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This study aims to evaluate the reliability, and construct validity of the Malaysian versions of parent and child report of Children Health survey for Asthma. Questionnaires were translated to Bahasa Malaysia using previously established guidelines, a cross sectional study design and methodology was used to obtain the data, the study was recruited 180 respondents (7-16 years old) who have been diagnosed as asthmatic and their parents, SPSS version 20 was used to determine the reliability and construct validity. The results showed that all scores of cronbach’s alpha in the acceptable range ≥ 0.7. Both reliability and factor analyses reveal an acceptable reliability and a good construct validity of the scales. Contribution/ Originality
This study documents the reliability and validity of the two version of CHSA. Both two instruments were translated to other language (Bahasa Malaysia) and evaluated their reliability and validity hence will help researchers from the same country to use these translated instruments in their studies. This current research dealt with asthmatic children and their parents to identify their point of views about the effect of asthma in their lives. In order of that, the findings from this research will contribute to knowledge and awareness among health practitioners and asthmatic patients and their family members that disease-related QoL also affects the successfulness of asthma management, not forgetting academia in filling the gaps in the literatures. Medical Sciences » International Journal of Medical and Health Sciences Research » Month: 07-2015 Issue: 7
Larvicidal Potential of Leaf Extracts and Purified Fraction of Datura Stramonium against Culex Quinquefasciatu Smosquitoes
Research Article
Author(s):
Journal: International Journal of Natural Sciences Research
The larvicidal potential of Datura stramonium leaf extracts against Culex quinquefasciatusmosquitoe species was evaluated. Mosquitoes larvicidal activities of crude aqueous, ethanol, ethylacetate, n-hexane and purified leaf extracts of D. stramonium were tested against the early fourth-instar larvae of C. quinquefasciatusmosquitoes species. Larvicidal toxicity assay were carried out against the late third and early fourth instar larvae of C. quinquefasciatus (Dipteral: Culicidae) and larval mortality was observed after 12 h, 24 h and 48h of treatments. Column chromatography was used to isolate the fraction with the highest Larvicidal activity. FTIR and GC-MS were used for structural identification. Phytochemical studies revealed the presence of alkaloid, tannins and terpenoids in D. stramonium Ethanol extract. The effective larvicidal activity was observed in ethanol extract of D. stramonium against C. quinquefasciatusmosquitoes larvae with percentage mortality of 96% at 1000ppm after 24hr. The lethal concentration were found LC50 (2.565ppm) and LC90 (17.724 ppm) of ethanol extract respectively. Fraction one (1) of D. stramonium Ethanol Extract (DSEE-F1) had the highest percentage mortality of 99 % after 24 hours with LC50 and LC90 of 4.390 ppm and 6.957ppm respectively. A single spot was obtained by preparative-TLC with Rf value of 0.73 while the GC-MS analysis revealed presence of Heneicosane in DSEE-F1. Lethal concentration LC50 of Heneicosane was found to be (2.21 ppm) compared to the standard dichlorvos LC50 (2.04 ppm). The present work recommends that Heneicosane compounds could serve as potent larvicidal agent for mosquitoe control. Contribution/ Originality
This study documents for the first time that the ethanol leaf extract of D. stramonium has high larvicidal activity against Culex quinquefasciatus mosquito which serves as malaria and lymphatic filariasis vector. The activity of the plant extract is dose dependent. Heneicosane compound was responsible for larvacidal activity. Engineering » International Journal of Natural Sciences Research » Month: 12-2014 Issue: 12
Variation in Density and Shrinkage between Sawmill and Hand Processed Khaya Senegalensis Woodin Sokoto, North-Western Nigeria
Research Article
Author(s):
Journal: International Journal of Sustainable Agricultural Research
A research on shrinkage and density variation between sawmill and hand processed Khaya senegalensis timber was conducted to determine the effectiveness of the species in service. The wood samples obtained from Kara market Sokoto were cut into standard sizes for the determination of moisture content, density and shrinkage respectively. Analysis of variance was used to analyze the data. The study reveals that sawmill has an average moisture content of 15.43%, average density of 901.90kg/m3 and volumetric shrinkage of 8.40%. While hand processed Khaya senegalensis has an average moisture content of 15.88%, average density of 812.07kg/m3 and volumetric shrinkage 8.12%. However, density recorded in both sawmill and hand processed Khaya senegalensis wood belongs to high class, suggesting that even the hand processed can serve the low and middle income class satisfactorily and is thus recommended for economic consideration. Contribution/ Originality
This study is one of very few studies which have investigated the relationship between sawmill and hand processed wood in Nigeria. It contributes in the existing literature as well as in the wood preference among the small scale wood users (e.g. Local Carpenters) and large scale furniture factories in North-Western Nigeria. Agricultural Sciences » International Journal of Sustainable Agricultural Research » Month: 09-2015 Issue: 3
Sustainable Handling of Construction and Demolition (C & D) Waste
Research Article
Author(s):
Journal: International Journal of Sustainable Energy and Environmental Research
Development as a standalone feature has got no status, unless it is sustainable. Development may include active actions in various sectors like medical field, information technology, education etc. But, one field that is an inherent part of all is the construction sector. With the development of society and for the development of society at all fronts, construction activities are seen everywhere. Along with the construction activities, the demolitions of existing structures, which have either outlived their service life or otherwise needing replacement, have to be demolished. It is estimated that the construction industry in India generates about 10-12 million T of waste annually. The waste generation in Delhi itself is estimated to be around 5000 T per day. Thus a need is there to find solution for its sustainable disposable. Dumping of C&D waste is not only unauthorized, but also anti-environmental. It is a huge challenge to the mankind to find sustainable solutions for safe and secure reuse or recycling, so that nothing is required to be disposed or say dumping in an unauthorized manner. There is also a huge demand for natural aggregates in the construction sector with a significant gap in its demand and supply, which can also be reduced marginally by the recycling of construction and demolition waste. Proper handling, storage and treatment of C&D waste not only prevent degradation of Mother Earth, but also have significant impact on sustainability by way of reducing the use of natural resources. The paper covers various issues related to the reusing and recycling of C&D waste, required regulatory mechanism and procedures to be followed for achieving the aim with an ulterior motive of Environmental sustainability. Contribution/ Originality
This study is one of very few studies, which have investigated into the effective methods and appropriate tools to carry out the demolition of existing structures so that the debris can be put into the reuse or recycling operations, getting useful products and also save Mother Earth from unsustainable degradation. Energy & Environmental Sciences » International Journal of Sustainable Energy and Environmental Research » Month: 06-2015 Issue: 2
Renewable Sources of Energy for Economic Development in Nigeria
Research Article
Author(s):
Journal: International Journal of Sustainable Energy and Environmental Research
It has become widely acknowledged that the rising environmental and economic cost associated with fossil fuel energy has made Renewable Energy (RE) a basic requirement for the development of Nigeria’s economy. The paper focuses on ways of generating electricity with renewable source of energy for economic development in Nigeria. Specifically, the Nigeria’s energy scene, renewable energy potentials and barriers, as well as various national energy policies were analyzed and areas that require attention to achieve sustainable provision of RE were highlighted. Overall, achieving sustainable development in Nigeria lies in addressing the imminent energy crisis facing the country. While fossil fuels have increased in use and declined in supply, excessive usage of fuel wood is already creating environmental problems especially in the Sahel area. But RE brings together climate protection, poverty reduction, and technological progress. Contribution/ Originality
This study contributes in the existing literature on the renewable sources of energy in Nigeria by investigating the vast renewable energy resources and potentials in the country and suggested methods to improve energy generation for sustainable development. Energy & Environmental Sciences » International Journal of Sustainable Energy and Environmental Research » Month: 06-2015 Issue: 2
Effect of Using Different Pre-Storage Warming Times on Hatchability of White Hisex Breeders’ Eggs
Research Article
Author(s):
Journal: International Journal of Veterinary Sciences Research
It is well known that commercial hatcheries set their eggs after days of storage which increases the incubation duration, decreases hatchability, chick quality and growth performance. The objective of this experiment was to study the effect of different pre-storage warming (PRESW) times on hatchability, embryonic mortality and chick grades of White Hisex layer breeders’ eggs. A total of 1200 eggs were collected from a flock at 67 weeks of age. Eggs were divided into four groups of 300 eggs each according to their warming time (0 hour as control, 2 hours, 4 hours and 6 hours, respectively). These groups were further subdivided into four replicates. of 75 eggs each and were assigned to the completely randomized design (CRD). Eggs were incubated at 37.5°C. All eggs after warming were stored for two days in a cooler at 18°C and a relative humidity of 75%, they were then incubated in (Pas Reform) setter for 18 days and hatcher for three days. At the end of the hatching process hatched chicks were graded (1st and 2nd grade chick); pipped - hatched eggs were then removed and counted. The remaining unhatched eggs were broken to determine fertility and embryonic mortality. Results indicated that pre-storage warming of hatching eggs at 37.5oC for 4 hours significantly (P ≤ 0.01) reduced early dead embryos and total unhatched eggs. The first grade chicks were significantly (P ≤ 0.01) higher in pre-storage warming eggs. It is concluded that 4 hours PRESW improved hatchability percentage as it decreased embryonic mortality percentage, increased the number of saleable first grade chicks which by far increases profits. Contribution/ Originality
This study is one of very few studies which have investigated the effect of pre-storage of hatching eggs after laying on hatchability, embryonic mortality and chicks’ quality in the region and it is the first one in Sudan. Agricultural Sciences » International Journal of Veterinary Sciences Research » Month: 09-2015 Issue: 3
Bioaccumulation of Trace Metals in Two Species of Crabs from Chilika Lagoon, East Coast of India
The present study was conducted to determine heavy metal concentration (Mn, Fe, Cu and Zn) in body organ of two important species of crab (Scylla serrata and Portunus pelagicus) from Chilika lagoon. The heavy metal concentration observed in the muscles, body carapace and leg carapace. The highest length was 13.2 cm and weight was 238.52 gm observed in Scylla serrata. The highest length and weight of Portunus pelagicus was 8.5 cm and 92.3 gm. The metal concentration of Mn, Fe, Cu and Zn in the leg carapace varied from 4.2 to 5.5 ppm, 16.6 to 18.4 ppm, 5.7 to 9.5 ppm and 152 to 211 ppm dry weight respectively. Similarly the concentration of metals in the muscle were in the range of 3.8 to 5.1 ppm, 14.4 to 17.5 ppm, 4.8 to 7.4 ppm and 129 to 188 ppm dry weight for Mn, Fe, Cu and Zn respectively. Metal concentrations in the body carapace of the above metals varied from 3.8 to 5.3 ppm, 15.2 to 18.2 ppm, 5.8 to 8.6 ppm and 152 to 193 ppm dry weight respectively. The concentration of metals was lowest in the muscle as compared to other organs. Scylla serrata contained higher concentration of metals in the muscle as compared to Portunus pelagicus. There was no correlation between body size and heavy metal concentration. The metal concentration found in the present study was lower to metal concentration levels of crab collected from other parts of the world. Therefore, there is no public health problem if the crabs will consume it. Contribution/ Originality
This study is one of the very few studies which have been investigated in two edible crabs from Chilika lagoon. The local communities, the star hotels and other consumers will come to know that crab flesh is not having high concentration of the four trace metals for human consumption. Energy & Environmental Sciences » Journal of Atmosphere » Month: 06-2015 Issue: 1
The Successful Treatment of Obstructive Uropathy Caused By Retroperitoneal Fibrosis with Steroids in the Latent Tuberculosis Case
Retroperitoneal fibrosis (RPF) is a rare disorder manifested by fibrosis and chronic inflammation in the retroperitoneal tissue. It has been reported that retroperitoneal fibrosis is induced by tuberculosis infection (4). We wanted to present a case of latent tuberculosis, who presented with anuria and developed by bilateral hydronephrosis depending on idiopathic RPF, and treated with steroid therapy, since it is a rare case. Contribution/ Originality
Software cost estimation is one of the most challenging tasks in software engineering. For the estimation, Function points are useful in the business application software domain and problematic in the real-time software domain. Full Function Points (FFP) are useful for functionality-based estimation, specifically for real-time and embedded software. Functional size measurement method that has user view of functional requirements developed by Common Software Measurement International Consortium (COSMIC) called COSMIC-FFP. By using COSMIC-FFP model, an early prediction of the functional complexity of the software throughout the software development life cycle within given budget constraints, reliability can be done. In this paper, a detailed analysis with process flow of COSMIC-FFP model has been discussed. Contribution/ Originality
After more than two decades of inflation targeting in the world, it is important to evaluate if the adoption of this regime in a relevant developing country contributed to the creation of a better environment for the process of entrepreneurs’ expectations formation. Brazil is part of an important group of developing countries and represents a potential laboratory experiment in which the effects of an adoption of inflation targeting after more than a decade can be evaluated. Not enough is known about the consequences of inflation targeting credibility on both monetary policy and monetary policy transmission channels in developing countries that adopted inflation targeting. Emphasizing the role of transparency and the credibility of monetary policy as a performance criterion that motivate any country wishing to adopt an inflation targeting regime, this study leads to the fact that these two basic principles toward which a inflation targeting regime cannot be achieved without respect for certain pre namely institutional and technical conditions. Contribution/ Originality
This paper presents findings of a research that was carried out to establish the buying behavior of low density households in Zimbabwe and how they are influenced by the various forms of advertising. A questionnaire was administered to a sample of 75 respondents representing 75 households in Marlborough, Harare. The results of the study showed that 50% of the respondents strongly agreed that their decision to purchase a product was influenced by advertisements. They also indicated that they understood and preferred outdoor media more than television and print media which came second and third respectively in the order of preference. More than 75% of the respondents agreed that they bought advertised products more than those which are not advertised. The results also showed that consumers in Zimbabwe are slow in accepting and adopting the internet as a form of advertising. It can be concluded from this study that it definitely pays to advertise one’s products. It is also important that an advert should carry a strong message that is convincing to the consumers as indicated by 50% of the respondents. It can also be concluded that the Zimbabwean market has not yet fully embraced online advertising. The study recommends that outdoor media should be used more than any other forms of advertising in low density areas as it is the most preferred and most understood media choice. It is also recommended that since more women than men do the purchases for households in low density areas advertisements should target women more than men. Contribution/ Originality
This study contributes to existing literature on consumer buying behavior. It shows that the most preferred and understood media choice for advertising products among high income earners in countries like Zimbabwe is outdoor media. Since women more than men do the purchases for households advertisements should target women more. Economics » International Journal of Business, Economics and Management » Month: 04-2015 Issue: 4
The Total Factor Productivity of Libyan Banks, 2004 – 2010
Research Article
Author(s):
Journal: International Journal of Business, Economics and Management
This paper presents a comparative analysis of the performance of 17 Libyan banks during the period 2004 - 2010. According to the relevant literature, there are few studies that measure both technical efficiency and Malmquist productivity index approach using non – parametric approach (DEA) for the banking sector in Libya. In this study, we used the DEA technique to calculate technical, pure technical, and scale efficiency of sampled banks by using DEAP software. The findings showed that higher mean technical efficiency of specialized banks comparing with commercial and private banks. This paper concludes with some policy implications of the results. The results for total factor productivity (TFP) showed 11 of 17 Libyan banks decline because TFP levels of banks drawn by negative technical efficiency change (less than 1) or by negative technological change, or both of them are negative. Contribution/ Originality
This study contributes in the existing literature and to provide practical contribution to practitioners who implement financial initiatives in Libya such as financial managers, policy makers, strategists and financial specialists and analysts. Also, this study is one of very few studies which have investigated in Arab Countries particularly in Libya. Economics » International Journal of Business, Economics and Management » Month: 04-2015 Issue: 4
Managing the Nigerian Tertiary Education for National Transformation through Effective Continuous Staff Training and Development (CSTD)
Research Article
Author(s):
Journal: International Journal of Education and Practice
The study assessed the possibility of managing the Nigerian Tertiary Education for National Transformation through Effective Continuous Staff Training and Development (CSTD) using Federal College of Education (Technical) as an example. The study determined the role played by continuous staff training and development “as a work of activity” in the overall effectiveness and profitability of the Nigerian tertiary education. The study adopted the descriptive survey research design. Three (3) research questions were raised for the study. A proportionate random sampling procedure was employed in selection of 50% out of 216 academic staff within the institution (FCE (T) Asaba). However, 108 academic staff from various department/schools within the institution was sampled. A 36-itemed questionnaire titled: Effective Continuous Staff Training and Development for Managing the Nigerian Tertiary Education Questionnaire for Academic Staff (ECSTDMNTEQAS), developed by the researchers and designed on a modified Likert type 4 – point scale was used in the study. Reliability and validity of the research instrument was also determined. Data was analyzed using frequency mode, mean score (X ̅) and grand mean. The findings revealed that CSTD was very useful in the management of tertiary education. It improved academic staff competence and proficiency which boosted their productivity and performance for quality and academic excellence in the school. CSTD played enormous role in the management of Nigerian tertiary education although there are challenges that hindered its effective utilization as revealed by the findings of the study. The study recommended the following: that adequate fund should be provided for effective utilization of CSTD and likewise for government to implement effective policies and education reforms that will encourage the use of CSTD in the Nigerian tertiary institutions. Contribution/ Originality
This study is one of very few studies which have investigated the importance of (CSTD) in tertiary institutions owing to the fact that this has been one of the challenges facing higher education. It is recommended that adequate attention be given to this course for teacher proficiency and sustainable national development. Arts and Education » International Journal of Education and Practice » Month: 03-2015 Issue: 3
About the Pathogenesis of Myasthenia Gravis Associated With Thymic Enlargement
Research Article
Author(s):
Journal: International Journal of Medical and Health Sciences Research
Introduction: A causal relationship between the thymus gland and myasthenia gravis (MG) has been assumed for decades. However, this relationship is still a matter of conjecture and speculations and awaits definitive proof. Recently, myoid cells have been considered as effectors in the pathogenesis of MG as well as thymic enlargement (thymolipoma, true thymic hyperplasia). Material and methods: we report a retrospective study about 6 cases of thymic enlargement with 4 cases of true thymic hyperplasia (TTH) and 2 cases of thymolipoma (TL). Aim: Our objective is to discuss the role of myoid cells in the pathogenesis of MG associated with thymic enlargement. Results: The majority of our patients were men with a sex ratio of 4/2. Only 2 patients had a past medical history consistent for MG. Myoid cells were found in all cases. Conclusion: Through our small study, the implication of myoid cells in the pathogenesis of the association MG-TL or TTH remains unproved. Contribution/ Originality
This study contributes in the existing literature by enriching our knowledge about the pathogenesis of myasthenia gravis. Medical Sciences » International Journal of Medical and Health Sciences Research » Month: 07-2015 Issue: 7
Evaluation of Techniques for the Diagnosis of Rotavirus Gastroenteritis in Paediatric Patients
Rotavirus is the major etiology of acute gastroenteritis in infants and young children worldwide. It has been estimated that about 39% of childhood diarrhoea hospitalizations are caused by the virus and nearly half a million children die from the infections each year especially in developing countries on the Asian subcontinent, Africa, and Latin America where health care facilities are in short supply. Stool specimens collected from the first to fourth days of illness are optimal for detection of the infection. Diagnosis was originally performed using electron microscopy, which is still occasionally used in centers where it is available. Routine diagnosis is however, now performed by antigen detection on feces using commercially available, simple, rapid immunochromatographic dipstick style kits which have superseded the earlier latex agglutination and enzyme immunoassay methods whose usefulness in diagnosis is still relevant. Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction of feces is also available in some reference and research centers, and is particularly useful for identification of outbreaks due to serogroups other than group A. Similarly viral culture and serology are also available but do not play much roles in diagnosis of acute disease. Rotavirus infection is indeed a public health problem and early, rapid, accurate and reliable diagnostic techniques are essential for effective patient management and infection control. Contribution/ Originality
This paper examines Business Strategies for Effective Entrepreneurship as a panacea for Sustainable Development and Livelihood in the Family. A strategy can generally be seen as a visionary plan of action aimed at attaining specific objectives. The paper observes that due to poor economic conditions in Nigeria, most families are threatened by poverty. The paper is anchored on the Discovery Theory/Individual Opportunity Nexus which is in tune with the fact that successful entrepreneurs can make innovations through exploring the environment so as to exploit viable opportunities. It is the position of this paper that effective entrepreneurship will enhance sustainable development and family livelihood. The implication of this is that most disadvantageous and impoverished families will benefit through the contributions of entrepreneurship with particular reference to Family Businesses. The family business thrives effectively when there is a harmony of interest. It is not in doubt that the family is a major institution for carrying out essential production, consumption, reproductions and accumulation functions that are associated with the social and economic empowerment of individuals and societies, all of which leads to sustainable development, improved standard of living and livelihood. Sustainable development connotes the development that will remain intact for an indefinite period possibly forever. Sustainable livelihood which is similar to sustainable development in Singh’s view Singh (2014) is fortifying “access of both present and future generations to secure the necessities of life such as food, clothes, shelter, security, freedom, basic literacy and health care on a long run”. If effective business strategies are imbibed, Entrepreneurship and Family businesses will thrive. The end result will be sustainable development and improved standard of living at the grassroots. Contribution/ Originality
This study contributed significantly to knowledge by clearly identifying the major drawbacks or challenges of entrepreneurs. The study also fully explored the strategies that will lead to effective and efficient entrepreneurship which will optimize the gains of family businesses for sustainable livelihood and enhanced standard of living. Business & Management » International Journal of Management and Sustainability » Month: 01-2015 Issue: 1
Features of a Strategic Approach to Human Resource Management
Research Article
Author(s):
Journal: International Journal of Management and Sustainability
Success of strategic human resource management is considered from the point of view of existence of negative qualities of firm personnel. Such parameters of employees, as commitment to stereotypes of group behavior, stay in the field of ordinary consciousness, the low level of personal culture and lack of skills of logical thinking are considered. Convolution matrix with parameters staff proposed for use as a measure of the success of management. It is established that firms numbering personnel from 45 to 85 people can be the most successful for Russia on this indicator. Contribution/ Originality
Article is devoted to the determining the parameters of collectives in terms of socio-economic parameters of people. For the first time, it is proposed for this purpose use the convolution of matrix. Matrix gives an indication of how the composition the company personnel affect its functioning in a strategic sense. Business & Management » International Journal of Management and Sustainability » Month: 02-2015 Issue: 2
Mental Disorders Signs in Afghan Immigrants/Refugees
Research Article
Author(s):
Journal: International Journal of Management and Sustainability
Introduction: The goal of the study was to identify mental disorders signs in Afghan immigrants/refugees who lived in Tehran, Iran. Materials & Methods: In this research 453 Afghan immigrants/refugees (227 male and 226 female) were selected by cluster sampling from different areas of Tehran city. Instruments were a demographic questionnaire and GHQ-28 that completed by Afghan interviewers. Data were analyzed using descriptive analysis. SPSS software was used for analysis. Results: Findings showed that on the subscales of GHQ-28, prevalence of mental disorders signs in Afghan immigrants/refugees was high. Prevalence of Somatic signs was 6/3%- 15/1%, Social dysfunction signs were 3/2%-16/7%, Anxiety/insomnia signs were 7/5%-16/3% and Severe Depression signs was 2/8%- 21/8%. The most common signs on the subscale of Somatic symptoms were feel run down and out of sorts (15/1%), and getting any pains in the head (11/9%), on the subscale of Anxiety/insomnia were loose of much sleep over worry, feel constantly under strain social dysfunction (each of them 16/3%), feel nervous and strung-up all the time (14/3%), and getting edgy and bad-tempered (12/3%), on the subscale of Social dysfunction was being able to enjoy your normal day-to-day activities (16/7%), on the subscale of Severe Depression were feel that life is entirely hapless (21/8%), feel that life isn’t worth living(19/4%), find yourself wishing you were dead and away from it all(15/9%), and being thinking of yourself as a worthless person (10/7%) Conclusion: Mental disorders signs had high prevalence in Afghan immigrants/refugees. So attention to mental health of them is necessary. Mental health care, psychiatric/psychological interventions are recommended for them. In providing of comprehensive/ widespread mental health services, attention to religion/spirituality, and religious/spiritual interventions, is very important, which they consequently will increase self-efficacy and in turn, will promote mental health in them. It should be taken a community approach for providing such interventions. In the community approaches, primary prevention, treatment and rehabilitation are doing, in any level of health services, in inner of immigrant/refugee community. Specific aspect of this approach is insistence on participation in collective action, training in prevention of mental disorders and psycho educational training. Contribution/ Originality
This study contributes to investigate in terms of mental health problems of Afghan immigrants/refugees. It uses modified version of existing methodologies. It originates new formula about fight against terrorism/terrorist groups that by developing of insecurity/instability and war, increase immigration/refuge and they cause many mental health problems for people in the world. The article’s primary contribution is findings that recommend new strategies of mental health promotion for immigrants/refugees. Business & Management » International Journal of Management and Sustainability » Month: 02-2015 Issue: 2
Implementing IFRS for SMEs: Challenges for Developing Economies
Research Article
Author(s):
Journal: International Journal of Management and Sustainability
In their efforts to assist accountability for small and medium-sized enterprises globally, the International Accounting Standards Board issued the Exposure Draft: International Financial Reporting Standards for Small and Medium sized Enterprises (IFRS for SMEs) in 2007. Three countries from the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) are amongst the 66 jurisdictions to state they would adopt the IFRS for SMEs. This paper critically examines the forces driving adoption, participation of stakeholders in the processes of development of the IFRS for SMEs, implementation issues and possible dysfunctional consequences for entrepreneurs in developing countries. We question the suitability of the IFRS for SMEs for adoption, particularly by the developing economies within ASEAN. We find the one-size-fits-all-standard for SMEs, with a capital markets orientation, does not accommodate well the differing cultures, ways of doing business, regulatory frameworks, underlying philosophies, or needs of users of financial reports from SMEs. We conclude that adoption without modifications or exemptions would provide few benefits for SMEs in emerging economies; rather it would be burdensome to entrepreneurs and inappropriate for achieving national economic growth targets. Imposition of the IFRS for SMEs may inadvertently result in reduced entrepreneurship activity in response to onerous financial reporting requirements. We suggest that investment in the business infrastructure is a priority. Further, in-depth research should be undertaken, in each jurisdiction before adoption of the IFRS for SMEs, on the challenges that are likely to be faced in implementing the standard. Our paper contributes to the discussion on the adoption and implementation of the internationalization of accounting standards. Contribution/ Originality
We synthesize the current literature on challenges experienced in implementing the IFRS for SMEs, with a focus on developing economies, in particular ASEAN members. Additionally, we signal the possibility of discouraging entrepreneurship activities that may result in a reduction numbers of registered entrepreneurial entities and reduction in national growth aspirations. Business & Management » International Journal of Management and Sustainability » Month: 03-2015 Issue: 3
The Sudan Civil Service: One Century of Development
Research Article
Author(s):
Journal: International Journal of Management and Sustainability
This paper seeks to explore and explain quantitative growth of the Sudan Civil Service throughout the 20th Century. The basic contention is that such growth is explainable in terms of political regime orientations and responsiveness, on the one hand, and citizens’ demands for services on the other. It adopts an historical approach involving comparison of civil service growth across political regimes. Thus, the colonial regime established law and order and cared about provision of services and infrastructure through bureaucracy. The first post-independence regime localized the civil service and created too many ministerial posts, departments and jobs to cope with escalating demands for services and development. The next socialist military regime, in line with its ideology, chose to enlarge the public sector and introduce far reaching measures of decentralization resulting in more responsive governance that led to further growth of bureaucracy. The final escalation of civil service growth took place during the period of 1989-2000 and continued up to the present. At the outset the incumbent Islamic government sought to downsize the large public sector, but ended up introducing a federal system for the first time in the country leading to more autonomy and responsiveness, eventually increasing public employment. Contribution/ Originality
This study is the only one to investigate the phenomenal growth of Sudan Civil Service during the 20th Century. Such growth is explained in terms of political regime orientations, citizen’s escalating demands for services and development and, most important, increasing tendency to decentralize governance leading to more participation and responsiveness Business & Management » International Journal of Management and Sustainability » Month: 03-2015 Issue: 3
Abstract