Online Library Research Articles

Retraction: Isosorbide mononitrate for cervical ripening in induction of labor for pregnant women with PROM at or post term.

Retraction: Afifi, A. N., Taymour, M. A., El-Khayat, W. M. (2021) Isosorbide mononitrate for cervical ripening in induction of labor for pregnant women with PROM at or post term. International Journal of Gynecology & Obstetrics, 155: 512-517. https://doi.org/10.1002/ijgo.13604 The above article, published online on 18 January 2021 in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com), has been retracted by agreement between the journal Editor-in-Chief, Professor Michael Geary, the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics, and John Wiley and Sons Ltd. Concerns were raised by a third party about inconsistencies in the data of this article and the authors were asked to provide an explanation. The authors responded to the journal's inquiry and provided original data. Following the authors' response, an independent review of the available data concluded that the BMI and gestational age data showed compelling evidence of repetition and that multiple results could not be reproduced. The journal has determined that this evidence fundamentally compromises the conclusions of the article. As such, the journal is issuing this retraction. The authors disagree with this retraction.

MiRNA-143 as a potential biomarker in the detection of bladder cancer: a meta-analysis.

Aim: This study aimed to systematically evaluate the value of miRNA-143 in the early detection of bladder cancer (BCa). Methods: CNKI, WanFang, PubMed and Wiley Online Library databases were explored according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses protocol. A random-effects model was used to obtain pooled sensitivity, specificity and other related indicates. Results: Six studies were included for analysis. The overall pooled sensitivity and specificity were 0.80 (95% CI: 0.74-0.85) and 0.85 (95% CI: 0.78-0.91), and the area under the curve was 0.88 (95% CI: 0.85-0.91). Coupled with miR-100, it showed better diagnostic power (area under the curve: 0.95). Conclusion: miRNA-143 may serve as a promising noninvasive tool for the early detection of BCa.

Retraction.

Retraction: "(2R,3R)Dihydromyricetin inhibits osteoclastogenesis and bone loss through scavenging LPS-induced oxidative stress and NF-κB and MAPKs pathways activating," by Xuejun Zhang, Xin Li, Jianguo Fang, Xiaolong Hou, Huang Fang, Fengjing Guo, Feng Li, Anmin Chen, Shilong Huang, J Cell Biochem 2018, 119: 8981-8995. The above article, published online on 4 August 2018 in Wiley Online Library (https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/jcb.27154) has been retracted by agreement between the journal's Editor in Chief, Christian Behl, and Wiley Periodicals LLC. The retraction has been agreed following an investigation based on allegations raised by third parties. During the investigation, several flaws and inconsistencies were found within the data presented. Thus, the editors consider the conclusions of this article to be invalid. The authors have been informed of the retraction but were not available for a final confirmation.

Photographic Parameters in Three-Dimensional Facial Image Acquisition. A Scoping Review.

Orthognathic surgery is a viable and reproducible treatment for facial deformities. Despite the precision of the skeletal planning of surgical procedures, there is little information about the relations between hard and soft tissues in three-dimensional (3D) analysis, resulting in unpredictable soft tissue outcomes. Three-dimensional photography is a viable tool for soft tissue analysis because it is easy to use, has wide availability, low cost, and is harmless. This review aims to establish parameters for acquiring consistent and reproducible 3D facial images. A scoping review was conducted across PubMed, SCOPUS, Scientific Electronic Library Online (SciELO), and Web of Science databases, adhering to "Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews" guidelines. Articles presenting 3D facial photographs in the diagnostic phase were considered. A total of 79 articles were identified, of which 29 were selected for analysis. The predominant use of automated systems like 3dMD and VECTRA M3 was noted. User positioning has highest agreement among authors. Noteworthy aspects include the importance of proper lighting, facial expression, and dental positioning, with observed discrepancies and inconsistencies among authors. Finally, the authors proposed a 3D image acquisition protocol based on this research findings.

Cultural Hybridity and Identity Formation in Globalized Societies

Purpose: The general purpose of the study was to explore cultural hybridity and identity formation in globalized societies. Methodology: The study adopted a desktop research methodology. Desk research refers to secondary data or that which can be collected without fieldwork. Desk research is basically involved in collecting data from existing resources hence it is often considered a low cost technique as compared to field research, as the main cost is involved in executive’s time, telephone charges and directories. Thus, the study relied on already published studies, reports and statistics. This secondary data was easily accessed through the online journals and library. Findings: The findings reveal that there exists a contextual and methodological gap relating to cultural hybridity and identity formation in globalized societies. Preliminary empirical review revealed that cultural hybridity was pervasive, with individuals blending diverse cultural influences to construct hybrid identities. Identity formation was dynamic and influenced by globalization, migration, and historical legacies. Power dynamics, including race and socio-economic status, intersected with cultural hybridity to shape experiences of identity and belonging. The study emphasized the importance of promoting inclusivity and dialogue to navigate the complexities of cultural hybridity and foster greater understanding across diverse cultural landscapes. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The Post- Colonial theory, Intersectionality theory and Transnationalism theory may be used to anchor future studies on cultural hybridity and identity formation in globalized societies. The study provided valuable insights and recommendations that contributed to theory, practice, and policy. It enriched theoretical frameworks by adopting a multidimensional approach to understanding identity formation and underscored the importance of recognizing cultural diversity. Educators, community organizations, and policymakers utilized the study's findings to develop inclusive practices and policies that promoted intercultural understanding, social cohesion, and equitable access to resources. Additionally, media practitioners incorporated the study's insights to produce content that challenged stereotypes and fostered positive representations of cultural diversity. Overall, the study's recommendations have had a significant impact on efforts to promote inclusive development and intercultural dialogue in globalized societies.

The Psychological Effects of Environmental Degradation on Human Well-Being

Purpose: This study sought to investigate the psychological effects of environmental degradation on human well- being. Methodology: The study adopted a desktop research methodology. Desk research refers to secondary data or that which can be collected without fieldwork. Desk research is basically involved in collecting data from existing resources hence it is often considered a low cost technique as compared to field research, as the main cost is involved in executive’s time, telephone charges and directories. Thus, the study relied on already published studies, reports and statistics. This secondary data was easily accessed through the online journals and library. Findings: The findings reveal that there exists a contextual and methodological gap relating to the psychological effects of environmental degradation on human well- being. Through a comprehensive review of empirical studies, it revealed the pervasive nature of environmental degradation's impact on human mental health, consistently finding associations between exposure to various environmental stressors and adverse psychological outcomes. The study emphasized the interconnectedness between environmental health and human well-being, highlighting the need for holistic approaches to sustainability that integrate mental health considerations. It underscored the importance of community engagement and participatory approaches in addressing the psychological effects of environmental degradation, advocating for community-based interventions to promote resilience and sustainable development. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The Ecopsychology theory, Conservation Psychology theory and Stress and Coping theory may be used to anchor future studies on the psychological effects of environmental degradation on human well- being. The study offered valuable recommendations that contributed to theory, practice, and policy. It emphasized the need for an integrated theoretical framework that accounted for the multidimensional nature of environmental degradation and its psychological impacts. The recommendations highlighted the importance of integrating mental health considerations into environmental conservation efforts, promoting nature-based interventions, and prioritizing evidence-based policy reforms. Community engagement, interdisciplinary collaboration, and longitudinal research were identified as key strategies for addressing the psychological effects of environmental degradation and fostering resilience. Overall, the study provided a comprehensive roadmap for advancing understanding and addressing the complex interplay between environmental change and mental health outcomes.

Social Capital and Community Development

Purpose: This study sought to investigate the concept of social capital and its role in promoting community development and resilience, with a focus on practical interventions and policy implications. Methodology: The study adopted a desktop research methodology. Desk research refers to secondary data or that which can be collected without fieldwork. Desk research is basically involved in collecting data from existing resources hence it is often considered a low cost technique as compared to field research, as the main cost is involved in executive’s time, telephone charges and directories. Thus, the study relied on already published studies, reports and statistics. This secondary data was easily accessed through the online journals and library. Findings: The findings reveal that there exists a contextual and methodological gap relating to social capital and community development. In this study on social capital and community development, while all authors contribute to the overarching theme, one author stands out for discussing a slightly different topic. Specifically, the author who emphasizes the economic advantages of robust social capital within a community diverges somewhat from the others. While the study as a whole examines various aspects of community development, including economic prosperity, social cohesion, and resilience, this particular author delves deeper into the specific mechanisms through which social capital enhances economic opportunities, such as access to resources, markets, and employment. Therefore, this author's focus on the economic dimension of social capital provides a unique perspective within the broader context of community development discussed by the other authors. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The Social Capital theory, Community Empowerment theory and Structural Functionalism theory may be used to anchor future studies on the concept of social capital and its role in promoting community development and resilience. The study made several recommendations that contributed to theory, practice, and policy in the field. It suggested further exploration of the mechanisms linking social capital to community development outcomes, integration of social capital considerations into policy frameworks, and implementation of community-based interventions. Additionally, the study emphasized the importance of capacity-building efforts, collaborative partnerships among stakeholders, and robust monitoring and evaluation mechanisms. By investing in these recommendations, stakeholders aimed to foster resilient, inclusive, and thriving communities, leveraging social capital as a catalyst for positive social change.

The Effectiveness of Inclusive Education Policies for Students with Disabilities

Purpose: This study sought to examine the effectiveness of inclusive education policies for students with disabilities. Methodology: The study adopted a desktop research methodology. Desk research refers to secondary data or that which can be collected without fieldwork. Desk research is basically involved in collecting data from existing resources hence it is often considered a low cost technique as compared to field research, as the main cost is involved in executive’s time, telephone charges and directories. Thus, the study relied on already published studies, reports and statistics. This secondary data was easily accessed through the online journals and library. Findings: The findings reveal that there exists a contextual and methodological gap relating to the effectiveness of inclusive education policies for students with disabilities. Preliminary empirical review revealed that such policies played a vital role in promoting educational inclusion and academic success within mainstream educational settings. Despite encountering challenges such as inadequate resources and negative attitudes, inclusive education policies showed promise in creating equitable learning environments. The study emphasized the importance of addressing systemic barriers, promoting positive attitudes, and continuously monitoring and adapting policies to meet the evolving needs of students with disabilities. Overall, the findings underscored the potential of inclusive education policies to foster academic achievement and social inclusion for students with disabilities, contributing to a more equitable and supportive educational system. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The Social Model of Disability, Ecological Systems theory and Critical Disability theory may be used to anchor future studies on inclusive education policies for students with disabilities. The study provided provided recommendations that enhanced theoretical frameworks, improved practice, and informed policy in inclusive education. It emphasized the importance of refining theoretical understandings of disability, providing professional development for educators, and developing comprehensive transition services for students with disabilities. Additionally, the study advocated for policy reforms that promote equity and social inclusion, fostered collaboration among stakeholders, and called for increased funding and support for inclusive education initiatives. These recommendations contributed to advancing inclusive education by promoting more responsive, equitable, and supportive educational environments for students with disabilities.

Healthcare Disparities among Socioeconomic Groups

Purpose: This study sought to explore the socioeconomic factors contributing to disparities in healthcare access and outcomes. Methodology: The study adopted a desktop research methodology. Desk research refers to secondary data or that which can be collected without fieldwork. Desk research is basically involved in collecting data from existing resources hence it is often considered a low cost technique as compared to field research, as the main cost is involved in executive’s time, telephone charges and directories. Thus, the study relied on already published studies, reports and statistics. This secondary data was easily accessed through the online journals and library. Findings: The findings reveal that there exists a contextual and methodological gap relating to healthcare disparities among socioeconomic groups. Preliminary empirical review revealed that individuals from lower socioeconomic backgrounds faced multiple barriers to healthcare access, leading to inequalities in health outcomes. The study highlighted the complex interplay between social factors such as income, education, and wealth, emphasizing the need for comprehensive, multisectoral approaches to address healthcare disparities. Despite progress, gaps in research, policy, and practice remained, underscoring the importance of continued efforts to achieve health equity through collaborative initiatives and evidence-based interventions. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The Social Determinants of Health theory, Health Benefit model and Critical Medical Anthropology theory may be used to anchor future studies on healthcare disparities among socioeconomic groups. The study provided comprehensive recommendations to advance theory, practice, and policy. It contributed to theoretical frameworks by highlighting the complex interplay between socioeconomic factors and healthcare disparities. In practice, it emphasized the importance of patient-centered care and collaborative models to address social determinants of health. Policy recommendations focused on structural interventions to improve social and economic conditions and expand healthcare coverage. Capacity building efforts aimed to enhance skills and competencies, while improved data collection and monitoring systems were advocated for tracking progress. Finally, a research agenda prioritized understanding the mechanisms underlying disparities and evaluating intervention effectiveness. These recommendations aimed to promote health equity and ensure equitable access to healthcare services.

The Experiences of Refugees in Host Communities

Purpose: This study sought to examine the experiences of refugees in host communities. Methodology: The study adopted a desktop research methodology. Desk research refers to secondary data or that which can be collected without fieldwork. Desk research is basically involved in collecting data from existing resources hence it is often considered a low cost technique as compared to field research, as the main cost is involved in executive’s time, telephone charges and directories. Thus, the study relied on already published studies, reports and statistics. This secondary data was easily accessed through the online journals and library. Findings: The findings reveal that there exists a contextual and methodological gap relating to the experiences of refugees in host communities. Preliminary empirical review revealed that refugees encountered multifaceted challenges, including language barriers, discrimination, and limited access to education and employment opportunities, shaping their integration experiences. Positive host community attitudes and inclusive government policies were found to facilitate integration, while negative attitudes hindered social inclusion. Community support networks played a crucial role in fostering refugees' sense of belonging and social cohesion. Overall, the study highlighted the importance of a holistic and rights-based approach to refugee integration, emphasizing collaboration between stakeholders to promote empathy, understanding, and cooperation among host community members and refugees, thus fostering inclusive and resilient societies. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The Social Identity theory, Acculturation theory and Ecological Systems theory may be used to anchor future studies the experiences of refugees in host communities. The study provided valuable recommendations that contributed to theory, practice, and policy in the field of refugee studies. It recommended further theoretical development to understand refugee experiences better and emphasized community-based initiatives for fostering positive interactions between refugees and host community members. Additionally, the study called for comprehensive integration policies, targeted interventions for vulnerable subgroups, and research-informed policymaking and practice. These recommendations aimed to create inclusive environments and promote the long-term integration and well-being of refugees in host communities.

Marcos de competência para a formação de enfermeiros no Brasil: revisão de escopo

Higher education in Nursing is constantly changing, stimulating the use of active methodologies that contribute to the development of competencies. The objective was to present an overview of the competency milestones for nurse training in Brazil. This is a Scoping Review, carried out in the Virtual Health Library (VHL), PubMed, Capes, Portal and Scientific Electronic Library Online (SciELO) databases, from 2012 to 2022. The descriptors “Based Education Skills”, “Profile of Nurses' Skills”; “Nurse Education” and “Competency” were used in English and Spanish, with the Boolean “AND”. The 11 selected studies showed a change in the paradigm of competency-based training, using the National Curriculum Guidelines, clarifying the concept of competency and the competency milestones. In the Brazilian reality, the theme is incipient, with initiatives inscribed in records of management skills, leadership, promotion and health education.

Guidelines for chronic pain in adult spinal cord injury population: Scoping review

Background: Chronic pain among survivors of spinal cord injury (SCI) hurts physical and mental health. Persons with SCI have demonstrated dissatisfaction with the management of their chronic pain.Objectives: This study aimed to identify existing clinical practice guidelines for chronic pain in the SCI population.Method: A scoping review was conducted across various databases available at the University of the Western Cape, in addition to guideline clearing houses (BioMedCentral, Cambridge Journals Online, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, Medline [EbscoHost], Medline [Pubmed], Sabinet Reference, SAGE Journals Online, ScienceDirect, SCOPUS, Wiley Online Library, Springerlink, PubMed, Guideline Central, and Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality). The population consisted of adults with SCI, and the interventions that were included were pharmacological and nonpharmacological management of chronic pain. Guidelines that met the inclusion criteria were critically appraised by two reviewers from this study using the AGREE II instrument. Inter-rater reliability was calculated using SPSS 27, and Cohen’s kappa coefficients were established.Results: Five articles were included in the data extraction, analysis and appraisal. Two guidelines were rated as high quality, according to the AGREE II tool. In addition, most guidelines focused on neuropathic pain (NeuP) and only one guideline included nociceptive pain and NeuP.Conclusion: One guideline met the objectives of this scoping review.Clinical implications: Guidelines developed in the future should include a screening tool to identify the specific type of pain and distinguish peripheral NeuP from central NeuP.

Robotic assisted Total Knee Arthroplasty (TKA) is not associated with increased patient satisfaction: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is a common orthopedic surgery, yet postoperative dissatisfaction persists in around 20% of cases. Robotic total knee arthroplasty (rTKA) promises enhanced precision, but its impact on patient satisfaction compared to conventional TKA remains controversial (cTKA). This systematic review aims to evaluate patient satisfaction post-rTKA and compare outcomes with cTKA. Papers from the following databases were identified and reviewed: PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Online Library, using keywords like "Knee replacement," "Total knee arthroplasty," "Robotic," and "Patient satisfaction." Extracted data included patient satisfaction measures, Knee Society Score, Oxford Knee Score, Forgotten Joint Score, SF-36, HSS, and KOOS. Statistical analysis, including odds ratio and 95% CI was performed using R software. Heterogeneity was assessed using Cochrane's Q test. The systematic review included 17 articles, involving 1148 patients (571 in the rTKA group and 577 in the cTKA group) assessing patient satisfaction following rTKA. An analysis of proportions reveals rTKA satisfaction rate was 95%, while for cTKA, it was 91%. A meta-analysis comparing rTKA and cTKA found no statistically significant difference in patient satisfaction. Additionally, various patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) were examined, showing mixed results across different studies and follow-up periods. The results of this study found no difference in patient satisfaction outcomes in the short to mid-term for rTKA compared to conventional methods. This study does not assert superiority for the robotic approach, highlighting the need for careful consideration of various factors influencing outcomes in knee arthroplasty.

Traditional Uses, Phytochemistry, and Pharmacological Activities of Vernonia cinerea (L.) Less.: An Updated Review.

Vernonia cinerea (L.) Less. is a perennial herbaceous plant found mainly in tropical areas, particularly in Southeast Asia, South America, and India. Various parts of V. cinerea have traditionally been used in folk medicine to treat several diseases, such as malaria, fever, and liver diseases. V. cinerea has so far yielded about 92 secondary metabolites. The majority of these are sesquiterpene lactones, but triterpenes, flavonoids, steroids, phenolics, and other compounds are present as well. V. cinerea crude extracts reportedly exhibit anti-inflammatory, antiprotozoal, antidiabetic, anticancer, antimicrobial, antioxidant, and renoprotective activities. This study aims to provide the latest up-to-date information on the botanical characterization, distribution, traditional uses, phytochemistry, and pharmacological activity of V. cinerea. Information on V. cinerea was thoroughly reviewed. The literature published between 1950 and 2024 was compiled through online bibliographic databases, including SciFinder, Web of Science, Google Scholar, PubMed, ScienceDirect, Springer Link, Wiley, and the MDPI online library. The keywords used for the literature search included Vernonia cinerea (L.) Less. and the synonyms Cyanthillium cinereum (L.) H.Rob., Conyza cinerea L., and various others.

ROLE OF SOCIAL NETWORKING SITES IN RECENT ERA

These days, in this digital world, we depend on social media more and more. Online libraries and social media platforms now house the majority of people's data. A person's social network consists of their friends, coworkers, religious affiliations, and any other social links that connect them together. The ever-increasing needs of humans are becoming more difficult to satisfy as the number of users of social media platforms such as Facebook, YouTube, Orkut, LinkedIn, etc. continues to rise. Anyone may sign up for a social network, create a profile, and start chatting with people. Many different social media strategies exist for promoting library services. Online social networks and information sharing platforms abound, with names like Facebook, Messenger, Orkut, Twitter, and countless more. The educational uses of social media and the tools at educators' disposal are the primary foci of this article's exploration of the phenomenon. The benefits and drawbacks of social media were also covered. Keywords: Social networking, digital era, data storage, connectivity, challenges, tools, promotion, education, advantages, disadvantages, interaction, communication, libraries.

Impact of Migration on Identity Formation: A Study of Second-Generation Immigrants

Purpose: This study sought to explore the impact of migration on identity formation looking at the second generation immigrants. Methodology: The study adopted a desktop research methodology. Desk research refers to secondary data or that which can be collected without fieldwork. Desk research is basically involved in collecting data from existing resources hence it is often considered a low cost technique as compared to field research, as the main cost is involved in executive’s time, telephone charges and directories. Thus, the study relied on already published studies, reports and statistics. This secondary data was easily accessed through the online journals and library. Findings: The findings reveal that there exists a contextual and methodological gap relating to the impact of migration on identity formation. Preliminary empirical review revealed that migration experiences profoundly influenced the construction of cultural identities. Through an analysis of diverse experiences, the study revealed the heterogeneous nature of identity trajectories among second-generation immigrants, ranging from strong attachment to ethnic heritage to fluid, hybrid identities. Socio-cultural factors such as family dynamics, socio-economic status, and institutional support played significant roles in shaping individuals' identity formation processes. The findings emphasized the importance of inclusive policies and supportive networks in facilitating positive identity development among second-generation immigrants, contributing to a deeper understanding of identity construction in multicultural societies. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The Social Identity theory, Intersectionality theory and Acculturation theory may be used to anchor future studies on the impact of migration on identity formation. The study made significant contributions to theory, practice, and policy by elucidating the complex interplay between migration experiences and identity formation among second-generation immigrants. Drawing upon established theories such as Social Identity Theory, Intersectionality Theory, and Acculturation Theory, the study provided a nuanced understanding of the factors shaping identity trajectories. Recommendations included implementing culturally responsive teaching practices, developing interventions to support psychosocial well-being, and adopting inclusive integration policies. These insights empowered educators, mental health professionals, community organizations, and policymakers to create more inclusive and supportive environments for second-generation immigrants navigating their identities within the context of migration.

Relationship between Artistic Expression and Mental Well-being

Purpose: This study sought to investigate the relationship between artistic expression and mental well-being. Methodology: The study adopted a desktop research methodology. Desk research refers to secondary data or that which can be collected without fieldwork. Desk research is basically involved in collecting data from existing resources hence it is often considered a low cost technique as compared to field research, as the main cost is involved in executive’s time, telephone charges and directories. Thus, the study relied on already published studies, reports and statistics. This secondary data was easily accessed through the online journals and library. Findings: The findings reveal that there exists a contextual and methodological gap relating to artistic expression and mental well-being. Preliminary empirical review revealed that engaging in creative activities offers therapeutic benefits such as emotional expression, self-discovery, and social connection. Through various forms of art, individuals were able to reduce stress, improve mood, and foster a sense of belonging within their communities. Moreover, artistic expression served as a catalyst for personal transformation and empowerment, enabling individuals to overcome challenges and find meaning in their experiences. These findings highlight the importance of incorporating arts-based interventions into mental health care to promote holistic well-being. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Art as Therapy theory, Flow theory and Socio-Emotional Selectivity theory may be used to anchor future studies. The studies exploring the relationship between artistic expression and mental well-being offered valuable recommendations that contributed to theoretical advancements, informed practical applications, and guided policy development. By elucidating the therapeutic mechanisms of artistic expression, practitioners integrated arts-based interventions into clinical practice, educators incorporated arts into school curricula, and policymakers advocated for increased funding and support for arts initiatives in healthcare and community settings. These efforts aimed to foster creativity, resilience, and social connection, ultimately enhancing mental well-being across diverse populations.

The Relationship between Corruption and Economic Development

Purpose: The general objective of the study was to explore the relationship between corruption and economic development. Methodology: The study adopted a desktop research methodology. Desk research refers to secondary data or that which can be collected without fieldwork. Desk research is basically involved in collecting data from existing resources hence it is often considered a low cost technique as compared to field research, as the main cost is involved in executive’s time, telephone charges and directories. Thus, the study relied on already published studies, reports and statistics. This secondary data was easily accessed through the online journals and library. Findings: The findings reveal that there exists a contextual and methodological gap relating to corruption and economic development. Preliminary empirical review revealed that corruption significantly impedes sustainable economic growth by undermining investor confidence, distorting market mechanisms, and perpetuating cycles of poverty and inequality. Strong institutional frameworks, democratic governance structures, and targeted policy interventions were identified as crucial in mitigating corruption risks and fostering economic development. The findings underscored the importance of transparency, accountability, and international cooperation in combating corruption and promoting inclusive growth, highlighting the need for evidence-based strategies to address corruption challenges and advance human well-being globally. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The Institutional theory, Political Economy theory and Public Choice theory may be used to anchor future studies on corruption and economic development. The study offered valuable recommendations with significant contributions to theory, practice, and policy. Theoretical insights enriched our understanding of corruption's causal mechanisms, while practical recommendations guided practitioners in addressing corruption risks and promoting ethical behavior. Policy recommendations urged governments to prioritize anti-corruption reforms and enhance international cooperation. These contributions bridged the gap between theory and practice, empowering stakeholders to combat corruption effectively and foster sustainable economic development.

The Efficacy of Restorative Justice Programs in Reducing Recidivism Rates

Purpose: This study sought to assess the efficacy of restorative justice programs in reducing recidivism rates.  Methodology: The study adopted a desktop research methodology. Desk research refers to secondary data or that which can be collected without fieldwork. Desk research is basically involved in collecting data from existing resources hence it is often considered a low cost technique as compared to field research, as the main cost is involved in executive’s time, telephone charges and directories. Thus, the study relied on already published studies, reports and statistics. This secondary data was easily accessed through the online journals and library. Findings: The findings reveal that there exists a contextual and methodological gap relating to restorative justice programs in reducing recidivism rates. Preliminary empirical review revealed that restorative justice interventions were effective in reducing reoffending and promoting positive outcomes for both offenders and victims. Through processes such as victim-offender mediation and family group conferencing, restorative justice provided opportunities for offenders to take responsibility, repair harm, and engage in rehabilitation. While acknowledging variations in effectiveness based on offender characteristics and program implementation, the study highlighted the importance of continued investment in restorative justice initiatives to create a more just and equitable criminal justice system. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Labeling theory, Social Learning theory and Routine Activities theory may be used to anchor future studies on restorative justice programs in reducing recidivism rates. The study offered recommendations that contributed to theoretical advancements, practical improvements, and policy developments in the field. It emphasized the importance of exploring underlying mechanisms, standardized training for practitioners, and integration of restorative principles into mainstream criminal justice policies. These recommendations were aimed at enhancing the effectiveness and sustainability of restorative justice interventions in promoting positive outcomes for victims, offenders, and communities.

The Philosophical Implications of Neuroscience Research on Free Will and Moral Responsibility

Purpose: This study sought to analyze the philosophical implications of neuroscience research on free will and moral responsibility. Methodology: The study adopted a desktop research methodology. Desk research refers to secondary data or that which can be collected without fieldwork. Desk research is basically involved in collecting data from existing resources hence it is often considered a low cost technique as compared to field research, as the main cost is involved in executive’s time, telephone charges and directories. Thus, the study relied on already published studies, reports and statistics. This secondary data was easily accessed through the online journals and library. Findings: The findings reveal that there exists a contextual and methodological gap relating to the philosophical implications of neuroscience research on free will and moral responsibility. Preliminary empirical review recognized that the compatibility between neuroscientific determinism and philosophical concepts of free will. It highlighted the need for interdisciplinary collaboration to address the ethical considerations and societal implications of using neuroscientific evidence in legal and ethical contexts. The study emphasized the importance of public engagement to foster informed discourse on the ethical and philosophical implications of neuroscience research. Overall, the findings underscored the complexity of navigating the intersection of neuroscience and philosophy, calling for continued interdisciplinary dialogue to address the multifaceted implications of neuroscience research on free will and moral responsibility. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Compatibilism, Libertarianism and Determinism may be used to anchor future studies on philosophical implications of neuroscience research on free will and moral responsibility. The study provided valuable insights and recommendations across theory, practice, and policy. It contributed to theoretical advancements by synthesizing neuroscientific findings with philosophical theories, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration. In practice, the study emphasized ethical considerations in research conduct and interpretation, aiming to enhance the reliability and validity of neuroscientific evidence. Policy recommendations focused on developing evidence-based policies governing the use of neuroscientific evidence and promoting public engagement and education. Additionally, the study identified areas for further research, such as longitudinal and cross-cultural studies, to advance understanding in the field. Overall, the study highlighted the importance of ethical considerations and responsible innovation in the development and application of neuroscience research. Keywords: Philosophical Implications, Neuroscience Research, Free Will, Moral Responsibility, Ethics, Interdisciplinary Collaboration, Neuroscientific Findings, Public Engagement, Education, Ethical Considerations, Responsible Innovation