind the way policies are design and decision are made in their organizations because it decides the image of the organization in the eyes of the members of the public.
Debt-Growth Bond in Nigeria: Structural Break Analysis
Authors: O. Okon Emmanuel , Umar Halirat
Published: April 2020

This study examined the structural break relationship between external debt and economic growth from 1985 to 2016 with a view to examine the effect of external debt relief on economic growth in Nigeria. The study used the ordinary least square technique. In addition, it employed the chow test and also adopted the similarity of error variances test in its analysis. From the results and analysis, it was revealed that external debt stock (EXD) is positively and insignificantly related to RGDP. It was concluded that the 2005 external debt relief did significantly caused a change in external debt, external debt service relations with economic growth in Nigeria. Based on these findings, the study suggested that external finance should be used only for projects of highest priority. Spending of external debt on productive self-liquidating investments must be strictly adhered to while projects to be financed with external loan must be properly appraised.
Analytical Review of Corporate Social Responsibility and Corporate Financial Performance of Some Firms from Within and Outside Nigeria
Authors: S Abdulrahman
Published: April 2020

This study analyzed the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) of firms with their Corporate Financial Performance (CFP) based on contextual content analysis. The study forge ahead to compare the outcomes of various conceptual and empirical studies that deals with CSR and CFP from within and outside the domicile of Nigeria. The findings from the previous studies showed conflicting results or outputs (i.e. many positive outcomes, some negative results while very few showed neutral relationship between CSR and CFP of firms). Therefore, this study is of the opinion that there is a positive cordiality between CSR and CFP because more than 50% of the authorities/scholars in the field proved it conceptually and empirically that there is positive relationship among the two concepts (i.e. CSR and CFP). As such, the issue of CSR should be given a more consideration by all the parties to it (i.e. Employees, Employers, Government, Researchers, Management and the Public at large). Since, it yields positive impact to the CFP of Firms as such a dedicated agency or commission should be established to be monitoring the Firms toward real implementation of CSR.
Collision of NPLs on the Financial Performance of Commercial Banks: A Case Study of Ethiopia
Authors: Tola Hailu Megersa , Sankar D. Guna
Published: April 2020

Credit risk in banking relates to the possibility that loans will not be paid or that investments will   deteriorate in quality or go in to default with resultant loss to the bank. This is the most obvious and most important risk to the banking industry in terms of potential losses. Credit risk is not confined to the risk that borrowers are unable to pay; it also includes the risk of payments being delayed, which can also cause problems for the bank. In order to protect their own interest and the wealth of bank depositors, banks need to investigate and monitor the activities of the will be and existing borrowers. Adequately managing of those risks related with credit is critical for the survival and growth of any financial institution. The present case study projects the effects of Non-Performing Assets on the Financial Performance of Commercial Banks in Ethiopia.
Cost of Capital and Optimal Financing of Corporate Growth of Selected Manufacturing Firms Listed on the Floor of Nigerian Stock Exchange
Authors: Damiebi Sam Achebelema
Published: April 2020

This dissertation empirically investigated the relationship between cost of capital and optimal financing of corporate growth of selected manufacturing firms listed on the floor of Nigerian stock exchange. Annual time series data were generated from the Annual Reports of the quoted firms and stock exchange fact book. Fifty manufacturing firms were selected from the population of quoted manufacturing firms.  Four multiple regression models were specified and estimated with the aid of Software package for social services (SPSS). Equity financing measured as equity capital to total capital, debt financing measured as debt capital to total capital and return on investment were modeled as the function of cost of debt, cost of equity and weighted average cost of capital. The generated collinearity diagnostics result shows that the Eigen values that correspond to the highest condition index and variable constant are less than 0.5 rule of thumb. The Durbin Watson test shows absence of auto-correlation. The regression coefficient shows that cost of debt and cost of equity have negative relationship on equity financing while weighted average cost of capital have negative effect, cost of debt and weighted average cost of capital have positive relationship with debt financing while cost of equity have negative effect on the dependent variable. Cost of debt and reweighted average cost of capital have positive effect on return on Investment while cost of equity has negative effect. Model four found that cost of capital have positive relationship with financing mix of the quoted firms. From the model summary, the study conclude that cost of capital have no significant effect on equity financing and return on investment but significantly affect debt financing. It therefore recommends that  Management should formulate internal policy that will enhance the realization of optimal capital structure of the firms, formulating capital structure of the firm should be well examined with the investment policy of the firms, the environmental factors should be acknowledged in formulating cost of capital to avoid risk associated with inadequate or wrong capital structure, external source of capital such as debt should be properly appraised and integrated with the investment policy and cost of equity should be integrated with the objective of maximizing shareholders’ wealth through investment policies.
Counsellors’ Competence in Managing School Related Crises in Southwestern Nigerian Universities, Nigeria
Authors: Esther Lawal Oluwabukola , Olusegun Atoyebi Adeola
Published: April 2020

The study ascertained the availability and adequacy of trained guidance counsellors in south-western Nigerian universities. It also investigated the common crises in the universities; determined and examined the level of counsellors’ competence in managing crises in South-western universities. These were with a view to providing information on some factors that could influence crises management in the universities by universities guidance counsellors. The study adopted a descriptive survey research design. The population for the study comprised all guidance counsellors in southwestern Nigerian Universities. The sample size comprised 128 respondents in southwestern universities and three states (Osun, Oyo and Ogun) were also selected from six states (Oyo, Osun, Ogun, Ekiti, Ondo and Lagos) in southwest Nigeria using simple random sampling technique. Two instruments were used to elicited information for the study, namely: Checklist of Availability & Adequacy of Counsellors (CAAC) and Counsellors’ Competence Scale (CCS) Data collected were analyzed using percentage, chis-square and multiple regressions. The result showed that the availability and adequacy of trained guidance counsellors in Southwestern Nigeria universities were not adequate, federal 27(93.1%) state 19(100.0%) and private 35(97.2%). The result also revealed common crises in the southwestern Nigerian universities showing truancy has the commonest crisis in the school with 3(4.0%), followed by drug abuse 9(10.9%) , cultism is the third one 9(10.9%)and so on. Furthermore, the result of this study showed how competent school counselors are, with federal universities having the most competent counselors 8(27.6%), followed by state university with 4(21.0%) and private university with 7(19.4%). The result showed the difference in the competence of the universities counsellor based on the institutions F-ratio (F = 3.409 and Sig = 0.035), the difference in the competence of the universities counsellor based on the institutions is significant at p < 0.05.It was concluded that counselor competence had significant relationship with school crises management.
Effect of Capital Structure on the Performance of Deposit Money Banks
Authors: Ibrahim Sadiq Abdulrashid , Kachollom Pofi Wendy , Dasuki Saminu Inuwa , Yusuf Mohammad
Published: April 2020

The objective of this study is to examine the effect of capital structure onthe financial performance of Deposit Money Banks in Nigeria. Secondary data was obtained from the financial statements of Deposit Money Banks listed in the Nigerian Stock Exchange.Four banks were selected as samples and data from their financial statements for a period of 10 years (2006-2015). The study has employed the use of Pearson correlation coefficient and GLS regression model to analyze the effect of capital structure on the performance of some selected. The performance variables used in the study were, Return on Asset (ROA), Return on Equity (ROE) and Return on Capital Employed (ROCE). Findings from the study showed that capital structure has an effect on the financial performance of listed deposit money banks in Nigeria.Based on the results, the study recommends thatdeposit money banks in Nigeria should employ an appropriate mix of debt and equity capital and strike a balance between their choice of capital structure and its effect on their performance, as this will affect the shareholders risk returns and the cost of capital. Furthermore, the banks should increase their assets as this will help them to be more positioned for better performance and the government should improve liquidity in the Nigerian Financial Market to enable deposit money banks raise long term debt and reduce over dependency on short term debt.
Presence of Women on Board: Reference to BSE-30 Companies from 2010-2014
Authors: S Nisa
Published: April 2020

The need for gender diversity in the board rooms is getting accepted at corporate levels both national and international. Any change which is brought about voluntarily is more effective and long lasting. Gender representation on corporate boards of directors refers to the proportion of men and women who occupy board member positions. Studies have shown that even though there is no real dearth of talent pool, India, comparatively, has significantly a very low percentage of women representation on boards. No one doubts the importance of diversity in boardrooms, especially in improving corporate governance. With the changing demographics of the global workforce and the fact that women will control 75% of discretionary spending by 2028, globally companies cannot underestimate the importance of improving the gender balance on their boards. Women are increasingly becoming a major driver of the economy, both as contributors and as customers; it is appropriate that they be a part of the team leading companies. Past researches have shown that boards with more women members act as a motivator to other women employees within the organization. Continuing reliance on existing directors is likely to dilute the quality of board members. Broadening the talent pool by including women directors will help boards get skilled and competent members with a diversity of perspectives and leadership styles who can significantly contribute to board performance. The following study was conducted to assess the presence of women on board in BSE 30 listed companies from 2010 to 2014.
Microfinance Services and Poverty Level of Rural Farmers of Syangja District of Nepal
Authors: Dhakal Chandra Prasad , Nepal Govind
Published: April 2020

Poverty is associated with income and its distribution, which remains the core concern even today.As the data of Economy Survey 2015/2016 done by Ministry of Finance shows, that, the number of people living below poverty line has dropped to 21.6 percent in 2016 AD from 42 percent of 1995 AD. Microfinance is a form of monetary development that has first and foremost focused on alleviating poverty through giving financial services to the poor. The study was conducted with aim to identify the contribution of microfinance services to reduce the status of poverty level of rural farmers of Syangja district of Nepal. The study had used the standard poverty score card developed to measure the poverty in Nepal. The score card has ten simple questions; each question has option of response having with different score. As the national standard of Nepal, out of 100 score, who can earn more than 59 is known as non-poor whereas from the international standards it needs more than 64 to be non-poor. The result shows that Out of 385 respondents, 140 (36.4%) were found poor and 245 (63.3%) were non-poor on the national level standard of poverty. 190 (49.4%) were found poor and 195 (50.63%) were non-poor on the international level standard of poverty. The data of poverty line is significantly higher than the national level. Therefore, there was need of serious concern form the concerned authority of Nepal government to address the poverty issue of Syangja district.
Accounting Information and Value Relevance in an Economy Under Recession: The Nigeria Experience
Authors: Ogbonna G. N. , Captain Briggs Alasin
Published: April 2020

This study examined accounting information system and value relevance in accounting in an emerging economy under recession. The objective was to examine the relationship between accounting information and value relevance of commercial banks. Time series data was sourced from the financial statements and annual reports of quoted commercial banks from 2000-2015. Earnings per share and dividend per share was modeled as the function of ordinary share capital, book value of equity, earnings before interest and tax, market value of equity, cash flow and leverage ratio. Multiple regressions were formulated to explore the relationship between the variables. Model I  found that all the independent variables have positive relationship with earnings per share while model II found that cash flow and leverage ratio have  negative effect on dividend per share. The regression summary prove that model I have an R2 of 72.7% and 62.3%, f-statistics of 7.007 and probability of 0.000162 while model II found an R2 of 75.9% and 66.7%, f-statistics of 8.293, probability of 0.000049. From the above, we conclude that accounting information have significant relationship with value relevance among the commercial banks. The study recommend well formulated policies for the validity of accounting information that can enhance value relevance.
The Implementation of Balance Scorecard and Its Impact on Performance: Case of Universiti Utara Malaysia
Authors: Anuforo Peter U. , Ayoup Hazeline , Mustapha Umar Aliyu , Abubakar Ahmad Haruna
Published: April 2020

The intensity of competition among contemporary Higher Education Institution (HEIs) has led to many of such institutions to focus more on how to provide high quality education so as to attain a suitable position in the university world ranking by adopting a suitable performance management. This study aims to demonstrate how UUM implement and uses the BSC to enhance and improve its strategic plans by addressing the issues facing its strategic management process. This study employed a qualitative case study approach. Data were collected using interview and reviewing the university quarterly and annual reports, organizational structure and the university’s webpage as well as its news bulletins. Data were analyzed qualitatively using thematic analysis. Consistent with Kaplan and Norton BSC model in public sector, findings indicates that the case institution implements the BSC ideology by adapting the concept such that it reflects the unique contextual needs of UUM. This study found that in implementing the BSC project, the university staff’s buy-in, top management commitment, organizational culture and communication strategy has significant effects on the case institution’s performance. Also, findings revealed that the implementation of BSC ideology in UUM has a significant impact on its performance in that it helps in improving the case institution’s overall university rankings. The implication of BSC implementation in UUM is that it helps the university management to monitor its performance with regard to its 2016-2020 phase II strategy plans. Future study should consider more institution that implements BSC so as to get more detail results that may be generalized.
Does the Interest Rate Form Business Cycle?
Authors: Bidabad Bijan , Hassan Abul
Published: April 2020

Dynamic structural behavior of depositor, bank and borrower and the role of banks in forming business cycle are investigated. We test the hypothesis that does banks behavior make oscillations in the economy through the interest rate. By dichotomizing banking activities into two markets of deposit and loan, we show that these two markets have non-synchronized structures, and this is why the money sector fluctuation starts. As a result, the fluctuation is transmitted to the real economy through saving and investment functions. Empirical results assert that in the USA, the banking system creates fluctuations in the money sector and real economy as well through short-term interest rates
Modeling Stock Market Monthly Returns Volatility Using GARCH Models Under Different Distributions
Authors: Yelamanchili Rama Krishna
Published: April 2020

This papers aims to uncover stylized facts of monthly stock market returns and identify adequate GARCH model with appropriate distribution density that captures conditional variance in monthly stock market returns. We obtain monthly close values of Bombay Stock Exchange’s (BSE) Sensex over the period January 1991 to December 2019 (348 monthly observations). To model the conditional variance, volatility clustering, asymmetry, and leverage effect we apply four conventional GARCH models under three different distribution densities. We use two information criterions to choose best fit model. Results reveal positive Skewness, weaker excess kurtosis, no autocorrelations in relative returns and log returns. On the other side presence of autocorrelation in squared log returns indicates volatility clustering. All the four GARCH models have better information criterion values under Gaussian distribution compared to t-distribution and Generalized Error Distribution. Furthermore, results indicate that conventional GARCH model is adequate to measure the conditional volatility. GJR-GARCH model under Gaussian distribution exhibit leverage effect but statistically not significant at any standard significance levels. Other asymmetric models do not exhibit leverage effect. Among the 12 models modeled in present paper, GARCH model has superior information criterion values, log likelihood value, and lowest standard error values for all the coefficients in the model.
Oil Sector Spillover Effects to the Kuwait Stock Market under Uncertainty
Authors: Abdulrazaq Yousef M. , Shetty Shekar
Published: April 2020

The purpose of this paper is to identify the connection between oil prices and the performance of oil and gas, industry and services sectors. The paper is supported by the granger causality and Engle and Granger cointegration tests. The research findings do not support a long-run association between Brent oil prices excluding the case of the Oil and Gas sector index; however, short-run dynamics were recognized. There is no unidirectional causality found in any case. The outcomes of the GARCH model show stable results for all three sectors.
Bank Performance versus Recession Indicators: A Linear Cointegration Approach
Authors: Oyerinde Ashamu Sikiru
Published: April 2020

In this study, the researcher provides an empirical investigation of the nexus between banks’ performance and recession indicators. A sample size of 35 years was selected on annual data. A linear cointegration method was adopted after accounting for seasonality through logarithmic transformation. The results revealed that indicators of recession-exchange rate, inflation and interest rate maintain long run relationship with bank performance, and evidence of long run influence was established. Furthermore, we discover that within the purview of short run dynamic situation, inflation influences banks’ performance inversely, while exchange rate and interest rate increase with increase in banks’ performance. We therefore conclude that banks’ performance is driven by indicators of recession both in the short and in long run.
Turkey's E.U Membership: Perceptions, Possibilities, and Implications
Authors: Gamawa Yusuf Ibrahim
Published: April 2020

The membership of Turkey into the European Union has remained as controversial as ever, even at this point when countries like U.K are leaving the EU, Turkey's membership in the Union is still being discussed in many circles. Though at this point it is clear Turkeys drive to join the EU appears to have dropped drastically and many believe that citizens of Turkey may no longer be interested in being part of the EU, the truth, however, remains that Turkey will always want to be in the EU, despite whatever disappointment. The pessimistic views are seen to be the result of previous disappointments and not that the Turks have lost hope or interest in the EU project. This paper aims to analyze the possibilities and implications of Turkey's membership of the EU and argues that membership of Turkey into the Union is still a possibility despite whatever implications it would have for Europe, especially if one considers the change in perception on both the side of Turkey and the EU regarding Turkey's membership bid.