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Listing 88 - 20 of 2806 results.

Glucose Monitoring Technologies and Challenges: An Update

Research Article
Author(s): Deepali Bisht, Vedika Yadav, Rajsi ., Panchali Saha, Narendra Kumar
Journal: The International Journal of Biotechnology

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Abstract
The innovation of glucometer has set a benchmark to restrain the effects of diabetes. Diabetes is a scourging metabolic disorder, responsible for disabilities and anachronistic deaths among mass populations. The hyperglycemic condition creates physiological and psychological sufferings to the patients. These complications have led to drastic evolvement in the diabetes diagnostic technologies. The pioneer work in the field of glucose monitoring devices started with the development of blood-based sensing practices, extensively used by the patients but it is an invasive technique which induces trouble in the subjects. Thus, a non-invasive, painless method of glucose testing is a new advancement in the range of glucometers and would profoundly increase the compliance and overcome complications. Saliva-based glucometers is a non-invasive approach, has the potential to exceptionally overcome the discomfort brought up by the blood-based invasive methods. The objective of presenting this review is to provide the chronological series of events in the identification of the disease along with the technological advancements in the glucose monitoring devices.
Contribution/ Originality
This study contributes in the existing literature about the glucose monitoring technologies available in current use as well as the upcoming technologies which will add the comfort and painless methods for glucose testing to support patient care.
Biological Sciences » The International Journal of Biotechnology » Month: 01-2019 Issue: 1

Management of Educational Support Services and Attainment of Universal Basic Education Goals in Primary Schools in Cross River State

Research Article
Author(s): Owan, V. J.
Journal: Humanities and Social Sciences Letters

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Abstract
The main objective of this paper was to examine the relationship between management of educational support services and the attainment of Universal Basic Education goals in Cross River State. Three null hypotheses were formulated in this study. The study adopted correlational research design. Census technique was employed in selecting the entire population of 2,078 primary school administrators in the state. The instruments used for data collection were “Management of Educational Support Services Questionnaire (MESSQ); and Attainment of Universal Basic Education Goals Questionnaire (AUBEGQ)” respectively. The data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics, while the null hypotheses were all tested using Pearson Product Moment Correlation Analysis at .05 alpha levels. The results from the study revealed that; management of guidance/counselling services, staff development services, and ICT services are significantly related to the attainment of Universal Basic Education goals respectively. Based on these results, it was recommended among others that; the ministry of education should ensure that there is adequate provision of professional guidance counsellors to every primary school in Cross River State in order to help address the psychological and persona-social needs of the pupils.
Contribution/ Originality
This study contributes in the existing literature, empirical evidence linking management of educational support services and attainment of Universal Basic Education goals. In Cross River State, no study has documented such relationship with specific focus on guidance/counselling services, teachers’ professional development services, library services, and ICT services.
Social Sciences » Humanities and Social Sciences Letters » Month: 12-2018 Issue: 4

Conceptualisation of Lack of Discipline and Probity as the Main Cause towards Good Governance Practice

Research Article
Author(s): Abdul-Kahar Adam, Ebi Shahrin Bin Suleiman, Nasser Salim Moh. Alsadi
Journal: International Journal of Public Policy and Administration Research

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Abstract
This is a qualitative paper which is to present the facts and literature findings on the causes of good governance practice in Ghana conceptually. It is noted that discipline and probity are the backbone of good governance. Every country in this modern era want to achieve good governance so that there will be improvement in the economic fortunes but this cannot be achieved if there is lack of discipline and lack of probity in the practice. Hence, literature reveals that there are some relationships between discipline (independent variable), probity (mediating variable) and good governance (dependent variable). Good governance is the main important factor to eradicating poverty and advancing development, said by the UN former Secretary General – Kofi Annan (Court, 2001). This research is purely a conceptual research and a model/conceptual framework has been proposed for future scientific research. Hypothesis has been proposed which need to be developed and tested for effective and efficient conclusion in future findings as such. This research only proposes the concepts that are associated with good governance practice – discipline and probity; the methods used are the secondary sources of data findings were analyzed. Future research findings, analysis and recommendation is eminent on this proposed concept model for future researchers. Therefore, a strong methodology is needed to support all the findings and interpretations of the hypothesis. In this instance, quantitative and qualitative study as a mixed method would be suitable for future research to test relationships and hypothesis that are been identified in the proposed conceptual model.
Contribution/ Originality
The aim of this conceptual paper is to contribute to the burning issues of the lack of discipline and probity as a deterrent in the developing world from achieving good governance. This study contributes in the existing literature of the concepts needed in practice to improve good governance for development.
Economics » International Journal of Public Policy and Administration Research » Month: 03-2019 Issue: 1

Forecasting Prices of Three Important Agricultural Crops in Bangladesh

Research Article
Author(s): Md. Abdullah Al Mamun, Sheikh Mohammad Sayem, Mohammad Zakir Hossain, Khondaker Md. Mostafizur Rahman
Journal: Journal of Social Economics Research

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Abstract
The paper investigates the best possible forecasting price models for three important agricultural products of Bangladesh namely potato, onion and garlic based on time-series based secondary data from January 2000 to December 2014. The main objective of this paper is to find out the appropriate time series models using some latest selection criteria that could describe the best price patterns of the above mentioned three agricultural items. In order to forecast the prices of the items, the ARIMA models were used based on model selection criteria and error statistics among the competing models. The overall findings of the study indicate that the fitted models are satisfactory for respective commodities. The study finds increasing trends in forecasted prices of all three commodities. In particular, the increase in price of garlic has been observed to be very high compared to potato and onion. The study also finds that the best fitted SARIMA model for potato is SARIMA (1,0,0) (0,1,2)12, for onion SARIMA (2,0,0) (0,1,1)12, and for garlic SARIMA (2,1,3) (0,1,3)12.
Contribution/ Originality


Economics » Journal of Social Economics Research » Month: inpmonth-0000 Issue: 0

Factors Influencing Accounting Students Under-Performance: A Case Study in a Malaysian Public University

Research Article
Author(s): Nor Syafinaz Shaffee, Emmarelda Maswesi Ahmad, Syed Iskandar Zulkarnain Sayd Idris, Rina Fadhilah Ismail, Erlane K Ghani
Journal: International Journal of Education and Practice

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Abstract
This study examines the factors influencing students’ under-performance in an advanced financial reporting course. Specifically, this study examines four factors which may influence the accounting students’ under-performance in an advanced financial reporting course, namely class attendance, curricular activities, internship experience and English language proficiency. This study conducted a questionnaire survey on 83 final year accounting students who had failed the advanced financial reporting course at least once. The results indicated that class attendance, curricular activities and internship experience are associated with students’ under-performance in this course. However, English language proficiency is not a significant factor influencing students’ under-performance in the advanced financial reporting course. This indicates that understanding the content rather than the language used to teach the course is more important for student success in this field. However, further analysis shows that English language and curricular activities are significant factors for success in the advanced financial reporting course when regressed with other factors. These findings could assist academics in understanding the factors influencing students’ under-performance in the advanced financial reporting course and subsequently help develop strategies to improve results in the classroom.
Contribution/ Originality
This study contributes to existing literature on the importance of class attendance, curricular activities, internship experience and English language proficiency on accounting students’ performance in the advanced financial reporting course.
Arts and Education » International Journal of Education and Practice » Month: 01-2019 Issue: 1

Community Management Plan for Sustainability of Mangrove Ecosystem in Nuxco Lagoon, Guerrero, Mexico

Research Article
Author(s): Garcia-Dominguez Yarely Berenice, Sampedro-Rosas Maria Laura, Castillo-Elias Benjamin, Sonder Kai, Gervacio-Jimenez Herlinda, Bedolla-Solano Ramon
Journal: International Journal of Geography and Geology

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Abstract
Globally conservation of biodiversity and restoration of endangered species (specially the mangroves) has received much critical attention in sustainability studies of regional and tropical ecosystems. Sustainability succeeds when the economy of the region is improved without loss to biological diversity. This work presents a proposal to initiate a Community Management Plan for the sustainability of the Mangrove Ecosystem of Nuxco Lagoon, Guerrero, located in a rural community in the South of México. The objective was to create a proposal with the community called El Veinte, in order to conserve and avail of the environmental services that this ecosystem offers. The project was organized in three phases: Institutional Presentation through a preparatory workshop, Problem Identification, Action Plan. The data included opinions of key informants of the community sampled from municipal public services, staff of schools and individuals involved in key economic activities in the locality. Three topics were determined within the Community Management Plan: Investigation, Education and Preservation and short, medium and long term objectives were assigned to each topic. Through a consensus, the inhabitants of the rural community “El Veinte” identified three priority projects in order to improve the quality of life of the population with an approach of sustainability.
Contribution/ Originality
This study documents a proposal for a Community Management Plan for the Sustainability of Mangrove Ecosystem of the Nuxco Lagoon, a rural town in the South of Mexico. This study pioneers in preparing sustainability proposal without any loss to biological diversity and through the consensus of local community.
Energy & Environmental Sciences » International Journal of Geography and Geology » Month: 01-2019 Issue: 1

Uncertainties in Global Economic Policy and Nigerias Export Earnings

Research Article
Author(s): Balakeffi, Ladi Raulatu, Oboh, Victor Ugbem, Ujunwa Augustine, Fwangkwal, Mwanji Paul
Journal: International Journal of Business, Economics and Management

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Abstract
This study examined the contemporaneous effect of global economic policy uncertainty on Nigeria’s export earnings, using Nigerian data that spans from 1997 to 2016. The theoretical framework relied on the contemporaneous theory of external vulnerability, which posits that macroeconomic shocks from dominant economies could be transferred to lesser dominant economies through international linkages of global economies and financial market. To achieve objective, this study employed the ARDL and GARCH estimation techniques, to estimate the effect of global economic policy uncertainty on Nigeria’s export earnings. The results revealed the adverse effect of global economic policy uncertainty on Nigeria’s export earnings, affirming the vulnerability of Nigeria’s export earnings to external shocks. The practical implication of the finding is that developing economies could insulate their domestic macroeconomic environment from external shocks by diversifying their economies. Importantly, Nigeria should increase diversification of her export base as a coping strategy for protecting against the contemporaneous effect of global economic uncertainties.
Contribution/ Originality
The study contributes to existing literature focusing on export earnings, which is a major source of vulnerability to external shocks in Nigeria. The use of global economic policy uncertainty index appears novel, compare to previous studies that use global output and inflation.
Economics » International Journal of Business, Economics and Management » Month: 01-2019 Issue: 1

Service Quality and Outpatients Satisfaction in Public Hospitals in Malaysia

Research Article
Author(s): Loh Chun Ting, Krishna Moorthy, Ho Wai Kee, Cheang Wai Yee, Lim Wei Yee, Oh An Ni, Yu Wan Ting
Journal: International Journal of Public Policy and Administration Research

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Abstract
The objective of this research is to determine the relationship between service quality and outpatients’ satisfaction towards public hospitals in Malaysia. Five dimensions from SERVQUAL model, Competency, Responsiveness, Courtesy, Tangibility and Reliability are used in the research model. A cross-sectional survey was conducted in hospitals located in States with the highest average outpatient numbers, namely Hospital Kuala Lumpur, Hospital Pulau Pinang and Hospital Putrajaya. The convenience sampling technique was used and 409 useful questionnaires were collected. The results showed that there is a significant positive relationship between Competency, Tangibility, Reliability and Outpatient Satisfaction. However, Responsiveness and Courtesy have a positive and insignificant relationship with Outpatients’ Satisfaction. By determining the significant variables influencing outpatients’ satisfaction, this study gives an insight for managers and staff of public hospitals on the effect of service quality towards outpatients’ satisfaction and also recommends ways for improvement.
Contribution/ Originality


Economics » International Journal of Public Policy and Administration Research » Month: 03-2019 Issue: 1

Satisfaction with Applications Fuels the Growth of Mobile Wallet Use in Thailand

Research Article
Author(s): Donald L. Amoroso, Pajaree Ackaradejruangsri
Journal: International Journal of Business, Economics and Management

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Abstract
In this research, we study factors such as consumer attitudes and personal innovativeness in order to understand the effect of loyalty on satisfaction with mobile wallet applications in Thailand. We developed a research model, based upon previous research, where we propose and examine four constructs. In general, consumer attitudes and personal innovativeness loaded strongly on both loyalty and satisfaction with the Thai consumers sampled. We found strong support for all of the hypothesized relationships, albeit some at different strength levels. It was found that consumer attitudes are an extremely strong factor that increases loyalty and improves satisfaction with mobile wallet applications in Thailand. We also found a very strong impact of satisfaction on loyalty with Thai consumers. This study helps to understand how specific factors influence consumer satisfaction with mobile wallet apps, and what drives consumers’ decisions to be loyal and satisfied customers.
Contribution/ Originality
This study contributes in the existing literature of consumer behavior, particularly consumer satisfaction model. This study uses new estimation methodology of survey construct with snowball sampling approach. This study originates new formula for predicting Thai consumers’ satisfaction in mobile wallet usage. This study is one of the very few studies which have investigated in factors influencing the satisfaction with mobile wallets apps. The paper’s primary contribution is finding that consumer attitudes has a significant influence on Thai consumer loyalty and increase satisfaction.
Economics » International Journal of Business, Economics and Management » Month: 01-2019 Issue: 1

Tabu-Genetic Algorithm-Based Model for Poultry Feed Formulation

Research Article
Author(s): Oluwadare Samuel Adebayo, Gabriel Arome Junior, Ogunrinde Oluwakemi Grace
Journal: International Journal of Sustainable Agricultural Research

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Abstract
Poultry feed cost represents a significant part of operational cost of poultry production. Consequently, efficient feed formulation practice is required for a sustainable poultry production. Many poultry farmers, employ inefficient methods like rule of thumb and intuition to handle feed formulation problem. This paper presents the report of the development of a feed formulation model which can be used to harness the potentials of locally available feed stuffs toward producing a balanced poultry feed. To achieve this aim, a hybrid Tabu-Genetic Algorithm Model ((TAM) was developed for layers mash feed formulation as case study. Thirteen (13) decision variables and eight (8) constraints were identified and used in the research. Secondary data were collected from the recommended nutrient requirements schedule made available by both the Ondo State Ministry of Agriculture and the Freedom Feed Mill (a local feed miller) in Akure, South-West Nigeria. Based on this data, the optimal solution of the TAM developed for the layers mash produced a balanced feed at reduced cost.
Contribution/ Originality
This study uses a hybrid of tabu search (TS) and genetic algorithms (GA) to formulate poultry feed. GA being a global search algorithm is usually slow. The introduction of TS helps to reduce the time taken to arrive at the optimal solution.
Agricultural Sciences » International Journal of Sustainable Agricultural Research » Month: 06-2019 Issue: 2

Public Health Expenditure, Economic Growth and Health Outcomes in Nigeria

Research Article
Author(s): Richardson Kojo Edeme, Oluchukwu Olisakwe
Journal: International Journal of Public Policy and Administration Research

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Abstract
It is argued that while increase in budgetary allocation to social services is highly desirable, it is not sufficient to guarantee enhancement in better health outcome. This paper links public health expenditure, economic growth and health outcomes and the causality among them using Nigeria data. The finding suggests increase in public health expenditure has decreased infant mortality rate while infant mortality rate is negatively correlated with economic growth. Interestingly, the direction of causality among public health expenditure, infant mortality rate and growth is unidirectional, from public health expenditure to growth.
Contribution/ Originality
This is one of the few studies which have investigated public health expenditure, economic growth and health outcomes (infant mortality rate) in Nigeria.
Economics » International Journal of Public Policy and Administration Research » Month: 03-2019 Issue: 1

Health Care Outcomes, Malnutrition and Food Security in Southern Africa Development Community: A Quantile Regression Approach

Research Article
Author(s): Strike Mbulawa
Journal: Journal of Social Economics Research

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Abstract
The study analyzed the linkages among food security, nutrition and health care outcomes within the SADC regional bloc for the period 1991 to 2016. The study employed panel OLS and quantile regression analysis and the latter provided more informative findings that would culminate in the development of effective policies to deal with problems of infant mortality. Specifically, the study showed that population growth and malnutrition have a positive and significant effect on infant mortality across the entire distribution. The effect of investment in fixed capital and economic development is significant at higher quantiles. There is a non-linear relationship between infant mortality and population growth. Food security has no effect on infant mortality rate across the entire distribution and these results are consistent with those found using panel OLS. Robust results using quantile regression show that the sensitivity of infant mortality to each variable remains the same, statistically, but the magnitude or effect increases in higher quantiles. The study showed potential parameter heterogeneity across countries with implications for estimating the wider effects of mortality for a policy shock that may have unequal effects across the distribution. Properly developed policies should have a differentiated approach in influencing the rate of infant mortality in member states.
Contribution/ Originality
The study is one of the few studies that have examined the linkages among food security, nutrition and health care using quantile regression in SADC.
Economics » Journal of Social Economics Research » Month: 03-2019 Issue: 1

Behavioural Intention to Use Mobile Apps by Gen Y in Malaysia

Research Article
Author(s): Krishna Moorthy, Sonia Johanthan, Carmem Tham, Khoo Xiao Xuan, Lee Lit Yan, Tan Xunda, Tee Cheng Sim
Journal: Journal of Information

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Abstract
The purpose of this study is to identify the factors that affect the behavioural intention to use mobile apps by Gen Y in Malaysia. The Unified Theory of Acceptance and the Use of Technology 2 (UTAUT2) and the Diffusion of Innovation Theory (DIT) are combined to examine the drivers that affect the behavioural intention to use mobile apps. The factors include performance expectancy, habit, price value, social influence, complexity and trialability. Data was collected by distributing self-administered survey questionnaires using the quota sampling technique to Gen Y in five States in Malaysia. The results show that all these variables significantly affect the behavioural intention to use mobile apps by Gen Y in Malaysia. The UTAUT2 and the DIT have been proven to be the suitable theories that can be considered by future researchers who wish to conduct research related to technological innovations. This study is useful for apps’ designers, as they will be able to design apps to suit users’ preferences and expectations by analysing the variables.
Contribution/ Originality
This study combined UTAUT2 model and Diffusion Innovation Theory to study the behavioural intention and confirmed their suitability. Any future researchers on technological innovation can use this new model. Additionally, this study is useful for apps’ designers to design apps to suit users’ preferences by understanding the influencing factors.
Computer Sciences » Journal of Information » Month: 03-2019 Issue: 1

Investigating Issues and Challenges in Employing Action Research for Teacher Training in Malaysian Context

Research Article
Author(s): Mohd Zaki Mohd Amin, Radzuwan AB Rashid, Kamarul Shukri Mat Teh
Journal: International Journal of Education and Practice

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Abstract
In teacher education, action research has served as one of the tools for reflective practice to bridge the gap between the educational theories learned in the teacher training college and the actual pedagogical practice within the four walls of the classroom. In this descriptive and explorative research study, first the concept and characteristics of action research are outlined, supported by a discussion on action research types and models that are relevant to teacher training in Malaysia. Then, this paper explored the implementation of action research component in teacher education in Malaysia by first providing brief background information of action research in Malaysian teacher training institutes. Then, it discussed issues and challenges that are faced in terms of curriculum, teaching methods and objectives. The study also discussed the rationale for integrating action research component in teacher education programme. The result shows that the implementation of action research is hampered by the absence of exposure to action research in the earlier part of the training, the curriculum lacks practical input and the objectives set can be general and vague. It is recommended that action research workshops and trainings are conducted earlier in the training program and that more hands-on learning experience is introduced.
Contribution/ Originality
This article contributes to the existing literature by providing an overview of action research implementation in teacher education system in Malaysia. It discusses the issues and challenges that are faced by action research supervisors and trainee teachers. It also highlights the rationale for integrating action research component in teacher education curriculum.
Arts and Education » International Journal of Education and Practice » Month: 01-2019 Issue: 1

Gender Based Differences in Epidemiologic and Clinical Profile of Adult Vitiligo

Research Article
Author(s): Ehiaghe L Anaba
Journal: Journal of Diseases

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Abstract
Vitiligo, an asymptomatic de-pigmenting skin disease occurs in both males and females. It is not readily known if differences in clinical and socio-demographic features exist between male and female vitiligo patients. To document gender based differences in socio-demographic (age at onset, area of onset, family history of vitiligo) and clinical characteristics (type of vitiligo, severity of disease, activity of lesions, area affected) of adult Nigerian vitiligo patients. This was a retrospective cross-sectional study of 76 adult vitiligo patients who attended the Dermatology Outpatient Clinic of the University College Hospital, Ibadan from January 2005 to December 2009. A questionnaire designed for the study was used to document the relevant information. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 16. Prevalence of vitiligo was 4.5%, 44 males (57.9%) and 32 females (42.1%) were seen. Mean age at onset was 34.6 ±17.1 years with a range of 1-78 years. The face and scalp were the commonest areas of vitiligo occurrence in both genders. There were differences in clinical characteristics however, they were not statistically significant. Significate difference was found in level of education, self-medication and duration of disease. There are some differences in clinical profile between male and female adult vitiligo patients.
Contribution/ Originality
This study contributes to the existing literature on vitiligo in adults. Vitiligo occurs in both adult males and females. However, differences in clinical and epidemiologic features of vitiligo between males and females is not readily documented. This study highlights these differences.
Medical Sciences » Journal of Diseases » Month: 03-2019 Issue: 1

Knowledge Management (KM) Practices in Education and Learning: Establishing a Knowledge Economy in Saudi Arabia

Research Article
Author(s): Mohammed Majdy M Baslom, Shu Tong
Journal: Humanities and Social Sciences Letters

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Abstract
Knowledge-management (KM) has received much attention because of the rapid growth of computers and information technology in shaping products and services. While new learning and innovations added value to the existing products and services, they also added a new dimension to economy, popularly coined as knowledge-based economy. The 21st century is often described as an era of “knowledge capitalism.” This study has attempted to find links between KM practices and modern education and learning. This study has shown how KM practices can be used for education, training and learning purposes which in turn can help organizations leverage the skills and expertise of their workers and transform them into knowledge capital. This study also aims to identify such KM practices that create a knowledge economy. Data has been collected from six universities in public and private sectors in Saudi Arabia where KM practices can be seen and which have contributed to the national economy.
Contribution/ Originality
This study is going to be a useful contribution to the domain of knowledge economy in the Saudi Arabian context, particularly when the country is looking for a non-oil based economy, pursuing the 2030 vision. This study shows how learning and KM practices build up a knowledge economy.
Social Sciences » Humanities and Social Sciences Letters » Month: 03-2019 Issue: 1

Shortcomings in Traffic Control Devices on Rural Highways of Pakistan and their Rectifications

Research Article
Author(s): Saad Tayyab, Fazal Haq, Muhammad Bilal Khurshid
Journal: Review of Information Engineering and Applications

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Abstract
Traffic signs, signals and road markings installed on the roads and highways need a lot of improvements in Pakistan. They do not fulfill the fundamental conditions as per international standards i.e. peculiar shapes, sizes and colors. Among all the reasons the most important being the lack of a proper Manual, outlining the warrants and other details essential for putting up proper signs. The problem is further being made worse by the lack of qualified traffic engineers, not fully familiar with the art and science of traffic signs. As a result, the field engineers and contractors were left to their own wishes with regard to design and installing of the road signs. Where as in developed countries there are many signs manufacturing firms who are specialized in this particular field. Many international organizations making efforts for the uniformity of markings and road signs in order to improve the safety of roads and to enhance international roads traffic, but in Pakistan not much significant work has been done and is still very much lagging in this industry. This study is aimed to investigate about the improvements that need to be done in traffic signs and markings, there installation and their maintenance. This will help to make the traffic flow more safe and efficient. The up short of all this study is to enhance the best possible safety of the road users by awaking and changing the aptitude and attitude of users towards the traffic control devices.
Contribution/ Originality
This study contributes in the existing literature by suggesting improvement measures for traffic control devices used on rural highways in most of developing countries in terms of its manufacturing, installation and maintenance and also the road users response that can be enhanced by taking these measures.
Computer Sciences » Review of Information Engineering and Applications » Month: 03-2019 Issue: 1

Pepper Disease Assessment and Identification in Major Growing Districts of West Gojam Zone in Northwestern Ethiopia

Research Article
Author(s): Azanaw Abebe, Merkuz Abera
Journal: International Journal of Sustainable Agricultural Research

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Abstract
Hot pepper (Capsicum annuum) is an economically and traditionally an important crop in Ethiopia. It is also necessary vegetable crop mainly for small-scale farmers in Amhara National Regional State of Ethiopia. The productivity of this crop is low under national level, it is said to be 7.36qt per hectare. It is even lower to that of the national in Amhara National Regional State growing areas. Assessing pepper growing areas and collect damaged plants by the disease and identification of diseases was the focus of this study. Three districts were selected purposively based on accessibility, production and problem, available time, logistics, and representativeness. In each district three representative peasant administrations (PAs)/kebeles were selected. Sampled kebeles and respondents were selected using simple random sampling techniques. A total of 135 respondents were selected for interview. The data was collected through semi structured interview schedule. In each PA, three simple random sample selected farmers’ fields were assessed. The assessment was done at one growth stage of the plant (flowering-podding stage). The collected data was analyzed using descriptive statistics. The findings of this study confirm that in all the surveyed peasant farms, only one type of variety, which is Marekofana was encountered with low to high levels infestation of different leaf, stem, and root diseases. Root rot/wilt complex diseases were found distributed in almost all the surveyed areas. The prevalence of the disease, pepper wilt/root rot complex is high, therefore; efforts better to be made towards the integration of multiple control options.
Contribution/ Originality
This study contributes in the existing literature to fill the gap of the current state of knowledge of pepper disease assessment and identification. This study is one of very few studies which have investigated pepper disease assessment and identification. The paper contributes the first logical analysis of pepper disease.
Agricultural Sciences » International Journal of Sustainable Agricultural Research » Month: 03-2019 Issue: 1

External Debt and Economic Growth: Two-Step System GMM Evidence for Sub-Saharan Africa Countries

Research Article
Author(s): Shuffield Seyram Asafo, Adelajda Matuka, Nyendu Dominic
Journal: International Journal of Business, Economics and Management

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Abstract
This paper examines external debt and economic growth relationship in a panel of 48 Sub-Saharan Africa countries (SSA) for the period 1990-2017 using a two-step system General Method of Moments (GMM) technique. Our study shows that contemporaneously, external debt has a negative and statistically significant impact on GDP growth. However, the first lag of external debt variables stimulates GDP growth. The implication is that external debt accumulated in the previous period makes funds available for growth enhancing expenditure in the next period. Furthermore, our study found no evidence of a non-linear relationship between debt and economic growth. Lastly, we found that the deleterious impact of external debt on GDP growth does not preclude poor or rich SSA countries. We recommend the adoption of state-of-the-art measures in collecting domestic revenue to complement external revenue sources. In addition, we advocate for strong macroeconomic environment in SSA so that yield negotiation on the debt will not dissipate the coffers of SSA countries via high debt servicing cost.
Contribution/ Originality
This study uses new estimation methodology to unravel the external debt and economic growth nexus in Sub-Saharan Africa countries.
Economics » International Journal of Business, Economics and Management » Month: 01-2019 Issue: 1

Experimental and Numerical Study of Magnetic Field Impact on the Thermal Solar Collectors

Research Article
Author(s): S. Sami, F. Quito
Journal: International Journal of Sustainable Energy and Environmental Research

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Abstract
An experimental study has been conducted to determine the impact of magnetic field on the performance of thermal solar collectors. A numerical model has been developed after the mass and energy balances, presented, integrated and coded. The study compared between thermal solar collector’s behavior with or without magnetic field at different solar radiations, magnetic field forces, as well as other conditions. Comparisons were made against data collected at different conditions for validation purposes of the model numerical predictions.
Contribution/ Originality
This study contributes to the understanding of the impact of magnetic field on the heat transfer fluid circulating in thermal solar collectors. In addition, this study enhances our understanding of the behavior of thermal solar collectors and impact of the different solar radiations on the behavior of thermal solar collectors.
Energy & Environmental Sciences » International Journal of Sustainable Energy and Environmental Research » Month: 03-2019 Issue: 1