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Measuring Water Deficit and Stress Level of Household in Nepal
In the context of Nepal’s emerging small cities, where most households have faced the growth of water deficit and stress, this study delve the nexus between water deficit and water stress and adaptation capacity of households and lesson learnt. Surveying 317 sample households in 12 small cities for cross sectional data sets of households across three different elevations and ecological belts (Himal, Hill and Terai) under explorative and descriptive research design, the study has used economic analysis and index method to achieve above key objectives. Our findings are presented here. Firstly, we found water deficit for one month long in these small cities relative to excessive water demand of households with reference to 20 liters and 50 liters water thresholds for basic utilities and more than basic utilities. The distribution of water deficit is uneven across three elevations and ecological belts. In the higher elevation (Himal), water deficit is higher than moderate elevation (Hill) and lower elevation (Terai). Lower water availability below average 0.9 liters water in the higher elevation causes water deficit. Secondly, we observed uneven water stress in all small cities across the different elevations (Himal, Hill and Terai) relative to water demand of 20 liters and 50 litres. The level of water stress is extremely higher in Himal and Terai but is comfortable in Hills. At a per capita daily water availability of 20 liters, household water stress is unevenly distributed across the small cities. Five cities in the Himal and Terai regions experience extreme stress, while seven cities in the Hill region remain largely unstressed, except for Bandipur and Marsyangdi, which face moderate stress. Overall, water deficits in the Hill region are lower than in the Himal and Terai. Although 20 liters per capita per day may suffice for basic household needs, most cities still experience high water stress, with the Hill region showing relatively lower stress compared to the Himal and Terai. When assessed against WHO standards (50–100 liters per capita per day), all cities exhibit extreme water deficits and critical water stress, highlighting a severe gap between water availability and the level required for an adequate standard of living. Thus, lower water availability is a key determinant to water deficit and stress at household in these cities. Therefore, additional avoidance cost to water deficit and stress that is economic cost to households increases vulnerability to the low-income groups more than the high-income groups and redistribute income and welfare of households in these cities for fostering poverty, inequality and health hazards. In this insight, this study argues saving water and efficient use of water for reducing water deficit and stress and their socio-economic impacts in the form of poverty, inequality and vulnerability. Therefore, the study advocates to use indigenous water-saving knowledge and technology for harvesting rainfall during the monsoon period, conserving fresh water and purifying polluted water for welfare and prosperity of these small cities in Nepal.
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Sustainable Development Goals (SDGS) In Rural Context within a Rural Development Policy in North-eastern Algeria
The decline in the rural population is a universal phenomenon, and Algeria has experienced excessive migration of its rural population since independence. At the same time, in 2015, UN member states adopted the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. These goals target all aspects of development, including vulnerable rural areas. To tackle the problem of rural depopulation, Algeria has introduced a number of policies and strategies to develop rural areas, including the Rural Renewal Policy (PRR) launched in 2006. This study in Algeria examines the alignment or coherence of the objectives and actions of the RRP with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), by comparing the two objectives. The reconciliation was carried out on the basis of existing documentation, supplemented by a case study of the wilaya of Guelma, located to the north-east of Algeria. In addition, further information was gathered through a household survey in rural areas. By combining cluster and proportional sampling, we obtained a sample of 108 households and the surveys were carried out in May and June 2022. The results reveal that the objectives of the PRR are aligned with the SDGs, but the application at Guelma level through the Integrated Rural Development Proximity Projects (PPDRI), the PRR's operational tool, has not taken all the SDGs into consideration. In particular SDG 3 and 4, which are dealt with in other structures. At the same time, the household surveys revealed shortcomings, particularly with regard to SDG 5 on the empowerment of women and SDG 11 on the quality of employment. These findings can help stakeholders in future interventions.
Beyond Money: Unlocking the Psychological Drivers Behind Crowdfunding Contributions
Crowdfunding has changed the way entrepreneurs get money, but we still don't know much about the psychological reasons behind contributor behavior. This study uses cognitive mapping and MICMAC structural analysis to look into the non-financial reasons why people use crowdfunding platforms. We used data from 32 industry experts to find three main types of motivation: (1) instrumental motivation (making emotional connections and expressing one's identity), (2) efficacy motivation (helping others and building skills), and (3) quality assurance motivation (project credibility and reward expectations). Our research shows that instrumental factors are the main drivers, while efficacy and quality assurance act as moderators that increase funding engagement. These results go against traditional economic models by showing that identity alignment and perceived impact are more important than money alone. We give practitioners useful information to improve campaign design by leveraging motivational psychology.
The Geographical Distribution of Health Services: A Stake for Sustainable Human Development in the Central High Plateaus Region of Algeria
The geographical distribution of health services in the central Algerian High Plateaus region is a crucial factor in achieving sustainable human development. The availability and quality of these services directly impact the living standards and health of the population. This region suffers from a clear disparity in the distribution of hospitals and health centers between urban and rural areas, leading to difficulties in accessing necessary medical care particularly in light of the shortage of medical equipment and weak infrastructure. Geographical factors, such as long distances and rugged terrain, pose additional challenges that hinder equitable access to health services. Furthermore, the health sector in these areas faces problems related to limited financial resources and an unbalanced distribution of medical personnel, resulting in a decline in the quality of health services. To achieve sustainable health development, it is essential to adopt effective strategies that include improving health infrastructure, encouraging doctors to work in remote areas through appropriate incentives, developing transportation and ambulance services, and utilizing modern technology such as telemedicine to overcome geographical barriers. Improving the equitable distribution of health services in this region is a fundamental stake in ensuring social justice and promoting sustainable human development. Analysis of developments in the sector and its geographical focus over 26 years (1998-2024), according to national and international classifications and standards.
The notion of justice remains at the centre of society and depicts justice as fair, equal, and protective of rights. It is in this respect that the concept of justice evolved from ancient philosophies to modern models, which is discussed in this report. While discussing the idea of distributive justice, procedural justice, retributive justice, and restorative justice, which are all relevant forms of justice that must be maintained within a society, many real-world case studies illustrate these diverse models of justice in practice through criminal law, social movements, and economic fairness. This report presents the history of the evolution of justice, different types of systems where justice can be found, cultural perspectives of justice, and the challenges modern legal systems face in practice. Through case studies and analysis, we will also observe current practice with regard to justice and look at its future. The report also analyses the future of justice by exploring how globalisation, technology, and other related environmental factors are likely to inform it. Justice, just as societies and legal systems change, develops and needs to respond to new ethical issues that serve to preserve its potency in terms of fairness and equity. The analysis in the report underscores, therefore, an evolved justice system in response to emerging global concerns. This report will also discuss the modern justice system, notable case studies, and how justice will evolve moving forward.
Geopolitical Tensions and Financial Market Spillovers
This study investigates the spillover effects of geopolitical tensions on commodity and stock markets, focusing on their influence on risk transmission and market stability. By applying a TVP-VAR connectedness framework, it quantifies dynamic interdependencies and higher-order moment risks across financial markets. The research identifies key shock transmitters and receivers, offering insights into crisis-period market behavior. Using daily data from January 2, 2017, to December 21, 2023, the analysis captures time-varying linkages and risk transmissions across commodity and stock markets. The methodology allows for identifying key transmitters and receivers of market shocks during heightened geopolitical tensions. The findings reveal that the Israel-Palestine conflict significantly increases overall spillovers and volatility within financial markets. The TA Allshare index emerges as a primary source of market shocks, reflecting its central role in regional risk transmission. In contrast, the Al-Quds Palestinian index is identified as the most prominent net receiver. These results have important implications for both policymakers and market participants, emphasizing the need to understand and manage geopolitical risk in financial systems.
Teachers’ Perceptions of Culturally Relevant Mathematics Education in Oromia’s Colleges of Teacher Education, Ethiopia
Mathematics education in culturally diverse contexts faces challenges when teaching is disconnected from students’ language, culture, and daily experiences. This study explored mathematics teachers’ perspectives on the cultural significance of the mathematics curriculum in Ethiopia. A mixed-methods design with a convergent parallel approach was employed. Quantitative data were collected through questionnaires from 199 trainee mathematics teachers, selected using stratified followed by random sampling, while qualitative data were gathered through interviews with 8 lecturers, selected via purposive sampling, across four Colleges of Teacher Education in the Oromia Regional State. Questionnaire data were analyzed using percentages, means, standard deviations, and multiple linear regression for quantitative, and interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, coded, and analyzed inductively and thematically for qualitative data. The study identified three major themes: the pivotal role of native language instruction, the contextualization of mathematics through ethno-mathematics, and the integration of local knowledge into the curriculum as effective teaching strategies. Regression results further revealed that these three predictors jointly explained 52.3% of the variance in overall perceptions, with local knowledge being the strongest contributor, followed by mother tongue and ethno-mathematics. These findings highlight their complementary influence on fostering culturally responsive mathematics education and underscore the need for curriculum reform, professional development, and institutional support to translate positive perceptions into effective classroom practice. The study contributes to the literature on the cultural dimensions of mathematics teaching, learning, and curriculum design.
AI-Enabled Financial Ecosystems: Rethinking Crowd-Lending and Bank Lending for Next-Gen Entrepreneurs in Industry 5.0 Era
Introduction: In the age of Industry 5.0, entrepreneurial finance is being reshaped by digital innovation and AI-driven platforms. As start-ups and next-generation entrepreneurs adapt to this transformation, understanding the dynamics of emerging financing options such as crowd-lending—alongside traditional bank loans—becomes essential for sustainable growth. Aims: This study investigates the evolving financial ecosystem by (1) examining the role of crowd-lending in promoting entrepreneurial finance, (2) analysing the influence of bank loans within digitally enabled economies, and (3) identifying challenges entrepreneurs face in accessing these funding sources. Problem: Despite rapid digital advancements, many entrepreneurs still face obstacles in securing capital. The relative effectiveness and accessibility of AI-powered crowd-lending versus conventional bank financing remain underexplored. Significance: The study provides critical insights into how digital finance ecosystems can empower entrepreneurs, guiding financial institutions, platform developers, and policymakers toward inclusive and intelligent financing solutions. Method & Material: Using a quantitative design, primary data from entrepreneurs were analyzed. Statistical methods assessed the impact and challenges of each financing method. Results: Crowd-lending influences entrepreneurial finance by 60.4%, while bank loans show a stronger effect (0.871 probabilities). Both face unique digital-age barriers. Conclusion: Both financing methods significantly support entrepreneurship, though bank loans exhibit a stronger influence. In the context of Industry 5.0, intelligent integration of both models is key to future-ready financial ecosystems.
The purpose of this study is to investigate the impact of task based instruction (TBI) on students’ speaking skills development at primary schools in Ethiopia. The study employed a quazi-experimental research design. Particularly, the study used a pretest-posttest control group research design. Participants of the study were 80 grade 7 students who were enrolled in 2018 academic year in Aleta Wondo primary school. In this study, two sets of data were collected: namely qualitative and quantitative data. The quantitative data was collected from pretest-posttest exam and the qualitative data through observation. The result of pretest-posttest data indicated that significant difference observed after the intervention on experimental group students who learnt through task based instruction (i.e. p value calculated to be 0.000). It helped them to improve their speaking skills, increased their confidence, and motivated them to learning English despite the difficulties they face due to different factors. In addition, the observation data confirmed that task based instruction improved students’ to interact using English language in EFL classrooms.
Construction of a Fourth Order Iterative Method to Solve Non-Linear Equations
In this paper, we have developed the fourth order iterative method to find the simple roots of the non-linear equations that arise in engineering and scientific fields. Through theoretical derivatives and practical examples, we illustrate how to evaluate the simple roots of non-linear equations. The proposed scheme demonstrates efficient results as well as improves the computational performance. The study concluded by discussing potential applications and implications for future research in simple root finding methods.
Gray Multi-Criteria Decision-Making Model for Optimization of Cost for Sustainable Design and Construction Using Value Engineering
This research aims to optimize of sustainable design and construction cost using gray multi-criteria decision-making through value engineering approach by reducing unnecessary costs while maintaining essential functionality. Despite its advantages, this approach has not been widely explored in sustainable design and construction due to several constraints such as an excessive focus on cost, inability to meet varied criteria, reliance on team votes for solution ranking, disregard for inherent uncertainties, and disputes among team members. These limitations have hindered its effectiveness. To tackle these challenges, this research endeavors to create a comprehensive model that combines value engineering with sustainable design and construction cost management, utilizing gray multi-criteria decision-making. The model comprises two phases. The first phase involves identifying an initial set of improvement solutions and localizing criteria extracted from the literature through the perspectives of the value engineering team. These criteria are then weighted using the gray stepwise weight assessment ratio analysis technique. Subsequently, the team assigns scores to each solution based on the criteria list using gray numbers. The scores are amalgamated using the gray evaluation based on distance from average solution method, and the solutions are prioritized accordingly. By employing this method, the study aims to overcome the limitations of conventional value engineering and establish a more efficient framework for sustainable design and construction cost management.
This study investigated the unlocking potential which is the synergy of self-esteem, motivation, and EFL speaking performance using Pearson-product correlation. Data was collected from 87 Ethiopian grade 11 students at Addis Ketema Sub-city High Schools in Addis Ababa city, using questionnaires adapted from Rosenberg's self-esteem of 1979. Motivation Questionnaires were developed from Attitude Motivation Test Battery which was adapted from Gardner in 1985. Data were also gathered through speaking tests. The results of the Pearson correlation revealed that there was a significant relationship among motivation, self-esteem, and speaking performance. The result indicated that there was a relationship between motivations and speaking performance which is 0.449 with a significant p-value of 0.000 and it is less than 0.05. Moreover, there was a positive relationship between self-esteem and speaking performance which is 0.384 with a significant p-value of 0.000 and it is less than 0.05. The result of multiple regression revealed that 26.6 % of the change in speaking performance was explained by independent variables. However, 73.4% of the speaking performance of the students was not explained in this model. The study revealed that there was a significant relationship among EFL students’ self-esteem, motivation, and speaking performance. Therefore, null hypotheses were rejected and alternative hypotheses were accepted.
The Predictive Relationship between Language Learning Strategy Use and Speaking Proficiency
This study examined the association between pre-service EFL teachers' language learning strategies use and their speaking proficiency. It was an explanatory correlational study which was conducted on 94 pre-service EFL teachers enrolled in the academic year of 2023 at two teacher education colleges in Ethiopia. A comprehensive sampling method was used to choose the participants. Data was collected using language learning strategies questionnaire and speaking proficiency test. Using SPSS Version 26, different statistical out puts such as mean, standard deviations, Pearson correlation and simple regression out puts were computed to determine the status and relationship between the variables. Consequently, the findings showed that pre-service EFL teachers employed language learning strategies at a moderate level with an overall mean score of 3.09. Likewise, the descriptive output for speaking proficiency is 62.93, indicating a medium degree of proficiency. The correlation analysis indicated that four dimensions of language learning strategies (memory strategies r=414, p<.001), (cognitive strategies r=503, p<.001), (metacognitive strategies r=436, p<.001), and (compensation strategies (r=.555, p<.001) had a moderate positive correlation with the teachers’ speaking proficiency. On the other hand, affective strategies (r=.223, p<.005), and social strategies (r=247, p <.005) have a low positive significant correlation with the speaking proficiency. Furthermore, the regression analysis indicated that the R Square was .632, which in turn indicates that 63.2% of the variance in speaking proficiency total scores was explained by the EFL teachers' language strategy use. This shows that EFL teachers speaking skills can be enhanced if the lessons are designed in the light of language learning strategies.
Some Open-Newton-Cotes Type Integral inequalities for Caputo Fractional Integral Operator
In this paper, we present a set of open-Newton-type inequalities with n=1 for differentiable convex functions using the Caputo fractional operator. For this, first we prove an integral identity using Caputo Fractional integral and derivative operator. Further, by utilising this identity we establish some error bounds for Open-Newton-Cotes formula for differentiable convex functions and bounded functions in the fractional calculus. Finally, we added some examples and show the validity of inequalities with a graph for different values of fractional parameter .
Effects of Explicit Metacognitive Strategy Training on Listening Comprehension and Metacognitive Awareness of Secondary School Students
This study aimed to examine the Effects of explicit metacognitive listening strategy training on the listening comprehension skills and metacognitive awareness of secondary school students. Since the researchers used intact groups (two sections from a school) for the purpose of this study, the non-equivalent quasi experimental design was applied. This enabled us to compare the possible effects of the metacognitive strategies on the listening comprehension and awareness of students. A mixed approach which combined quantitative and qualitative data was used. The main tools of the study were tests and metacognitive awareness listening questionnaires (MALQ). Intervention was carried out for the control and treatment group participant students in teaching listening skills. Moreover, tests and metacognitive awareness listening questionnaires were administered to the participant students both before and after the intervention. The data gathered through the test and metacognitive awareness listen questionnaire were analyzed using SPSS application. The paired and independent sample t tests were computed to see the mean differences in the two groups. Open ended items in the questionnaire were analyzed using qualitative approach. The finding of the paired and independent sample t-test revealed that there was statistically significant difference between the treatment and control groups. The treatment group participants showed better improvements in their listening comprehension skills compared to the control group participant students. The results from the metacognitive awareness listening questionnaires indicated that the participant students gained some kind of experiences on their awareness of the listening metacognitive strategies. In general, the findings of this study provides the potential benefits of the listening metacognitive strategy training for improving L2 listening comprehension skills of Ethiopian secondary school students.
An Integrated Buddhist Mechanism to Promote Self-Esteem among Elderly Volunteer Groups in Sam Phran District, Nakhon Pathom Province, Thailand
The research entitled “An integrated Buddhist mechanism to promote self-esteem among elderly volunteer groups in Sam Phran District, Nakhon Pathom Province, Thailand” has three objectives: 1) to study activities and Buddhist principles that promote the value of the elderly in Sam Phran District, Nakhon Pathom Province, 2) to develop participatory Buddhist-integrated activities to enhance self-esteem among elderly volunteers in Sam Phran District, Nakhon Pathom Province, and 3) to expand the impact of participatory Buddhist-integrated activities to enhance self-esteem among elderly volunteers in Sam Phran District, Nakhon Pathom Province. This is mixed-methods research that combined documentary research aimed at analyzing Buddhist-integrated mechanisms that promote self-esteem among elderly volunteers in the Sam Phran District, Nakhon Pathom Province, and qualitative research by using in-depth interviews with 15 key informants and focus group discussions with 9 elderly volunteers, including elderly club members, community leaders, and elderly volunteers in the area who were selected. Action research was conducted by collecting data from 25 participants in Buddhist-integrated activities aimed at enhancing self-esteem among elderly volunteers in Sam Phran District, Nakhon Pathom Province; the data was recorded to explain before and after the activities. The research findings indicate that, 1) the implementation of activities to create a space that ensures honesty and sincerity in working together found that studying activities and Buddhist principles resulted in the elderly feeling like part of the community. Promoting self-esteem can be achieved by supporting the elderly volunteer groups in having opportunities to make decisions and participate in managing various activities. The research outcomes were indicated by applying the Four Brahmaviharas, the Four Bases of Spiritual Power, and the Four Foundations of Mindfulness, helping the elderly manage daily life problems to promote mental well-being, self-esteem, and happiness in daily life. 2) The development of participatory Buddhist-integrated activities to promote self-esteem among the volunteer elderly group in Sam Phran District, Nakhon Pathom Province, found that the implementation of activities led to effective learning encompassing physical, mental, intellectual, and social well-being. The elderly gained more self-esteem and enjoyed a variety of activities, as follows: Activity 1: Dhamma Awakening, Activity 2: Buddhist Mindfulness, and Activity 3: Elderly Volunteer Power for Happiness. 3) The expansion of the participatory Buddhist-integrated activities to enhance the self-esteem of volunteer seniors in Sam Phran District, Nakhon Pathom Province, revealed that the approach to expanding the activities promoting self-esteem among the senior volunteer group resulted in the senior gaining skills learned from the activities. The activities of teaching mindfulness practice and ensuring continuity and ease of understanding, making the seniors feel more valued. The seniors received encouragement to avoid negligence in life and provided positive feedback, expressing a desire for more sessions. The expansion of Buddhist mechanisms for senior activities to other districts in Nakhon Pathom Province and other provinces is a strong and important network-building effort to exchange knowledge, experiences, and best practices in developing activities for seniors. The main steps are as follows: 1) Building understanding and participation 2) Developing activities according to Buddhist principles 3) Networking with various organizations 4) Monitoring and evaluation 5) Continuous publicity and expansion.
Storytelling is an ancient cultural performance of the Musahar community connecting their present and past in central Madhes. This narratological episteme of tale-telling and performance is an elementary practice of the community for their historical reproduction and understanding of transformation throughout generations. The professional storytelling program locally called Maharai Gaune was regularly organized by the Musahar community to educate the Musahars about their ancestry, culture, belongingness, and political-economic history across the Nepal-India border. Both the Musahars and Non-Musahars participants curiously attended the storytelling program. The storytellers employed art, music, and performance on mythical stories to persuade the participants who followed spatial and temporal landscapes of the story and socio-cultural contexts. The Maharai revolves around how the legendary ancestors Dianabhadri, as the freedom fighter, defeated the landlord who enslaved and exploited the Musahars. The article explores how an illiterate community employs cultural performance and politics to express deep historical belonging in the territory, a sense of freedom, and political economic dimensions of marginalization. The article is based on ethnographic observation of the Maharai Gaune events as cultural performance in the field as well as interviews with the Musahars participants and storytellers during my Ph.D. research and subsequent visits at Golbaza Municipality of Siraha district in 2015 and 2022. The non-political programs of telling ancestor’s stories to the youth is a micro political action of reproduction of territory (the legitimacy of territorial belonging through stories of ancestors and cosmology), culture and social relations with other caste ethnic groups. The cultural politics and performance of storytelling are considered as solidarity, collectivity and the therapeutic function of psychological unity to negotiate with powerful groups around them. They applied it to revitalize Dinabhadri as a heroic figure since they could not utilize other evidence of historical belongingness.
Changes in the Cardiovascular System after Covid-19 in Children
Medical research is being conducted around the world to study the pathogenesis of the SARS CoV-2 virus, its etiology, normal long-term activity of people, various strains of the virus, vaccination issues, as well as the prevention of various procedures during the recovery process after an illness. In this regard, it was of interest to conduct follow-up studies of the course of post-COVID syndrome: the clinical course and general clinical studies of children after suffering from COVID-19 of varying severity, who was undergoing outpatient treatment at Polyclinic No. 33. Hematological, biochemical, immunoenzyme and instrumental studies were carried out at the TMA Children's Clinic.
Development of Activities to Enhance Mental Management Skills and Develop Wisdom for the Elderly with Buddhist LOVE Model
The research entitled “Development of activities to enhance mental management skills and develop wisdom according to Buddhism for the elderly using the LOVE MODEL” has the three objectives: 1) to synthesize a set of knowledge on mind management and development of wisdom according to Buddhism for the elderly, 2) to develop activities to enhance mental management skills and develop wisdom according to Buddhism for the elderly using the LOVE MODEL, and 3) to experiment with activities to enhance mental management skills and develop wisdom according to Buddhism for the elderly using the LOVE MODEL. This research investigates the development of psycho-cognitive interventions to enhance metacognitive regulation and cultivate contemplative wisdom according to Buddhist epistemology for geriatric populations through the implementation of the LOVE MODEL paradigm. The investigation employed a convergent parallel mixed-methods research design, integrating both quantitative and qualitative methodological approaches. The study population comprised elderly residents (n=50) from Hom Kret Subdistrict in Sam Phran District, with 15 participants engaging in semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions (qualitative strand), while 35 subjects participated in the experimental protocol (quantitative strand). Research instrumentation included an intervention implementation manual, systematic behavioral observation protocols utilizing structured metrics, intervention efficacy assessment instruments, quantitative data subjected to descriptive statistical analysis (x̄, S.D.), and qualitative data analyzed through thematic content analysis, hermeneutic interpretation, and phenomenological reduction to elucidate emergent patterns. The empirical findings revealed that the Satipatthana framework (Four Foundations of Mindfulness) constitutes an efficacious metacognitive mechanism for cultivating attentional regulation in quotidian contexts, while the ontological principles of Trilaksana (Three Marks of Existence), Pancakkhandha (Five Aggregates), and Maranassati (Mindfulness of Mortality) provide the theoretical foundation for wisdom cultivation. These Buddhist epistemological constructs were operationalized as pedagogical interventions within the quadripartite LOVE MODEL framework: Learning acquisition (L), Ontological receptivity (O), Valuational cognition (V), and Experiential transcendence (E). The intervention protocol was systematically developed into a comprehensive implementation manual comprising three discrete modules: "Phenomenological Perception of Existential Reality through Buddhist Hermeneutics," "Metacognitive Regulation in Quotidian Experience," and "Contemplative Approaches to Mortality Acceptance." Post-intervention phenomenological inquiry revealed significant enhancement in participants' metacognitive awareness, ontological receptivity, dialectical exchange capabilities, and experiential knowledge articulation regarding intrapersonal cognitive regulation. Participants demonstrated enhanced comprehension of existential impermanence and contingency, along with elevated self-recognition of intrinsic and interpersonal axiological significance.
Greening the Continents for Human Performance
Global change is one of the major challenges of the present day and it adds considerable stress to our societies and to the environment. The global climate change agenda cuts across all the domains of society including work and educational settings. The study explored the utilization of green spaces in the University of Lagos, Nigeria and North West University, South Africa with the central aim of exploring the availability of green spaces in the two campuses with a behavior mapping technique to observe how the areas are being utilized. The study locations were the Lagoon Front at the University of Lagos and the Student Union Building lawn, Mafikeng Campus, South Africa. The study deployed the use of an observational method specifically behavior mapping to map the utilization of the green spaces on the two campuses. The observation continued until no new themes emerged, the themes revealed that students utilized the green areas for recreational activities, which included browsing/computer use, phone calls/chatting, reading, copying of notes and social interaction. It was also observed that the utilization of Lagoon fronts spanned beyond recreational use, people were observed doing dance rehearsals, photo shoots, musical video shoots, parties, small gatherings and religion-related activities. The study concluded that green spaces are well utilized in the institutions of learning in Africa, and this makes the institutions align with the global climate change agenda. Therefore, we recommended that all institutions should make unprecedented efforts to ensure that all institutions cooperate to provide for adequate green spaces to enhance the greening of the continents and for the overall well-being of all learners irrespective of age, class and status which will also have a significant influence on their mental wellbeing and relaxation.
Irrigation Perimeters and Water Transfer in Setif
Climate change is manifesting globally, with North African nations, including Algeria, facing severe water scarcity. This scarcity is exacerbated by declining rainfall and rising temperatures, leading to increased evaporation and a significant deficit in water resources for both drinking and agricultural irrigation. Consequently, Algeria's agricultural productivity and food security are under threat. To address these challenges and ensure sustainable development, Algeria has adopted a strategic approach centered on the inter-basin transfer of dam water. This policy aims to mitigate the uneven distribution of rainfall and renewable surface and groundwater resources across the country, particularly between the northern, coastal, inland, eastern, and western regions. The primary objective is to balance water availability and alleviate the acute water shortages experienced by urban and semi-arid populations.
Village Shrine as a Common Cultural Space with Different Performances
This paper is focused on how common cultural space in village of Nepal is utilized by different cultural, religious, social and ethnic or caste group for different performances by the villagers in different time is best explained. How these diverse performances in complex, multiplex Nepalese societies have significant role to maintain the diversity, differences, inequalities for the welfare, cooperation, harmony through the interactions, socializations to reduce the gap between the contradict, conflicting societies. The role of such rituals, feast and festivals to resolve the disorder, conflict and misunderstanding as mechanism, events and act or activities of everyday life of the people in the study area, were found very significant. Eight different common cultural spaces were selected as the case study for ethnographic study from each ward. Three level analysis; family community and society indicated that Khotehang villagers have used the common cultural spaces for religious, social, political, economic etc by different communities, at different time can maintain the harmony, cooperation, unity and respect from one to another with religious syncritized, culturally melted and socially accepted and psychologically dignified identity with each other sounds the good example for all diverged, multiplexed and complex society in this world. From the idea of "religion is the Opium of the masses" to "religion is the societal glue of the society" to "religious ritual provide the common spaces for diverse believers" can be visualized clearly with the help of theoretical preposition of structuralism, functionalism, symbolism, interactionism, interpretativism of various contributors form Emile Durkheim to Red Cliff Brown, Malinowski, Clifford, Geertz, to Turner to Sherry Ortner.
Factors Affecting Green Human Resources Management Practices (GHRMP) in Contemporary Organizations
Initiatives in green HR are essential for assessing business success and social values. It means incorporating eco-friendly measures into HRM programs and policies. Nevertheless, no published review has addressed the variables influencing these crucial organizational components' ability to operate effectively. To close this gap, the study "Factors Affecting Green Human Resources Management Practices (GHRMP) in Contemporary Organizations: A Theoretical Review" was conducted. Keeping in mind the goals of the article, a thorough analysis using an archival technique was used to establish a dependable database for the GHRMP. The review procedure only included research articles that have an HRMP focus. More than 200 journal papers were made accessible for analysis using this method; 49 publications were deemed appropriate for this review. Our review was restricted to literature that offered theoretical explanations or presented empirical data supporting the GHRMP. We determined what factors influence green HRM practices within a company. The results demonstrate a variety of factors, such as national capitalist frameworks, cultural orientation, regulatory and legal frameworks, and level of development. The study concludes that corporations must first identify the factors that could negatively affect their performance to gain the benefits of green HRM. Then, they must incorporate green HRM practices into their daily processes to reduce the impact of these variables on green initiatives.
Exploring the Influence of Digitalization Strategies on Bank Performance
This study investigates the impact of digitalization strategies on the financial and environmental performance of Tunisian banks. The methodology consists of two parts: establishing the data sample criteria and interpreting the results, with data analysis conducted using SPSS and linear regression. The findings reveal a positive relationship between digitalization and financial performance, driven by improved customer relationships and competitive advantages. Key factors such as investments in payment tools, digital channels, and internet security contribute to enhanced bank performance. The research highlights that banks offering digitalized services exhibit better profitability, financial stability, and transparency, thereby fostering a positive environmental footprint. The study emphasizes the need for banks to adopt digitalization to improve performance and sustainability, providing valuable implications for regulators, policymakers, and investors. Regulators should establish supportive frameworks to encourage digital innovation, policymakers must prioritize infrastructure development, and investors should recognize the long-term benefits of investing in digitally advanced banks.
Teacher Education College English Language Teachers’ Practices and Challenges of Alternative Assessment
The study investigates the practices and challenges of alternative assessment among English language teachers in teacher education colleges. Utilizing a descriptive design with a mixed methods approach, data were collected from 56 teachers of English as a foreign language through both close-ended questionnaire and semi-structured interviews. Descriptive statistics including frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation were computed using SPSS version 23, while qualitative data were thematically analyzed through narrative techniques. The findings indicate that the practice of alternative assessment is not effective, due to a range of challenges: student-related challenges, teacher-related challenges, challenges specific to alternative assessment methods, and resources. The study concludes that enhancing alternative assessment practices and addressing these challenges are crucial for improving the effectiveness of alternative assessments among EFL teachers in teacher education colleges. Based on these insights, the study recommends strategies to strengthen alternative assessment practices, ultimately aiming to enhance both teaching effectiveness and student learning outcomes.
Dynamic Interconnectedness and Portfolio Implications of Bitcoin, Gold, Currencies, and TASI
Our study examines the safe-haven characteristics of Bitcoin, gold, TASI, JPY/USD, and CHF/USD during periods of market turbulence: the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russian invasion of Ukraine. The objective is to create robust portfolios by exploring the dynamic interrelationships among these assets, offering a comprehensive understanding of how they interact over time. Utilizing a time-varying parameter vector autoregression (TVP-VAR) model, we use four portfolio techniques−containing minimum variance, minimum correlation, minimum connectedness portfolios and Risk parity Portfolio−to estimate the Sharpe ratios and cumulative return of the portfolios. The analysis reveals a complex interplay of risk and hedging potential across different portfolio strategies. Bitcoin demonstrates high hedge effectiveness in certain contexts, particularly within the Minimum Variance Portfolio (MVP) and Risk Parity Portfolio (RPP), due to its low correlation with traditional assets. These findings provide critical information for international investors seeking to safeguard their savings during periods of economic uncertainty and unexpected global events.
Psycho-Economic Dynamics of Black Women within the South African Rural Agricultural Landscape
Black women are often the unseen backbone of the South African rural agricultural sector. However, the historical injustices they have experienced have resulted in a complex web of psychological factors that influence their agricultural economic decision making. Conversely, experiencing systematic economic challenges has had an impact on their psychological well-being. The psycho-economic dynamics of black women in rural agricultural landscapes is understudied. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the interplay between psychological factors and economic orientation of black women within the South African rural agricultural landscape. The study used a desktop method where secondary data was collected using search terms focused on agriculture, black women, psycho-economic, psychology, and rural economy on electronic databases. It was found that the psychological influences shaping economic decisions of rural black women in the agricultural landscape were their risk aversion, resilience, locus of control, and their time perspective. Whereas the economic pressures in the rural agricultural landscape that have an impact on the psychological wellbeing of black women were precarious livelihoods, the burden of food security, financial strain, limited resources, and the burden and devaluation of their labour. It was recommended in this study that policymakers and development programs create a more supportive environment for rural black women in the South African agricultural landscape where these psycho-economic dynamics can be acknowledged and addressed holistically.
Can Managerial Psychology Affect Investment Efficiency?
This paper explores the impact of varying levels of CEO overconfidence on investment efficiency, focusing on overinvestment and underinvestment. Using a sample of 3,900 firm-year observations from 2012 to 2023, the study employs the Generalized Method of Moments (GMM) regression to examine the relationship between managerial overconfidence and investment efficiency. The findings suggest that increasing low levels of overconfidence in CEOs helps firms move closer to optimal investment efficiency by reducing underinvestment. However, firms that are over-invested and have CEOs with low overconfidence do not experience significant improvements in investment efficiency. This research contributes to the literature by refining measures of overconfidence to differentiate between low and high levels, offering valuable insights for academics, practitioners, and regulators focused on enhancing investment efficiency.
Swedish Aid for Primary School Construction for Expansion of Primary Education in Gondar Province (North-West Ethiopia) From 1950’5 To 1991
Ethiopia, in general, and Gondar province in particular, have maintained long-standing diplomatic, economic, and social relations with foreign states. Among them was Swedish. Since the 1950s, there have been diplomatic and economic relations between the two countries. But previous scholars have not fully explored the Swedish aid for primary school construction in the expansion of education in Gondar province. Thus, the major purpose of this study is to explore the Swedish aid for primary school construction in the expansion of education in Gondar province from the 1950s to 1991. The method of the study used is a qualitative approach with descriptive data analysis. The data collection methods in this study are in-depth interviews, archival materials, and library works of secondary sources. So, the major result of the study is that from the 1950s to the 1990s, the Swedish government under SIDA (Swedish International Development Association) gave aid for primary school construction in Gondar province. Beyond this, their support was also technical, and gave training for skilled manpower in the construction sector. But, since 1991, a series of internal and external factors have appeared that have exerted considerable pressure on SIDA to carry out a comprehensive review of its assistance to the education sector within Sweden, and the emergence of a new political party with strong anti-development aid assistance virtually focused SIDA to scrutinize the project.
Some Comments on Federalism and the Agitations for Restructuring in Nigeria
Nigeria adopted federalism like most federations in order to accommodate its diverse ethnic and religious groups in a stable national polity. Ever since its adoption in 1954, it has been operating in both fiscal and political contexts. However, both contexts have engendered disaffection among its citizens manifesting in the calls for restructuring of the federation. This paper examined recent agitations for restructuring of the federation. Through a systematic examination of literature and existing records, it is observed that the current agitations derive from anomalies in federal practice. While there have been divergent views on the content and trend of restructuring that is advocated, it goes without saying that it lies at the root of political instability in Nigeria. The paper argued that recent agitations for restructuring has been deafening implying a strong disaffection with the status quo. It also argued that, what will be the outcome of the agitations is a function of ingenuity on the part of the government and sacrifice on the part of the citizens. It is thus recommended that the government need to thread with care in order to arrive at decisions that will be acceptable to many Nigerians. At the same time, citizens must be willing to make sacrifices in order for Nigeria to remain united.