Various approaches have been developed to assess equivalence/non-inferiority with assay sensitivity in a three-arm trial with continuous or discrete endpoints. However, there is little work done on ordinal endpoints. Ordinal data do not have metric information, the method for analyzing metric endpoints can systematically lead to errors for ordinal observations. The win probability that a subject receiving one treatment achieves a better outcome (or "wins" against) compared to a subject receiving the other treatment, is developed to quantify the treatment effect. In this article, the equivalence/non-inferiority with assay sensitivity in a three-arm trial are assessed by the win probabilities from the perspective of simultaneous confidence intervals (SCIs). The proposed methods can be applied to studies with ordinal or continuous outcomes without making parametric assumptions. Empirical results show that the Fisher-z transformation-based SCI, the method of variance estimates recovery SCIs combing with logit transformation, logit with arcsinh transformation confidence limits perform well in the sense that their empirical coverage probabilities are pretty close to the nominal confidence level. Sample size determination for achieving the pre-specified power is also investigated according to the duality of hypothesis testing and interval estimation. An example taken from the study of prophylaxis of postoperative nausea and vomiting is used to illustrate the proposed methods.

To study the effect of a behavioral intervention, it should be compared to a control or an existing treatment in an intervention study. There exist many guidelines in the literature about the design and analysis of intervention studies, including recommendations for a priori sample size determination. The vast majority of these guidelines are based on the framework of null hypothesis significance testing, where a p-value is compared to a user-selected type I error rate to determine whether an effect is significant or not. This approach has received severe criticism over the past decades as it has resulted in publication bias, sloppy science, and fraud. The Bayesian approach to hypothesis testing has been developed to overcome some of these drawbacks. The Bayes factor quantifies the relative support in the data for one hypothesis over another hypothesis. The hypotheses do not necessarily have to include a null hypothesis and can be formulated based on observations, findings in the literature, or an expert's opinion. Posterior Model Probabilities, which are a function of the Bayes Factor, can be used to compare a set of hypotheses to one another and select the one most supported by the data. In this paper, we summarize the shortcomings of null hypothesis significance testing, introduce the Bayes factor and Posterior Model Probabilities, explain how they are calculated, and how they are interpreted. We also focus on a priori sample size determination in the Bayesian hypothesis testing framework. We introduce a criterion for sample size determination and a procedure to find the required sample size. We illustrate our methodology using a cluster randomized trial on the effectiveness of an online training in improving primary care doctors' competency in brief tobacco interventions. All analyses are done in R, and we provide the dataset and R syntax for straightforward replication.

Voluntary tax compliance remains a critical challenge in Nigeria, where trust in tax authorities and the fiscal system significantly shapes taxpayers’ willingness to comply. This study investigates the effects of public trust on voluntary tax compliance in Nigeria. The study employed a survey research design and a population consisting of all taxpayers in six states. The Cochran formula was used for sample size determination. Primary and secondary sources of data collection were utilised, and the primary data were derived from a structured questionnaire following validity and reliability tests. The responses received from the administered questionnaires to participants were analysed using descriptive statistics, correlation matrix and multiple regression analysis. The findings from the hypothesis testing reveal a significantly positive association between procedural trust, distributive trust, committed trust, intentional trust and interpersonal trust on voluntary tax compliance in Nigeria. The study further showed that tax knowledge exerts meaningful and statistically significant effects on voluntary tax compliance in Nigeria. The study concludes that procedural and distributive factors enhance taxpayers’ perceptions of fairness, while intentional and interpersonal trust strengthen confidence in tax officials’ motives and interactions. Committed trust further reinforces long-term taxpayer authority links. Additionally, tax knowledge plays a crucial role in improving taxpayers’ understanding of their obligations, thereby increasing compliance willingness. Consequently, the study highlights that fostering a trustworthy tax environment and improving tax literacy are essential strategies for enhancing voluntary tax compliance in Nigeria.

This study aims to determine the effect of Audit Fee, Audit Tenure, and Gender on Audit Quality of Consumer Goods Industry Companies Listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange for the 2020-2024 Period. Data is taken from www.idx.co.id. The population in this study was 29 companies with a sample of 48 companies. Sampling and determination of sample size in this study were carried out using a purposive sampling method, selecting 34 consumer goods sector manufacturing companies that met the criteria as samples. This research approach uses logistic regression analysis of data processed with the SPSS 23 application. Data from this study uses secondary data in the form of Company financial reports officially published by the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX). Based on the results of the study, it can be concluded that the Audit Fee variable has a positive effect on audit quality, Audit Tenure has no effect on Audit Quality, Gender has a positive effect on audit quality, simultaneously Audit Fee, Audit Tenure and Gender affect audit quality. Only 44.3% of the dependent variable can be explained by the variability of the independent variables, while the remaining 55.7% is explained by other variables not used in this study.

The study examined quality of work life as a determinant of employees’ commitment to Local Government Councils in Edo Central Senatorial District, Nigeria. It specifically examined the extent to which job security, competency development, and work life balance determine employees’ commitment to local government councils. Three research questions and three hypotheses guided the study. The study employed a descriptive survey research design. The population of the study comprised 1725 local government employees. Using Taro Yamane formulae of sample size determination, 325 local government employees were sampled. Stratified and simple random sampling techniques were jointly adopted to collect the sample size. A structured questionnaire which was validated by measurement and evaluation experts was used for data collection, and the reliability of the instrument was determined with test re-test which yielded a coefficient of 0.85. 325 copies of the questionnaires were administered, and 286 copies were accurately filled and retrieved. Data collected was analyzed with Mean and z-test statistics. Analysis of the data collected revealed that quality of work life to a very high extent determined employees’ commitment to local government council, as there was no significant difference in the mean scores of respondents on the extent to which job security, competency development, and work life balance determine employees’ commitment. Thus, it was concluded that quality of work life generally determines the commitment of employees to organizations. Thus, it was recommended that: organizations should align with national policies like the new National Employment Policy, which emphasizes decent work, and social dialogue to ensure job security; organizations should Develop a training plan linked directly to organizational goals, addressing current and future skill needs to boost employees’ competence; and organizations should properly execute flexible work arrangements and family-friendly support to ensure work life balance.

Sample-size justification is an essential aspect of rigorous research in the behavioral and social sciences and helps to ensure studies are adequately powered, minimize resource waste, and reduce participant burden. However, researchers often face challenges in navigating the array of sample-size-planning methods available, particularly when balancing inferential goals and statistical frameworks. The SampleSizePlanner (SSP), originally developed to assist researchers in selecting appropriate sample-size determination methods for two-group designs, has been expanded to address 2 × 2 analysis-of-variance (ANOVA) designs. In this article, we introduce novel 2 × 2 design extensions to the SSP, including tools for Bayesian methods, such as the Bayes factor equivalence interval and the region of practical equivalence, and a frequentist approach. The SSP offers an accessible ShinyApp interface and R package, enabling researchers to streamline decision-making and apply various sample-size-planning methods with minimal computational overhead. Ready-to-use reporting templates foster transparency in sample-size justification. In the article, we address the practical application of these tools through comprehensive examples, demonstrating their relevance to scenarios such as interaction testing and equivalence estimation. By providing a standardized and accessible approach to sample-size planning, this work supports researchers in conducting reproducible and well-powered studies while addressing gaps in sample-size planning for 2 × 2 ANOVA designs.

Financial statement fraud has the highest number of losses among all fraud types. In addition to harming finances of a company, false financial reports could risk the viability of the business. In the corporate sector, fraud results in losses of trillions of rupiah. This study uses the fraud pentagon theory to investigate the relationship between fraudulent financial reporting and pressure, opportunity, rationalization, competence, and arrogance. This study applied quantitative method and causally associative approach. This research using secondary data from financial reports that were obtained through the Indonesia Stock Exchanges (IDX) official website. The state-owned companies (BUMN) listed on IDX 2018-2023 period comprise the study population, and purposive sampling method used to determine sample size. One hundred eighty samples from thirty BUMN as result of the sample selection. The study method of data analysis is the Random Effect Model (REM) with EViews 13. The result of this research indicate that return on assets (ROA), and change in auditor (AUDCHANGE) has significant positive effect on fraudulent financial reporting (FFR). In contrast, ineffective monitoring (BDOUT), change in director (DCHANGE), and number of CEO picture (FCEO) did not significant effect on FFR in state-owned companies. This research can contribute to the advancement of current theories and offer companies resources to lower the risk of fraud. This research advances audit company best practices for enhancing companies auditing efficacy in lowering financial reporting fraud.

This research addresses delays in multi-construction projects, which are often caused by inadequate human resource quality in project management. Factors such as insufficient competence, loyalty, discipline, integrity, and motivation negatively affect team productivity and project timelines. The study aims to identify key factors for successful multi-location project execution and examine the impact of HR quality on time performance. Using a quantitative approach with an explanatory design and employing the Slovin method for sample size determination, data were gathered through structured questionnaires and analyzed using SEM-PLS. Results indicate that time performance is significantly influenced by HR quality, with discipline and competence being crucial. The study suggests enhancing competency-based training, fostering work discipline, and implementing structured motivation techniques. It recommends that multi-project systems adopt integrated and adaptable HR management policies.

The study examined the mediation of Employee-organisation Relations on the nexus of internal communication and employee engagement of employees in the Presbyterian University, Ghana. The study used a quantitative approach and administered closed-ended questionnaires. The study was conducted using a sample size of one hundred and fifty employees which is the corresponding size for the population of two hundred forty-five using Krejcie and Morgan’s sample size determination. The variable used was subjected to reliability test showed internal consistency by Cronbach’s Alpha reliability test. . The obtained data was analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences Software (SPSS) and Structural equation modelling. Using the individual employees as the unit of analysis, three hypotheses were formulated to test the relationship.. The outcomes conclude that there are positive and strong relationship of employee-organisation relations on both internal communication and employee engagement but no impact as a mediating role on the nexus of internal communication efforts and employee engagement

This paper investigates the impact of Corporate Governance (CG) measures on financial institutions' sustainability. The study aimed to examine corporate governance's influence on financial institutions' sustainability in Uganda and determine the relationship between corporate governance and the sustainability of financial institutions. It also sought to provide a unified framework for understanding how these sustainability concepts relate to each other. The study was based on Stakeholder Theory. The research design used in this study was cross-sectional. The population of the study comprised 1,229 registered financial institutions in Uganda. Using Yamane's (1967) formula for sample size determination, a total of 400 respondents was selected. A stratified random sampling technique was employed to ensure proportional representation across different tiers of financial institutions, including commercial banks, credit institutions, Microfinance Deposit-Taking Institutions (MDIs), and Microfinance Institutions (MFIs) registered as Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs), companies, and Savings and Credit Cooperatives (SACCOs). The findings confirmed that CG and the sustainability of financial institutions have a mutually supportive relationship. The Pearson correlation coefficient indicates a significant positive correlation between corporate governance and firm sustainability (r = .649; p < 0.01), meaning that increased corporate governance in Ugandan financial institutions is associated with positive firm sustainability. Based on these dimensions, the study proposes a re-conceptualisation of the linkage between CG and financial institutions' sustainability. The study concludes that the robust sustainability of financial institutions is associated with well-built corporate governance structures. The study recommends that, in the current financial age, financial institutions in Uganda should prioritise key strategies aimed at enhancing growth by training staff and creating a reliable and trusted environment to attract foreign investment.

Progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) is characterized by progressive atrophy of brainstem, subcortical, and frontal regions. It is unknown whether longitudinal atrophy patterns differ between PSP-Richardson syndrome (PSP-RS) and cortical and subcortical clinical variants of PSP and whether atrophy rates could be useful outcome measures for treatment trials. We aimed to determine whether regional rates of atrophy differ across PSP clinical variants and determine sample size estimates for clinical treatment trials. We identified participants with PSP-RS, PSP-cortical, or PSP-subcortical variants recruited by the Neurodegenerative Research Group who underwent 2 annual 3T MRI scans. Volumes were calculated for 10 regions of interest, and mixed-effects regression analysis was performed to compare annualized rates of atrophy across groups, accounting for confounders. Sample sizes required to power placebo-controlled treatment trials to detect a 20% treatment effect with 80% power were calculated for rates of atrophy and clinical metrics, including the PSP Rating Scale. Fifty patients with PSP-RS (baseline age = 69 [interquartile range 64 to 75], 46% female), 18 with PSP-cortical (74 [70 to 76], 50% female), 20 with PSP-subcortical (71 [67 to 77], 60% female), and 32 controls (69 [66 to 72], 72% female) were included. Rates of midbrain, cerebellar dentate, and subthalamic atrophy were greater in all PSP variants than in controls. The PSP-RS group showed greater midbrain atrophy rates than PSP-subcortical (-1.6% difference [95% CI -2.4 to -0.7], p < 0.001) and PSP-cortical (-1.1% [-2 to -0.2], p = 0.02) groups. The PSP-cortical group showed greater rates of pallidum (12% [2.7 to 21], p = 0.02), putamen (2.1% [0.4 to 3.8], p = 0.02), and caudate (1.6% [0.1 to 3], p = 0.04) atrophy than the PSP-RS group. PSP-RS and PSP-cortical groups showed greater rates of superior frontal (2.2% [0 to 4.3], p = 0.049, and 4.7% [1.9 to 7.4], p = 0.002, respectively) and precentral (2.6% [0.1 to 5.1], p = 0.046, and 4.3% [1 to 7.5], p = 0.01, respectively) atrophy than controls, with no differences between variants. The smallest sample size estimates were obtained using a metric combining the PSP Rating Scale and the best-performing regional volume, providing sample size estimates of 107 participants/arm for PSP-RS, 88 for PSP-cortical, and 368 for PSP-subcortical. Regional patterns of brain atrophy differ across PSP clinical variants, although midbrain atrophy was common in all variants. Sample size estimates suggest that combining the PSP Rating Scale and targeted MRI volumes provides the optimum outcome measure for clinical treatment trials recruiting patients with PSP clinical variants.

Leadership across Africa remains a complex and contested domain, deeply intertwined with cultural norms and gender dynamics. This paper explores the intersection of gender, culture, and leadership in Western Kenya, focusing on how cultural practices shape leadership roles and the growing influence of both men and women in political leadership at national and continental levels. Grounded in Social Role Theory which offers insight into the cultural shifts needed to empower women’s leadership, while Culturally Sustaining Leadership Theory (CSLT) provides a model for understanding how leadership emerges and evolves in complex and interdependent environments. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the study drew from a carefully determined sample size of 361 respondents from the general population, 25 key informants, 16 focus group discussions, and 25 direct observations. Data collection included questionnaires, interviews, focus group discussions, and observations, with ethical considerations fully observed. The findings reveal that patriarchy strongly influences male leadership development, particularly in Kakamega and Kisii Counties, while female leaders face nuanced challenges, including exclusion due to cultural practices like female circumcision. However, women are playing an increasingly significant role in development at local, regional, and global levels. The study emphasises the need to integrate cultural structures that promote gender inclusive leadership while addressing practices that hinder constitutional values. In doing so, Western Kenya's leadership can be elevated to thrive on both national and Pan-African political stages.

The gut microbiota (GM) affects host development, behavior and disease susceptibility. Biomedical research investigating GM-mediated influences on host phenotypes often involves collecting fecal samples from laboratory mice. Many environmental factors can affect the composition of the GM in mice. While efforts are made to minimize this variation, biological and technical variability exists and may influence outcomes. Here we employed a hierarchical fecal sampling strategy (that is, sequenced multiple libraries generated from multiple pellets collected from multiple mice) to quantify the effect size of biological and technical variation and to provide practical guidance for the development of microbiome studies involving laboratory mice. We found that while biological and technical sources of variation contribute significant variability to alpha- and beta-diversity outcomes, their effect size is 3–30-times lower than that of the experimental variable in the context of an experimental group with high intergroup variability. After quantifying the variability of alpha-diversity metrics at the technical and biological levels, we simulated whether sequencing multiple fecal samples from mice improves effect size in a two-group experimental design. Our simulation determined that collecting five fecal samples per mouse increased effect size, reducing the minimum number of animals per group required by 5% while dramatically increasing sequencing costs. Our data suggest that the effect size of biological and technical factors may contribute appreciable variability to an experimental paradigm with relatively low mean differences. In addition, repeated sampling improves statistical power; however, its application is probably impractical given the increased sequencing costs.

The Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice (KAP) model help understand behavioral trends by analyzing the intersection of knowledge acquisition, attitudinal shifts, and behavioral implementation in a target population. This study explores the significance of KAP studies, particularly in the context of audio-speech fields, offering a practical guide for health professionals. This study outlines critical components of KAP questionnaire design and emphasizes its role in effectively gauging and impacting behaviors and beliefs concerning audio-speech practices. The current study also provides a practical guide for designing, administering, and validating KAP studies to improve its validity and comparability. Through illustrative examples, the study advocates for the careful formulation of questions to ensure clarity and relevancy tailored to the specifics of the target population. Moreover, it underscores the importance of preliminary literature reviews, expert panel consultations, and pilot testing to refine the questionnaire and enhance its effectiveness. Practical steps for conducting a KAP study, such as sample size determination, data collection procedures, and ethical consideration, are detailed to ensure rigorous research methodology. This approach helps collect baseline data, allocate resources effectively, and evaluate interventions. Ultimately, by following this structured guide, researchers can conduct more informative KAP studies, contributing valuable insights into the field of audio-speech sciences.

Research Problem: Despite the efforts by management of Kwara State Polytechnic, Ilorin to strengthen gate control systems and expand the security workforce, the institution still grapples with issues such as theft in student hostels and cult-related intimidation. Methods/Theory: The study was guided by Hirschi’s (1969) Social Control Theory. The study employed content analysis. The population for this study was 17,115 while was 391 derived by Taro Yamane (1967) formula to determine sample size. Out of the 391 copies of questionnaire administered, 349 were retrieved and analyzed using SPSS version 25. Results: Findings indicated that security officers play a vital role in deterring and detecting criminal activities through regular patrols, surveillance, and visible presence. Respondents acknowledged the officers’ efficiency in managing entry points, responding swiftly to incidents, and fostering cooperation with external agencies. Furthermore, security education programs were found to enhance awareness and community participation in safety initiatives. Conclusion: The study demonstrated that security officers are a vital component of crime prevention and safety management at Kwara State Polytechnic, Ilorin. The majority of students and staff expressed strong confidence in the officers’ ability to deter, detect, and respond to crime. Regular patrols, effective access control, and prompt emergency response were identified as key operational strengths contributing to a sense of safety and trust across the campus. Key Contribution to Knowledge: The study investigated the impact of security personnel on crime prevention and safety management at Kwara State Polytechnic, Ilorin. It examined the roles of security personnel in crime prevention within polytechnic campuses as well as the effectiveness of security personnel in curbing crime and maintaining safety in Kwara State Polytechnic. Recommendation: The study recommended that trained, visible, and well-equipped security personnel significantly improve campus safety and create a conducive learning environment. It recommends that the Polytechnic Management and Security Unit, in collaboration with the Nigerian Police Force, should intensify patrols, install more CCTV systems, enhance inter-agency collaboration, and organize regular capacity-building programs for security personnel to strengthen campus crime prevention and safety management.

This research investigated the influence of marital factors on domestic abuse among married female secondary school teachers in Akwa Ibom State. The study was guided by three research questions and three corresponding hypotheses, and it employed an experimental research design. The target population consisted of 3,132 married female teachers for the 2024/2025 academic session, selected from a total of 7,026 teachers across 274 public secondary schools in the state. A sample of 346 married female teachers was determined using the Research Advisors sample size determination table and selected through a stratified random sampling technique. Data were gathered using a structured instrument titled Marital Factors and Domestic Abuse among Married Female Teachers Questionnaire. The collected data were analyzed using simple linear regression, and all hypotheses were tested at the 0.05 level of significance. The results indicated that marital factors have a significant influence on the incidence of domestic abuse among married female secondary school teachers in Akwa Ibom State. It was concluded that married female teachers who exhibit positive marital factors, such as self-control, mutual respect and integrity, are more likely to maintain peaceful and domestic abuse-free marital relationships. Consequently, fostering these qualities can contribute to their emotional stability and overall well-being, which in turn may enhance their professional effectiveness. Recommendations were made that every relationship requires the ability to manage certain situations either good or bad and spouse should have proper self-control; respect for each other is not an option but necessary conditions for social existence, and integrity is needed for marital stability since family stability could predict societal stability.

In clinical trials, evaluating de-intensified oncologic treatment strategies can help reduce treatment-related toxicities while preserving patients' quality of life. However, de-intensification is typically evaluated in cancers with a low relapse rate, and if the cancer type is uncommon, a randomized trial may require an impractically extended period to accumulate sufficient events for reliable inferential conclusions. This paper introduces a Bayesian adaptive method for the single-arm trial design that provides efficient analysis of survival data under these constraints. By incorporating data from previous studies to establish prior knowledge and a historical control arm, this approach enables robust and accurate estimations and predictions for trial design, sample size determination, and inferential decision-making. To support the implementation of this method, we developed an R package called "BayesAT," which offers significant flexibility in modelling and supports multi-stage interim analyses, particularly for evaluating de-intensified oncologic treatments. Our approach is validated through comprehensive simulation studies and sensitivity analyses. Additionally, this algorithm has been applied to a pediatric Hodgkin lymphoma trial, showcasing its capability to effectively leverage information from previous studies and conduct interim analyses that expedite conclusions regarding treatment efficacy.

Quach, S. S., N. Johnson, R. Dudhia, A. Puljich, S. Ivanovski, and R. S. B. Lee. 2025. "The Periodontal Benefits of Alveolar Ridge Augmentation With Xenograft Following Third Molar Extraction: A Randomised Controlled Trial." Journal of Clinical Periodontology 52, no. 10:1419-29. https://doi-org.plymouth.idm.oclc.org/10.1111/jcpe.14205 . A 6-month randomised controlled trial was conducted to determine whether xenograft grafting using deproteinised bovine bone mineral with collagen (DBBM-C) affects periodontal healing at the distal aspect of the second molar (D2M) following third molar extraction. The study included 28 participants and a total of 42 extraction sites, which were allocated to either the test group (socket grafting with DBBM-C following extraction) or the control group (extraction without grafting). The surgical procedures in this study were carried out by two experienced specialist oral and maxillofacial surgeons. Participants in this study were initially assessed in a private dental practice, whilst all surgical procedures were performed at the Wesley Hospital in Brisbane. Adult patients aged 18-45 years with an ASA 1 status and one or two unerupted mandibular third molars with horizontal or mesio-angular impactions were included. These had either class I or II and position B or C impactions and demonstrated radiographic bone loss ≥5 mm on the distal aspect of the second molar on the CBCT. The study excluded patients with a history of periodontal disease, a full mouth plaque score ≥40%, and those who were not willing to return for review. Additionally, disto-angular impactions, extractions that required extensive surgery or pathology that required more than just extraction and primary wound closure were also excluded. Outcomes were assessed radiographically and clinically. CBCT scans were obtained at baseline and 6 months post-surgery where the D2M and extraction sockets were evaluated by linear and volumetric CBCT measurements by a single blinded examiner. Linear CBCT measurements assessed bone height adjacent to the mandibular second molar (CEJ-C) from the CEJ to the most coronal aspect of the alveolar crest at distobuccal, distal and distolingual sites. Volumetric CBCT measurements recorded included the socket healing volume (SHV) and the periodontal healing volume (PHV) around the D2M. Clinically, a full mouth plaque index, gingival index and probing pocket depths of distobuccal, distal and distolingual sites around the D2M were measured, 6 months post-operatively. Sample size determination was calculated from previous bone height data, with a total of 18 extraction sites per group included. Intra-group differences were evaluated using paired t-tests, while inter-group differences were assessed via linear regression with robust standard errors to account for repeated measures. Data normality was assessed through skewness and kurtosis analyses. Measurement reliability was confirmed using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC). Of the 28 participants initially recruited, only 17 completed the six-month follow-up and were included in the final analysis after accounting for dropouts and exclusions. Most teeth were Class II, position B and all of them were either mesio-angular or horizontal with mean impaction angle of 63.4° ± 17.79° in the control group and 57.54° ± 21.59° in the test group. At 6 months, SHV showed 86.2% ± 12.6% and 88.8% ± 7.1% bony infill in the control and test groups, respectively, while PHV improved to 73.6% ± 21.0% and 75.1% ± 13.9% in the control and test groups. Overall both linear and volumetric measures showed significant bony healing at the D2M 6 months post-operatively. However, there were no significant differences between the test and control groups.

The challenge of achieving a Work-life balance (WLB) strategy is of persistent concern in many organisations, with only a minority of businesses taking proactive measures to address it. Consequently, it is imperative to assist workers in establishing WLB strategies to stimulate innovative performance in employees. The primary aim of this study was to examine the relationship between work-life balance strategies and employees’ innovation. The study aimed to examine the relationship between flexible work arrangements and employees’ innovation. A sample size of 115 was determined with Krejcie and Morgan’s (1970) sample size determination table from a population of 164. However, only 86 responses were valid and used for the data analyses, with the Pearson Correlation statistical tool. Findings showed a significant relationship between Flexible Work Arrangements (FWAs) and employees’ innovation. Additionally, a positive correlation was observed between wellness programmes and employees’ innovation. Finally, the study’s findings indicate that family support programmes correlate with employees’ innovation. It is therefore concluded that work-life balance strategies such as flexible work arrangements, employee wellness programmes and family support programmes are important tools that could be adopted by organisations to ensure that their staff are putting their best to work innovatively. It is recommended that organisations should implement and regularly update work-life balance strategies to enhance employee performance, boost innovation, and improve overall productivity.

As deep-sea mining and marine mineral extraction enterprises expand into underexplored oceanic territories, the intricacy of these operations introduces multifaceted challenges. These include elevated operational costs, technical sophistication, increased susceptibility to fraudulent activities, workforce capacity gaps, as well as ethical and regulatory concerns. This study explores the role of cutting-edge technologies in mitigating procurement fraud within the marine mineral sector in North Central Nigeria. Specifically, it examines the impact of artificial intelligence adoption on enhancing the detection and prevention of procurement-related fraud. This research utilized a quantitative research method using a survey technique as an instrument for data collection. The study utilized the Tarro Yamane method to determine sample size. The study adopts a quantitative research method. The questionnaire was administered to a population of four hundred and eight (480) participants with in the North central, Niger State and Plateau State. Bowley proportional allocation method was used to determine an optimum number of questionnaires suitable for each stratum within the selected states, North Central, Niger State and Plateau State, Nigeria. The Pearson correlation result revealed that artificial intelligence positively influences procurement fraud detection in the deep-water mining industry. This result confirms a positive result with the value of (p .000, r = .990, N = 207). Managers are advised to deploy digital technologies to monitor and track marine mineral production, supply chain activities, and financial transactions of firms. This will help firms to enhance transparency, trust, decrease human errors, and improve data quality. This study advances trust-disruptive theory by connecting emerging technology and procurement using deep-seawater or marine mineral sectors. The study provides the deep-water mining industry and other organizations with new insight on how to proactively assess and manage procurement problems leading to the cost of adopting new technology and staff development and compliance demands.