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Listing 40 - 20 of 2806 results.

Features of a Strategic Approach to Human Resource Management

Research Article
Author(s): Sergey A. Surkov, Ellen G. Trofimova
Journal: International Journal of Management and Sustainability

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Abstract
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): Mahboubeh Dadfar, David Lester, Mohammad Kazem Atef Vahid, Ahmed M. Abdel-Khalek, Mehrdad Mohammadian, Jafar Bolhari, Fazel Bahrami, Ali Asghar Asgharnejad Farid
Journal: International Journal of Management and Sustainability

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Abstract
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): Helen Samujh, S. Susela Devi
Journal: International Journal of Management and Sustainability

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Abstract
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): Garoot Suleiman Eisa, Ahmed Ibrahim Abu Sin
Journal: International Journal of Management and Sustainability

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Abstract
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

Photochemistry of Three Selected Pharmaceuticals in Seawater and River Water

Research Article
Author(s): Serpil SAVCI
Journal: International Journal of Natural Sciences Research

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Abstract
The aim of these work was to study the direct photolysis of three pharmaceuticals with relatively high potential ecological risk and high consumption-namely, fluconazole, bicalutamide and anastozole promoted by photochemical processes. By conducting experiments in Milli Q water, Baltic Sea Water and Olandsån River Water. To evaluated this process under laboratory conditions, used chemical actinometer for sunlight measurements. The actinometer is the known bicalutamide, fluconazole and anastozole the half life in sunlight ranging from several minutes to 120 minutes. The systems were relatively persistent against sunlight. It has quantum yield invariant with wavelength to 261 nm for fluconazole 271 nm for bicalutamide and 269 for anastozole.
Contribution/ Originality
This study uses new estimation methodology developed by Q-TOF. This study originates new formula of analysis method. This study is one of very few studies which have investigated photolysis of pharmaceuticals. The paper contributes the first logical analysis of the problems solves about pollution of pharmaceuticals in aquatic environment. The paper’s primary contribution is finding that pharmaceuticals behavior in the aquatic environment. This study documents to support by YÖK and Stockholm University.
Engineering » International Journal of Natural Sciences Research » Month: 01-2015 Issue: 1

A Study on the Accessibility in Shopping Malls for People with Disabilities (PWDS) in Malaysia

Research Article
Author(s): Alaa Bashiti, Asiah Abdul Rahim
Journal: International Journal of Natural Sciences Research

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Abstract
The objective of the paper: firstly, to evaluate accessibility and usability in the facilities that used by people with disabilities (PwDs) in shopping malls. Secondly, to identify whether the facilities provided in according with the latest Malaysian standards (MS 1184:2014) Universal Design and Accessibility in the Built Environment-Code of Practice. The paper will discuss disability and accessibility issues, current accessibility system in Malaysia, Malaysian Standards and universal design implementation in built environment and the importance of shopping malls in accessibility for Malaysia. It is a part of on-going research on universal design implementation in shopping malls. Accessibility in the shopping mall for people with disabilities PwDS is vital in order to provide and promote security and independence. Thus, in the planning of shopping malls well as in the design process, special considerations should be applied to accommodate the needs of the PwDs. Both qualitative and quantitative methods will be applied, by using descriptive analysis, observation, questionnaire, access audit simulation, checklist and interview. Photographic documentation is also taken for further analysis of the current facilities condition. Three case studies have been selected to evaluate accessibility of the shopping malls for People with Disabilities PwDs which are IKEA in Damansara, Suria Kuala Lumpur convention Centre (KLCC) in Kuala Lumpur and Alamanda in Putrajaya. The expected findings to identify whether the facilities provided match the needs of the people with disabilities, this is further supported by using the Malaysian standard (MS 1184:2014) Universal Design and Accessibility in the Built Environment-Code of Practice that fits and matches the facilities provided for various types of People with Disabilities PwDs. 
Contribution/ Originality
This study is one of very few studies which have evaluated accessibility and usability in the facilities that used by people with disabilities PwDs in shopping malls. The paper’s primary contribution is to provide recommendations to the field of built environment, some extension could be done with this research by detailing the design characteristics and focuses more in every inaccessible public facilities that has the potential to be planned or redeveloped for new shopping mall or existing one to enhance the life quality for PwDs and provide user friendly accessibility within and outside shopping malls.
Engineering » International Journal of Natural Sciences Research » Month: 01-2015 Issue: 1

Influence of Seed Location in the Fruit Pod of Fluted Pumpkin (Telfairia Occidentalis Hook. F.) and Poultry Wastes on Plant Sex Ratio

Research Article
Author(s): N. L. Aniekwe, M.C. Mbah
Journal: Review of Catalysts

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Abstract
The influence of seed location in the fruit pod of fluted pumpkin and inorganic fertilizers and poultry wastes on the plant sex ratio was investigated in 2009 and 2010 in a randomized complete block design in three replications. In 2009, a mean of 25:75 male: female plants per pod resulted from seeds in the head region producing a ratio of 38:62 male: female plants, the middle, 24:76 and in the tail region, 14:86. In 2010, a mean of 30:70 male: female plants per pod were obtained, 33:67 male: female plants from seeds in the head, 24:76 in the middle and 34:66 in the tail. A total plant sex ratio of 1: 3  per fruit pod occurred in the two trials, while more female plants occurred in middle and tail regions (1:3 or 24:76) than in the head region (1:2 or 35.5: 64.5). Fertilizer sources showed no significant influence on the male: female plant ratio, but on the leaf area. Poultry wastes influenced the highest (78.8 cm2), NPK (15:15:15) 57.3 cm2 and the least 48.4 cm2 from control. Plants in the middle region had the highest leaf area (65.8 cm2), Coefficient of variation for male plants was wide in 2009 (52.3) and in the mean of the years (25.4). Smallholder female farmers can increase their business and income by selecting seeds from the middle and tail locations and by augmenting soil fertility with cheap and affordable poultry wastes.
Contribution/ Originality
This study is one of very few studies which have investigated answers to the worrisome sights of preponderance of male plants characterized by tiny vines and leaves and no pods from a pod of fluted pumpkin. The farmer wants to know what to do to raise her income and livelihood. 
Medical Sciences » Review of Catalysts » Month: 06-2015 Issue: 2

Effect of Ethanol and Petroleum Ether Extracts of Some Medicinal Plants on Sclerotiumrolfsii, Causal Agent of Postharvest Rot of Yam (Dioscorea Spp.)

Research Article
Author(s): Nweke, F. U.
Journal: Review of Plant Studies

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Abstract
Ethanol and Petroleum ether of leaves of Azadirachtaindica A. Juss, Citrus aurantifolia (Christm.)Swingle, Jatrophacurcas L., Anacardiumoccidentale L., seeds of Garcinia kola Heckel and peels of Citrus sinensisOsbek were studied for in vitro activity against mycelial growth and sclerotium germination of Sclerotiumrolfsii, Sacc., the causal agent of postharvest yam rot. The phytochemical screening of the extracts of the medicinal plants revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, glycosides, steroids, saponins, tannins and terpenoids. The ethanol and petroleum ether extracts showed varying levels of fungitoxicity activity with the ethanol extracts being more effective. Mycelial growth of S. rolfsii was significantly (P < 0.05) reduced by ethanol extracts of C. sinesis (89.63 – 100%), C. aurantifolia (67.04 – 83.28%) and A. indica (53.70 – 69.38%) during the period of incubation. Sclerotium germination was also significantly (P < 0.05) reduced by ethanol extracts of C. sinesis (87.50%), C. aurantifolia (62.50%) and A. indica (50%). This study showed the potentials of extracts of some plant products to control S. rolfsii in yam.
Contribution/ Originality


Agricultural Sciences » Review of Plant Studies » Month: 03-2015 Issue: 1

In-Vitro Effect of Lawsonia Inermis L. (Henna) Leave Extract on Lycopersicon Esculentum Var. (Tomato) Phytopathogenic Bacteria Ralstonia Solanacearum (Smith)

Research Article
Author(s): Abubakar, S., Dawakiji, A. Y., Bala, I.
Journal: The Asia Journal of Applied Microbiology

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Abstract
Lycopersicon esculentum (Tomatoes), is one of the most important vegetable fruits worldwide which constitute commercially and nutritionally indispensible food commodity. Ralstonia solanacearum is a relevant and widespread Phytopathogenic bacterium that causes a wilt disease which deadly affects this economically important crop. Antibacterial activity of Lawsonia inermis leaves were evaluated using three fractions of extract namely; methanolic, chloroform and aqueous against this plant pathogenic bacterium (R. solanacearum) in-vitro. Prior to antibacterial assay, the extract fractions were subjected to preliminary phytochemical screening, which revealed the present of alkaloids, terpenoides and saponins in all, while methanolic extract shows the additional  flavonoids, tannins, amino acid, triterpenoids and reducing sugar, the chloroform extract showed additional anthraquinone. Nevertheless, the aqueous extract shows the additional triterpenoids, steroids and reducing sugar. Among the three fractions the methanolic extract proved to be the promising extract for management/treatment of tomato wilt caused by R. solanacearum. All the methanolic extract concentrations (1000, 2000, 3000 and 4000 μg/ml respectively) showed effects on the test organism. The (SPSS) software was used to analyse the significant differences between each concentrations, using one way Analysis of variance (ANOVA) at critical value (p≥0.05). 
Contribution/ Originality
This study contributes in the existing literature. The study also is one of very few studies which have investigated the phytochemical constituents of different fractions of Lawsonia inermis leaves extracts and its effect against phytopathogenic bacteria Ralstonia solanacearum.
Biological Sciences » The Asia Journal of Applied Microbiology » Month: 03-2015 Issue: 1

Modeling and Optimization of Transesterification of Beniseed Oil to Beniseed Methylester: A Case of Artificial Neural Network versus Response Surface Methodology

Research Article
Author(s): Adepoju T. F., Okunola A. A.
Journal: International Journal of Chemical and Process Engineering Research

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Abstract
In this research work, statistical approach (ANN and RSM) were used to optimize the transesterification of beniseed oil to beniseed methyl ester (BME). Analyses of an heterogeneous catalyst (Mangifera indica powdered) obtained from unripe Mangifera indica peels showed that the powder consist  macro elements such as K (59.85%), Si (30.53%), Cl (4.58%), Al (3.05%) and Ca (1.05%) and micro elements such as P (0.196%), S (0.593%), Mn (0.043%), Fe (0.037%), Zn (0.008%), Rb (0.042%) and Sr (0.032%). ANN predicted optimal condition for Beniseed methyl ester produced was X1= 60.0 min, X2 = 1.0 wt.%, X3= 57 0C and X4 = 6.0. The predicted BME (94.40% (w/w)) under this condition was validated to be of 93.80 % (w/w). Meanwhile, RSM predicted 94.20% (w/w) at the following condition X1= 62.0 min, X2 = 0.9 wt. %, X3= 60 0C and X4 = 6.5 was validated as 92.80 % (w/w). The results obtained showed the superiority of ANN over RSM owing to its higher values of predicted value, RMSE, AAD, R2 and R2Adj. The fatty acid profile and the physicochemical properties of the BME indicated that, BME can serve as alternative fuel for conventional diesel.
Contribution/ Originality
This study contributes in the existing literature to the process conversion of oil to diesel.This study uses new estimation methodology in the use of heterogeneous catalyst obtained from agricultural waste. This study originates new way of using statistical software (ANN and RSM) to improve the yield of biodiesel. This study is one of very few studies which have investigated the use of heterogeneous catalyst to produced biodiesel. The paper contributes the first use of Mangifera indica (Mango) peels as heterogeneous base catalyst.The paper’s primary contribution is finding that biodiesel can be obtained by the use of biomass waste. This study documents economic impact of using Mangifera indica (Mango) peels as heterogeneous base catalyst to produce biodiesel.
Engineering » International Journal of Chemical and Process Engineering Research » Month: 03-2015 Issue: 3

Evaluation of the Phytochemical, Antioxidant and Antimicrobialproperties of Extracts from Chrysophyllum Albidum (African Star Apple) Leaf

Research Article
Author(s): Oguntoyinbo O.O, Abdus-Salaam R.B, Bello W.A, Ifesan B.O.T.
Journal: Journal of Food Technology Research

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Abstract
Phytochemical, antioxidant and antimicrobial properties of n-butanol, petroleum ether and ethanol extracts of the leaf of Chrysophyllumalbidum were investigated. Antioxidant activity was carried out using various tests which include; 2, 2-diphenyl-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging activity, total antioxidant activity, ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), total flavonoid content and the total phenolic content. The antimicrobial test was conducted on the following micro-organisms; Salmonella dysenteriae, Bacillus cereus, Salmonella typhi, Acinetobacter spp., Escherichia coli, Klebsiellapneumoniae, Penicillum spp., Aspergillusflavus, Fusariumverticoides, Aspergillus tamari and Aspergillusparasiticus  using the agar well diffusion method. Results revealed that petroleum ether gave the highest extract yield (16.8%) while butanolic extract had the least yield (4.6%). At 250 µg/ml extract concentration, petroleum ether extract demonstrated the highest (73.57%) DPPH scavenging activity followed by ethanol extract (59.32%) while butanolic extract had the least scavenging activity of 32.02%, and these were significantly different (P<0.05). Total antioxidant activity (ascorbic acid equivalent) of C. albidum ranged from 42.33AAE in butanol extract  to 50.6AAE in ethanol extract. Furthermore, ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) of the leaf extracts revealed that at 250 µg/ml extract concentration, ethanol extract had the highest (0.39µmolFe(ii)/g)  reduction potential, followed by petroleum ether extract (0.33µmolFe(ii)/g) and butanol extract (0.29 µmolFe(ii)/g). The total phenol content of the extracts ranged from 0.02µg/mlTAE–0.09µg/mlTAE at 1000µg/ml extract concentration. The total flavonoid content ranged from 0.47mg/gQE in petroleum ether extract to 12.74mg/gQE in butanol extract . The antimicrobial activities of the extracts of the leaf of C. albidum showed zone of inhibition ranging from 9.7mm to 31.0mm. The result showed that butanolic extract demonstrated a broad spectrum antimicrobial activity by inhibiting all the microorganisms tested while petroleum ether extract possessed no antimicrobial property. This result may be an indication that C. albidumleaf extracts could be used as an easily accessible source of natural antioxidant and antimicrobial agent.
Contribution/ Originality
This study documents the phytochemical, antioxidant properties and antimicrobial potential of the extracts of the leaves of Chrysophyllum albidum using different organic solvents (Petroleum ether, ethanol and butanol). This comparative evaluation in a single research work is scarce and was therefore investigated in this paper. 
Agricultural Sciences » Journal of Food Technology Research » Month: 03-2015 Issue: 1

A Brief Report on Scale Independent Quantum Cosmology

Research Article
Author(s): U. V. S. Seshavatharam, S. Lakshminarayana
Journal: Review of Advances in Physics Theories and Applications

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Abstract
In the evolving universe, cosmic thermal energy density is always directly proportional to the critical mass-energy density. At any time, the product of cosmic ‘critical density’ and ‘critical Hubble volume’ can be called as the ‘critical mass’ of the evolving universe. With reference to Mach’s principle, cosmic ‘critical density’, ‘critical volume’ and ‘critical mass’ can be considered as the quantified back ground dynamic properties of the evolving universe. With reference to Planck mass, Hubble constant connected with big bang and critical density connected with big bang- both can be defined. With ‘cosmologically reinforcing hydrogen atom’ concept, observed cosmic redshift and super novae dimming both can be reinterpreted in a new approach.  To understand the ground reality of cosmic rate of expansion, accuracy of the current methods of estimating the magnitudes of current Hubble’s constant and current CMBR temperature must be improved. 
Contribution/ Originality
This paper’s primary contribution is finding the applications of quantum gravity connected with high energy as well as low energy in the domain of observable cosmology.
Engineering » Review of Advances in Physics Theories and Applications » Month: 03-2015 Issue: 1

The Life-Time of Tomorrow Party of Japan and Its Negative Impacts on the Anti-Nuclear Movements in Japan’s Politics

Research Article
Author(s): Takashi Sagara
Journal: International Journal of Public Policy and Administration Research

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Abstract
The nuclear accident at Fukushima Daiichi in Japan on 11th March 2011 was unimaginably scary for the Japanese people and it was easily expected that Japan was going to abandon nuclear power with anti-nuclear political parties. Contrarily, Japan decided to maintain nuclear power with pro-nuclear political parties. This decision of Japan was influenced by the negative impacts brought by the Tomorrow Party of Japan (TPJ), the largest political party in the history of Japan which was established primarily to abandon nuclear power. The purpose of this paper is to look at the life-time of TPJ from 28th November to 27th December in 2012 and examine the negative impacts by TPJ on the anti-nuclear movements in Japan’s politics. The paper then discovers that the Japanese people came to lose trust in anti-nuclear political parties because they recognized, due to TPJ, that ‘anti-nuclear’ can be abused by politicians for elections, the characteristics of the ‘anti-nuclear’ village are not so different from those of the nuclear power village and the anti-nuclear party is an amateur without leaders. The paper finally concludes that it will take much time and efforts to regain a lost trust in anti-nuclear political parties. 
Contribution/ Originality
This study is one of very few studies which have investigated the negative impacts on the anti nuclear movements in Japan’s politics, made by the largest anti-nuclear political party in the history of Japan, the Tomorrow Party of Japan (TPJ), which has prevented Japan from moving towards deneutralization.
Economics » International Journal of Public Policy and Administration Research » Month: 06-2015 Issue: 2

Synthesis and Characterisation of Schiff Base Co (Ii) And Cu (Ii)` Complexes Derived From Ciprofloxacin and P-Nitroaniline

Research Article
Author(s): Abubakar F.M., Aliyu H.N., Chindo I.Y.
Journal: International Journal of Chemistry and Materials Research

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Abstract
The complexes of Co(II) and Cu(II) with Schiff base derived from ciprofloxacin and p-nitroaniline have been synthesized. The ligand and the complexes were characterized on the basis of physical properties conductance measurement and infrared spectroscopic analysis. The ligand melting point and decomposition temperatures for the complexes are high. The molar conductance values of the complexes are low. The I.R data of the complexes showed absorption bands ranging from (500-800) cm-1 indicating coordination of the ligand to the metal ions. 
Contribution/ Originality
The paper’s primary contribution is finding that ciprofloxacin and p-nitroaniline can be used to synthesize a new Schiff base and its metal complexes by, characterizing the complexes according to their physical properties, conductance measurement and infrared spectroscopy. The results of which were found to be in conformity to the literature. 
Chemistry & Materials Sciences » International Journal of Chemistry and Materials Research » Month: 04-2015 Issue: 4

Combined Microbial Inoculation as a Promising Approach to Enhance Promiscuous Soybean Nodulation and Nitrogen Content in Sudan Savanna

Research Article
Author(s): Clement O. Ncho, Didier Lesueur, Adamu A. Yusuf
Journal: International Journal of Sustainable Agricultural Research

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Abstract
Applications of microbial inoculants and reduced amount of inorganic fertilizers could lead to low-input agriculture and sustain smallholders’ crops production. In this study, the effect of promiscuous soybean inoculation with combined microbial inoculants was evaluated during harmattan season under furrow irrigation. Rhizobial inoculants and urea on one hand, and fungal inoculants and triple superphosphate (TSP) on the other hand, were considered as nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) sources, respectively. The soil was sandy loam and slightly alkaline. Significant effect from rhizobial inoculants was observed on nodule dry weight. As well, the interaction between N and P source had significant effect on %Ndfa. The interaction between 1495MAR and TSP induced the highest %Ndfa. The dual inoculation of 1495MAR and Rhizatech induced relatively high shoot N content. This study showed TGx soybean responded to rhizobial inoculation in Nigeria Sudan savanna. It showed that biofertilizers could effectively increase soybean yield under furrow irrigation. It also suggested that microbial inoculants could perform during harmattan season. Furthermore, the study showed that selective interactions occur between rhizobial strains and fungal inoculants for soybean development.
Contribution/ Originality
This study is one of very few studies which have investigated the effects of commercial rhizobial and fungal inoculants on promiscuous soybean during harmattan dry season in Sudan savanna.
Agricultural Sciences » International Journal of Sustainable Agricultural Research » Month: 09-2015 Issue: 3

Partial Budgeting Analysis of Different Strategies for Management of Insect Pests in Cashew and Mango Orchards in Tanzania

Research Article
Author(s): J.G. William, J. Hella, E. Lars, J. Offenberg, M. Mwatawala, G. Rwegasira
Journal: International Journal of Sustainable Agricultural Research

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Abstract
Before changing from one production method to another, farmers need to consider costs and incomes resulting from the change. This study estimated the effects on net benefit of switching from conventional Tanzanian growing practices (spraying of chemical pesticides and non-pest control) to the use of African weaver ants (Oecophylla longinoda) to control pests in cashew and mango. Yield data from one cashew and one mango plantation covering two cropping seasons was used in an economic analysis. The use of chemical pesticides and the use of weaver ants resulted in higher yields compared to the non-control treatment. Lower input costs in weaver ant treatments, though, resulted in higher economic returns than the use of chemical insecticides in both seasons and crops. In all cases weaver ant treatments also produced higher returns than non-control treatments, despite their higher costs. Switching to African weaver ants without feeding was feasible due to positive net change in benefits in both crops. In cashew the average net benefit for the two seasons was 94% higher when using ants compared to non-control and 112% higher than in the chemical treatment. The corresponding values in mango were 117% and 63%, respectively. Marginal Rate of Return (MRR) was highest for African weaver ants without feeding in cashew at 235% in 2012/13 and 405% in 2013/14 seasons. Similarly, MRR was highest for weaver ant without feeding in mango at 509% in 2012/13 and 743% in 2013/14 seasons. In conclusion, the use of African weaver ants without feeding was consistently the most economically feasible management strategy to be used in Tanzanian cashew and mango pest management.
Contribution/ Originality
This study documents the effects on net benefit when switching from conventional agricultural practices to African weaver ants against insect pests in cashew and mango orchards in Tanzania
Agricultural Sciences » International Journal of Sustainable Agricultural Research » Month: 12-2015 Issue: 4

Farmers Assessment of the Training and Visit Extension System in Niger State: Evidence from Fadama Ii & Iii in Mokwa Local Government Area of Niger State, Nigeria

Research Article
Author(s): Mohammed, U., Olaleye, R.S., Umar, I.S., Ndanitsa, M.A., Jibrin, S.
Journal: International Journal of Sustainable Agricultural Research

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Abstract
The Training and visit (T&V) extension has been criticized for being top-down, top heavy, inefficient and ineffective. The purpose of this study therefore was to assess the effectiveness of the T&V extension in Mokwa local government area of Niger state Nigeria. Three specific objectives guided the study. A total of 450,000 farmers who had been in active production between 2004 and 2013 evidence from (FADAMAII & III) in the LGA constituted the population for the study. A four percent sample (1,800) was randomly selected for the study. A structured questionnaire was used to collect the data, data were descriptively analysis. Demographically majority of the respondents were male aged 41-50 years, and married. slightly less than 5 percent (5.0%) were literate. Majority had been in the farming system for at least 11 years (53%) and had land holding almost exclusively by inheritance (96.0%). Other results indicate that majority of respondents has contact with Extension agents occasionally, most dependents on other source of agricultural information. Respondents reported that frequent level of Extension contact is unsatisfactory. But found information given by the Extension Agents useful. Majority of the respondents were aware of recommended agricultural technologies.
Contribution/ Originality
This study contributes in the existing literature of Farmers Assessment of the Training and Visit Extension System in Niger State This study uses new estimation methodology of questionnaires. This study originates new formula of ways to improve training of farmers in Niger State as well as others. This study is one of very few studies which have investigated Farmers Assessment of the Training and Visit Extension System in Niger State. The paper contributes the first logical analysis in Agricultural Extension The paper’s primary contribution is finding the problem of poor organization dilution of efforts This study documents the approach of reaching with extension information and for the purpose of teaching farmers improved farm methods should be overhauled.
Agricultural Sciences » International Journal of Sustainable Agricultural Research » Month: 12-2015 Issue: 4

Studies on Potential of Finger Millet (Eleusine Coracana Gaertn. L.) Amylases for Industrial Applications

Research Article
Author(s): Anita Pande, Sobha Singh, Jyoti Samad, Kumar Saurabh, Z.A. Haider
Journal: The International Journal of Biotechnology

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Abstract
Amylases are of great significance especially in the food, brewing and detergent industry. An attempt has been made to study the characteristics of amylases produced during germination of finger millet (Eleusine coracana Gaertn. L.). Of the 25 genotypes studied RAU8 showed the maximum activity at pH 5 and temperature 60oC. This is the first report of optimum amylase activity at 60°C in finger millet. The best activity was observed in seeds geminated for 96 hours. The enzyme extract showed maximal activity till 90 minutes and 82.24% activity was retained even after 120 minutes. The thermostable character of the enzyme and retention of activity of the unprotected enzyme for 2 hours makes it suitable for industrial purposes. Further characterization of the different forms of the amylases may help in isolation of the most robust form which could then be cloned and expressed in microbes to enable large scale production for industrial purposes.
Contribution/ Originality
The paper’s primary contribution is finding that amylases derived from finger millet can be effectively used in the brewing, baking and detergent industries. This study documents the activity of amylases of different genotypes of finger millet and the optimal parameters for activity of amylases derived from RAU 8 genotype.
Biological Sciences » The International Journal of Biotechnology » Month: 04-2015 Issue: 4

Information and Communication Technology challenges and Strategies among Office Technology and Management Educators in Nigerian Polytechnics

Research Article
Author(s): Amiaya, Anita Ogheneovo
Journal: International Journal of Education and Practice

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Abstract
The changes in work processes and business organizations as well as the model of transmission and exchange of information in the globalized economy call for transformation in the teaching and learning process in Office Technology and Management (OTM) to reflect the emphasis in the use of Information and Communication Technology (ICT). The major purpose of the study was, therefore, to assess the extent of utilization, challenges and strategies of ICT for repositioning OTM programme in Nigerian Polytechnics. Three research questions were generated and three null hypotheses were also formulated to guide the study. A survey design was adopted and the study was carried out in all Polytechnics offering OTM in South-South Nigeria. The population for the study comprised 85 OTM Educators. The entire population was studied hence no sampling techniques. A 45-item questionnaire was used for data collection. A reliability coefficient of 0.82 was obtained from Cronbach Alpha reliability test used. Seventy-eight (78) copies out of the eighty-five (85) copies of the questionnaire administered were collected and analysed. The research questions were answered using mean and standard deviation while the hypotheses were tested using t-test statistic at 0.05 level of significance. It was found that ICT was not effectively utilized in the institutions studied because of many challenges. However, many strategies for improving the utilization of ICT were identified. It was, therefore, recommended that government and the management of the institutions should endeavour to ameliorate the challenges with the identified strategies.
Contribution/ Originality
This study is one of the very few studies which have investigated information and communication technology challenges and strategies among Office Technology Management Educators in Nigeria Polytechnics. This study is important because it has thrown some light on the subject and the way forward. The recommendations in the study are pertinent.
Arts and Education » International Journal of Education and Practice » Month: 03-2015 Issue: 3

Assessing School Leadership Challenges in Ghana Using Leadership Practices Inventory

Research Article
Author(s): Alexander Kyei Edwards, Samuel Kwadwo Aboagye
Journal: International Journal of Education and Practice

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Abstract
The Ghana Education Service (GES) is facing challenges in school leadership and hence a lot of criticisms on basic school performances. The issue is whether school leadership relates to school performances and that there is the need for transformation leadership. The purpose of this study was to discuss self-reported leadership practices inventories (LPI) of graduate students to highlight their transformational school leadership potentials. The study participants were conveniently sampled from two Ghanaian public universities. Data from the self-reported LPI scores indicated a strong sense of self belief and the leadership potentials (M=48.93, sd=6.47). Gender differences in transformational abilities showed no statistical significance (t=-0.93, df=198, p=0.07), and the same with institutions (t=-0.99, df=198, p=0.38). However, the only statistical differences came from gender groups’ report on “Enable Others to Act” (t=-1.72, df=198, p=0.01).Discussions focused on the need for a more futuristic thinking, people-focused skills, the practices of enablement, and the avoidance of discrimination against women in school leadership within GES. Five recommendations were made for transformational leadership in GES including INSET leadership contents, a research and development of school leadership mode, and a national certification policy.
Contribution/ Originality
This study is one of very few studies which have investigated the use of Leadership Practices Inventories in assessing leadership potentials among educators, in this case school leadership, in Ghana. The study relates empirical research to actual practice in schools for further development.
Arts and Education » International Journal of Education and Practice » Month: 04-2015 Issue: 4