International Journal of Case Studies (ISSN Online 2305-509X)

Volume 9, Issue 5
IMPACT FACTOR 4.428

1) Lexico-Semantic Features as Creative/Stylistic Strategies in Joseph Edoki’s The Upward Path
Author Details: Edokpayi, Justina N. Ph.D – Ambrose All University, Ekpoma, Edo State, Nigeria-E-mail: ngoedos@hotmail.com
Abstract:
This study examines and explicates the lexico-semantic parameters, which Joseph Edoki deploys to convey his themes in The Upward Path, his second novel. Edoki is a contemporary Nigerian novelist who is preoccupied with the socio-political problems in Africa with the hope of a brighter future. The novel is the story of Mr. Gaga, a Rhwandan American PhD student, on a fact finding mission in Savannah, an African country, for his Thesis entitled ‘’ Why Africa is Underdeveloped’’. For failing to portray Africa in line with the negative views about the continent in his proposal, Gaga’s supervisor recalls him back to America in anger. But in defense of his conviction and research findings about Africa, Gaga remains in Savannah to complete his Thesis. This study is of significance because as a linguistic study, it will serve as a springboard to future researches in the language of African literature. Moreover, the good governance, which Edoki presents in Savannah, the fictional country, in which the novel under study is set, is a blue print for the development of Africa
Keywords: lexico-semantics, findings, good governance, transformation, leadership
[Download Full Paper] [Page 01-19]
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2) Retroperitoneal Fibrosis: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Author’s Details: Marilena Stoian MD, PhD¹^, ², Gabriela Mihaela Predescu MD ², Daniela Degeratu MD, PhD ², Bogdan Stoian MD³, Mihai Dumitrache MD, PhD ^1,4, Viorel Jinga MD, PhD ^1,4-¹Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania ²„Dr Ion Cantacuzino” Clinical Hospital, Bucharest, Romania ³Medical Center Polimed Apaca, Bucharest, Romania ⁴„Prof. Dr. Th. Burghele” Clinical Hospital, Bucharest, Romania –Correspondence to:  Assistant Professor Marilena Stoian, MD, PhD., Matei Basarab Street, No 65, Bloc L109, Sc 2, Ap 27, District 3, P.O. 030675, Bucharest, Romania-Fax : 0214139917, Phone : +400733937310, E-mail : marilenastoian@yahoo.com
Abstract:
Retroperitoneal fibrosis (RPF) is a rare disease characterized by inflammatory fibrotic processes affecting the retroperitoneal structures. To date, there are no guidelines for the diagnosis of or therapy for the disease. The presence of autoantibodies and histological similarities with vasculitis support the hypothesis of autoimmune processes that plays a role in causing the disease. If untreated, the disease may be fatal. The diagnosis becomes easier only at a later stage, when both the ureters are affected by fibrosis with the consequent development of symptoms of urinary obstruction or renal failure. Initial therapy aims at restoring the function of the affected hollow organs through the application of (ureteric) stents, followed by immunosuppressive therapy. Life-long observation of the patients is necessary, as the disease may be chronic and relapsing. Interdisciplinary and nationwide cooperation is of crucial importance to further investigate this disease.
We describe the case of a 46yr-old patient with 5 years long history of untreated hypercholesterolemia who was admitted in the Internal Medicine Service with fever 38.6 C, oliguria, diffuse abdominal pain and de novo arterial hypertension (190/90mmHg). Diagnosis representative blood analysis was:  serum urea 153.97 mg/dl, serum creatinine 13.88 mg/dl, without proteinuria, serum potassium 6.48 mmol/l. serum cholesterol 313. 24 mg/dl, acid uric 10.57 mg/dl, hematocrit 29.50%, hemoglobin 9,2 g/dl , white cells 7,40 /mm³ _, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) 63mm/1 h, C-reactive protein  (CRP) 103.6 mg/l .Sonography reported a bilateral ureteral hydronephrosis (right stage III and left stage II) with proximal hydroureter and, abdominal-pelvic scan showed a periaortic retroperitoneal mass which included both ureters and appeared to trigger the obstruction. Into the Urology Service a right percutaneous nephrostomy tube was inserted as an emergency and  it was implanted a bilateral “double J” catheter, while diagnostic laparoscopic biopsy was perfected into the surgery   service The biopsy and immunohistochemical staining showed a specific type of retroperitoneal fibrosis .Due to the failure of the previous measures and as a last therapeutic recourse when one year had passed from the diagnosis, a continuous regimen with  prednisone in dose of  40 mg/day initially from 3 month  and after 5-7,5mg/day since  12 months was started, which began a progressive remission in the size of the observed mass by scan (CT) and magnetic resonance (MR). The treatment was completed with   high dose of statins Atorvastatin 80 mg/day during 12 months and, in this time, the levels of blood cholesterol, urea nitrogen and creatinine were reduced gradually too. Finally, at the end of the treatment with Atorvastatin and Prednisone and no more immunosuppressive treatment, the magnetic resonance demonstrates the complete disappearance of the fibrosis and one question enforces: is retroperitoneal fibrosis a consequence of a local autoimmune reaction against atherosclerotic plaque antigens?
Key Words: Retroperitoneal Fibrosis, Hydronephrosis, Immunoglobulin G4-related Disease
[Download Full Paper] [Page 20-33]
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3) Current Situation of the Impacts of FDI on Import and Export Markets in Vietnam
Author’s Details: ⁽¹⁾Quang Duc Le ⁽²⁾Thi Thanh Hai Duong  ⁽³⁾Thanh Huong Vu  ⁽⁴⁾My Dung Do-⁽¹⁾Vietnam national union of health workers, ministry of health portal  ^{(2) (3) (4)}University of Economics – Technology for Industries, Vietnam-Correspondence: My Dung Do, 456 Minh Khai, Hai Ba Trung, Ha Noi
Abstract:
The objective of this paper is to assess the current situation of the impact of FDI on Vietnam’s import and export markets. By collecting aggregated data from the General Department of Customs and the General Statistics Office, we have assessed the positive and negative impacts of FDI on Vietnam’s export and import markets. Finally, we conduct an assessment of the advantages and disadvantages of FDI, thereby investigating the causes of negative impacts to propose solutions in the future
Key words: collaborative, governance, transportation, management, online
[Download Full Paper] [Page 34-47]
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4) Solutions to Improve the Positive Impacts of FDI to Import and Export in Vietnam
Author’s Details: ⁽¹⁾Ngoc Anh Pham ⁽²⁾Thi Thu Hien Phan-^{(1) (2)}University of Economics – Technology for Industries, Vietnam-Correspondence: Ngoc Anh Pham, 456 Minh Khai, Hai Ba Trung, Ha Noi
Abstract:
The paper analyzes the impact of FDI on import and export activities in Vietnam. Based on Vietnam’s perspectives and development orientations toward 2030, we develop solutions to improve the effectiveness of FDI’s impact on Vietnam’s import and export activities.
Key Words: FDI, import, export, Vietnam
[Download Full Paper] [Page 48-65]
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5) Literature Review: Models For Assessing Customer Satisfaction
Author’s Details: ⁽¹⁾Ngoc Anh Pham ⁽²⁾Thi Thu Hien Phan-^{(1) (2)}University of Economics – Technology for Industries, Vietnam-Correspondence: Ngoc Anh Pham, 456 Minh Khai, Hai Ba Trung, Ha Noi
Abstract:
The objective of the article is to review the overall work of customer satisfaction assessment model. We conduct an overview of relevant documents, analyze and evaluate the customer satisfaction models that have been applied. The paper is an important basis for future research on customer satisfaction assessment in all sectors of the economy
Key Words: FDI, import, export, Vietnam
[Download Full Paper] [Page 66-76]
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6) Solutions to Improve Customer Satisfaction with Life Insurance Enterprises in Vietnam
Author’s Details: ⁽¹⁾ Ngoc Anh Pham ⁽²⁾ Thu Hien Phan-^{(1) (2)} University of Economics – Technology for Industries, Vietnam-Correspondence: Ngoc Anh Pham, 456 Minh Khai, Hai Ba Trung, Ha Noi
Abstract:
The objective of the article is to develop solutions to improve customer satisfaction with Vietnamese life insurance businesses. We have analyzed the characteristics of 7 Vietnamese life insurance companies to clearly see the specific business activities of this type of business. We then formulated the solution to enhance customer satisfaction with Vietnamese life insurance businesses.
Keywords: Customer satisfaction, Vietnamese life insurance
[Download Full Paper] [Page 77-87]
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7) Developing New Urban Areas in the Sustainable Direction: The Case of Hanoi, Vietnam
Author’s Details:⁽¹⁾Dieu Linh Nguyen-Ministry of construction ⁽²⁾Van Hung Bui-National Economics University⁽³⁾Thi Thu Hien Phan-University of Economics – Technology for Industries, Vietnam Correspondence: Thi Thu Hien Phan, 456 Minh Khai, Hai Ba Trung, Ha Noi
Abstract:
The objective of this study is to review previous studies on the development of new urban areas towards sustainability of countries. Then analyze the current situation of new urban areas in Hanoi, then recommend solutions to help develop new urban areas in a sustainable way
Keywords: New urban areas, Hanoi, Vietnam
[Download Full Paper] [Page 88-97]
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8) Practical Experience and Lessons Learned for Thai Binh Province, Vietnam
Author Details:Cong Thanh Le-Thai Binh University
Abstract:
The objective of this paper is to assess the practical experience of countries around the world and provinces in Vietnam on the management of investment capital from the State budget and the management and operation of irrigation works. From that, draw lessons for Thai Binh Province, Vietnam on both aspects of managing investment capital from the state budget and the management and operation of irrigation works
Keywords: Management of investment capital, State budget, irrigation
[Download Full Paper] [Page 98-108]
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9) Literature Review: Factors Affecting the Application of Standard Financial Statements for Small and Medium Enterprises
Author’s Details:⁽¹⁾Thi Ngoc Linh Tran-TNU – University of economics & business administration ⁽²⁾Thi Thuy Nguyen-University of Economics – Technology for Industries, Vietnam-Correspondence: Thi Thuy Nguyen, 456 Minh Khai, Hai Ba Trung, Ha Noi
Abstract:
The paper conducts an overview of the research related to the application of financial reporting standards for small and medium-sized enterprises in countries around the world and small and medium-sized enterprises in Vietnam. From there, we analyze the studies that have been done on the related topic, analyze the ways that the studies have used, the results achieved as the basis for proposing future research models.
Keywords: Financial reporting standards, small and medium-sized enterprises
[Download Full Paper] [Page 109-122]
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10) Overview of Research on Environmental Accounting
Author’s Details:⁽¹⁾Thi Van Anh Vu ⁽²⁾Thanh Loan Nguyen-⁽¹⁾⁽²⁾University of Economics – Technology for Industries, Vietnam-Correspondence: Thi Van Anh Vu, 456 Minh Khai, Hai Ba Trung, Ha Noi
Abstract:
The paper has reviewed the research related to environmental accounting on the disclosure of environmental accounting information, the impact of environmental accounting on the performance of enterprises. From this summary, we will propose research directions, research models to evaluate the factors affecting the implementation of environmental accounting or assess the impact of environmental accounting on operational efficiency. Activities of businesses
Keywords: Environmental accounting, Vietnam
[Download Full Paper] [Page 123-137]
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11) Experience in Policy Developing Marine Economy and Lessons Learned for Khanh Hoa Vietnam
Author’s Details:⁽¹⁾Thi Nguyet Dao ⁽²⁾Thi He Nguyen-^{(1) (2)}University of Economics – Technology for Industries, Vietnam-Correspondence: Thi Nguyet Dao, 456 Minh Khai, Hai Ba Trung, Ha Noi
Abstract:
The paper conducts an overview of the experience analysis of a number of countries in the world and some provinces in Vietnam on policies to develop marine and island economy. Countries around the world have effectively exploited the island economy and always oriented the development of the marine economy based on the orientation of sustainable development and environmental protection. The coastal provinces of Vietnam have also initially formed and developed the Sea economy in a sustainable manner.
Keywords: Developing marine economic, Vietnam, Khanh Hoa
[Download Full Paper] [Page 138-145]
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12) Correspondence between Local Urban Context and Historical Preservation – European Club as a Case Study
Author’s Details: Tahmina Tasnim Syeda ^{a a.}Lecturer, Chittagong University of Engineering & Technology, Chittagong -4349, Bangladesh
E-mail: moon.tahmina@gmail.com Alam Humayra ^{b b.}Lecturer, Khulna University of Engineering & Technology, Khulna – 9203, Bangladesh
E-mail: humayra.alam10@gmail.com
Abstract:
the preservation of historical buildings in developing countries is not well conducted. During conservation, mostly the structures are given more prominence rather than urban surroundings. Unless the place’s spirit in a conventional urban setting is recognized, several issues will originate. To identify these problems, this paper is intended to provide a case study of The European Club, which wears the history of British rule and Chittagong revolts in 1930 at Chittagong, Bangladesh. The paper begins by discoursing the historic value of the European club as well as the context of the surrounding area. The second part sets up the necessity of connection between local urban context and building conservation method through necessary comparisons. Lastly, the third part recommends an integrated approach to define and maintain the spirit of such place as an upshot. The study finding would assist in further decision making in conserving built heritage within similar urban context.
Keywords: Urban Context, Historic Preservation, European Club, Local Identity.
[Download Full Paper] [Page 146-156]
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13) Effects of Demonstration and Problem Solving Teaching Strategies on Academic Performance of Biology Students in Senior Secondary Schools in Ekiti State, Nigeria
Author’s Details: Prof.  (Mrs.)  K. A.  Omotayo¹, Mrs. Florence Taiwo Adedeji^2 1Ekiti State University, Faculty of Education,Department of Science Education, PMB 5363, Ado-Ekiti. kenomotayo@yahoo.com ²Department of Science Education, Faculty of Education,Ekiti State University, PMB 5363, Ado-Ekiti adedejifloxyt@gmail.com
Abstract:
The study focused on Effects of Demonstration and Problem-Solving Teaching Strategies on Academic Performance of Biology Students in Senior Secondary Schools in Ekiti state. The research adopted Quasi – Experimental Research Design. The study was carried out in three selected Schools which consisted of a total number of 148 Senior Secondary School II (SSS2) Biology Students, selected through Multistage Sampling Procedure. The objective was to find out the differences in Academic Performance of Students exposed to Demonstration and Problem – Solving teaching strategies. The instrument used was Biology Performance Test (BPT) which was designed by the researcher. Descriptive statistics of Frequent Count, Mean and Standard Deviation were used to analyze the data collected, while Inferential Statistics of Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and T-test were used to test  the hypotheses. All hypotheses were tested at 0.05 level of significance. Based on findings of the study, it was concluded that Academic Performance of the three groups (Demonstration, Problem – Solving and Conventional strategies) were uniform at the beginning of the experiment during pre-test. On exposure to treatment, students taught using Demonstration teaching strategy performed better followed by Problem- solving and lastly conventional teaching strategy in Biology
Keywords: demonstration, problem solving, teaching strategies, academic performance, public school
[Download Full Paper] [Page 157-159]
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14) Can Children be Researchers? Moving Early Childhood from the Cute Curriculum toward Children’s Questions
Author’s Details:Lynn D. Kirkland, Ed.D., Jerry Aldridge, Ed.D. University of Alabama at Birmingham Patricia Kuby, Ph.D. Athens State University (retired)
Abstract:
In the last year of the 20^th century, we published a manuscript entitled, “Isn’t that cute? Transforming the cute curriculum into authentic learning” (Kirkland, Aldridge, & Kuby, 1999). The article was well received and republished in Annual Editions of Early Childhood Education (2000/2001), and again in the next year’s annual edition for 2001/2002 (Kirkland, Aldridge & Kuby, 2000/2001; Kirkland, Aldridge & Kuby, 2001/2002). The cute curriculum was defined as “pedagogical activities that teachers implement because of their mistaken notions of what children find appealing…These activities have no intrinsic connection to the topic being studied. The cute curriculum is most noted for its lack of content and process” (Kirkland, Aldridge, & Kuby, 2001/2002, p. 166). When a teacher of young children comments to a colleague about that colleague’s classroom or students saying, “Isn’t that cute?” most likely what is happening is not authentic learning nor does it challenge children to research the answers to the important questions they have about what they are learnin
[Download Full Paper] [Page 160-164]
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15) Design Innovation in Metal Fabrication of Industrial Palm Fruit Bunch Stripper Analysis
Author’s Details: Rufus Ogbuka Chime¹Benedict Nnamdi Ugwu² Arokwu, Francisca Ngozi³ Mechanical Engineering Department, Institute of Management and Technology (IMT)Enugu Nigeria¹ Mechanical Engineering Department, Enugu State University of Science and Technology Enugu Nigeria^{2rufuschime@imt.edu.ng1benugwu@yahoo.com2Arokwu1234@gmail.com3}
Abstract:
Palm oil production has advanced in recent years with new technological innovation to produce palm oil, survey results showed that 80 percent of Nigerians oil palm resource exists in smallholders who uses manual/traditional processing techniques and equipment for palm fruit by processing. Thus the nation’s oil palm industry is still subsistent with very few large estate plantations that make large mills and imported mills relatively expensive and unaffordable by most farmers, thereby making the traditional method to predominate. The chopping of palm fruit bunch becomes imperative so as to remove the fruitlets located in the inner layer of the bunch and mechanical stripping which eliminates the use of human labor and work related injury to their fingers and bodies. Design include a wide range of activities aimed at planning and designing procedures, technical specifications and other user and functional characteristics for new products and processes. The current financial crisis and economic slowdown have made the need to find complementary innovation drivers and models even more acute. As external funding becomes more difficult to obtain for companies, it is important that innovation does not come to a halt. R&D should be encouraged, as should innovation activities that are close to the market and have low capital requirements. The palm bears its fruit in bunches varying in weight from 10 to 40 kg. The individual fruit, ranging from 6 to 20gm, are made up of an outer skin (the exocarp), a pulp (mesocarp) containing the palm oil in a fibrous matrix; a central nut consisting of a shell (endocarp); and the kernel, which itself contains an oil, quite different to palm oil, resembling coconut oil . The fresh fruit bunch consists of fruit embedded in spikelets growing on a main stem Manual threshing is achieved by cutting the fruit-laden spikelets from the bunch stem with an axe or machete and then separating the fruit from the spikelets by hand. Children and the elderly in the village earn income as casual labourers performing this activity at the factory site.   In a mechanized system a rotating drum or fixed drum equipped with rotary beater bars detach the fruit from the bunch, leaving the spikelet’s on the stem. Modern methods of stripping have greatly improved production rates and reduced stripping time. The machine consists of stripping unit, gear system, frame, and discharge outlets for stripped fruitlets. The results of the improvements carried out on the design of this stripping machine shows that maintenance cost and stripping time are reduced, operation of the machine does not require special skill, the machine is easy and safe to operate, it is noise and vibration free, the energy required for loading and unloading have reduced. The scope of this research is to design, model, sustainability analysis and metal fabrication of industrial Palm Fruit Stripper.
Keywords: Design Innovation, Modelling, Simulation, Analysis Bunch Stripper and metal Fabrication
[Download Full Paper] [Page 165-181]
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