bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
“Human soft skills and connection will never be replaced.”
Authors: Jakkula Maria Annukka
Published: July 2024

Paraprofessional interlingual translation is a common and everyday task of contemporary white-collar workers. The aim of this article is to investigate whether the workers practising paraprofessional translation in their business environment are aware of the competences that they need for these translation and interpreting tasks, and how they describe and perceive these competences. In order to find the answers to these questions, six employees of a Finnish sports equipment company working in a multilingual business environment were interviewed. As the interviewed employees were not professional translators, the data were analysed using Byram’s (2021) Intercultural Communicative Competence (ICC) model, which made it possible to describe not just translational, but also other aspects of their intercultural communicative competence. The results showed that the employees’ perceptions reveal a receptive attitude towards otherness as well as experiential knowledge gained through living abroad. Their multilingual professional contexts pose challenges that prompt them to solve problems through empathic reflection. And finally, the research also suggests that, in general, the employees were not aware that they have translational and intercultural competences despite the fact that these prove to be very valuable, in both professional and personal contexts.
Code-switching as a translatorial practice within the Italian national minority in Slovenia
Authors: Umer Kljun Jerneja
Published: July 2024

The paper explores the occurrence of code-switching as a form of translatoriality among members of the Italian national minority in Slovenia. As a continuation of a wider sociolinguistic study, which brought a comprehensive analysis of 1,389 instances of code switching between Italian and Slovene among bilingual speakers, the paper examines the intersection between code switching and self-translatoriality by studying 85 instances of bilingual reiteration in spontaneous and semi-spontaneous speech. By observing these instances from the perspective of translatoriality, the paper presents a case study on the translatorial actions that occur in such bilingual utterances, i.e. summarizing, duplicating, expanding and complementary language practices, as well as their underlying motivation and purpose, while also highlighting the practice of intercomprehension among bilingual speakers within the culturally and linguistically diverse community of the Slovene coast. The data show that self-translatoriality occurs both in in-group and out-group bilingual communication, although more frequently in the context of public events aimed at the broader multilingual community. While duplicating language practices occur in all settings, speakers often only repeat the nearest element, which leads to a fragmentation of the message. Translatorial action types are also frequently combined, producing fluid bilingual utterances that presuppose a plurilingual competence among all participants.
Acknowledgement
The author acknowledges the financial support from the Slovenian Research and Innovation Agency (research core funding No. P6-0446).
Knowledge, attitude and practices related to tuberculosis among patients at the Presbyterian Hospital in the Asante Akim North District
Authors: Osei Kwarteng Sebastian , Sampane Donkor Eric , Eyiuche Nweze Julius
Published: July 2024

Background: Tuberculosis (TB) is one of the major public health concerns in Ghana, with serious economic and social consequences. Tuberculosis is an infectious disease that is preventable and curable, as health educational programmes contribute to the control of TB However, the evidence required for such programmes is lacking in Ghana.
Objectives: The aim of this study was to examine the underlying practices, attitudes and knowledge (PAK) of the patients at the Presbyterian hospital in Agogo, the Asante Akim North District (PHAA-AND) about tuberculosis disease and healthcare-seeking behaviour.
Methods: This was a cross-sectional study among patients in the PHAA-AND. A simple random sampling method was used in selecting 370 participants for the study, who were interviewed regarding their TB knowledge, attitude and infection control practices.
Results: Our study shows that the majority of the respondents demonstrated good knowledge about TB regarding its causative agent (68%), transmission (85.6%) and prevention (81.7%). However, poor knowledge was expressed regarding TB treatment by the majority (80.8%) of the respondents. Generally, the majority of respondents had a positive attitude and expressed good infection control practices regarding TB. The strongest determinants of TB related knowledge, or attitude or towards infection control practices were; level of education (OR, 1.49, CI; 1.25-1.77, p < 0.001), and gender (OR, 0.37, CI; 0.21-0.69, p=0.001).
Conclusions: Respondents had good PAK towards TB, though some gaps were identified. These gaps called for health education about TB in the study area, and effective educational programs.
Keywords: Knowledge; attitude; practices; tuberculosis; Presbyterian Hospital in the Asante Akim North District.
Incidence of post-partum complications and referrals of mothers and neonates to hospitals from a Midwife Obstetric Unit
Authors: Monjurul Hoque Akm , Buckus Somaya , Hoque Maariyah
Published: July 2024

Background: The successful implementation of obstetric care should identify the maternal and foetal complications and refer to higher healthcare facilities in saving their lives. The study aimed to estimate the maternal and foetal complications risk factors during post-partum.
Method: A retrospective cohort study was undertaken at a midwife obstetric unit among all women who had childbirths from January 2018 to October 2019. Regression analysis was used to predict risk factors.
Results: The maternal and neonatal complications were 5.9% and 6.7% respectively. Regression analysis showed that mothers did not have antenatal care (ANC) were 2.8 times (OR=2.8, 95% CI: 1.5:5.4, p=0.001) and six times (OR=5.9, 95% CI; 2.7:12.5, p=0.000) more likely to have maternal and neonatal complications respectively. Gestational age < 32 weeks 19.0 times, (OR=19.0, 95% CI; 9.3:39.0, p=0.000) and 32-36 weeks, 4.6 times (OR=4.6, 95% CI; 2.5:9.4.0, p=0.000) more likely to have neonatal complications. Mothers without syphilis was 63% (OR=.37, 95% CI; .14:.97, p=0.04) less likely to have neonatal complications.
Conclusion: Maternal and neonatal complication rates were comparable with others of similar settings. Pregnant women should be educated on the importance of ANC and strategies should be considered for improving ANC uptake and care to reduce maternal and neonatal complications.
Keyword: Antenatal care; gestational age; syphilis.
Effect of early sexual initiation on early high fertility, termination of pregnancy and child death in Ethiopia using Ethiopian DHS 2000-2016
Authors: Fisseha Abreha Girmatsion , O Ilesanmi Abiodum , Oladokun Adesina , Abrha Medhanyie Araya
Published: July 2024

Background: Early sexual initiation is defined as an experience of first sexual intercourse before the age of 18 years. Young girls in sub-Saharan countries initiate sex at early age and are suffering from unintended pregnancy, and related sexual and reproductive health problems.
Objectives: To assess the association of early sexual intercourse with early high birth rate, abortion and under-five child death among young girls in Ethiopia.
Methods: This study used the Ethiopian Demographic Health Survey (EDHS) data from 2000 to 2016. A total of 12,002 sexually active young women aged 15-24 years pool data were used. Binary logistic regression model was used to assess the association between dependent (early sexual initiation) and independent variables and presented using adjusted odd ratio with 95% CI.
Results: Young girls started sexual intercourse as early as 10 years. The young women with high birth rate [4.74, 95% CI (3.53-6.37)], those ever terminated pregnancy [1.77, 95% CI (1.25-2.52)], and had child death history [1.48, 95% CI (1.15-1.91)] were positively associated with early sexual intercourse.
Conclusion: Early sexual initiation among young women is associated with early motherhood, high fertility, child death and poor reproductive health outcomes. Education program on contraceptives and condom accessibility are critical.
Keywords: Early sexual intercourse; consequences; Ethiopia.
Exercise tolerance and fatigue response to aerobic versus resisted exercise among hemodialysis patients
Authors: M Abd E-Kader Shehab , Refaey Neveen , M AlKhateeb Afnan , S AlFawaz Saad , A Neamatallah Ziyad , M Alabasi Umar , Alsaif Amer , Allah Mustafa Gaowgzeh Riziq , R El-Gendy Salwa , F El- Banna Mohamed , Embaby Heba , A Hegazy Fatma , M Hegazy Rasha , M Mounir Khaled , Mehmed Saif , Y Abdelsamee Mohamed , M Aboeleneen Ahmed
Published: July 2024

Background: Hemodialysis (HD) patients usually suffer from exercise intolerance. However, exercise training improves their exercise tolerance and quality of life.
Objective: This study was designed to compare the effects of aerobic and resisted exercise on exercise tolerance and fatigue response in hemodialysis patients.
Methods: Fifty-six sedentary patients with CKD were recruited from the dialysis unit of the King Abdulaziz University Teaching Hospital (Jeddah, Saudi Arabia). Participants were allocated randomly into two study groups; group (A) received intradialytic aerobic exercise training on cycle ergometers. However, group (B) received intradialytic resisted exercise training for six months.
Results: There was a 30.05 % reduction in mean values of MFI total score and 32.04 % and 32.13 % increase in mean values of hand grip strength and six-minute walking test respectively in group (A). While, there was a 16.78 % reduction in mean values of MFI total score and 17.35 % and 16.20 % increase in mean values of hand grip strength and six-minute walking test respectively in group (B). In addition, the differences between both groups were significant at the end of the study.
Conclusion: Aerobic exercise alleviates fatigue and improves exercise tolerance more effective than resistance exercise among hemodialysis patients.
Keywords: Aerobic exercise; exercise tolerance; fatigue; hemodialysis; resistance exercise.
Acceptability and attitude towards use of digital interventions in substance use disorders psychosocial treatment: a study of healthcare providers at a Methadone Clinic in Kenya
Authors: Kiburi Sarah Kanana , Paruk Saeeda , Chiliza Bonginkosi
Published: July 2024

Digital interventions have been used for psychosocial treatment in substance use disorder but there is limited research on their application in Kenya. Determining the acceptability and attitude towards use of digital intervention in substance use disorder psychosocial treatment is important. The aim of this study was to assess the acceptability and attitude of healthcare providers towards use of digital interventions for psychosocial treatment at a methadone clinic in Kenya. A descriptive cross-sectional survey was carried out among healthcare providers. A structured self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data on sociodemographic variables and acceptability and attitude towards use of digital interventions in substance use disorder treatment. Technology acceptance model (TAM) was used as conceptual basis for this study. Data was analyzed using SPSS whereby a descriptive analysis was conducted and Pearson’s coefficient used to assess the relationship between the TAM constructs. The data is summarized in tables, figures and a graph. Twenty-one health care providers participated comprising 76.2% females and mean age of 33 (SD 6.9) years, of which 66.7% had training in addiction and 23.8% had ever used digital intervention previously. Acceptability was high with 90.5% agreeing that psychosocial treatment can be provided through digital interventions, 80.9% reported digital intervention would improve access to treatment and 76.2% viewed a digital intervention as cost effective. Majority  (76.2%) agreed that digital intervention can influence substance use and patients would benefit from the intervention. Using the technology acceptance model, perceived ease of use was associated with perceived usefulness and attitude toward using; and perceived usefulness was associated with attitude towards use. These findings show a high acceptability and positive attitude towards use of digital interventions in substance use disorder treatment among the health care providers at a methadone clinic. This can inform design and implementation of digital interventions among individuals with substance use disorders in Kenya to improve patient outcome.
Good governance, Elections and meeting the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030 in Africa
Authors: Uno Ijim , Agbor Timothy , Obaji –akpet Immaculata , Terrence Eja
Published: July 2024

The threatening presence of poverty, hunger, illiteracy, conflict, discrimination as well as climate devastation across the globe calls for serious global concern. In dealing with these challenges among others, the United Nations Organization evolved in 2015 a blueprint to achieve a better and more sustainable future for all societies. The achievement of these goals is dependent on the efforts made by individual countries to tackle the global challenges they face. The aim of this paper is to show the connectivity between credible elections and good governance in the attainment of the Sustainable Development Goals in Africa. As a speculative research, data for the paper were collected through secondary source of literature search and document review analysis – a qualitative method used for gathering information. The paper argues that good governance is an elusive phenomenon in the African political landscape and is likely to challenge the attainment of the SDG in the continent. The paper recommends among others the consolidation of Africa’s democracy through the conduct of credible and true democratic elections through automation.
Brethren in Terror: Mapping ISIS and Boko Haram Digital Campaigns
Authors: Muhammad Umar , Usman Abubakar
Published: July 2024

Abstract Scholars have increasingly sought commonalities among Islamist radical groups, such as ISIS and Boko Haram, despite their ideological differences. The purpose of this qualitative study is to conduct a comprehensive analysis of both ISIS and Boko Haram’s digital campaigns to identify similarities and differences in the content of their digital messaging. Adopting reflexive thematic analysis to explore and interpret dataset which eventually allows to uncover patterns, themes, and meanings within the data, this study, utilized the "propaganda by deed" theory to examines and analyse 20 ISIS Arabic Twitter campaigns and 20 Boko Haram video messages. Data was collected and employed to NVivo software for coding and analysis. The analysis reveals four prominent themes for each group: ISIS emphasizes recruitment, direct calls to jihad, religious discourse, and commemoration of deceased members to attract or mobilize followers. In contrast, Boko Haram's themes include ideological declarations, religious narratives, affiliations with other groups, and recruitment with calls to jihad. These findings provide a nuanced understanding of both groups, with improved quality for digital campaign in the side of Boko Haram as a result of its allegiance with ISIS, informing more effective and appropriate countermeasures against them and further prevent possible future direct relationship between the two groups.
Impact of Social Media, Gender and Age on Narcissistic Development among Ebonyi State University Undergraduates
Authors: Nwonyi Sampson , Oketa Moses , Nwankwo Benedict , Nweze Samuel , Nwafor Kenneth , Udude Celina , Onwe Emmanuel
Published: July 2024

The present study examined impacts of social media and gender in narcissistic development among Ebonyi State university undergraduates. Participants were two hundred and thirty-eight (248) comprising male (147) and female (101) students of Ebonyi State University, Abakaliki who were randomly selected among the population of students in the school. Their ages ranged between 18 to 30 years with a mean age of 24.37 years (SD = 6.80). Cross sectional design was adopted. Two instruments were used for data collection. The narcissistic personality inventory and social media affinity scale. Two hypotheses were tested. Hierarchical multiple regression was the main statistic used for data analysis. Result of Hierarchical Multiple Regression analysis showed that social media was a positively significant predictor of narcissism among students (β = -.56, p < .001), accounting for 32% of the variance in narcissistic development (∆R2 = .32). The result also showed that gender was a negative significant predictor of narcissism of students (β = -.56, p < .001), accounting for 3% of the variance in narcissistic development (∆R2 = .03). Similarly, age was equally found to be a negative predictor of narcissism among students, accounting for 3% variance in narcissistic development among students (∆R2 = .03). The implications of the findings are; that spending too much time on the social media results to narcissism among young people; that both gender and age are potential factors that explain narcissism among young people. The study is limited by choice of involving only one study area. It is recommended that further studies interested in same variable may consider adopting mixed method in order to gain more understanding of the links between the IVs and the DV.
Celebrity Endorsement and Consumer Brand Preference of Hero Larger Beer in Ebonyi State, Nigeria
Authors: Nwankwo Ugochukwu , Onwe Chike , Nwanchor Elem , Obiageri Obiageri , Idowu Ojo
Published: July 2024

There is no doubt that Nigerian advertisers like their counterparts across the globe have always prioritized innovation and creativity in order to gain competitive advantages. Over the years, celebrity endorsement of products and services has remained one of the most efficacious ways of winning the patronage of the Nigerian consumers/ customers. For over a decade now, people have associated the high patronage of Hero Larger Beer in South-East, Nigeria to fact that its advertisement is anchored on the struggle for self-determination by the Igbos. Incidentally, late Chief Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu symbolically represents this struggle; and for the Igbos, he remains a “Hero”. The need to provide empirical backing to this claim that Ojukwu is a big celebrity endorsement to Hero Larger Beer has necessitated the study. The specific objectives of the study were to determine the level of influence of late Ojukwu celebrity personality on consumer patronage of Hero Large Beer in Ebonyi State and to determine the extent to which the desire to always associate with the symbolic values of Ojukwu celebrity endorsement is sustaining patronage for Hero Larger Beer in Ebonyi State. The study was anchored on the cultivation theory. It adopted descriptive research method, as such, copies of questionnaire were administered on 390 respondents. The findings of the study suggest that the Ojukwu celebrity personality has significant influence on consumers’ patronage of Hero Larger Beer in Ebonyi State and that the symbolic value of Ojukwu is significantly sustaining brand loyalty for Hero Larger Beer in Ebonyi State. Consequently, the study recommended that SABmiller- the producer and advertiser of Hero Larger Beer should use radio and television dramas, quizzes and talk-shows to educate and sensitize the less educated consumers of Hero Larger Beer, particularly, in the rural communities about the Ojukwu symbol, value and representation of the Hero Larger Beer branding.
Re-thinking Rural Land Conflict and the Narrative of Food Security in the Development of South East, Nigeria
Authors: Nwoba Charles , Oboke Osmond
Published: July 2024

This study examined the effects of rural land conflict on teaching and learning of new narrative for food security and development in Southeast of Nigeria. The study evaluated the challenges posed by customary system, population growth, political interference, climate change in relation to food security of rural land conflict. The study employed mixed approaches of qualitative and quantitative to collect data. Primary sources such as questionnaire and observation as well as secondary source; interview, key informants, published materials, documentaries, textbooks, library, journals and internet materials well also employed. The Relative Deprivation Theory was used. The longitudinal design was also adopted for the study. The analyses of data collected from instrument of questionnaire were done through the use of descriptive statistics such as, simple percentages, and contingency tables. The study discovered that there is strong nexus between rural land conflict and food security. Rural land conflict remains pervasive and a threat not only to food security but to regional development of South East of Nigeria. The study recommended a new narrative policy option of teaching and learning from primary to tertiary institutions such as farm bagging and introduction of digitalized solar irrigation on tuber crops, vegetables, fruits etc. as well as animal husbandry to reduce struggle for shrinking space of rural land on agricultural activities to avert incompatibilities and high resurgences that are unhealthy to industrialization in the region.
Television Advertising Influence and the Gambling Habits of Students in selected Tertiary Institutions in South-East Nigeria
Authors: Elem Stephen , Ugochukwu Simon , Orji-Egwu Agatha , Igwe Jacinta , Nwutulor Mmaduabuchi
Published: July 2024

Gambling which is commonly called betting in many parts of the world has become common among students in tertiary institutions as a way of making money. With their smart phones and available online platforms as well as the betting houses scattered around cities and some rural areas added to television audio visual advertising, many students are lured to bet. Inns, private places and few public settings provide easy avenues to a game played as a well-established business with managers, operators and players in every nooks and crannies, and promoted by adverts. The purpose of this study was to explore how television advertising influences the students in tertiary institutions to engage in gambling as a means of making money. The study employed qualitative design hinged on observation. The study was anchored on stimulus-response model which focuses on: Attention, Interest, Desire, and Action (AIDA) model. Findings from the study showed that students in tertiary institutions are exposed to TV advertisements of betting; television advertising lure students to place more bets; television advertising of betting influences the betting habits of students. Based on these findings, we recommended that students should avoid exposure to TV betting advertisements to avoid being lured to betting by such adverts; the management of tertiary institutions should include gambling education in the orientation of new students to make them aware of the risks involved in betting; laws against gambling should be introduced in every tertiary institution to punish students caught in the act of betting and discourage potential students gamblers; parents should warn their children against gambling before sending them to tertiary institutions.
The Role of Criminal Gangs in the Farmers-Herders Conflict in Guma Local Government Area, Benue State, Nigeria
Authors: Ebonyi Anthony , Bojande Tavershima
Published: July 2024

The study assessed the involvement of criminal gangs in the farmers-herders conflict in the Guma Local Government Area of Benue State. The specific objectives of the study were to examine the extent of criminal gangs’ involvement in the farmers-herders conflict, assess the activities of criminal gangs in the farmers-herders conflict and determine the impacts of these activities on the farmers’ herders’ conflict in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State. The explorative and cross-sectional designs were adopted for the study. The sample size for the study was made up of 368 respondents comprising victims of the conflict, security agencies, and traditional and religious leaders while questionnaires and key informant interviews were used as methods of data collection. Collected data was analyzed with the use of tables, frequencies, percentages and figures. The findings of the study revealed that criminal gangs are highly involved in the farmers-herders conflict in the study area. Cattle rustling, kidnapping for ransom, armed robbery, and arms trafficking among others were found as the major activities engaged in by criminal gangs in the study area. These activities contribute to increased violence, fear and mistrust, and displacement of communities, impeding conflict resolution efforts, and exacerbating the existing tensions. Based on the findings, the study recommends a multi-faceted approach, including improved security measures, community engagement, and socio-economic interventions to address the root causes of criminal gangs' involvement in the conflict.
Conflicts and Peace in Southeast Igboland of Nigeria: A study of Ezza Inter-group Relations
Authors: Odeke Francis
Published: July 2024

The predominant occupation of Ezza people in the northeastern Igbo land is agriculture. To a traditional Ezza man, land is next to God. Ezza people were said to have fought wars to acquire lands for their farm works. But the British colonial forces halted the Ezza military might. Since then many communities that had benefited from Ezza military assistance have sought to take back the lands given out by their ancestors to compensate the Ezza warriors, thereby generating fresh wars with Ezza communities. This study examines these contentious questions of Ezza rights to continuously own settlements outside the Ezza traditional homestead. The study adopts the balance of power theory popularized in 1979 by Kenneth Neal Waltz, an American scholar and realist, who believed that co-operating States will fare better in an arrangement that does not allow any of the States to exercise domineering power over others. The data of the study derives from the primary and secondary sources. The study uses the chronological, thematic and analytical methods of history. The study concludes that the Ochinkpuru Council, an Ezza mediation group, would be more effective in its peace efforts if Ezza women and women of any clan in conflict with the Ezza are made part of the mediation efforts for peace in Ezza inter-group relations.
Modelling Nigeria Rainfall Data Using Exponential Family of Distribution: A Comparative Study
Authors: Oguntade Emmanuel S. , Babalola Timileyin K. , Oladimeji Damilare M.
Published: July 2024

In response to the growing concern about climate change, the study focuses on rainfall, a complex and challenging meteorological  variable to predict compared to temperature. This research introduces an innovative approach to model rainfall data, leveraging  probability distributions from the exponential family. The study utilizes secondary data encompassing monthly rainfall measurements in  millimeters (mm) spanning from 1986 to 2020, obtained from the Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NiMET) – covering a span of thirty-five  years. To identify the most suitable distribution, various model efficiency criteria, including log-likelihood, Kolmogorov-Smirnov test,  Cramer-Von Mises, Anderson Darling, and Akaike Information Criterion (AIC), are employed. The analysis highlights the Weibull  distribution as the most fitting model, exhibiting the highest likelihood value, along with the lowest values for the Kolmogorov-Smirnov  test, Cramer-Von Mises, Anderson Darling, and AIC. For six States under consideration: Abuja, Lagos, Edo, Kebbi, Taraba, and Enugu, the  study establishes the Weibull distribution as the superior choice. Notable log-likelihood and AIC values for each location reinforce its suitability for modeling rainfall data in Nigeria. Specifically, the log-likelihood and AIC values for Abuja are 1910.155 and 3824.309,  respectively, and similar trends are observed across the other locations. Consequently, the study strongly recommends the adoption of  the Weibull distribution as the preferred model for rainfall data modeling in Nigeria. Additionally, it encourages further research into rainfall data modeling employing the Weibull distribution within the context of time series models, both with and without seasonality,  utilizing the well-established Box-Jenkins methodology
Assessment of Radiological Hazard Risks Due to Gross Alpha and Beta Radioactivity in Groundwater from Damaturu, North-Eastern Nigeria
Authors: Ahmadu M. , Gimba Mustapha Suleiman , Abba Habu Tela , Mohammed Yakubu , Dankawu U.M. , Lariski F.M. , Uzair M.
Published: July 2024

Groundwater remains the largest source of potable water in Damaturu town. The study of gross radioactivity and its associated hazard  risks in potable water is crucial to the health and well-being of the populace of the study area. Thus, radiological hazard indices such as  annual effective dose, excess  lifetime cancer risk, lifetime hereditary effect, and lifetime fatality cancer risk due to gross alpha and beta  radiation from fifteen samples of borehole water have been evaluated. The mean values obtained from the analyses are 2531.48E–5  mSvy–1 & 5637.92E–5 for AED, 12.18E–5 & 23.26E–5 for ELCR, 443.01E–5 & 845.69E–5 for LHE and 12.18E–5 & 23.26E–5 for LFCR,  respectively. By comparison, all the mean values obtained from this study are below the recommended limits set by UNSCEAR. Thus, the  study indicates that the groundwater in the study area is radiologically safe for drinking purposes as the radiation dose level is very low.  However, it is recommended that the study be further expanded to include all sources of potable water in the study area. This study  aimed to provide baseline radiological survey of potable water for the study area.
Effect of Pretreating Cattle Dung with Granulated Plantain Peel on Biogas Production
Authors: Aderinlewo A.A. , Esezobor S.U. , Adepoju V.O. , Omotainse P.O. , Azeez O.B.
Published: July 2024

Biogas technology is a way of tackling the increase in the production of organic wastes and rural energy problems in many developing  countries like Nigeria. This study investigated the effect of granulated plantain peels on the biogas yield from cattle dung. The volume of  gas produced was measured on a 5- day basis, and the pretreated substrate produced 46,151.6 cm3 against 17,224.7 cm3 from the  untreated sample. Results showed a 168% increase in biogas produced when cattle dung was pretreated. The flammability test showed  that production started on the first day after retention for the substrate pretreated and that an appreciable amount of methane content  was produced only on the third to fourth day. In contrast, in the control, production started on the third day, and appreciable methane  was observed on the fourth to fifth day. The compression test showed that biogas could be compressed with minimal changes in  temperature as the temperature observed amounted to only a 0.19 ℃ rise per bar increase in pressure. The biogas compression  experiment gave an accumulated mass of 214 g at 6.34 bar compared to 1000 g at 6 bar for standard LPG refilling. It is recommended  that the produced biogas be purified before commencing compression in future works.
Determination of phytoplankton species in the Stomach of Tilapia Fish (Oreochromis niloticus L.)
Authors: Abubakar F.B. , Salisu A. , Yakasai B.D. , Sani A. , Namadina M.M. , Kamal A.
Published: July 2024

The condition of a fish pond's physiochemical parameters determines whether it is artificial or natural. One of the most significant  tropical and subtropical freshwater fish is the tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus L.), which can eat both tiny zooplankton and phytoplankton.  The purpose of this investigation was to determine the phytoplankton species found in the stomach and gut of tilapia (Oreochromis  niloticus L.). Based on the physical traits of the phytoplankton species, fishpond waters, fish guts, and fish stomachs were identified using  established procedures. The conventional techniques were employed to measure the physicochemical characteristics.  Cyanophyceae and Chlorophyceae made up the majority of the phytoplankton that was discovered in the stomach, gut, and pond waters. Anabaena and Microcystis, two potentially poisonous cyanophyta species, were the most significant and prevalent phytoplankton species  discovered in the intestines of tilapia. The study area's fish pond water had physicochemical parameter values of 26.3 o/oo for salinity, 7.1  for pH, 6.3 mg/L for dissolved oxygen, and 27.4°C for temperature. The study's findings may be applied to the biomanipulation of  bothersome phytoplankton blooms in pond environments. The variation in the gut and stomach phytoplanktons of Tilapia fish was thus  shown by the current preliminary investigation, which may be helpful in the creation of probiotics, medications, and industrial enzyme  production. The pond under study was steady and appropriate for fish farming, with the goal of reintroducing fish to areas with a  deficiency of fish populations.
Impact of Urban Runoff on Benthic and Pelagic Fish Fauna in Ikpoba River: Metals Levels in Gonads
Authors: Ogbeide Ozekeke , Asoya Ebuni Jessinta
Published: July 2024

This study investigates the impact of urban runoff on heavy metal concentrations in Ikpoba River, focusing on water, sediment, and fish  gonads. Two sampling stations, upstream and downstream, were selected to assess variations in contamination levels. The  concentrations of heavy metals (Cr, Co, Cd, Ni, Pb) in these samples were analyzed using an Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer. Histopathological examinations of fish gonad tissues were also conducted. Downstream water samples in August exhibited significantly  elevated lead (Pb) levels (0.037 mg/L) and cobalt (Co) concentrations (0.02 mg/L) compared to upstream levels. Sediment analysis  revealed marked downstream contamination, with higher lead (Pb) levels (5.208 mg/kg) and cobalt (Co) concentrations (2.067 mg/kg) in  August. Gonadal tissue analysis showed alarming contamination levels, with pelagic fish species displaying higher lead (Pb) and cobalt  (Co) concentrations compared to benthic fish. These results highlight the vulnerability of pelagic species to heavy metal accumulation  and indicate substantial pollution from industrial sources in the Ikpoba River. Urgent pollution control measures and ongoing monitoring  are essential to safeguard the river's ecosystem and community health. Further research is recommended to explore the  long-term consequences and potential health risks associated with heavy metal contaminants in the river.
Recent Advances in Understanding the Chandrasekhar Maximum Mass of White Dwarf Stars
Authors: Dauda Usman Muhammed , Ndikilar Chifu E.
Published: July 2024

The maximum mass of white dwarf stars, the final products of stellar evolution, is a crucial parameter in astrophysics. The Chandrasekhar  limit, approximately 1.4 M⊙, is widely recognized as the upper limit. However, recent observations have revealed the  existence of super-Chandrasekhar white dwarfs, which are believed to be precursors of bright type Ia supernovae. The origin and  fundamental nature of these super-Chandrasekhar white dwarfs remain poorly understood, leading to extensive debate within the  scientific community. This research paper reviews current understanding of the maximum mass limit of white dwarf stars, examining  various models, including strong magnetic fields, rapid rotation, non-commutative geometry and modified theories of gravity.  Furthermore, the criticisms and challenges encountered by these Models, such as electron captures, pycnonuclear reactions, general  relativity, and observational limitations were analyzed. This analysis yielded a conclusion with the proposition of potential avenues for  future exploration in this area of study.
Relationship between inflation and exchange rate in Tanzania: the vector error correction model
Authors: Lucian Dimoso Romanus
Published: July 2024

The study aims at analyzing the relationship that exists between the inflation rate and the exchange rate in Tanzania. The study uses annual time series data from 1981 up to 2018 and employed Vector Error Correction Model to examine long-run and short-run relationships. The results indicated that both a short-term and a long-term relationship was found. Therefore, the government of Tanzania is required to control the inflation rate through the proper use of fiscal and monetary policy effectively to control the inflation rate in Tanzania. This will affect the exchange rate in Tanzania. Granger causality test also shows that the inflation rate influences the exchange rate in Tanzania and through the use of a CUSUM square test it shows that the model lies within a 5 per cent level. Based on the findings, it is recommended that the Tanzanian government should implement stringent fiscal and monetary policies to maintain low inflation rates. By stabilizing the inflationrate, the government can positively influence the exchange rate, thus ensuring economic stability. Future research should explore additional macroeconomic variables that may affect this relationship to provide a more comprehensive understanding. Moreover, continuous monitoring and adjustment of these policies are essential to adapt to the dynamic economic environment. Overall, maintaining a stable inflation rate is crucial for the favorable management of the exchange rate, which in turn supports sustainable economic growth in Tanzania.
Pneumatized inferior turbinate (concha bullosa of inferior turbinate)
Authors: Elamaireh Anas , Alkousheh Basem , Al-Tarawneh Abdullah , Al-kofahi Mohammed
Published: July 2024

The nasal cavity structures are prone to different anatomical variations; one of these is concha bullosa, which best known as pneumatization of the nasal turbinate. This pneumatization is a rare phenomenon to in the inferior turbinate. We report the case of an incidental finding of inferior turbinate concha bullosa in a 30- year-old female who presented with nasal obstruction and headache. While evaluating the patient’s computed tomography image, a pneumatized right inferior turbinate accidentally found. Our patient treated medically without surgical intervention and showed good improvement in her symptoms. Physicians should be aware of the presence of such a rare variation that may lead to serious nasal symptoms if it is large enough, they should keep it in the differential diagnosis and with deal with it accordingly.
Clinico-epidemiological profile of skin cancer in South Western Nigeria
Authors: Okwor Vitalis Chukwuemeka , Folasire Ayorinde , Okwor Chika Juliet , Nwankwo Kenneth , Ntekim Atara , Arua Chinedu Simeon
Published: July 2024

BackgroundSkin cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer. The incidence of skin cancer is on the increase among Caucasians and Africans, though there are significant differences in the pattern of presentation. This study sought to evaluate the pattern of skin cancer presentation in Ibadan, south-west Nigeria. The objective of the study was to determine the risk factors and pattern of presentation.MethodsData extraction forms were used to obtain information from the hospital records of patients with histological diagnoses of skin cancer between January 2001 and December 2010. The study took place at the Radiation Oncology Department, University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria.ResultsA total of 126 cases were identified. The age range of patients was from 7 to 98 years, with a mean age of 46.6 years. The male-to-female ratio was 1.5:1. The peak age of incidence was between 40 and 49 years old. Of the risk factors, trauma (18.3%) and albinism (15.9%) were the most common. Squamous cell carcinoma (63%) was the most common histological sub-type recorded. The majority of the respondents presented with locally advanced (43.7%) and metastatic (22.2%) stages. The lower limb (59.9%) and head and neck region (22.0%) were the most commonly affected sites. The lungs (46.4%) were the most common site of distant metastases, followed by the liver (21.4%), and the brain (7.1%) was the least common site of metastasis.ConclusionThe finding that majority of the respondents in this study presented with locally advanced and metastatic disease buttresses the need for public awareness programs to ensure uptake of preventive measures by the populace and emphasizes the need for early presentation.
Foetal Alcohol Syndrome in a Nigerian Infant: A Case Report
Authors: Ogundele Tolulope , Ayinde Joseph B , Adepoju Adedoyin B , Kuti Demilade K
Published: July 2024

Foetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) is the most severe form of foetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD). Alcohol and its metabolite, acetaldehyde, interfere with foetal development by disrupting cellular differentiation and growth, DNA and protein synthesis, and inhibiting cell migration. The diagnosis is based on the history of maternal alcohol consumption, characteristic facial anomalies, growth retardation, and central nervous system (CNS) involvement.
The syndrome is a leading cause of intellectual disability in the United States, but no such data is available in Nigeria. This is a report of a case of a term female neonate, delivered at approximately 38 weeks gestation through emergency Caesarean section. The mother consumed several bottles of 250ml of alcohol (local gin) from the second week of pregnancy to the tenth week to terminate the undesired pregnancy. At birth, the infant had short palpebral fissures, low-lying ears, a smooth philtrum, a flattened nasal bridge, a very thin upper lip, and a high-arched palate. The birth weight was 2.48kg, the occipitofrontal circumference was 33cm, and the length was 48cm. The infant was discharged seven days after admission with a weight of 2.35kg and was followed up at the outpatient clinic. Two weeks after discharge, despite adequate feeding through exclusive breastfeeding and supplemental expressed breast milk, the infant’s body weight further dropped to 2.2kg.
Optimizing Dynamic Stability in Power Systems: A Robust Approach with FOPID Controller Tuning Using HHO Algorithm
Authors: Yogesh Kalidas Kirange  , Pragya Nema
Published: July 2024

This study investigates the stability improvement in power systems by using fractional order proportional-integral-derivative (FOPID) controllers that have been improved with the Harris hawks optimization (HHO) algorithm. It showcases a novel integration of fractional order control and nature-inspired optimization approaches in single-machine infinite bus (SMIB) systems. Introducing FOPID controllers allows for precise control, which is essential for maintaining stability under varying conditions. This research utilizes HHO, a nature-inspired optimization technique, to optimize FOPID parameters. The research involves initializing the SMIB model, defining an objective function to minimize control errors, and applying HHO to fine-tune the FOPID controller iteratively. This proposed HHO-FOPID-SMIB method surpasses existing strategies, achieving a notable reduction in settling time to 6.29 seconds, thus demonstrating efficiency in stabilizing the SMIB system’s response faster than competing methodologies. Simulation results demonstrate improved stability, reduced overshoot, faster settling time, and transient response.
Religious Character Development Strategy Based on Pancasila in Fostered Children in LPKA Class II Bandung
Authors: Sulistijaningsih Sri , Nurihsan Juntika , Nurdin Encep syarief , Sabri Muhammad
Published: July 2024

The era of globalization and openness has had a significant impact on the behavior of the nation's children, marked by an increase in child protection crimes committed by children. The number of residents in LPKA Class II Bandung related to child protection cases, particularly immoral acts, has increased significantly over the past five years. This research aims to develop religious character based on Pancasila for children assisted at LPKA Class II Bandung, so they become useful, faithful, knowledgeable, and devoted individuals to God Almighty. A qualitative research method was used, with data collection techniques including observation, interviews, documentation, and literature review. The results show that developing religious character based on Pancasila can help assisted children have a positive outlook on the future and realize their role as the next generation of the nation. In conclusion, developing religious character based on Pancasila is essential for children assisted at LPKA Class II Bandung, as it can shape them into individuals who positively contribute to society and the country.
Communication Management Strategies in Improving Partnership Success in The Technology Industry
Authors: Chandrasari Farika , Aditia Oriza , Prabowo Oxy Hendro , Saebah Nur
Published: July 2024

The technology industry is a dynamic and competitive sector. Collaboration and partnerships between technology companies are crucial for enhancing innovation and new product development. The objective of this study is to identify effective communication management strategies to improve partnership success in the technology industry. This research employs qualitative research methods with data collection conducted through a literature review. The collected data is analyzed in three stages: data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion drawing. The results show that there are several effective communication management strategies to improve partnership success in the technology industry, including building open and transparent communication, fostering trust and mutual respect, setting clear goals and objectives, establishing effective communication channels, managing conflict effectively, and regularly reviewing and evaluating partnerships. Technology companies should develop effective communication management strategies to build and maintain successful partnerships, ultimately driving innovation and growth within the industry.
Pengaruh Disiplin Kerja, Kompetensi, dan Konflik Kerja terhadap Motivasi Kerja dan Kinerja Pegawai
Authors: Mandasari Yuni Dwi , Widyaningrum Mahmudah Enny , Widiana Muslicha Erma , Retnowati Nova
Published: July 2024

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menguji dan menganalisis pengaruh disiplin kerja, kompetensi, dan konflik kerja terhadap motivasi kerja serta menguji dan menganalisis pengaruh disiplin kerja, kompetensi, dan konflik kerja, dan motivasi kerja terhadap kinerja pegawai. Jenis penelitian yang menggunakan pendekatan kuantitatif. Sampel penelitian ini adalah sebanyak 100 pegawai PT Sedoso Inggil Surabaya yang diambil dengan teknik sampling jenuh. Data penelitian ini terdiri dari data primer dan data sekunder. Data primer diperoleh dari observasi dan angket, sedangkan data sekunder diperoleh dari literatur yang relevan dengan topik penelitian ini. Teknik analisis data penelitian ini menggunakan uji analisis jalur. Hasil penelitian ini membuktikan bahwa disiplin kerja, kompetensi, dan konflik kerja berpengaruh signifikan terhadap motivasi kerja, selain itu disiplin kerja, kompetensi, dan motivasi kerja berpengaruh signifikan terhadap kinerja pegawai, sedangkan konflik kerja berpengaruh negatif dan signifikan terhadap kinerja pegawai pada PT Sedoso Inggil Surabaya.