bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Factors Influencing the Relationship between Coffee, Tea Consumption and Dental Caries in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alsunni Hawraa , AlJumian Rabab , AlSalman Sarah , AlFaraj Reham , AlMatrook Fatimah , Alzahrani Khames
Published: August 2021

Background: The relationship between coffee and tea consumption and dental caries in Saudi Arabia has not been covered adequately. The aim of this cross-sectional study was to assess the association between the frequency and quantity of coffee and tea consumption and dental caries severity among adolescents (middle and high schools) in the Eastern Province, Saudi Arabia. Methods: A cross-sectional observational survey study that was carried out in Eastern Province, Saudi Arabia. Validated interview-based questionnaires were used to ask about the background information and the frequency and quantity of coffee and tea consumption with two sections of the survey: the first section was about the demographic data and the second section assessed the frequency and quantity of coffee and tea consumption and examination was done during daylight using disposable dental mirror and blunt probe. Result: A total of 2265 middle school children with a response rate of 77.8%. Out of them, Females accounted for 1288 (56%) and the mean age (±SD) was 14 (±1.322). Regarding parents’ education, 1916 (84.6%) of participants’ fathers and 1836 (81.1%) of their mothers had a high school certificate or higher. There was a significant association between the frequency of coffee and tea consumption and caries (p=0.013). Conclusion: There was a significant association between the frequency of coffee and tea consumption and caries (p=0.013). The frequency of coffee and tea consumption, the higher the caries. However, there was no association between the quantity of coffee and tea consumption and D nor with the overall DMF score.
Prevalence and Risk Factors for Mortality among COVID-19 Patients Hospitalized in Karachi City Pakistan
Authors: Imtiaz Salman , Alam Ashar , Saeed Faiza , Salman Beena , Memon Shoukat , Chughtai Javeria , Ahmed Shahzad , Tariq Sobia
Published: August 2021

Background: Corona virus disease (Covid -19) is the most contagious form of the disease of present time. Therefore, the risk factors which proliferate the spread and hinders the better outcome should be identified. There is gross difference in the spread and outcome of covid 19 in different region of the world. There is need to identify these factors in different communities of the globe.

Material and method: This is a retrospective observational cohort study of Covid -19 patients admitted during the study period. Institutional and ethical review board permission was taken prior to the study. Univariate and multivariate binary logistic regression was run and odds ratio with 95% confidence intervals were obtained. P value of ≤ 0.05 was considered significant. Outcome variables were recovery and death.

Results: There were 840 patients admitted between the study duration, while 704 (83.8%) were included in our study. There were 491(69.7%) males and 213(30.3%) females. The mean age of the population was 54.6±15.5 years. All continuous variables were categorized according to binary outcome (recovered and death) of patients. In Logistic regression analysis we found that patients in age group of 51-65 years died 2.5 time more than patients of age ≤ 50 years. Similarly, the patients within age group of > 65 died 4.5 times higher than ≤ 50 years of age (p<0.001). Male patients died 1.5 times more than females. Among all comorbid conditions HTN had significant effect on death, they died 1.5 times more than normotensive patients. In multivariate logistic regression analysis, the age groups had same significant effect on death when adjusted with other parameters, while effect of gender vanished. Similarly, the effect of HTN was also abolished when other factors were included in analysis.

Conclusion: We concluded that there is an urgent need of reevaluation of the traditional risk factors associated with viral epidemic and understanding the changing paradigm of epidemiology emerging out from this epidemic in both developed and developing counties. There is need of more data from developing world to elucidate the risk factors.
Relation between Hand Bone Mineral Density, Degree of Joint Destruction, and Hand Function in Adults Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients
Authors: Abdelrafee Aya N. , Zaki Mohamed G. E. , El Zohiery Abeer K. , Azab Manar A.
Published: August 2021

Background: Rheumatoid Arthritis [RA] is a chronic systemic disease that affects the functional capacity of the hand due to inflammatory arthritis and joint destruction. RA patients have difficulties with everyday life activities and daily living activities. The prevalence of osteoporosis is estimated to be about twice that of the general population. Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) is the most precise tool for detecting loss in bone mineral density in RA.

Aim of the study: This study aims to investigate the relation between generalized bone mineral density (BMD) and each of hand joint destruction and hand function in order to find out its possible role in assessment of rheumatoid hand disability.

Patients and Methods: Fifty patients diagnosed as RA based on the 2010 ACR Rheumatoid Arthritis Classification Criteria were included in this study. All patients were subjected to the following scores: Duruöz Hand Index (DHI), Grip Ability Test (GAT), Grip strength test, and Pinch strength tests for assessing the function of the dominant hand of each patient. The participants were also subjected to plain x-ray evaluated by van der Heijde-modified total Sharp score (vdH-S) to assess the damage of the joints of the dominant hand, and Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) to assess the Bone Mineral Density.

Results: The current study showed that wrist BMD was correlated with grip strength, pinch strength, GAT, and van der Heijde modified sharp score of the dominant hand. Moreover, X-ray joint findings were significantly correlated with each of total grip ability test, grip strength, and pinch strength as the hand disability manifested more with joint damage.

Conclusion: In conclusion, Osteoporosis, hand function, and joint damage in RA are correlated suggesting related pathophysiological mechanisms. The Severity of RA could be related to osteoporosis as well as joint destruction and hand disability.
Extended Hypofractionated Cancer Radiation Therapy Against Aged and Non-aged Breast Carcinomas Patients
Authors: Khatun Rawshan Ara , Khatun Julekha , Ahamed Kutub Uddin
Published: August 2021

We led an investigation to decide if hypo fractionated 35-days timetable of entire breast radiation is pretty much as viable. Women who bearing obtrusive breast carcinoma had gone through breast monitoring a medical procedure and resection edges were clean and partially lymph hubs were negatively approached with haphazardly relegated to get entire bosom illumination either at a control portion of 50 Gy in 15 divisions over a time of 45 days or at a portion of 45.5 Gy in 12 parts over a time of 22 days (the hypo fractionated-radiation bunch). The repetition at 36 months were 7.2% among the 301 ladies allocated to standard illumination as contrasted and 7.6% among the 312 ladies allocated to the hypo fractionated routine. At 36 months, 69.5% of ladies in the benchmark group as contrasted and 71.2% of the ladies in the hypo fractionated-radiation bunch had a decent or astounding restorative result. 3 years after therapy, sped up, hypo fractionated entire breast illumination was not sub-par compared to standard radiation therapy in ladies who had gone through breast preserving a medical procedure for obtrusive bosom malignant growth with clear careful edges what's more, negative axillary hubs. The ideal fractionation plan for entire bosom light after bosom rationing medical procedure is obscure.
Outcome of Acute Kidney Injury in COVID-19 Patients – A Prospective Cohort at a Single Centre in Pakistan
Authors: Saeed F. , Alam A. , Memon S. , Chughtai J. , Ahmed S. , Tariq S. , Salman B. , Imtiaz S.
Published: August 2021

Introduction: There is continuous experience that AKI is very common in COVID-19 patients and that SARS-CoV-2 specifically invades the kidneys with poor outcome. In-hospital AKI is associated with multiple risk factors including DM, CCF, drugs etc. Also, there is difference in the mortality rate all over the world for various reasons. To date no data has been found from Pakistan on outcome of AKI with COVID-19 infection. Therefore, this study was conducted to help determine the outcome and associated risk factors in this part of the world.

Material and Method: This is a prospective cohort of COVID-19 adult patients with AKI admitted in Indus Hospital COVID ICU from March 2020 to September 2020. History, clinical examination, laboratory investigations, and ultrasound imaging of the kidneys was acquired from the Health Management Information System (HMIS) record of the patients. The data was analyzed in SPSS version 21. Association between outcomes of AKI with different variables was assessed by applying Chi square test. P value of less than 0.05 was considered significant.

Results: There were total 208 patients with AKI in our study, in which 146 (70.2%) were male while 62(29.8%) were female. The mean age was 60.3± 12.7 years and the most prevalent comorbid was HTN 147(70.7%) in our patients, while the most common cause of AKI was sepsis 188(90.4%) and on the same way, oliguria was the most common symptoms of AKI 76(36.5%). Death was the most frequent outcome of our patients 147(70.7%) as compared to recovery 47(22.6%). There was male predominance in patients, who died with AKI as compared to female 112(76.2%) and 35(23.8%) respectively. Also, treatment didn’t show any benefit on worst outcome. Similarly, 124(59.6%) patients needed ventilatory support in which 118(95.2%) died while only 5 (4%) recovered (p <0.001)

Conclusion: Renal involvement in SARS-COV-2 infection is more common than initially thought and has been associated with increased morbidity and mortality. We have found significant association of AKI in covid-19 with outcome variables.
Anemia in Diabetes – An Added Dilemma
Authors: Arshad Syed Ahmed , Ara Jamal
Published: August 2021

Aim: To study the frequency of anemia in diabetes of an adult population.

Methodology: This cross-sectional observational study included 277 adult patients, above the age of 18 years, who were diagnosed as having diabetes by clinical and laboratory basis and were considerably controlled on their prescribed management. The study was conducted in Creek General Hospital Karachi from October to December 2020 by random based sampling technique. After a written consent answers were noted according to the questionnaire and the relevant data was tabulated and analyzed. Patients with complications or with other chronic illness, except hypertension, were excluded. The data was evaluated for the frequency of anemia in diabetics, categorizing the severity of anemia into mild, moderate, and severe. Universal variables like gender and age were assessed.

Results: Among the 277 patients in the study, there were 121(43.7%) males and 156 (56.3%) females. There were 17 (6%) in the young age group, 162 (58.5%) in the middle age group and 98 (35.4%) elders. The mean hemoglobin was 11.1 gm/dl. Out of 277 there were 222 (80%) who fell in the category of anemia. There were 90 out of 121 (74%) males who were anemic and 132 out of 156 (84%) females who were anemic. The most frequent category of anemia was moderate anemia (48%) followed by mild category (46%). Mild anemia was more frequent in males while moderate anemia was more prevalent in females. Anemia was higher in percentage in the younger group (88%). Mild to moderate anemia was more prevalent than severe in all age groups. 81% of hypertensive, diabetic patients was anemic. 78% smokers had anemia. There was visible increase in frequency of anemia as the duration of diabetes increased. Conclusion: Anemia is highly prevalent in diabetics.
Phantom Brake Phenomenon in Survivors of Car Accidents
Authors: Cernovsky Zack Z. , Fattahi Milad
Published: August 2021

Background: Survivors of high impact car accidents, when traveling in cars as passengers, may exhibit the phantom brake reaction. The reaction consists of involuntarily pressing the foot on the floor of the car in a reflexive attempt "to brake", even though there is no brake pedal in front of the passenger seat. This study examines the incidence and correlates of this special phenomenon.

Method: De-identified data of 114 survivors (37 men, 77 women; mean age 38.6, SD=12.4) of high impact motor vehicle accidents (MVAs) were available, with their responses to the Brief Pain Inventory, Insomnia Severity Index, Rivermead Post-Concussion Symptoms Questionnaire, Subjective Neuropsychological Symptoms Scale (SNPSS), PTSD Checklist for DSM-5 (PCL-5), ratings of depression and of generalized anxiety, and 3 questionnaire measures of driving anxiety, i.e., Whetstone’s, Steiner’s, and the Driving Anxiety Questionnaire (DAQ). One item of the DAQ assesses the phantom brake phenomenon on a 4-point scale (0=No, 1=Mild, 2=Moderate, 3=Severe): this is the key variable in the present study.

Results: Mild to severe forms of the phantom brake reaction were reported by 92.1% of the post-MVA patients. Significant correlations (p<0.05, 2-tailed) were found of the intensity of phantom brake reaction to the intensity of post-MVA pain (rs from 0.20 to 0.33), insomnia (r=0.40), the Rivermead post-concussion scale (r=.29), other post-concussive and whiplash symptoms as measured by the SNPSS (r=0.19), depression (r=0.30), generalized anxiety (r=0.32), and to DAQ (r=0.47) and Whetstone’s (r=0.50) measures of driving anxiety. No significant relationships were found of the phantom brake reaction to age and gender.

Discussion and Conclusion: The phantom brake reaction was reported by almost all post-MVA patients and can be considered as a part of their post-MVA polytraumatic symptom pattern.
Perineal Injury and Its Association with Postpartum Sexual Dysfunction among First Delivery Women
Authors: Nusee Z. , Ainy M. N. , Hafizah P.
Published: August 2021

Background: Female sexual dysfunction (FSD) following childbirth imposes significant burden to the marital institution around the world. The perineal injury may potentially be one of the main risk factors contributing to postpartum female sexual dysfunction (PPFSD). The study aimed to determine the effect of perineal injury and patients’ characteristics on PPFSD.

Methodology: This cross-sectional questionnaire study was conducted in six different health clinics in the district of Kuantan from April 2019 to October 2019. Eligible women who came to the family health clinics at 6 months postpartum were recruited as study population. The participants completed their biodata and socio-demographic form and the Malay-validated Female Sexual Function Index (MVFSFI) questionnaire given. A cut-off point of 26.55 and below on MVFSFI scoring system was used as a measure of the primary outcome of sexual dysfunction.

Results: Out of 240 women who delivered vaginally, 34 (14%) had intact perineum, 107 (44.6%) sustained 1st degree perineal tear, 96 (40%) 2nd degree tear and three (1.25%) 3rd degree tear. Among the respondents, 60.9% of the sexually active respondents who had vaginal delivery, reported to have PPFSD. The timing of sexual resumption does not correlate with the severity of perineal tear. The severity of perineal tear is significantly associated with age (p=0.018), duration of marriage (p=0.008), body mass index (BMI) (p=0.019) and instrumental delivery (p=0.025). The level of personnel skill whom performed the repair were also found to have a significant relationship to PPFSD (p= 0.001). The relationship of participants’ mean age (p=0.271), marriage duration (p=0.903), race (p=0.928), religion (p=0.852), education level (p=0.549), employment status (p=0.102), family income (p=0.460) and BMI(p=0.159) with presence of PPFSD were all found to be statistically not significant.

Conclusion: Occurrence of PPFSD is high among sexually active women who had vaginal delivery complicated by perineal tear, especially among those requiring instrumentation. The severity of perineal tear is associated with age, duration of marriage, BMI and mode of delivery. However, PPFSD does not significantly relate to the severity of perineal tear. None of the socio-demographic factors show a significant difference to sexual dysfunction.
Gall Bladder Wall Thickness as a Predictor for Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy Difficulties in Gadarif, Eastern Sudan
Authors: Salah Sami E. E. , Yahia Hawa
Published: August 2021

Background: Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is a revolutionary change in the treatment of patients with gallbladder stones. Multiple studies have identified factors that are predictive of surgical difficulties including preoperative ultra-sonographic findings.

Objective: To determine the effectiveness of sonographic measurement of gall bladder wall thickness as a predictive factor for laparoscopic cholecystectomy difficulties in Gadarif Teaching Hospital, Sudan.

Patients and methods: This are a prospective, observational, analytical cross-sectional hospital-based study in which all patients who underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy for gall stones disease and had a pre-operative sonographic measurement for GBWT in GTH in the year 2019 were included.

Results: 110 cases were studied. The male to female ratio was 0.2: 1, the mean age was 35±3.8 years. Past history of the acute attack reported in 54 (48.2%) of the patients, history of ERCP was reported in 2 (1.8%) and the majority of patients 71 (64.5%) has no associated medical condition. Abdominal examination was normal in 69 (62.7%) of the patients, 35 (31.8%) patients showed positive Murphy's sign or other signs. Gall bladder thickening, as a predictor of difficulty, was normal of ≤ 3 mm in 69 (62.7%), mild (4-5 mm) in 34 (30.9%), moderate (6-7 mm) in 5 (4.5%), and severe > 7 in 2 (1.8%) of the patients. A significant association was found between GBWT and: duration of symptoms, the number of attacks, operative time and hospital stay, postoperative complication, and conversion to open cholecystectomy. Operative time was found to be associated with the experience of the operator (P-value < 0.05).

Conclusion: Pre-operative sonographic increasing gall bladder wall thickness is associated with difficult laparoscopic cholecystectomy in terms of postoperative complications, prolonged operative time, and conversion to open cholecystectomy even in expert hands.
Clinico-Metabolic Profile of Neurometabolic Disorders of Children in a Tertiary Care Hospital of Bangladesh
Authors: Kundu G. K. , Islam R. , Ahmed S.
Published: August 2021

Background: Neurometabolic disorders are inborn errors of metabolism with neurological manifestations. They are individually rare but as a group have a significant burden. They constitute 4.9% of genetic cause of moderate and severe mental retardation.

Aims and objective: To explore clinical & metabolic profile of various forms of childhood Neurometabolic disorders.

Methods: A hospital based retrospective study was conducted at Department of Pediatric Neurology, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, and Dhaka from January 2016 to December 2020. Total 59 suspected children of Neurometabolic disorders (NMD), who admitted in hospital during the study period, were included. Among them 41 cases of NMD were diagnoses confirmed on the basis of clinical suspicion, biochemical test, and neuroimaging study and in few cases molecular genetics investigations.

Results: Among 59 suspected cases, total 41 patients were diagnosed as Neurometabolic disorders. Most of the (63.2%) patients were within 0-3 years age. Male patients (70.73%) were outnumbered than female (29.26%). Male: Female ratio were 2.4:1. More than half of patients 25(60.90%) had parental consanguinity followed by Sib death 7 (17.07%), Prematurity 11 (26.82%). Common Neurometabolic disorders were aminoacidopathy 14 (34.14%) and lysosomal storage disorders 15 (36.58%) followed by mitochondrial disorders 5(12.19%), Urea cycle disorders 3(7.31%), CHO metabolism disorders 5(2.43%), Peroxisomal disorders 3(7.31%). Among aminoacidopathy, Organic acidamia 4(9.72%), MSUD 3(7.31%), PKU 2(4.86%), Gluteric Aciduria 3(7.31%), and Biotinidase deficiency disorder 1(2.43%) were common disorders. Among lysosomal storage disorders, mucopolysaccaridosis 4(9.72%) and metachromatic leukodystrophy 8(19.44%) were most common disorders. Common presentations were developmental delay 37(90.24%), developmental regression 21(51.21%), hypotonia 29(70.73) and seizures 26(63.41%). Neuroimaging changes found in about three fourth (80.49%) of cases. About 26.82% cases presented with white matter hyper intensity followed by basal ganglia hyper intensity (19.51%) and cerebral atrophy (14.63%). Abnormally high ammonia and lactate found in 6(14.63%) and 10(24.40%) cases respectively followed by Positive urinary ketones 8 (19.51%).

Conclusions: Neurometabolic disorders are not uncommon. The commonest neurometabolic disorders were aminoaciduria and lysosomal storage disease in our study. Among aminoacid disorders, Organic acidamia, MSUD, Glutaric aciduria and in lysosomal storage disorders metachromatic leukodystrophy & Mucopolysaccharoidosis were common disorders. Neuroimaging changes were found in about three- forth cases in this study.
Information and Communication Technology Integration in Different Online Learning Strategies to Facilitate Self-Directed Learning Experience
Authors: Alsaid Suzan Atia Mostafa
Published: August 2021

Online learning is one among the foremost broadly speaking used terms, that has passed within the pitch of education at the side of IT, students, and college need quick and simple access to new technical and academic methods.The online learning methods objects are primarily meant to be used by students for self-study. to boot, instructors will use on-line resources to supplement their room teaching. So, this study discusses several on-line methods that may be applied and investigate in school rooms and live their effectiveness. that an intermingled learning strategy approach, computer-based learning approach, on-line learning vs offline learning (Ubiquitous Digital Information), and Team-based learning (TBL), From the table, lead to the present analysis we are able to conclude that the excellent strategy is mixed learning that provides the proportion of the height then follow by computer-based learning, so team-based learning, finally present digital learning.
Corporate Value Is Affected by Good Corporate Governance and Corporate Social Responsibility in State-Owned Business (Bumn) Companies Registered on IDX 2014-2018 Period
Authors: Pramesworo Ignatius Septo , Evi Tiolina
Published: August 2021

This study aims to determine the effect of Good Corporate Governance (GCG) and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR disclosure) on firm value. The object of this research is a state-owned company (BUMN) listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange (BEI) for the 2014-2018 period. The sample selection method used in this research is purposive sampling method and the analysis technique used is multiple linear regression which includes classical assumption tests and hypothesis testing. The total sample in the study was 20 companies. The data processing in this study used the Eviews version 10. The results showed that the simultaneous effect of Good Corporate Governance and Corporate Social Responsibility on firm value. In addition, this study proves that partially institutional ownership has an effect on firm value, while CSR disclosure has no effect on firm value.
A Case Study in Crisis Management in the Digital Transformation Era: Wells Fargo & Company
Authors: Wang Wenjing , Guarino Arthur S.
Published: August 2021

This case study deals with one of the biggest financial scandals in the new millennium among the banking sector in which the banking giant, Wells Fargo & Company (WFC), has opened millions of accounts without acknowledging its customers. It has been charging various fees without the consent of the company's existing clients, and it has involved many people with the personal credit crisis. On the contrary, senior management team was rewarded enormously for the rocketing profits resulting from the phony accounts numerous fees and elevated the bank's share price in a relatively short time. After the accounts scandal was unveiled by its employees and reported by the media, Wells Fargo's reputation was in great danger. While reputation is vital for almost all companies, it is especially essential for the financial services industry, where reputation is a deep-rooted culture. Crisis management strategies in the new era of digital transformation for companies like Wells Fargo as well as other financial services companies are crucial. Risk management is essential in today's business world, but crisis management as contingent plans cannot be ignored since events are not always going as many think they would be.
Provincial Competitiveness Index of Thai Nguyen Province, Vietnam
Authors: Hang Ma Thi , Hanh Phung Tran My , Nga Ma Thi Huyen
Published: August 2021

Thai Nguyen province; is one of the political, economic, and educational centers of the Northern mountainous midland in developing countries like Vietnam. This paper examines the influencing of Thai Nguyen PCI index on explores and explains why provinces outperform others in private economic development, job creation and economic growth, thereby providing useful information. The results show Thai Nguyen PCI index is increasingly ranked high in the country and ranked first in the northern mountainous provinces in Vietnam.
The Influence of Ownership Structure on Firms’ R&D Investments: An Empirical Investigation
Authors: Song Zhi-Hong , Wang Xue , Lee Dong-Mei
Published: August 2021

By using listed companies of Shanghai Stock Exchange in the coal-mining industry as samples, this paper empirically tests the influence of ownership structure on firms’ R&D investments. Firstly, the influence mechanism of ownership structure on R&D investments is analyzed based on the principal-agent theory, and hypotheses are developed accordingly. Then, the empirical analyses are conducted based on data from China Stock Market & Accounting Research Database. The empirical results show that the degree of ownership concentration has a negative impact on firms’ R&D investments, and the improvement of equity counterbalance has a positive effect on firms’ R&D investments. The state-owned enterprises' firms’ R&D investments is higher than that of privately-owned enterprises. The highly concentrated ownership mode of state-owned shares may hinder their investment in firms’ R&D investments to some extent.
Factors Affecting Millennial Customers' Savings Intention in Islamic Banks
Authors: Resty Nadia Nila Henda , Hidayat Anas
Published: August 2021

One of the intentioning topics in the banking world is the merger of State-Owned Sharia Banks into one name, namely Bank Syariah Indonesia. This encourages researchers to explore further, one of which is in the marketing aspect. This study aims to analyze the factors that affect the intention in saving at Bank Syariah Indonesia for millennials. This research is a quantitative study with data collected through a questionnaire to 250 millennials in Yogyakarta. The analysis in this study uses a structural equation model with Smart PLS software. The results of this study indicate that product knowledge, religiosity and brand image have a significant effect on millennial attitudes towards Bank Syariah Indonesia. This research also finds that subjective attitudes and norms do not have a significant effect on the intention in becoming a customer at Bank Syariah Indonesia.
The Effect of Financial Literacy on Personal Investment Decisions amongst Medical Practitioners in Sri Lanka
Authors: Walakumbura S. H. M. L.
Published: August 2021

Financial literacy is very essential for any individual in order to efficient and effective decisions regarding their personal investments. Based on that scenario, this study examines the impact of financial literacy on personal investment decisions amongst medical practitioners in Sri Lanka. Personal investment decision has been considered as the dependent variable while financial knowledge, financial skills and financial attitude has been considered as the proxies for the independent variable. Deductive approach has been employed using primary data which is obtained from 205 respondents throughout the country. Descriptive and inferential statistics such as multiple linear regression have been used for the analysis purpose. The results suggested that there is a significant impact between the financial knowledge and financial skills on investment decision while the financial attitude does not have a significant impact on the investment decision. The empirical findings of this study are helpful for any individual who is willing to take effective investment decisions, academics, policy makers and all other related interested parties.
Marketing Themes and Topic: A Content Analysis of the Articles Published in the Top Marketing Journals from 2015 to 2020
Authors: Alawad Waleed
Published: August 2021

The purpose of this study is to investigate the most important themes and topics in the marketing field in the top of three published marketing journals: Journal of Marketing Research, Marketing Science, and Journal of Marketing. between 2015–2020, in order to identifying the marketing researchers’ interest and topics in each theme.

With a reviewing a number of (1027) published articles in the selected articles between 2015 - 2020, the study found that the Journal of Marketing Research has got a share of 40% (420 articles) of the total published articles compared to 31% (318 articles) for the Marketing Science Journal, and 29% (289 articles) for the Journal of Marketing.

The study resulted that the E- Marketing, advertising, consumer behavior, product development and pricing themes have got a share of 35% (363 articles) of the total published articles of those three journals (1027) published articles.

E-Marketing has got the highest interest of the three top journals interest with a total of 97 published articles. Then advertising theme has got the second interest with 81 published articles each, and finally, consumer behavior and product development themes have got around 60 published articles.

However, the study showed that green marketing and international marketing themes had very week interest in the three journals with a total of five articles published in the selected journals between 2015–2020.
Efforts in Improving Investment Environment: The Perspective from PCI of Thai Nguyen Province, Vietnam
Authors: Thu Ha Nguyen Thi , Huyen Ta Thi Thanh , Nha Do Thi Hoa
Published: August 2021

The improvement of investment environment and the enhancement of provincial competitiveness is the important development strategies of all provinces and cities in Vietnam. The PCI index is an objective and honest reflection of the investment environment of each locality, so raising this index is also an effort in improving the investment environment. This article focuses on analyzing and evaluating the competitiveness and investment environment of Thai Nguyen province through the PCI index and its components. Some solutions have been proposed to improve PCI as well as the investment environment of the province in the coming time.
Effect of Customer Perception on Salesperson Owned Commitment in Customer-Salesperson Relationship
Authors: Ghanadiof Omidreza , Sanayei Ali , Emami Mahdi
Published: August 2021

Selling products and gaining profit is the main mission of a private Sales forces with their specialized relationships can determine the fate of transactions and make companies successful in achieving their ideal goals. Buyer-seller relationships can significantly reduce the marketing costs of the organization. Therefore, the impact of sales forces in an organization is relatively high in the past. A better understanding of the sales professional dimension will lead to the formation of long-term relationships and increase a company's profitability. However, although much research has been done on the issue of company-customer relationships, there have been extensive studies on the perception of consumer behavior by vendors. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the effect of trust, reputation, and reputation of the seller on the commitment to the seller with the mediating roles of good interaction and perceived risk. The statistical population of this study was 250 customers of a retail company. In order to collect the required data, an electronic questionnaire was designed and distributed among the statistical reporters using the available sampling method. Validity of the questionnaire using content and structural methods was determined.
Business Strategy Formulation for Training Company in Captive Market
Authors: Amertha Denada Tirta , Asmara Alla , Djohar Setiadi
Published: August 2021

This study aims to formulate a business strategy at a training company (PT PTC) as a lead training provider in facing competition in the Pertamina Group market (captive) and in the non-captive market. The internal business environment was identified using VRIO analysis and evaluated using the IFE Matrix, while the external business environment was identified using Porter's Five Forces and evaluated using the EFE Matrix. The formulation of alternative business strategies in the PTC training business unit is carried out using the SWOT Matrix which is then outlined in the business strategy implementation roadmap. The results showed that PT PTC's training business unit was in a position to grow and develop with good internal capabilities in using strengths and minimizing weaknesses (score 2,570), and in a strong position to respond to opportunities and threats (score 3,042). The results of the VRIO analysis obtained 4 future competencies for strategy formulation on the SWOT Matrix and obtained 9 alternative intensive strategies in the form of market penetration strategies, market and product development as well as 1 horizontal integration strategy, then ranked using QSPM for a roadmap of PTC training business strategy implementation in 5 years front.
The Pros and Cons of Artificial Intelligence use in the Logistics Sector in Oman
Authors: Al Maqbali Khadija Hassan , Slimi Zouhaier , Balasa Adela
Published: August 2021

This paper systematically discusses the impact of using AI in Oman's logistics sector and examines the opportunities and challenges of using AI in Oman's logistics sector. Besides, it suggests solutions for improving AI use in the logistics sector in Oman. The main objective of this paper is to investigate the impact of using AI in Oman's logistics sector. The specific objectives are to identify the opportunities for using AI in the logistics sector in Oman, identify the issues surrounding using AI in the logistics sector in Oman, and recommend possible solutions to improve the use of AI in the logistics sector in Oman. The study used both primary and secondary data based on mixed methods: quantitative and qualitative. The quantitative approach via a questionnaire tool to collect data from many respondents. The qualitative method has been observed using interviews and web articles to accumulate further information from people's opinions and thoughts. The outcomes indicated some advantages of AI: improving efficiency and reducing the challenges currently facing the logistics sector, diversifying the income sources, and enhancing Oman's economy. Findings revealed that the most significant AI challenges are unemployment, a long time and the high cost for implementation, lack of awareness of AI potentials, and requiring training with new skills. The findings came up with solutions related to educating students, spreading awareness, and training employees. The study has limitations such as insufficient information on the research subject, difficulties finding respondents who have enough experience to answer the questions efficiently, and time constraints.
Social Medial Promotional Activities Influence on Purchase Choice Decision and Price of Perishable Food Items during COVID-19 in Lagos, Nigeria
Authors: Udegbe Scholastica Ebarefimia , Aliu Azeez Adekunle
Published: August 2021

This study aimed to research if promotional activities on social media influence purchase choice decisions, consumers impulse buying, the price for perishable food items, like vegetables, fruits, beef, fish, and others during the COVID-19 pandemics. Likewise, if there are differences between the original market price of goods before the COVID-19 pandemic and the promotional online prices during the pandemic, to investigate if the online price of delivering goods to consumer homes influence consumer quantity purchase decision, and if there is any relationship between consumer location and price of goods delivery during the COVID-19 pandemics. The results suggest that promotional activities on social media for perishable food items during the pandemic does not necessarily influence consumers purchase choice decision, but rather, influence consumer quantity purchase, and there is a difference between the original market price of goods before the COVID-19 – pandemic and the promotional online price during the pandemic. Likewise, there is a relationship between consumer location and price of goods delivery during the COVID-19 pandemics. The findings of the study showcase a typical situation of things during a crisis in a developing country, where people take advantage of situations to exploit the helpless. Prices of goods increased, and people had no choice but had to buy because man cannot do without food.
The Affecting Factors of Audit Quality with Earnings Surprise Benchmark Approach as a Measure of Audit Quality
Authors: Pamungkas Whilis Aziz Panji , Gantyowati Evi
Published: August 2021

This research examines whether abnormal audit fee, client importance, public accounting firm industry (PAF) specialization, public accounting firm (PAF) reputation, audit delay may affect the audit quality of manufacturing companies. This research used a quantitative method as a basis for assessing audit quality using the earnings surprise benchmark method, which emphasizes the profits generated by the company. This research used 350 data panel samples from manufacturing companies that have been listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) throughout 2013-2019. Sampling using non-probability with purposive sampling technique, and to analyze the data, the researcher used logistic regression because the dependent variable in this research only consisted of two values. This research shows that abnormal audit fees affect negatively significant to audit quality, while client importance and public accounting firm industry specialization affects positively significant to the audit. However, public accounting firm reputation does not have a positive effect on audit quality, and audit delay does not negatively affect significantly on audit quality. This research is the first time to examine abnormal audit fees on audit quality using earning surprise benchmark calculation method. Results from this research are expected to be beneficial for policy determination and audit standard development by related regulations and research development on audit quality.
Testing Availability of Human and Technical Requirements for Knowledge Management Implementation in Moroccan Universities
Authors: Boussenna Yassine , Kharraz Ouail El
Published: August 2021

Effectively handling knowledge is crucial for any organization to survive and prosper in the turbulent environments of the modern era. However, Effective knowledge management implementation requires the presence of organizational, Human, and Technological appropriate infrastructure. throughout, the literature Most authors cite (Management leadership and Information Technology).

The main objective of this study was to verify the presence of success factors for (KM) implementation at the Moroccan universities via the Abdelmalek Essaadi University subject of this work.

Through deductive reasoning approach and a quantitative working method, Using the questionnaire as a tool to collect data from a proportional random and representative sample of 88 teacher-researchers from the different institutions of the university under study. 

This paper presents empirical evidence of the positive relationship between (Management leadership, IT) and (KM) implementation at Moroccan universities with a Pearson correlation rate of R = 0.635 For Management leadership and 0.554 for Information Technology.

Also, the results obtained show insufficiency presence of initiatives for (KM) application, with an average of 2.14 for leadership and 2.29 concerning (IT) according to the university's teachers.
Smart Fingerprint Biometric and RFID Time-Based Attendance Management System
Authors: Badmus E. O. , Odekunle O. P. , Oyewobi D. O.
Published: August 2021

Attendance documentation is a crucial metric for determining a student's dedication, qualification, and status. Several types of systems have been developed for automated attendance. The majority of these implementations were built on a single factor template, representing a line of security error. In recent years, rapid development has taken place in several applications such as authorization, data access, and access control by implementing biometrics and radio frequency identification technologies. This research work focuses on designing a smart protocol for RFID authentication in combination with fingerprint biometric information, which guarantees confidentiality, identity verification, and data protection. Reaction time and event performance evaluation were the tests performed on the system. Ten students with unique fingerprints and RFID cards are assessed for the test. The test results show an average duration of 20.61 respective seconds for each student, and zero percent of false refusal rate was recorded in the implementation. Finally, the result shows the system is reliable and efficient. Each result revealed high-speed performance due to software and hardware coordination. Biometric systems provided data integrity and security, RFID provided limited complexity, and the proposed method's technical programming pattern provided an average run time.
Optimal Hybrid Filtering Strategy Using Adaptive Genetic-Fuzzy Logic Control for Harmonics Reduction in a Standalone Micro Hydroelectric Power Plant Coordinated with a PV System
Authors: Elgammal Adel , Boodoo Curtis
Published: August 2021

Micro Hydro Power Plants are a type of power production that uses the force of river flows or waterfalls to generate electricity. The generator generates current waves and harmonic voltage, which are distorted wave disturbances that cause fundamental frequency multiplication. The major goal of this work is to design a reliable, efficient, and innovative harmonic mitigation approach for a stand-alone micro hydroelectric system that is coordinated with a photovoltaic renewable energy system utilising an active power filter. We may pick the active filter highest harmonic to be suppressed using the magnitude information supplied for each harmonic component. A hybrid filtering approach to remove harmonics and a novel MOGA optimization technique are part of the suggested harmonics reduction solution. The goal of this article is to determine the optimum filter for decreasing harmonics in an induction generator. As the harmonic damper, two filters were chosen: a passive filter and an active power filter. The suggested MOGA control method is compared to GA and evaluated on simulated data. In tracking harmonic components and fundamental frequency, the suggested MOGA control system provides high convergence speed and accuracy. It's extremely adaptable, and it can predict changes in the phase angle, amplitude, and fundamental frequency of harmonic components. When compared to the Genetic Algorithm method, it performs better. Simulation results using the SIMULINK/MATLAB simulation tool are delivered to evaluate the efficacy of the suggested active filter system. The impact of harmonic currents on the magnetic flux density is investigated using the rated condition as a reference. It has been established that the time harmonic is a significant element influencing generator performance. At the same time, the impacts of harmonic currents on the generator's eddy current loss, average torque, and torque ripple are investigated, as well as the mechanism of eddy current loss fluctuation.
Appreciation of Artistic Genres in Children with Different Perceptual, Contextual and Analytic Intelligence
Authors: Venukapalli Sudhakar , Lilly K. V.
Published: August 2021

Children feel wonder and excitement while perceiving an artwork and their aesthetic responses are evident through their spontaneous expressions. During this process, children understand multiple interpretations of familiar themes. Children’s descriptions of artworks are categorised into three levels of appreciation namely, perceptual level, contextual level and analytical level. The objective of the present study is to explore children’s appreciation of art. The quantitative study investigates children’s descriptions of artworks at various levels of art appreciation. The study employs sixty grade IX children from the state of Telangana. The sample selected include equal number of boys and girls from rural and urban areas and they are in the age group of 13-15 years. The stimuli used in the study are artworks depicting landscapes selected from three artistic genres of representational, semi-representational and abstract artworks. Images of artworks are presented randomly to children to elicit their responses. The results of the study showed that representational artworks are better appreciated by children than semi-representational and abstract artworks. The analysis of children’s expressions of artworks at various levels of appreciation reveals that for all three genres of artworks, children are at the perceptual level of appreciation. Statistical analysis of the results illustrates that there are statistically significant differences in appreciation at the perceptual, contextual, and analytical levels of appreciation of three genres of artworks. The findings of the study may be used by educators in providing art learning experiences to children.
E-learning Delivery Platforms for Improving Teaching/Learning During COVID-19 Lockdown in Private Universities, South-South Nigeria
Authors: Asuquo Effiong Edet , Godwin Rosemary Young
Published: August 2021

The purpose of this study was to examine the extent to which e-learning delivery platforms were utilized to improve teaching/learning during Covid-19 lockdown in Private Universities in South-South Nigeria. To achieve this, three specific objectives and three research questions were asked to guide the study. An expost facto survey design was adopted for the study. The study was conducted in South-South Nigeria. The population consisted of 4305 students of five private universities in South-South Nigeria. A sample size of 366 was selected using the Taro Yamane formula and a cluster sampling technique was used for the study. An instrument titled “Utilization of E-learning Platform for teaching/Learning during the Covid-19 Lockdown Questionnaire” (UEPTLDCOVID19LQ) was used for the study. The finding of the study shows that Private Universities utilized e-learning facilities during the Covid-19 lockdown because they had the facilities to do so.