Statistical Package For Social Sciences Research Articles

Tissue surface adaptation and retention of digital obturator after one year of use

BackgroundEffect of aging on tissue adaptability and retention of digital obturator is still under investigation.Methods A maxillary Armany (class I) epoxy reference model was scanned to fabricate digital obturator fabricated from milled Co-Cr framework and 3D printed bulb. A color map of the scanned reference and digital obturator was made using Geomagic software to evaluate the accuracy of fit before and after cyclic loading using ROBOTA chewing simulator at 37,500, 75,000 and 150,000 cycles to simulate clinically 3-, 6- and 12-months chewing condition. Insertion-removal condition simulating the placement and removal of the obturator was done using repeated 360, 720 and 1440 cycles and retention was evaluated before and after the repeated cycles. Data were collected, tabulated and statistically analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (IBM SPSS Statistics 26). Student t-test and multi variable ANOVA test were used to detect significance. P-value < 0.05 was considered significant difference.ResultsFor retention test: There was a significant difference between baseline and 3, 6 and12 months. For the tissue surface adaptation test: There was significant difference at all measured areas (P-value < 0.05) before and after application of load.Conclusiondigitally designed and fabricated obturator was highly retentive and has excellent tissue surface adaptation upon fabrication, After application of load; reduction of retention and lack of tissue adaptation were resulted.The clinical implicationof this manuscript is that digital obturator can be used successfully with the shortcomings of loosening retention and adaptation afterwhile. So, clinical trials should investigate the clinical acceptance of these shortcomings.

Multiple medications and quality of life of Nigerians with primary open angle glaucoma.

To determine the impact of multiple medications on the quality of life of primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) patients on medical treatment at Guinness Eye Centre Onitsha, Nigeria. Adult patients diagnosed with POAG who were undergoing medical therapy were selected through systematic sampling. They were asked to provide information on socio-demographic background, the number and types of glaucoma medications they were using and any adverse effects encountered while using these medications. The patients' quality of life was assessed by utilizing the National Eye Institute Visual Function Questionnaire-25 (NEI-VFQ-25) and all patients completed ocular examination. Data analysis was with Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 23. One hundred and seventy-one patients, aged 40-83 years, mean 59.1 ± 11.1 were studied; there were 79(46.2%) males and 92(53.8%) females. One hundred and nine (63.7%) patients were on multiple medications. Side effects of treatment increased with increasing number of medications. The mean quality of life score in monotherapy group and double therapy group were 89.3 ± 15.8 and 80.2 ± 21.1 respectively; while that in ≥ triple therapy group was 78.9 ± 18.8. This decrease in mean quality of life score with increasing number of medications was statistically significant in bivariate analysis (P < 0.01), however, multiple regression analysis showed that the number of medications did not significantly affect the quality of life scores after adjusting for confounding variables(p = 0.881). Among the patients studied, use of multiple medications, unlike visual acuity (VA) and severity of glaucoma, was not an independent predictor of quality of life.

Intellectual Stimulation and Team Performance in Small and Medium Enterprises in the Cut Flower Industry in Kenya

This study aimed to examine the effect of intellectual stimulation on team performance in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the cut flower industry in Kenya. This study employed a positivism research philosophy and utilized a descriptive correlational research design. The study population consisted of 640 senior and middle-level managers from 62 SMEs in the cut flower industry in Kenya. A total of 271 participants were selected for the study using a combination of stratified and simple random sampling techniques. The collection of primary data involved the use of a questionnaire guide. Using Statistical Package for Social Sciences, data analysis was done by descriptive statistical analysis (means and standard deviations) and multiple linear regression analysis. The study results demonstrated that innovativeness had a positive and significant influence on team performance (β = 0.283, t = 5.073, p &lt; 0.05). The study findings further revealed that employee empowerment positively and significantly influenced team performance (β = 0.183, t = 2.587, p = 0.010). Additionally, the findings demonstrate that knowledge sharing had a positive and significant influence on team performance (β = 0.206, t = 2.942, p = 0.004). The results further showed that the intellectual stimulation of leaders has a significant positive influence on team performance in SMEs in the cut flower industry in Kenya (β = 0.673, t = 14.895, p &lt; 0.05). This study recommends that leaders in SMEs in the cut flower industry should challenge team members to think differently and to promote individual and team growth. In addition, leaders in SMEs should introduce rewards and recognition for motivating teams. Moreover, leaders in SMEs in the cut flower industry should establish organizational practices and policies that support the use of existing skills, provide equal opportunities for staff development and encourage participation in decision-making.

Nature and causes of conflict among communities bordering in Borabu-Sotik Border Kenya

This study sought to analyse the nature and causes of conflict among communities bordering in Borabu-Sotik border Kenya. Cross-border conflicts have long existed worldwide, with recent ethnic and communal tensions affecting Africa, including Kenya. This study utilised descriptive statistics and a qualitative research design, focusing on churches at the Borabu-Sotik border, such as SDA, PAG, and Catholic, with a target population of 7,738 respondents. In the context of interfaith relations at Borabu and Sotik, churches play a significant role in conflict resolution through mediation and negotiations. Religious leaders actively mediate disputes and promote compromises between conflicting parties. Additionally, the church contributes to nation building by advocating for peace and supporting youth often involved in conflicts. The church collaborates with the government and other agencies to address social issues like land rights and ethnic discrimination, thus maintaining stability and security. The study used purposive and simple random sampling to select a sample size of 392 respondents, comprising 35 church leaders and 357 church members. Proportionate sampling methods were employed to categorize the sample according to churches. Stratified random sampling was usedto select the respondents, who were then given questionnaires. Data collection tools included interview schedules for church leaders, questionnaires for church members, focus group discussions, and a checklist. Descriptive statistics such as percentages, means, and standard deviations were analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS).

New Public Management and Human Resource Planning Process In Delta State Hospital Management Board, Asaba, Nigeria

The new strategy for public management has given rise to a shift in human resource planning. The purpose of the study is to assess how the new public management approach's theoretical modifications have affected its practical applications, particularly in the area of human resource planning. The main goal of this study was to ascertain how the New Public Management approach has affected human resource planning in Delta State Hospital Management Board, Asaba. Convenience sampling and a cross-sectional research design were used. For this study, a questionnaire was used as the research tool for data collection, and 109 respondents were deemed useful. Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) software version 23.0 was used to perform inferential statistics of correlation and multiple regression analysis on the collected data. The study's findings demonstrated a favorable and significant correlation between new public management and human resource planning and a high-performance culture. The study also showed that the New Public Management approach had a direct impact on the culture of high commitment and performance and human resource planning. The study makes several recommendations, including that the Delta State Hospital Management Board and other related public sector organizations work on clearly outlined HR policies that can form the cornerstone of an institutional framework to ensure the efficient application of HRP policies. Additionally, they should implement New Public Management processes that include human resource planning scope and allocate more funds for the capacity building and professional growth of the resources in order to provide need-based training to their staff. The study is unique in two ways. First, while there are numerous studies that describe the traditional approach to public management in the literature, this study offers a critical viewpoint on it. Second, no other studies in Nigeria have looked into the connection between the new public management approach and human resource planning; the study is a leader in the field in this regard.

Bacilli load in PTB- intestinal helminths co-infected and PTB non -infected patients at selected public health facilities in Jimma zone, Oromia, Ethiopia: comparative cross-sectional study

BackgroundTuberculosis (TB) and intestinal helminths are diseases that pose a dual burden on public health in low-income countries. Previous studies have shown that helminths can affect the shedding of bacteria or the bacterial load in the sputum of active TB patients. However, there is limited information on bacterial load in TB patients with helminth infections.ObjectiveThis study aimed to compare bacterial load in helminths-infected and non-infected pulmonary tuberculosis patients at selected public health facilities in Jimma zone, Oromia, Ethiopia.MethodsThe study was conducted in Jimma Zone, Oromia, Ethiopia. A facility-based comparative cross-sectional study was employed from August 01, 2020, to January 2021. A total of 124 (55 intestinal helminths-infected and 69 non-infected) newly diagnosed smear-positive pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) patients were included in the study. A convenience sampling technique was employed to recruit study participants, and a semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect data regarding socio-demographic characteristics and possible risk factors for intestinal helminths co-infection. Stool examination was performed using both wet mount and Kato Katz technique. Additionally, weight and height measurements, sputum, and blood samples were taken to determine body mass index, bacilli load, and diabetic mellitus, respectively. Data were entered into Epi-Data software version 3.1 and analyzed using Statistical Packages for Social Sciences (SPSS) Version 25. A statistically significant difference was defined as a P-value of less than 0.05.ResultsIntestinal helminths reduced bacilli load 3 times more than intestinal helminths non-infected PTB (AOR = 3.44; 95% CI; 1.52, 7.79; P = 0.003) However, diabetes mellitus, HIV, drinking alcohol and cigarette smoking were not associated with bacilli load. The rate of co-infection TB with intestinal helminths was 44%. The three most prevalent parasites detected were Trichuris trichiura 29 (66%), hookworm 19 (43%), and Ascaris lumbricoides 11(25%)). Among co-infected patients about 36 (81.8%) had a single parasite infection, and 19 (43.2%) had multiple infections. A body mass index < 18.5 (AOR = 3.26; 95% CI; 1.25, 8.56;P = 0.016) and untrimmed fingernail status (AOR = 3.63; 95%CI;1.32,9.93;P = 0.012) were significantly associated with PTB- intestinal helminth –co-infection.ConclusionHelminth infection was associated with a lower bacilli load compared to helmenths non-infected PTB. The rate of co-infection TB with intestinal helminths was 44%. Trichuris trichiura was the most prevalent helminth. Untrimmed fingernail and a body mass index were associated with PTB-intestinal helminth co-infection.

Assessment of Factors Influencing Retail Consumers’ Choice of Fuel Service Stations in Lusaka, Zambia

Zambia's downstream petroleum retail sector has become fiercely competitive, compelling oil marketing companies (OMCs) to effectively understand and cater to consumer preferences. This research assessed the factors influencing retail consumers’ choice of fuel service stations in Lusaka, Zambia. The study adopted a positivist research philosophy and applied a quantitative approach, utilizing a cross-sectional descriptive research design. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data from 440 motorists determined by Yamane’s formula, within the central business of Lusaka town offering a diverse mix of fuel station brands and associated respondents. The primary data collected was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics with the aid of the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) and Microsoft Excel. The study revealed that service quality, fuel station location, brand image, promotional programs, and non-fuel amenities significantly influence retail consumer choice of a fuel service station in Lusaka Zambia. Based on these findings, recommendations are made to OMCs to continuously improve all aspects of service quality, optimize fuel station location, revamp promotional strategies, strengthen brand image and reputation, enhance non-fuel amenities beyond mere fuel service, and continuously monitor and adapt strategies to improve their competitive edge.

Socio-demographic Determinants of Healthcare Utilization among Adults in Rural Communities of Benue State, Nigeria

This study investigated the determinants of HealthCare Utilization among Adults in Rural Communities in Benue State. A descriptive survey design was adopted for the study. Population for the study consisted of 4,253,641 adults in rural communities in Benue State. A sample size of 612 adults was selected by a multistage sampling procedure. The instrument for data collection was a self-structure questionnaire with reliability coefficients of 0.82. Data analysis was done using the statistical package for social sciences. Percentage and Mean (x) sores were used in analyzing the demographic variables and research questions, while Spearman rank order was used in testing the hypotheses at 0.05 level of significance. The findings of the study showed that socio-demographic variables such as age, educational level, marital status and location had no significant difference in the utilization of health services (\(\bar{X}\)&gt;2.50) while religion have significant difference (\(\bar{X}\)&lt;2.50) in the utilization of health care service in the study area. It was concluded that sociodemographic variables have influence utilization of health care services among adult was high. Based on the findings, it was recommended among others that, Government need to improve on accessibility to health care facilities by building additional health care facilities where distance will be closer to the people.

The influence of hospital services on patient satisfaction in OPDs: evidence from the transition to a digital system in South Punjab, Pakistan

BackgroundPakistani’s health services delivery system has been rarely evaluated regarding patient satisfaction. This study examined the performance of the Pakistani health system from the perspective of doctor services (DS), digital payment system (DPS), nurses’ services (NS), laboratory services (LS), pharmacy services (PHS), registration services (RS), physical services (environmentally and tangible) and doctor-patient communication (DPC) about patient satisfaction. A random sampling technique was adopted for data collection.MethodologyThe Social Science Statistical Package (SPSS), analysis of moment structures (AMOS), and structural equation modeling were used to analyze the data for reliability, validity, correlations, and descriptive findings. The 879 responses were used for study analysis.ResultsThe study revealed that patient satisfaction was found to be significantly affected positively by LS, PHS, DS, NS, and DPS, while DPC, RS, and PF were impacted non-significantly. Consequently, there is a considerable communication gap in the doctor-patient interaction, and Pakistan's healthcare system is confronted with a shortage of physical infrastructure and challenges in the digital system.ConclusionFurthermore, the insufficient emphasis on registration services necessitates immediate action to improve the entire patient experience and satisfaction. Identifying these shortcomings has the potential to result in a healthcare system that is more efficient and focused on the needs of the patients.

Health Promoting Behaviour among School Going Adolescents of Government School in Gaidakot, Nawalparasi

Background: A health-promoting behavior is an endpoint or action-outcome directed toward attaining positive healthoutcomes such as optimal wellbeing, personal fulfillment, and productive living. Adolescents make up as much as a quarterof the population and the number of adolescents is expected to rise through 2050. Adolescents are vulnerable to the riskfactors contributing to Noncommunicable diseases, whether from unhealthy diets, physical inactivity, exposure to tobaccosmoke or the harmful use of alcohol.Method: A cross sectional analytical study design was used among 89 adolescents of grade 9 and 10 was selected throughenumerative sampling technique. Data was collected using a self–administered questionnaire from Adolescent HealthPromoting – Short Form scale and entered in excel and analyzed by Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version20.0 using Descriptive statistics (Frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation) and interferential statistics (chi-square).Result: Findings revealed that 48.3% respondents obtained below average mean score on health promoting behaviour.The overall mean ± S.D of status of health promoting behaviour was 68.12±8.847. Among 6 subscales, life appreciationobtained the highest mean score (with standard deviation) i.e. 15.35±3.72, whereas exercise obtained least mean score (withstandard deviation) i.e. 7.80±2.66 and there is statistically significant association with health promoting behaviours amongadolescents and educational status of mother (p=0.033).Conclusion: Overall health promoting behaviours among adolescents is below average so it is necessary to improve in areaslike nutrition and exercise. There is significant association between parental education and health promoting behavioursof the adolescents, so parental education should be improved by school committee, should introduce educational session,awareness program, physical activity program and nutrition exhibition program regarding health promoting behaviourssince early grade.

Nurses’ Knowledge regarding Infection Prevention in Neutropenic Patients at Tertiary Cancer Hospital, Nepal

Background:Neutropenia is one most common risk factor for infection and the leading causes of death in cancer patientsthat may results in unexpected hospitalizations and disruption in treatment plans and regimens.Method: A cross-sectional study was carried out among 100 nurses to assess the knowledge regarding infection preventionin neutropenic patients to those who are working least 6 months in chemotherapy of B.P. Koirala Memorial Cancer Hospital(BPKMCH). A non-probability purposive sampling technique was adopted to select the sample and the data was collectedthrough a structured self- administered questionnaire. Data were analyzed by using Statistical Package for Social Science(SPSS) version 22.Result: The study findings summarized the level of knowledge into three categories where more than half (51%) of therespondents had good level of knowledge, 46% had moderate knowledge and 3% had poor knowledge regarding infectionprevention in neutropenic patients.Conclusion: Though majority of the respondents had good and moderate level of knowledge regarding infection preventionin neutropenic patients but there is still lack of Guideline/Protocol on infection prevention measures and gap in knowledgeregarding daily nursing assessment. So, there is still need to develop and implement infection prevention guidelines/protocols and regular trainings on infection prevention from concern authority of hospital management.

Rational prescribing and dispensing of oral dosage forms of medicines to children: an observational study

IntroductionIrrational prescribing and dispensing of oral dosage forms of medicines to paediatric patients are major public health issues, especially in low-income and middle-income countries. Many challenges affect the rational use...

Effectiveness of the Educational Program on Nurses’ Knowledge concerning Hyperosmolar Hyperglycemic State

Hyperosmolar Hyperglycemic State (HHS) is one of the acute diabetic complications that commonly seen with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). This represents a critical case necessitating prompt and efficient intervention to prevent potential severe complications. Nursing plays a crucial role in the care of these patients at the critical care settings. Specifically, the project aims to investigate whether nurses' HHS knowledge can be enhanced by educational programs. Quasi-experimental design was used to investigate the effect of the educational program on nurses’ knowledge about HHS at Al-Diwaniyah Teaching Hospital in three unites: Cardiac Care Unites (CCU), respiratory care unit (RCU) and emergency room (ER). A non-probability (purposive) sample was chosen from nurses who works in these three unites, the study group consisted of 35 nurses, while the control group comprised 41 nurses. A statistical package for social science (SPSS) program, version 26 was used for descriptive and inferential statistics. By comparing the nurses’ knowledge about HHS between the test before (6.4286± 1.35659) and after the program (8.2000± 1.10613), there is a significant difference in nurses’ knowledge after the program in the study group, but as for the control group, there is no difference. By comparing the nurses' knowledge regarding nursing care of HHS between the test before (14.0286± 2.05062) and after the program (16.6286± 1.41600), there is a significant increase in nurses' knowledge about nursing care of HHS after the program in the study group. The finding of study show that the educational program was effective to enhance nurses’ knowledge about HHS.

Time to treatment of first-episode psychosis: the role of early intervention teams

Background/Aims Psychosis can affect a person's functioning, quality of life and physical health. Early intervention for service users presenting with psychosis has been implemented via early intervention teams, but there are inconsistencies in assessment and treatment. The aim of this study was to examine time to treatment (defined as the commencement of antipsychotic medication) for service users experiencing first-episode psychosis, the impact of this and engagement with teams. The authors explored the effect of patient characteristics (eg gender, deprivation, ethnicity, age) and early intervention teams on time to treatment for psychosis. Methods A retrospective cohort study was undertaken using routine data of service users accessing three early intervention teams from 2018–19. The care records of 457 service users were examined, including patient characteristics, assessments, time to first contact, treatment and time to discharge. Data were analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences. Results Use of the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale assessment tool differed across the three early intervention teams. Engagement with all teams varied by gender. Men were particularly slow to access treatment in one team (118 of 163 service users, 72.4%). Conclusions Increased emphasis on engaging male patients may improve service delivery. Improved communication between early intervention teams could increase standardisation of assessment and treatment.

Magnitude and antimicrobial susceptibility profile of bacteria isolated from pediatric sepsis cases at University of Gondar Hospital, Northwest Ethiopia

BackgroundSepsis is one of the major causes of morbidity and mortality among pediatric patients throughout the world. The varying microbiological pattern of sepsis warrants the need for researches on the causative organisms and their antimicrobial susceptibility pattern. The epidemiology of neonatal and pediatric sepsis in Ethiopia is under-research. The objective of this study was to evaluate the burden of bacterial pathogens and their antimicrobial susceptibility patterns among children suspected of sepsis.MethodsAn institutional-based prospective cross-sectional study was conducted on 370 pediatric(age birth-15 years) patients suspected of sepsis at the University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized hospital from December 2020 to November 2021. Blood samples were collected aseptically and inoculated into Tryptone Soya Broth for culture. The organisms grown were identified by standard microbiological methods and subjected to antibiotic susceptibility testing by modified Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method recommended by Clinical laboratory and standard institute. Methicillin resistance was confirmed using Cefoxitin disk diffusion method. Data entry and analysis were done using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 26 software. A p-value less than 0.05 at 95% confidence interval was considered statically significant.ResultsOut of the total 370 study subjects, 21.6% (80/370) of them were culture positive. Of these, 43 (53.8%) and 37 (46.3%) were Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial pathogens, respectively. The most prevalent Gram-positive bacterial isolate was Staphylococcus aureus (n = 24; 30%) and coagulase negative staphylococci (n = 7; 8.8%). Among the Gram-negative bacterial isolates, the leading bacteria was Klebsiella pneumoniae (n = 20; 25%) followed by Escherichia coli (n = 7; 8.8%). Clindamycin, Chloramphenicol, Gentamicin and Ciprofloxacin were the most effective antibiotics against Gram-positive bacterial isolates while Amikacin, Meropenem and Chloramphenicol were effective against Gram-negative pathogens. Methicillin resistance was detected in 45.8% of Staphylococcus aureus. Multi-drug resistance (MDR) antimicrobial susceptibility pattern was observed in 76% of the bacterial isolates.ConclusionGram positive bacteria were the predominant isolates among pediatric sepsis cases and most of the bacterial isolates showed MDR. Staphylococcus aureus and Klebsiella pneumoniae were frequently isolated bacteria. The high prevalence of drug resistance warrants rational use of antibiotics and the need for regular antibiotic susceptibility surveillance studies.

Level of Knowledge of Medical Practitioner of Diagnosing and Managing Swallowing Difficulties in Hospitalized Setting of Dhaka City

Aim: To have a clear idea and explore the existing practice of medical practitioner about the proper diagnostic system and management of patient with adult dysphagia in a hospitalized setting. Materials and Methods: This is a quantitative type of cross sectional survey study where 60 samples were assigned purposively from in Dhaka Medical College Hospital, Shaheed Suhrawardy Medical College Hospital, Enam Medical College Hospital, BRB Medical College Hospital. The self-modified a questionnaire was used for the study. Statistical analysis: Data was analyzed by using descriptive statistical analysis (SPSS= Statistics package for social science) method. Results: On average, most of the participants 67% (40) are males and 33% (20) are females. The maximum number participants, 82% (49) in the age range (23-34) years. The researcher has showed the area of specialty of the respondents according to the inclusion criteria. In the study 11.7% (7) participants are gastroenterologist, 10% (6) are orthodontist, 16.7% (10) are ENT, 41.7% (25) are medicine specialist and 20% (12) are neurologist. Maximum number of participants working station 46% (28) are in Dhaka Medical College Hospital. The duration of the study of the respondents on dysphagia out of the 60 respondents 30 studied for 2-3 hours. The respondents first encounter a patient with dysphagia. 46.7% (28) have seen in the period of 2012-2016. The frequency of the participants dealing with a patient having dysphagia the responses were categorized 46.7% (28) responded sometimes. The participants understand the role of SLT on diagnosing and managing dysphagia 52% (31) responded with yes. Conclusions: Dysphagia has emerged as a common complication due to stroke. More than 50% persons are affected by dysphagia after stroke (Smithard et al., 2007). This study consisted with medical practitioner from neurology, medicine, ENT, orthodontics and gastroenterology department. Both specialist and interns were part of this study. The referral level to SLT is also not satisfactory. Among 60 participants only 11 refer to SLT whereas 49 never or seldom refer to SLT. This showcases the lack of awareness on the role of SLT in diagnosing and managing of dysphagia. So, the proper collaboration of medical practitioner and SLT should be made so that the patient can get a proper treatment that will improve their condition.

INFLUENCE OF INCLUSIVE PEDAGOGICAL PRACTICES ON STUDENTS ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT IN PUBLIC SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN GATSIBO DISTRICT, RWANDA

Background:The most popular strategy for meeting every childs educational needs is inclusive education. Teachers in industrialized and developing nations have different perspectives on inclusive practice. The general objective of this study is to assess the influence of inclusive pedagogical practices on students academic achievement in public Secondary schools of Gatsibo District, Rwanda. Specifically, the study focused on to examine effectiveness of inclusive lesson planning on students academic achievements, to examine the influence of inclusive lesson evaluation on students academic achievement, and to ascertain the relationship between inclusive pedagogical practices and students academic achievement in public Secondary schools of Gatsibo District, Rwanda. Materials and Methods:This study employed a quantitative with descriptive research design. Target population was with 121 teachers and head teachers including19 teachers and one head teacher from G.S. Nyarubuye, 34 teachers and one head teacher from G.S. Bihinga, 34 teachers and one head teacher from G.S. Nyamirama and 30 teachers and one head teacher of G.S Nyakayaga. The census sampling technique was applied where all entire population of 121 participants were taken as sample size of the study. The instrument for gathering data was a structured questionnaire. Using the Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 26.0, the acquired data was examined descriptively. Inferential statistics will be shown to illustrate the link between the variables. The tables frequencies, means, and standard deviations will be used to display the results. This research was quantitative approach, the results were presented relied on research objectives. The research adopted a regression equation to establish the influence of inclusive pedagogical practices on students academic achievement in Public secondary schools. Results:On the effectiveness of inclusive lesson planning on students academic achievement in Public secondary schools, the results of data analysispresented that the overall mean was 4.14 that was between agree (4) and strongly agree (5) which presented that there was a significant effectiveness of inclusive lesson planning on students academic achievement in Public secondary schools. On the influence of inclusive lesson evaluation on students academic achievements in Public secondary schools, the resultsshowed that the overall mean was 4.34 that was between agree (4) and strongly agree (5) which presented that there was a significant influence of inclusive lesson evaluation on students academic achievements in Public secondary schools. The results of data analysisshowed that the relationship between inclusive pedagogical practices and students academic achievement was .947** whichpresented that there was a statistically significant relationship betweeninclusive pedagogical practices and students academic achievement in Public secondary schools. The results presented that the variables were statistically significant with regression mean square of 102.587 and residual mean square was 0.099 while F=1035.116 and P-value =.000b that concluded that there was a significant relationship between inclusive pedagogical practices and students academic achievement in Public secondary schools of Gatsibo District, Rwanda. Conclusion:Researcher suggested that teachers should apply the inclusive pedagogy in their teaching and promote the behavior that encourage students and create the friendship between teacher and students, this will promote the students academic achievement in Public secondary schools.

Forest Clearance and Fragmentation for Charcoal Production: The Case of Bimbia Bonadikombo Forest, South West Region, Cameroon

The exploitation activities of man on natural resources have hardly been sustainable. This study examined the implication of charcoal production on the Bimbia Bonadikombo forest and it’s environ. The study employed both direct field observation and questionnaire administration for data gathering. Questionnaires were administered to charcoal producers and persons involved in charcoal related activities. Persons were selected using snowball technique. A total of 42 copies of questionnaires were administered to charcoal producers and related activities. Tree species used for charcoal production were noted and identified. The questionnaire was divided into five sections:(i), socio-demographic characteristics of charcoal producers, (ii), methods of charcoal production and species selected (iii), aspects influencing charcoal production and the implication on the ecosystem, (iv), seasonal trends and challenges faced (v) mitigation strategies used). Data collected were organized in Microsoft Excel and Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) was used for the analyses. Pearson (ρ) correlation association was used for the relationship between variables of production and the demand of charcoal. The result revealed that, majority of the respondents, 78.57%, were males while females were least 21.43%. Majority of the respondents (54.76%) were between the ages of 31-46 while the least with ages &gt; 47. Lophira alata 14 (35.71%) was the tree species ranked 1st while Irvingia gabonensis1 (2.38%) was the least and ranked 8th. The main aspect that influenced production was revenue generated 14 (33.33%) while weak institutions 2(4.76%) and crises situations 2(2(4.76%) were the least. Deforestation 12(28.57%) and habitats destruction 8(10.04%) were reported as the main effects caused by charcoal production. Production and the demand of charcoal variables showed a positive association (0.153±.361). The management strategies employed were: only matured trees were used for charcoal production, permanent charcoal pit kiln are dug out of forest canopy and only few tree species are used for charcoal production. For mitigation purposes used are: domestication, protecting wild charcoal trees in their farms and nurseries establishment. This study recommends that charcoal is a major source of energy and alternative source of energy when others failed or insufficient. Therefore, this source of energy can be enhanced to be more eco friendly and environmentally sustainable.

Assessing livelihood dependency on forestry products during COVID-19 period

Background: The importance of forest in improving human welfare is recognized worldwide. Both natural and artificial forests provide basic needs such as fuel wood, timber, industrial wood and non-timber products. They also provide employment, income and foreign exchange hence contributing to social and economic development. Equally important are the environmental benefits of forest. But as covid 19 came people lost their job, their movement was restricted as a result an increase dependency on forest products for survival increases in developing countries. Therefore, the main aim of the study was to unearth impacts of covid 19 has on the forest products of people living around zomba plateau forest reserve. The general objective of the study is to assess livelihood dependency on forest product during covid 19 period. Method: Specifically, the study will identify and assess which forest products were frequently accessed during covid 19 and analyze the contribution of forest products on household income during the pandemic period. Both qualitative and quantitative methodologies were used to collect data. The target population for the study consisted of residents of Mtendere village. The sample size was 59. Data were collected using self- administered questionnaire and interviews. Qualitative and quantitative data was analyzed using statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) and excel package respectively. Result: The results of the study indicate that there was an increase dependency of forest products during covid 19 period and such that the contribution the contribution of forest products to household income dwindles during this period. Conclusion: The study further recommends to build the resilience of forest- dependent communities to future shocks and crises. This can be achieved through the implementation of social safety nets, or savings and credit programs. Novelty/Originality of this study: This study presents the first comprehensive analysis of the impact of COVID-19 on community dependence on forest products and finds changes in forest resource use patterns during the pandemic. It provides new insights into the resilience of forest-dependent communities in the face of global crises. It offers practical recommendations for building community resilience through social safety nets and credit savings programs.

Comparison the Results of Humerus Shaft Fractures Treated by Functional Bracing versus Dynamic Compression Plate

Introduction with Objective: To compare the results of humerus shaft fractures treated by functional bracing and dynamic compression plate. Materials and Methods: This experimental study was carried out at the Department of Orthopedic Surgery at Chittagong Medical College Hospital, Chattogram from August 2019 to July 2021. All adult patients of closed diaphyseal fracture of humerus attending the Orthopaedics department, Chittagong Medical College Hospital during study period were the study population. Purposive sampling was done according to availability of the patients. Cases were divided in two groups; group A (dynamic compression plate) and group B (functional bracing). All the data were compiled and sorted properly and the quantitative data was analyzed statistically by using Statistical Package for Social Science. The results were expressed as percentage and mean ± SD and p&lt;0.05 was considered as the level of significant. Result: Average mean ± SD age was 40.22 ± 12.451 (range: 19-65) years. The mean age was 37.24 ± 10.686 in plating group and 43.20 ± 13.559 in bracing group. Out of 50 patients, 30 (60%) were male and 20 (40%) were female. Male was predominant in both groups (P=0.564). Regarding time taken for radiological union, average mean ± SD time was 15.32 ± 2.613 (range: 12-22) weeks. The mean time for radiological union was 14.91 ± 2.712 weeks in plating group and 15.76 ± 2.488 weeks in bracing group. Regarding ROM of shoulder &amp; elbow, there was statistically nonsignificant difference found between the groups except shoulder flexion (P= 0.031s), abduction(P=0.025s) &amp; extension(P=0.041s) more on plating group. QUICK-DASH score at 3 month shows highly significant difference between the study groups (p=0.001). At 6 and 12 month significant difference was found between the groups. Out of 44 patients at 12 months follow-up, 19 (43.2%) patient’s functional outcome was excellent and 10 (22.7%) patient’s functional outcome was good. Statistically significant difference was found between the groups (p=0.022). Conclusion: This study observed that functional outcome was relatively better in patients treated by dynamic compression plate in adult diaphyseal fracture of humerus. Medicine Today 2024, Vol.36 (2): 82-86