bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effectiveness of eucalyptus globulus and thymus vulgaris in reducing COVID-19 symptoms among COVID-19 patients at Al- Nasiriya City
Authors: Rawaa Kamel Abd  , Duaa Abd Al Azem  , Ayad Abbas Aend  , Khalied Yassen Zakair
Published: October 2023

Objective: To determine how Thymus vulgaris and Ecalyptus globulus affected the symptoms of coronavirus disease-2019 patients.Method: The experimental case-control study was conducted in Al-Nasiriya city, Iraq, from December 15, 2020, toFebruary 20, 2021, and comprised patients of either gender aged 20-50 years diagnosed with coronavirus disease-2019 infection. The patients’ symptoms ranged from mild to severe. Half of the sample was exposed to the study’streatment protocol, while the other half acted as control. Thyme, orange and lemon were employed as sources ofvitamin C, as well as eucalyptus leaves and oil. The cases were exposed to eucalyptus vapours for 5-10 minutes afterthoroughly washing the plant leaves (7-10 leaves or 5 drops of oil) and boiling them in drinking water at 100°C for 10-15 minutes. Data was analysed using SPSS 23.Results: Of the 48 patients, 24(50%) were in each of the two groups. Age and gender were not significantly different(p>0.05), while body mass index and blood group distribution was significantly different between the groups (p<0.05).Overall, 22(45.8%) subjects had mild symptoms, 20(41.7%) had moderate symptoms and 6(12.5%) had severesymptoms. The improvement in the symptoms among the cases was significantly more than the controls (p<0.05)except nasal congestion (p>0.05).Conclusion: Using eucalyptus vapours in the form of dried leaves or oil could significantly lessen coronavirus disease-2019 symptoms.Keywords: Eucalyptus, Thymus, Plant, Citrus, Cough, Smell, COVID-19, Leaves, Vaccines, Vitamins.
Prospective study on biochemical markers causing recurrent miscarriages in Iraqi women of reproductive age
Authors: Ruqaya Kahtan Abbas  , Amani Jasim  , Qater Al Nada Ali Kanaem AL Ibady
Published: October 2023

Objective: To compare the levels of elemental calcium, vitamin D3, malondialdehyde and super oxide dismutaseenzymes in serum of women having recurrent miscarriages with normal healthy pregnant women.Method: The prospective study was conducted at Al-Karkh Maternity Hospital, Baghdad, Iraq, and Al-Alawia MaternityHospital, Baghdad, Iraq, from February to August 2022, and comprised adult pregnant women having recurrentmiscarriages without being hypertensive or diabetic in group A and normal healthy pregnant women in control groupB. Blood samples were obtained from all the subjects. Besides, placental tissues were obtained from some membersfrom both the groups. Levels of elemental calcium, vitamin D3, malondialdehyde and superoxide dismutase enzymesin serum were evaluated and compared between the groups. Malondialdehyde and super oxide dismutase enzymesin the placental tissues were also compared. Data was analysed using SPSS 20.Results: Of the 140 women, 70(50%) were in each of the 2 groups. The overall age range of the sample was 18-43years. Placental tissues were obtained from 40(57.14%) in group A and 30(42.85%) in group B. In group A, miscarriagewas reported in the first trimester in 45(62.3%) cases, 21(30%) in the second trimester and 4(5.7%) in the third trimester.Mean level of serum elemental calcium, vitamin D3, malondialdehyde and super oxide dismutase were significantlydifferent between the groups (p<0.05), and the same was the case with the placental tissues (p<0.05).Conclusion: The causes of recurrent miscarriage in women could be attributed to changes in the levels of elementalcalcium, vitamin D3, super oxide dismutase and malondialdehyde in serum and placental tissues.Keywords: Pregnancy, Abortion, Spontaneous, Malondialdehyde, Cholecalciferol, Placenta, Vitamins, Oxides.
Indications of caesarean section in pregnant women attending a public maternity teaching hospital and private hospitals in Sulaimani city Iraq
Authors: Sara Omar Hassan  , Shelan Qahraman Shakor  , Rozhan Yassin Khalil  , Salar Ibrahim Ali
Published: October 2023

Objective: To determine the frequency and indications of caesarean sections among pregnant women in an urbansetting.Method: The cross-sectional study was conducted from October 1, 2021, to February 1, 2022, at public-sectorMaternity Teaching Hospital and private-sector Baxshin and Harem hospitals in Sulaimani, Iraq, after approval fromthe ethics review committee of the College of Health and Medical Technology, Sulaimani. The sample comprisedpregnant women who were admitted to the maternity wards and who underwent caesarean section. Data wascollected using a predesigned questionnaire filled through face-to-face interviews individually. Data was analysedusing SPSS 25.Results: There were 474 pregnant women with mean age 28±6.87 years. Of the total, elective caesarean section caseswere 384(81%) and emergency cases were 90(19%). The main indications of caesarean section were mother’s request266(56.2%), fear of pain in natural vaginal delivery 375(79.1%), history of previous caesarean section 38(8%),cephalopelvic disproportion 26(5.5%), history of diabetes 21(4.4%), pre-eclampsia 19(4%) and bad obstetrichistory/infertility 10(2.1%). Age, parity, previous history of caesarean section and mother’s occupation weresignificantly associated with the type of caesarean section (p<0.05).Conclusion: Caesarean section rates were found to be much higher than recommended.Keywords: Prevalence, Caesarean section, Indications, Suliamani city, Iraq.
The food hygiene practices among workers in restaurants of Wasit Governorate, Iraq
Authors: Dhakam Mohammed Abbas  , Sameeha Naser Abed  , Rusul Abdulhameed Kadhim
Published: October 2023

Objectives: To determine the knowledge, attitude and practices related to food hygiene among those working inrestaurants.Method: The descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted from January 5 to April 30, 2019, within restaurantslocated in Hay, Kut, Numania, Badra, Azizia and Suwera cities in the Wasit Governorate of Iraq. Those included usingsimple random sampling technique were food handlers of either gender. Data was collected using a predesignedquestionnaire.Results: Of the 330 subjects from 55 restaurants, 320(96.9%) were males and 10(3%) females. The overall mean agewas 31.6±9.5 years (range: 15-55 years). Overall, 193(58.4%) subjects were married, 279(84.5%) had work experience<10 years, 90(27.2%) had professional training, 212(64.2%) had studied up to secondary level, and 113(34.2%) wereworking as waiters. Of the total, 127(38.48%) subjects correctly described food hygiene, and 197(59.69%)acknowledged the necessity of obligatory periodical check-ups. Hygiene practice scores were poor in 223(67.57%)cases.Conclusion: The food hygiene knowledge, attitude and practice of food handlers in restaurants of Wasit governoratewere found to be poor.Keywords: Restaurants, Health, Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice, Hygiene, Surveys.
Evaluation of serum resistin levels in Iraqi rheumatoid arthritis patients under biological treatment and their correlated clinical disease activity index
Authors: Shatha Sabah Shyaa  , Hanaa Naji Abdullah  , Khaled Yassin Zakair
Published: October 2023

Objective: The current study aimed to evaluate RA patients’ serum resistin levels and to observe the relationshipbetween disease activity and resistin.Methods: A case-control study was conducted on (100) RA Iraqi patients during treatment with bDMARDs. The firstgroup of 50 patients received etanercept, and the second group of 50 patients were on Rituximab (RTX). The controlgroup comprised of 50 healthy individuals. ELISA was used to evaluate serum Resistin in and anti-CRP. Inflammatorymarkers ESR, and CRP with biochemical tests were conducted. In addition to estimating Clinical Disease Activity scoreI(CDAI) by the physicians; at Baghdad Teaching Hospital.Results: Levels of Resistin of RA treated with RTX were significantly higher (16.30 ± 7.38ng/ml) than in RA treated withETN (10.61±5.85ng/ml) compared to the control group. (6.95±1.70 ng/ml). The resistin level showed a positivecorrelation with Anti-CCP abs which was considered to have a high positive correlation (p< 0.01) in ETN group. Whilethis correlation was lower than the RTX group, the, correlation between resistin, and ESR was the highest in RTX groupwhilst no such correlation was observed in the ETN group. There was a positive correlation with CDAI of RA subgroups(moderate activity (p<0.05), and high activity (p<0.001). The logistic regression of resistin was associated with biologicaltreatment, odds ratio was (OR=1.138, p-value= 0.014, 95% CI.1.025-1.257) during ETN, and RTX independent of CRP.Conclusion: There is an association between serum RSN and anti CRP as a result of disease activity independent ofCRP. resist in levels can be used to determine disease activity to avoid disease progression and erosion.Keywords: Protein, Antibodies, Etanercept, Rituximab, Disease, Physicians
Investigating the possibility of treating Serratia marcescens with an antibioticresistant mixture containing nanoparticles using AgNPs as a new type of antimicrobial: An experimental study
Authors: Qasim Hussein  , Thaer Al Baqer  , Rajaa Radhi Kashash
Published: October 2023

Objective: To explore the possibility of treating serratia marcescens with an antibiotic-resistant mixture containingsilver nanoparticles.Method: The experimental study was conducted at the Bacteriology Laboratory of Ibn Al-Baladi Hospital, Baghdad,Iraq, from December 2021 to April 2022, and comprised human urine samples, a wound sample from local chickens,and respiratory secretions from pigeons. The isolates were kept on a brain-heart infusion medium with glycerol. Theirresponse to antibiotics with different concentrations of 9% and 7% silver nanoparticles were checked. To optimisefactors for the effect of silver nanoparticles, incubation time, temperature and silver nitrate concentration were thethree parameters used. Disc diffusion method was used to evaluate the antibacterial activity of silver nitrate againstserratia. The inhibitory zone developed was measured. Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute’s guidelines werefollowed.Result: Optimal silver nitrate concentration was 9%, and 37°C temperature and incubation time 24h was needed forsilver nanoparticle production. Silver nanoparticle had 100% antibacterial activity.Conclusion: Nanoparticles were found to have the potential to become a viable therapeutic option.Keywords: Silver nitrate, Serratia marcescens, Nanoparticles, Temperature, Biocompatible, Silver, Anti-infective.
Antimicrobial activity of emodin – secondary metabolites from Trichoderma against some human pathogenic bacteria in Wasit province, Iraq
Authors: Israa Jabbar Shamkhi  , Alaa Mohisn AL Araji  , Mohamed Mahmoud Hassan  , Mohammed Fakhir Mohammed  , Malik Mohammed
Published: October 2023

Objective: To evaluate the antibacterial activity of emodin isolated from trichoderma longibrachiatum against certainpathogens in patients with bacterial disease.Methods: The cross-sectional study was conducted at Al-Zahraa Teaching Hospital, Wassit, Iraq, from December 2021to March 2022, and comprised tichoderma longibrachiatum taken from the Wasit University’s garden soil and weresubjected to plate morphology, microscopic examination, and polymerase chain reaction-internal transcribed spacertesting. Emodin was extracted by ethyl acetate with final yield of 58mg/L. Using the agar well diffusion method,emodin extract doses of 0.ug/ml, 1ug/ml, 2ug/ml and 4ug/ml were tested against clinical pathogenicmicroorganisms. Data was analysed using SPSS 22.Results: Emodin 0.5ug/ml showed high antibacterial activity against proteus mirabilis, with growth inhibition zoneof 8.7mm, followed by staphylococcus epidermidis 7mm, streptococcus pyogenes 7.6mm, staphylococcus aureus7.5mm, escherichia coli 6.7mm and klebsiella species 0.4mm. Pseudomonas aeruginosa was resistant to emodin0.5ug/ml.Conclusion: Emodin extract of trichoderma longibrachiatum showed high antimicrobial activity against humanpathogenic bacteria.5Keywords: Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, Proteus mirabilis, Escherichia coli, Trichoderma, Ethyl acetate,emodin, Agar, Mirabilis, Klebsiella, Bacterial, Polymerase.
Detection of Candida spp. from mastitis cattle milk and study of the antifungal activity of ketoconazole-loaded solid lipid nanoparticles and nanostructured lipid carriers against Candida isolates
Authors: Isa Swadi Touhali  , Khairi Jameel Al Ruaby  , Alwan Al Qushawi
Published: October 2023

Objective: To isolate candida species from cattle milk isolates and investigate the advances of ketoconazole-loadedsolid lipid nanoparticles and ketoconazole-nanostructured lipid carters, and to analyse their properties and comparetheir antifungal performance compared to free ketoconazole.Method: The cross-sectional study was conducted from October 2021 to April 2022 in Waist Governorate of Iraq, andcomprised milk samples obtained from cows infected with mastitis. The study was initiated after obtaining approvalfrom the IRB of the veterinary hospital in the Governorate of Iraq. The samples were cultured on 4% savoured dextroseagar and incubated independently at 37°C before they were subjected to a range of tests. Mastitis was checked witha commercially available cultural and morphological identity card system and through candida chromogenic agar.The data was analyzed by using the programmed SPSS IBM version 20. The chi-square test was used to check theinhibition zones due to the anti-fungal activity of KTZ-LPN and free KTZ. The significance level was kept at p<0.05.Results:Of the 225 samples, 116(51.5%) were obtained from cows infected with mastitis on the basis of a commerciallyavailable cultural and morphological identity card system. Among the 61(52.6%) candida albicans isolated, resistanceto amphotericin B was shown by 60(98%) and to nystatin by 58(95%), while those sensitive to ketoconazole were32(52%) and to fluconazole 31(51%).The ketoconazole nanostructured lipid nanoparticle (KTZ-NLC) preparationsshowed higher antifungal activity than other tested preparations at 0.25ug/ml with a minimum inhibition zone of15±2.4 mm followed by ketoconazole solid lipid nanoparticle (KTZ-SLN) preparations with minimum inhibition zoneof 15±1.3 mm. Free ketoconazole showed the lowest inhibition zone values at the same concentration (0.25ug/ml),which was 11±1.3 mm. Both these lipid nanoparticles formulations, especially ketoconazole nanostructured lipidcarriers (KTZ-NLC), could represent a promising formulation for antifungal application and use.Conclusions: Ketoconazole-nanostructured lipid carter formulations were found to be effective for drug delivery.Keywords: Nanoparticles, Fluconazole, Amphotericin, Ketoconazole, Nystatin, Drug, Milk, Candida, Mastitis.
The effect of letrozole treatment on the fertility and embryos parameters in female mice: Histological and hormonal study
Authors: Sally Adnan Mousa AL Rekabi  , Noor Noori Abid Al Shemary
Published: October 2023

Objective: To evaluate how letrozole affects reproductive hormones and embryos in mature female mice.Method: The investigative study was conducted from December 2021 to February 2022 at the Pathology Departmentof Kut Technical Institute, Al-Kut, Iraq, and comprised adult female albino mice weighing 23-25g. The mice were dividedinto control group A, those receiving 1.5mg/kg/day letrozole in group B, and those receiving 2.5mg/kg/day letrozolein group C. The intervention lasted 14 days. Blood samples were collected under anaesthesia by heart puncture forhormonal testing. Data was analysed using SPSS 15.Results: Of the 30 mice, 10(33.3%) were in each of the 3 groups. Right and left ovaries of mice in groups B and Cshowed a significant rise in multi-follicular cells compared to group A (p<0.05). Follicle-stimulating hormone, oestrogenand progesterone concentrations as well as luteinizing hormone increased significantly in the intervention groupscompared to the control group (p<0.05). The impact of letrozole on embryos was significant in groups B and Ccompared to group A.Conclusions: Letrozole was found to have a positive effect on reproductive parameters and hormones in mice.Keywords: Mice, Ovary, Letrozole, oestrogen, Progesterone, Luteinizing hormone.
Knowledge, attitude and practice of nursing staff regarding hepatitis B at Kut city, middle Iraq
Authors: Rawaa Kamel Abd  , Basim Rihan Sahar
Published: October 2023

Objective: To assess the level of knowledge, attitude and practice of nursing staff towards hepatitis B virus infection.Method: The cross-sectional study was conducted at three hospitals in Kut, Iraq, in July 2020, and comprised nursingstaff regardless of age and gender. Data was collected using a predesigned questionnaire exploring demographicdetails as well as knowledge, attitude and practice of the nursing staff regarding hepatitis B virus infection. Data wasanalysed using SPSS 21.Result: Of the 3,008 nurses, 341(11.33%) were randomly enrolled; 170(49.9%) males and 171(50.1%) females. Therewere 140(41.1%) subjects aged 20–30 years, while 16(4.7%) were aged Greater than or Equal to 50 years. The mean knowledge score was 22.22±2.79 (range: 18-35 years), indicating better knowledge. The mean attitude score was 19.23±2.74 (range: 11-26), indicating positive attitude. The mean practice score was 13.04±1.84 (range: 8-17) indicating good practices.Conclusion: The knowledge level related to hepatitis B virus among the nursing staff was good. Overall improvementrelated to knowledge, attitude and practice among the nursing staff was needed.Keywords: Hepatitis, Virus, Health, Studies, Nurses, Surveys.
Determinan Penerimaan Opini Audit Going Concern (GCAO):
Authors: Putri Silvani , Suhartini Dwi
Published: October 2023

This study aims to examine the effect of Financial Distress and Prior Opinion on Going-Concern Audit Opinion, with Opinion Shopping as a moderating variable. This research topic is very important to study in analyzing the extent to which financial and non-financial factors affect the continuity of a company's business. This study uses a quantitative method with a total sample of 185 data points from 37 manufacturing companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) from 2017 to 2021. The data analysis used is panel data regression software Eviews 12. The research results prove that the acceptance of the going concern audit opinion by manufacturing sector companies was triggered by the high financial distress and receipt of the modified going concern audit opinion in the previous year. In addition, empirical studies prove that opinion shopping is not a moderating variable in relationships between financial distress and prior opinion on the acceptance of the going concern audit opinion.

Keywords: Financial Distess, Prior Opinion, Going Concern Audit Opinion, Opinion Shopping
Kepatuhan Wajib Pajak Kendaraan Bermotor pada Unit Pengelolaan Pendapatan Daerah Kabupaten Rembang
Authors: Audrye Winda , Suryarini Trisni
Published: October 2023

This study aims to analyze the effect of mobile samsat, e-samsat, tax sanctions, tax socialization, and taxpayer awareness on taxpayer compliance in Rembang Regency partially and simultaneously. The sampling method uses an accidental sampling technique and the number of samples obtained using the Solvin formula is 100 respondents. The data analysis technique uses descriptive statistical analysis, classical assumption test (normality test, multicollinearity test, and heteroscedasticity test), and multiple linear regression analysis (t statistical test and f statistical test) processed with SPSS Statistic 26. The results showed that mobile samsat, tax socialization, and taxpayer awareness positively and significantly affected taxpayer compliance. In contrast, e- samsat and tax sanctions did not affect taxpayer compliance.

 Keywords: compliance, awareness, samsat, sanctions, outreach
Strategi Bisnis Warung Mama Indah
Authors: Pragowo Hanny Herlambang , Purrohman Purnama Syae
Published: October 2023

This research is motivated by consumer needs for Mama Indah's shop in Duren Jaya, East Bekasi, Bekasi City. The problem formulation in this study is how is the marketing strategy of Warung Mama Indah's business?. This type of research is descriptive qualitative research. The subjects in this study were managers, employees, and consumers of Mama Indah's shop. The object of this research is the implementation of the marketing strategy of Mama Indah's warung business. Data collection techniques using observation, interview, and documentation methods. Data analysis techniques using triangulation of sources and techniques. Based on the results of the study, it is stated that the business strategy of Warung Mama Indah is carried out by applying SWOT analysis and the 7P concept, namely: (1) Product, (2) Price, (3) Place, dan (4) Promotion, (5) Phisycal Evedance, (6) People, (7) Process.

Keywords: Business Strategy, SWOT Analysis, Marketing Strategy
Analisis Strategi Pemasaran untuk Meningkatkan Volume Minat Nasabah dalam Bertransaksi Produk Gadai Emas IB pada PT. BPRS Sarana Prima Mandiri Pamekasan
Authors: Fariyanti Nurul , Makhtum Ahmad
Published: October 2023

The aim of this research is to find out how PT. BPRS Sarana Prima Mandiri Pamekasan to increase customer interest in using and pawning their gold at PT. BPRS Sarana Prima Mandiri Pamekasan, This research uses research or a qualitative approach where the approach uses direct field research (field research), to reach PT's market targets. BPRS Sarana Prima Mandiri Pamekasan uses the marketing mix method, where there are 4Ps, namely; a. Product Strategy (Product), b. Price Strategy (Price), c. Place Strategy, d. Promotion Strategy (Promotion). As well as using or putting up banners and also collaborating with agencies, as well as house to house, namely establishing relationships at individual homes through pawn marketing. From the various methods mentioned above, PT. BPRS Sarana Prima Mandiri Pamekasan is able to increase financing, especially Pawn Gold iB and is also able to compete with surrounding agencies.
Experimental Investigation of a Small Scale Humidification Dehumidification Desalination Unit
Authors: Mayere Abdulkarim
Published: October 2023

A psychrometric energy process desalination unit has been experimentally tested. The system is based on humidification and dehumidification process where seawater is heated and then sprayed to humidify the incoming air in the humidification chamber. The humidified air enters the dehumidification chamber and is cooled by the incoming cold seawater. The moisture is condensed out and the pure water is accumulated at the base of the chamber, and the dehumidified air is discharged to the outside. The seawater was heated to temperature between 60 - 90°C using a 2.4kW electric heater. Performance data on temperature, seawater mass flow rate, air flow rate and the amount of fresh water produced were obtained, and the maximum coefficient of performance (COP) of the system was calculated based on the data obtained. The result achieved indicates the system had a maximum fresh water production of 13kg/h with a maximum COP of 3.6. The initial test shows that the system has great potential with room for improvements and further optimisation.
Economic and Environmental Analysis of Solar Powered Desalination
Authors: Mayere Abdulkarim
Published: October 2023

In this paper the economics of a small-scale humidification dehumidification desalination (HDD) unit driven by a concentrating v-trough solar thermal collector is explained. A comparative analysis using the net present value method was carried out for when the system is operated using solar energy and electricity from fossil fuels. The system could provide different amount of fresh water depending on mode of operation. It was shown that by end of year six the investment for the solar system reaches breakeven when compared to the electric system. The analysis also considers the amount of carbon savings that could be achieved and final cost of water produced per cubic meter. The factors that influence the systems economic viability are the outputs and costs of the desalination unit and solar collector systems, the cost of alternative energy source, cost of operation and maintenance, and the geographic location of the system, i.e. solar intensity, environmental temperature and humidity.
Assessment of Radio-Frequency Radiation from Selected Mobile Base Stations within Kaduna Metropolis, Kaduna State, Nigeria
Authors: Elisha Daniel , Daniel Isaac H , Abubakar Muhammad S , Kure Nicodemus , Gyuk Philibus M , Anthony Peter
Published: October 2023

In this paper, radio-frequency radiation levels from some selected Base Transceiver Stations of different network providers (MTN, 9mobile, Airtel and Globacom) within Kaduna metropolis, Kaduna State, Nigeria were measured using a portable hand-held spectrum analyzer model 2658A, within radial distance intervals of 20 m to 100 m from the foot of each Base Transceiver Station. The measured values range between 0.24 μWm-2 to 30.42 μWm-2 with an average value of between 0.298 μWm-2 to 14.578 μWm-2 respectively. The measured radiation levels were found to be less than the acceptable standard value of 4.5 Wm-2 recommended by International Commission on Non-ionizing Radiation Protection for Global System for Mobile communication with frequency 900 MHz. Results obtained show exposure to RF emissions from the sampled Base Transceiver Stations will not impose health risk to humans living within that area.
Measurement of Gross Alpha and Beta Activity Concentrations in Drinking Water from Sabon Gari Local Government Area of Kaduna State, Nigeria
Authors: Adamu Usman , Garba Nuraddeen N , Musa Jibril , Adeyemo Daniel J
Published: October 2023

The gross alpha and beta activity concentrations of eighteen water samples, consisting of boreholes and Hand-dug wells from Sabon Gari Local government area of Kaduna StateNigeria have been analyzed using, the potable single channel gas free MPC-2000B-DP detector. The results show that alpha and beta activity concentrations range from 0.96 × 10-2 Bq/L to 47.00 ×10-2 Bq/L and from 0.309 × 10-2 Bq/L to 310.40 × 10-2 Bq/L, for gross alpha and gross beta respectively. It is observed that in the overall samples, the gross alpha activity concentrations were below the 0.5 Bq/L maximum allowable limits for drinking water as recommended by World Health Organization (WHO). However, for the gross beta activity concentration, eleven (11) percent of the samples, have their activity concentrations greater than the 1.0 Bq/L maximum allowable limits for drinking water as recommended by the WHO. This high beta activity concentration in these areas might be due to the waste generated from industries and hospitals or as a result of the nature of farming activities occurring in the areas. Largely, results obtained are seen to be in agreement with reports from other authors within and outside Nigeria.
Effect of Single Atom Doping on Structural, Electronic and Magnetic Properties of Hexagonal Silicon Carbide (4H-SiC) for Spintronic Application: A first principle study
Authors: Tanko Yakubu A , Maha Oyedare T , Shuaibu Alhassan , Olusola Peter
Published: October 2023

In this paper, the structural geometry, electronic and magnetic properties of single magnesium (Mg) and vanadium (V) atoms doped 4H-SiC system were investigated. For the structural geometry of each sample, the energy substitution, as well as bond length, were calculated; results obtained indicate that the bond length of Silicon-Magnesium (Si-Mg) and SiliconVanadium (Si-V) was 1.90 Å and 2.02 Å respectively, greater than that of silicon-carbon (SiC) 1.89 Å in pure SiC. This result indicates that the bond length increases due to the introduction of dopants with greater radii than that of Si. It also shows that both Mg and V doping change the structure from non-magnetic ordering to magnetic in nature. The band structure result for both undoped and doped shows the presence of valence band maximum (VBM) and conduction band minimum (CBM) around different symmetry points which indicate an indirect band gap nature. The calculated band gap of pure 4H SiC is found to be ~2.21 eV, which is at a wide band gap material range, but with the introduction of Mg and V dopants, the band gap reduced significantly to ~0.4 eV and ~0.45 eV respectively. The density of state (DOS) and projected density of state (PDOS) show the contributions of the various states in both the VBM and CBM; after doping the Fermi energy is shifted towards higher energy and enters into the conduction band, exhibiting spin polarization. Both DOS and PDOS indicated that the magnetic moments mainly come from the 2p orbitals of Si atoms
and 3p for Mg dopant and 3d orbitals for V dopant. The magnetic moment for 4H-SiC/Mg
and 4H-SiC/V was calculated to be 2.23 μB and 3.24 μB.
Structural and Electronic Properties of Cu2+ Doped LiMn2O4 Cathode Material for Rechargeable Lithium Ion Battery: A DFT Study
Authors: Adeyemi Owolabi J , Onimisi Muhammad Y , Odoh Victor A , Muhammad Hassan G , Madugu Mohammad L
Published: October 2023

Spinel LiMn2O4 offers a potentially attractive alternative to the commercialized LiCoO2
because of its low cost, non-toxicity, good rate performance and superior safety, but
experiences severe capacity fading as a result of Jahn-Teller cubic phase transition to unstable tetragonal phase especially when operated at elevated temperature (>55oC). Among the various techniques carried out to overcome these setbacks is doping with cations to raise the oxidation state of Mn thereby decreasing the amount of unstable Mn3+. This study focuses on the investigation of the structural and electronic properties of Cu2+ doped LiMn2O4 using ab-initio computational method. The structural properties of both un-doped LiMn2O4 and Cu2+ doped LiMn2O4 were collectively obtained using both generalized gradient approximation (GGA) employing pseudo-potentials, plane wave basis sets and XcryDen. From the electronic properties of undoped LiMn2O4, it was revealed that in LiMn2O4, only Mn3+ ions contribute to conduction, even though Mn3+ ions and Mn4+ ions exist together. Increasing the number of Mn3+ brings it a unique challenge of instability. Due to this instability, avoiding the Mn3+ state
of manganese prevents Jahn-teller distortion, resulting in a reduced phase transition. Based on the results from the first-principles calculation of Cu2+ doped LiMn2O4, the Cu valence in doped spinel LiCu0.25Mn0.75O4 is Cu2+ at a fully lithiated state. When half of the Li ions are extracted, the Cu2+ ions oxidized to Cu3+ ions. Since Cu2+ is a di-valent element, the dopant act as electrochemically active centres for valence change, leaving two trivalent ions to only take on +4 oxidation states stably, thus increasing Mn-O bonding strength which ultimately suppressed Jahn-Teller distortions. However, previous studies show that Cu2+ substitution shrinks the lattice because the ionic radius of Cu2+ is smaller than that of the host Mn3+ ions, thereby the reversible capacity of Cu-doped spinel may be reduced as Cu ions can only provide one electron
per ion.
Analysis of the Occurrence of the First Most Intense Geomagnetic Storm (G4) to Hit the Earth in Solar Cycle 25; A Multiple-Step Geomagnetic Storm
Authors: Lawal Hammed A , Muhammed Mukhtar I
Published: October 2023

A study of the occurrence of the first intense Geomagnetic storm (G4) to hit the Earth since the start of the Solar Cycle 25 is carried out. This study analyzed the Geomagnetic Storm that occurred between the 28th of October and the 7th of November 2021. The values of the Disturbance storm time (Dst) index of the storm reach -115 nT (G4) which occurred on the 4th of November at 1300UT. The storm is the first intense magnetic storm that occurred in the solar cycle 25. It is also a multiple-step storm with moderate two-step storm occurrence which occurred on the 5th and 6th of November at 1500UT and 0600UT respectively towards the recovery phase after the intense storm. The interplanetary magnetic field (IMF) Bz (nT) during these storm events decreases. Our analysis shows that the rise in solar wind speed, temperature and the enhancement of pressure plays a significant role in the occurrence of the first intense Geomagnetic storm of Solar Cycle 25.
Investigation of Leachate Plume and Groundwater Pollution using Geophysical and Physio-chemical Methods in an Open Dumpsite at Idugosa, Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, Nigeria
Authors: Agu Rita C , Mallam Abu
Published: October 2023

A geophysical study has been carried out using the electrical resistivity method, Very LowFrequency Electromagnetic (VLF-EM) and physiochemical analysis to investigate the effects of groundwater contamination in the vicinity of an open dumpsite at Idugosa. A Vertical Electrical sounding was carried out at 100 m away from the dumpsite and the results revealed an H-type curve with 3- layers, with a low resistivity value of 90.0 Ωm, thickness of 9.8 m and depth of 11.3 m at the weathered basement. The control VES revealed 5 –layers of HK-type curve. The resistivity of the weathered and fractured basement ranged from 241.8 Ωm to 2908.4 Ωm with a thickness range of 3.5 m to 13.6 m and a depth range of 5.6 m to 19.1 m. Results of the horizontal profiling using Wenner profiling revealed a low resistivity value of 1.6 Ωm to 3.8 Ωm at a depth of 15 m to 30 m, concentrated at stations 20 to 100. The bottom of the western part showed that the leachate plume had infiltrated and contaminated the groundwater in the zone. The VLF-EM with the three profiles revealed high current density values on the KarousHjelt filter plot at distances of 20 m to 38 m for profile 1, 25 m to 50 m and 75 m to 95 m for profile 2, revealing the presence of contaminants which is mainly from decayed organic matter
from waste bodies and heavy metals from the dumpsite. Profile 3 which is further away from profile 1 revealed that the contamination is reduced as we move further away from the dumpsite at about 10 m to 20 m, 50 m to 60 m and 90 m respectively. The physio-chemical analysis results showed a pH range of 6.73 – 7.17 which is within the World Health Organization (WHO) standard (6.5 - 8.5). The Electrical Conductivity (EC) value of the Idugosa dumpsite was found to be 804.9 μS/cm, which is above the WHO standard for EC values, which should not exceed 400 μS/cm. This high value can be attributed to the infiltration of the leachate plume from the dumpsite. The EC for Idugosa control which is 188.0 μS/cm is within the WHO limit for groundwater, thus its safe for consumption.
Exploring the Physical Properties of Tungsten Diselenide (WSe2): A First Principle Approach
Authors: Adamu Mohammed , Alhassan Shuaibu , Abdu Sadiq G , Aliyu Muhammed M
Published: October 2023

The physical properties of crystalline compounds are highly essential for predicting their applications in various nanodevices. Density functional theory is very useful in that regard. Herein, some physical properties such as structural stability, and electronic, optical and mechanical properties of two-phase bulk WSe2 have been comparatively investigated by first principle calculations. Band structure calculations elucidate that the materials are indirect band gap semiconductors having band gap energy in the range 1-1.5 eV. It was observed that the hexagonal crystal has higher absorption coefficients compared to the trigonal phase. Analysis of elastic constants of the materials carried out using the Born criteria method indicates that all systems are mechanically stable at room temperature. Our findings are in close agreement with the previous experimental and theoretical results, this further suggests that the materials are promising in optoelectronics applications.
Effect of Molar Concentrations on the Structural and Optical Properties of Zinc Oxide Thin Films
Authors: Ejelonu Chioma A , Emegha Joseph O
Published: October 2023

Thin films of zinc oxide (ZnO) were deposited on soda-lime (glass) substrate using chemical
bath deposition (CBD) technique. The structural and optical properties of the deposited films were investigated using X-ray diffractometer (XRD) and UV- spectrophotometric
measurements. The absorption data were used to determine the energy band gap and other optical parameters. It was observed that the films were polycrystalline in nature with high optical transmittance. The energy band gaps were found to vary between 3.09 and 3.45 eV using the absorption spectrum fitting (ASF) method. The influence of molar concentrations on the extinction coefficient, refractive index, real and imaginary dielectric constants was also discussed. The study shows that the optical parameters were greatly influenced by the molar concentrations.
Optical and Morphological Study of Hydroxyapatite on Titanium Dioxide Particles for Photovoltaic Applications
Authors: Tanko Yunana , Ali Haruna , Onimisi Muhammad Y
Published: October 2023

In this study, a natural mineral termed hydroxyapatite (HA) (Ca10(PO4)6(OH)2) was produced with TiO2 stoichiometrically by normal sol-gel process. An investigation on how the different percentage weights of HA on TiO2 can affect its optical and morphological properties was carried out, while the morphological nature and elemental composition were verified through scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDX) analysis. Consequently UV–visible spectroscopy was used to measure the absorbance data, where optical constants such as absorption coefficient, extension coefficient, refractive index, transmittance, absorbance, thermal conductivity, the electron-phonon interaction and steepness parameter were evaluated. According to the optical examination, the transmittance in the visible range is between (400 and 800 nm), and the absorption response in the UV region is between (200 and 400 nm) with an absorption edge occurring between (650 and 950 nm). The value of the absorption coefficient (α) and extension coefficient (k) of HA/TiO2 increased with an
increase in the percentage weight (wt%) of HA. Equally, the optical conductivity increases with an increase in photon energy. In addition, the band gap energy decreases as the percentage weight of HA increases.
Persepsi Orangtua dalam Memberikan Pendidikan Seksualitas pada Anak Usia Dini di Alumna Islamic School Pekanbaru
Authors: Yuningsih Silvia Anita , Wiji Rizki Natia , Nadia Fatma
Published: October 2023

Pendidikan seksualitas pada dasarnya merupakan upaya untuk memberikan pengetahuan tentang fungsi organ reproduksi dengan menanamkan moral, etika, serta komitmen agama agar tidak terjadi “penyalahgunaan” pada organ reproduksi. Secara umum, orang tua merasa sulit bersikap terbuka soal seks kepada anaknya karena merasa terintimidasi dengan pertanyaan anak yang disebabkan sikap mental orangtua yang ‘tidak siap’ untuk menghadapi keingintahuannya terhadap dirinya sendiri, terutama masalah seputar seksualitasnya. Hampir bisa dipastikan bahwa tidak akan ada orang tua yang merasa nyaman ketika harus mengajarkan seks kepada anaknya. Malu, risih dan sungkan adalah kumpulan perasaan yang pasti menyergap orang tua jika harus mentransfer pengetahuan seks pada anak. Perasaan ini masih ditambah pula dengan kecemasan orang tua yang sering khawatir kalau anak yang mendapat informasi seks banyak terlalu dini, akan terdorong untuk buru-buru melakukannya. Tujuan penelitian untuk mengetahui persepsi orangtua dalam memberikan pendidikan seksualitas terhadap kesehatan reproduksi pada anak usia dini di Alumna Islamic School Pekanbaru. Metode penelitian ini menggunakan pendekatan kuantitatif, jenis penelitian explanatory research dengan teknik pengumpulan data menggunakan cross sectional, teknik pengambilan sampel menggunakan accidental sampling. Sampel diperoleh seluruh orangtua wali siswa/siswi dari Alumna Islamic School Pekanbaru. Data diperoleh melalui instrumen yang digunakan adalah kuesioner. Analisis data dilakukan secara univariat, bivariat dan multivariat dengan menggunakan SPSS.
Persepsi Terhadap Sikap Guru SMA dalam Memberikan Pendidikan Seksualitas pada Siswa/I SMA di Kota Pekanbaru
Authors: Yuningsih Silvia Anita
Published: October 2023

Pendidikan seksualitas adalah salah satu cara untuk mengurangi laju pertumbuhan seksual pranikah remaja yang dapat diberikan di rumah ataupun di sekolah. Pendidikan seksualitas di sekolah yaitu termuat dalam Kurikulum Tingkat Satuan Pendidikan 2006 pada mata pelajaran biologi, agama, pendidikan jasmani dan kesehatan serta bimbingan konseling. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode kuantitatif dengan rancangan Explanatory Research dan pendekatan cross sectional. Besar sampel adalah 120 orang guru SMA. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa persepsi mengajar guru SMA baik (50,8%) dalam memberikan pendidikan seksualitas sedangkan guru yang memiliki sikap setuju dengan tidak setuju sebanyak 50%. Hasil perhitungan chi square diperoleh besar nilai p. value sebesar 0,100, yang berarti lebih kecil dari 0,05 artinya tidak ada hubungan antara persepsi dengan sikap guru SMA dalam memberikan pendidikan seksualitas pada siswa/i SMA di Kota Pekanbaru.
Pengaruh Curernt Ratio, Debt Equity Ratio, dan Return Equity Ratio Terhadap Harga Saham Pada Perusahaan Pertanian di Bursa Efek Indonesia
Authors: Rahmawati Maghfira Eka
Published: October 2023

This study aims to determine the effect of the current, debt-to-equity, and return-to-equity ratios on stock prices in agricultural companies on the Indonesia Stock Exchange. This type of research is descriptive quantitative. The data used in this study are secondary data taken from agricultural companies on the Indonesia Stock Exchange for 2015 - 2019 (5 years), where the population is 24 companies, and 20 companies are taken as samples. The analysis model used is multiple linear regression. The classical assumption test uses a data normality test, heteroscedasticity test, multicollinearity test, and autocorrelation test. The sampling technique used purposive sampling, namely selecting samples with specific considerations. The variables in this study are current ratio (CR) as X1, debt equity ratio (DER) as X2, return equity ratio (ROE) as X3 and stock price (Y). Based on the partial test (t-test) results, the current ratio decision significantly affects stock prices. The debt-equity ratio and return-to-equity ratio do not affect stock prices
TRAÇÃO MAXILAR COM ANCORAGEM ESQUELÉTICA POR MINIPLACAS DE TITÂNIO COMO SUBSTITUTO DA MÁSCARA FACIAL NO TRATAMENTO DA CLASSE III – REVISÃO INTEGRATIVA DA LITERATURA
Authors: Breno Soares Rodrigues Samuel , Rodrigues Soares Bárbara Suélly , Soares Borges Gabriela , Rodrigues Soares Sarah Brenda , Sommer Antônio Afonso
Published: October 2023

Até o advento da ancoragem absoluta com placas de titânio, o tratamento interceptativo da Classe III esquelética vinha sendo conduzido idealmente por tração maxilar a partir das máscaras faciais, o que confere uma certa resistência dos especialistas a métodos alternativos. Portanto, o objetivo deste estudo foi realizar uma revisão de literatura comparando as duas formas de tratamento, apontando vantagens e desvantagens de uma e outra modalidade e considerando a possibilidade de a utilização de dispositivos de ancoragem esquelética com miniplacas de titânio substituírem definitivamente a terapia com máscara facial em pacientes portadores de Classe III. Para a realização desse trabalho foram utilizadas as plataformas de busca PubMed/MEDLINE e SciELO sob os critérios de elegibilidade da estratégia PRISMA - ScR para análise qualitativa. A ancoragem absoluta não usa dentes como apoio, minimizando as compensações dentoalveolares, enquanto promove notável avanço maxilar. Conclui-se, portanto, que a possibilidade de se alcançar a correção necessária sem dispositivos extrabucais é alentadora, justificando a busca e ordenação de estudos que demonstrem a aceitação e a real capacidade de obtenção de bons resultados com a nova modalidade terapêutica.
DENGUE EM CRIANÇAS: ASPECTOS CLÍNICOS E EPIDEMIOLÓGICOS NO MUNICÍPIO DE CASCAVEL, PARANÁ, NO PERÍODO DE 2014 A 2022
Authors: Mensch Fanton Lucas , Da Silva Lima Urielly Tayná
Published: October 2023

O diagnóstico da dengue em crianças continua sendo um desafio, especialmente nas fases iniciais, devido à sobreposição dos sintomas clínicos com várias outras doenças comuns nessa faixa etária. Objetivos: Descrever os aspectos clínicos e epidemiológicos da dengue em crianças no município de Cascavel, Paraná, no período de 2014 a 2022. Metodologia: Trata-se de um estudo descritivo, quantitativo e retrospectivo, realizado no município de Cascavel, Paraná, a partir dos dados disponíveis no SINAN (Sistema de Informação de Agravos de Notificações). Análise dos resultados e discussão: Os resultados evidenciaram uma predominância de casos em pacientes do sexo masculino (n = 1.620; 55,12%), de etnia branca (n = 2.226; 75,74%), e com idades situadas na faixa de 10 a 14 anos (n = 1.490 casos; 50,69%). No entanto, a faixa etária de menores de 1 ano de idade foi proporcionalmente a mais afetada, especialmente no que se refere ao número de internações (13,45%). O ano de 2022 registrou o maior número de notificações (n = 1.529), e os meses de março e abril mantiveram a sazonalidade típica da doença, com maior incidência de casos. Considerações finais: Estes dados fornecem subsídios para a elaboração de estratégias voltadas à prevenção e controle da dengue, com uma ênfase especial na proteção das crianças, que se revelam como um grupo vulnerável a esta enfermidade.
THE IMPACT OF HOTEL SERVICES ON THE DEVELOPMENT OF MEDICAL TOURISM: A FIELD STUDY ON A SAMPLE OF HOSPITALS IN KARBALA
Authors: Abdul-Hussein Mahdi AL-SAKHANI Mohsen
Published: October 2023

This study aims to determine the impact of hotel services in the hospitals of the holy city of Karbala in the development of medical tourism. The current study relies on the descriptive analytical approach in order to achieve the goal of the study, a number of 400 survey forms were distributed to a random sample of patients in Karbala hospitals, of which only 382 were valid for analysis, at a rate of 95.5%. The data received was analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS), version 26, to arrive at the results of the study. The study concluded that there is a positive statistically significant effect between the quality of hotel services in Karbala city hospitals and the development of medical tourism in Karbala, and the quality of hotel services in hospitals contributes to increasing the number of arrivals to Karbala city. Based on the extracted results, a set of recommendations were developed, most notably, building an information base on Arab patients in particular who were previously dealt with to communicate with them and introduce them to the new services in Iraqi hospitals