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The Influence of the Prevention, Advocacy, Distribution, Repair, and Adjustment Functions of Teacher Guidance and Counselling on the Psychosocial Conditions, Self-Reliance, and Competence of High School Students in DKI Jakarta Province
Research Article
Author(s):
Journal: International Journal of Education and Practice
This study investigated the effect of the preventive, advocacy, distribution, repair, and adjustment function variables on psychosocial conditions, self-reliance, and student competency. The study was conducted on 12th grade students in the social science and natural science study programmes in four high schools in the national capital of the Republic of Indonesia, DKI Jakarta Province, with a sample of 130 students (74 males and 56 females). The results of the study showed that not all proposed hypotheses were acceptable but did show very meaningful results. The prevention, advocacy, and adjudication function variables have a positive influence on the development of psychosocial conditions of students, while the advocacy, distribution, and adjustment function variables have a positive influence on the development of self-reliance conditions. The two variables were able to become intermediate variables in influencing student competence. Considering the important function of counselling for BK / GC teachers, it is recommended that the government (especially the provincial government) be able to establish cooperation with universities in meeting the needs of BK / GC teachers. Contribution/ Originality
This paper explains the influence of guidance and counseling functions in developing psychosocial, independence and student competence. The existence of teacher guidance and counseling in schools is needed in order to be able to carry out the roles as expected. Arts and Education » International Journal of Education and Practice » Month: 01-2020 Issue: 1
Externality Effects of Sachet and Plastic Bottled Water Consumption on the Environment: Evidence from Benin City and Okada in Nigeria
Research Article
Author(s):
Journal: International Journal of Sustainable Development & World Policy
This paper examines the public perception of the externality effects of sachet and plastic bottled water consumption in Benin City and Okada. The methodology applied to source for data involved both the qualitative and quantitative analysis, through the use of questionnaires with well-structured questions and informal personal interviews. 320 respondents were then selected from the four local government areas of Oredo, Egor, Ikpoba-Okha and Ovia North East that make up Benin City and Okada. The results of the study as indicated by majority of the various respondents revealed the absence of tap water supply. The wastes from sachet and plastic bottles constitute danger to our environment by blocking the water ways and hindering the draining system, depositing debris in the affected rivers, thereby creating negative externalities to our environment. The study also showed that the perennial flooding in Benin City and Okada could be associated with indiscriminate disposal of empty sachets and plastic bottles. The study recommends the following; local government authorities should try to provide waste bins in every street and these should be managed and monitored by their authorized agents. Private firms that are involved in sachet and plastic bottled water production should be encouraged to establish recycling plants that can recycle plastic wastes into other useful materials in line with renewable energy mandate. Government should properly enforce the laws against indiscriminate disposal of wastes, where offenders are punished in order to maintain proper disposal of wastes in Benin City and the entire states of the Federation. Contribution/ Originality
This study contributes in the existing literature on environment climate change action on the SDGs. The paper's primary contribution is finding that wastes from sachet and plastic bottles constitute danger to our environment by blocking the water ways and hindering the draining system, depositing debris in the affected rivers. Economics » International Journal of Sustainable Development & World Policy » Month: 03-2020 Issue: 1
The Oils Refining Process and Contaminants in Edible Oils: A Review
Edible oils are widely consumed foods. These oils come from various animal materials raw and vegetable products. Edible oils are prone to many contaminants. Contaminants can be found at all levels from oilseed production to conservation through refining processes and end up in oils. The contaminants origin may be of endogenous or exogenous. These are water, phosphorus, non-visible insoluble compounds, free fatty acids, residual hexane, benzo [a] pyrene, pesticides, dioxins, mycotoxins, mineral oils, cargo residues, minerals such as iron, copper, lead, gossypol, many primary and secondary oxidation products, etc. To eliminate or limit these compounds having a nuisance or toxicity for the consumer, it is allowed the refining of oils (chemical, physical or enzymatic). In addition, the regulatory limits of anti-nutritional factors in edible oils have been set in order to obtain quality oils and to guarantee the health of consumer living in developing country. This results in analytical methods developed for quantitative and qualitative evaluation of oils intended for human consumption. Contribution/ Originality
This study on the contaminants of edible oils contributes to knowledge the sanitary consumption of these oils and their analytical methods. Previously, the contaminants in the oils did not experience infatuation. Our study focuses on pesticides, mycotoxins and gossypol which are anti-nutritional factors present in edible oils widely consumed. Agricultural Sciences » Journal of Food Technology Research » Month: 06-2020 Issue: 1
Analysis of Internal Nutrient Load Dynamics from the Sediment in Lake Ziway
Research Article
Author(s):
Journal: International Journal of Chemistry and Materials Research
Lake Ziway is shallow freshwater located in Northern part of Ethiopian Rift Valley. Expansions of the flower industry, widespread fisheries, intensive agricultural activities, fast population growth lead to deterioration of both water and sediment qualities and depletion of aquatic biota. The main objective of this study is to evaluate the internal nutrient load dynamics from the sediment. Nutrients in sediment samples were analyzed according to the standard procedures outlined in EPA, 1994 and phosphorus release rate were estimated with THE methods described in Steinman, et al. [3]. The results of sediment depth profile analyses showed that the mean concentrations of SRP, TP, NO3-N, NO2-N and TN were 27.7, 62, 5.28, 8.51 and 1733 mg/kg, respectively in dry season, and 21.2, 73, 7.99, 28.4, 24.2 and 1750 mg/kg, respectively in wet season. The values for all the studied nutrients distribution were higher at sediment top surface and decline with depth of the sediment profiles in most of the sampling sites and seasons. The results of the seasonal evaluation of phosphorus flux from lake sediments showed that sediments were sources of phosphorus. The findings from the current study indicate that internal sources of nutrients to Lake Ziway vary across time and space. Understanding this variation and internal nutrient load is important in developing mitigation and restoration strategies for the lake ecosystems. Contribution/ Originality
The main objective of this study is to evaluate the internal nutrient load dynamics from the sediment. Nutrients in sediment samples were analyzed according to the standard procedures outlined in EPA, 1994 and phosphorus release rate were estimated with THE methods described in Steinman, et al. [3]. Chemistry & Materials Sciences » International Journal of Chemistry and Materials Research » Month: 06-2020 Issue: 1
Nexus between Non-Oil Sectoral Contribution and Economic Growth in Nigeria 1981-2018
Nigeria has the largest economy in Africa and has the potential of rising through the world rankings to be among the top economies in the world. To achieve this however, diversification from over dependence on crude oil is required. Nigeria’s intrinsic potential lies beyond oil; harnessing this potential has become an imperative given the volatility of oil prices. This study identifies the non-oil sector as a priority sector with the most dominant transmission links to the overall economy. This sector in the medium-to-long term is key to boosting employment, reducing poverty and improving domestic food security. Therefore, the nexus between non-oil sector contribution and Nigeria economic growth is investigated, vis-a-vis the effect of government’s increased focus and investment in this sector. The study employed Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) model and Vector Error Correction Model (VECM). The reason for using this model is that it is simple and can be applied easily without consideration for the stationarity of the variables (at level or at first difference). The results confirmed the short-run relationship between the variables where non-oil revenue immediately impact the GDP growth of Nigeria by 8.49%. The study then conclude that the non-oil sector is crucial to the economic growth of Nigeria and therefore suggested increased government investment in the non-oil sector as well as strengthening of institutions. Contribution/ Originality
This study provides a better understanding of the non-oil sector and the factors that enhances its ability to function at full capacity as well as the dangers that the over reliance on oil poses to the nation. Economics » The Economics and Finance Letters » Month: 06-2020 Issue: 1
Quality Education from Faculty Management Perspectives in Private Higher Education: Does Faculty Commitment Behaviour Mediate?
Research Article
Author(s):
Journal: International Journal of Education and Practice
The purpose of this paper is two-fold. First, how do specific HRM practices such as faculty job security, compensation and job autonomy relate with commitment behaviour which, in turn, affects quality education? Second, how does faculty commitment behaviour play a mediating role in the links between those specific HRM practices and quality education? To answer these questions, a theoretical framework using the side-bet theory as its basis was established. Using measurement scales created to assess different aspects of job security, compensation, job autonomy, commitment behaviour of the faculty members and quality education, a survey instrument was developed to test various hypotheses implied by the side-bet theory. Data (n=516) were collected from 20 business schools in private universities in Bangladesh and the analysis of this data-set helps answer questions about the relationships between afore-mentioned HR constructs and quality education. The findings suggest that the faculty commitment behaviour significantly mediates between quality education and faculty job security, compensation and job autonomy in the private universities in Bangladesh. Contribution/ Originality
This study is one of few studies which have investigated the influence of HRM practices on quality education in private higher education institutes mediating by faculty commitment behaviour. Arts and Education » International Journal of Education and Practice » Month: 01-2020 Issue: 1
Rural Harvested Rainwater: Effect of Roof Types and its Design on Water Quality and Health: A Case for CBP Approach in Anambra State
The rainwater quality harvested from rooftops in remote African communities has become a huge concern due to its potential risks on community health. This study addressed the effect of harvested rainwater quality and the design of the collection system from 3 common roof types on public health in Orsumoghu, Ihiala, LGA in Anambra State. This study employed the case study approach and mixed methods. Mixed methods combined the survey and laboratory methods. The survey method included field observation, interviews, photography and 250 questionnaires were randomly sampled. The laboratory method employed physic-chemical and biological analysis of rain water sampled from three (3) common rooftop systems in the area (aluminum, concrete, and zinc). The parameters analyzed were pH, temperature, hardness, conductivity, turbidity, TSS, TDS, COD, sulphates, Zinc, Lead, Cadmium and Coliform. Findings from the study showed that the poor design of RWHS coupled with mining and agricultural activities may have increased the concentration of atmospheric pollutants in the area. Findings proved that pH and three heavy metals (Zn, Ca and pb) were all above the WHO acceptable limits. Coliform as the bacterial indicator was present in the samples from aluminum and zinc roofs. However, concrete roof was free from pathogenic contamination. ANOVA analysis showed that there a difference between quality of harvested rainwater and WHO standard. To address this challenge this study recommended a community-based participatory research (CBPR) as an all-inclusive tool to promote rooftop RHW design as a rural development project that would protect the rainwater quality and minimize health risks. Contribution/ Originality
This paper contributes the first comprehensive analysis identifying (CBPR) as a tool for the sustainable rural development RHW project. It highlights the peculiar limitations of Rooftop RWH design in Orsumoghu where regulations, sanitary design and fittings are absent and hence, during collection varied pollutants are introduced leading to health risks. Energy & Environmental Sciences » Review of Environment and Earth Sciences » Month: 03-2020 Issue: 1
Occupational Health Exposure and Perceived Effects of Portland Cement Dust Pollution on Cement Factory Workers
The perceived occupational and environmental health challenges arising from the exposure of cement dust pollution on Bua cement factory workers were investigated in this study to establish if there is any significance of cement dust exposure on workers’ health. The study was designed as a cross-sectional type of research that adopted a purposive group based strategy for sampling. 110 cement factory workers with a minimum of two years’ work experience were selected for the study. 90 respondents were randomly selected from a community situated at about 21km away from the factory and used as control. Structured questionnaire was used for data collection and SPSS statistical package was used to analyze the data. Inferential statistics was used to test the hypotheses at p <0.05, ascertain correlation of the variables and authenticate the analysed results. The result revealed that 15 types of ailment were reported among the sampled respondents with factory workers recording higher percentage occurrence of ailments than respondents from the control. Factory workers were more susceptible to the itemized ailments recorded when compared to respondents from control. Significant difference in the prevalence of perceived health ailments between factory workers and control was established. Workers from storage and transportation section were revealed to have higher percentage (77.3%) compliance level on the use of safety gadgets during work hours than workers from other sections. Also, a significant relationship between the perceived health risks associated with cement dust exposure and the health of factory workers was established. The researchers made reasonable recommendations to forestall further health complications that might arise from working on a cement production factory. Contribution/ Originality
This study contributes to the existing literature on occupational exposure and perceived effects of cement dust pollution on factory workers. It also provides in depth findings of the associated health effects arising from cement production on workers in Nigeria precisely. Energy & Environmental Sciences » Journal of Atmosphere » Month: 03-2020 Issue: 1
Knowledge and Perception of Trainee Teachers towards the LGBTQ + Community
Research Article
Author(s):
Journal: International Journal of Education and Practice
This research investigated the level of knowledge and perceptions of trainee teachers towards the LGBTQ + community. In order to achieve this, a descriptive study was carried out, with the objective of becoming aware of the expectations and preconceptions held by trainee teachers in the fourth year of their degree course in Primary and Infant Education during the 2018-2019 session. In addition, limitations of the educational approach and the keys to awareness and acceptance in school, of sexual and gender diversity, were also investigated. In order to collect the data a questionnaire instrument was used and a discussion group was also identified. The key results revealed that trainee teachers do understand the reality of this community and are disposed in favour of the acceptance of sexual and gender diversity in the classroom. In fact, they demonstrated the need for important training in order to provide an effective approach to sexually related material. Contribution/ Originality
This study helps to make visible how education professionals are not trained to recognize and work on sexual and gender diversity in the classroom and avoid lesbo/homo/bi/transphobic behaviours that resulting in not achieving equality and real inclusion of the LGBTQ+ community. Arts and Education » International Journal of Education and Practice » Month: 06-2020 Issue: 2
Numerical Solutions of Black-Scholes Model by Du Fort-Frankel FDM and Galerkin WRM
Research Article
Author(s):
Journal: International Journal of Mathematical Research
The main objective of this paper is to find the approximate solutions of the Black-Scholes (BS) model by two numerical techniques, namely, Du Fort-Frankel finite difference method (DF3DM), and Galerkin weighted residual method (GWRM) for both (call and put) type of European options. Since both DF3DM and GWRM are the most familiar numerical techniques for solving partial differential equations (PDE) of parabolic type, we estimate options prices by using these techniques. For this, we first convert the Black-Scholes model into a modified parabolic PDE, more specifically, in DF3DM, the first temporal vector is calculated by the Crank-Nicolson method using the initial boundary conditions and then the option price is evaluated. On the other hand, in GWRM, we use piecewise modified Legendre polynomials as the basis functions of GWRM which satisfy the homogeneous form of the boundary conditions. We may observe that the results obtained by the present methods converge fast to the exact solutions. In some cases, the present methods give more accurate results than the earlier results obtained by the adomian decomposition method [14]. Finally, all approximate solutions are shown by the graphical and tabular representations. Contribution/ Originality
The paper’s primary contribution is finding that the approximate results of Black-Scholes model by DF3DM, and GWRM with modified Legendre polynomials as basis functions. Arts and Education » International Journal of Mathematical Research » Month: 06-2020 Issue: 1
Re-Engineering Nigerian Economy through Human Capital Development: A Case of Manufacturing Firms In Southern Part of Nigeria
The poor economic situation of Africa especially Nigeria has attracted government efforts to re-engineer the economy through bilateral agreements with developed countries, trade, investment which unfortunately have been met with unproductive outcomes. Consequently, it has become imperative to explore possible means of re-engineering the economy especially in Nigeria through development of human capital. Hence, this study examines re-engineering Nigerian economy through human capital development: a case study of manufacturing companies. The study employed the descriptive survey research design. The population of the study was 828 employees from two manufacturing firms which are Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing Co. Ltd in Anambra state and Ibeto Group of Companies Ltd. in Rivers state, out of which 269 participants were used in the study. Data for the study were collected through the use of questionnaire. Data collected was analyzed using the Pearson Product Moment Correlation. Findings of the study indicated that the nature of relationship between skill development and corporate performance in Manufacturing Firms in Southern part of Nigeria is significantly positive. The study concluded that human capital development is an essential tool which improves the nation’s key assets (her citizens), in order to increase and reengineer economic growth and development. It is further recommended that government of Nigeria should inculcate and implement enhanced training and development programmes especially for the youths who have more workforce capacity so as to motivate them in contributing to the nation’s economic growth and development in all sectors. Contribution/ Originality
The study contributes in the existing literature by establishing how skill development can enhance or reengineer the Nigerian economy through manufacturing firms. Economics » Journal of Social Economics Research » Month: 03-2020 Issue: 1
Synthesis, Characterization and Antimicrobial Analysis of 1-(1-Phenylazo)-2-Naphthol
Research Article
Author(s):
Journal: International Journal of Chemistry and Materials Research
Pathogenic microorganisms are capable of causing various illnesses and diseases to its hosts (humans, animals and plants) and has prompted researchers in search of antibiotics to be used in treatment of such ill-health conditions. Azo dyes possess some interesting colours and usages in many industries. In the present study, 1-(1-Phenylazo)-2-naphthol azo dye was synthesized by diazotization of aniline and coupling reaction with 2-naphthol. The results obtained from the UV-vis, IR and NMR spectra were able to elucidate the important peaks in the compound. The concentrations of 200 ?g/mL, 30 ?g/mL control drugs [Augmentin (Au) and Oflocitoxin (OFX)] and raw sample of the compound were able to inhibit Staphylococcus aureus at 0.1 mm, 15 mm, 13 mm and 0.4 mm marks respectively while the concentrations of 200 ?g/mL, 30 ?g/mL Augmentin (Au, control drug), 30 ?g/mL Oflocitoxin (OFX, control drug) and raw sample of the compound had inhibitions of 0.2 mm, 21 mm, 19 mm and 0.4 mm marks respectively against Escherichia coli; Aspergillus fumigatus was resistant across all prepared concentrations and raw sample of the compounds, including the 30 ?g/mL control drugs [Augmentin (Au) and Oflocitoxin (OFX)] from the antimicrobial analysis carried out. The minimum inhibitory concentrations of the compound was estimated at 200 ?g/mL concentration. Contribution/ Originality
The study contributes in the existing literature of 1-(1-phenylazo)-2-naphthol, and recommends its use as antibiotics for treatment of certain bacterial related diseases and infections in comparison with some commercial drugs which could be toxic and highly concentrated to the infected hosts. Chemistry & Materials Sciences » International Journal of Chemistry and Materials Research » Month: 06-2020 Issue: 1
Phototactic Response of Two Spotted Cricket (Gryllus bimaculatus De Geer) to Electric Bulb Light Colours and Types
Research Article
Author(s):
Journal: International Journal of Sustainable Agricultural Research
This study examined the phototactic response of two spotted cricket (G. bimaculatus) to incandescent and LED bulb light of different colours. Light traps fitted with 25 Watts incandescent bulbs and 3 Watts Light Emitting Diode (LED) of different colours (red, yellow, green, blue and white) were used. Also included was a control trap. The traps were operated from 1800hr to 2400hr. G. bimaculatus collected were counted and the data subjected to variance analysis. Student Newman Keul’s test was used to separate significantly different means at 5% level of probability. Relationship between light intensity and insect density was assessed by correlation and linear regression analysis. Results indicated that LED had higher mean intensity despite lower wattage and that, Blue colour had the highest mean intensity (736.80 Lux) among the LEDs and white (1094.20 Lux) among the incandescent bulbs. Statistical analysis showed that differences in attractiveness among LED bulb colours were due to random variation (p = 0.17); however was significant (p < 0.001) among incandescent bulbs. Of the total G. bimaculatus collected attracted, 93.7% was by LED bulbs with blue LED bulb alone attracting 57.1%. Light intensity was positively and significantly correlated with density of G. bimaculatus attracted for both LED (r = 0.92, R2 = 84.4%) and incandescent (r = 0.96, R2 = 92.5%) bulbs. Higher attraction of G. bimaculatus to blue coloured LED bulbs could be attributed to preference and/or high light intensity. Blue LED bulbs of higher intensity can thus be used to manipulate G. bimaculatus for man’s benefit. Contribution/ Originality
The study is one of few that investigated the phototactic response of G. bimaculatus to electric light type and colours. This information is necessary in manipulating the insect’s directional movement behaviour for the benefit of man. Agricultural Sciences » International Journal of Sustainable Agricultural Research » Month: 06-2020 Issue: 2
Factors Affecting Academic Performance of First-Year University Students: A Case of a Vietnamese University
Research Article
Author(s):
Journal: International Journal of Education and Practice
Having research-informed and evidence-based information into factors that impact students’ academic performance is crucial for institutions to be able to identify gaps in the provision of training and support for students. This study is motivated by the need to determine and analyse such factors at a university that has been experiencing high academic failure and dropout rates. The study employed quantitative research methods with the leading research instrument being a survey administered to 397 first-year students from 13 disciplines and 7 faculties. Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) and multiple linear regression were used to identify the underlying relationships between variables. According to the research findings, there are five key factors that contribute to academic performance and success of first-year university students, namely, students' motivation, lecturers' pedagogical knowledge and skills, lecturers' professional knowledge and credential, learning resources and conditions and course structure. . These factors have been ranked from the one with the most substantial effect to the one that confers least impact. The findings can have important implications for proposing measures to improve academic performance for the university as well as other institutions in the higher education sector. Contribution/ Originality
The paper's primary objective was to find out the prime factors, which affect the academic performance of first-year university students as well as the motivation to study. The findings can be used by the instructors as the basis upon which they can help students overcome stress and integrate into the learning environment as soon as they enter university. Arts and Education » International Journal of Education and Practice » Month: 06-2020 Issue: 2
Factors Influencing Voluntary Audit among Small and Medium Enterprises: The Malaysian Evidence
In Malaysia, the Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) are encouraged to get their financial statements audited although such practice is on a voluntary basis. This study examined the voluntary practices of the SMEs in getting their financial statements audited. Specifically, this study examined the factors influencing the voluntary audit among the SMES. Three factors were chosen namely, improved quality of financial statements, managerial ownership and managers’ perception towards voluntary audit. Using a questionnaire as the research instrument on 70 SMEs, the results showed that managerial ownership and managers’ perception towards voluntary audit influence the SMEs to get their financial statements audited. However, the results showed that there is a negative relationship of the improvement quality of financial statements towards voluntary audits among the SMEs. The findings provide further understanding on the SMEs’ action in willingness to adopt one practice. In addition, this study also provides valuable information to the Malaysian regulatory and professional accounting bodies in their debates on providing audit exemption for the SMEs in Malaysia. Contribution/ Originality
This study contributes to the existing literature by examining the voluntary practices of the SMEs in getting their financial statements audited. Social Sciences » Humanities and Social Sciences Letters » Month: 03-2020 Issue: 1
The Influence of Social Media on Public Policy Changes in Bandar Lampung City
This research investigated the use of social media and its implication on policy changes. The study used a qualitative descriptive approach as its research design. Social media users in Bandar Lampung who respond (criticism, support, suggestion, rejection and disagreement) to public policy in Bandar Lampung were used as the instrument of data collection. The results of the research showed that the presence of social media especially among middle class users was used as an instrument to respond to public policies in Bandar Lampung. There was a change in the relationship between the public and the government, from conventional models shifting to an internet-based relationship model. The findings also showed that not all criticisms, suggestions or opinions of the public had implications for policy changes, except in the case of the traffic engineering management policy. The termination of the traffic engineering management policy happened because this policy did not solve traffic jams around the Tugu Pahlawan to the Teuku Umar street, in Danrem Garuda Hitam. Social media platforms were used as a means for the public to express their criticism and opinion on the policy and the Bandar Lampung government responded by terminating the traffic engineering management policy and restoring the original route. In general, when a public policy is criticized or protested by the public, the Bandar Lampung government’s response tends to argue against the policy. Contribution/ Originality
The paper’s primary contribution is in finding that a model of political relationship between citizen and government through social media is very beneficial in the process of policy making. In addition, the findings showed social media as political instrument in delivering public aspiration. Social Sciences » Humanities and Social Sciences Letters » Month: 03-2020 Issue: 1
Analysis of Traffic Accident Occurrence at Hazardous Road Locations: A Case Study in Tunisia
Research Article
Author(s):
Journal: International Journal of Public Policy and Administration Research
The main objective of this study was to investigate the impact of factors linked to the geometric, roadway and traffic flow characteristics on traffic accident occurrence at Hazardous Road Locations (HRL) in the region of Sousse, Tunisia using longitudinal data of 52 HRLs for an 11-year monitoring period from January 1, 2004 to December 31, 2014. The results of estimation of Negative Binomial model and the Random Effects Negative Binomial model reported that the different variables representing the presence of rural segment, the curved alignment, the visibility, the average daily traffic volume, the presence of public lighting, the number of lane, the presence of vertical/horizontal sign, the presence of drainage system, the presence of paved shoulder, the roadway surface condition, and the presence of major road were the main significant variables influencing accident occurrences. Therefore, the results could be useful for deciders in the transport sector in order to implement effective measures to improve road safety by adopting proper sound use practices, establishing efficient transportation systems and formulating appropriate traffic policies and legislation. Contribution/ Originality
This is one of the few studies which have investigated the occurrence of traffic accidents at Hazardous Road Locations in the region of Sousse (Tunisia) as a function of various explanatory factors linked to the geometric characteristics, roadway characteristics and traffic flow characteristics. Economics » International Journal of Public Policy and Administration Research » Month: 06-2020 Issue: 1
Effect of Factors of Body Composition, Body Stature and Distribution of Lifters in the Weight Categories
It was demonstrated that for the biomechanical evaluation of the relative performance the complex system (body + barbell) should be taken into account. Another factor is the body-composition (muscle-, fat- and bone ratios) of the lifters. The most dominant is the muscle-ratio, which is significantly less in the super-heavyweight category than in the others. Modification parameter is the physique of the athlete (dominantly the body height), because to reach higher level with the barbell during the pull it is necessary to have higher speed, so consequently the lifter has to perform higher acceleration and needs more strength to carry it out. The body height is important from point of view of energetics, as well – the physical work performed by a taller lifter is more – influencing also the regeneration time and the loadability, reducing the level of sport result. The physique and body composition has an impact also on the movement-structure and the technical skill (level) of attempts. In the super-heavyweight the technique is often far from the optimum, concerning the biomechanical requirements (e.g. the disturbing effect of the big belly). The last factor is the distribution of lifters in the different categories, surely if the number of lifters is not similar in the different categories, the expectable sport level can be also different. Contribution/ Originality
This study uses new estimation methodology for analysis of the relative performance of top weightlifters, taking into consideration also the body composition, body stature and distribution of lifters in the different weight categories. Physical Sciences » Journal of Sports Research » Month: 06-2020 Issue: 1
The Impact of Land Price Movements on the Properties in Croatia
The Mediterranean countries of the European Union record diversions in real estate along the coast. Based on the hypothesis that land prices are playing a significant role in increasing housing prices, the goal of our research was to determine to what extent that factor is important in Croatia. The reason for price unsteadiness is most often examined through main macroeconomic aspects but very few researches are using land prices as the main assumption of this problem. The study is carried out using Davis and Heathcote (2005) for determining factors of home value. By observing the period from 2002 to 2017 and from the given results we were able to deliver prediction for future market movements until 2025 using the Double exponential smoothing model. The analysis showed that there is a positive correlation between financial crisis and fall of land price index in all parts of Croatia except the coastal region as research proposed initially. It is shown that real estate prices will continue to grow, but the index of land prices will not follow this growth in parallel. Rather other factors like cost of building will have bigger share in the overall price. The outcome provides an important opportunity to advance the understanding of housing market movements in Croatia by regions and might serve as guidance in future policy creation. Contribution/ Originality
This study is one of the very few studies which emphasize the importance of land prices in overall real estate prices and bring them into context with the geographical position of the Croatian regions. Economics » Journal of Social Economics Research » Month: 03-2020 Issue: 1
Characterization and Classification of Cropland-Soils Affected by Erosion in Igbudu Ikwo, Southeastern Nigeria
Research Article
Author(s):
Journal: International Journal of Sustainable Agricultural Research
This research was carried out in Igbudu Ikwo, Ebonyi State in Southeastern Nigeria to investigate and classify some cropland-soils affected by erosion. Three profile pits were dug and samples were collected in their horizons. The soils physico-chemical properties analyzed indicated that all investigated soils were sandy loam (SL), bulk density was high ranging from 1.51, 1.59 and 1.42 gcm-3in pedons 1, 2 and 3 due to the preponderance of high sandiness, although within the acceptable levels (<1.85). Available P was medium (5 – 15 mgkg-1) in pedon 2 and high (>15 mgkg-1) in pedons 1 and 3. Organic matter was medium (2.0 - 4.2%) at pedons 1 and 3 and low < 2% in pedon 2 when critical limits was considered. This low organic matter content is a challenge as the soils of Igbudu Ikwo is already prone to erosion and would need high organic matter content to bind the soils particles together against disintegration by erosion processes. Sodium was very low (< 0.1 gkg-1) while K was low (<0.1 – 0.3 gkg-1 Therefore, the inputs of K fertilizer would be necessary to enhance the productivity of the soils. Calcium and Mg were very low when critical limits were considered (<2 gkg-1) and (<0.5 gkg-1) for Ca and Mg respectively. Adequate soil conservation practices and improvement of soil nutrients should be adopted for the optimum productivity of the soils of Igbudu Ikwo, Ebonyi State. The pedons were classified as Arenic Kandiudults in USDA soil taxonomy and Arenic Lixisols when correlated with WRB for soil resources. Contribution/ Originality
This work is the first attempt to characterize and classify soils of Igbudu Ikwo in Southeastern Nigeria even though the area is of huge agricultural significance and under erosion threat. This study provided information on soil physic-chemical properties as well as the current nutrient/fertility situation of the soil. Agricultural Sciences » International Journal of Sustainable Agricultural Research » Month: 06-2020 Issue: 2
Abstract