Pearson Product Correlation Research Articles

Relationship between ICT skills and participation in Zoom meetings for professional development among librarians in universities in South-South, Nigeria

This study investigated ICT skills and participation in Zoom meetings for professional development among librarians in universities in South-South, Nigeria. Descriptive survey research design was used for the study. The population for the study was 158 librarians in the university libraries of 12 public universities in South-south, Nigeria. Total enumeration sampling techniques was used for the study. Data were collected using questionnaire. Pearson Product Correlation was used to analyse the data. The results revealed that there was significant relationship between ICT skills and frequency of participation in Zoom meetings for professional development among librarians in various areas of job; there was significant relationship between ICT skills and extent of the benefits librarians derive from participating in Zoom meetings for professional development; there was significant relationship between ICT skills and the extent of the barriers librarians encountered with participation in Zoom meetings for professional development. It was recommended that the librarians should improve their ICT skills through regular ICT training and computer practice so that they will be ICT compliant and maximally participate in Zoom meetings for professional development.

The Effect of Transformational and Transactional Leadership Styles on Organizational Readiness for Change Among Health Professionals.

The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of transformational and transactional leadership styles on organizational readiness for change among health professionals in the case of selected public hospitals in the North Showa Zone, Oromia Region, Ethiopia. The institutional-based cross-sectional study design was employed for one month in April 2021. The data were collected from a sample of 212 subordinate health professional staffs. Multi-factor leadership surveys and organizational readiness for change questionnaires were used for data collection. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and exploratory factor analysis, run on the SPSS 23 version. Pearson correlation and multiple regressions were used. Multiple regression results were expressed using the statistical values R2 and β-coefficient. Statistical significance was declared at a P-value of <.05. The Pearson product correlation of organizational readiness for change was found to be low positive and statistically significant for both transformational leadership behavior (r = .49, P < .01) and transactional leadership behavior (r = .39, P < .01). Both transformational leadership behavior (t = 5.32, P = .00) and transactional leadership behavior (t = 2.08, P = .034) were found to be significant contributors to the variance of organizational readiness for change among health professionals, according to the findings. However, transformational leadership behavior style appears to make a more significant contribution (β = 0.39) than transactional leadership style (β = 0.15) in predicting organizational readiness for change among health professionals. The study revealed that whenever transformational and/or transactional leadership behaviors are exhibited by the administrative staff, readiness for organizational change (commitment and efficacy) increases among health professionals. The study also concluded that a quarter of the readiness for organizational change can be affected by the two leadership styles.

Casualization and Employee Performance in Nigeria Commercial Banks

The researcher observed that the causalisation of employees has negatively impacted the commitment of employees in First Bank of Nigeria Pic Ekpoma. The broad objective of the study is to determine the effect of causalisation on employee commitment. 188 copies of the questionnaire was designed and distributed to the staff and management of First Bank of Nigeria Pic Ekpoma Edo State. The statistical method of percentage and Pearson Product Correlation Moment Correlation (PPMC) were used to analyse the data obtained from the questionnaire. The result showed that actualization significantly affects employee commitment, employee productivity, organizational productivity as well as organizational goal achievement. Recommendations were put forward that should define terms of employment as much as possible for its casual staff, just as in the case of its full time/permanent employees, so as to enable them know what they are in for with the company. This will enable them know their rights, privileged, entitlement etc in the organization at every point in time. Any worker that undertakes very important task in the organization that is employed as a casual should have his employment contract reviewed and converted to permanent. This will come as a boost to him and make him more productive on the long run.

Strategic Management and Performance of Information Technology Firms in Nigeria

The urgent need for diversification in the Nigerian economy has raised concerns in other sectors. The information technology (IT) sector remains the least developed despite increased government attention to IT and the need to encourage young graduates in the IT sector. Little seems to have been achieved so far; hence, this study assessed the influence of strategic management (SM) on the operational performance of IT firms in Nigeria. A sample of 195 managers of IT firms across the country of Nigeria were selected for this current study, and they were selected using a convenient sampling technique. The Pearson product correlation technique was used in analysing the data. It was found that there is a correlation between SM and the operational performance of IT firms in Nigeria. The study concludes that the presence of a sound SM would guarantee the improved operational performance of IT firms in Nigeria. It is recommended that IT firms’ managers be willing to come up with a detailed strategic plan and implement it to conduct regular evaluation and control their own strategy, as it is useful towards ensuring that they gain a competitive edge.

Temperature Effects on Optimal Performance of PV Module

The commonly used renewable energy source (RES) is solar energy. However, the production of this energy from PV modules has a lot of challenges and still needs technological improvement. This research investigates the effects of temperature on Photovoltaic (PV) module optimal performance. An experimental setup of a Monocrystalline (MC) module was used and data on the temperature and other parameters were measured using appropriate measuring tools. The relationship between module temperature and other parameters was evaluated using Pearson product correlation. The findings of this study showed that the temperature is significant for the Monocrystalline PV module to operate at its optimal. Also, the finding revealed that there is a weak correlation between the open circuit voltage (OCV) of the panel and the temperature, however, the PV module temperature has a strong and positive correlation with other parameters namely; solar irradiance, short circuit current (SCC), output power and conversion efficiency (CE) with a correlation coefficient (CC) of 0.94, 0.93, 0.92 and 0.93 respectively. The conversion efficiency of the PV module increases when its temperature is within the maximum operating temperature and tends to decrease when the temperature is beyond the design operating temperature of the module. This implies that temperature is also a key parameter to consider when designing a PV module system for optimal performance. This research recommends that temperature should be considered in the design of PV modules to power any equipment or machines for better performance.

The Effect of Interest Income and Interest Expense on Net Income at State-Owned Banks Listed on the IDX 2021

This study aims to determine the effect of interest income and interest expense on net income for the period 2012 to 2020. The research method used is a quantitative method using data sources from the financial statements of Concise Profit and Loss for the period 2012 to 2020. The data analysis technique uses data normality test, Pearson Product correlation analysis. Moment, coefficient of determination, and multiple linear regression analysis. Based on the results of data analysis, knowing the effect of Interest Income and Interest Expense on Net Profit states that the data is normally distributed, the closeness of the relationship is 0.494 strong category, the direction of the influence is positive. Interest Income and Interest Expense affect Net Profit by 85.4% and the remaining 14.4% is influenced by other variables. it is known that t count (6.088) &gt; t table (2.034) and significant 0.000 &lt;0.05. This means that partially interest income has a positive effect on net income at state-owned banks listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange, then t count (-2.382) &gt; t table (2.034) and significant 0.023 &lt;0.05. This means that partially interest expense has a negative effect on net income at state-owned banks listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange. Furthermore, it is known that F count is 103.149 &gt; F table 3.28, with a significance of 0.000 &lt;0.05. This shows that all independent variables, namely interest income and interest expense, simultaneously have a significant effect on net income at state-owned banks listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange.

Effects of a small-sided games training program in youth male soccer players: variations of the locomotor profile while interacting with baseline level and with the accumulated load

PurposeThis study aimed to (1) analyze the impact of a small-sided game training program in the locomotor profile of youth male soccer players (while interacting with the baseline level – higher and lower level); and (2) test the relationships between variation in locomotor profile and the accumulated demands in 3v3, 5v5 and match over the period of observation.MethodsThe cohort lasted 3-weeks. Twenty under-17 male amateur soccer players (16.8 ± 0.41 years; experience: 6.35 ± 0.67 years) were assessed twice for their final velocity at 30−15 intermittent fitness test (VIFT), peak speed at 30-m sprint test (PSS) and anaerobic speed reserve (ASR). The PSS was estimated using a Global Positioning System, while the VIFT was estimated using the maximum level attained by the players during the test. Based on the baseline levels, the scores were standardized using the Z-score. The total score of athleticism (TSA) was calculated per player to organize the players into two groups: lower TSA and higher TSA. Over the three weeks of observation, the small-sided games of 3v3 and 5v5 and match demands were monitored using polar team pro. The heart rate responses (mean and peak), distance covered (overall and split by speed thresholds), and peak speed in these games were obtained and summed over the weeks. The repeated measures ANCOVA tested the variations (time) of the locomotor profile of players while considering the baseline as covariable and the group as a factor. The Pearson-product correlation test analyzed the relationships between variations in locomotor profile (Δ, post-baseline) and the accumulated demands in 3v3, 5v5, and match.ResultsBetween-groups analysis (lower TSA vs. higher TSA) revealed no significant differences on VIFT (p = 0.915), PSS (p = 0.269), ASR (p = 0.258) and TSA score (p = 0.138). Within-group (baseline vs. post-observation) analysis revealed significant difference on VIFT (p < 0.001), PSS (p = 0.008), while no significant differences were found on ASR (p = 0.949) and TSA score (p = 0.619). Significant correlations were found between ΔPSS and match total distance (r = 0.444; p = 0.050), match Z2 (r = 0.481; p = 0.032) and match Z3 (r = 0.454; p = 0.044). Significant correlations were found between ΔTSA and match total distance (r = 0.457; p = 0.043), match Z1 (r = 0.451; p = 0.046), match Z2 (r = 0.500; p = 0.025) and match Z3 (r = 0.468; p = 0.037).ConclusionSignificant improvements were observed after the period of observation. However, the fitness baseline level and the accumulated training load in the small-sided games seem to have no significant impact on the observed improvements.

Anthropomorphic model rigid loading indenter with embedded sensor development for wheelchair cushion standard testing.

Develop an anthropomorphic model cushion rigid loading indenter with embedded sensors (AMCRLI-ES) to assess compression and shear forces at key locations such as trochanters and ischial tuberosities. The sensor design was optimized using finite element analysis. The AMCRLI-ES was designed with the same dimensions as specified in ISO 16840-2 tests. The AMCRLI-ES is divided into eight independent sections, and each section consists of one 3-axis load cell sensor to measure compression and shear forces normal to the compression direction. Six commercial cushions were tested using the AMCRLI-ES with standard ISO 16840-2 testing procedures. Statistical differences were found for energy dissipation between cushions. Statistical differences (p < 0.001) were found in all stiffness values. Test results showed that energy dissipation (ED) was correlated with hysteresis at 500N with moderate to high Pearson product correlation r = -0.537, p = 0.022. The hysteresis at 250N did not show a statistical correlation with ED. The AMCRLI-ES demonstrated the ability to measure compression and shear forces at key locations on the cushion including the thigh, trochanter, ischial tuberosity, and sacral area. It provides in-depth information about how the weight was distributed on the cushions.

Relationship Between Principals’ Human Skills and Job Satisfaction of Secondary School Teachers with Mediating role of School Climate

The current study was aimed to investigate the relationship between principals’ human skills and job satisfaction of secondary school teachers with mediating role of school climate. A sample of 271 Secondary School Teachers (SSTs) was selected through stratified sampling method. A questionnaire was developed for data collection purpose. Pearson-Product Correlation and mediation analysis was used. The results of the study indicated that school climate partially mediated in the relationship between principals’ human skills and teacher’ job satisfaction. The study recommended that school principals may emphasis and develop their human skills.

Public School Teachers’ Knowledge, Skills and Attitudes on Special Education and Psychosocial Development of Learners

This study was conducted to determine the relationship of the demographic profile, level of knowledge, skills, and attitudes of public school teachers on Special Education as well as the effect of these on the psychosocial development of learners. It utilized both descriptive and inferential statistics. The questionnaire checklist was divided into three parts: I – was the demographic profile of the SPED teachers; II – was adopted from the study of Gerald S. Mthetwa (2008) on Principal’s Knowledge and Attitudes Regarding Inclusive Education: Implications for Curriculum and Assessment and Pearson Education, Inc. (2017) Washington Educator Skills Tests; III – a behavioral checklist adapted and modified from Ochset Pligs (2010). The respondents of the study are the selected SPED public school teachers and the parents/guardians of the SPED learners enrolled in S.Y. 2019-2020 in DepEd’s SPED Program. The statistical treatment applied are frequency count, percentage, weighted mean, Pearson product correlation coefficient, paired T-test, and regression analysis. The result showed that there is no significant relationship between the teachers’ knowledge, skills, and attitudes on the psychosocial development of learners. Each of the variables has no direct effect on the psychosocial development of learners with special educational needs. This further means teaching children with special educational needs require much effort, time, skills, and knowledge to help them discover their potential and develop them. Based on the findings and conclusions, it is highly recommended that there is a much need to employ more teachers in the field of Special Education, develop a team to continuously monitor and deliver the services needed in line with the guidelines set by the national government, and there must be more evident collaboration among the local community, the education community, parents, teachers, and the SPED school in addressing the concerns of Special Education in the school level. Keywords: Extent of knowledge about SPED, Extent of practice on the management skills among SPED learners, Extent of attitude towards SPED, Psychosocial Development, Public School Teachers, Special Education, SPED Learners

Classroom Discipline Strategies for Elementary Teachers

The main purpose of the study is to determine how frequent and useful the classroom discipline strategies used by Elementary Teachers. This study employed descriptive method of research to assess the frequency and usefulness of classroom discipline strategies of elementary school in Moalboal District for the school year 2019-2020 as basis for an action plan. It utilized an adapted questionnaire for gathering data. The statistical tools used were percentage, weighted mean, and Pearson-Product Correlation. The results showed that 20 respondents or 38 percent were mostly 40-49 years old and majority or 88 percent were females. Majority or 65 percent have Bachelors’ Degree with master’s units. Majority or 35 percent have been in the service for 11-20 years. With regard to position held, majority or 36 percent are Teacher 3 and majority of the School Heads or 67 percent are Principal 1. With regard to Teachers’ frequency of classroom discipline, it obtained an average rating of 3.05 described as Often, while the School Heads got an average rating of 3.3. described as Always. For Teachers’ Usefulness on classroom discipline strategies, they have an average rating of 3.21 interpreted as Useful, similar to the rating from School Heads with 3.17 interpreted as Useful. Hence, there is a comparable result existed between the Teachers and School Heads. As such, it is recommended that the proposed Action Plan be implemented. Keywords: Administration and Supervision, Classroom Discipline Strategies, Descriptive Research, Action Plan, Moalboal, Cebu. DOI: 10.7176/JEP/13-33-05 Publication date: November 30 th 2022

Types of Motivation and Its Influence to Students’ Academic Performance in Social Studies

The study was conducted to measure the influence of the types of motivation in improving students’ academic performance in Social Studies, such as intrinsic motivation (a) goal setting, (b) feedback, (c) enjoyment, and extrinsic motivation (a) classroom rewards, (b) grades, (c) incentives for grade 11 students. Furthermore, it sought to determine the relationship based on the influence of the types of motivation after the implementation. Using a descriptive correlational research design, thirty-two (32) Grade 11 students from Bukal Integrated National High School during the academic year 2021–2022 were conveniently selected as respondents for the study. Five expert teachers validated the instrument. A research-made questionnaire was utilized to gather the respondent’s perceptions about the types of motivation. The lesson exemplar for the whole grading period was made to reflect the influence of the types of motivation to be employed by the teacher in the facilitation of teaching-learning. The written works and performance tasks were utilized to see the relationship between the types of motivation. After the whole grading period, the data was gathered, tabulated, and analyzed. The Pearson Product–Correlation Coefficient was used to analyze the data. Additionally, descriptive statistics such as mean, standard deviation, and percentage were used and revealed that the overall performance of the respondents, grade 11 students, in terms of written work and performance tasks, is satisfactory. The result of the perceptions of the respondents on types of motivation revealed that students strongly agree that these types of motivation are highly motivating in improving students’ academic performance in Social Studies. Students’ perception shows that feedback is highly motivating as intrinsic motivation. Meanwhile, grades are highly motivating, as perceived by the respondents in terms of extrinsic motivation. The result revealed that most students performed very well in written work and excellently performed in performance tasks. The results of the written works and performance tasks revealed that there was no significant relationship between the students’ perception of types of motivation and academic performance in terms of written works and performance tasks in Social Studies after exposure to intrinsic and extrinsic motivation. This implies that types of motivation may not significantly influential in improving students’ academic performance in Social Studies in a distance learning modality. Keywords: Intrinsic Motivation, Extrinsic Motivation, Academic Performance

Association Of Muscle Biomechanical Properties With Army Combat Fitness Test Performance In ROTC Cadets.

Myotonometry is a reliable, non-invasive method to assess muscle stiffness, tone, and elasticity and has demonstrated significant associations with physical performance. However, no studies have investigated the predictive relationship of myotonometric parameters with Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) performance. Such information will help determine if myotonometry can serve as an effective screening method to identify muscular deficits in soldiers who demonstrate poor combat fitness. PURPOSE: To explore the predictive value of myotonometrics of the erector spinae (ES), vastus lateralis (VL), and biceps femoris (BF) muscles with ACFT performance. METHODS: Following ACFT performance, myotonometric measures were recorded in 38 cadets (Age 21.6 + 3.78; 26% female) with a handheld myotonometer (MyotonPRO; Myoton AS, Tallinn, Estonia) in the ES, BF, and VL muscles. Measures were collected under passive, non-weightbearing conditions (prone: ES and BF; supine: VL). Anthropometrics were also collected for each participant. Bivariate associations were examined between predictive factors and ACFT performance using Pearson product correlation analysis. Multivariate relationships were then evaluated using stepwise multiple linear regression. RESULTS: Bivariate correlation analysis identified 7 variables that were significantly associated with ACFT performance [fat-free mass index (FFMI), r = .629, p < .001; VL tone, r = .661, p < .001; ES stiffness, r = .394, p = .015; ES tone, r = .406, p = .011; BF stiffness, r = .509, p = .001; BF elasticity, r = .358, p = .027]. Three of the 7 variables were retained in the multiple linear regression model (VL tone, BF elasticity, and FFMI) predictive of ACFT performance, resulting in R2 of 0.672, with VL tone being the most significant contributor. CONCLUSION: VL tone, BF elasticity, and FFMI were able to predict and explain approximately 2/3 of the variance in ACFT scores in a mixed-sex cohort of cadets. These field expedient measures may serve as an effective screening tool to identify soldiers who are at risk of poor combat fitness and guide exercise and nutrition interventions to enhance soldier ACFT scores and combat effectiveness.

Landsat NDVI-based vegetation degradation dynamics and its response to rainfall variability and anthropogenic stressors in Southern Bui Plateau, Cameroon

• Long-term vegetation degradation is assessed by means of time-series Landsat NDVI. • Mean annual NDVI and rainfall anomaly index (RAI) were compared. • Anthropogenic stressors are primarily responsible for vegetation degradation. • Vegetation degradation leads to declining land productivity and ecosystem services. Land degradation is a serious problem affecting the livelihoods of people leaving in marginal lands. Its assessment has been made easy by a plethora of remote sensing techniques. This study seeks to establish the spatiotemporal trends in vegetation degradation and its response to climate change and anthropogenic stressors in Southern Bui Plateau, Cameroon. The study used mean annual Landsat-derived NDVI of cloud-free months to model vegetation degradation dynamics over 37 years (1984–2021) based on Ordinary Least Square (OLS) Regression and Pearson's Product Correlation of NDVI with Rainfall Anomaly Index (RAI) on a pixel-by-pixel basis. Areas undergoing significant degradation are estimated at 10.81% (1469.08 km 2 ) and slight degradation, 23.57% (3202.39 km 2 ). Total degraded lands accounted for 34.38% (either 4671.47 km 2 ). Areas with slight improvement in vegetation cover accounted for 24.88%, while 9.69% area showed significant improvement. NDVI-Rainfall relationship revealed that areas significantly impacted by human activities and pressures ( r ≤ -0.50) driving vegetation changes covered 24.67% (either 3352.03 km 2 ), while those under climatic variability and change influence ( r ≥ 0.50 ≥ 0.90) accounted for 55.84% (either 7587.26 km 2 ), under both climatic and human stressors ( r ≥ 0.50 < 0.70), 13.09% (either 1779.01 km 2 ) and areas not significantly impacted, i.e., somewhat stable nature over the years accounted for 6.40% (869.04 km 2 ). Areas under human vegetation pressures occupy the heavily grazed landscapes, the transhumance paths, and forested areas of the Kilum-Ijim forest. The practice of sustainable land management and landscape restoration initiatives are key to achieving land degradation neutrality at watershed scale.

Gender and Other Vulnerabilities to Water–Energy Accessibility in Rural Households of Katsina State, Northern Nigeria

Water and energy are essential resources for all people. However, despite the availability of sufficient water and energy resources, men and women continue to be subject to unequal rights to both water and energy in terms of access, allocation, gathering, and quality of resources. Socio-economic parameters, which include gender, income, and location, are determinant factors of water and cooking energy accessibility in this study. The research aims to assess the accessibility of water and cooking fuels across female-headed households, and evaluate particular vulnerabilities and challenges faced by women and children in rural areas of Katsina State in circumstances of water and energy insecurities. A study involving a questionnaire covering 550 rural households across 11 areas in Katsina State, north-western Nigeria, was conducted. A Pearson product correlation analysis was performed to measure the strength of association between the respondents educational level and income. A chi-square test of independence was carried out to measure the degree of dependence of the households’ resources accessibility. The authors assessed the disproportionate threats and health risks linked to fetching water and gathering of fuel resources. The research findings indicate that water and energy uncertainty among women in rural households is due to unequal responsibilities associated with water- and energy-related household duties that are potentially linked to disadvantages for females, including violence, security threats, diseases, and disempowerment. To address these challenges, water and energy interventions, and important pathways for beneficial change, are proposed for rural regions in sub-Saharan Africa. This should lead to more gender equity associated with water and energy.

Empiric radioiodine for hyperthyroidism: Outcomes, prescribing patterns, and its place in the modern era of theranostics.

The modern era of radioiodine (I-131) theranostics for metastatic differentiated thyroid cancer requires us to rationalize the role of traditional empiric prescription in nonmalignant thyroid disease. We currently practice empiric I-131 prescription for treatment of hyperthyroidism. This study aims to assess outcomes after treatment of hyperthyroidism by empiric I-131 prescription at our centre, evaluate factors that impact on outcomes and prescribing practice, and gain insight into whether there is a place for theranostically-guided prescription in hyperthyroidism. A retrospective review was undertaken of all patients with Graves' disease, toxic multinodular goitre (MNG) and toxic adenoma treated with I-131 between 2016 and 2021. Associations between clinical or scintigraphic variables and remission (euthyroid or hypothyroid) or persistence of hyperthyroidism at follow-up were performed using standard t test as well as Pearson's product correlation. Of 146 patients with a mean follow-up of 13.6 months, 80.8% achieved remission of hyperthyroidism. This was highest in toxic nodules (90.1%), compared with Graves' disease (73.8%) and toxic MNG (75.5%). In patients with Graves' disease, higher administered activity was associated with remission (p = .035). There was a weak inverse correlation between the Tc-99m pertechnetate uptake vs prescribed activity in Graves' disease (r = -0.33; p = .009). Only one patient (0.7%) had an I-131 induced flare of thyrotoxicosis. Traditional empiric I-131 prescription is a safe and effective treatment of hyperthyroidism and suitable for most patients. However, there may be a role for personalized I-131 prescription by theranostic guidance in selected patients with high thyroid hyperactivity.

Six Minute Walk Test in People with Tuberculosis Sequelae

Background: Tuberculosis often brings about diffuse fibrotic and other changes to lung tissue also consolidation of lung tissue prompting a decrease in generally lung tissue compliance. Following tuberculosis, the functional status of people is reduced e.g., impaired ventilation and gas exchanges leading to shortness of breath, muscular deconditioning, and a functional status decline is seen Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate and compare the six-meter walk distance and physical functional capacity (VO2 max) in 40 – 65 years people with pulmonary tuberculosis and healthy subjects. Methods: Forty healthy subjects (20 males and 20 females) and forty subjects with pulmonary tuberculosis (30 males and 10 females) took part in this study. All the subjects underwent a six min walk test. Walk-work was calculated and used for evaluating functional capacity. To examine for significant relationships Pearson product correlation was used Results: A significant difference was found between the groups in regards to 6MWT distance (p &lt; 0.05). For height and body mass index (BMI) Pearson product correlations with 6MWD were significant in normal individual and for the weight and BMI it was significant in the TB sequelae group. Conclusion: A significant difference was found in functional capacity in terms of VO2max between healthy and patients with TB was found. TB sequelae individuals’ group, 52.6% patients had a VO2 max under 21 milliliter per kilogram per minute that brought about an impressive effect of TB sequelae on endurance in regards to cardiorespiratory system. Keywords: functional capacity, hospital, six-minute walk test, tuberculosis

The Influence of Parental Ownership Strategies on the Management of Academic Performance in Secondary Schools in Imenti South Sub-County, Meru County, Kenya

Purpose: The study examined the influence of parental ownership on the management of academic performance in Imenti South Sub County, Meru County, Kenya. Approach/Methodology/Design: The study adopted a mixed methodology approach and concurrent triangulation design. The target population of the study was a total of 17568 respondents consisting of 16800 students, 48 principals, and 720 teachers. The researcher used stratified sampling to get the 8 principals and purposive sampling to get 720 teachers and 64 students. The researcher used questionnaires and interview schedules to collect data from principals, teachers, and students. Piloting of the research instruments was done in10% of the sample size in the neighboring Igembe Sub-County. Validity was measured by face and content validity, while the reliability of research instruments was checked through test and retest method. The reliability coefficient was computed using the Pearson Product correlation coefficient where a coefficient of less than 0.07 was deemed dependable. Qualitative data was analyzed using themes and presented using narratives, while quantitative data was analyzed using SPSS version 21. Findings: The results indicate that students were not performing well in their academic performance is because many parents are not involved. The study, therefore, recommended that with increased parental engagement through volunteering, ownership, guidance and support, the learners would perform better. Originality/value: This study has significant value in the sense that if the parents own the schools where their children study, then the academic performance would improve, and at the same time, there would be greater discipline among the learners.

A Quantitative Study of Risk Scores and the Effectiveness of AI-Based Cybersecurity Awareness Training Programs

Cybersecurity awareness training plays a dynamic role for organizations in certifying resources' accessibility. This paper determines the correlation between an employee's risk score and the effectiveness of AI-based security awareness training that deals with cyber threats. The research uses the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology to update prior research, revealing that at-risk employees' behavior and information security awareness training implementation make up successful interventions. However, those studies did not discuss AI training, and so this research fills that literature gap. This study used a quantitative research design. The researcher analyzed survey responses using Pearson's Correlation and an independent t-test to determine statistically significant relationships and differences between employees' risk scores and an AI-based security awareness training programs' effectiveness. The calculations came from a sample of 200 participants from two different organizations. The Pearson product correlation of employee's risk scores and the effectiveness of the security awareness training program was statistically significant. The researcher also conducted an independent-samples t-test to compare the employees' risk scores by gender. There were no significant differences in scores. Male was higher than female ones. The mean difference was minimal. The findings herein help interpret the role of information security awareness training in the workplace, promoting behavioral changes that would impede data violations by including the users' vulnerability and the severity of intimidation, and the response to a threat in prognosticating behavior intentions.

Validity of ultrasound imaging for intrinsic foot muscle cross-sectional area measurements demonstrated by strong agreement with MRI

PurposeIntrinsic foot muscles maintain foot structural integrity and contribute to functional movement, posture and balance. Thus, assessing intrinsic foot muscle size and strength are important. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has been shown to accurately image the individual muscles but is costly and time consuming. Ultrasound (US) imaging may provide an alternative that is less costly and more readily available. The purpose of this study was to investigate the validity and intratester reliability of US imaging in measuring intrinsic foot muscle size in comparison to MRI.MethodsUS and MRI were employed to measure the intrinsic foot muscle size involving 35 participants (females = 13; males = 22). The scanned intrinsic foot muscles included the flexor hallucis brevis (FHB), abductor hallucis (ABDH), flexor digitorum brevis (FDB), quadratus plantae (QP) and abductor digiti minimi (ADM). Pearson product correlation (r), intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC), standard error of the measurement (SEm) and minimal detectable difference (MDD) were calculated.ResultsHigh correlations were detected between the US and MRI cross-sectional area (CSA) measurements (r = .971 to 0.995). Test reliability was excellent for both MRI and US (ICC = 0.994 to 0.999). Limits of agreement between MRI and US measurements from ranged from 5.7 to 12.2% of muscle size. SEm values for US ranged from 0.026 to 0.044 cm2, while the SEm for MRI ranged from 0.018 to 0.023 cm2. MDD values for US ranged from 0.073 to 0.122 cm2, while MRI ranged from 0.045 to 0.064 cm2.ConclusionsUS appears to be a valid and reliable alternative to MRI when measuring intrinsic foot muscle CSA. While US is less costly and more readily available, the MRI results were shown to be slightly more precise.