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.

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.

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

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.

In the contemporary marketing landscape, visually engaging content has become indispensable. With the proliferation of communication devices and advancements in visual technology, companies are increasingly prioritizing visual materials. Simultaneously, artificial intelligence (AI) is emerging as a transformative force. Fusing visual content with AI is crucial for attracting and retaining customers; neglecting this integration in marketing strategies can lead to reduced market share.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Background: The Nursing Process and the Standardised Nursing Languages (SNLs) were incorporated into nursing practice to improve documentation of care. Aims: This necessitates the need to assess the knowledge, practice and barriers to the use of Nursing Process and Standardised Nursing Languages. Methods: This study adopted a descriptive cross sectional research design. Questionnaires were used to obtain data from clinical nurses in the University College Hospital and Adeoyo Maternity Hospital, Ibadan. A simple random technique was used to select 337 nurses who participated in the study. Data was analysed using IBM SSPS version 25.0. Results were presented using frequency distribution and association between variables were tested using chi square at p value ≤ 0.05. Results: The respondents were within the age group 21-30 years and majority (89.6%) were female. Half (50%) of the clinical nurses have a good knowledge of both the nursing process and the standardised nursing languages. Also, 59% of the nurses have a good practice of nursing process and 41% have a good practice of the standardised nursing languages. The major barriers identified to the use of the nursing process and standardised nursing language were (lack of funding for nursing process 63.5% and inadequate knowledge for SNLs 67.4%). There is a statistically significant association in the knowledge of nurses on the nursing process and standardised nursing languages and age with p value ≤ 0.00. Conclusion: it was revealed in the study that more nurses practice the nursing process than the SNLs. Therefore, there is a need for further training on SNLs. Also, the reference books on SNLs should be made available to nurses on the wards.

Paediatrics is a vital branch of medicine, focusing on the health and well-being of children from infancy to adolescence. Drawing from ancient Greek and Arab texts, paediatrics includes comprehensive care for new-borns, swaddling techniques, neonatal massage, safe sleeping habits, hygiene maintenance, breastfeeding, and weaning. It is deeply rooted in the historical context of these ancient societies. Abū Bakr Moḥammad Ibn Zakriyā Al-Rāzī and 'Alī Ibn Sahl Raban Al-Ṭabarī were influential scholars in paediatrics, with Al-Rāzī renowned for his pioneering work in distinguishing diseases and congenital conditions. 'Alī Ibn Sahl Raban Al-Ṭabarī raised awareness about neglect of paediatric care and emphasized the importance of individualized medical needs for children, while Ibn Sina emphasized the importance of paediatric care. Ibn Rūshd's Kitābul Kulliyāt, a seminal work, emphasized the growth stages of children and the importance of hygiene in health care. Abū Al-Qāsim Khalaf Ibn 'Abbās Al-Zahrāwī, another notable figure, focused on surgical interventions targeting urinary diseases in children, emphasizing the need for specialized paediatric care to address these unique health challenges. This research paper seeks to emphasize the significant contributions made by distinguished Greek and Arab scholars who established paediatrics as an independent field and were instrumental in the advancement of treatments for infantile ailments.

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.

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.

Ransomware attacks have become a significant cybersecurity threat, causing severe financial and operational damage to enterprises worldwide. Traditional security measures often fail to detect and mitigate these threats before they inflict harm. This paper explores the application of machine learning (ML) techniques for the early detection of ransomware attacks in enterprise networks. By analyzing network traffic patterns, system behaviors, and anomaly detection methods, ML models can identify suspicious activities indicative of ransomware execution. The study evaluates various supervised and unsupervised learning algorithms, including decision trees, support vector machines (SVM), deep learning, and clustering techniques. Experimental results demonstrate that ML-based approaches can enhance the accuracy and efficiency of ransomware detection, minimizing response times and reducing potential losses. The findings suggest that integrating machine learning into cybersecurity frameworks can significantly improve an organization’s resilience against ransomware threats.

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.