Programmers Research Articles

Analytical skills for accounting students in a data-driven job market: Australian evidence

Purpose The purpose of this study is to investigate the essential analytical skills required by accounting students to succeed in a rapidly evolving data-driven job market. Specifically, the study explores the role of data analytics, visualisation and software proficiency (e.g. Excel, Power BI) in the contemporary Australian accounting industry. The scope extends to providing recommendations for academia, professional bodies and employers on how accounting education can better align with the dynamic needs of the business environment by integrating these skills into curricula and professional development programmes. Design/methodology/approach Data was collected from Australian job listings incorporating accounting and data analytics tasks from popular job advertisement websites such as Seek, Indeed and Monster. Using the keyword “Data Analyst”, information was gathered on skills demanded, technology proficiency, industry sectors, professional qualifications and salary expectations. The data set comprised 73 observations across various job requirements and characteristics variables. Findings Critical analytical skills sought by accounting professionals in the current job market include extracting insights from big data, solving complex business problems, effective communication and data visualisation. Proficiency in tools like Microsoft Excel, SQL and Power BI is paramount. Originality/value This study enriches the literature by providing comprehensive insights into the contemporary demands for accounting analytics skills. It highlights the importance of integrating technology into accounting education and the varying skill requirements across industries. Additionally, it offers implications for professional qualifications and underscores the necessity for continuous monitoring and adaptation of accounting curricula to meet evolving industry needs.

PHYSICAL REHABILITATION FOR YOUNG MEN WITH GRADE I AND II OBESITY

The goal of this study is to study the role of exercise and dietary modification in the treatment of obesity in young men. Materials and methods. A study was conducted with 10 young men aged 25 to 30 who had a body mass index (BMI) exceeding 30 kg/m², indicative of obesity. The primary intervention combined diet therapy with increased physical activity. Most participants also had obesity-related comorbidities, including arterial hypertension, autonomic-vascular dystonia, type II diabetes, and spinal osteochondrosis. Patient motivation was considered crucial in program development, and thus only individuals with a high motivation level were selected for participation. Results and discussion. Based on data from dynamic observations, we can state that the physical therapy program studied has a positive effect on body weight reduction in cases of mild forms of alimentary obesity. After three months of participation, an average weight loss of 8.5% was observed, which represents a very favorable outcome. The results indicate that physical exercises combined with dietary adjustments positively influence weight loss dynamics in young men with grade 1 alimentary obesity. Weight loss occurred most rapidly during the first month of the program. Conclusion. The physical therapy program for grade 1 obesity involves a comprehensive approach, combining physical exercises conducted in a medical rehabilitation department with a specially designed dietary plan. This program is recommended for individuals with mild forms of alimentary obesity and a body mass index (BMI) up to 35 kg/m². After three months of implementing this approach, participants showed an average reduction in excess body weight of 8.5%. This physical therapy program may be effectively used for managing grade I obesity.

Relatives’ and Intensive Care Unit Personnel’s Perspectives of Care in Organ Donation: Protocol for a Multiple Methods Study

Background In organ donation from deceased donors, the interaction between the donor’s relatives and intensive care personnel is an important factor. The organ donation (OD) process is complex, and patients’ relatives play a vital role. Intensive care professionals need knowledge about how relatives perceive and experience the process to create a caring environment and support them throughout. Therefore, this collaborative project aims to explore both relatives’ and intensive care personnel’s perspectives of care in deceased organ donation in Scandinavia. Objective This study aims to (1) investigate donor relatives’ satisfaction and ICU personnel’s perception of their own professional competence and (2) explore donor relatives’ and ICU personnel’s experiences in the OD process to design for care and support in OD. Methods This protocol outlines a Scandinavian (Norway, Sweden, and Denmark) project, including 4 work packages. Work package 1 started in 2023 with the translation and validation of the Family Satisfaction in the Intensive Care Unit questionnaire into a Danish version and the translation of the Professional Competence in Organ Donation Questionnaire into a Swedish and Danish version. A cross-sectional survey measuring Scandinavian relatives’ perception of support in and satisfaction with the organ donation process and a cross-sectional survey measuring Scandinavian intensive care personnel’s competence in organ donation are the foundation for work package 2 (2024). The data from both surveys will be analyzed using descriptive and comparative analysis. The results will inform the interview guides in qualitative studies (work packages 3 and 4). Participants in the quantitative study will be invited to participate in in-depth interviews. In work package 3, in-depth interviews will be conducted to illuminate relatives’ experiences in the organ donation process. The interviews will be analyzed using thematic analysis, according to Braun and Clarke. In work package 4 (2025-2026), 1 qualitative design study will be conducted to illuminate ICU personnel’s experiences. Furthermore, the results from work packages 2 and 3 will inform the development of specific programs for care, support, and communication in the organ donation process. Results The project was funded by the Norwegian Organ Donor Foundation in 2022 and Scandiatransplant in 2023. The Norwegian Nurses Organisation supports the project by funding a PhD student. The PhD student was employed by the University in Agder in May 2024. Conclusions This project will provide new knowledge that will assist us in designing and establishing programs for care, support, and donor relatives’ involvement in OD processes. International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID) PRR1-10.2196/55643

Empowerment and connection

This poster showcases a case study of an Australian higher education institution’s artificial intelligence (AI) literacy staff development program. It offers practical suggestions to ASCILITE attendees on how to empower academic and professional staff to navigate the unknown terrain of generative AI collaboratively and responsibly. Since the release of ChatGPT in November 2022, higher education institutions have been grappling with its impact on assessment, teaching and learning, and the world of work (CRADLE Blog, 2023) -culminating in the Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency (TEQSA) Request for Information (RFI) about how institutions will engage with AI and secure course integrity (TEQSA, 2024). Effective institutional responses to TEQSA’s RFI are predicated on staff at all levels rapidly developing their AI literacy in order to conceptualise and implement the curriculum and assessment changes required. AI literacy is generally accepted to include understanding of AI tools and how they work, discussion of ethical and societal implications and critical evaluation of their outputs, and competency in integration of AI ethically and effectively into daily practice (Chan & Colloton, 2024; Hibbert, Melanie et al., 2024; Hillier, 2023). This poses a significant challenge for institutions because of rapidly evolving AI tools and the diverse capabilities and starting points of large staff cohorts, including among third space support staff responsible for implementation. ECU's evolving strategy for building organisational capacity in AI literacy is outlined in this poster. The approach, which aligns with ECU’s Framework and Guidelines for Ethical and Productive Use of AI (Edith Cowan University, 2023), is designed to empower and enable staff. It intentionally incorporates connectivist and constructivist learning theories, informed by Fink's Taxonomy of Significant Learning (Fink, 2013) and Miller's Pyramid (Miller, 1990). This meant (a) providing essential foundational knowledge about AI, (b) developing practical skills through hands-on experience and exploration, and (c) fostering collective capability through sharing and collaboration. These efforts complemented initiatives to support student AI literacy through similar impactful interventions (Sullivan et al., 2024). In 2024, ECU implemented the following activities to support academic and professional staff: “AI 101” Canvas site: Covers how AI works, ethical and societal considerations, and AI in learning and teaching. “Explore AI” workshops: Focused on practical exploration of AI tools that generate both text and images, as well as ethics, research and assessment. “AI Digest” Viva Engage Community: Provides regular updates about AI. Generative AI tools: A series of tools for trials e.g., custom chatbots and image generators. Workshops co-designed with Schools: Explores generative AI in discipline-specific ways (including arts, humanities, business, law and performing arts) Despite currently being voluntary, these initiatives have received strong engagement and positive feedback to date. For example, all respondents to the Explore AI Session feedback forms said they would recommend the sessions to colleagues. 331 academic and professional staff have engaged with the AI 101 Canvas site so far, spending a median of 3 hours and 5 minutes in the course. 74% of the 50 respondents to the AI 101 evaluation form stated that their confidence levels improved after completing the course. ECU continues to iteratively improve its AI literacy offerings and expand staff engagement, collectively making sense of generative AI and its effects as an institution.

Co-designing an artificial intelligence (AI) literacies framework for learning designers

Advances in artificial intelligence (AI) are undoubtedly changing the practice and profession of learning design. While the full impact is yet to be realised, learning designers grapple daily with the challenges, risk, and opportunities these technologies represent for changing how students learn, how faculty teach, and how we design. So, what knowledge, skills, and mindsets do learning designers need to survive and thrive in a post-AI higher education sector? This paper reports on a project to co-design an AI literacies framework for and with a team of learning designers. Using the world café method, we conducted an online workshop with a group of 18 learning designers, drawing on our collective experience and expertise to ideate and refine the essential elements of an AI literacies framework. The data generated was then coded and thematically analysed to develop a practical framework comprising four domains and 16 specific elements, each elaborated to describe the knowledge, skills, and mindsets required for post-AI learning design. This framework informs the development of training programs and professional learning opportunities for learning designers.

Preparing students for success

With increased demand for skilled professionals in science and technology, universities are broadening entry requirements resulting in students entering these specialised degrees with potential knowledge gaps. This presents an opportunity to uplift student capability through personalised learning journeys, enhancing their university readiness. This report details the Monash College's new maths uplift program, which uses skills analysis tools and self-assessment processes to determine “where students are” on their learning journey, both at entry to the Monash College and through to their first year of university. Mapped to the maths requirements of their chosen degree, this program comprises three key components: (1) a comprehensive Teaching and Learning progression that maps the learning trajectory via six core domains of mathematics, (2) a set of skills analysis tests aimed at different entry and exit points in mathematics, and (3) a large set of self-paced online learning modules recommended to students based on the outcomes of their individual skills analysis tests. The three key components work together to provide a tailored educational experience supporting students towards their destination degrees. This paper reports on the development of this uplift program and presents preliminary findings indicating positive impacts on student preparedness and engagement.

Possible Productivity Effects On Software Engineers by Advanced Artificial Intelligence

Within the past few years, starting from the greater public use of AI from the recent “AI Boom,” ChatGPT or AI-Language Model equivalents have been making their way into software and other computer science-related work environments for developers and software engineers to use without significant financial cost. In this paper, we often mention the word “productivity,” so it is important to know how we measure this: we measure productivity in lines of code (LOC) to gauge the raw amount of coding done, bug resolutions done by developers to measure the reviewing of code, and customer satisfaction to measure the quality of the code, then combine all of these into “overall productivity.” In this paper, we will examine the effects on productivity that these Large Language Models (LLMs) have had on software engineering or other similar jobs.

Efficient learning design

This paper investigates the efficiency of assistant professors and postdocs’ learning design interventions in connection with their participation in a teacher professional development (TPD) program (n = 62). Using the concept of Efficient Learning Design and a survey among educators, the efficiency of their designs is analysed, and the underlying factors are identified. The study shows that 92% (n = 57) of the design interventions had a positive impact, 73% (n = 45) had an impact equal to or higher than the required effort, and 8% (n = 5) made no significant difference or even had a negative impact. The paper identifies six factors for efficient learning design interventions based on the educators’ responses. These include leveraging opportunities where teaching requires redesign, guiding educators on effective pedagogical methods, utilising peer feedback and collaboration, creating reusable, technology-supported activities and materials, supporting educators’ design decisions and professional development, and ensuring a positive experience. Additionally, educators can benefit from a broad understanding of impact beyond improved learning outcomes.

Academic self-efficacy and digital competence in a sample of university students

The objective of this study is to determine the relationship between academic self-efficacy and digital competence in a sample of undergraduate university students in Peru. The design was nonexperimental, cross-sectional, and correlational. The non-probabilistic sample consisted of 98 students from a private university in Peru. Academic self-efficacy single-item scale and digital competence questionnaire were used. Spearman correlation coefficient, Kolmogorov-Smirnov test, and Mann-Whitney U test were used for statistical analysis. The statistical program used was SPSS v. 25. The average academic self-efficacy obtained was 3.73 (standard deviation [SD]=0.73). Regarding digital competence, the mean recorded was 72.34 (SD=11.57). Additionally, it was found that there were no significant differences in academic self-efficacy and digital competence according to gender (p>0.05). Similarly, it was found that there is a significant correlation between academic self-efficacy and digital competence in students (rho=0.438; p<0.001). Similarly, it was found that there is a correlation between academic self-efficacy and the five dimensions of digital competence (information, communication, content creation, technological security and problem-solving) in university students (p<0.05). This research could contribute to the development of programs, courses, or psychoeducational strategies for the development of academic self-efficacy and digital competence in university students.

Exploring the Interplay Between Self-Confidence and Emotional Intelligence in College-Level Educators: Implications for Teaching Effectiveness and Student Engagement

This study explores the relationship between self-confidence and emotional intelligence in college-level educators and examines their combined impact on teaching effectiveness and student engagement. As modern educational demands evolve, educators are increasingly recognized for their role in not only delivering content but also in fostering an inclusive, emotionally supportive learning environment. Self-confidence enables educators to present material with clarity, maintain authority, and adapt to diverse classroom challenges, while emotional intelligence equips them with empathy, self-awareness, and social skills essential for connecting with students on a personal level. The interplay of these traits contributes to a balanced teaching approach that supports both academic and emotional needs in students, thereby promoting active engagement, participation, and a positive classroom climate. This study utilizes a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative self assessments and qualitative interviews to capture the nuanced ways in which self-confidence and emotional intelligence interact and influence teaching dynamics. Findings indicate that educators who possess both high self-confidence and emotional intelligence create classrooms that encourage open communication, foster psychological safety, and inspire student motivation. However, several limitations are noted, including the subjective nature of self-reported data and the influence of cultural and contextual factors on perceptions of confidence and emotional intelligence. Additionally, the study's cross-sectional design limits insights into the long-term development of these traits in educators. Despite these limitations, the study underscores the critical role of emotional and interpersonal skills in effective teaching, suggesting that professional development programs should integrate training in self-confidence and emotional intelligence to enhance educators’ overall impact. These findings contribute to a growing body of literature advocating for a holistic approach to educator preparation, one that values emotional acumen and self-assuredness alongside academic expertise. By emphasizing the importance of these traits, institutions can better support educators in creating enriching, engaging, and resilient learning environments that prepare students for both academic success and personal growth.

Evolution and Research Trends in Physical Culture. A Longitudinal Analysis of Student Diploma Theses from the Didactic Team of Physical Culture Sciences, formerly the Department of Physical Culture, Faculty of Earth Sciences and Spatial Management, 2017-2

Objective: The aim of this study was to conduct a comprehensive analysis of diploma theses produced in the Department of Physical Culture at the Faculty of Earth Sciences and Spatial Management between 2017-2024, to identify main research trends, thematic evolution, and assess the impact of external factors on research directions in the field of physical culture. Material and Methods: The analysis included 95 diploma theses (82 bachelor's and 13 master's). Mixed research methods were applied, combining quantitative and qualitative analysis. Content analysis, statistical analysis (including chi-square tests, analysis of variance, linear regression), and advanced data analysis methods (LDA topic modeling, social network analysis, SARIMA time series analysis) were conducted. Additionally, measures of thematic diversity and supervisor specialization indicators were applied. Results: A statistically significant upward trend in the number of theses (β = 1.1875, p = 0.0134) and significant seasonality of defenses were found. Five main thematic areas were identified: physical activity and health (29.5%), tourism (23.2%), sport (21.1%), health (15.8%), and recreation (10.5%). LDA analysis revealed more detailed categories, indicating growing interdisciplinarity of research. A significant impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on thesis topics was observed in 2020-2021. Social network analysis showed a key role of certain supervisors in shaping research directions (highest eigenvector centrality = 1.00). Conclusions: The study revealed dynamic development of the physical culture discipline, with growing emphasis on interdisciplinarity and health aspects. Adaptation of research topics to current social and technological challenges was observed. Results indicate the need for further expansion of the thematic scope of theses, particularly in areas of new technologies and long-term effects of physical activity. The analysis provides valuable information for strategic planning of study program development and research directions in the field of physical culture, tourism, and recreation.

Power dynamics and social enterprises: A case study of an international NGO

AbstractHuman Resource Development (HRD) scholarship and practice include attention to social justice and human rights, which are critical in international workspaces, including social enterprises. HRD principles could help such organizations better foster intercultural collaboration and respect, while promoting both economic prosperity and social good. The purpose of this qualitative case study is to explore, through a critical national HRD lens, how HRD principles could enhance the operations of an international social enterprise, focused on skills development, capacity building, and empowerment for women entrepreneurs in Ghana. This study highlights the role HRD principles could play in addressing challenges the entrepreneurs faced and in enhancing economic and social development. We apply an integrated critical national HRD framework consisting of three components: (1) global awareness, (2) holistic, socially conscious economic development, and (3) the negotiated power and performance. We find that HRD practices, such as cross‐cultural training and development programs, could mitigate challenges entrepreneurs experienced due to cultural conflict based on language, mismatched expectations regarding production quality, and a lack of predictability or control over workload and compensation. Yet, the work of the nongovernmental organization (NGO) did support their financial independence and stability and work to consider the role of gender in the support women received. Attention to socially conscious economic development as viewed through the critical national HRD can support such organizations as they seek to address women's holistic needs. We offer recommendations for research, policy, and practice to help NGOs minimize sociocultural confusion, develop meaningful programming, and bridge the economic and social missions of the organization.

Novel application of metabolic imaging of early embryos using a light-sheet on-a-chip device: a proof-of-concept study

Abstract STUDY QUESTION Is it feasible to safely determine metabolic imaging signatures of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide [NAD(P)H] associated auto-fluorescence in early embryos using a light-sheet on-a-chip approach? SUMMARY ANSWER We developed an optofluidic device capable of obtaining high-resolution 3D images of the NAD(P)H autofluorescence of live mouse embryos using a light-sheet on-a-chip device as a proof-of-concept. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Selecting the most suitable embryos for implantation and subsequent healthy live birth is crucial to the success rate of assisted reproduction and offspring health. Besides morphological evaluation using optical microscopy, a promising alternative is the non-invasive imaging of live embryos to establish metabolic activity performance. Indeed, in recent years, metabolic imaging has been investigated using highly advanced microscopy technologies such as fluorescence-lifetime imaging and hyperspectral microscopy. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION The potential safety of the system was investigated by assessing the development and viability of live embryos after embryo culture for 67 h post metabolic imaging at the two-cell embryo stage (n = 115), including a control for culture conditions and sham controls (system non-illuminated). Embryo quality of developed blastocysts was assessed by immunocytochemistry to quantify trophectoderm and inner mass cells (n = 75). Furthermore, inhibition of metabolic activity (FK866 inhibitor) during embryo culture was also assessed (n = 18). PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS The microstructures were fabricated following a standard UV-photolithography process integrating light-sheet fluorescence microscopy into a microfluidic system, including on-chip micro-lenses to generate a light-sheet at the centre of a microchannel. Super-ovulated F1 (CBA/C57Bl6) mice were used to produce two-cell embryos and embryo culture experiments. Blastocyst formation rates and embryo quality (immunocytochemistry) were compared between the study groups. A convolutional neural network (ResNet 34) model using metabolic images was also trained. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE The optofluidic device was capable of obtaining high-resolution 3D images of live mouse embryos that can be linked to their metabolic activity. The system’s design allowed continuous tracking of the embryo location, including high control displacement through the light-sheet and fast imaging of the embryos (<2 s), while keeping a low dose of light exposure (16 J · cm−2 and 8 J · cm−2). Optimum settings for keeping sample viability showed that a modest light dosage was capable of obtaining 30 times higher signal-noise-ratio images than images obtained with a confocal system (P < 0.00001; t-test). The results showed no significant differences between the control, illuminated and non-illuminated embryos (sham control) for embryo development as well as embryo quality at the blastocyst stage (P > 0.05; Yate’s chi-squared test). Additionally, embryos with inhibited metabolic activity showed a decreased blastocyst formation rate of 22.2% compared to controls, as well as a 47% reduction in metabolic activity measured by metabolic imaging (P < 0.0001; t-test). This indicates that the optofluidic device was capable of producing metabolic images of live embryos by measuring NAD(P)H autofluorescence, allowing a novel and affordable approach. The obtained metabolic images of two-cell embryos predicted blastocyst formation with an AUC of 0.974. LARGE SCALE DATA N/A. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION The study was conducted using a mouse model focused on early embryo development assessing illumination at the two-cell stage. Further safety studies are required to assess the safety and use of 405 nm light at the blastocyst stage by investigating any potential negative impact on live birth rates, offspring health, aneuploidy rates, mutational load, changes in gene expression, and/or effects on epigenome stability in newborns. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS This light-sheet on-a-chip approach is novel and after rigorous safety studies and a roadmap for technology development, potential future applications could be developed for ART. The overall cost-efficient fabrication of the device will facilitate scalability and integration into future devices if full-safety application is demonstrated. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This work was partially supported by an Ideas Grant (no 2004126) from the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC), by the Education Program in Reproduction and Development (EPRD), Department Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, and by the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Monash University. The authors E.V-O, R.N., V.J.C., A.N., and F.H. have applied for a patent on the topic of this technology (PCT/AU2023/051132). The remaining authors have nothing to disclose.

Surgically managed traumatic spinal cord injury in Singapore: a descriptive study across two level one trauma centres

Study designCase SeriesObjectivesTo provide an updated understanding of the incidence of surgically managed Traumatic Spinal Cord Injury (TSCI) in Singapore and to identify factors affecting discharge disposition.SettingPatients were identified from two level one trauma centres in Singapore.MethodsAll patients who underwent surgical management for acute TSCI between January 2020 to December 2021 were included. Demographics, injury details, peri-operative condition, hospital length of stay (LOS) and discharge disposition were evaluated. The overall characteristics of TSCI were summarised using descriptive statistics. The difference between discharge destinations was compared using chi-square test or t test. Variables with p values < 0.3 were selected for multivariable analysis.ResultsForty-four patients were included. Median age was 65. The most common SCI aetiology was fall from standing height or less (54.6%). Accidents involving personal mobility devices, bicycles and motor vehicles made up the next largest group (20.5%). Thirty-nine cases (88.6%) involved the cervical region. There were two cases of inpatient mortality. Twenty-one patients (50%) were discharged home, 21 (50%) were discharged to a community hospital (CH) or nursing home (NH). The median LOS in an acute hospital was 41 days. Multivariable logistic regression analysis revealed that functional independence measure (FIM) score on discharge was an independent factor that influenced discharge disposition (p = 0.037).ConclusionA public health focus on falls prevention, the development of geriatric spinal rehabilitation programs, and the consideration of a national registry are recommended for the comprehensive management of TSCI in Singapore.

The Metabolic Characteristics and Bioavailability of Resveratrol Based on Metabolic Enzymes

Abstract The natural polyphenol resveratrol (RV) has garnered fame for its extensive pharmacological properties. Although clinical studies have shown some positive results, many contradictory outcomes remain. An important obstacle to the development of therapeutic applications for RV is its low bioavailability in vivo. This may be partially attributed to biotransformation mediated by phase I and II enzymes, such as cytochrome P450s, UDP-glucuronosyltransferases, and sulfotransferases. To date, more than 20 different types of metabolites have been detected after catalysis by these enzymes. Notably, RV and some of its metabolites serve as substrates for these enzymes. Conversely, RV can directly regulate the expression or activity of these enzymes. Given the increasing number of studies investigating the bioactivity of RV, this review summarizes its physicochemical and pharmacokinetic characteristics and describes the metabolism of RV and the bioactivities of its metabolites, with emphasis on the interaction between RV and its related metabolic enzymes. In addition to hepatic metabolism, the crucial roles of RV metabolism in multiple other tissues and organs cannot be overlooked, and they reveal the relationship between RV metabolism and its biological potential.

ANALYSIS OF YAM (Dioscorea spp) PRICES IN THE URBAN AND RURAL MARKETS IN THE WESTERN AGRICULTURAL ZONE OF NASARAWA STATE, NIGERIA

This study was conducted to examine the relationship between the prices of yam (Dioscorea spp) in the urban and rural markets of the western agricultural zone of Nasarawa State, Nigeria. Data of monthly urban and rural prices on yam were collected from Nasarawa State Agricultural development programme. The result of the descriptive statistics showed that the minimum (13.89) and maximum (500.00) prices were recorded in Toto and Nasarawa respectively. The result of the ADF test shows that the price series in the western zone were all stationary both at level I(0) and at first difference I(1) except for Toto that did not attain stationarity at level I(0) but attained stationary after first differencing I(I). The co-integration result shows that only four (4) pairs were not co-integrated and these were Nasarawa/Laminga, Masaka/Gitata, Masaka/T-Uku and Masaka/Ara. Also from the result of the Granger-causality test, sixteen yam market links of urban and rural market investigated, fifteen yam market links showed the evidence of no granger –causality, they all exhibited evidence of Uni-directional price movement. The rural prices of yam exhibited weak exogeneity to their corresponding urban market prices. There is need for improvement of road networks, transport and market infrastructure. The study recommended policy interventions for improvement of market integration which may take form of price formation channels, and improvement of market infrastructure including transportation and road network, such policy should works to reduce transport cost and enhance trade between rural and urban markets.

Leadership Training for Teachers and Students’ Classroom Performance in China

This study investigates the impact of leadership training on teachers' classroom performance and student achievement in the context of Chinese schools. The research aims to address the gap in understanding the specific effects of leadership training on teaching practices and classroom dynamics in China. Drawing upon Transformational Leadership Theory and Social Cognitive Theory, the study explores how leadership training can inspire and motivate teachers, enhance instructional quality, and foster student success. The research indicates that while educational reforms in China have emphasized the professional development of teachers, including leadership training, there is limited empirical evidence on the effectiveness of such programs. The study finds that transformational leadership practices are increasingly prevalent, with positive effects on school culture and teacher motivation. However, challenges persist, such as the gap between theoretical training and practical application, which can hinder the effective implementation of leadership training programs. The study highlights the importance of comprehensive professional development programs that align with teachers' experiences and involve active learning. It also underscores the need for targeted and practical leadership training that directly addresses classroom challenges and enhances teachers' self-efficacy. By examining the impact of leadership training on teaching practices and student performance in Shaanxi province, China, the research provides valuable insights for educators and policymakers. The findings suggest that effective leadership training can significantly contribute to the enhancement of educational quality and student achievement in China.

EXPRESS: A Framework for Execution Time Prediction of Concurrent CNNs on Xilinx DPU Accelerator

Deep learning Processor Unit (DPU) is a highly configurable CNN accelerator that supports a variety of CNNs and can be implemented with multiple instances on the same FPGA. Many applications deploy concurrent execution of different CNNs and in such a setting, an execution time predictor can help “optimize” the DPU configurations to meet the performance requirements of different tasks. We characterize CNN execution on DPUs and reduce the variability in execution time due to interference from the operating system. Subsequently, we propose a machine learning-based framework (EXPRESS) to predict the execution time of any given CNN on a DPU configuration, considering CNN, DPU, and bus characteristics. We improvise EXPRESS to support heterogeneous CNNs in EXPRESS-2.0 by making features independent of the number of CNNs. Our entire experimentation is based on data from a real FPGA board for 16 standard CNNs. Our frameworks, EXPRESS and EXPRESS-2.0, significantly outperform state-of-the-art by achieving an average execution time prediction error of 2.2% and 0.7%, respectively. We illustrate the effectiveness of this low prediction error for design space exploration, which is very useful for embedded system application developers.

Research on the integrated application of machine learning in Unity

Abstract. In recent years, the introduction of Machine Learning Agents has enabled more individuals to apply machine learning within the renowned Unity game engine. As application development has become increasingly complex, traditional artificial intelligence (AI) struggles to keep pace with the growing demands of modern applications. However, machine learning offers new avenues for developing smarter, more dynamic game characters. This paper aims to provide a comprehensive review of the various applications of machine learning within the Unity ecosystem, including game AI, intelligent character behavior, and reinforcement learning. Through a literature review and case studies, this paper explores the specific applications of machine learning algorithms in the Unity engine and analyzes the current state of development in different fields. The research findings indicate that the application of machine learning in Unity exhibits numerous developmental trends and leaves ample room for further application development in its strong areas. This technology can be innovatively applied across many fields, from implementing advanced NPCs and third-person game agents to anti-cheat mechanisms, from image recognition-based health systems to the design of complex constrained environments. The integrated application model of machine learning and Unity3D will bring more innovation and possibilities to future application development.

Assessing the impact of a leadership development programme on self-reported confidence of Community Pharmacy Neighbourhood Leads in South East London

Abstract Introduction Community Pharmacy (CP) integration is a key NHS England strategy, including for South East London (SEL) Integrated Care Board (ICB). To drive forward this strategy in SEL, the ICB medicines team created and funded community pharmacy neighbourhood lead (CPNL) roles. The CPNLs provide local leadership to strengthen CP-GP relationships and increase uptake of CP services (now badged Pharmacy First). To support implementation, a leadership programme was developed with system partners and delivered by Kaleidoscope,1 building on previous work.2 Core themes were building trust, driving collaboration and embedding innovation. Aim To measure the confidence level of CPNLs in SEL throughout the development programme, and associated outcomes. Methods There were five leadership sessions delivered to invited CPNLs and ICB colleagues between November 2023 and March 2024. The first and last sessions were face-to-face with the others virtual. Sessions covered both theory and implementation. At the end of each session all participants were asked to complete an online Microsoft forms survey compiled by Kaleidoscope, asking about their confidence in the CPNL role (where 1 is not at all confident and 5 is extremely confident), current relationships locally and actions planned and completed to date, using tick box, Likert scale and free text responses. Data was analysed in Microsoft Excel and through content analysis, with analysis completed for all attendees per session and separately for those attending 4 or 5 sessions. This study received ethics approval from Kingston University Ethics Committee (3396). Results A total of 37 individuals attended one or more sessions, with 16 attending 4 or 5 sessions. For all attendees, mean confidence score increased from 3.7 in session one to 4.14 in session five (out of 5) (session two:3.77; session three:4.05; session 4:4.17). Those who attended four or five sessions finished with a mean confidence score of 4.33, starting at 4.00 (session two:3.86; session three:4.19; session four:4.27). Comments showed participants initially reporting that there was room to improve relationships with key stakeholders, such as clinical directors, GPs, ICB and CP colleagues. By session five confidence had increased with comments noting that there was confidence to meet new people, network appropriately, and fulfil the required role. ‘Through the network we have created through this programme, confidence has grown with shared learning and new relationships.’ Comments were also received relating to improved joint working supporting the rollout of community pharmacy initiatives such as the Pharmacy First scheme. ‘Our confidence has grown, and we are arranging training sessions with the clinical directors with the local surgeries for some of the newer services like Pharmacy First.’ Discussion / Conclusion Our programme has increased CPNL confidence and engagement with local stakeholders, with greater confidence seen in those engaging most with the leadership programme. Limitations include not having consistent attendance at sessions. The launch of the national ‘Pharmacy First’ service halfway through the programme had a significant impact on the community pharmacy sector,3 with CPNLs being pivotal in building success in partnership. Further evaluation should assess impact of CPNLs on community pharmacy service provision and referrals by GPs.