Volume 13, Issue 6, June 2025 Edition - GSJ Journal Publication

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INFLUENCE OF VIOLENT FILMS ON YOUTH BEHAVIOR: A STUDY AT WESLEY UNIVERSITY ONDO []


This study examined the influence of violent-themed movies, specifically "Sugar Rush" and "Issakaba," on youths' behavior in Ondo East Local Government, focusing on students at Wesley University, Ondo. Our research aims to achieve several key objectives: to assess how much these students are exposed to these films, to explore how these movies influence their dressing patterns, to examine their effects on temperament, and to identify the negative influence on their behaviors and attitudes. Using a mixed-methods approach, we surveyed 200 respondents and found significant exposure to these films. Notably, 58% of participants reported watching these movies, while 54.5% felt that they desensitized viewers to violence, and 52.5% acknowledged their detrimental effects on cultural values. The findings also revealed a connection between exposure to these films and shifts in dressing styles, with many respondents leaning towards more indecent clothing choices. We applied Social Learning Theory and Cultivation Theory to better understand how observation and prolonged media exposure influence attitudes and behaviors. Ultimately, the study concludes that these films significantly affect youth temperament, fashion choices, and cultural perceptions, highlighting the broader implications of media consumption. Our recommendations emphasize the need for a safe media consumption environment, reduced exposure to violent content, family discussions about media portrayals, and stricter regulations on violent media broadcasts. This research underscores the importance of media literacy and responsible content creation in mitigating the negative influences on youth development and societal values. Keywords: Influence, Violent Films, Youth Behaviour, Sugar Rush, Issakaba

profil epidemiologique, clinique et therapeutique de la tuberculose pharmaco-résistante dans la ville de likasi en rdc 2019-2021 []


Résumé— L’épidémie de la tuberculose constitue un problème de santé publique à l’échelle mondiale et demeure de nos jours parmi les maladies infectieuses les plus préoccupantes à cause de sa forte morbidité et de sa mortalité. Elle est dite pharmaco-résistante lorsque la souche bacillaire est identifiée résistante à un ou plusieurs médicaments anti-TB par un test de sensibilité phénotypique et/ou génotypique (Xpert, Truenat, LPA, …). La pharmaco-résistance dans le but d’orienter les décideurs à tous les niveaux à bien canaliser les ressources disponibles pour contribuer à l’amélioration du diagnostic et à la prise en charge de la tuberculose pharmaco-résistante. L’âge moyen des personnes ayant fait une tuberculose forme résistante est de 30±4 avec un âge minimum de 15 et le maximum de 45. La commune de Kikula caractérisée par le non-respect des normes de construction, des maisons mal ventilées, la promiscuité…, exposant ainsi cette population à contracter la tuberculose, a été plus représentative ; la profession libérale expose les personnes à contracter cette dite maladie par la non-application des mesures préventives de la tuberculose, et la non-respect du traitement en cas d’une tuberculose sensible. La toux est l’un des signes cliniques les plus observés dans la plupart de nos patients, elle est considérée comme la principale porte d’entrée parce que le plus souvent c’est initialement une toux sèche qui crée les essoufflements et des difficultés respiratoires. Le GeneXpert a été l’examen le plus réalisé à l’entrée du patient devant les signes évocateurs d’une tuberculose, les CSDT ont respecté scrupuleusement les recommandations de PATI-6. La forme pulmonaire de la tuberculose est la plus observée chez nos patients, c’est pourquoi le suivi bactériologique doit faire l’objet d’une bonne prise en charge. La coïnfection VIH/TB explique la corrélation entre la tuberculose et le VIH, l’immunodépression liée au VIH favorise l’évolution de la tuberculose vers la forme active et voir même sa forme grave pharmaco-résistante. La forme TB RR/MR a été la plus représentative dans notre étude et certains patients ont présenté une multirésistance initiale. La prise en charge globale et intégrée assure la guérison aux patients de la TB-RR malgré la longue périodicité du traitement. Mots clés—tuberculose ; tuberculose multi-résistance, pharmaco-résistance

APPLICATION OF THE CAMELS RATING FRAMEWORK IN EVALUATING THE FINANCIAL SOUNDNESS AND STABILITY OF BANKS: A CASE STUDY OF OMAN’S BANKING SECTOR []


This study evaluates the financial soundness and stability of Omani local commercial banks using the CAMELS rating framework. The research applies a quantitative, descriptive methodology, analyzing audited financial data from six major local banks over the period 2021–2024. Each CAMELS component—Capital Adequacy, Asset Quality, Management Efficiency, Earnings Ability, and Liquidity—is assessed using standardized financial ratios and ranked according to a 1–5 rating scale. The findings reveal strong capital adequacy across all banks but also highlight critical weaknesses in management efficiency and liquidity, with moderate concerns in asset quality and earnings. The study provides targeted recommendations for banks and regulators to address operational inefficiencies, improve profitability, and manage risk more effectively. Additionally, it outlines limitations related to data availability and the exclusion of the “Sensitivity to Market Risk” component. The research concludes with suggestions for future work, including customizing the CAMELS framework for Islamic banking and exploring its relationship with broader macroeconomic indicators. This study contributes valuable insights for stakeholders seeking to enhance financial regulation, strategic decision-making, and the overall resilience of Oman’s banking sector.

THE IMPACT OF GREEN BUILDING APPROACH ON THE COST OF AFFORDABLE HOUSING IN RWANDA: Case Study of Gasabo District []


ABSTRACT This study explores the impact of green building approaches on the cost of affordable housing in Gasabo District, Rwanda, in response to the rising demand for environmentally sustainable and economically accessible housing. The research aimed to assess the extent to which green building practices are currently integrated into affordable housing projects, evaluate residents' perceptions of affordability in green versus conventional housing, and examine the relationship between green building implementation and construction costs. Specifically, the study focused on the use of sustainable building materials, energy-efficient designs, water conservation systems, and waste management practices. A mixed-methods descriptive research design was employed, combining quantitative data collected through surveys from 91 respondents with qualitative insights. The results indicated a generally positive perception of green building practices, with a composite mean score of 3.9. Among the practices, waste management (mean = 4.14) and water conservation (mean = 4.01) received the highest levels of agreement. Both green and conventional housing residents expressed a positive perception of affordability, with mean scores of 4.0 and 4.1, respectively. Furthermore, a statistically significant but moderate positive correlation (r = 0.323, p < 0.01) was found between the adoption of green building practices and the perceived construction costs, suggesting that while green approaches may increase initial costs, they are associated with potential long-term economic and environmental benefits. The study concludes that green building practices, despite contributing to higher upfront construction costs, are seen as supporting long-term affordability and sustainability. It is recommended that policymakers and developers encourage the use of locally available sustainable materials, raise public awareness on the long-term financial benefits of green housing, and streamline regulatory processes to facilitate broader adoption and enhance affordability. Keywords: Green building, Cost, Affordable housing, Rwanda and Gasabo District

Automobile Markets and Consumer Preferences: A Comparative study between Hyundai and Mercedes-Benz in Oman []


This research was conducted to analyze the purchase behavior and satisfaction level of the automobile consumers of Mercedes-Benz and Hyundai cars in Oman. Data was collected from 103 consumers using purposive sampling. Results indicated that technology, design, safety features, luxury, after-sales services are the leading factors driving the buying decision for Mercedes owners, and fuel economy, safety, price and after-sales services are the leading factors driving the buying decision for Hyundai owners. Hyundai buyers are budget-minded consumers seeking value, dependability, and utility, while Mercedes buyers are wealthy consumers seeking luxury, techno-wizardry, and exclusivity. While social media was an important factor in the information search for Hyundai buyers, Mercedes-Benz buyers were more influenced by their dealer experience and expert reviews. Among all these distinctives, over half of respondents changed their service providers due to being dissatisfied with after-sales services, which shows that brands need to make improvements in service quality, spare part availability, and repair time efficiency. This holds some significance as it stresses the need to customize the marketing plan, apart from post-sale programs that are the actual acting companions for adaptive consumer needs. This may include strengthening the network of services offered to customers and harnessing digital platforms, personalization of experiences offered to consumers, and creating loyalty through retention-driving programs. Ongoing research may also explore other groups classified by their socio-economic status, which would anchor further insights into consumer preferences across various layers of consumers.

Research on the role of personal branding for entrepreneurs in Oman []


This study explores The Role of Personal Branding for Entrepreneurs in Oman, with the intention of knowledge how powerful personal branding contributes to entrepreneurial success and market presence in the Omani context. The targets of the studies encompass assessing the impact of personal branding on commercial enterprise performance, figuring out key elements and strategies utilized by marketers, analyzing the demanding situations and capability blessings associated with developing a private logo, and studying the role of social media and digital advertising in enhancing logo effectiveness. A combined-techniques technique was adopted, combining both quantitative and qualitative studies strategies. Data were gathered via questionnaires distributed to Omani marketers, in addition to via secondary resources consisting of academic journals and professional web sites. The sample included entrepreneurs actively involved in diverse sectors, along with insights from researchers acquainted with the local commercial enterprise surroundings. The findings suggest that personal branding drastically affects the visibility, credibility, and long-time period increase of entrepreneurs in Oman. Strategic use of virtual platforms, particularly social media, emerged as a vital tool in shaping a compelling non-public logo. However, entrepreneurs also face challenges inclusive of consistency, audience engagement, and keeping authenticity. This examine underscores the importance of private branding as a strategic asset within the modern entrepreneurial landscape and offers realistic insights for enterprise proprietors aiming to reinforce their presence in the Omani market.

THE IMPACT OF WORKPLACE WELL-BEING PROGRAMS ON EMPLOYEE PRODUCTIVITY IN OMAN AIR []


The study aims to see how programs that support employee well-being at work impact the productivity of Oman Air’s employees in various roles. A quantitative approach was used by issuing questionnaires to 150 people belonging to the Cabin Crew, Engineering & Maintenance, Administration and Ground Staff departments. Data were studied to understand how demographic background, job roles, length of employment and opinions about wellness at work are related. It has been found that programs designed to promote well-being have improved concentration and better stress handling for only some employees, while a large part felt much less positive or dissatisfied with their effects on health, both body and mind. Engineering & Maintenance staff had the most satisfaction, followed by Flight Staff and Administrative Staff, with Ground Staff having the least satisfaction. Some employees mentioned that more mental health assistance, feedback from managers and flexible working times could help improve things. The research concludes that wellness programs improve particular types of productivity, but their overall impact varies mainly because they are not tailored to each person, not enough people are aware of them and needs in each department are diverse. According to the research, create initiatives targeted at workers’ job situations and get managers more involved to boost engagement and mental health support. The development of workplace well-being through insights particular to the aviation sector in Oman. It will be helpful for future research to look into qualitative approaches, multi-year research designs and write about how various sectors manage sustainability to better grasp the practices behind it.

School Head Leadership Practices and Students Behavior Management in Bukidnon Division []


The study aimed to assess the level of school head leadership practices and student behavior management in the Division of Bukidnon for the school years 2025-2027. It specifically sought to describe respondent characteristics, evaluate leadership practices, assess student behavior management, examine the relationship between leadership and behavior management, and test differences based on respondent characteristics. The study involved 300 teachers and 300 students selected through universal sampling. Using a descriptive-correlational method and a modified questionnaire, data were analyzed with frequency, mean, standard deviation, Pearson r, and ANOVA. Findings showed that both school head leadership practices and student behavior management were rated high, indicating effective practices in place. School leaders demonstrated strong leadership, positively impacting the school environment. However, results revealed no significant relationship between school leadership practices and student behavior management. This suggests that leadership alone may not directly influence student behavior. The study recommends providing school heads with additional resources, such as mentoring and coaching, to enhance behavior management skills. It emphasizes the importance of comprehensive leadership development to create supportive school environments. Ultimately, integrating strong leadership with targeted behavior management strategies is essential for fostering a positive and effective learning atmosphere for both educators and students. Keywords: School Head Leadership Practices, Students Behavior Management

THE EFFECTIVENESS OF OMANTEL’S DIGITAL MARKETING STRATEGIES IN ATTRACTING YOUNG CONSUMER []


This project looks into how well Omantel's digital marketing tactics draw in and interact with the country's youth. In order to attract the 18–30 age group, Omantel has implemented a number of tactics, including influencer marketing, social media campaigns, tailored messaging, and AI-driven analytics, as digital platforms take over communication and commerce. The goal of the study was to assess how these tactics affected consumer involvement, brand perception, and purchase decisions. Data was gathered using a mixed-methods approach by distributing structured questionnaires to 75 Omantel staff and more than 50 youthful customers. While qualitative input offered context and insight into user behavior and preferences, quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive statistics. The results showed that individualized promotions and influencer marketing greatly increase consumer trust and buy intent. Nonetheless, there is room for improvement given the low levels of engagement with some social media content and the uneven personalization. The report suggests investing in mobile-first initiatives, enhancing personalization using AI, and optimizing digital content for relatability. Short-form content and improved influencer partnerships could help increase engagement. The study gives a framework for other tele-com companies aiming to attract young people in comparable areas as well as useful information for improving Omantel's digital out-reach.

IDENTIFYING FACTORS AFFECTING ISLAMIC BANKING ADOPTION: EVIDENCE FROM THE OMANI BANKING SECTOR []


This study aims to identify key factors that influence the adoption of Islamic banking in the banking sector of Oman. Since the establishment of full-fledged Islamic banks and the presence of full-fledged Islamic windows within conventional banks, understanding customer perceptions and motivations has become very important. The study focuses on six core variables, namely compatibility, religiosity, awareness, reputation, service quality, and social influence. The data collection belongs to a structured questionnaire designed among the various Islamic banking institutions' customers scattered throughout the Sultanate. Findings show that compatibility and religiosity are the strongest influences for the adoption of Islamic banking, followed by reputation and awareness, whereas service quality and social influence score the least. These can provide a rich understanding of customer behavior and can become a support element for Islamic banks in enhancing their strategies, communication drives, and customer engagement proficiencies toward mass adoption.

THE ROLE OF CYBERSECURITY MEASURES IN ENHANCING CONSUMER TRUST IN E-COMMERCE A CASE OF OMANTEL []


The study investigates how cybersecurity measures increase consumer trust in e-commerce, using Omantel as a real-world example. As more individuals in Oman shop and pay for services online, they want to know all their financial and personal information is safe. This study examines the actions taken by Omantel for the safety of customers, such as two-factor authentication, data encryption, and adherence with global security standards. It also investigates how these activities influence people's attitudes toward using Omantel's internet platforms. For a detailed picture, the project conducts surveys with current Omantel subscribers. The findings indicate that customers that understand the security safeguards in place are far more likely to feel confident using Omantel's e-commerce services. People also report feeling safer when a corporation is clear about how it safeguards their data and keeps them informed of any improvements. However, younger and more educated users are more trusting. Also, this initiative shows the necessity of robust cybersecurity, not just as a technical requirement, but also as a means of developing long-term customer connections. It provides practical tips for increasing online security and making users feel more secure when buying with Omantel.

Smart Diagnostic Model for Chronic Kidney Disease Using Deep Neural Networks []


Kidney disease is reported to be the 13 leading causes of death globally, affecting about 10-15% of the global population. Early detection of chronic kidney disease is highly needed to enable clinicians and healthcare providers to be able to mitigate the negative effects it has on patients’ health. This study explores the use of predictive models such as the Artificial Neural network in bridging this gap by detecting chronic kidney disease using various physiological variables. The study employed a public dataset from southern India, comprising 25 predictor variables and one target variable that relates to kidney disease diagnosis. It was then analyzed using various statistical approaches, and it uncovers an associating between chronic kidney disease in older patients and a significant correlation between the majority of the physiological features and the diagnosis outcome. The correlation analysis specifically identified strong negative and significant (p-value < 0.05) relationships across factors like specific gravity, hemoglobin levels, packed cell volume, and red blood cells with the diagnosis class. A strong positive and significant relationship was observed between albumin, serum creatinine, and diabetes mellitus with the diagnosis outcome. The proposed model outperformed previous machine learning predictive approaches explored by related authors, with an exceptional performance metrics output of 100% accuracy, specificity, precision, and negative predictive value (NPV) on both training and the unseen (test) datasets. The model kappa score (1.0), and McNemar’s Test value (p-value < 0.01) also review the minimal deviation between the ANN predicted diagnosis classes and the actual disease class. These result findings further show the significance of ANN in driving an optimized approach supported by adequate clinical data in assisting clinicians to make good decisions relating to kidney disease.

AWARENESS, USAGE, AND PERCEPTIONS OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE AMONG TEACHER TRAINEES OF HIMACHAL PRADESH []


Artificial Intelligence (AI) is playing an important role in modern education. It is important to understand how the future teachers perceive and engage with AI with respect to teaching learning process. Himachal Pradesh is a leading state in India to introduce the digital educa-tional technology to improve the student learning. In order to study usage and perception of AI among teacher trainees of Himachal Pra-desh, a descriptive survey was conducted using an online questionnaire. A total of 65 participants responded, representing diverse loca-tions in Himachal Pradesh. It has been observed that a majority of participants actively use AI for personalised learning and to explore new topics. Its use for pedagogical tasks such as lesson planning remains limited. Most participants are aware of general-purpose AI tools like ChatGPT, but few are familiar with AI applications designed specifically for education. There is a strong positive perception of AI's potential to enhance teaching and learning. But teacher trainees are concerned about over-reliance on AI and its impact on critical think-ing. There are also concerns over ethical issues such as data privacy. The study highlights the need for development of explainable AI for education and structured training on AI integration within teacher education programmes to support informed and effective use of these tools in future classrooms.

Integrating AI and Multimodal Sensor Fusion with Swarm Robotics for Survivor Detection in Collapsed Structures []


Multiple studies have been conducted in the fields of both swarm robotics and machine learning, with ongoing research on integrating these two areas, particularly in disaster management. However, the current research primarily focuses on navigating and mapping the volatile terrain, rather than detecting survivors in disaster areas, such as those affected by earthquakes. This paper aims to mitigate this shortcoming by providing a holistic overview of sensors that can be equipped on a multitude of robots for detecting survivors in collapsed structures. The paper also offers insight on leveraging artificial intelligence to control the swarm of robots and a framework for multimodal fusion of data from sensors to enhance the probability of locating survivors. A detailed proposal combining all the relevant and evaluated strategies to maximise the detection of survivors using various sensors and algorithms discussed in this review has also been included for further advancement.

Status of Capra aegagrus (wild goat) inhabit kirthar national park []


Stretching from Jamshoro district to Karachi, Kirthar National Park is the third-largest national park, after the Hingol national park baloshictan & the Karakoram National Park located in northern Gilgit-Baltistan region. A survey was carried out to determine the condition of Capra aegagrus, which was visited in the winter. January of 2025, The zoological survey of Pakistan Islamabad and the wild life team of Kirthar National Park kindly cooperated to acquire the data used in the surveys. Wildlife officials claim that the past ten years have been critical in terms of the rise in the wild goat population, which is Sindh's national animal. In the last ten years, the Sindh ibex population (in Kirthar National Park) has grown by more than 10,000 animals. In 1978, when the number of wild goats reached close to 2,000, the park authorities were tasked with improving the population. The Bovidae family is related to Sindh ibex. There are 143 species in the diverse family Bovidae, with sizes ranging from the 3-kilogram (kg) royal antelope to the 1,200-kg gaur. In addition to 30 nations in Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, bovids are present throughout mainland Africa. Only the African continent has the four subfamilies; neither Australia nor Antarctica is home to any of them, and only bison (Bison bison) are indigenous to the Americas. Because of conservation initiatives and a hunting restriction, the population has grown dramatically in recent years. Over the last forty years, the population has increased from less than 2,000 to 20,000, according to the Express Tribune. Additionally, Anadolu Ajansı notes that within the past ten years, the population has grown by more than 10,000. Focusing on elements like as dangers, geographic range, and population patterns. Bovids vary greatly in size; the gaur, for example, can weigh over 1,500 kg (3,300 lb) and have a shoulder height of 2.2 m (87 in). In stark contrast, the royal antelope weighs no more than 3 kg (6.6 lb) and stands barely 25 cm (9.8 in) tall. The Asian unicorn, often known as the spindlehorn, is the saola (Pseudoryx nghetinhensis).One of the rarest big mammals in the world, the spindlehorn, Asian unicorn, or, less frequently, Vu Quang bovid is a forest-dwelling bovine indigenous to the Annamite Range in Vietnam and Laos.