bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Qualitative Determination of Urinary Iodine Concentration and Related Intelligence Quotient among High School Young Teenagers
Authors: Bunu Samuel Jacob , Ere Diepreye , Alabo Celebrate E 
Published: June 2020

Nutritional Essential Balance is a common trend in life. Iodine is not produced in the body and it is vital in maintaining good health, therefore it is needed to be consumed regularly. Essential iodine supplies are found in the ocean's bounty such as, sea salt, and fish. On land, iodine levels in the soil are great and are sufficiently maintained by plants such as cereals, vegetables. Several of the body functions rely upon iodine, including energy production, mental development, thyroid hormones production, reproductive glands support, and maintenance of the strong lymphatic system as well as cell growth regulation. Small amounts of iodine are found in the blood, nerves, and other organs of the body, but most of the body's iodine is present in the thyroid, breasts, ovaries, uterus, and prostate glands. The study was aimed to determine and evaluate the level of iodine concentration in the urine of school-age children, and its correlation to their intelligence quotient (IQ). The Titrimetric method was used in iodine urine concentration analysis. Urine (5 ml) was measured from a universal bottle and transferred to a beaker and 20 ml of water was added. After preparing the test mixture, it was titrated with 0.001M sodium thiosulphate using a burette, and at the endpoint colorless solution was obtained, this done for all the samples. From the results, the median urinary iodine levels were 117.7µg/L which is within the adequate iodine intake range (100-199 µg/L). This suggests that iodine was not deficient in any form amongst the school children. There may also be no risk of mental impairment and goiter development among these children if iodine concentration in urine is a risk factor. Therefore, checking the iodine nutrition of a population is vital and a good marker in the assessment of iodine deficiency-related disorders.
Design of Renewable Energy System for a House in St. John’s, Canada
Authors: Khadodra Uday , Rahaman Md Habibur , Jamil Mohsin 
Published: June 2020

During this period of rising energy demand, utility companies are at a certain point in time, unable to satisfy the overall requirements of their entire consumer population. During this kind of situation, the system, which is, at a micro-scale, can also refer to a zero-energy building, which can also be very prominent in solving this problem. Another thing is that cries of non-renewable energy sources and most of the utility companies are majorly dependent on that kind of energy source, and it keeps along with issues of global warming. A renewable energy-based power system can solve this issue. In this paper, the solution to this problem by introducing the microscale installation of a renewable energy source at the residential level has been presented. For that here, the area selected for this project is located in St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador, CANADA. Newfoundland is an island; hence, the proposed system would be beneficial here. Building this kind of system is the process of designing, selecting, and calculating the energy demand of equipment and, at last, synchronizing it with the grid to make it as zero energy building. This process depends upon a range of variables, including geographical location, load requirement, and solar irradiation. The required demand, system modeling, simulation, and techno-economic analysis are carried out by BEopt, HOEMR, and MATLAB software.
Uncertainty Approaches for Solving Generalized Machine Maintenance Problem
Authors: Abass Samir Abdou , Abdallah Asmaa S. , Elsayed Marwa Shehata , Ahmed Eman Massoud 
Published: June 2020

In this paper, the generalized machine maintenance problem is formulated as linear programming model. The objective is to maximize the percentage production hours available per maintenance cycle of each machine. Data in many real life engineering and economic problems suffers from inexactness. There are different approaches to deal with uncertain optimization problems. In this paper two different approaches of uncertainty, Fuzzy programming and rough interval programming approaches will be introduced. We deal the concerned problem with uncertain data in coefficients of the constraints for the two approaches. A numerical example is introduced to clarify the two proposed approaches. A comparison study between the obtained results of the two proposed approaches and the results of interval approach for Samir A. and Marwa Sh [3] will be introduced.
Rogowski Coils for Design of Energy Meters for Nigeria Power Market
Authors: Iloh John Paul I. 
Published: June 2020

Proper metering of electricity consumption is the optimal way for effectively recovering revenues for power supplied to the consumers by the distribution companies (DISCOs). In Nigeria, the situation is quite problematic due to inadequate metering of the consumers. As a result, huge amount of revenues due to the DISCOs are left uncollected leaving the DISCOs to resort to estimated billing system. To solve this problem, this paper proposes a locally made digital energy meter built from locally available materials in Nigeria. Specifically, this work proposes to use an inexpensive rogowski coil wound from made-in-Nigeria wire on an improvised air core material as the current sensing element to be used in the meter. Two rogowski coil samples wound from SWG 36 and SWG 25 wires having resistances of 50ohm and 1.3 Ohms respectively were subjected to repeated experimental tests in order to study their characteristic behavior under varying load current scenarios. The results obtained were used to characterize the coils behaviors by using the basic fitting tool in MATLAB graphing window to generate the optimal equation representing the coils’ behaviors. The equations so obtained are intended to be used to program the microcontroller for implementation of the Digital Energy Meter algorithm adopted in the proposed design. Results from the experiment showed that the coil with lower resistance exhibited better linear response while the coil with higher resistance was better optimized by quadratic and cubic polynomials. These findings serve as design guide for local fabrication of the rogowski coils to be used in the proposed digital energy meter being developed for the Nigerian power market.
The Application of UPSUS PAJALE Program Technology on Rice
Authors: Zulfitriyana Zulfitriyana , Syarfi Ira Wahyuni , Hasnah Hasnah 
Published: June 2020

This study aims to identify the factors affecting the sustainable application of UPSUS PAJALE Program technology on rice in Solok Regency. The results reveal that among the four variables (farmer characteristics, nature of innovation, access to information and relative benefits) proposed to be related to the sustainability of the application of UPSUS PAJALE technology, the variable access to information is found to have strongest influence with f2 value of 0.38, while the variable nature of innovation contributes the smallest effect with f2 of 0.01 on the sustainability of the application of UPSUS PAJALE technology on rice. The characteristics of farmers and relative benefits have a moderate effect with f2 values of 0.14 and 0.17, respectively. In order to encourage famers to apply the technology of UPSUS PAJALE on rice sustainably, it is suggested that the relevant agencies conduct socialization and provide technical guidance.
Deep Learning-Based Self-Driving Car: JetBot with NVIDIA AI Board to Deliver Items at Agricultural Workplace with Object-Finding and Avoidance Functions
Authors: Kawakura Shinji , Shibasaki Ryosuke 
Published: June 2020

In this study, we attempt to develop a deep learning-based self-driving car system to deliver items (e.g., harvested onions, agri-tools, PET bottles) to agricultural (agri-) workers at an agri-workplace. The system is based around a car-shaped robot, JetBot, with an NVIDIA artificial intelligence (AI) oriented board. JetBot can find diverse objects and avoid them. We implemented experimental trials at a real warehouse where various items (glove, boot, sickle (falx), scissors, and hoe), called obstacles, were scattered. The assumed agri-worker was a man suspending dried onions on a beam. Specifically, we developed a system focusing on the function of precisely detecting obstacles with deep learning-based techniques (techs), self-avoidance, and automatic delivery of small items for manual agri-workers and managers. Both the car-shaped figure and the deep learning-based obstacles-avoidance function differ from existing mobile agri-machine techs and products with respect to their main aims and structural features. Their advantages are their low costs in comparison with past similar mechanical systems found in the literature and similar commercial goods. The robot is extremely agile and easily identifies and learns obstacles. Additionally, the JetBot kit is a minimal product and includes a feature allowing users to arbitrarily expand and change functions and mechanical settings.
This study consists of six phases: (1) designing and confirming the validity of the entire system, (2) constructing and tuning various minor system settings (e.g., programs and JetBot specifications), (3) accumulating obstacle picture data, (4) executing deep learning, (5) conducting experiments in an indoor warehouse to simulate a real agri-working situation, and (6) assessing and discussing the trial data quantitatively (presenting the success and error rates of the trials) and qualitatively. We consider that from the limited trials, the system can be judged as valid to some extent in certain situations. However, we were unable to perform more broad or generalizable experiments (e.g., execution at mud farmlands and running JetBot on non-flat floor). We present experimental ranges for the success ratio of these trials, particularly noting crashed obstacle types and other error types. We were also able to observe features of the system’s practical operations. The novel achievements of this study lie in the fusion of recent deep learning-based agricultural informatics. In the future, agri-workers and their managers could use the proposed system in real agri-places as a common automatic delivering system. Furthermore, we believe, by combining this application with other existing systems, future agri-fields and other workplaces could become more comfortable and secure (e.g., delivering water bottles could avoid heat (stress) disorders).
Compatibility of Analog Forestry and Conservation Agriculture as Strategies for the Sustainable Management of Forest Resources in Bui, NW Cameroon
Authors: Angwafo Tsi Evaristus , Danernyuy Kemkia Christian , Chuo Mvo Denis 
Published: June 2020

This study entitle compatibility of analog forestry (AF) and conservation agriculture (CA) as strategies for the sustainable management of forest resources was carried out in Bui, NW Cameroon. The objective of the study was to examine the management schems adopted by communities and compatibility between analog forestry and conservation agriculture that make them better strategies for forest resource management. Qualitative and quantitative designs were used during data collection. Data were analyzed descriptively and inferentially using statistical package for social sciences, cross tabulation and microsoft excel. Result revealed that AF and CA are 80% compatible for the restoration of forest resources according to farmers responds. For instance, 20.6% and 17,2% of respondents reported that compatibility of AF and CA reduced pressure on natural forests and boost rehabilitate degraded forest and water shades respectively. Therefore, soil protection and anchorage through the establishment of tree species whilst maintaining cover and eliminating tillage with AF and CA are logical solution to rehabilitation and sustainable continuation of natural resources in Bui.
Quality and Safety Characteristics of Minimally Processed Watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) Sold in Selected Locations in Port Harcourt
Authors: Obinna-Echem Patience Chisa , Koanyie Loveth 
Published: June 2020

The physico-chemical, proximate, vitamin C, sensory and microbiological quality of minimally processed watermelon from selected locations in Port Harcourt was evaluated. The locations were Rumuokoro junction, Rumuokuta junction, Nwinpi junction and Mile 3 Bus stop, samples prepared in the Food preparation laboratory served as control. Standard analytical and microbiological methods were used. pH and titratable acidity varied respectively from 4.95 - 5.60 and 0.14 - 0.20 %Citric acid. Moisture, protein, fat, ash, crude fibre, and carbohydrate ranged from 94.54 – 96.14, 0.52 – 0.54, 0.54 – 0.56, 0.25 -0.39, 0.32 – 0.57 and 1.99 – 3.56% respectively, while the energy content was 15.00 – 20.91 Kcal/g. Ascorbic acid content ranged from 2.77 - 4.73 mg/100g. The microbiological evaluation revealed Total aerobic, Coliform, Escherichia coli, Salmonella, Staphylococcus and fungi counts of 3.80 – 5.79, 3.74 – 5.83, 5.10 - 5.84, 4.26 – 5. 00 and 3.89 - 4.45 Log10Cfu/g respectively. The sensory attributes: colour, sweetness, texture, aroma, juiceness and overall acceptability of the samples ranged from 5.80 – 7.85, 5.70 – 7.95, 6.10 – 7.45, 5.40 – 7.10, 6.15 – 7.55 and 6.00 – 7.45 respectively. Degree of likeness of the minimally processed watermelon by the assessors was that of slight to like very much. The study revealed that though the minimally processed watermelon were nutritious and acceptable to the consumers, the microbial counts were unsatisfactory and can be a risk factor to public health.
Hemodynamic Characterization Of Pulmonary Artery Hypertension In A Rat
Authors: Konecny F. 
Published: June 2020

Introduction: Hemodynamic characterization of Pulmonary Artery (PA) hypertension helps to reveal progression of disease of pulmonary vasculature with constrictive remodeling of pulmonary arterioles, leading to right ventricle (RV) dysfunction and right sided HF failure. In this preclinical methodology article, surgical access, controlled mechanical ventilator set up and direct open chest measurements of PA hypertension is described, employing a rat model. Chronic PA injury was induced by single dose of monocrotaline (MCT).
Methods & Aims: Setting of controlled mechanical volume ventilation (CMVV) was adjusted to limit its influence on RV preload and LV afterload in the instance of chronic pulmonary disease. Volume-ventilation setting of tidal volume and respiration rate was based on body weight. Isoflurane monoanesthesia was used without any premedication. PA pressures were compared using single and dual pressure catheter at 3-weeks post injury. Initially, single pressure catheter was positioned in the PA to assess data quality, while advanced data comparison (RV and PA pressures) during PA hypertension were made using dual pressure catheter. PA access was performed using “high” RV needle-stab, adjacent to the anatomical area of the PA outflow.
Results: Introduction of single pressure catheter was successful and collected data during RV systole and diastole did not produce any major pressure artefacts. Final position in the main PA was guided by using visual cues i.e. distance of pressure sensor on the catheter, accompanied by simultaneous data recording from that location. In case of dual pressure catheter, RV and PA pressure data were successfully collected. During PA hypertension, systolic ranges were (41-52 mmHg) vs. naive (25-30 mmHg); diastolic (21-27 mmHg) vs. (9-14 mmHg); n=4. In PA hypertension, high afterload pressures complicated RV ejection, with PAP cresting about 1mmHg higher than the maximal RVP. During further assessment, RV ejection was complicated by higher PA dicrotic notch pressures, at the end of systole; for hypertension (37-41 mmHg) vs. naïve (16-21mmHg), n=4.
Conclusions: This study revealed that good rat pressure data could be collected from the main trunk of PA using an open chest supported by CMVV. In future, hemodynamic influence of respiratory pump in close chest setting and its influence on chronic PA hypertension needs to be analyzed using solid state pressure catheter. To accomplish this, pressure catheter design should be based on rat’s RV and its outflow anatomy.
Serious Liver Trauma: Predictive Factors Of Therapeutic Choice And Prognostic Factors (About 65 Cases)
Authors: Elhattabi K. , Bachar A. , Bensardi F. Z. , Mourid K. , Fadil A. 
Published: June 2020

The charge of the severe hepatic traumas underwent a radical change from exclusive surgical treatment to non-operative-based conservative approach that benefited from the recent advances in the field of imagery as well as from the follow-up strategies of intensive care.
A retrospective survey was carried out involving 65 patients treated for serious liver traumas in the surgical emergency department of Ibn Rochd university hospital of Casablanca.
The aim of this study is to assess our act refunding SLT through the definition of the evolutionary, therapeutic, diagnostic, and epidemiological data.
All the penetrating and blunt SLT were included in this survey. The seriousness was defined by the hemodynamic instability and a lesion stage higher to III according to the MIRVIS rating. The clinical and paraclinical data as well as morbidity and mortality were analysed.
Traffic accidents were the main cause of SLT our series is mainly composed of young male subjects (54 men, 83%). There were 86% of blunt traumas (56 cases) there was common polytrauma (78,5%). Ultrasound and CT scans were performed to most patients (respectively 83% and 78%). Fifty one patients had non operative treatment (78,5%) whereas 14 patients underwent surgery. This option was due to their hemodynamic instability and not the hepatic trauma lesion stage in the operative group, the evolution was complicate in 35,7% of the operated patients whereas in the non operative group the complications supervened only in 23,5% of the cases. The mortality rate was respectively 28,5% versus 7,8% for the non operative treatment the NOT of the SLT allowed to obtain satisfactory results despite the seriousness of the hepatic lesions.
It should be anted that the treatment choice was made mainly according to the hemodynamic condition and not to the radiological stage lesions
A genuine and precocious agreement among the surgeon, the anesthesiologist and the interventional radiologist allowed to avoid the server complications following SLT so that the injured patient who could be initially rescued manage to escape first hour complications, and ultimately recover.
The Prevalence of Rheumatoid Arthritis in the Elderly that attend Pilgrimage Centre, Elele, Nigeria
Authors: Eledo Benjamin Onyema , Tommy Edidiong , Onuoha Emmanuel , Dunga Kingsley , Okamgba Okezie 
Published: June 2020

This study determined the prevalence of Rheumatoid arthritis in elderly people that attended pilgrimage center, Elele Rivers state, Nigeria. A total of 200 subjects attending the pilgrimage center were examined for Rhematoid Factor using Latex agglutination method. The data was subjected to statistical analysis using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 16.0. A prevalence of 4% was seen in the female subjects within the age bracket of 65-80 years and a prevalence of 1% was seen in the male subjects within the age bracket of 61-70 years. It showed that Rheumatoid arthritis was positive in 5% of the population and negative in 95% of the population, which was statistically significant (p< 0.05). In conclusion, there is a significant increase in the overall prevalence of rheumatoid arthritis in elderly subjects that attend pilgrimage center, Elele. Therefore proper care should be instituted to avoid unnecessary complications associated with this ailment.
The Motor Coordination Activity Of Aqueous Extract Of Withania Coagulans Fruits In Swiss Albino Mice By Rota Rod Test
Authors: Kamdi Amit Shankarrao , Gosavi Devesh D. , Kalambe Suvarna M. , Bohra Pankaj N. 
Published: June 2020

Background: The various sedative and hypnotic medications used today have the central nervous system (CNS) depressant effects. A very little work has been done on the Withania coagulans – a vulnerable species as it is not found rampant in the world except in late seventies. Therefore, it was important to explore the CNS depressant activities of aqueous extract of Withania coagulans fruits in Swiss albino mice by using rota rod test.
Methods: Motor coordination was assessed by using the Rota Rod Test. The CNS depressant drugs decrease the endurance time of mice on the rota rod as they impair the motor coordination so that mice fall early on the rotating rod. This endurance time is statistically correlated among the control, standard and the test drugs.
Results: There was statistically highly significant (p-value < 0.001) association observed between aqueous extract of Withania coagulans fruits with endurance time in Swiss albino mice on rota rod test.
Conclusion: The aqueous extract of Withania coagulans fruits demonstrated the CNS depressant activity in Swiss albino mice by rota rod test.
Simulation in Medical Education: Perceptions of Medical Students’ Learning Experience in a History-Taking Module
Authors: Ulzen Angelina A. , Adefolalu Adegoke O. 
Published: June 2020

Effective communication skills are a core competency required of all doctors; an important tool that facilitates proper history-taking during the doctor-patient interaction. The teaching of this skill is now an integral part of undergraduate medical education and is largely taught using simulation techniques. The current study aimed to explore medical students’ perceptions of their learning experience in a history-taking module which was done via simulated learning. Qualitative descriptive methodology was used in this study. Data was collected through focus group discussions from a total of 17 participants. These were purposefully sampled from the target population of second-year medical students who had recently completed the history-taking module. during the 2017 academic year. All data was analyzed thematically, using an inductive approach to identify the emerging themes. Three major themes emerged from the thematic analysis of the qualitative data with sub-themes under each of them. The three major themes were: the ‘portals of learning’, challenges to learning and reflections on learning. The research shown that the simulated approach is particularly useful in the teaching and learning of communication skills in history-taking. The findings suggested three main areas the students’ perceptions focused on which shed light on possible reasons for not achieving proficiency in history-taking. These relate to the ways in which learning opportunities were offered, the challenges encountered in the learning process and reflections on the learning experience.