Sampling Procedure Research Articles

Evaluation of nutritional composition of major available feed resources for backyard sheep fattening in southern Ethiopia

The study was conducted in the Bule district of Gedeo zone in southern Ethiopia to assess the available feed resources for sheep fattening and their chemical composition in backyard sheep fattening operations. A reconnaissance study identified the main sources of feed, followed by a multi-stage sampling procedure to select kebeles and households involved in sheep fattening. Six kebeles were specifically selected based on sheep population, experienced fatteners and accessibility. A total of 126 households were randomly selected for the study. The main food sources included natural pasture, stubble pasture, forage, bamboo leaves, enset (Ensete ventricosum), crop residues, desho grass (Pennisetum pedicellatum), tree alfalfa, kitchen residues and mill products. Feed samples were taken for laboratory analysis, and the average values for dry matter (88.3%), ash (10.71%), organic matter (77.25%), crude protein (11.21%), neutral detergent fibers (60.2%), and acidic detergent fibers yielded (39.42%) and acidic detergent lignin (10.22%). Tree alfalfa (26.06%), mill products (16.11%), green fodder (13.88%), and bamboo leaf (12.45%) had the highest crude protein content. Bamboo leaves (21.15%), forage (15.17%), and stubble pasture (12.36%) provided suitable ash levels for mineral intake. However, concerns arise regarding fiber content in crop residues, grazing practices, and bamboo leaf quality, affecting feed intake, digestibility, and absorption. Promising feeds such as alfalfa, mill products, and forage boost high protein content, but better fiber management is essential for feeds with excessive fiber. Tailored feeding strategies, enhanced feed conversion, and thorough training for sheep fatteners are pivotal to address these challenges.

Behavioral, haematological, and physiological effects of oxygen-rich spray after simulated catch and release in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss).

This study investigated the impact of an oxygen-rich spray on rainbow trout subjected to short-term air exposure episodes. These episodes can be due to sampling procedures or catch-and-release (C&R) practices, focusing on behavioral, haematological, and physiological responses. For this, 12 rainbow trout were divided into two groups: control and oxygen-rich sprayed fish. The fish were chased for 3 min and exposed to air for 6 s, and blood and behavior parameters were assessed. Simulated C&R resulted in partial physiological reflex impairment across groups. However, sprayed fish exhibited significant differences during recovery in head complex reflex and faster tendencies to regain orientation compared to control. Haematological analyses revealed that the treated group displayed reduced erythrocyte swelling and maintenance of red blood cell (RBC) counts, indicating reduced need for compensatory responses to hypoxia. Meanwhile, stress-related indicators, including cortisol, glucose, and lactate, remained unaffected by the treatment, suggesting no interference of spraying with the fish ability to launch a healthy stress response. No adverse effects were observed on skin surfaces or gills after an exploratory analysis. Overall, the oxygen-rich spray exhibited favorable effects, indicating potential benefits in protecting rainbow trout during C&R practices or sampling episodes. Moreover, there is a possible wider application of this methodology to benefit other species of fish subjected to stressors such as aquaculture, research, and fisheries management.

ASSESSMENT OF SOCIO-ECONOMIC AND INSTITUTIONAL FACTORS INFLUENCING FARMERS’ UTILIZATION OF AGRICULTURAL EXTENSION SERVICE IN KADUNA STATE, NIGERIA

This study assessed the socioeconomic and institutional factors influencing farmers’ utilization of agricultural extension services in Kaduna State, Nigeria. A multi-stage sampling procedure was employed for the study. The first stage involved the purposive selection of two Local Government Areas (LGAs), i.e., Soba and Ikara, based on the threshold of tomato production in the study area. Secondly, a random sampling of four communities from the two LGAs. A total of 214 tomato farmers were used for the study which was calculated using Slovian’s formula. Descriptive statistics and Tobit regression analysis were used for the study. The findings showed that tomato farmers were young with an average of 38 years and relative experience of 15 years in tomato farming and had an average of 9 persons per household. The result of farmers’ utilization of extension service delivery shows that the extension delivery method, farmers’ indigenous knowledge and extension contacts were positive and a significant factor with a coefficient of 0.1346 at 1% probability. Farm size and income were positive and significant factors at 10% level in influencing farmers' utilization of agricultural extension services. The study recommends that structured training should focus on planting techniques, proper fertilizer application, agrochemical usage, mulching, weed control, and efficient harvesting. Therefore, efforts should be made by extension agents to organize field demonstrations and practical workshops that will equip farmers with hands-on skills to optimize yields and improve farm management practices.

Investigation of influence factors for sampling and quantification of organic emissions released from paving asphalt

During construction heating, asphalt releases significant emissions, posing risks to workers and the environment. There are various methods for sampling and analyzing asphalt emissions. However, the quantification results of asphalt emissions are affected by various factors, which is not well investigated. To fill this gap, asphalt emission samples collected under different conditions were dissolved in carbon disulfide and analyzed. Emissions, including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), benzenes, and benzothiazoles from crumb rubber modified asphalt (CRMA) and base asphalt, were quantified using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC–MS). Based on the quantitative results under different influencing factors, a sampling procedure for asphalt emissions is recommended. The satisfactory spiked recovery rate of asphalt emission samples indicates the reliability of experimental results. Emission rates were comparable under different experimental conditions. This method can be used for further asphalt emissions reduction research, providing reliable data to support air quality improvement efforts.

The Boycott Dilemma: Analysing Indonesian Consumers' Perceptions towards Russian Products

The continuing geopolitical dispute between Ukraine and Russia has far-reaching ramifications that impact consumer behaviour on a planetary scale. This study will analyse the determinants that impact Indonesian consumers' intentions to boycott Russian products. An online survey was conducted in April 2022 to collect data, with a sample of 216 respondents selected using convenient sampling procedures. An exploratory factor analysis, confirmatory factor analysis, and structural equation modelling were employed to analyse the data. The results indicate that consumers' anger significantly impacts boycott attitudes, product judgment, and consumer punishment. However, the attitude of boycotting does not substantially affect the desire to boycott, which goes against what was predictable. In addition, although consumer punishment has a considerable effect on boycott intention, the influence of product judgment is not crucial. These findings contribute to the current body of knowledge in international marketing research, particularly on consumer boycotts.

Mapping the exposure to outdoor radon in the German population

IntroductionData on outdoor radon are generally scarce compared to indoor radon. However, knowledge of the spatial distribution of outdoor radon is necessary to estimate the overall exposure of the population to radon, it supports the prediction of indoor radon and characterizes the natural radon background. Germany has a comprehensive dataset on long-term outdoor radon concentration and the equilibrium factor at national level, which allowed to produce what is probably the only spatially continuous outdoor radon map at national level so far. DataIn this study, outdoor radon concentration measurement data (n = 172) and equilibrium factors (n = 25) from a national survey from 2003 to 2006 were reanalyzed using state-of-the-art machine learning routines. Spatially comprehensive maps of distance to the sea, radon concentration in soil, sand content in topsoil and a terrain-based wind exposure index are used as predictors. MethodsQuantile regression forest was used to map the conditional distribution of outdoor radon concentration at 500 m grid resolution. The equilibrium factor was mapped using a linear regression model. Both maps were combined to derive the equivalent outdoor radon equilibrium concentration. Population weighting of the results was achieved by explicitly accounting for the population distribution using a probabilistic sampling procedure from the estimated conditional distributions. ResultsThe arithmetic mean and the interquartile range (25th to 75th percentile) for the population-weighted outdoor radon concentration for Germany are 9.3 Bq/m³ and 5.8 Bq/m³ to 11.2 Bq/m³, respectively. The mean equilibrium factor is 0.49. The arithmetic mean and the interquartile range (25th to 75th percentile) for the population-weighted outdoor radon equilibrium equivalent concentration are 4.7 Bq/m³ and 2.7 Bq/m³ to 5.9 Bq/m³ respectively. The estimated inhalation dose due to outdoor exposure to radon is 0.056 mSv/a (arithmetic mean), with less than 10 % of the population exceeding a value of 0.1 mSv/a. The unavoidable inhalation dose due to radon exposure (outdoors plus indoors) in Germany is estimated at an arithmetic mean of 0.37 mSv/a. The spatial distribution of radon outdoors is mainly determined by the distance to the sea. The predictors radon concentration in soil, sand in topsoil and wind exposure still have a significant influence, especially at local to regional level. ConclusionKnowledge about the spatial distribution of outdoor radon and its local variability for Germany was improved using a modern regression technique and relevant predictive information. The results confirm a low outdoor radon concentration with a small contribution to the effective dose received by the population from outdoor radon exposure.

The Structural Relations of Component Reading Comprehension Skills in Kiswahili: The Influence of Socio‐Economic Status and Home Literacy Environment

AbstractThis research explores structural relations among the component skills of reading comprehension in Kiswahili. Furthermore, the study examines the relationship between socio‐economic status, home and school language use, and home literacy environment with Kiswahili reading outcomes. The study utilized secondary data from the baseline Tusome Literacy activity implemented in Kenya at scale from 2015 to 2022 by USAID, Research Triangle Institute in collaboration with the Ministry of Education Kenya and other partners. A three‐stage stratified sampling procedure was used to randomly select the schools and students from a sample frame compiled from multiple education databases of public formal and non‐formal schools in Kenya. The final sample comprised 4886 grade 1 and 2 learners who completed a battery of early grade literacy assessment in Kiswahili and a survey of the socio‐economic status (SES), home literacy environment (HLE), and school and home language use. We conducted a regression analysis to examine structural relations among the component skills of reading comprehension and the relationships between the SES, HLE, and early literacy skills. The findings indicate that the component skills are interconnected with the sub‐lexical skills, serving as the building block for the higher‐order skills. Letter sound knowledge, text reading fluency, and listening comprehension predict reading comprehension. Reading stories at home, reading aloud, and silent reading practice at school significantly influences reading outcomes. The mismatch between home and school language and low SES negatively impacts reading outcomes. These findings indicate that systematic and explicit instruction is critical in acquiring literacy skills, particularly for learners from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Food Choices of Contemporary Cuisine and Traditional Foods: Effects on Family Ties.

Background: Technological advancement has evolved dynamics in the pace of day-to-day life. Economic and social development has introduced new meanings at individual and societal levels. Modernity and development have transformed the social fabric and relationships. Social media has instigated a tremendous multifaceted transformation in lifestyle. An increase in disposable income from prepared food, especially contemporary cuisines, has evolved diversified changes in consumers' behavior. These changes include trends, perceptions, consumption patterns, and modes of fast food (quality, quantity, tastes), including delivery systems, among all age groups and genders. This study investigated the factors that influence food choices towards contemporary cuisine, the influence of contemporary cuisine food choice on homemade/traditional foods, and how food choices of contemporary cuisines affect family ties. Methods: In this exploratory study, a cross-sectional quantitative survey research method was used to obtain the insights of youths. A systematic random sampling procedure was adopted. We recruited at a public sector university of Lahore, namely, the Institute of Social and Cultural Studies, University of the Punjab. The sample size was 260. We used modified versions of the Food Frequency Questionnaire and the Food Choice Questionnaire to assess the food choices of contemporary cuisine, homemade/traditional food, and family ties. The Cronbach's coefficient alpha level varied from 0.62 to 0.85 among scales. We performed descriptive and inferential statistics (factor analysis and multivariate regression analysis) by using SPSS 23. Results: Age and education showed a significant relationship with traditional food. Taste was the only factor identified for food choices of contemporary cuisine. Traditional food and family ties were the factors identified in the analysis. Conclusions: Food choices of contemporary cuisines were found to be just for good taste and fun. Homemade food regulates the traditions of traditional food. Cooking and dinning together not only maintained the food choices but also encourage and motivate the connectedness and closeness that strengthen family ties.

Investigating the behavioural intention towards electric vehicle: A dual factor approach using Sweeney and Soutar's PERVAL scale and technology acceptance model

Promotion of electric vehicle (EV) remains an appropriate solution to alleviate the adversities of environmental pollution caused by the increasing use of internal combustion engine vehicles for transportation. Further, it remains a grave need to promote electric vehicles, as road transport accounts to 12% of carbon emissions. Therefore, institutions and researchers make multiple initiatives and efforts to transform the society in adopting electric vehicles. However, the market for electric vehicles falls short of government's intent to ensure 100 percent EVs on Indian roads before 2030. In view of this backdrop, as EV is in a nascent stage this research adopted Sweeney and Soutar's PERVAL scale and technology acceptance model to understand the role of perceived values that can develop behavioural intention towards electric vehicle. Using non-probability sampling procedure data was collected from 337 electric vehicle users in India. Data was analysed using co-variance based Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) approach to examine the direct relationships between independent and dependent variables. Additionally, using SEM approach the indirect relationships were examined using bootstrap samples, and regression was performed to test the moderation effect. The findings reveal that perceived ecological, functional, and economic values positively influenced perceived usefulness that finally contributes the behavioural intention towards electric vehicles. Personal innovativeness positively moderated the relation between perceived usefulness and perceived trust. In addition, perceived trust mediated the relationship between perceived usefulness and behavioural intention towards electric vehicle. The study conclusions will contribute to the electric vehicle literature, the knowledge towards electric vehicle acceptance and provide meaningful implications for practitioners. Accordingly, perceived values positively contributed to the electric vehicle literature and to the marketers and society.

Audit Committee Characteristics, Firm Size and Financial Performance of Deposit Taking Saccos in Kenya

The purpose of the research was to evaluate how internal audit practices and standards affected deposit-taking SACCO financial performance in Kenya. The research also sought to determine how Sacco size affected the link between the financial performance of Kenyan deposit-taking SACCOs and internal audit practices and standards. Agency theory served as the theoretical foundation for the study. The research philosophy that guided this work is in line with positivism. A descriptive survey approach was used in the investigation. Participants in the research were chief accountants, chiefs of internal audit, and financial managers from deposit-accepting SACCOs in Kenya. The research had 504 individuals. 223, the desired sample size, was selected using a conventional random sampling procedure. A structured questionnaire was used in the investigation. Eight SACCOs participated in a pilot test, however the findings were left out of the final analysis. The data was examined using both descriptive and inferential statistics. To describe the data, the research employed descriptive statistics such as mean, standard deviation, and percentages. Using SPSS version 26, inferential analysis included basic linear regression and hierarchical regression. The calculated coefficient of determination (R square) of 0.373, P=0.000, indicates that 37.3% of the variation in the financial performance of Deposit Taking Saccos in Kenya can be explained by the audit committee characteristics. The relationship between the size of the Sacco and audit committee characteristics had a substantial moderating influence on the financial performance of Deposit Taking Saccos (R2=0.646, P=0.001). The impact of audit committee characteristics on financial performance increases significantly by 0.162 units for every unit increase in Sacco size (P=0.001). Therefore, the study concluded that Sacco size is a significant moderator and recommended that SACCOs with larger member deposits should prioritize the composition and effectiveness of their audit committees, ensuring that they are well-equipped with financial expertise and oversight capabilities. This will enable them to effectively manage their resources and operations, ultimately enhancing financial performance.

Sustaining Metro Manila: Management Practices for Peak Performance

The research study investigated the management practices of selected cities in Metro Manila through the specified sub-problems as stated in the study, such as the demographic profile, assessment of management practices, and determination of the significant differences in the assessment of the respondents on the variables mentioned in the research paper. This study was carried out to evaluate and analyze the existing management practices in selected cities of Metro Manila across various dimensions such as planning, human resources, financial management, administration, and monitoring and evaluation, to gather insights from different stakeholders including city administrators, employees, and community members regarding their perceptions and assessments of the management practices in their respective cities, to develop a set of actionable sustainability measures and to assess the proposed sustainability measures for their suitability, acceptability, and feasibility among stakeholders. The paper utilized the descriptive method, and the respondents were the employees and administrators of the selected cities of Metro Manila. Slovin’s formula was used to determine the number of respondents. For each group of respondents, various non-random and random sampling procedures were used, such as Purposive and Simple random techniques. The Frequency Distribution, Percentage formula, Weighted mean and Anova were employed to identify the level of perception of the respondents as shown in the verbal interpretations of the Likert scale survey questionnaire as well as the significant difference in the assessment of the group of respondents on the variables presented in the study. The results or findings of the study manifested the excellent and Very Good ratings in the most variables exhibited in the study. In terms of significant differences in the Suitability, Acceptability and Feasibility, the results showed that there is no significant difference in the responses, but there is a significant difference in the respondents’ perceptions on the Acceptability and Feasibility of the proposed sustainability program. In conclusion, management practices across selected cities in Metro Manila exhibit consistent excellence across various critical areas. Planning, human resource management, financial management, administration, and monitoring and evaluation practices all received outstanding ratings, reflecting effective leadership, strategic oversight, and robust operational frameworks. Administrators demonstrated strong performance across these domains, supported by positive feedback from stakeholders and employees, highlighting broad alignment and support for inclusive and sustainable urban development strategies.

Challenges Experienced in the Teaching and Learning of English in Multilingual Classrooms: A Case of a College in Ashanti, Ghana

This study examined challenges experienced in the teaching and learning of English in a multilingual classrooms atmosphere, using the descriptive design. It took place at the Akrokeri College of Education in the Ashanti Region, Ghana. The study used a sample of 297 teachers and 67 teachers, using some sampling procedures. Data analysis took place through descriptive statistics in terms of frequencies and percentages. The study affirmed the existence of various challenges in the multilingual classroom, including weak linguistic background and learner anxiety. Others were communication-related issues and writing issues. While a good number of teachers demonstrated high proficiency in English, most of the students struggled. Based on these conclusions, the study recommended that teachers and students’ use of English language, both in and outside the classrooms, be maximized since frequent use of the language increases its mastery, which is beneficial in the process of teaching and learning in the multilingual classrooms.

Rapid and non-invasive analysis of paracetamol overdose using paper arrow-mass spectrometry: a prospective observational study

BackgroundParacetamol is the most consumed medicine globally. Its accessibility contributes to common overdose. Paracetamol overdose is responsible for > 50% of acute liver failure cases, making it the second most common reason for a liver transplant. Rapid quantitation of paracetamol is crucial to guide treatment of paracetamol overdose. Current tests require invasive sampling and relatively long turnaround times. Paper arrow-mass spectrometry (PA-MS) combines sample collection, extraction, separation, enrichment and ionisation onto a single paper strip, achieving rapid, accurate, cost-effective and eco-friendly analysis direct from raw human saliva.MethodsTo validate PA-MS against an established test, 17 healthy adults were recruited. Samples were collected before and at 15, 30, 60, 120 and 240 min after ingesting 1 g of paracetamol. Plasma measured with an established clinical test served as the reference standard to validate PA-MS with three biofluids—plasma, resting saliva (RS) and stimulated saliva (SS). Participants’ views of blood, RS and SS sampling procedures were assessed qualitatively. Cross-validation was assessed using Lin’s concordance correlation coefficients (CCC), Bland–Altman difference plots, and ratios of PA-MS to the reference standard test.ResultsPA-MS using stimulated saliva offers a reliable alternative to intravenous blood sampling. The CCC is 0.93, the mean difference with the reference test is − 0.14 mg/L, and the ratios compared to the reference test are 0.84–1.27 from correlated samples collected at 5 intervals over 4 h for each participant.ConclusionsParacetamol detection from SS with PA-MS provides a reliable result that can aid timely treatment decisions. Differences between paracetamol concentration in resting and stimulated saliva were also identified for the first time, highlighting the importance of standardising saliva collection methods in general. This study marks a major milestone towards rapid and convenient saliva analysis.

Ethnoscience-Based Inquiry Learning to Increase Students’ Critical Thinking Skills and Collaboration Skills

The goal of this study is to increase students' CTS and CS about quantity and unit material using ethnoscience-based inquiry learning. The study utilized a non-equivalent control group design with two classes: experimental and control. The sample in this study were students of class X IPA 7 and X IPA 8, who were chosen using purposive sampling procedures. The research sample comprised 71 students. The research data was gathered using 15 multiple-choice questions, a CTS questionnaire, and a CS questionnaire. Normality, homogeneity, the t-test, and correlation tests were employed to analyze the data. Based on the research findings, students' CTS and CS rose in the experimental class, with N-gain values of 0.71 (high) and 0.60 (medium). The experimental and control courses showed significant differences in students' CTS and CS outcomes (Sig. < 0.05). Aside from that, there is a very strong correlation between students' CTS and CS results in learning, with r = 0.938. It may be concluded that using an ethnoscience-based inquiry paradigm can help students enhance their CTS and CS. Thus, it is possible to infer that ethnoscience-based inquiry learning may increase students' CTS and students' CS. There is a very strong correlation between CTS and students' CS.

Regional and socio-demographic predictors of dietary proficiency of adolescent girls in Nigeria

Background: Dietary behaviors of female adolescents are of increasing concern due to their critical role in determining long-term health outcomes. Aims: This study aimed at investigating dietary proficiency of adolescent girls aged 10 – 19. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted with 2261 in-school female adolescents aged 10 – 19 years. Participants were selected using a multistage stratified random sampling procedure was used to select participants from three geopolitical zones in Nigeria. Two states were selected from three geopolitical zones in Nigeria: North-Central (Kogi and Niger States), South-East (Abia and Imo States), and South-West (Osun and Ondo States). A validated questionnaire was employed to collect data on sociodemographic variables, Dietary Diversity (DD), Nutrition Knowledge (NK), and Dietary Behavior (DB). These variables were combined to define Dietary Proficiency. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 27. Chi-square test assessed regional associations, while logistic regression analysis was used to identify predictors of dietary proficiency (DP). Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Results: Significant regional variations were observed in DD (χ2 = 36.069), NK (χ2 = 56.895), DB (χ2 = 176.52), and DP (χ2 = 40.551). Older girls residing in peri-urban location, from Igbo ethnic group, and moderately large household predicted a likelihood of higher DD with odd ratios exceeding 1. Larger household size (OR = 1.056, 95% CI = 0.813 – 1.373) predicted higher NK. Residing in South-East region (OR = 2.030, 95% CI = 1.640 – 2.513) and being in the mid-adolescent age group (14 – 16 years) (OR = 2.093, 95%CI = 1.589 – 2.756) doubled the likelihood of high DB. Predictors of higher DP included older age (OR = 1.160, 95% CI = 0.923 –1.457) and residence in the South-East region (OR = 1.148, 95% CI = 0.883–1.49). Conclusion: Regional and sociodemographic differences significantly influenced dietary proficiency among adolescent girls. Addressing these disparities through targeted nutrition education and awareness programs is crucial for promoting healthier dietary behaviors and improving overall dietary proficiency in this population. Keywords: Dietary Factors, School Adolescent Female, Food Choices, Food Intake, Nigeria.

Assessment of Sugarcane Cultivation Practices in Sitapur District of Uttar Pradesh, India

The success of sugarcane farming hinges on the intricate interplay of various the adoption of advanced technological practices. The study was conducted during the year 2022-2023 in Machhrehta and Gondlamau blocks of Sitapur district of Uttar Pradesh to study the extent of adoption of Sugarcane growers on improved sugarcane cultivation practices. A sample size of 120 respondents was selected based on random sampling procedure. Personal interviews with the help of a structured schedule were taken for data collection. The study revealed that majority of the respondents (51.67%) had medium level of adoption of improved sugarcane cultivation practices followed by 19.17% high and 29.16% low level of adoption of Sugarcane cultivation practices by the respondents. The study analyzed that high adoption found in Field Preparation Sugarcane with 94.78 MPS and respondents had less adoption of seed treatment in Sugarcane crop with 34.89MPS.

Testing the instanton approach to the large amplification limit of a diffraction–amplification problem

Abstract The validity of the instanton analysis approach is tested numerically in the case of the diffraction-amplification problem ∂zψ−(i/2m)∂2 x2 ψ=g│S│2 for ln U>>1, where U=│ψ(0,L)│2. Here, S(x,z) is a complex Gaussian random field, z and x respectively are the axial and transverse coordinates, with 0≤z≤L, and both m≠0 and g>0 are real parameters. We consider a class of S, called the `one-max class', for which we devise a specific biased sampling procedure. As an application, p(U), the probability distribution of U, is obtained down to values less than 10-2270 in the far right tail. We find that the agreement of our numerical results with the instanton analysis predictions in Mounaix (2023 J. Phys. A: Math. Theor. 56 305001) is remarkable. Both the predicted algebraic tail of p(U) and concentration of the realizations of S onto the leading instanton are clearly confirmed, which validates the instanton analysis numerically in the large ln U limit for S in the one-max class.

Determinants of smallholder crop farmers’ access to climate services in Elundini local municipality, Eastern Cape province, South Africa

Climate variability presents significant implications for agricultural production and overall food security, leading to seeking better access to climate services that can improve farmers’ decision-making in combating climate change impacts. The study examined the factors influencing smallholder crop farmers’ access to climate services in Elundini local municipality, Eastern Cape province. The study adopted a quantitative method using a cross-sectional survey approach. A multistage sampling procedure was employed to select 217 smallholder crop farmers. The study used primary data collected through structured questionnaires and face-to-face interviews. To analyze the data the paper employed a binary Probit model. The study results indicated that access to both short-term weather and seasonal forecasts is positively influenced by ownership of mobile phones and access to extension services. Similarly, access to short-term weather forecasts is positively influenced by age, monthly income, ownership of radio, timely climate information, and perceiving that climate change has negative effects on crop production. The study further revealed that land size, knowledge of climate change, and climate services accuracy are positive and significant factors in access to seasonal forecasts. On the other hand, being educated negatively influenced access to seasonal forecasts while land size had a negative and significant effect on short-term weather forecasts. The study concludes that age, land size, ownership of mobile phones, and access to extension services were significant factors that determine both farmers’ access to short-term weather and seasonal forecasts. Therefore, the study recommends that if the access and uptake of climate services are to be improved, government stakeholders, researchers, and forecast producers should collaborate and offer training sessions and workshops on climate services relevance and how to acquire and interpret them, particularly for elderly farmers.

The role of sustainable land management practices in alleviating household food insecurity in Nigeria

Climate change is a major challenge impacting food security globally. Sub-Saharan African (SSA) countries including Nigeria has experienced the negative effect of climate vagaries most especially on agricultural production, thus, leading to food insecurity. However, sustainable land management (SLM) practices have a huge potential to minimize the impacts on food security in a rapidly changing climate. This study estimates the determinants of the adoption of SLM practices and the impact of adoption on household food security among smallholder rice farmers in Ogun State, Nigeria. A multistage sampling procedure was used to select 120 respondents. A Poisson endogenous treatment (PET) model was employed to analyse the determinants of level of adoption of SLM and impact of SLM adoption on household food security level of smallholder rice farmers in the study area. To account for counterfactuals, a doubly-robust augmented-probability-weighted regression adjustment (APWRA) was also used. In the same vein, the study employed the marginal treatment effects (MTE) approach to estimate the treatment effects heterogeneity. The results showed that socio-economic factors greatly influenced the adoption of SLM practices, such as age and educational level of farmers. The effect of SLM adoption on food security of smallholder farmers was found to be improved when they used SLM package consisting of variety of practices, hence, SLM practices have the potential to alleviate food insecurity among rice farmers if well combined and used to a large extent. The study concluded that knowledge in form of formal education, some form of vocational training, and trainings to access weather information were key to influencing SLM adoption among smallholder farmers in the study area. The treatment effects on untreated (ATU) are lower than that of ATE and ATT, confirming the positive selection on unobserved gains. In particular, the ATU results show that for an average non-adopting household, adoption of SLM practices would significantly improve dietary diversity by about 27%. Farm-level policy efforts that aims to equip farmers through education, trainings and disseminating information on climate change would be a huge step towards the promotion of SLM practice which eventually leads to increased food security. The study recommended that continuous adoption and extensive use can be fostered by encouraging farmers to join a social organisation where related and relevant information on sustainable land management practices is shared through trained agricultural extension officers.

Antecedents of academic actual help-seeking behaviour and support services utilisation among distance education students.

The purpose of the study was to unravel the determinants that necessitate academic help-seeking intentions and promote the utilisation of support services among distance education students. This study adopted a quantitative approach based on cross-sectional survey design. The target population of the study comprised all distance education students of the College of Distance Education, University of Cape Coast. A multi-stage sampling procedure was used to select a sample of 290 respondents for the study. The main data collection instrument was a questionnaire and the data was collected from June to December, 2023. Descriptive statistics (mean and standard deviation) were used to analyse preliminary data, while the main data was analysed by structural equation modelling technique. The study found that social support, subjective needs, and availability of help were the antecedents of actual academic help-seeking behaviour among distance learners. Depressive needs were not considered as an antecedent of help-seeking behaviour. Thus, social support, subjective needs, and availability of help were significantly related to actual help-seeking behaviour among distance learners. The study further found that actual help-seeking behaviour among distance learners was also significantly related to the actual use of support services available to these learners. Finally, actual help-seeking behaviour among distance learners significantly mediated the relationship between social support, subjective needs, availability of help, and actual use of support services available to distance students. It was therefore recommended that authorities of distance education should make support services available to distance learners online and in-person to be able to meet the needs of different categories of students as well as the provisions of platforms for building social support systems among distance learners.