bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Destructive Cyber Operations and Machine Learning
Authors:   Center for Security and Emerging Technology, Cary Dakota , Cebul Daniel
Published: January 2021

Machine learning may provide cyber attackers with the means to execute more effective and more destructive attacks against industrial control systems. As new ML tools are developed, CSET discusses the ways in which attackers may deploy these tools and the most effective avenues for industrial system defenders to respond.
PROPOSED CLUSTER BASED ALGORITHM FOR MOBILE AD HOC NETWORK
Authors: Chao Chen , Jun Liang , Xin Sun
Published: January 2021

Mobile ad hoc networks use the wireless network and have wider applications especially in emergency situation, military combat zones, and the mobility vehicles. The mobile ad hoc network especially poses the problem of security and efficiency as the network is often subject to internal and external attacks. To overcome such problems, different protocols are proposed. In this study, an improved protocol is proposed which makes use of hexacol cluster method and thus provide greater efficiency and security to the network. For validating the proposed method, a stimulation was performed and results were compared with other protocols. The results indicate that the proposed method showed improved performance compare to the other protocol.
COMPUTER BASED ENGLISH SPEAKING TEST BASED ON ARTIFICAL NEURAL NETWORK
Authors: Min Yu , Li Chao , Wang Xin
Published: January 2021

English testing is a most common test conducted around the world for evaluating an individual’s English capabilities in mostly reading, writing, speaking, and listening domain. With increased cost and higher subjective assessment attached in some tests, there is required to change the test from traditional method to computer based. In this study, a proposed method for conducting speaking test for English based on objective assessment method. The proposed system is able to identify different dialects based on unit analysis of syllable along with phonetic errors. The proposed system is based on pronunciation parameters and neural network for evaluation purpose. The PSO algorithm is used for training the artificial neural network. The experiment result conducted for validating the proposed system shows promising performance
A DISCRETE EVENT SIMULATION (DES) BASED APPROACH TO MAXIMIZE THE PATIENT THROUGHPUT IN OUTPATIENT CLINIC
Authors: Dayarathna Vidanelage L. , Mismesh Hebah , Nagahisarchoghaei Mohammad , Alhumoud Aziz
Published: January 2021

The healthcare system is a complex system which exhibits conditions of uncertainty, ambiguity emergence that incurs incoming patient congestion. Discrete event simulation (FlexSim) is considered as a viable decision support tool in analyzing a system for improvement. Using a data-driven discrete event simulation approach, this paper portrays a comprehensive analysis to maximize the number of patients in an on-campus clinic, located at Mississippi State University. The outcome of the analysis of current system exhibits that deploying a few nurse practitioners results in bottlenecks which decreases the systems’ throughput substantially due to the overall longer patients’ waiting time.  Access to the laboratory is characterized through multi-server queuing network, arrival process is followed discrete distributions, and batch sizes and arrival times are stochastic in nature. In an effort to plummet inpatient congestion at the outpatient clinic, by using empirically calibrated simulation model, we will figure out the best balance between the number of the lab technician and incoming patient during working hour. An analysis of optimal solutions is demonstrated, which is followed by recommendation and avenues for future research.
LOCATION BASED PROTOCOL FOR WIRELESS NETWORKS
Authors: Omar Asma
Published: January 2021

The current networks such as GPSR have its own limitations such as data transmission delay and node errors. To overcome such problems, new protocols are proposed in various studies. In current study, a location-based protocol for wireless network is proposed by using the MAC interception. The algorithm is such that if best possible node is not possible, the data can be transferred using the second-best possible node thus introducing the intermediary nodes as well in the model. Additionally, based on simulation, the results are compared for the performance of the proposed protocol with two other protocols. The results show that the proposed protocol perform better compare to the other protocols in terms of data transmission efficiency and reliability.
ANALYSIS OF USE OF VARIOUS MATERIALS IN WATER PURIFICATION PROJECT
Authors: K. Bargueno
Published: January 2021

Availability of clean drinking water is becoming a major issue in the 21st century. The issue is increased because of decreasing water sources and increased population and related agriculture and industrial consumption requirement. There are different methods of cleaning the water but the world is changing to more environmentally friendly methods. Use of solar still is one of the methods which has lower carbon footprints. The present study conducted an experiment and compared the performance of use of four different type of materials including wiry sponge, black volcanic rocks, coated metallic, and uncoated metallic wiry sponge. The experiment continued for 1 week and the performance was monitored on hourly basis. The results show that among the four materials used in the solar still, the coated metallic material had the highest productivity level; followed by the black volcanic rocks.
IMPACT OF FOREIGN AIDS ON POVERTY ALLEVIATION IN NIGERIA
Authors: Georgina Adebayo Abiola , T. Afolayan Olufunmilayo
Published: January 2021

The aim of the study is to examine the impact of foreign aid on poverty alleviation in Nigeria over the period of 1990 to 2017. Data were collected from UNCTAD World Bank database and CBN Statistical Bulletin. Consequently, Cointegration, DOLS and Granger Causality techniques were utilized to address the objective of the study. The major findings are summarized as follow: Foreign aid has not led to poverty alleviation in Nigeria. Similarly, FDI has a negative impact on household consumption per capita and not significant at 10% level of significance. This implies that FDI does not reduce poverty in Nigeria. In addition, there is an existence of insignificant positive relationship between inflation rate and household consumption per capita in Nigeria. Furthermore, there is a unidirectional causality which runs from foreign aid to household consumption per capita. However, there is no feedback relationship between foreign aid and FDI, likewise FDI and household consumption per capita. Also, there is a unidirectional causal relationship flowing from inflation rate to household consumption per capita. Finally, due to the findings it is recommended that since foreign aid has no reducing impact on poverty in Nigeria, the policy makers should not depend on foreign aid as the only means of combating poverty in Nigeria. Therefore, a holistic approach for tackling the challenge of poverty in Nigeria is suggested and should be embraced.
DEMOCRATIC SUSTAINABILITY AND CONFLICT RESILIENCE IN GHANA’S DEMOCRATIC SYSTEM
Authors: Musah Halidu
Published: January 2021

Ghana could be described as an island of peace in an ocean of conflicts. This is because most of Ghana’s West African neighbours have experienced (and some are still experiencing) various forms of national civil conflicts which have never occurred in Ghana. In the last three decades, the West Africa sub-region has been plagued with many intra-state conflicts.  In Liberia, Sierra-Leone, Côte d’Ivoire and Mali, conflicts have escalated into full scale war, bringing with it numerous loss of lives, destruction of property and causing social despair for the citizenry. The peace of some countries like Senegal, Nigeria, Niger and recently Burkina Faso also continues to be threatened by different dissident groups and popular uprisings. While most of these countries’ democracies remain fragile due to the conflicts within these states, Ghana remains one of few examples whose current democratic structures have stood the test of time for the last three decades. This study inquired into Ghana’s conflict resistance capacities and its ability to continue to sustain its democracy as a country.  Mixed methods approach was employed to select 132 community residents from 3 purposefully sampled conflict-prone communities in Ghana, and 5 key informants as well as 462 political party delegates for interviewing and data collection for the study.The study found that the very nature of Ghana’s internal conflicts with respect to their geographical limitations, the conflict parties involved as well as the issues at stake contribute to confine these internal conflicts within their areas of occurrence. In addition, some conscious social and institutional measures (put in place) in the Ghanaian democratic system help to promote peace and maintain order. Finally, majority of the respondents (63.6%) were of the opinion that Ghana is unlikely to have a national civil war because its democratic institutions are effective. It was suggested that politicians should avoid interfering in local conflicts and increase coverage for peace education programmes and conflict intervention initiatives in the country, among others.
OUTCOMES OF UNETHICAL PRACTICES BY QUANTITY SURVEYORS IN NIGERIAN CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY
Authors: Akinrata Ebunoluwa Bimbola , Ogunsemi Deji Rufus , Akinradewo Olusola Festus
Published: January 2021

Ethics have a verifiable effect on the validity and economic supportability of quantity studying practices and additionally influencing the individual security of the profession. There is a developing consent inside and outside the construction industry that unscrupulous practices are endemic in the construction industry especially quantity surveying practice in Nigeria. This paper thusly, x-rayed the outcomes of unethical practices by Quantity Surveyors in the construction industry in Nigeria, and likewise displays more scholarly and practical approach in dealing with moral appraisal of Quantity Surveyors in the construction industry and ways to improve moral standard among them. Very much organized polls (questionnaire) were self-administered to stakeholders and professionals in construction organizations. Literature review also revealed that unethical practices result to dissatisfied clients, late compensation due to delays, low productivity/efficiency of project team, deterioration in professionalism, poor workmanship, high maintenance, upward review of contract cost, poor project coordination, poor quality infrastructure development, stunted growth of the industry, reduction in the life span of building, loss of public trust, conflicts between client and construction team, poor quality of infrastructural development and loss of public trust. Data were collected and analyzed using Mean Item Score (MIS) and Standard Deviation (SD). The results shows that dissatisfaction of clients, High maintenance cost and Poor workmanship were perceived to be the major ethical misconduct by Quantity Surveyors in the construction industry. The study recommended that Quantity Surveyors should not always make financial benefits, other advantages as their real concern and gain cash unethically by all means. Others professionals in the industry ought to dependably be caution and endeavor not to keep any untrustworthy conduct among themselves. Major client in Nigeria construction industry, which is the government need to be fair to the Quantity Surveyors and other professionals in the construction industry.
DEMOCRATIZATION PROCESS AND THE UNFOLDING HISTORICAL DIALETICS OF WOMEN POLITICAL PARTICIPATION IN SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA
Authors: Umar Musa Kabir , Mashi Mubarak Ahmed
Published: January 2021

The main thrust of this paper is centered around examining the historical challenges confronting women political participation in the democratization process of the Sub-Saharan African countries. In the past, indeed, women were never equal to men in the political sphere, because in the precolonial Africa, they were being allowed by men to ruled kingdoms, established cities, launched military conquests, and formed states. However, they unfortunately lost out in such arrangements and the social status with the coming and spread of Islam and Christianity and later colonization. Although women are key actors in the democratization process world over, they have now been politically, socially and economically marginalized especially in the Sub-Saharan African region. Marginalization has been a great challenge to the women of the region due to some socio-religious beliefs that came to the fore particularly with the emergence of Islam and Christianity. Likewise, in the contemporary African politics women are relegated to the background, hence sidelined, without tolerable and equal participation in the governance of their own social formations. The paper, therefore, adopts historical and descriptive approaches to argue that despite the increasing number of women in politics, the political landscape is still largely occupied by men. This is seen in the challenges facing the active political participation of women in the process such as cultural factors, lack of adequate representation and consultation in the political parties’ decision-making processes, gender discrimination, lack of fund and so on which the paper revealed. The paper concludes that the involvement of West African women in the democratization process would provide a new track in the developmental agendas of the entire region. And, a specific step to promote gender equality which would advance the status of women and young girls in the process of democratization in Sub-Saharan Africa is greatly needed.
AN EXAMINATION OF THE IMPLEMENTATIONS OF EDUCATION ARMY DEVELOPMENT (ONE TO FIVE TEAM WORKS) IN HIGH SCHOOLS
Authors: Terfa Miressa Amenu
Published: January 2021

The study, tried to find out students’ role and perception in implementing one to five team work, examine to what extent school directors facilitate safe environment for the implementation of one to five teamwork and identify the major factors that might hamper the impleentation of one to five teamwork. In order to meet the research goal, descriptive survey design was employed, which involves both methods. In this study, 100 students participated in the research. Thus, descriptive statistics using frequencies and percentages were employed in analyzing the quantitative data and the qualitative data were analyzed qualitatively. The results of the study revealed that students perceived one to five education army development group works positively. However, the followings were found to be the main constraint encountered during one to five team work activities on the findings, it was concluded that one to five teamwork was not properly implemented by the majority of students as it was expected.
APPLYING COOPERATIVE LEARNING TO COLLEGE STUDENTS TO ENHANCE THEIR COMMUNICATIVE SKILLS
Authors: Terfa Miressa Amenu
Published: January 2021

Cooperative learning has proved to be an effective method for both teachers and students and it has been found to have many positive benefits to foreign language teaching.  This paper was aimed at applying cooperative learning to college students for English as a foreign language (EFL). The participants of the study were summer three Art students of Mettu College of Teachers Education. Accordingly, all participants were selected through purposive sampling techniques for the questionnaire and Focus group discussion. Qualitative data were obtained and analyzed qualitatively. The major findings of this study suggested that cooperative learning helped significantly to enhance the college learners’ oral communicative skills and their motivation toward learning English as a Foreign Language (EFL). Furthermore, the findings revealed students’ contradictory views regarding native language use and whether CL could help them improve their language skills. Sometimes, students switched to their native language to clarify points or communicate with group members since, as noted in the observations, a large percentage of language classrooms allowed students to use their native language during group discussion.
ICT RESOURCES AVAILABLE FOR TEACHERS IN BASIC SCHOOLS IN ADANSI ATOBIASE IN THE ADANSI SOUTH DISTRICT OF GHANA
Authors: Ampofo Justice Agyei , Antwi Abrefi Abigail
Published: January 2021

Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has become one of the basic building blocks of modern society hence ICT resources are key in effective teaching and learning. However, there seems to be paucity of studies on ICT resources available in public basic schools in general andAdansi Atobiase in particular. This research seeks to bridge this knowledge gap by finding out ICT resources available for teachers in their teaching at public basic schools in Adansi Atobiase in the Adansi South District of the Ashanti Region of Ghana. Study methods include, the use of questionnaire (close and open-endedquestions). A total of 40 respondents (40 teachers) who took part in this study were purposively selected. The results indicate that the basic school teachers in Adansi Atobiase do not have all the ICT available resources to facilitate teaching and learning. The study also found out that ICT resources such as ICT teacher, laptop, computers, projectors, ICT laboratory and internet access are not available at basic schools in Adansi Atobiase. It emerged from the study that availability of ICT resources, students’ readiness to embrace technology, teachers’ readiness to embrace technology, availability of technical support, stable power supply and intention to facilitate teaching and learning are the factors that influence the teachers’ usage of ICT resources in teaching and learning in basic schools in Adansi Atobiase. The study recommends that ICT basic resources like computers, laptops and infrastructures should be provided to the basic schools in Adansi Atobiase in the Adansi South District of the Ashanti Region of Ghana for effective use of ICT in teaching and learning at the basic schools since it is the basic stage of equipping the youth with the necessary skills and knowledge for national development. The study finally recommends that basic school teachers in the Adansi South District especially those in Adansi Atobiase should be given the necessary training in ICT usage so that they become familiar with modern pedagogy of imparting knowledge and skills, and possible become part of curriculum structure for their professional training.Lastly the study recommends that modern ICT laboratories should be built in Adansi Atobiase to accommodate enough students at time looking at their population size for effective and efficient teaching and learning environment.
Keywords:ICT, Resources, Teachers, Basic Schools, Adansi Atobiase, Adansi South District, Ghana.
CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY: A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF CSR PRACTICES IN TOBACCO AND SUGAR MILLS SECTOR INDUSTRIES OF KHYBER PAKHTUNKHWA
Authors: Akhtar Dr. Pervez , Shah Dr. Iqbal
Published: January 2021

Aim of the study was to find out and compare the level of understanding and practices of CSR in the two different sectors of economy in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Purpose of the study was to find out and compare the understanding of corporate social responsibility in these two different types of large scale industries of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. That is, how well the management of the Tobacco sector and Sugar mills industry understands the CSR phenomena and how effective are their CSR practices. The study was restricted to the highest managers by using open and pre-structured questionnaire. The qualitative approach to research was used for the study. The Miles and Huberman (1994) three-stage process approach was used for data analysis. The study concluded that the understanding and the quality of CSR practices were more properly planned, coordinated, integrated and effectively performed in the Tobacco sector as compared to the Sugar Mills sector industries due to more organized and planned CSR efforts in that sector, which resulted in greater efficacy of the CSR efforts performed by the Tobacco Sector for the society..
CONFLICTS AS AN EFFECT OF ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION IN VERY POOR COUNTRIES: AN EXPLORATORY RESEARCH ON EXPERIENCED CHRISTIAN CONSUMERS IN BURKINA FASO
Authors: NASSE THEOPHILE BINDEOUE
Published: January 2021

The topic of alcohol consumption and conflicts has been explored in several context not only because consumers do not have a good consumption culture, but also because alcohol consumption often leads to social violence (Nasse, 2018; Nasse, Ouédraogo & Diop, 2019). Most of the studies on the topic are done in other contexts. Little research on the subject has been conducted in Burkina Faso. Therefore, this research aims to explore the concepts of alcohol consumption and conflicts in the context. Burkina Faso is a country where religion plays a significant role. However, alcohol consumption is increasing (Sow, 2005), even among consumers who are believers, but ignorance in the sector of marketing seems to be a barrier that favors unethical consumption. The research is a mixed approach. The qualitative data collection is performed with a voice recorder by the means of some semi-structured interviews. Then, the qualitative data is transcribed by hand. The quantitative data is collected by the means of a questionnaire. The qualitative data and the quantitative data are performed using sphinx IQ software. The results show that social class moderates the relationship between alcohol consumption and conflicts.
SOFT DRINKS CONSUMPTION AND MARKET OPPORTUNITIES IN WEST AFRICA: AN EVIDENCE FROM BURKINA FASO IN A MARKETING PERSPECTIVE
Authors: Nassè Théophile Bindeouè , Carbonell Nicolas , Tchokomakoua Gilles
Published: January 2021

From a field study, part of which consists of consumer surveys of fruit juices "hand in hand", we make an overview of the market of juices and sweets in Burkina Faso, its characteristics (to take into account by a newcomer), and in particular we build the consumer profile (characteristics, preferences, loyalty), in order to give tips to optimize any marketing strategy. We found that consumers in Burkina Faso say they prefer natural beverages to industrial drinks, while they buy them massively (because they are cheaper and more available). Particularly sweet food supplements, they cause certain health risks that the consumer neglects. As it is a very fast-growing market, it makes enormous opportunities for the manufacture and distribution of new products. But beware, the Burkinabe consumer is very loyal to his/her brands, and to succeed, the marketing mix should be adapted to the characteristics of Burkina Faso.
STAKEHOLDERS RESPONSIBILITIES IN PUBLIC SHS BUILDINGS MAINTENANCE PRACTICES IN THE WA MUNICIPALITY
Authors: Ampofo Justice Agyei , Nassè Dr. Théophile Bindeouè , Amoah Dr. Samuel Twumasi , Peprah Prof. Kenneth
Published: January 2021

Public senior high school buildings in Ghana represent significant investment of the tax payers’ money and therefore maintaining these buildings is important. However, there seems to be paucity of studies on stakeholders’ responsibilities in public senior high schools’ buildings maintenance practices in general and Wa Municipality in particular. This research seeks to bridge this knowledge gap by evaluating stakeholders’ responsibilities in public senior high schools’ buildings maintenance practices in the Wa Municipality of the Upper West Region of Ghana. Study methods include the use of questionnaire, interview guides, focus group discussion guide and observation checklist for data analysis. A total of 393 respondents (197 students, 140 teachers and 56 school management) who took part in this study were purposively selected. The study found out that the major stakeholders involved in the maintenance and repairs of the public senior school buildings in the Wa Municipality have not perform their roles creditably. The implication is that maintenance activities at the public senior high schools have not been efficient and effective as stakeholders failed to achieve maintenance aims. The study recommends that, there is the need for all stakeholders in the Wa Municipality such as the governments, professionals which include contractors, engineers, architects, facility managers, etc. others include the teaching and non-teaching staff, PTA, students, GES, municipal department of maintenance, school management and Others like NGO’s, Media and Olds tudents Association to be responsible in their roles and functions on maintenance of public buildings so as to protect government buildings as well as ensuring resource management.
EXAMINING SOCIAL CLASS DIFFERENCES IN ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION AND HOUSEHOLD CONFLICTS: A QUANTITATIVE APPROACH ON CHRISTIAN CONSUMERS IN BURKINA FASO
Authors: Nassè Théophile Bindeouè
Published: January 2021

The present research purposes are to explore the relationships of social class and alcohol consumption, and the relationships of alcohol consumption and household conflicts in Ouagadougou. A quantitative research design is used to collect data from both primary and secondary sources for analysis using sphinx IQ software. Some self-administered questionnaires were used for data collection. The quantitative results demonstrate that social class is a moderator of alcohol consumption and conflicts. The recommendation is that very poor, poor and middle-class consumers should strongly moderate their alcohol consumption, because they are those who are more affected by the negative effects of alcohol intake.Keywords: Social Class, Alcohol Consumption, Household Conflicts, Ouagadougou.
SLOW INDUSTRIAL OUTPUT GROWTHEVIDENCE-BASED ON KOHAT ROAD INDUSTRIAL ESTATE PESHAWAR-PAKISTAN
Authors: Umer Muhammad , Ying Liu , Abbasi Babar Nawaz , Mudassar Riaz Muhammad
Published: January 2021

The past decade has seen slowdowns in measured labor productivity growth across a broad swath of developed economies. The industrial sector grew 5.02 per cent in the outgoing fiscal year as opposed to the growth rate of 5.8pc recorded a year ago, in Pakistan. The main objective of this research is to examinethe small industrial performance in Peshawar-Pakistan. KPK is the smallest province in terms of area, among the four provinces, and the third-largest in terms of population. This study is about the total units Kohat road 124 industrial estates and 71 are closed which has spawned many social evils such a phenomenal increase in smuggling, trade and macro-unemployed youths indulge in illegal commercial ventures. The results show that the contribution of small-scale industrial sector toward the socio-economic development of the province is not significant. Furthermore, the main reasons are inconvenient location (away from the seaport), non-availability of skilled labor, inconsistent government policies, the dearth of local capital, lack of infrastructure and comparatively poor law and order situation, due to Afghan War, and operation in tribal areas. Nonetheless, certain policy recommendations were suggested based on the finding.
DEVELOPMENT COMMUNICATION AND PERFORMANCE IN THE PROJECTS OF LOW-INCOME COUNTRIES: THE CASE OF THE REGIONAL SUPPORT PROJECT FOR PASTORALISM IN THE SAHEL (PRAPS) IN NIGER
Authors: Soutongo Bande Régina , Nassè Dr. Théophile Bindeouè
Published: January 2021

In West Africa, pastoral systems provide more than 80% of income to rural households and are a vital food source for urban populations. The six Sahelian countries (Burkina Faso, Chad, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, and Senegal) have around 20 million pastoralists who raise a population of 60 million cattle and 160 million small ruminants. However, projects in pastoral systems sometimes experience communication-related failures. Development communication is very important within the Regional Support Project for Pastoralism in the Sahel (PRAPS). Still, it must be recognized that some of the objectives are not achieved because of certain factors related to communication which are not taken into account. This state of affairs raises a question: How can the objectives set by PRAPS be achieved with an efficient communication?   The approach used here is inductive, and the research is conducted through qualitative interviews carried out with focus groups. Data is collected using a digital recorder, then, the data is hand-transcribed and analyzed. The results show not only that development communication has effects on project results, but also that development communication has effects on the performance of projects of the Regional Support Project for Pastoralism in the Sahel (PRAPS). It is recommended that project supervisors should put an emphasis on an effective development communication in order to achieve the objectives of the Regional Support Project for Pastoralism in the Sahel (PRAPS).
CHINA-PAKISTAN ECONOMIC CORRIDOR (CPEC’S) SOCIO-ECONOMIC IMPACTS ON PAKISTAN
Authors: Hussain Saddam , Sohail Ali , Yu Chunjiao , Manzoor Sadaf , Zahid Ayesha
Published: January 2021

CPEC being a mega project of the recent era not only in South Asia but throughout the world. CPEC is going to take place between Pakistan and China by bringing enormous economic betterment and lifestyle changes for the people living in Pakistan. Both countries, China and Pakistan are agreed to build one road one belt which is commonly known as China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) with the intentions to bring peace and prosperity as well as to enhance business activities by promoting trade with each other and with rest of the world, which will directly affect on economic growth. Being a mega economic project for both countries it will bring prosperity and economic stability. It will enhance Pakistan’s infrastructure (road, railway and telecommunication), overcome energy crises, develop trade, modernize and develop agriculture and manufacturing industry and mutual connectivity between people of both countries which is a very important factor for trade. China being the strongest economy of the present day will support the new economically arising country (Pakistan). China will pull Pakistan from the crises by applying modern technology and high financial support, which every country faces during the difficult time of raising its economy. This study helps to overlook and analyze the benefits of CPEC for the people of Pakistan.
Keywords: China Pakistan Economic Corridor, One Belt One Road, Gwadar, Socio-Economic Development
EQUITY AND PRODUCTS OF SMEs: A CRITICAL LITERATURE REVIEW IN A MARKETING PERSPECTIVE
Authors: Nassè Dr. Théophile Bindeouè
Published: January 2021

The main purpose of this paper is to review the multiple understandings of the concept of equity and its different underpinning theories in a business to customer context. The design of this research is based on a mere documentary analysis and some observations. However, the findings show that equity is mainly understood as fairness, as well as distributive justice in the business setting.This paper serves to remind manufacturers and managers that they should abide to fair practices in order to offer some good quality products or services as well as some very fair prices that are in line with the customer expectations in terms of norms, requirements, and needs.Keywords: Equity, customer, distributive justice, marketing.
A STUDY OF INTESTINAL OBSTRUCTION CONSERVTIVE VERSUS SURGICAL MANAGEMENT
Authors: Oyinlola MA , Omisakin OA
Published: January 2021

Intestinal obstruction refers to the impairment to the abnormal passage of intestinal contents which can be due to the mechanical obstruction or failure of normal intestinal motility in the absence of an obstructing lesion. Extra luminal, intrinsic, and intraluminal are three categories of small bowel obstruction. In this retrospective observational study, patients presenting to the A&E department of surgery unit who had similar condition were screened. The study is based on total of 60 patients out of which 22 patients managed conservatively whereas 38 patients were managed surgically. Common symptoms were abdominal pain and vomiting. 20 patients had previous abdominal surgery; 16 had exploratory laparotomy for abdominal trauma, perforation, gynae procedure, etc. 4 patients developed characteristic of obstruction following laproscopic. 14 patients undergone surgery while 6 patients were managed conservatively. Surgically managed duration was 2.8 days on average. Mean duration for conservatively managed patients was 2.9 days. Among the surgically managed patients, 11 had strictures, 14 had adhesion, 8 had obstructed hernia, 1 had intussusception, and 4 had abdominal TB. Based on the cause of the obstruction, surgical procedure was carried out. History of abdominal surgery was found to be more frequent in whom obstruction was relieved conservatively. The conclusion of the study is that adhesions based on previously conducted surgery are important causes of SBO. Two common method of managing the condition is conservative management and surgical management. The criteria for utilizing particular method is based on several patient related factors. Clinical decisions guide the management of SBO and timing of surgical intervention.
ANALYSIS OF SELECTION OF CONTRACEPTIVE METHOD AMONG WOMEN IN TANZANIA
Authors: Lee Woo , John Jasson
Published: January 2021

There are numerous methods of contraception selection and making selection among one of these method is an important decision. Commence of suitable contraception is important before starting first post-abortal menstrual period. Generally, it is required to provide individuals and couples about treatments, complications, counseling related to HIV/STI as part of post abortion care. The study is observational in nature and conducted in a hospital in Tanzanian capital. The sample included in the study was 60 patients. The results showed that among illiterate women along with those who have more than 1 living son or who have 4 or more living children prefer permanent method. We also found that contraception method is influenced by different demographic factors including living children gender, couple age, education, and income. Couples who feel that their families are completed mostly opt for permanent method of contraception. Family planning choices is also influenced by desire for a male child.
CASE STUDY OF TITANIUM ELASTIC NAIL FOR FRACTURES
Authors: Sadiq Mohammad , Alam Mohammad
Published: January 2021

Mostly, clavicle fracture is treated conservatively but because of higher rates of delayed union, non-union, symptomatic, malunion cosmetic deformity and other complications, there is increased used of operative management for clavicle fracture. In this regard, plating and intramedullary nailing are common surgical options. The operative technique is also found to be producing favorable results compare to the traditional method based on recent prospective randomized studies. In this study, the objective is to make a comparison between clinical results, operative method, and resulting complications proportion. The study was conducted on 66 patients who had OTA type B DMCFs and underwent surgical fixation with antegrade TENs and 1/3rd tubular plate. The study participants were divided in to two groups based on TENS and other with plate fixation with 1/3rd tubular plate. We conducted evaluation using constant-murley shoulder outcome and dash scores at 6, 12, weeks, 3, 6, and 12 months for determining outcomes. It was observed that among TENS group, there was easier implant removal and minimal complications, less blood loss, lesser operating time, with only complication of shortening of about 0.5 cm in fewer cases. In the other group which is plate group, no major complications were observed except minor one such as deep infection, superficial infection, hypertrophied scarring without pain, and decreased shoulder motion with no case of shortening. In terms of union and stability, no significant differences were found in both groups. Based on the result, it is suggested that TENS is more preferable since it involves fewer morbidity, better cosmetic results, and easier implant removal. Fixation with plate seems to be little more stable and its implant of choice is comminuted fracture.
INVESTIGATION OF RISPERIDONE; CASE OF SELECTED PATIENTS FROM KENYA
Authors: Ohabuneyi Nnedinso , Nwafor Felix Ifeanyi
Published: January 2021

Risperidone is considered as an atypical antipsychotic. It is considered as an effective treatment of psychotic disorders in adults. However, our understanding of its usage among young individuals is limited. In this study, the objective was to identify the safety profile of Risperidone among young children. Methodology wise, the study was conducted among children of less than 5 years old who were treating behavioral problems associated with various childhood disorders. The study was conducted in a hospital in Nairobi, Kenya. Common childhood disorders were diagnosed using the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM IV) and those associated with disruptive behavioral problems. We used Clinical Global Impression- Severity (CGI-S) and Improvement (CGI-I) scales for symptoms severity and improvement respectively. We took informed consents from parents of the children and initiated Risperidone. The total of 12 patients were included in the study consist of PDD (n=4), PDD plus ADHD (n=2), PDD plus ADHD plus Intellectual disability (n=2), Cerebral Palsy with Epilepsy (n=2) and Global developmental delay (n=2). Baseline and end point CGI scores were 5-6 and 1-2 respectively. Baseline investigations such as lipid profile, fasting blood sugar levels, Electro cardiogram (ECG) were recorded and compared before and after initiation of risperidone. Dose range of risperidone was 0.5-2mg per day. Common side effects were sedation and weight gain in a few patients only. No life-threatening side effects were noted. Our conclusion is that risperidone is well tolerated even in children below 5 years of age over a period of 1 year with improvement in target symptoms.
Analysis of agricultural trade in China based on the theory of factor endowment
Authors: Maslak Nataliia , Lei Zhang , Xu Lu
Published: January 2021

Purpose. The purpose of the paper is to present the results of the study of agricultural trade in China based on the theory of factor endowment and to develop a policy recommendation for the intensification of agricultural trade based on technological progress.

Methodology / approach. This paper uses the methods of economic theory and comparative analysis to study the development of agricultural products trade in China; analysis the advantages of developing agricultural products trade in China by using comparative advantage theory; and econometric analysis to study the relationship between volume of agrarian trade and agricultural labor force, capital and land resources.

Results. This paper uses time series data to analyze the three elements of capital, labor and land, and the development of agricultural trade in China. According to the established data model, it is obviously that China’s agricultural production of land factor endowment constraints are obvious, labor factor endowment is abundant but also facing the problem of increasing costs, labor personnel gradually decline. In this case, technological progress is more critical to the cultivation and maintenance of comparative advantage of agricultural products. The government should guide the direction of technological changes, technical support, capital support (material capital and human capital); and promote the rapid development of China’s agricultural trade.

Originality / scientific novelty. Author’s developed econometric model is very useful in empirical assessment for the China agricultural products trade development, and it also provides new decisions for China to develop agricultural trade. Accordingly, the proposed method can provide an answer to the question of how to develop traditional agriculture in the context of rapid economic changes, and put forward more practical countermeasures.

Practical value / significance. The main proposals can be used by the Government of China to formulate better agricultural trade policies and achieve rapid economic growth and increasing farmer incomes.
Modernization of vocational education in the context of rural human resources development in China
Authors: Stoyanets Nataliya , Zhao Hejun , Li Guohou
Published: January 2021

Purpose. The purpose of the article is to study the experience of the development of rural vocational education since the reform and opening up, analyze and summarize the rapid development of rural vocational education in China in the context of rural human resources development.

Methodology / approach. The methods adopted in this research are mainly literature research and thematic research. Through thematic research on vocational education-related fields since the reform and opening up, and analysis, research, and induction of policies, data, phenomena, and conclusions in various vocational education literatures, it forms an objective summary of the development of rural vocational education in China since the reform and opening up.

Results. Reform and opening up is the most critical period for the rapid development of various industries in China, including vocational education. This paper studies the overall situation of the development of vocational education in China since the reform and opening up, the relationship between the development of rural vocational education and policy support at the national level is concluded, it demonstrates that rural vocational education is an important cornerstone of national construction and development, and the focus and characteristic of rural vocational education is to condense the Chinese experience of school-running characteristics, it also summarizes the main problems of rural vocational education in China.

Originality / scientific novelty. A multi-dimensional analysis of the development of China’s rural vocational education in the 42 years of reform and opening up has been made, and conclusions have been drawn for the development of rural vocational education with Chinese characteristics.

Practical value / implications. This paper analyzes the key factors for the success of rural vocational education in China through the study of China’s practice in the field of rural vocational education since the reform and opening up, it has certain reference significance for the future policy formulation and development of rural vocational education, promotes the development of rural human resources and increases the rate of urbanization.
Relationship between access to financial services and youth involvement in agricultural value chains in Kakamega county, Kenya
Authors: Rogito Jeremiah Magoma , Makhanu Everlyne , Mombinya Beatrice Kerubo , Nyamota Geoffrey
Published: January 2021

Purpose. Agribusiness offers huge employment potential considering its wide labour absorptive capacity and the youth have a role to play. The study aimed at assessing the relationship between access to financial services and youth involvement in agricultural value chains. Methodology / approach. The study was conducted in Kakamega County, Kenya. Stratified and simple random sampling was adopted to select 240 respondents. Interviews were conducted using a stratified questionnaire. The collected data were analyzed to generate frequencies, percentages and correlation. Results. The results revealed that youth involvement across the agricultural value chain is low. Further, there was a strong correlation between access to finance and youth involvement in agricultural value chains. Inadequate access to financial services is a key constrain to agricultural productivity in Kakamega county as it affects all aspects of the value chain except consumption. Originality / scientific novelty. The study considers the entire agricultural value chain from production to consumption and assesses the relationship between financial resource access and youth involvement at each segment of the value chain. This is significant since the Kenyan population is youthful. Practical value / implications. The study reveals that there is a strong relationship between access to financial service and youth involvement in the agricultural value chain towards securing their livelihoods. This knowledge is useful to County and national government policymakers and Donor agencies to formulate policies that will enhance youth access to financial resources and consequently their involvement in the Agricultural Value Chain to grow their incomes and improvement of their wellbeing. This will be achieved by knowing what segments of the value chain offer best opportunities for them to thrive in business to guide development of intervention strategies.
Стандартизація аудиту звітності зі сталого розвитку компаній
Authors: Makarenko Inna , Kravchenko Olena , Ovcharova Natalia , Zemliak Natalia , Makarenko Serhiy
Published: January 2021

Метою статті є обґрунтування доцільності використання стандартів, що регулюють порядок проведення аудиту звітності зі сталого розвитку, для упорядкування процесу верифікації такої звітності в інтересах стейкхолдерів.

Методологія / методика / підхід. Методологічною основою дослідження виступають компаративний і контент-аналіз міжнародно визнаних стандартів аудиту звітності зі сталого розвитку, зокрема Cтандарту із надання впевненості AA1000 (AA1000AS, AccountAbility) та Міжнародного стандарту з надання впевненості МСЗНВ 3000 Ради з надання впевненості (International Standard on Assurance Engagements (ISAE 3000) «Завдання з надання впевненості, що не є аудитом, чи оглядом історичної фінансової інформації» Ради з надання впевненості. Застосування цих аналітичних інструментів дозволило виділити переваги та обмеження кожного з названих стандартів.

Результати. Установлено, що забезпечення незалежного аудиторського підтвердження звітності зі сталого розвитку характеризується зростаючим трендом серед найбільших світових компаній. Аудит є однією з умов забезпечення довіри до звітності зі сталого розвитку для стейкхолдерів, відповідно стандартизація аудиту звітності зі сталого розвитку виступає запорукою якості його проведення та надійності отриманих аудитором висновків. Проведено аналіз обсягів подання верифікованої звітності зі сталого розвитку та компаративний аналіз двох основних стандартів у сфері її аудиту за основними критеріями, що охоплюють їх статус, мету, верифікаторів, процеси, вимоги, обсяги та принципи проведення, оформлення результатів та особливості публікації думки аудитора.

Оригінальність / наукова новизна. Обґрунтовано важливість і доцільність застосування міжнародно визнаних стандартів AA1000 та ISAE 3000 як бенчмарків для стандартизації звітності зі сталого розвитку на основі визначених їхніх переваг та недоліків. Порівняльна характеристика й оцінка частоти практичного застосування вказаних стандартів аудиту звітності зі сталого розвитку дістала дальшого розвитку.

Практична цінність / значущість. З урахуванням вигід та обмежень проаналізованих стандартів на регуляторному рівні, зокрема і в Україні, можуть бути розроблені національні підходи щодо стандартизації аудиту звітності зі сталого розвитку. На рівні окремих компаній, зокрема великих аграрних холдингів, зазначені стандарти можуть використовуватися паралельно в комунікативному полі їхньої взаємодії зі стейкхолдерами залежно від категорій зазначених сторін.
Actual monograph on the strategy for the development of low carbon land use in the context of climate change
Authors: Lakov Plamen
Published: January 2021

Review for the monograph by Anatolii Kucher «Strategic directions of the development of low carbon land use to strengthen resilience to climate change» is presented.