Background: The Motivational Theory of Life-Span Development suggests that individual aspirations are shaped by both internal and external resources. Parental education is a key determinant of educational aspirations, yet its effects may vary by geographic location, demonstrating spatial patterns of Minorities’ Diminished Returns (MDRs). Objectives: This study examines the association between parental education and aspirations for graduate or professional education among non-Latino White adolescents, with a specific focus on urban-suburban versus rural differences. Methods: Using data from the 12th-grade cohort of the Monitoring the Future (MTF) 2024 survey, we conducted multivariate analyses to assess the relationship between parental education and aspirations for graduate or professional education. We further examined whether this association was moderated by geographic location (urban-suburban vs. rural) to identify place-based MDRs. Results: Higher parental education was associated with greater aspirations for advanced education; however, this effect was weaker in rural areas compared to urban and suburban settings. These findings highlight that even among non-Latino White adolescents, rural residence diminishes the benefits of socioeconomic resources, providing evidence of place-based MDRs. Conclusion: Rural residents face a dual disadvantage—both lower socioeconomic status and weaker returns on those resources—necessitating targeted interventions beyond resource allocation. To address disparities in educational aspirations in rural areas, policymakers should focus on improving equitable access to educational opportunities and ensuring that these resources translate into comparable outcomes across different social and geographic contexts.

Background: Electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) use and vaping tobacco have increased rapidly worldwide, raising concerns about their health effects, social acceptability, and regulatory challenges. In many countries, e-cigarettes are more commonly used by individuals from higher socioeconomic status (SES) backgrounds, who, in theory, should have greater knowledge about e-cigarettes and their associated risks. However, it remains unclear why a group with more knowledge about e-cigarette risks would also hold more positive attitudes toward vaping and exhibit higher usage rates — a phenomenon that may represent a knowledge-behavior paradox. Understanding this paradox, along with the complex relationships between e-cigarette knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors, is critical for informing effective public health interventions, campaigns, social media messaging, and regulatory policies. Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the complex relationship between SES, e-cigarette knowledge, pro-vaping attitudes, and e-cigarette use. Methods: The SMOKES Study (Study of Measurement of Knowledge and Examination of Support for Tobacco Control Policies) used a multi-center, cross-sectional design, collecting data from 2,403 college and university students across 15 provinces in Iran (covering nearly half of the country's provinces). The survey measured family income, age, sex, ethnicity, e-cigarette use, knowledge, and attitudes. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) was employed to examine the interrelations between SES, knowledge, attitudes, and behavior, while adjusting for age, sex, and ethnic minority status. Results: SEM analysis confirmed the hypothesized paradox. Although greater knowledge about e-cigarettes was linked to less favorable attitudes toward vaping and lower use, pro-vaping attitudes emerged as the strongest predictor of vaping behavior, while knowledge played a weaker protective role. Notably, individuals with higher SES simultaneously showed higher knowledge and, paradoxically, more pro-e-cigarette attitudes and greater usage. Female students and ethnic minority students reported higher correct knowledge and lower pro-vaping attitudes and use. Although age and higher family income were associated with more favorable attitudes, they did not directly predict vaping behavior. These results suggest that for higher SES individuals, poor knowledge is not the main driver of e-cigarette use; rather, their pro-e-cigarette attitudes, which seem to outweigh the influence of knowledge, play a key role. Conclusions: Although individuals from higher SES backgrounds report greater correct knowledge about e-cigarettes, this knowledge does not necessarily translate into reduced positive attitudes or lower usage. This study highlights the complexity of these paradoxical effects and suggests that public health strategies need to go beyond simple education and knowledge-based interventions. Targeted approaches should address industry messaging, challenge misconceptions, and strengthen regulatory efforts to reduce e-cigarette use among young adults, including those from higher SES backgrounds.

Background Adolescent substance use is often influenced by socioeconomic and geographical factors. While higher parental education is typically associated with lower substance use, these protective effects may be weaker for marginalized groups facing structural disadvantages that limit the utility and returns of their economic and social resources. Rural areas, characterized by fewer employment opportunities and limited recreational activities, may contribute to marginalization-related diminished returns (MDRs) of parental education on adolescent substance use, including inhalant use. Objectives This study applies the MDRs framework to examine whether the protective effect of higher parental education on current inhalant use (past 30 days) among 12th-grade American adolescents varies by geographic location. Specifically, we assess whether youth from highly educated families in rural areas are at a disproportionate risk of inhalant use compared to their urban and suburban peers. Methods Using data from the 2024 Monitoring the Future (MTF) study, a nationally representative survey of 12th-grade adolescents in the U.S., we tested main effects and statistical interactions between parental education and residence (rural vs. urban/suburban) in predicting the odds of inhalant use over the past 30 days. Logistic regression models, both with and without interaction terms, were applied to evaluate whether the protective effects of parental education varied by residence location, controlling for relevant demographic and socioeconomic factors. Results Findings indicate a significant interaction between parental education and rural residence. While higher parental education was associated with lower odds of inhalant use in urban and suburban areas, this protective effect was substantially weaker in rural settings. Adolescents from highly educated families in rural areas exhibited a higher-than-expected risk of inhalant use, suggesting that geographic marginalization attenuates the benefits of parental socioeconomic resources. Conclusions These results highlight the role of place-based marginalization in shaping adolescent substance use disparities, demonstrating that MDRs extend beyond race and ethnicity to location-based disadvantages. Rural youths from highly educated families may face unique structural and social challenges that counteract the protective effects of parental education. Public health efforts should consider place-based interventions that address the economic, recreational, and social limitations of rural environments to reduce substance use risk among high-SES adolescents residing in rural areas.

Background: Tobacco use remains a major global health concern, and understanding the factors that influence tobacco-related knowledge and support for tobacco control policies is critical for effective development of tobacco control policies that are accepted by the public. Objectives: This study introduces the rationale, design, methodology, and participants of the SMOKES Study (Study of Measurement of Knowledge and Examination of Support for tobacco control policies), which is conducted to evaluate tobacco use, tobacco-related knowledge and attitude, as well as support for tobacco control policies among college and university students. Methods: The SMOKES Study was designed to address significant gaps in literature by focusing on college and university students in a non-Western context. A multi-center, cross-sectional design was employed to collect data from a diverse sample of college and university students across different geographical provinces in Iran. The survey instrument incorporated a range of measures covering socio-demographic characteristics, university-related variables, family tobacco use status, personal tobacco consumption behaviors (including detailed assessments of cigarette, hookah, and electronic cigarette use), and attitudinal as well as knowledge-based assessments related to vaping. Support for tobacco control policies is also measured. Data were collected using an online survey that included self-administered questionnaires, enabling access to a large diverse sample. This study may be used to determine the prevalence of ever and current use of cigarettes, electronic cigarettes, and hookah, as well as examining the correlates of single, dual, and poly-tobacco use. The study also aims to assess the role of social determinants, attitudes, and ethnic/geographic differences in shaping these outcomes. Results: The study sample consisted of 2403 college and university students, including undergraduates enrolled in different academic programs from all faculties and disciplines. Participants were drawn from universities across 15 provinces, and 11 ethnic groups, ensuring a heterogeneous sample with respect to socio-demographic background, ethnicity, and institutional affiliation. This diversity enhances the generalizability of the findings and allows for the exploration of subgroup differences in tobacco use patterns and policy support. Conclusions: The SMOKES Study offers a framework for examining tobacco-related knowledge and the acceptability of tobacco control policies among a key part of the population, being college and university students. By providing detailed insights into the prevalence and correlates of tobacco knowledge, attitude, use, as well as the tobacco control policy support, the study lays the groundwork for tailored public health interventions and more effective tobacco regulation strategies particularly for college campuses in a non-Western setting.

Background: The increasing frequency and intensity of extreme heat exposure is a significant consequence of climate change, with broad public health implications. While many health risks associated with heat exposure are well-documented, less research has focused on its impact on children’s cognitive function. Objectives: This study examines the relationship between extreme heat exposure and various domains of cognitive function in children. Methods: Data were drawn from the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) study. Key variables included race/ethnicity, age, gender, family socioeconomic status (SES), heatwave exposure, and multiple cognitive domains: total composite score, fluid composite score, crystallized intelligence, reading ability, picture vocabulary, pattern recognition, card sorting, and list recall. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was used for data analysis. Results: A total of 11,878 children were included in the analysis. Findings revealed significant associations between extreme heat exposure and lower cognitive performance across multiple domains. The strongest adjusted effects were observed in pattern recognition (B = −0.064, p < 0.001) and reading ability (B = −0.050, p < 0.001), both within the learning domain, as well as total composite cognitive ability (B = −0.067, p < 0.001), fluid composite (B = −0.053, p < 0.001), and crystallized intelligence (B = −0.061, p < 0.001), all within general cognitive ability. Weaker but still significant associations were found for list recall (B = −0.025, p = 0.006) and card sorting (B = −0.043, p < 0.001) within the memory domain, as well as picture vocabulary (B = −0.025, p = 0.008) within general cognitive ability. These associations remained significant after controlling for demographic factors, race/ethnicity, family SES, and neighborhood SES. Conclusions: This study underscores the impact of climate change on cognitive function disparities, particularly in learning and general cognitive ability among children exposed to extreme heat. Findings highlight the need for targeted interventions to mitigate the cognitive risks associated with heat exposure in vulnerable populations.

Background: Low socioeconomic status (SES) has been linked to higher rates of tobacco and marijuana use initiation; however, the contributions of environmental and neurocognitive factors remain underexplored. This study investigates a potential pathway connecting low SES, fine particulate matter (PM2.5) exposure, brain functional connectivity, and inhibitory control to increased tobacco and marijuana use initiation among adolescents. Objectives: To examine the mediating roles of PM2.5 exposure, resting-state functional connectivity between the right pallidum and the ventral attention network (P-VAN rsFC), and inhibitory control in the relationship between low SES and tobacco and marijuana use initiation. Methods: Data were drawn from the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) study to assess associations between baseline SES, baseline PM2.5 exposure (based on zip code), baseline P-VAN rsFC, baseline inhibitory control, and subsequent tobacco and marijuana use initiation. Mediation models were used to determine whether PM2.5 exposure and changes in P-VAN rsFC act as pathways linking low SES to diminished inhibitory control and subsequent substance use initiation. Results: Low SES was associated with higher PM2.5 exposure, which, in turn, was linked to alterations in P-VAN rsFC. These alterations were correlated with lower inhibitory control, which significantly predicted tobacco and marijuana use initiation over time. Inhibitory control partially mediated the relationship between low SES and substance use initiation, indicating a complex pathway influenced by environmental and neurocognitive factors. Conclusions: This study identifies a potential mechanism linking low SES to tobacco and marijuana use initiation through environmental and neurobiological pathways. Understanding how PM2.5 exposure and neurofunctional connectivity impact inhibitory control can provide valuable insights for developing targeted interventions to reduce substance use among adolescents in low SES environments.

Background: Research on Minorities’ Diminished Returns (MDRs) consistently reveals that social determinants of health, especially educational attainment, do not yield equal health benefits across racial and ethnic groups in the United States. MDRs suggest that social stratification, segregation, lower education quality, and labor market discrimination contribute to diminished health returns of education among minoritized groups. However, few studies have tested the relevance of MDRs in American Indian and Alaska Native (AIAN) populations compared to non-Hispanic White adults. Objectives: This study aimed to examine the strength of the inverse association between educational attainment and hypertension prevalence, hypothesizing that the protective effect of education on hypertension risk is reduced among AIAN adults relative to non-Hispanic Whites. Methods: Using data from the 2023 National Health Interview Survey (NHIS), we analyzed a nationally representative sample of adults aged 18 and older. Logistic regression models examined the association between educational attainment and self-reported hypertension diagnosis, stratified by racial/ethnic group (AIAN vs. non-Hispanic White). Models were adjusted for key covariates, including age, gender, income, and insurance status. Results: Higher educational attainment was associated with a lower prevalence of hypertension in the combined sample of AIAN and non-Hispanic White adults. However, this protective association was significantly weaker among AIAN adults compared to non-Hispanic White adults, as evidenced by a significant interaction between race and education. Conclusion: AIAN adults exhibit a higher prevalence of hypertension even at higher levels of educational attainment compared to non-Hispanic White adults, supporting the relevance of MDRs for AIAN populations. This finding underscores the need for public health interventions that address structural barriers and contextual factors unique to AIAN populations. Policies focused solely on educational access may be insufficient to reduce hypertension risk among AIAN adults without addressing broader social and structural inequities.

Background: Disasters such as typhoons, floods, and earthquakes frequently impact the Philippines, placing nurses at the forefront of response and care. Given these recurring threats, ensuring that nurses possess adequate awareness, knowledge, and skills is crucial to mitigate risks, enhance preparedness, and promote effective disaster management. Aim/Objectives: This study sought to (1) assess the current levels of awareness, knowledge, skills, and involvement of private hospital nurses in Rizal Province across four phases of disaster management—mitigation and prevention, preparedness, response, and rehabilitation and recovery; and (2) propose a contingency and training plan based on identified gaps. Methods: A descriptive correlational design was employed. A total of 350 nurses from Level 1, 2, and 3 hospitals participated by completing a validated questionnaire. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, analysis of variance, and correlation tests to identify differences and relationships among variables. Results: Overall, the nurses reported very high levels of awareness and skills, coupled with a high level of knowledge and significant involvement in disaster-related activities. Nurses in larger (Level 3) hospitals exhibited higher practical readiness and engagement, while those in Level 1 and 2 facilities had comparatively lower scores. Positive correlations emerged between higher levels of awareness, knowledge, and skills and increased engagement in disaster initiatives. Conclusion: Building on these findings, a targeted contingency and training plan was designed using Pucel’s Performance-based Instructional Design, emphasizing hands-on simulations, structured policy briefings, and collaborative efforts with local disaster risk reduction offices. Addressing these specific gaps can bolster hospital preparedness, strengthen community resilience, and ensure more effective disaster response and patient care.

Background: Climate change has raised significant concerns about its impact on health, particularly for vulnerable populations such as children and adolescents. While extensive research has examined physical health effects, limited attention has been given to the influence of extreme heat on developmental and behavioral outcomes. Objectives: This study investigates the association between extreme heat exposure and early puberty initiation (ages 9-10), using data from the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) study. It further explores how early puberty correlates with behavioral problems and tobacco use initiation. Methods: Data from 11,878 participants in the ABCD study were analyzed to examine the relationship between extreme heat exposure (independent variable) and puberty initiation (outcome). Behavioral problems and tobacco use initiation were evaluated as downstream outcomes of early puberty. Covariates included age, sex, and race/ethnicity, and behavioral problems were assessed using the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL). Structural equation modeling (SEM) was employed for analysis. Results: Extreme heat exposure was significantly associated with earlier puberty initiation at ages 9-10. Early puberty, in turn, correlated with higher levels of behavioral problems and an increased likelihood of tobacco use initiation. Conclusions: These findings underscore the importance of addressing environmental factors such as extreme heat to reduce risks associated with early maturation, including behavioral and substance use challenges. Targeted interventions and policies are needed to mitigate the impact of extreme heat on child development, and longitudinal studies are essential to confirm these results and inform effective prevention strategies.

Background: The rising concerns surrounding climate change have drawn attention to its potential impact on health, particularly among vulnerable groups such as children and older adults. Despite extensive research on health consequences, limited studies have explored the connection between extreme heat exposure and tobacco use initiation among adolescents in the United States. Objectives: This study examines the relationship between extreme heat exposure and the initiation of tobacco use in adolescents, using data from the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) study. It also evaluates the mediating roles of major depressive disorder (MDD) and childhood behavioral problems. Methods: Data from 11,878 participants in the ABCD study were analyzed to explore the link between extreme heat exposure (independent variable) and tobacco use initiation (dependent variable). Covariates included age, sex, and race/ethnicity, while MDD and behavioral problems (measured using the Child Behavior Checklist, CBCL) were assessed as potential mediators. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was applied for analysis. Results: The findings indicated a significant association between extreme heat exposure and an increased likelihood of tobacco use initiation in adolescents aged 9 to 15. MDD and behavioral problems partially mediated this relationship. Conclusions: These results underscore the importance of targeted interventions aimed at mitigating the impact of extreme heat on adolescent health, including its influence on tobacco use initiation. Addressing mental health and behavioral challenges could help reduce these risks. Future longitudinal research is needed to confirm these findings and evaluate the efficacy of strategies to protect vulnerable youth populations.

The study aimed to examine the availability of protective clothing and its usage among workers at the University of Cape Coast in the central region of Ghana. It used the Accident-Proneness Theory and the Theory of Reasoned Action to achieve the study's objectives. The study adopted the positivist research paradigm. The study used a descriptive design with mixed methods. The study population comprised all workers and supervisors whose work demands the use of protective clothing at the University of Cape Coast. The study used multistage sampling techniques (stratified, purposive, proportional and Systematic random sampling techniques) to select one hundred and ninety-six departmental workers and five (5) supervisors in the University. The main instruments for data collection were a Semi-structured questionnaire and an unstructured interview guide. Mean and standard deviation, frequency count, and percentages were used to analyse the quantitative data. The qualitative data was analysed through the development of data categories and themes. The study concluded that “not all the protective clothing for the various departments were available. The University ensured that workers used what was in stock at the department. The protective clothing supplied to the various departments was insufficient, so their continuous use of the existing ones got them defaced, bringing about shortages. The study also revealed that workers used protective clothing most often, but not all used it because safety laws were relaxed. The study recommended that the University ensure a regular and adequate supply of PPC, insist on its usage, and enforce the use of PPC by all workers whose work demands it.

Background: Nowadays, integrating online and remote instruction into education presents unique challenges, particularly in nursing education, where combining technology with the core value of caring is essential. Nurse educators must address students’ holistic needs, as their circumstances can influence overall learning development. Objectives: This study aims to ascertain the technological caring competence of nurse educators Methodology: A descriptive design using an adapted tool on technological caring competence for nursing education (TCCNE) Results: A total of 243 Filipino nursing educators participated in this study. Overall, the participants’ perceived level of TCCNE was quite high. This sample representative of nursing educators holds strong perceptions of their TCCNE with the values of being considerate, supportive, and respectful to their students as the highest rated competency. This result implies that the educators keep the essence of what nursing is about as they model the importance of caring even in an academic setting considering that these teachers are using remote instruction. Conclusion: The study opens up a discussion on assessing the TCCNE of nursing education in an academic setting. Thus, its advocacy could start from implementing the research training plan. Further, the nurse educators should strengthen in balancing care with appropriate technology is viewed as a necessary step to maintain the essence of nursing, which is on caring that can be modeled out not just in clinical practice alone, but in nursing education.

Background: Smoking cessation is a crucial public health goal due to its substantial impact on reducing the morbidity and mortality associated with tobacco use. However, significant disparities in smoking cessation success persist across socioeconomic groups in the United States. Objectives: This study aimed to examine differences in smoking cessation rates among daily smokers based on race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status (SES) using data from the Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health (PATH) study, spanning waves 1 to 6 (eight years). Methods: Longitudinal data from PATH were analyzed, focusing on baseline daily cigarette smokers followed over an eight-year period to assess cessation outcomes. SES was measured by education and poverty status. Successful smoking cessation was defined as sustained abstinence from cigarettes for 12 months or more at the final wave. Logistic regression models identified predictors of successful cessation, adjusting for potential confounders, including age, nicotine dependence, and access to cessation resources. Results: The analysis revealed significant disparities in cessation success across racial, ethnic, and SES groups. Smokers living in poverty and those with lower educational attainment were less likely to achieve cessation success than their counterparts. Race (Black) and ethnicity (Latino) were also significantly associated with lower cessation success. Conclusions: This study highlights the social determinants of smoking cessation success among U.S. adult smokers, with lower success rates observed among those in poverty and with less educational attainment. These findings emphasize the need for targeted interventions that address the unique barriers to cessation faced by low-SES groups. Public health strategies should prioritize equitable access to cessation resources and culturally tailored interventions to reduce these disparities and improve cessation outcomes among all smokers.

Background: Socioeconomic status (SES) is traditionally viewed as a protective factor against impulsivity and subsequent tobacco use in youth. The prevailing model suggests that higher SES is associated with lower impulsivity, which in turn reduces the likelihood of future tobacco use. However, this pathway may not hold uniformly across racial groups due to differences in impulsivity and the phenomenon of Minorities' Diminished Returns (MDRs), where the protective effects of SES, such as educational attainment, tend to be weaker or even reversed for Black youth compared to their White counterparts. Objectives: This study aims to examine the racial heterogeneity in the pathway from childhood SES to impulsivity and subsequent tobacco use initiation during adolescence, focusing on differences between Black and White youth. Methods: Data were drawn from the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) Study, which includes a diverse sample of youth aged 9 to 16 years. The analysis examined the relationship between baseline family SES (age 9), impulsivity (age 9), and subsequent tobacco use (ages 9 to 16). Impulsivity was measured using the Urgency, Premeditation (lack of), Perseverance (lack of), Sensation Seeking, and Positive Urgency Impulsive Behavior Scale (UPPS-P). Structural equation modeling (SEM) was employed, with analyses stratified by race to explore potential differences in these associations. Results: Overall, 6,161 non-Latino White and 1,775 non-Latino Black adolescents entered our analysis. In the full sample, higher family SES was linked to lower childhood impulsivity and, consequently, less tobacco uses in adolescence. However, racial differences emerged upon stratification. Among White youth, higher SES was associated with lower impulsivity, leading to reduced tobacco use, consistent with the expected model. In contrast, among Black youth, higher SES was not associated with lower impulsivity, thereby disrupting the protective effect of SES on tobacco use through this pathway. These findings suggest that racial heterogeneity exists in the SES-impulsivity-tobacco use pathway, aligning with the MDRs framework, which highlights how structural factors may weaken the protective effects of high SES among Black youth. Conclusions: These findings underscore the importance of considering racial heterogeneity in the relationships between SES, impulsivity, and tobacco use. The observed disparities suggest a need for targeted interventions that address the unique challenges faced by Black youth, who may not experience the same protective benefits of high SES as their White peers. These results carry significant implications for public health strategies aimed at reducing tobacco use in racially diverse populations.

Background: Climate change has led to an increase in the frequency and intensity of extreme heat events, a trend expected to continue. This poses significant health risks, particularly for vulnerable populations like children. While previous research has largely concentrated on the physical health impacts of extreme heat, less attention has been given to behavioral outcomes, such as delinquency. Objectives: This study investigates the association between extreme heat exposure and delinquency among children, utilizing data from the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) study. It also explores the potential mediating roles of neighborhood socioeconomic status (SES; measured by median home value), puberty, peer deviance, and financial difficulties. Methods: Data from the national ABCD study were analyzed to assess the relationship between extreme heat exposure (exposure) and delinquency (outcome). Covariates included race/ethnicity, sex, and age. Mediators examined were neighborhood SES, puberty, peer deviance, and financial difficulties. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was employed for data analysis. Results: Overall, 11,878 children entered our analysis. The analysis revealed a significant association between extreme heat exposure and higher levels of delinquency among children. Children more exposed to extreme heat were more likely to be Black, reside in lower SES neighborhoods, experience greater financial difficulties, and have more advanced puberty status. The group facing the highest heat exposure was also economically disadvantaged. Conclusions: The findings suggest that children already disadvantaged by socio-economic factors are disproportionately affected by extreme heat, leading to increased delinquency. This highlights the need for targeted interventions to protect these vulnerable populations and address the mediators of extreme heat exposure. Future research should focus on longitudinal studies and evaluate the effectiveness of various mitigation strategies to address these disparities.

Background: Racial discrimination remains a significant issue in the United States, particularly affecting Black individuals. Understanding how beliefs about the persistence of racial discrimination are shaped by race and parental education among college students is crucial for developing strategies to address these inequities. Objectives: This study aims to examine the multiplicative effects of race and parental education on beliefs about the persistence of racial discrimination among Black and White college students. We hypothesize that Black students, particularly those with highly educated parents, will exhibit stronger beliefs in the persistence of racial discrimination as a significant issue compared to their White peers. Methods: Data were drawn from the Higher Education Research Institute (HERI) study, which includes a national sample of Black and White young adults on college campuses across the United States. We conducted statistical analyses to explore the influence of race and parental education on students' beliefs about racial discrimination. Results: Black students demonstrated stronger beliefs in the persistence of racial discrimination compared to White students. Additionally, students with higher parental education levels were more likely to recognize racial discrimination as a significant issue than those with lower parental education. The impact of parental education on these beliefs was more pronounced for Black students compared to White students. Discussion: Black college students, especially those from higher SES backgrounds, exhibit a heightened awareness of racial discrimination due to their lived experiences and educational exposure. High SES Black individuals often face increased visibility and prejudice in predominantly White environments, further reinforcing their beliefs about the persistence of discrimination. These findings highlight the need for targeted interventions to support Black students in higher education and promote awareness of racial discrimination. Policy solutions should include comprehensive anti-discrimination policies, increased diversity and inclusion efforts, and educational curricula that address systemic racism and social justice. The cross-sectional nature of the data limits causality inference, and self-reported measures may be subject to bias. Despite these limitations, the study's large and diverse sample enhances the generalizability of the findings. Race and parental education have multiplicative effects on college students' beliefs about the persistence of racial discrimination. Black students, particularly those from high SES backgrounds, are more likely to perceive racial discrimination as a continuing problem. Addressing these disparities through targeted policies and interventions is essential for creating equitable and inclusive educational environments.

The role and contribution of women in modern organisations have been phenomenal. However, societal norms and other patriarchal values continue to stifle the progress of women leaders. The study's overall purpose was to examine the leadership styles of female leaders in managing senior high schools in the Central Region of Ghana. The study adopted non-numerical data and used a purely qualitative research approach. A phenomenological design supported the study framework, and the required data was collected through interviews. The target population for the study were female headmistresses and assistant headmistresses in the various Senior High Schools in the Metropolis. The study involved all six female headmistresses and eight assistant headmistresses in the Metropolis. The participants were sampled using the census to meet the study objectives. The data were analysed thematically. The study revealed that married couples use the participatory leadership style, but those who are single use the assertive style. The study also concluded that women leaders who are single and are farther from 60 years old are more likely to have problems in the discharge of their duties as leaders since men, per societal influence, will always try to resist the control of women leaders. The Ghana education service should package special incentives for women who aspire to achieve the utmost leadership role of becoming heads of senior high schools. It will motivate the young women generation. It is also recommended that women in leadership positions in the Ghana Education Service are advised to learn by updating their skills and competencies to grow in confidence and share ideas with colleagues in the same field to adopt and adapt leadership styles that have worked in other institutions to handle institutional challenges.

Background: Racial disparities in educational outcomes persist in the United States, with Black individuals experiencing lower levels of educational attainment and a higher rate of school disciplinary actions compared to their White counterparts. Parental education is a known predictor of offspring educational attainment, but its effects may vary by race. Understanding the role of household income in mediating these effects is crucial for developing targeted policy interventions to reduce educational inequalities. Objectives: This study aimed to examine the role of household income in mediating the differential effects of maternal education on two youth educational outcomes (educational attainment by age 22 and school disciplinary action) in Black and White families. Methods: Data were drawn from the 22 years of follow-up of the Future of Families and Child Wellbeing Study (FFCWS), a longitudinal study following a cohort of children born in large U.S. cities between 1998 and 2000. Participants included 1,647 Black and 689 White young adults who were followed from birth to age 22. Maternal education, household income, family structure, and paternal incarceration were assessed at baseline (birth), and two youth educational outcomes, namely educational attainment and any school disciplinary action, were assessed at age 22 (emerging adulthood). Using structural equation modeling (SEM), mediation analysis was conducted to examine whether household income partially mediates the effects of maternal education on youth educational outcomes, with race (Black vs. White) as the moderator. Results: The results indicated that maternal education was positively associated with youth educational attainment and negatively associated with school disciplinary actions in the pooled sample that included both Black and White families. However, the effect of parental education on educational attainment at age 22 was weaker for Black than White families. Household income partially mediated racial differences in the effect of maternal education on youth educational attainment. The results suggest that lower household income in Black families is why we observe a weaker effect of parental education on youth educational attainment for Black youth compared to White youth. Conclusions: Findings suggest that the lower household income of families is one of the reasons high maternal education levels are associated with lower youth educational attainment in Black than White families. Addressing income disparities through tax policies may help reduce racial disparities in education and promote educational equity for Black youth.

This study aimed to evaluate the Social Studies Curriculum for Senior High Schools in Ghana to determine whether the subject has attained its goal(s) or not, using Stake’s Countenance Evaluation Model. The study took place in the Asante Akim North District. The population for study were all Social Studies teachers and students in the district. The multi-stage sampling technique was adopted for the study and the sample size was 120, made up of 100 students and 20 teachers. The concurrent mixed method approach was adopted. The main instruments used for collecting data were questionnaires, interviews (focus group and unstructured interview), observation and documentary analysis. Quantitative data were tabulated, organised, analysed and interpreted to draw sound conclusions and generalisations. The data were presented in the form of tables and percentages. Words were used to interpret the tables and percentages for easy understanding. The qualitative data responses were described and explained in the form of themes. Sometimes responses were quoted verbatim to authenticate claims made. The study looked at the congruence between what was intended to occur and what was observed before and during the implementation of the curriculum in the Asante Akim North District. On the transactions, it was revealed that teachers in the district communicate the problem the topic seeks to address and the specific objectives to the learners during instruction. Also, teachers varied their teaching methods, techniques and strategies. However, teachers failed to take students out on field trips. Also, they failed to use video documentaries to deliver their lessons inhibiting students’ creativity as they are denied the opportunity to explore and get first-hand information to build up knowledge and develop the needed attitudes and values. From the findings, it is therefore recommended that the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment should increase the time allotted to the teaching of Social Studies at the SHS level from 3-periods of 40 minutes a week to 5-periods of 40 minutes a week to give teachers and learners ample time to discuss, debate, digest and solve problems during instructional hours to enable the goal of the subject attained.

The study is a follow-up of the study "Coronavirus in pregnant patients and their clinical outcomes – results of a case-control study" conducted by R.Kadriu et al (2023) in which,in addition to the pregnant patients whose outcome is now being investigated,a control group of patients who were not pregnant,conducted with pregnant patients and a control group that were non-pregnant patients.This study was conducted 6 months after the discharge of the patients and their newborns,and highlights the impact of COVID-19 on their health as well as the health of the newborns. The aim of the study is to follow up the patients after 6 months of their hospitalization as COVID-19 patients and after their delivery.In the COVID study, none of the health indicators showed statistically significant differences between the population before and after hospitalization.Patient data were collected at the case level summarized in their respective groups.For secondary objectives, several comparative analyzes were performed regarding comorbidity-related parameters and available risk factors.A significance level (α) of 0.05 was used for statistical significance. While these results may be reassuring regarding the stability of health status, one should be aware of the limitations of the study, including sample size and specific population characteristics.

Background: Oral health plays an important role in maintaining life functions and quality of life. Gingivitis and periodontitis are two forms of periodontal disease that exist on a spectrum ranging from bleeding, erythematous, and inflamed gingival tissue to the loss of attachment and alveolar bone. Dental caries and periodontal diseases are the most common oral ailments and the major causes of tooth loss. Objectives: The study aimed to evaluate the haematological alterations among patients with oral and dental health problems in the Tripoli region. Material and Methods: The present study was conducted on 200 patients with oral and dental health problems attending six medical centers in Tripoli region from the 01^st March 2022 to the 01^st June 2022. Also, 100 healthy individuals without any oral and dental health problems or any other diseases were recruited as a control group. This study was approved by the Research and Ethical Committee of the Libyan Academy of graduate studies and medical centers. One ml of venous blood was withdrawn from each participant in the study for the determination of haematological parameters. The data were compared using SPSS Statistics for Windows, Version 26. Results: The results showed that red blood corpuscles (RBCs) count, hemoglobin concentration, hematocrit value, MCV, MCH, and MCHC in patients with oral and dental health problems were decreased significantly (P<0.01) compared to the control group. White blood cell count, neutrophils%, and platelets count in patients with oral and dental health problems were significantly (P<0.01) increased compared to the control group. On the other hand, lymphocytes% and mixed % WBCs were significantly (P<0.01) decreased compared to the control group. Conclusion: It can be concluded that oral and dental health problems were associated with a significant alterations in haematological parameters. Red blood corpuscles count, hemoglobin concentration, hematocrit value, MCV, MCH, MCHC, lymphocytes%, and mixed % WBCs were decreased significantly and White blood cell count, neutrophils%, and platelets count were significantly increased in patients with oral and dental health problems compared to the control group. Further studies are needed to confirm these results.

The study was conducted to assess the antibacterial activity of Phyllanthus amarus (Schum and Thonn) extract against Salmonella typhi causative agent of typhoid fever at the laboratories of the Departments of Chemistry and Theoretical and Applied Biology of the College of Science, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi. The objectives were to determine the highest yield of crude extract of P. amarus using different proportions of water to ethanol and to determine the sensitivity of Salmonella typhi to these. Three different extraction procedures were carried out. In the first procedure, seven extraction setups each containing different proportions of the two extract (water and ethanol) were used with 10g of the plant sample. In the second procedure, eight setups were used for the two solvents. Ten grams of both fresh and dry plant sample were extracted in two different 200ml of water and in another two different 200ml of water; 20g of both fresh and dry plant sample were again extracted. The same procedure was repeated using ethanol as the solvent. In the third procedure, 10g each of fresh plant sample were boiled in 100ml and 200ml of water for 30 minutes. A sensitivity test to determine the zones of inhibition for the various plant extracts was done on Salmonella typhi isolated from human. Results from the crude yield of P. amarus using water only had the highest crude yield of 2.57g, followed by ethanol only which was 2.52g. The sensitivity studies conducted on the fresh P. amarus indicated that aqueous extract of P. amarus inhibited S. typhi to a zone of 5.00mm in 10g/200ml and 7.17mm in 20g/200ml. Ethanol extract also recorded an inhibition zone of 2.67mm and 5.33mm in 10g/200ml and 20g/200ml respectively. Again, sensitivity studies using dry P. amarus samples showed that the aqueous extracts recorded a zone of inhibition of 7.33mm in 10g/200ml and 13.50mm in 20g/200ml. Also ethanol extracts also recorded an inhibition zone of 6.83mm in 10g/200ml and 10.50mm in 20g/200ml. Significant differences were observed among the extracts and the control in both 10g/200ml and 20g/200ml concentrations (P<0.05). Aqueous and ethanol extracts of P. amarus proved inhibitory to S. typhi.

This research is conducted with main aim of assessing the economic consequences of Covid-19 pandemic in Western Ethiopia. Primary data is collected through questionnaire and interview from 320 respondents living in three zones of Western Ethiopia. The study areas (zones) are selected purposively from Oromia region; however, the respondents are sampled by employing random sampling technique. The respondents were stratified as community members, daily laborer, business owners, government sector and NGOs employees. Exploratory research design was adopted to achieve the research objectives. Simple descriptive statistics and ordinary least square regression model are used to analyze and interpret the collected data. The study results disclose that majority of community have good awareness about the pandemic and social interaction is reduced due to social distancing. Majority of respondents realize the negative impact of Covid-19 on their economy; reduction of office services; and reduced access to market; and absence of strong support from the government. The great severity of Covid-19 impacts is failed on daily laborers. The regression result shows that sales, experience in business, education level in years, employment status of the respondent, number of workers in the business and work hours per week are positively and significantly influencing daily income of business owner before and after the pandemic outbreak. It is advised the stakeholders to give frequent follow-up and support particularly for daily laborers and small business holders to reduce the future socio-economic impacts of Covid-19 pandemic.

The liver is critical organ for metabolic homeostasis and toxic substance clearance and plays an important role in the systemic response to critical illness. Acute panreatitis (AP) progresses with a local production of inflammatory mediators, eventually leading to systemic inflammatory response syndrome. Knowing that almost all pancreatic mediators released from the pancreas to the blood stream may pass through the liver before their dilution in the systemic circulation, it would be reasonable to assume a determinant role of this organ in development of the inflammatory response associated with acute pancreatitis. Objectives: The study aimed to investigate the time courses of the effects of the exogenous glucocorticoids agonist dexamethasone on microscopical changes occurring in the liver of rats used as a model of AP induced by L-Arginine. Materials and Methods: 60 adult male albino rats weighing 150-200 gm were used. They were divided into 3 groups: Control group: Which is also divided into 2 subgroups (a & b) each of animals of the first were IM injected with 0.5ml/100gm B.W saline and those of second were injected by 0.5mg/100gm B.W dexamethasone. L-Arginine group: which received L-Arginine to induce AP. The animals of this group were divided into 3 subgroups a, b and c the animals of which were sacrificed 3 days, 2 weeks and 1 month after L-Arginine injection respectively. Dexamethasone and L-Arginine group: in which the animals were injected with both L-Arginine and dexamethasone. They were also divided into 3 subgroups a, b and c, the animals of which were sacrificed 3 days. 2 weeks, one month after the injection of the drugs. The liver of the scarified animals were dissected out and prepared for microscopical examination. Results: The histopathological changes that occurred in the livers of acute pancreatitis (AP) model animals started in the periphery of the classic hepatic lobules and progressively extended in a centripetal manner to involve all the cells of the lobules in the late period of the experiment. These changes were in the form of ballooning of the hepatocytes, progressive vacuolation of their cytoplasm most propably with fat globules and depletion of the PAS+ve glycogen granules. Injection of dexamethasone in AP model animals did not improve the case, but on the contrary it made the changes more intense, severe, and rapid. One month after injection of L-Arginine and dexamethasone, the hepatocytes all over the hepatic lobules were severely affected. They were markedly ballooned with severely vacuolated cytoplasm which was completely depleted from its PAS +ve glycogen granules, indicating severe fatty degeneration of the liver. Conclusion: From the previous data, it can be concluded that treatment of AP with dexamethasone is caused a late bad effect on the liver, where it causes its late fatty liver changes.

The purpose of the study was to evaluate of Social Studies Teachers Knowledge in Nature, Goals, and Objectives in the Lesson Presentations The study adopted qualitative research approach. Data were collected through the use of individual interviews, observation and focus group discussions for triangulation purposes. Purposive, convenient and simple random sampling techniques were used to select the schools, teachers for the study. In all, seventeen (17) Social Studies teachers were selected from six (6) Senior High Schools. The study revealed that teachers were grossly deficient about the goals of Social Studies. To improve this system, it is recommended that the researchers suggests that the highest priority should be given to the training and development of a new breed of educator who are vocationally competent and academically sound. This can be done by heads of institutions to allow teachers who specialise in their respective areas to teach those subject areas at the various levels of education particularly Social Studies at the High school level.

The therapeutic effect of Cyclophosphamide (CPA) is thus attributed to phosphoramide mustard and acrolein leads to the formation of high levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which results in decreased antioxidant activity. Excessive production of ROS could also culminate in oxidative stress. Objectives: This study aims to evaluate the effect of sub-lethal dose of the cyclophosphamide, 5-FU, combination of 5-FU, and CPA on testicular antioxidant status, and oxidative stress in male albino rats. Materials and Methods: Twenty-eight male adult rats were grouped randomly into four groups (n=5 each group). Group I (control): Rats were injected with saline intraperitoneally and at a dose of 1.0 ml/kg b.w. for 14 days. Group II cyclophosphamide (CPA): Cyclophosphamide at a dose of 10 mg/kg day by day through i.p. to rats for 14 days. Group III Fluorouracil (5-FU): 5-Fluorouracil at a dose of 10 mg/kg day by day in saline was given through i.p. to rats for 14 days. Group IV (CPA+5-FU): Rats were given CPA followed by 5-FU at a dose of 10 mg/kg per day (day by day) through i.p. to rats for 14 days. At the end of the experimental period, rats were anesthetized using light ether. Blood and testes tissue samples were taken and prepared for biochemical measurements. Biochemical parameters in rat serum and tissues were evaluated. Results: Individual injection of CPA and 5-FU to rats were reduced testes TAC, GSH concentration, GR, and CAT activities compared to control. However, the combination treatment of rats with 5-FU and CPA increased the levels of these non-enzymatic and enzymatic antioxidant compared with those treated with CPA alone. Also, results showed significantly increased TBARS and NO concentration in the testes of CPA treated rats when compared to normal ones, while 5-FU increased NO only compared with the control. Conclusion: It can be concluded that treatment of rats with CPA is associated with the production of free radicals that leads to hazardous alterations in certain non-enzymatic, and enzymatic functions. The increase in lipid peroxidation probably leads to the intracellular accumulation of ROS with the subsequent development of testes tissue injury. However, 5-FU and CPA combination could produce a significant amelioration in most cases for these changes, and it may be considered as a potentially useful candidate in the combination chemotherapy with CPA to combat oxidative stress mediated non target organs injury even if it was not a complete protection. Future work should consider combined chemotherapy regimens, as two or more mechanisms of action of chemotherapeutic drugs could be more powerful than one mechanism.

Background: Oral health plays an important role in maintaining life functions and quality of life. Periodontal disease can vary with respect to bacterial etiology, host response, and clinical disease progression. A key role of genetic effects has suggested distribution of lesions and severity of destruction in each individual. Many diseases, particularly digestive disorders, cancer, and infection, show preferences among the ABO blood types. Knowledge of blood groups and their association with oral diseases is very important, as it may help in early diagnosis and treatment strategies‏. Objectives: The study aimed to investigate the distribution of patients with oral and dental health problems according to age, regions, Socio-demographic Variables, and blood groups in the Tripoli region. Material and Methods: The present study was conducted on 200 patients with oral and dental health problems attending six medical centers in Tripoli region from the 01^st March 2022 to the 01^st June 2022. Also, 100 healthy individuals without any oral and dental health problems or any other diseases were recruited as a control group. This study was approved by the Research and Ethical Committee of the medical centers and Libyan Academy of graduate studies. One ml of venous blood was withdrawn from each participant in the study for determination of blood groups. The data were compared using Chi-Square using SPSS Statistics for Windows, Version 25. Results: The results showed that the mean age of the patients was 43.03±13.82 years. The higher distribution of patients was 58 patients (29%) in the age group (26-35) years while the lower distribution was 10 patients (5%) in the age group (66-75) years. The distribution of patients according to the region were 81.5%, 13%, 4%, and 1.5% in Tripoli, South Tripoli, West Tripoli, and East Tripoli, respectively. The Distribution of patients according to occupation were 4.5% Students, 30% Housewives, 10.5% Employers, 12.5% Teachers, 14% Nurses, 7.5% Doctors, 12.5% Laboratory Technicians and 8.5% Freelance workers. The distribution of patients according to levels of education were 23.5% Pre-Secondary, 19% Secondary, 46% Bachelor's or equivalent, and 11.5% Master's or equivalent. The distribution of patients according to marital status were 26% single and 74% married. The distribution of patients according to oral and dental problems were 5% with bridge, 8% with missing teeth, 86% with dental caries, 63.5% with bleeding of gum, and 25.5% with swelling of gum. The degrees of gingival erythema among patients were 36.5% mild, 38% moderate, and 25.5% severe. The degrees of gingival inflammation among patients were 36% mild, 38.5% moderate, and 25.5% severe. The distribution of A, B, AB, and O blood groups showed a significant (P=0.000) difference between healthy individuals and oral and dental health problems among patients that, were 54%, 12%, 4%& 30%, and 21.5%, 9%, 3.5% & 66%, respectively. Also, the distribution of A⁺, A^-, B⁺, B^-, AB⁺, O⁺, and O^- blood groups showed a significant (P=0.000) difference between healthy individuals and patients with oral and dental health problems that, were 49%, 5%, 10%, 2%, 4%, 25%, & 5%, and 18%, 3.5%, 8%, 1%, 3.5%, 60%& 6%, respectively. But, the distribution of Rh⁺ and Rh^- blood groups showed a non-significant (P=0.695) difference between healthy individuals and patients that, were 88% & 12%, and 89.5%& 10.5%, respectively. Conclusion: It can be concluded that the mean age of the patients with oral and dental health problems was 43.03 years and the higher distribution of patients was in the age group (26-35) years. The higher distribution of ABO blood groups was O blood group among patients especially O⁺ blood groups. The distribution of Rh+ and Rh- blood groups were showed a non-significant difference between healthy individuals and patients with oral and dental health problems. Further studies are needed to confirm these results.

Background: Cyclophosphamide (CPA) induces acute inflammation of the urinary bladder, renal damage, and liver damage, thereby limiting its therapeutic use. Objectives: The present study aimed to evaluate the hepatorenal toxicity induced by cyclophosphamide and amelioration by 5-fluorouracil in male albino rats. Materials and Methods: Twenty-eight male adult rats were grouped randomly into four groups (n=5 for each group). Group I (control): Rats were injected with saline intraperitoneally and at a dose of 1.0 ml/kg b.w. for 14 days. Group II cyclophosphamide (CPA): Cyclophosphamide at a dose of 10 mg/kg day by day through i.p. to rats for 14 days. Group III Fluorouracil (5-FU): 5-Fluorouracil at a dose of 10 mg/kg day by day in saline was given through i.p. to rats for 14 days. Group IV (CPA+5-FU): Rats were given CPA followed by 5-FU at a dose of 10 mg/kg per day (day by day) through i.p. to rats for 14 days. At the end of the experimental period, rats were anesthetized using light ether. Blood samples were taken and prepared for biochemical measurements. Results: Serum total protein, albumin, and globulin concentration significantly reduced in animal groups that received cyclophosphamide. 5-FU and CPA combination reduced the changes in total protein, albumin, and globulin compared to CPA treated group. A significant increase in LDH serum concentration was found in CPA, 5-FU, and their combination-treated animals. The mean values of the combination of chemotherapy were above that in CPA followed by 5-FU treatment. Administration of CPA, 5-FU resulted in a significant increase in serum AST, ALT, ALP, and bilirubin compared to the control. Co-treatment 5-FU with CPA significantly attenuated the increase in serum AST, ALT, ALP, and bilirubin when compared to CPA – treated rats. Compared to controls, urea and creatinine levels were increased in CPA-treated rats, while uric acid was reduced in CPA, 5-FU, and their combination. The changes in urea and creatinine produced by the chemotherapy were restored when rats received CPA in combination with 5-FU. Conclusion: It could be concluded that the treatment of mammals with chemotherapy is associated with the production of free radicals that lead to hazardous alterations in biochemical parameters. However, 5-FU and CPA combination could produce a significant amelioration in most cases for these changes, and it may be considered as a potentially useful candidate in the combination chemotherapy with CPA to combat oxidative stress-mediated non-target organ injury even if it was not complete protection. Future work should consider combined chemotherapy regimens, as two or more mechanisms of action of chemotherapeutic drugs could be more powerful than one mechanism. Toxicological studies must be performed before using drugs as a combination before application. Further research is required on the toxicological impacts of drugs and pollutants mixtures.

Background: Cyclophosphamide (CPA) is a drug with a wide spectrum of clinical uses. Its effectiveness in the treatment of cancer (acute and chronic leukemias, lymphoma, and multiple myeloma) and non-malignant diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and vasculitis has been well established. Objectives: The present investigation aimed to study the effect of a sub-lethal dose of the cyclophosphamide, 5-FU combination of 5-FU, and CPA on haematological parameters in the albino rats. Materials and Methods: Twenty-eight male adults were grouped randomly into four groups (n=5 in each group). Group I (control): Rats were injected with saline intraperitoneally at a dose of 1.0 ml/kg b.w. for 14 days. Group II cyclophosphamide (CPA): Cyclophosphamide at a dose of 10 mg/kg day by day through i.p. to rats for 14 days. Group III Fluorouracil (5-FU): 5-Fluorouracil at a dose of 10 mg/kg day by day in saline was given through i.p. to rats for 14 days. Group IV (CPA+5-FU): Rats were given CPA followed by 5-FU at a dose of 10 mg/kg per day (day by day) through i.p. to rats for 14 days. At the end of the experimental period, rats were anesthetized using light ether. Blood samples were taken for hematological evaluation. Results: White blood cells, hemoglobin content and red blood cell counts were significantly decline in rats treated with individual treatment with CPA and 5-FU in comparison to the control group, while the Combination antagonize the changes produced by CPA in hemoglobin and red blood cell counts. Intraperitoneal individual treatment with CPA and 5-FU in rats caused a significant reduction in the hematocrit and platelet. The reductions in these measured hematological parameters were also significantly and slightly ameliorated when the animals were given a combination of CPA and 5-FU. Cyclophosphamide and 5-FU individually reduced lymphocytes, neutrophils, eosinophils, and monocytes; while the combination of CPA and 5-FU antagonized these changes compared to CPA treated group. Conclusion: It could be concluded that the treatment of mammals with chemotherapy is associated with the production of free radicals that lead to hazardous alterations in hematological parameters. However, 5-FU and CPA combination could produce a significant amelioration in most cases for these changes. Future work should consider combined chemotherapy regimens, as two or more mechanisms of action of chemotherapeutic drugs could be more powerful than one mechanism. Using cyclophosphamide and 5-fluorouracil in combination may reduce cyclophosphamide’s side effects when given individually.

The purpose of the study was to examine the objectives and contents of Social Studies and its related challenges facing the Colleges of Education in Ghana The study adopted a quantitative research approach. The population comprises tutors and students of Social Studies in the three (3) Colleges of Education in the Central Region of Ghana. The purposive sampling technique was used to select the three Colleges of Education and twenty (20) Social Studies tutors. Krejcie and Morgan’s table was used to determine sample size two and forty-eight (248) students out of seven hundred (700) students. The main instrument for data collection was a questionnaire. The quantitative data entry and analysis were done using IBM SPSS Statistics software, version 22. Frequencies and percentages were used as statistical tools to analyse responses to all the research questions. The study revealed that students in the Colleges of Education of Ghana had had an understanding of the Social Studies programme in terms of objectives, content, and scope as well as the integrated nature of the subject and its usefulness in the resolution of social problems. . The study also indicated teachers who may not be well versed in specific topics in the subject and may either skip it or teach it anyhow. It is recommended that regular workshops and conferences be organised for Social Studies teachers of the Colleges of Education in order to update their knowledge on some topics especially current issues on the subject. It is also recommended that Social Studies teachers should be encouraged to engage the services of resource persons to support them teach unfamiliar or challenging topics to avoid polluting the pre-service teachers.

The purpose of the study was to assess teachers’ knowledge in integrating affective domain in teaching and learning of Social Studies lessons in the junior high schools in Aowin Municipality. A quantitative approach and survey research design used the study. The study population constituted Social Studies teachers in the 40 Junior High Schools in the Aowin Municipality of the Western North Region of Ghana. Simple random and convenient sampling techniques were used to sample the respondents of the study. The sampling technique was to ensure the representativeness of the sample. The study used structured questionnaires to collect the data. Descriptive statistics in the form of percentages was used in this study. SPSS was used to analyse the data. The study concluded that the Social Studies teachers have some level of knowledge of the principles of developing affective test items. The study also indicated that Social Studies teachers in the study area can define affective objectives in behavioural terms and have some level of knowledge of the principles of developing affective test items, they do not teach the affective domain. It is recommended that, Coordinators for junior high schools and the headmasters (academic) should ensure that affective objectives are inculcated in the general lesson objectives of Social Studies teachers. Intensive in-service training should be ran for Social Studies teachers to equip them on the formulation of affective objectives. It is also recommended that in service training should be organised by the education directorate in the municipality to train teachers in the teaching of lessons involving the affective domain. The headmasters, as well as the coordinators for junior high schools, should monitor whether teacher’s qualification reflect in the teaching of the social studies lessons that involve the affective domain.

The purpose of the study was to examine Social Studies teachers’ knowledge in the implementation of Social Studies lessons in formative assessment practices in Asante Akim North Municipality in the Ashanti Region of Ghana. The study employed both descriptive and interpretative techniques. The population for the study consisted of all Social Studies teachers and students in the Senior High Schools in the Asante Akim North Municipality of the Ashanti Region. Purposive, convenient and simple random sampling techniques were used to select the schools, teachers and students for the study in all, seventeen (17) Social Studies teachers and fifty (50) students were selected from six (6) Senior High Schools. The main instrument for data collection observation, interview and focus group discussion. The study revealed that not lessons presented were in line with the general objective of the subject (Social Studies). This affected the students understanding of concepts in the subject in helping them to right wrong their decision making. The study also indicates that teaching and learning Social Studies should not be one-man affair, with the teacher doing all the talking and the students doing all the listening. It is recommended that Ghana Education Service should organise workshops and in-service training for Social Studies teachers at the Senior High School level on how to present and evaluate social Studies lessons in order to realise the goals and objectives envisaged for national development. It is also recommended that teachers who have the exposure of the subject and are equally qualified to teach it at the Senior High Schools but are found teaching at the basic level, should be allowed by the Ghana Education Service to teach the subjects at the Senior High School level. The Government of Ghana should make it a laid down policy for the recruitment of qualified Social Studies teachers to teach at the Senior High School (SHS) level for effective assessment in the classroom.

The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of Subject Conception and Efficacy Beliefs on the Teaching Effectiveness of Social Studies teachers. The study focused on how teachers’ conception of Social Studies affect their sense of efficacy and ultimately their teaching effectiveness. The study adopted a non-experimental descriptive design to achieve its objective. The population for the study comprised of fifty-two (52) JHS Social Studies teachers. In this study the accessible population was the same as the target population. All the fifty-two (52) teachers teaching Social Studies in the Tano South district were used for the study. Purposive sampling technique was used to sample the respondents for the study. The data for the study was collected using the observation guide, questionnaire and teacher sense of efficacy scale adapted from Tschannen-Moran and Hoy, (2001). Mean, percentages, ranges and correlation were used to analyse the data using SPSS. The findings of the study showed that majority of the Social Studies teachers conceived the subject as citizenship education. Teachers’ also rated their sense of efficacy very high. However, the study revealed that most of the Social Studies teachers teaching effectiveness was low. The low teaching effectiveness would affect the realisation of the objectives of Social Studies. Also, there exist low correlation between teacher efficacy and teaching effectiveness as well as subject conception and teaching effectiveness. The correlation between teacher efficacy and effectiveness was weak and as such it is recommended that there should be a concerted effort to update and upgrade teachers’ knowledge with strong pedagogical skills and better understanding of the task of the Social Studies teacher through workshops and short courses.

Background: Food borne outbreaks have been associated with sourcing unsafe food. Therefore, the first preventative strategy should be to source safe food. Even if the sourced food is safe, measures need to be put in place to ensure that it remains safe during the transfer, storage, preparation and serving activities that follow. An understanding of the ship food supply and transfer chain will help to illustrate the points at which the food can become contaminated en route to the point of consumption. Objectives: The study was conducted in selected sea port in the core Niger Delta to assessed the microbiological quality of food served at different ship galley to crew and passengers and compered it to standard. Methods: Samples of food were taken from three (Port Harcourt Area one (PHSP), Warri (WSP) and Koko (KSP)) seaports within the South-South zone for laboratory analysis to uncover food spoilage microorganisms capable of causing disease outbreak among ship which could result to Trans border diseases. Eleven samples of different ready to eat food were collected from the locations, which included cooked rice; fried fish, irish potato porridge, vegetable soup, griki, pepper soup, fried irish potato, salad and bread were collected randomly. The samples were prepared and analyzed using standard procedures. Mean viable counts of aerobic and anaerobic bacteria were determined, ranging from (13×103cfu/g to 78×104 cfu/g) for ready to eat food. Results: Based on the finding KSP I, KSP J and KSP K food samples had the highest bacterial contamination on food while WSP F, WSP G and WSP H food samples had the least with the following isolates Salmonella spp, Nocardia spp, Shigella spp, Listeria spp, Bacillus cereus, Leuconostoc spp, Acinetobacter spp, Acetobacter spp, campylobacter spp, Clostridium spp and Vibrio spp which revealed that the isolates were susceptible to any of these antibiotics Septrin, Chloramphenicol, Gentamycin, Tarvid, Streptomycin, Reflacin, Augumetin, Ceporex, Nalidixic acid, Ampicillin, Ciproflox, Penicillin and Erythromycin. Conclusion: Thus, ships operators and regulatory body are expected to take all practicable measures to ensure that they do not receive unsafe or unsuitable food and maintain adequate food temperature at all time.

Background: Psoriasis is extensively studied among middle-aged adults, but not many have studied psoriasis in older adults(geriatrics). OBJECTIVES: To analyze epidemiological, clinical, comorbidities and therapeutic profile of geriatric psoriasis(GP). METHODS: All consenting clinically diagnosed psoriatic patients ≥60 years were divided into two groups: Elderly psoriatic(EP)(60-75 years) and Ultra elderly psoriatic(UP)(>75 years). The dermatologist filled their clinical characteristics’ standardised questionnaire to determine comorbidities, drug interactions profile and compared with age-matched controls using Chi square test. RESULTS: Prevalence of GP is 14.5%(Average age:68 years; Sex ratio=2.5:1)among geriatrics attending dermatology OPD. Most common(49.9%) as well as initial site affected(39.3%) were Palms±Soles. Nummular plaque (90.2%) was most common type. Superficial fungal infection(26.9%) and pruritus(90.8%) were commonly associated cutaneous disease and symptom(p<0.05) respectively. Hypertension(49.7%),Diabetes Mellitus(22.8%), dyslipidemia(25.8%) and Metabolic syndrome(MS)(17.8%) were associated systemic comorbidities. Dyslipidemia and MS(p<0.0001) were more common among GP(163) than controls(963). Drug aggravated psoriasis could not be linked to polypharmacy. Although, topicals were mainstay, oral Methotrexate was most efficacious systemically. CONCLUSION: Our findings suggest a trimodal age of psoriasis onset at 68 years. As age advances, psoriasis severity decreases, unstable guttate lesions decrease; palms±soles commonly involved; infrequent familial occurrence with Polypharmacy not aggravating psoriasis. Active screening for cardiovascular comorbidities in all geriatric psoriasis patients is highly recommended.

The concept of the green economy is one of the global strategies to face contemporary societies' economic and environmental crises. Methodologically, the conceptualization, objectives, implementation, and criticism of various sectors of society to this new economic paradigm are addressed. It was found that authors and civil organizations have great expectations in the face of the challenges and challenges of this global strategy that has within its objectives sustainability, the eradication of poverty, and the inclusion of vulnerable social sectors. It is concluded that the green economy can contribute to maintaining a healthy environment and the proper use of ecosystem services, both for the present generation and for future generations.

Background and aim: Developing clinical skills and its assessment is one of the most important components in nursing education which prepares the student for the reality of practice. Objective structured clinical examination (OSCE) is extensively used and widely accepted by nurse educators across the globe to assess the competency skills of nursing students. The present study aimed at identifying the attitude and perceptions of faculty, and exploring their feedback and experience in conducting OSCE as an assessment tool. Methods: A triangulation research approach was used with convenience sampling. Data collection was carried out using questionnaires and semi-structured interviews. Participants were ten faculty members who were involved in conducting OSCE for students. Results and conclusion: Most of the faculty felt that OSCE reflected the skills of delivery of safe patient care, and the structure reflected mastery of knowledge and skills, which are related to course objectives. OSCE was regarded by the faculty as a consistent, reliable, valid, and objective measure to assess students’ performance and to improve students’ confidence in clinical skills. Concerns were raised about a high level of stress in students, the time required for the proper performance of tasks, OSCE scenarios lacking real-life situations in assessment, and the need for repeated practice and intensive mock training sessions. The applicability of OSCE in terms of limitations in human and material resources with a large number of students would necessitate rethinking in developing other assessment strategies to improve the overall process.

High levels of occupational noise and vibration remain a problem in all regions of the world. In Nigeria, 12−15% of the workforce are exposed to these hazards by WHO, 2001. This research intends to achieve the following objectives; To assess the noise emitted during the moulding of various types of blocks, to determine the level of vibration induced to workers of block moulders during activities and to determine the effect of noise and vibration on workers. The following materials and equipment were used; QT40B manual block moulding machine, LM2-45 Mobile Block moulding Machine, Lister powered block moulding machine, QTJ4-40 block moulding machine using 9 and 6 inches Plates, Vibrometer and Noise monitor. The workers were exposed to noise levels above 75dB and vibration levels above 5ms-2 set as upper limit values in the Directive 44/EC from 2002 – on the Minimum Health and safety Requirements Regarding to Exposure of Workers to the Risk Arising from Physical Agents Vibration.

Unfortunately, it is not disaster recovery, high availability, or cloud technologies that are inherently difficult to understand, but rather the action of implementing them for software applications that is difficult. The unique method of implementation for a microservices architecture is explored. Regulatory compliance doesn’t stop just because an effective disaster recovery requirement is tough to satisfy for infrastructure unique to sleek microservices. The high-availability location transparency bliss offered by a cloud solution is appealing to a security engineering department. However, the headache starts when the technology presents a handful of undesirable surprises that leak RESTful microservices to the outside world. These are the challenges that post-SOA cloud-resident robustly scalable applications will need to address and overcome. The goal is to explore several popular methods of accomplishing these tough objectives so that engineers can further research the most practical solution. An innovative implementation that leverages Service Bus relays as an elegant disaster recovery solution while enforcing a strict subnet where RESTful microservices solely live will be discussed. The curiosity lies in the atypical experimentation beyond basic gateways and the facility of using such simplicity while still answering day-to-day software development infrastructure challenges for applications we build. Resilient full-service web proxy service crashes and delivery latency switches by harnessing the microservices pod health will also be discussed [1].

The current financial services sector is realising considerable changes in its operations due to development in technology and embracing of digital platforms. This evolution is changing the established concepts of business, consumers and channels of delivery of services. Financial services firms are changing the way they work through digital transformation due to developments in technology, changes in customer needs, and an increase in emphasis on sustainability. Understanding the opportunities, risks, and new trends in digital transformation is the focus of this paper. Opportunities include efficient real-time decision-making processes, increased transparency and better process controls, which are balanced by the threats of change management, dubious organization-technology fit, and high implementation costs. The study also examines recent advancements, including the application of machine learning and artificial intelligence, developments in mobile and online banking, integration of blockchain, and increasing focus on security and personalised banking. A literature review yields some findings from different studies on rural financial services, the evolution of the blockchain, drivers of digital transformation, cloud-based learning approaches, and emerging sustainability practices. All of these results suggest that more strategic planning, analytics, and more focus on ensuring that organisational objectives are met with transformations should be pursued. Hence, this research findings add to the existing literature in determining how innovative and digital technologies are likely to transform the financial services sector and advance sustainability.

Deep learning approaches are very useful to enhance cybersecurity protocols for industry-integrated big data enterprise resource planning systems. This research study develops deep learning architectures of variational autoencoder, sparse autoencoder, and deep belief network for detecting anomalies, fraud, and preventing cybersecurity attacks. These cybersecurity issues occur in finance, human resources, supply chain, and marketing in the big data integrated ERP systems or cloud-based ERP systems. The main objectives of this creative research work are to identify the vulnerabilities in various ERP systems, databases, and the interconnected domains; to introduce a conceptual cybersecurity network model that incorporates variational autoencoders, sparse autoencoders, and deep belief networks; to evaluate the performance of the proposed cybersecurity model by employing the appropriate parameters with real-time and synthetic databases and simulated scenarios; and to validate the model performance by comparing it with traditional algorithms. A big data platform with an integrated business management system is known as an integrated ERP system, which plays an instrumental role in conducting business for various organizations in society. In recent times, as uncertainty and disparity increase, the cyber ecosystem becomes more complex, volatile, dynamic, and unpredictable. In particular, the number of cyber-attacks is increasing at an alarming rate; the resultant security breaches have a disruptive and disturbing effect on businesses around the world, with a loss of billions of dollars. To combat these threats, it is essential to develop a conceptual cybersecurity network model to secure systems by functioning as a mutually supporting and strengthening network model rather than working in isolation. In this dynamic and fluid environment, introducing a deep learning approach helps to support and prevent fraud and other illicit activities related to human resources and the supply chain, among others. Some cybersecurity vulnerabilities include, for example, database vulnerabilities, service level vulnerabilities, and system vulnerabilities, among others. The proposed methodology focuses only on database vulnerabilities, with the main aim of detecting and mitigating new potential vulnerabilities in other dependent domains as a future initiative.

The supply chain ecosystem plays a very important role in the success or failure of organizations, markets, and economies. Supply chain ecosystems are broadly defined as supply chain organizations and their collaborators. Today's combined challenges of pandemic shutdowns, rising internet usage, and skyrocketing climate change concerns demand that the supply chain ecosystem better connect with customers, when and how they want, to provide products and services with high levels of availability and zero defects, yet collaboratively do this to reduce transportation and production risks, often at the same time reducing operational costs and carbon footprints. Addressing these challenges, this work explores the cloud delivery capabilities of cloud-native architectures to enable the big data integrations and analytics that are needed to grow smarter supply chain ecosystems. This work describes what smart supply chain ecosystems are and how they are planning to grow their technology and integration capabilities. Discussing the industry-leading advanced and manufacturing technology producer ecosystems, it is explained how their technology collaboration and investment plans are driven by climate change and job creation goals. With these background models, the work examines the new digital reality of customer-driven experiences and economies that are demanding cloud-native and intelligent technology partnerships to deliver climate objectives, operational responsiveness, and compatibility to avoid trading economies of scale for economies of integration. The final objectives of this paper are to share key ideas about the need to balance the growing customer service direct-to-consumer business models with those for collaborative investment by market and industry. In doing this, it hopes to promote an intelligent supply chain ecosystem foundation for helping its different participating countries survive and thrive in the digital economy.

Key business objectives for digital infrastructure cloud adoption are often framed in terms of reducing cost, improving fault tolerance and resilience, simplifying scale, and enabling innovation. Given the critical nature of the financial sector, however, where timeliness and price can significantly determine an outcome, cloud migration in delivery environments demands greater throughput on the critical path and, in many enterprise-scale settings, forgoes hybrid complexity and multi-cloud risks. Nevertheless, slack in system designs does exist; financial institutions enable market functionality—trading, clearing/best execution—despite potentially being able to meet such sets with lower service levels than other verticals. A cloud multi-account structure for sensitive data, for example, naturally limits exposure when combined with observed risk. Fulfilling predictions of elasticity during periods of high demand usually requires support from a dedicated environment (or environments) located nearer to the operations. Components can consequently be allocated on a per-account basis or maintained as shared sink systems to which the dedicated streams write. The automation code can similarly be targeted for dedicated accounts, avoiding the resource constraints that beset such operations during industry events like emergency triage/contact desking.

Machine learning operations (MLOps) comprises the practices, methods, and tooling that facilitate the deployment of reliable ML models in production environments. While many aspects of cloud data platforms are designed to enable reliability, only some managed ML services support the MLOps goals of continuous integration, continuous delivery, data lineage tracking, associated reproducibility, governance, and security. Furthermore, reliability encompasses not only the fulfillment of service-level objectives, but also systematic monitoring, alerting, and incident response automation. Architectural patterns are proposed to enable reliable deployment in cloud data platforms, focusing on the implementation of continuous integration and testing pipelines for ML models and the formulation of continuous delivery and rollout strategies. Continuous integration pipelines reduce the risk of regressions and ensure sufficient model performance at the time of deployment, while continuous delivery pipelines enable rapid updates to production models within acceptable risk profiles. The landscape of publicly available MLOps frameworks, tools, and services is also examined, emphasizing the pros and cons of established and rising solutions in containerization, orchestration, model serving, and inference. Containerization and orchestration contributes to the building of reliable deployment pipelines in cloud data platforms, whether general-purpose tools (e.g. Docker and Kubernetes) or solutions tailored for ML workloads. Containerized serving frameworks designed for high-throughput, low-latency inference can benefit a wide range of business applications, while auto-scaling and model versioning capabilities enhance the ease of use of cloud-native ML services.

Effective task scheduling in cloud computing is crucial for optimizing system performance and resource utilization. Traditional scheduling methods often struggle to adapt to the dynamic and complex nature of cloud environments, where workloads, resource availability, and task requirements constantly change. Swarm intelligence-based optimization algorithms, such as Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO), Ant Colony Optimization (ACO), and Artificial Bee Colony (ABC), offer a promising solution by mimicking natural processes to explore large search spaces efficiently. These algorithms are effective in balancing multiple objectives, including minimizing execution time, reducing energy consumption, and ensuring fairness in resource allocation. They also enhance system scalability, which is vital for modern cloud infrastructures. However, challenges remain, including slow convergence speeds, complex parameter tuning, and integration with existing cloud frameworks. Addressing these issues will be essential for the practical implementation of swarm intelligence in cloud task scheduling, helping to improve resource management and overall system performance.