bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of Knowledge, Attitude and Practice Towards Infection Control Among Dental Undergraduate Students-A Cross-Sectional Survey
Authors: Girotra Charu , Acharya Siddharth , Shetty Omkar , Savla Siddhi , Punjani Mahinoor , Shah Tanmik
Published: March 2021

Introduction:

Health-care personnel are always susceptible to infectious diseases if inadequate infection control measures are undertaken. In a dental setup, transmission occurs through air, blood, saliva droplets, or improper sterilization of instruments. Despite various standardized protocols in infection control, dental undergraduate students fail to obey the same.

Aims:

We aimed to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice regarding infection control among dental undergraduate students of Mumbai.

Methods:

A cross-sectional questionnaire-based study comprising a 13-point close-ended, self-administered questionnaire was prepared and distributed among interns, final-year dental students, and 3rd-year dental students across six dental colleges. The questions were divided into three categories: knowledge, attitude, and practice. The responses were used for data collection and accordingly results were made. The analysis was done using IBM SPSS Statistics version 22. The statistical significance was considered atP≤ 0.05.

Results:

A total of 851 undergraduate students were assessed for knowledge, attitude, and practice toward infection control. Only 40% of the interns, 40% of the final-year students, and 42% of the 3rd-year students had precise knowledge about infection control measures. Twenty-four percent of the interns, 27% of the final-year students, and 25% of the 3rd-year students showed accurate attitude for infection control. Finally, 41% of the interns, 44% of the final-year students, and 39% of the 3rd-year students inculcated right practice in controlling infection.

Conclusion:

Infection control is essential to reduce the risk of occupational infection to the practitioner and the auxiliary staff. Dental schools should give more emphasis on infection control protocols.
Assessment of the Correlation between the Perceived, Desired, and Normatively Determined Orthodontic Treatment Needs in a Rural Population of India
Authors: Rekhi Amit , Singh Jyoti , Dadu Mohit , Singh Shreya , Rai Archana , Rai Vineet
Published: March 2021

Background:

The perception about what constitutes a pleasing smile varies from person to person. The problem of crooked teeth may not be perceived as an actual need for treatment by some, and may differ not only on an individual basis, but also from a geographic perspective.

Aim:

The aim of the study was to assess if orthodontic treatment needs correlated with the actual self-perception and desire for orthodontic treatment in a rural population and was there an influence of gender and age.

Materials and Methods:

The study population included 495 older adolescents and younger adults between the age group of 16–24 years, randomly selected from villages in Dehradun. They were asked about their desire for orthodontic treatment and evaluated through the esthetic component of Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need (IOTN-AC) and the Dental Aesthetic Index (DAI). Bivariate analyses using the Chi-square test were performed (SPSS software [version 17.0]) to test the influence of age and gender on desired, perceived, and normative needs. Associations between the different needs were tested using both simple and multiple logistic regression analysis.P< 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant.

Results:

Approximately 48.1% of the study population showed a desire for orthodontic treatment for their teeth. For perceived needs assessed through IOTN-AC, 11.91% indicated a definite need for orthodontic treatment. The DAI scores estimated the normative treatment needs with 25.86% indicating a mandatory need for orthodontic treatment. Gender and age differences influenced desired need (P = 0.017;P= 0.014) but had no relation with perceived (P = 0.269;P= 0.058) or normatively determined orthodontic treatment needs (P = 0.093;P= 0.087).

Conclusion:

Statistically significant association was observed between the normative needs and desire for orthodontic treatment. Gender and age differences influenced desired needs only.
Knowledge, Opinion, Values, and Practice of Sealant Use Among Dental Practitioners in Bangalore City
Authors: Mohammed Imran Pasha , Jaleel Bushra Naaz Fathima , Amarah Umme , Hiremath S. S. , Manjunath C. , Krishnamoorthy Archana
Published: March 2021

Introduction:

Recent Cochrane review has recommended sealants in preventing occlusal caries in children and adolescents but its use in clinical practice is still underutilized all over the world.

Aim:

The aim was to assess knowledge, opinion, values, and practice among dental practitioners in Bangalore city.

Materials and Methods:

A cross-sectional study was conducted with a convenience sampling of 312 general dental practitioners (GDP) in Bangalore city. The data was collected using an anonymous, self-reporting 5-point Likert-scaled questionnaire by Martin et al., and analyzed using SPSS version 21 and ANOVA and t-test was utilized for analyzing the resultsP< 0.05 was regarded as significant.

Results:

Effectiveness of fissure sealants is supported by strong scientific evidence and also as a restorative material, 76% of the GDP agreed and 86.9% thought that it is difficult to justify the cost of sealants to parents. 62.2% valued that fissure sealants are used less than they should have been. Most of them had a positive attitude toward sealant application.

Conclusion:

Dental practitioners knowledge of pit and fissure sealant is high and attitude is also positive but when comes to practice it has been underutilized.
Awareness of Smokeless Tobacco Among Professionals with Sedentary Lifestyles- A Cross Sectional Study
Authors: Malhotra Shitanshu , Singh Pallavi , Dubey Himangi , Mishra Gaurav , Agarwal Neha
Published: March 2021

Background:

Smokeless tobacco is tobacco orally consumed and not burned. Smokeless tobacco is associated with substantial risks of oral cancer. Smokeless tobacco is the cheapest and very commonly used tobacco product in India. It is highly addictive, is high in carcinogens, and causes a broad spectrum of diseases; yet awareness about its ill effects is low.

Aim:

The aim is to provide descriptive information on the awareness of smokeless tobacco among software professionals with sedentary lifestyles in Lucknow city, Uttar Pradesh.

Subjects and Methods:

A descriptive cross-sectional questionnaire survey was conducted. The sampling technique adopted for this study was the two-staged simple random sampling. The first stage consisted of division of city, and then selection of samples was done randomly in the second stage. After giving consent to participate in the study, the final study population was 500 professionals (320 males and 180 females). The 23-item self-administered structured questionnaire with closed-ended questions was formulated. Chi-square test was used to compare the categorical data. Analysis was performed on Statistical Package for the Social Sciences software SPSS, ver. 20.0; SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, USA.

Results:

The prevalence of smokeless users among professional was 28.4%. The knowledge of awareness about ingredients (P = 0.016) and harmful effects (P = 0.038) of smokeless tobacco was significantly (P < 0.05) higher among users as compared to nonusers. In contrast, the knowledge about harmful types (betel quid, pan masala with tobacco, pan masala without tobacco, and all these) was higher in nonusers than users (P = 0.021). Conversely, users are significantly more familiar with counseling techniques for quitting tobacco than nonusers (P = 0.017).

Conclusion:

Most of the software professionals continued the habit of chewing in spite of good knowledge about the hazards of smokeless tobacco. The prevalence of smokeless tobacco users among professionals was 28.4%. Higher prevalence of pan masala with tobacco among professionals was demonstrated by this study, which is not a good sign for the future toward tobacco control.
Prediction and Risk Factor Analysis of Obesity-related Proteinuria among Individuals with Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Tahaseen Syed Vaziha , Kiranmayi P. , Rakshmitha Marni , Anusha Bezawada
Published: March 2021

Objective:

In the present modern era of time, poor and frantic lifestyle has led to an enumerate increase in the number of people with obesity and metabolic syndrome (MS). Epidemiological studies have shown the incidence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) risk factors in individuals with obesity and MS; despite the nonclear evidence on the existing potential risk factors, it became important to reassess existing potential risk factors that are involved in disease progression and its further complications. The strongest risk factor of CKD, albumin-to-creatinine ratio (ACR) recognized as a marker of MS and obesity. This study was carried out to identify the association of obesity (body mass index [BMI]) as a risk factor for albuminuria and to observe the dependence and association with albuminuria of each critical and basic factor of MS.

Design:

We conducted the potential risk factor analysis on 913 subjects, including 398 females and 515 males, from various diabetic hospitals of Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh from early 2013 to June 2015. The medical records of the patients followed up; the anthropometric measurements and clinical parameters were retrospectively collected. The total subjects were categorized as subjects with and without MS as per National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel (NCEP-ATPIII) and the subjects with BMI more than 30 kg/m2 were defined as obese according to WHO classification.

Results:

Student's t test analysis indicates a significant difference for ACR with mean values of 39.5 ± 44.8 and 18.4 ± 24.3 (P < 0.0001) in subjects with MS and without MS, 43.4 ± 48.3 and 36.7 ± 42.5 (P < 0.02) in obese and nonobese subjects, respectively. Chi-square analysis showed a significant association (P < 0.05) between MS and ACR and correlation analysis manifested significant association (P < 0.01) between ACR and FBS, TG, B.P, and Age in subjects with MS. The subjects with high prevalence of albuminuria exhibited significant association with an odds ratio (OR) of 1 (referent) 1.9 (95% CI, 1.34–2.58, P = 0.0002), 1.5 (95% CI, 1.11–1.96, P = 0.0082) for FBS >110 mg/dL, and TG > 150 mg/dL, respectively. Although the subjects with obesity showed no correlation with albuminuria, the risk for albuminuria was 1.5 times (95%CI 1.03–2.40, P = 0.03) higher among obese male subjects compared to obese female subjects.

Conclusion:

Our study strongly supports that albuminuria is highly prevalent among the subjects, with MS showing a significant positive association between obesity (BMI) with albuminuria in males only.
Cervical pregnancy
Authors: Swetcha Mooga , Nalini Y. Lakshmi , Bai P. V. Ramana , Rani Swapna , Lakshmi D. Vijaya
Published: March 2021

Cervical pregnancy is a rare form of ectopic pregnancy. Incidence is <1% of all ectopic pregnancies. It is defined as pregnancy that is implanted in the cervical canal below the internal os with cervical glands noted histologically. It is a rare variant of ectopic pregnancy and the diagnosis may be missed unless the clinician and the radiologist are aware of this entity. Here, we present a case of cervical pregnancy in a 26-year-old female G3P2L2 who was diagnosed as missed abortion and was planned for termination of pregnancy. During suction evacuation, she had severe uncontrolled bleeding. Laparotomy revealed the presence of an ectopic cervical pregnancy for which hysterectomy had to be done. Thus, this case illustrates the importance of its early and accurate diagnosis in order to avoid complications and for planning appropriate management accordingly.
Clinical profile of patients with patellar fractures at a tertiary care hospital
Authors: Krishnamurthy G. , Kumar Goutham
Published: March 2021

Background:

Patellar fractures are injuries of a serious nature. Among the skeletal injuries, they constitute about 1%. Males are affected double than that compared to the females. It is not easy to perform a stable form of reconstruction of the facture of the patella, and it is a major challenge to the surgeons.

Objective:

The objective of the study was to study the clinical profile of patients with patellar fractures.

Materials and Methods:

We conducted this study on forty patients with fracture patella in 2-year duration. The period of follow-up was 4–14 months. Management options included partial and/or total patellectomy and internal fixation with tension band wiring with K wire. All the fracture of patella cases by accident or due to fall were included. Careful clinical examination and history taking was carried out. X ray of the knee joint, anterior posterior, lateral view was also advised.

Results:

Male-to-female ratio was 4:1. Twenty percent of patients underwent conservative management. Among them, internal fixation with K wire banding was done in 60% of the cases, while 5% required total patellectomy and 15% required partial patellectomy. Majority, i.e., 85% had fracture of the patella due to road traffic accidents. Fifty-five percent of the cases had no complications. The most common complication was infections in 20% of the cases, followed by effusion in 10% and wire breakage in 10% of the cases. Only two cases had delayed union.

Conclusion:

As for as possible patella should be preserved with good surgical techniques, proper antibiotics and with good physiotherapy results are excellent.
A comparative study on the use of antioxidants and intralesional steroid infiltration in oral submucous fibrosis
Authors: Mishra Satyajit
Published: March 2021

Background:

Oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF) affects all age groups in Orissa. Rampant use of tobacco, gutka, and betel chewing made it a significant public health problem. Various modalities of treatments have been tried to ameliorate consequences of disease including antioxidants, local and systemic steroid, physiotherapy alone or with assisted devices, placental extract injection, and split skin grafting with varying success rate.

Objective:

The objective of the study was to compare effect of antioxidants and intralesional steroid infiltration in OSMF.

Materials and Methods:

Hospital-based prospective study was carried out among fifty patients presenting with OSMF. Only Stage two patients with Grade 2 and 3 trismus were included. History, clinical examination, and punch biopsy were taken. They were divided into two groups of 25 each irrespective of age and sex. Patients in Group A were given injection hyaluronidase (1500 IU) mixed with triamcinolone (40 mg/ml). It was injected submucosally once a week for 8 weeks over multiple sites in oral cavity. Patients in Group B were given oral antioxidant capsule (containing lycopene 4 mg, zinc 7.5 mg, and selenium 35 mg) once daily for 8 weeks. All patients were followed up for 8–12 weeks at weekly intervals and then monthly once for 1 year.

Results:

Majority belonged to 26–35 years. Majority were consuming areca nut with Pan (52%). Burning sensation on taking food and trismus were common symptoms. Most common sign was fibrosis (70%). Injection hyaluronidase (1500 IU) mixed with triamcinolone (40 mg/ml) injected submucosally once a week for 8 weeks over multiple sites was significantly effective in trismus compared to oral antioxidant capsule daily once for 8 weeks.

Conclusion:

Injection hyaluronidase (1500 IU) mixed with triamcinolone (40 mg/ml) injected submucosally once a week for 8 weeks over multiple sites was more effective than oral antioxidant capsule daily once for 8 weeks.
Intubation and invasive Mechanical ventilation of COVID-19 Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome patients
Authors: Singh Vijay , Sasidharan Shibu , Nasser Abdul , Dhillon Harpreet Singh
Published: March 2021

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is highly infectious and primarily a respiratory infection. The presentation is often in the form of atypical pneumonia which if not detected and managed effectively, progresses to acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Due to the atypical nature, rapid spread and sheer magnitude of the COVID-19 pandemic, the guidelines for mechanical ventilation in COVID-19 ARDS are still evolving. In this review, we have attempted to examine the emerging evidence on the same to further our knowledge on the subject.
Coping strategies during the COVID-19 pandemic and compliance with precautionary health behaviors
Authors: Alyami Hussain , Alyami Mohsen , Krägeloh Christian U , Nemenqani Dalal M , Henning Marcus A
Published: March 2021

Background:

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused major morbidity and mortality internationally. Most governments worldwide have enforced precautionary health measures such as social distancing, hand hygiene, and wearing gloves to limit the spread of this disease. In response to major health and economic stressors, individuals exhibit a range of different coping styles.

Aim:

The aim of this study is to identify coping strategies that are predictive of compliance with pandemic-related precautionary health behaviors in Saudi Arabia.

Settings:

A cross-sectional study was conducted online with a total of 1029 Saudi adult participants.

Materials and Methods:

The Brief Coping Orientation to Problems Experienced (COPE) questionnaire was administered as well as appraising the level of compliance with the Saudi Ministry of Health precautionary measures. Multiple regression analyses explored the associations between coping styles and precautionary health behavior compliance.

Statistical Analysis:

Multivariate multiple regression and linear regression analyses were used to analyze the data.

Results:

The active coping and religion Brief COPE subscales as well as age predicted compliance with all precautionary measures. The behavioral disengagement Brief COPE subscale predicted hand washing and social distancing while the substance use Brief COPE subscale and sex predicted wearing gloves.

Conclusion:

Compliance with COVID-19-related precautionary health behaviors is driven by different coping styles. Active coping and religion appeared to influence all three health behaviors which might guide public health officials in their efforts to develop effective public health campaigns, which further suggests the importance of involving the religious institutions in Saudi Arabia.
Prevalence of undiagnosed, preventable visual impairment in children with intellectual disability in special needs schools in Western Saudi Arab
Authors: Raffa Lina Hassan , Al-Shamrani Abdulrahman Zaid , Madani Firas Mohamed , AlQarni Ali Saad , Allinjawi Kareem Fazwi , Fagih Abdulrahman Khalid , Alhibshi Nizar
Published: March 2021

Background:

Visual disorders have been reported to be higher among children with intellectual disability (ID) than among their peers without special needs; however, prevalence data on visual problems in children in Saudi Arabia are scarce.

Aims:

The aim of this study is to report the prevalence and causes of undiagnosed, correctable visual impairment in children with ID.

Materials and Methods:

A cross-sectional study of students enrolled in special educational needs schools in the western region of Saudi Arabia in April 2018. Teller visual acuity (VA) assessment and refractive errors were noted. Participants with mild to profound ID underwent detailed ophthalmologic examinations, including cycloplegic refraction, full orthoptic workup, biomicroscopy, and funduscopy.

Results:

A total of 61 students participated in this study. Ocular findings in decreasing prevalence were as follows: Subnormal VA (n = 41, 67.2%), refractive errors (n = 31, 51.7%), fundus anomalies (n = 13, 22%), significant strabismus (n = 9, 14.8%), abnormal head posture (n = 8, 13.3%), nystagmus (n = 3, 4.9%), anterior segment abnormality (n = 3, 4.9%), and extraocular motility abnormality (n = 2, 3.3%). Astigmatism was found in 22 cases (36.7%), followed by hyperopia (n = 13, 21.7%), myopia (n = 10, 16.7%), and anisometropia (n = 5, 8.3%). Students with syndromic ID had significantly more moderate-to-severe subnormal VA (P < 0.001) and myopic shift on cycloplegic refraction (P = 0.014 right eyes and P = 0.004 left eyes) than those with nonsyndromic ID.

Conclusions:

A considerable proportion of ID children have significant visual disorders. This emphasizes the need for adequate diagnostic and therapeutic national eye care services for children with ID.
How internal audit can champion continuous monitoring in a business operation via visual reporting and overcome barriers to success
Authors:   East Carolina University, Tronto Stacie , Killingsworth Brenda L. ,   East Carolina University
Published: March 2021

Many auditing professionals would contend that continuous monitoring is a function of management and not internal audit. However, effective continuous auditing is highly dependent upon a strong continuous monitoring system. Further, by integrating technology of these two systems, continuous assurance can be achieved, and audit efficiency and effectiveness can be improved through the reduction of costs and effort. This paper discusses how internal audit can collaborate with a business operation to develop a continuous monitoring application utilizing visual reporting and overcome the potential barriers to success. The specific business operation selected for modification was the procurement card program at a large public university. Following an introduction of the scenario, an overview of the ProCard™ program is provided, highlighting the program risks and controls. Third, a four-phased approach used to develop the continuous monitoring tool is described, including specific steps taken to ensure effective use of the real-time data by auditors. Fourth, challenges the internal function encountered when implementing the system are described, including how those challenges were addressed. Fifth, the paper provides concluding comments and future initiatives planned. Finally, the paper provides additional examples for continuous auditing and monitoring and suggests future research topics in this area. Keywords: Continuous auditing, continuous monitoring, visual reporting, internal audit, procurement card.
Bayesian Evaluation of Three Serological Tests for Detecting Antibodies against Brucella spp. among Humans in the Northwestern Part of Ecuador
Authors: Ron-Román Jorge , Ron-Garrido Lenin , Abatih Emmanuel , Celi-Erazo Maritza , Vizcaíno-Ordóñez Laura , Calva-Pacheco Jaime , González-Andrade Pablo , Berkvens Dirk , Benítez-Ortíz Washington , Brandt Jef , Fretin David , Saegerman Claude
Published: March 2021

Brucellosis is an important but neglected zoonosis that causes serious economic losses both in livestock and human populations. The aim of the present study was to estimate the true prevalence of brucellosis together with diagnostic sensitivity and specificity of three serological tests in humans of the northwestern part of Ecuador using a Bayesian approach adjusted for the dependencies among the multiple tests to avoid any misinterpretation. In addition, the causal agent responsible for human brucellosis was also identified. Using a total of 3,733 samples collected from humans in this area between 2006 and 2008, the prevalence of human brucellosis and the diagnostic test characteristics of the Rose Bengal fast agglutination test (RBT), Wright’s slow agglutination test with ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid disodium salt dehydrate (EDTA) (SAT-EDTA), and indirect ELISA (iELISA) were estimated using a Bayesian approach. The estimated true prevalence of human brucellosis was 1% (credibility interval: 0.4–1.6). The sensitivities of iELISA and RBT were higher than and similar (95.1% and 95.0%, respectively) to those of SAT-EDTA (60.8%). Even though all tests indicated a high specificity (> 99.0%), the specificity of SAT-EDTA was highest (99.9%). The circulating strain in this study area was identified to be Brucella abortus biotype 4 based on culture and microbiological characterization. The RBT and the iELISA are recommended for estimating the true prevalence of human brucellosis and/or for surveillance programs following their high sensitivities and specificities. The proposed strategy supports evidence-based medicine for clinicians and policy-makers to ensure appropriate preventive and control program of brucellosis worldwide.
Hepatitis D Seroprevalence in people with chronic hepatitis B in Lubumbashi (DRC)
Authors: Kabamba A.T. , Mwamba C.M. , Nyembo C.M. , Kabamba B.M. , Longanga A.O.
Published: March 2021

Hepatitis B and D viruses are responsible for about 2 million deaths annually worldwide. In co-infection with hepatitis B (HBV) and D (VHD) viruses, the prognosis for hepatitis B is exacerbated by HDV. This study aimed at estimating the seroprevalence of hepatitis D among blood donors at Cliniques Universitaires and Hôpital Jason Sendwe in Lubumbashi. Screening for HBsAg was performed using rapid diagnostic tests and then confirmed by the Liaison XL test which was also used for screening for anti-HDV antibodies. Of 200 blood donors who tested positive for HBsAg, only four (2%) tested positive for anti-HDV antibodies. This study has the merit of highlighting, for the first time, HBV-HDV co-infection in Lubumbashi. Hepatitis D should be screened for in all HBsAg carriers with severe or chronic hepatitis in order to allow early management of these patients and thus avoid aggravation of liver disease. The limitations of this study are the lack of data on the course of liver disease, the genotype of HBV and HDV, the viral load of HDV and any current treatments.

Les virus des hépatites B et D sont responsables d’environ 2 millions de décès annuellement dans le monde. Lors de la coïnfection par les virus de l’hépatite B (VHB) et D (VHD), le pronostic de l’hépatite B est aggravé par le VHD. Cette étude voudrait estimer la séroprévalence de l’hépatite D chez les donneurs de sang des Cliniques Universitaires et Hôpital Jason Sendwe de Lubumbashi. Le dépistage de l’AgHBs a été réalisé au moyen des tests de diagnostic rapide puis confirmé par test de Liaison XL qui a été également utilisé pour le dépistage d’anticorps anti-VHD. Sur 200 donneurs de sang testés positifs pour l’AgHBs, seuls quatre (2%) se sont révélés positifs en anticorps anti-VHD. Cette étude a le mérite d’avoir mis en évidence, pour la première fois, la co-infection VHB-VHD à Lubumbashi. L’hépatite D devrait être recherchée chez tous porteurs d’AgHBs présentant une hépatite sévère ou chronique afin de permettre une prise en charge précoce de ces patients et éviter ainsi l’aggravation de la maladie hépatique. Le manque des données sur l’évolution de la maladie hépatique, le génotype de VHB et VHD, la charge virale de VHD et les traitements éventuels en cours constituent les limites de cette étude.
Characterization of train brake-blocks composite reinforced with aluminum-dross
Authors: Obidiegwu E.O. , Mgbemere H.E. , Ochulor E.F. , Ajayi P.A.
Published: March 2021

Brake blocks are usually made from asbestos, metals and ceramics. It has been realised that asbestos discharges dangerous gases which can be harmful. This problem necessitated the search for human-friendly materials. Therefore, this paper studies the production and characterization of train brake blocks produced from clay reinforced with aluminum dross. This was done by producing samples of composite using clay from a deposit at Osiele and aluminum dross from Tower Rolling Mill Otta, both in Ogun state. The percentage composition of aluminum dross was varied from 0% to 25% to produce brake samples. Their wear rate, tensile strength, compressive strength, hardness, thermal conductivity and microstructure were analysed. The results from this project such as Ultimate tensile strength (UTS) of 7.4Mpa, Impact energy 6.92J, Hardness 28.8 HV, wear rate 0.0071g/sec and thermal conductivity of 0.01075 indicate that, with 5% aluminium dross it is possible to develop brake block that exhibits property recommended by Rail Industry Safety and Standard Board (RISSB).

Keywords: Train, Brake blocks, Clay composite, Aluminum Dross, Mechanical properties.
Reliability and protection in distribution power system considering customer-based indices
Authors: Nweke J.N. , Gusau A.G. , Isah L.M.
Published: March 2021

A stable and reliable electric power supply system is a pre-requisite for the technological and economic growth of any nation. Nigeria's power supply has been experiencing incessant power interruptions caused by a failure in the distribution system. This paper developed a system planning approach as part of the key mitigation strategies for improved reliability and protection of the distribution network. The developed algorithm is tested using 33kV feeder supplying electricity to Kaura-Namoda, Zamfara State,  Nigeria. A customer-based reliability index was used as a tool to evaluate the reliability assessment of the feeder test system. The result showed that alternative 3 gives better results in terms of improvement of the system average interruption duration index (SAIDI), which in turn gives the minimum interrupted energy. Also, it is found that a greater number of sectionalizing switches do not give better results. It is very important to place the sectionalizing switches at a strategic location. If it is located at such points that will facilitate to sectionalize the faulty sections faster and to make the supply available to the unfaulty part of the network. Hence the utility company should apply this mitigation algorithm for system reliability improvement, depending on their needs and requirements. Thus, utilities can optimize network performance and better serve customers by adopting mitigation strategies in addressing trouble-prone areas to achieve a stable and reliable supply

Keywords: distribution system; reliability; reliability indices; system performance evaluation; protection system; mitigation algorithms and sectionalizing switches
Generic Structure Potential Analysis of Feature Articles in Nigerian Newspapers
Authors: Sunday Adesina B. , Fagunleka Olufunke O.
Published: March 2021

This paper investigated the generic structure potential of feature articles in four Nigerian newspapers: The Punch, The Nation, Vanguard and Nigerian Tribune. Halliday and Hassan’s concept of Generic Structure Potential served as the theoretical framework. The feature articles analysed had three obligatory elements: Headline, Orientation and Addressing the Issue, and three optional elements: Feature Lead, Proffering a Solution and Moral Lesson. A Nigerian newspaper feature article typically starts with a headline that may or may not be followed by a feature lead. This is followed by an orientation, an issue to be addressed, which is then followed by either a suggested solution or a moral lesson. The study posited that the GSP of feature articles in Nigerian newspapers can be catalogued as H^ [(FL) ^O^][AI^(PS).(ML.)].
Prevalence and Risk Factors of Gastrointestinal Parasite Infection in Goats in Sironko District, Eastern Uganda
Authors: Namutosi Winnie , Higenyi James , Kizito Elizabeth , Omodo Micheal
Published: March 2021

This study investigated the prevalence and risk factors of gastrointestinal parasite (GIP) infections in goats in Sironko District. Randomly selected livestock farmers (28) were interviewed. Two hundred twenty (220) faecal and blood samples were analysed using laboratory techniques. The overall prevalence of GIP was 74.5 percent. Nematodes were the most prevalent (61.8%). The level of GIP infections were; Eimeria (37.7%), Haemonchus contortus (36.4%), Trichostrongylus (43.6%), Strongyloides (14.6%), Strongyle (12.7%), Nematodirus (0.9%), Moneizia (14.55%) and Fasciola (11.82%). Further analysis showed high (48.6%) anaemia in adult goats. The most significant risk factors were location of farm (p=0.001), production system (p=0.045) and frequency of deworming (p=0.023). It is concluded that there is a high prevalence of GIP linked with heavy infection in the area. Therefore, it is imperative to promote agricultural adaptation strategies that will strengthen thefarmers’ resilience.
Macroeconomic Policies for Recovery in Europe and in Italy
Authors: Marelli Enrico
Published: March 2021

The Covid-19 pandemic has caused an unprecedented shock; the national and EU responses have been swifter in Europe, if compared with the “too little too late” approach (followed after the sovereign debt crisis). As for macroeconomic policies, they are necessary not only on the monetary side, but also from the EU budget, also with the adoption of some innovative instruments: the Next Generation EU “recovery and resilience” fund can be an important turning point. This facility is fundamental for a country like Italy, in order to convert its long-run decline and to solve its enduring structural problems. However, macroeconomic policies should be accompanied by appropriate industrial and regional policies, also focusing on well-selected investment projects. The final aim is to achieve an economic growth fully sustainable, on economic, environmental and social grounds.
The Use of Video “Sidoarjo Story Sound” to Improve Listening Ability and Recognize the Socio-Cultural Environment of Kindergarten Student
Authors: Candra Kartikasari  , Hendratno  , Andi Mariono
Published: March 2021

The purpose of research to describe the ability to listen and recognize the socio-cultural environment through the use of video “Sidoarjo Story Sound” in kindergarten children group B. With the research subjects of children aged 5-6 years of group B at Happy Kids School Kindegarten in Sidoarjo with a total of 20 children. The research method uses experimental research with one group pretest-posttest design. Data collection instruments use descriptive quantitative statistical analysis techniques. The findings of this study showed that video “Sidoarjo Story Sound” can improve the ability to listen and recognize the socio-cultural environment in group B by 0.88 with a high category and 0.97 with a high category. Implication of the research can combine Sidoarjo Story Sound videos with other learning methods and adjust the development of technology and curriculum used in schools.
The Problem-Solving Skills Profile of Tsanawiyah Islamic School Students in the Vibration, Wave, and Sound Learning Materials
Authors: Nirwana Mercury , Mohamad Nur  , Budi Jatmiko
Published: March 2021

The purpose of this study is to determine the profile of problem-solving instruments which applied in Tsanawiyah Islamic School on vibration, waves, and sound learning materials based on the expert validation assessment and student’s responses. This study used a pre-experimental design method, namely a one-shot case study and it was implemented in Tsanawiyah Islamic School. The sampling technique used purposive sampling using one class. Data collections used problem-solving skills instrument. The expert validation results showed that all of the instrument tests were very valid and it was declared fit for use. Student’s responses from 15 questions were valid because the instrument tests have difficulty level with medium category, although there was one number of the question has difficult category. The distinguishing power showed a good and a very good category although two numbers of questions were less categories. The problem-solving skills profile in Tsanawiyah Islamic School showed a good category in the expert validation noralthough student’s responses although there was a shortage. The limitation of the profile problem solving skills was hindsight from expert validation and students responses. The future research must be better and it can use appropriate learning model for this research like Model SEA-MEA (Self Efficacy Academic-Means Ends Analysis).
UJI AKTIVITAS ANTIFUNGI EKSTRAK ETANOL AKAR KB (Coptosapelta tomentosa Valeton ex K. Heyne) TERHADAP Candida albicans SECARA in vitro
Authors: Kusumawati Eko , Saputri Wiwid Ramadani , Supriningrum Risa
Published: March 2021

Akar KB (Coptosapelta tomentosa Valeton ex K. Heyne) secara empiris digunakan sebagai obat keputihan, namun data penelitian terkait akar KB belum dilakukan. Hal ini yang menyebabkan akar KB belum terbukti secara ilmiah. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui aktivitas ekstrak etanol akar KB terhadap salah satu fungi penyebab keputihan yakni Candida albicans serta mengetahui berapa konsentrasi hambat minimum ekstrak etanol akar KB yang mampu menghambat pertumbuhan Candida albicans. Akar KB mengandung senyawa fitokimia antara lain alkaloid, flavonoid dan saponin. Senyawa antifungi yang terdapat dalam akar KB diekstraksi dengan metode maserasi menggunakan pelarut etanol 70%. Hasil ekstraksi dipekatkan hingga menjadi pasta dan dibuat konsentrasi 10%, 20%, 30%, 40% (b/v). Ekstrak diujikan pada Candida albicans menggunakan metode difusi agar (sumuran) dengan mengukur zona hambat yang terbentuk. Ketokonazol 0,1% sebagai kontrol positif dan akuades sebagai kontrol negatif. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa ekstrak etanol akar KB pada semua konsentrasi efektif terhadap Candida albicans. Konsentrasi hambat minimum terhadap Candida albicans adalah 10% (b/v) dengan diameter zona hambat 12,98 mm. Hasil analisis data menggunakan SPSS menunjukan bahwa varian data homogen dan terdapat perbedaan bermakna pada setiap perlakuan uji.
Improved Preimage Attacks on 4-Round Keccak-224/256
Authors: He Le , Lin Xiaoen , Yu Hongbo
Published: March 2021

This paper provides an improved preimage attack method on standard 4-round Keccak-224/256. The method is based on the work pioneered by Li and Sun, who design a linear structure of 2-round Keccak-224/256 with 194 degrees of freedom left. By partially linearizing 17 output bits through the last 2 rounds, they finally reach a complexity of 2207/2239 for searching a 4-round preimage. Yet under their strategy, those 17 bits are regarded as independent bits and the linearization costs a great amount of freedom. Inspired by their thoughts, we improve the partial linearization method where multiple output bits can reuse some common degrees of freedom. As a result, the complexity of preimage attack on 4-round Keccak-224/256 can be decreased to 2192/2218, which are both the best known theoretical preimage cryptanalysis so far. To support the theoretical analysis, we apply our strategy to a 64-bit partial preimage attack within practical complexity. It is remarkable that this partial linearization method can be directly applied if a better linear structure with more freedom left is proposed.
SOCIAL MEDIA NETWORKING OF MICRO ENTREPRENEURS AND PERFORMANCE OF AGENT BANKS
Authors:   Department of Business Administration, University of Africa, Toru- Orua, Nigeria, Court Timinepere , Appiah Alaowei ,   Department of Business Education, Isaac Jasper Boro College of Education, Sagbama, Nigeria, Isikuru Joseph ,   Department of Management, University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus, Enugu, Nigeria
Published: March 2021

There is a large body of literature in social media, agent banking and entrepreneurship in disparate and fragmented forms. The nexus between social media platforms for entrepreneurial networking and performance in the context of agent banking remains underexplored. To address this knowledge gap, this paper investigates social media platforms for networking by micro entrepreneurs and performance of agent banks in Nigeria. Analytic descriptive survey design is adopted in the study while a sample of 150 agent banks are selected by employing simple random and cluster sampling procedures. Data were collected from self reports of micro entrepreneurs of agent banks with the use of questionnaire. Data collected were analysed with frequency counts, percentage distribution, logistic regression and analysis of variance. The results demonstrated that micro entrepreneurs of agent banks utilize social media platforms to initiate formal and informal ties to improve business performance. The paper concludes that quite a number of micro entrepreneur agents of banks network with social media platforms but some bank agents do not network with a view to establishing formal and informal ties for business purposes.
ENVIRONMENTAL VOLATILITY AND EFFECTIVENESS OF EDUCATIONAL PLANNING: THE NIGERIA EXPERIENCE
Authors:   University of Ibadan, Ajani Mary
Published: March 2021

The school structures in old times used to be situated in an isolated environment because it is believed that such serenity was conducive for learning. Unfortunately those old outskirt has become city which is now vulnerable to interference in a way that things which were not experience in school areas before have become the norms. Recently, Nigeriahas witnessed unexpected volatility which has affected her education system. Attacks such as kidnapping, suicide bombing, insurgencies, school-based violence, banditry, religion crisis, hoodlum attacks, break-in and vandalism of school properties by hoodlums and drug addicts to attacks involving burning schools or killing, injuring, kidnapping, detaining or torturing students, teachers and academics.Pandemic such as Ebola and covid-19represents a huge threat to security as it usually claim lives and destroys few available school infrastructures. The consequences which leads high drop-out rates, reduction in enrolment and lower teaching quality worsen effective educational planning and sustainable national development such that if pro-active measures are not put in place, long term danger awaits the quality of labour force and human capital needed for a sustainable economy. Ensuring education continuity and safe school in a volatile environment is of a great concern to education planners such that such either internal or external influences that contributes to unstable or violent environment will not affect the effectiveness of planning education (Nwosu et al., 2019; GCPEA, 2017; Akintunde and Musa, 2016).To achieve the goals of education, it has to evolve in an environment free of violence as learning rates fluctuate with the volatility of the environment. Disruptions in education can reduce the likelihood that students will return to school, even when they re-open, and can, in the long term, impact individual earnings and the country’s ability to rebuild its national economy.
Subsurface Structural Interpretation of Missa Keswal Area, Eastern Potwar, Pakistan
Authors: Miraj Muhammad
Published: March 2021

Potwar Basin is although a hydrocarbon prolific basin but shows mixed scenarios regarding the success ratio of the wells. Several wells are producing good but a significant number of wells ended up with a great loss. Missa Keswal area is also a part of the Potwar Basin which was discovered in 1991. The main objective of this research is to find the subsurface structure of the Missa Keswal area with the help of seven seismic lines, 3-D modeling, and the correlation of five wells. Kingdom suite 8.8 is the main software used to delineate the subsurface structure along with some other software. Results indicate that the tectonic framework of the study area is mainly controlled by the Jhelum strike-slip fault and decollement layer i.e., Pre-Cambrian salt. Structural analysis shows that the study area bears NE-SW trending salt cored pop-up anticlinal structure bounded by major thrust fault and back thrust. Patala Formation acts as a source, Lockhart Limestone, Sakesar Limestone, and Chorgali Formation acts as a reservoir while fault surface (often acts a good conduit) and Neogene clays providing a potential sealing mechanism for entrapment.
Geochemical Study Geochemical Study of Injana Formation and its Tectonic Significances in Selected Areas-Iraq
Authors: Al-Mothen Ahmed
Published: March 2021

This study is concerned with geochemical analysis of major oxides; these are SiO2, CaO, MgO, Fe2O3, Al2O3, Na2O, K2O, TiO2, in addition to MnO. Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer and Ultra Violet Spectrophotometer tools were used to examine ten samples represented the detritus LOI sediments of Injana Formation in Iraq in two sites which are (S1) site at Dohuk Governorate and (S2) at Al-Najaf Governorate; where five samples for each sites were collected.
Biography as a “Tree of Choices”: Discovering the Life Trajectories of Young Entrepreneurs in Russia
Authors: Poylova Anastasia , Polukhina Elizaveta
Published: March 2021

The article reveals the life trajectories of Russian entrepreneurs in the context of four modern institutions of socialization which determine individual career paths—family, education, social environment and professional experience. Our empirical data were 20 semi-structured narrative interviews with entrepreneurs analyzed based on grounded theory (open and axial coding). We analyzed individual life trajectories as “trees of choices,” where the main branches are institutions of socialization, and the subsequent branches—individual life features. Finally, we showed the meanings of each institution and found out the determining role of gender and the city of socialization. The empirical output is a model of life trajectories, which we plan to test in a future survey using the strategy of mixed methods research.
The Role of Pedagogical Beliefs in Emerging Technology Integration: An Exploratory Case Study of Faculty Perspectives
Authors: Justus Marianne
Published: March 2021

The integration of social media, mobile/wireless and Web 2.0 technologies in higher education supports student engagement locally and globally to create new knowledge using innovative strategies. However, there remains a disconnect between the positive perceptions of faculty regarding the value of integrating technology and its adoption in online contexts. The purpose of this qualitative exploratory case study was to investigate the factors that influence faculty to integrate innovative and emerging technologies, and to consider whether pedagogical beliefs influence choice and adoption of technology. Participants included graduate and undergraduate faculty members who had experience teaching online; were representative of diverse disciplines and courses and were familiar with using technology in the classroom. Using qualitative content analysis, the data from in-depth interviews, questionnaires and researcher reflective journal entries were analyzed. The findings indicate that faculty are convinced of the benefits of technology and its potential impact on student success. However, their choices are influenced by those tools that align with their pedagogical beliefs and have a foundation in learning theory, that are easy to learn, and that demonstrate increased student engagement and motivation. This study contributes to the current gap in research related to low technology adoption rates by faculty, and highlights the complexity of selecting innovative technology for online global environments.
A Content Analysis of the Leadership Styles of Steve Waugh and Sourav Ganguly: Leadership Lesson from the Game of Cricket
Authors: Banerjee Pratyush , Bagchi Shantanu  Shankar
Published: March 2021

In this study, the researchers focus on the leadership styles of two of the game of Cricket’s most charismatic leaders of the twenty-first century – Steve Waugh of Australia and Sourav Ganguly of India in a bid to relate their styles with classic leadership theories. Both Waugh and Ganguly have been arguably recognized as the most successful cricket captains of their respective countries and have earned accolades from cricket pundits as brilliant leaders of men. In this study, a content analysis of the articles about these two legendary captains published in the highly-acclaimed Wisden almanac, electronic media such as Sportstar, Cricinfo Magazine and standard newspapers of India, Australia and other neutral countries was undertaken. The content analysis of eighty-seven articles spreading over a page length of 127 A-4 size papers revealed Waugh to be a more result-driven autocratic leader who led more by example, while Ganguly showed traits of a transformational leader who led by motivating his teammates. The study is expected to contribute to the existing body of leadership research with some new knowledge of the construct of leadership, which have been discussed at length in this paper.