Statistical Package Research Articles

Association between complete blood-count-based inflammatory scores and hypertension in persons living with and without HIV in Zambia

Background Hypertension is a risk factor for cardiovascular events. Inflammation plays an important role in the development of essential hypertension. Studies assessing the association between complete blood count-based inflammatory scores (CBCIS) and hypertension are scarce. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the relationship between CBCIS and hypertension among individuals with and without human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Method This was a cross-sectional study among 344 participants at Serenje District Hospital and Serenje Urban Clinic. We used structured questionnaires to collect sociodemographic, clinical and laboratory characteristics. CBCIS included lymphocyte-monocyte ratio (LMR), neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), derived neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (d-NLR), and differential white blood cells. The primary outcome variable was hypertension defined as systolic and diastolic blood pressure higher than or equal to 140/90 mmHg. Logistic regression was used to estimate the association between hypertension and CBCIS in statistical package for social science (SPSS) version 22.0. Results The participants had a median age of 32 years (interquartile range (IQR) 24–42) and 65.1% (n = 224) were female. The prevalence of hypertension was 10.5% (n = 36). Among those with hypertension, 55.6% (n = 20) were female and 44.4% (n = 16) were male. The CBCIS significantly associated with hypertension in people living with HIV (PLWH) was PLR (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) 0.98; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.97–0.99, p = 0.01) while in people without HIV, AMC (AOR 15.40 95%CI 3.75–63.26), ANC (AOR 1.88 95%CI 1.05–3.36), WBC (AOR 0.52 95%CI 0.31–0.87) and PLR (AOR 0.98 95%CI 0.97–0.99) were the factors associated with hypertension. Compared to people without HIV, only WBC, ANC, NLR, and d-NLR were good predictors of hypertension among PLWH. Conclusion Our study indicates a notable HIV-status driven association between CBCIS and hypertension, suggesting the use of CBICS as potential biomarkers for hypertension risk with substantial implications for early detection and preventive measures.

Awareness on Carbon Footprints Among Politeknik Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah Students

In this study, we aimed to investigate the awareness and actions related to carbon footprints among Politeknik Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah (Polisas) students. As the world's greenhouse gas emissions continue to rise globally, it is critical to assess people's attitudes and actions in tackling this environmental challenge, especially those of the younger generation. In addition to evaluating the students' views about the impacts of carbon emissions, the study also studied the students' actions to reduce carbon emissions. The study attempted to measure the carbon footprint values of Polisas students based on their daily activities using the Polisas Carbon Footprint Calculator. Using data from their regular monthly activities, students may estimate their carbon footprint with the help of this simple application, which helps them gain a better awareness of their environmental effects. Important information about the attitudes and behaviours of 406 participating students regarding carbon emissions was obtained through the distribution of questionnaires to them. The respondents' data was analysed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS), and the results showed an average high mean of 3.68 for attitudes towards carbon emissions and 3.60 for actions connected to lowering carbon emissions. It suggests a positive inclination among Polisas students towards environmental consciousness and sustainable practices. The findings further highlight the monthly carbon footprint of Polisas students, calculated at 3287.14 kg of CO2. To contextualize this data, the Polisas Carbon Footprint Calculator recommends planting an average of 104 plants per month, equivalent to four trees per day, to offset their carbon emissions. It gives students a tangible understanding of their carbon footprint and encourages them to actively participate in carbon offsetting initiatives actively, fostering a sense of responsibility for their environmental impact. In conclusion, this study contributes valuable insights into the awareness, attitudes, and practices of Polisas students regarding carbon footprints. The implications of this study extend to the development of targeted environmental education programs and initiatives to enhance student's understanding of their contributions to carbon emissions. Moreover, the findings underscore the potential for instituting campus-wide sustainability measures and encouraging students to actively engage in carbon offsetting activities, thereby fostering a more environmentally conscious and responsible student community at Politeknik Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah.

Impact of Dental Anxiety on the Dental Health Status of Nepali Adult Patients

ABSTRACTBackgroundPatients with high dental anxiety are found to visit dental offices less frequently and have a higher number of severely diseased teeth so they are at a greater need for intensive oral care and rehabilitation.ObjectivesThe aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of dental anxiety and its impact on the dental status of Nepali adult patients.Material and MethodsA semi‐structured questionnaire of the Modified Dental Anxiety Scale (MDAS) in the Nepali version was used for data collection. The data analysis was done using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS IBM, Chicago, IL, USA, version 24). Variables were calculated as frequency and percentage, while the comparisons of different factors were done using the ANOVA and t‐test. A difference with p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.ResultsThe study population consisted of 446 subjects, among them 205 were male (45.96%), 241 were female (54.04%), 357 (80.04%) were married, and 222 (49.78%) were employed. The mean age of the patients was 41.24 years (ranging between 18 and 79 years). Only 41 subjects (9.19%) showed high dental anxiety (MDAS ≥ 19). The mean MDAS for the total study population was 10.81. The highest mean MDAS was seen in the age group 30–39 (11.78) and the lowest mean MDAS was seen in the age group 40–49 (9.64). While comparing dental anxiety among genders, dental anxiety was higher in females (mean MDAS = 11.78) compared to males (mean MDAS = 9.67). Patients having high dental anxiety had a significantly higher number of decayed teeth (p‐value = 0.001, t‐test).ConclusionOral health and dental status both are negatively affected by dental anxiety. It interferes with dental attendance, service delivery, prevention of dental diseases, and early diagnosis. Thus, dental practitioners have a major role to play in the management of dental anxiety.

Assessment of the Effects of TiwanTiwa Herbal Mixture Drink on Oxidative Stress Markers

Introduction: The use of herbal medicine and its effect on health has been established. Recently, there is much interest in therapeutic potential of herbal therapy use as antioxidant in reducing free radical-induced oxidative stress. Method: This study was aimed to determine the effect of herbal mixture on acetaminophen induced oxidative stress in male albino wistar rat. This is an experimental study comprising of total of forty-two (42) wistar rats divided into seven (7) groups of six (6) animals each. The seven groups were Group 1, control group fed with top feed and water only, Group 2 administered with 3000 mg acetaminophen and top feed, Group 3 with 3000 mg of acetaminophen and 140mg sylimarine, Group 4 with 3000 mg of acetaminophen and 50 mg tiwantiwa extract, Group 5 with 3000mg of acetaminophen and 100 mg tiwantiwa extract, Group 6 with 3000mg of acetaminophen and 200 mg tiwantiwa extract and Group 7 with 100 mg of tiwantiwa extract only. The treatment was given daily and lasted for 21 days, animals were sacrificed, and blood sample collected were assayed for oxidative stress; CAT, SOD, and MDA. Result obtained was analyzed with statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) version 20. Results: The result obtained depicts significant increase in CAT and SOD of group 5 (100mg of the extract) when compared to group 2 which is the toxic group induced with 3000mg Acetaminophen. There was also a significant decrease in MDA of group 5 (100mg of extract) when compared to group 2 (p<0.05). This implies that dose level (100 mg) of Tiwantiwa herbal mixture in group 5 exhibited the capacity to alleviate 3000 mg of acetaminophen toxicity at a minimal level. This is attributed to phytochemicals present in this extract such as phenolic compounds. Conclusion: 100 mg dose level of Tiwantiwa herbal mixture has a significant effect in alleviating 3000 mg of acetaminophen toxicity, acting as strong antioxidant as evidenced in the study with results shown in CAT, SOD and MDA bioassays. This is attributed to the presence compounds such as Phenols and Alkaloids which are potent phytochemical constituents in Tiwantiwa herbal mixture with antioxidant property.

Dental Health Literacy among Highly Skilled Professionals in India: A Pilot Study

Purpose: Research in medical settings has consistently demonstrated that health literacy is essential for patient adherence and comprehension to medical/dental instructions including prescriptions and improving positive holistic health outcomes. Despite its recognized importance, the role of literacy in dentistry has received limited focus. This study aimed to assess the level of oral health literacy among professionals in a multinational company, using the Rapid Estimate of Adult Literacy in Dentistry-30 (REALD-30) as the measurement tool. Methods: A convenience sample of 111 adults was recruited from a dental camp held at two locations within an IT firm. Oral health literacy was measured and analysed using the REALD-30 scale. Participants also participated in interviews to collect sociodemographic information, dental visit history, dental needs, global oral health ratings, dental knowledge, practices, and comprehension. Additionally, clinical examinations were conducted to record the DMFT index (Decayed; D component, Missing; M component, and Filled; F component Teeth), as well as the presence of dental stains and calculus. Data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 13. Results: REALD-30 scores ranged from a low of 8 to a high of 25. Participants who had decayed, missing, or filled teeth, or a DMFT score higher than one, exhibited lower oral health literacy compared to the reference group. Similarly, lower oral health literacy was observed in participants with dental stains or calculus. Conclusions: Effective communication with patients is crucial for delivering high-quality dental care. The study concluded that a significant proportion of the highly educated professional group of people has less oral health literacy, which may obstruct their basic ability to understand and process the fundamental oral health information.

Characteristics of adverse events recorded in various hospital wards: a case study of a level II referral specialist hospital

Abstract Aim. The aim of the study was to assess the incidence of selected adverse events and their characteristics in hospital wards with varying specialties at a Level II referral hospital in Kraków. Material and methods. The research was conducted at the Józef Dietl Specialist Hospital in Kraków on a group of 1272 patients who experienced an adverse event between 2013 and 2020. In order to answer the research questions, a retrospective analysis of the available medical records was performed in 2022 and statistical analyses were performed using the IBM SPSS Statistics package version 29. Results. The most frequent adverse events included falls, pressure sores and patient absconding. There were no statistically signifi cant diff erences in the age of patients experiencing adverse events. Women were more likely to experience falls without injury and the formation of pressure sores, while men were more likely to abscond from hospital. Higher BMI was observed in patients experiencing falls without injury. Conclusions. The risk of falls, both with and without injury, is a serious problem in hospitals. Although less common than falls, pressure sores are associated with longer hospitalisation and more frequently affect women. Seasonality and time of the day affect the type and frequency of adverse events. Differences between wards may indicate specific challenges related to the nature of patients.

Оценка профессиональной педагогической подготовки в контексте принципа инклюзии в Беларуси

<p>The results of an empirical study of a comprehensive assessment of the professional training of future teachers of various specialties (preschool educators, primary school teachers, subject teachers, psychology teachers, social educators, speech pathologists) at higher education institutions in the Republic of Belarus are presented. The complexity of the assessment is ensured by the study of all components of professional teacher training (educational conditions, educational process, educational results) and the representativeness of the multi-subject groups of respondents (vice-rectors for academic affairs of institutions of higher education, teaching staff, graduate students and undergraduates). In order to obtain the research results, there were used author's checklists, 4 types of questionnaires correlated with the marker system (marker 1 – "educational conditions", marker 2 – "educational process", marker 3 – "educational results"), criteria, indicators. The study involved 8242 respondents, including the authority (10 vice-rectors for academic affairs), the teaching staff (1131 people), future teacher students of various specialties (7101 people). Mathematical and statistical data processing included the usee of Pearson's χ2 criterion (STATISTICA statistical package version 10.0). The study allowed us to see an important problem – "deficits" in the quality of university teaching staff training (especially its methodological component) that enables to solve problems of forming professional competencies in future teachers. The assessment of professional teacher training made it possible to determine the vectors of improvement of organizational and pedagogical conditions, content and methodological support of higher teacher-training education in the context of the implementation of the principle of inclusion, new methodological approaches to improving the quality of differentiated professional teacher training and to create a basis for making a number of managerial decisions.</p>

PENGARUH GOOD CORPORATE GOVERNANCE, KONSERVATISME AKUNTANSI DAN UKURAN PERUSAHAAN TERHADAP MANAJEMEN LABA (Studi Empiris Pada Perusahaan Sektor Properti Yang Terdaftar Di Bursa Efek Indonesia Tahun 2018-2022)

This study aims to analyze the effect of Good Corporate Governance, accounting conservatism, and company size on earnings management (empirical study of property sector companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange 2018-2022). This research method is quantitative. The object of this research is the annual report and audit report of Real Estate and property companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) for 2018-2022. The sampling method of this research is purposive sampling, with techniques based on judgment sampling considerations. The data used in this study are secondary. The data collection method is the documentation method. The analytical tool used in this research is multiple regression analysis with the help of the IBM Statistical Package for Sciences (SPSS) program version 26. The result of this study is that Good Corporate Governance has no significant effect on earnings management. Accounting conservatism hurts earnings management. Company size does not affect earnings management.

Strategy implementation practices and Performance of State Corporations: Case of National Health Insurance Fund, Nairobi City County, Kenya

Many organizations in developed and developing countries and more specifically in Kenya are striving to perform, it is noted that issues of strategy implementation has continued to be uncertain in the Kenyan public sector. Many state-owned corporations are grappling with management problems which have led to their poor performance outcome. The National Health Insurance Fund is a state corporation through National Health Insurance Fund Act No. 9 of 1998. The Fund’s core mandate is to provide social medical insurance cover to all its members and their declared dependents (spouse and children). But according to National Health Insurance Fund Performance Report 2017- 2018, the National Health Insurance Fund has continued to implement social health strategies with a view to achieving Universal Health Coverage for the benefit of all Kenyans. The aim of the study was to examine the strategy implementation practices influencing the performance of state corporations in Kenya, specifically the National Hospital Insurance Fund. The study was grounded on Organizational Higgins’s Eight S Model, the Balanced Scorecard model, and Resource Based View theory. The study employed a descriptive research design. The study population consisted of 411 employees, managers, and patients from the National Health Insurance Fund headquarters. Questionnaires were used to collect primary data, and a pilot test was performed to assess the reliability and validity of the questionnaire. Cronbach’s Alpha coefficient was employed to determine the reliability of the research instrument. Data analysis involved the use of descriptive statistics, supported by the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS), to calculate frequencies, percentages, means, and standard deviations. A Multiple Linear Regression model was used to determine the influence of independent variables on the dependent variable. The study findings revealed that technological innovation, strategic resource planning, strategic leadership and strategy monitoring had positive and significant effects on the performance of the National Health Insurance Fund in Kenya. This study concluded that strategy implementation factors, including technological innovation, strategic resource planning, strategic leadership, and strategy monitoring, play a significant role in firm performance. The study recommends that the management of the organization should emphasize strategy implementation to improve the performance of their organization. Additionally, continuous investment in technological innovation, effective strategic resource planning, strategic leadership development, and robust strategy monitoring practices should be prioritized to enhance overall organizational performance.

Surrogate immunohistochemistry markers in adult gliomas – Experience in a tertiary care hospital

Objectives: The recent World Health Organization classification has recommended the usage of surrogate immunohistochemical markers for molecular classification of gliomas. However, only a few studies have attempted to study the expression of the entire panel of markers. The current study was undertaken to study the association of recognized surrogate immunohistochemical markers (isocitrate dehydrogenase 1 [IDH-1], alpha-thalassemia mental retardation X-linked [ATRX] and p53) in different histological lineages and grades of adult gliomas. Materials and Methods: This study was conducted on 118 cases of adult gliomas diagnosed on histopathology over a 2-year duration in a tertiary care hospital. The expression of surrogate immunohistochemistry markers (IDH-1, ATRX, and p53) in these cases was studied. Statistical analysis: Descriptive statistical analysis with the Statistical Package for the Social Science system version 17.0. Results: The frequency of IDH-1 positivity was significantly higher in oligodendrogliomas (OG: 76.5%; oligoastrocytoma: 100%) versus astrocytoma (AS) (grades 2 and 3: 48.1%). It was also significantly higher in diffuse gliomas (grades 2 and 3) versus glioblastomas (64% vs. 16.9%). Among IDH-mutant diffuse gliomas, ATRX loss was significantly higher in AS versus OGs (84.6% vs. 7.7%). P53 overexpression correlated significantly with histological subtype (AS 2,3: 55.6% vs. OG: 5.9%). Conclusions: The surrogate immunohistochemical panel of IDH-1, ATRX, and p53 showed significant association with distinct histopathological subtypes and is helpful in molecular stratification. Cut-offs of ≥ 10% nuclear positivity for p53 and 50% loss of nuclear ATRX expression showed a good correlation.

Effects of storage temperature on throat swabs preserved in different transport media for detection of SARS-CoV-2 by reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction

Objectives: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic resulted in an increased need for molecular diagnostic testing. Delay in the specimen processing and storage of samples in laboratories leads to degradation of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) viral RNA. Inactivation transport medium (ITM) contains chaotropic agents that inactivate the virus and stabilize SARS-CoV-2 RNA for a longer duration, even at room temperature. The effect of different temperatures and duration of storage of samples in viral transport media (VTM) and ITM for detection of SARS-CoV-2 RNA was assessed. Materials and Methods: Samples from COVID-19 patients were aliquoted in ITM and VTM and kept at ambient temperature, 37°C and 45°C. SARS-CoV-2 viral RNA was extracted. Multiplex real-time polymerase chain reaction was done on days 0, 1, 3, and 5, and cycle threshold (Ct) values were noted. Statistical Analysis: Data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 26.0. Linear variables were summarized as mean and standard deviations. One-way analysis of variance test with post hoc Tukey honestly significant difference was used to compare mean value between different loops and for pair-wise comparison. P < 0.05 was taken as significant. Results: The mean Ct values of both the Orf and E genes of the samples in VTM and ITM were stable across all temperature conditions on day 1. On day 5, the increase in Ct values for both E and Orf genes were significantly higher for VTM than ITM at ambient temperature, 37°C and 45°C. Ribonuclease P failure was significantly higher for VTM than ITM at ambient temperature and 37°C on day 3 and at all temperatures on day 5. Conclusions: ITM is a valuable transport media that can preserve SARS-CoV-2 for up to 5 days at ambient temperature and 37°C. As it renders the samples non-infectious, thus reducing the potential of biohazard events, this transport medium can be used effectively for the collection and transportation of SARS-CoV-2 samples, especially from remote or isolated healthcare facilities.

Strategy Implementation Practices and Performance of Commercial Banks in Nakuru County

Organizational performance entails recurring duties like establishing organizational goals, monitoring progress towards those objectives, and making modifications to enhance their accomplishment in a more efficient manner. Strategy implementation represents a significant phase within an organization; however, existing literature consistently underscores a notable failure rate in the implementation process across numerous organizations. The prevalence of poor performance in banks is attributed to issues such as inadequate coordination, suboptimal structural frameworks, and insufficient personnel proficiency in executing rebranding strategies. As a result, the goal of this study was to look into how Nakuru's commercial banks implemented their strategies and how well they did so. General Systems Theory, Contingency Theory, and Resource-Based Theory served as the study's guiding theories. The study targeted 108 workers from 24 commercial banks in Nakuru County using a descriptive survey research approach. A sample of 54 respondents was chosen using a stratified random selection procedure to assure representation. Structured questionnaires were used to obtain data, and they were chosen for their propensity to do so with little bias and mistake. Pilot research was done in Narok County commercial banks prior to the main investigation. The data was analysed using both descriptive and inferential statistics. Percentages, frequencies, measurements of central tendency (mean), and measures of dispersion (standard deviation) were examples of descriptive statistics. Correlations were used for inferential analysis of qualitative data. To analyse quantitative data, Version 25 of the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) was utilized. The study found that resources, organizational change, structure, and leadership significantly influence the performance of commercial banks in Nakuru CBD. Effective resource allocation, strategic change management, well-defined organizational structures, and strong leadership positively impact operational efficiency and overall performance. The study recommends investing in employee training, optimizing IT services, and aligning organizational structures with strategic goals. Further research should examine how organizational capabilities and market dynamics shape performance outcomes.

Compliance to iron folic acid consumption and factors associated among antenatal care attendant mothers in southern Ethiopia

Iron and folic acid (IFA) consumption is an important strategy for the prevention of birth defects and anemia during pregnancy. In Ethiopia, low proportion of pregnant mothers took an iron tablet for 90 plus days. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess compliance to IFA consumption and its associated factors among mothers attending antenatal care in Southern Ethiopia, 2021. An institution-based cross-sectional study triangulated with qualitative methods was conducted. The data was collected data from 378 respondents selected by a simple random sampling technique and 21 in-depth interviews were conducted. Epi Data version 3.1 was used to enter data, which was then exported to Statistical Package for the social Science (SPSS) version 21 for further processing and analysis. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were carried out to identify the significant association. Variables with a P-value of less than 0.05 were considered significant. The Open code software version 4.03 was used to code and categorize qualitative data, and then thematic analysis was employed to qualitative data. The compliance rate of IFA consumption was 66.58% 95% CI: 61.5-71.4%) Maternal education (AOR: 3.01, 95%CI:1.29, 6.35), knowledge about anemia (AOR: 2.63, 95% CI:1.29), 5.37), knowledge about IFA (AOR: 2.95, 95% CI (1.45, 6.02)), ANC visits (AOR: 2.70, 95% CI 1.17, 6.22), fear of side effect (AOR: 0.08, 95% CI:0.02, 0.24), registration time for initiation of ANC visits (AOR:4.63, 95% CI:1.50, 14.26), and counseling on IFA (AOR:3.95, 95% CI:1.57, 9.98) were significantly associated with compliance IFA consumption of the pregnant mothers. Supplement-related, pregnancy and experience-related, facility related, behavioral -related, perceived family support, and perceived cultural belief findings were identified from qualitative study. In this study, the compliance with IFA consumption was low and influenced by huge range factors. To improve compliance with IFA, health workers provide proper counseling and education for pregnant women on IFA and follow up supplementation.

Clinical audit on postpartum hemoglobin levels: A study on postpartum anemia

Objectives: The present study was carried out to assess the prevalence of anemia with reference to the Hb levels during postpartum period. The study also investigates the influence of age and mode of delivery on postpartum Hb levels. Material and Methods: It is a hospital-based retrospective descriptive study. The postpartum patients’ data were obtained from the medical records department of a tertiary care hospital. Data of the patients registered for routine blood investigation in the period of December 2023 to January 2024 were collected from the records. Based on patient’s hospital ID, other details including age, Hb level, and mode of delivery data were obtained. Statistical analysis was performed to check the effect of age and mode of delivery on postpartum Hb level by Pearson correlation using IBM Statistical Package for the Social Sciences Statistics version 24.0. Results: About 64.3% of the patients belonged to the age group of 20–30 years and remaining 35.7% within 30–40 years. The percentage of postpartum patients who underwent lower segment cesarean section (LSCS) and normal vaginal delivery (NVD) were 85.7% and 14.3%, respectively. However, cumulative percentage of NVD was higher (100%) than LSCS (85.7%). The postpartum Hb level ranged from 7.9 to 15.2 g/dL. About 54% of patients showed moderate anemia (8–10.9 g/dL), followed by 24% mild (11.9–11 g/dL) and 2% with severe anemic (<8 g/dL) condition. Conclusion: The study highlights the prevalence of PPA associated with both LSCS and NVD modes of delivery. Although the number of anemic patients was higher in LSCS (48) compared to NVD (8), the percentage remains the same at 80% each considering the total number of patients in each category. These observations point out the risk of high-volume blood loss associated with both modes of delivery and emphasize the need for adopting precautionary measures.

Factors Affecting Employee Turnover in Local Government Authorities in Tanzania: A Case of Dar es Salaam City Council

This study assessed the factors affecting employee turnover in local government authorities (LGAs) in Dar es Salaam City Council, Tanzania. Specifically, the study sought to ascertain how motivational factors affect employee turnover in the Dar es Salaam City Council, to assess how hygiene factors affect employee turnover in the Dar es Salaam City Council, and to establish mitigation strategies to reduce employee turnover in the Dar es Salaam City Council. A combination of qualitative and quantitative research methods was employed, utilizing a case study design to gain a comprehensive understanding of the phenomena. Primary data were collected through a survey method using a questionnaire and interview guide, involving 129 respondents who were randomly and purposefully selected from the Dar es Salaam City Council. The study was guided by two theoretical frameworks: the Existence, Relatedness, and Growth (ERG) Theory and the Conservation of Resources (COR) Theory. The analysis of the questionnaire data was conducted descriptively using the Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS), with frequencies and percentages presented in tables, while the interview data were analyzed through content analysis. The findings revealed several factors contributing to employee turnover in LGAs, including low salaries and benefits, poor leadership and supervision, limited opportunities for training and development, delayed promotions and re-categorization, a shortage of working tools and infrastructure, job dissatisfaction, lack of incentives, and late or absent payments and other monetary rewards. In conclusion, the study recommends that the management of LGAs in Tanzania, particularly the Dar es Salaam City Council, develop and implement policies aimed at improving the work environment to enhance employee retention.

Employee Dedication and Performance of Deposit-Taking SACCOs in Nairobi, Kenya

Employees well-being and satisfaction need to be the precedence of any successful organization that is aimed at achieving its objectives and customer satisfaction. Thus, the paper sought to scrutinize the connections among staff dedication and performance of deposit-taking Sacco’s in Nairobi, Kenya. The study adopted a cross-sectional census survey of forty-six (46) deposit -taking Sacco’s in Nairobi. Research data was gathered through a questionnaire in a descriptive design. The study utilized purposive sampling technique for the sample population. Reliability and validity of the variables was tested in a pilot study of three (3) deposit-taking Saccos in western part of Kenya. The data analysis was done by means of descriptive and inferential statistics as reinforced by Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). The research hypothesis was tested by means of regression analysis. The findings (R2 - 0.394; p-value=0.000) indicate that employee dedication has a significant impact on the performance of DT-Saccos in Nairobi, Kenya. The research has shown that staff dedication could pose a positive consequence on organizational performance. The study recommends that the senior managers of DT - Saccos should focus more on promoting labour dedication through effective communication, information sharing, employee participation in decision-making, transparent and accountable management and recognition of sterling personal achievement as they have been identified to affect organizational performance.

Client’s pre-operative expectations and outcome of cataract surgery at the Jos University Teaching Hospital, Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria

Objectives: A cataract is an opacity of the natural crystalline lens that causes vision loss. It is the most common cause of blindness worldwide, accounting for 39% of the 42 million blind people in the world. The optimum outcome from a cataract surgery can be achieved if post-operative subjective outcomes meet pre-operative expectations. It is expressed in different ways including patient satisfaction. This study evaluated clients’ pre-operative expectations and the outcome of cataract surgery at Jos University Teaching Hospital. Materials and Methods: A quasi-experimental, prospective hospital-based study that consecutively recruited 109 participants aged 18 years and above for 6 months. Data regarding the sociodemographic characteristics, pre-operative visual function, and expected post-operative outcome were collected preoperatively, and the subjective outcome and level of patient satisfaction were also assessed 6 weeks after surgery using a visual function index questionnaire. Data were analysed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences’ version 23. Frequencies and percentages were determined for categorical variables; mean and standard deviation, median, and interquartile range were calculated for continuous variables. Correlation was used to measure the relationship between overall satisfaction and expected or achieved visual function. A significant level was determined at P < 0.05. Results: A total of 109 participants were seen in this study, of which 60 (55%) were males. The mean age of participants in the study was 64.5 ± 11.1 years. The median (interquartile range) expected and actual post-operative outcome scores were 100 (80–100) and 98 (75–100), respectively. The majority of the participants, 86 (78.9%), were satisfied with the outcome of cataract surgery, and the predictors of satisfaction were insertion of posterior chamber intraocular lens, absence of complications, and absence of ocular comorbidities. We found a significant strong positive correlation between subjective outcome and satisfaction (r = 0.538, P ≤ 0.0001). Conclusion: The majority of the clients were satisfied with the outcome of their surgeries which meets the high expected outcomes from the clients pre-operative. Adequate counselling, training, and retraining of surgeons are key to improving and maintaining satisfaction with the outcome of cataract surgery.

Correlation of Eight (8) Polymorphisms and Their Genotypes with the Risk Factors of Cardiovascular Disease in a Black Elderly Population

Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) have been associated with the development of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). This study correlated eight SNPs with the risk factors of CVD in a black elderly population. Genotyping was used to detect eight polymorphisms; rs675 (ApoA-IV), rs699 (Angiotensinogen (AGT)), rs247616 and rs1968905 (Cholesteryl ester transfer protein (CETP)), rs1801278 (Insulin receptor substrate 1 (IRS-1)), rs1805087 (Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR)) and rs28362286 and rs67608943 (Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9)), as well as their genotypes in deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) extracted from peripheral blood. The cardiovascular risk (CVR) measurements were conducted on a Konelab 20i Thermo Scientific autoanalyzer and an enzyme-linked immunoassay (ELISA) assay. International Business Machines Corporation (IBM)® Statistical Package for the Social Sciences ® (SPSS) version 28 was used for statistical analysis. The heterozygous and homozygous genotypes of the eight polymorphisms were detected with the corresponding CVD risk factors. Subgroup analysis indicated that certain genotype carriers exhibited variations in their concentrations of CVR factors compared to others; however, these differences did not reach statistical significance. For example, carriers of the G genotype of the rs699 polymorphism showed marginally different blood pressure readings compared to the AG genotype carriers. The multiple linear regression analysis indicated that the only significant association was between PCSK9 and the rs28362286 (p = 0.029) polymorphism. The findings of our study show that single nucleotide polymorphisms are disseminated across the human genome. The heterozygous and homozygous genotypes of the SNPs require further investigation as they may have independent and possible collective roles in increasing the risk of CVDs.

Presentation and outcome of Gastric Cancer at a Tertiary Care Center

Introduction: Gastric cancer is the fifth most common cancer globally and the fourth leading cause of cancer-related deaths. Early-stage disease can be managed with endoscopic therapy or surgery, while advanced gastric cancer requires a multimodal treatment approach, including extensive lymphadenectomy. This study aims to evaluate the clinicodemographic profile and treatment outcomes of gastric cancer patients and to establish an effective therapeutic strategy. Methods: This retrospective descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Surgery at Shree Birendra Hospital. It included patients with gastric malignancies who had complete medical records. Data on patient history, AJCC staging, operative details, and postoperative findings were analyzed. Surgical choices were based on the clinical indication in each case. Clinicopathological characteristics and surgical outcomes were compared across tumor stages. Data were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 24. Results: The study included 90 patients (62 males, 28 females) aged between 23 and 82 years. The most common clinical presentations were abdominal pain (58%), gastric outlet obstruction (18%), lump (5%), anemia (5%), and peritonitis (4%). Adenocarcinoma was the predominant histological type (87.78%). Curative surgery was performed on 73 patients (81.11%), while 17 patients (18.89%) underwent palliative procedures. Morbidity occurred in 16 patients (17.7%), primarily due to chest complications and sepsis, and mortality was recorded in 5 patients (5.5%). Conclusion: This study highlights the predominance of locally advanced gastric cancer in males, with distal gastric cancer and well-differentiated adenocarcinoma being the most common. Chest complications and sepsis were the leading causes of morbidity and mortality. No patients received perioperative chemotherapy, underscoring the need for updated treatment protocols to improve outcomes.

Effect of Women’s Involvement in Small and Medium-Scale Enterprises on their Economic Empowerment in Calabar, Cross River State

This study examined small and medium-scale enterprises and women’s economic empowerment in Calabar, Cross River State. It specifically examined the effect of women’s involvement in SMEs on their economic empowerment dimensions such as financial independence, skills development and business networking opportunities. The study adopted a cross-sectional research design. A structured questionnaire was used to obtain primary data from 337 female operators of SMEs in Calabar. The data were descriptively analyzed, while the study hypotheses were tested using simple linear regression in the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). After the analysis, it was found that women’s involvement in SMEs operations had a significant positive effect on their financial independence, skills development and business networking opportunities in Calabar. Hence, the study recommended that women in Cross River State should genuinely be supported with financial, technical and material resources to get fully involved in entrepreneurship through SMEs in order to improve their financial independence, ensuring self-employment, income generation, and asset ownership to support their families. It was also recommended that the Government of Cross River State and relevant stakeholders should introduce credible and fully-funded programmes that enable women to gain and improve valuable entrepreneurial skills to effectively engage in SME operations in order to attain sustainable economic empowerment. Additionally, the study recommended that stakeholders in the private sector, including industrialists, non-governmental organizations, and trade associations, among others should encourage female entrepreneurs to participate in networking events, professional associations, workshops and conferences in order to build valuable connections to grow their business.