bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Content Analysis of Ethics of Governance, Maladministration and Political Corruption
Authors: Igwe Paul Agu , Egbo Obiamaka P. , Nwakpu Ekwutosi Sanita , Hove-Sibanda Progress , Saif Abu Naser Mohammad , Islam Md Asadul
Published: June 2021

Although different forms of corruption exist in every region, Africa, South America, Latin America, Russia, and Asia countries, perhaps to a greater extent engage in higher levels of corruption more than other regions of the world. Applying ethics of governance and theory of “patrimonialism,” this article examines governance of ethics and corruption. This article argues that corruption lays the foundation for the abridgement of citizens' rights and perpetuation of underdevelopment. Methodologically, the authors explored contents through multiple media sources, ensuring rigor and trustworthiness. The findings reveal how corruption is being perpetuated in Nigeria, prosecuted, and the challenges. This article finds a strong relationship between corruption, the absence of ethics of governance, and maladministration. Many public and political office holders engage or support corruption; there is lack of moral and ethical considerations. More so, it appears that politics is based on wealth acquisition and self-interest rather than on ideologies.
Recurrent Neural Network (RNN) to Analyse Mental Behaviour in Social Media
Authors: Bouarara Hadj Ahmed
Published: June 2021

A recent British study of people between the ages of 14 and 35 has shown that social media has a negative impact on mental health. The purpose of the paper is to detect people with mental disorders' behaviour in social media in order to help Twitter users in overcoming their mental health problems such as anxiety, phobia, depression, paranoia. The authors have adapted the recurrent neural network (RNN) in order to prevent the situations of threats, suicide, loneliness, or any other form of psychological problem through the analysis of tweets. The obtained results were validated by different experimental measures such as f-measure, recall, precision, entropy, accuracy. The RNN gives best results with 85% of accuracy compared to other techniques in literature such as social cockroaches, decision tree, and naïve Bayes.
Buying Through Social Platforms
Authors: Martínez-López Francisco J. , Li Yangchun , Feng Changyuan , López-López David
Published: June 2021

Social platforms are currently encountering a set of burning issues: low ad conversion rates, cross-channel free-riding phenomena, lack of monetary incentives to retain premium content creators, etc. Direct purchase behaviors between social platform users (e.g., making a direct purchase through a seller's promotional post) can largely resolve these problems. Therefore, it is imperative to study the factors that influence users' direct purchase behavior. This paper focuses on risk- and trust-related factors, proposing a theoretical model that was tested on two samples of Chinese users of WeChat. The authors concluded that users tend to evaluate the shopping risk associated with the social platform first, then go through a process of building trust in the platform before making purchases. Further, this trust can generate a halo effect on seller risk. Finally, trust and seller risk directly impact on users' purchase intention to buy from the seller on the platform.
Attitude towards COVID-19 vaccine among the general public in south India
Authors: Godasi Ganga Raju , Donthu Raj Kiran , Mohammed Abdul Salaam , Pasam Ravi Sankar , Tiruveedhula Sri Lakshmi
Published: June 2021

Introduction:

Coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) is a novel infection that sets off a pandemic in a short period. Research has been going on to develop safe and effective vaccines and around 150 are in the process of development. In India, two vaccines have been given emergency approval. There has been a rise in hesitancy toward vaccination not only in India but also worldwide.

Materials and Methodology:

The study included 697 participants who were not vaccinated. The study questionnaire was administered through online Google Forms and included informed consent, sociodemographic details, questions related to COVID-19 infection and vaccine, and vaccine attitude examination (VAX) scale.

Results:

Among the 697 participants, 216 (31%) were not willing to get vaccinated. Those with prevailing mental (P = 0.011) or physical health (P < 0.001) problems were of negative opinion toward vaccination because of unforeseen complications. Participants with lower education (P = 0.041), skilled to semi-skilled job (P = 0.028), and joint family (P = 0.006) opined that vaccination was more of commercial profiteering for manufacturing companies. Participants who were married (P = 0.010) and living in a joint family (P = 0.009) setting were more inclined toward a preference for natural immunity.

Conclusion:

The study highlights that 69% of participants were willing to take the COVID-19 vaccine. Various measures can be taken by different stakeholders to improve the positive attitude. As medical professions, we can improve the positive attitude by actively taking the vaccine and educating the local people about the benefits.
A cross-sectional study of psychological distress among doctors' spouses during COVID-19
Authors: Goud Sripathi Santhosh , Indla Vishal , Deshpande Manjiri , Reddy Indla Ramasubba
Published: June 2021

Introduction:

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection and subsequent lockdown restrictions brought drastic changes in the lives of the people. Doctors' community led the fight against COVID-19 as frontline warriors leaving their families at home for prolonged periods. The psychological issues among the family members, particularly spouses of doctors, are significantly high and need special attention.

Aims:

We aimed to assess the level of psychological distress among doctors' spouses and the possible relationship between different variables and the level of the distress.

Materials and Methods:

The study was conducted in online mode using chain-referral sampling method. Sample size was 120 and comprises doctors' spouses who were not related to medical field. Those who were working in medical field or having any past psychological illness were excluded from the study. A semi-structured pro forma was used to collect the basic demographic details, and Kessler's Psychological Distress Scale (K10) was used to rate psychological distress.

Results:

72.5% of the study population had reported psychological distress, and half of these participants reported severe psychological distress. Age was the single variable that had significance (P < 0.1), whereas other variables did not show statistically significant values.

Conclusion:

Psychological distress is much higher compared to the general population in the spouses of the doctors. In long run, this may result in psychological illnesses such as depression and anxiety disorders. As a special group, these require targeted interventions and care for the prevention of severe mental health problems.
Catarrh - the patient experience
Authors: Cathcart R.A. , Wilson J.A.
Published: June 2021

Background: No study to date has looked at the symptoms of chronic catarrh as defined by the patients themselves. We looked to explore the catarrh experience through the eyes of patients using a qualitative approach. Methodology/principal: Forty-eight patients referred to Secondary Care with chronic catarrh, postnasal drip or persistent throat clearing completed an open-ended questionnaire from which a comprehensive symptom list was generated. Nineteen of these patients undertook semi-structured interviews to explore symptomatic themes relating to their catarrh using grounded theory analysis. Results: A standardised list of 38 catarrh-related symptoms was generated covering a wide topography. A common theme amongst interviewees was the frustration of being unable to expectorate mucus rather than expelling too much. Conclusions: Difficulties exist in establishing whether the extensive list of symptoms associated with catarrh is a result of differing experiences for patients or simply differing lexicon describing the same experience. Many of these symptoms are not included in the most commonly used nose/throat symptom instruments. Furthermore a distinction should be made between patients with true rhinitis who expel mucus and those who present with apparent postnasal drip or throat clearing but who cannot expectorate, whose management ought be focused more on symptom-coping strategies rather than medication or investigation.
Endonasal endoscopic approach for removal of intranasal nasal glial heterotopias
Authors: Bonne N.-X. , Zago S. , Hosana G. , Vinchon M. , Van den Abbeele T. , Fayoux P.
Published: June 2021

Background: Nasal Glial Heterotopias also called Nasal Gliomas (NG) are rare congenital tumours of the midline frontonasal space arising from a normal neurectodermal tissue entrapped during the closure of the anterior neuropore. Historically, such tumours were approached using a frontal craniotomy. The study aims to evaluate a fully endonasal endoscopic approach for intranasal NG removal. Methods: We report a retrospective study of intranasal and mixed NG treated using endonasal endoscopic techniques and computer assisted navigation system from 1997 to 2010 in two tertiary referral centres of Paediatric Otolaryngology. All tumours were investigated using two imaging modalities: craniofacial MRI and CT-scan. Results: Fifteen patients were included (0 to 14 years of age). All tumours were totally removed and no recurrence was observed after a mean follow-up of 32 months. A skull base plasty was done in 13 cases to cover a bony defect or to treat a cerebrospinal leak. Nasal packing was usually removed 24 hours after surgery and all children were discharged home after 2 to 4 days. Conclusion: Removal of intranasal NGs using an endonasal endoscopic approach and a dedicated computer assisted navigation system is a safe and efficient procedure. Early management is recommended to treat neonatal airway obstruction.
Long-term low-dose antibiotics in recalcitrant chronic rhinosinusitis: a retrospective analysis
Authors: Videler W.J.M. , van Hee K. , Reinartz S.M. , Georgalas C. , van der Meulen F.W. , Fokkens W.J.
Published: June 2021

Introduction: In recalcitrant Chronic RhinoSinusitis (CRS) treatment with intranasal corticosteroids, short-term antibiotics and even sinus surgery is frequently insufficient. Long-term low-dose administration of antibiotics has been suggested as a treatment option in these patients. We analysed the outpatient clinic population treated with different long-term low-dose antibiotics at the AMC Amsterdam. Patients and methods: Eligible patients, who were treated with trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole or macrolides, were retrospectively identified from our outpatient clinic in 2009. The two main outcome measures were sinonasal complaints and nasal endoscopic findings. A 5-point grading scale was used to score the results compared with the pre-treatment situation. This was measured at several time-points during, and after the antibiotic course, and at the end of the follow-up term. Results: Seventy-six patients were included, 53 per cent had asthma and all of them had undergone sinus surgery. Seventy-eight per cent showed improvement of the symptoms, and 84 per cent demonstrated improvement of the sinonasal mucosa at the end of the course. No significant difference was found between the trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole and macrolide group. Discussion: Long-term low-dose treatment with antibiotics seems to improve CRS symptoms and the appearance of the sinonasal mucosa on nasal endoscopy. However, at this stage, strong conclusions are immature because no placebo-group has been included. Despite increasing use of long-term low-dose treatment of recalcitrant CRS in referral centres, hard clinical evidence is lacking. More research is urgently required.
Gene therapy and nasopharyngeal carcinoma
Authors: Hughes J. , Alusi G. , Wang Y.
Published: June 2021

In 2003, a non-replicating adenoviral gene therapy product received the world`s first government licence for the treatment of head and neck cancer. Two years later approval was granted to a replication-selective adenovirus for the treatment of nasopharyngeal carcinoma in combination with chemotherapy. This review introduces the reader to gene therapy as an emerging treatment modality, and outlines its application to the management of nasopharyngeal carcinoma by examining recent pre-clinical and clinical research.
The microdebrider, a step forward or an expensive gadget?
Authors: Cornet M.E. , Reinartz S.M. , Georgalas C. , van Spronsen E. , Fokkens W.J.
Published: June 2021

Background: Although the use of the microdebrider (shaver) is well known in endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS), there is lack of evidence from comparative studies focussing on the difference in operating time, intra-operative blood loss and user-friendliness between the microdebrider and traditional operating techniques. In this study we compared the use of the microdebrider to conventional instruments in FESS in these areas. Methods: A prospective randomised double blind controlled trial in 60 patients with chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyposis (CRSwNP) undergoing bilateral FESS. Each subject received FESS using only traditional instruments (Blakseley forceps) on one side and the other side with the additional use of the microdebrider, this way serving as their own control. The primary outcome was operation time, intra-operative blood loss and user friendliness and secondly safety and postoperative healing with a follow-up period at different time points up to three months postoperative. Results: We found a 37% longer operating time when operating without a microdebrider. This difference was highly significant. The microdebrider scored significantly higher on every different parameter of user friendliness, except on the preparation of the instrument needed before surgery. For estimated blood loss during surgery we found no differences. Also there was no significant difference in postoperative healing at any point of time. Conclusions: This study demonstrates that operating patient with CRSwNP with the microdebrider is efficient and that the microdebrider at the same time is safe and easy to use.
ANALYSIS OF PRESSURE VARIATION OF FLUID IN AN INFINITE ACTING RESERVOIR
Authors: Erhunmwun ID , Akpobi JA
Published: June 2021

In this work, we investigate the well pressure distribution in a boundless reservoir.  This research work seeks to know the pressure variation in a reservoir whose pressure disturbance caused by the withdrawal of fluid from the wellbore, is yet to be felt at the external boundaries of the reservoir. The diffusivity equation was used in the analysis. The work covers the transient state where the reservoir is acting as if it was infinite in size. The finite element technique, using Lagrange quadratic shape elements was employed to carry out the analysis over the cross-section of the reservoir. The analysis was done with the assumption that before the well begins production, there was uniform distribution of pressure all through the reservoir. The accuracy of the result was validated by comparing with the results published by Chatas and Lee. The comparison shows a strong positive correlation between the two methods. Also, the results published by Chatas and Lee stated only the pressure at the wellbore at a particular time but this work predicts the pressure variation in the entire reservoir from the wellbore to the infinite sized external boundary at the same time.  http://dx.doi.org/10.4314/njt.v36i1.11
SCANNING SPEED INFLUENCE ON THE PHYSICAL PROPERTIES OF LASER METAL DEPOSITION TITANIUM ALLOY
Authors: Mahamood RM , Aweda JO , Ajao KR , AbdulKareem S , Ajimotokan HA
Published: June 2021

The most commonly used aerospace titanium alloy, Ti6Al4V, was deposited on Ti6Al4V plate of dimension 72 x 72 x5mm. The laser power of 3 kW, powder flow rate of 1.44 g/min and gas flow rate of 4 l/min were used throughout the deposition process. The transverse/ scanning speed was varied between 0.005 to 0.095 m/sec according to established result of the preliminary study that produces full dense and pore free deposits. The mass of the deposited powder was obtained by weighing the substrate before the deposition and reweighing after the deposition. The substrate and the deposits were thoroughly cleaned using wire brush and acetone to remove unmelted powder particles from the surface of the substrate and the deposit. The height and width of the deposits were measured with Venier Caliper and the material efficiencies were determined using developed equations. The objective of this research is to determine the influence of the scanning speed on the material efficiency and deposit height in laser metal deposition of titanium alloy- Ti6Al4V. The results of this study showed that, for the set of processing parameter used in this study, the optimum scanning speed was at 0.015 m/sec with the optimum material utilization efficiency of 83.33% and the deposition height of 1.09 mm.  http://dx.doi.org/10.4314/njt.v36i1.17
AN ARCHITECTURE-BASED TECHNIQUE TO MOBILE CONTACT RECOMMENDATION FOR EMERGENCY SITUATION IN NIGERIA
Authors: Akigbe BI , Ikono RN , Ejidokun AO , Aderibigbe SO , Afolabi BS
Published: June 2021

Smart technologies such as smart phones, iPad and Tablets are ubiquitous in today’s society. They possess increasing computing and storage potentials. Thus, emerging as a dominant computing platform for different kinds of end-users. However, these technological possibilities have not been fully explored for emergency situations where close relatives must be contacted. This paper therefore presents an Emergency Contact Recommendation Model (ECRM) that was implemented into an emergency contact recommendation system. An architectural based approach was employed to highlight the contribution this paper made to extant knowledge. The leveraged of the Dust miner algorithmic technique, the direct discriminative pattern mining, and the Bayesian Inference Network technique were used to formulate the ECRM. The ECRM was implemented using the Java development and android tool kit. The model demonstrated commendable capabilities - considering the foregoing techniques when compared with what obtains in literature- to make useful recommendation in emergency situation(s) after implementation.   http://dx.doi.org/10.4314/njt.v36i124
CURRENT STATUS AND OUTLOOK OF RENEWABLE ENERGY DEVELOPMENT IN NIGERIA
Authors: Akorede MF , Ibrahim O , Amuda SA , Otuoze AO , Olufeagba BJ
Published: June 2021

Over 80% of the current Nigerian primary energy consumption is met by petroleum. This overdependence on fossil fuels derived from petroleum for local consumption requirements should be a serious source of concern for the country in two ways – depletion of the resources and negative impact on the environment. This paper presents a critical review of the available renewable energy resources in Nigeria, namely; biomass, hydropower, solar and wind energy. It examines the current energy situation in the country and equally discusses the various energy policy documents developed by the government. Using the scenario-based International Atomic Energy Agency models, the projected energy demand and supply structure of the country through 2030 are presented and analysed. Overall, this study shows that Nigeria will overcome her present energy crisis if she explores the abundant renewable energy resources in the country.  The data presented in this paper is a crucial eye-opener for relevant government agencies towards developing these energy resources in tackling the present energy crisis in Nigeria.  http://dx.doi.org/10.4314/njt.v36i1.25
DYNAMICS OF RECTANGULAR ORTHOTROPIC PLATES USING CHARACTERISTIC ORTHOGONAL POLYNOMIAL – GALERKIN’S METHODS
Authors: Osadebe NN , Attama CM , Oguaghamba OA
Published: June 2021

The assumed deflection shapes used in the approximate methods such as in the Galerkin’s method were normally formulated by inspection and sometimes by trial and error, until recently, when a systematic method of constructing such a function in the form of Characteristic Orthogonal Polynomial (COPs) was developed by Bhat in 1985. In the vibrational analyses of orthotropic rectangular plates with different boundary conditions, the study used the characteristic orthogonal polynomial theory to obtain satisfactory approximate shape functions for these plates. These functions were applied to Galerkin indirect varational method to obtain new set of fundamental natural frequencies for these plates. The results were reasonable when compared with those in the previous work. All round simply supported thin rectangular plate (SSSS), rectangular clamped plated (CCCC) and rectangular plate with one edge clamped and all others edges simply supported (CSSS) gave 5.172, 9.429 and 6.202 natural frequencies in rad /sec respectively at 0.05%, 0.0% and 22.93% difference with the previous[3] results5.170rad/sec, 9.429rad/sec and 8.048rad/sec  for SSSS, CCCC and CSSS. For others like: rectangular plate with one edge simply supported and all other edges clamped (CCSC), rectangular plate simply supported at two opposite sides and clamped at the others (CSCS) and rectangular plate clamped at two adjacent sides and simply supported at the others (CCSS) with no available results, their natural frequencies obtained are 8.041rad/sec, 6.272rad/sec and 7.106rad/sec respectively. http://dx.doi.org/10.4314/njt.v36i1.8
DESIGN AND OPERATIONS CHALLENGES OF A SINGLE TOGGLE JAW CRUSHER: A REVIEW
Authors: Okechukwu C , Dahunsi OA , Oke PK , Oladele IO , Dauda M , Olaleye BM
Published: June 2021

A review on the design and operations challenges of a single toggle jaw crusher is presented. Strength and fracture toughness of the material to be crushed are intrinsic properties that determine the time and energy required to crush the material. Economy of the crushing process is partly dependent on the angle of nip. Productivity of the crusher can be improved upon by increasing the eccentricity of the eccentric shaft, use of reversible jaws, bush bearing and easily adjustable toggle plate. Vibrations and fatigue cracks in the crusher frame will be nipped in the bud through structural analysis at design stage. Determination of the optimal angle of inclination of the toggle plate, development of jaws with varying wear rate along the crushing chamber, and development of comminution energy models that take into cognizance relevant crushing parameters for simulation and optimization of the crushing process are some areas that require close attention. Â http://dx.doi.org/10.4314/njt.v36i3.22
EFFECTS OF METAL INERT GAS WELDING PARAMETERS ON SOME MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF AUSTENITIC STAINLESS STEEL IN ACIDIC ENVIRONMENT
Authors: Omiogbemi IMB , Yawas DS , Dagwa IM , Okibe FG
Published: June 2021

The purpose of the present study is to investigate the effects of metal inert gas (MIG) welding parameters on the mechanical properties (hardness, tensile and impact) of type 304 austenitic stainless steel (ASS) immersed in 0.5M hydrochloric acid at ambient temperature. The MIG welding was applied to 3mm thick ASS. The dimensions of the samples were 50mm x 15mm x 3mm and 120mm x 15mm x 3mm rectangular bars each for impact, hardness and tensile tests and for immersion in the medium. Design Expert Software, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Rockwell Hardness Test, Monsanto Tensometer and Izod Impact Test were used to determine the interactions of parameters, microstructural analysis and optimal performances of the parameters respectively. Experimental results indicate that tensile strength increased with increase in welding parameters from 120MN/m2 to 133MN/m2 at speed of 40cm/min and current of 110. when the properties are compared with varying weld parameters adopted in jointâ€™s weld operations, there was a pattern displayed among the weld parameters with C3 (19.7HRA, 203N/mm2 and 19.7J )and C4 (14.9 HRA, 189N/mm2 and 14.9J) consistently coming out as the parameter producing an ASS weld joint with the best mechanical properties of hardness, tensile and impact strength. Surface corrosion deposit composition was analyzed with the SEM paired with energy dispersive spectrometer (EDS) to ascertain microstructural behavior of the material. Â Â http://dx.doi.org/10.4314/njt.v36i3.25
TECHNO-ECONOMIC INVESTIGATION OF DIFFERENT ALTERNATIVES OF IMPROVING SIMPLE GAS TURBINE INTEGRATION OPTIONS
Authors: Sulaiman MA , Waheed MA , Adesope WA , Noike A
Published: June 2021

This study investigated the effect of integrating various models proposed to improve a simple gas turbine power plant. A computer program was developed in Matlab software was used to simulate the performance parameters. The energy and exergy analysis of the plant was carried out. The energy and exergy analysis result revealed that both energy and exergy efficiency of plant is low as a result three improvement options were considered. They include Model 1: reducing inlet air cooling (IAC) of the compressor by using the wasted energy in the natural gas pressure drop station. Model 2: recovering wasted energy in the exhaust through heat recovery steam generator (HRSG) and injecting steam into the combustion chamber and lastly Model 3: by combining the two methods. The result showed that among the three methods of improving the plant investigated Model 3 was found to boost power output of the plant from 28.3 MW to 78.4 MW while the thermal and exergetic efficiency improved by 25.5 and 23.6% respectively. Furthermore, from economic and environmental point of view, the lowest levelized cost of electricity as well as the specific emissions was observed in Model 3. Consequently, Model 3 is selected as the best option in improving the simple gas turbine. Â http://dx.doi.org/10.4314/njt.v36i3.27
IMPROVEMENT OF POWER SYSTEM QUALITY USING VSC-BASED HVDC TRANSMISSION
Authors: Eyenubo OJ , Oshevire P
Published: June 2021

The HVDC technology can be represented by the combination of a Direct Current (DC) circuit with two power electronics converters, each one at a link terminal, for AC/DC and DC/AC conversion The principal characteristic of VSC-HVDC transmission is its ability to independently control the reactive and real power flow at each of the AC systems via the Point of Common Coupling (PCC). The active and reactive power is related to the power angle and the magnitude ofÂ  voltage in the reference -frame selected such that the quadrature component will result in the ratio between the maximum fundamental peak phase voltage and the DC total voltagehttp://dx.doi.org/10.4314/njt.v36i3.31
MULTIBAND MILLIMETER WAVE T-SHAPED ANTENNA WITH OPTIMIZED PATCH PARAMETER USING PARTICLE SWARM OPTIMIZATION
Authors: Jabire AH , Abdu A , Salisu S
Published: June 2021

This paper proposed a simple T-shaped patch antenna for millimeter waveband frequency operation. Millimeter wave is a frequency ranges between 30GHz to 300GHz in an electromagnetic spectrum. The proposed antenna consists of T-shape radiating patch mounted on rectangular substrate (FR4-4) and microstrip line for antenna feeding. An evolutionary algorithm called particle swarm optimization was used to optimize the length and width of the proposed antenna patch. The proposed antenna gives triple bands with central frequencies at 42GHz, 51.5GHz and 60GHz. The antenna offers minimum return loss of -19db, -24db and -19.5db at 42GHz, 51.5GHz and 60GHz respectively. The return loss impedance bandwidth of 5GHz for the first band, 8.4GHz for the second band and 5GHz for the third band was obtained. The proposed antenna was analyzed using Ansoft High Frequency Structure Simulator (HFSS) and MATLAB 2013. Radiation characteristics of this patch antenna are observed at various resonating frequencies.Â Â http://dx.doi.org/10.4314/njt.v36i3.33
NEW MODEL FOR SOLAR RADIATION ESTIMATION FROM MEASURED AIR TEMPERATURE AND RELATIVE HUMIDITY IN NIGERIA
Authors: Salisu S
Published: June 2021

Solar radiation prediction is essential for effective and reliable solar power project, predicted solar radiation can be used for accurate solar energy prediction. Solar radiation measurement is not sufficient in Nigeria for various reasons such as maintenance and repair cost, calibration of instrument, and expansive of measuring device. In this paper, adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS) model was developed to predict the monthly average solar radiation in Nigeria. Air temperature of monthly mean minimum temperature, maximum temperature and relative humidity obtained from Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET) were used as inputs to the ANFIS model and monthly mean global solar radiation was used as out of the model. Statistical evaluation of the model was done based on root mean square error (RMSE) and correlation coefficient R to examine the accuracy of the developed model. The values of RMSE and R for the training data are 0.91315MJ/m2 and 0.91264MJ/m2 respectively. The obtained result showed a good correlation between the predicted and measured solar radiation which proves ANFIS to be a good model for solar radiation prediction.Â Â http://dx.doi.org/10.4314/njt.v36i3.35
MODELLING GAIT SYNDROME IN HUNTINGTONâ€™S DISEASE: THE GENETIC ALGORITHM APPROACH
Authors: Ajibola OOE , Ogunwolu L
Published: June 2021

Huntingtonâ€™s disease (HD) which usually affects the patients at middle age results from malfunctioning of the basal ganglia. It is characterized by cognitive impairment, involuntary movements, neuropsychiatric and psychological disturbances. Early motor signs of Huntingtonâ€™s disease typically include the gradual onset of clumsiness, balance difficulties, and brief, random, fidgeting movements. A popular approach to solving symptoms arising from HD has been through the administration of drugs. But drugs debase human activities, thus the application of electroconvulsive therapy. This work proposes a genetic algorithmic (GA) simulation of chorea in HD patient as a pedestal for the design of a therapeutic device aimed at managing the phenomenon. Earlier efforts have led us to the formulation of such models in recent past. We also compared the GA model with our foremost effort: the electromechanical model, and we observe that the GA model adequately capture the physiological presentation of gait phenomenon in Huntingtonâ€™s disease.Â http://dx.doi.org/10.4314/njt.v36i3.37
OPTIMIZATION OF NICKEL (II) AND CHROMIUM (III) REMOVAL FROM CONTAMINATED WATER USING SORGHUM BICOLOR
Authors: Adewoye LT , Mustapha SI , Adeniyi AG , Tijani JO , Amoloye MA , Ayinde LJ
Published: June 2021

A central composite design (CCD) under the response surface methodology (RSM)was used to study the effect of three adsorption variables (pH, initial concentration, and adsorbent dosage) in order to determine the optimum process conditions for the adsorptions of Ni (II) and Cr (III) onto sulphuric acid modified sorghum bicolor activated carbon (SBAC).This study yielded removal efficiency of 98.89 % for Ni (II) and 94.27 % for Cr (III) ion under optimal conditions of pH (8), initial metal ion concentration (25 mg/L), adsorbent dosage (10 mg) and pH (7), initial metal ion concentration (5 mg/L), dosage (15 mg);respectively. Statistical analysis of variance results showed a good correlation existed between the experimental and predicted data with R2 values of 0.99 for Ni and 0.98 for Cr. The equilibrium data for Ni (II) adsorption was best described using Freundlich model while Langmuir model best fit Cr (III) adsorption. The mechanism of adsorption for both Ni and Cr adsorptions on SBAC followed Pseudo second order kinetic model.Â Â http://dx.doi.org/10.4314/njt.v36i3.41
FLEXURAL IMPROVEMENT OF PLAIN CONCRETE BEAMS STRENGTHENED WITH HIGH PERFORMANCE FIBRE REINFORCED CONCRETE
Authors: Isa MN
Published: June 2021

Strengthening of concrete structures have become inevitable due to unavoidable factors such as fatigue and aggressive environmental conditions causing deterioration of concrete structures. Many researchers have turned in the direction of using various high strength and high performance concretes due to their high structural and durability properties, for the purpose of repair and strengthening of concrete structures against these aggressive conditions. As a result, this study carryout experimental, numerical and analytical investigation to study the behaviour of plain concrete (PC) beams strengthened with High Performance Fibre Reinforced Concrete (HPFRC) layer using three different jacketing configurations and tested in flexure. Results show significant improvement in both stiffness and load bearing capacity of plain concrete beams.Â http://dx.doi.org/10.4314/njt.v36i3.6
SOSTENIBILIDAD EDUCATIVA Y DESARROLLO SOCIAL LATINOAMERICANO
Authors: Palacios-Saltos Leonardo Enrique , Moreira-Zambrano Yaneth Moncerrate , Vargas-Rodríguez Fanny Annabel
Published: June 2021

La práctica educativa contemporánea plantea desafíos y cambios necesarios en el proceso de enseñanza donde el ciberespacio y el entorno virtual se convierten en lugares de aprendizaje. La emoción, la emoción, la percepción y la imaginación forman la base del conocimiento adulto significativo. Tales supuestos teóricos se vuelven cruciales para el proceso de enseñanza en entornos virtuales en modo online o remoto. En la actualidad la educación se encuentra inmersa en un proceso de renovación constante debido a la inferencia de dos hechos fundamentales: el surgimiento de nuevas tecnologías y el desarrollo de nuevas metodologías activas que lideran los procesos de enseñanza y aprendizaje. El sistema educativo, es responsable de la formación de cada nueva generación, y consecuentemente se adapta a sí mismo a lo largo de los años a los cambios en la sociedad circundante. La educación en todos sus niveles, dada su naturaleza, está marcada por las innovaciones tecnológicas, destinadas a mejorar la forma en que ocurren los procesos académicos y pedagógicos, así como a resolver ciertos problemas latentes en el mundo contemporáneo, por lo que se considera pilar fundamental del desarrollo socioeconómico a nivel global. La relación entre educación y desarrollo social es muy importante. En general, es positiva. Significa que la educación conducirá a una mejora en las percepciones de la gente sobre la felicidad tangible o percibida, incluidas diversas formas de política, economía y sociedad. Tecnología, beneficios cognitivos, emociones y otros tipos que afectan directa o indirectamente la vida de las personas. La educación es un proceso de desarrollo y mejora de la sociedad, no solo una necesidad material, sino también una condición social para los individuos y la sociedad. La educación y el aprendizaje pueden aumentar las ambiciones, generar valor y, en última instancia, enriquecer la vida. En particular, se informa que la educación formal ha traído desarrollo a la sociedad.

Palabras claves: educación, desarrollo, aprendizaje, nuevas tecnologías.
Teoría evolucionista, revolución tecnológica y paradigma tecno-económico: una mirada a la economía de la innovación.
Authors: Espinosa Jaramillo María Teresa , Carvajal-Ordoñez Venus Flor Marina , Pesantez Rodríguez Judith Cristina
Published: June 2021

Esta investigación tiene como objetivo comprender los aportes de Carlota Pérez a la economía de la innovación desde la perspectiva de la corriente neoschumpeteriana. Carlota Pérez sostiene la importancia del análisis de las revoluciones tecnológicas, los paradigmas tecnoeconómicos y su papel en la sucesión de ondas largas del desarrollo económico, asociando las ideas de Schumpeter a la explicación de los ciclos económicos de Kondrátiev. Se utilizó una revisión documental y método interpretativo.
Comunicación efectiva a través de la Virtualidad en la Formación Universitaria.
Authors: Bravo Alvarado Rufina Narcisa
Published: June 2021

Transmitir información forma parte del proceso comunicacional. La evolución constante de las tecnologías de la información y comunicación ha favorecido la creación de espacios donde las personas promueven nuevas formas de comunicarse, entre los que se encuentran los entornos virtuales de aprendizaje (EVA). El presente estudio tiene como objetivo determinar la calidad de la comunicación efectiva de los EVA y su incidencia en los procesos formativos de los estudiantes de la Universidad Estatal de Milagro, a través de un estudio de campo que permita fortalecer la relación directa entre docente y estudiante. La muestra estuvo conformada por un total de 4496 estudiantes de las diversas facultades, así como la participación de 34 docentes de la Facultad de Educación.
El despido intempestivo y el derecho al trabajo en Ecuador en tiempo de COVID 19.
Authors: Piñas Piñas Luis Fernando , Viteri Naranjo Beatriz Del Carmen , Álvarez Enriquez Gandy Francisco
Published: June 2021

El tema propuesto se refiere al abuso de los empleadores, que haciendo uso del despido intempestivo, violento y fracturo el derecho a la estabilidad laboral de los trabajadores, en una de las épocas más complejas para el mundo la pandemia del COVID 19. Los empleadores se aprovecharon de esta coyuntura de salud para despedir a sus trabajadores sin pagarles lo que la ley prevé, contrariando lo que dispone el Código de Trabajo que nació como instrumento de la Constitución para que se materialicen los derechos de los trabajadores y se garantice la estabilidad laboral. El presente trabajo ayuda a evidenciar la prepotencia y el abuso de parte de los dueños de los medios de producción, ocasionando la precarización laboral.
El prevaricato de los jueces en el sistema jurídico ecuatoriano.
Authors: Jiménez Martínez Roberto Carlos , Morales Suárez Gerardo Román , Cisneros Zúñiga Cinthya Paulina
Published: June 2021

Mediante el presente trabajo se pretende proyectar un análisis del delito de prevaricato concentrándose en las actuaciones que comprenden las decisiones de los jueces ya que el contenido de los artículos 268 y 269 del Código Orgánico Integral Penal, se refieren también al prevaricato de los árbitros y abogados. El objeto de estudio es principalmente el derecho penal; sin embargo, se abordarán antecedentes históricos y doctrinarios para entender el alcance de su tipificación, tomando en consideración criterios subjetivos y objetivos, la realidad histórica y factores políticos y sociales que influyen en las decisiones tomadas por los servidores judiciales (jueces) en la emisión de los autos y sentencias orales y escritos.
Los modelos mentales en el estudio de la audiencia de calificación de flagrancia.
Authors: Cruz Piza Iyo Alexis , Del Pozo Franco Patty Elizabeth , Marcial Coello Carlos Rigail
Published: June 2021

En el sistema ecuatoriano, las audiencias de flagrancia constituyen un paso fundamental en el procedimiento penal, puesto que se considera el respeto al debido proceso, los derechos y principios. La investigación traza como objetivo principal analizar las posibles causas del desarrollo inadecuado de las audiencias de calificación de flagrancia. Como hipótesis está que con la modelación del procedimiento adecuado se logrará la comprensión del proceso acorde a lo legislado y evitar así la vulneración de derechos y principios en el ámbito judicial y el respeto al debido proceso. Como resultado se pudo observar que la falta de capacitación de algunos actores, sobre todo de los sujetos procesales y el juzgador, incide directamente en la ocurrencia de este fenómeno.
Afectaciones en los menores de la suspensión del régimen de visitas en tiempos de COVID-19.
Authors: Maldonado Manzano Rosa Leonor , España Herrería Marcia Esther , Cozzarelli Mora Lilia Adriana
Published: June 2021

Cuando se produce el divorcio entre una pareja con hijos se establece por un juez la regulación del régimen de visitas, lo que se ha visto afectado debido al inicio de la fase de aislamiento para contener la propagación de la pandemia COVID-19. La suspensión del régimen de visitas puede afectar la salud emocional de los hijos, generando sentimientos de rechazo, angustia, depresión, etc. Es necesario el contacto físico y sacar a los niños de casa para cumplir con el régimen de visitas, realizando traslados con las medidas de seguridad posible. Este trabajo analiza y determina afectaciones y efectos de la suspensión del régimen de visitas.
Análisis de la contratación pública en situación de emergencia. Impacto del COVID-19.
Authors: Macias Bermúdez Jorge Manuel , Barcos Arias Ignacio Fernando , Burbano Terán Carolay María
Published: June 2021

La situación actual de emergencia sanitaria provocada por la COVID-19 que enfrenta Ecuador, ha repercutido en un escenario de fallas en el marco normativo que promueve el aseguramiento del uso apropiado de los recursos económicos en las compras públicas para contrarrestar los efectos de la pandemia. La revisión de procesos de licitación y contratación amparados en la Ley de Contratación Pública ha desencadenado la presencia de corrupción. El presente trabajo se enfoca en analizar y determinar los factores que inciden en la contratación pública en situación de emergencia, visualizar los riesgos que se exponen en los procesos de licitación, en función prever las posibles soluciones, mediante el uso y el análisis PESTEL, AHP Saaty y MGSP.
Evaluación técnica y operativa Portoaguas-EP durante la emergencia por el COVID 19.
Authors: Perero Intriago Milton Santiago , Alarcón Loor José Ramón , Cedeño Farfán Carlos Eduardo
Published: June 2021

Debido a la declaratoria por emergencia sanitaria durante el primer trimestre del 2020 por el COVID-19 en Ecuador, la Empresa Pública de Agua Potable y Alcantarillado de Portoviejo – PORTOAGUAS EP, tuvo la oportunidad de plantear un plan de acción estratégica aplicado a las diferentes direcciones de la empresa para mantener la continuidad de los servicios básicos en la capital manabita, demostrando la capacidad de gestión que tuvo la empresa acorde a altos estándares, para enfrentar las estrictas restricciones de confinamiento de la población. La conclusión de estas acciones deriva en un documento de buenas prácticas que sirve como manual básico de acciones a implementar para la supervivencia y recuperación de la empresa durante el primer año de la emergencia.
La corrupción, un elemento limitante para el derecho a la salud en pandemia COVID- 2019.
Authors: Chugá Quemac Rosa Evelyn , Lara Mafla Bélgica Ibana , Méndez Cabrita Carmen Marina
Published: June 2021

El Ecuador es un Estado constitucional de derechos y justicia, tal como lo establece la Constitución de la República en el Art. 1, dentro de los derechos fundamentales nos garantiza el derecho a la salud que ha sido vulnerado desde varias perspectivas en medio de la pandemia de COVID-2019. El objetivo central de la ponencia es analizar el papel del Estado al garantizar este derecho al personal de salud, cuáles fueron sus fortalezas y falencias. La metodología de investigación es cualitativa - cuantitativa, bajo la investigación jurídica de carácter documental con la interpretación hermenéutica de la bibliografía consultada. Se determinó las falencias del sistema de salud, al no ser un sistema integral y las actuaciones corruptas de sus representantes.
Aplicación web como mejora para la promoción turística del cantón Babahoyo, Provincia de Los Ríos.
Authors: Ochoa Escobar Laura Marlene , Estrella Gómez Federico Miguel , Barahona Tapia Leonardo Ivan
Published: June 2021

El turismo es una actividad de enorme importancia para muchos países y se ha convertido en un instrumento eficaz para un desarrollo integral e inclusivo. El presente proyecto de investigación determina los factores que afectan la promoción turística del cantón Babahoyo. La investigación está basado en la metodología cualitativa-cuantitativa. La interpretación y análisis de estos datos, con la utilización de técnicas como el análisis PEST y el Proceso Analítico Jerárquico (AHP Saaty), permitieron identificar y jerarquizar los criterios fundamentales. En la parte propositiva, a partir de los requerimientos identificados, se plantea desarrollar una aplicación web bajo el modelo cliente/servidor, destinada a mejorar la promoción turística en el cantón Babahoyo, con tecnología de software libre.
Correlación cefalométrica del mentón y cuerpo mandibular en adultos jóvenes andinos, año 2019.
Authors: Cocios Arpi Janina Fernanda , Trelles Méndez Jessica Aracely , Jinez Zuñiga Paulina Alexandra , Zapata Hidalgo Christian David , Ramos Montiel Ronald Roossevelt
Published: June 2021

Las proporciones áureas faciales son enigmáticas y se encuentran condicionadas subjetivamente a las modificaciones del tercio inferior, debido a que la posición adecuada de los tejidos blandos y el mentón permiten el equilibrio funcional, estético y biológico; por lo tanto, el objetivo de esta investigación fue conocer la posible correlación cefalométrica del mentón y cuerpo mandibular. Se realizó un estudio cuantitativo de tipo correlacional con diseño documentalretrospectivo no experimental, y la muestra fue de 384 radiografías laterales de cráneo en adultos jóvenes Andinos. Los resultados permiten estimar una correlación estadística positiva entre el mentón y cuerpo mandibular; por lo tanto, es posible concluir que el tamaño del mentón es directamente proporcional al tamaño del cuerpo mandibular de adultos jóvenes Andinos.
Implicaciones de la microbiota oral en la salud del sistema digestivo.
Authors: Castañeda Guillot Carlos , Pacheco Consuegra Yaima , Cuesta Guerra Ricardo Enrique
Published: June 2021

Los microbiomas humanos son decisivos para la salud. Las microbiotas oral e intestinal son las más abundantes y diversas, con influencia demostrada en la patogénesis de enfermedades digestivas crónicas no trasmisibles relacionada con disbiosis. El trabajo tiene como objetivo: Actualizar implicaciones microbiota oral con la salud Sistema Digestivo, precisándose en los resultados la relación entre microbiotas orales e intestinales. Se revisó avances recientes que vinculan la microbiota oral- intestinal, la repercusión en salud y enfermedades intestinales, el papel eubiosis y disbiosis microbiotas oral-intestinal, el valor salud bucal, las medidas de promoción-prevención en salud de cavidad oral y las relaciones con el Sistema Digestivo.
Manejo inicial y tratamiento del accidente cerebrovascular isquémico. Una visión futura.
Authors: Donoso Noroña Riber Fabián , Gómez Martínez Nairovys , Rodríguez Plasencia Adisnay
Published: June 2021

El ictus isquémico agudo es una patología de tiempo dependiente con gran impacto en la Salud Pública en Ecuador y en el resto del mundo; abordamos su manejo, en primer momento, esclareciendo los pasos que se deben dar desde el momento inicial del evento hasta que el paciente llega al medio hospitalario. En este trabajo encontramos datos del tratamiento del ictus isquémico con su importancia y controversia en la comunidad científica, y los tiempos en los que se puede administrar un tratamiento u otro. Se hace un repaso de las distintas etapas de involucramiento del personal sanitario que atiende a estos pacientes, incluyendo la existencia de protocolos, evaluación de signos vitales, y aplicación de escala, entre otros temas.
Prevención del síndrome de inmunodeficiencia humana (VIH) en mujeres trabajadoras sexuales que acuden al centro de salud “El Priorato”.
Authors: Nazate Chuga Zuly Rivel , Guerrón Enríquez Sarita Ximena , Obando Enríquez Anderson Mauricio
Published: June 2021

El objetivo del estudio fue establecer estrategias de prevención del síndrome de inmunodeficiencia humana en trabajadoras sexuales en términos de promoción y prevención. La investigación fue exploratoria realizada a 50 trabajadoras sexuales aplicándose la encuesta. En los resultados están que hay 6% de analfabetismo, 78% es extranjera, 52% tiene hijos, el 30% no usa profilácticos, el 76% tiene relaciones sexuales con tres a seis clientes en el día, el 34% desconoce sobre prevención del VIH/SIDA, 72 % no tienen exámenes de revisión y el 94% no tiene capacitación; estos datos son base para elaborar un programa de prevención con estrategias para el conocimiento del VIH/SIDA.
FACTORES QUE INCIDEN EN LAS PREFERENCIAS DE LOS RADIOESCUCHAS DE LAS ESTACIONES DE RADIO ESTABLECIDAS EN LA CIUDAD DE NAVOJOA, SONORA MÉXICO
Authors: HERMOSILLO ANDUAGA Gustavo Cesar , Kaplan Navarro José , Domínguez Ibarra Héctor
Published: June 2021

El presente artículo presenta los resultados de una investigación de mercado que tuvo como objetivo conocer las preferencias de los radio escuchas de Navojoa Sonora Mexico en relación a las diferentes opciones radiofónicas de la Ciudad