Simple Random Sampling Research Articles

Physical Inactivity and its Sociodemographic Determinants among Adults: A Community-Based Study

Introduction: Physical inactivity (PI) is the fourth leading risk factor for global mortality and is potentially modifiable. Understanding its sociodemographic correlates can contribute in planning preventive measures to reduce the same. Aims and Objectives: 1) To estimate the prevalence of PI among adults aged 20–60 years and 2) to identify the sociodemographic determinants of PI among adults. Material and Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was done in district Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh. 304 adults aged 20–60 years, giving informed consent were selected by simple random sampling. Pregnant women and those with febrile disease and physical defect were excluded. Predesigned structured proforma and Global Physical Activity Questionnaire were used. Chi-square test and logistic regression analysis were applied using IBM SPSS 23.0. Results: Prevalence of PI was 47.7% (95% CI: 42.0–52.6). It was significantly higher in urban (55.3% vs 41.1%) than in rural area and among females than in males (68.7% vs 34.9%). PI during work was 74.3%, during travel 78.9%, and during recreation 88.5%. Being female increased odds of PI by almost ten times (adjusted odds atio (AOR) =9.7, 95% CI: 1.6–58.5). Unskilled workers/laborers and farmers (those involved in active occupational work) were found to have lesser odds of PI (AOR = 0.2, 95% CI: 0.1–0.5 and AOR = 0.2, 95% CI: 0.01–0.6, respectively). Conclusion: PI is highly prevalent among adults. Targeted interventions to increase physical activity in recreational domain are recommended, specially in urban areas and among women. Further studies to explore barriers to physical activity are needed to address this problem.

Examining the Nexus between School Infrastructure and Instructional Materials on Academic Performance of Secondary School Students in Gombe State

The main purpose of the study was to examine the nexus between school infrastructure and instructional materials on the academic performance of secondary schools in Gombe State. The study was guided by two specific objectives, two research questions, as well as two null hypotheses. The research which was conducted in the Gombe State adopted a correlation research design. The population of the study was 24,216 subjects comprising 3,178 teachers and 21,038 Senior Secondary (SS II) students in public Secondary Schools in Gombe State. A multi-stage sampling procedure was adopted for the study in which simple random and purposive sampling were used. To determine the sample size, the Taro Yamane formula was used and a sample size of 348 was determined. Impact of School Facilities on Academic Performance Questionnaire” (ISFAPQ) was used as the instrument for data collection. The ISFAPQ was subjected to face validation by three experts and a trial test was conducted in Bauchi State which a reliability index of 0.89 was obtained using Cronbach Alpha. Data were collected through a questionnaire, and End of third-term results form. The data collected was analyzed using mean and standard deviation as well as linear regression analysis. The findings of the study revealed that school buildings and instructional materials had a significant impact on the academic performance of secondary school students in Gombe State. Based on the findings of the study, the following recommendations were made; The Government should ensure that school buildings are well-built and painted to facilitate teaching and learning. Instructional materials should be made available by the government and management of secondary schools to enable effective teaching and learning.

Pronunciation of 雨 (ame) and 飴 (ame) for Japanese Language Education Students Batch 2020 of Brawijaya University

This research discusses the pronunciation of ame/rain (雨) with high pitch (↗) to low pitch (↘) and ame/candy (飴) with low pitch (↘) to high pitch (↗) in Japanese Language Education Students Batch 2020. Based on the results of preliminary studies through Google Form, not all respondents were able to distinguish the pronunciation of ame/rain (雨) and ame/candy (飴). Therefore, this study aimed to determine the Japanese pronunciation of Japanese Language Education Students Batch 2020 of Brawijaya University by pronouncing one of the homophones namely ame/rain (雨) and ame/candy (飴). This research used a descriptive qualitative method. Based on simple random sampling technique, 10 respondents of Japanese Language Education Students Batch 2020 were selected as the data source of the research. The researcher examined students' understanding using voice recordings which were then analyzed through Praat to see the pronunciation results. The result of the research was on the word ame/rain (雨) 90% could pronounce it the correct tone. Then on the word ame/candy (飴) 50% could pronounce it the correct tone. 6 respondents made mistakes, this was due to learning strategies and second language culture. As a result of this study, the researcher suggested for analyzing the noun hoshii/want (欲しい) with hoshi/star (星) focusing on pitch, intensity, and respondents from the Department of Japanese Language Education and Japanese Literature who can be used as a comparison.

Assessment Beliefs, Practices and Competence Vis-À-Vis Demographic Characteristics of Senior High School Social Studies Teachers in Ghana

This study examined the impact of demographic factors on the assessment beliefs, practices and competence of Social Studies teachers in selected Senior High / Technical Schools in the Volta and Oti Regions of Ghana. The study was guided by the Human Capital Theory (HCT). It utilized a quantitative research approach and a cross-sectional research design. Employing a two-stage simple random sampling method, 196 Social Studies teachers were randomly selected from 80 Senior High Schools (SHS) and Senior High Technical Schools (SHTS) in the Regions. Data was collected through a questionnaire, covering the participants’ demographic information and assessment beliefs, practices and competence. Statistical data treatment was done through frequency distributions. It was displayed using a contingency table and Cramer's V analysis. Findings indicated no significant correlation between the teachers’ gender, educational background, teaching experience, assessment beliefs, practices and competence. The study concludes that the demographic did not influence the teachers’ assessment beliefs. Based on the conclusions, it is recommended that professional development should focus on individualized training that targets specific needs of teachers in assessment literacy rather than generalizing based on demographic factors. This could help foster more robust and consistent assessment beliefs across the teaching population. In addition, teacher education programs should prioritize skills-based training on contemporary assessment methodologies and address competency gaps regardless of demographic factors.

Burnout among the non-government secondary school teachers in Bangladesh: Prevalence, causes and effects

Nowadays, psychological burnout is prevalent in all professions. The purpose of this study is to investigate the prevalence, causes, and consequences of burnout among non-government school teachers in Panchagarh. This study used an explanatory sequential mixed approach. A stratified random selection methodology was employed to pick 25 schools, and 242 teachers were chosen using a simple random sample procedure. Finally, a purposive sample technique was used to select 15 teachers. Data was acquired using a standardized questionnaire and in-depth interviews. The Maslach Burnout Inventory-Educator Survey (MBI-ES) was used to assess the prevalence of burnout. Data was analyzed by descriptive statistics and thematic analyses. The study found a high prevalence of burnout in non-government school teachers in Panchagarh, with 48.35% experiencing high emotional exhaustion, 51.24% high depersonalization, and 45.04% low personal accomplishment. Also, the study found that low salary are the most contributing factor to burnout. Furthermore, 78.6% of respondents agreed that teacher burnout has negative effects on student academic achievement. Finally, the presence of teacher burnout in education is a challenging issue, as it negatively affects every aspect of the learning and teaching process. This study has implications for policymakers to develop plans to reduce teacher burnout and enhance teachers’ overall well-being.

Financial Resource Availability and Implementation of Child Protection and Safeguarding Programs in Kwale County, Kenya

The Kenya child protection data on Kwale County revealed an increase of child negligence cases from 49.6% in 2020-2021 to 61.7% in 2022-2023. This has led to the establishment of various child protection and safeguarding programs to curb child protection and safeguarding menace in the county. Despite this effort, implementing such child protection and safeguarding programs has experienced problems. Thus the purpose of this study was to establish the influence of financial resource availability in the implementation of Child Protection and Safeguarding Programs in Kwale County, Kenya .The research was grounded in complexity theory and implementation theory. A descriptive research approach was employed to accurately depict the target population, which included key program personnel such as social workers, government officials, and child/probation officers involved in child protection programs in Kwale County. The sampling frame encompassed personnel from 11 NGOs, 2 government agencies, and 3 rescue centers currently implementing child protection programs in the county. Proportionate and simple random sampling were used for the NGOs and CBOs, while census sampling was employed for the government agencies and rescue centers. Of the 141 selected participants for the sample, 132 responded to the open and closed-ended questionnaires. Quantitative data was analyzed using SPSS, including descriptive statistics (frequencies, percentages, means, and standard deviations) and inferential statistics (correlation and multiple linear regression).Correlation analysis revealed that a financial resource availability showed a correlation of (r=0.859, p=0.000). Multiple linear regression indicated financial resource availability had a significant positive impact (B=0.351, p=0.00).To enhance child protection programs in Kwale County, the study recommends that organizations diversify funding sources, Implement clear reporting mechanisms and independent oversight committees can enhance transparency and accountability. Long-term financial planning, including emergency funds and scenario planning, along with stakeholder engagement, will help create a stable financial environment for implementing child protection and safeguarding programs in Kwale County.

Outcome of Targeted Driving Pressure Mechanical Ventilation in ARDS patients

Background: Lung protective strategy in acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) patients is based on low tidal volume (VT), lower end-inspiratory (plateau) pressure and higher positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP). But to predict body weight adjusted tidal volume, heterogeneous pathology of the lung in ARDS with different respiratory system compliance (CRS) is not considered. In driving pressure (ΔP=VT / CRS) tidal volume (VT) is normalized to functional lung size. It is unclear whether mechanical ventilation targeting driving pressure (ΔP) is more effective than low tidal volume ventilation (LTVV) in patients with ARDS. Materials and Methods: An open labelled randomized controlled trial was conducted at Intensive Care Unit of Dhaka Medical College Hospital, a tertiary care referral hospital over 12 months from March 2021 to February 2022. Ninety two patients with ARDS, defined by the Berlin criteria, requiring mechanical ventilation were randomized to 1:1 ratio after enrollment in the study using simple random sampling, one group receiving targeted driving pressure (ΔP) that is </=14cm of H2O ventilation another group receiving low tidal volume ventilation (LTVV) that is 4-6ml/kg PBW. Results: The study found no significant differences between the two groups in terms of clinical variables and laboratory parameters (p > 0.05), except for the duration of mechanical ventilation (MV), which was significantly shorter in the Targeted ΔP group (p<0.05). Aspiration pneumonia was the most common cause of ARDS, occurring in 34.8% of the Targeted ΔP group and 39.1% of the LTVV group. The Targeted ΔP group demonstrated a significant increase in mean respiratory system compliance compared to the LTVV group (p<0.001), and a significantly shorter length of ICU stay (p <0.001). Additionally, the PaO2/FiO2 ratio was significantly higher in the Targeted ΔP group on Days 3, 5, and 7 (p<0.05). Mean exhaled tidal volume was also significantly higher in the Targeted ΔP group on these days (p<0.05). In the Targeted ΔP group, mean driving pressure significantly decreased on Days 3, 5, and 7 (p <0.001), along with a significant reduction in mean plateau pressure (PPlt) (p <0.001). Mean positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) significantly decreased on Days 3, 5, and 7 (p <0.001). Respiratory rate significantly decreased on Day 7 (p <0.05). Mean set tidal volume (VT) significantly increased on Days 3, 5, and 7 (p <0.001). Moreover, the 28-day mortality incidence was significantly lower in the Targeted ΔP group compared to the LTVV group (8.7% vs. 26.1%, p <0.05). Conclusion: Targeted Driving pressure (ΔP) guided ventilation offers significant clinical benefits over LTVV in managing ARDS patients in terms of increased respiratory system compliance (CRS), shorter lengths of hospital and ICU stays, and lower in-hospital mortality. Bangladesh Crit Care J September 2024; 12 (2): 81-88

MEDIA EDUCATION E-BOOKLETS GINGIBOOKS ON GINGIVITIS KNOWLEDGE IN TEENAGERS

Background: The prevalence rate of gingivitis in Indonesia is quite high. One of the educational services is e-booklet media. The results of a preliminary study at SMA Negeri 1 Demak showed that 100% of students had never received dental health promotion and did not know about gingivitis. Objective: To find out the influence of gingibooks e-booklet media education on knowledge about gingivitis in adolescents. Methods: The type of quasi experimental research with a Non-equevalent control group design, sampling was conducted using simple random sampling with a total of 82 respondents. This sample was divided into 2 groups, namely the experimental and control groups. The location of the research was at SMA Negeri 1 Demak. The data collection technique used questionnaires and data analysis using wilcoxon and mann-whiteney tests. Results: The initial knowledge level of the experimental group was low (4.9%), medium (70.7%) and high (24.4%). Final knowledge with low (0%), medium (2.4%) and high (97.6%) criteria. The level of initial knowledge of the control group with low criteria (9.8%), medium (75.6%) and high 6 (14.6%). Final knowledge with low (0%), medium (36.6%) and high (63.4%) criteria. From the results of the study, there was an increase in knowledge from (70.7%), to (97.6%). The average knowledge in the experimental group was 4.29 and the control group was 2.56. The results of the Mann-Whitney Test obtained a value of p = 0.000 < 0.05. Conclusion: There is a significant influence in the use of e-booklet media on the improvement of gingivitis knowledge in adolescents.

Sexual dysfunction and its associated factors among patients with heart failure in public hospitals in Gondar town, North and West Gondar, 2024

IntroductionSexual dysfunction is characterized by difficulties that interfere with achieving satisfying sexual activity, affecting desire, arousal, orgasm, and overall satisfaction. A recent study in Ethiopia identified heart failure as one of the most common cardiovascular diseases in the country. Sexual dysfunction significantly affects the quality of life in individuals with heart failure, yet it often goes underdiagnosed and underreported. Understanding the prevalence of sexual dysfunction and the factors influencing sexuality in these patients is essential. Therefore, the primary objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of sexual dysfunction among patients with heart failure in Gondar City and the northern and western zones of Gondar public hospitals.MethodThis study included 423 participants diagnosed with heart failure, selected through simple random sampling from January 3 to February 30, 2024. Data were collected using an interviewer-administered questionnaire covering socio-demographic, behavioral, and clinical information. Sexual dysfunction in males was assessed using the International Index of Erectile Function-5, while the Female Sexual Function Index-6 was used for females. Data were entered into Epidata version 3.6 and later exported to SPSS version 25 for analysis. Binary logistic regression was employed to identify factors associated with sexual dysfunction, with a significance level set at p ≤ 0.05.ResultA total of 423 heart failure patients participated in the study, achieving a 100% response rate. The results indicated a significant prevalence of sexual dysfunction, affecting 57.92% of participants (95% CI 54.76%–63.76%). Female participants reported a higher prevalence of sexual dysfunction, with 63% of the 138 female heart failure patients affected. Among the 285 male participants, 55.4% (158 patients) were identified as having erectile dysfunction. Multivariable logistic regression analysis revealed that factors such as body mass index, age, insufficient physical activity, and smoking were significantly associated with sexual dysfunction in females. In males, erectile dysfunction was significantly linked to diabetes mellitus, heart failure classification, age, and insufficient physical activity.Conclusion and recommendationThis study identified a high prevalence of sexual dysfunction, with females being more affected than males. Additionally, the research identified several factors influencing sexual dysfunction among patients with heart failure, including BMI, age, cigarette smoking, diabetes mellitus, and the classification of heart failure. The study recommends that healthcare providers and other stakeholders take proactive measures to alleviate the burden of sexual dysfunction in patients with heart failure. Strategies should focus on controlling the severity of heart failure symptoms, effectively managing comorbidities, and addressing factors such as body weight, psychological well-being, and behavioral patterns. By targeting these areas, healthcare providers can work toward minimizing the risk of sexual dysfunction and improving the overall quality of life for patients with heart failure.

Resource Planning and Collapse of Buildings in Kiambu County, Kenya

Purpose: The research sought to find out the impacts of resource planning on building collapse in Kiambu County, Kenya. Therefore, this research aimed to establish the impact of resource planning on building collapse in Kiambu to be able to advise on how to contain the problem and enhance the non-collapse of such buildings. Methodology: In this study, the authors adopted a simple random sampling technique to identify construction projects in Kiambu County based on Kahneman and Tversky’s Scheduling Fallacy Theory that covers problems such as over-optimism and false resource forecasting on resource requirement necessary for efficient completion of the project. The descriptive research method was also used in the study since it included both qualitative and quantitative data. The population of the study consisted of 545, which included the employees from the physical planning department, architects, surveyors, engineers, and contractors’ builders, and finally the sample size came to 231 as estimated By Yamane, 1967. Findings: The research findings revealed that poor resource management has partly influenced building failures. Attempts by the contractors to solve the problem and eradicate the vice have been frustrated by the locals and politicians for their selfish reasons which have not been highlighted in this study. The research also pointed out that handling of resources reveals the highest mean score of 4.1773 this means that most respondents hold positive attitudes towards their practice of resource planning. Unique Contribution to Theory, Policy, and Practice: The Scheduling Fallacy Theory of 1979 by Kahneman and Tversky was utilized to examine the construction collapses of Kiambu County and the cognitive biases of underestimating time, resources, and costs in construction projects. The study suggested that strict adherence to building codes, better regulatory standards, risk evaluation, and better resource allocation are needed. Prevention was recommended through cross-sector collaboration of government, developers, contractors, and regulatory bodies alike. Empirical research into resource planning faults and their impact on structural integrity was proposed.

Talent Retention and Competitive Advantage of Star Rated Hotels in Rift Valley and Western Region, Kenya

The demand for both local and international visitors has seen local investors in the hospitality industry in Kenya jostle for market share. The arrival of the international hotel brands such as Best Western, Pullman and Park-In among others has increased competition as hotels scramble to provide quality products and services to their customers. Consequently, this sought to explore the influence of talent retention on competitive advantage of star rated hotels in Rift Valley and Western region, Kenya. The study was anchored on human capital theory. The study used simple random sampling to select a sample size of 62 respondents. The study adopted a correlational research design and data was collected using a questionnaire and analyzed quantitatively using both descriptive and inferential statistics. Prior to the actual data collection exercise, the study conducted pilot testing which involved both validity and reliability testing. The findings were presented in tables. The findings revealed that talent retention had a positive and significant influence on competitive advantage of star rated hotels in Rift Valley and Western Region, Kenya (P=0.000). The study concluded that hotel's talent retention strategies are generally effective especially enhancing a minimal employee turnover, a positive corporate image, and the use of succession planning and growth opportunities to retain talent. In view of the findings, the study recommends for the strengthening of the internal talent pool by investing in employee development programs. Encourage internal mobility and provide clear career progression paths to retain and motivate top talent. Keywords: Talent Retention, Competitive Advantage, Star-Rated Hotels, Rift Valley, Western Kenya

Farmers Awareness and Perception of Drone Technology

The agricultural sector is increasingly leveraging technological advancements to enhance productivity and sustainability. Among these innovations, drone technology, a crucial component of precision agriculture, is gaining global recognition. This study explores the current awareness and perception of drone technology among farmers in Coimbatore district, Tamil Nadu, where agriculture continues to be a critical livelihood source. Using an ex-post facto research design, the study sampled 60 farmers from various regions within Coimbatore district, selected through a simple random sampling technique to assess their awareness and perception of drone technology. Data were collected through structured interviews and questionnaires, analyzed using statistical tools like frequency, percentage analysis and mean score is to understand response patterns. The findings reveal that awareness of drone technology is highest for its use in spraying agrochemicals (75 per cent), followed by pest and disease control (68 per cent) and irrigation management (66 per cent). Farmers expressed positive perceptions of the efficiency and precision that drones bring to farming operations, particularly in reducing labor and time spent on manual tasks. Drones were recognized for their potential to improve crop health monitoring, optimize resource use, and promote sustainability by minimizing chemical overuse. Nonetheless, logistical challenges such as the durability of drones in extreme weather conditions, connectivity issues in rural areas, and maintenance costs pose significant obstacles to widespread adoption. While government initiatives, including subsidies have begun to alleviate some financial burdens, there is a clear need for further support in terms of training, infrastructure, and policy enhancements. The study underscores the importance of integrating drones into the agricultural sector to ensure more sustainable and productive farming practices that can meet the growing global food demand.

GARLING WITH A SOLUTION OF ACACIA CARPA HONEY SOLUTION OF 10% CONCENTRATION ON THE DEGREE OF SALIVA ACIDITY AND THE TOTAL PLATE COUNT (TPC) OF THE NORMAL FLORA OF THE ORAL CAVITY IN CHILDREN

Saliva functions as a buffer that can prevent a decrease in pH or an increase in mouth acidity. Alcohol-free mouthwash containing herbs using honey solution which is made from natural ingredients and is safe for children can be used as an appropriate preventive measure to maintain oral hygiene. The normal flora of the oral cavity consists of microorganisms including bacteria, fungi, mycoplasma, protozoa and possibly viruses. The aim of the research was to analyze the effect of gargling with a 10% concentration of Acacia Carpa (Acacia Crassicarpa) honey solution on the degree of saliva acidity and Total Plate Count (TPC) of normal oral flora and Gram bacteria in children aged 8-9 years. Method: True experimental research type, with a group pre-test post-test with control group design. The sampling technique was carried out by simple random sampling of 30 children. The degree of acidity of saliva is measured using litmus paper, bacterial colonies are incubated on Nutrient Agar media for 24 hours and counted. Test the normality of the data using the one sample Kolmogorov-Smirnov test. Data were analyzed using the Paired T-test if it was normally distributed and the Kruskal Wallis test if it was not normally distributed. Results: The 10% concentration honey gargle group resulted in the average degree of acidity before, namely 7.00, after 6.98, then the average Total Plate Count (TPC) result for normal oral flora, namely before, was 100.47 CFU/ml, whereas after, it was 69.67. CFU/ml. Paired T-Test test results for the 10% honey gargle group Sig. 0.003 (< 0.05), so there is a significant difference between the Total Plate Count (TPC) before and after gargling honey with a concentration of 10%. Conclusion: There is an effect of gargling honey with a concentration of 10% on Total Plate Count of normal oral flora

Determinants of stunting among adolescent girls in schools of Digo Tsion Town, Northwest Ethiopia: Unmatched case control study.

Stunting is a height-for-age (Z-score) less than minus two standard deviations below the mean of reference standard. It is the most important sign of long-term chronic undernutrition and public health problem in Ethiopia. However, little information was known regarding determinants of stunting among adolescents since it had mostly been investigated in late infancy, especially among children under the age of five. Therefore, identifying determinants of stunting among adolescent girl is still crucial. To identify determinants of stunting among adolescent girls in schools of Digo Tsion Town, Northwest Ethiopia, 2022. Case-control study was conducted among 417 adolescent girls (104 cases and 313 controls) in schools of Digo Tsion Town with computer generated simple random sampling technique. World Health Organization Anthroplus 2007 software was used for analyzing anthropometrics data. Data was collected by epicollect5 mobile application through interview by using structured questionnaire. The data was entered in epi data 4.6 and exported into Statistical Package for Social Science version 26. Variables with p- value ≤ 0.25 in bivariable analysis were candidate for multivariable analysis. Model fitness was checked by Hosmer and Lemon Show fitness of test. Variables having a P-value < 0.05 in multivariable analysis were declared as statistically significant at 95% Cl. The result was presented by statement, figures, and tables. A total of 409 (100 cases and 309 controls) adolescent girls participated, with a response rate of 96% for cases and 98.72% for controls. Food insecurity (AOR = 2.13, CI [1.15, 3.93]), low dietary diversity score (AOR = 1.99, CI [1.06, 3.73]), drinking coffee/tea immediately while eating meals (AOR = 2.19, CI [1.22, 3.95]), not getting nutritional counsel (AOR = 2.07, CI [1.17, 3.66]), chronic illness (AOR = 3.78, CI [1.16, 12.3]), and not visited by health extension workers at home (AOR = 1.85, CI [1.03, 3.31]) were statistically significant determinants of stunting. Stunting among adolescents is influenced by a low dietary diversity score, a food-insecure household, drinking coffee or tea immediately while eating a meal, not receiving nutritional counseling, having a chronic illness, and not being visited by health extension workers at home. Future researchers would do better to undertake prospective studies. Health extension workers are better able to provide nutritional counsel for adolescent.

Talent Retention and Competitive Advantage of Star Rated Hotels in Rift Valley and Western Region, Kenya

The demand for both local and international visitors has seen local investors in the hospitality industry in Kenya jostle for market share. The arrival of the international hotel brands such as Best Western, Pullman and Park-In among others has increased competition as hotels scramble to provide quality products and services to their customers. Consequently, this sought to explore the influence of talent retention on competitive advantage of star rated hotels in Rift Valley and Western region, Kenya. The study was anchored on human capital theory. The study used simple random sampling to select a sample size of 62 respondents. The study adopted a correlational research design and data was collected using a questionnaire and analyzed quantitatively using both descriptive and inferential statistics. Prior to the actual data collection exercise, the study conducted pilot testing which involved both validity and reliability testing. The findings were presented in tables. The findings revealed that talent retention had a positive and significant influence on competitive advantage of star rated hotels in Rift Valley and Western Region, Kenya (P=0.000). The study concluded that hotel's talent retention strategies are generally effective especially enhancing a minimal employee turnover, a positive corporate image, and the use of succession planning and growth opportunities to retain talent. In view of the findings, the study recommends for the strengthening of the internal talent pool by investing in employee development programs. Encourage internal mobility and provide clear career progression paths to retain and motivate top talent. Keywords: Talent Retention, Competitive Advantage, Star-Rated Hotels, Rift Valley, Western Kenya

Using structural equation modelling to investigate the mediating effects of TPACK on intention to use technology

This article aims to understand, through structural equation modelling (SEM), how the knowledge of technological pedagogical and content knowledge (TPACK) mediates the intention to accept and use technology by teachers’ college lecturers. The ultimate aim is to come up with a sem-generated model which teacher training colleges can use to train lecturers in technology use. Structural equation modeling is a sophisticated multivariate statistical process that enables researchers to analyze the direct and indirect effects of variables on one another, construct theoretical concepts, test the reliability of their measurements, hypothesize and test a theory about their relationships, and account for measurement errors. A questionnaire founded on the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT) was employed to gather data from instructors at ten teacher-training colleges. Simple random sampling was used to select 300 valid questionnaires used in the analysis. Statistic package R was used to run SEM and the results confirmed the mediating role of TPACK in the behavior intention to accept and use technology by lecturers.

Effect of a 12-Week High Intensity Interval Training on Serum Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor of Obese Undergraduates

The study investigated the effect of a 12-week High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) on Serum Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) among obese undergraduates of the University of Benin. The pretest-posttest randomized experimental design was employed for the study. The study involved a population of one hundred and twenty obese undergraduates, with a sample of twenty-four selected using simple random sampling. The participants’ anthropometric profiles were analyzed descriptively using mean and standard deviation, and the hypothesis was tested using analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) with statistical significance set at a p-value of &lt;0.05. The Bonferroni post-hoc test was conducted to pinpoint the source of the differences between the groups. The results showed a significantly higher increase in Serum BDNF levels (2.07 ± 1.9 vs. 2.38 ± 2.1) in the experimental group. This suggests that the HIIT protocol had a notable impact on the serum BDNF concentration of the obese undergraduates. Therefore, HIIT may serve as an effective intervention for elevating BDNF levels and potentially enhancing brain health. The study recommends that policymakers in Nigeria and other sub-Saharan African nations should prioritize addressing obesity due to its potential cognitive complications.

The Role of E-Satisfaction in Mediating Relationship Marketing (RM) on Banking E-Customer Loyalty

The research objective is to analyze the relationship between relationship marketing (RM) and e-customer loyalty, which is mediated by e-customer satisfaction in the banking industry in Banjarmasin. The increasingly rapid challenges of the banking world require organizations to improve their efforts to provide world-class services in order to attract and retain loyal customers. RM is the key answer to retaining loyal customers. The research was conducted in Banjarmasin with a population of 200 conventional government bank customers using a simple random sampling technique. Data were obtained from interviews with customers using a questionnaire distributed via Google Forms, and data analysis techniques using SEM AMOS 24. The research results prove that RM which consists of trust, commitment, communication, and conflict handling has a positive and significant effect on e-customer loyalty through e-customer satisfaction. This means that to further increase customer satisfaction for them to be loyal, the repair company must be able to maintain good relationships by providing a good level of trust, commitment, communication, and resolve conflicts that occur. Keywords: banking industry, commitment, communication, conflict handling, relationship marketing (RM), trust

The Role of Environmental Audits in Enhancing Sustainability in Industrial Property Management. Insights From Nairobi County

Nairobi, the capital city of Kenya, is experiencing significant environmental challenges, with pollution levels reaching unprecedented heights. This issue is particularly evident in the Nairobi River Basin, which comprises the Nairobi, Ngong, and Mathare Rivers. The basin is a focal point of concern due to the widespread discharge of untreated industrial waste into its waters. The city's high population density, coupled with the concentration of industries, exacerbates the environmental impact, making Nairobi the most affected region in the country in terms of pollution. Among the various sources, industrial pollution emerges as a major contributor, prompting the National Environmental Management Authority (NEMA) to intervene and hold accountable the industries responsible for these environmental violations. This study set out to analyze the role of environmental audits in the management of industrial properties, focusing on a case study of industrial properties in Nairobi. The research targeted three key industrial areas: Nairobi Industrial Area, Baba Ndogo, and the industries along Nairobi-Mombasa Road. The study's target population consisted of 487 respondents, comprising 440 property managers and 47 NEMA County directors. Using Yamane’s 1967 formula, the sample size was determined to be 211 respondents. The study employed a simple random sampling method for data collection, utilizing questionnaires and interviews to gather information. Data analysis was conducted using descriptive statistics with SPSS version 24, and interpretation was guided by a theoretical framework and previous research. The study found that environmental audits significantly enhance industrial performance by improving organizational effectiveness, ensuring regulatory compliance, and boosting competitive advantage. They also raise awareness of environmental impacts, enhance corporate reputation, and provide valuable data for investors. However, challenges such as corruption, regulatory bias, and high audit costs persist. The research underscores the importance of environmental management and recommends that property managers strategically implement audit systems to support sustainable industrial growth and regulatory compliance

Organizational Innovation as a Mediation of the Influence of Innovation Capability on Organizational Performance in Manufacturing Companies in East Java

This research aims to analyze the influence of innovation capabilities on organizational innovation, analyze the influence of innovation capabilities on organizational performance, analyze the influence of organizational innovation on organizational performance, and analyze the influence of innovation capabilities on organizational performance through organizational innovation. The sample in this study involved 140 respondents. Sampling in this study was carried out using a simple random sampling technique. The analyses techniques used were descriptive analysis and structural equation modeling (SEM) analysis. The results of the analyses show that innovation capability influences organizational innovation. Innovation ability influences organizational performance. Organizational innovation influences organizational performance. Organizational innovation as a mediator of the influence of innovation capability on organizational performance. Implementing effective innovation capabilities and promoting a culture of innovation in organizations can be an effective strategy for improving organizational performance. In a competitive business era, the involvement of high-quality human resources and the ability to innovate is the key to achieving competitive advantage and sustainable growth. Keywords: innovation capability, organizational innovation, organizational performance