Abstract:

Sickle-cell disease is among the commonest severe monogenic global disorders. At the centre of sickle cell disease physiopathology is the polymerisation haemoglobin, resulting in erythrocytes become rigid and vascular occlusion. It has been hypothesized that the Duffy glycoprotein (Fy) on erythrocytes may enhance clearance of inflammatory cytokines. This may have an impact on the initiation and development of vascular occlusion in Sickle cell disease. The aim of this study was to determine whether or not the Duffy genotype is in any way linked with the severity of clinical disease in Sickle cell disease patients. Those who were hospitalized >4 times in the previous year because of Vaso-occlusive crisis were classified as having a severe phenotype. Duffy genotypes were determined by polymerase chain reaction (PCR), then Sty1 restriction endonuclease enzyme analysis. A total of 193 participants (133 cases and 60 controls) were recruited for the study. Vaso-occlusive crises were absent in more than half (58.5%) of the cases. Vaso-occlusive crisis per year occurred three times and four times at 5.2% and 1.65%, respectively. The number of vascular occlusions per year was highest in the 18-28 years and 29-39 years age groups. All the participants were genotyped as homozygotes for Duffy null genotype (FY*B-33/FY*B-33) and categorised as Fy(a-b-). No associations between Duffy genotype and number of VOCs per year was obtained. All the samples analysed were genotyped as Duffy negative homozygous [Fy(a-b-)]. No association between Duffy genotype and number of was vascular occlusion found.

References:

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[22] Peiper, S.C., Wang, Z. X., Neote, K., Martin, A.W., Showell, H.J., Conklyn, M. J., Ogborne, K., Hadley, T. J., Lu, Z. H., Hesselgesser, J. & Horuk, R. (1995). The Duffy antigen/receptor for chemokines (DARC) is expressed in endothelial cells of Duffy negative individuals who lack the erythrocyte receptor. J Exp Med.181(4):1311-1317.

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[24] Schnog JB, Keli SO, Pieters RA, Rojer RA & Duits AJ (2000). Duffy phenotype does not influence the clinical severity of sickle cell disease. Clin Immunol 96(3):264-268.

Abstract:

International Council for Harmonisation, Good Clinical Practice R2 (ICH GCP R2) focuses on quality management as per risk-based methodology, and there has been a lot of focus on monitoring strategy, which is a mixed method of on-site and centralised monitoring. This systematic review was planned to search for the articles providing the evidence for the impact of risk-based monitoring methodology and monitoring standards for cohort studies. A literature search was performed on MEDLINE, COCHRANE, and WEB OF SCIENCE were as per the keyword’s searches. All the publications were reviewed for the data that provides evidence risk-based monitoring for randomised clinical trials and its impact to ensure that data integrity, patient safety, and results obtained were reliable. The search resulted in four articles that were qualified that discussed about the comparison between monitoring techniques and the risk-based monitoring methodology in randomised control trials and other interventional trials. Two publications suggested that the SDV% can be <8% and range from 20-50%, respectively, depending on the assessed factors and risks. Although there is research being conducted to generate the evidence for risk-based monitoring and reduced SDV linked to data errors, further empirical quantitative research should happen to show the impact of risk-based methodology for clinical trials. There is a lack of systematic and empirical data for monitoring as part of quality management in cohort studies.

References:

[1] Integrated Addendum to Ich E6(R1): Guideline for Good Clinical Practice E6(R2). Published online November 9, 2016.

https://database.ich.org/sites/default/files/E6_R2_Addendum.pdf.

[2] Quality by Design. Published online 2009. https://ctti-clinicaltrials.org/X.

[3] Position Paper: Risk-based Monitoring Methodology. In: TransCelerate; 2014. http://www.transceleratebiopharmainc.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/TransCelerate-RBM-Position-Paper-FINAL-30MAY2013.pdf.pdf.

[4] Brosteanu O, Schwarz G, Houben P, et al., 2017, Risk-adapted monitoring is not inferior to extensive on-site monitoring: Results of the ADAMON cluster-randomized study. Clin Trials Lond Engl., 14(6):584-596. doi:10.1177/1740774517724165.

[5] Hurley C, Shiely F, Power J, et al., 2016, Risk-based monitoring (RBM) tools for clinical trials: A systematic review. Contemp Clin Trials., 51:15-27. doi: 10.1016/j.cct.2016.09.003.

[6] Von Niederhausern B, Orleth A, Schadelin S, et al., 2017, Generating evidence on a risk-based monitoring approach in the academic setting - lessons learned. Bmc Med Res Methodol., 17:26. doi:10.1186/s12874-017-0308-6.

[7] Morrison BW, Cochran CJ, White JG, et al., 2011, Monitoring the quality of conduct of clinical trials: a survey of current practices. Clin Trials., 8(3):342-349. doi:10.1177/1740774511402703.

[8] Oba K., 2016, Statistical challenges for central monitoring in clinical trials: a review. Int J Clin Oncol., 21(1):28-37. doi:10.1007/s10147-015-0914-4.

[9] Timmermans C, Doffagne E, Venet D, et al.,2016, Statistical monitoring of data quality and consistency in the Stomach Cancer Adjuvant Multi-Institutional Trial Group Trial. Gastric Cancer., 19(1):24-30. doi:10.1007/s10120-015-0533-9.

[10] Tudur Smith C, Stocken DD, Dunn J, et al., 2012, The value of source data verification in a cancer clinical trial. PloS One., 7(12): e51623. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0051623.

[11] Klingberg S, Wittorf A, Meisner C, et al.,2010, Cognitive behavioural therapy versus supportive therapy for persistent positive symptoms in psychotic disorders: the POSITIVE Study, a multicenter, prospective, single-blind, randomised controlled clinical trial. Trials., 11:123. doi:10.1186/1745-6215-11-123.

[12] Wilson B, Provencher T, Gough J, et al., 2014, Defining a Central Monitoring Capability: Sharing the Experience of TransCelerate BioPharma’s Approach, Part 1. Ther Innov Regul Sci., 48(5):529-535. doi:10.1177/2168479014546335.

[13] Van den Bor RM, Oosterman BJ, Oostendorp MB, Grobbee DE, Roes KCB., 2016, Efficient Source Data Verification Using Statistical Acceptance Sampling: A Simulation Study. Ther Innov Regul Sci., 50(1):82-90. doi:10.1177/2168479015602042.

[14] Sheetz N, Wilson B, Benedict J, et al., 2014, Evaluating Source Data Verification as a Quality Control Measure in Clinical Trials. Ther Innov Regul Sci., 48(6):671-680. doi:10.1177/2168479014554400.

[15] Houston L, Probst Y, Yu P, Martin A., 2018, Exploring Data Quality Management within Clinical Trials. Appl Clin Inform., 9(1):72-81. doi:10.1055/s-0037-1621702.

[16] Hullsiek KH, Kagan JM, Engen N, et al., 2015, Investigating the Efficacy of Clinical Trial Monitoring Strategies: Design and Implementation of the Cluster Randomized START Monitoring Substudy. Ther Innov Regul Sci., 49(2):225-233. doi:10.1177/2168479014555912.

[17] Sudo T, Sato A., 2017, Investigation of the Factors Affecting Risk-Based Quality Management of Investigator-Initiated Investigational New-Drug Trials for Unapproved Anticancer Drugs in Japan. Ther Innov Regul Sci., 51(5):589-596. doi:10.1177/2168479017705155.

[18] Rosenberg MJ., 2014, Key Considerations in the Transition to Risk-Based Monitoring. Ther Innov Regul Sci., 48(4):428-435. doi:10.1177/2168479013519631.

[19] Cornu C, Binquet C, Thalamas C, et al., 2013, Public Clinical Trials: which Kind of Monitoring
Should be Used? Therapie., 68(3):135-141. doi:10.2515/therapie/2013032.

[20] Brosteanu O, Houben P, Ihrig K, et al., 2009, Risk analysis and risk-adapted on-site monitoring in non-commercial clinical trials. Clin Trials., 6(6):585-596. doi:10.1177/1740774509347398.

[21] Tantsyura V, Dunn IM, Fendt K, Kim YJ, Waters J, Mitchel J., 2015, Risk-Based Monitoring: A Closer Statistical Look at Source Document Verification, Queries, Study Size Effects, and Data Quality. Ther Innov Regul Sci., 49(6):903-910. doi:10.1177/2168479015586001.

[22] Barnes S, Katta N, Sanford N, Staigers T, Verish T., 2014, Technology Considerations to Enable the Risk-Based Monitoring Methodology. Ther Innov Regul Sci., 48(5):536-545. doi:10.1177/2168479014546336.

[23] Smith CT, Stocken DD, Dunn J, et al., 2012, The Value of Source Data Verification in a Cancer Clinical Trial. Plos One., 7(12): e51623. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0051623.

[24] Stenning SP, Cragg WJ, Joffe N, et al., 2018, Triggered or routine site monitoring visits for randomised controlled trials: results of TEMPER, a prospective, matched-pair study. Clin Trials., 15(6):600-609. doi:10.1177/1740774518793379.

[25] Mtchel J, Cho T, Gittleman D., 2014, Time to change the clinical trial monitoring paradigm: results from multicenter clinical trial using quality by design methodology, risk-based monitoring, and real-time direct data entry. Appl Clin Trials. (Published online January 17).

Abstract:

This study focused on the impact of cultural diversity on organizational performance as moderated by employees’ educational attainment. The study measured cultural diversity as language, religious and value system diversity. Organizational performance was measured as team building, communication, and employee productivity. The study collected primary data from 353 employees from ten different manufacturing companies in the Ashanti and Greater Accra Regions of Ghana. The study employed mean and standard deviation for descriptive analysis. The study employed a structural equation model for the estimation. Cultural diversity was found to be prevalence in the sampled companies. However, team building, and communication were effective, and employee productivity was high. The educational attainment of employees significantly reduced the negative impact of language, religious, and value system diversity on each organizational performance indicator. Stakeholders in Ghana’s manufacturing industry should encourage continued human resource development through the pursuance of higher education, internal and external training, and seminars.

References:

[1] Hofstede, G. (2001). Cultural Consequences: Comparing values, behaviors, institutions, and Organizations across nations. (2nd ed) Thousand oaks, ca: sage publication inc.

[2] Nile, M. & Dyer, G. (2004). Human capital and learning as a source of sustainable competitive advantage Strategic Management Journal Volume 25, Issue 12, pages 1155–1178.

[3] Herring, C. (2009). Does diversity pay? Race, gender, and the business case for diversity. American sociological review, 74(2), 208-224.

[4] Ashton, V. (2010). Does ethnicity matter? Social workers’ personal attitudes and professional behaviors in reporting child maltreatment. Advances in Social Work, 11(2), 129-143.

[5] Dike, P. (2013). The impact of workplace diversity on organisations.

[6] Canopy Health. (2018). Productive Team-Building Exercises at the Workplace. Canopy Health.

[7] Bright HR. (2020). The Importance of Teamwork in the Workplace Bright HR undefined. Brighthr.com.

[8] Brady, D. (2016). The Positive Impact of Team Building - TTB. Total Team Building.

[9] Barcenas, M. (2020). Employee Productivity: The Ultimate Guide for Managers. Fellow.app.

[10] Yoshifumi, H., Sammogram, S., & Manzuma-Ndaaba, N. M. (2018). Effect of Productivity and Perceived Quality on Organizational Performance from Lean Management Practice Perspective. Science Alert.

[11] Mecheo, K. N. (2016). The Effect of Employee Cultural Diversity on Organizational Performance: A Case Study of Oilybia-Kenya (Doctoral dissertation, United States International University-Africa).

[12] Danso, L., Oduro, F., Yalley, F., Sarpong, A., & Tetteh Kweitsu, M. A. R. T. I. N. (2019). Management of Cultural Diversity: Implication for Organizational Competitiveness. A Case Study of Asokore Rural Bank Limited, of orikrom and Kwadaso Branches, Kumasi (Doctoral dissertation).

[13] Qiaoxin, M., & Liswandi, L. (2018). Analysis of Cultural Diversity Factors Influencing Employees Satisfaction. International Journal of Management, Accounting and Economics, 5(12), 955–965.

[14] Abugre, J. B., & Debrah, Y. A. (2019). Assessing the impact of cross-cultural communication competence on expatriate business operations in multinational corporations of a Sub-Saharan African context. International Journal of Cross-Cultural Management, 19(1), 85-104.

[15] Ghana Statistical Service, 2010 Population and Housing Census.

[16] Yamane, T., (1967). Elementary Sampling Theory, New Jersey: Prentice-Hall, here is a list of some books, articles, and websites that either used Slovin’s formula inappropriately or presented the formula without mentioning its assumptions.

[17] Kline, R. B. (2011). Principles and practice of structural equation modeling (3rd ed.). Guilford Press.

[18] Mechheo, C.W. (2014), Effects of Communication strategies on organizational performance: A case study of Kenya ports authority. European Journal of Business and Management 6(11) 6- 10. Retrieved from www.iiste.org.

[19] Chernov, S. & Chernova, L. (2018). Algorithm for the simplification of solution to discrete optimization problems. Eastern European Journal of Advanced Technologies, (3 (4)), 34-43.

[20] Neo, H. (2015). Modelling green urbanism in China. Area, 47(2), 132-140.

[21] Peltonen, K. (2019). From Cultural Differences to Identity Politics: A Critical Discursive Approach to National Identity in Professor.

[22] Piga, D. (2020). Computation of Parameter Dependent Robust Invariant Sets for LPV Models with Guaranteed Performance. arXiv preprint arXiv:2009.09778.

[23] Barret, O., (2005). Monte Carlo simulation and scatter correction of the GE advance PET scanner with SimSET and Geant4. Physics in Medicine & Biology, 50(20), 4823.

[24] Ringov, D., & Zollo, M. (2017). The impact of national culture on corporate social
performance. Corporate Governance: The international Journal of business in society, 7(4), 476-485.

Abstract:

This paper investigated the Humanitarian Crisis in the North Central zone of Nigeria and the resettlement challenges faced by Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs). It was designed to find out the types and causes of Displacement in the zone and determine the readiness of IDPs to return to their original communities before Displacement. The Research was carried out in three states of the North Central Geopolitical Zone, which are Nasarawa, Niger, and the Federal Capital Territory using a total of nine IDP camps. It was conducted using a combination of research designs by applying quantitative and qualitative research methods. Data was collected using three data collection tools which are questionnaires, observation schedule, and focus group discussions schedule. Results revealed that the internally displaced persons found in the North Central geopolitical zone in the states of Nasarawa and the FCT come mostly from the Northeastern states of Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe, and were displaced due to the Boko Haram insurgency. Those living in Niger State come from within Niger and were displaced due to Banditry. Results also revealed that the majority of IDPs live in deplorable conditions within the North Central Geopolitical zone with limited access to food, education, health services, water, sanitation, and hygiene facilities. The Research further revealed that most IDPs are willing to return to their original homes, and their first deciding factor to return is the restoration of security back in their communities, the second factor is their family ties, third is funding to support their return, and then fourth is government legislation that may compel relocation of displaced persons.

References:

[1] National Population Commission, 2016, Date of access: 05-10-2020. file:///C:/Users/fatiy/Downloads/Demographic%20Statistics%20Bulletin%202017%20(2).pdf.

[2] IDMC Report, 2021, Date of access: 28-03-2021. https://www.internal-displacement.org/global-report/grid2021/.

[3] Norwegian Refugee Council, 2019, Report on 70.8-million-displaced-people, Date of access: 31-03-2021. https://www.nrc.no/shorthand/fr/70.8-million-displaced-people/index.html.

[4] IDMC, 2020, Nigeria IDMC, Date of access: 01-02-2021.

https://www.internal-displacement.org/global-report/grid2020/.

[5] Mooney, E., 2005, Refugee Survey Quarterly, Vol.24, Issue 3., Date of access: 10-04-2021. https://doc.rero.ch/record/299905/files/hdi049.pdf.

[6] IDMC Report, 2018, Date access: 03-04-2021. https://www.internal-displacement.org/features/nigeria-internal-displacement-crisis-conflict-floods.

[7] Adeyeye, A., 2013, Identity conflict, terror, and the Nigerian state: Between fragility and failure, Journal of Sustainable Development in Africa, 15, 116-129.

[8] Imasuen, E., 2015, Insurgency and the humanitarian crises in the Northern Nigeria: The case of Boko Haram, African Journal of Political Science, and International Relations, 9(7), 284 – 296.

[9] Joshua, S., & Olanrewaju, F. O., 2016, The impacts of terrorism on education: The North-eastern Nigeria’s experience, JIPAD: Journal of International Politics and Development, 14, 59-74.

[10] NCFRMI, 2019, Persons of Concern Report, Date of accessed: 27-04-2020. https://ncfrmi.gov.ng/.

[11] UNHCR., 2019, Nigeria Key Message update, September 2019, Date of access: 05-10-2020. https://reliefweb.int/report/nigeria/nigeria-key-message-update-september-2019.

[12] Oluwole, I. O., Eme, O. I., and Aloh, R., 2017, Rehabilitation of Internally Displaced Persons in the Nigeria Northeast: challenges and prospects, Social Scientia, Vol 2, No 23.

[13] OXFAM, 2016, Africa’s Fastest Growing Displacement Crisis, Date access 03-03-2020. https://www-cdn.oxfam.org/s3fs-public/file_attachments/bn-lake-chad-refugees-idps-190816-en.pdf.

[14] Osagioduwa, E. and Oluwakorede, O. T., 2016, Management of Internally Displaced Persons in Africa: comparing Nigeria and Cameroun, Afrrev, Vol 10 (1), No 40 Doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.4314/afrrev.v10i1.15n.

[15] UNOCHA, 2020, Nigeria: Humanitarian Response Plan, Date of access: 02-10-2020. https://www.humanitarianresponse.info/en/operations/nigeria/humanitarian-response-plan.

[16] Bryman, A., Becker, S., and Sempik, J., 2008, Quality Criteria for Quantitative, Qualitative and Mixed Methods Research: The view from Social Policy, International Journal of Social Research Methodology, 11:261 – 276.

[17] Bryman, A., 2012, Social research methods (Oxford, U.K.: Oxford University Press).

[18] UNHCR, 1992, Analytical Report of the Secretary-General on Internally Displaced Persons, UN Doc. E/CN.4/1992/23 (14 February 1992), para. 17.

[19] Olanrewaju, F. A., Olanrewaju, A., Omotoso, F., Alabi, J. O., Amoo, E., Loromeke, E., and Ajayi, L.A., 2019, Insurgency and the Invisible Displaced Population in Nigeria: A situational Analysis, SAGE, DOI: 10.1177/2158244019846207.

[20] Okoli, C. A., 2019, What can be done to fight Rural Banditry in Nigeria. Date of access: 05-03-2021. https://reliefweb.int/report/nigeria/what-can-be-done-fight-rural-banditry-northern-nigeria.

Abstract:

Being the largest organ of the body, the skin is known to respond to both exogenous and endogenous stimuli. Whereas it is known that having a dermatological ailment can have a negative effect on one’s body image, in addition to one’s mental state, it should also be noted that the opposite is also true. That is to say that possessing psychological issues can subsequently lead to dermatological ailments. Considering this, the study aimed to analyze the co-integration of the skin and mind, analyzing the comorbidity of psychiatric disorders and dermatological issues. 30 dermatological patients, 25 psychiatry patients, and 10 control patients were enrolled into the study. Patients were tasked to complete a 21-item Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (21-DASS) questionnaire and a 10-item Dermatology Life Quality Index. Each patient was then assessed by a dermatologist and a psychologist. It was found that when compared to the control group, the psychological out-patients were more likely to experience dermatological ailments (p<0.001). In addition, it was found that when compared to the control group, the dermatological patients experienced an overall lower quality of life and a higher 21-DASS test result. Ultimately, it can be seen that one’s mental state does in fact, have the potential to affect one’s dermatological condition. With that in mind, it has been proposed to utilize stress reduction techniques and psychological intervention as adjuvant treatments for dermatological ailments.

References:

[1] Toyoda M, Nakamura M, Makino T, 2002, Nerve growth factor and substance P are useful plasma markers of disease activity in atopic dermatitis. Br J Dermatology. 147, 71-79.

[2] Sands, GE, 1996 Three monosymptomatic hypochondriacal syndromes in dermatology. Dermatol Nurs. 421–425.

[3] Savin JA, Cotterill JA, 1992, Psychocutaneous disorders. In: Champion RH, Burton JL, Ebling FJG, eds. Textbook of Dermatology. Oxford, England: Blackwell Scientific Publications; 1992, 2479–2496.

[4] Humphreys F, Humphreys MS, 1998, Psychiatric morbidity and skin disease: what dermatologists think they see. Br J Dermatol. 679–681. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9892914/.

[5] Attah Johnson FY, Mostaghimi H, 1995 Comorbidity between dermatologic diseases and psychiatric disorders in Papua New Guinea. Int J Dermatol. 244–248.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7790138/.

[6] Capoore HS, Rowland Payne CM, Goldin D, 1998, Does psychological intervention help chronic skin conditions? Postgrad Med J. 662–664.

[7] Koo JYM, Lee CS, 2003, General approach to evaluating psychodermatological disorders. Psychocutaneous Medicine. Marcel Dekker Inc. 1–29.

[8] Cotterill JA, 1990 Psychophysiological aspects of eczema. Semin Dermatol. 216–219. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/2206922/.

[9] Cotterill JA, 1981, Dermatological non-disease: a common and potentially fatal disturbance of cutaneous body image. Br J Dermatol. 611–619.

[10] Phillips KA, Dufresne RG Jr, 2002, Body dysmorphic disorder: a guide for primary care physicians. Prim Care 99–111. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1785389/.

[11] Hardy GE, Coterill JA, 1982, A study of depression and obsessionality in dysmorphophobic and psoriatic patients. Br J Psychiatry. 19–22. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7059736/.

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[13] Phillips KA, Albertini RS, and Siniscalchi JM. et al. FIX Effectiveness of pharmacotherapy for body dysmorphic disorder: a chart review study. J Clin Psychiatry. 2001 62:721-7.

[14] Hoffmann FS, Zogbi H, Fleck P, Müller MC, 2005 Mind and body integration in psycho dermatology. Rev Psicol.;7:51-60.

[15] Silva MN, Silva RN, Soares GMT, 2011 Influence of dermatoses on the psyche of dermatological patients. Med Cut Iber Lat Am.; 39: 209-210.sss.

[16] FIX Report on “Burden of Skin Disease” Workshop NIAMS, 2002 (J Investing Dermatol Symp Proc 9:111–119, 2004).

[17] Reebye, P, 2008, Psychodermatology: The Psychological Impact of Skin Disorders. J Can Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry, 17(3), 169-171.

[18] Clay, R.A., 2015, The link between skin and psychology: how psychologists are helping patients with dermatological problems. American Psychological Association, 46(2), 56 http://www.apa.org//.

[19] Kono M, Nagata H, Umemura S, Kawana S, Osamura R Y, 2001, In situ expression of corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) and proopiomelanocortin (POMC) genes in human skin. FASEB J, 15(12), 2297-2299, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11511529/.

[20] Slominski A, Wortsman J, Pisarchik A, Zbytek B, Linton E.A, Mazurkiewicz J.E, Wei E.T., 2001, Cutaneous expression of corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH): urocortin and CRH receptors. FASEB J, 15(10), 1678-1693, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11481215/.

[21] Antony MM, Bieling PJ, Cox BJ, Enns MW, Swinson RP, 1998, Psychometric properties of the 42-item and 21-item versions of the Depression Anxiety Stress Scales in clinical groups and a community sample. Psychological Assessment, 10, 176–81. https://psycnet.apa.org/record/1998-02891-012.

[22] 2021, Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale, https://www.depression-test.net/support-files/dass21-dmz.pdf.

[23] Finlay AY, Khan GK, 1994, Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI): A simple, practical measure for routine clinical use. Clinical and Experimental Dermatology, 19, 210 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8033378/.

[24] Khoudri I, Lamchahab FZ, Ismaili N, Senouci K, Hassam B, Abouqal R, 2013, Measuring quality of
life in patients with psoriasis using the Arabic version for Morocco of the Dermatology Life Quality Index. International Journal of Dermatology, 52, 795–802. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8033378/.

Abstract:

The main purpose of the guideline is to develop a basic academic research structure and format guiding principles for students with two specific objectives; to develop a coherent research structure and academic research format for the public universities in South Sudan. One hundred and seventeen dissertations were reviewed, and a total of 88 teaching staff were interviewed, giving 91% response rate. The dissertations were selected randomly, and teaching staff were selected purposively by virtue of their positions and availability. The validity and reliability of the instruments was ensured through pretesting, CVI, and triangulations. SPSS v22 was used to analyze data, both descriptive and thematic analysis were used. Permissions were sought from university administrations and one of the respondents before data collection. There is some significant variation on academic structure and format across the five universities in the republic of South Sudan. The research structural variations and inconsistencies were found in their contents and order of titles and subtitles of dissertations reviewed. In conclusion, this basic academic research guide is developed to set some standards and directions for students and their supervisors to complete the dissertation on time with less stress as it provides where to begin and the end. It will also enhance the objective grading of dissertations and evaluation levels of the university. The guideline will contribute to the development of consensus on academic research structure and format standards for students that will encourage young researchers to have an interest in research as a career.

References:

[1] National Bureau of Statistics 2021. South Sudan Population projection. Official circular for planning purpose.

[2] University of Michigan. Dissertation format guidelines. Rakham graduate school student services: academic records & dissertation. www.rackham.umich.edu accessed on 3^rd November 2021.

[3] Alf Gunvald Nilsen 2019. What is Academic Writing? Structure in Academic Writing. Sociology Postgraduate Writing Seminar. PP 5.

[4] Baxis I. Patel 2019. Format and Contents of Academic Research Project report. Department of Commerce and Business Management, the Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda, Vadodara. Gujarat PP 4.

[5] Isabel Gómez, María Bordons, M. Teresa Fernández, Fernanda Morillo (2009). Structure and research performance of Spanish universities. Akadémiai Kiadó, Budapest Scientometrics, Vol. 79, No. 1 (2009) 131–146 and Springer, Dordrecht DOI: 10.1007/s11192-009-0408-0.

[6] Dare E. Ajayi 2012. Foundational Guide to Research, Thesis and Dissertation Writing. A Practical Approach. PP 3 - 4 LIVING Peace Publication. ISBN: 978-978-50845-2-8 Federal Republic of Nigeria.

[7] Kenyatta University 2013. Guideline for Writing Academic Research Proposals and Theses in the School of Education.

[8] Thamara Fudge 2019. The Importance of Formatting. Purdue Global Academic Success Writing Center. School of Business and IT, Kaplan University PP 10.

[9] John K. Petrella and Alan P. Jung (2008). Undergraduate Research: Importance, Benefits, and Challenges. PP 1 Samford University, Birmingham, Alabama, USA.

[10] Ranjit Kumar 2021. Research Methodology. A step-by-step guide for beginners. SAGE Publications Ltd 1 Oliver’s Yard 55 City Road London EC1Y 1SP. ISBN 978-1-84920-300-5.

[11] Harvard University 2020. Harvard Formatting and Style Guide.

[12] University of Technology Sydney (2017). Research Proposal Writing. ELSSA Center: UTS. Accessed on 22 March 2020.

[13] Uganda Management Institute - UMI (2012). Research Methods module 1. Distance Learning Department.

[14] University of Nairobi 2021. Guidelines for Project Paper Thesis Proposal Writing. Faculty of Arts Postgraduates Studies Committee.

[15] Onen D. 2014, How to Write a Successful Doctoral Research Proposal: The Makerere Format. EASHESD, College of Education & External Studies, Makerere University. P 3.

[16] John W. Creswell and J. David Creswell 2017 Research Design: Qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods Approaches https://edge.sagepub.com/creswellrd5e.

[17] Andrew P. Johnson 2012. Short Guide to Action Research 4^th edition. Science Research and Teaching. Minnesota State University, Mankato.

[18] Muhammad Mahboob Ali and Kamrul Hossain (2016). Instruction Manual: Research Methodology Volume: 2 Institutional Quality Assurance Cell, Daffodil International University. ISBN: 978-984-34-1757-2.

[19] Kjell E. R. and Rae R. N. 2017, Surviving Your Dissertation: A comprehensive guide to content and process 3^rd ed. P 90 - 94. Sage Publications, Inc. ISBN 978-4129-1678-3.

[20] Patino, C. M., & Ferreira, J. C. 2018. Inclusion and exclusion criteria in research studies: definitions and why they matter. Jornal brasileiro de pneumologia: publicacao oficial da Sociedade Brasileira de Pneumologia e Tisilogia, 44(2), 84. https://doi.org/10.1590/s1806-37562018000000088.

[21] Hamed T. 2016, Validity and Reliability of the Research Instrument; How to Test the Validation of a uestionnaire/Survey in a Research. The University of Canada West. SSRN Electronic Journal 5(3):28-36 DOI:10.2139/ssrn.3205040.

[22] Siegmund B. 1998, Data Analysis Siegmund Brandt Statistical and Computational Methods for Scientists and Engineers 4^th ed, Department of Physics University of Siegen Siegen, Germany. Cham Heidelberg New York Dordrecht London. ISBN 978-3-319-03761-5 ISBN 978-3-319-03762-2 (eBook) DOI 10.1007/978-3-319-03762-2.

[23] Nilesh G. 2013, Ethical Consideration in Research. / International Journal for Research in Education Vol. 2, Issue:7.

[24] Benard Muma 2020. Basic Structured Guide for Writing Academic Research. Department of Management Science and Technology. The Technical University of Kenya. PP 1 -10.

[25] Dli, Unilag, Fednet. Research Project Format for All Students. www.fednetnigeria.wordpress.com

[26] Makerere University 2011. Guidelines for Formatting Research Proposals, Research Reports, Thesis and Dissertations. Directorate of Graduate and Training PP 5 – 6.

[27] Emma Geller How to Write APA Style Research Papers http://www.psychology.ucsd.edu/undergraduate-program/academic-writing-resources/ Arranged by S.C. Pan for UCSD Psychology accessed on 3^rd November 2021.

Abstract:

COVID-19 has been wreaking havoc on the business world for nearly two years, with most industries experiencing a significant decline in revenue. The major statutory agency in charge of regulating employee pension schemes in Ghana, the Social Security National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) Ghana, has also seen a drop in monthly contributions. As a result, the goal of the study was to see how the COVID-19 epidemic is affecting non-compliance with Ghana’s Social Security Monthly Contribution Payments. The study used a random sampling methodology to select 6 out of 19 decentralized governance structures in Accra, after which a purposive selection method was used to select 50 small and medium business enterprises for their perspectives on the study’s goals. The major research tool was the questionnaire, and the Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) was used to analyze the data collected in the field. COVID-19 appears to be taking a toll on the finances of small and medium-sized businesses that have made deals with SSNIT authorities to reschedule obligations related to default contributions, according to the findings. Although new projects have been placed on hold due to diminishing inflows, SSNIT’s commitment to employees and payment of pensions to elderly residents remains unaffected. In light of the a fore mentioned challenges posed by the pandemic, the study suggested that the Government of Ghana should seek concessionary loans from world-class lenders such as the World Bank to strengthen its local stabilization fund and inject a significant amount of funds to assist struggling SMEs in resuming operations.

References:

[1] International Labour Organisation (2015). International Labour Office World Labour Report 2015: Income Security and Social Protection in a Changing World. Geneva International Labour Office.

[2] Haaga, Owen, and Richard W. Johnson. 2012. “Social Security Claiming: Trends and Business Cycle Effects”. Working Paper No. 2012-5. Chestnut Hill, MA: Center for Retirement Research at Boston College. http://crr.bc.edu/wpcontent/uploads/2012/02/wp-2012-5508.pdf.

[3] McKinnon, R. (2005). Extending coverage and increasing security. In Social Security: Toward Newfound Confidence, Levinsky and McKinnon, eds. Geneva: International Social Security Association.

[4] Miller, Billie Jean, and Sylvester J. Schieber. 2014. “Contribution of Pension and Retirement Savings to Retirement Income Security: More Than Meets the Eye”. Journal of Retirement 1(3): 14–29.

[5] Bailey, C., & Turner, J. (2001). Strategies to reduce contribution evasion in social security financing. World Development (February), 385-393.

[6] Purcell, Patrick J. (2016). “Employment at Older Ages and Social Security Benefits Claiming.” Social Security Bulletin 76(4): 1–17.

[7] Anderson, R. M., Heesterbeek, H., Klinkenberg, D., & Hollingsworth, T. D. (2020). How will country-based mitigation measures influence the course of the COVID-19 epidemic? The Lancet, 395(10228), 931-934.

[8] Inoue, H., & Todo, Y. (2020). The propagation of the economic impact through supply chains: The case of a mega-city lockdown against the spread of COVID-19. PlosOne, 15(9), e0239251 doi. 10.1371/journal.pone.0239251.

[9] Peter, D. (2020). COVID-19: The Social Implication of a Pandemic. Proshare Finance. The Guardian. Saturday, March 28, 2020. PRNigeria (2020). COVID-19: ABU ZariaScientistsProduce4-in-1 Sanitizing Machine. https://prnigeria.com/2020/05/11/Abuzaria/sanitizing-machine/. Accessed 24th May 2020.

[10] Dell’Ariccia, G., Mauro, P., Spilimbergo, A, and Zettelmeyer, J., 2020. Economic policy for the COVID-19 war. Retrieved from https://blogs.imf.org/2020/04/01/economicpolicies for the-COVID-19-war/, April, 2020

[11] Levinsky, R. (2005). Social security and labour market developments: Facilitating flexibility by strengthening security. In Social Security: Toward Newfound Confidence, Levinsky and McKinnon, eds. Geneva: International Social Security Association.

[12] Loayza, N., & Pennings, S. (2020). Macroeconomic policy in the time of COVID-19: A primer for developing countries. World Bank Malaysia hub.

[13] Walmsley, T., Rose, A., & Wei, D. (2020). Impacts on the U.S. Macro-economy of mandatory business closures in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. CREATE working paper. The University of Southern California.

[14] Gillion, C., Turner, J., Bailey, C., & Latulippe, D. (Eds.) (2000). Social Security Pensions and Reform. International Labour Office, Geneva, Switzerland.

[15] McKibbin, W., & Fernando, R. (2020). The global macroeconomic impacts of COVID-19: Seven scenarios. In CAMA working paper No.19/2020. Centre for Applied Macroeconomic Analysis, Australian National University.

[16] Maliszewska, M., M, A., & van der Mensbrugghe, D. (2020). The potential impact of COVID-19 on GDP and trade. World bank policy research working paper No. 9211. Washington DC: World Bank.

[17] Barrientos, A., and P. Lloyd-Sherlock (2003). Non-contributory pensions and social protection. Issues in Social Protection Discussion Paper (Geneva: International Labour Office).

[18] Eichenbaum, M.S., Rebelo, S., & Trabandt, M. (2020). The macroeconomics of epidemics, NBER Working Paper, No.26882. doi. 10.3386/w26882

[19] SSNIT (2002), Medium-Term Strategic Plan: 2002 - 2006, Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT), Accra, May 2002.

[20] WHO. (2020). Novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) Situation Report - 1, 21 January 2020. Geneva: World Health Organization.

[21] Morgan, J.P. (2020). The fallout from COVID-19: global recession, zero interest rates, and emergency policy actions. Accessed on June 4th, 2020. [Retrieved from].

[22] MoFEP, 2020. Statement to parliament on the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the economy of Ghana. Retrieved from https://mofep.gov.gh/index.php/news-and-events/2020-03-30/statement-to-parliament-on-economic-impact-of-the-covid-19-pandemic-on-the-economy-of-ghana, March 2020.

[23] IMF. (2020). World Economic Outlook: The Great Lockdown. International Monetary Fund, Washington DC.

[24] Atkeson, A. (2020). What will be the economic impact of COVID-19 in the US? Rough estimates of disease scenarios. NBER Working Paper, No.26867. doi. 10.3386/w26867 Economic Commission of Africa (2020). Trade policies for Africa to tackle COVID-19. [Retrieved from].

[25] Hamzelou, J. (2020). UK’s scientific advice on coronavirus is a cause for concern. New Scientist, 245(3275), 9. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0262-4079(20)30613-8. Online. 3275.

Abstract:

The role of the government in a market economy cannot be underestimated. In reality, the public sector plays significant role in an economy. Markets do fail sometimes, and for that reason, government intervention is needed to provide public goods or handle externalities and enforce competition in an economy. In the quest of government playing its role in an economy, it faces the challenge of an appropriate level of government size (government final consumption % of GDP) that can ensure sustained economic growth. Data on government fiscal behavior in Ghana over the last two decades generally shows a rising trend in government expenditure, yet the economic growth rate has not risen commensurately. The study set out to provide additional empirical evidence on the linkage between government size and economic growth in Ghana by a time series data analysis and to test the optimal threshold level of which government final consumption could lead to rapid growth in Ghana. The study concluded that total government expenditure has a direct positive impact on economic growth. As a result of that, the study recommended that government expenditure should not exceed the optimum threshold level of 0.114% to maximize economic growth. The study, therefore, advocates for fiscal discipline and control to keep government spending at the optimal level so as to trigger a positive ripple effect to other sectors of the economy and avoid a crowding out effect in the Ghanaian economy.

References:

[1] Heijdra, J.B. and Ploeg, V.D., 2002, The foundations of modern macroeconomics: Oxford University Press, USA.

[2] Mankiw, G., 2007, The role of economic growth in macroeconomics: MIT Press.

[3] Heinz, D. And Kurz, C.L., 2000, Input-output Analysis and Classical Economic Theory. Economic Systems Research, 12(2): 139-140.

[4] Nellis, J.G., and Parker, D., 2004, Principles of Economics, (1^st ed.): Pearson Education Limited–England.

[5] Solow, Robert M., 1956, “A contribution to the theory of Economic Growth”. Quarterly Journal of Economics, Vol. LXX.

[6] Sinha, D., 1998, Government Expenditure and Economic Growth in Malaysia. Journal of Economic Development, Vol. 23, Number 2, pp. 71-80.

[7] Henrekson, M., 1993, Wagner’s Law – a Spurious relationship. Public Finance, 48, pp. 406-415.

[8] Slemrod, J., Gale, W. and Easterly, W.,1995, What do Cross-Country Studies Teach about Government Involvement, Prosperity, and Economic Growth, Brooking Papers on Economic Activity, (2), pp. 373-431.

[9] Branson, W. H. 1989, Macroeconomic Theory and Policy, 3rd ed., New York: Harper & Row.

[10] Afonso, A. and Jalles, J. T. 2011, Economic performance, and government size. Working Paper Series 1399 / November 2011. European Central Bank, 2011, Frankfurt.

[11] Asimakopoulos, S. and Y. Karavias, 2015, The impact of government size on economic growth: A threshold analysis (2015), Economics Letters, http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.econlet.2015.12.010.

[12] Caselli, F., Esquivel, G., and Lefort, F.,1996, Reopening the convergence debate: A new look at cross-country growth empirics, Journal of Economic Growth 1(3): 363–389.

[13] Romero-Ávila, D., and R. Strauch (2008). Public finances and long-term growth in Europe: Evidence from a panel data analysis, European Journal of Political Economy 24(1): 172-19.

[14] Bose, N., M. E. Haque, and D. R., Osborn (2007). Public expenditure and economic growth: A disaggregated analysis for developing countries, The Manchester School 75(5): 533-556.

[15] Guseh, J., 2007, Government size and economic growth in developing countries: A political-economy framework. Journal of Macroeconomics 19(1): 175-192.

[16] Gray, C., T. Lane, and Varoudakis, A., 2007, Fiscal policy and growth in ECA: Lessons for Eastern Europe and Central Asia. Washington DC: The World Bank.

[17] Oto-Peralías, D. and Romero-Ávila, D., 2013, Tracing the link between government size and growth: The role of public sector quality. KYKLOS 66(2): 229–255.

[18] Sheehey, E.,1993, The effect of government size on economic growth. Eastern Economic Journal 19(3): 21–328.

[19] Durden, G. and Elledge, B. (n.d.), The effect of government size on economic growth: evidence from gross state product data. The Review of Regional Studies: 183–190.

[20] Meltzer, A. H., and Richard, S. F., 1981, A rational theory of the size of government. Journal of Political Economy. 89(5): 914–927.

[21] Zhu, Z, Chiou-Wei, S and Kuo, Y., 2010, Government size and economic growth: an application of the smooth transition regression model. Applied Economics Letters 17(14), 1405 – 1415.

[22] Altune, O.F., and Aydin, C, 2013, The relationship between the optimal size of government and economic growth: Empirical evidence from Turkey, Romania, and Bulgaria. Procedia-social and Behavorial sciences, 92, 66-75.

[23] Chen, S.T., and Lee, C.C, 200, Government size and economic growth in Taiwan: A threshold regression approach. Journal of policy modelling 27(9), 1051-1066.

[24] Karras (1997) Karras, B.E, 1999, Threshold effects in non-dynamic panels: estimation, testing, and inference. Journal of Econometrics, 93, 345-68.

Abstract:

The Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies in Ghana have adopted, have been practicing Human Resource Budgeting for effective accounting of human resources. However, little is done to determine its impact on Human Resource Management Accountability. This study, therefore, focused on the impact of Human Resource Budgeting on Human Resource Management Accountability in Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs) in the Ashanti Region of Ghana. The study purposively sampled Heads of Departments since they have the responsibility of supervising, directing, coordinating the activities of other employees within the MMDAs. The study collected primary data from 387 Heads of Departments in 43 MMDAs in the region. The study employed mean and standard deviation for descriptive analysis. The study employed a structural equation model for the estimation of the impact of Human Resource Budgeting on Human Resource Management Accountability. The sex, educational level, and years of experience of the respondents were controlled for in the model estimation. Human Resource Budgeting in the MMDAs was occasionally done. Human Resource Budgeting had a significant positive impact on Human Resource Management Accountability in the MMDAs. Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development should see Human Resource Budgeting as a strategic tool for enhancing Human Resource Management Accountability in MMDAs. For this reason, Human Resource budgeting practices should be enforced to the latter.

References:

[1] Kodwani, D., Deo, A., and Tiwari, R., 2007, Human resource accounting-a new dimension. In Canadian Accounting Association (CAAA) 2006 Annual Conference.

[2] Fremont-Smith, M., 2004, Pillaging of Charitable Assets: Embezzlement and Fraud. Exempt Organization Tax Review, 46(33), pp. 333-346.

[3] Akintoye, I. R., Awoniyi, O., Jayeoba, O., and Moses Ifayemi, O., 2016, Improvement of human resource accounting disclosure practice in financial statements through IFRS: evidence from Nigerian Banks. International Journal of Business and Commerce, 5(7), 1-17.

[4] Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development.

[5] Surarchith N. K. Vaddadi K. M. and Cura F., 2017, Impact of Human Resource Accounting (HRA) on the Performance of a Firm, International Journal of Management and Applied Science, Volume-3, Issue-10.

[6] Enyi E. P. and Akindehinde A.O., 2014, Human Resource Accounting and Decision Making in Post-Industrial Economy, International Journal of Accounting and Taxation, Vol. 2, No. 1, pp. 19–35.

[7] Islam A., Kamruzzaman, R. and Redwanuzzaman, M., 2013, Human Resource Accounting: Recognition and Disclosure of Accounting Methods & Techniques, Global Journal of Management and Business Research Accounting and Auditing, Volume 13 Issue 3.

[8] Asiedu, K. F., and Deffor, E. W., 2017, Fighting corruption by means of effective internal audit function: Evidence from the Ghanaian public sector. International Journal of Auditing, 21(1), 82-99.

[9] Kline, R. B., 2011, Principles and practice of structural equation modeling (3rd ed.). Guilford Press.

[10] Oluwatoyin, A.S., 2014, Human Resource Accounting and Disclosure in Financial Statements: Literature Review. Research Journal of Finance and Accounting 5 (22) 72. Retrieved from http://www.iiste.org/journals.

[11] Cherian, J. and Farouq, S., 2013, A Review of Human Resource Accounting and Organizational Performance. International Journal of Economics and Finance, 5 (8) 74-79. http://dx.dpo.org/10.5539/ijef.v5n8p74.

[12] Bullen, M.L., 2007, Human Resource Accounting: A Useful Tool for Measurement and Management in Organizations. Leadership and Organizational Management Journal, 2 (8), 85-103.

[13] Dhanabhakyam M. and Mufliha S., 2016, Impact of human resource accounting system on the decisions making areas of human resource management practices, International Journal of Applied Research 2016; 2(5): 505-508.

[14] Ezejiofor R. A., John-Akamelu R. C., and Iyidiobi F. C., 2017, Appraisal of human resource accounting on profitability of the corporate organization. Economics. 6(1), 1-10.

[15] Edom, G.O., Inah, E.U. and Eyisi, A.S., 2015, The impact of human resource accounting on the profitability of a firm: empirical evidence from Access Bank of Nigeria. European Journal of Accounting, Auditing, and Finance Research, 3(7).

[16] Enofe, A.O., Mgbame, C. Sunday O.S. and Ovie, O., 2013, Human resources accounting disclosures in Nigeria quoted firms. Research Journal of Finance and Accounting, 4(13), 1-15.

[17] Rao, A. L., 2014, Human Resource Accounting: A Framework for Better Financial Accounting and Reporting. IOSR Journal of Business and Management, 16, 86-90.

[18] Shukla, A. and Naghshbandi, M., 2015, Comparative Analysis of Human Resource Accounting (HRA) Practices in Indian Companies, International Journal of Research and Development - A Management Review (IJRDMR), 4(4), 1-7.

[19] Marler, J. H. and Boudreau, J. W., 2017, An Evidence-Based Review of HR Analytics. The International Journal of Human Resource Management, 28, 3-26.

[20] Kariyawasam, H., 2016, Relationship between Accounting Information and Human Resource Management Related Strategic Decision Making in Sri Lankan Manufacturing Companies. IOSR Journal of Business and Management, 18, 8-12.

Abstract:

This article houses findings of a study that uncovered the provision of early childhood education (ECE) in government schools with a bias towards learners with special education needs. It focused on challenges faced by teachers in providing educational services to children with special education needs at the early childhood education level in the targeted government schools. The rationale of the study was to solicit trends-in-practice among ECE teachers through their stories, thus partly help other teachers who shall read findings of this study tap into their engagements with ECE learners; and partly nurture children’s development in a right way in early years. Qualitative methodology was used because it allowed for in-depth realities faced in 5 schools in Chipata. The study employed a descriptive research method for two years from 2016 to 2017, comprising five primary schools in Chipata District, Zambia, were conveniently sampled for the study. Interviews, focus group discussions, and questionnaires were used to collect data, which was analysed qualitatively. The study revealed challenges that are quite universal for teaching early childhood education learners. Teachers in this study expressed the need for reduced class sizes, adequate learning and teaching materials, teacher extrinsic motivation, additional support services from the government, and an accommodative curriculum. The study further revealed that early childhood education centres in government schools in Zambia at large have poor learning environments specially to support the learners with special education needs. The study showed that collaboration between early childhood education teachers and parents is necessary for the wellbeing of their children. The study recommends that the government should invest in infrastructure development for ECE centres; and that schools should purchase appropriate learning and teaching materials and stock ECE centres.

References:

[1] United Nations Education, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) (2010). The World Conference in Early Childhood Care and Education Building the Health of Nations. Paris: UNESCO.

[2] Tuntufye, S.M. (2014). Early Childhood Education in Africa. Mediterranean Journal of Science, Roma: MCSER publishing.

[3] Richter, L.M., Daelmans, B., Lombardi, J., Heymann, J., Boo, F. L., Behrman, J. R., Dua, T. (2016). Investing in the foundation of sustainable development: Pathways to scale up for early childhood development. The lancet.

[4] Mwanza-Kabaghe, S. (2015). Preschool, Executive functions, and Oral Language as Predictors of Literacy and Numeracy skills in First Grade. Ph.D. Thesis: Unpublished. University of Zambia.

[5] Mulunda, T.M. (2017). Provision of early childhood education to children with special educational needs in selected inclusive primary schools of Kabwe District, Zambia. Master of Education in Special Education dissertation, University of Zambia (Unpublished).

[6] MESVTEE (2013). Early Childhood Education National Policy (draft). Lusaka: MESVTEE.

[7] Matafwali, B. and Zingel, M. (2017). Early childhood development program for children affected by HIV and AIDS in rural Zambia. A report on the Program of Episcopal Relief & Development and Zambia Anglican Council Outreach Programmes (ZACOP).

[8] Matafwali, B. and Munsaka, E. (2011). An evaluation of community-based early childhood Programmes in Zambia: A case of four selected districts. Journal of Early Childhood Development, 5, 109-131.

[9] UNESCO (1994). The Salamanca Statement and Framework for Action on Special Needs Education. Paris: UNESCO.

[10] Banda, S., Mpolomoka, D.L., Mbono, D. and Sampa, R.L. (2017). Use of questions in qualitative research: How questions guided our study, International Journal of Development Research, 7, (12).

[11] Farrant, J.S. (1980). Principles and practices of education. London: Longman.

[12] Clark, R.M. (2015). Childhood Education in society (2^nd Edition). London: Learning matters cetre.

[13] Wesley, W.P. and Buysee, V. (2005). Consultation in Early Childhood Settings. Baltimore: PH Brookes.

[14] Lungu, S. and Matafwali, B. (2020). Play based learning in early childhood education (ECE) centres in Zambia: A teacher perspective. European Journal of Education Studies, 7(12), 356-369.

[15] UNESCO (2016). Education for people and planet: Creating sustainable futures for all, Global Education Monitoring Report. UNESCO: Paris.

[16] UNICEF (2018). Learning through play: Strengthening learning through play in early childhood education programmes. New York: UNICEF.

[17] United Nations Children’s Fund (2019). A World Ready to Learn: Prioritizing quality early childhood education. New York: UNICEF.

[18] Chikopela, R., Chitundu, D. and Mpolomoka, D.L. (2020). Perceptions on Teachers in Commuter Marriages. Chalimbana University Multidisciplinary Journal of Research, 1(2)80-87.

[19] Mabenga, M.M. and Mpolomoka, D.L. (2017). Critical factors in early childhood education: policy and practice. Palgo Journal of Education Research, 5(4), 292-297.

[20] United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization UNESCO (2006). Education for all. Global Monitoring Report Strong Foundation. Early childhood Care and Education. Paris: UNESCO.

[21] Zuilkowski, S. S., Fink, G., Moucheraud, C. and Matafwali, B. (2012). Early childhood education, child development and school readiness: Evidence from Zambia. South African Journal of Childhood Education, 2(2), 20.

[22] Fink, G., Matafwali, B., Moucheraud, C., Simmons-Zuilkowski, S. (2012). The Zambian Early Childhood Development Project: Round I Final Report. Cambridge: Harvard Center on the Developing Child.

[23] Fink, G., Zuilkowski. S.S, Matafwali, B. (2011). The Zambian Early Childhood Development Project: Round I Final Report. Cambridge, MA: Harvard Center on the Developing Child.

[24] Steven, B.S. (2001). Teaching Children in Elementary Courses and Schools. London: Longman.

Abstract:

The study has evaluated the role Professional Accountant Firms play in the Liberian market and to understand the strategic tools used in implementing financial statement Audits [1]. A deductive approach was adopted, and information was collected from thirty respondents via Unstructured face-to-face interviews. Purposive sampling was engaged as this technique aided the cognizant arrangement of targeted respondents (Audit Associates, Staff Auditors, Semi Senior Auditors, Senior Auditors, Asst. Audit managers, Audit Managers, and Audit Partners). The findings show that Professional Accountant Firms in Liberia play a positive and significant role in the Liberian market. Professional Accountant Firms make great contributions in keeping Liberian businesses at full compliant with international financial reporting standards, legal and regulatory requirements, and their own policies and procedures. It is recommended that to be more efficient, Liberian businesses should embrace the role Professional Accountant Firms play within the Liberian market. It is concluded that the Liberia Institute of certified Public Accountants (LICPA) should strengthen, trained, and Licensed all Professional Accountant Firms to meet the growing need of the Professional Accounting industry in the Country.

References:

[1] Teri Saylor, 2020. Developing a strategic audit plan Retrieved From:

https://www.journalofaccountancy.com/newsletters/2020/nov/developing-strategic-audit-plan.html.

[2] Len Jui, CPA, MBA, and Jessie Wong, CPA, Ph.D., 2013, Roles and Importance of Professional Accountants in Business Retrieved From: https://www.ifac.org/about-ifac/professional-accountants-business/news-events/2013-10/roles-and-importance-professional-accountants-business.

[3] Wiki Accounting, Management Responsibilities on Financial Statements Retrieved From https://www.wikiaccounting.com/management-responsibilities-on-financial-statements/.

[4] The LICPA Act (2011) P 25-26 Retrieved From: https://www.moci.gov.lr/doc/Certified%20Public%20Accountants.pdf.

[5] The LICPA Member Firm Retrieved From: https://licpa.org.lr/index.php/firm-membership/.

[6] The LICPA Official Site Retrieved From: https://licpa.org.lr/index.php/downloads/.

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Abstract:

Global longitudinal strain (GLS) is a sensitive measure of LV dysfunction and is better than EF at predicting CVD events and deaths. Recently 3D/4D/4D X strain speckle tracking echocardiography (STE) is used to analyse complex LV mechanics. Interestingly, HFpEF is related to both GLS and increased Aortic stiffness. TDI of ascending Aorta is an effective technique to assess Aortic stiffness. The aim of the present study is to establish normal values of TDI of AA by 2DE and 4D X-strain volumetric and strain parameters of LV of healthy adults. 102 subjects were enrolled, 72 assessed by 2DE-GROUP-A, and 30 were analysed by 4D X-strain echocardiography-GROUP-B. Important TDI parameters of Aortic stiffness were 3.90 ±3.79& 5.23 ± 10.55, (p = NS), in males & females respectively and Aortic strain were 10.55 ± 7.67% and 9.49 ± 5.56%, (p = NS), in males & females respectively. Volumetric data of EF were 64 ± 7.0 % & 65 ± 6.0 %, (p = NS), in males & females respectively and CO were 5.6 ± 1.5 l/min & 4.91±1.53l/min, (p = NS), in males & females respectively. Moreover, 4D X-strain STE indices of GLS being -17.29 ± 2.71 & -19.00 ± 3.51, (p = NS), in males & females, respectively GCS being -15.46 ± 7.1 & -14.12 ± 6.15, (p =NS), in males & females respectively and GRS being -24.53 ± 9.8 & -21.93 ± -8.81, (p= NS), in males & females respectively. No previous data is available, making the research a singular experience.

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