Directional Correlation Research Articles

The Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) Hypothesis on GHG emissions: analyses for transportation industry of South Africa

A series of energy-econometrics techniques were employed for a 5-year time span between 2016 and 2020. The tests of Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) hypothesis were conducted essentially to examine the significance of economic growth (GDP), energy consumption (EC), with energy intensity (EI), and on-road passenger vehicles (PV) as related to economic development on the mitigation of carbon emissions (CO2-eq) in the transportation industry of South Africa. The findings from the prevailing research imply that, with respect to South Africa’s transportation industry, CO2-eq emissions increased in the course of early phases of economic growth while it tends to decline at certain levels of economic threshold. Though the nation maintains the edge of turning points in both the industrial and circular economy. The results further indicate a nexus between GDP and EC, which consequently affect the CO2-eq emissions. The findings proffer the needs to monitor the EC from the long-run impacts alongside the short run impacts of the forecast. The per capita GDP from the short-run impacts of t-stat—(4.928) to the long run effects of t-stat—(5.033) rises, indicating its improper influence in the industry. To limit the use of fossil-based fuels, as demonstrated in the negative signal of EI for long-run impacts of a p-value (0.2835), then to the short run effects which possess a significant p-value. It also highlights the directional correlation surfacing between EC, EI and South Africa’s on-road PV. In the computation context, the series was determined to be stationary at its first differences, as evident by the R2 combined with the R2 (Adjusted) values of 0.9837 and 0.9827, respectively, for both long-run and short-run assessments. The indication of the research among others further reveals that public transportation systems of road and rail options, which have the potentials to incorporate alternative energy sources, can be the required efforts to mitigate climate change and global warming effects in the transportation industry.

ENHANCING PERFORMANCE OF MANGO FARMING PROJECTS THROUGH PARTICIPATORY PROJECT MANAGMENT

Objective: This paper advocates for a paradigm shift from the traditional project management to a participatory approach throughout the management cycle, for increased performance of mango farming projects. Theoretical Framework: Theories adopted: i. Project Management Theory: Highlights life cycle stages in uncovering new project insights. ii. Stakeholder Theory: Highlights the unity of stakeholders for enhanced involvement in projects. iii. Participation Ladder Theory: Enhances success through active participation. iv. Theory of Constraints: Confronts project challenges related to time, cost, and scope to achieve beneficial changes. Method: The empirical study was carried out in Makueni County, Kenya. It used descriptive cross-sectional design and multistage rsampling on a population of 12,622, out of which a sample of 375 respondnets selected. Of these, 369 questionnaires were returned and analyzed. Additionally, it involved 15 key informants. Observation and an interview guides collected qualitative data. Descriptive and inferential tools, correlation, F-tests, regression and content analysis analyzed quantitative and qualitative data. Results and Discussion: Results reflected item scores showing the composite mean of 3.2 and standard deviation of 3.0. Revealed is a significant positive correlation coefficient (r = 0.592), p-value (p = 0.000) of the relationship between two variables. Research Implications: This study recommends adopting a participatory project cycle approach, supported by a feasible policy, to guide innovative mango farming practices to enhance the overall performance. Originality/Value: The study contributes to literature by advocating project management cycle approach on performance of mango projects in today’s evolving project environment.

Multivariate Statistical Approach and Assessment of Pollution of Water and Sediments in Karstic Springs of Transboundary Aquifer Žumberak–Samoborsko Gorje Mountain (Croatia/Slovenia)

This study highlights the geochemistry of water and sediments of the karstic springs of the transboundary aquifer (TBA) Žumberak–Samoborsko Gorje Mt. (NW Croatia). After calculating pollution indices, the analysis showed that the sediments are unpolluted. The geo-accumulation index (Igeo) showed only the elements Ba and Rb, indicating moderate levels of pollution, with the highest values in springs Vapnik and Bistrac. Statistical analysis confirmed their natural origin. The water of these springs is under possible anthropogenic influence as indicated by elevated concentrations of total nitrogen (TN) and total phosphorus (TP). According to a principal component analysis (PCA) for elements in sediments, PC1 described a combined lithogenic and oxidative–reductive influence, PC2 described a combined geological background including total organic carbon (TOC) content and oxidative–reductive influence, while TOC had the greatest influence on PC3. Depending on element composition, the factor scores related to PC1 and PC2 resulted in two different groups of sites, while the factor scores concerning PC1 and PC3 did not show separation in two groups. The hierarchical cluster analysis showed three clusters in relation to the content of the elements. The correlation coefficient between the sediment and related water samples showed that the springs placed in a low-permeability formation (dolomite) had a strong positive coefficient of correlation.

A preliminary observation in evaluating maize evapotranspiration and plant features under meteorological variables and biochar effect

ABSTRACT A significant area of Hungary is cultivated with maize. To date, a limited number of direct field-based evapotranspiration studies have been performed. A Thornthwaite-Mather-type compensation evapotranspirometer was used to investigate both weather variables and biochar effects on maize evapotranspiration in Keszthely, Hungary, in the 2023 growing season. This research revealed that two meteorological variables daily mean temperature (Ta) and solar radiation (Rn) exhibited significant positive correlation coefficients in both daily evapotranspiration (ETa) applied treatments (0 and 400 kg ha−1 biochar), whereas precipitation (P) and daily relative humidity (RH) had negative impacts on both ETa treatments. Biochar application to a clay loam soil increased cumulative evapotranspiration (ETc), reaching 408.21 mm, while WUE (water use efficiency) stood at 3.46 kg m−3. Similarly, growth parameters (leaf area cm2, stem diameter cm, plant height cm, and chlorophyllSPAD) showed a positive effect after biochar amendment during the growing season intervals. This research outlined the most effective weather variables on ETa and how ETa could be computed depending on two climatic variables (Ta and RH). Furthermore, it concluded that biochar addition at low dose to clay loam soil is a powerful tool to improve ETc, WUE, and maize growth and productive features.

Moderating effect of bank performance on bank value: Evidence from Jordan

The relationship between bank performance and bank value is a crucial area of study, particularly in the context of emerging economies like Jordan. This study aims to investigate the moderating effect of bank performance on bank value, providing insight into how performance metrics influence overall valuation. The study employs a comprehensive methodological approach, utilizing panel data regression analysis to examine data from a sample of Jordanian banks over the period from 2014 to 2022. Key performance indicators such as Tobin’s Q, accounting conservatism, debt ratio, current ratio (CR), return on assets (ROA), and asset turnover are factors that influence bank value in the Jordanian market. The results reveal that bank performance significantly moderates the relationship between bank-specific factors and bank value. Specifically, the study finds that return on assets has a positive and statistically significant effect on bank value. The analysis reveals a significant positive correlation between bank value and profitability, as evidenced by a moderate positive correlation coefficient (0.26) between Tobin’s Q and ROA. However, weak or non-significant correlations are observed between bank value and accounting conservatism, debt ratio, and asset turnover.

Genome-wide association study reveals the genetic basis of amino acids contents variations in Peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.).

Peanut is a significant source of protein for human consumption. One of the primary objectives in peanut breeding is the development of new cultivars with enhanced nutritional values. To further this goal, a genome-wide association study (GWAS) was conducted to analyze seed amino acids contents in 390 diverse peanut accessions collected worldwide, mainly from China, India, and the United States, in 2017 and 2018. These accessions were assessed for their content of 10 different amino acids. Variations in amino acids contents were observed, and arginine (Arg) was found to have the highest average value among all the amino acids quantified. The geographical distribution of the accessions also revealed variations in amino acids contents. High and positive correlation coefficients were observed among the amino acids, suggesting linked metabolic pathways or genetic regulation. A total of 88 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) spanning various chromosomes were identified, each associated with different amino acids. By using a combination of GWAS, expression anlaysis, and genomic polymorphisim comparisions, theAhy_A09g041582 (LAC15) gene located on chromrosome A09 was identified as the key candidate which might be involved in plant growth and regulation and may alter amino acids levels. Expression analysis indicated that Ahy_A09g041582 has higher expressions in the shells and seeds than other genes located in the candidate region. This study may help with marker-based breeding of peanuts with higher nutritional value and offers fresh insights into the genetic basis of the amino acids contents of peanuts.

DeepFeature: Guiding adversarial testing for deep neural network systems using robust features

With the deployment of Deep Neural Network (DNN) systems in security-critical fields, more and more researchers are concerned about DNN robustness. Unfortunately, DNNs are vulnerable to adversarial attacks and produce completely wrong outputs. This inspired numerous testing works devoted to improving the adversarial robustness of DNNs. Coverage and uncertainty criteria were proposed to guide sample selections for DNN retraining. However, they are greatly limited to evaluating DNN abnormal behaviors rather than locating the root cause of adversarial vulnerability. This work aims to bridge this gap. We propose an adversarial testing framework, DeepFeature, using robust features. DeepFeature generates robust features related to the model decision-making. It locates the weak features within these features that fail to be transformed by the DNN. They are the main culprits of vulnerability. DeepFeature selects diverse samples containing weak features for adversarial retraining. Our evaluation shows that DeepFeature significantly improves overall robustness, average improved by 77.83%, and individual robustness, average improved by 42.81‰, of the models in adversarial testing. Compared with coverage and uncertainty criteria, these two performances are improved by 3.93% and 15.00% in DeepFeature, respectively. The positive correlation coefficient between DeepFeature and improved robustness can achieve 0.858, and the p-value is 0.001.

The Impact Of Endorphin Massage On The Efficient Production Of Postpartum Breast Milk In TPMB Sulastri, Pagelaran District, Pringsewu Regency In 2024.

Initiating breastfeeding within the first day of delivery has been shown to decrease the likelihood of newborn mortality. It is specifically demonstrated to provide exclusive protection against diarrhea, respiratory infections, and pneumonia ASI. The project seeks to investigate endorphin massage's impact on smoothness development in postpartum women at TPMB Sulastri, S.ST., M.Kes in 2024.ASI stands for Automatic Speech Recognition. This research employs a quasi-experiment design utilizing a pretest-posttest control group strategy. The sample included of 14 participants in the intervention group and 14 participants in the control group. Purposive sampling techniques were employed. The instrument utilizes Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) and checklist sheets. A three-day Endorphin massage treatment was administered and assessed using the Mann-Whitney test. The study found that 50% of individuals had a moderate frequency of meal intake. The utilization rate of non-hormonal contraceptives was 71.4%. The weight of newborns does not exceed 100% of the BBLR. The gestational age at the time of labor is 100% accurate. The mean milk output of the intervention group was 2.6 before and 7.5 after. The mean of the control group was 2.5 before and 5.2 after. The endorphin massage significantly impacted the efficient production of breast milk in postpartum moms. This was evidenced by a p-value of 0.000 (< 0.05) and a positive Correlation Coefficient value of 0.88, indicating a highly robust association between the two variables. Ultimately, endorphin massage has a significant impact on facilitating the efficient production of breast milk in mothers throughout the postpartum period. It is desirable for lactating postpartum women to regularly engage in endorphin massage to ensure the continuous and unobstructed flow of breast milk during the entire two-year duration of breastfeeding.

Interpreting Histopathology Reports of Temporal Artery Biopsies Positive for Giant Cell Arteritis (GCA): A Single-Center Retrospective Study.

The gold standard for diagnosing giant cell arteritis (GCA) is temporal artery biopsy (TAB). However, specific histopathologic findings on biopsy reports are rarely considered in the context of the patient's clinical presentation. The purpose of this study was to analyze the correlation of specific biopsy findings with the clinical presentation of patients with GCA. Retrospective chart review of patients with a clinical and histopathologic diagnosis of GCA at a single tertiary care neuro-ophthalmology practice from January 2014 to September 2023. Histopathologic findings on TAB were recorded for each patient, along with clinical history, examination, and treatment. Continuous variables were reported as mean values with standard deviations (SD), while categorical variables were described as percentages. Correlation coefficients with P-values were used to evaluate the relationship between biopsy findings and clinical data. A total of 53 patients were included. TAB specimens ranged in length from 0.6 to 3.4 cm, with a statistically significant correlation coefficient between specimen length and total number of positive findings on the biopsy report. A positive correlation coefficient that approached statistical significance was found between the presence of lymphocytes in the biopsy and permanent vision loss (R = 0.253, P-value 0.054), which occurred in 27 patients. Patients were treated with steroids prebiopsy for an average of 9 days; there was no statistically significant correlation between the duration of steroid treatment and the presence of specific histopathologic findings other than involvement of the intima. The results of this study demonstrate that (1) longer temporal artery biopsy specimens are significantly correlated with a higher number of findings on biopsy reports; (2) the presence of arterial stenosis, eosinophils, and lymphocytes correlated with permanent vision loss or degree of vision loss; and (3) the duration of steroid treatment had a significant inverse correlation with intimal involvement but did not affect other histopathologic findings seen with GCA. This retrospective observational study provides clinicians with an approach to understanding the nuances of the histopathologic findings on their patient's TAB report.

Exploring the capabilities and limitations of the Van Hove function to understand directional correlations in ion movements within Li-ion battery electrolytes.

Understanding microscopic directional correlations in ion movements within lithium-ion battery (LIB) electrolytes is important because these correlations directly affect the ionic conductivity. Onsager transport coefficients are widely used to understand these correlations. On the other hand, the Van Hove function (VHF) is also capable of determining correlated motions. However, identifying various types of ion correlated motions in LIB electrolytes using VHF is not well explored. Here, we have conducted molecular dynamics simulations of a representative experimental LIB electrolyte system-lithium hexafluorophosphate (LiPF6)-at different concentrations in a (9:1 wt. %) mixture of ethyl methyl carbonate and fluoroethylene carbonate in order to explore the capabilities and limitations of using VHF to understand different types of ion correlations. We conclude that analysis of VHF can qualitatively describe both the positive correlation between cation-anion at different salt concentrations and the negative correlation between cation-cation and anion-anion present in high salt concentration, but it cannot foretell which correlation is dominating at any given electrolyte concentration. This type of quantitative information can be obtained only via Onsager's approach. This could be seen as a limitation of relying solely on VHF to fully understand ion correlation in electrolyte media.

Study of nitrogen and phosphorus nutrient dynamics in concentrated marine fish farming water environment in Long Son - Vung Tau

The nutritional content of N and P in concentrated marine fish farming water in the Cha Va - Long Son - Vung Tau estuary area increased sharply during 2013–2016; notably, the N-NH4+ content increased in 2017–2019. The N-NO2- and N-NO3- content in the dry season (0.051 mg/L and 0.190 mg/L) was higher than in the rainy season (0.044 mg/L and 0.133 mg/L). In contrast, the N-NH4+ and P-PO43- contents in the rainy season (0.321 mg/L and 0.1 mg/L) are higher than in the dry season (0.154 mg/L and 0.093 mg/L). The N and P nutrient dynamics in water fluctuate according to the semi-diurnal tide regime; the nutrient content decreases during high water - daytime, increases during low water in the evening, and is high during high water at night and in the morning, early the next day. In dry and rainy seasons, the N-NH4+ content is always the highest (0.024–0.761 mg/L) among the nitrogen-based nutritional parameters. N and P nutrients in water are correlated: N-NH4+ parameter pairs with Total P, N-NO2- with Total P, Total N with Total P, N-NO2- and N-NO3-, P-PO43- with Total P, and the parameter pair N-NO2- with P-PO43- have low positive correlation coefficients (r), from 0.1–0.21. Conversely, the parameter pairs N-NO3- and Total N, N-NO3- and N-NH4+, and N-NO2- and N-NH4+ have low negative correlation coefficients (r), from -0.12 to -0.26. From 2010–2021, the number of cages increased beyond planning, causing environmental pollution in the water in the farming area. The nutritional RQ value of the water is high at level 4 every year (very high risk of environmental pollution).

The Relationship Between Sleep Quality and Mean Arterial Pressure (Map) Value In The Elderly With Hypertension In The Working Area Of The Palasari Health Center, Subang Regency

Abraham Maslow (1984) proposed a hierarchy of needs that includes 5 basic needs and desires in humans. The 5 levels of basic human needs are physiological needs Basic human needs are the elements needed to maintain balance, both physiologically and psychologically. One of them is sleep where humans need to meet their basic needs to achieve optimal energy needs. The current investigation employs a cross-sectional research design, utilizing a correlational approach to examine the research question at hand. The sampling method in this research used simple random sampling, the total sample was 94 respondents. The research instrument used the PSQI questionnaire and digital sphygmomanometer instrument. Where the Spearman Rank test results were obtained with a p-value < 0,001 and a Correlation Coefficient value of 0.503. So, based on the results of this research, it can be concluded that there is a relationship between sleep quality and MAP value in elderly people with hypertension in the work area of ​​the Palasari Health Center, Subang Regency in 2024 with a p-value<0,001 with a positive correlation coefficient. It is expected that the research will serve as a benchmark for future researchers in the field of education, particularly in their endeavors to enhance the quality of sleep in elderly individuals afflicted with hypertension, utilizing the MAP standards.

A model for inversion of hyperspectral characteristics of phosphate content in mural plaster based on fractional-order differential algorithm

The Dunhuang murals, a significant part of Chinese heritage, have suffered deterioration primarily due to environmental and chemical factors, notably salt damage. This study proposes a sophisticated method that synergizes Fractional Order Differentiation (FOD) and Partial Least Squares Regression (PLSR) to accurately invert the phosphate content in the mural plaster of the Dunhuang paintings. The focal points of the research include: (1) To address the issue of information loss and reduced modeling precision caused by integer-order differentiation algorithms, the FOD method is employed for preprocessing spectral data. This approach ensures the fine spectral differences in the phosphate content of the mural plaster are precisely captured, (2) Utilizing PLSR, the study models the spectral bands identified at a significance level of 0.01 with measured conductivity values, thereby enabling the precise prediction of the phosphate content in the murals. The research outcomes reveal: (1) The FOD method can elucidate the nonlinear characteristics and variation patterns of the mural samples in the spectral data. As the order increases from zero to two, the number of spectral bands meeting the 0.01 significance test initially decreases and then increases. The highest absolute value of the positive correlation coefficient is observed at the 1.9 order, corresponding to the 2077 nm band, (2) For predicting the phosphate content in the murals, the model at the 1.9 order is most suitable for inversion. This model, after cross-validation, achieves a maximum R2 value of 0.861. This study created an efficient FOD-based model for estimating phosphate in mural plaster.

Cardiac Catheterization Post Congenital Cardiac Surgery: Analysis of Risk Factors for Mortality and Literature Review.

Background Diagnostic and interventional cardiac catheterization plays a significant role in the management of congenital heart defects with acceptable risks. Its role has also evolved in sick children but is associated with higher risks due to technical difficulties and co-morbidity factors. Some of the post-cardiac surgery children who show resistance to conventional management during the early postoperative period usually have residual defects or obstructions. Trans-catheter intervention (TCI) in such high-risk circumstances and relatively sick children is challenging, demands much expertise, and should be backed up by a competent multidisciplinary team. Some cases improve clinically, while others may require surgical or transcatheter re-intervention for a positive outcome. There is minimal data so far regarding the major complications after interventional cardiac catheterization during the immediate postoperative period after cardiac surgery.We analyzed multiple factors, including age, sex, weight, the initial diagnosis, and the time interval between surgery and TCI, to stratify the possible risks for mortality after TCI during the immediate postoperative period after cardiac surgery. Results Thirty-five patients fulfilled the inclusion criteria and underwent 43 interventional procedures. Five patients could not survive.Four had stent angioplasties on natural vasculature and one patient had in synthetic conduit. None of the mortality was related to the procedure.Multivariable risk factor analysis confirmed a moderate positive correlation coefficient (r) of 0.8017 between the variables. Still, it was not statistically significant if compared among subgroups or among the mortality and survival groups. Conclusion Interventional cardiac catheterization in sick children during the immediate postoperative period can be carried out without much-added risks in expert hands and under the supervision of a multi-disciplinary team.Though no conclusions could be drawn, our study adds to the limited existing data that could inspire others to perform such procedures on sick children. Moreover, the trend in our results indicated a large sample size could have identified a possible risk factor for mortality.

Utilization of Data Visualization Tools to Inform Decision-Making Among Health Managers in Selected Counties, in Kenya

The study aimed to investigate the factors influencing the utilization of data visualization tools among County and Sub County Health Managers in eight selected counties in Kenya. The research focused on how individual characteristics, technological, organizational, and behavioral factors impact the use of these tools in decision-making. The mixed methods approach included quantitative data from structured questionnaires and qualitative data from interviews. Out of the targeted 160 respondents, 149 participated, giving a response rate of 93%. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 26 for quantitative analysis and thematic content analysis for qualitative data. The findings revealed that all four factors significantly influence decision-making. Individual characteristics had a positive correlation coefficient of 0.504, technological factors 0.784, organizational factors 0.776, and behavioral factors 0.404, all statistically significant. The study showed that 82.3% of the variance in data visualization tool utilization could be explained by these factors. The regression analysis demonstrated positive relationships between each factor and the use of data visualization tools. The study concluded that individual characteristics, such as training, significantly influence decision-making and recommended further training for healthcare managers in advanced data analysis, epidemiology, data presentation, interpretation, data mining, modeling, GIS, monitoring, evaluation, data analytics, and predictive analysis.

Effects of landscape variation on thermoregulation and performance in Apis mellifera honey bee colonies: insights from mtDNA haplotypes

In a year-long research study, we delved into the thermoregulation and performance of twenty-one honey bee colonies situated in three distinct landscape settings: 1- Urban, 2- Agricultural (AG), and 3- Non-agricultural (Non-AG) environments. All colonies, consistent in size, were equipped with sensors designed to record inner hive temperature and humidity. Additionally, colonies were placed on precision electronic scales for weight monitoring. Varroa mite infestations were documented at seven different time points throughout the experiment. Colonies were genetically analyzed for subspecies and haplotype identification using the in silico DraI mtDNA COI-COII test. Our results unveiled an overall significant (p < 0.001) weight gain (5.76 kg) in colonies located within the urban setting, in stark contrast to both AG and Non-AG locations. Notably, colonies situated in the natural refuge center (Non-AG) experienced a weight loss of −0.05 kg, signaling a lack of sustainable forage resources in such a setting. Similarly, the inner hive temperature was significantly (p < 0.001) higher in the urban area (33.65 °C) with a significantly lower relative humidity (61.2%) compared to both other locations. Among the locations, the temperature variable displayed the strongest significant correlation (p < 0.001) with a positive correlation coefficient (r = 0.95). Two distinct mtDNA haplotypes were identified: C1 and C2j, characterizing the ligustica and carnica maternal origin, respectively. These haplotypes consistently demonstrated significant differences in their thermoregulation and weight gain, irrespective of the landscape compositions. The C1 haplotype displayed significantly higher weight gain alongside lower inner hive temperature and humidity levels compared to the C2j haplotype. No differences in mite infestation were observed between the various locations or haplotypes. Our data underscores the substantial impact of landscape composition on honey bee performance. It also unveils significant variations in thermoregulation and adaptation between haplotypes, shedding light on the multifaceted relationship between environmental factors, genetics, and bee colony dynamics.

The Mediating Role of Teacher Training and Learner Orientation in ICT Integration for Competence-Based Curriculum Implementation in Kyaka II Refugee Settlement

This study explored the impact of teacher training and learner orientation on the integration of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) within the Competence-Based Curriculum (CBC) in secondary schools in Kyaka II Refugee Settlement. Despite significant efforts to improve education in refugee contexts, effective ICT integration remains a complex challenge. The research examined how teacher training and learner orientation influence ICT usage, teacher preparedness, and student engagement in this distinctive educational environment. Utilizing a descriptive survey design and questionnaires, data was collected from 455 participants, including 89 purposively selected teachers and 366 randomly selected students. Data was analyzed using SPSS to generate descriptive statistics. The findings indicate that comprehensive teacher training positively affects ICT integration, with trained educators demonstrating enhanced confidence and competence in using ICT tools, as evidenced by a moderate positive correlation coefficient (r = 0.54). Oriented learners exhibited increased interest and engagement in ICT-driven learning. The study identified a gap between training outcomes and practical classroom application, suggesting a need for more hands-on and continuous professional development. Challenges such as inadequate ICT infrastructure, poor internet connectivity, and limited administrative support were significant barriers to optimal ICT integration. The study recommends implementing ongoing, hands-on teacher training programs, improving ICT infrastructure, establishing robust support systems within schools, and enhancing student access to ICT resources to address these challenges and support effective ICT integration in refugee education settings

Empowering Adolescents: Exploring the Relationship between Self-Esteem and Test Anxiety

Background: Test anxiety is a major cause of student non-performance, despite adequate preparation. This paper is part of a multi-centric youth behavior study project done in 2022 by the Association of Adolescent and Child Care in India (AACCI). Aims: to study self-esteem and test anxiety in school children. Methods: The tools used were RSES- Rosenburg Self-esteem Score (scores &gt;25 are considered high self-esteem and FTAS- Freidben Test Anxiety Scale (scores &gt; 7 are considered significant). Sample: 242 students (10-18 years) studying in a coaching class in Aurangabad (males 53.31%, females 46.69%). Validity &amp; reliability: The RSES - Guttman scale coefficient of reproducibility is 0.92, indicating excellent internal consistency. Test-retest reliability over 2 weeks reveals correlations of 0.85 and 0.88. FTAS- the internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha) of the total and the three sub-scales of the FTA (range: .81-.91validity, 0.82 (girls) and 0.84 (boys). It has also been shown to be significantly correlated with peer evaluations of the degree to which test-related stress is experienced (Total: 0.54; Fear of Social Derogation: 0.52; Cognitive Obstruction: 0.64; and Tenseness: 0.78. Ethical issues: This project has been cleared by the AACCI IEC. Parental permission and assent of students were taken. Statistical analysis was done using t-test/ANOVA by GNU PSPP. Results: Analysis of our data showed that this sample had significant mean test anxiety scores: total FTAS (9.19±5.37). SD-Social Derogation (3.84±2.61), CO-Cognitive Obstruction (2.46±2.17), and T-Tenseness (2.88±1.95). Females showed higher scores - total FTAS (10.23±5.10) and SD (4.40±2.54). A strong correlation was found between FTAS score and SD factor across all ages with the strongest positive correlation coefficient for early adolescent female students r (24) =.92, p&lt;.001. Conclusion: Females had higher test anxiety scores, and lower self-esteem scores and will need specific intervention. Being judged by marks affects the self-esteem of adolescents. SD factor was significant across ages in this sample. AACCI conducts awareness programs for parents and teachers to reduce social pressure on children given high SD scores. We also conduct intervention programs for improving CO scores by instilling good study skills and habits and relaxation and stress relief methods to reduce T scores in the context of test anxiety.

The Impact of Technology on the Motivation of English Language Learners in Online Settings

As online learning continues to gain prominence, understanding the factors influencing learner motivation in virtual environments becomes crucial. This study aimed to investigate the impact of technology and circumstantial factors on the motivation of English language learners engaged in online settings. Through an online questionnaire, data will be collected from approximately 20 participants at Taif University or via crowdsourcing platforms. The questionnaire employed a five-point Likert scale to assess learner motivation and gather ratings on ten factors: five technology-related (device age, speed, display, audio quality, mobility) and five circumstantial (device availability, proficiency, commuting feasibility, external responsibilities, interest in the field). Statistical analysis using Spearman's correlation was conducted to examine the relationships between these factors and motivation. The research revealed that device and internet speed stood out as the most crucial technological determinant of student motivation, with a strong positive correlation coefficient of 0.63. The quality of audio during online lessons also emerged as significant, with a moderate positive correlation of 0.43 with motivation. Interestingly, device mobility did not exhibit a notable correlation with student motivation. Regarding circumstantial factors, students' general interest in pursuing the degree requiring online English learning was the most influential factor affecting motivation, with a strong positive correlation coefficient of 0.53. Students' proficiency in using devices for online learning was another crucial factor, showing a moderate positive correlation of 0.4 with motivation. Unexpectedly, proximity to educational institutions did not correlate significantly with motivation for online learning. However, students with additional responsibilities tended to be more motivated, potentially due to the flexibility of online education.

Oil Palm in India: Market Arrivals and Price Movements

Oil palm is native to West Africa. It is one of nine major oils traded in the global edible oil. The study focuses on the trends in oil palm arrivals and market prices in India, particularly in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana states. There was a significant increase in annual oil palm arrivals from in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, with a percentage change of 92.43% and 84.83% respectively. This increase was statistically significant at a 10% level, R² values are 0.9243 and 0.8483 respectively. A linear trend analysis for prices of oil palm from 2010 to 2022 indicated a consistent rise in oil palm prices in both states, with Andhra Pradesh seeing an annual increase of 737.05 Rupees and Telangana 757.72 Rupees. The percentage change in prices was 59.18% and 66.08% respectively, with R² values of 0.5918 and 0.6608. Positive and significant correlation coefficient is observed in both the states. Seasonal variations in prices were also analyzed, highlighting that oil palm prices were typically drop after harvest it is influenced by peak harvesting periods and imports of crude oil from other countries. In Andhra Pradesh, the seasonal price index for oil palm Fresh Fruit Bunches (FFBs) was highest in May and April months, then decreased to a minimum level due to increase in the oil palm arrivals. Understanding these seasonal patterns is crucial for effective decision-making by farmers, traders, and policymakers.