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Review Article
Prevalence and Management Practices of Faba Bean Gall (Physoderma viciae) in the Ethiopian Highlands
Dinku Atnafu*
,
Zemed Wobale
Issue:
Volume 1, Issue 1, December 2025
Pages:
1-8
Received:
1 September 2025
Accepted:
7 October 2025
Published:
3 December 2025
DOI:
10.11648/j.scif.20250101.11
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Abstract: Faba bean (Vicia faba L.) is an important legume crop and is grown extensively in the Ethiopian highlands, 1,800 to 3,000 m.a.s.l. While this crop provides agronomic and effects and nutrition, production of faba beans is especially under threat from biotic stresses such as faba bean gall disease caused by Physoderma viciae. The present study investigated the distribution and traditional management of faba bean gall in the main production areas of the Ethiopian highlands. Researchers conducted field surveys in the sampled districts during the 2023/2024 major cropping season to assess disease severity and incidence as well as semi-structured interviews with farmers to obtain information on the traditional and modern management practices. Overall, faba bean gall disease, prevalence varied by altitude, host variety, and cropping management systems. Prevalence of disease was especially high in fields where faba beans were produced continuously and where there was no proper crop residue management. Farmers indicated that they attempted to combine traditional practices like crop rotation and fire clearing residues with very little use of resistant varieties. However most farmers did not integrate IDM in their management due to a lack of awareness and also low level of availability of resistant or tolerant cultivars. The research highlights the importance of extension services in promoting the IDM practices, such as use of certified seeds, crop rotation, and creating awareness, to lessen the incidence and impact of faba bean gall in the highland agro-ecosystem of Ethiopia.
Abstract: Faba bean (Vicia faba L.) is an important legume crop and is grown extensively in the Ethiopian highlands, 1,800 to 3,000 m.a.s.l. While this crop provides agronomic and effects and nutrition, production of faba beans is especially under threat from biotic stresses such as faba bean gall disease caused by Physoderma viciae. The present study invest...
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Research Article
Time Series Analysis of Monthly Internally Generated Revenue in Hulbarag Woreda, Silte Zone, Central Ethiopia
Shambel Selman Abdo*
Issue:
Volume 1, Issue 1, December 2025
Pages:
9-20
Received:
29 September 2025
Accepted:
13 October 2025
Published:
8 December 2025
DOI:
10.11648/j.scif.20250101.12
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Abstract: The effective mobilization of internal revenue is crucial for sustaining local government operations and supporting development initiatives. This study aimed to analyze the dynamics of monthly internally generated revenue (MIGR) in Hulbarag Woreda, Silte Zone, over the period 2008-2023, with a focus on trend, volatility, seasonality, and forecasting. The study utilized secondary data obtained from Hulbarag Woreda Finance and Economic Development Office, encompassing monthly revenue collections across direct taxes, indirect taxes, non-tax revenue, and municipality fees. Data preparation included log transformation and differencing to address non-stationarity, confirmed through Augmented Dickey-Fuller (ADF) and KPSS tests. Time series modeling was performed using ARIMA for mean dynamics and GARCH (1, 1) for conditional variance, allowing the identification of volatility clustering and predictive forecasting. The results indicate a consistent upward trend in revenue, with June recording the highest collections and August the lowest. Direct taxes contributed the largest share (52.66%), followed by non-tax revenue (17.37%), indirect taxes (16.25%), and municipality revenue (13.71%). The GARCH (1, 1) model demonstrated strong volatility persistence (α + β = 0.91) and effectively forecasted a total revenue of 164,902,287 ETB for 2023/2024, exceeding planned projections by 47,737,198 ETB. These findings highlight the potential of advanced time series models in guiding fiscal planning, resource allocation, and budget optimization. The study is limited by its reliance on secondary administrative data and its focus on a single woreda, which may affect generalizability. Future research could incorporate socio-economic and macroeconomic factors and extend the analysis to multiple woredas to enhance predictive accuracy and policy relevance.
Abstract: The effective mobilization of internal revenue is crucial for sustaining local government operations and supporting development initiatives. This study aimed to analyze the dynamics of monthly internally generated revenue (MIGR) in Hulbarag Woreda, Silte Zone, over the period 2008-2023, with a focus on trend, volatility, seasonality, and forecastin...
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Research Article
Determinants for Retirement Savings of Employees in Tertiary Institutions of Zimbabwe
Clever Dhewa*,
Shepard Makurumidze,
Margaret Mashizha
Issue:
Volume 1, Issue 1, December 2025
Pages:
21-27
Received:
29 October 2025
Accepted:
7 November 2025
Published:
9 December 2025
DOI:
10.11648/j.scif.20250101.13
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Abstract: Retirement savings are critical role for ensuring financial security of employees in the post-retirement phase, and a variety of factors significantly influence employees` ability to make retirement savings. The existence of retirement savings is important when planning for retirement mainly in the face of increased life expectancy, high cost of living, and the increased retirement age of employees in Zimbabwe. This research sought to examine the determining factors of retirement savings among employees in tertiary institutions with focus on one institution in Harare. The determinants that affect workers` retirement savings are identical across all other tertiary institutions hence the findings from the study would be a representative of other tertiary institutions across Zimbabwe. The study adopted a positivist paradigm and was a case study research where a sample of sixty respondents out of an accessible population of six-hundred staff establishment. The population was stratified into lecturing and non-lecturing staff. Simple random sampling was employed to come up with a sample size of sixty (60) respondents. Structured questionnaires and interview guides were used for collection of data. The study established that retirement savings were affected by age, marital status, gender, family size, family expenditure, level of education, financial literacy levels, interest rate, income level, exchange rate, and inflation rate. The study recommended that employees should attend financial literacy trainings together with savings and investment conferences so as to acquaint themselves with the general savings and investment management process that they could use. Such trainings would expose employees to various financial products such as shares, term deposits, unit trusts, cash savings, gold coins, investment in livestock, properties, diversified asset portfolio, fixed savings accounts, income generating projects, and other small business entrepreneurial ventures and start-ups. The management of tertiary institutions were recommended to positively influence employees to engage in retirement savings by funding employees to attend financial literacy and investment management training such that they would acquire the necessary knowledge to make savings and investments for post-retirement. Furthermore, institutions were recommended to hold quarterly and semi-annual seminars and conferences on retirement planning and retirement savings and make attendance by employees’ mandatory such that their attitude on retirement savings increases.
Abstract: Retirement savings are critical role for ensuring financial security of employees in the post-retirement phase, and a variety of factors significantly influence employees` ability to make retirement savings. The existence of retirement savings is important when planning for retirement mainly in the face of increased life expectancy, high cost of li...
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Case Report
Examining Online Scamming Techniques: How Scammers Contact and Influence Victims to Enhance Public Awareness
Shahjady Sultana*
Issue:
Volume 1, Issue 1, December 2025
Pages:
28-38
Received:
24 April 2025
Accepted:
9 May 2025
Published:
9 December 2025
DOI:
10.11648/j.scif.20250101.14
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Abstract: With the rapid advancement of technology and the widespread use of digital platforms, online scams have become increasingly sophisticated and pervasive. These scams target individuals and organizations alike, often resulting in significant psychological distress and financial losses for victims. Despite ongoing efforts by authorities and cybersecurity professionals, the dynamic and evolving nature of online fraud poses considerable challenges to effective prevention and enforcement. This study aims to explore the current landscape of online scams by analyzing representative cases and identifying common tactics employed by cybercriminals. Emphasis is placed on understanding the psychological manipulation techniques used to deceive victims and the systemic vulnerabilities that enable such scams to flourish. Through detailed case studies and thematic analysis, the research highlights patterns in scam operations, assesses their impact, and evaluates the effectiveness of existing countermeasures. The findings underscore the need for enhanced public awareness, more robust digital literacy initiatives, and improved policy frameworks to combat online fraud. Ultimately, the study proposes a set of targeted preventive strategies and policy recommendations designed to reduce the incidence of online scams and better protect vulnerable populations in the digital age.
Abstract: With the rapid advancement of technology and the widespread use of digital platforms, online scams have become increasingly sophisticated and pervasive. These scams target individuals and organizations alike, often resulting in significant psychological distress and financial losses for victims. Despite ongoing efforts by authorities and cybersecur...
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Research Article
Reconstructing the Social Contract Theory: Inculcating Ubi as the Antidote to Socio-Economic Inequality Among States
Hafiz Abdul Hamid Salifu*
Issue:
Volume 1, Issue 1, December 2025
Pages:
39-52
Received:
30 June 2025
Accepted:
15 July 2025
Published:
9 December 2025
DOI:
10.11648/j.scif.20250101.15
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Abstract: The social contract theory, as articulated by Hobbes, Locke, and Rousseau, establishes a foundational agreement between citizens and their government, wherein the state assumes responsibility for ensuring safety, equity, and welfare in exchange for collective compliance. However, contemporary socio-economic inequalities exacerbated by globalization, technological disruption, and systemic disparities—reveal significant gaps in this theoretical framework. This study employs a qualitative comparative methodology, utilizing the Most Different Systems Design (MDSD) to analyze UBI implementations across diverse political and economic contexts, including Finland, Kenya, and Alaska. Findings from these case studies demonstrate that UBI serves as a transformative policy tool, effectively reducing poverty, improving mental health, and fostering economic participation. Empirical evidence reveals that unconditional cash transfers enhance well-being and social stability without discouraging employment. The research further highlights the critical role of global governance institutions, such as the United Nations and the World Bank, in facilitating UBI’s alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Despite political and logistical challenges, integrating UBI into governance systems presents a viable pathway to modernize the social contract and address 21st-century inequalities. This study underscores UBI’s potential as a catalyst for systemic change, advocating for innovative, collaborative policy approaches to achieve equitable socio-economic outcomes.
Abstract: The social contract theory, as articulated by Hobbes, Locke, and Rousseau, establishes a foundational agreement between citizens and their government, wherein the state assumes responsibility for ensuring safety, equity, and welfare in exchange for collective compliance. However, contemporary socio-economic inequalities exacerbated by globalization...
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Research Article
Child Marriage in Bangladesh: Challenges and Prospects for Change
Ifrat Jahan*
Issue:
Volume 1, Issue 1, December 2025
Pages:
53-58
Received:
25 April 2025
Accepted:
13 May 2025
Published:
9 December 2025
DOI:
10.11648/j.scif.20250101.16
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Abstract: Child marriage remains a significant social issue in Bangladesh, affecting millions of young girls and hindering their potential. Defined as a marriage where at least one party is below the age of 18, this practice disproportionately impacts girls, limiting their access to education, economic opportunities, and health services. Key drivers of child marriage include poverty, cultural norms, and inadequate enforcement of legal frameworks. Despite legislative measures like the Child Marriage Restraint Act (2017) and government initiatives such as the National Action Plan to End Child Marriage (2018–2030), challenges persist due to societal resistance, economic barriers, and gaps in implementation. This article explores the causes and consequences of child marriage, emphasizing its health, educational, and economic impacts on individuals and society. The paper also evaluates the effectiveness of existing interventions and highlights the need for community engagement, improved law enforcement, and economic support for vulnerable families. By addressing these issues, Bangladesh can progress toward achieving Sustainable Development Goal 5.3, which aims to eliminate harmful practices, including child marriage. The findings underscore the importance of multi-stakeholder collaboration and innovative solutions, such as conditional cash transfers and community-led awareness programs, in combating this deep-rooted practice.
Abstract: Child marriage remains a significant social issue in Bangladesh, affecting millions of young girls and hindering their potential. Defined as a marriage where at least one party is below the age of 18, this practice disproportionately impacts girls, limiting their access to education, economic opportunities, and health services. Key drivers of child...
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Case Report
Chondroblastic Osteosarcoma of the Maxilla: A Rare Case Report
Issue:
Volume 1, Issue 1, December 2025
Pages:
59-62
Received:
19 October 2025
Accepted:
31 October 2025
Published:
9 December 2025
DOI:
10.11648/j.scif.20250101.17
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Abstract: Osteosarcoma is a malignancy of mesenchymal cells that have the ability to produce osteoid or immature bone. Chondroblastic osteosarcoma as constitute a substantial proportion of all osteosarcomas of the jaws. Some examples may be composed almost entirely of malignant cartilage growing in lobules with only small foci of direct osteoid production by tumor cells being identified. Chondroblastic osteosarcoma is a rare and aggressive type of bone cancer that tends to occur in the long bones of the arms and legs, although it can happen in any bone in the body. The cause of chondroblastic osteosarcoma is unknown, but it has been linked to specific genetic mutations and environmental factors. It is most common in adolescents and young adults and is characterized by malignant cartilage-forming cells. The prognosis for chondroblastic osteosarcoma depends on several factors, including the size of the tumor and its location, how far it has spread, and the patient's age and general health. Treatment typically involves a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation. Here, we present a rare case of maxillary chondroblastic sarcoma in a 33-year old woman presenting with a mass in the right quadrant of the maxilla. The lesion is sized as 42*25*30mm and is expanded from the lateral incisor tooth region area to the tuberosity in the anteroposterior dimension, from the alveolar crest to the maxillary sinus.
Abstract: Osteosarcoma is a malignancy of mesenchymal cells that have the ability to produce osteoid or immature bone. Chondroblastic osteosarcoma as constitute a substantial proportion of all osteosarcomas of the jaws. Some examples may be composed almost entirely of malignant cartilage growing in lobules with only small foci of direct osteoid production by...
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