bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Endovascular treatment versus bypass in long SFA atherosclerotic lesions: a non-randomized comparative study
Authors: Yousry Marwan , Fathy Khaled Tarek , Afify A. Gamal , Hafez Ahmed Mohsen , Taha Ahmed.A.
Published: February 2025

Background: The TransAtlantic Inter-Society Consensus (TASC II) classification categorizes superficial femoral artery (SFA) lesions. This study compares endovascular therapy and bypass surgery for treating challenging TASC II C and D SFA lesions, which are typically complex and involve severe disease. Purpose: the aim is to compare the outcome of endovascular interventions versus surgical bypass in treatment of superficial femoral artery atherosclerotic TASC II C&D lesions in patients with critical limb ischemia in terms of patency and limb salvage within one year follow up. Patients and methods: our study included 41 patients in bypass group (groub A) and 74 patients in endovascular group (groub B) with atherosclerotic TASC II C&D SFA lesion. Patients with non-salvageable limbs, acute ischemia, trauma, aneurysms, connective tissue disorders and arteritis were excluded. All patients had Rutherford 4 to 6. Saphenous vein and synthetic grafts were used in bypass group. POBA, DCB and stents were used in endovascular group. The patients were followed up for 1 year.Results: mean Patients’ age was 63.15 years in endo group and 58.76 years in bypass group, male 78.4% in endo group and 85.4% in bypass group. Patients’ presentation was incapacitating claudications, rest pain, minor tissue loss, and major tissue loss. Technical success achieved in 100% in bypass cases and 95.9%in endo group. 1ry patency rate was 71.4% in the bypass group versus 57.6% in the endo group, still not significant statistically (p-value 0.171). The assisted 1ry patency was 77.1% in bypass group and 83.3% in the endo group,.(p.value 0.449) 2ry patency rates was 82.9% and 89.4% in bypass and endo groups respectively. Our 1-year limb salvage rates were 85% in the bypass group versus 91.7%, the rate was better in the endo group but with statistically insignificant p.value between them (p: 0.343). The rate of reintervention was higher in endo group (31.8%) than bypass group (11.4%) which was statistically significant, (p.value 0.024). Overall mortality during follow up was only 1 patient in the bypass group (2.4%). the bypass group had higher complication rate (41.5%) than the endovascular group (12.2%) with statistically significant (p.value <0.001). Conclusion: Bypass surgery and endovascular management have comparable short terms outcomes in terms of patency and limb salvage in treating long SFA atherosclerotic lesion TASC II C&D. Rate of reintervention is higher with endovascular strategy. However, with lower morbidity and mortality compared with surgery.
Exploring the relationship between khat chewing behaviour and psychological well-being among students of Jazan University
Authors: Maseer Khan
Published: February 2025

Background: Khat, a well-known natural stimulant from the Catha edulis plant, a flowering evergreen tree or large shrub of the Celastracea family is taken in few parts of southern province. Being adjacent to Yemen, Khat chewing is a common habit among the population in the Jazan region. khat eating is associated with many health ailments like depression, stress anxiety. Objectives: 1. To estimate the prevalence of depression, anxiety and stress in khat chewers 2. To assess the psychological disorders in khat chewers. Methodology: A cross-sectional study (survey) conducted and sample size collected with pre designed questionnaire. Data entered in Microsoft excel and processed in SPSS version 23 and the results tabulated. Univariate and multivariate analysis with multilogistic regression done. Results: Majority of participants were males and were 21 years old or younger. Notable difference identified between urban (40%) and rural (60%) and this difference was identified as potential distinction in the psychological behaviour of the students. Odds ratio was found to be high in males and in >21-year-old students when compared with females. GPA showed significant difference when observed with psychological status. GPA scores less than 3.75 were found to have more psychological disturbances than GPA>3.75. Interquartile range among depression, anxiety and stress higher among khat chewers when compared with non-khat chewers and the difference found to show high statistical significance. (P<0.01). Conclusion: Khat chewing in this area found to be significantly high in students so continuous health education shall be the priority for the policy makers
EFFECTS OF DIETS CONTAINING RED AND WHITE SORGHUM SUPPLEMENTED WITH TANNASE ON THE GROWTH PERFORMANCE AND NUTRIENT DIGESTIBILITY OF BROILER CHICKENS
Authors: OBADIMU, A. O  , OBADIMU, A. O  , FAFIOLU, A. O.FAFIOLU, A. O.  , SOGUNLE, O. M.  , AYO-AJASA,O.Y
Published: February 2025

A 56 - day feeding trial was conducted to determine the growth performance and nutrient digestibility of broiler chickens fed diets containing red sorghum (RS) and white Sorghum (WS) with or without tannase supplementation. A total of 240 one day old unsexed Arbor acre broiler chicks were randomly assigned to eight (8) dietary treatments which were divided into 3 replicates each of 10 birds in a randomized completely block design 4x2 factorial arrangement. Eight (8) diets were formulated in which sorghum replaced maize at 0, 100 RS, 100 WS and 50RS:50WS% at the starter and finisher phases. The first 4 diets (diets 1, 2, 3 and 4) were formulated without tannase then the other 4 diets (diets 5, 6, 7 and 8) had the same composition as diets 1, 2, 3 and 4 but supplemented with tannase. Growth performance data was collected on weekly basis and nutrient digestibility was determined at the 28th and 56th day for starter and finisher phases respectively. Starter birds fed 100%WS diet and those fed 50RS:50WS tannase supplemented diet had the highest (P<0.05) final weight and weight gain. There was no significant (P>0.05) difference in the growth indices of the finisher birds except the total feed intake which was highest (P < 0.05) in birds fed 50RS:50WS% diet without tannase. Although, finisher birds fed the control diet with tannase had the least feed intake, those fed the control diet without tannase had the best FCR. None of the nutrient digestibility indices were significantly (P>0.05) influenced at the starter phase except the crude protein retention which was highest (P< 0.05) in finisher birds fed 100%RS diet supplemented with tannase. In conclusion, 100% WS without tannase and 50RS:50WS with tannase may replace maize in starter broilers diet while 100% RS and 100% WS with or without tannase may replace maize in finisher broilers diet for optimum performance and nutrient digestibility without any deleterious effect. Similarly, the addition of tannase to the control diet also enhanced performance and nutrient digestibility.
PRECISION LIVESTOCK FARMING TECHOLOGIES AND ITS COST ANALYSIS ON POULTRY PRODUCTION IN OYO METROPOLIS, OYO STATE
Authors: AMAO, S. R.  , OYEWUMI, S. O.  , OGUNJINMI, O. O.
Published: February 2025

This study aimed at investigating the impact of precision livestock farming technologies (PLF) on workforce skills and employability in poultry husbandry sector in Oyo metropolis. A sample of twelve (12) farms was selected through simple random sampling techniques from Atiba, Oyo west, Oyo East and Afijio Local Government Areas was used for the study. A questionnaire instrument developed by the researcher was used for data collection on demographic information, familiarity, training and education, impact on workforce skills and employability, efficiency and productivity and challenges and barriers in adoption of PLF. The findings revealed that mostly male, adults, educated with 5 years of experiences were participated in the study. The farmers were familiars, trained and educated on the uses of PLF periodically and impact PLF was felt of workforce skill with increase in employability of personal that enhanced efficiency and productivity of the poultry sector. However, challenges and barriers were also documented. Meanwhile, the cost of monthly electricity bills, the cost of importing those equipment used in PLF Technologies, cost of repairing equipment, cost of operating equipment and couple with cost of installation of all the equipment were said to be on the higher side and at long run affect the cost of production. Based on the results, the following recommendations were made: the adoption of PLF should be more for increment in workforce skill, employability, efficiency and productivity of poultry products. Government can assist in subsidies of the equipment importation, stable stability of electricity to assist the adoption of PLF technologies in this study area.
ASSESSMENT OF WATER QUALITY POLLUTION INDEX FOR FISHING IN JIBIA DAM, KATSINA, NIGERIA
Authors: AMINU IBRAHIM
Published: February 2025

The study aim to assess Water Quality Pollution Index for Fishing in Jibia Dam, Katsina State. Improper monitoring of level of water quality in the dam may lead to pollution of the water and the death of fish. Water samples were collected at ten points in the wet and dry seasons 2019/2020, i.e., ten sample stations, thirteen parameters were analyzed using standard laboratory techniques. The parameters include Temperature (T), pH, Electric Conductivity (EC), Total Dissolve Solid (TDS), Turbidity (Tur), Total Hardness (TH), Chloride (Cl), Nitrate (NO3), Dissolve Oxygen (DO), Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD), Ammonia (NH3), Nickel (Ni), and Lead (Pb). Based on findings metal pollution index, (Cd), and water pollution index (WPI) status were determined. Findings of the research show that the metal pollution index (MPI) of the parameters is pure except for Ni which is slightly affected. Contamination Index (Cd) all the parameters are low in contaminants except (BOD), which is medium, (TDS) and (NH3) are higher contaminant indexes. For   Water Pollution Index (WPI); (Temp.), pH, (Tur.), (EC), (Ni) and (Pb) are rated as good water by status. (TDS), (DO), (BOD), and (NH3) are unsuitable for fishing. (CL) and (NO3) are excellent statutory. Total Hardness is the only poor statutory finding in the study area. It is recommended that effective fishing activity be carried out in the reservoir since the water meets the standards of fishing.
THE SOCIO-ECONOMIC EFFECTS OF SPORTS BETTING ON YOUTH IN GASHUA, YOBE STATE
Authors: SULEIMAN, MOHAMMED SAEED  , FUNMILOLA ADUKE
Published: February 2025

Sports betting have emerged as a widespread phenomenon among Nigerian youths, offering both opportunities and challenges. In Gashua, Yobe State, where unemployment and limited recreational activities prevail, sports betting has become a popular pursuit. This study examines the socio-economic effects of sports betting on youth, focusing on its implications for financial stability, social relationships, and overall well-being. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, data were collected from 300 youths through surveys and supplemented with in-depth interviews with local betting agents and community leaders.The findings reveal a dual impact: on the one hand, sports betting provide a source of entertainment and occasional income for some participants, alleviating short-term financial pressures. On the other hand, it poses significant risks, including financial instability, gambling addiction, and strained interpersonal relationships. Over 60% of respondents reported consistent financial losses, while 28% exhibited addictive behaviors. Socially, the activity has contributed to increased tension within families and a rise in petty crimes linked to gambling debt.The study concludes that while sports betting has become a coping mechanism for many young people, its negative effects outweigh the benefits. Addressing this issue requires a combination of public awareness campaigns, stricter regulations on betting platforms, and the introduction of alternative income-generating opportunities for youths. These measures will help mitigate the risks associated with sports betting and promote a more sustainable socio-economic environment in Gashua.
EFFECTS OF PROBLEMATIC SOCIAL MEDIA USE (PSMU) ON PARENTING IN NIGERIA
Authors: EUGENE EJIMOFOR USIFOH
Published: February 2025

This study examines the challenges posed by Problematic Social Media Use (PSMU) on parenting in Nigeria, while recognizing social media’s positive potential as a platform for knowledge sharing, education, and improved family communication. Drawing from Bronfenbrenner’s Ecological Systems Theory, the research investigates how excessive and compulsive social media use disrupts traditional parenting practices, neglects responsibilities, and exposes children to online risks. The methodology employs a combination of systematic and narrative approaches, integrating structured literature review and qualitative accounts to explore the socio-cultural and moral dimensions of PSMU within the Nigerian context. The findings reveal that there are dangers to compulsive involvement in social media platforms, it can also enrich parenting by providing access to valuable resources and maintaining family connections, particularly in situations of physical separation. Two key recommendations emerge from this analysis: first, parents should set clear boundaries for social media usage and prioritize offline family interactions to strengthen bonds and minimize risks. Second, policymakers should implement digital literacy programs and promote awareness campaigns to encourage responsible social media use and ensure children’s online safety. The study advocates for a balanced approach to social media use that maximizes its benefits while mitigating its drawbacks to foster healthier parenting practices in a digital age.
INFLUENCE OF PARENTAL BACKGROUND ON THE CAREER CHOICE OF SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS WITH HEARING IMPAIRMENT IN SOUTH-WEST NIGERIA
Authors: ADEBAYO ADEKUNLE AKINOLA PHD  , OYINKANSOLA ODEBUNMI  , BEATRICE ADEOMOLEWA AKINOLA
Published: February 2025

Career choice of students with hearing impairment in secondary is important to their overall future achievement. There are various factors that have been found to affect the career choice of students with hearing impairment. This paper investigated the influence of parental background on the career choice of secondary school students with hearing impairment in South west Nigeria. Three hypotheses were formulated to guide the study. This study employed descriptive survey design and was carried out in all the six states in South west Nigeria. The population of the study consisted of 1,657 (873 male and 784 female) senior secondary three (SS3) students of public and private secondary schools for the deaf. The sample for the study was 831(460 male and 371 female) SS3 students selected using proportionate stratified random sampling technique. The instrument used for the study was a self-structured questionnaire tilled “Parental Background and Career Choice Questionnaire (PBCQ)”. Z-Test statistical method was used to analyse the research hypotheses. The findings showed that there is no significant difference in the mean response of male and female students with hearing impairment regarding the influence of parental attitude, parents’ level of education, and parents’ occupation on their career choice in secondary schools for the deaf in South west Nigeria. Based on the findings, it was recommended that guidance counsellors should be used in secondary schools for the deaf to help pupils make career decisions, parents should be made aware of the variety of occupations available for their deaf children through career talks and seminars organised by the deaf school, and that, parents ought to be active in their children's educational pursuits.
COMPARATIVE ANTIMICROBIAL ACTIVITIES OF ESSENTIAL OILS OF CYMBOPOGON CITRATUS (LEMON GRASS) AND CITRUS SINENSIS (SWEET ORANGE) PEEL AGAINST SOME PATHOGENS
Authors: DENNIS D. YAKUBU  , MANASSEH M. KATSA
Published: February 2025

Essential oils are one of the important natural products derived from plant for their various biological activities, however, the antimicrobial activities vary in potency and usage. Comparative antimicrobial activities of essential oils of lemon grass (Cymbopogon citrtus, and Orange (Citrus sinensis) peel against three bacterial species (Salmonella typhy, Pseudomonas aeruginesa, and Staphylococcus aureus) and two fungal species (Candida albicans, and Aspergillus niger). The essential oils were extracted by steam distillation. Antibacterial and antifungal activities were determined by paper disc diffusion technique and micro-dilution. The results showed both essential oils of lemon grass and orange peels exhibited strong antibacterial and antifungal activities against the test organisms with zones of inhibition ranging from 15.00mm to 28.00 mm. Comparison of the inhibitory activities of the two oils showed orange had lower effect of 15.60mm as against lemon grass 19.00mm at concentration of 20µ/ml against salmonella typhi. Inhibitory activities was 28.30mm highest on Staphylococcus aureus for orange peel and 28.00mm for lemon grass oil. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal (MBC) and minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC) indicated values20µl/ml and 10µ/ml against S.aureus respectively. The result demonstrated that both essential oils of lemon grass and orange have high potential antimicrobial activities that can be developed into potent drugs.
MODIFIED ADOMIAN DECOMPOSITION ANALYSIS ON BOUNDARY LAYER FLOW OF AN MHD SODIUM OXIDE NANOFLUID WITH HEAT TRANSFER OVER LAMINATED STRETCHING SHEET
Authors: MUSA, ALEX  , WARIBOKO, B. G
Published: February 2025

Utilizing the similarity transformational variable, the governing equations representing the boundary layer flow of a sodium oxide nano fluid over the laminated stretching sheet was transformed into coupled nonlinear differential equations. The nonlinear terms were then decomposed with applications of the Modified Adomian Decomposition Method. Numerical values were analyzed with MATLAB 2014a and graphs were generated. From the graph, it was observed, that as temperature of the fluid increases, the viscous dissipation decreases. Also, a decrease in Grashoff interaction parameter  led to an increase in the velocity of the flow. However, the fluid velocity decreased as magnetic parameter increases, indicating that the magnetic field retards the motion of the fluid.
SPATIAL ASSESSMENT OF GASEOUS POLLUTANTS (PM2.5, PM10 SO2, NO2, CO2, CO) ON AIR QUALITY USING AIR QUALITY INDEX NORTH-EASTERN NIGERIA
Authors: EL-HASSAN ALIYU
Published: February 2025

In response to the alarming rate of air pollution, a study was carried out at Savannah Sugar Company, Ashaka Cement Plc, and Alkaleri Kaolin Industry in North Eastern Nigeria with the following objectives: to assess the amount of hazardous substances in the atmosphere, to examine the impact of industrial activities on air quality, and to compare the overall results of the air quality assessment with the air quality index (AQI) rating. The Air Ae Steward Meter (Haz-Dust Tm; PM2.5 and PM10, Model: HD1000) and Gasman Air Monitoring Meter (Models 1200-19831) were used to evaluate the air quality state of the studied sites. In the industrial districts, the findings of the air quality assessment were examined according to the following ranges: SO2 (0.665-0.680), NO2 (0.30-0.315), CO (35.88-36.84), and CO2 (8125.78-8707.94). The ranges for PM2.5 and PM10 were 104.02-126.03µg/m3 and 138.43-161.10µg/m3, respectively. The results showed that Ashaka had the highest concentrations in all the parameters due to some heavy equipment’s with more anthropogenic activities. The air quality Index (AQI) ratings of the obtained results showed that, in the three emerging industrial sites indicated a category for ‘Unhealthy for sensitive group’ (Orange) to ‘Unhealthy’ (Red) for PM2.5 and PM10 while for CO was rated Good (Green), NO2 and SO2 was rated Moderate (Yellow) and CO2 was rated hazardous (Maroon). There is need for a routine monitoring of the air quality in Northern part of Nigeria and in Nigeria as a whole to ensure safety, and a few helpful recommendations were suggested in this study for positive impacts on the environment.
EVALUATING THE TENSILE AND IMPACT STRENGTH OF SOLUTION HEAT TREATED AL6061/2%GR/0-6%AL₂O₃ COMPOSITES FOR PISTON APPLICATIONS
Authors: G. C. ACHAKPO  , ABDULKADIR A. A.  , O.B. UMARU
Published: February 2025

This research evaluates the tensile and impact strength of Solution Heat Treated (SHT) Al6061/2%Gr/0-6%Al₂O₃ composites for piston applications. The associated mechanical loads on the piston crown may have severe consequences of lowered tensile strength and toughness value, which had led to overheating, leakage of oil with smoking exhaust; high fuel consumption rate and reduction in speed may have resulted into engine failure. The aim of the study is to examine the effect of varying amounts of Al₂O₃ (0%, 2%, 4% and 6%) on the tensile and impact strength of Al6061/2%Gr composites processed through solution heat treatment (SHT) that will be used as piston material; to evaluate the effect of solution hating and ageing temperatures on the composites and compare with the control sample. The Alumina powder (99.5% purity) was employed to strengthen the Al6061/Gr dual matrix composites and also improve its mechanical properties. Solution heat treatment was conducted at varying temperatures (400°C, 500°C, 600°C) and durations (1, 1.5, 2 hours), followed by ageing at varying temperatures (150°C, 175°C, 200°C) and durations (2, 4, 6 hours). The factors and optimal levels were identified using Minitab Result. The Taguchi L9 Orthogonal Array in Minitab was run using the factors and levels. The mechanical properties were evaluated through tensile and impact testing. The results reveal significant improvements in tensile and impact strength with higher Al₂O₃ content, offering insights into their suitability for high-stress applications, such as pistons.
COMPARATIVE STUDY OF THE TENSILE STRENGTH OF BAMBOO AND STEEL BARS IN BUILDING CONSTRUCTION
Authors: ABDULKARIM A. A  , OLANIYI K.O  , OYELEKE M. O  , ABDULWASI GIWA  , OLAHAN A.B
Published: February 2025

The demand for a cheap, affordable, and environment-friendly alternative to carbon steel in concrete members has led researchers to source for viable materials that is reliable, strong and also readily available. This has led to the use of bamboo as a replacement to steel. , It has been obtained that the tensile strength of bamboo reinforcements is comparable with mild steel reinforcements. It was found the values of tensile strength of bamboo vary from between 115 and 309 N/mm2, while some observed a tensile strength of 370N/mm2. Tensile strength of mild steel ranged between 250-415 N/mm2 in accordance with grade. Therefore, bamboo’s tensile strength lies in the range of mild steel. Bamboos can be a replacement of 40 grade mild steel without any question in tensile strength and can be used for low-cost structural construction.
THE APPLICATION OF BENFORD’S LAW IN SALES DATA OF NIGERIAN OIL AND GAS COMPANIES
Authors: SULEIMAN, A. S. ARUWA  , BAKSHAK YERIMA SATI
Published: February 2025

Manipulated sales data in the financial statements of business organization has continued to distort the quality of information provided to shareholders as well as the public. The objective of this study is to determine fraud in sales data of oil and gas companies listed on the Nigerian Stock Exchange. The study employed Chi-square to determine the significant of the level of deviation of sales data from the proposed Benford’s Law. The results of the analysis show that the deviation of sales data from the expected Benford’s digits distribution law is not significant. This implies that sales data of oil and gas companies listed on the Nigerian Stock Exchange conform to the proposed Benford’s digit distribution law.  Based on this finding, the study affirms that sales data as provided by the oil and gas companies listed on the Nigerian Stock Exchange are genuine and are free from manipulation. The study recommends strongly the application of Benford’s Law for the investigation of anomalies in accounting data.
CAPACITY DEVELOPMENT AND EMPLOYEE PRODUCTIVITY IN THE NIGERIA PUBLIC SECTOR: A STUDY OF ABIA STATE CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION, UMUAHIA
Authors: AJUNWA FELIX OGECHI  , SAMUEL MAINA MARI  , MRS MUSA FLORENCE CHARLES
Published: February 2025

The level of low productivity among workers especially in the public sector has left much to be desired training and development of employees have been championed as a remedy to this malaise. However, the paper examines the extent to which capacity development enhances the quality-of-service delivery in the Abia State civil service commission, Umuahia and to identify the factors that have been militating against capacity building of employees in the Abia State civil service commission, Umuahia. The survey design was adopted to guide the investigation. The population of the study is 280. The theoretical framework adopted was Organizational Development theory that was propounded by Kurt Lewin in 1950. The researcher used chi-square for testing the hypotheses. Moreover, the major findings of the study were that capacity building enhances the quality-of-service delivery in the Abia State civil service commission, Umuahia and that lack of training, insufficient fund and lack of modern technologies are the major factors militating against capacity building of employees in the Abia State civil service commission, Umuahia. The major recommendation was that government should make policy that will encourage continuous staff training and development of its workers so that the potentials of the employees would be adequately harnessed.
EVALUATING THE IMPACT OF THE JOINT ACCOUNT SYSTEM ON THE FUNDING OF RURAL ROAD DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS IN NIGERIA
Authors: IBRAHIM .O SALAWU  , HAKEEM OLALEKAN OLABISI  , ABUBAKAR S YUSHAU ALFAKORO
Published: February 2025

Local government is the closest tier of government to the local populace among the other levels of government. Its imperativeness to service delivery at the grassroots level therefore cannot be underestimated. Nonetheless, the issue of Joint Account System and development of local government area has been the long aged issue and one of the motives behind the creation of local governments was to bring development to rural dwellers among which is the construction and maintenance of rural roads. The objective of this study is to investigate the impact of Joint Account System on the funding of rural road infrastructural development project in Nigerian, using Saki West and Atisbo local government areas of Oyo state as the study area. The study adopts the mixed research method, which comprises both quantitative and qualitative data. The primary data consists of the interview and questionnaire methods while the secondary sources involve journals, articles, web, and government documents. The population size of the study was Two Hundred and Sixty-Three (263). The study discovers that state joint account system negatively significant affects the funding of rural road infrastructural development. The study, therefore, recommends among the followings that there is need to strengthen Local Government financial autonomy through the administrative autonomy in order to give verve to the judgment of the Supreme Court of July 11, 2024 and increase oversight function through supervision and evaluation of road project in Saki West and Atisbo local government area of Oyo state Nigeria.
ASSESSING THE IMPACT OF EMPLOYEE DISCIPLINE ON ORGANIZATIONAL SURVIVAL: THE HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT PERSPECTIVE
Authors: ABDULRAHMAN ASPITA ISHIAKA
Published: February 2025

Finding out how different disciplinary measures affected workers' timeliness and productivity was the driving force for the study. What is the connection between disciplinary processes, employee timeliness, and productivity? In what ways have the disciplinary measures taken by the organization affected the timeliness of its employees? How have the disciplinary procedures of the institution affected the performance of the employees? We tested four hypotheses: that disciplinary procedures have a positive effect on employee performance; that employee punctuality has a positive effect on employee performance; and that discipline procedures and performance were moderated by punctuality. There was evidence to back up the idea that disciplinary procedures have a favorable impact on employee performance. Results showed that punctuality was not a moderator of the relationship between organizational culture, public institutional entities, and the delay in paying employees' incentive remunerations. The most important piece of advice was for upper management to look at how company culture affects timeliness in order to boost productivity.
Study on the susceptibility to desertification of the Mucuri River Basin in Minas Gerais, Brazil
Authors: Maciel André Rodrigo Brito Alves , Dalmo Francisco César
Published: February 2025

Desertification is a process composed of natural and anthropic agents, its intensity and speed of development has increased in some regions due to changes in climate patterns, different ways of life and a bigger exploitation of natural resources. Therefore, an analysis of the desertification susceptibility in the Mucuri River Basin, in Minas Gerais, Brazil, was made through this study. A bibliographic revision was made about the subject to determine the theoretical and methodological procedures to be used, concepts of geoprocessing and its mapping tools were used during the analysis. The following attributes were adopted: slope, soil type, erosivity, vegetation cover and aridity. The results show areas with low and medium environmental susceptibility to erosion and desertification. It is concluded that the degradation of the Mucuri River Basin in Minas Gerais must be monitored and studied more attentively, so that the region does not face more severe economic and social problems.
Electrical resistivity survey combining multiple electrode arrays applied to the studies of underground dams
Authors: Gomes Jorge Luiz dos Santos , Vieira Fábio Pinto
Published: February 2025

Groundwater resources are of paramount importance in sustainable economic development in semiarid regions, such as that in municipally of Jenipapo de Minas, southeast Brazil. The focus of the present work is on realization of geophysical studies using merged electrode arrays in the same profile to study the site suitable for the construction of underground dam in the Bolas Stream bed. The measurements were made along a profile cutting across that local intermittent stream bed. A combining multiple electrode arrays was applied in the profile survey to increase the input data. The results obtained indicate that the subsurface lithologic sequences of the study area are characterized by low resistivity soil layers (> 800Ωm) overlying basement rocks of higher resistivity (> 1000Ωm). There seems to be no fractures or seepages in the basement rock of the Bolas stream bed. In other hand, in the left bank of the stream was identify a conductivity anomaly that could be caused by a fractured in the crystalline rock. However, there is no connection between with the anomaly with the stream bed. The results of merged multiple electrode arrays in the single profile has been found to be useful in understanding the characteristics of resistivity profiles. Thus, the results indicate the surveyed site as a potential for the construction of underground dam in the study area.
Influencia de las Relaciones Socioafectivas entre Pares en el Proceso de Enseñanza-Aprendizaje: Un Estudio de Caso en la Telesecundaria No. 0391, Emiliano Zapata durante el Ciclo Escolar 2024-2025
Authors: Mejía Zavala Adriana Beatriz , Escobar Gutierrez Edgar
Published: February 2025

El documento presenta una investigación sobre la influencia de las relaciones socioafectivas positivas entre alumnos en el proceso de enseñanza-aprendizaje en la Telesecundaria No. 0391 "Emiliano Zapata". Se utiliza un enfoque cuantitativo y un diseño descriptivo, aplicando encuestas estructuradas con escalas de Likert para medir actitudes y percepciones de los estudiantes. Los datos se analizan mediante técnicas estadísticas descriptivas e inferenciales, incluyendo pruebas de correlación y ANOVA. La hipótesis central sostiene que las relaciones socioafectivas positivas impactan favorablemente en el aprendizaje. Los resultados indican que estas relaciones, especialmente a través de actividades grupales, mejoran la motivación y el rendimiento académico. Sin embargo, se observa que las relaciones negativas no tienen un efecto significativo en este contexto. El estudio también destaca la importancia de la fiabilidad del instrumento de medición, con un coeficiente Alfa de Cronbach de 0.839, lo que respalda la consistencia de los ítems utilizados. Se concluye que fomentar un ambiente escolar con vínculos afectivos saludables puede mejorar la comunicación y el rendimiento académico de los estudiantes, sugiriendo la necesidad de implementar estrategias que promuevan la colaboración y la inclusión en el aula. Este trabajo contribuye a la comprensión de las dinámicas sociales en el contexto educativo y sugiere implicaciones prácticas para docentes y educadores
Neonatal Outcome in Babies Born to Mothers with Meconium-Stained Amniotic Fluid
Authors: Najia Kasi  , Shaista Ambreen  , Arshad Khushdil  , Nidda Yaseen  , Sidra Khalid  , Warda Ali Nadeem
Published: February 2025

Background: Meconium-stained amniotic fluid (MSAF) is a critical obstetric condition often associated with adverse neonatal and maternal outcomes. Despite the well-documented risks, the relationship between MSAF and complications such as Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy, Meconium Aspiration Syndrome, and other systemic neonatal issues remains an area of significant clinical interest. Objective: To evaluate the neonatal outcomes in babies born to mothers with meconium-stained amniotic fluid. Study Design: Cross-sectional study. Duration and Place of Study: The study was conducted from July 2023 to January 2024 in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, CMH Multan. Methodology: A total of 207 neonates born to mothers with visible MSAF at or beyond 34 weeks of gestation were included. Preterm neonates, those with congenital malformations, twin pregnancies, or requiring surgical interventions, were excluded. Data collection covered demographic and clinical parameters, including gestational age, mode of delivery, birth weight, Apgar scores, and complications. Neonatal outcomes such as Meconium Aspiration Syndrome, Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy, Acute Renal Failure, and Necrotizing Enterocolitis were analyzed. Results: The mean gestational age at birth was 37.5 ± 2.21 weeks, and cesarean sections accounted for 71.5% of deliveries. Complications were prevalent, with Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy observed in 68.1% of neonates, Acute Renal Failure in 71%, and Meconium Aspiration Syndrome in 44.9%. The mortality rate was 21.7%. Conclusion: Meconium stained amniotic fluid is associated with a substantial burden of neonatal complications, emphasizing the necessity for vigilant monitoring, timely interventions.
Gender Differences in Outcomes of ST Elevation Myocardial Infarction undergoing Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention
Authors: Tanvir Ahmad Raja  , Husnain Yousaf  , Abair ul Haq  , Shafiq ur Rehman  , Ephraim Sheraz
Published: February 2025

Introduction: Despite the growing use of technology and clinical process improvement initiatives in the field of cardiology, particularly on the utilization of PPCI, the number of STEMI and its results by gender have remained unchanged. There are always disparities where women receive their treatments later than men and have poorer results than men. Objectives: To compare the clinical outcome, complications, and procedural success of STEMI patients across gender and evaluate the difference in gender for PPCI in a hospital setting in Pakistan. Materials and Methods: This hospital-based, observational study reviewed 300 patients with STEMI who underwent PPCI for six months. The collected demographic characteristics, procedural data points, and longitudinal results were compiled and compared for sexually dimorphic analyses. Results: Compared to male patients, female patients were younger, had more comorbids, and experienced longer delays to PPCI. Bleeding and in-hospital mortality increased in women through procedural complications. Multivariate analysis also showed that age and late PPCI are predictors of adverse outcomes in female patients. Conclusion: The outcomes of STEMI for men and women remain significantly different, and gender considerations should be maintained when considering optimal interventions, awareness, and equal treatment for both genders.
Personalized Cancer Therapy: Advancement in Biomarker-Based Treatment Strategies for Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Ubaid Ur Rehman  , Quratulain Badar  , Yasser Hijazi Abdoon  , Muhammad Ghous  , Tahir Aslam  , Minahal Aslam  , Syed Rizvan Ali
Published: February 2025

This study sought to assess the effectiveness of biomarker-directed personalized therapies for the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) targeting actionable genetic mutations like EGFR, ALK, and PD-L1. A prospective observational study was performed on 200 NSCLC patients with established genetic alterations, divided into four groups: EGFR-mutant, ALK-rearranged, PD-L1-positive, and wild-type (no biomarkers). Patients were treated with targeted therapies (e.g., EGFR inhibitors, ALK inhibitors, PD-1 inhibitors) or platinum-based chemotherapy. EGFR-mutant patients had the best response rates (70%) and overall survival (OS) of 24 months. ALK-rearranged and PD-L1-positive patients also had good outcomes, with response rates of 65% and 60%, respectively, and OS of 22 and 20 months. In contrast, the wild-type group had the worst response rate (45%) and OS (16 months). The study also found significantly fewer adverse events in the EGFR and ALK treatment groups than with chemotherapy. Kaplan-Meier analysis indicated better progression-free survival (PFS) in the biomarker-targeted groups. Statistical analysis using ANOVA and chi-square tests proved significant differences in response rates (p-value < 0.05), validating the effectiveness of biomarker-directed personalized treatment approaches. These findings suggest that biomarker-directed therapies can significantly enhance patient outcomes compared to standard chemotherapy, highlighting the value of biomarker testing in clinical practice.
Effectiveness of Skin Traction in Reducing Pain in Patient with Hip Fracture
Authors: Bashir Muhammad  , Aman Ullah Khan Kakar  , Wazir Ahmed  , Niamat Ullah  , Badal Khan  , Tauseef Ghaffar Baloch  , Ain Ud Din  , Sana Ullah Kakar
Published: February 2025

Introduction: Hip fractures are a significant public health issue due to high morbidity and mortality rates. Skin traction is commonly used in the preoperative management of hip fractures to stabilize the fracture site, reduce muscle spasms, and alleviate pain. This study evaluates the effectiveness of skin traction in reducing pain, its impact on analgesic use, and associated adverse effects. Materials and Methods: A qualitative study was conducted among 100 patients with hip fractures in orthopedic wards of tertiary care hospitals. Pain levels were assessed before and after traction using a numerical rating scale, while analgesic requirements were recorded. The study employed thematic analysis for qualitative data, identifying key patterns and themes related to pain management. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze numerical data, providing insights into pain reduction and analgesic use. This approach allowed for a comprehensive evaluation of patient experiences, enhancing understanding of traction's effectiveness in pain management for hip fractures in a clinical setting. Results: Skin traction significantly reduced pain levels by 54.1% over 48 hours. The need for opioid analgesics decreased by 43.8% and NSAID use by 23.1%. Adverse effects included skin irritation (12%), pressure sores (5%), and neurovascular issues (3%), with 80% reporting no complications. Conclusion: Skin traction effectively reduces pain and analgesic requirements in patients with hip fractures. Regular monitoring is essential to mitigate potential adverse effects and optimize outcomes.
Results of weed surveys for different land uses
Authors: Schöphen Eszter , Tóth Zoltán
Published: February 2025

Different land use patterns have a significant impact on the weed flora of agricultural land. Tillage, fertilisation and crop rotation have an important role to play in reducing weed infestation.  The effects of conventional ploughing and reduced tillage (min-till) on weed control in maize fields were investigated in a maize-wheat biculture with different nitrogen application rates in a long-term Soil Tillage field Experiment set up in Keszthely, Hungary in 2023 and 2024. The results showed that either tillage or fertilizer use had an effect in minimizing weed infestation.
Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Regarding Sexually Transmitted Infections Among Students of Public University in Bangladesh
Authors: Moname Efat Jahan
Published: February 2025

Background: Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) remain a significant public health challenge globally, particularly among young adults. University students, due to their age and social interactions, are considered a vulnerable population for STI-related risks. Understanding their knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) is crucial for designing effective interventions. Objective: To assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding STIs among students of Patuakhali Science and Technology University in Bangladesh and identify gender-specific differences. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted from January to June 2024, involving 200 undergraduate students (110 males and 90 females) selected through stratified random sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire addressing STI knowledge, attitudes, practices, exposure history, and preventive measures. Statistical analysis included chi-square tests and logistic regression, with a significance level set at p < 0.05. Results: Most students (90%) were aware of STIs, with males demonstrating significantly higher awareness than females (90.9% vs. 88.9%). Awareness of Hepatitis B vaccination was reported by 50%, with vaccination coverage at 40%. Male students reported higher rates of condom use (54.5% vs. 22.2%, p = 0.01) and a greater history of unprotected sexual contact (27.3% vs. 16.7%, p = 0.05). Only 15% of participants had undergone STI testing. Participants with good STI knowledge were more likely to engage in preventive practices, such as condom use (50%) and Hepatitis B vaccination (42.9%), compared to those with poor knowledge (16.7% and 33.3%, respectively). Conclusion: Although awareness of STIs was high, gaps in preventive practices and significant gender disparities were evident. Targeted educational interventions and routine health screenings are recommended to improve STI-related knowledge and behaviors among university students.
Technology and Social Consequences: Analyzing the Role, Effect, and Influence of the Digital Divide on Social Change
Authors: Rahman Jamsedur
Published: February 2025

Through a careful examination of the digital divide issue, this article investigates the relation
ship between technology and social progress. The digital divide, which divides people's access
to technology from their opportunities for social contact, employment, healthcare, and educa
tion, exacerbates already-existing socioeconomic differences. This essay looks at the potential
impacts on societal change as well as how technology may both exacerbate and lessen these
gaps. This article employs digital methods and sociological research to focus on local and
global issues. It demonstrates how digital technology shapes contemporary social ties by point
ing out the challenges and potential answers for fostering digital enclosure and reducing social
inequality in the digital era.
The Culture of the Urang Community of Bangladesh
Authors: Khatun Ayesha
Published: February 2025

This comprehensive study focuses on the life and culture of the
Urang community of Bangladesh, who are living mainly in greater Sylhet for
ages. Data have been collected through field visits and semi-structured
interviews with 64 members of the community. The result shows that, even
though the Urangs have traditionally been working and living in different tea
gardens in Sylhet, a lot of them are now engaged in various professions
including jobs even in some government offices. Culturally the community
has its distinctive features while it has affinity with Hinduism. Rice is their
staple food and they dress up in accordance with mainstream Bangladeshi
culture. Their food habit is different from other Bengali people living in this
area. They wear different dresses in different occasion. Because of living in
the remote area, they are habituated to adjust with raining and other natural
disaster. They generally speak in Sadri and Kurukh language
A Product Assortment Planning Model for Fast-Fashion Products in Multi-Brand Retail Outlets for Effective Supply Chain Management
Authors:   Professor, ISME, Desai Rajendra , Bhatta N.M.K ,   Professor and Dean Research, Xavier Institute of Management & Entrepreneurship (XIME)
Published: February 2025

Purpose
Effective Product Assortment Planning is critical for fast-fashion products like clothing and accessories
with short lifecycles, a large number of Stock Keeping Units and seasonality of the assortments.
Traditional product-based demand forecasting approaches using past data and repeatability of
purchase are not very effective for them. Emerging PAP optimization models focus on customizing
retail assortment at store levels and developing attribute-based approaches. However, these models
are highly complex, thus restricting their utility in the field. This paper presents a model to help plan the
supply chain under these conditions.
Design/methodology/approach
The authors of this paper developed a model with a modified approach to make it computationally less
complex and cost-effective for implementation. The authors developed a Mixed Integer Programming
model and solved a Linear Programming relaxation of the model to obtain an effective solution.
Findings
Authors validated the model utilizing field data and inputs that could capture merchandiser experience,
consumer preferences, retailer constraints and environmental factors for a national brand of leather
accessories sold through multi-brand retail outlets and found that the model showed an improvement
potential of over 25 % in the objective. Originality
This is an original research conducted by the author, including all fieldwork, pilot implementation and
analysis. Since the model was prepared from field data and also implemented to see its effectiveness, it
represents a practical and usable model by the Industry straightaway. However, future researchers may
implement it in multi-vendor, multi-outlet situations and update the model in accordance with fresh outputs.
Research limitations/implications
The model requires further testing and refinement to establish its usefulness, as the current testing
was on a small set of data of a representative category. However, considering the similarities in the
consumer perception and preferences, retailer constraints and environmental factors, the authors
believe this approach of combining data mining with a linear integer model has the potential to
deliver superior performance on most categories of fast fashion products.
Practical implications
Through this model, the authors attempted to close a significant gap in research concerning replenishment
models for fast-fashion products applicable in emerging countries. Since critical parameters like changing
customer preferences, and variation in demand due to seasonality, discounting systems etc., have been
factored in a while developing the present model, it can be easily extrapolated to multiple suppliers and
multiple numbers of retailers.