bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of Inflation, Interest Rate, Exchange Rate and Real Estate Residential Property Prices, Kenya
Authors: Odhiambo Ogutu Austine , Ombok Benjamin
Published: March 2023

Real estate as an investment has continued to form an important part of investments held by both retail and institutional investors over the years. This has been attributed to its ability to generate continuous income streams and capital appreciation of the underlying asset. The Kenyan population is expected to hit 60 Million in 2030, with more than 50% expected to reside in urban areas. This, compounded by the higher-than-average returns experienced in the real estate sector, makes real estate an important investment for investors' portfolios. For instance, one Million invested in 2017 in the real estate sector would have been worth 9.61 Million in 2021, which is higher than that for bonds and equities. Notwithstanding this impressive return component, real estate investments in Kenya have faced challenges such as increased cost of credit through fluctuating interest rates owing to residential real estate being mostly financed by debt. Hence, unstable interest rates affect their market prices. Real estate residential investment has been susceptible to booms and busts and erratic exchange rates, which affect the value of investments made by both local investors and remittances from abroad from time to time which results in either inflated property prices which get out of reach of common retail investors or lack of demand for investors in a market facing a glut. Over the years, inflation has been rising steadily, with each investor becoming more interested in how this might affect their real return. Real estate, which is heavily leveraged, has also been prone to changes in the interest regime in the economy, which affects the cost of borrowing. The study concentrated on inflation, the interest rate regime, and the state of the exchange rate and drew conclusions while referencing finance and economic theory. The study established that a percentage increase in inflation results in a 2.248% increase in real estate residential property prices. On the other hand, a percentage increase in interest rate results in a 9.630% increase in real estate residential property prices. The study also establishes that real estate residential property prices have a negative relationship with exchange rates. Whereby a percentage increase in exchange rate results in a -1.995% decrease in real estate residential property prices in the long run. The study, therefore, recommends the inclusion of real estate investments in investors' portfolios to hedge against inflation and, at the same time, ensures that investors limit interest-sensitive asset classes such as fixed-income securities in portfolios containing residential real estate exposures. Lastly, the study recommends that investors use derivative securities such as futures contracts to hedge against adverse exchange rate movements in real estate residential properties that have exposures .in the foreign exchange markets either through foreign-denominated leases or rental contracts.
Effect of Cost of Inventory on Operating Cash Flow of Private Hospitals in Kisumu County, Kenya
Authors: Oruko Getrude Atieno , Mule Robert K.
Published: March 2023

The aim of this study was to establish the effect of cost of inventory and operating cash flow. The study adopted the correlational research design to achieve its aim and objective. The target population was 32 private hospitals in Kisumu County for a 7-year period between 2015 and 2021. The researcher used secondary data from the hospitals' audited financial reports. Panel data methodology with 196 data points was used to establish the relationship between the independent and dependent variables. The study used descriptive and inferential statistics to analyze the data. Correlation and regression were used for hypothesis testing at 95% confidence level. Diagnostics tests were done to determine the viability of the study: Normality tests, Heteroscedasticity tests, and Multicollinearity tests The results showed (p=0.00, β=0.9021) for the inventory cost; hence the null hypothesis was rejected. The analysis established a strong positive and significant correlation between cost of inventory and operating cash flow. The relationship of specific components of the operating cash flow that can help corporate entities invest appropriately and adequately in their current and fixed assets should therefore be pursued in further studies.
Influence of Financial Management Practices on Performance of Small and Medium Enterprises in Kitale Town, Trans-Nzoia County, Kenya
Authors: Aminga Malach Oiriga , Simotwo Peter , Alexis Anthony
Published: March 2023

In Kitale town, many SMEs are performing poorly due to poor financial management practices, yet they occupy a large part of the Trans-Nzoia County economy. If this situation is not addressed, their contribution to the economy will likely be affected. It was found that the growth rate of Kenyan small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) decreased from 5.4% in 2011 to 4.3% in 2013. Unemployment is a direct result of a drop in performance, and unemployment exacerbates social inequities and criminal activity. Because of this, this research examined the effect of financial management techniques on the performance of small and medium-sized firms (SMEs) in Kitale town, Trans-Nzoia County, Kenya. This study employed a descriptive research design. In this study, the target population comprised all the managers of retail shops/stalls, butcheries, hardware, and small hotels/cafeterias. Using Gay's criteria, the researcher selected a total of 45 respondents based in Kitale Town. The research instruments used included questionnaires. Data for this study was edited, loaded, and then analyzed descriptively to avoid errors by using frequency lowest, mean scores, and percentages. In addition, inferential statistics were applied using the general linear model-ANOVA and robust standard error regression using SPSS V20 statistical package. The results of the study were presented in the form of tables and figures. It was determined that the response rate was 99.2 percent, with 125 people picked using a basic random selection procedure, with data acquired via the use of questionnaires. Three key financial management methods followed by SMEs were identified in the research, all of which were determined to have a beneficial impact on the performance of small and medium-sized businesses. A rise in these factors will lead to a rise in the company's profits. Financial performance may be predicted at any given moment due to the considerable impact of this study. Moderate levels of adoption of financial management strategies show they have not yet been fully employed in order to enhance performance. Therefore, managers and owners of small businesses are urged to prioritize the use of financial management procedures. When it comes to financial management, they should not only devise a strategy but also regularly monitor and analyze its effectiveness. A number of recommendations are made in the report. It was decided to focus on just Kitale County's small businesses, to begin with. It is possible that this is not a true picture of SMEs throughout the nation.
An Analysis of Government Intervention in Management of State-owned Enterprises in Ghana: A Case of Selected State-owned Enterprises in Sunyani Municipality, Ghana
Authors: Owusu Joseph , Sarpong Daniel Agyei
Published: March 2023

This study was conducted to analyze government intervention in the management of state-owned enterprises of some selected state-owned enterprises in Sunyani municipality, Ghana using a survey study design. Using the quantitative research design, a structured questionnaire was the main instrument to obtain data from 228 respondents from the estimated 1394 population. SPSS was used to analyze the data. The study discovered that the management strategies in state-owned enterprises include supervision of operations by the Ministry, application of natural monopoly strategy, addressing of equity concerns strategy, and procedures for continuing government projects. It again found that the competencies of managerial staff of the selected state-owned include: The ability to decide on the day-to-day running, The ability to take their own decision regarding the operations, The ability to implement government policies without any challenges, Prerequisite skills to ensure financial and strategic oversight of the SOE, The ability to implement physical controls in the SOE to reduce theft and wastage, The ability to implement controls over supply purchases and product sales, and The ability to ensure that the SOEs worked within the annual budget The study also revealed that the government intervention strategies at the selected state-owned enterprises include: Privatization intervention strategies, Liquidation intervention strategies, Divestiture intervention strategies, Physical and financial rehabilitation intervention strategies, Management and performance contracts intervention strategies, Divestiture intervention strategies, and Institutional change contracts intervention strategies Finally, it turned out that government interventions in state-owned enterprises were not effective.The study recommended that management of SOEs should include key management strategies such as the use of capital market failures strategy, ensuring continuity of government projects after a change of government, putting strategies in place to ensure accountability after the change of government, and lack of legal conditions that bind the government to continue old projects. The study also recommended that the managerial staff of SOEs develop competencies in areas such as the ability to influence government decisions on issues regarding the SOEs and make concrete decisions to address the challenges facing SOEs appropriately.Again, the study recommended that vital government intervention strategies such as continuity in government policy intervention after the change of government occur and management incentives the government should employ intervention strategies to enhance the growth and development of SOEs. The study recommended that, among others, the government should develop policies that strengthen the continuity of government projects in SOEs to ensure general growth and development.
The Effect of Public Debt on Economic Growth in Kenya
Authors: Edward Kitum Toroitich , Siele Richard , Serem Alfred
Published: March 2023

Using annual data from 1980 to 2019, this study examined the impact of public debt on Kenya's economic growth. Financing Gap theory served as a guide for the investigation. An explanatory research design was adopted in this study. The analysis of the long-run and short-run effects used a customized version of the Vector Error Correction Model (VECM) Model. The R-square value from the VECM model was 58.62, and the Chi-square was 26.913 (p > Chi2 = 0.0494), indicating that the VECM was suitable for parameter estimation. While external debt revealed a coefficient of 0.0003 with a p-value of 0.001 had a significant positive impact on economic growth, domestic debt reported a coefficient of -0.266 with a p-value of 0.019, supporting the debt overhang effect. If the marginal output of an available external debt is greater than or equal to the principal and interest payment, the study found that external debt had a positive impact on the economy of the borrowing country. On the other hand, domestic debt has a significant negative impact on economic growth. The government will be able to develop sound fiscal and monetary policies with the aid of the study's findings. The study demonstrates that increasing domestic debt levels in Kenya during the study period negatively and significantly impacted economic growth. As a result, this study suggests that the Kenyan government reduce domestic borrowing to avoid the crowding out effect, which has a detrimental long-term impact on economic growth. The government should use the borrowed domestic money to diversify the economy's productive base. This will boost long-term economic growth, widen the base of taxation, and increase the country's ability to pay off its obligations when they are due.
KWANI? Features of Open-mic Poetry Performances in Kenya
Authors: Okemwa Christopher
Published: March 2023

This paper examines the feature of open-mic poetry performance, a sub-genre of spoken word poetry in Kenya. Since 2003, Performance poetry has gained greater recognition in Kenya, illustrating the impact of captivating verbal choices at play in crafted, theatrical, and nonlinear dialogues between open-mic poets and their audiences. This paper uses selected open-mic poems to describe how this sub-genre engages various verbal inflections in (re)presenting our everyday societal issues. Anchored on an interactionist stance, the study proceeds from an understanding that art should be viewed not as a disembodied product but as a collection of dynamic social and interactional processes. While using textual analysis, this paper unravels verbal inflections used in selected open-mic poems in Kenya. It further interrogates how open-mic poets deploy various performance strategies to make their performances lively and captivating and deliver their intended messages. The paper argues that the emergence of open-mic poetry in Kenya has prompted performance poets to construct their own identities as artists. In doing so, these poets strive to define a uniquely Kenyan open-mic poetry sub-genre that enables them to preserve their identities while capitalizing on the benefits that this emerging art brings to them in (re)presenting societal concerns.
Performance Appraisal and Teacher Performance in Public Secondary Schools in Kenya
Authors: Okoth Ursulla
Published: March 2023

Performance Appraisal is a tool for performance improvement. It is an essential human resource activity intended to increase efficiency and productivity and provide an opportunity to continuously review agreed-upon targets as per the organization's set objectives. The objective of the study was to investigate the influence of performance appraisal on the application of professional knowledge, time management, creativity in teaching, and professional development on the performance of public secondary school teachers in Migori County, Kenya. Goal-setting theory guided this study. A descriptive survey design was used. The sample size included 342 teachers from 57 schools. The study used simple and stratified random sampling techniques. Questionnaires and a document analysis guide were used to collect data. Content validity was tested through expert judgement by the supervisors. The test re-test method was used to test reliability. The reliability of the questionnaire instrument was 0.85. Data were analyzed using ANOVA, Pearson correlation coefficient ('r'), and multiple Regression analysis. The study established that Teacher performance appraisal is a significant predictor of teachers' performance. The study concludes that teachers' performance appraisal translates into efficiency and increased productivity. The study recommends, among others, that performance expectations of the teacher should clearly be communicated to them by the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) and that teachers should be involved in designing performance appraisal criteria.
Service Delivery as an Outcome of Political Environment: A Perspective of State Corporations in the Energy Sector in Kenya
Authors: Chewa Jason , Minja David , Njoroge Jane Gakenia
Published: March 2023

State corporations in the energy sector are a major foundation upon which economic, social, and political development strategies are anchored. All over the world, these institutions perform a complementary infrastructural role in facilitating economic sectors to deliver on their mandate and consequently contribute to the general welfare of societies. Extant literature presents strong empirical evidence that speedy, efficient, and responsive service delivery is imperative for the success of state enterprises and other organizations in a dynamic environment. However, despite the various government-initiated reforms and interventions and the vast commitment of resources, there are unending public concerns over the delivery of services in state corporations in Kenya. This study, therefore, sought to examine the effect of the political environment on service delivery in state corporations in the energy sector in Kenya. The target population was 124 suppliers, 5,107 end-user consumers, 1,817 employees in KPLC plus 480 employees in REREC, and 30 employees in the Energy regulator (EPRA). A sample of 380 individuals/households was selected using a two-stage random sampling procedure comprising proportionate stratified and simple random sampling techniques. Empirical data for this analysis were gathered using a semi-structured questionnaire. The validity and reliability of the data collection tool were assessed to confirm the suitability of the tool for use in the study. Descriptive analysis and inferential analysis were conducted on the data set that had been gathered from the field. The findings of the study demonstrated that the political environment positively contributes to service delivery among the surveyed state corporations. It is recommended that the policy framework be developed to promote activities relating to actors' participation, decision-making, and efficient flow of information in state corporations. It is apparent that the level of participation of actors in advisory boards, project initiation, and project execution is not optimal. These aspects should form the basis for policy review and development seeking to enhance the extent of actors' engagement in the affairs of state enterprises. Deliberate effort should be made to align decisions with the consensual perspectives of actors.
Teachers' Perceptions of the New History Curriculum at the Basic Schools in the Cape Coast, Ghana
Authors: Gyamfuah Selina Gyamfuah , Angbing Hippolyt Dickson , Ackah George Ebanyenle
Published: March 2023

Perception is the importance attached to something based on one's feelings and experiences. The study explored teachers' perceptions of the new History curriculum at the basic school level in the Cape Coast Metropolis. A quantitative approach with a descriptive survey research design was adopted for the study. A systematic sampling procedure was used to select 35 schools from 70 public schools in the Cape Coast Metropolis. Purposive sampling was used to select 225 teachers comprising 49 males and 176 females from selected 35 basic schools. A closed-ended questionnaire was used to collect data for the study. Data were analysed with descriptive statistics (frequency counts and percentages, means, and standard deviation) and inferential statistics (One-Way-Analysis of Variance). Findings showed that teachers positively perceived the new history curriculum at the basic school level. The study recommended that teachers should make a conscious effort to instil in pupils the values of the new history curriculum since they had a positive perception of the curriculum.
Effects of Monitoring & Evaluation Planning on the Performance of Infrastructural Projects at Dedan Kimathi University, Kenya
Authors: Githaiga Veronicah Ngima , Mutundu Kennedy
Published: March 2023

Monitoring & Evaluation, with reference to institutional development, has not been well-investigated. Universities are critical institutions in socio-economic development. This study aimed to examine the influence of Monitoring & Evaluation planning. Based on project performance, indicators are delivered on time and within budget. The study explored Dedan Kimathi University, Kenya, as a case study. The specific objective was to establish the effects of M & E planning on the performance of infrastructural projects at Dedan Kimathi University, Kenya. The study employed a descriptive survey to determine if the M&E parameter influenced a project's performance. The investigation was predicated on change theory alongside program theory. A simple random sampling technique was used to enable the research to reach the many departments involved in infrastructural development. The major data collection technique and questionnaires were used to gather crucial information. A Sample of 157 applicants represented a population of 265 people. According to the findings, monitoring and evaluation variable had a major impact on project performance as components of M&E activity had a conscious goal to steer the project's success. The research suggested that flexibility be encouraged in the key M&E factor to inform re-planning and review of M&E tools to strengthen data collection, information sharing, and management.
An Analysis of the Sri Lankan Buddhist Monk during the British Colonial Period
Authors: Chandasiri Ven Olaganwatte
Published: March 2023

Changes in social institutions became widespread, extensive, and far-reaching since the British occupation of the whole Island. Although previously the country was invaded by the Portuguese and the Dutch, the implementation of the recommendations contained in the Colebrook Commission Report in the 19th century propelled Sri Lanka into a rapid change in its social and economic progress. The establishment of the printing press during the time of British rule can be regarded as a profound social event in the history of Sri Lanka. The introduction of modern technology into the country should be recognized as the greatest contribution by the British. It can be pointed out that this knowledge of technology changed the traditional social structures prevailing in Sri Lankan society at the time. Poets began to depict the emerging contemporary society in poetry. This paper examines: The nature of the disposition of monks, The power exercised by the monks, and How the lives of monks changed during the colonial periodIt also shows how the Christians portrayed the Buddhist monks from their point of view, and their attitude towards Buddhist monks influenced the ordinary people. From this perspective, the poetical works of this period are analyzed.  For this research paper, most materials used in this study have been obtained from publications and materials available at the Colombo Museum, the Department of Historical Documents in the main Library of the University of Peradeniya, the Asia and African Sections and Social Science Sections of the British Library in London.
Customer Awareness and Perception of Usage of E-banking in Commercial Banks of Zanzibar, Tanzania
Authors: Kheir Issa Ussi , Kombo Amir
Published: March 2023

The study focused on customer awareness and perception of the usage of e-banking in commercial banks in Zanzibar. The specific objectives were: • To assess the level of customer's awareness of e-banking usage in Peoples Bank of Zanzibar, • To analyze the customers' perception of e-banking usage in Peoples Bank of Zanzibar and • To examine the challenges facing customer usage of e-banking in Peoples bank of Zanzibar The study used a descriptive design that involved qualitative and quantitative approaches. A population of 104000 customers of PBZ was considered. Data were collected using interviews and questionnaires and were analysed using thematic analysis and mean and standard deviation. The study found that awareness of e-banking was low as statements: I have lots of information about e-banking transactions, e-banking is an easy service and saves time, e-Banking Transactions procedures are simple and straightforward were ranked moderate. E-banking service is less costly than conventional over-the-counter banking was ranked very low, and e-Banking is more effective than conventional over-the-counter was ranked low. The findings showed that the respondents had a perception that e-banking is not reliable, e-banking is insecure, use of the internet, and thought can make incorrect operations; all were ranked high as perceptions of using e-banking. E-banking is not responsive was ranked moderate as a perception of not using e-banking services. The study recommended that banks should increase awareness of e-banking services and offer civic education to discourage negative perceptions.
An Examination on Perceptions of Student Governance Council Communication Skills Necessary in the Governance of Public Secondary Schools within Bondo Sub-county in Siaya County, Kenya
Authors: Oduor Ochwangu Stephen , Onderi Henry , Momanyi Bernard
Published: March 2023

Student governing council skills has been an issue of concern in school administration. Much research has centered on the need for training the student governing council in secondary school administration without adequately identifying the needed skills to address school administration challenges that are reducing tension in the school, which may lead to student unrest and, consequently, the destruction of school property. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the training needs of the student governing council (SGC) in public secondary schools. This examination of skills needed will determine a deficit in performance and determine the training needs of the student council so that SGC could be equipped with the necessary skills to enhance their competency to accomplish their roles (Bhasin, 2021). The objectives of the study were to:Establish the existence of a student governance council in public secondary schools, and Examine perceptions on SGC communication skills necessary in public secondary school governance The theoretical framework that guided the study was functional Leadership theory. The study adopted a case study design, and the target population was 1729 respondents, while the sample size included: 6 principals, 6 deputy principals, 12 class teachers and 127 student council leadersThe sample of the study for principals and deputy principals was selected by use of purposive sampling from the sample schools. Class teachers were selected by random sampling, and student council leaders were selected by random sampling. Data collection tools were questionnaires for principals, questionnaires for deputy principals, questionnaires for student council leaders, interviews for principals and deputy principals, and focus group discussions for class teachers. The researcher used the test-retest method for the test for validity and reliability. The data were analyzed through descriptive statistics, which included frequencies, percentages, and means as measures of central tendency, and the analyzed data were presented in charts and tables. The Respondents indicated a high need for training in these skills to improve school governance. The study concluded that communication skills are essential in the student council as they aid the student council representatives in carrying out their mandate, which includes linking the students with the school administration. Lobbying skills, negotiation skills, consensus-building skills, handling of difficult and training on how to handle students with disabilities were highly regarded for training.
The Relationship between Poor Sanitation and Socio-economic Status of Residents in Tamale, Ghana
Authors: Issahaku Abdul Rahaman , Wumbei Abukari , Lambon Joseph
Published: March 2023

The purpose of the study was to assess the relationship between poor sanitation and the socio-economic factors of residents in Tamale. The study used both qualitative and quantitative sampling techniques to achieve the objectives of the study. Tamale was stratified into three zones. Each zone was then grouped into low, middle, and high-income groups, and one community was randomly selected from each income bracket of each zone. All nine (9) communities were selected for the study. In each zone, 128 households were systematically selected for the survey. In total, 384 households took part in the survey. Stakeholders in sanitation were purposefully selected for in-depth interviews. Three focus groups (nine persons in each group) were held to confirm the findings from the surveys and the interviews. Observations were employed in areas such as gutters, forests, and open spaces to have firsthand information on the state of sanitation in Tamale. The data gathered were subjected to both qualitative and quantitative analysis. The study revealed that 105 respondents, representing 27.4% of the respondents, had household toilets, and 150 respondents, representing 39.1% of the respondents, either shared toilets with neighbours or used public toilets. 129 respondents, representing about 33.5% of the respondents, practised open defecation. 100 respondents (26.0%) practised open defecation because the toilets were smelling, and 74 respondents (19.4%) said the ventilation in the toilets was poor. However, 180 respondents (46.9%) were aware that open defecation spreads diseases. The analysis of variants showed that ownership of household toilets was significantly dependent on income, education, and household size at p=0.000. The study concludes that ignorance and poverty were the causes of poor sanitation in Tamale. The study recommends that education, economic empowerment, and sensitization were necessary to improve the sanitation situation in Tamale.
Corporate Social Responsibility and Farmer Participation: A Case Study in High-tech Agricultural Cooperatives in Vietnam's Northern Key Economic Region
Authors: Anh Tran Tuan
Published: March 2023

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) plays an increasingly important role for businesses and receives the attention of many people. The main aim of this study is to explore the components of corporate social responsibility and the part of satisfaction and trust in the relationship between corporate social responsibility and farmer cohesion. Based on applying the partial least squares (PLS-SEM) estimation model to test the hypothesis through data collected from the questionnaire survey in the Northern critical economic region, the research results obtained 395 valid questionnaires, which were used to test the ideas. Research shows that corporate social responsibility consists of three main components: commitment, customers, and the environment from a farmers' perspective. Besides, satisfaction and trust are intermediaries between social responsibility and farmers' cohesion in high-tech agricultural cooperatives.
Hybrid Active Filters: Panacea to Harmonic Distortion Losses in Power Distribution Networks
Authors: Adenike Akinyede Josephine , J Alake T. , Temitope Akinyede
Published: March 2023

The Nigerian electric power industry is facing a lot of challenges. From generation to distribution, the system's reliability is far below expectation. Modeling hybrid active filters with Matlab/Simulink environment to mitigate harmonics stress by a non-linear load is the focus. The load was connected directly to the supply, with the modeled hybrid active filter connected in parallel to the distribution network. The hybrid consists of a passive filter and an active power filter connected to the distribution system. The passive power filter was used to filter the low order harmonic current with a large power rating, while the active power filter with a low power rating was used to filter the other high order harmonics. The Simulink showed the effect of modeled non-linear load on the distribution network by distorting the ideal waveform of current and voltage from the supply. After the simulation, the total harmonics presented in the current waveform were reduced from 23.52% to 0.01%, and for the voltage, it reduced from 9.18% to 0.27%.
Effects of Smuggling and Human Trafficking Across Borders on Students' Academic Performance in Economics
Authors: Benedict Titus Adesegun
Published: March 2023

Smuggling and human trafficking as components of trans-border trading activities occur across the borders of many nations across the globe. The study investigated the effects of smuggling and human trafficking across borders on students' academic performance in economic concepts in Nigeria. The study is underpinned by the Rational Choice Theory within the positivism paradigm. The study was designed using descriptive survey research. Three hundred and twenty (320) respondents comprising male and female SSII & III students formed the sample through the stratified random sampling method to select the state and local governments and schools used for this study. Two (2) self-developed instruments, a student's questionnaire on trans-border trading activities (SQTTA) with a reliability co-efficient of 0.76 and the Economics Achievement Test (E.A.T.) having a reliability co-efficient of 0.84, respectively, were used to draw information from the respondents. Data collected were analyzed using PPMC and Stepwise Regression analysis to test the research questions raised in the study. The results revealed that the involvement of students in smuggling reasonably used clothes, used tyres, and small firearms are strong predictors of factors affecting students' academic performance. At the same time, human trafficking has little or no significant effect on academic performance, a departure from earlier studies. Therefore, the study recommended that future schools not be near border posts.
The Salient Socio-Agentive Position of Women in the Traditional African Society: A Case of Abaluhya Women of Western Kenya
Authors: Muleka Maureen Ajiambo , Okoth Pontian Godfrey
Published: March 2023

This article sought to examine the position of women in the traditional African society in Kenya before colonialism (before 1895). It narrowed down to the social organisation in the Luhya traditional society and the space women occupied in the same. It further delved into exploring the possibilities of empowerment or disempowerment for women in the social sphere among the Abaluhya. It addressed the aspect of women's agency in the Luhya social organisation, answering the question of what role women played in elevating their position socially. This article was supported by Lesley Ogundipe's African Feminist theory which holds that women had an essential role in the pre-colonial African society and that the structure of the society had room for women empowerment as opposed to the common belief that the African society disempowered women. Data for this study was collected using primary and secondary sources. Primary sources involved oral interviews, while secondary sources focused on analysing existing literature on the topic under study. The study analyzed five major aspects of the Luhya society and the role women played in them, namely: the clan and the family, initiation and marriage, informal education and apprenticeship, traditional religion and sex roles, and division of labour. The study found that women were centrally placed in the social structure of the Luhya society and that while some social aspects empowered them, others disempowered them. The study then concluded by assessing the role of women in elevating their own social status.
Relationship between Allowances and Performance of Civil Servants: A Case of President's Office – Constitution, Legal Affairs, Public Service and Good Governance in Zanzibar
Authors: Juma Said Khamis , Haroonah Nsubuga
Published: March 2023

The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between allowances and the performance of civil servants: a case of president's office – constitution, legal affairs, public service, and good governance in Zanzibar. The study used Case Study Design which involved a quantitative research approach. A sample size of 120 respondents was used, and a questionnaire collected the data that were used in compiling the results. The study revealed that there is a positive relationship between cash allowance, saving overtime allowance, house rent allowance, and performance of civil servants of the President's Office – Constitution, Legal Affairs, Public Service, and Good Governance in Zanzibar. The study concluded that there is a significant positive relationship between cash allowance, overtime allowance, and house allowance and the performance of civil servants of the President's Office – Constitution, Legal Affairs, Public Service, and Good Governance in Zanzibar. The study recommended that the government of Zanzibar should increase cash allowance, overtime allowance, and house allowance and even offer other allowances since allowances have a strong relationship with the performance of civil servants.
Toward Tackling the Challenge of Housing Project Abandonment through the Stakeholders' Theory
Authors: Ijagbemi Christopher Oluwatade , Olajide Esther Boladale , Olajide Sunday Emmanuel , Olajide Sunday Emmanuel
Published: March 2023

Literature reveals that issues relating to housing project abandonment have become a global discourse. Hence, efforts have been made by researchers, government, and non-governmental agencies to delve into its causes, effects, and remedies. Notwithstanding all these efforts, the soaring rate of the menace gives one cause to worry. In light of this, this research work proffers the Stakeholders' theory as an alternative panacea to the incessant abandonment of housing projects. This is believed to be an effective instrument if tenaciously implemented as it is expected to bridge the global housing shortage.
Folklore as a Medium for Cultural Renaissance in a Deculturised Society: Oral Poetry as Praxis
Authors: Anthony Obaje Alaba
Published: March 2023

Every group of people bound together by common interest and purpose, whether literate or not, rural or urban, possesses a body of tradition and culture called folklore. This study fundamentally treats folklore as a medium for a cultural renaissance in deculturised African society. It explores the dearth of the traditional forms of knowledge that shape and give meaning to people's lives. Also, the study, through the analyses of some traditional African poetry, explores the dynamics of folklore on cultural education of values, morals, and the aesthetics of the culture of the people. Finally, the choice of oral poetry for cultural reaffirmation and the exploration of performance as a significant technique in oral tradition is presented in the discourse.
Some Ecological Characteristics and Vegetation Structure in the Distribution Area of Panax Stipuleanatus in Hoang Lien Mountain Range
Authors: Nguyen Hung Manh , Nguyen Van Sinh , Do Huu Thu , Nguyen Tien Dung , Bui Tuyet Xuan , Dang Thi Thu Huong , Le Van Nhan , Nguyen Thi Phuong Trang , Tung Dang Xuan , Lai Thi Thu Hang , Le Tu Anh , Nguyen Thanh Chung
Published: March 2023

Panax stipuleanatus, a precious genetic resource, is classified as Critically Endangered (CR) in the Vietnam Red Data Book 2007 and in group IIa of Decree 32-CP. It is a species of high economic value that is being severely reduced in many individuals and mangrove plant communities and needs to be studied and preserved. A number of biological and ecological characteristics and vegetation structures in the distribution area of this species have been studied and determined. Specifically, the ambient temperature ranges from 4.9-25.5oC; humidity about 70-92%, rainfall 26-780 mm and sunshine hours 92-230 hours, soil with pH value 3.97; Total K2O 9.10(g/kg), Fe+2 27.24 (g/kg), total P 0.33%; Total N 0.28% and total organic carbon 4.97%. Panax stipuleanatus is discovered under the canopy of mixed vegetation of subtropical broadleaf trees from an altitude of 1.300-1.800m, with a slope of 12-16%, where the density of plant species is about 1.460 trees/ha, including species of importance index > 5%, such as Castanopsissp, LinderacaudataHook.f., Lithocarpusfordianus (Hemsl.) Chun, Schefflerapauciffora R. Vig., Schimawallichi (DC.) Korth and Prunusarborea Blume. These are considered important data on ecological biology and the specific distribution area of Panaxstipuleanatus, which is the foundation for researching, developing, and proposing preservation solutions, exploiting, and promoting this rare genetic resource in Vietnam.
Celiac disease and catatonia: more than a coincidence?
Authors: Özbudak Pınar , Karaduman Alev Elçi , Menderes Deniz Kargın , Öztürk Hakan , Gücüyener Kıvılcım
Published: March 2023

Background. Catatonia is a complex neuropsychiatric disorder involving stupor, waxy flexibility, and mutism lasting more than 1 hour. It has arisen mostly from mental and neurologic disorders. Organic causes are more prominent in children.
Case. A 15-year-old female who had refused to eat and drink for 3 days, had not talked, and had stood in a fixed position for long periods was admitted to the inpatient clinic, and she was diagnosed with catatonia. Her maximum score on the Bush-Francis Catatonia Rating Scale (BFCRS) was 15/69 on day 2 of her stay. On neurologic examination, the patient`s cooperation was limited, and she was apathetic to her surroundings and stimuli and inactive. Other neurologic examination findings were normal. To investigate catatonia etiology, her biochemical parameters, thyroid hormone panel, and toxicology screening were conducted but all parameters were normal. Cerebrospinal fluid examination and autoimmune antibodies were negative. Sleep electroencephalography showed diffuse slow background activity, and brain magnetic resonance imaging was normal. As a first-line treatment for catatonia, diazepam was started. With her poor response to diazepam, we continued to evaluate the cause and found the transglutaminase levels were 153 U/mL (normal values, < 10 U/mL). The patient`s duodenal biopsies showed changes consistent with Celiac disease (CD). Catatonic symptoms did not benefit from a gluten-free diet or oral diazepam for 3 weeks. Then, diazepam was replaced with amantadine. With amantadine, the patient recovered within 48 hours, and her BFCRS retreated to 8/69.
Conclusions. Even without gastrointestinal manifestations, CD may present with neuropsychiatric symptoms. According to this case report, CD should be investigated in patients with unexplained catatonia, and that CD may only present with neuropsychiatric symptoms.
Ol Woman Blong Wota (The Women of the Water)
Authors: Sur Sandy , Burgess Ashley , McKenna Maeve , Grant Catherine
Published: March 2023

The women of Leweton have been performing Water Music for international audiences since the founding of the Leweton Cultural Village in 2008, and have been practising this tradition for as long as they remember. The women performers who feature in this film are Denilla Frazer, Melinda Frazer, Jerolyn Frazer, Beverley Frazer, Cecilia Tingris, Cicilia Wari, Marie Sur, Sonrin Sur, Trisha Sur, and Margaret Tingris.
Network resuscitation – pumping life into a failed complex system
Authors: Barzel Baruch
Published: March 2023

When a complex social, biological or ecological network collapses, we seek to steer it back towards functionality. Our recent work maps unique conditions - the recoverable phase - when this can be achieved by controlling just one component. With applications from neuronal networks to our gut-microbiome, we show how a single intervention point can reignite the entire system’s functionality.
Cerebral hemorrhage due to intracranial venous reflux associated with left brachiocephalic vein occlusion in a hemodialysis patient
Authors: Sasaki Nozomi , Hiramatsu Taku , Hasegawa Yoshihito , Sawada Motoshi
Published: March 2023

Background:

Although central venous occlusion is sometimes seen in hemodialysis (HD) patients, neurological symptoms due to intracranial venous reflux (IVR) are extremely rare.

Case Description:

We present a case of a 73-year-old woman with cerebral hemorrhage due to IVR associated with HD. She presented with lightheadedness and alexia, and was diagnosed with subcortical hemorrhage. Venography through the arteriovenous graft showed occlusion of the left brachiocephalic vein (BCV) and IVR through the internal jugular vein (IJV). It is extremely rare that IVR occurs and causes neurological symptoms. This is because that there is the presence of a valve in the IJV and the communication between the right and left veins through the anterior jugular vein and thyroid vein. Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty for the left obstructive BCV was performed, but the obstructive lesion was only slightly improved. Hence, shunt ligation was performed.

Conclusion:

When IVR is found in HD patients, central veins should be confirmed. Early diagnosis and therapeutic intervention are desirable when neurological symptoms are present.
Feedback inhibition of DszC, a crucial enzyme for crude oil biodessulfurization
Authors: Pimenta das Neves Rui Pedro , Viveiros Araújo Bruno Miguel , Ramos Maria João , Fernandes Pedro Alexandrino
Published: March 2023

The Ideonella sakaiensis bacterium has a tremendous industrial interest as it can remove sulfur from crude oil through its four-enzyme (DszA-D) 4S metabolic pathway. DszC is one of the rate-limiting enzymes of the pathway and the one that most suffers from feedback inhibition. We have combined molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations to identify binding sites through which two products of the 4S pathway, 2-hydroxybiphenyl, and 2'-hydroxybiphenyl-2-sulfinate, induce DszC feedback inhibition. We have identified four potential binding sites: two adjacent binding sites close to the 280-295 lid loop proposed to contribute to DszC oligomerization and proper binding of the flavin mononucleotide cofactor, and two other close to the active site of DszC and the substrate binding site. By considering i) the occupancy of the binding sites and ii) the similar inhibitor poses, we propose that the mechanism of feedback inhibition of DszC occurs through disturbance of the DszC oligomerization and consequent binding of the flavin mononucleotide due to the weakening of the interactions between the 280-295 lid loop and both the 131-142 loop and the C-terminal tail. Nevertheless, inhibitor binding close to the active site or the substrate binding sites also compromises critical interactions within the active site of DszC. The disclosed molecular details provide valuable insight for future rational enzyme engineering protocols to develop DszC mutants more resistant against the observed feedback inhibition mechanism.
LC2BS – Low Cost Secondary Braking System Implemented using Arduino and Motor Speed Control Mechanism
Authors:   Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering, JSS Science and Technology University, Mysuru, Tippannavar Sanjay , S D Yashwanth , Gowda Megha , K N Shachee
Published: March 2023

In the industrialised world, roads constitute a huge problem. According to recent research, excessive or unsuitable speed as well as changes in the highway are linked to one-third of fatal or severe accidents. Accidents brought on by brake failure are a problem as well. The major cause of brake failure, pressure loss, is failure in the brake lining. A backup braking system has been created in case of unexpected brake failure or partial brake failure in order to prevent accidents. The project involves creating a hardware braking system using an Arduino, motors, and speed control that is displayed on an LCD screen. This system continuously monitors the condition of the brake wire, notifies the driver in the event of a primary brake failure, and automatically engages the secondary braking system.