bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Heat Treatment On Dysmenorrhea and Its Mental Health Outcomes: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Türkmen Hülya , Yörük Selda
Published: June 2023

This randomized controlled prospective experimental trial was conducted with 46 students with dysmenorrhea who were randomized in a 1:1 ratio to the heat treatment group (HTG) (
n
= 23) and control group (CG) (
n
= 23). To HTG, dry heat was applied for 20 minutes to the lower abdominal region of the subjects when their dysmenorrhea was most severe. Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), the Short Form McGill Pain Questionnaire (SF-MPQ), the Menstrual Attitude Questionnaire (MAQ), and the Depression Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS) were used in this study. At the first menstrual cycle, both groups received the questionnaires, and no treatment was applied. At the second, third, and fourth menstrual cycles, VAS and SF-MPQ were applied before the treatment (T1), right after the treatment (T2), and 2 hours after the treatment (T3). MAQ and DASS were applied right after the treatment. Seven subjects from HTG and four subjects from CG were excluded from the study on account of their analgesic medicine usage, inability to menstruate, or by their own requests. When HTG and CG were compared, the decrease in the dysmenorrhea pain after the heat treatment in each of the three menstrual cycles was found to be statistically significant (
P
< 0.05). In each of the four menstrual cycles, depression, anxiety, and stress were detected in each subject in both groups. However, the effectiveness of the treatment was not determined (
P
> 0.05). In HTG, awareness of the changes during menstruation was diminished with time.

[
Psychiatr Ann
. 2023;53(6):270–281.]
Threat assessment of aerial targets based on improved GRA-TOPSIS method and three-way decisions
Authors: Yin Yongfeng , Zhang Routing , Su Qingran
Published: June 2023

Target threat assessment is a critical aspect of information warfare and can offer valuable auxiliary support to combat command decision-making. Aiming to address the shortcomings of three decision-making methods in air combat target assessment, such as the inability to effectively handle uncertain situation information and quantitatively rank the decision-making targets according to their importance, a dynamic intuitionistic fuzzy decision model based on the improved GRA-TOPSIS method and three-way decisions is proposed. First, the target attribute weight is obtained by cosine intuitionistic fuzzy entropy algorithm; then, a novel intuitionistic fuzzy distance measure is introduced, and grey incidence analysis and TOPSIS are used to build the conditional probability for three-way decisions that fully utilize the existing information and reflect the consistency of dynamic change trend; finally, the comprehensive loss function matrix is constructed and the threat classification results are obtained using the decision rules. The example analysis shows that the proposed method can not only effectively handle complex battlefield situations and dynamic uncertain information, but it can also classify targets, improving the effectiveness and rationality of decision-making and providing a reference basis for scientific command decision-making.
An improved multi-strategy beluga whale optimization for global optimization problems
Authors: Chen Hongmin , Wang Zhuo , Wu Di , Jia Heming , Wen Changsheng , Rao Honghua , Abualigah Laith
Published: June 2023

This paper presents an improved beluga whale optimization (IBWO) algorithm, which is mainly used to solve global optimization problems and engineering problems. This improvement is proposed to solve the imbalance between exploration and exploitation and to solve the problem of insufficient convergence accuracy and speed of beluga whale optimization (BWO). In IBWO, we use a new group action strategy (GAS), which replaces the exploration phase in BWO. It was inspired by the group hunting behavior of beluga whales in nature. The GAS keeps individual belugas whales together, allowing them to hide together from the threat posed by their natural enemy, the tiger shark. It also enables the exchange of location information between individual belugas whales to enhance the balance between local and global lookups. On this basis, the dynamic pinhole imaging strategy (DPIS) and quadratic interpolation strategy (QIS) are added to improve the global optimization ability and search rate of IBWO and maintain diversity. In a comparison experiment, the performance of the optimization algorithm (IBWO) was tested by using CEC2017 and CEC2020 benchmark functions of different dimensions. Performance was analyzed by observing experimental data, convergence curves, and box graphs, and the results were tested using the Wilcoxon rank sum test. The results show that IBWO has good optimization performance and robustness. Finally, the applicability of IBWO to practical engineering problems is verified by five engineering problems.
Producción, comercio y consumo en el interior peninsular durante los siglos IV-VI d. C. a partir del estudio de la cerámica del yacimiento de Carranque (Toledo) (1988-2003)
Authors: García-Entero Virginia , Aranda González Raúl , Pina Burón María Rosa , Rodríguez Martorell Francesc
Published: June 2023

Presentamos el estudio de producciones cerámicas de ámbito tardoantiguo (IV-VI d. C.) procedentes de las excavaciones realizadas en el edificio palacial de Carranque (Toledo) durante las campañas de 1988 a 2003. La ausencia de metodología estratigráfica y contexto de este material condiciona y lastra su estudio, si bien el análisis íntegro del conjunto se ha demostrado esencial para la identificación de las producciones cerámicas presentes en el yacimiento durante ese periodo (TSHT, TSHTM, TSA D, lucernas africanas y ánforas) y para trazar, a partir del cotejo con las cerámicas halladas en contextos cerrados con metodología estratigráfica (campañas 2009 y 2010), las dinámicas y patrones de producción, consumo y comercio en las que se hallaba inserto el yacimiento a lo largo de la Tardoantigüedad (IV-VI d. C.).
First transcriptions of Spanish in Le Maître Phonétique (1888-1901)
Authors: Perea Siller Francisco Javier
Published: June 2023

Lǝ mɛ:tr fɔnetik (Le maître phonétique) gathers the first attempts to transcribe texts in Spanish based on the phonetic alphabet published in 1888. We have a large number of phonetic transcriptions from 1888, but we will focus on the period until 1901. Some of them have the name of their author (namely by Tomás Escriche y Fernando Araujo) while others appear without authorship. Furthermore, the journal hosts the theoretical debate around the sounds of Spanish that should be considered in the phonetic transcriptions. We will examine the terms in which the discussion is developed, as well as the improvement of the transcriptions over these years which are keys to the configuration of phonetics as a scientific discipline.
De la métaphysique à la science morale chez Descartes : une critique de la notion d’auto-affection
Authors: XIE Yong
Published: June 2023

Cette étude vise à réévaluer la notion interprétative d’auto-affection que l’on retrouve chez les commentateurs du Cogito cartésien. Cette notion est d’abord une interprétation des Passions de l’Âme, et son usage a pour but de rechercher un nouveau fondement pour le Cogito. Nous essayons de montrer deux raisons pour lesquelles cet usage peut paraître discutable. D’une part, des textes essentiels que l’on utilise pour justifier cette notion dans l’ouvrage ne semblent pas donner une assise suffisamment solide à une telle interprétation. D’autre part, cette interprétation entraîne certaines difficultés théoriques si l’on l’amène à réexaminer les discussions telles que celles de la correspondance avec la princesse Élisabeth.
Investigating Casimir effect in sonoluminescence bubble: A brief overview
Authors: Pater Ciprian , Javaherian Clara , Tariq Saad
Published: June 2023

The focus of our investigation is the feasibility of examining the Casimir effect in a spherically symmetric sonoluminescence bubble. Our recommendations are based on an in-depth analysis of the relevant literature and experimental data. To forecast the expansion time of the bubble
under irradiated shock waves, we primarily relied on Schwinger calculations. Furthermore, we addressed the inconsistencies associated with the failure to link sonoluminescence (SL) with the Casimir effect. Our findings indicate that SL is a highly delicate and reliant metric, with its measurement
relying on variables such as the type of gas used to produce the bubble, fluid and gas temperatures, surface tension, density, pressure, and radius. Based on our analysis, we conclude by proposing adjustments to various gases, particularly at different temperatures, to accurately assess SL
using Casimir forces and energy. We believe that our study will aid in the acceleration of future investigations into precisely measuring SL bubbles.
The motion of massless “object” and the physical essence and motion law of light
Authors: Zeng Jiqing , Zeng Tianhe
Published: June 2023

In this paper, the vacuum absolute static reference system is established by analyzing the motion law of massless “object.” Through the understanding of the physical nature of light, this paper reveals three basic laws of motion of light: First, light always moves in a uniform
straight line, independent of the motion of the light source. Second, the speed of light propagation in vacuum is constant relative to the absolute reference system of vacuum. Third, the speed of light propagation in the medium remains constant relative to the inertial frame of the medium.
Based on this, we have successfully explained the phenomenon of Michelson‐Morley experiment, Fizeau experiment, and light aberration phenomenon that have long troubled the academic community. Finally, we prove that the two basic assumptions on which special relativity is based are wrong,
so the Lorentz transformation and its series of inferences, as the core content of special relativity, are not tenable.
Neutrosophic Decision Making on Teaching Methods With Indeterminacy Quantifications
Authors: Martin Nivetha , Gandhi Ramila N. , Pandiammal P. , Smarandache Florentin
Published: June 2023

The dynamic requirements of the learners are redefining the process of teaching and learning and keeping the processes in the state of transience. The learning shall be made more effective by the right choice of the teaching method and it is necessary for every teaching method to possess certain essential attributes of flexibility, time efficiency, learner centeredness, and many other attributes. In this chapter, a decision-making problem with five criteria and eight alternatives of teaching methods is considered and the method of neutrosophic TOPSIS (technique for order preference by similarity to ideal solution) is applied to find the optimal ranking of the methods. In this research work the notion of single valued neutrosophic set with linguistic components is introduced as a means of making decision process more pragmatic, realistic, and feasible. This extended notion will certainly set a paradigm shift in decision making with linguistic representations.
New Software for Assessing Learning Skills in Education According to Models Based on Soft Sets, Grey Numbers, and Neutrosophic Numbers
Authors: Caballero Erick González , Broumi Said
Published: June 2023

One of the components of the educational teaching process is evaluation. The teacher evaluates the students at different moments of the course, to control that they adequately comply with the general and specific objectives that are proposed in the curriculum. This chapter describes a software called “Students' Skills Evaluator 1.0,” designed by the authors, to evaluate the skills of a group of students according to two models; one that hybridizes soft sets with grey numbers, and the other uses neutrosophic numbers, where the students are assessed according to Bloom's Taxonomy method. The software is friendly for the target users who usually are not specialists in computer sciences; in addition, the teachers evaluate their students based on mathematical models that are rigorous and easy to use.
An Effective Emotional Analysis Method of Consumer Comment Text Based on ALBERT-ATBiFRU-CNN
Authors: Yang Mei
Published: June 2023

To address the challenges of insufficient feature extraction for text sentiment analysis in the e-commerce big data environment, the author proposes a deep learning-based emotion analysis method of consumer comment text. Firstly, the author obtained the contextualized word vectors by using a pretrained language model called A Lite Bidirectional Encoder Representations From Transformers (ALBERT). Secondly, the researcher used the bidirectional gate recurrent unit (BiGRU) model to capture the semantic information through the combination of positive and negative directions, measure the emotional polarity information of each text as a whole, and then catch the local characteristic information of the text using the convolutional neural network (CNN) model. Finally, the author calculated the weight distribution through the attention mechanism. The experiments on a publicly available consumer review dataset showed that the recall, precision, and F1-score of the proposed text emotion analysis method were 0.9417, 0.9552, and 0.9484, respectively, which are higher than the existing methods. Therefore, the proposed method is of great significance in capturing the emotions of consumers on e-commerce platforms.
Competency Assessment of Pediatric Intensive Care Nurses
Authors: Robbins Nicole , Gandora Sara , Oja Kenneth J. , Mulkey David C.
Published: June 2023

One of the biggest challenges that clinical nurse educators at the unit level face today is measuring the ongoing competency of nursing staff members to ensure provision of high-quality, evidence-based care. Pediatric nursing leaders at an urban, level I trauma teaching institution in the southwestern United States used a shared governance approach to create a standardized competency assessment tool for pediatric intensive care unit nurses. Donna Wright’s competency assessment model was used as a framework to guide the tool’s development. The adoption of the standardized competency assessment tool was aligned with the organization’s institutional goals and enabled clinical nurse educators to comprehensively evaluate staff members on a regular basis. This standardized competency assessment system for pediatric intensive care nurses is more effective than use of a practice-based, task-oriented assessment method and has improved nursing leaders’ ability to staff the pediatric intensive care unit safely.
Morphometric Analysis of Peroneus Tertius and Extensor Digitorum Longus
Authors: Kosgallana Erandika Warunie , Eshwara Janith Madusanka , Nawarathna Lakshika S. , Dissanayake Jayampathy
Published: June 2023

Objective: The objective of this study was to analyse morphometric characteristics of the Peroneus Tertius (PT) and Extensor Digitorum Longus (EDL) muscles with important correlations and associations that may describe their functional significance.Material and Methods: The measurements PT and EDL muscles of cadavers were taken using a standard measuring tape. Minitab software Version 20.1 was used for statistical analysis methods of Spearman rho, Mood’s Median test, Fishers Exact test, and Two-sample T-test.
Results: Of the 54 specimens of lower limbs, the mean length of origin of the PT from the fibula was 13.80±5.52 cm and 76% of the specimens with a separate origin of PT extended to its proximal half. The distal insertion of PT tendon was mostly as a single insertion into the base of the fifth metatarsal bone (55.55%). Spearman rho correlation value for the EDL muscle belly circumference with the number of intertendinous connections showed a mild negative correlation.
Conclusions: Knowledge of morphometric characteristics and the variations of these muscles aid in clinical applications and suggest the use of radiological assessment of the muscle prior to surgical intervention.
Improving healthcare value: integrating medical practitioners into hospital design in developing countries
Authors: Noujeim Carlos Machhour
Published: June 2023

The cost of healthcare is a burden in most developing countries, and this is exponentially increasing in the context of population growth, pandemics, and rapidly evolving medical necessities. A customized healthcare typology should rely on data collection and architectural requirements, before moving to aesthetically compelling designs, so hospitals in low-resource or developing countries will not mimic their Western counterparts. The greatest bearing that improves the patient’s outcome and well-being would engage a productive interaction between the hospital designers and the medical practitioners, this will also allow for evidence-based hospital planning. As the author of this short report, I use the best of my experience as a physician and healthcare planner to translate a successful interaction with multinational designers building hospitals in Rivers State, Nigeria.
Agraffectomy
Authors: Gupta Priya , Kalikar Vishakha , Patankar Roy , Patankar Advait
Published: June 2023

Complications after stapled hemorrhoidopexy may include recurrence, severe pain, rectal stenosis, bleeding, fecal urgency, and incontinence. Furthermore, persistence of symptoms may warrant surgical intervention. A treatment modality for persistent complaints after stapled hemorrhoidopexy (SHP) is agraffectomy (removal of the retained staples), which ranges from the removal of staples through an anoscope to excision of the entire staple line with the associated scar tissue.
Incidental Large Pelvic Schwannoma Found on Rectal Cancer Staging
Authors: Chin Jessica A. , Rojas Maria A. , Kaminski Jan P. , Estrada Joaquin J.
Published: June 2023

We present the case of a 53-year-old man with newly diagnosed stage III rectal cancer who was found to have an incidental large pelvic schwannoma on staging imaging. Open enucleation and resection of the 11-cm schwannoma was performed to facilitate our oncologic resection, allowing for a single-stage procedure.

Number of similar cases published:

three.
Flexible HTTP-based Video Adaptive Streaming for good QoE during sudden bandwidth drops
Authors: Viet Hung Nguyen , Chien Trinh Dac , Pham Ngoc Nam , Truong Thu Huong
Published: June 2023

We have observed a boom in video streaming over the Internet, especially during the Covid-19 pandemic, that could exceed the network resource availability. In addition to upgrading the network infrastructure, finding a way to smartly adapt the streaming system to the network and users’ conditions to satisfy clients’ perceptions is exceptionally critical, too. This paper proposes a new QoE-aware adaptive streaming scheme over HTTP - ABRA - to make flexible adaptations based on the network and the client’s current status. Besides, we propose a technique that can keep the buffer at an average high for more than 10s. We were limiting the phenomena of rebuffering due to unexpected and unpredictable bandwidth changes. The algorithm keeps the quality of subsequent versions’ quality constant even when the average bitrate decreases, increasing the QoE. Experimental results show that our method can improve QoE from 7.86% to 20.41% compared to state-of-the-art methods. ABRA can provide better performance in terms of QoE score in all buffer conditions compared to the existing solutions while maintaining a minimum secured buffer level for the worst case.
Groupoids decomposition, propagation and operator $K$-theory
Authors: Oyono-Oyono Hervé
Published: June 2023

In this paper, we streamline the technique of groupoids coarse decomposition for purpose of

K

-theory computations of groupoids crossed products. This technique was first introduced by Guoliang Yu in his proof of Novikov conjecture for groups with finite asymptotic dimension. The main tool we use for these computations is controlled operator

K

-theory.
Barriers to COVID-19 vaccine surveillance: the issue of under-reporting adverse events
Authors: Noh Yunha , Ko Hwa Yeon , Kim Ju Hwan , Yoon Dongwon , Choe Young June , Choe Seung-Ah , Jung Jaehun , Shin Ju-Young
Published: June 2023

OBJECTIVES: This study investigated the reporting rates of adverse events following immunization (AEFIs) to the spontaneous reporting system (SRS) and its predictors among individuals with AEFIs after coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination.METHODS: A cross-sectional, web-based survey was conducted from December 2, 2021 to December 20, 2021, recruiting participants >14 days after completion of a primary COVID-19 vaccination series. Reporting rates were calculated by dividing the number of participants who reported AEFIs to the SRS by the total number of participants who experienced AEFIs. We estimated adjusted odds ratios (aORs) using multivariate logistic regression to determine factors associated with spontaneous AEFIs reporting.RESULTS: Among 2,993 participants, 90.9% and 88.7% experienced AEFIs after the first and second vaccine doses, respectively (reporting rates, 11.6 and 12.7%). Furthermore, 3.3% and 4.2% suffered moderate to severe AEFIs, respectively (reporting rates, 50.5 and 50.0%). Spontaneous reporting was more prevalent in female (aOR, 1.54; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.31 to 1.81); those with moderate to severe AEFIs (aOR, 5.47; 95% CI, 4.45 to 6.73), comorbidities (aOR, 1.31; 95% CI, 1.09 to 1.57), a history of severe allergic reactions (aOR, 2.02; 95% CI, 1.47 to 2.77); and those who had received mRNA-1273 (aOR, 1.25; 95% CI, 1.05 to 1.49) or ChAdOx1 (aOR, 1.62; 95% CI, 1.15 to 2.30) vaccines versus BNT162b2. Reporting was less likely in older individuals (aOR, 0.98; 95% CI, 0.98 to 0.99 per 1-year age increment).CONCLUSIONS: Spontaneous reporting of AEFIs after COVID-19 vaccination was associated with younger age, female sex, moderate to severe AEFIs, comorbidities, history of allergic reactions, and vaccine type. AEFIs under-reporting should be considered when delivering information to the community and in public health decision-making.
Association of blood pressure measurements in sitting, supine, and standing positions with the 10-year risk of mortality in Korean adults
Authors: Baik Inkyung , Kim Nan Hee , Kim Seong Hwan , Shin Chol
Published: June 2023

OBJECTIVES: This prospective cohort study investigated the association between blood pressure (BP) as measured in different body postures and all-cause and cardiovascular (CV) mortality risk.METHODS: This population-based investigation included 8,901 Korean adults in 2001 and 2002. Systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) were measured sequentially in the sitting, supine, and standing positions and classified into 4 categories: (1) normal, SBP <120 mmHg and DBP <80 mmHg; (2) high normal/prehypertension, SBP 120-129 mmHg and DBP <80 mmHg/SBP 130-139 mmHg or DBP 80-89 mmHg; (3) grade 1 hypertension (HTN), with SBP 140-159 mmHg or DBP 90-99 mmHg; and (4) grade 2 HTN, SBP ≥160 mmHg or DBP ≥100 mmHg. The date and cause of individual deaths were confirmed in the death record data compiled until 2013. Data were analyzed using Cox proportional hazard regression.RESULTS: Significant associations were found between the BP categories and all-cause mortality, but only when BPs were measured in the supine position. The multivariate hazard ratios (95% confidence intervals, [CIs]) were 1.36 (95% CI, 1.06 to 1.75) and 1.59 (95% CI, 1.06 to 2.39) for grade 1 HTN and grade 2 HTN, respectively, compared with the normal category. The associations between the BP categories and CV mortality were significant regardless of body posture among participants ≥65 years, whereas they were significant for supine BP measurements only in those <65 years.CONCLUSIONS: BP measured in the supine position predicted all-cause mortality and CV mortality better than BP measured in other postures.
Improved Correlations for the Unstretched Laminar Flame Properties of Mixtures of Air with Iso-octane and Gasoline Surrogates TRF86 and TRF70
Authors: Li Delong , Hall Matthew , Matthews Ronald D.
Published: June 2023

Laminar flame properties embody the fundamental information in flame chemistry and are key parameters to understanding flame propagation. The current study focuses on two parameters: the unstretched laminar flame speed (LFS) and ϕm  (the equivalence ratio at which the LFS reaches its maximum). Most existing correlations for LFS are either only applicable within a narrow range of conditions or built on a large number of coefficients. Few correlations are available for ϕm . Thus, the objectives of the current study are to provide accurate, while concise, correlations for both properties for a wide range of working conditions in internal combustion (IC) engines, including dilution effects. The original results were obtained for iso-octane and gasoline surrogates from one-dimensional (1D) simulations for a range of 300–950 K for unburned temperature, 1–120 bar for system pressure, 0.6–1.4 for equivalence ratio, and 0–0.5 for diluent mass fraction, and then were correlated using an improved power law method and an improved Arrhenius form method. Comparisons with the literature show that the predicted LFSs from both methods and ϕm s are close to the experimental measurements for a wide range of conditions. The predicted dilution factor has a similar trend with others, but fewer coefficients are needed. Overall, the improved Arrhenius form is recommended to calculate the LFS for future use, considering its lower standard errors. The experimental measurements at very high temperatures and pressures are limited, and thus the predictions under these conditions need further validation.
Wheel Mounting Elements for Off-Highway Disc Wheels
Authors:   MTC8, Tire and Rim
Published: June 2023

This SAE Recommended Practice includes wheel mounting elements subject to standardization in a series of industrial and agricultural disc wheels. The disc may be reversible or nonreversible and concave or convex. (See Figure 1 and Table 1.)
Techno-typology and provenance of the obsidian chipped stones from Sofular Höyük, an Early Neolithic settlement near the Kızılırmak in Central Anatolia
Authors: Karakoç Murat , Gemici Hasan Can , Dirican Murat , Başoğlu Okşan , Atakuman Çiğdem
Published: June 2023

Recent excavations at Sofular Höyük (Nevsehir, central Turkey) uncovered Aceramic Neolithic deposits dating to the late 9th and early 8th millennium cal BC and a lithic industry almost entirely made of obsidian. This study focuses on the techno-typology of this lithic assemblage and provides a first look at the material procurement strategies through geochemical characterization. Our results show that Sofular Höyük shares many general techno-typological features with contemporary sites in Central Anatolia, placing the settlement within the locally rooted traditions of the region, while the pXRF analysis of a selection of obsidian artefacts indicates the presence of two Cappadocian sources, namely Göllüdağ and Acıgöl.
Textiles from the Hallstatt period cemetery in Domasław, Wrocław district (Poland)
Authors: Józefowska Anna , Kamyszek Lidia , Żygadło Leszek
Published: June 2023

The article presents the remains of textiles excavated in Early Iron Age cremated graves in the cemetery in Domaslaw (Poland). The fragments were preserved in 62 burials, mainly richly furnished chamber graves, on jewellery, dress accessories, tools, and weapons. The analysis of the contexts of the finds reveals that urns were ‘dressed up’ and textile containers were used. The contextual analysis of the finds provides the basis for the conclusion that their use in funeral ceremonies had a ritualized form. The textiles in the graves confirm the adaptation of the customs of the European Hallstatt elites among the local community.
Artificial Intelligence: Challenges and Opportunities for the Accounting Profession in Nigeria
Authors: Nkwede Maria , Aniuga Chukwuma
Published: June 2023

Artificial intelligence with its fifth industrial revolution is fast griping the African continent. The emergence and adoption of artificial intelligence applications and systems is fast becoming a normal trend in emerging markets landscape across Africa. This paper is borne out of the need to identify challenges that professional grapple with in their quest to surmount the challenges posed by the realities of artificial intelligence applications in Africa. The study adopted the thematic style in presenting the challenges as well as the prospects of artificial intelligence applications for the accounting professional in emerging market. Some of the challenges of artificial intelligence application identified in this study include: complex algorithms, reduced investment, and software failure, lack of political will and limitations amongst others. On the other hand, opportunities of artificial intelligence in emerging market include transportation automation, technological cyborgs and robotic companions amongst others. From the findings, accounting professional are advised to strive harder in order to beat competition by delivering quality services to her clients through harnessing opportunities for rebranding, reengineering and radically improving the business and investment decisions which is the ultimate purpose of the profession. More so, they are encouraged to develop a novel set of proficiency revolving around data in the profession
Taylor’s Ideals and Employees’ Performance in Abia State Civil Service
Authors: Chukwuma Nnenna , Uli Emina
Published: June 2023

This study examined Taylor’s ideals and employees’ performance inAbia state civil service. As we know Performance, in all its guises, occurs across all organizations whether formally through an official organizational process or informally through personal relationship. Given its inherent importance, this study conducted a review of performance using the ideals and tenets of Taylor in Abia State civil service. The study recommended among others cooperation between management and employees in order to ensure all aspect of the job is executed in conformity with the principle of science (policy) being developed for greater performance. The suggested a series of knowledge gaps which, if filled, will help both management scholars and practitioners better understand how employee performance can be effectively managed using Taylor’s principles.
Understanding Boko Haram’s Hybrid Operational Methods in Northwestern Nigeria
Authors: Idris Saminu , Adam Musa
Published: June 2023

This paper investigates the hybrid operational character of Boko Haram within the contexts of methods, strategies, and organizational affiliations in the northwestern region. This is due to the continued expansion of Boko Haram into the region since the military reinvigoration in the northeast. The new military operations in the region have caused serious disorientation in the ranks of Boko haram, which necessitated a move to other regions to avoid defeat by the Nigerian military. This study uses qualitative methods to demonstrate the vast range of techniques connected with bandits and other groups in the area based on the operational nexus. The materials used were content analyzed thematically. This study is predicated on Makarenko’s crime-terror nexus model for the analysis. The theory highlighted levels of alliances, convergence, and operational tools armed groups adopt to achieve their goals. The paper finds that Boko haram has developed hybrid operational strategies to expand its operational areas for a continued existence. The hybrid operational character was developed based on alliances and the adoption of operational tools. The study recommends that Nigeria first understand this development as a new hybrid threat to deal with and contain Boko Haram and other groups of similar style in Nigeria.
Deconstructing the Civic Engagement Context, Processes, and Outcomes in Nigeria
Authors: Okafor Chukwuemeka
Published: June 2023

Civic engagement processes in the country have been constrained, thereby, resulting in poor public participation in governance and public policy processes. This is in contrast to well-functioning democracies where governments and citizens are required to work together to address issues of public concern. Through this process, the citizens influence public policy outcomes and determine the political choices that impact on their lives and wellbeing. This paper interrogates the civic engagement context and processes in the public sector, in the past decade (2012-2022). This is as a result of the backdrop of unprecedented low level of public participation in the political and governance processes during the period. The qualitative methodology is employed in the paper with focus on content and descriptive analysis. The paper adopted the Theory of Participatory democracy as the theoretical framework. The paper argued that this scenario has resulted in citizen’s exclusion from the policy process with attendant negative consequences on governance outcomes. The paper recommended expanding the engagement space through political reforms and good governance practices to ensure citizen’s participation in the political and governance processes, especially, at the grassroots level
Perceptions of Bahir Dar University teacher educators about functions of education in Ethiopia
Authors: Worku Mulugeta Yayeh
Published: June 2023

Using the four major philosophies of education (Perennialism, Essentialism, Progressivism, and Social Reconstructionism) as its theoretical framework, this study examined the perceptions of teacher educators about the functions of education in Ethiopia. The study adopted the qualitative research approach and employed the case study as a design. Through a purposeful criterion-based sampling technique, six teacher educators from Bahir Dar University were selected as participants in the study. Data pertinent to the study were collected through semi-structured interviews and document reviews. The data collected through these methods were thematically analyzed. The results of the study revealed the existence of multifarious perceptions among teacher educators. To be specific, the teacher educators were found to be proponents of the perennialist, essentialist, and progressivist educational purposes. As far as the function of education in Ethiopia was concerned, the study revealed that the perennialist and essentialist purposes of education were dominant. Educational purposes advocated by the progressive educational philosophy were also found to be important. The social reconstructionist function of education, however, was not given an adequate place. Finally, the implications of these findings for the country’s teacher education programs and policymaking initiatives are indicated.
Population dynamics and yield estimation of Common Carp (Cyprinus carpio, Linnaeus, 1758) in Ayalew reservoir, Gamo Zone, Southern Ethiopia
Authors: Shishitu Shija Buchale , W/yohans Firew Atnafu
Published: June 2023

Common carp (Cyprinus carpio) is an introduced fish species in Ayalew reservoir. This study provides the first results on fishery dynamics of the species in the reservoir. The study was aimed at estimating important population dynamics parameters and production potential. Total length (TL) and total weight (TW) data were collected from a total of 276 fish samples (141 females and 135 males). The obtained data were analyzed using FiSAT II software. Jones length-based cohort analysis model and length-based Thompson and Bell yield prediction models were employed to estimate the population and production potential. The mean total length was 26 cm and the dominant length groups ranged from 17 to 33 cm were 87%. The length-weight relationship parameters were (TW = 0.0565TL2.53, R2 = 0.95) and the condition factor K = 1.29. The parameters of von Vertalanffy growth curve were L∞ = 41 cm, k = 0.52, to = -2.29, θ = 2.9 and A0.95 = 5.5 years. The estimated values of the total, natural and fishing mortalities were Z = 1.23, M = 0.55 and F = 0.68, respectively. The current exploitation rate was 0.55 which indicates slightly overexploitation. The estimated fish population and the annual fish yield were 59,304 and 1.5 tons, respectively. However, investigation on reproductive biology, limnolocal aspects and stock enhancements should be required for the sustainability of these resources.
Numerical Solutions of Advection Diffusion Equations Using Finite Element Method
Authors: Getnet Mekonen Kassahun , Kinfe Birhanu Zerihun
Published: June 2023

n this paper, we have implemented the finite element method for the numerical solution of a boundary and initial value problems, mainly on solving the one and two-dimensional advection-diffusion equation with constant parameters. In doing so, the basic idea is to first rewrite the problem as a variational equation, and then seek a solution approximation from the space of continuous piece-wise linear’s. This discretization procedure results in a linear system that can be solved by using a numerical algorithm for systems of these equations. The techniques are based on the finite element approximations using Galerkin’s method in space resulting system of the first order ODE’s and then solving this first order ODE’s using backward Euler descritization in time. For the two-dimensional problems, we use the ODE solver ODE15I to descritize time. The validity of the numerical model is verified using differenttest examples. The computed results showed that the use of the current method is very applicable for the solution of the advection-diffusion equation.
Comparing patient safety culture in primary, secondary and tertiary hospitals in Ghana
Authors: A. Abuosi Aaron , A. Anaba Emmanuel , Y.A. Attafuah Priscilla , S. Tenza Immaculate , A. Abor Patience , Setordji Adelaide , Nketiah-Amponsah Edward
Published: June 2023

Objective: This study compared patient safety culture among health professionals in tertiary, secondary and primary hospitals.Design: We conducted a cross-sectional survey among thirteen primary, secondary and tertiary hospitals in Ghana. A structured questionnaire was administered to 1,656 health professionals. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and One-Way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA).Setting: This study was conducted in the Greater Accra, Bono and Upper East regions, representing the southern, middle and northern ecological zones, respectively.Participants: Health professionalsMain outcome measures: The primary outcome was patient safety culture.Results: Five patient safety culture dimensions were rated moderate positive response, while five were rated high positive response. We found a statistically significant difference in patient safety culture across primary, secondary and tertiary hospitals (p < 0.05). For instance, the mean difference between tertiary and secondary hospitals was statistically significant (p < 0.05). Additionally, the mean difference between tertiary and primary hospitals was statistically significant (p < 0.05). There was also a significant difference in the means between secondary and primary hospitals (p < 0.05).Conclusion: This study has demonstrated a variation in patient safety culture across Ghana’s tertiary, secondary and primary hospitals. Therefore, healthcare managers and professionals should prioritise patient safety.
Study of the watering frequency of young seedlings of Acacia nilotica (L.) Willd. ex Del. (Mimosaceae) in the nursery on recovery after field transplanting in Maroua, Cameroon
Authors: Abib Chimène Fanta , Yetnason Isaac Theophile Ndjepel , Souare Konsala , Ibrahima Adamou
Published: June 2023

The environmental and social impact of deforestation can be partly offset by the planting of local woody species such as Acacia nilotica, but unless sown directly into their final positions, sooner or later, young seedlings have to be set out in the soil. This a crucial stage when the plants are vulnerable to drought stress. Therefore, this work aims at studying the effect of the induction of water stress in the nursery on the behavior of Acacia nilotica seedling after transplanting. The experimental design was a one-factor randomized block (watering frequencies). The blocks (03) constitute the repetitions. The five (05) watering frequency levels was F0 (control), F1, F2, F3, F4 and F5 respectively for twice-daily watering at field capacity after 12h, 24h, 48h, 72h, 96h and 120h. The stress applications took place seven (07) days after germination for ninety (90) days and transplant into the natural environment. After transplanting (60 days), the rate of increased in height and collar diameter as well as the survival rate increase with the stress level of the seedlings in the nursery. It emerges from this work that the more the level of stress increased, the more the aerial growth of the seedlings was reduced, unlike the root part. The aerial biomass went from 10.23g (F0) to 9.22g (F3) and to 8.67g for F5, ie a respective reduction rate of about 10 and 16%. On the other hand, the root biomass increased from 3.07g (F0) to 4.31g (F3) and 5.56g for F5, that is to say an increase rate of about 40 and 81% respectively. Biochemical analysis revealed that with the exception of chlorophylls (Chl T: 7.27 mg/g FM for F0 to 3.38 mg/g FM for F5), the other measured elements (Proline: 5.27% (F0) to 27.84% to F5; Polyphenol: 6.25% (F0) to 7.47% to F5, Soluble sugar: 15.17% (F0) to 36.66% to F5 and total Proteins: 24.84% (F0) to 28.64% to F5) increase with the level of stress but decrease at the highest level. Subjecting young seedlings to water stress in the nursery allowed them to develop mechanisms for acclimatization to water stress. These results could be useful to the various reforestation programs for the production of vigorous seedlings.
Efficacité des fongicides AZOX et MANCO 80 WP dans la lutte contre les cercosporioses de l’arachide au Burkina Faso
Authors: Nana Tounwendsida Abel , Ilboudo Mahamadi , Ouattara Alassane , Koita Kadidia
Published: June 2023

Les cercosporioses sont les maladies foliaires les plus importantes de l'arachide au Burkina Faso. Par conséquent, des méthodes de contrôle efficaces sont nécessaires afin de réduire les pertes de rendement. Dans la présente étude, l'efficacité des fongicides AZOX (Azoxystrobine), MANCO 80 WP (Mancozèbe) en traitement unique ou alterné contre les cercosporioses a été évaluée au cours des campagnes agricoles 2020 et 2021 au Burkina Faso. De façon pratique, une variété sensible, "TS32-1", et une variété modérément sensible, "PC79-79", ont été utilisées dans un dispositif en split plot à trois répétitions. Nos résultats ont révélé que tous les traitements réduisaient significativement la sévérité des cercosporioses chez TS32-1 au cours des deux saisons. Toutefois, AZOX et le traitement alterné ont mieux contrôlé les cercosporioses que MANCO 80 WP. De plus, tous les traitements ont significativement augmenté le rendement en gousses chez TS32-1. Les rendements les plus élevés de 2699,8 – 2710,7 kg/ha et 2053,3 – 2107 kg/ha en 2020 et 2021, respectivement, ont été obtenus avec le traitement alterné et AZOX. Les traitements n'ont pas eu d’impact significatif sur la sévérité des maladies et le rendement chez PC79-79. Les résultats indiquent que le fongicide AZOX ou le traitement alterné pourrait être utilisé afin de réduire l'effet des cercosporioses et améliorer la production d'arachide au Burkina Faso.

Early and late leaf spots are the most important peanut leaf diseases in Burkina Faso. Therefore, effective control methods are needed to reduce yield losses. In the present study, the efficiency of the fungicides AZOX (Azoxystrobin) and MANCO 80 WP (Mancozeb) in unique or alternating treatment against peanut leaf spots diseases was assessed during the 2020 and 2021 cropping seasons in Burkina Faso. In practice, a susceptible accession "TS32-1" and a moderately susceptible accession "PC79-79" were used in split plot design with three replications. Our findings revealed that all treatments significantly reduced leaf spots severity in TS32-1 accession in both seasons. However, AZOX and the alternating treatment significantly better reduced the severity of diseases than MANCO 80 WP. In addition, all treatments significantly increased pod yield in TS32-1. The highest pod yields of 2699.8-2710.7 kg/ha and 2053.3-2107 kg/ha in 2020 and 2021, respectively, were obtained following with alternating treatment and AZOX. The treatments had no significant impact on diseases severity and pod yield in PC79-79. Our results indicate that the fungicide AZOX or the alternating treatment could be used to control the cercospora leaf spots and improve peanut production in Burkina Faso.
Dynamiques spatio-temporelles des parcs agroforestiers dans la zone soudanienne de la Côte d’Ivoire de 1990 à 2020 dans un contexte d’expansion de l’anacarde
Authors: Timite Nakouana , Koua Kadio Attey Noël , Kouakou Akoua Tamia Madeleine , Barima Yao Sadaiou Sabas
Published: June 2023

La zone soudanienne de la Côte d’Ivoire est dominée par les parcs agroforestiers caractérisés par les nombreux services écosystémiques fournis aux populations locales. Ces dernières années cependant, les populations s’intéressent de plus en plus à la mise en culture de l'anacarde. L’expansion de cette culture pourrait avoir un impact sur la dynamique des parcs agroforestiers existants. L'objectif de cette étude était de décrire les changements opérés par l'expansion de la culture de l'anacarde sur les parcs agroforestiers dans les départements de Tengréla et Ouangolodougou situés dans la zone soudanienne de la Côte d'Ivoire de 1990 à 2020. La méthodologie a consisté au traitement des images satellitaires datant de 1990, 2000, 2010 et 2020, ainsi qu’à la validation des différentes cartes produites. Les résultats ont montré une hausse importante des superficies des plantations d’anacarde. A l’opposé, une forte régression des superficies des parcs agroforestiers a été constatée. Par ailleurs, l’établissement de la carte de changement a révélé que de 1990 à 2020, 3,93% et 5,32% de parcs agroforestiers sont devenus des anacardiers respectivement à Tengréla et Ouangolodougou. Malgré les nombreux services écosystémiques fournis par les parcs agroforestiers, ils sont menacés de disparition dans la zone soudanienne de la Côte d’Ivoire.

The Sudanian zone of Côte d'Ivoire is dominated by agroforestry parks characterized by the numerous ecosystem services they provide to local populations. However in recent years, populations have become increasingly interested in cashew cultivation. The expansion of this crop could have an impact on the dynamics of existing agroforestry parks. The objective of this study was to describe the changes brought about by the expansion of cashew cultivation in the departments of Tengréla and Ouangolodougou located in the Sudanian zone of Côte d'Ivoire from 1990 to 2020. The methodology consisted of processing satellite images dating from 1990, 2000, 2010 and 2020, as well as validating the various maps produced. The results showed a significant increase in the area of cashew plantations. On the other hand, a strong regression of the areas of agroforestry parks was observed. Furthermore, the change map revealed that from 1990 to 2020, 3.93% and 5.32% of agroforestry parks became cashew trees in Tengréla and Ouangolodougou respectively. Despite the numerous ecosystem services provided by agroforestry parks, they are threatened with extinction in the Sudanian zone of Côte d'Ivoire.