Inferential Methods Research Articles

INTERPERSONAL SKILLS AND ADOLESCENTS’ SOCIAL ADJUSTMENT: THE IMPLICATION OF THE TEACHING LEARNING PROCESS IN THE UNIVERSITY OF BUEA, CAMEROON

The study investigated interpersonal skills as determinants of adolescents’ social adjustment in the University of Buea. The study employed a cross-sectional survey research design, specifically utilizing a sample survey approach. The research focused on a population of 5,736 adolescent students across three faculties. To determine an appropriate sample size, the researchers applied the Krejcie and Morgan model, which indicated that 361 students would constitute a representative sample. The sampling process combined purposive sampling to identify the population of interest, followed by random selection of individual participants. For data collection, the researchers developed and administered a questionnaire that included both open-ended and closed-ended questions. The data management process began with entering the collected data into EpiData version 3.1. To ensure data quality, the researchers then conducted rigorous data cleaning and validation checks using SPSS version 23.0, which helped identify and address any invalid codes in the dataset. To establish the reliability of the research instrument, the team assessed the internal consistency of responses using Cronbach's Alpha reliability coefficient. The statistical analysis employed two main tests: Chi-square analysis was used to examine and compare descriptive differences in the data, while Spearman's rho correlation test was selected for hypothesis testing due to the normal distribution of the data. This comprehensive methodological approach allowed the researchers to systematically collect, process, and analyze data while maintaining scientific rigor throughout the study. The combination of purposive and random sampling techniques helped ensure both the relevance and representativeness of the sample, while the statistical tests chosen were appropriate for the nature of the data and research objectives. The data analysis incorporated both descriptive and inferential statistical methods to examine the relationship between social adjustment and interpersonal relationships among university adolescents. The fundings yielded a statistically significant positive correlation (R = 0.411, p < 0.01) between interpersonal relationship formation and social adjustment outcomes in the university environment. This moderate correlation coefficient indicates that adolescent students who successfully establish and maintain quality interpersonal relationships demonstrate enhanced social adjustment within the university context. The strength of this correlation (R = 0.411) suggests a meaningful association between these variables, though it also indicates that other factors are likely to contribute to social adjustment outcomes. This empirical evidence underscores the importance of interpersonal relationship development as a key facilitator of successful social adaptation among adolescent university students.

Inference of record failure times from unit generalized Rayleigh distribution

ABSTRACT In this paper, problems of estimation and prediction for record values are discussed for a two-parameter unit generalized Rayleigh distribution. Maximum likelihood estimators of model parameters along with their existence and uniqueness are established, and corresponding approximate confidence intervals are constructed based on asymptotic theory. In addition, alternative generalized inferential approach is provided for comparison based on the proposed pivotal quantities. Further, prediction intervals of remaining useful life are also presented under classical and generalized inferential methods when the unit generalized Rayleigh record values are available. Extensive numerical studies and two real-life examples are conducted to show the performance of the proposed methods. The results indicate that both classical and generalized estimation methods work satisfactorily and the proposed generalized inferential approach performs superior to traditional estimates in general.

Client Project Managers’ Knowledge and Skill Competencies for Managing Public Construction Projects

Public construction projects face unique challenges that differ from those encountered in private projects, requiring client project managers to possess specific competencies to ensure successful project delivery. However, many client project managers lack the necessary competencies for effective construction project management. This study aims to identify the essential knowledge and skill competencies required for client-side project managers to effectively manage public construction projects in Saudi Arabia. Data were collected through 74 questionnaires completed by client project managers and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical methods. The results reveal that the most critical competencies include leadership, problem-solving, scope management, decision-making, and teamwork. Additionally, the findings indicate that soft skills are more crucial than hard skills for project managers. An exploratory factor analysis (EFA) further grouped these competencies into seven underlying groupings. This study provides valuable insights into the key competencies needed for hiring and assigning client-side project managers in public-sector projects, and the results can guide companies and educational institutions in designing specialized training programs for these managers.

Parameter recovery of skew multidimensional multiple-group item response models (MGM-MIRT): a comparison of MCMC algorithms and assessment of effects of interest

Multidimensional item response theory (MIRT) models are powerful tools to analyse item response data. Most of them rely on the assumption that the latent traits are normally distributed. However, when such assumption does not hold, the item and the latent traits estimates can be inaccurate. This paper deals, in a very detailed way, through simulation studies, with the utility of the class of the MIRT models developed by Padilla et al. [Multidimensional multiple-group IRT models with skew normal latent trait distributions. J Multivariate Anal 2018;167:250–268], where the multivariate skew-normal distribution under the centred parameterization is employed for modelling the latent traits. The impact of important factors of interest on the parameter recovery is investigated. Such factors are the number of subjects, number of items, number of groups and asymmetry level. In a general way, the results show that our approach outperforms some traditional models when the latent traits follow asymmetric distributions. In addition, different Monte Carlo Markov Chain (MCMC) algorithms for parameter estimation are compared, by considering two schemes of data augmentation and a proposal to speed up their convergence, based on approaches found in the literature, for binary regression models. Guidelines are provided for the correct using of Bayesian inferential methods for the MIRT models.

Breaking away from family control? Collaboration among political organisations and social media endorsement among their constituents

AbstractCoalitions that engage in political advocacy are constituted by organisations, which are made up of individuals and organisational subunits. Comparing the coalitions formed by organisations to the those formed by their constituent parts provides a means of examining the extent to which their coalition memberships are aligned. This paper applies inferential network clustering methods to survey data collected from organisations engaging in Irish climate change politics and to X (formerly twitter) data extracted from both the primary accounts of these organisations and the accounts of the individuals and subunits affiliated with them. Analysis of the survey-based organisation-level policy network finds evidence of an outsider coalition, formed by non-governmental organisations, labour unions and left-leaning political parties, and an insider coalition formed by the two main political parties in government, energy sector organisations, business and agricultural interests, scientific organisations, and government bodies. An analysis of the X-based account-level endorsement network finds evidence for a nested coalition structure wherein there are multiple distinct communities, which largely align with the organisation-level coalitions. Most interestingly, the largest and most active community is formed by accounts affiliated with the organisations with agricultural interests—the sector most opposed to ambitious climate action in Ireland. The results show how the somewhat disjoint behaviours of formal organisations and their affiliates give rise to nested coalitions, which can only be identified by disaggregating organisations by their constituent parts.

Contribution of Entrepreneurial Competence of Madrasah Principals to Improve Graduate Quality

Madrasas are required to transform and improve graduates' education quality, and they do not become a second alternative. Madrasas are less responsive to any potential development of madrasas' environment concerning madrasa's real-life situations and the concentration of madrasas' efforts. The principal's entrepreneurial competence is needed to solve this problem. The research aims to prove the contribution of school principals' entrepreneurial competence to improving the quality of madrasah graduates. This research applied the quantitative and inferential methods in which infinite numeral-based data was analyzed from the response to questions of both variables using simple linear regression. The population of the research was teachers at the Banten Province State Madrasah Aliyah. Samples were obtained by stratified random sampling, which amounted to 200 people. The research findings (regression-based analyses) showed that the criteria for p < 0.005 were fulfilled, so school entrepreneurial competence was significantly proven to improve graduates' quality at the Banten Province State Madrasah Aliyah. Based on the results of this study, the entrepreneurship of madrasah principals not only focuses on financial aspects but also on efforts to create added value for all stakeholders, significantly improving the quality of graduates

Effect of Critical Thinking Skills on Misconceptions of Students in Learning Mathematics at the Elementary School Level

The aim of mathematics education in schools is to create logical reasoning and critical thinking ability in students. These skills development not only help students understand better but can also help remove the misconceptions they have about mathematical concepts. The purpose of this study was to investigate how critical thinking skills can help address misconceptions in mathematics learning at the elementary level. The research used an A-B-A design to determine the effects of an intervention, which is a perfect design for this purpose. 35 eighth-grade students who were enrolled in the current academic year were participants in this study. Three researcher-developed tools facilitated data collection. The first and initial tool was called the Test of Critical Thinking Skills (ToCTS), which measured students' critical thinking math skills. The second tool, the Test of Misconceptions (ToM), was developed to identify specifically how the students thought they were solving the problems. Finally, an interview protocol was used to learn about the students' reasoning regarding their answers on the tests. The mathematics curriculum of grades three to eight formed the basis of the development of these instruments, both close-ended and open-ended questions. Descriptive and inferential statistical methods were used in data analysis, and qualitative content from the interviews was applied to thematic analysis. A poor level of critical thinking skills in factoring equations and selecting proper solving methods for linear equations was shown by students. In addition, students had difficulty solving complete mathematical problems with linear equations. A significant gap was identified in their understanding and application of the BODMAS rule during algebraic operations. Based on these findings, the study recommended fostering critical thinking skills to improve students' abilities in factoring equations. Teachers should provide clear and comprehensive guidance to help students solve mathematical problems effectively. To address misconceptions, educators could introduce simplified problem-solving methods and reinforce students’ understanding of fundamental operations and rules. Specifically, it is essential to provide targeted instruction on the application of the BODMAS rule in algebraic contexts to enhance students' problem-solving capabilities.

The Relationship between Work Engagement and Workaholism and Nurses' Job well-being

Background: Nurses continuously face workaholism and work engagement that affect the professional performance of nurses. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between work engagement and workaholism with nurses' job well-being. Methods: This was a descriptive correlation study. Two hundred nurses from Lahijan Hospitals were selected by convenience sampling method in 1399. Data were collected using three standard questionnaires of work engagement, workaholism, and job well-being. Data analysis was used using SPSS21 software using descriptive statistics (mean, standard deviation, percentage) and inferential methods (Single regression test). Results: The results of the study showed that work engagement and workaholism can predict the job well-being of nurses in Lahijan hospitals (p<0.001). Among the dimensions of job well-being, the results showed that workaholism is negatively related to the job satisfaction of nurses(p=0.03), but has a positive relationship with the dimensions of perceived stress and nurses' sleep problems(p<0.001). Among the dimensions of job well-being, work engagement can predict positive the job satisfaction of nurses(p<0.001), but cannot predict the perceived stress and the nurses' sleep problems(p>0.05). Conclusion: According to the results of the study, work engagement and workaholism are good predictors for nurses' job well–being. Therefore, it is suggested that managers help to enhance nurses' job well-being by improving the motivated and vibrant work environment, creating work engagement, and reducing work addiction.

THE INFLUENCE OF EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE, CULTURAL DIVERSITY IN ORGANIZATION, AND COMMUNICATION STRATEGIES ON LEADERSHIP EFFECTIVENESS IN DIVERSE WORKPLACES IN FUZHOU CITY, FUJIAN PROVINCE, CHINA

In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, characterized by heightened complexity and relentless change, the demand for adept management is more pronounced than ever. As organizations grapple with the challenges presented by an increasingly interconnected and technologically advanced world, the need to adapt and evolve management practices becomes a paramount concern (Drejer et al., 2014; BAGU et al., 2011). The aims of this study were to investigate the factors influencing Leadership Effectiveness based on 4 aspects, namely, the Demographic Factors, the Emotional Intelligence, the Cultural Diversity in Organization, and the Communication Strategies. The quantitative method was applied. Descriptive statistics such as frequency, percent frequency, mean, and standard deviation are introduced. Various inferential statistical methods are used to test the hypothesis, particularly the Independent samples t-test, the One-way ANOVA, and the Multiple linear regression analysis. The results obtained from the study indicate that differences in Marital Status, Age, Educational Level, and Monthly Income generate differences in Leadership Effectiveness. Based on the Multiple Linear Regression analysis, all aspects of Emotional Intelligence (Self-awareness, Self-regulation, Motivation, Empathy, and Social Skills), Cultural Diversity in Organization (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging) and Communication Strategies (Awareness and Understanding, Communication Quality, Accessibility, and Employee Engagement) had a positive impact on Leadership Effectiveness.

Implementing traceability technologies to promote ethical sourcing in Ghana’s fashion and apparel industry

ABSTRACT The demand for traceability has emerged as a significant imperative within the framework of an ethical supply chain that includes multiple stages. This study focusses on the implementation and impact of traceability technology in the Ghanaian fashion industry. The study employed descriptive and explanatory research, using a 700-stakeholder sample, a standardised questionnaire, and descriptive and inferential statistical methods. The findings of the study indicate that QR codes, GPS tracking, sustainable material tracing, and consumer interaction apps demonstrate a high level of effectiveness within the Ghanaian fashion business. The implementation of traceability technology faces challenges like limited knowledge, research insufficient, lack of coordination, policy absence, financial constraints, technological infrastructure limitations, data privacy concerns, opposition, and training gaps. Stakeholders generally support the implementation of coordination policies and regulatory compliance strategies, suggesting that factors like awareness, research, cost, infrastructure, data protection, opposition, and training should be prioritised.

Effect of Classroom management techniques on students’ performance at higher secondary level

Classroom management techniques play a crucial role in shaping students' performance by creating an organized and supportive learning environment that fosters engagement and minimizes disruptive behaviors. Effective strategies, such as establishing clear expectations and promoting positive interactions, directly enhance students' academic achievement and social development. The design of the study is descriptive in nature. This study was quantitative research. In the realm of quantitative research, positivism serves as the leading philosophical paradigm. Residents of the district of Lahore who were enrolled in public higher secondary schools made up the entire population. The questionnaires were the instrument that was used for the investigation. Experts' comments were used to determine the validity of the questions, and pilot testing was used to determine the reliability of the questionnaires. The use of inferential methods, specifically regression analysis, was made. The results of the research indicate that there was a highly significant effect of classroom management strategies on the academic performance of students who were enrolled in further secondary education.

Key Factors Influencing Leadership Effectiveness in Diverse Workplaces in Fuzhou City, Fujian Province, China

he cultural and economic landscape of Fuzhou City in Fujian Province, China, is rich and diverse. Management effectiveness and emotional intelligence in diverse workplaces in Fuzhou City, Fujian Province, China, have been the subject of related research. The significance of emotional intelligence in fostering a productive workplace is a hot topic, as it allows individuals to recognize, understand, and manage their own emotions and those of others (Kargeti, 2023). Additionally, leadership effectiveness is influenced by emotional intelligence dimensions such as self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, empathy, and social skills (Tian, 2022). Therefore, this study aims to investigate the factors influencing Leadership Effectiveness based on 5 aspects: Demographic Factors, Emotional Intelligence, Cultural Diversity in Organization, Communication Strategies, and Leadership Styles. The quantitative method is applied. Descriptive statistics such as frequency, percent frequency, the arithmetic mean, and the standard deviation are used to analyze the data collected from questionnaires. Suitable Inferential Statistical Methods are used to test the hypothesis, particularly the Independent Samples t-test, the One-way ANOVA, and the Multiple linear Regression Analysis. The results obtained from the study indicate that differences in Marital Status, Age, Educational Level, Monthly Income, and Working Experiences generate differences in Leadership Effectiveness. Based on the Multiple Linear Regression Analysis, all aspects of Emotional Intelligence (Self-awareness, Self-regulation, Motivation, Empathy, and Social Skills), Cultural Diversity in Organization (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging), Communication Strategies (Awareness and Understanding, Communication Quality, Accessibility, and Employee Engagement), and Leadership Styles (Decision-making Leadership Styles, Everyday Leadership Styles, Beyond Everyday-work Leadership Styles, Values-based Leadership Styles) are found out to have a positive impact on Leadership Effectiveness.

The Implications of Practicing Solat on the Morality of Students at Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Kompleks Mengabang Telipot

Prayer is the second pillar of Islam after the declaration of the two testimonies of faith and is obligatory for every Muslim. The act of praying serves as a form of communication between a servant and their Creator. This study aims to identify the implications of practicing prayer on the morality of students at Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Kompleks Mengabang Telipot by examining the level of knowledge, the practice of obligatory prayers, and the implications for morality. The study employs a survey design and random sampling technique, with data analyzed using descriptive and inferential methods. The respondents consisted of 191 Form Four and Five students from Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Kompleks Mengabang Telipot in Kuala Nerus, Terengganu. The research instrument was a questionnaire. The results of the study indicated that the level of knowledge about prayer was high (Mean=4.37, SD=0.50), the level of practice of obligatory prayers was also high (Mean=4.28, SD=0.41), and the level of the implications of obligatory prayers on morality was equally high (Mean=4.25, SD=0.58). Pearson correlation inferential analysis was used to examine the relationships between the independent variables, revealing significant correlations between them. Therefore, the researcher hopes that the school and parents will continue religious programs to maintain and enhance the level of knowledge and practice of prayers among students, thereby fostering students with noble character. Keywords: Prayer, Knowledge, Practice, Implications, Morality

INTELLIGENCE GATHERING AND ITS CONTRIBUTION TO NIGERIA'S NATIONAL SECURITY: A CRITICAL ASSESSMENT

The Nigerian intelligence sector faces institutional limitations that hinder the successful implementation of intelligence collecting, which is widely acknowledged as a crucial tool in tackling these issues. This paper provides a thorough evaluation of the function of intelligence gathering within Nigeria's national security framework, analysing its effectiveness in dealing with current security challenges. This study seeks to offer a thorough examination of the intelligence cycle in the Nigerian setting, including the gathering, analysis, and use of intelligence in national security strategy. The research used a mixed-methods methodology, combining quantitative data obtained from a questionnaire with qualitative insights obtained from an empirical literature analysis. The Network Theory (TNT) functions as the conceptual framework, providing a perspective to examine the intricate connections and transmission of information within the intelligence network. Statistical analysis is conducted on the questionnaire results using descriptive and inferential methods, while the findings of the literature review are consolidated to offer context and depth. The study results highlight a significant dependence on Human Intelligence (HUMINT) and source intelligence (OSINT) in Nigeria, with a lack of implementation of Geospatial Intelligence (GEOINT) and a disregard for Measurement and Signature Intelligence (MASINT). Furthermore, the investigation exposes inadequate levels of trust and collaboration between intelligence agencies and other security organizations. The major obstacles mentioned are insufficient financial resources, insufficient training and knowledge, technical constraints, competition among different agencies, and legal and bureaucratic restrictions. The research findings indicate that although intelligence gathering is of utmost importance for Nigeria's national security, its efficacy is hindered by structural and operational obstacles. personnel growth and comprehensive strategy to improve intelligence capabilities, which involves bolstering inter- agency collaboration, allocating resources to technical progress and skilled personnel growth, and creating a strong legal and ethical structure.

Schneeball-Wırbelgruppe learning model: improving students’ concept mastery and critical thinking

Good concept mastery through critical thinking using various approaches, models, strategies, and methods of learning German is essential for the Education 4.0 era. Therefore, this study aimed to analyze the concept mastery and critical thinking skills of German language students at Pattimura University using collaborative learning that combines SchneeballWirbelgruppe learning. A one-group pretest-posttest design with a sample of 13 second-semester students in the academic year 2019/2020 was used. Furthermore, an essay test was used as an instrument while the data was analyzed using descriptive methods (N-gain test) and inferential methods (paired t-test). The descriptive analysis showed that the concept mastery and critical thinking skills of students were in the high and moderate categories. The paired t-test results showed a difference between the pretest and posttest using Schneeball-Wirbelgruppe learning model. Therefore, collaborative learning has a positive impact on improving students’ concept mastery and critical thinking skills in learning phonology and morphology courses. As for the implications of this research, the Schneeball-Wırbelgruppe learning model is recommended as a learning model that can be applied to other concepts in German language learning.

Social-Economic Factors and Secondary School Dropout among Girls in Mariani Ward, Tharaka-Nithi County, Kenya

This study investigated the high dropout rates among girls in secondary schools in Mariani Ward, a critical issue observed in many developing regions. The specific objectives of the study were to assess how household income, parental education, and family structure influence girls’ dropout rates. The study was grounded in the Relative Deprivation theory and utilized a descriptive survey design, involving a sample of 385 respondents selected from a larger population of 10,202 through cluster sampling method to ensure representation of various groups within the population. Within the target population, five clusters or sub-locations were identified based on their diverse characteristics. The sample included female dropouts as well as key informants such as head teachers, household heads, and local leaders. Data collection was achieved through questionnaires and interviews, and quantitative analysis was performed using SPSS version 25. The study employed inferential statistical methods, including correlation analysis, chi-square tests, and binomial logistic regression, to assess the impact of socio-economic factors on dropout rates. The results revealed significant positive correlations between dropout rates and household income (0.684), parental education status (0.547), and family structure (0.761). Binomial logistic regression analysis further confirmed the substantial influence of these factors on dropout rates. In addition to these factors, the study also indicated the presence of other unidentified variables affecting dropout rates. This highlights the necessity for further research to explore these additional influences. Based on these findings, the study recommends implementing targeted interventions to address the identified socio-economic challenges. These recommendations include developing financial support programs for low-income families, enhancing parental education and involvement, and fostering supportive family environments. Such measures are essential for reducing dropout rates and promoting sustained educational participation among girls in Mariani Ward. The study provides actionable insights for educators, policymakers, and stakeholders to effectively improve girls' access to education and support their academic persistence.

The Study of Segregation and its Consequences in the Kabul City

This study investigates urban segregation in Kabul, the capital of Afghanistan, utilizing a multifaceted theoretical framework that integrates various explanatory models of segregation. The research targets the general population of Kabul, with a sample size of 233 individuals selected through a non-probabilistic cluster sampling technique. Data were collected using a comprehensive questionnaire focused on the Afghan context, incorporating insights from relevant studies. The analysis was conducted using SPSS software, employing both descriptive and inferential statistical methods. Demographic characteristics and participant responses in ethnically dominated areas were summarized using frequencies and percentages, while key variables were examined using measures of central tendency, dispersion, and distribution, including mean, standard deviation, variance, skewness, and kurtosis. The segregation tendencies of Kabul residents were analyzed using T-test, ANOVA and Spearman correlation. The results reveal a pronounced level of segregation within Kabul, with significant implications including the reinforcement of ethnocentric attitudes, the preservation of distinct subcultural identities, enhanced feelings of community security, and increased intra-group political and social engagement. The study found that followers of Shia Islam tend to segregate themselves from other religious groups, while the Pashtun ethnic group shows the lowest tendency toward segregation. Additionally, Kabul citizens tend to live among their own religious groups and the lower the level of education of individuals, the greater their tendency to separation.

Effects of Rainfall Variability on Maize Production in Migori County, Kenya

Maize is the main staple food crop in Kenya and is of vital concern to agricultural policy decisions, food security, and the overall development of the sector and the economy. It is also the dominant staple food crop in Migori-County. However, there has been a declining trend in maize production among farmers in the study area threatening household food security. This study was conducted in Migori County using cross sectional survey research design. A sample size of 384 households was selected through stratified and systematic sampling techniques though just 310 households accepted to be interviewed. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire. Validated secondary weather data for the period 2011-2023 was obtained from the Migori Meteorological Station. The collected data was entered into SPSS software, version 20, and analysed using both descriptive and inferential statistical methods. The results indicated that 60% of households have an adequate food supply, while 40% face food shortages. Further, there was a strong positive and significant relationship between maize production (yield) and annual weather conditions from 2018 to 2023 (r = 0.845, p = 0.05). This indicates that changes in weather patterns, such as rainfall and temperature, had a significant influence on maize yields during the study period. Hence, farmers should be encouraged to use income from cash crops to purchase food stocks and engage in non-farm activities as alternative income sources to mitigate the effects of rainfall variability and climate change on food security.

Relationship Marketing and Customer Loyalty among Deposit-Taking SACCOS in Western Kenya

Deposit-taking Savings and Credit Cooperative Societies (SACCOS) in Kenya have faced significant challenges due to intense competition and declining customer numbers, which underscores the need for further investigation into relationship marketing strategies. A key research gap is the role of digital platforms in moderating the effectiveness of these strategies and their impact on customer loyalty. This study aimed to evaluate how digital platforms influence the relationship between relationship marketing (RM) and customer loyalty among SACCOs in Western Kenya. Using Relationship Commitment, Social Exchange, and Commitment Trust theories, the research focused on 23 SACCOs with 37,137 customers and surveyed 396 respondents, including prior pilot study. Descriptive and correlational research designs were used, with data collected via self-administered questionnaires and systematic sampling. Analysis with SPSS assessed validity and reliability, employing descriptive statistics and inferential methods such as Pearson’s Correlation, Simple Linear Regression, and Hierarchical Regression Analysis. Assumption tests confirmed that the research data met normality, linearity, homoscedasticity, and multicollinearity criteria, with a response rate of 87.63% and significant correlations (p<0.05) among variables. Digital Platforms were found to contribute significant moderating role on the link between Relationship Management and Customer Loyalty (p<0.05), emphasizing features like interactivity, personalization, and trustworthiness. The results suggest that in order to enhance customer experience, SACCOs should allocate resources towards the development of user-friendly digital platforms, utilize data analytics in targeted marketing efforts, so as to enhance engagement with the community via online channels. Moreover, it is crucial for SACCOs to prioritize personalized service, establish trust, and strive for continuous improvement, while taking into account regulatory revisions, in order to maximize the effectiveness of digital platforms within the financial sector.

Assessment of Kidney Function Discrepancies in Pediatric CAKUT Patients Using Bedside Schwartz Equation and Renal Scintigraphy.

This research explores the correlation between estimated glomerular filtration rates (eGFR) obtained using the bedside Schwartz equation, and renal scintigraphy in children with congenital kidney and urinary tract abnormalities (CAKUT). The objective is to enhance understanding and management of renal health in this demographic by analyzing kidney size-function relationships. A retrospective observational analysis was performed on 94 pediatric CAKUT patients at the "Louis Turcanu" Emergency Hospital for Children, Timisoara. Kidney function data, extracted from medical records, were evaluated using the Schwartz equation, renal scintigraphy, and the gold standard iohexol clearance. Ethical approval was secured for the study, which employed descriptive and inferential statistical methods, including t-tests and correlation coefficients, to compare eGFR values. Significant variances were found in eGFRs across different body surface area (BSA) percentiles. For instance, the eGFR for the right kidney in the 25th-50th BSA percentile (102.02 ± 41.52 mL/min/BSA) was notably higher than that of the left (35.60 ± 26.05 mL/min/BSA; p = 0.01). The overall sample reflected a higher eGFR in the right kidney (76.03 ± 40.91 mL/min/BSA) compared to the left (57.46 ± 35.91 mL/min/BSA; p = 0.02). Additionally, a strong positive Pearson correlation (r = 0.80, p = 0.02) was found between scintigraphy and ultrasound measures in the 50th-75th percentiles for left renal percentiles, demonstrating consistent patterns across different evaluations of kidney function. This comparison indicates a complex relationship between eGFR values and kidney size, suggesting potential inaccuracies in standard bedside eGFR measurements for pediatric CAKUT patients. The findings underscore the necessity for accurate diagnostic tools specifically designed for pediatric applications and advocate for the integration of multiple diagnostic techniques to improve clinical management.