bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A review of the current state of Pico and Nanosatellites: some applications in Latin America and other regions of the world
Authors: Tovar Soto Jhonatan Paolo , Pareja Figueredo Carlos Francisco , Vargas Cañón Jonathan Steven , Gutiérrez Martínez Luis Carlos
Published: March 2021

Small satellites have been a fundamental factor in the constant growth of space technologies from 60 years ago. Since the space war began during the Cold War, thousands of satellites have been put into low orbit to carry out radio frequency applications, analysis and sending satellite images of the earth, joint research tasks for space exploration on artificial satellites, as well as missions in other astronomical bodies. By 2019, more than 50 countries around the world have put into orbit at least 1 small satellite, which accounts for the persistent work to increase the applications of these devices and the need make known the potential of these elements for research and for technological applications. Due to this, the present article was based on the documentary search to carry out a review of the current state of small satellites, and especially of nano and pico satellites. The research defined 3 phases for the writing of this document: choice of databases and search engines according to the research area, use of selection algorithms using logical discrimination chains and, finally, extensive analysis of the chosen documents for the writing of the article. All the information was presented through statistical graphs with detailed information from years of publication, language, region, terms, and areas the greatest research of small satellites. It was found that CubeSat and CanSat are the types of nano and pico satellite with the greatest predilection for research by universities and technological institutions, given its low cost and in most cases its easy implementation.
INDISCRIMINATE REFUSE DUMPING AND FLOODING IN AMASSOMA COMMUNITY, NIGERIA
Authors: Oleabhiele E. J. , Dotimi D. E.
Published: March 2021

Appropriate waste disposal is crucial for a healthy environment and avoidance of health hazards. Environmental problems arising from indiscriminate dumping of refuse needs urgent attention, control and management in Nigeria. This study sought to examine the relationship between indiscriminate refuse dumping and flooding in Amassoma community of Bayelsa State, Nigeria. The study was anchored on structural-functionalist theory. The study engaged the survey research design and its population comprised residents of Amassoma community and staff of Bayelsa State Environmental Sanitation Authority. A triangulation of both quantitative and qualitative method of data collection was used. Quantitatively, a sample size of 378 were administered closed ended structured questionnaires which elicited information based on the study’s objectives, while qualitatively, 5 respondents participated in the study’s in-depth interview which allowed for participants to disclose their feelings and attitude more readily about the subject matter. The non-probability sampling technique involving the use of accidental sampling was employed in selecting the study respondents. Quantitative data were analyzed using the non-parametric method of Chi-square, while qualitative data was content analyzed using verbatim quotations. The study findings revealed that there was a significant relationship between the waste disposal habit of the people and flooding and also, between poor waste management and flooding in the study area. It also revealed a significant relationship between drains blocked by refuse dumping and flooding in Amassoma community. The study therefore recommends a communal orientation on the need for proper waste disposal for residents of Amassoma community to ensure positive attitude towards waste management and, effective control of indiscriminate refuse dumping in drains, so as to reduce the incidence of flooding in the community.
PERCEPTION OF INHABITANTS IN URBAN SLUMS OF BOUAKE (COTE D’IVOIRE) ABOUT THE HEALTH RISKS OF UNSANITARY ENVIRONMENTS
Authors: N’gattia K. A. , Kouassi D. P. , Coulibaly D. , Chérif D. , Tiembré I.
Published: March 2021

Throughout the world, one-third of the urban population continues to dwell in unplanned neighborhoods mostly located within unhygienic slums. The impact on their health could be far-reaching. The present study, which was cross-sectional, examined the perception of people in urban slums of Bouaké, Cote d’Ivoire vis-à-vis the attendant health risks. Majority of respondents selected for the study had lived within the study area for at least 2 years. Two persons per household were selected for the study; including the head of the household and any other occupant within the ages of 8 and 15 years. Overall, 423 people were interviewed. The median age was 21 years, with an average residency of 14 years. A total of 98.8% of the respondents agreed strongly that living in slums exposed inhabitants to grave health risks. However, only 2.9% agreed that an unsanitary environment contributed to pollution of ambient air. The perception of health risks related to exposure to unsanitary slums was statistically associated with the age (p = 0.0152) and the number of years of residency (p = 0.0156). Although, the survey suggested that living in urban slums exposed inhabitants to health risks especially disease epidemics, the fact that these residences had subsisted for very long periods within these slums changed their perception about acceptability.
ASSESSING THE UTILITY OF A CYTOKINE IN THE DIAGNOSIS OF CERVICAL INTRAEPITHELIAL NEOPLASM AMONG WOMEN IN BENIN CITY, NIGERIA
Authors: Atoe K. , Ehimigbai R. O. A. , Ayinbuomwan E. , Onovughakpo-Sakpa O. E.
Published: March 2021

Cervical cancer has been recognized as the fourth commonest cancer worldwide with 70 % of deaths from cases occurring from developing countries. The mortality rate among women in Nigeria can be drastically reduced by early specific diagnosis of premalignant lesions. Although Cytokines are not routinely used as diagnostic markers for cervical cancer, this study investigated the strength of Granulocyte Monocyte Colony Stimulating growth Factor (GM-CSF) as an indicator in the prediction of Cervical Intraepithelial Neoplasm (CIN). The study was carried out at the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Benin Teaching Hospital Benin City and Department of Chemical Pathology, Edo University Iyamho, Edo state Nigeria, between August, 2017 and January 2019. It was a cross-sectional prospective study. A total of 197 female participants were recruited for this study. Based on histological diagnosis they were grouped as; Negative, CIN 1, CIN 2 and CIN 3. Venous blood was obtained from participants and serum GM-CSF levels were determined using standardized laboratory methods. The results showed a statistically significant elevation of serum GM-CSF in participants with CIN lesions (56.27±1.21ng/ml) compared to those without (33.43±3.03ng/ml). The study also suggests a 56.3% sensitivity and a 95.3% specificity of GM-CSF marker to CIN with an Area under the Curve (AUC) of 0 .907, p<0.001 from the Receivers Operator Curve (ROC). This research suggests the use of GM-CSF as a good marker for screening of those at risk of cervical cancer because of its high prospect to reduce the incidence of false positives. However, because of the low sensitivity, it is recommended that GM-CSF be used as a CIN diagnostic tool in combination with the standard Pap smear test.
MODELLING AND OPTIMIZING THE APPLICATION OF WASTE TYRE POWDER (WTP) AS OIL SORBENT, USING RESPONSE SURFACE METHODOLOGY (RSM)
Authors: Odeh A. O. , Okpaire L. A.
Published: March 2021

The rapid growth of the automobile industry has led to the abundance and indiscriminate disposal of waste tyres which causes environmental pollution and also lead to serious health problems. The absorption of crude oil using waste tyre powder (WTP) was investigated. A three variable Box-Behnken design was used to study the effect of particle size, contact time and temperature on the oil sorption capacity of WTP. Optimization was carried out using Response Surface Methodology (RSM). A quadratic model was obtained to predict the oil sorption capacity of WTP as a function of particle size, contact time and temperature. The optimum conditions of the sorption process obtained from RSM gave a temperature of 30.19oC, contact time 59.04 mins and particle size 0.15mm. A maximum oil sorption capacity of 4.71 g/g was obtained at these optimized conditions. Also, a comparison between the oil sorption efficiency of fresh tyre powder and regenerated tyre powder subjected to the same conditions of particle size, contact time and temperature were carried out. It was shown that the oil sorption capacity of the fresh tyre powder was higher than that of regenerated tyre powder.
THE PREVALENCE OF Chlamydia trachomatis AMONGST ASYMPTOMATIC PREGNANT WOMEN IN FOUR LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREAS OF DELTA STATE
Authors: Bamikole H. T. , Idemudia I. B. , Imariagbe E. E. , Ekhaise F. O.
Published: March 2021

The prevalence of Chlamydia trachomatis among asymptomatic pregnant women in four Local Government Areas (LGAs) in Delta State, Nigeria was investigated in this study. The four LGAs were Ethiope West, Sapele, Warri South and Warri North. A total of 200 pregnant women who visited the Primary Health Care Centres for antenatal care aged between 16 and 45 years were sampled across the four LGAs comprising 50 pregnant women from each of the LGAs between October 2017 and February 2018. The women were categorized into six age groups: 16 – 20, 21 – 25, 26 – 30, 31 – 35, 36 – 40 and 41 – 45. Collected urine samples were examined in the laboratory for the presence of C. trachomatis using sedimentation and microscopy. Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) was used to identify the DNA of the isolated bacteria specimens. Results from the four LGAs showed that 93 pregnant women (46.5%) tested positive for C. trachomatis. Prevalence was highest in the subjects from Warri North LGA (27/93) (29.03%), while the least prevalent was the subjects from Warri South (19/93) (20.04%). Women aged 26 – 30 had the highest prevalence (38/93) (40.86%), while prevalence was least in women aged 41 – 45 (3/93) (3.23%). There was no significant difference in number of infected pregnant women in the four Local Government Areas (p>0.05). Findings from this study are important, considering the growing concern of cases of infertility and death of newborn. Thus, there is a need for sexually active men and women to embark on routine check up to ascertain their health status.
EXPOSURE OF COWPEA (vigna unguiculata (l) walp) TO SPENT ENGINE OIL CONTAMINATED SOIL AND ITS IMPLICATIONS ON CONSUMER’S HEALTH
Authors: Bello T. B. , Bolaji O. M. , Fakunle F. A.
Published: March 2021

Spent Engine oil (SEO) is a common environmental pollutant generated after engine services. Disposing SEO is a serious environmental issue in Nigeria as generators end up disposing it in water drain systems, rivers, open vacant plots and agricultural lands. Thus, the need to assess the impact of such disposal on environmental components becomes imperative.  Using a completely randomized design, a control and seven treatments of SEO (T0: 0 ml, T1: 5 ml, T2: 10 ml, T3: 15 ml, T4: 20 ml, T5: 25 ml, T6: 50 ml, T7: 75 ml) were applied to potted soil for cowpea planting. Plant height, leave number, yield, heavy metal load and hazard quotient were assessed. Baseline heavy metal analysis showed the SEO contained lead and cadmium at 0.003 mg/kg and 0.462 mg/kg respectively. There was significant reduction in plant height (T0: 50.72 cm, T3: 37.36 cm, T7:  24.33 cm), number of leaves (T0: 25.91, T3: 21.57, T7: 17.67), seed weight (T0: 24.40 g, T3: 16.38 g, T7: 5.03 g) and plant weight (T0: 171.60 g, T3: 136.60 g, T7: 54.70 g) in contaminated soil with increasing SEO concentration (P<0.05). Cowpea grown on contaminated soil accumulated cadmium in seeds (T0: 0.000 mg/kg, T3: 0.057 mg/kg, T7 0.119 mg/kg) and in roots (T0: 0.000 mg/kg, T3: 0.079 mg/kg, T7: 0.263 mg/kg) with hazard quotient ranging from 0.084 to 0.216. This study revealed that increasing environmental pollution through indiscriminate SEO increases the possibility of health risk by elevating hazard quotient and this should therefore be discouraged.
ROCK PHOSPHATE SOLUBILIZATION AND ENZYMATIC ACTIVITIES FROM INDIGENOUS BACTERIA ON CASSAVA MILL EFFLUENT CONTAMINATED SOIL
Authors: Oshoma C. E. , Nwodo S. O. , Obuekwe I. S.
Published: March 2021

The processing of cassava into value-added products is associated with discharge of effluents which contain substances that have adverse effect on the environment. Remediative activity of indigenous bacteria can be stimulated by supplementing effluents with phosphorus. Rock phosphate (RP) solubilization and enzymatic activities from bacteria on the cassava mill effluents (CME) contaminated soil was investigated. Soil mixed with varying concentrations of CME (0, 100, 200, 300, 400, 500 and 600 ml) and 10 g of RP were analyzed on days 0 and 16. Parameters analyzed were changes in pH, heterotrophic bacteria load, phosphate-solubilizing bacteria load, available phosphorus, acid phosphatase, cellulase and urease concentrations. The results showed that the medium containing 400 ml CME contaminated soil had the highest phosphate-solubilizing bacteria load (12.60 ± 2.08 x 106 cfu/ml), available phosphorus (126.00 ± 4.08 mg/kg), acid phosphatase (9.54 ± 0.51 mgN/g/min), cellulase (15.24 ± 0.81 mg/g/6h) and urease concentration (2.15±0.22 mg/g/2h). The control had the lowest phosphate-solubilizing bacteria load and enzymatic activity. Biostimulation of indigenous bacteria to enhance the degradation of cassava mill effluent-contaminated soil, using rock phosphate, showed promising results. This implies that rock phosphate solubilization by indigenous bacteria in CME-contaminated soils could be important for the remediation and reclamation of contaminated lands.
OPINIONS OF STUDENTS AND TEACHERS ON DRUG ABUSE AMONG SENIOR SECONDARY SCHOOL IN ZARIA EDUCATION ZONE, KADUNA STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Samuel G.A. , George E.O. , Ogbu B. N. , Agaba L. O. , Yisa M. K.
Published: March 2021

Drug abuse and dependence producing substances are widely prevalent in African countries and have continued to increase. Substances abuse, which were originally conceived as the problem of a selected few is today becoming a problem of a sizeable proportions of the world population. A cross-sectional descriptive study design was used. Using Research advisor (2006) Sampling table, 365 students and 108 teachers were sampled using stratified random sampling technique out of 3812 and 156 study populations respectively. The instrument that was used for data collection was an adapted standardized questionnaire structured by Afuwai in 2016 who worked on drug abuse on socio-emotional behavior of secondary school students in Kaduna state, Nigeria (Afuwai, 2016). Hypothesis were tested using independent sample t-test at the .05 level of significance to determine whether there is a statistically significant difference between the means of the two unrelated groups. All statistics were done using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (IBM-SPSS version 24). The study shows that all kinds of drugs are being abused by senior secondary schools’ students in Kaduna State according to the opinions of the respondents with marijuana as the most commonly abuse drug while barbiturates (diazepam) is not a common abuse drug. An agglomeration of several factors influences the usage of drugs by senior secondary schools’ students in Zaria education Zone of Kaduna State as there were no specific factors found. The study established that female students are more predominant on abusing drugs than their male counterparts these days.
From the adaptation capacity to pioneering behavior in companies in the main cultural tourist destinations: Divergent effects of the dynamism of the environment
Authors: Zirena Elbia Myreyle Chávez , Zirena Patricia P. , Gala Bernardo R. De la , Hurtado-Palomino Américo
Published: March 2021

The present investigation analyzes how the dynamism of the environment affect the relationship be-tween the capacity of adaptation and the pioneering behavior in the companies of the tourism sector in Peru. The empirical study was carried out in 238 tourist companies located in the cities of Lima, Arequipa and Cuzco considered as a cultural heritage of Perú. Regarding to the results achieved in the study, the proposed model allows detecting a direct, significant effect between the ability to adapt and pioneering behavior, whose relationship is accentuated through market dynamism and technological dynamism, and is weakened by competitive intensity. This work contributes to the ex-isting theory and demonstrates through practical application the linkage of the dimensions of the dy-namism of the environment as drivers of adaptive capacity in companies in the cultural tourism sec-tor that are necessary to obtain advantages for a behavior Pioneer in an existing competitive market.
The effect of university organizational culture on organizational silence and faculty–student interaction
Authors: Kim Jongsung , Ko Sung-Hoon
Published: March 2021

Colleges/universities outside the Seoul metropolitan area (hereafter “non-Seoul universities”) are in a crisis of existence due to a decline in the school-aged population in South Korea. Most non-Seoul universities are making efforts to implement self-rescue measures for survival. This study examines the relationships among different types of organizational culture (innovative, collective, rational, and hierarchical), organizational silence (acquiescent, prosocial, and defensive), and faculty–student interaction as perceived by non-Seoul university professors to provide useful implications for effective human resource management plans for the professors, who are responsible for entrance examinations and education at non-Seoul universities in crisis. An online survey was employed to collect data from professors at private community colleges/universities outside the Seoul metropolitan area. Responses from 421 professors were used for data analysis. Results are as follows. First, when professors perceived innovative and collective cultures, their defensive silence decreased while prosocial silence increased. Second, when rational culture was perceived, defensive silence increased while prosocial silence decreased. Third, acquiescent silence increased while prosocial silence decreased when hierarchical culture was perceived. Fourth, faculty–student interaction was enhanced when innovative and collective cultures were prevalent. Finally, prosocial silence had a positive effect on faculty–student interaction. The findings imply that if university managers change policy to encourage professors to perceive the university culture as innovative and collective, prosocial silence, which is positive from the organization’s perspective, will increase, facilitating interactions between professors and students.
Spiritual leadership, workplace spirituality and their effects on meaningful work: Self-transcendence as mediator role
Authors: Widodo Slamet , Suryosukmono Gerry
Published: March 2021

In increasing their productivity and attitudes in serving the community, every work they do should be considered meaningful both for themselves and for others. Many aspects influence the emergence of meaningful work, including the spiritual leadership style applied by the leader to his subordinates, the spirituality factor in the workplace that affects, and the internal need factors that are reflected in the form of self-transcendence. This is where the strategic function of the institution plays a role in coordinating and integrating spiritual leadership, spiritual workplace, self-transcendence within the individual and the creation of meaningful work is based on the principle of benefits both for themselves and for society so that the function of the Government as a public servant can run well. The purpose of this study was to examine and analyze the relationship between spiritual leadership and spirituality in the workplace towards self-transcendence and realizing meaning in work (Meaningful Work). The population of this study was ASN from 5 agencies and agencies under the Bengkulu city government, namely the Education Office, the Population and Civil Registration Service, the Health Service, the Tourism Office, the Youth and Sports Service. The number of samples was 150 people by convenience sampling method. The research method begins with validity and reliability testing with Confirmatory Factor Analysis. This is followed by an explanation of the statistical descriptions related to the respondent's profile, hypothesis testing using the SEM method by taking into account the goodness of fit test. The results showed that all hypotheses were accepted except the hypothesis of the effect of spiritual leadership on meaningful work by mediating self-transcendence.
The association between entrepreneurship, management, and sustainable development in the middle east: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Abou-Moghli Azzam , Dandis Ala
Published: March 2021

The study of entrepreneurship continues to expand as a field of enquiry and remains one of the most attractive realms of research in the field of management science. This study follows an evidence-based research approach and conducts a systematic review and meta-analysis on the entrepreneurship, management, and sustainable development in entrepreneurial firms working in the Middle East. The study has conducted a bibliometric search for outlining the systematic and empirical evidence on entrepreneurship, management, and sustainable development, and to examine the relevant literature from the particular domain, followed by PRISMA guidelines. Total of 25 articles were extracted dated from 2006 to 2020. One of the potential aspects regarding entrepreneurship, management, and sustainable development in the region was the introduction of entrepreneurial led family businesses that unlock the potential of the region. The rapid urbanization and population growth in the Middle East have put massive pressures on their environments. Entrepreneurship had a significant and positive impact on both sustainable development and management. Influenced by the entrepreneurial ecosystem, the Middle Eastern countries showed a dynamic performance at a macro level. This systematic review and meta-analysis provide information on the current state of the empirical entrepreneurship, management, and sustainable development literature.
The association between interpersonal conflict, turnover intention and knowledge hiding: The mediating role of employee cynicism and moderating role of emotional intelligence
Authors: Akhlaghimofrad Asieh , Farmanesh Panteha
Published: March 2021

Academia is prone to incivility and interpersonal conflict like any other workplace environment, although incivility in academia is manifested in behaviors such as undermining colleagues’ professional standing, intelligence and authority; reprobating other’s accomplishments; and hiding knowledge from other faculty members. The autonomy, independence, academic freedom, and tenure in academia lead to a working environment (culture) with different “rules of engagement”, governed by the faculty members themselves. This study examines the impact of employee cynicism on faculty’s interpersonal conflict as a source of stress, which leads to undesirable organizational behaviors, namely higher turnover intention and knowledge hiding behavior; furthermore, the role of faculty’s emotional intelligence as a moderator on the relationship between interpersonal conflict among faculty members and turnover intention has been investigated as a second objective of this study. The study uses a quantitative method of research and analysis, by collecting data from 200 faculty members in private higher education institutions. The study’s hypotheses were tested by Smart PLS3 (SEM) to conclude that: 1) interpersonal conflict directly influences turnover intention and knowledge hiding behavior; 2) employee cynicism has no mediating effect in the relationship between interpersonal conflict, and turnover intention or knowledge hiding behavior; 3) Faculty’s emotional intelligence moderates the relationship between interpersonal conflict and turnover intention.
The effect of organizational culture on employee performance mediated by job satisfaction and work motivation: Evident from SMEs in Indonesia
Authors: Wahjoedi Tri
Published: March 2021

This study aims to examine the influence of organizational culture on employee performance mediated by job satisfaction and work motivation. This research is a quantitative research with a case study at the SME PT PMS Company in Surabaya, Indonesia by distributing questionnaires to 50 employees. The data were processed using Structural Equation Modeling with the Smart PLS 3 programs. The results showed that in fact the respondents thought that organizational culture and work motivation had no direct significant effect on employee performance, and work motivation could not mediate organizational culture on employee performance. Organizational culture has a significant direct effect on job satisfaction and work motivation and job satisfaction has a significant direct effect on employee performance. Likewise, job satisfaction can mediate organizational culture on employee performance where all relationships lead in a positive direction. There has been no research that examines the relationship model of those 4 variables which is intended to determine the wider relationship between these variables and this study provides an overview of employee behavior in SME companies and is useful as input in determining strategies, especially for companies to improve their performance.
Predictors of fast-fashion-oriented impulse buying: The case of Vietnamese millennials
Authors: Nguyen Son Truong , Ha Tri Minh
Published: March 2021

During the last few years, global fast fashion retailers have been penetrating Asian emerging markets and Vietnam is not an exception. This study explores both external and internal factors, contributing to the fashion-oriented impulse buying of Vietnamese millennials and then investigates the impact of these determinants on fashion-oriented impulse purchase. Both qualitative and quantitative approaches were conducted in the empirical study. It is found that emotion and hedonic value along with fashion involvement, sensory cues and in-store promotion respectively influence fast-fashion oriented impulse purchase. These findings help fast fashion retailers understand the impulse buying behavior of young Vietnamese consumers so that they can effectively elaborate retailing-mix strategy to boost the sales and thus sustainably grow the business.
The link between talent management, organizational commitment and turnover intention: A moderated mediation model
Authors: Dayeh Khairieh Abu , Farmanesh Panteha
Published: March 2021

It has been suggested that talent management (TM) has a direct and significant relationship with a number of employee outcomes. This is while the number of studies examining the process of TM leading to these outcomes are limited. Therefore, the main purpose of this study is to present a new model for analyzing processes of TM and its linkage with several employee and organizational outcomes that are organizational commitment and turnover intentions. Additionally, the present paper involves a mediating factor (P-O fit) alongside a moderating variable that is, Organizational Culture. A sample of 510 employees were selected from different banks located in Amman, Jordan. Mediation and moderation models were tested through structural equation modeling (SEM). The findings, being in consensus with previous studies, showed that TM has a linkage with both TI and Organizational Commitment. Mediating effect of P-O fit was shown with both aforementioned variables. In addition, the moderation effect of organizational culture on the relationship between TM and TI was found. The study contributes to the literature of the topic by providing a fit model to explain the linkage of TM and a number of organizational and employee outcomes. Bank managers can benefit by being aware and implying TM practices within their firms to further develop company advancements and attending to their employees based on new HRM trends.
The role of brand equity in increasing buying interest
Authors: Sugiyarti Gita , Mardiyono Aris
Published: March 2021

This study aims to analyze the effect of brand awareness, brand image and sales promotion on brand equity and consumer buying interest. The population of this study was all Swalayan Ada customers in Indonesia. The sample was taken by 550 respondents. After processing with normalization of data, the sample is worth using as many as 265 respondents. Analysis tools using Structural Equation Modeling with AMOS 16 program. The findings show that brand awareness, brand image and sales promotion have a significant positive effect on consumer buying interest. Brand image and sales promotion and brand equity have a significant positive effect on buying interest while brand awareness has no significant effect on consumer buying interest.
Fear of COVID-19 and work-quality of life among nurses: The mediating role of psychological well-being
Authors: Maslakçı Ahmet , Sürücü Lütfi , Sesen Harun
Published: March 2021

This study was conducted in order to analyze the effect of the nurses’ quality of work life based on fear about COVID-19 and examine the psychological well-being as a moderating variable in this relationship. The survey questionnaire was administered among nurses between 1 November 2020 and 14 November 2020. The self-report survey comprised the nurse information survey, Fear of COVID-19 Scale, work quality of life scale, and psychological well-being scale as data collection tools. Data were obtained from 339 nurses. The findings show that fear of COVID-19 negatively affects nurses’ quality of work life. It has been determined that PWB plays a moderating role in this relationship. While the fear of COVID-19 negatively affects the quality of work life in nurses with low psychological well-being, there is not any kind of significant effect on the quality of work life in nurses with high psychological well-being. This result shows that as the psychological well-being of nurses’ increases, fear of COVID-19 effect on quality of work life decreases. The results of the study show that responses designed to enhance psychological well-being can enhance nurses' working conditions that could reduce the negative effects of the fear of COVID-19. There is an urgent need for clinical and policy strategies to help increase nurses’ PWB in order to increase the quality of work life by reducing fear and also anxiety among nurses fighting on the front line during COVID-19.
Diagnosis of Lead Pollution of Surface Waters of a River: Case of the Djiri River in the Republic of Congo
Authors: Ngoubou Roch Corneille , Dinga Jean Bienvenu , Nganga Dominique
Published: March 2021

This research work deals with the physico-chemical analysis of the surface water of the Djiri river with the aim of preventing the population against possible water pollution.

The analysis of the samples collected in the Djiri river revealed the presence of lead in these waters at levels exceeding the WHO guideline values: an average annual pollution (0.93 mg / l) which is visibly above the WHO guideline value (0.01mg / l).

The in situ data of the Djiri river revealed a significant drop in flow between the period 2016 characterized by a divergence index of 0.82344 thus highlighting a hydrological situation for which the actors of national hydrology will absolutely have to implement measures. Remedial mechanisms to protect this river against possible disappearance.
Evaluation of the Effect of Incorporation of Nano-fluorohydroxyapatite on Tensile Strength and Modulus of Elasticity of an Essix Plate
Authors: Shafaee Hooman , Aboutorabzadeh Hamidreza , Bagheri Hossein , Yaloodbardan Banafsheh , Rangrazi Abdolrasoul
Published: March 2021

Background: Nano-fluorohydroxyapatite (nano-FHA) is a caries preventive agent that is applied in many fields of dentistry and has the potential of being added to Essix retainers to create antibacterial properties. Objectives: The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of nano-fluorohydroxyapatite addition on the tensile strength and modulus of elasticity of an Essix plate. Methods: The nano-fluorohydroxyapatite was synthesized and added to an Essix plate in various weight percentages: 0% (group 1), 0.1% (group 2) and 0.5% (group 3). We performed the measuring of flexural strength and modulus of elasticity for the experimented three groups using a universal testing machine. The data were analyzed through one-way ANOVA and Tukey’s test at the significance level of 0.05. Results: Accordingly, the obtained results were indicative of significant differences between the groups (P-value = 0.003); however, the difference between group 2 and control group was not statistically notable (P-value = 0.427). Furthermore, the tensile strength of group 3 significantly decreased (P-value = 0.04). In regards to the modulus of elasticity, the data were suggestive of significant differences between the groups (P-value = 0.002). Apparently, the modulus of elasticity of group 2 and group 3 decreased significantly compared to that of the control group (group 1). Conclusions: We can conclude that nano-FHA can be incorporated into Essix plates in concentrations of up to 0.1 wt% in order to create some caries preventing effects with no negative effects on tensile strength; however, adding nano-FHA to Essix plate will decrease modulus of elasticity.
Employing Lethal Autonomous Weapon Systems
Authors: Häyry Matti ,   Philosophy Documentation Center
Published: March 2021

The ethics of warfare and military leadership must pay attention to the rapidly increasing use of artificial intelligence and machines. Who is responsible for the decisions made by a machine? Do machines make decisions? May they make them? These issues are of particular interest in the context of Lethal Autonomous Weapon Systems (LAWS). Are they autonomous or just automated? Do they violate the international humanitarian law which requires that humans must always be responsible for the use of lethal force and for the assessment that civilian casualties are proportionate to the military goals? The article analyses relevant documents, opinions, government positions, and commentaries using the methods of applied ethics. The main conceptual finding is that the definition of autonomy depends on what the one presenting it seeks to support. Those who want to use lethal autonomous weapon systems call them by another name, say, automated instead of autonomous. They impose standards on autonomy that machines do not meet, such as moral agency. Those who wish to ban the use of lethal autonomous weapon systems define them much less broadly and do not require them to do much more than to be a self-standing part of the causal chain.The article’s argument is that the question of responsibility is most naturally perceived by abandoning the most controversial philosophical considerations and simply stating that an individual or a group of people is always responsible for the creation of the equipment they produce and use. This does not mean that those who press the button, or their immediate superiors, are to blame. They are doing their jobs in a system. The ones responsible can probably be found in higher military leadership, in political decision-makers who dictate their goals, and, at least in democracies, in the citizens who have chosen their political decision-makers.
Evaluation of Perception and Awareness of Dental Injuries among Sports Children Aged 6-18 Years and their Coaches during Contact Sports
Authors: Shah Yash , Deshpande Anshula , Poonacha KS , Bargale Seema , Jain Aishwarya , Shah Vaibhavee
Published: March 2021

Introduction: Dental injuries are the most common form of orofacial injury suffered during sports participation. This injury can be severe, affecting appearance, voice, and ability to eat. Reputation of contact sports activities is growing day-by-day so the function of dental specialists has turn out to be extra essentials to prevent dental and orofacial injuries. Aim: To evaluate perception and awareness of dental injury in sports children and their coaches during contact sports. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted between August 2019 to October 2019 at three sports complexes in Vadodara, Gujarat. A structured questionnaire was used to assess the perception and awareness of oral injuries sustained during sports activities. Self-administered questionnaire with 20 closed ended questions for coaches and 18 closed ended questions for children were constructed with multiple choice or Yes-No format. Total of 50 coaches and 240 children were included in the study. Results: Most common sustained injury occurred on the face (41.7%), followed by lip/tongue/cheek injury (22.9%), teeth fracture (10.4%) and teeth avulsion (7.5%). Among all participants, 66 (27.5%) sports children and 27 (54.0%) coaches knew that it was possible to re-implant the teeth. A total of 118 (49.2%) sports children were aware that mouthguard can prevent dental injuries and 31(86%) coaches had advised children to use mouthguards while playing contact sports. Conclusion: The knowledge related to sports injury is poor and under-usage of protective devices requires education and motivation.
Knowledge, Attitude and Practices on COVID-19 among Patients Attending a Private Dental College in Jeddah
Authors: Vanka Shanthi , Alharbi Futon Mohammed , Baljoon Raghad Sameer , Albakri Rahaf Abdullah , Alturkistani Rewaa Fadil , Vanka Amit , Wali Othman
Published: March 2021

Introduction: The close proximity to the patient’s oropharyngeal region and also involved aerosol production presents a potential high risk for the transmission of disease across patients and dental health practitioners. This requires dentists and patients to be aware of the risks of contracting coronavirus from the patient’s perspective when they seek dental treatment. Aim: To assess the knowledge, attitude and practices of the patients toward the dental visits during the pandemic crisis. Materials and Methods: The present study was a cross-sectional questionnaire-based study conducted in IBN Sina National College, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia from 6th July, 2020 to 24th July 2020. All the patients who had visited the dental clinics attached to the dental college were sent online google docs form with a consent through WhatsApp. Questions were divided into 2 sections, one section related to demographic data of participants like age, gender, education level, frequency of dental visits and the other section related to patients’ perspective with regards to the coronavirus infection in the dental set up. The results were analysed using SPSS version 23. Results: The questionnaire was sent to all the patients online and all of them had responded to the survey. Majority of the patients {1757 (80.9%)} have knowledge about the COVID-19 disease signs, symptoms, transmission and complications. Among these respondents 6.6% (144) had routinely visited a dentist, 8.8% (192) had sometimes visited a dentist and only 0.3% (7) visited a dentist only once and they generally try to avoid visiting a dentist. Conclusion: At a clinical level, education is limited only to the patients who approach the dentists. At a community level, government, dental colleges and dentists have to take several measures in educating the public in equipping them with health promotional materials. Community-based online programs should be planned and implemented by different levels of administration.
Intrusion Effects on Maxillary Anteriors using Mini Implant Anchorage and K-Sir Loop in Subjects with Deep Overbite- A Cohort Study
Authors: Verma Purva , Jain Ravindra Kumar
Published: March 2021

Introduction: Various options to treat deep bites nonsurgically involve extrusion of posterior teeth or intrusion of anterior teeth. Intrusion of anterior teeth is required in patients with excessive incisal display and to correct deep bite in adult patients when extrusion of posterior teeth is not desirable. Aim: To compare the rate of intrusion and dento-alveolar effects on maxillary anterior teeth by Kalra-Simultaneous Intrusion and Retraction loop (K-SIR loop) and Mini implant anchorage in subjects with deep overbite. Materials and Methods: This prospective cohort study included 12 patients with Class I or Class II Div 1 malocclusion having an overbite and overjet of >4 mm treated with therapeutic extractions of upper first premolars. Group A included six subjects treated using orthodontic Mini implants, while Group B had six subjects treated with K-SIR loop. Lateral cephalograms were taken before intrusion and retraction (T1) and at the end of six months (T2) into intrusion and retraction. Independent t-test and paired t-test was done for intergroup and intragroup comparison respectively. Results: The rate of intrusion was 0.38 mm/month and 0.31 mm/month for Group A and Group B, respectively. The amount of intrusion was significantly more in Temporary Anchorage Devices (TAD) group (p-value <0.01). Conclusion: In the TAD group, rate and amount of intrusion was significantly higher. There is no difference in vertical control between the two modalities statistically significant amount of molar extrusion was seen with the K-SIR loop group.
CBCT Assisted Endodontic Management of Teeth for Aberrant Roots: Case Series
Authors: Biradar Nandini , Shetty Nithin Kumar , Naik Ruthika , Chakote Savita , Ravi Ramakrishna
Published: March 2021

Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) is a radiographic imaging technique which provides accurate, high-quality, three-Dimensional (3D) images of various parts of head and neck. They deliver images with a spatial resolution of teeth required for diagnosis, treatment planning and postoperative evaluation. The aim of this case series is to describe the importance of determining the root canal morphology with the help of CBCT. This case series presents the endodontic management of a three rooted maxillary first premolar, maxillary first molar with single palatal root and three canals and mandibular first molar with five canals using CBCT. The axial images from CBCT show Gulabivwala K Type I (3-1) canal pattern in distal root of mandibular first molar (36) and palatal root of maxillary first molar (26) according to Al-Quadah Awawdeh showed Type XXII (3-2-1) canal configuration. Biomechanical preparations of all the teeth were done with hand as well as rotary file systems and lateral compaction obturation technique was used. With the advancing technology in imaging, there are possibilities to detect and treat a number of variations particularly in posterior teeth leading to successful endodontic treatment.
Point Mutations in Muscle Segment Homeobox 1 (MSX1) Gene in an Individual with Mandibular Retrognathia: A Case Report
Authors: Nanjappa Dechamma Pandyanda , Bhat Murali Patla Shivarama , Shetty Veena , Shroof Krishna Nayak Uppinagadi , Chakraborty Anirban
Published: March 2021

Malocclusion is an orofacial anomaly that manifests in the form of misaligned dental arches. Mandibular retrognathia is a type of malocclusion, characterised by defective mandibular bone growth. Muscle Segment Homeobox (MSX) gene family, plays an essential role during embryonic development by coordinating processes that decide the patterning and morphogenesis of tissues. Expression of MSX1 and MSX2 genes in the maxilla, mandible and the mesenchymal cells of cephalic neural crest strongly suggest their role in craniofacial development. Here, point mutations (T8I, P11S and A68V) in the coding region of MSX1 gene in a 20-year-old male patient with severe mandibular retrognathia was reported. To date, there has been no report on the association of MSXgenes with mandibular anomalies. Evaluating, the significance of these novel mutations through functional studies in animal models will lead to a better understanding of the role of MSX genes in mandibular morphogenesis.
Self-perception of Body Weight and Physical Activity with its Relationship to Actual Body Weight among Students in a Medical College: An Analytical Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Prathiba T , Rajkumar G , Anbarasi M
Published: March 2021

Introduction: Obesity and sedentary life style are becoming more prevalent among the student generation. Every human being has a very good insight about the outlook. But many are not able to maintain what they perceive. During this survey, the students get a vivid picture of their real body weight and their perception of their body structure. Aim: To compare the self-perceived body weight with actual body weight among medical students and to analyse the perceptions and practice of medical student’s related to physical activity. Materials and Methods: This analytical cross-sectional study included 400 medical students. Self-perceived body image was assessed using Silhouette matching technique. Students represented the figure how they currently look (Feel) and how they actually wanted to look (Ideal). The Feel minus Ideal Discrepancy (FID) score was noted. Actual body weight and height were measured. Body Mass Index (BMI) was calculated using the Quetelet formula- weight(Kg)/height(metres)2. Perceptions and practice of physical activity were assessed using Exercise Benefits/Barrier Scale (EBBS). Comparison of perceived and actual body weight was done by Student’s Independent t-test and Pearson correlation test using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 17.0. Results: The actual BMI and perceived BMI showed strong positive correlation (r= 0.726; p=0.0001). Males had high exercise benefit scores (92) when compared with females (86) (p=0.0002). The students had high total score (benefit score plus barrier score); males had 127 and females had 124 (p=0.003) and high benefit/barrier ratio. Conclusion: Actual BMI and self-perceived BMI were well correlated indicating participant’s awareness of their body image. Male participants were more actively involved in physical activity and more concerned about maintaining their body weight. All students had higher benefit scores which is a favourable sign towards a healthy and active physical life.
High Sensitive C-reactive Protein Level in Relation to Increased Body Mass Index amongNon-diabetic Non-hypertensive Women
Authors: Elfadil Ghada A , Elmugadam Abdelgadir , Saied Rasheeda A , Hussein Salah Omar
Published: March 2021

Introduction: An increased Body Mass Index (BMI) has an adverse effect on the socio-economic and healthcare sectors and may influence metabolic status. High sensitivity C-reactive Protein (hs-CRP) is an emerging biomarker. The association between dyslipidaemia and obesity is well established, and has been found to be the risk factors for CVD. Aim: To study the relationship of hs-CRP with BMI, lipid profile and magnesium among obese and overweight non-diabetic non-hypertensive Sudanese women. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 90 women in Khartoum state (Sudan), aged between 20 and 43 years, from June to November 2019. The study included three groups of women based on BMI. hs-CRP was measured by using latex immunoturbidimetric method, lipid profile was evaluated using Biosystems colourimetric methods and magnesium by a chemical method. Results were computed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20.Results: There was significant increase in the mean values of hs-CRP, Total Cholesterol (TC), Triglyceride (TG), Low Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol (LDL-C), and a significant decrease in the mean values of High Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol (HDL-C) and magnesium in obese and overweight women, when compared to normal body weight women. Pearson’s correlation coefficient revealed a positive correlation between hs-CRP, and BMI, Waist-To-Hip Ratio (WHR), TC, TG, and LDL-C (p-value <0.01). Conclusion: Overweight and obese women have increased hs-CRP and atherogenic lipid profile, suggesting obesity to be a state of chronic inflammation. hs-CRP can be used to assess the risk of obesity-related disorders for early intervention.