ORIGINAL RESEARCH ARTICLE | April 16, 2025
The Moderating Role of Board Financial Expertise on the Nexus Between CSR Reporting and Sustainability Performance
Nizar S. Alshowaiman
Page no 131-144 |
https://doi.org/10.36348/sjef.2025.v09i04.007
This research reveals the effect of corporate social responsibility (CSR) reporting on sustainability performance (SP). Moreover, the study investigates the moderating role of board financial expertise (BFEX) between CSR reporting and the SP on the Saudi Arabian Exchange. The study used a database of 469 observations from non-financial companies on the Saudi market from 2017 to 2023, using fixed effect models to estimate the study results. The study findings indicate that CSR reporting enhances SP in the long term. The companies that have CSR reporting are associated with higher SP. Furthermore, the results reveal that BFEX moderates the nexus between CSR reporting and SP. The study's originality lies in its exploration of the moderating role of BFEX on the association between CSR reporting and SP by using a sample from Saudi companies. This research offers practical insights for companies, policymakers, and stakeholders to enhance SP. The study provides actionable insights for companies to align CSR reporting with sustainability practices, enhancing their SP.
ORIGINAL RESEARCH ARTICLE | April 16, 2025
Assessing Brain Tumours through Diffusion-Weighted Imaging Techniques
Nosiba Saeed Awad, Hussein Ahmed Hassan, Amel Alsied Hasan, Yaser Osman Elbadawi
Page no 299-306 |
https://doi.org/10.36348/sjmps.2025.v11i04.010
Introduction: Cancer is the second leading cause of death globally, and early detection is crucial for improving outcomes. Brain tumors, characterized by abnormal cell growth in the brain, can be either benign or malignant. Although conventional MRI techniques are routinely used for diagnosis, they often lack the sensitivity needed for tumor grading and characterization. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of Diffusion-Weighted Imaging (DWI) and the Apparent Diffusion Coefficient (ADC) in providing additional diagnostic information for brain tumors. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted involving 100 patients who underwent MRI examinations, including conventional and DWI, at a diagnostic radiology department between January 2022 and December 2024. The study employed a 1.5-T magnetic resonance scanner, with DWI analyzed using calculated ADC values. Data on demographics, MRI characteristics, and MRI findings were collected and analyzed using SPSS Version 27. Results: The mean age of participants was 43.2 years, with a gender distribution of 53% male and 47% female. The analysis showed that most lesions had irregular borders (42%) and heterogeneous characteristics (56%). Statistically significant associations were found between tumor border irregularity, edema type, and ADC values, with significant differences in ADC values correlating with tumor types. DWI indicated that most hyper-intense tumors showed mass restrictions, whereas hypo-intense tumors demonstrated no restrictions. Conclusion: This study highlights the critical role of DWI and ADC in enhancing the diagnostic accuracy of brain tumors. Integrating these advanced imaging techniques into routine MRI practices can significantly improve the differentiation and characterization of brain tumors, aiding in better clinical decision-making
Anatomy education (AE) is poised for a substantial revolution, propelled by advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and virtual reality (VR) technologies. These novel tools are set to transform the teaching and learning of anatomy, providing tailored, interactive, and immersive experiences that may improve student engagement, retention, and overall educational outcomes. The combination of AI and VR technologies in anatomy teaching can furnish students with a more thorough comprehension of the human body, facilitating a profound appreciation for the intricacies of anatomy. Furthermore, AI and VR technologies can enhance the cultivation of critical thinking and problem-solving abilities, which are vital for success in the medical field. AI and VR technologies can facilitate the connection between theoretical knowledge and practical application by offering students engaging and immersive learning experiences. Moreover, these technologies facilitate students' exploration of the human body in a highly detailed and realistic way, enabling them to visualize and engage with intricate anatomical processes. We hypothecate that the future of AE hinges on the integration of AI and VR as learning tools.
Corruption is widely recognized as a pervasive issue that impacts countries globally, affecting economies in varying degrees and at different levels of intensity. It impedes economic growth, distorts market efficiency, and fosters inequality. Corruption is evident even in societies perceived as having minimal corruption, often manifesting through bribery, embezzlement, and preferential treatment. Numerous studies confirm the adverse effects of corruption on economic development, with wealthier countries generally reporting lower corruption levels compared to poorer nations. However, it remains uncertain if rising incomes consistently reduce corruption across different socioeconomic and political contexts. In the MENA (Middle East and North Africa) region, corruption intersects with several factors such as resource wealth, governance frameworks, and economic freedom, highlighting a complex relationship between economic progress and institutional integrity. This study revisits the corruption-growth nexus, examining empirical data from 2004 to 2024 and exploring key determinants like youth unemployment, ethnic diversity, and political freedom. We analyze how internal and external controls, such as judicial efficiency, public sector wage structures, and transparency, contribute to or mitigate corruption. Findings indicate that countries with abundant resources often experience high levels of corruption, while economic freedom and robust governance frameworks can curb corrupt practices, underscoring the importance of comprehensive anti-corruption reforms.
REVIEW ARTICLE | April 15, 2025
The Impact of Generative AI on Content Marketing
Olawale C. Olawore, Kazeem O. Oyerinde, Taiwo R. Aiki, Oluwatobi J. Banjo, Beverly B. Tambari, Victor O. Okoh, Festus I. Ojedokun, Tunde O. Olafimihan, Funmilayo C. Olawore, Jonathan E. Kozah
Page no 125-130 |
https://doi.org/10.36348/sjef.2025.v09i04.006
Generative AI is changing content marketing since it makes it cheaper and faster to produce large volumes of content. This change, however, also comes with strategic threats, including the interchangeability of content and the increasingly skeptical audience. This article discusses the impact of generative AI on the marketing cycle and how much productivity can be increased in comparison to the threat of sameness of creativity. We suggest that the competitive advantage lies not in its volume, but in what can be difficult to automate: a unique brand voice and an inimitable insight that can never be duplicated by your competitors. An actual running model is suggested that will explain when automation is valuable and when human judgment is critical. We also outline a governance structure that controls the credibility and trust-related risks. Lastly, falsifiable hypotheses are provided to demonstrate how audience trust and performance can be preserved and the productivity benefits of AI-enabled systems.
Authorities saddled with responsibility of maintaining internal security of the Nigerian state have come under criticism due to incessant security breaches that have resulted into killings of Nigerians. Thus, the purpose of this research was to explored moderated mediation effects of intrinsic factors and polychronicity on the relationship between work environment and work performance among personnel of the Nigeria Police Force. In order to test all the three hypotheses formulated for the study, a total of 450 personnel of the Nigerian Police Force, Osun State Command, south western Nigeria were selected through systematic sampling technique. The survey yielded 68% usable response rate and regression analysis was performed on the primary data collected from 306 respondents which constituted usable responses with the help of Analysis of Moment Structure (AMOS) adapted on the Statistical Package for Social Scientist (SPSS) version 23. The results of data analysis revealed significant relationship between work environment and work performance among staff of Nigeria Police Force; and preference for polychronicity by policemen significantly mediated relationship between work environment and work performance. Additionally, intrinsic factors significantly moderated relationship between work environment and polychronicity, and thus by extension the collected data confirmed the model of moderated mediation earlier proposed. In order to maximize job and organizational performance, Nigeria Police Service Commission would have to create work environment that encourages multitasking through appropriate intrinsic motivating factors.
CASE REPORT | April 14, 2025
Elevated ALT Leading to an Incidental Diagnosis of Renal Cell Carcinoma: A Case Report
Hanan Abdalla, Hanan A. AlMuhaureq, Sajitha Prasad, Noor Mohamed, Alaa Mohamed
Page no 184-187 |
https://doi.org/10.36348/sjm.2025.v10i04.007
Renal cell carcinoma (RCC), the most common form of kidney cancer, is often diagnosed incidentally through routine imaging or unexplained laboratory abnormalities. We report the case of a 62-year-old male with a medical history of type 2 diabetes mellitus, hypertension, dyslipidemia, and previously treated hepatitis C, who presented with an asymptomatic, mildly elevated alanine aminotransferase (ALT) level discovered during routine follow-up. Despite normal values for other liver enzymes, an abdominal ultrasound performed to investigate the abnormal ALT revealed a well-defined lesion in the left kidney. Further imaging with contrast-enhanced CT confirmed the presence of a renal mass, and histopathological evaluation following partial nephrectomy diagnosed clear cell RCC. This case illustrates the potential of minor ALT elevations as early indicators of extrahepatic malignancies such as RCC. It emphasizes the importance of thorough evaluation for persistent, unexplained ALT abnormalities, particularly in patients with metabolic risk factors or past hepatic conditions. Increasing evidence suggests a possible pathophysiological link between RCC and liver enzyme alterations, including cytokine release and hepatic congestion. Future studies are warranted to investigate the predictive value of ALT as a biomarker for RCC and the role of inflammatory mediators such as IL-6 in RCC-associated liver function changes.
Diabetes mellitus (DM) is one of the most common diseases worldwide. Its effects on oral and dental health are well distinguished. As this disease is increasing worldwide, it is essential for dental care providers to be fully aware of the disease diagnosis and management and to deal with it confidently. This review discusses the oral manifestations and dental considerations that should be followed when treating patients with DM.
SUBJECT CATEGORY: PUBLIC HEALTH | April 14, 2025
Effect of Community-Led Total Sanitation Intervention on Sanitation Facilities and the Bacteriological Quality of Natural Water Sources in Cross River State, Nigeria
Inah, Simon Alain, Amadi, Agwu Nkwa, Iwuala, Chimezie Christian, Ebirim, Chikere Ifeanyi Casmir, Ajoku, Bright Chibunna
Page no 55-65 |
https://doi.org/10.36348/sb.2025.v11i04.003
Open defaecation (OD) has been strongly linked to high prevalence of cholera and other sanitation-related diseases. This study was conducted to assess the effect of community-led total sanitation (CLTS) on sanitation facilities and the bacteriological quality of natural water sources in Cross River State. The study design was a community-based randomized controlled trial. A multi-stage sampling technique was used in selecting respondents. Data were collected from 744 respondents at pre- and post-intervention. A purposive sampling method was used in sampling natural water sources. Observational checklist and sterilized sample bottles were used in data collection. Data were analyzed using Statistical Product and Service Solution (SPSS version 24). Results were presented as frequencies, percentages and tables. The findings showed that respondents indicated that the major challenges of owning toilets (pre-intervention) were cost of constructing one 244 (32.8%), and distance of the toilet location 259 (34.8%) as major causes of OD practice. The same challenges were reported at post-intervention; as cost of construction 270 (36.3%) and distance of the toilet location 283 (38.0%). At pre-intervention, practice of OD was 253 (34.0%) among respondents who had no access to toilets but later reduced to 102 (13.7%) at post-intervention due to improved access to toilets. This infers that there was a statistically significant association between access to toilet and the reduction of OD practices due to the CLTS intervention. The test of hypothesis at both pre- (ϰ2 = 287.749; df = 1; P-value = 0.001) and post-intervention (ϰ2 = 8.334; df = 1; P-value = 0.001) was significant (P < 0.05). At pre-intervention, respondents with access to improved water sources were 119 (16.0%) which was improved to 569 (76.5%) at post-intervention, indicating that there was a statistically significant association between access to improved water sources and the reduction of sanitation-related diseases among respondents due to the CLTS intervention. Bacterial analysis showed that the total coliform and faecal coliform counts for all water samples exceeded the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the Nigerian Standard for Drinking Water Quality (NSDWQ) limits. Based on the findings, the CLTS intervention was effective in increasing knowledge of OD practice, changing wrong perceptions about OD and improving toilet ownership and maintenance. To scale-up the gains of this study, continued commitments to the eradication of OD practices from community members, community leaders, governments at all levels and NGOs is crucial.
REVIEW ARTICLE | April 14, 2025
Corporate Governance Frameworks: A Comparative Study of Saudi Arabia, Germany, the United Kingdom, and the United States
Adel Dhaher Alresheedi
Page no 99-124 |
https://doi.org/10.36348/sjef.2025.v09i04.005
This paper compares corporate governance frameworks in Saudi Arabia, Germany, the United Kingdom, and the United States, highlighting key similarities and differences. Saudi Arabia’s governance framework is shaped by Shariah principles and emphasizes shareholder protection, while Germany employs a dual-board system that prioritizes stakeholder engagement. The UK follows a principles-based approach, promoting flexibility, whereas the US adopts a rules-based system with strict regulatory oversight and shareholder accountability. The study examines key governance aspects, including board structures, shareholder rights, transparency, and regulatory compliance. Findings indicate that Saudi Arabia has made significant progress in aligning with international governance standards but still faces challenges in areas such as board independence, transparency, and investor protection. Compared to Germany’s stakeholder-oriented approach and the shareholder-centric models of the UK and US, Saudi governance remains more conservative, with room for improvement in corporate disclosure and regulatory enforcement. The paper concludes by identifying areas for reform in Saudi Arabia’s corporate governance, such as enhancing board independence, improving reporting standards, and increasing regulatory oversight. Aligning governance practices with global standards could strengthen investor confidence and corporate sustainability in the region.
ORIGINAL RESEARCH ARTICLE | April 12, 2025
Framework for Smart SCADA Systems: Integrating Cloud Computing, IIoT, and Cybersecurity for Enhanced Industrial Automation
Md Mahfuzur Rahman Enam , Md Mofakhkharul Islam Joarder , MD Toukir Yeasir Taimun , S M Mobasshir Islam Sharan
Page no 152-158 |
https://doi.org/10.36348/sjet.2025.v10i04.005
The integration of Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems with Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) technologies, cloud computing, and advanced cybersecurity measures is reshaping industrial automation. This paper presents a conceptual framework for smart SCADA systems, emphasizing the role of cloud connectivity for real-time monitoring, IIoT for enhanced data acquisition, and cybersecurity to safeguard critical infrastructure. The integration of these technologies enables improved operational efficiency, predictive maintenance, and remote accessibility, fostering more scalable and flexible industrial operations. However, challenges such as data security risks, interoperability, and system complexity remain prominent. The paper discusses theoretical models to address these challenges, proposing strategies for seamless integration and robust security mechanisms. Future trends such as edge computing, AI-driven analytics, and blockchain-based security are also explored as potential avenues for advancing SCADA systems. This paper contributes to the understanding of how these technologies converge to drive the future of industrial automation while addressing the complexities of data integrity and system resilience.
ORIGINAL RESEARCH ARTICLE | April 12, 2025
HIV/AIDS Awareness and Prevention Practices among Pregnant Women Attending Antenatal Care in Bangladesh
Eva Parvine, Shah Noor Sharmin, Farah Noor, Jarin Tasnim Stella,Taslima Sharmin, Mahmuda Akter, Mst. Sharmin Sultana
Page no 139-145 |
https://doi.org/10.36348/sijog.2025.v08i04.003
Background: HIV/AIDS remains a major global health concern, with marginalized groups in Bangladesh, such as injecting drug users, experiencing higher infection rates. This study aims to assess the awareness and prevention practices related to HIV/AIDS among pregnant women attending antenatal care in Bangladesh. Aim of the study: The aim of the study was to evaluate the awareness and prevention practices related to HIV/AIDS among pregnant women attending antenatal care in Bangladesh. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at the Department of Public Health and Informatics, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, Dhaka, from January to May 2016, among 60 pregnant women attending antenatal care to assess HIV/AIDS awareness and prevention practices. Data were collected via face-to-face interviews using a pre-tested structured questionnaire. Verbal consent was obtained, and confidentiality maintained. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 16. Results: Among 60 pregnant women, most were aged 26-30 years, illiterate (57%), housewives (65%), and from joint families (71.7%). Awareness of HIV transmission was highest for sexual intercourse with infected partners (90%). Knowledge of mother-to-child transmission (6.7%) and prevention practices like condom use (20%) was low. Misconceptions existed about transmission via utensils (36.7%) and mosquito bites (28.3%). Media exposure was high for television (90%) and outdoor media (80%), with limited participation in HIV/AIDS programs (5%). Conclusion: Targeted antenatal education is needed to address HIV/AIDS awareness gaps, especially on mother-to-child transmission and condom use, among pregnant women in Bangladesh.
ORIGINAL RESEARCH ARTICLE | April 12, 2025
Does ebanking Services Enhance Customers Satisfaction of Commercial Banks in Douala, Cameroon?
Achamoh Victalice Ngimanang
Page no 88-98 |
https://doi.org/10.36348/sjef.2025.v09i04.004
Purpose: The paper has as objective to examine the effect of e-banking services (ATM, internet, mobile phone and POS banking) on customer satisfaction with reference to commercial banks in Douala, Cameroon. Methodology: After exploring related theoretical and empirical literature, the study adopted a descriptive survey research design with a quantitative research approach. The structured Likert scale-based questionnaires were distributed and collected from 150 e-banking service users. Multivariate regression modelling techniques was employed. The study was a descriptive survey research design with a quantitative research approach. The structured Likert scale-based questionnaires were distributed and collected from 150 e-banking service users. Multivariate regression modelling techniques was employed. Findings: The results of the study revealed that the model is globally significant with over 83 percent of customers satisfactions been accounted by ebanking services. Among the four constructs of ebanking, ATM service have the highest response effect followed by mobile banking and lastly internet banking which has a positive effect on customer satisfaction respectively. The effect of point of sales was positive as hypothesised but not insignificants a result, the researcher concludes that e-banking services has a positive and significant effect on customer satisfaction. Unique contribution to theory, practice and policy: Based on the findings, it is recommended that commercial banks should increase the number of ATM dispensers at their bank branches, effectively implement mobile devices, internet and point of sales banking to enhance greater reliability, assurance, tangibles, empathy and responsiveness of ebanking services so as to maximize customer satisfaction.
ORIGINAL RESEARCH ARTICLE | April 12, 2025
Influence of Learners’ Participation in Education and Sport Based Co-Curricular Activities on Academic Performance in Public Secondary Schools in Kenya
Loshangole Clement Rotich, Silyvier Tsindoli, Alice Mulee Yungungu
Page no 167-185 |
https://doi.org/10.36348/jaep.2025.v09i04.003
The study investigated the influence of learner participation in education-based and sport-based co-curricular activities on academic performance in public secondary schools in West Pokot County, Kenya. Grounded in Austin’s theory of involvement, it employed a mixed-method approach and a convergent mixed research design. The target population included 50 principals, 200 co-curricular teachers, and 826 form three students from 50 schools. A sample of 277 respondents (232 students, 36 teachers, and 9 principals) was selected using simple random and purposive sampling techniques. Data was collected through questionnaires and interviews and analyzed descriptively and thematically. Findings revealed that academic clubs (36.2%), debate clubs (20.7%), and field trips were the most popular education-based co-curricular activities, while article writing (1.7%) and symposiums (3.4%) had the least participation. Athletics and football were the most widely offered sports, while handball, volleyball, basketball, netball, and table tennis were limited due to inadequate resources and expertise. Students participated more in athletics and football, which, along with other sports, positively influenced academic performance. Music, drama, scouting, and guiding were also widely available and had high participation rates. The study concluded that both education-based and sports-based co-curricular activities positively impacted academic performance. However, resource constraints limited access to certain activities. It recommended proactive planning and management by school principals and teachers to enhance intellectual growth. Schools should improve sports facilities, train teachers, and diversify clubs to include public speaking, poetry, and photography. These recommendations aim to integrate co-curricular activities more effectively into education, benefiting all stakeholders.
ORIGINAL RESEARCH ARTICLE | April 12, 2025
The Existence of Common Factors of Illiquidity on the Regional Securities Exchange
Zacharie Deutou Nkengwou, Jean François Ngok Evina, Akanga Reuben Johnson
Page no 80-87 |
https://doi.org/10.36348/sjef.2025.v09i04.003
The purpose of this article is to test the existence of the systematic illiquidity component on the Regional Securities Exchange (Bourse Régionale des Valeurs Mobilières). To achieve this goal, we used a time-series analysis of shares listed on the BRVM (2000-2020). The Method of Ordinary Least Square and Generalized Least Square are used to verify the existence of this component. The findings support the conclusion that there exists a systematic component of illiquidity, specifically indicating that market illiquidity concurrently affects the illiquidity of equities.