bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Use of Particle Induced X-Ray Emission (PIXE), Particle Induced Gamma–Ray Emission (PIGE), Energy Dispersive X-Ray Analysis (EDXRF) for Detecting Trace Elements in Soil Sample
Authors: Nivrutti Wani Chandrashekhar
Published: May 2024

This review paper provides a comprehensive overview of trace element analysis utilizing ion-atom interaction techniques, focusing on the principles, applications, and recent advancements in the field. Ion- atom interaction techniques, including Particle Induced X- Ray Emission (PIXE), Particle Induced Gamma–Ray Emission (PIGE), Energy Dispersive X-Ray Analysis (EDXRF), Rutherford backscattering spectroscopy (RBS), and ion beam analysis (IBA), offer unique capabilities for trace element analysis with high sensitivity and minimal sample preparation requirements. The paper begins by discussing the fundamental principles underlying ion-atom interaction techniques, such as the interaction of energetic ions with matter and the subsequent detection of emitted X-rays or backscattered particles. It explores the various analytical parameters that influence the sensitivity, resolution, and depth profiling capabilities of these techniques. Furthermore, the review highlights the diverse applications of ion-atom interaction techniques in fields such as environmental monitoring, forensic science, biomedical research, and materials science. It showcases how these techniques have been utilized to address specific analytical challenges, such as the detection of trace contaminants in environmental samples or the characterization of thin films and semiconductor materials.
Comparative Analysis of Flood Estimation using Log-Pearson Type III and Gumbel Max Models in the Cauvery River, India
Authors: Robindro Singh Khwairakpam
Published: May 2024

Flooding is one of the most destructive global disasters in scale, geographical extent, property and life loss, and population displacement. The Cauvery River is one of the flood vulnerable rivers in the Peninsular region of India. At-site flood frequency analysis is performed using flow data obtained at the Kodumudi gauged site in the Cauvery River. Log Pearson Type III and Gumbel Max distribution models are used in the present study to estimate peak floods for different return periods. The Central Water Commission provides the annual maximum discharge for the Kodumudi gauged site over 39 years (1980-2018). The goodness of fit test employing the Kolmogorov-Smirnov and Anderson- Darling tests, reveals that Log-Pearson Type III best estimates peak floods in the study area. The peak floods predicted by Log-Pearson Type III for return periods 2, 5, 10, 25, 50, 100, 200, and 500 years are approximately 929, 1886, 2998, 5303, 8002, 11929, 17633, and 29228 cumecs. Hydraulic structures can be designed in the region based on 100-year flood. The present research could help with flooding management approaches, vulnerability analyses, and hydraulic structure design in the study region.
Voices from the Workplace: Exploring Communication Practices in an Engineering Firm through an Interview-Based Study
Authors: Jessie Laureen E. Buenaventura, , Dexter O. Gonzales, , Justine A. Javier, , Gabriel C. Lanic, Angelo , Leandro Kurt S. Monilla,
Published: May 2024

Effective communication is crucial for organizational success. This study explores communication practices within an engineering firm, to understand how communication models impact project dynamics and stakeholder relationships. We adopted a qualitative approach, conducting face-to-face, semi-structured interviews with employees and executives. The firm’s unique approach to construction projects makes it an ideal case study for understanding how communication influences this field. This research aims to unravel the communication culture within the firm, including formal and informal communication channels, and how these practices affect workplace stability and effectiveness using communication models from past researchers, such as Organizational Culture Theory, the Transactional Communication Model, and the Interactive Communication Model. The findings can help reshape communication strategies in construction, fostering better stakeholder relationships and project success. This study contributes to the body of knowledge on communication in engineering workplaces by providing insights into communication practices and their impact on an organization's efficiency and stakeholder dynamics.
Patient Flow Control in Emergency Departments Using Simulation Modeling and the Random Forest Algorithm
Authors: Yusuf Pyelshak , Umar Zambuk Fatima , Imam Yau Badamasi , Rifkatu Aaron Solomon , Ishaku Atangs , Agabus Aminu , Panshak Dawa Solomon , Zahraddeen Yakubu Ismail
Published: May 2024

The proposed thesis aims to optimize patient flow and reduce waiting times in emergency departments using simulation modeling and the Random Forest algorithm. Emergency departments face significant challenges in managing patient flow and reducing waiting times, which can lead to increased patient dissatisfaction and decreased quality of care. The proposed solution uses simulation modeling to create a virtual model of the emergency department and simulate patient flow under different scenarios. The Random Forest algorithm is then used to analyze the simulation results and identify the factors impacting patient flow and waiting times. By optimizing these factors, the proposed solution aims to reduce waiting times and improve the overall patient experience. The research involves the development and validation of the simulation model and the implementation of the Random Forest algorithm using real-world emergency department data. The outcomes of the implemented Random Forest Model in Chapter Four showcase its efficacy with an accuracy rate of 0.85, sensitivity rate of 0.99, and other favorable metrics. The proposed solution has the potential to improve patient outcomes and reduce costs associated with emergency department overcrowding and delays.
A DYNAMIC PERFORMANCE-BASED PAYMENT MECHANISM FOR PUBLIC-PRIVATE PARTNERSHIP PROJECTS: AN INTEGRATED MODEL FOR PRINCIPAL-AGENT AND MULTI-OBJECTIVE OPTIMIZATION MODELS
Authors: Cao Yongchao , Li Huimin , Su Limin
Published: May 2024

Performance-based payment mechanism is one of the key issues to ensure all stakeholders’ benefits in infrastructure Public-Private Partnership (PPP) projects. However, most existing research on performance-based payment with a fixed incentive coefficient can’t play a good incentive role. This study aims to the intrinsic mechanism between the performance appraisal score and the performance-based payment structure, so as to design the dynamic performance-based payment mechanism for infrastructure PPP projects. Firstly, the multi-objective optimal method is used to calculate the unit-payment. Second, principal-agent theory is used to construct the performance-based payment model with a changeable incentive coefficient. The findings of this study show that, the performance-based payment mechanism can effectively motivate participants to provide high-quality and efficient services, because their remuneration directly depends on their performance. When the outcome does not meet expectations, the amount paid can be adjusted accordingly, thus ensuring the maximum protection of public resources as well as the private sector’s profits. They serve a dual purpose, on one hand, they offer insights to rectify the shortcomings in the current unsatisfactory payment structure. On the other hand, the study provides a theoretical reference for the public sector to effectively incentivize the private sector in enhancing project performance.
DIGITALIZATION AND THE “TOO BIG TO FAIL” DILEMMA: MECHANISMS AND ASYMMETRIC EFFECTS OF BANKS’ FINTECH INNOVATION ON TOTAL FACTOR PRODUCTIVITY
Authors: Li Chengming , Zhang Yuan , Yu Hongwei
Published: May 2024

Fintech is driving the revolution of finance and profoundly affecting the development of the financial sector. However, few studies examined how commercial banks’ fintech innovation affects total factor productivity (TFP). To build up the fintech index of commercial banks, we use web crawler technology to accumulate news related to the fintech innovation of commercial banks in Baidu news. We use the panel data of 72 banks in China from 2010 to 2020 to explore the impacts and mechanisms of fintech on commercial banks’ TFP. The results show that fintech innovation effectively improves TFP after a series of robustness tests. Further, we find that fintech innovation can improve commercial banks’ TFP by promoting innovations of financial products, increasing risk control capability, reducing cost, and improving profit. Also, the utility of fintech is more significant in banks with more assets, facilities, and human capital, which means that fintech innovation creates a “bigger is better” mindset. Meanwhile, the result of quantile regression shows that the higher the fintech innovation, the more significant the increase in TFP, which further reveals that there is ‘too big to fail’ among commercial banks under digitalization.
Possibility of Secondary i- and s-processes Following r-process in the Collapsar Jet
Authors: He Zhenyu , Kajino Toshitaka , Kusakabe Motohiko , Zhou Shan-Gui , Koura Hiroyuki , Chiba Satoshi , Li Haining , Lin Yangming
Published: May 2024

The slow and intermediate neutron-capture processes, s- and i-processes, are believed to occur in asymptotic giant branch stars to provide half of the heavy atomic nuclei with A ≥ 90. We suggest a possibility that certain types of outflows found in the collapsar, which is a supernova generated by a rapidly rotating massive star undergoing core collapse, leaving behind a black hole and emitting relativistic jets, can provide conditions that are viable for s- and i-processes as secondary processes following the rapid neutron-capture process, r-process. We propose that the pronounced odd–even effect in the mass abundance pattern near rare earth elements in metal-deficient halo stars could be an observational hint for the s- and i-processes in the collapsar.
Two Shell-burning White Dwarfs in Symbiotics of the Small Magellanic Cloud
Authors: Ballard Lewis , Orio Marina , Mikolajewska Joanna , Ness Jan-Uwe , Luna G. Juan M. , Dobrotka Andrej
Published: May 2024

SMC3 and Lin358 are super-soft X-ray sources (SSS) in symbiotics of the Small Magellanic Cloud. They have been observed as SSS for over 30 yr. We present new observations done in 2014, 2021 and in 2023 with XMM-Newton, NICER, and Chandra. Lin358 is modeled with an effective temperature around 200,000 K, and a maximum flux value around 8.25 × 10−13 erg cm−2 s−1 in 2021. An observation close to periastron revealed hardening of the source. SMC3 is known to undergo an X-ray obscuration approximately every 4.5 yr; we measured the peak X-ray flux of 4.12 × 10−13 in 2014 with the Chandra Low Energy Transmission Grating. Models indicate an effective temperature of about 500,000 K, consistent with previous findings, and increasing luminosity excursion between maxima and minima. We suggest that with such high effective temperature, indicative of steady shell burning, the possibility these systems are on the path to type Ia supernova is worth considering.
Taxonomic notes on the genus Baetiella Uéno, 1931 (Ephemeroptera, Baetidae), with description of three new species from Thailand
Authors: Phlai-ngam Sirikamon , Boonsoong Boonsatien , Gattolliat Jean-Luc , Tungpairojwong Nisarat
Published: May 2024

Based on material recently collected in northern Thailand, the present study provides an updated of the genus Baetiella, including Gratia. It comprises six species in Thailand, three of them being new species: Baetiella (Gratia) narumonae, Baetiella (Gratia) sororculaenadinae, Baetiella (Baetiella) bispinosa, Baetiella (Baetiella) baeisp. nov., Baetiella (Baetiella) lannaensissp. nov. and Baetiella (Baetiella) bibranchiasp. nov.Baetiella (Baetiella) baeisp. nov. can be distinguished from other species by the reduction of the posteromedian protuberances on abdominal tergites I–III, the asymmetrical coniform terminal segment of labial palp, the distal margin of abdominal sternites VII–X each with a row of long, spatulate setae, the dorsal margin of femur with two long, robust setae distally. Baetiella (Baetiella) lannaensissp. nov. is diagnosed by the posteromedian protuberances present on tergites I–VIII, dorsal margin of femur with a regular row of long, rounded, ciliated setae and body surface covered with numerous, dense, rounded scale-like setae. Baetiella (Baetiella) bibranchiasp. nov. can be separated from other species by coxal gills present at the base of forelegs and midlegs. The molecular study based on the mitochondrial gene COI and a larval key to species of Thai Baetiella are also provided.
Hardy type identities and inequalities with divergence type operators on smooth metric measure spaces
Authors: Wang Pengyan , Wang Jiahao
Published: May 2024

We gave the Hardy type identities and inequalities for the divergence type operator $ L_{f, V} $ on smooth metric measure spaces. Additionally, we improved a Rellich type inequality by using the improved Hardy type inequality. Our results improved and included many previously known results as special cases.
Does intravesical BCG for bladder cancer protect from COVID-19?
Authors: MacDonald Anastasia , Bao Lexia , Mehrnoush Vahid , Ismail Asmaa , Di Matteo Livio , Zakaria Ahmed , Elmansy Hazem , Black Peter , Kotb Ahmed
Published: May 2024

Introduction: The study aimed to correlate the history of intravesical BCG as well as infantile BCG immunization with the incidence and severity of COVID-19 infection.
Methods: Retrospective data collection of patients with high-risk non muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) from two Canadian centers. Data collection included a history of BCG instillation, infantile immunization, and the development of COVID-19 infection. Admission and/ or mortality because of COVID-19 was reported.
Results: We could include data from 348 patients: including 188 and 160 patients from Ontario and British Columbia respectively. COVID-19 affected 15% of these patients. Intravesical BCG was used in 44% of these patients. Intravesical BCG and/or infantile BCG immunization did not correlate with the incidence of COVID-19 infection.
Conclusions: Previous intravesical BCG and/ or a history of infantile BCG vaccination were not more/ less frequent in patients who had COVID-19 infection.
Treatment of benign endobronchial tumors: when, how, and why. Insights, experiences, and interventional pulmonology strategies
Authors: Cesaro Cristiano , Masi Umberto , Pedicelli Ilaria , Lucci Raffaella , Cesaro Flavio , Amore Dario , Cianci Roberta , Perrotta Fabio , Zamparelli Enzo , Caterino Umberto
Published: May 2024

Benign endobronchial tumors are rare clinical entities characterized by considerable variability in etiology and clinical presentation. The authors report four cases of endobronchial hamartomas treated and followed up from 2018 to 2023. Three of these cases, with identical endobronchial localization in the right lower lobe, were radically treated in flexible bronchoscopy with the only use of biopsy forceps. Another case with a different localization in the left main bronchus was treated with a laser through rigid bronchoscopy. In addition, the authors outline the main interventional pulmonological strategies for the treatment of benign tumors with endobronchial growth based on the existing literature.
Unhealthy Weight Control Behaviors according to the Status of Combustible Cigarette and Noncombustible Nicotine or Tobacco Product Use among Korean Adolescents with Experience Attempting to Reduce or Maintain Their Body Weight: The 15th Korea Youth Risk Behavior Survey, 2019
Authors: Bong A Ra , Cho Young Gyu , Park Hyun Ah , Kim Kyo Woon
Published: May 2024

Background: Noncombustible nicotine or tobacco product (NNTP) use, and cigarette smoking are associated with a high likelihood of unhealthy weight control behaviors (UWCBs) among adolescents. However, no study has addressed the differences in UWCBs among non-users, single users of combustible cigarettes (CCs) or NNTPs and dual users. This study compared the frequencies of weight control behaviors according to the status of CC and NNTP use among Korean adolescents.Methods: This was a cross-sectional study of 25,094 adolescents who had attempted to reduce or maintain their body weight during the past 30 days, using data from the 15th Korea Youth Risk Behavior Survey, 2019. Data on the status of CC and NNTP use, weight status, and weight control behaviors were obtained using self-report questionnaires. Subjects were categorized into four groups: non-users, cigarette-only users, NNTP-only users, and dual users.Results: Among boys and girls, current smokers and NNTP users were 8.9%±0.3% and 5.5%±0.3%, and 4.2%±0.2% and 1.7%±0.1%, respectively. Among boys, NNTP-only users were more likely to engage in extreme weight control behaviors than non-users. Among girls, users of either CCs or NNTPs were more likely to engage in extreme weight control behaviors and less extreme weight control behaviors than non-users.Conclusion: This study shows that users of either CCs or NNTPs are more likely to engage in UWCBs, and NNTP-only users are the most likely to do so.
Understanding the “Infodemic” Threat: A Case Study of the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Andrew Albert
Published: May 2024

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic is notable among infectious diseases for its distinctive impact, which has halted millions of livelihoods owing to strict social distancing rules and lockdowns. Consequently, millions of individuals have turned to online sources, particularly social media, to remain informed about the virus. The transition to digital sources has resulted in an abundance of information, including both accurate and misleading or false content being shared and consumed on online platforms, contributing to what is commonly referred to as an “infodemic.” Although these platforms have been valuable tools for healthcare professionals and public health authorities in disseminating crucial public health messages, they have also aided in the spread of misleading and false information. The widespread dissemination of false information has been instrumental in propagating harmful beliefs and behaviors such as vaccine hesitancy, promoting discriminatory attitudes, and endorsing false beliefs about the efficacy of certain therapeutic products for treating COVID-19. False information has undoubtedly become a challenge and burden for governments, health professionals, and the general population. This review has three main objectives: (1) to assess the scope of the “infodemic” issue, including investigating the factors contributing to the spread of false information online; (2) to examine the multifaceted consequences resulting from false information; and (3) to argue that an interdisciplinary, multi-layered approach, encompassing a focus on prevention, deterrence, and education, should be adopted to prevent the conception and dissemination of false information in this modern digital age.
On wavefront sets of global Arthur packets of classical groups: Upper bound
Authors: Jiang Dihua , Liu Baiying
Published: May 2024

We prove a conjecture of the first named author (2014) on the upper bound Fourier coefficients of automorphic forms in Arthur packets of all classical groups over any number field. This conjecture generalizes the global version of the local tempered

L

-packet conjecture of Shahidi (1990). Under certain assumption, we also compute the wavefront sets of the unramified unitary dual for split classical groups.
TikTok como herramienta de comunicación política: el caso de Podemos y el Partido Popular en la ley del “solo sí es sí”
Authors: Lozano Hernández Nerea , Miquel Segarra Susana , Zomeño Jiménez Daniel
Published: May 2024

Introducción: TikTok se ha convertido en un importante canal para la difusión de mensajes en formato vídeo dirigidos a las audiencias más jóvenes. El principal objetivo de esta investigación se centra en el análisis de la construcción del mensaje político que tanto Podemos como el Partido Popular han hecho de la plataforma TikTok en torno a una legislación en concreto, como es la del “solo sí es sí”. Metodología: Para alcanzar el objetivo planteado y dar respuesta a las preguntas de investigación formuladas se opta por una metodología cuantitativa y se recurre a la técnica del análisis de contenido sobre una muestra de 80 vídeos publicados por el Partido Popular y Podemos entre el 1 de marzo de 2020 y el 7 de marzo de 2023. Resultados: el uso de TikTok por parte de los dos partidos es muy diferente a nivel del discurso, pero similar en cuanto al empleo de recursos técnicos en la construcción de la imagen, y en ambos casos, con carencias visibles de falta de adecuación a los públicos y a los recursos que ofrece la red. Discusión: Tal y como ocurre con otras plataformas, los partidos no utilizan la potencialidad de la red y sus recursos para alcanzar al público más joven. Conclusiones: Los partidos trasladan el discurso y las estrategias del mundo real al mundo digital, manteniendo los roles de ataque y defensa frente a la ley del “solo sí es sí”.
Moyamoya Disease Masquerading as Hemiplegic Migraine in a Child: A Case Report From India
Authors: Kumar Kunal , Kumar Deepak , Mathur S. B.
Published: May 2024

Moyamoya disease (MMD) is a chronic progressive steno-occlusive disease of the intracranial arterial vessels and their branches characterized by puff smoke appearance on angiography. Multifocal neurological insults and deficits are commonly observed in children with MMD. A 7-year-old boy presented with multiple episodes of transient hemiparesis preceded by headache, vomiting, and visual auras was initially labeled as sporadic hemiplegic migraine according to the International Headache Society criteria. However, the rare association of hemiplegic migraine with MMD compelled us to perform magnetic resonance imaging and digital subtraction angiography, which revealed MMD as the underlying cause for the alternating hemiplegia and headaches in the child.
Factors Associated with Quality of Perioperative Nursing Care: A Cross-Sectional Study from a Southwestern State of Nigeria
Authors: Olufemi Oyebanji Oyediran
Published: May 2024

No Abstract
Natural mythology and cultural imagination: Three portraits of Bessie Head
Authors: Shinners Keely
Published: May 2024

Hallett, a painting by Thenjiwe Niki Nkosi, and a sculpture by Claudette Schreuders. It argues that these portraits each symbolise Head to a certain degree: Hallett wanted to capture the Artist in Exile; Nkosi wanted to capture a Struggle Hero; and Schreuders wanted to capture a Fellow South African. This paper is interested in how all three of these artists – although to different ends and effects – each mythologise Bessie Head, and how this relates to a broader project of national mythology. In this way, this analysis hopes to contribute to a greater understanding of Bessie Head in the cultural imagination of South Africa.
self-portrait in utopia
Authors: Masinga Nkateko
Published: May 2024

No abstract.
Chalk and Cheese? A comparative study of Bessie Head (1937–1986) and Lewis Nkosi (1936–2010)
Authors: Stiebel Lindy
Published: May 2024

This article brings together two giants of Southern African literature and criticism for the purposes of comparison, particularly of their experience of the Drum and Golden City Post era, and the immediate aftermath. Bessie Head and Lewis Nkosi, both journalists, first crossed paths in the Johannesburg of what Nkosi called ‘The Fabulous Decade’ of the 1950s; both, in the early 1960s, went into exile – Nkosi to America to take up a Nieman Fellowship at Harvard University; and Head to Serowe in Botswana to become a teacher. Both left, after having passports refused, on one-way exit permits which meant they couldn’t return, for the duration of apartheid rule at least. There were, of course, significant differences as well: though both had difficult childhoods, Head’s struggles as a disowned illegitimate foster child were harder than Nkosi’s who at least had some family to support him in his early years; Head’s battle with mental health was not shared by Nkosi, though her dependence on alcohol was. In terms of their long-term reputations, Head was the more acclaimed novelist, while Nkosi’s acclaim was for his critical writings. This article is a preliminary step towards comparatively discussing these two exiled writers whose paths crossed briefly in turbulent personal and political times in South Africa.
Fat Time and Other Stories by Jeffery Renard Allen.
Authors: Antonucci Michael A.
Published: May 2024

No abstract.
Rapid Composting Using a Novel Agricultural Waste Shredder
Authors: Busari Rasheed , Alabi Kehinde , Adebayo Raheef , Dada Juwon
Published: May 2024

Agricultural waste causes social and environmental pollution, affecting global health. Converting agricultural waste to organic manure reduces the problems of pollution. Existing machine used in conversion has low efficiency in terms of throughput capacity and size reduction, leading to slow composting. This study focuses on the evaluation of a specially developed waste shredder for fast composting (maize straw). The machine was designed to handle substantial volumes of agricultural waste, operated at different speeds (i.e. 300, 600, 900, 1200 and 1500 rpm) and time (i.e. 0.5, 10, 1.5, 2.0 and 2.5 hr). The components of the machine included shredding drum equipped with three sets of blades, a feeding tray, sieve, engine seat and an outlet. Performance evaluation carried on the machine includes shredding efficiency and throughput capacity. A standardized Response surface methodology (RSM) was employed to maximize efficiency varying the operational speeds and shredding time. Results showed achieved maximum shredding efficiency of 91% and maximum throughput capacity of 585 kg/hr when the machine was operated at 1,500 rpm for 1.5 hr. In addition, the machine is portable, low energy and easy to operate for any agricultural waste.
Cashless Payments: Perceived Challenges by Stakeholders in Tanzania Using UTAUT2 Model.
Authors: Lissah Jane , Kirobo Abdulkadir , Kaaya Peter
Published: May 2024

The establishment of cashless payments has revolutionized financial transactions globally, yet its implementation in developing countries like Tanzania presents a unique series of challenges. This study investigates the challenges associated with cashless payments in Tanzania using UTAUT2 model. The UTAUT2 model determine behavior intention by individual technology consumers. The study employed quantitative research method for data collection by distributing questionnaires. Data analysis was performed using SPSS analytical tool. Findings revealed the most used cashless methods were mobile money 59%, Scan to Pay (QR Codes) 51% and Mobile banking 43%. Majority of respondents were found to use cashless payment service to pay bills 87%, sending and receiving money 85% and purchasing airtime 79%. Findings also shows UTAUT2 factors that affect the adoption of cashless payment is highly influenced by perceived price value of the service (heavy tax and levy 65%, high transaction costs 50%), facilitation condition (low support by merchants 51%, IT related Risks 42% and Delayed transaction completeness 41%), social influence (social altitude 38%) and hedonic motivation (risk of fraud 38%). This research contributes to the existing literature by offering insights into the current challenges impacting cashless payments in Tanzania.
Design of a Stand-Alone Photovoltaic (PV) System for a Three-Bedroom Apartment in Mubi, Adamawa State, Nigeria.
Authors: Aliyu Adamu , Bucham Justine , Unwaha Ibrahim
Published: May 2024

In the world today, electricity is also among the essential basic amenities of every human being because it drives the socio-economic activities of any country. More than 1.3 billion of the populations across the globe are living with low or no source of electricity. The lack of accessibility to electric power to this population brought an existence of a wide gap in current energy sources and this affected the growth of such population mostly residing in remote settlements of developing nations. Electrical energy is a significant feature for the economic and developmental advancement in every nation. Even with the abundance of many sources of energy (conventional and non-conventional sources) around the world and in Nigeria, there are still problems in accessing electricity which could be attributed to its generation, transmission, or distribution. These challenges hinder the socio-economic advancement of a country. About 95 million (55 % of Nigeria's population) Nigerians are living with no supply of electricity and the total power/electricity produced, there is about 30-35 % loss in the generated energy from transmission and distribution. This research studied the possibility of electrifying a three-bedroom apartment in Mubi's high residential layout using a solar photovoltaic system through the adoption of HOMER Software. The parameters/data used in this research work were obtained from the basic appliances usually found in an average household and from works of literature on studies performed on energy utilization in some residential areas in Nigeria, taking into consideration their power ratings, quantity, and solar component prices. These and some design considerations like system fixed capital operation and maintenance cost of ₦ 4,000 per year, project lifetime of 20 years, system fixed capital cost, discount rate of 9 %, average solar radiation data, coordinate of Mubi, among other parameters were applied in the HOMER software for the design, simulation and optimized results obtained. The optimized results indicate that a solar PV array of 5 kW comprising 25 solar panels of 200 W each, 10 sets of 12 V / 220 Ah batteries, and a 5000 VA inverter with charger are sufficient to accommodate the load of 16.086 kWh/day. The cost of energy (COE) with a 100 % renewable fraction is ₦ 410.94 / kWh.
Development of an Economic Cost Model for Gold and Associated Minerals Using Economic Analysis and Artificial Intelligence Approach
Authors: Gbolagade Musiliu
Published: May 2024

Limited accuracy due to complex geological processes, insufficient data granularity, and challenges in predicting market dynamics impact mineral forecast models. In order to develop a cost-based model for gold and related minerals in Birnin Gwari (Kaduna State) and Kagara (Niger State), this study is being carried out in Nigeria. The created concept aims to increase the profitability and economic viability of open-pit mines operated by craftsmen and mining investors. By maximizing mine life cycles and preventing the early closure of mining sites, this was intended to encourage the best recovery rates. This study used economic and artificial neural network (ANN) modeling methods to create a cost-based model for ten gold-associated minerals. The coefficient of correlation (R2), root mean square error (RSME), and variance accounting factor (VAF) were used to assess the created model's correctness. The model evaluator demonstrates that the proposed cost-based models are economically viable and the quantitative results are as presented in Equations (14-23). The cost-benefit connection between gold and the ten related minerals was also determined using a least-squares regression analysis. According to geochemical results, the average values of gold and related minerals in the study region range from 4.87 g/t of gold (Au), 1.501 g/t of copper (Cu), and 187.13 g/t of iron (Fe) in Birni Gwari to 2.29 g/t of gold (Au), 1.358 g/t of copper (Cu), and 173.75 g/t of iron (Fe) in Kagara. In Birnin Gwari, the equivalent financial estimations are N876,600 for Au, N60,040,000 for Cu, and N1,129,375 for Fe, and N5,780,000 for Au, N49,500 for Cu, and N363,060,000 for Fe in Kagara. The model's scope demonstrates that running a single mineral can result in low recovery rates and a loss of profit margin; thus, the model's application to all open pit mines is relevant as a reference for profit margin cash flow.
Development of a Medical Condition Prediction Model Using Natural Language Processing with K-Nearest Neighbour
Authors: Omodunbi Bolaji , Soladoye Afeez , Okomba Nnamdi , Odeyemi Charity , Ayinla Mutiu
Published: May 2024

Capturing the effect of drugs being used by patients and using this review to predict the medical ailment they are facing is a good approach to easily predict medical conditions. A lot of researchers use clinical and demographic data (risk factors) to predict diseases, the limitation of this approach is that not all the instances would have the right clinical results and there is usually missing values, low prediction accuracy, inadequately pre-processed dataset, failure to consider feature selection and un-experimentation of alternative values of K when using K-nearest neighbour. Using drug review would go a long way as their effect and symptoms as reported by the user through their review would capture relevant information needed. This study employed an open access drug review dataset to predict the medical condition, this dataset consist of training and testing split which was integrated and later split using 80-20 splitting with stratification. The dataset went through some natural language processing techniques such as lemmatization, stemming, removal of stop words, tokenization, and vectorization among others. Forward –backward feature selection technique was employed with the comments having significant effect to the prediction of the condition. K-nearest neighbour was then employed to predict the medical condition using the drug review as the feature with the condition as the target variable. Different values of nearest neighbours were used to train the model with k=1 given the best predictive average accuracy of 89% with weighted average precision of 90%. The model gave the same average accuracy of 84% when k was initialised to 3, 4, 5 and 6 respectively. Moreover, the model obtained a better result when compared with exciting systems. Therefore, with the use of artificial intelligence, medical doctors and patients can easily use drug review to predict certain medical condition using clinical predictive decision support system.
A Two-Level Security Layer for Medical Data
Authors: Olayiwola Adedayo , Oladosu John , Oyeleye Christopher , Alade Oluwaseun
Published: May 2024

Implementing a two-level security approach comprising cryptography and steganography in Electronic Health Record (EHR) systems ensures comprehensive protection of sensitive patient information. Cryptography encryption methods alone may not provide adequate protection, as they can be susceptible to attacks and also, steganography, has the visual quality issues after embedding. The combination of RSA cryptography and DWT steganography will offers a comprehensive solution for securing medical data, ensuring confidentiality, integrity, and compliance with privacy regulations, while DWT steganography provides covert embedding within medical images, preserving diagnostic integrity and enhancing data protection. In this paper, a secure two-level layer of medical data security is proposed to encrypt secret information using Rivest-Shamir-Adleman (RSA) while the encrypted secret information is embedded using Discrete Wavelet Transform (DWT). The performance of the proposed method was evaluated using Mean Square Error (MSE), Peak Signal to Noise Ratio (PSNR) and Normalized Cross-Correlation (NCC) metrics. The results obtained show that our method performs with a value of 0.105 for MSE, 49.713 for PSNR and 0.912 for NCC showing high visual quality and low imperceptibility.
Development of Microcontroller Based Water Quality Monitoring and Water Level Control Device
Authors: Okomba Nnamdi , Esan Adebimpe , Omodunbi Bolaji , Adedayo Sobowale , Fajimi Iyoaye , Nwobodo Lois , Nduanya Ujunwa
Published: May 2024

Access to clean and safe water is not only a fundamental human right but also a vital requirement for electronics industries, chemicals industries, pharmaceuticals, food and beverage production, fisheries and aquatic farming. This project addresses the pressing issue of water quality monitoring and efficient water usage within the context of these industries. The study's identification of problem areas for water quality can lead to more efficient interventions and solutions to safeguard the environment, and prevent waterborne diseases. This paper presents the design and implementation of microcontroller-based system for monitoring water quality and water level in the thank, the water in the thank is refilled when it goes beyond a set threshold with the aid of an automatic switch control. The system is a hybrid of 3 subsystems: a Water Level Checker, a Water Quality Monitoring System and an Automatic Switch control system. The Water level checker consists of Ultrasonic sensors. The Water Quality Monitoring system consists of pH sensors, TDS (Total Dissolved Solids) sensors and Turbidity sensors. The continuous (Analog) data from the water quality sensors used would be outputted via an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display). The Automatic Switch control system consists of 5v Relay modules and a 12v Pump that would automatically switch ON/OFF depending on the level of water in the tank. The values of EC (Electrical Conductivity) and TDS spike drastically to the introduction of salt from as low as 138 -906 for TDS and 0.34 – 2.04 for EC, signifying increase in water capacity of electrical conductivity. Temperature rise in the afternoon also increases TDS values from 142 for clean water to 920 for the salty water while it ranges from 138 for clean water to 906 for salt water at both morning and evening time. Pumping aspects of the system are triggered when water level in the thank falls below 10% and trips off when water level goes above 95% as programmed in the control unit. The developed system marks a significant achievement in water management and automation technology. integration of quality monitoring sensors has enabled real-time evaluation of water parameters that holds potential for applications in environmental monitoring, ensuring safe drinking water, and safeguarding aquatic ecosystems. The automated switch control mechanism responds dynamically to water levels, enabling the system to trigger actions such as pump activation or filling processes based on predefined thresholds.
School Discipline And Academic Performance In Social Studies Among Secondary School Students In South South Educational Zone, Nigeria
Authors: John Okpa Ukwetang , Enemeba Ngwu Maria , Oyobo Gladys Tom Abam
Published: May 2024

The study investigated school discipline and academic performance in social studies among secondary school students in South South Educational Zone, Nigeria. The study tested three null hypotheses, collected data were analysed using descriptive statistics. The study adopted a descriptive survey research design. Purposive sampling technique was adopted to select a sample of 200 students, from a population of 4,320 junior secondary school students in the area. The instruments used for data collection was a questionnaire and social studies achievement test that were designed and administered by the researcher. The null hypotheses were tested at .05 level of significance using Independent t-test statistical technique. Findings from the study revealed that, time management, administration of punishment and administration or school rules and regulations significantly influence secondary school students’ academic performance in social studies in South South Educational Zone respectively. It was thus concluded that time management, administration of punishment and administration of school rules and regulations significantly influence secondary students’ academic performance in social studies. It was recommended that, secondary school students should endeavour to manage their time properly by developing a personal timetable that will incorporate all their domestic, school and leisure activities; and corporal punitive measures such as manual labour and use of cane should not be employed in administering punishment to students.
Performance of Microfinance Institutions: Do Risk Management Regulations really matter?
Authors: Mwambuli Erick , Mofulu Elizabeth , Allan Ruhuza
Published: May 2024

The study was conducted to assess the impact of risk management regulations on the financial performance of Microfinance Institutions (MFIs) in Tanzania. Specifically, the study was guided by a descriptive research design. The target population of this study included Microfinance Institutions (Tier 1 Microfinance Institutions) in Tanzania where all three (3) MFIs were selected. The study employed secondary data collected from the MFIs yearly annual reports from 2019 to 2022 and Bank of Tanzania (BOT) published statistics on MFIs. The study used a panel data random effect model to establish the relationship between risk management regulations and MFIs financial performance. The study found capital adequacy ratio requirements (CAR) to statistically positively influence the financial performance of the MFIs while the cash reserve requirements (CRR) statistically negatively influence the financial performance of the MFIs and liquidity ratio requirements (LRR) do not significantly influence the financial performance of the MFIs.The study concluded that MFIs should continue adhering to the available policy and regulations so as to evade exposed risks. Moreover, in terms of capital adequacy and cash reserve requirements, the BOT should set minimum capital depending on the risk capabilities of the MFIs. Furthermore, our study recommended that BOT should ensure that all MFIs adhere to the written policy and procedures to mitigate the operational, financial, and strategic risks among the MFIs.
Sovereign Wealth Fund and Fiscal Performance: A Case of Nigeria in the Midst of Other Natural Resources Rich Countries in Africa
Authors: Obilikwu James , Ibrahim Abdulrahaman
Published: May 2024

In spite of several postulations that sovereign wealth fund’s stabilization fund promotes smoothness in the fiscal performance of nations, there are contrary views that it does not. This study investigates the impact of sovereign wealth fund on fiscal performance using Nigeria and 21 other natural resources rich countries in Africa with data spinning from 2003 to 2018. The study made use of Two-Step System GMM and found that sovereign wealth funds have about 0.8 percent positive insignificant impact on the fiscal performance implying that having a sovereign wealth fund in place improves nation's fiscal performance. Consequently, the study recommends that the governments and the management of the various existing funds in Africa should put in more efforts in improving sovereign wealth fund performance; natural resources rich Africa countries without sovereign wealth fund should consider establishing theirs; and the control of corruption, strengthen of financial institutions, reduction in the cost of oil production and increase in general revenue should be taken seriously as they enhance fiscal performance.
Commodity Price Shock and Economic Performance: An Empirical Evidence for Nigeria
Authors: Abdullahi Naziru Yusuf , Duru M. C. , Umar Auwal , Maikudi I. Y.
Published: May 2024

Interconnected economies in the world commodity market may cause external shocks that slow indigenous countries' economic growth and development. Nigeria is a commodity-dependent country, hence, commodity price shocks have harmed its institutional and fiscal framework for economic growth, despite efforts to save the economy. It is crucial to assess the effects of local and external commodity price volatility shocks on emerging nations' growth since they plunge millions into abject poverty. It is in this context, this study examines commodity price shock and economic performance with an empirical evidence for Nigeria. This study employs Multivariate Generalized Autoregressive Conditional Heteroscedasticity (MGARCH) to capture both gradual and unexpected changes in commodity price shock in Nigeria from 1980Q1 – 2021Q1. The results showed positive volatility shock effect on each variable caused by its past innovations while parameters of the independent variables indicated innovations of shock effects on economic performance. Also exports of other non-oil commodities can reduce dependence of real exchange rate on world commodity prices by having more diversified exports. The study recommends for diversification towards agricultural production to stabilize the real exchange rate of Naira from world commodity price shocks. Finally, Nigeria can protect her competitiveness from fluctuations in world commodity prices by being more opened to external trade.
Assessment of Community and Social Projects on Social Infrastructural Development of Kwali Area Council Federal Capital Territory
Authors: Kwaghza James Aondoaver , Abdullahi Mohammed
Published: May 2024

This study focuses on the assessment of the Community and Social Development Projects (CSDP) on social infrastructure development in the Kwali Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). Social infrastructure plays a vital role in enhancing the quality of life and well-being of a community's residents. The research aims to evaluate the effectiveness and sustainability of the CSDP's initiatives in promoting social infrastructural development within the Kwali Area Council. The study adopted the documentary research method through the review of various documents—books, journals, government publications, and other written materials that are relevant and valid in the area of study by subjecting the various information to deductive reasoning to find answers to research questions. The findings from the presented data highlighted the substantial impact of the Federal Capital Territory Community and Social Development Project (FCT-CSDP) on the development of social infrastructure in Kwali Area Council. The construction and rehabilitation initiatives undertaken through FCT-CSDP grants have significantly contributed to various aspects of the community. The study recommends that to ensure the continued benefits of the FCT-CSDP initiatives, it's crucial to incorporate sustainability measures into project planning. This could involve training community members in the maintenance and management of the constructed facilities, creating income-generating activities linked to the projects, and establishing mechanisms for ongoing monitoring and evaluation.
Estimation and comparison of Weibull-Normal distribution with some other probability models using Bayesian method of estimation
Authors: Aliyu Suleiman , Bamanga Muhammad Ardo
Published: May 2024

In statistical applications the Normal distribution is adjudged to be the best. Recent studies Terna (2017) using classical method indicated that Weibull-Normal distribution outperformed the Normal distribution. In this study we used the non-classical Bayesian method of estimation to estimate and compare the Weibull-Normal distribution with some other distributions including Normal and Gamma-Normal distributions. This study derived explicit expressions for basic statistical properties such as moments, moment generating function, the characteristic function, reliability analysis and the distribution of order statistics. It looks at estimation of confidence intervals for the parameters of the Weibull-Normal distribution and estimated the parameters of the new distribution using a non-classical approach for the purpose of theoretical comparisons. The two other distributions whose parameters were also estimated by using Bayesian estimation are the normal distribution and gamma distribution as well as the combination Gamma-Normal distribution. Based on the analyses and interpretations of the results obtained it was found that the parameters and other general properties of Normal distribution gives a better fit than other distributions. R-software was used; the models were written as an R code in R program using the rjags library, the distribution parameters were obtained from a Gibbs sampling of a Bayesian Fit for data set I and data set II. The criteria used in R for comparisons were the negative log-likelihood, AIC (Akaike information criterion), CAIC (Consistent Akaike Information Criterion) and BIC (Bayesian information Criterion).