Systems Approach to Farm Mechanization in Nigeria

The concept, objectives and factors that enhance agricultural mechanization are reviewed from relevant literature. Various impediments that usually frustrate mechanization schemes in traditional tropical agriculture are briefly discussed. Some fundamental questions are then raised which the author argues can best be studied by a multidisciplinary team using the systems approach in evaluating the appropriate levels of mechanization suitable for Nigerian agricultural systems Attention is focused on the nature of data needed for the development of acceptable mathematical models of the real systems. Solution by linear programming aided by a computer is advocated

Experimental Viscoelastic Characterization of Corn Cob Composited Under Radial Compression

The nature of viscoelasticity in biomateria1s and the techniques for characterizing their rheological properties were reviewed. Relaxation tests were performed with cylindrical samples of corn cob composites which were initially subjected to radial compression. It was found that a Maxwell model composed of two simple elements is sufficient to represent the viscoelastic behavior of the corn cob. The effect of moisture content and rates of loading on the mechanical model determined were investigated

Mapping the Impact and Plasticity of Cortical-Cardiovascular Interactions in Vascular Disease Using Structural and Functional MRI

There is growing interest in the role of vascular disease in accelerating age-related decline in cerebrovascular structural and functional integrity. Since an increased number of older adults are surviving chronic diseases, of which cardiovascular disease (CVD) is prevalent, there is an urgent need to understand relationships between cardiovascular dysfunction and brain health. It is unclear if CVD puts the brains of older adults, already experiencing natural brain aging, at greater risk for degeneration. In this thesis, the role of CVD in accelerating brain aging is explored. Because physical activity is known to provide neuroprotective benefits to brains of older adults, the role of physical activity in mediating disease effects were also explored. Using novel neuroimaging techniques, measures of gray matter volume and cerebrovascular hemodynamics were compared between groups of coronary artery disease patients and age-matched controls, to describe regional effects of CVD on the brain. In a sub-set of patients, imaging measures were repeated after completion of a 6-month exercise training, part of a cardiac rehabilitation program, to examine exercise effects. Differences in cerebrovascular hemodynamics were measured as changes in resting cerebral blood flow (CBF) and changes in cerebrovascular reactivity (CVR) to hypercapnia (6% CO2) using a non-invasive perfusion magnetic resonance imaging technique, arterial spin labelling (ASL). We found decreased brain volume, CBF and CVR in several regions of the brains of coronary artery disease patients compared to age-matched healthy controls. The reductions in CBF and CVR were independent of underlying brain atrophy, suggesting that changes in cerebrovascular function could precede changes in brain structure. In addition, increase in brain volume and CBF were observed in some regions of the brain after exercise training, indicating that cardiac rehabilitation programs may have neurorehabiliation effects as well. Since, CBF measured with ASL is not the [gold] standard measure of functional brain activity, we examined the regional correlation of ASL-CBF to glucose consumption rates (CMRglc) measured with positron emission tomography (PET), a widely acceptable marker of brain functional activity. Simultaneous measurements of ASL-CBF and PET-CMRglc were performed in a separate study in a group of older adults with no neurological impairment. Across brain regions, ASL-CBF correlated well with PET-CMRglc, but variations in regional coupling were found and demonstrate the role of certain brain regions in maintaining higher level of functional organization compared to other regions. In general, the results of the thesis demonstrate the impact of CVD on brain health, and the neurorehabiliation capacity of cardiac rehabilitation. The work presented also highlights the ability of novel non-invasive neuroimaging techniques in detecting and monitoring subtle but robust changes in the aging human brain

Optimum Stock Control Model for Farm Tractor Spare Parts in Nigeria

This paper examines the issue of developing an effective farm machinery maintenance management strategy in Nigeria. Investigative survey data on the inventory, type and condition of agricultural machinery in Nigeria were reviewed and additional information required was obtained from relevant establishments. Data on frequency of breakdown of farm tractors and the costs of purchasing various components' of the farm tractors were subjected to scientific analysis using some operational research techniques. Based on the result of the analysis, an inventory (stock level control) model was adapted for the supply and replacement of worn-out machinery parts and components, at recorded frequencies of farm tractor breakdown. Tentative projections on the optimum level of tractor spare parts required for ten states in Nigeria were made and the result are presented

The Quest for Gainful Employment: Former Prisoner Experiences Managing a Socially Stigmatized Invisible Identity

The former prisoner identity can be described as a socially devalued identity that is not visible or readily apparent to others (i.e. Chaudoir & Fisher, 2010). Employment is an essential means through which former prisoners can be successfully reintegrated into society (Visher, Winterfield, & Coggeshall, 2005). However, former prisoners are faced with the challenge of navigating through a labor market filled with numerous barriers and social stigmas. Former prisoners represent a population whose voices are typically left unheard in organizational practice and in the management literature. The purpose of this study was to develop a better understanding of the psychological mechanisms that inform identity management post-release and the associated employment effects. To address this purpose, this study employed an explanatory mixed methods design. This involved the collection and analysis of quantitative and qualitative data. The quantitative inquiry found significant relationships between internalized stigma and disclosure and concealment such that those who engaged in disclosure strategies were less likely to engage in concealment strategies. The results suggest that individuals do internalize stigma post-release, and that this affects their employment outcomes. However, contrary to the theorized expectations, identity management does not appear to explain this link. In light of the limited knowledge pertaining to managing an invisible stigmatized identity throughout the employment process, I was prompted to further explore the depth of individual experiences with employment post-incarceration. In the qualitative portion of this study, I reflect on interviews with twenty-two formerly federally incarcerated men, released on parole, to understand how their self-identification is shaped within and across their experiences of employment seeking or attaining after prison. Specifically, I explore developments in the identity management experiences and practices releasees engage in as they navigate the pre-employment and later employment processes as well as the interplay between the effects of pre-and post-incarceration experiences on releasee interpretations of self and of work. This study contributes to our understanding of identity sensemaking as well as to our understanding of the experiences of social stigma and identity invisibility through the employment reintegration process

Leadership, Corruption and Governance in Nigeria: Issues and Categorical Imperatives

Nigeria is inundated with rich human and material resources begging to be harvested by purposeful, creative and innovative leadership. Leadership that is based on the cultural values of the people and takes a Bottom-top approach holds the key to unlocking the development quagmire Nigeria has found itself. However, this is not the case due to leadership failure, corruption and bad governance. Within the framework of theories of the two public and nature of society, an eclectic approach, the paper examines the issues of leadership, corruption and governance with a view to adumbrate the trajectory of an efficacious leadership and governance modus operandi capable of finding solutions to Nigeria’s myriad problems. Also examined is the enigmatic nature of corruption in Nigeria that has made it a lucrative venture. The paper confirms earlier position that leadership, corruption and bad governance are the bane militating against development in Nigeria. Therefore, all hands must be on deck to enthrone effective leadership and good governance that could expunge the scourge of corruption from the nation's body polity. The first fundamental step among other measures is transformation of the state from an alien force to an entity that caters for the welfare and wellbeing of the people. Yet, the need for patriotic, visionary and missionary leaders cannot be overstated because a nation can only be great when it has leaders that plant trees whose shades they know they shall never seat in. The followers should as well perform their obligatory and non-obligatory civic duties and responsibilities.Key words: Development, Corruption, Leadership, Governance, Transformatio

POST COVID-19 AND THE NIGERIAN PUBLIC SERVICE: CHANGES AND CHALLENGES TO ADAPT TO NEW NORMAL

Abstract: One of the most significant endevours affected by the coronavirus pandemic is the public administration. The pandemic hit the Nigerian Public Service and its employees in an unprecedented way. The pandemic outlined in bold relief the inadequacies of public administration and effectively disrupted previous operational models (Old normal), and imbued changes such as telework and digital adoption. These changes are pervasive and has the potential to last beyond the pandemic. The Nigerian Public Service in the post Covid – 19 pandemic whether we like it or not has to re-adjust to a new normal that requires urgent reform administrative framework. Amid these circumstances it is essential to ask how has the Nigeria public service changed in the Post Covid-19 to achieve the “New Normal”. Though many scholars have conducted research on Covid -19 pandemic, there is no comprehensive research on the changes to achieve the new normal at the Public Service and public servants levels in Nigeria . The study aims to study this using the emergency-learning-institutionalization-New Normal (ELIN) Framework based on the timeline of the pandemic. Specifically, the article aims to study the overall trends on how the Nigerian Public Service and its employees are adapting to tele-work and digital tools in the new normal, what they have learnt and how they would sustain the change, and the challenges they encountered in adopting the changes. The study analyzed secondary data such as published and unpublished articles in Public Administration etc. The findings of the work include, that there is increasing trends towards the adoption of tele-work and digital tools among the public servants in Nigeria, and that efficient and effective` implementation of tele-work policies and digital transformation plans at the management level will ensure the sustainability in operation of the Nigerian Public Service in the new normal, that there is an overall increase in the flexibility of the Nigerian public service and the public servants in adopting digital innovation solutions to service delivery etc. In order to sustain the changes adopted in the new normal, we recommend among others that resources should be deployed at the public service organization level and employees’ level to enhance digital transformation. Keywords: Post Covid-19, Public Service, New Normal, Tele-work. Title: POST COVID-19 AND THE NIGERIAN PUBLIC SERVICE: CHANGES AND CHALLENGES TO ADAPT TO NEW NORMAL Author: Rosmary Ogomegbunam Anazodo, Uche Ezenwile, Ezenwegbu Nchedochukwu Chinwendu International Journal of Novel Research in Humanity and Social Sciences ISSN 2394-9694 Vol. 10, Issue 5, September 2023 - October 2023 Page No: 12-21 Novelty Journals Website: www.noveltyjournals.com Published Date: 11-September-2023 DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.8334650 Paper Download Link (Source) https://www.noveltyjournals.com/upload/paper/POST%20COVID-19%20AND%20THE%20NIGERIAN%20PUBLIC-11092023-5.pdfInternational Journal of Novel Research in Humanity and Social Sciences, ISSN 2394-9694, Novelty Journals, Website: www.noveltyjournals.co

Attitude towards the use of herbal medicine among traders: A moderating effect of gender and socio-economic status

This study examined the Attitude towards the use of herbal medicine among traders: a moderating effect of gender and socio-economic status. A total of 180 participants were used for the study. They comprised 90 males and 90 females. Their ages ranged from 30-70 years with the mean age of 50 and a standard deviation (SD) of 11.9. They were selected through stratified random sampling techniques from Eke Awka, central market in Awka , Anambra state. The result of the study showed that there was no significant difference on attitude of traders towards the use of herbal medicine across gender. The result also showed that there was no significant difference on attitude of traders towards the use of herbal medicine across the three levels of socio-economic statues. The result finally showed that there was no significant interactive effect of gender and socio-economic statues on attitude of traders towards the use of herbal medicine across gender.Based on the above findings, this study recommends that the federal government through the ministry of establishment should encourage the administration and the use of herbal medicine in Nigeria as alternative to orthodox medicine

Christen und Muslime im Gebet

This work aims to explore the possibilities of multireligious encounter of Muslims and Christians, in view of the liturgical worship, a problem which is highly controversial. It studies the ritual acts of the Muslims and Christians in the celebration of the daily worship as an expression of their belief in God's presence, mercy and goodness as outlined by Vatican Council II (Nostra aetate 3).Die Arbeit hat einen Kernbereich der beiden Weltreligionen Christentum und Islam, ihren öffentlichen gemeinsamen Gebetsgottesdienst, zum Thema. Zum Ausgangspunkt nimmt sie die Feststellung des Zweiten Vatikanischen Konzils: Mit Hochachtung betrachtet die Kirche auch die Muslime, die den alleinigen Gott anbeten, den lebendigen und in sich seienden, barmherzigen und allmächtigen, den Schöpfer Himmels und der Erde, der zu den Menschen gesprochen hat (Nostra aetate 3). Die Arbeit möchte einen Beitrag zum Dialog leisten, indem sie die geltenden Formen des täglichen Wortgottesdienstes in beiden Religionen untersucht und miteinander vergleicht, um Möglichkeiten, gemeinsam zu beten, aufzuzeigen