bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effectiveness of basic life support training course intervention among dental practitioners and students – An experimental study
Authors: Shivakumar Shivananda , Doddawad Vidya Gowdappa , Shetty Sahith Kumar , Shivanagappa Manjula , Narayanaswamy Chandan Sriraghuramapura , Shetty Akhil , Bhat Hari Kishore
Published: March 2024

Aim:

To determine the level of knowledge and skill of basic life support (BLS) among undergraduate, postgraduate students, and general practitioners with and without regular attendance of the BLS Healthcare Provider course.

Methodology:

The study was carried out at two intervals with two groups. A random sample involving undergraduate students, postgraduate students, and dental professionals was selected for both study groups. Group 1 with 440 participants had not attended BLS for Healthcare Providers Course in the last two years. Group 2 with 410 participants had attended the BLS for Healthcare Providers course regularly once a year. First, participants in Group 1 were evaluated using an MCQ test with 30 questions about their knowledge and skills in BLS. Then, a well-trained BLS instructor team from Dental College & Hospital offered BLS healthcare provider courses to students and dentists. Subsequently, Group 2 participants who had completed a BLS course for healthcare providers last year were also assessed for their knowledge and skills in BLS using another MCQ test.

Results:

The marks obtained in the tests were tabulated and analyzed. To determine the association between variables with respect to mean knowledge score, t-test was employed. Multiple group comparison was made using analysis of variance and P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. The group 1 participants score a mean of 5.7 marks against the Group 2 with a mean score of 27.4 marks out of 30 marks. Knowledge and skill in BLS skills among those in Group 1 without prior BLS training was mainly low. Dental practitioners performed marginally better than students in both groups.

Conclusions:

Based on the results, we make the following observations. With the introduction of BLS training into the academic curriculum and routine BLS hands-on workshops, all healthcare providers will be familiar with the BLS skills to effectively manage the life-threatening emergencies.
Anesthetic management of a parturient with Fontan circulation
Authors: Subramaniam Rajasri , Puthenveettil Nitu , Nair Sobha S. , Kadapamannil Dilesh
Published: March 2024

The prevalence of the Fontan operation was estimated to be 0.11 per 100 000 people across 11 nations. The number of women reaching childbearing age after the Fontan procedure is steadily increasing. We present a case of 24-year-old primigravida at 36 weeks with tricuspid atresia, ventricular septal defect, and pulmonary stenosis with Fontan circulation for elective cesarean section. Her preoperative blood investigations were normal and echo showed patent Fontan flow. This was the first time in our institution that we handled a parturient for a cesarean section that had Fontan circulation.
Comparative study between lidocaine, magnesium sulfate and dexmedetomidine in alleviation of pain induced by intravenous injection of propofol
Authors: Mustafa Elsayed I.A. , Zanaty Ola M. , Shafshak Wafaa M. , Elfeil Yasser E.
Published: March 2024

Background

Propofol is the most widely used intravenous anaesthetic agent for induction and maintenance of anaesthesia. Pain on injection of propofol is a common problem. Propofol injection pain, despite various interventions, still occurs during the anaesthesia induction and causes intense discomfort and anxiety in patients.

Objective

Compare the efficacy of lidocaine, magnesium sulfate and dexmedetomidine drugs in reduction of pain of propofol. Also, study the effects of these drugs on cardiovascular system.

Subjective

This prospective controlled randomized double-blind study was carried out on 90 adult patients ASA status I or II, haemodynemically stable and Scheduled for elective surgery under general anaesthesia by propofol intravenous induction.

Results

The pain level during administration showed a significant decrease in group D (dexmedetomidine) less than both group L and M and there was no significant effect of the three drugs on haemodynamic parameters.

Conclusions

Dexmedetomidine is an effective and safe way to reduce the intensity and incidence of propofol injection pain. Magnesium and lidocaine pretreatment are equally effective in attenuating propofol-induced pain with some priority of magnesium sulphate more than lidocaine. There were no significant effects of the drugs on haemodynamics parameters
Bilateral ultrasound-guided quadratus lumborum block versus bilateral transversus abdominis plane block for postoperative analgesia after cesarean section
Authors: Agameya Hussein M. , ElNakeeb Mohamed M. , Elboughdadly Abdalla M.F. , Maaly Ayman M.
Published: March 2024

Background

For mothers caring for newborns, adequate pain control after cesarean section is critical, as is early ambulation to prevent thromboembolism and chronic abdominal and pelvic pain.

Aim

The primary goal of the research is to compare the effectiveness of ultrasound-guided quadratus lumborum block (QLB) versus transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block for postoperative analgesia and opioid consumption after a cesarean section. The secondary goal of the research is to assess the time required for each technique and postoperative complications and patient satisfaction in each group.

Patients and methods

Current research occurred in Elshatby University Hospital on 40 American Society of Anesthesiologists I or II studied cases with a gestation of at least 37 weeks (according to sample size calculation) scheduled for elective cesarean section.

Results

Comparing the time of analgesia between the two groups was longer in the QLB1 group than the control group (P≤0.001). The total amount of rescue analgesia (nalbuphine) consumption ranged between 0 and 6 mg with a mean value of 0.60±1.85 mg/24 h in the QLB1 group, and between 0 and 12 mg with a mean value of 8.40±5.30 mg/24 h in TAP block group. The total amount of postoperative nalbuphine consumption was greater in the TAP block group compared with the QLB1 group (P<0.001). Patient satisfaction with pain control has been assessed on four-point scale like: excellent, good, fair and poor. Comparison between the two groups showed significantly better patient satisfaction in QLB1 group compared with the TAP block group where the P value was 0.016.

Conclusion

From the present research, the following can be concluded: ultrasound-guided QLB is a more influential method than TAP block for postoperative analgesia in studied cases undergoing cesarean section as it is more effective in reducing both somatic and visceral pain. Ultrasound-guided QLB is associated with a decrease in total opioid consumption, longer time of analgesia and greater studied case satisfaction.
Passive Smoking is Strongly Associated with Heart Disease in Hypertensive Workers: Analysis of the 2018 Indonesia Basic Health Research
Authors: Paramita Astridya , Indrawati Lely , Izza Nailul , Tjandrarini Dwi Hapsari , Andarwati Pramita , Nantabah Zainul Khaqiqi , Malakauseya Maxwell Landri Vers , Titaley Christiana Rialine
Published: March 2024

Introduction:

This study examined the association between smoking and heart disease in workers with a medical history of hypertension.

Methods:

Data were obtained from the 2018 Indonesian Basic Health Research database. Information was collected from 80,602 respondents who met the inclusion criteria: workers between the ages of 15 and 64 years who were exposed to cigarettes and had a medical history of hypertension. Multivariate logistic regression analysis assessed the association between smoking behavior and heart disease in workers with hypertension.

Results:

A strong association was observed between passive smoking and heart disease. The odds of developing heart disease were significantly higher in passive smokers who were former cigarette smokers than passive smokers who never smoked a cigarette (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 2.11, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.85–2.41). However, the odds were lower in current smokers than in passive smokers without a history of cigarette smoking (aOR = 0.71, 95% CI: 0.63–0.79). In addition, the present study found that the odds of developing heart disease increased in respondents from urban areas (aOR = 1.27, 95% CI: 1.14–1.40), aged 46–64 years (aOR = 2.12, 95% CI: 1.90–2.36), and from high-level economic status (aOR = 1.41, 95% CI: 1.27–1.58).

Conclusion:

Implementing health advocacy initiatives, expanding smoking-free zones, and enhancing workplace anti-smoking policies are important for preventing and reducing the harmful effects of cigarette smoking among workers, particularly those with conditions that make them more susceptible, such as hypertension.
Human Immunodeficiency Virus/Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome Knowledge among Followers of Various Religions in India
Authors: Karim Asima , Qaisar Rizwan , Khalid Amna , Ahmad Firdos , Hussain M. Azhar
Published: March 2024

Introduction:

Effective educational interventions to knowledge, attitude, and prevention of human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS) may limit the spread of the disease. However, the relevance of HIV knowledge to followers of religions is unknown. We assessed the 2015–2016 Demographic and Health Survey (DHS) data from India to investigate the levels of knowledge of HIV/AIDS among Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs, Christians, and Buddhists in relation to standard sociodemographic variables in India.

Methods:

We used the individual and household level data from the internationally and temporally harmonized cross-sectional DHS. These data were representative of the national population and were collected from January 2015 to December 2016.

Results:

The age range of the population was 15–54 years (n = 224,531). We found the highest level of knowledge of HIV/AIDS among Sikh men (than the followers of other religions (80.4%–92.7%). Conversely, Muslims and Hindus were least knowledgeable of HIV/AIDS (80.4% and 81.2%). Younger participants (82.5%), residents of urban areas (90.6%), more educated (98.6%), never married (84.9%), wealthier (95.5%), and having more access to mass media (90.4%–96.7%) were more aware of HIV/AIDS-related knowledge. Among various religions, Sikhs were more educated (16.1% with higher education), wealthier (59.5% in the top quintile), with higher exposure to communication means than Muslims, Hindus, and Christians.

Conclusion:

We report that Sikh men are most knowledgeable of HIV compared to Sikh women and followers of other religions. Our findings may help formulate public health strategies targeting various religious groups to reduce the incidence of HIV/AIDS.
Comparative study between the efficacy of botulinum toxin type A versus carboxytherapy in the treatment of postacne scars
Authors: Fikry Sara M. , Mahmoud Wafaa A. , Elsebaey Hoda K.
Published: March 2024

Background

Acne scarring remains a challenge to treat. Both botulinum toxin type A (BTX-A) and carboxytherapy (CXT) are considered novel treatment modalities for acne scars.

Aim

This study aimed to compare the efficacy and safety of BTX-A versus CXT in the treatment of postacne scars.

Patients and methods

Forty patients aged 18–50 years, with mild to severe postacne scars, were enrolled in this study and were divided randomly and equally into two groups: group A included 20 patients who underwent three sessions of an intralesional injection into postacne scars by BTX-A at a 3-week interval and group B included 20 patients who underwent three sessions of CXT on postacne scars at a 3-week interval. Evaluation of the clinical response to treatment was performed every 3 weeks and 1 month after the last session by photos and the global scarring grading system and patient satisfaction was assessed.

Results

There was a significant improvement in the degree of scar severity before and after treatment in both groups. There was no significant difference between improvements in both groups, indicating that both modalities of treatment yielded similar net results.

Conclusion

Both BTX-A and CXT can be effective and safe therapeutic options for the treatment of postacne scars with no significant side effects.
Serum midkine level as a diagnostic biomarker of hepatocellular carcinoma in Egyptian patients with chronic hepatitis C
Authors: AbdElaleem Doha M. , Mohammed Safia M. , Hendy Olfat M. , Abdelmageed Neamat A.
Published: March 2024

Background

Early diagnosis and treatment are the keys for effective treatment of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The use of serological markers in patients at the highest risk of developing HCC may thus decrease HCC mortality and reduce medical costs. Midkine (MK) has an essential role in activities related to carcinogenesis such as proliferation, anti-apoptosis, transformation, migration, and angiogenesis, in many types of tumors, including HCC.

Aim

To evaluate serum levels of MK as a diagnostic biomarker for early detection of HCC in relation to conventional markers, such as alpha-fetoprotein (AFP).

Patients and methods

This study was conducted on 90 individuals who attended the Hepatogastroenterology and Infectious Diseases Department, Al-Zahraa University Hospital, Al Azhar University. The patients were divided into three groups: group I comprised 30 patients with HCC on top of hepatitis C virus and group II comprised 30 patients with cirrhotic liver post-hepatitis C virus.

Control group

The control group comprised 30 healthy adult participants.

Results

Highly statistically significant increase in serum MK in groups I and II in comparison to the control group and statistically significant increase in group I in comparison to group II. Serum MK can be used to discriminate between groups I and II at a cutoff level of more than 97.7,with 80% sensitivity, 90% specificity, 88.9% positive predictive value and 81.8% negative predictive value and area under curve=0.94. Also, it used to discriminate between groups I and III at a cutoff level of more than 76.5, with 100% sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value with area under the curve=1.0.

Conclusion

MK is more accurate than AFP in diagnosing HCC, especially in detecting early stage HCC and AFP-negative HCC.
The Role of Positron Emission Tomography/ Computed Tomography (PET/CT) in Staging of Lung Cancer
Authors: Darwish Mai D. , Abo Seif Emam M. , Khaled Manal F.
Published: March 2024

Background

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related death. The accurate staging of lung cancer is important in determining the optimal treatment strategy and predicting the prognosis. Positron emission tomography (PET)/computed tomography (CT), which has the advantages of PET and CT and minimizes their limitations, is a potential tool for the staging of lung cancer.

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the role of PET/CT in the staging of lung cancer.

Patients and methods

This study was carried out on 40 patients with pathologically confirmed lung cancer referred to the Nuclear Medicine Unit affiliated to the Department of Radiodiagnosis at Sharq El Madina Hospital, Ministry of Health, Alexandria, between November 2017 and December 2019 for initial staging of lung cancer with PET/CT or restaging after therapy. Combined PET/CT imaging was performed using the Siemens biograph 64 PET/CT scanner.

Results

(a) Initial staging: PET/CT was able to assess the stage of ten patients (25%), whose stage could not be assessed by CECT. Both PET/CT and CECT disagreed in the staging of six patients. PET/CT staged 10 (25%) patients that could not be assessed by contrast enhanced computed tomography (CECT) and they disagreed in staging of six patients (15%). T staging was predicted by PET/CT in the 40 patients (100%) and by CECT in 30 patients (75%), with disagreement in two patients (5%). PET/CT disagreed with CECT in N staging of 10 patients (25%). PET/CT detected distant metastasis (M) in 18 patients (45%), while CECT detected it in 14 patients (35%). (b) Restaging after neoadjuvant therapy: staging was concordant in six out of eight patients (75%) and dissimilar in two patients (25%).

Conclusion

PET/CT is an essential component in the initial staging of lung cancer for its better locoregional and distant staging abilities. It is also more reliable in restaging after neoadjuvant therapy, being more related to the functional activity of the residual tumor rather than its size.
Serum omentin-1 levels in type II diabetes and its relationship with obesity
Authors: Abdullatif Yasmine M.R. , Ahmed Karima Y. , El-Senosy Fatma M. , Mohammed Abd El-Aziz Rasha El-Sayed
Published: March 2024

Background

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a complex metabolic disorder, and its rapid emergence worldwide has led to its classification as an epidemic.

Aim

To increase our knowledge about omentin-1 and its relation with type 2 DM, insulin resistance, and obesity.

Patients and methods

This study included 50 patients with type 2 DM, with an age range from 40 to 70 years, who were divided into two groups (25 obese and 25 nonobese), as well as 40 age group (20 obese and 20 nonobese)-matched patients, who formed the control group. Each group was subjected to full history taking and clinical examination (fasting blood glucose, total cholesterol, triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol, glycosylated hemoglobin, fasting insulin, and serum omentin-1 levels). Weight and height were measured. Homeostasis model assessment insulin resistance and BMI were calculated.

Results

The study showed a significant decrease in serum omentin-1 levels in type 2 diabetic patients in comparison with the control group. Serum omentin-1 levels inversely correlated with obesity, insulin resistance, and systolic blood pressure. Negative associations were found between serum omentin-1 level and fasting glucose, glycosylated hemoglobin, and fasting lipid levels.

Conclusion

Omentin-1 may be used as a biomarker for obesity and associated metabolic and vascular disorders.
The role of diffusion-weighted MRI in characterization of intracranial cystic lesions
Authors: Kohla Ghada A.S. Ali , AbdelAziz Emam M. , Abd-Elwahab Hoda M.
Published: March 2024

Background

Diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) is reliable in diagnosing intracranial cysts. However, sometimes, it could not give satisfactory diagnostic confidence.

Objective

To study the role of DWI in differentiation between intracranial cysts and the usefulness of apparent diffusion coefficient.

Patients and methods

This study included 40 patients of different age groups with intracranial cysts. All patients included were subjected to full history taking, clinical examination, laboratory investigations, routine MRI examination, DWI, and apparent diffusion coefficient map.

Results

Receiver operating characteristic curve was generated to identify inflammatory intra-axial lesions and to obtain the best sensitivity (80%), specificity (83.3%), positive predictive value (80%), and negative predictive value (83.3%). The relationship was significant (P<0.028). Receiver operating characteristic curve to identify epidermoid and arachnoid cysts and to obtain the best sensitivity (100%), specificity (100%), positive predictive value (100%), and negative predictive value (100%). The relationship was significant (P=0.013).

Conclusion

DWI is perfect in differentiating between necrotic tumors and abscesses, benign and malignant intracranial cysts, and between arachnoid and epidermoid cysts. But it failed in differentiating between lower-grade and high-grade glioma.
Artificial Intelligence-based Legal Application for Resolving Issues Related to Live-In Relationship
Authors: Gusain Pallavi , Rawat Poonam , Memoria Minakshi , Choudhury Tanupriya , Sar Ayan
Published: March 2024

INTRODUCTION: The societal landscape in India has witnessed a very transformative shift in the perspectives on relationships, with an increasing prevalence of live-in couples challenging the traditional norms of marriage. However, this ongoing trend has brought about a huge surge in legal complexities, including recognition, partner rights, property disputes, and inheritance issues. This study proposed an innovative approach that leveraged the potential of Artificial Intelligence and Automatic speech recognition for the registration and redressal of live-in relationship matters.
OBJECTIVES: This research explores and seeks for the optimization of the resolution of live-in relationship disputes which occurs in the legal perspective with the help of an AI-based platform. The primary goal of this research was to overcome the physical barriers while ensuring the correct accessibility to legal procedures for the registration and addressing of the grievances related to live-in relationships.
METHODS: Here, the methodology followed, starting from the thorough review which was conducted using different resources from Scopus, PubMed, and ResearchGate. This research explored the increasing complaints and varying victim counts in live-in relationship cases. This finally attributed to these issues to a lack of physical access to legal remedies.
RESULTS: This study also emphasized the major significance of AI-driven redressal processes in the real-time alleviation of the hurdles and challenges associated with live-in relationship cases. The proposed framework and platform aimed to offer an alternative means for the individuals who were unable to physically approach the authorities, facilitating a more efficient and seamless way of legal resolution more quickly.
CONCLUSION: This study advocates for the integration of AI and AST technologies in the legal domain, specifically for addressing live-in relationship issues. The implementation of such a system had the potential to bridge gaps in its accessibility, thereby contributing to a more inclusive and efficient legal framework for individuals who are passionately involved in live-in relationships.
Evaluating the effectiveness and implementation of an online professional development program for health professional educators: The case of Jimma University
Authors: Tadesse Tefera , Yimer Endris Mekonnen , Hailu Addisalem Taye , Gedamu Shewatatek
Published: March 2024

The usage of virtual platforms for reforming teachers' continuous professional development (CPD) is becoming more and more necessary in contemporary higher education (HE) settings. For a comprehensive understanding of the implications of this strategy for CPD, research studies from various contexts are required. This study evaluated the effectiveness and implementation of a pilot online professional development (PD) package called the ‘higher diploma program (HDP)’ for health professional educators (HPEs) in the Ethiopian HE context. We used mixed methods in a Hybrid II design. Additionally, a comprehensive e-learning quality framework guided the overall research and integration of the qualitative and quantitative data. The qualitative component includes a key-informant interview (KII) with facilitators, a program coordinator, and a single focus group discussion with HPEs. Additionally, the quantitative component includes a cross-sectional survey of the (HPEs’) responses to a self-report questionnaire. The findings show that this pilot project was feasible and well accepted by the HPEs, facilitators, and coordinators of the project. These participants also perceived several implementation challenges as weaknesses of the pilot project. Mitigating the prevailing challenges requires sustained and collaborative efforts by universities, the education and health sector, and other partner institutions. Our interpretations imply that customizing online PD in HE is, ultimately, a local phenomenon that results from individual motivation and interest, institutional capacity, and contextual factors like access to technology, the quality of online PD resources, and program management.
Utilization and barriers of inclusive education resource centers: The case of Gamo zone primary schools
Authors: Tsega Sewalem , Sapo Solomon
Published: March 2024

This study aimed to examine teachers’ utilization of Inclusive Education resource centers and identify the barriers that hinder the function of the centers in primary schools of Gamo Zone. For this purpose, the study employed a mixed methods explanatory sequential design. Primary data were collected from 95 teachers and 41 members of Resource Center Core Teams. Self-developed questionnaires, semi-structured interviews, and document analysis were used to gather data. Quantitative data analysis involved the use of percentage, mean, standard deviation, and independent sample t-tests, while qualitative data was analyzed through narrative and descriptive techniques. Results revealed that teachers did not adequately utilize the centers. Moreover, barriers such as shortage of specialized staff, inadequate training, lack of specialist support, limited resources, absence of qualified personnel, insufficient monitoring tools for students with special needs, and inadequate funding were identified. Finally, measures that aimed to enhance teachers’ utilization of the centers and address the barriers identified are forwarded.
Antiplasmodial activity, in silico ADME and mammalian cell cytotoxicity of a synthetic protoberberine alkaloid, coralyne
Authors: Erhunse Nekpen , Dinkar Sahal
Published: March 2024

Coralyne is a synthetic protoberberine alkaloid with anticancer activity and selectivity superior to that of berberine, its congener. As berberine is gifted with antiplasmodial activity, this study assessed the antiplasmodial activity of coralyne against erythrocytic stages of the malaria parasite in culture. Parasites were cultured by adopting the method described by Trager and Jensen in 1976. Following this, parasites were exposed at ring stage to increasing doses of coralyne to enable us compute the IC50. Further, given that berberine is a substrate of the efflux transporter permeability glycoprotein (P-gp), in silico techniques were used to study the pharmacokinetics of oral coralyne. Coralyne showed excellent potency (IC50Pf3D7: 0.52 µg/ml) against chloroquine sensitive strain and a little less potency (IC50PfINDO: 1.15 µg/ml) against the chloroquine resistant malaria parasite strain (Resistance index: 2.21). Further, with CC50HEK: >100 µg/ml, it was non-toxic to mammalian cells. However, in silico absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion (ADME) studies predicts that like berberine, coralyne may also have poor oral bioavailability thus limiting its usefulness as an orally deliverable antimalarial agent. Given the negative impact of low bioavailability in the development of protoberberine alkaloids as antimalarials, synthesizing analogues of coralyne with nanomolar potency against the malaria parasite and improved oral pharmacokinetics may be a good strategy for the future.
Assessing microbial exoelectrogenicity for enhanced industrial waste water management and power generation
Authors: Nwagu Kingsley Ekene , Ibeh Adaugo Gift , Azumini Peter , Udechukwu Chidozie Dennis , Ogwu Chinedu Ele
Published: March 2024

The quest for eco-friendly waste management and renewable sources of energy is rapidly increasing. Microbial fuel cell is promising form of renewable energy, which treat and convert organic matter in wastewater to electricity through the aid of microorganisms present in the wastewater. This study assessed for electrogenic microorganisms that generate power during wastewater treatment at a referenced pH of 8.5 and temperature of 37 0C. The exoelectrogenicity and identity of the microbial isolates were confirmed using microbial fuel cell (MFC) and molecular characterization, respectively. Two bacterial isolates: N4- Providencia species, N6- Proteus species, and three fungal isolates: S9- Clavispora lusitaniae, S10- Candida parapsilosis ,S14- Clavispora lusitaniae  with accession numbers; KX548357.1, KX548358.1 and KX548359.1, KX548360.1, KX548361.1, respectively showed exoelectrogenic properties. Proteus species and Candida parapsilosis generated relative high-power densities of 1.59 and 1.55 W/m2, respectively. Significant difference (p < 0.05) in wastewater treatment was also observed. When compared with the control wastewater, S10 recorded about 38% of contaminant removal with the following parameters; biochemical oxygen demand (536.38mg/l), chemical oxygen demand (1974mg/l), total dissolved solid (640mg/l) and conductivity (512µS/cm). The findings showed that, not only bacteria, but fungi are good exoelectrogenic microorganisms for industrial wastewater treatment and power generation in MFC setup.
Profitability Analysis Of Palm Oil Production In Igbo Etiti Local Government Area, Enugu State, Nigeria
Authors: N Egwu Patricia
Published: March 2024

This study analyzed the profitability of palm oil production in Igbo Etiti L.G.A of Enugu State, Nigeria. Both multi-stage random and purposive sampling procedures were used to select 120 small-scale palm oil producers. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data from the participants and analysed using frequency, percentage, and gross margin analysis. The results show that more than half (55.0) percent of palm oil producers use the traditional method of palm oil processing to produce their product whereas 17.5 percent used the mechanical method. The producers sourced their palm fruits mainly from self-sourcing (65 percent), friends and relatives (55.8 percent), and the open market (44.2 percent). The profitability analysis indicates that the total cost of N2,503,100 was incurred as the production cost for palm oil in the 2021 production cycle, out of which N429,000 representing 17.1 percent was expended on the total fixed assets while the total variable cost gulped N2,074,100, representing 82.9 percent of the entire cost. The sum of N796,900 was realized as the net profit from palm oil production in the area. This attests to the profitability of palm oil production in the area. The benefit-cost ratio analysis yielded a value above one (1.3), confirming the viability of palm oil production in the area. The study recommends that the government should initiate a policy that will encourage more people to get involved in palm oil production, as well as, facilitate the transition of palm oil production from the traditional method to the mechanical method.
Hydrodynamic Analysis Of Water Hammer Phenomena In Hydropower Stations Under Turbine Extreme Operating Conditions
Authors: Bagaragaza Romuald , Majoro Felicien , Zhang Jian , Dusabemariya Claire , Nsengiyumva Philibert , Mukamwambali Concilie , Muvunyi Ronaldo , Mbabazi Buregeya Eric
Published: March 2024

This research article investigates transient hydraulic effects, particularly water hammer phenomena, in a hydropower plant (HEPP) through a comprehensive mathematical model and simulation analysis. Utilizing methods of characteristics and FORTRAN programming, the study develops a model that incorporates water hammer considerations, including friction, in the water conveyance system of the HEPP. The system layout encompasses an upstream reservoir, penstock, turbine unit, and downstream reservoir. The research explores the influence of guide vane closure and pressure regulating valve (PRV) opening and closing laws on pressure variations, mass oscillations, and water level fluctuations within the system. Numerical results indicate that PRV failure may not significantly impact turbine speed, but it results in excessive pressure oscillations in the spiral casing head, exceeding allowable pressure control values. The study identifies a critical PRV diameter of 0.6m, causing a maximum pressure in the spiral case of 370m, surpassing the acceptable limit of 250m, with a speed rise rate exceeding 50%. Conversely, a PRV diameter greater than or equal to 0.9m leads to unnecessary water energy loss. The findings emphasize the importance of carefully selecting PRV parameters to optimize system stability and efficiency. The study's comprehensive analysis provides valuable insights into the interplay of various parameters, contributing to a scientific basis for optimizing operational parameters and ensuring reliable and efficient hydropower plant performance.
Administrative Structures Sustainability And Secondary Health Care Administration In Lagos, Nigeria
Authors: Waliu Shiyanbade Bolanle
Published: March 2024

The paper focused on the assessment of secondary healthcare administration in Lagos with respect to examined the administrative structure put in place in secondary healthcare facilities and evaluated the effects of administrative structure on secondary healthcare service in Lagos as well as analysed the challenges confronting the administration of secondary healthcare service in Lagos. The paper employed descriptive research design and quantitative research approach. The data were gathered through administration of structured questionnaire. The paper used 20% of the study population 1341, making 268 sample size for questionnaire which consisted of both medical and non-medical staff of three selected General Hospital in Lagos i.e. one from each senatorial district in Lagos State. Data collected were analysed using frequency distribution, percentages, tables, and t-test. The study revealed that sustainability of administrative structure put in place in Lagos State to manage the secondary healthcare service are impactful and has significant effects on the services rendered. Therefore, the paper recommended that hospital administration should provide up to date medical technology and infrastructure need to easy the work of health workers and promote service delivery and that government should be an increase in the financial commitment and budget allocation of the government to the health care sector to address the existing financial challenges. The paper concluded that sustainability of administrative structure has direct effect on secondary healthcare on service delivery in Lagos, Nigeria.
The Impact of Trust, Understanding and Power on Self-managed Teams
Authors: Krause Simon , Stojanova Hana
Published: March 2024

Local administrations and companies rely on committed and self-reliant employees to achieve their goals. However, there is limited research on how influencing factors such as trust, understanding, and power affect self-managed teams. This study investigates the modes of interaction of these factors on the team structure within self-managed teams in IT departments and service providers of different German public administrations. The research methodology was a quantitative online survey comprising validated items from standardised test procedures to measure the influence factors. A total of 246 data sets were analysed by regression and mediator analysis. The study found significant positive effects of trust and power on understanding and a mediator effect of power on the relationship between trust and understanding. In conclusion, investments in team member empowerment in low-trust environments can be recommended to improve understanding more significantly than in high-trust situations.
The Regionalism of Slovenia is Rooted in Habsburg Legal Culture
Authors: Holcman Borut
Published: March 2024

The article seeks to analyse the phenomenon of Slovenian regionalisation (province) and the names of individual regions, which are still part of the heritage and identity of individuals living in the areas of each region (province). What are the reasons for the formation of the names? Common sense is that province expansion refers to all measures to improve and standardise a specific area's legal and economic structure. Economic and legal reasons dictated the name; the name was only an address for the recipient of economic and legal privileges (rights). In other words, the expansion of the province (region) concerned the "constitution" of a country in the double sense of "being legally ordered" (legal culture) and "actually being composed" (administrative culture).
Spatial Accessibility Models of the Efficient Network of Secondary Healthcare Providers in Slovenia
Authors: Blatnik Patricia , Bojnec Štefan
Published: March 2024

The main purpose of our research was to assess the accessibility of existing providers of secondary healthcare using established theoretical models of spatial accessibility. In the study, we analyzed the optimal locations and the optimal number of healthcare providers needed for an efficient network of secondary healthcare providers in Slovenia. We used four different location–allocation models and found that the MA-model is the most suitable for planning a potentially efficient network of general hospitals in Slovenia. We showed various scenarios for the development of the general hospital network based on three distinct accessibility travel time intervals, while also taking into account various population coverage proportions that can access hospital services within a given travel time interval. The key finding is that the same coverage of the population with hospital services could be achieved with a smaller number of general hospitals, if the hospitals were optimally located.
Deliberative Democracy Innovations at Citizen Level: Challenges of Local Government in Indonesia
Authors: Tresiana Novita , Duadji Noverman , . Pairulsyah , . Suwarno , Damayantie Anita
Published: March 2024

This paper examined the roadmap for deliberative democracy development through village-level regional development planning forums in Indonesia and connected it with the strength of traditions and local values of a region. Roadmap innovations can solve problems and increase governance capacity. This study aimed to identify innovation challenges & factors affecting the innovation environment; using a qualitative method with a case study design. As a result, innovation is able to increase interaction and agreement on solving public policy problems and improve local government governance capacity. The challenge was determined by the open leadership, responsive village leadership behavior. Forums transform as a formal dialogue space and media for the contestation of knowledge with informal meetings in the community. The community traditions are present, recognized, valued through institutionalizing local institutions, local actors, and features that drive democracy in community consultation and cooperation. Several factors affecting the innovation environment included legal culture and policy, political& administrative environment, government & civil servant traditions. The government needs to carry out institutional conversions along with changes from the government, deliberation spaces, &communities to achieve these two goals.
Do Senior Public Managers Matter for Local Government Performance? Linkage with Policy Orientation and Networks of Planning and Development Coordinators in Local Governments in the Philippines
Authors: Kikuchi Masao
Published: March 2024

This study investigates the performance of local governments and government management factors in the Philippines by focusing on planning and development coordinators (PDCs) as senior public managers in local governments. A questionnaire survey was conducted with city/municipal PDCs from 300 randomly selected local governments. The relationships among policy orientation, attributes, networks, and local government performance were quantitatively analyzed. Our findings revealed that networking with government officials at other levels, communication with the stakeholders, and individual policy preferences were found to have a substantial impact on local government performance. In contrast, training opportunities were not found to have any substantial impact. Results of the analysis generally imply that, in addition to the mechanics of local politics, the choice of local government management has become a factor of equal or greater importance in the state and development of local government performance in the Philippines.
Between Adat Law and National Law: The Resistance of Sasak Women to Their Inheritance Rights in Lombok Indonesia
Authors: Salahuddin Muhammad , . Ahmad , . Suharti , . Syukri , . Nurhilaliati
Published: March 2024

This is a study of the conflict between customary law and national law in the Sasak community of Lombok, Indonesia, which focused on women's resistance to customary inheritance law which denies them inheritance rights. This research was conducted in several villages that are still strong in implementing customary inheritance law in the Sasak tribe; Sade hamlet, Teruwai village, Penujak village, and Bayan village. Data collection methods were conducted through documentation, observation, and interviews. In this study, it was discovered that the conflict originated from the patriarchal system of kinship and social relations in Sasak society. Sasak women, in a patriarchal system, did not receive fair rights in the distribution of inheritance. This is what triggers conflict between customary law and national law; inequality and injustice. For this reason, the resistance of Sasak women was carried out through the national legal process. This condition is a latent hazard that continues to threatens the stability of families and communities, and therefore requires a conceptual offer that can be accepted by all groups through a mediation process so that people continue to recognize their customary laws without having lost their national identity.
Performance Evaluation of Institutional Capacity Indices in Municipalities of the State of Veracruz, Mexico
Authors: Lagunes-Gómez Isabel , Hernandez y Orduña Maria Graciela , Martínez-Escalante Gustavo Alonso , Hernández-Pitalua Daniel
Published: March 2024

This study aimed at evaluating the performance of the Municipal Institutional Capacity diagnostic methodologies used in Mexico to determine which has the best theoretical, practical, and technical adjustment in municipalities of the federated state of Veracruz (periods of governance 2018-2021 and 2014-2017). For this research, a mixed, non-experimental, cross-sectional, and correlational research design was employed. The Subnational Analysis method with municipal unit scale was used and content analysis techniques, structured observation, descriptive statistics, and correlation tests were applied. Findings suggest that the Municipal Institutional Development Index showed better overall performance compared to Municipal Functional Capacities Index and Municipal Performance Consultative Guide. The areas of opportunity that were identified in the methodologies include: maximizing the temporal stability and regularity of the measurements (in two cases); the complete contiguity of areas and maximizing the observations (in one case); and, in all three cases, improving the sensitivity of the techniques to the theoretical assumption, as well as strengthening the sustainability approach.
Influence of Government Innovation Initiatives on Responsive E-governance: An Empirical Analsysis on Government Response to COVID-19 Pandemic in Pakistan
Authors: Bokhari Syed Asad Abbas , Myeong Seunghwan
Published: March 2024

Numerous segments of society have been affected by the global Covid-19 pandemic. It has heralded a new era oriented toward the digitization of Pakistan after the shutdown of public sector institutions and disruptions in governance implementations. The objective of this study is to investigate how governments’ innovation initiatives enhance government response to cope with Covid-19 with the primitive mechanism of citizens’ adoption intention behavior during the pandemic. Employing a structural equation model in SmartPLS, data samples collected from 663 followers of social media accounts of government information department through a self-administered survey questionnaire were examined. The findings indicated a direct and indirect relationship between governments' innovation initiatives and responsive e-governance, intending to adopt e-services acting as a mediator. Similarly, the quality of government information was found to influence citizens' willingness to adopt e-services by interacting with innovation initiatives. Institutions and policymakers can benefit from the study's strategic and practical recommendations.
Bezpańska biopolityka – Maszyna zoologiczna, zdziczałe ekologie i polityczne potencjały zwierzęcego uwspólniania
Authors: Juskowiak Piotr
Published: March 2024

The Stray Biopolitics - The Zoological Machine, Feral Ecologies and the Political Potentials of Animal Commoning

The article seeks to develop an alternative model of biopolitics based on the experience of stray dogs in the context of the transformation of the modern urban fabric. Its main goal is to show, on the one hand, that the purificatory actions of biopower in the context of street-dwelling dogs were an inalienable condition of modern urbanization in the West Atlantic variant, which made one of its pillars the multi-scalar process of spatial segregation of nonhuman animals. On the other, to offer such a look at strayness that, by violating the modern zoological machine and disarming the urban fear of animal collectivity, would open urban politics and urbanization to new possibilities emerging from the experience of the multispecies crowd. Another important task of the article will be to rethink the ontological status of stray dogs, which elude most, essentially biopolitical classifications of urban animals, revealing the political potential of the category of ferality.

The article consists of five parts. In the first, I refer to existing accounts of animal biopolitics, noting their merits and the main limitation, namely, the lack of in-depth reflection on such a politics of life that would take into account the autonomy and agency of animal subjects. In the second, I develop the notion of the zoological machine (with reference to Agamben’s philosophy), having in mind the semiotic-material apparatuses responsible for the production and maintenance of species differences, as well as the concealment of related violence. The third part serves to show its workings through the example of stray dogs in Victorian cities. My focus here – following Chris Pearson – is to show the interdependent processes of canine killing and the emergence of dogopolis (i.e., new, typically Western dog-human relationships), which turn out to be a key component of modern urbanization. In part four, I analyze the potentials of “ferality”, seeing it as a field of opportunity for alternative interspecies practices that hold the promise of disarming the Western zoological machine. The fifth part and the conclusion serve to present two key cases (Moscow and Chernobyl), against the background of which I develop the aforementioned biopolitical alternative. In doing so, I use such concepts as commoning, inhabitation, and the figure of the neighbor.
Augmented (Re)wilding of Urban Entanglements in Jakob Kudsk Steensen’s AR Project The Deep Listener
Authors: Stępień Justyna
Published: March 2024

The article examines Jakob Kudsk Steensen’s 2019 artistic project, The Deep Listener, within the framework of Jamie Lorimer’s relational ontology of wildlife. The artist employed Augmented Reality (AR) and audio technologies to reimagine the anthropocentric approaches towards the rewilding processes implemented in London’s Hyde Park. As the text demonstrates, the artist perceives wildlife not merely as a technologically transformed nonhuman site but as a network of more-than-human materiality and sensory experiences, shaping its spatiotemporal dimension. The Deep Listener establishes techno-environmental interconnectedness explored by users through sensory experiences. The work thus serves as an ethical practice, allowing users to unlearn desensitized reactions and develop care-driven relation with the more-than-human environment of the park.