Statistical Package For Social Sciences Research Articles

Vitamin D Fortification in Lebanese Bread: Impact on Sensory Attributes, Consumer Perception and Public Acceptance

BackgroundLebanese bread plays a significant role in the Lebanese diet and presents a promising opportunity for fortification with vitamin D. However, there is currently no evidence of such fortification being implemented. This study was conducted to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions of the Lebanese population toward vitamin D-fortified bread and to evaluate the impact of vitamin D on the sensory characteristics of bread. Materials and MethodsA cross-sectional study was performed on respondents (n=300) who were randomly selected from different age groups and different districts in Lebanon via an online questionnaire from May to June 2022. For the fortification of the bread dough, a premix containing 100,000 IU/ml vitamin D3 (New Bridge Pharmaceuticals) was used. Three different concentrations of vitamin D were used, starting with 1000 IU/50 g, 1250 IU/50 g, and 1500 IU/50 g of bread. The dough samples were baked at 600°C. The samples produced were stored inside nylon bags in a refrigerator. A pilot study was conducted for bread tasting and sample evaluation. Statistical analysis was carried out via the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (version 21.0) for Windows SPSS, Inc. Figures were created using Origin Lab Software. ResultsA total of 300 respondents (188 females, 112 males) answered the questionnaire, with a mean age ranging from 20–30 years. Nearly half of them (48.3%) had either vitamin D insufficiency or deficiency, and their daily vitamin D intake ranged between 0 and 7 µg/day. With respect to knowledge of vitamin D, 88.6% correctly identified sunlight as the main source of vitamin D, and 73% were aware that vitamin D preserves bone health. Half of the respondents (51.75%) had daily sunlight exposure, and 82.6% consumed bread on a daily basis. Those interested in increasing their vitamin D intake constituted 97.6% of the respondents. With respect to their willingness to consume vitamin D-fortified bread, only 39% of the participants reported that they would consume it. A considerable proportion (63.5%) did not know whether fortification with vitamin D can affect bread shelf-life, taste, or texture. For the evaluation of the sensory properties of the bread, the panelists reported that the overall acceptability reached 62.26%. No significant correlation was detected between vitamin D content and bread sensory characteristics (p value >0.05). ConclusionsThe findings of this pioneering study reveal that the concept of fortifying Lebanese bread with vitamin D was positively received by respondents, marking a significant step forward in the use of this staple food as a novel vehicle to increase vitamin D intake in the Lebanese population. As the first study of its kind, it underscores the importance of integrating bread backing with fortification strategies to achieve broader acceptance. Future research should build on this foundation by investigating the impact of fortification on the sensory attributes of bread, as well as conducting detailed physiochemical analyses to determine the retention of vitamin D after baking, fermentation, and storage.

Comparative analysis of treatment protocols and clinical outcomes in the management of acute urticaria and angioedema in the emergency department

Objective: The purpose of the study was to identify clinical differences in patients with acute urticaria and/or angioedema receiving various treatment regimes in the emergency department of Lady Reading Hospital, Peshawar. Particularly, it compared modern antihistamine therapy with corticosteroids as an analogue to routine antihistamines with regard to the rate of symptom improvement, relapse, and hospitalisation. Methods: This was a cross-sectional descriptive study involving 542 patients with acute urticaria and/or angioedema. Patients were categorised into two groups: Group A, receiving a combination of antihistamines and corticosteroids (280); and Group B, receiving only antihistamines (262). Thus, the primary end points considered include time to resolution of symptoms, recurrence within 48 hours, and hospitalisation need. Data was analysed using the statistical package of social sciences (SPSS), while a p-value of < 0.05 formed the basis of significance. Results: The overall improvement time for symptoms was 3.6 hours in Group A and 5.1 hours in Group B (p < 0.001). The rates of recurrence were also lower in Group A (15%) than in Group B (29.8%, p < 0.01). Meanwhile, patients who were in Group A had 10% that needed inpatient admission as an intervention compared to 19.1% in Group B; p < 0.05. Side effects were few and were comparable between the two groups; therefore, patients in both groups had reactions such as drowsiness and gastrointestinal disturbances. Conclusion: Together, antihistamines plus corticosteroids were superior to antihistamines only in the treatment of acute urticarial and angioedema in patients in the emergency department. Patients reported symptoms resolved sooner, the rate of relapse was shorter, and hospitalisation was reduced. Based on this observation, corticosteroids should be considered as part of the usual care of patients presenting with moderate to severe symptoms in the emergency department. Future research should aim at sorting out various recommendations of treatment value for the purpose of achieving even better results of the therapy.

An assessment of awareness of medical waste management amongst primary health care workers in Kano State

The outcome of healthcare services is aimed at preventing potential human health risks and environmental hazards as well as improving wellbeing. In the process, however, wastes that are potentially harmful are generated and poor management of these primary healthcare wastes (HCW) exposes the health workers, patients, patient’s visitors, waste handlers and the general public to health risks. The objective of this study is to assess the waste management practices of health workers in Kano Municipal Local Government Area, Kano state. A descriptive cross-sectional design was employed to collect data from four selected healthcare facilities. A total of 303 health workers randomly selected served as respondents. A structured questionnaire was administered to health workers to determine their knowledge and practice on healthcare waste management. Whereas non-participatory observation checklist was used to collect data on their current practices as regards to healthcare waste management. Data were analyzed, and presented as descriptive statistics using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20.0 and hypothesis was tested using Pearson product-moment correlation coefficient. In conclusion, management of healthcare wastes (HCW) has become one of the critical concerns in developing countries especially Nigeria. Healthcare waste is dangerous, if handled, treated or disposed of incorrectly can spread diseases, and poison people, livestock, wild animals, plants and ecosystems. Healthcare institutions must utilize the most practical options to achieve acceptable standards and practices for healthcare waste management using available technologies. Measures to improve the Primary Healthcare waste management practices in healthcare facilities in Kano Municipal Local Government and the country at large is to enhance training of all health workers on healthcare waste management. It is recommended that colour coded bag be made available for segregation of clinical waste in all primary healthcare facilities.

A Retrospective Review of Ambulatory Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery in a Suburban Tertiary Hospital in Nigeria

Background Ambulatory surgical procedures are integral aspects of oral and maxillofacial surgical (OMS) practice. Objective The aim of this study is to report the scope of ambulatory OMS procedures in a Nigerian suburban teaching hospital. Method A retrospective review of ambulatory OMS procedures performed at Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospitals Complex, Ile-Ife, Nigeria, between March 2021 and February 2022 was conducted. Sociodemographic data, diagnoses, procedures, type of anesthesia, and immediate postoperative complications were retrieved from patients' records. Data were analyzed using the Statistical Package of Social Sciences (SPSS) version 22. Results Two hundred and fifty-two ambulatory OMS procedures were performed during the 12-month study period. This accounted for 80.3% (252/314) of elective surgeries. The patients' mean (standard deviation [SD]) age was 32.2 (10.4) years, while a slight male preponderance (51.6%) was recorded. Third molar surgery was the commonest (48.0%) procedure undertaken in ambulatory setting. Most (90.9%) of them were performed under local anesthesia. Satisfactory postoperative pain control was achieved with the use of oral nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory analgesics in most patients (81.7%). However, owing to a failed ambulatory session, there was an eventual admission rate of 0.4% (1/252). Conclusion Ambulatory surgical procedures constitute the majority of the OMS elective cases, with third molar surgery being the commonest procedure. Judicious prescription and administration of oral analgesics were effective in managing postoperative pain in our day case OMS patients. We recommend a prospective study to determine an intermediate/long-term outcome of care in ambulatory settings.

Strategic Management Practices on the Performance of Non-Government Organizations in Kisii County, Kenya

Running Non-Governmental organizations still has its fair share of challenges. Managerial efficiency is still wanting, its performance is very low with most of them witnessing increased corruption cases. Thus, the purpose of this study was to assess the influence of strategic management practices on the performance of NGOs in Kisii County, Kenya. The target population was 906 respondents comprising 16 Presidents, 16 Treasurers and 804 members of the board. The sample size for the study was 112 respondents comprised of 16 presidents and 16 treasurers who were sampled purposively while 80 board members were sampled randomly, 5 of them per NGO. Questionnaires were used to collect data from the board members whereas interviews were used to collect data from presidents and treasurers. Piloting of research instruments was conducted amongst 10.0% of the sample size of the respondents in the neighbouring Kisii County to establish validity, reliability, credibility, and dependability. Validity was ascertained through expert judgment. The reliability of the instruments was determined using the test-retest technique. The correlation coefficient was obtained using Pearson’s Product Moment Correlation Method. If a coefficient of r≥0.7 is obtained, then it indicates the high internal reliability of the instruments. Credibility was established by data triangulation through multiple analysts whereas dependability was established through detailed reporting. Data analysis began by identifying common themes from the respondents’ descriptions of their experiences. Frequency counts of the responses were then obtained to generate information about the respondents and to illustrate the general trend of findings on the various variables that were under investigation. Qualitative data was analysed thematically along the objectives and presented in narrative forms whereas quantitative data was analysed descriptively using frequencies, percentages, mean and standard deviation and inferentially using correlation and linear regression with the help of Statistical Packages for Social Science (SPSS Version 23). The study had a response rate of 87% which was considered to be very good, and 32 respondents were interviewed. The findings of the study were presented using tables and charts. After the analysis was conducted, it was evident that the majority of the NGOs did not engage in the expected procedures of strategic management, specifically planning, implementation and evaluation. Though there was some level of agreement in understanding the external environment in a firm operated, the majority of the respondents were not aware of how dynamic their work environment can change thus affecting their firm’s objectives. Ensuring that firms conducted an internal analysis to identify their strengths and weaknesses, ensuring firms had crisis management plans, well-defined objectives that would enable the achievement of long-term goals, and practical milestones that could be used to gauge the accomplishment of the set goals were among the significant predictors are detailed in the inferential statistics sections.

Impact of Kangaroo mother care plus massage therapy on growth of preterm low birth weight infants at discharge

Background: To assess the impact of kangaroo mother care plus massage therapy on growth of preterm low birth weight infants at discharge. Methods: This randomized controlled trial was conducted in Department of Neonatology in Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University over a period of 15 months from March 2022 to June 2023. Total 122 newborns were admitted in neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) of BSMMU during the study period with birth weight 800g to <2000g and gestational age 28 weeks to <34 weeks were enrolled in the study after getting informed written consent from parents or caregiver. Infants with major congenital anomalies were excluded from this study. All data were analyzed by statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) version 25 (IBM, USA). Results: Total 122 newborns were admitted in neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) of BSMMU during the study period with birth weight 800g to <2000 g. Among them, 80 infants fulfilled inclusion criteria. Growth was significantly better in KMC plus massage therapy group. Mean weight gain per kg per day in KMC plus massage therapy group was 13.34±10.20 g and it was nearly half in KMC group 6.18±11.84 g only (p-value-0.01). Increase in length was 0.95±0.62 cm in KMC plus massage therapy group vs KMC group 0.66±0.49 cm (p-value-0.04). Increase in OFC was 0.59±0.29 cm in KMC plus massage therapy group vs KMC group 0.42±0.33 cm at discharge (p-value-0.03). Hospital stay in KMC group was 6.36±3.52 days, alternatively it was more 8.33±2.39 days in KMC plus massage therapy group. The dissimilarity was statistically significant (p-value-0.01) Study implication: Massage therapy potentiates benefits of kangaroo mother care in respect to better growth, so massage can be added along with KMC for better outcome. Conclusions: Massage therapy added to KMC is more effective than KMC alone in improving growth, although it did not affect the hospital stay.

The Influence of Achievement Motivation on Burnout in Swimming Athletes

Currently burnout is a crucial problem in the world of athletes, because it often hampers the performance rate of athletes who ultimately harm themselves and the surrounding environment. The purpose of the study was to influence achievement motivation on burnout in swimming athletes in Sleman Regency. This research is quantitative, with an ex post facto design. The subjects were swimming athletes totaling 75 athletes. The instrument used was a questionnaire. The analysis technique used regression with Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 21 software. The results show that there is a significant effect of achievement motivation on burnout in swimming athletes in Sleman Regency, with a calculated t value of -4.080> t table 1.666, p-value 0.0000.05. Negative value, meaning that if achievement motivation is higher, burnout will be lower. The contribution of achievement motivation variables to burnout of swimming athletes in Sleman Regency is 18.60%, while the remaining 81.40% is influenced by other factors outside this study. For future researchers to be able to reveal other variables that can affect burnout in swimming athletes, because our report found only 18.60%.

Gastroenteritis Diagnosed at Necropsy: A Review of Cases Spanning a Decade

Objectives: In this study, we conducted a retrospective survey of gastroenteritis diagnosed in carcasses, from 2013 to 2023, at the Necropsy Unit of the Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Nigeria. Materials and Methods: Data were obtained from the record book, entered into Microsoft Excel sheet, analysed using Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS, v.27). Results: Results revealed that gastroenteritis was diagnosed in 20.5% of the 1052 carcasses. Yearly distribution analysis revealed fluctuations in prevalence, with peaks in 2017 (16.7%), 2018 (14.4%), and 2019 (13.0%). Species distribution analysis indicated higher proportions in canines (46.3%), caprines (31.5%), and ovines (8.3%). Sex-based analysis revealed varied proportions between males and females across different species, with no significant (p>0.05) association found between sex and species. Age distribution analysis revealed higher proportions in younger animals (<1 year) and older animals (>3 years) within specific species, and there was significant (p<0.05) association between age and species. Conclusions: These findings provide valuable insights into the burden of gastroenteritis in animals, thus, highlighting its temporal variations, species-, sex-, and age-specific differences. This study, therefore, contributes to the advancement of veterinary pathology, and the promotion of animal health and welfare, by improving our understanding of gastroenteritis epidemiology, and informing evidence-based veterinary practices. There is need for veterinary pathologists to develop and implement species-specific diagnostic protocols, and targeted disease management strategies to effectively mitigate the prevalence and impact of gastroenteritis in animal populations.

Evaluation of salivary total antioxidant capacity and malondialdehyde in pre-menopausal and post-menopausal women

Menopause is a natural and expected stage of development that occurs in the life of a woman and is characterized by the permanent end of menstruation. Ovarian dysfunction is a result of permanent alterations to the ovaries’ reproductive and hormonal activities. The reproductive system of a woman is not the only thing that is impacted by fluctuations in hormone levels. Hormones have powerful influence on the development of the skeleton and the mouth cavity, as well as on the integrity of these structures. The oral cavity is significantly affected by them. Different stages of a woman’s life, such as puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause, each have their own unique impact on the oral health. Oxidative stress is a condition that occurs when there is an imbalance between oxidants and antioxidants, with the former making it possible for living cells to sustain damage. Lipid peroxidation and the subsequent breakdown products, such as malondialdehyde (MDA), are formed, and these compounds can be observed in biological fluids. Total antioxidant capacity is a term that is frequently used to refer to the antioxidant activity of the “nonspecific” antioxidant pool.The objective: to assess of salivary total antioxidant capacity, salivary malondialdehyde, salivary pH in pre-menopausal and post-menopausal women and correlation between pH and salivary biomarkers. Materials and methods. A case-control study was conducted in 80 healthy women. The study included 80 females between the ages of 40 and 55 years; specifically, 40 persons were premenopausal and 40 women were postmenopausal.In the saliva of the patients, the total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and MDA level were determined using the immunoassay method, and the pH level was also studied. Data description, analysis and presentation were performed using Statistical Package for social Science (SPSS version 22, Chicago, Illinois, USA). Results. The findings indicated that the pH value in the post-menopausal group was significantly higher than that of the pre-menopausal group. In comparison to the post-menopausal group, the pre-menopausal group exhibited a significantly higher level of TAC. While MDA level was significantly greater in the post-menopausal group than in the pre-menopausal group. A significant correlation of salivary pH with biomarkers of TAC and MDA of saliva was found, but there was no significant correlation between MDA and TAC in premenopausal women. On the other hand, there is a non-significant negative correlation between salivary TAC and pH level, as well as an insignificant correlation of MDA with pH and salivary TAC in postmenopausal patients. Conclusions. There are differences in salivary total antioxidant capacity and malondialdehyde level between pre-menopausal and post-menopausal women.

Effect of Trade Unionism on Non-Academic Staff Performance in a Public Institution

Purpose – Various challenges faced by non-academic personnel in Nigerian institutions, such as a lack of team spirit, inadequate salary, insufficient staff development programs, poor infrastructure, strike actions, insecurity, subpar health insurance, and limited career progression, prompted an examination of their effect on performance at the University of Ilorin. Aims(s) – This research aimed to investigate the influence of compensation structure, career development, and team spirit on the non-academic staff's performance. Design/methodology/approach – With a population of 1,600 and a sample size of 320, as established by Taro Yamane's sample size calculation, the study used a descriptive research approach. A questionnaire was used for data collection, and the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) program was used for basic regression analysis. Findings – The results showed that non-academic staff performance at the public institutions were positively and significantly impacted by compensation structure, career growth, and team spirit. The study successfully determined the impact of trade unionism on non-academic employee performance, emphasizing the positive effects of a sound wage structure, strong team spirit, and career advancement. Limitations of the study – The fact that the results are context-specific represents a major limitation. Originality/value – The results suggested that the public institutions should prioritize and assess team spirit, along with enhancing non-academic personnel's remuneration packages. Furthermore, career advancement was identified as a key factor influencing non-academic staff performance, emphasizing the importance of providing opportunities for professional growth and promotion to motivate employees to excel and contribute to the institution's success.

Correlation Between Emotional Intelligence and Blood Groups Among Medical Students

Background: Emotional intelligence, known as emotional quotient or EQ, is the ability to understand, use and manage your own emotions in positive ways to relieve stress, communicate effectively and empathize with others. There are numerous lines of evidence that show the influence of blood groups on skills and abilities related to EQ. This study aims to compare the EQ-related skills and abilities among medical students with various blood groups. Materials and methods: This cross sectional study was conducted in the Department of Anatomy, Chattagram Maa-O-Shishu Hospital Medical College from November 2021 to May 2022. Sample were collected from Chattagram Maa-OShishu Hospital Medical College and Southern Medical College. The responses are entered as data into the Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 20 and the qualitative data is analyzed using chi square test and the quantitative data is compared using the Bonferroni version of the ANOVA test. Results: The most frequent blood group is B in this study. Overall, students with blood group AB scored the most with 23.08% of them scoring more than or equal to 120. On the other hand, students of blood group O scored the least, with only 14.81% of them scoring 120 or above. 20.51% of A group and 15.79% of B group scored 120 or more. There was no significant difference between blood groups and emotional intelligence. The highest scores concerning self-awareness, Self-confidence and Self competency are in blood group AB (19.4615 ± 2.79, 18.4615 ± 2.99, 17.6154 ± 2.63 respectively) and p- values are 0.20, 0.15 and 0.94. Students who have A blood group scored higher in motivation and self-control (18.2308 ± 3.56 and18.4103 ± 3.51) and who have blood group B scored higher on empathy (18.7018 ± 2.82 and p- value was 0.99). Conclusion: Subjects with blood group “AB” had a higher degree of emotional Quotient as compared to other blood groups. Blood group Bis the most prevalent blood group in our study population. Chatt Maa Shi Hosp Med Coll J; Vol.22 (2); July 2023; Page 56-59

An Observation of Outcome in Association with Spontaneous Onset of Labor and Induced Labour of Primigravida at Term

Introduction: Labour is a usual physiological process considered by progressive rise in frequency, intensity and duration of uterine contractions resulting in effacement and dilatation of the cervix with descent of the fetus over the birth canal. Initiation of labour is defined as iatrogenic stimulation of uterine reductions to cause the delivery of fetus before the onset of spontaneous labour. Aim of the study: To observe the outcome in association with spontaneous onset of labor and induced labour of primigravida at term. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology in Ashiyan Medical College Hospital, Barua Khilkhet, and Dhaka, Bangladesh during the period from January 2018 to December 2018. Initially, all pregnant mothers at term (410/7 – 416/7 Weeks) were enrolled by purposive sampling. Thereafter, they were scrutinized according to the eligibility criteria. Finally, 80 participants were grouped in each category; namely spontaneous labor group. Thereafter, they were explained regarding the study procedure and informed written consent was charted on the partograph. A structure data sheet was used to obtain socio-demographic profile, obstetric profile, maternal and neonatal outcome profile were recorded using a pre structured, peer reviewed, interview and observation-based data collection sheet. All data were recorded, managed and analyzed using software Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 20.

Understanding the University Students’ Outcome Expectations by Using a Professional Networking Site: The Theory of Social Cognitive

Recently, many university students have utilized LinkedIn to their advantage and launched their professional careers. This research attempts to ascertain the relationship between university students’ attitudes, intentions, self-efficacy (independent variables), and outcome expectation (dependent variable). There were 157 respondents in the sample, but only 144 replies were valid. An online survey was used to obtain the data for this cross-sectional research. The survey data were calculated and analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS). Results show that self-efficacy and intention significantly influence outcome expectations. Specifically, self-efficacy had a strong positive effect (β = 0.503, p < 0.001), while intention also positively impacted outcome expectations (β = 0.316, p < 0.001). However, students' attitudes toward LinkedIn did not significantly affect outcome expectations (β = 0.141, p > 0.05), leading to the rejection of the hypothesis regarding attitude. These findings indicate that students' confidence in their abilities and their purposeful engagement with LinkedIn are more influential in shaping positive outcomes than their general attitudes toward the platform. To improve student outcomes, universities, and career services should focus on developing students' self-efficacy and LinkedIn skills

Multi-Borrowing Practices and Loan Repayment of Micro and Small Enterprises in Trade Sector in Meru County, Kenya

In Kenya, the increase in multi-borrowing and its effects on loan repayment is a growing concern for microfinance institutions. The general purpose of this research was to establish the effect of multi-borrowing on loan repayment among MSEs in Meru County. Specifically, the study aimed to determine how the number of loans borrowed, interest payable, and the financial literacy of borrowers influenced loan repayment within Meru County Microfinance. The research was anchored on information asymmetry, prospect theory, moral hazard, and adverse selection theories. The study targeted 6,000 MSE owners who were members of Meru County Microfinance, from which a sample of 200 borrowers was selected. A descriptive research design was employed to assess how multiple borrowings affected loan repayment. Cluster and random sampling methods were used to identify respondents across the seven branches of Meru County Microfinance. Primary data was collected using questionnaires, and analyzed by use of descriptive, correlational, and regression analysis techniques. Inferential analysis was conducted at a 0.05 significance threshold, utilizing the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 28 for data analysis. Ethical standards were strictly observed throughout the study. The study revealed that the number of loans borrowed had a significant impact on loan repayment among MSEs in Meru County. Effective management of borrowing was crucial for better repayment outcomes. Interest payable was identified as a critical factor affecting loan repayment; enterprises with well-managed credit risk practices, including the adjustment of interest rates and repayment schedules, exhibited better repayment performance. Furthermore, the level of financial literacy positively influenced loan repayment, with higher financial literacy levels leading to improved loan management and repayment behaviors. The study concluded that the number of loans borrowed significantly affected loan repayment, although its impact was less direct compared to other factors. Interest payable had the most substantial effect on loan repayment, with effective credit risk management correlating strongly with better repayment outcomes. Additionally, a higher level of financial literacy was found to significantly enhance loan repayment. Based on the findings, it is recommended that micro and small enterprises regularly review and manage their borrowing policies to improve loan repayment. Financial institutions should implement clear policies on irrecoverable loan provisions and adopt robust credit management practices to ensure better loan repayment. Moreover, enhancing financial literacy among borrowers is crucial for improving loan repayment, and thus, targeted financial education programs should be developed. Policymakers should also evaluate and update regulatory frameworks to support effective loan management and repayment practices within microfinance institutions.

The effectiveness of a cognitive behavioral counseling program to alleviate future anxiety among patients with diabetes Kidney failure at Al-Kamelin Hospital

This scientific paper based on scientific research to investigate a cognitive behavioral counseling program to reduce the cognitive distortions and future anxiety of kidney failure patients at Dr. Dalal Kidney Dialysis Center, Al Kamline Hospital, the researcher used the experimental method single group design including a sample size of (30) patients who were selected on purposeful method. The two researchers implemented the future anxiety scale, prepared by Dr. Zainab Shugair, and the data has been processed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) program using: Pearson's correlation coefficient, Cronbach's alpha coefficient, one-sample ttest, one-way variance (ANOVA). The researcher concluded the following results: The anxiety of the future of kidney failure patients at Al-Kamline Hospital, Dr. Dalal Center for Kidney Dialysis is high. There are also statistically significant differences in the effectiveness of the behavioral guidance program among the members of the experimental group between the pre-measurement and the post-measurement in favor of the post-measurement. There are also no statistically significant differences between the members of the experimental group, attributed to the age variable. There are no statistically significant differences between the members of the experimental group attributed to the educational level variable, and there are no statistically significant differences between the members of the experimental group attributed to the social status variable. At the end of the research, the researcher presented a number of recommendations, the most important of which is the need to prepare psychological treatment programs to treat cognitive distortions for psychiatric patients in general and kidney patients in particular.

Linking workplace spirituality, workplace incivility and employee silence: moderating role of dark triad

PurposeThis study aimed to observe the effect of workplace spirituality (WPS) on employee silence. In addition, the study investigated the mediating role of workplace incivility on the relationship of WPS with employee silence. We further explored the WPS–workplace incivility link by testing the dark triad as the moderator.Design/methodology/approachWe collected time-lagged data from 403 employees in the Indian hospitality industry. Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) and Partial Least Squares - Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) were used to observe the linkages among the study variables.FindingsThe results revealed that WPS is associated negatively with employee silence. The dark triad moderated the association between WPS and workplace incivility. Workplace incivility significantly mediated the association between WPS and employee silence.Practical implicationsThe study findings would help organizations in promoting WPS to alleviate the occurrences of uncivil behavior at work and comprehend the negative consequences of workplace incivility such as employee silence.Originality/valueTo the best of the author’s knowledge, this study is the first of its kind to explore the linkage between WPS and employee silence. The paper makes a significant contribution by analyzing the interactive effect of personal (dark triad), environmental (WPS) and behavioral (workplace incivility) factors on employee silence.

Effect of Forensic Accounting on Fraud Detection and Prevention in Nigeria Deposit Money Bank: A Case Study of First Bank Plc

Financial Fraud in Nigeria's banking sector has escalated dramatically, exhibiting a worrying increase over the past decade and posing significant financial and reputational risks to the banks. Early detection and prevention of fraud is essential for banks to protect their financial integrity, customer relationships, and competitive advantage in an increasingly complex and vulnerable financial landscape. Therefore, this study examined the effect of forensic accounting on the detection and prevention of fraud in Nigerian deposit money banks. Survey methodology was employed with the use of a self-prepared questionnaire. Two Hundred copies of the questionnaire were distributed to the selected (200) staff of First Bank Nigeria Plc. The questionnaire gathered data about the forensic accounting role, forensic accounting application/adoption, forensic accounting litigation, forensic accounting investigation, and forensic accountants’ investigation skills. The data obtained from the questionnaires were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 23. Data were analyzed based on descriptive statistics and inferential statistics. While descriptive statistics embedded frequency distribution of data which includes frequency rate, mean, standard deviation, and response percentage, inferential statistics represents the regression analysis result of the study. Results revealed that forensic accounting plays a significant role in fraud detection and prevention in First Bank Nigeria Plc. Findings also showed that forensic accounting is effective and efficient in fraud detection and prevention in First Bank Nigeria Plc in terms of forensic accounting application/adoption, forensic accounting litigation, forensic accounting investigation, and forensic accountants’ skills.

Factors Influencing Discontinuation of Long-Acting Reversible Contraceptive Methods Among Women in Bahir Dar City, Northwest Ethiopia: A Cross-Sectional Study

IntroductionLong-acting reversible contraceptive discontinuation is the removal before completion of the intended lifespan of the method. Despite the improvement in utilization, discontinuation is becoming high. There is no study conducted on discontinuation and associated factors of long-acting reversible contraceptives in Bahir Dar City. The aim of this study was to assess the proportion and associated factors of discontinuation of Long-Acting Reversible Contraceptives among women in health facilities of Bahir Dar city, Northwest Ethiopia.MethodsA health facility-based cross-sectional design was conducted on 415 respondents from April 1 to May 30, 2021. A total of 11 health facilities were included and all reproductive age women who were using Long-acting reversible contraceptives came to the selected health facilities for any issue concerning the method before completion of life span of the method were included in this study. Data were collected through face-to-face interview questionnaires using a systematic random sampling method. Epi Data version 3.1 and Statistical Package for Social Sciences were used for data entry and analysis, respectively. Logistic regression analyses were used, and a P value less than 0.05 was considered a statistically significant factor for discontinuation.ResultsThe overall proportion of discontinuation of long-acting reversible contraceptives was 66.3% (95% CI: 61.42- 69.13). No formal education (AOR=0.49; 95% CI: 0.30-0.82,P: 0.021), primary education (AOR=0.39; 95% CI: 0.18-0.81, P:0.012), wish to pregnancy (AOR=2.57; 95% CI: 1.64 to 4.02,P: <0.001), no history of contraceptive use (AOR=2.01; 95% CI: 1.19 to 3.38, P: 0.009), no counselling (AOR=1.68; 95% CI: 1.08-2.62,P: 0.021), and side effects (AOR=1.95; 95% CI: 1.21-3.16,P:0.006) were the factors associated with discontinuation.ConclusionsThe overall discontinuation of long-acting reversible contraceptives among women was low compared to Ethiopian Demographic Health Survey 2016. Practice pre-insertion counselling, early side effect management, create community awareness about the methods to decrease discontinuation, healthcare providers should perform their duties in line with the standards and quality of Long-acting reversible contraceptive service provision through qualitative research are recommended.

Beyond usability: innovation in the digital age as an antidote to social isolation

The study's objective: The article aims to evaluate the impact of life satisfaction during the COVID-19 pandemic in Brazil, considering the perception of usability of intelligent personal assistants (IPAs) and investigating possible moderations of consumer innovation dimensions in this relationship. Methodology/Approach: Field research was carried out with 515 users of intelligent personal assistants (IPAs). The results were analyzed using multiple linear regression, using the SPSS software (Statistical Package for Social Science v.22), with the application of the PROCESS macro. Originality/Relevance: This study contributes to filling a gap in the literature on the diffusion of innovation and adoption of technological products by investigating aspects of innovative consumption in a pandemic and social isolation scenario. Main Results: The research results indicate that domain-specific innovativeness (DSI) moderates the relationship between usability (SUS) and life satisfaction (LS). In contrast, innovativeness behavior (IB) moderates this relationship only with DSI maintained at medium and low levels. It was observed that, with greater usability, life satisfaction increases and is moderated by domain-specific innovativeness. For higher IB levels, LS increases more quickly. Theoretical/Methodological Contributions: Integrating concepts from theories of innovative consumption and diffusion of innovations, the study offers insights into how technology affects well-being in a global crisis. This advanced approach helps understand the mechanisms underlying the impacts of usability and innovation on human behavior. Social/Managerial Contributions: This study helps understand how IPA users can experience greater life satisfaction and social isolation during a pandemic.

Traditional Conflict Resolution Techniques and Employee Engagement in Selected Manufacturing Companies in Southwest Nigeria

The study focused on the impact of traditional conflict resolution techniques on employee engagement in selected manufacturing companies in southwest Nigeria. The research adopted the survey research design. The population from this study consist of 3,137 employees from three manufacturing companies in Lagos, Nigeria, which include Coleman wire & cables with 121 employees, May & Baker Nig. Plc with 331 employees and Nigerian Breweries Plc with 2,685 employees. The sampling technique used in this research is the Convenience Sampling Technique. The sample size of 355 was determined using the Taro Yamane’s Formula. Data was collected and were coded and managed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) and was analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The descriptive statistics such as simple percentages, frequencies were adopted used for demographic variables while hypotheses was tested multiple regression analysis. Findings showed that traditional conflict resolution techniques have a positive and significant effect on employee engagement. Based on the above findings, this study concludes that as conflict is inevitable and part of social life, the traditional conflict resolution technique is better utilised to resolve conflicts among employees and employers in workplace. The study therefore recommended that the government, should formulate laws, by-laws, regulations that can be implemented to increase honesty as the best policy in workers and employee engagement in the business world and the society.