bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Qualitative Study on Barriers to E-Commerce Technologies Uptake by Informal Manufacturing Micro and Small Enterprises in Harare
Authors: Mushayavanhu Tawanda Prosper , Simuka Joshua
Published: September 2022

This study focused on finding out the major barriers inhibiting the uptake of e-commerce by manufacturing Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs) in Harare, Zimbabwe. E-commerce is one of the major forces to business success, hence small businesses should implement e-commerce systems so as to compete with their bigger counterparts. It has the prospective to increase productivity and effectiveness in many facets of the business operations. Several developing countries across the globe have since started to put critical attention on e-commerce. However, the majority of MSEs in developing nations are still oblivious of the importance of e-commerce in enhancing their business processes, improving their customer base, retaining existing customers and ensuring better customer relationship management (CRM). The sample of the study consisted of 10 participants from metal fabricators and furniture manufacturers operating at Mbare-Magaba area and Glenview Area 8 Home Industry Complex. Data was collected using semi structured in-depth interview questions and data was analysed using content analysis. The findings show that informal MSEs face several barriers that include: high cost of Information Communication Technologies (ICTs) equipment and gadgets, incompatibility with business operations, lack of ICTs infrastructure support by the government, accessibility challenges, lack of education and awareness about e-commerce and cultural and trust issues.
Auxiliaries and Supervisors at War: The Spillover Effect of Supervisor-Subordinate Aggression on University Staff Productivity
Authors: Ssemugenyi Fred
Published: September 2022

Using Kampala International University (KIU) as a study sample, the study inquired into the effect of the continued use of aggression on employee productivity. Utilizing a cross-sectional survey design, data were collected sequentially using a mixed method sequential approach from a statistically representative sample of 108 senior academics for numerical data and 10 key informants for qualitative interviews. Findings revealed that when all the four parameters of X were taken together, explained only 22.1% variation in Y (adjusted r2 = 0.221). Again, any unit increase in any of the predictors was accompanied by an inverse reaction in the predicted variable, and for this reason, the multiple linear regression model was insignificant (F. =55.361, p. = 0.088 > 0.05). However, unlike the quantitative data, interview responses indicated that whereas retaliation is counterproductive, it has been a potential recipe for growth in some instances although at a negligible scale. Qualitative data further revealed that, the impact of aggression consistently reduces with a consistent corresponding increase in positive reinforcement such as bonuses, prompt monthly pay, and staff development schemes. Since employee satisfaction and organizational success are mutually exclusive, the study recommends a balanced approach that aligns organizational interests with employee needs and aspirations for a productive working environment.
Collaborative Technology Commercialization in Malaysian Public Universities: Gaps and Solutions in Classical Shariah Frameworks
Authors: Sarujee Siti Manisah Mohamad , Nordin Mimi Aminah Wan , Ramli Nabilah , Sadek Silmyi Mohamed
Published: September 2022

With the motivation to improve the commercialization rate of Malaysian public universities, this study aims to explore the collaborative elements found in the classical Shariah frameworks that can be adopted to develop a dynamic collaborative technology commercialization framework. To answer this question, literature review was conducted on commercialization strategies and frameworks, and collaborative elements in classical Shariah frameworks. Apart from modern literatures, the historical accounts of Ibn Khaldun in The Muqaddimah, the jurisprudence on partnerships during the Ottoman Empire in The Al-Majalla, and Shariah Standards for Mudarabah and Musharakah in The Accounting and Auditing Organization for Islamic Financial Institutions were also reviewed. This study finds that the protective approach in the Intellectual Property (IP) strategy commonly adopted by the Malaysian public universities limits the success and increases the gap in commercialization. Furthermore, there is a concern on the high redundancy and coordination cost of collaboration. It was found that IP strategies based on openness and connectedness offers solutions to the issues identified. This study also highlights the collaborative frameworks in Mudarabah, Musharakah and Shariah partnership structures that the universities can use that provide a clear collaboration outcome. In addition to the alternative frameworks, the parties involved also need to upskill in monitoring and managing commercialization in the best and most efficient way to fulfill commercialization in Malaysia, as captured in the Twelfth Malaysia Plan. The outcome of this study seeks to provide Malaysian public universities with a guideline in enhancing collaborative technology commercialization.
Attitude towards Scientific Research: Analysis of Psychology Students in Peru and Colombia
Authors: Hernandez Ronald M , Montes-Valer Esther , Mamani-Benito Oscar , Angel Gustavo Adolfo Gil , Saavedra-Lopez Miguel A , Calle-Ramirez Xiomara M , Campos-Ugaz Osmer A
Published: September 2022

The attitude towards scientific research is an indicator of educational quality in university education. The objective of this research was to determine the attitude towards scientific research in university psychology students from Peru and Colombia. The research was descriptive, comparative and cross-sectional. The sample comprised 1150 students enrolled in universities in Peru (546) and Colombia (604), identified through convenience sampling. The General Research Attitude Index instrument, which was adapted for the study, was applied for data analysis. The high reliability of the instrument was verified with a Cronbach's Alpha of .935. Regarding the results, it was found that students from Colombia had a high predisposition towards research (41.7%) compared to students from Peru (29.9%). Regarding knowledge about research, students in both countries adequately valued that the university promoted the development of scientific production (52.6% in Colombia and 54.3% in Peru). Regarding the evaluation of the quality of university teaching, students in Colombia perceived a higher quality in their education (8.27 out of 10), the quality of the program in which they were enrolled (8.51 out of 10), and the infrastructure of their university (8.44 out of 10). It is concluded that students from Colombia show a better attitude towards research (M=73.79, SD=12.96) than students from Peru (M=70.64, SD=11.80). the study recommends teachers to possess a greater pertinence of knowledge and experience to motivate a favorable attitude towards research and ensure its visibility.
The Relationship Between Locus of Control and Entrepreneurship
Authors: DEMIRTAS Ozgur , KARACA Mustafa
Published: September 2022

In this study, we examined and drew attention to the entrepreneurial characteristics of students who were potentially at the beginning of an entrepreneurial process. Furthermore, we have analyzed the entrepreneurship literature to develop an understanding of the cultural dimensions that may have an impact on entrepreneurial process. A sample of students was selected as the study participants in the provinces of Kayseri and Yozgat. The data was collected employing face to face interviews. The results have indicated that culture has an impact on entrepreneurship and locus of control.
After Sales Service Quality on Customer Satisfaction and Retention among Game Store Customer's in Kano State, Nigeria
Authors: Abdullahi Mohammed Sani , Shehu Ummi Rahma , Usman Bashir Mikail , Muhammad Yusuf Suleiman , Kano Aisha Hamisu
Published: September 2022

This research examines the effect of after sales service quality (ASSQ) on customer satisfaction (CS) and customer retention (CR) among Game store customer’s in Kano State, Nigeria. The population was 870 Game store after-sales service (ASS) customers who received after-sales service (ASS) multiple times. Simple random technique was used that allow the researchers to assess their study's centered participants, and the main tools used for this study were questionnaires. The questionnaire was intended to a Likert scale of 10 points, with the assistance of 3 ASS technician and 3 foremen at Game Store Kano, the information were gathered from 255 ASS customers. The study's hypothesized model was tested using Structural Equation Modelling (SEM). The research outcomes show that ASSQ has a substantial and positive effect on CS and CR. The outcome also shows that CS has substantial and positive effect on CR. It is suggested that businesses or organizations should explore the most significant dimensions of ASSQ to match the preferences of their customer’s with that the organizations will pays a lot of attention to their esteem customer’s, and it will assist businesses achieve their mission and vision.
Examining the Impact Records Keeping, Information Sharing and Partner Relations on Procurement Performance in Firms
Authors: Appiah Listowel Owusu , Lartey Frank Abedi
Published: September 2022

This study examines the extent to which information sharing, records keeping and partner relations influence firm performance via the creation of an efficient procurement system. A survey of 142 firms in the Ashanti region of Ghana, selected using the convenience sampling technique is used in the study. The study adopted a quantitative approach, with a structured questionnaire as the primary data collection instrument. An examination of the relationship among the variables reveal that procurement efficiency partially mediates the relationship between each of the three procurement related practices and firm performance. The implication of these findings for practice is that a focus on collaboration, not competition must be the aim of procurement. In modern times, firms must move beyond adversarial relations and focus on creative collaborative, long term relationship with selected suppliers. The study proposes that records keeping and audit of the process must be accorded as much importance as tender evaluation and contract management. The findings further imply that Suppliers are an extension of the focal firm and must be viewed as such. Excessive use of power leaves the weaker party aggrieved and willing to resort to unethical practices, which may include supply of low quality materials or creation of artificial shortages.
Previous Marriage Outcomes and Fertility Preference among Re-Married Women in Nigeria: Analysis from 2013 Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey
Authors: Olaseinde Olugbenga
Published: September 2022

With increasing rate of re-marriage, women’s decision to stick to their intended fertility may be influenced by the dictate of men who demand additional child to consummate the new union. This study examined the influence of previous marriage outcome on women’s fertility preference by analysing 2013 NDHS weighted sample data of 2,671 Nigerian women, who reported to have re-married. The analysis employed Chi-square test and Multinomial Logistic Regression Model. The result indicates that, apart from previous marriage outcome, ideal number of children, wealth status, and ethnicity are predictors of re-married women’s fertility preference. Women who lost their husband in their previous marriage were more likely to desire no more children than other categories of women. The study recommends enlightenment campaign to empower women, especially the widowed to make informed choices about their marital status after the death of husbands, also, to increase their sexual bargaining power in later remarried union.
Analysis of Moral Reasoning of Teachers and the Students with Respect to Kohlbergs Theory of Moral Development
Authors: Hafeez Muhammad , Tahira Fatima , Kazmi Qaiser Abbas , Hussain Muhammad Zahid
Published: September 2022

Moral development of persons is a basic aim of education. According to Islamic teachings success and failure of a person is judged on moral basis in this world and the hereafter. This study focuses on analysis of moral reasoning of teachers and the students with respect to Kohlberg’s theory of moral development. The target population for this study were teachers and students of secondary schools of district Dera Ghazi Khan. Twenty secondary schools were randomly selected from district Dera Ghazi Khan. Three (03) teachers and ten (10) students from each school were selected using random sampling method. The total sample size was 60 teachers and 200 students. Data was selected by DIT (defining issue test). The collected data was analyzed through descriptive analysis and chi-square test applied using SPSS. The results revealed that the participants reasoned predominantly at the conventional level of Kohlberg's moral reasoning which found that there is no significant difference between the view of teachers and students towards moral reasoning.
Revenue Management Practices and their Impacts on Financial Performance of Star-Rated Hotels in Kenya
Authors: Murimi Michael , Wadongo Billy , Olielo Tom
Published: September 2022

The study's goal was to investigate how revenue management (RM) techniques affect the financial performance of Kenya's star-rated hotels. The study aimed to examine if RM policies and implementation, the RM team, the application of RM methodologies, RM data and information, and the use of pricing and non-pricing instruments were all factors. The study used a cross-sectional survey research methodology and took a quantitative approach. The survey included 137 revenue managers from Kenyan all-star hotels. The structural equation modeling was used to test the linkages; revenue management strategies have an impact on hotel financial success, according to the research. The results indicated that RM practices explain variation in financial performance indicators by 42.7 percent (R2 =0.427), improved financial performance by 48.4 percent (R2 =0.48.4), and overall performance by 47.4 percent (R2 =0.474). The article recommends that hotels adopt RM tactics to fully achieve and maximize financial performance, including reducing operational expenses, forecasting hotel growth, improving yields, and generating income.
Green Supply Chain Management and Firm Performance: Evidence from Ghana’s Food Production and Processing Industry
Authors: Appiah Listowel Owusu , Odartey Michael
Published: September 2022

Based on the Natural Resource Based View (NRBV), this study examines the relationship between Green Supply Chain Management practices and Firm performance in response to calls for empirical evidence from developing country contexts, and the need to consider the Triple Bottom Line approach to sustainability performance measurement. The study is conducted among Food production and processing firms in Ghana. A structured questionnaire was administered to a Senior Manager in each of the respective organizations. Based on data collected from 94 firms, this study uses OLS regression to examine the relationship between GSCM implantation and operational, environmental, social, and economic firm performance. The results indicate a positive relationship between GSCM implementation and all four firm performance dimensions. This suggests that it is in the best interest of managers to deploy resources towards the implementation of green initiatives, as there are potential gains to be made in the long run.
Evaluation of Frequency Distribution of Dental Complaints According to the Principles of Observing Professional Ethics in Isfahan City Between 2010 to 2020
Authors: Pakravan Fahimeh , Gholami Zohreh , Abbasi Fatemeh
Published: September 2022

Introduction: One of the problems and challenges faced in the field of dentistry can be attributed to filing a lawsuit against the dentist resulting in discontent, consuming time and energy from both parties. This study can be useful for students and dentists because it will enable them to identify cases that lead to filing lawsuits and in turn adhere to the principles of professional ethics when treating and interacting with patients. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between adherence to the principles of professional ethics and frequency of lawsuits in Isfahan city between 2010 to 2020.
Materials & Methods: In this Cross-Sectional study, 706 files of lawsuits during 2010-2020 at the Isfahan medical archives of records and the deputy department of treatment were evaluated and the relevant information was extracted. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics test.
Results: A rising trend was observed in the rate of lawsuits. The most common reason for the lawsuits was related to not having the knowledge, skill and experience, additional consultations and referrals to other dentists, overbilling and unethical behavior in the workplace. A higher Frequency of lawsuits were associated to male and general dentists.
Conclusion: Dental complaints had a rising trend, and the most commonly reported cases were related to not having the knowledge, skill, experience and additional consultation and referrals.
Assessing the Initial Prediction by Navigation in the DIOnavi System on the Accuracy of Implant Placement
Authors: Johari Mitra , Ghasabzadehnaeini Mohammad , Aminkavoosi Mohammad , Hedayatian Maryam
Published: September 2022

Introduction: Accuracy in guided implant surgery means that pre-determined position of the implant by the software matches the position of the implant in the patient's mouth. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of initial prediction by navigation in the DIOnavi system on the accuracy of implant placement.
Materials & Methods: In this interventional study, two samples of 17 and 25 patients) in total 42 patient) requesting navigation method for implant placement were selected. First, a cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) was taken from each patient and then its virtual model was prepared using the DIO NAVI system (South Korean DIO company. Two to three months following the implant placement by the surgeon, the CBCT from the same section was obtained again and the thickness of the buccal bone on the implant, the thickness of the lingual bone on the implant, the distance of the implant apex to the apical anatomic regions (Nasal cavity, Maxillary sinus and Mental foramen), Implant depth from crest edge and implant distance from adjacent teeth if present in the two obtained images were compared. Data were analyzed using paired t test and Pearson Correlation Coefficient (α = 0.05).
Results: The mean of all measurements in both groups in the initial prediction was significantly related to after surgery (r = 0.99, p value < 0.001) and in the group of 17, 98% and in the group of 25, 97.4% of the variances of the means of the total measurements were explained by the initial prediction.
Conclusion: The accuracy of implant placement with the help of dionavi system is estimated to be more than 97%.
A Survey of Undergraduate Dentistry Students Awareness about Pulp and Periodontal Lesions in Fourteen Cities of Iran
Authors: Massah Samineh , Rafiei Ehsan , Ranjbarian Parisa
Published: September 2022

Introduction: Inflammation and infection can spread from the dental pulp to the periodontal tissue and from the periodontium to the pulp. Given the challenging nature of diagnosing endodontic-periodontal lesions and the importance of appropriate treatment to improve dental prognosis, this study was performed to evaluate the knowledge of dental students about the diagnosis of pulp and periodontal lesions.
Materials & Methods: In this analytical observational study, a questionnaire was designed to assess knowledge on pulp and periapical lesions in three areas of theoretical knowledge, knowledge in diagnosis and knowledge in treatment in the second semester of the academic year 2021 and filled out by 400 dental students representing 15 cities of Iran. Data analysis was performed by Friedman, Wilcoxon and Mann-Whitney tests (α = 0.05).
Results: Percentage of correct answer of dental students to the questions related to theoretical knowledge 65.70 ± 18.39, percentage of correct answer to the questions of students' diagnostic knowledge 50.75 ± 33.28, percentage of correct answer to the questions of treatment knowledge 52.13 ± 23.93 and the percentage of correct answers to the questions of knowledge in total was 56.68 ± 16.35, which is statistically significant in terms of knowledge in the three areas studied (p value < 0.001).
Conclusion: In the present study, it was shown that the highest level of appropriate knowledge in students is in the field of theoretical knowledge of endodontic-periodontal lesions and the least level of appropriate knowledge was in the field of diagnosis of these diseases. The overall knowledge of students in this study about endodonticperiodontal lesions was shown to be moderate.
Relationship between Psychological Factors with Cooperation and Satisfaction in Fixed Orthodontic Patient
Authors: Ahmadpour Tahere , Esnaashari Nasim , Farhadi Hadi , Shirani Nafiseh
Published: September 2022

Introduction: Cooperation in orthodontics is one of the most important predictors of treatment outcome. Evaluation of patient satisfaction is a suitable criterion for the evaluation of treatment quality of the patients and the relationship between physician and patient. In this study, the link between some personality traits of patients and their cooperation in orthodontic treatment is assessed.
Materials & Methods: In this descriptive study, 135 patients who were referred to the orthodontic department at the School of Dentistry of Isfahan Azad University for fixed orthodontic treatment were selected. The correlation between 5 psychological factors of Costa and McCrae personality theory with the level of cooperation and satisfaction of patients during orthodontic treatment was assessed by NEO-FFI questionnaire, and OPCS questionnaire to measure patient cooperation 2 months and 6 months after treatment and satisfaction questionnaire. Data were analyzed using Pearson, Spearman and Regression correlation coefficients.
Results: The mean cooperation score was not significantly different between 2 months and 6 months after starting treatment (p value = 0.66). The satisfaction score of treatment was directly related to the score of the responsible factor of responsibility (p value < 0.01) but was not significantly related to the scores of other personality traits factor (p value > 0.05).  Cooperation score 2 months and 6 months after starting treatment was not significantly related to personality trait factor scores (p value > 0.05). There was no significant relationship between cooperation score 2 months (p value = 0.57) and 6 months after starting treatment (p value = 0.99) with treatment satisfaction score.
Conclusion: There is no relationship between orthodontic patients' cooperation and their personality type. A direct relationship between orthodontic patients' satisfaction and the score of the personality factor of responsibility was seen.
Evaluation Cephalometric Norms in Iranian Adult Live in Ahvaz Using McNamara Analysis
Authors: Naghdipour Ehsan , Ghorbanyjavadpour Fataneh
Published: September 2022

Introduction: Today diagnosis and treatment planning in patients for orthodontic or surgical treatment is expected to correspond with the same ethnic cephalometric norms. This study aimed to determine the cephalometric norms of the Iranian population living in Ahvaz via McNamara's analysis and to verify the presence of gender related disparity and compare it with the standard norms and similar studies.
Materials & Methods: Cephalograms of 79 patients (39 females, 40 males in the age range of 19-29 years old) were selected from the Orthodontic department of Ahvaz Dental School archive during 2018-2019. The subjects had a Class 1 molar relationship with a balanced profile, no history of orthodontic or surgical treatment or trauma, and no congenital anomalies. According to the McNamara analysis 8 linear and 4 angular measurements were traced manually and analyzed statistically by Shapiro-Wilk, independent t-test, and Mann-Whitney tests with a meaningful level of p value < 0.05.
Results: According to our findings significant differences were observed in the effective length of the maxilla and mandible, Maxillo-mandibular differences, Distance point A from maxilla to chin from N perpendicular line, 1.3 lower face height (p value < 0.05) but not found in the upper and lower incisor position and facial axis and mandibular plane angle (p value > 0.05).
Conclusion: Despite the differences observed in the cephalometric parameters with the normal range among Caucasians, McNamara's analysis was applicable for surgical and orthodontic treatment in Iranians.
Comparison of Clinical and Radiographic Results of Single Tooth Implants against Endodontic Treatment with Post and Crown Repair
Authors: Esmaeeli Mohammad Ali , Rafiei Ehsan , Ranjbarian Parisa , Maghamipour Nasim
Published: September 2022

Introduction: The choice between the two modes of treatment, endodontic treatment and single tooth implants are very different depending on the dentist, design, definition of successful outcomes, evaluation methods, and sample size. The aim of this study was to compare the clinical and radiographic results of single tooth implants versus endodontic treatment with post and crown restoration in patients referred to the School of Dentistry of Islamic Azad University of Isfahan
Materials & Methods: In this cross-sectional analytical study in the academic year 2021, 90 (46 females and 44 males) patients after recording demographic information and medical status, during three different time intervals post treatment (under 3 years, 3 to 5 years and Over 5 years) were examined clinically and radiographically (periapical). Outcome of treatment was classified based on clinical and radiographic findings into three categories: successful, surviving and unsuccessful. Data were analyzed using Chi-squared test (α = 0.05).
Results: In this study, 60% of women and 40% of men had endodontic treatment and 42.2% of women and 57.8% of men had single tooth implants. There was no significant difference between the treatment outcomes in the studied groups (p value > 0.521). There was no statistically significant relationship between gender and type of treatment as well as gender and treatment satisfaction (p value > 0.05).
Conclusion: Considering the preservation of natural teeth, if possible, root canal treatment is the main treatment of choice, otherwise a single-tooth implant can be a good alternative to missing or extracted teeth in terms of successful outcomes.
Pulp Treatment Management of Primary Molars in Patient with Fanconi Anemia: A Case Report
Authors: Nourbakhsh Nosrat , Esmaeli Mona
Published: September 2022

Introduction: Fanconi anemia is a rare autosomal recessive disease that is associated with chromosome failure and impaired DNA repair. The aim of this study was to report a case of Fanconi anemia and to manage the treatment of deciduous tooth pulp and its periodic clinical follow-up.
Case Report: The patient is a six-year-old boy with a definitive diagnosis of Fanconi anemia who referred to the Pediatric Dentistry Department of Isfahan University of Medical Sciences with a complaint of deciduous tooth decay and pain on chewing food. The patient had prominent signs like short stature, hirsutism, pigmented face, contiguous eyebrows, coarse hair, protruding forehead, flat nose bridge and large ears.
Conclusion: Despite the low platelet count, it was possible to treat two teeth simultaneously in one session and no particular problem has been observed until the case is reported. It is recommended that taking into account the general health of the patient is very important in providing a treatment plan.
The current applications of cell-free fetal DNA in prenatal diagnosis of single-gene diseases: A review
Authors: Mortazavipour Mohamad Mahdi , Mahdian Reza , Shahbazi Shirin
Published: September 2022

Prenatal diagnosis of hereditary diseases has substantially altered the way medical geneticists are helping families affected by genetic disorders. However, the risk of miscarriage and fear of invasive diagnostic procedures may discourage many couples from seeking prenatal diagnosis. With the discovery of maternal plasma cell-free fetal DNA, prenatal diagnosis has entered a new era of progress. Cell-free DNA is released during normal physiological functions as well as through the cell death programs of apoptosis and necrosis. It can be found in the plasma and other body fluids. Although this method has the advantage of being noninvasive, it is still rather expensive and requires advanced hardware and comprehensive data analysis. Promising implications of noninvasive prenatal diagnosis methods for the diagnosis of common trisomy disorders have paved the way for the development of more complicated assays of single-gene disorders. Relative mutation dosage and relative haplotype dosage are the most widely implemented assays for noninvasive prenatal diagnosis of single-gene disorders. However, each assay has its own advantages and disadvantages. Relative mutation dosage is based on the droplet digital polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique which includes quantification features of real-time PCR assays. Relative haplotype dosage is based on next-generation sequencing that includes analysis of the maternal and paternal genome followed by sequencing of maternal plasma cell-free DNA. Co-amplification at a lower denaturation temperature PCR is another approach that is based on forming heteroduplexes between alleles to selectively amplify paternal mutations. In this review, we have described the most common noninvasive prenatal diagnosis approaches and compared their applications in genetic disorder diagnosis with different inheritance patterns.
Key words: Cell-free nucleic acids, Prenatal diagnosis, Noninvasive prenatal testing, Single-gene diseases, Non-invasive techniques.
Amniotic fluid characteristics and its application in stem cell therapy: A review
Authors: Shamsnajafabadi Hoda , Soheili Zahra-Soheila
Published: September 2022

Amniotic fluid (AF) is a clear yellow fluid that surrounds the fetus during pregnancy. The amniotic sac consists of 2 layers: the amnion and the chorion. Osmotic and hydrostatic forces cause the maternal plasma to pass through the fetal skin and generate the AF. AF allows the fetus to grow inside the uterus, supports it from injuries, retains consistent pressure and temperature, and enables the exchange of body chemicals with the mother. At first, it consists of water and electrolytes but after the 12-14th wk the liquid also contains carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, phospholipids, urea, hormones, and some biochemical products. AF appearance is characterized by the grade of cloudiness and the number of flakes of the vernix. The volume of AF increases with the fetus’s growth. Its appearance depends on the gestational age. In addition to differentiated cells, stem cells are also found within the AF. These cells express embryonic-specific cell markers and bear high self-renewal capacity and telomerase activity. AF stem cells possess the potential to differentiate into osteogenic, cardiac, skeletal muscle, lung, neuronal, kidney, bone, cartilage, ovarian and hepatic cells in vitro. They represent a great promise in regenerative medicine for the reconstruction of bio-artificial tissues and organs in vivo. The purpose of this paper was to briefly review the development and function of AF and the application of its stem cells in cell therapy.
Key words: Amniotic fluid, Stem cells, Differentiation, Regeneration, Tissue engineering.
Relationship between fetal middle cerebral artery pulsatility index and cerebroplacental ratio with adverse neonatal outcomes in low-risk pregnancy candidates for elective cesarean section: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Golshahi Fatemeh , Sahebdel Behrokh , Shirazi Mahboobeh , Rahimi Sharbaf Fatemeh , Aliabadi Hossein Rezaei , Taghavipour Mona , Mousavi Vahed Seyede Houra , Sedighi Darijani Tayebeh , Nezamnia Maria
Published: September 2022

Background: The cerebroplacental ratio (CPR) is an important factor for predicting adverse neonatal outcomes in appropriate-for-gestational-age fetuses.
Objective: To evaluate whether there is an association between the CPR level and adverse neonatal outcomes in appropriate-for-gestational-age fetuses.
Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study included 150 low-risk pregnant women candidates for elective cesarean sections at the gestational age of 39 wk. CPR and middle cerebral artery pulsatility index (MCA PI) were calculated in participants just before cesarian section. Postnatal complications were defined as an adverse neonatal outcome such as an Apgar score of the neonate ≤ 7 at 5 min, neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admission, cord arterial pH ≤ 7/14, and meconium stained liquor.
Results: The mean age of participants was 31.53 ± 4.91 yr old. The mean CPR was reported as 1.83 ± 0.64. The Chi-square test analysis revealed that a low MCA PI and a low CPR were significantly associated with decreased cord arterial pH, decreased Apgar score at 5 min, and NICU admission (p < 0.001). There was no significant association between umbilical artery PI with arterial cord pH, Apgar score at 5 min, NICU admission, or meconium stained liquor. The Mann-Whitney test showed that a lower fetal weight appropriate for the women’s gestational age was significantly associated with a decreased CPR and MCA PI (p < 0.005). There was no significant association between amniotic fluid index and CPR, umbilical artery PI, or MCA PI.
Conclusion: The CPR is a significant factor in predicting adverse neonatal outcomes and ultimately neonatal mortality and morbidity of low risk, appropriate-for-gestationalage fetuses.
Key words: Umbilical cord blood, Color Doppler ultrasonography, Gestational age.
Correlation between clinical and laboratory parameters and early pregnancy loss in assisted reproductive technology cycles: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Emami Fatemeh , Eftekhar Maryam , Jalaliani Samaneh
Published: September 2022

Background: The miscarriage rate after pregnancy resulting from assisted reproductive technology (ART) is about 20%, roughly half of which is biochemical. The correlations between the number and quality of oocytes, estradiol level and early pregnancy loss have not been fully clarified.
Objective: This study aimed to examine the clinical and laboratory parameter effects on early abortion in ART cycles.
Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 408 women who were ART candidates and were referred to the Yazd Infertility and Research Center, Yazd, Iran during March 2017 to March 2020 participated. Women who had a fresh embryo transferred and who had a positive beta human chorionic gonadotropin serum test were included in the study. The Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) level, embryo quality, oocyte number, progesterone level, estradiol level, and maternal age were extracted from the medical records.
Results: No significant difference was observed in the age, mean estradiol and progesterone levels on trigger day, number of MII oocytes, and embryo quality between the groups (p = 0.19, 0.42, 0.07, 0.34 and 0.20, respectively). No statistically significant difference was found between the 3 groups of AMH level (p = 0.20). After evaluation using logistic regression, the rate of negative clinical pregnancies was higher in the group with AMH < 1 ng/ml. However, this was not found to be statistically significant.
Conclusion: We did not find any correlation between early abortion and AMH levels, embryo quality, oocyte number, progesterone level, estradiol level, or maternal age.
Key words: Abortion, Pregnancy, Embryo transfer, Assisted reproductive techniques, Anti-Müllerian hormone.
Cytotoxic activity of peripheral blood mononuclear cells in patients with endometriosis: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Muharam Raden , Bustami Arleni , Mansur Indra Gusti , Jacoeb Teuku Zulkifli , Giustiniani Jerome , Schiavon Valerie , Bensussan Armand
Published: September 2022

Background: Endometriosis is believed to be associated with dysfunction of the lymphocyte population and cytotoxicity of natural killer (NK) cells, induced by the production of interleukin-2 (IL-2).
Objective: This study aimed to investigate T lymphocytes and NK cell activity in the peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of women with endometriosis.
Materials and Methods: PBMCs were obtained from the peripheral venous blood samples of 14 women with and without endometriosis (n = 7 for each group). Then, the PBMCs were co-cultured for 4 days and were treated with recombinant IL-2 for cytotoxic activity toward target cells (Daudi and K562 cells). The cytotoxicity activity was determined using the 51 chromium release assay before and after stimulation. Flow cytometry measurement was used to examine the expression of T lymphocytes and NK cells before and after being treated with IL-2.
Results: The concentration of CD3+CD28+ (co-stimulatory) was significantly lower in the endometriosis group (65.62 ± 5.38) compared to in its counterpart (50.24 ± 4.22) (p = 0.04) before stimulation. However, no significant differences were observed in any other T lymphocytes and NK cells. It was also found that there was a significant increase of CD3-CD28+ after treatment with IL-2 only in the healthy control but not in women with endometriosis.
Conclusion: Increased expression of CD160 and decreased CD28 play a role in inhibiting NK cell activation and T cell response in women with endometriosis.
Key words: CD28, CD160, Cytotoxic, Endometriosis, PBMC.
Measurement of Prothrombin Time (PT) and Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time (APTT), Fibrinogen Level, D-Dimer in Sudanese Infants and Children with Sepsis Khartoum State, 2022
Authors: Osman Ebar Mohamed Hassan , Osman Mohamed Alia bushra , Mohamed Abdalla Remaz Ahmed Alamen , Merghani Maye M. , Babiker Nihad alsadig
Published: September 2022

Background: Sepsis is the most common worldwide cause of death in infants and children. It was Known that coagulative and inflammatory parameters were involved in the host’s defense against sepsis resulted from severe infection and inflammation.
Materials and Methods: This was cross sectional study conducted at Albraa pediatric center, Khartoum, Sudan during the period from May 2022 to August 2022, to measure PT, APTT, fibrinogen level, D- dimer in Sudanese infants and children with sepsis. 50 patients were selected as a case group, and apparently healthy donors with no history of any coagulation problems or any chronic disease were selected as control group. 2.8 ml of venous blood samples were collected in Tri Sodium Citrate anticoagulant. The coagulation tests (PT, APTT, fibrinogen) were performed using semiautomatic device (coagulometer). I chroma was used for the D- dimer.
Results
When compared between case and control there was highly significant difference (p.value 0.000), in PT, APTT, fibrinogen and D- dimer. In addition, there was insignificant difference when the PT, APTT fibrinogen and D- dimer in cases compared with the gender, CRP and bacterial culture, and there was negative correlation between the parameters and the age except the D-dimer had appositive correlation. The most common types of isolated bacteria in sepsis patients is staphylococcus aureus.
Conclusion:
This study concluded that, PT, APTT, fibrinogen and D- dimer was significantly increased in patients with sepsis.
Déterminants of the Use of Modern Contraceptive Methods by Women in the Commune of Ruashi
Authors: Marie Thérèse Mungende Ndaienen , Numbi Oscar Luboya , A Nkoy Mwembo Tambwe
Published: September 2022

La planification familiale permet aux personnes et aux couples d’anticiper et d’atteindre le nombre d’enfants désiré, ainsi que l’espacement et le moment de leur naissance. Il est réalisé par l’utilisation de méthodes contraceptives et le traitement de l’infertilité involontaire. La capacité d’une femme à espacer et à limiter ses grossesses a un impact direct sur sa santé et son bien-être ainsi que sur l’issue de chaque grossesse.
Demographic and Clinical Characteristics of Endometrial Cancer in Northwestern Iran, Urmia: A Ten-Year Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Ayatollahi Haleh , Rajabi Elham , Razavi Rana , Jahangard Samira
Published: September 2022

Background: endometrial cancer is the most frequent genital cancer in women  in the developing nation. The purpose of this study was to investigate on  the demographic and clinical aspects of endometrial cancer, or to explain its epidemiology in patients admitted to Urmia's Kosar Hospital.

Methods: From 2006 to 2016, the medical records of 179 hospitalized women with an initial diagnosis of endometrial cancer were analyzed in this cross-sectional research. The patients’ clinical and demographic information, including age, menstrual age, first visit reason, number of deliveries, menstrual pattern, history of previous disease in patients and their relatives, disease stage, clinical parameters (including WBC, Hb, and MCV), pathology type, and the presence or absence of metastasis was extracted from their medical records and analyzed.

Results: The patients in our research had a mean age of more than 50 years. Nearly 80% of the patients were menopausal, and approximately 90% of the patients presented with bleeding complaints. Patients with endometrioid type adenocarcinoma had the highest frequency of pathology.

Conclusion: Our findings show a high proportion of bleeding complaints among the patients evaluated, which might reflect the importance of this finding and help to guide the disease’s diagnosis and therapy. However, further research is needed to establish the epidemiology of this condition in the country.
Multiplier Effect of Dam Development in Indonesia (A Study on Dam Development during the Leadership of President Joko Widodo)
Authors: Patmasari Eka , Ilham
Published: September 2022

This paper is a literature study entitled Multiplier Effect of Dam Development Policies in Indonesia with a focus on dam development policies under the leadership of the President of the Republic of Indonesia, Ir. H. Joko Widodo. Library research is part of the type of qualitative research, therefore the characteristics of qualitative research are transformed into the context of library research by moving the field setting to the library room, including changing interview and observation activities into text and discourse analysis. The results of this study indicate that Indonesia's dam construction policy is not limited to the purpose of increasing food security. However, the construction of dams actually has a multiplier effect, such as; as a power generator, flood control, overcoming drought, development of freshwater fish farming, and development of the tourism sector. Where the multiplier impact caused by the construction of dams has proven to be able to open new economic opportunities that stem from increasing the welfare of the community.
Leche cruda de vaca destinada a la elaboración de productos artesanales: calidad microbiológica y fisicoquímica
Authors: Iñiguez-Muñoz Laura Elena , Valencia-Botín Alberto Julián , Anaya-Esparza Luis Miguel , Anzaldo-Ortega Reyes Eduardo , Pliego-Sandoval Jorge Enrique , Reyes-Nava Luis Alberto , Méndez-Robles María Dolores
Published: September 2022

La leche cruda de vaca se utiliza como materia prima sin pasteurizar para la elaboración de productos artesanales; sin embargo, es necesario analizar su calidad antes de su transformación al producto final. El objetivo del presente estudio fue evaluar los parámetros de calidad de leche cruda de una Cooperativa de productores del municipio de Tepatitlán de Morelos, Jalisco, utilizada para elaborar productos artesanales con respecto a los límites fisicoquímicos y microbiológicos establecidos en la normatividad mexicana. Los factores de estudio del presente trabajo fueron tipo de ordeño y tratamiento que recibe la leche. El análisis de la calidad de las muestras recolectadas se efectuó acorde a metodologías oficiales. Respecto a la calidad microbiológica, los resultados de células somáticas, bacterias mesofílicas y organismos coliformes totales demostraron que la mayoría de las muestras no cumplen con los criterios establecidos. Contrariamente, los resultados del análisis fisicoquímico de la leche mostraron que el contenido de proteína, grasa, lactosa y sólidos no grasos se encuentran dentro de las especificaciones que dicta la normatividad. Los resultados reflejan la mala calidad microbiológica de la leche utilizada para la elaboración de productos artesanales; siendo esto la consecuencia de prácticas higiénicas deficientes durante la ordeña, almacenamiento y transporte.
Evaluación de infiltración con equipo TDR-300 y el modelo Green y Ampt, en suelo con aditivos orgánicos en Guasave, Sinaloa, México
Authors: Lugo Valenzuela Homero , Prado Hernandez Jorge Victor , Vazquez Peña Mario Alberto , Pineda Pineda Joel , Velazquez Lopez Noe
Published: September 2022

Las necesidades de agua en cultivos satisfacen en forma natural por lluvias, cuando es insuficiente, se aplica riegopor gravedad, lo anterior requiere conocer comportamiento de humedad un suelo. Existen métodos para medir y estimar la humedad: el método TDR-300 calcula humedad tiempo real y el modelo de Green y Ampt que estima la lámina de riego (cm) en laboratorio. El objetivo de la investigación fue calcular y evaluar numéricamente parámetros hidrodinámicos, mesclando suelo con aditivo orgánico, utilizando equipo TDR-300, obteniendo mediciones en tiempo real, en un diseño experimental de 3 x 3, en 3 surcos de 30 m, con 6 mediciones cada 5 m, a profundidad de 30 cm a los 3 tratamientos: testigo T1 (suelo normal), T2 (Suelo + aditivo 25 g) y T3 (suelo + aditivo 50 g) aplicando riego por gravedad, y se compararon con las estimaciones obtenidas del modelo deGreen y Ampt en laboratorio. Se calcularon tiempo de avance del agua, tiempo de recesión y oportunidad. A mayor contenido de aditivo orgánico, menor avance y mayor retención de agua, las estimaciones realizadas por método de Green y Ampt en laboratorio, fueron similares a los datos recolectados en campo con TDR-300.
Evaluación agronómica de germoplasma promisorio de batata (Ipomoea batatas) en el departamento del Valle del Cauca, Colombia
Authors: Rodríguez Henao Eberto , Aguilera-Arango Germán Andrés , Rosero Alpala Elvia Amparo
Published: September 2022

La batata (Ipomoea batatas L.) es una especie de importancia económica, ya que contribuye a la seguridad alimentaria de millones de personas. Sin embargo, en Colombia esta especie es subutilizada, cultivándose de forma artesanal en la región Caribe. El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar las características agronómicas de germoplasma de batata, bajo las condiciones agroambientales del departamento del Valle del Cauca, Colombia. Se sembraron 29 genotipos usando un diseño de bloques completos al azar y 27 genotipos, para su uso como parentales en una parcela única y evaluar la producción de semilla sexual para procesos de recombinación genética. Se encontró una respuesta diferencial entre los genotipos evaluados, sobresaliendo el genotipo 1115-200_BOL con un rendimiento de raíces tuberosas totales y de primera categoría de 64.9 t ha-1 y 52.7 t ha-1 respectivamente, y un porcentaje de raíces tuberosas de primera categoría del 81 %. En la producción de estructuras reproductivas, los genotipos que se destacaron fueron 0615-070_COR, 1215-227_BOL y la variedad Agrosavia Aurora. Todas estas características indicaron es posible establecer procesos de mejoramiento y la inserción de la batata como cultivo, bajo las condiciones agroambientales del Valle del Cauca. Además, se identificaron como posibles cultivares comerciales los genotipos 1115-200_BOL y 1215-232_SUC para esta región de Colombia.