Package For Social Sciences Software Research Articles

Comparative Analysis of Consumer Preferences and Nutritional Composition of Wild and Farmed African Giant Rat. (Cricetomys gambianus) in Mampong Ashanti of Ghana

The African giant rat is one of Ghana's most common animals sought after as a source of meat (game). Local hunters use unhealthy means to hunt these animals, so attempts have been made to domesticate African giant rats in Ghana. Nevertheless, certain local consumers have articulated concerns, suggesting that wild giant rats' meat is more tender and leaner than those domestically farmed. The study was carried out to investigate consumer preference, sensory attributes, proximate composition, and acceptability of meats from wild and farmed African giant rats in Mampong Ashanti municipality in the Ashanti Region of Ghana. The study was conducted from November to December 2023. A survey was carried out among the residents of Asante Mampong using a structured questionnaire, with 500 individuals aged 20 years and older randomly selected to participate. Twenty (20) animals comprising ten (10) wild and ten (10) farmed African giant rats were used for the sensory and proximate analyses in a completely randomised design. Statistical Package for Social Sciences software was used for data analysis. Most participants (57%) preferred meat from wild African giant rats to their farmed counterparts, while only 7% indicated an equal fondness for both. Respondents with Islamic faith showed a preference for the meat of farmed African giant rats because of halal slaughter. The proximate composition of the raw giant rat meat was not affected by the sex since the values were very similar. However, wild African giant rat meat showed significantly (P =0.05) better proximate composition than the farmed ones. Except for meat colour and tenderness, meat from wild giant rats showed significantly (P = 0.05) better sensory properties than the meat from the farmed animals. This study concludes that meat sourced from giant African rats raised on farms is safer, has an impressive protein content, and has moderate fat levels.

Assessment of Biomass Energy Potential for Biogas Technology Adoption and Its Determinant Factors in Rural District of Limmu Kossa, Jimma, Ethiopia

Increasing clean energy access for the rural population of developing countries is a priority to meet the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals-Zero hunger and affordable modern/clean energy for all. Similarly, to meet this goal, Ethiopia moved towards the development of renewable energy. However, there is a limited knowledge on the biomass energy potential for biogas technology adoption at the local/district level. Thus, this study aimed at assessing the biomass energy potential for biogas technology adoption and its determinant factors among rural households in Limmu Kossa district, Ethiopia. Data was collected from 411 households from 13–24 June 2021. The quantitative data was analyzed using Statistical software Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 23 and Microsoft Word-Excel. The qualitative data was analyzed using content analysis. The study showed that over 96% of households rely on the traditional use of biomass energy for cooking. Nevertheless, on average, about 1 m3 of biogas energy can be potentially available from livestock dung and human excreta per household per day. However, the huge potential of biomass energy did not contribute to improved energy technologies such as biogas. The adoption of biogas is hampered by the non-functionality of the installed biogas, a lack of awareness, the availability of firewood, and the socio-economic characteristics of the households. Thus, improving the awareness of the community, arranging financial access, and training biogas technicians, especially from the local community, would increase the adoption of the technology. However, meeting the digester water demand with the water collected from the walking distances of 15–20 min can be challenging. Community-based biogas digesters or biogas involving income generation with a water supply around the digester would be a better and more sustainable option for biogas energy adoption and use.

Utilization of Emergency Medical Service and its Associated Factors Among Patients Visited Public Hospitals at Hawassa City, Sidama Region, Ethiopia, 2023

BackgroundThe burden of emergency medical conditions is borne mostly by poorer nations, with a 6% increase in deaths of adults and children due to emergency conditions between 1990 and 2015. Emergency medical service is crucial to improve outcomes of those injuries and other time-sensitive illnesses. However, access to emergency medical services in Hawassa City is still limited and its’ utilization is influenced by different factors. MethodsA facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 422 randomly selected clients who visited the emergency service in public hospitals of Hawassa City. A structured interviewer-administered questionnaire adapted by reviewing previous literature was used. The collected data by using the Kobo toolbox was exported into a statical package for social science software for analysis. Descriptive statistics such as frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation were used. A binary logistic regression model at a 95% confidence interval was used to declare an association between dependent and independent variables using the odds ratio. ResultsAll 422 participants completed the interview with a response rate of 100%. The mean age of the study participants was 33.73 years with a 14.67 standard deviation. One quarter (24.9% (95% CI: 21.1-29.4)) of the study participants have utilized emergency medical services. Urban residence (AOR=3.48, 95% CI: 1.69-7.16), ever utilized ambulance service (AOR=2.37, 95%CI: 1.21-4.67), having Red Cross Association ambulance number (AOR=2.64, 95%CI: 1.20-5.83) and awareness on presence of free government ambulance (AOR=3.74, 95%CI: 1.46-9.59) were the predictors of the outcome variable. Conclusionutilization of emergency medical services in the study area was relatively low when compared with other studies. urban residence, ever utilization of ambulance service, awareness of the presence of free government ambulances, and having a Red Cross Association ambulance number were predictors of utilization of emergency medical service.

Indigenous Goat Populations in Northwestern and Western Zones of Tigray Region, Ethiopia: Characterization of Major Husbandry Practices and Kidding Patterns

The survey was conducted before the war (before October 2020) in Tigray Region, Ethiopia. Goats are highly concentrated in the lowland areas than in the highlands of Ethiopia. Sample households of Begait (102), Hassan (106) and Arado (181) goats were randomly involved in the face-to-face interview. Statistical Package for Social Sciences software was used for data analysis. Illiterate respondents were in Begait (42%), Hassan (29%) and Arado (55%). Cattle and goats were the major economic sources in Begait (10.19±9.1 Tropical Livestock Unit (TLU), 4.30±2.8 TLU) and Arado (4.77±3.2 TLU, 1.27±0.9 TLU) respondents. The mean flock size of Arado goat population (12.65±9.9) was significantly (P<0.005) lower than the mean flock sizes of Begait (43.02±28.1) and Hassan (70.29±52.6) populations. Animals went to water source in most respondents (100.0% of Begait, 67.0% of Hassan and 87% of Arado), and river was the major water source for the animals of about 47% of Begait, 43% of Hassan and 79.0% of Arado respondents. Animals of about 56% of Hassan and 57% of Arado respondents travelled a distance of 1-5 Kilometer (Km) to obtain water, and dry season daily watering frequency of once a day was dominantly practiced in about 88% of Begait and 83% of Hassan respondents. Diseases and external parasites were reported in Begait (96%, 85%), Hassan (98%, 90%) and Arado (67%, 87%) respondents which affected indigenous goat productivity. There was no access to veterinary service centers (VSCs) in about 47% of Begait, 65% of Hassan and 93% of Arado respondents, and some respondents in about 24% of Begait and 17% of Hassan travelled a distance of greater than 10 Km to reach VSCs. Own buck use for mating and buck birth in own flocks were exhibited in Begait (93%, 85%), Hassan (95%, 76%) and Arado (38%, 35%) respondents, respectively. Uncontrolled mating and buck use outside of own flock were practiced in Begait (70%, 73%), Hassan (43%, 65%) and Arado (100.0%, 100.0%) respondents due to most goats graze in communal lands, respectively. Unknown buck to does ratio was practiced in 41% of Begait and 39% of Hassan respondents. Unknown buck to does ratio and a ratio of one buck to all does in the flock were practiced in Arado (8%, 67%) respondents, respectively, and crossbreeding was highly practiced in Begait respondents (41%). The dominant kidding months of Begait and Arado goat populations were in September up to November whilst that of Hassan goat population were in October up to December. Castration and traditional castration method were practiced in Begait (54%, 54%), Hassan (39%, 37%) and Arado (70%, 64%) respondents, respectively. Community education, access to water, access to VSC, buck to doe ratio, kidding pattern improvement and castration to control inbreeding need critical attention.

Efficacy of 400 mg albendazole against soil-transmitted helminthes among Salgy Primary School Children, Dembia district, Northwest Ethiopia, 2020. "Uncontrolled experimental study".

Soil-transmitted helminths are one of the most prevalent causes of both intellectual and physical disability in the world. Albendazole (ALB) is a drug recommended for mass treatment of the high burden of soil-transmitted helminths in schoolchildren, particularly in developing countries. However, some researchers have reported that the efficacy of albedazole against soil-transmitted helminths is inconsistent. Monitoring the programs is crucial to evaluating the effectiveness of 400 mg of ALB against soil-transmitted helminths, as well as any changes in its therapeutic efficacy. Thus, the purpose of this study was to evaluate ALB effectiveness in treating soil-transmitted helminthes in Salgy Primary School Children. An uncontrolled experimental study was conducted at Salgy Primary School Children, Northwest Ethiopia, from March to May 2020. A total of 439 schoolchildren were enrolled and screened for soil-transmitted helminths by stratified proportionate systematic random sampling to get 228 positive schoolchildren. Students in grades one through eight were grouped based on their educational attainment. Using the Kato-Katz thick smear technique, the selected stool sample collected from school children was examined using the Kato-Katz thick smear technique to determine the cure and egg reduction rates. The statistical package for social science software, version 20, was used to analyze the data. To determine the relationship between CR (cure rate) and ERR (egg reduction rate) by age, a chi-square test (X 2) was employed and significance was considered at A 95% confidence interval and p Value (p < 0.05). A 400 mg single dosage of ALB showed a 99.35% CR and a 97.30% egg reduction rate against Ascaris lumibricoides. Additionally, a 400 mg dose of ALB showed a 95.75% CR and an 82.07% egg reduction rate, suggesting questionable effectiveness against hookworm infections. Trichuris trichiura showed a decreased efficacy, with a 43.53% CR and a 23.12% egg reduction rate. A single dose of 400 mg ALB is effective (satisfactory), doubtful, and unsatisfactory against Ascaris lumbricoides, hookworm, and T. trichiura infections, respectively. Further studies using different brands, doses, and routes will be needed to treat hookworm and T. trichiura infections successfully by using a larger sample size.

Compliance to OSHA 2007 Legislation in TVET Education and Training Centres, Kisumu County, Kenya

Occupational Health and Safety refers to an academic discipline area which is related to the protection of the safety, health and wellbeing of people in any kind of profit generating activity. In TVET institutions the role of promoting and protecting safety, health and environment in education is even more significant since the courses offered there are practical in nature hence the risk of injury is higher. The main objective of this study was to investigate compliance to the legislation of Occupational Safety, Health and of safe systems of work as stipulated in the OSHA 2007 in public TVET Education Institutes in Kisumu County, Kenya. Descriptive survey was employed by the researcher for collection of statistical data to describe the compliance to OSHA 2007 in Kisumu County, Kenya. The research targeted 26 registered public TVET institutions, 26 principals, 416 trainers, 234 workshop technicians and 32,000 trainees in Kisumu County, Kenya. The researcher adopted stratified random sampling. The sample size obtained was 24 public TVET institutions, 24 principals, 203 trainers, 148 workshop technicians and 395 trainees. Quantitative statistical data and qualitative statistical data was obtained by the use of tools such as questionnaires for quantitative data and observation checklist for qualitative data. The researcher obtained data which was then analysed thematically. The software used for the analysis is the Statistical Package for Social Sciences software. The data was then presented using descriptive statistics. The findings: compliance to OSHA 2006, Occupational Safety, Health risk management and safe working systems were neglected in most TVET institutions in Kisumu County Kenya. The study recommends that; emphasis be placed in knowledge, awareness and compliance on the OSHA 2007 in public TVET institutions, the OSHA 2007 statutes be enforced in TVET Education institutions, the top leadership in TVET Education institutions to comply and enforce OSHA 2007 in the work places.

From Paper to Screen and from Pen to Keyboard: Digital Reading and Word Processing among Moroccan EFL Learners

The paper in hand aims at exploring Moroccan EFL learners' attitudes towards digital reading and word processing as well as the benefits and challenges associated with these two recently spread practices. A convenience sampling technique was utilized by the researchers of the present study to select a sample consisting of 64 EFL learners belonging to the School of Languages, Literature, and Arts, Kenitra. This sample involved 34 males and 30 females whose ages ranged between 21 and 52 years old. The participants were asked to fill out a 5-point Likert scale questionnaire divided into two sections, namely digital reading and word processing. The collected data were then analyzed using the 26th version of Statistical Package for Social Sciences software (SPSS). The findings of the survey indicate that the participants hold positive attitudes towards digital reading and word processing. They also reveal that the informants face challenges in digital reading similar to those they encounter in word processing.

WORKING CAPITAL MANAGEMENT PRACTICES AND FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE OF DAIRY PROCESSING FIRMS IN KENYA

The significance of the dairy sector in Kenya’s economy cannot be over emphasized. This is because the sector contributes 4% of the national gross domestic product and 19% of the agricultural gross domestic product for an economy that heavily relies on agriculture. Working capital plays a critical role in the success of commercial entities. This study sought to determine the effect of working capital management practices on the financial performance of dairy processing firms in Kenya. The general objective of the study was to determine the effect of working capital management practices on financial performance of dairy firms in Kenya. The specific objectives of the study were to establish the effect of inventory management practices, debtor’s management practices, creditors’ management practices and cash management practices on financial performance of dairy firms in Kenya. The theories that guided the study are; Keynesian liquidity preference theory, Cash Conversion Cycle theory, Stewardship theory, Risk return trade-off theory and Transaction Cost Economics Theory. The study population comprised the 221 dairy processing firms classified as major and mini processors by the Kenya Dairy Board. Stratified random sampling technique was used to select a sample size of 69 firms for the study. Self-administered structured questionnaire was used for data collection. A pilot study was conducted to test for the validity and reliability of data measuring instruments. Descriptive statistics namely mean, variance and standard deviation, and inferential statistics namely, correlation, simple and multiple regression was used for data analysis. The results of the analysis were presented using tables. The diagnostic tests to be performed in the study included Normality, Linearity and Multi - collinearity. A statistical package for social sciences software was used to aid the data analysis. Results indicated that inventory management was a key predictor of financial performance. Results indicated that debtor’s management practices were a key predictor of financial performance. Correlation outcomes of the results showed that credit management, and cash management had a positive and statistically significant relationship with the financial performance of dairy firms in Kenya. The regression results showed that cash management and creditors management have a direct positive effect on the financial performance of dairy firms in Kenya. The study recommended that Dairy Firms directors should develop a policy on credit collection detailing the policies and practices to be followed by the Dairy Firms. To enhance their accounts receivables and remove bad debts while boosting sales and inventory turnover, farm owners should rigorously follow up on debts, assess consumers before providing debts, give incentives for early debt payments, and build a solid debt management strategy. Dairy Firms may generally keep the standard payment interval longer than the average collection period to limit receivables payments for short-term needs, lowering finance expenses.

The COVID-19 Severity and Its Association with Intestinal Parasite Coinfection and Urine Biochemical Parameters among COVID-19-Confirmed Patients Admitted to Debre Markos University COVID-19 Center, Northwest Ethiopia.

Though most people with COVID-19 disease show asymptomatic to mild illness, a substantial number of patients are at high risk of developing severe disease and adverse outcomes with long COVID-19 and death. Even though some studies showed that previously existing infections with parasites amend the host's body defenses to increase resistance to infection with SARS-CoV-2, there is limited data in Ethiopia. This study is aimed at determining the COVID-19 disease severity and its association with intestinal parasite coinfection and urine biochemical parameters among COVID-19-confirmed patients admitted at Debre Markos University COVID-19 Center, 2021. A prospective cohort study was conducted on 136 RT-qPCR-confirmed COVID-19 patients admitted at Debre Markos University COVID-19 Center from January 1 to March 30, 2021. Sociodemographic and clinical data were collected by using standardized data collection forms. A urine biochemical test was performed using a dry urine dipstick kit and stool examination using direct wet mount microscopic examination and formalin-ether concentration method. The chi-square test, Fisher exact test, and ordinal logistic regression analysis were computed to assess association with outcome variables using Statistical Package for Social Science software (version 24). A total of 136 COVID-19-confirmed patients participated in this study. The median age of the participants was 48 years. The majority (86 (62.5%)) of them were male in sex. Of the 136 cases, 39 (28.7%) had died. Among the 136 patients, 22 (16.2%) were coinfected with intestinal parasites. COVID-19 patients who have intestinal parasite coinfection had lower odds of developing clinically severe COVID-19 compared to noninfected (AOR = 0.37; 95% CI = 0.147-0.944; P = 0.037). The majority (104 (76.5%)) of them have abnormal urine biochemical results. From the abnormal urine biochemical tests observed, the urine blood, glucose, and ketone tests were positive for 54 (39.7%), 36 (26.5%), and 30 (21.1%) patients, respectively. Among the 31 critical COVID-19 patients, 25 (80.6%) showed abnormal urine biochemical parameters. Age and comorbidity were significantly associated with COVID-19 severity (P < 0.05). Patients with old age and comorbidity had an increased risk of developing severe COVID-19 disease. Patients having SARS-CoV-2 and intestinal parasitic coinfections demonstrated mild COVID-19 disease severity. Abnormal urine biochemical results were common among critical COVID-19 patients. Thus, advanced study on the effect of the interaction among intestinal parasites on COVID-19 clinical severity and its mechanisms is essential.

Reliability of Dhaval–Rohan angle for assessment of vertical dysplasia

Objectives Assessment of Dhaval–Rohan (DR) angle as a vertical dysplasia indicator. Materials and methods One hundred and forty lateral cephalometric radiographs of Egyptian orthodontic patients of both sexes with age ranging from 16 to 28 years old, collected from the record files of patients admitted for treatment of various malocclusions. The enrolled cases were subdivided based on SN/MP angle, FH/MP angle, Y-axis/FH angle, gonial angle, and LAFH/TAFH, into high angle (hyperdivergent), low angle (hypodivergent), and average (normodivergent) cases according to Aboul-Azm and colleagues. Each case had to have a minimum of three of the five parameters indicating its pattern of growth, DR angle was constructed by using three skeletal points; C (center of condyle where the angle located), M (center of premaxilla), and G (center of symphysis of mandible), the measured data were led to the computer and statistically analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences software, version 24. Quantitative data were expressed using range (minimum and maximum), mean, and SD. Significance of the obtained results was judged at P value less than 0.05. Results There is a strong correlation between the conventional parameters and DR angle. The cutoff point of the DR angle below 28° indicates a horizontal growth pattern, between 28.5 and 32.5° indicates an average growth pattern, and above 32.5° indicates a vertical skeletal growth pattern. Conclusion The DR angle is a reliable parameter in assessing vertical skeletal growth pattern with minimal cephalometric landmarks that easily and accurately located.

Individual Taxpayers’ Compliance Behaviour and Tax Revenue Generation in Akwa Ibom State

The problem of tax evasion and non-compliance by individual taxpayer has created significant challenges for the Akwa Ibom Staten tax system. Based on this study examined that relationship between individual taxpayers’ compliance behavior and tax revenue generation in Akwa Ibom State. Specifically, the study ought to determine the relationship between knowledge of tax obligation and tax collection efficiency in Akwa Ibom State, to ascertain the relationship between perceived ease of tax procedures and tax collection efficiency in Akwa Ibom State and to assess the relationship between perception of tax fairness and tax collection efficiency in Akwa Ibom State. This study adopted the survey design. Purposively, a sample of one-hundred and forty-five (145) tax officials/experts was drawn in order to attain the study objectives. The data collected was coded, transformed and analyzed using multiple regression via Statistical Package for Social Sciences software (SPSS) and presented by use of tables. The study findings revealed that knowledge of tax obligation has a positive significant relationship (Coeff. =0.171{0.035}) with tax collection efficiency in Akwa Ibom State while perceived ease of tax procedures has a positive significant relationship (Coeff. =0.228{0.005}) with tax collection efficiency in Akwa Ibom State. It also revealed that perceived ease of tax fairness has a positive significant relationship (Coeff. =0.267{0.001}) with tax collection efficiency in Akwa Ibom State. Based on the analysis of variance (ANOVA), the F-change test showed that the overall effect was statistically significant (p-value = 0.000&lt;0.05) and was however concluded that taxpayers’ compliance behavior plays a significant role in enhancing tax revenue generation in Akwa Ibom State. The study recommended, amongst others, that tax authorities should streamline and simplify the tax filing process by creating user-friendly online platforms, providing clear instructions, and reducing unnecessary complexities.

Prevalence of hypertension and its associated risk factors in the rural field practice area of a tertiary care hospital in Andhra Pradesh, India: A cross-sectional study

Background: Hypertension, or increased blood pressure, is seen worldwide because of lifestyle changes. Hypertension is a risk factor for diabetes, coronary heart disease, and stroke. Most hypertensives are not seeking treatment; either they are unaware of the condition or asymptomatic for a long period, leading to sudden deaths. Hence, it is called a “silent killer.” Previously, hypertension was prevalent only in older people. Recent data from various studies mentioned that the prevalence of hypertension is increasing at a young age. Hence, this study was undertaken to study the prevalence of hypertension and its risk factors among rural people aged 30 years and older. Aims and Objectives: To assess the prevalence of hypertension and its risk factors among people 30 years of age or older. Materials and Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted at a rural field practice area of a tertiary care hospital in Andhra Pradesh for 2 years after obtaining ethical clearance and informed consent from participants. Simple and systemic random sampling was used to select 300 participants. Data were collected using pre-designed and pre-tested questionnaires. The analysis was done using the statistical package for social sciences software, version 26.0. The association between two categorical variables was measured using the chi-square test or Fisher’s exact test. A P &lt; 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Of the total subjects, 81 (27%) were diagnosed with hypertension. The majority (57%) of the study subjects were females, and the majority of the hypertensives were 51–70 years old (47.2%) and males (31.8%). Hypertension had a significant association with age, education, socioeconomic status, body mass index, smoking, intake of alcohol, family history of hypertension, and salt consumption of &gt;5 g, but not with gender, type of family, or history of diabetes mellitus. Conclusion: The prevalence of hypertension has also increased in rural areas because of cultural and lifestyle changes. By modifying the risk factors, the occurrence of hypertension can be prevented at an early age and can be kept under control in those already affected.

THE INFLUENCE OF PERPETRATOR IDENTITY ON ADOLESCENT SCHOOLGIRLS’ SEXUAL HARASSMENT COPING STRATEGIES IN MBULU TOWN COUNCIL, MANYARA REGION

The widespread reports of school adolescents being victimized by sexual harassment have raised concerns towards understanding how adolescents cope with such incidents. This study assessed the influence of perpetrator identity on the likelihood of schoolgirls employing certain sexual harassment coping strategies. A cross-sectional descriptive survey design was utilized in this study. The target population constituted of adolescent ordinary level secondary schoolgirls in Mbulu Town Council and the sample size was 400 girls. The sampling procedure was a two stages cluster sampling. The data were collected using a questionnaire and analyzed by binary logistic regression using the statistical package for social science software (SPSS). Perpetrator identities were found to influence coping strategies adopted by schoolgirls. Senior students revealed an association with normalization coping strategy while strangers were associated with engagement coping strategy. Classmates, teachers, senior students and strangers were associated with detachment coping strategy, whereas non-teaching staff was associated with help-seeking coping strategy. It is recommended that adolescents should be provided with sexuality education so as to mitigate the tendency of normalizing harassment in peer relationships. Also, further interventions should focus on emphasizing the usage of help seeking strategy rather than detachment. Moreover, boarding schools could be a potential solution for preventing encounters with strangers to and from school.

Eradication of mature biofilm from the isthmus region using Er, Cr: YSGG Laser as an activator of 2% chlorhexidine gluconate.

Challenges in the root canal system, such as isthmus, may limit the action of endodontic equipment and irrigation solutions, so using laser agitation is recommended to upgrade the removal of microbial biofilm. The objective of this study is to assess the effectiveness of the laser in photon-induced photoacoustic streaming protocol agitation of 2% chlorohexidine gluconate in removing mature biofilm in complex root canal systems. Seventy-five mesial roots of the lower first and second molars were separated and cultivated with Enterococcus faecalis bacteria for 30 days (except for the negative control group samples). The samples were divided into four groups (n=15), one group acted as a positive control, other groups were irrigated with 2% chlorohexidine gluconate, some of them were agitated with a passive ultrasonic device, while the other samples were agitated by an Erbium, chromium-doped yttrium, scandium, gallium, and garnet laser in photon-induced photoacoustic streaming protocol. An atomic force microscope was used as a new method to get the results in the isthmus area; A scanning electron microscope was also used in the study to examine the samples before and after the treatment. Statistical Package for Social Sciences software was used to collect and analyze data, and two-way ANOVA was used to compare the means of the test groups. According to the atomic force microscope and scanning electron microscope analyses, Erbium laser and passive ultrasonic activation groups showed higher antimicrobial efficacy than the syringe irrigation group (p<0.05). According to the study's results, the agitation of chlorohexidine gluconate fluid by Erbium laser in photon-induced photoacoustic streaming at 0.75 W offers better Enterococcus faecalis biofilm removal in the difficult-to-reach areas of lower first and second molars. Key words:Atomic force microscope, 2% chlorhexidine gluconate, Enterococcus faecalis, Erbium, chromium-doped yttrium, scandium, gallium, garnet laser, passive ultrasonic.

Determining the Frequency and Influential Factors Impacting Antenatal Care Service Utilization Among Pregnant Women in Attendance at Mutara Health Centre III, Mitooma District, Uganda

Antenatal care (ANC) plays a pivotal role in curbing maternal mortality rates. This investigation sought to gauge the prevalence of and factors influencing antenatal care service utilization among pregnant women visiting Mutara Health Centre III's antenatal care clinic. The study involved 200 pregnant women in a cross-sectional analysis, employing an interview questionnaire to assess ANC service utilization determinants. Statistical Package for Social Sciences software was utilized for data analysis. The prevalence was determined by comparing the actual ANC attendance (from mid-July 2022 to mid-August 2022) against the projected monthly ANC attendance (300). The resulting attendance rate of 66.67% was categorized as inadequate, falling below the globally recommended coverage of 80%. Demographic findings revealed that the majority (57.5%) were peasants, while 47.5% of their partners had primary education. Alarmingly, 62.5% lacked knowledge regarding the appropriate timing for seeking ANC. Key conclusions drawn were that the attendance rate for ANC was notably low, coupled with inadequate knowledge among pregnant women about ANC and a prevalence of low socioeconomic status. Recommendations included tailored education programs for expectant mothers on ANC services by healthcare personnel at Mutara Health Centre III, public awareness campaigns by the Mitooma district health officer emphasizing the benefits of ANC attendance, governmental strategies to improve the livelihoods of those served by the health center, and a proposed study to assess maternal mortality prevalence specifically at Mutara Health Centre III. Keywords: Antenatal care, Pregnant women, maternal mortality, Healthcare workers.

CHARACTERIZATION OF INDIGENOUS SHEEP HUSBANDRY PRACTICES IN WESTERN ZONE OF TIGRAY REGION, ETHIOPIA

The survey was conducted before the ignition of the war in Tigray Regional State, Ethiopia (before October 2020). The objective of the survey was to characterize the husbandry practices of three indigenous sheep populations. A total of 253 households were randomly involved in the face-to-face interview. The Statistical Package for Social Sciences software was used for data analysis. Illiterates (34 %) and respondents, who attended lower primary school (44 %), were the major categories of the respondents. A mean (± SD) flock size of 7.91 ± 11.4 Tropical Livestock Unit (TLU) of indigenous sheep of the three genotypes were kept under extensive husbandry practices, however, the indigenous sheep population (55 %) trend was at a decreasing state in the last ten years. There was lower mean flock size in Arado (11.72 ± 8.0) than in Begait (85.07 ± 90.1) and Rutanna (223.08 ± 170.5) sheep. The decreasing state of communal grazing area (97 %) resulted in seasonal feed scarcity (96 %) in the last five years. Hence, feed supplementation was in 74 % of the respondents done in the dry season. Animals of most respondents (71 %) go to water source to drink water. It was noted that most animals drank water once a day (63 %) in the dry season. It was also noted that sheep fattening (4 %) was a neglected activity. There were sheep production challenges (100 %) and opportunities (72 %). Diseases (86 %) and external parasites (80 %) were major constraints in sheep production. However, lack of veterinary service (78 % no service) centre was a critical challenge. Practices of own ram-ewe mating (68 %), own flock born rams (51 %), uncontrolled mating (66 %), pure breeding (86 %) and use of rams outside of their flocks (79 %) were practiced in the indigenous sheep populations. Unknown ram-to-ewe ratio (26.9 %) and a ratio of one-ram-to-all-ewes in a flock (29.6 %) were practiced. Ram castration (35 %) was practiced to improve carcass quality (32 %). Feed development, shift to modern husbandry practices, access to veterinary services, indigenous sheep conservation through utilization, control of inbreeding, ram-to-ewe ratio, fattening and castration should be of future attention of farmers and stakeholders.

THE EFFICACY OF THE FLIPPED CLASSROOM METHOD IN IMPROVING DANCE SPORTS SKILLS AMONG TEENAGERS

This study aimed to determine how well the Flipped Classroom model improved dancing athletic skills at the Dalian Learning Center. With 30 respondents for the experimental group instructed to utilize the Flipped Classroom approach and 28 respondents for the control group, this quantitative research uses a quasi-experimental methodology. Pre-test, post-test, and checklist are the instruments that are employed. Pre- and post-test instruments were used to compare the performance of the experimental group and the control group in terms of essay writing. The checklist tool was used to examine the content processing elements of the pupils' essays. The content processing features of the students' essays were examined using the checklist tool. The Statistical Package for Social Science Software (SPSS) Version 23.0 was used to analyze the data that had been collected. T-test analysis was used to analyze the study's findings further. Compared to a mean score of 14.00 and a standard deviation of 3.620 for the control group, the experimental group's mean score was 20.64 with a standard deviation of 2.244, indicating better outcomes. Teachers can use the findings of this study to apply the Flipped Classroom Method better efficiently and methodically o various topics or student points.

Prevalence of Fatigue Among Physiotherapy Students - A Cross-Sectional Study

Fatigue is expressed in related concepts such as 'overwhelmingly tired', 'exhausted', 'weakness', 'lassitude', 'feeble lethargy', 'lack of energy', 'wrung out' and 'mentally tired'. Persistent fatigue can cause a lack of mental clarity, difficulty in concentrating and in some cases it cause memory loss. It is the body's way of signalling need for rest and sleep. Physiotherapy being one of the flourishing courses in India as well as globally, it is both physically and mentally demanding when compared to many other medical and paramedical courses. Typical Physiotherapy practices involve repeated lifting, bending, twisting, reaching, and performing manual therapy. Thus, the current study aims at focussing on the fatigue severity rate among physiotherapy students. The study was conducted in April 2021 to Dec 2022, to know the prevalence of fatigue among physiotherapy students. Eight hundred students were recruited into the study based on the selected inclusion and exclusion criteria. The demographic data was collected and were asked to complete the visual analogue fatigue severity scale. The data was entered into the statistical package for social sciences software. To examine the baseline characteristics of the subjects, we analyzed the frequency and descriptive statistics and then it was subjected for finding of normality. Inferential analysis was carried out by using Chi- Square test for the outcomes of VAS- F. The result of the present study showed that the demographic data were not statistically significant (p&gt;0.05). Gender and batch were not significant (p&gt;0.05). The prevalence of fatigue was; mild 27.3%, moderate 34.2% and severe 37.9%. Keywords: Fatigue, Physiotherapist, Physical inactivity, Physical Therapy

Knowledge, Attitude and Practices of Mothers attending Primary Healthcare Facilities in South-east Nigeria towards Prevention of Childhood Anaemia

Studies carried out in the past have shown that the incidence and prevalence of childhood anaemia in Enugu, south-east Nigeria, is high despite various intervention programs carried out in the past by the Federal government to reduce the prevalence. A cross-sectional study investigating knowledge, attitude and practices was carried out among the mothers of reproductive age 15-49 attending Abakpa health centre located in Abakpa district, Enugu, South East Nigeria. A total of one hundred and fifty-nine mothers attending Abakpa health centre consented and participated in the study. The sample was selected using the purposive sample method. Participants were interviewed using a structured questionnaire. Analysis of the data was done using a statistical package for social science software (SPSS) version 23.0. Analysis of the socio-demographic characteristics of the participants and their children was done, evaluation of knowledge, attitude and practices of the participants towards childhood anaemia was done. They revealed that the majority of the participant had heard about childhood anaemia in the past. However, they still indulged in wrong practices and negligence that can lead to childhood anaemia. The majority of the participants do not practice exclusive breastfeeding, malaria chemoprophylaxis and good hygiene, which is one the major preventive measures for childhood anaemia. The study also revealed there is a positive moderate correlation between knowledge and practice using Pearson (r) correlation at 0.649 and there is no significant level between knowledge and practice at 0.236. Reduction in childhood anaemia can be achieved if proper training and enlightenment programs are organized for mothers, which help to close the knowledge gap that will result in better practices and reduction in the incidence of childhood anaemia in Enugu.

#270 : Single-Center Retrospective Cohort Analysis: Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Monogenic Disorders (PGT-M) for Monogenic Nephropathy

Background and Aims: Hereditary nephropathy, including monogenic nephropathy, is an important cause of renal insufficiency and end-stage renal disease. Therefore, genetic blockade is necessary for couples with monogenic nephropathy. Following routine application of prenatal diagnosis, preimplantation genetic testing for monogenic disorders (PGT-M) has been applied to the genetic blockade of monogenic disease patients. The purpose of this study is to retrospectively analyze genetic counseling process for patients with nephropathy-related disease and provide clinical overviews of patients with monogenic nephropathy who underwent PGT-M. Method: A single-center retrospective cohort study was conducted at Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University from January 2014 to December 2022. 352 couples with nephropathy-related disease were included in the cohort totally. Statistical analysis was performed using Statistical Package for Social Science software 26.0. Results: Of the 352 couples with nephropathy-related disease, 291 underwent genetic counseling, followed by 180 accepting genetic screening. 104 couples with monogenic nephropathy indications proceeded with PGT-M, including 91 of autosomal dominant inheritance, 9 of autosomal recessive inheritance, 3 of X-linked dominant inheritance, and one of X-linked recessive inheritance. 498 blastocysts were tested by PGT-M combined with preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A), making 72 transferable embryos, 249 non-transferable embryos, 72 genetic counseling embryos and 7 amplification failedembryos. Finally, 80 vitrified-thawed single blastocyst transfer cycles were performed. Live births occurred in 38 women, of which 37 transferred embryos with non-pathogenic genotypes. The results of prenatal diagnosis of all newborns were consistent with the testing results for embryos transferred. The cumulative live birth, biochemical pregnancy, clinical pregnancy, ongoing pregnancy and pregnancy loss rates were 36.54%, 56.73%, 49.04%, 7.69%, and 22.03% respectively. Conclusion: PGT-M is an effective means of genetic blockade for couples with monogenic nephropathy. The absence of genetic abnormalities detected by prenatal diagnosis in healthy newborns without monogenic nephropathy also underscore its validity.