bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
RELATIONAL CAPITAL EFFICIENCY AND FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE: EVIDENCED FROM QUOTED NONFINANCIAL FIRMS IN NIGERIA
Authors: AKINBODE, FEYISAYO AANUOLUWAPO  , OKEWALE, JOEL ADENIYI  , BILEWU, OLUKAYODE ABIODUN  , OMOBA, OPEYEMI OMOTOLA
Published: December 2024

The study examined how relational capital efficiency affected Nigerian publicly traded companies' financial results. It investigated the connection between relational capital efficiency and significant financial metrics, including return on equity and return on asset, using a sample of Nigerian businesses. A descriptive study design was employed, utilizing an ex-post facto methodology. Twenty-two companies were purposefully chosen from a total of 151 publicly listed firms in Nigeria for this analysis, focusing on their financial statements. The sample included 11 manufacturing firms, 5 ICT companies, 3 health services providers, and 3 oil and gas enterprises, spanning a period from 2013 to 2022. The analysis made use of panel data techniques and a number of post-estimation tests, such as random effects models, fixed effects, and Ordinary Least Squares (OLS). In order to maintain accuracy and handle endogeneity concerns, the System Generalised Method of Moment (SGMM) was also utilized. According to the study's findings, ROE was negatively and statistically significantly impacted by RCE (p-value = 0.5354, β = -0.1032, t-value = -0.6208), and ROA was negatively and statistically significantly impacted by RCE (p-value = 0.0121, β = -0.0169, t-value = -2.533). These findings demonstrated that whereas relational capital efficiency had a statistically significant negative impact on ROA, its influence on ROE was negative but not statistically significant. The study's findings indicate that since relational capital development has a detrimental impact on Nigerian companies' financial performance, management should prioritise it in order to improve financial outcomes.
RISK-BASED CAPITAL (RBC) AND THE DEVELOPMENT OF INSURANCE COMPANY IN NIGERIA
Authors: ALONGE, OLUWATOYIN FRANCIS  , ADEBAYO, OLUWASEUN AKOREDE  , DR. IDOWU, MOBOLAJI AJIKE
Published: December 2024

This study aimed to review the extant literature on the impact of Risk-based Capital (RBC) on development of insurance companies in Nigeria. The concept of Risk-based Capital (RBC) was examined and its importance was also highlighted. The study showed that the use of the conventional proxies for the measurement of capital structure does not adequately explain the insurer’s capital structure, as the non-interest-bearing liabilities, which opportunity costs plays significant role in insurer’s cost of capital, are excluded. The use of debt ratio as proxy for capital structure is inappropriate; in its place technical provision ratio should be used in order to take into consideration the opportunity costs of the non-interest-bearing liabilities such as unpaid claims, creditors and accruals. Further studies should be carried out to empirically test the effect of RBC on performance of insurance companies in Nigeria.
HUMAN RELATIONS SKILLS AND JOB PERFORMANCE OF NON-ACADEMIC STAFF AT IGNATIUS AJURU UNIVERSITY OF EDUCATION
Authors: CLIFFORD B. NYONE
Published: December 2024

The study investigated human relations skills and job performance of non-academic staff at Ignatius Ajuru University of Education. Correlational research design was used for the study. Four research questions and four null hypotheses were formulated to guide the study. The population of the study consisted of 390 non-academic staff at Ignatius Ajuru University of Education. Convenience sampling technique was used for the study. A self-designed questionnaire titled: ‘Human Relations Skills and Employees Job Performance Questionnaire (HRSJPQ) was used for data collection. Face and content validation were done by other experts in Measurement and Evaluation. The reliability coefficient of (HRSJPQ) was established using test-retest reliability method which yielded r=0.76. Mean and standard deviation was used to answer the research questions while Pearson Product Moment Correlation (PPMC) was used to test the null hypothesis at 0.05 level of significance. The study revealed that there was positive relationship between anger management, empathy and effectiveness, quality service delivery of non-academic staff at Ignatius Ajuru University of Education. That there was significant relationship between anger management, empathy and effectiveness, quality service delivery of non-academic staff at Ignatius Ajuru University of Education. It was recommended among others that; management of Ignatius Ajuru University of Education should have a mandatory annual conference for non-academic staff to teach them various human relations skills such as empathy and anger management in order to boost their job performance.
INVESTIGATION OF TECHNICAL FEASIBILITY AND EFFICIENCY OF Wi-Fi BASED INTERNET OF THINGS REMOTE MONITORING AND CONTROL OF HOME APPLIANCES
Authors: JIMOH, A.A.  , RAHEEM KABIRAT .O.  , AZANUBI JOHN O.  , IROMINI N. A.  , OLADUNTOYE QUADRI O.
Published: December 2024

The proliferation of Internet of Things (IoT) technology has transformed the way we interact with home appliances. This study investigates the technical feasibility and energy efficiency of Wi-Fi-based IoT remote monitoring and control of home appliances. A prototype system was designed and developed using Wi-Fi-enabled microcontrollers, sensors, and actuators to monitor and control various appliances remotely through a mobile application. Experimental results show that the system achieves an average energy savings of 23.4% and reduces appliance standby power consumption by 91.2%. The system's technical feasibility was evaluated through reliability, scalability, and security assessments. Results indicate high reliability (99.85%), scalability (supporting up to 50 devices), and robust security. Energy efficiency was analyzed using Energy Consumption Analysis (ECA) methods. The study concludes that Wi-Fi-based IoT remote monitoring and control of home appliances is technically feasible and energy-efficient, offering significant potential for reducing energy consumption and carbon emissions.
TRENDS AND PATTERNS OF DRUG ABUSE
Authors: MAIMUNA GAMBO HAMMAWA  , RAHIMATU AHMADU RIBADU  , KADMIEL OLIVER  , MAHMUD BASHIR
Published: December 2024

This study investigates the trends and patterns of drug abuse and its associated criminal behaviors in Yola Metropolis, Adamawa State. The primary objective is to assess the prevalence and patterns of illicit drug use, exploring its correlation with rising crime rates in the metropolis. Utilizing a quantitative research design, the study collected data from the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) over five years, focusing on reported drug-related offenses and crime incidents. The results revealed a concerning upward trend in drug abuse, particularly in substances like marijuana, tramadol, and methamphetamine, alongside a parallel increase in various criminal activities including theft, assault, and drug trafficking. A significant correlation (Pearson coefficient of approximately 0.999) was found between drug abuse prevalence and crime rates, highlighting the complex relationship between substance abuse and criminality in Yola Metropolis. The findings emphasize the urgent need for integrated public health and law enforcement strategies to address the intertwined issues of drug abuse and crime, including enhanced prevention and treatment programs tailored to the local context. This study contributes to the understanding of drug-related challenges in urban Nigeria, emphasizing the necessity for comprehensive intervention approaches to mitigate the social and public health effects of illicit drug use.
ASSESSMENT OF THE POTENTIALS OF CULTURAL AND ECOTOURISM RESOURCES FOR TOURISM DEVELOPMENT IN ADAMAWA STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: WILLIAMS H. WAGETI  , A. A ZEMBA
Published: December 2024

The aim of this study is to assess the potentials of cultural and ecotourism resources for achieving sustainable tourism planning and development in Adamawa State. The specific objectives of the study are to identify and characterize cultural attributes that have tourism potentials in communities, what are the ethnic community participation in recreation and tourism activities. In-depth interviews, focus group discussion (FGD’s) and structured interview were adopted to generate data for the research.  Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square for significance difference. The research identified enormous cultural tourism resources: festivals and ceremonies, rites of passage, belief and value system, songs, music and dance, traditional architecture and art and crafts. The major cultural activities are hukdafu, yawal, zeko, mbapur warrior festival, sukah-hawah dance, similalama, fare, lakaune, mbur, Ndihee, mputa kluttu, mba, tiwi, sari-mata-koken and wee-sim. Sukur and Michika have a unique architectural stone wall building that surrounds their compounds. Results showed that communities differ in their perception of the role of media, security, tour guide, attraction, transport and accommodation, while they do not differ in their knowledge of leisure, number of hours, visits to recreational areas and knowledge of ecotourism variables. Community anticipated benefits as a result of the development of tourism projects are physical development, economic, social and political benefits. It recommended the need for government and private investors to explore these potentials and proper intermediaries should be put in place by both state and local government for the full utilization of these tourism resource potentials in Adamawa State.
ENTREPRENEURSHIP AND CRIME REDUCTION IN NIGERIA
Authors: HABIBA ALHAJI AHMMAD  , HALIRU MUSA HUSSAINI  , ADAM UMAR FARUK
Published: December 2024

Unemployment and underemployment has become a serious challenge to development and economic well-beings to human dignity in the society. This paper Titled entrepreneurship and crime reduction in Nigeria. The paper identity causes of crime in Nigeria, roles of entrepreneurship in crime reduction as well as ways to stimulate entrepreneurship in crime reduction. Secondary data was used for data collection. the paper recommended that government and private sectors must establish various means of reducing causes of crime in Nigeria, government should put more emphases on entrepreneurship as it reduces the prevalence of unemployment and poverty which in turns reduces crime in Nigeria and finally all ways to stimulate entrepreneurship needed to stress for it effective functioning in crime reduction.
A Critical Review About the Application of Artificial Intelligence in Pain Assessment
Authors:   Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada, Farghal Mostafa ,   Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Minia University, Minia, Egypt
Published: December 2024

Pain is a serious health problem in both adults and infants. If left untreated, it results in serious physiological and psychological consequences. Therefore, accurate and quick pain assessment is crucial to avoid these consequences. While self-reports remain the gold standard in verbal humans, other pain assessment tools are used in infants and noncommunicative people, such as facial expressions, visual analog, and numerical rating scales. Manual pain assessment has several limitations, such as its subjective nature, inconsistency, and potential for bias originating from different sources, including observer gender and culture. Automated pain assessment has received much attention in the last few years, combining artificial intelligence (AI) with these manual tools to achieve accurate and objective pain assessment, especially in infants or nonverbal patients. However, a gap between developing AI models for pain assessment and their application exists. This gap needs to be addressed so that clinicians understand the limitations of using AI-powered pain assessment tools. This paper provides an overview of common pain assessment tools powered with AI, which are facial expressions, body and head movements, language analysis, electrodermal activity, and electroencephalography. In addition, it discusses the gap between the AI models developed based on these tools and their applications under clinical conditions.
Effect of Drying Temperature and Storage Temperature Simplisia on Antioxidant Activity of Herbal Tea Sungkai Leaf (Peronema canescens Jack)
Authors: Alfiyah Dima , Riski Sulistiarini  , Supriatno Salam
Published: December 2024

Sungkai leaves are plants used by the community as an alternative medicine in treating diseases such as malaria, fever, poisoning, and child spasms, as well as postnatal treatment where sungkai leaves are processed into herbal brew. This study aims to determine the best drying and storage temperatures based on the antioxidant activity of sungkai leaf herbal brew. The research method is drying with wind dry temperature, Oven (40oC), and Roast (80oC). Afterward, wind-dry drying was stored for 1 week at room temperature in, an incubator (35oC), and refrigerator (4oC). Then it was made into a brew and tested for antioxidant activity by the DPPH method. The results showed that the best drying temperature antioxidant activity was obtained using oven temperature with an IC50 value of 16.76 ppm. At the same time, the best storage temperature was obtained in incubator storage with IC50 of 36.76 ppm.
Synthesis and Characterization of Cellulose Nata de Coco Inserted Nanoparticles Zn-Moringa Leaf Extract (Moringa oleifera) as Biodegradable plastic Banan Fruit Packaging
Authors: Ramadan  , Ramadhan La Ode Ahmad Nur , Zainal Syam Arifin
Published: December 2024

Synthesis and characterization of cellulose nata de coco inserted nanoparticles of zinc-moringa leaf extract as biodegradable plastic for banana fruit packaging has been carried out. This study aims to determine the characteristics, biodegradability and preservation activity of biodegradable plastic cellulose nata de coco inserted zinc nanoparticles-moringa leaf extract. The research process was carried out through the nata de coco synthesis stage, zinc nanoparticle synthesis-moringa leaf extract and the manufacture of biodegradable plastics. The success of this synthesis is evidenced by being characterized using a UV-Vis spectrophotometer, FTIR spectrophotometer and digital optical microscope. The results of UV-Vis spectrophotometer analysis showed that the zinc nanoparticles formed had an estimated particle size of 85.72-92.92 nm and were stable. The results of FTIR analysis on Moringa leaf extract showed the presence of -OH, C-H, C=O, C=C and C-O groups. In the biodegradable plastic film nata de coco-NPZn-moringa leaf extract, there was a peak shift in several functional groups marked at the peaks of wavenumbers 555.50 and 432.05 cm-1 which are ZnZP groups. Characterization using a digital optical microscope showed that zinc nanoparticlesThe synthesis is spherical, non-uniform, and has been well distributed on the cellulose surface of nata de coco. Biodegradation test on nata de coco-NPZn-Moringa leaf extract biodegradable plastic film using activated sludge system, test results show biodegradable plastic can be degraded 100% for 15 days. Preservation activities show that packaged bananas are still able to survive up to 8 days of post-harvest storage period. These results show the effectiveness of biodegradable plastic preservation of nata de coco-NPZn-moringa leaf extract biodegradable plastic which is quite good.
Evaluation of the Use of Anti-Diabetic Drugs in Outpatient Type II Diabetes Mellitus Patients at Lasinrang Regional General Hospital, Pinrang Regency in 2023
Authors: Nur Azizah Rizqi , Damayanti Alfina , Yuliana Dewi
Published: December 2024

Diabetes Mellitus (DM), including a disease in the form of metabolic disorders characterized by impaired insulin secretion, impaired insulin production and insulin sensitivity, causing an increase in blood sugar levels (hyperglycemia). This study aims to determine the use of antidiabetic drugs which include the right drug, the right dose, the right indication and the right frequency of administration in outpatient type II diabetes mellitus patients at Lasinrang Regional General Hospital, Pinrang District in 2023. This study is a non-experimental research with a descriptive design retrospectively. The sample in this study is all outpatients with a diagnosis of type II diabetes mellitus at the Lasinrang Regional General Hospital, Pinrang District in 2023. The sampling technique used is purposive sampling. The sample of this study is medical record data of patients with type II diabetes mellitus in 2023, which is adjusted to the inclusion criteria. The results of the study showed that of 87 samples consisting of 55 women and 32 men, all of which met the inclusion and exclusion criteria, and showed that the prevalence of age was more susceptible to be affected at the age of 46-55 years as many as 40 patients (45.98%). In the analysis of the accuracy of drug use, outpatient type II diabetes mellitus patients at the Lasinrang Regional General Hospital, Pinrang regency in 2023 have an indication accuracy of 100%, 100% drug accuracy, 100% dose accuracy, and 100% accuracy frequency of drug administration.
Modelling Of Blockchain Technology
Authors: Abudul Kareem Ahmed B.
Published: December 2024

Blockchain technology has been used in a variety of non-financial industries, including commerce, healthcare, and other fields. With the use of this technology, a decentralized environment free from the control of outside societies over data and transactions can be found. In essence, blockchain is a novel technology that has the potential to revolutionize future transaction-based transactions. Cross-border trade has traditionally been supported by financial tools. Blockchain technology has been implemented to develop trade finance processes. In the trade of tenants, anxiety reduction, payments, and financial solutions are essentially viewed as a storm to be optimized. This study looks at how the invention of Bitcoin has aided in the development of blockchain technology. The cryptocurrency is still in its infancy. Blockchain technology has been used to build an easy-to-use digital economy. The characteristics, benefits, and drawbacks of blockchain technology are examined thoroughly in this study article. It also examines how this technology is integrated with the development of trade finance and cryptocurrencies.
Soberanía Tecnológica - Ciberseguridad
Authors: Rubio Piñeiro Gonzalo Javier
Published: December 2024

El concepto de soberanía tecnológica hace referencia, en esencia, a la capacidad de un país para controlar y gestionar sus propias tecnologías, lo cual es crucial para asegurar que sus infraestructuras críticas y datos sensibles estén protegidos frente a amenazas externas.
En un mundo cada vez más interconectado, la ciberseguridad se ha convertido en un elemento clave para la soberanía nacional, ya que los ataques cibernéticos pueden poner en riesgo tanto la seguridad de los Estados como la de sus ciudadanos.
Por otro lado, la soberanía tecnológica no se limita únicamente al desarrollo de tecnologías autóctonas; también implica la implementación de políticas que promuevan la independencia en la infraestructura digital, la protección de datos y la seguridad de la información. De esta manera, se busca reducir la dependencia de proveedores extranjeros y asegurar que los sistemas tecnológicos nacionales sean resilientes ante cualquier tipo de ataque o interferencia.
Asimismo, es fundamental establecer normativas y estándares de ciberseguridad que garanticen la protección tanto de las empresas como de los ciudadanos, creando así un entorno digital seguro y confiable para todos los actores sociales y económicos.
La soberanía tecnológica y la ciberseguridad están estrechamente interrelacionadas y son esenciales para la defensa y el bienestar de una nación en la era digital. La capacidad de un país para proteger sus activos digitales es, hoy más que nunca, un pilar fundamental para su estabilidad política, económica y social.
En este contexto, los países latinoamericanos están poniendo un mayor énfasis en mejorar sus capacidades de ciberseguridad para salvaguardar sus sistemas críticos y datos sensibles de amenazas externas. La región ha experimentado una tendencia ascendente constante en el mercado cibernético, que alcanzó un valor de 5.730 millones de dólares en 2021. Sin embargo, existe una brecha importante en cuanto a habilidades digitales: solo entre el 20% y el 31% de la población posee competencias digitales fundamentales, y entre el 2% y el 12% cuenta con habilidades avanzadas en este ámbito.
En particular, Brasil registró la mayor proporción de ciberataques en 2020, representando el 55,97% del total de incidentes reportados en la región. A pesar de estos desafíos, los países latinoamericanos están demostrando un fuerte compromiso para mejorar la conciencia social y cultural en la esfera cibernética. Además, están fomentando la colaboración regional, lo que facilita el intercambio de información y las mejores prácticas para fortalecer colectivamente las capacidades de ciberseguridad en la región.
El desafío del Puerto de Chancay: una nueva ruta en la compleja red del narcotráfico en Sudamérica
Authors: Do Nascimento Ramon Silva
Published: December 2024

El Puerto de Chancay, uno de los proyectos más ambiciosos de infraestructura en Perú, promete transformar las dinámicas logísticas y comerciales en la región del Pacífico Sur. Diseñado para mejorar la conectividad con los mercados asiáticos y reducir costos de exportación, este puerto también presenta riesgos significativos. La posibilidad de que sea explotado por Organizaciones Criminales Transnacionales (OCT) para el narcotráfico ha despertado preocupación debido a la tendencia de estas redes a aprovechar puertos de gran flujo comercial. El estudio analiza cómo la apertura de este puerto podría cambiar las dinámicas del narcotráfico portuario y fluvial en el Pacífico Sur y la cuenca del Amazonas, destacando la necesidad de estrategias de seguridad robustas y coordinación interinstitucional para mitigar estos riesgos. Basado en una revisión de casos y datos recientes, el artículo propone una evaluación predictiva sobre el impacto del Puerto de Chancay en el comercio legal e ilegal de la región.
Factores y actores que convierten a las antillas menores en una región clave para el tránsito y almacenamiento de CHC hacia los Estados Unidos y Europa
Authors: Henri Langemeijer Herman Adriaan
Published: December 2024

El artículo analiza los factores y actores que convierten a las Antillas Menores en una región clave para el tránsito y almacenamiento de cargamentos de sustancias ilícitas (CHC) hacia los Estados Unidos y Europa. Se argumenta que, en los últimos años, el mar Caribe ha experimentado un crecimiento significativo en su importancia como centro de turismo y comercio marítimo internacional, lo que ha atraído la atención de organizaciones criminales transnacionales (OCT) y grupos delincuenciales organizados (GDO) involucrados en el narcotráfico marítimo. Estos actores ilícitos han intensificado sus actividades en busca de rutas marítimas seguras para consolidar el tráfico y la comercialización de estupefacientes hacia los principales mercados de drogas en América del Norte y Europa.
El artículo destaca que las Antillas Menores, debido a su diversidad geográfica, política y económica, presentan un entorno propicio para las actividades narcotraficantes. De los 30 territorios del Caribe, menos de 15 son soberanos, mientras que la mayoría mantiene relaciones de dependencia con países externos. Esta situación genera una variedad de marcos legales en cuanto al control de sus espacios acuáticos, lo que dificulta el ejercicio de un control efectivo y soberano por parte de las autoridades competentes. Además, la existencia de islas deshabitadas en la región facilita el almacenamiento temporal de drogas, el transporte clandestino y su posterior distribución hacia mercados ilegales.
El estudio concluye que las Antillas Menores se han convertido en un punto clave en la cadena de tráfico de drogas hacia Estados Unidos y Europa debido a las condiciones geográficas, políticas y legales que favorecen el ocultamiento y la circulación de sustancias ilícitas, lo que plantea un desafío significativo para la seguridad y soberanía de la región.
Integrating Emergency Data Management Systems in Energy and Natural Resources Industries
Authors:   New Mexico Black Leadership Council, New Mexico, United States, Folasade Okunlola
Published: December 2024

Effective emergency data management is critical in the energy and natural resources industries, where operational disruptions can lead to significant economic and environmental consequences. This study proposes a scalable framework for emergency data management that integrates real-time data collection, predictive analytics, and interactive dashboard visualization to enhance decision-making and operational readiness. The framework is validated through a mixed-methods approach involving industry case studies, expert interviews, and simulation exercises. Key findings reveal that the framework reduces response times by 42%, improves data retrieval efficiency by 55%, and enhances decision-making accuracy by 13%. Additionally, feedback loops incorporated within the system facilitate continuous improvement by leveraging insights from emergency response teams. This research contributes to the existing literature by addressing gaps related to the scalability and integration of predictive analytics in emergency management systems. The proposed framework demonstrates significant potential for optimizing emergency response protocols, enhancing resilience, and mitigating risks in high-stakes environments. Future research should focus on expanding the framework’s applicability across other critical infrastructure sectors and addressing cybersecurity challenges inherent in real-time data systems.
ABORDAGEM PARA PREVENIR EXPOSIÇÕES PULPARES EM CAVIDADES MUITO PROFUNDAS
Authors: Souza Ana Karolyne Ribeiro de , Santos Tafnes Lima dos , Silva Jardel dos Santos , Oliveira Lara Pepita de Souza
Published: December 2024

Introdução: A prevenção da exposição pulpar em cavidades profundas é um desafio clínico importante. O caso clínico objetiva descrever a mensuração da profundidade da cavidade e remoção seletiva do tecido cariado como estratégias para evitar exposições pulpares. Metodologia: Paciente de 18 anos foi atendida no projeto Resgatando Sorrisos - IAES, apresentando dor intensa mediante estímulos térmicos no dente 37. O teste de vitalidade indicou saúde pulpar e pulpite reversível e, clinicamente, lesão cavitada ativa na oclusal e tecido cariado muito amolecido, com envolvimento da parede mesial ao nível gengival. Na radiografia, observou-se extensa profundidade da lesão cariosa. Sendo assim, foram aplicados princípios biomiméticos propostos para prevenção de exposições pulpares: mensuração da profundidade da cavidade com auxílio de sonda milimetrada e espátula suprafill seguindo a inclinação das cúspides para marcar na sonda a profundidade limite para remoção do tecido cariado, que deve ser de no máximo até 5mm (oclusal) e 3mm (proximal); zona de selado periférico, para remover toda a contaminação das margens do preparo (2 a 3 mm de dentina sadia); manutenção de dentina totalmente sadia nas paredes circundantes, presença de dentina afetada exclusivamente na parede pulpar ou axial. Após o preparo e profilaxia, foi confeccionada uma biobase (preparo recoberto com sistema adesivo, resina flow e convencional), moldagem e confecção de modelo de gesso. Em uma consulta seguinte, a restauração confeccionada sobre o modelo foi cimentada seguindo os passos: avaliação da adaptação interna da peça, profilaxia (peça e preparo), asperização interna com pontas FF (peça e preparo), limpeza com ácido fosfórico 37% (peça e preparo), silano por 1 minuto (peça), sistema adesivo universal (peça e preparo) e cimentação com cimento resinoso dual convencional. Resultados e discussão: A remoção seletiva do tecido cariado, aliada à mensuração precisa da profundidade da cavidade, demonstrou ser eficaz na preservação da saúde pulpar. Não houve exposição pulpar acidental, e a restauração apresentou boa adaptação, sem sinais de infiltração ou dor, não sendo atualmente necessários materiais de forramento. Conclusão: A abordagem biomimética com mensuração da profundidade da cavidade e remoção seletiva do tecido cariado proporcionam um tratamento conservador e seguro, prevenindo danos à polpa dentária.
TÉCNICA DA MATRIZ BRB PARA RESTAURAÇÃO CLASSE IV EM INCISIVO CENTRAL SUPERIOR: RELATO DE CASO
Authors: Campos Heliandro Felipe de Carvalho , Figueredo Sandy de Jesus Costa , Oliveira Lara Pepita de Souza
Published: December 2024

Introdução: A restauração de lesões de Classe IV em dentes anteriores é desafiadora devido à necessidade de alta estética e reconstrução adequada da camada palatina pela técnica incremental. A confecção de uma guia de silicone baseada na técnica da matriz BRB permite ao profissional maior precisão e melhor adaptação dessa camada em relação à técnica à mão livre. Nesse contexto, este trabalho objetiva relatar um caso clínico de restauração classe IV em incisivo central superior, apresentando os passos para confecção de uma matriz BRB. Metodologia: Paciente compareceu à clínica de Dentística II, da Faculdade IAES, apresentando como queixa principal a fratura de uma restauração classe IV no elemento 21, com envolvimento do ângulo distal. Pela radiografia e clinicamente, constatou-se dente vital com extensa fratura nessa região. Dessa forma, procedeu-se com o isolamento absoluto modificado, realização de um preparo cavitário com remoção de esmalte poroso e confecção de um bisel em 45ª com ponta diamantada FF cilíndrica no ângulo cavossuperficial. Em seguida, realizou-se a adaptação da guia de silicone de condensação, por palatina, na área dos incisivos, e aguardou-se o tempo de presa. Com auxílio de um lápis, realizou-se o esboço da futura borda incisal na área da fratura do guia de silicone e, com o uso de broca carbide, foi delimitado o espaço destinado à futura camada palatina, diretamente no silicone. Após isso, iniciou-se com os passos para reconstrução da restauração: palatina com resina de esmalte, esmalte da parede distal, dentina e esmalte vestibular. Resultados e Discussão: O uso da matriz BRB em restauração Classe IV demonstrou ser eficaz para alcançar uma adaptação precisa e contornos bem definidos da camada palatina, favorecendo um controle adequado da espessura e da translucidez das camadas de resina, uma vez que a técnica à mão livre apresenta maior risco de desnível nessa região. O bisel no ângulo cavossuperficial contribui para a transição suave entre o material restaurador e o esmalte, reduzindo a visibilidade da linha de união e aumentando a adesão. Conclusão: A matriz BRB mostrou-se, portanto, uma alternativa previsível e eficiente para a restauração classe IV de alta complexidade estética do caso apresentado.
Coinheritance Studies of Yield and Yield Related Traits in Wheat (Triticum Aestivum L.) Preliminary Lines
Authors: Mahnoor  , Abdur Rauf  , Ayesha  , Aamir Suhail  , Nida Gulal  , Anwar Hussain Khan  , Hafsa Bibi  , Nazli Rahid  , Laila Khalid  , Asma  , Amna Naz  , Sumbal Saleem  , Khilwat Afridi  , Haleema Bibi  , Kashmala Jabbar  , Guleena Khan  , Ikramullah Khan
Published: December 2024

A field trial was performed to explore the genetic diversity and coheritability among the 64 bread wheat genotypes. These lines/genotypes were analyzed for days to heading, days to maturity, plant height, flag leaf area, spikelet Spike-1, grain per spike, thousand-grain weight, and grain yield. Based on the mean performance, the best genotype for early maturity was CCRIA1-10, CCRIA1-1, and CCRIA1-11. Likewise, for the flag leaf area, desirable genotypes were CCRIA1-16 and CCRIA1-27, and for grain spike-1, CCRIA1-28 and CCRIA1-22. In addition, the best genotypes for 1000-grain weight were CCRIA1-64 and CCRIA1-37. The highest genotypic and phenotypic coefficients of variation (PCV = 1054.40%, GCV = 446.68%) were recorded for grain yield, followed by grain spike-1 (PCV = 125.29 and GCV = 123.39). The highest heritability (0.97) was indicated by spike weight and grains spike-1(0.97), while plant height (0.58), 1000 grain weight (0.44), and flag leaf area (0.31) showed moderate heritability. The lowest heritability estimates were recorded for the length of the peduncle (0.01), length of spikes (0.13), grain yield (0.18), days to heading, and spikelet spike-1 (0.25). High coheritability was observed among day to maturity and spike weight (0.99), on the contrary, minimum coheritability was observed for the flag leaf area with heading (0.12). The most desired inheriting pairs were spikelet spike-1 with grains spike-1 (0.97), weight of spike with spikelet spike-1(0.92), and flag leaf area with spike weight (0.86), spike length with grains spike-1, spike weight with grains spike-1 and flag leaf area with grains spike-1.
Comparative Study of Commercial Bread Wheat Varieties and Advance Wheat Lines to Explore Superior Attributes for Variety Development and Future Breeding Guidelines
Authors: Eman Fatima  , Hazib Ali  , Muhammad Faisal  , Muhammad Waseem  , Fajar Khurram  , Zunaira Usman  , Muhammad Loqman  , Mohsin Ali  , Mehmood Ul Hassan  , Arshad Iqbal
Published: December 2024

Knowledge about the potential and performance of advance wheat lines and commercial bread wheat varieties are vital for implicit variety adaptation. Comparative study was designed to quantify the performance of advance wheat lines, sixteen commercial wheat varieties and fourteen advance wheat lines were tested in randomized complete block design with 3 replications at Agricultural Research Station Baffa, Mansehra during wheat growing season 2022-23. The study evaluated wheat advance lines yield and resistance against powdery mildew disease, as compared to commercial varieties for adaptability and variety development. Days to 50% heading, plant height (cm), grain yield (kgha-1), disease scoring and % severity of disease data was subjected to analysis of variance using statistical software R. Analysis of variance revealed significant differences for all parameters. Advance wheat lines identified for early heading were PR-115 (131) and PR-106 (132). Similarly, commercial variety Hashim-2010 (133) showed early heading. Commercial wheat varieties PS2013 (95.6cm), Janbaz (96cm), PS2005 (96.6cm) and advance wheat lines PR106 (95.6cm), PR115 (95.6cm), IBGE (96.6cm) were found semi dwarf. Grain yield of commercial wheat variety Janbaz 6566.6 (kgha-1) was at par with advance wheat line PR118 6500(kgha-1). Commercial bread wheat varieties (PK2015, PS2005) and an advance line (PR115) showed lowest severity (2%) to powdery mildew disease. An advance line (PR115) and four commercial bread wheat varieties (PS-2005, PS-2008, PK-2015, Faisalabad-2008) were found resistant against powdery mildew disease. Commercial bread wheat varieties PS-2005, PS-2008, PK-2015, Faisalabad-2008 and advance wheat line PR115 can be utilized as resistant source of powdery mildew in future breeding programs
SEIR Model Based Epidemic Transmission Risk Deep Prediction
Authors: Ibrar Muhammad , Sun Yang
Published: December 2024

Amidst ongoing efforts to manage the spread of infectious diseases, measures are taken to safeguard the resumption of on-campus activities. This ensures the academic continuity and the safety of the community. To achieve this, an analysis of disease transmission risks has been conducted, focusing on areas within campuses such as dining halls, lecture theaters, and classrooms. By leveraging an enhanced Susceptible-Exposed-Infectious-Removed (SEIR) model, we have developed a risk assessment model that takes into account dynamics between susceptible, latent, infected and displaced groups. After the extraction of relevant features, features undergo preprocessing steps. They are monotonically incremented and smoothed to eliminate noise, and then serve as input and labels for training stacked denoising autoencoder. The outcome of analysis indicates that the implementation of interventions can significantly mitigate the spread of disease. It can decrease the frequency of infection interactions, lower the transmission rate, and reduce the peak numbers of infected and latent cases by 61% and 72%, respectively. In essence, our approach has proven to be effective in controlling the spread of diseases in key university areas. Moreover, it provides an accurate predictive model for the number of infections, offering a valuable tool for managing and preventing outbreaks within these communities.
Online Learning Beliefs, Literacy, and Engagement Among Chinese University Students
Authors: Congzheng Luo
Published: December 2024

The rapid adoption of online learning platforms in Chinese universities necessitates a comprehensive understanding of student experiences. This study explores online learning beliefs, literacy, and engagement among Chinese university students. We examine their attitudes, perceptions of effectiveness, and online learning skill development. Additionally, the study investigates factors influencing student motivation and participation in online environments.

The findings highlight a general consensus among students regarding online learning: its accessibility, the learning environment it fosters, and the level of social engagement it facilitates. Interestingly, student profiles (gender, year of study, major) did not significantly influence these beliefs. However, a crucial positive relationship was identified between the three core variables – beliefs, literacy, and engagement. This suggests that stronger positive beliefs about online learning translate to better online learning literacy and a higher level of engagement with online learning platforms.
Curriculum Development Process, Design Practice, and Delivery Evaluation in Chinese Universities
Authors: Suwan Liu , Pateña Annalie
Published: December 2024

This study aimed to comprehensively investigate curriculum development practices in Chinese universities, focusing on the interconnected phases of development, design, and evaluation. A descriptive survey was employed to collect data from 425 administrators, teachers, and students across ten universities in Henan province.

The findings revealed a moderate level of awareness among respondents regarding the significance of each stage in the curriculum development process. The study underscored the cyclical nature of curriculum development, emphasizing the interdependence of development, design, and evaluation. Curriculum development, rooted in a thorough analysis of social needs and learning contexts, serves as the foundation for establishing clear learning objectives and content selection. Design practice, the subsequent phase, translates these objectives into practical instructional strategies and innovative teaching methods. Delivery evaluation, the final component, assesses the effectiveness of curriculum implementation through student learning outcomes and teaching efficacy.

The research highlights the importance of understanding these interconnected stages to optimize curriculum effectiveness and relevance. By fostering a holistic approach to curriculum development, universities can enhance student learning experiences, improve teaching practices, and ultimately contribute to the overall quality of higher education.
Design and Development of A Learning Management System
Authors: Huanyu Zheng
Published: December 2024

The project represents the next step in educational evolution through a cutting-edge online learning system built on a robust LMS foundation. This platform integrates advanced features to transform learning with exceptional personalization and interactivity. It offers customized learning paths tailored to individual needs, ensuring an engaging and effective educational experience. Interactive, multimedia-rich content enhances student motivation and retention, while real-time feedback supports continuous improvement. The system prioritizes accessibility, allowing learners to access courses anytime and anywhere, fostering a global and flexible learning environment. By focusing on user-centric design, this LMS-based system simplifies and enhances the educational process, making it adaptable and efficient for diverse student needs.
School Climate, Incentives and Feedback Mechanism in Chinese Universities
Authors: Jiajun Zhou
Published: December 2024

This study aims to explore the school climate, incentives and feedback mechanisms in Chinese universities and their effects on teachers and students. This paper analyzes how a good school climate, effective incentives and sound feedback mechanisms can enhance teachers’ career satisfaction, professional growth. A total of 400 valid questionnaires were collected for this study, and descriptive analysis, analysis of variance, and regression analysis were conducted using SPSS 26.0. The majority of teachers in Chinese universities are women and are sensitive to remuneration and benefits. The findings revealed a positive relationship between school climate, incentive mechanism and feedback mechanism in Chinese universities. This means that the better the school climate in university, the better incentive mechanism and the better feedback mechanism. The findings suggest that a campus culture of trust and cooperation, a transparent and fair compensation and benefits system, personalized career development planning, and a timely and constructive feedback mechanism are key factors in enhancing the quality of education. Based on this, this paper proposes a series of specific strategies to optimize the university’s school climate, motivation, and feedback mechanisms, including strengthening culture, providing career development opportunities, establishing sound assessment and feedback mechanisms, applying advanced educational technologies, and creating a positive career development environment for teachers and retaining more teachers in universities.
English Language Exposure, Immersion, and Development Among Chinese English Majors
Authors: Yuhui Liu
Published: December 2024

This study explores the English language exposure, immersion, and development of Chinese English majors at Henan Normal University. With 410 participants, the research utilized a quantitative methodology. It found that students have moderate exposure to English in classroom and extracurricular settings, with extracurricular activities being more frequent. Various types of English immersion were beneficial, with class design and student participation being the most effective. English language development was generally at a medium level, with maximal English use and minimal student interactions in the reading environment. Age and English proficiency significantly influenced the results, with older students and TEM-8 passers showing superior performance. The study concludes with a proposed program to enhance English exposure, immersion, and development for Chinese English majors.
Influence of Social Media in Shaping the Adolescents’ Political Awareness, Participation, and Activism
Authors: Arias Rose Ann , Montalbo Myca
Published: December 2024

The emergence of social media has immensely influenced how the younger generations participate and interact in the discussion of the different societal and governmental issues. Thus, it is imperative to formulate information-media literacy and digital citizenship guidelines that may help promote healthy and safe political engagements and participation in the virtual space. In this study, the impacts of social media to the adolescents’ political awareness, participation, and activism were assessed and analyzed. Using the descriptive-correlational-comparative design, 523 senior high school students, aged 17-19 years old, were asked to answer the 50-item researcher-made questionnaire, Social Media Use, Political Participation, Awareness, and Activism (SMPPAA) Survey. The data were analyzed using mean, standard deviation, Pearson’s coefficient of correlation, t-test, and ANOVA. The results revealed that the adolescents often use social media as a tool for presenting their political interests and to a great extent had relied on online information to get updates on political issues. The adolescents’ political participation, awareness, and activism did not significantly differ with respect to their age, sex, religious affiliation. There was differing level of political awareness among the adolescents as regards their socio-economic status. Moreover, the results affirmed the ideas propounded in the Cognitive Engagement Theory and Interest-Driven Theory regarding the influence of social media usage and reliance to online information with the development of the adolescents’ political awareness, participation, and activism.
Classroom Environment, Teacher Competency, and Student Engagement In Chinese Universities
Authors: Wei Yuan
Published: December 2024

This research aimed to determine the relationships among classroom environment, teacher competence, and student engagement in Chinese universities, in order to propose a enhanced program for student development.

A descriptive quantitative research design was employed among 549 students to explore the correlations among classroom environment, teacher competence, and student engagement in student learning.

Majority of the respondents were females, Arts majors, and sophomore students. In terms of classroom environment, respondents strongly agreed that instructor encourages mutual respect among all students; they are called on to be representative of a particular demographic group; and inappropriate comments are not tolerated in this class. In terms of teacher competency, respondents strongly agreed that the teacher has a good command of the contents of the course; interweaves the content of the subject matter with other courses; and applies the established curriculum with a certain amount of flexibility for a better class dynamic. In terms of intellectual capacity, respondents strongly agreed that they have developed ability to make judgments about alternative perspectives; learned to be an effective team or group member; the teaching staff tried hard to help them understand the course material; there is sufficient feedback on activities and assignments to ensure that they learn from the work they do; and can see how courses fitted together to make a coherent programs of study for their major. There was a significant difference on classroom environment, teacher competency, and intellectual capacity when grouped according to grade. There was a highly significant relationship among classroom environment, teacher competency, and student engagement.
Factors Affecting The Voting Behavior In Electing Barangay Officials In Tanauan City, Batangas Philippines
Authors: Lopiga Blessiejane , Tamayo Ma. Rosario
Published: December 2024

This research investigates the factors influencing voting behavior in electing barangay officials in Tanauan City, Batangas, Philippines. Using a descriptive research design, the study surveyed residents from five barangays with the highest voting population, focusing on familial affiliations, leadership qualities, and economic influence. Data analysis revealed that familial affiliations, leadership aptitudes, and economic factors significantly influence voting decisions. While respondents generally agreed that familial ties play a role, they also expressed openness to candidates from outside their network. Leadership skills, past achievements, and educational background were highly valued, indicating a preference for informed decision-making. Economic factors, including candidates’ wealth and economic performance records, also influenced voting behavior. However, respondents emphasized the importance of individual qualities, skills, and traits over political connections and social status. The study highlights the complex interplay of factors influencing voting behavior at the barangay level, providing insights into the dynamics of local elections in the Philippines.