bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Catheter-directed Therapy to Treat High-risk Pulmonary Thromboembolism
Authors: Barman Bapi , Sharma Pankaj
Published: December 2024

Acute pulmonary thromboembolism (PTE) is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. We describe a case of high-risk PTE in a patient with a history of recent major abdominal surgery, who presented to the emergency department with hypotension, requiring vasopressor support. She had a right ventricular strain on electrocardiogram and computed tomography. The patient was treated with catheter-directed therapy, including thrombus fragmentation and targeted thrombolysis with technical success and good early clinical outcome. This case highlights the importance of timely percutaneous interventional radiology treatment of high-risk PTE, when there is contraindication to systemic thrombolysis.
A Driving Behavior Decision Method Based on Gradient Boosting Tree
Algorithm
Authors: Li Hongluo , Xia Hongyang , Huang Yongxian , Xu You , Xu Wei
Published: December 2024

In order to reduce the incidence of traffic accidents and improve passengers’
driving experience, intelligent driving technology has attracted more and more
attention. The core content of intelligent driving technology includes
environment perception, behavior decision-making and control follow-up.
Simulating driver’s behavior decision-making based on multi-source heterogeneous
environment information is the key to liberate drivers and become the focus and
difficulty of intelligent driving technology. Aiming at this key problem, this
paper presents a design method of driving behavior decision maker based on
machine learning after fuzzy classification of historical data. Firstly, 1000
sets of driving environment-decision results database are generated randomly
according to driving rules and driving state. A fuzzy classification rule is
established to classify driving environment information such as speed and
relative distance. Then, a driving behavior decision maker is designed based on
gradient lifting tree algorithm of machine learning. Finally, the driving
behavior decision accuracy of the proposed method is 100% after running the
simulation software, while the decision accuracy of the behavior decision maker
based on the traditional BP neural network method is only 70.4%. Through the
above research, it can be concluded that the driving behavior decision maker
based on machine learning has obvious advantages, and its high accuracy and fast
operation can also meet the requirements of real-time, fast and accurate
intelligent driving, which provides a technical basis for the realization of
unmanned driving technology.
Low-Cost Fusion Odometry Algorithm Based on 4D Radar and
Pseudo-LiDAR: Bridging the Gap between 4D Radar and Images in 3D
Space
Authors: Huang Minqing , Lu Shouyi , Zhuo Guirong
Published: December 2024

Recently, four-dimensional (4D) radar has shown unique advantages in the field of
odometry estimation due to its low cost, all-weather use, and dynamic and static
recognition. These features complement the performance of monocular cameras,
which provide rich information but are easily affected by lighting. However, the
construction of deep radar visual odometry faces the following challenges: (1)
the 4D radar point cloud is very sparse; (2) due to the penetration ability of
4D radar, it will produce mismatches with pixels when projected onto the image
plane. In order to enrich the point cloud information and improve the accuracy
of modal correspondence, this paper proposes a low-cost fusion odometry method
based on 4D radar and pseudo-LiDAR, 4DRPLO-Net. This method proposes a new
framework that uses 4D radar points and pseudo-LiDAR points generated by images
to construct odometry, bridging the gap between 4D radar and images in
three-dimensional (3D) space. Specifically, the pseudo-LiDAR point cloud is
obtained by back-projecting the depth map generated by the image into 3D space,
which changes the way the image is represented and effectively alleviates the
problem of sparse 4D radar point cloud. In order to fully integrate the two
modalities, we designed a cross-attention-based grouped fusion module, which
uses the accurate spatial measurement of radar to restore the scale of
pseudo-LiDAR points, and groups based on ball queries in the metric spatial
scale to achieve accurate association and bidirectional fusion of features.
Finally, we conducted experiments on the View-of-Delft (VOD) dataset and
compared and verified the excellence of the method and the effectiveness of each
module.
Research on a Detection Algorithm of Contaminant on Automotive
Cameras Optical Surface Based on SEFaster-YOLOv8
Authors: Ran Lujia , Hu Zongjie , Lu Xiangxiang , Wu Zhijun
Published: December 2024

Cameras are crucial sensors in intelligent driving systems. Due to the optical
windows of these cameras generally being exposed, they are highly susceptible to
contaminant from external dust, mud, and other contaminants. These contaminants
can degrade the vehicle’s perception capabilities, posing safety risks.
Therefore, research on the identification and automatic cleaning of optical
window surface contamination for automotive cameras is essential. This paper
constructs a dataset of contaminated images of automotive cameras using a method
based on shooting and image fusion. By introducing the SE attention mechanism
and replacing the YOLOv8 backbone network with FasterNet, this paper proposed
the SEFaster-YOLOv8 model. Experimental results show that the SEFaster-YOLOv8
model reduces the parameter count by 37.6% compared to the original YOLOv8
model. The mAP@0.5 and mAP@0.5:0.95 reach 95.7% and 66.9%, respectively,
representing improvements of 1.8% and 1.1% over the original YOLOv8 model. The
fps reaches 110.11, a 22.33% increase compared to the original YOLOv8 model.
Road Friction Coefficient Estimation based on Nonlinear Tire Force
Observer for Distributed Driven Electric Vehicles
Authors: Zhang Xiaoting , Zhao Qi , Wu Dongmei , Liu Xing , Fang Jiameng , Fu Yuanyi , Wei Jian
Published: December 2024

Road friction coefficient is an important characteristic parameter of the
interaction force between road surface and tire, which plays a crucial role in
vehicle dynamics control. At present, it is difficult to measure the road
friction coefficient directly. Therefore, it is a challenge to estimate the road
adhesion coefficient accurately and reliably. Considering that tire force is an
important reflection of road adhesion coefficient, a road adhesion coefficient
estimation method based on nonlinear tire force observation is proposed in this
paper. First, based on the nonlinear Dugoff tire model, the nonlinear observer
of tire longitudinal force is established. Then a 7-degree-of-freedom (DOF)
nonlinear vehicle model is established, and the noise adaptive square root
cubature kalman filter (ASRCKF) method is used to estimate the lateral force of
the front and rear wheels. Finally, based on the ASRCKF algorithm, combined with
the longitudinal force and lateral force information, the all-wheel road surface
adhesion coefficient estimator is designed. The road surface friction
coefficient estimator is verified by the simulation, and the results show that
the proposed algorithm can improve the estimation accuracy and has better
stability.
A Longitudinal Pediatric Residency Climate Justice Curriculum
Authors: Marwah Harleen , Thapar Isha , McShane Mark , Silva Genevieve S. , Goodall Harrison , Lewis Noreena , Bottone Paul Devine , Hussain Farah
Published: December 2024

Background Graduate medical education programs must prepare physicians to adapt their care for patients whose health equity and outcomes are being threatened by climate change. This article presents the implementation of a longitudinal climate justice curriculum within a pediatrics residency program.

Objective To measure the self-reported changes in attitudes and intentions for change in behavior after implementation of a climate justice curriculum.

Methods A longitudinal, 4-part, climate justice and health equity (CJHE) curriculum was implemented from 2023 to 2024 into the broader advocacy training of a pediatrics residency program. Resident participants completed pre- and post-session surveys that assessed their attitudes toward climate change and health, as well as their intentions to engage in climate advocacy. Paired deidentified responses were analyzed via Wilcoxon signed-rank test.

Results Thus far, facilitators have conducted 4 introduction sessions, 4 narrative medicine sessions, and 3 health system sustainability sessions. Sixty-eight of 100 residents (68%) completed both pre- and post-session surveys. The curriculum was associated with increased self-reported understanding of how climate change impacts human health (CJHE 1: median of pairwise averages of pair-differences [MPA]=1.00, P<.001; CJHE 3-4: MPA=1.00, P<.001), increased agreement that health care providers can be effective climate advocates (CJHE 1: MPA=2.00, P<.001; CJHE 3-4: MPA=1.50, P<.001), and increased intention to discuss the health impacts of climate change in future patient encounters (CJHE 1: MPA=1.00, P<.001; CJHE 3-4: MPA=1.00, P<.001).

Conclusions This longitudinal CJHE curriculum demonstrated acceptability and increased participants’ self-reported understanding of how climate change impacts human health and the ways in which physicians can act as advocates.
Incorporating Climate Change Education Into Residency: A Focus on Community Risks and Resources
Authors: Moon Charles , Braganza Sandra , Bathory Eleanor
Published: December 2024

Background

Graduate medical education (GME) focused on climate change (CC) health effects is essential. However, few CC education evaluations exist to guide residency programs looking to implement CC content.

Objective

To evaluate the effect of an education session on residents’ self-reported knowledge of CC health effects and confidence utilizing local CC anticipatory guidance and community resources with patients.

Methods

A CC session was integrated into the pediatric, family medicine, and social medicine curricula at an urban academic medical center in 2023. A convenience sample of residents participated in 1 of 4 nonrandomized case-based or lecture-based sessions. Pre- and post-session 5-question Likert-scale surveys were used for assessment and analyzed using paired t tests.

Results

Sixty-eight of 108 eligible residents completed the surveys (28 case-based, 40 lecture-based, 63% response rate). Residents’ understanding and confidence to engage with patients on CC health effects after the educational session improved (Q1 mean difference 1.3, t67=9.85, 95% CI 1.04-1.57, P<.001; Q2 1.5, t67=9.98, 95% CI 1.20-1.82, P<.001; Q3 1.8, t67=12.84, 95% QI 1.54-2.11, P<.001; Q4 2.1, t67=16.25, 95% CI 1.84-2.36, P<.001; Q5 2.1, t67=16.28, 95% CI 1.86-2.38, P<.001).

Conclusions

Resident self-reported understanding of the health effects of CC and confidence utilizing local CC anticipatory guidance and resources with patients increased after a CC education session.
TRASH-CAN: An Approach to Promote Planetary Health Education and Research for Health Care Trainees
Authors: Best Gordon M. , Brenna Connor T.A. , Luo Owen D. , Cheng-Boivin Olivia , Prince Nicole , Hanna Mary , Gaudreau Simard Mathilde , Moloo Husein
Published: December 2024

Background As future health care leaders who work and train in diverse clinical settings, resident physicians are uniquely positioned to advance sustainable health care systems. However, residents are insufficiently educated about health care sustainability and given limited opportunities to engage in planetary health.

Objective This article introduces and reports on the early outcomes of the Trainee-Led Research and Audit for Sustainability in Healthcare Canada (TRASH-CAN), a resident-driven initiative launched in 2023 with the aim of reducing Canadian health care’s environmental impact.

Methods In 2023-2024, we developed a web-based platform that facilitates trainee-led action to support the promotion of sustainability literature, collaboration with national and international institutions, and execution of quality improvement projects to reduce health care waste under the 3 brand pillars of Learning, Leadership, and Delivery. We have promoted TRASH-CAN and its website through conference presentations, social media, mailing lists, and word of mouth. These activities support our goals of engaging trainees, pairing them with mentors, and initiating a variety of quality improvement projects focused on planetary health.

Results In its first year of operation, TRASH-CAN has developed a fully functional website hosting intake forms and detailing ongoing projects and opportunities. We have enrolled 15 faculty mentors and 16 residents and medical students, with ongoing projects such as transitioning hospitals to reusable alternatives and optimizing procedural custom operating room equipment packs.

Conclusions TRASH-CAN’s inaugural year has led to the initiation of 11 sustainability projects and the enrollment of 31 faculty mentors and trainees.
A Rapid-Response Curricular Approach to Teaching Politically Charged Topics
Authors: Henrich Janet B. , Gielissen Katherine A. , McNamara Cynthia F. , Pathy Shefali , Hirschman Allister F. , Canarie Joseph X. , Dhond Mukta , Richman Ilana , Rabin Tracy L. , Vasquez Luz , Encandela John
Published: December 2024

Background Residency education in the United States faces challenges from evolving external influence on evidence-based reproductive and gender-affirming health care (R/GAHC). Curricula must incorporate information and resources to assist residents in navigating changes.

Objective To illustrate a process for expeditiously adapting curriculum in response to changing laws affecting R/GAHC.

Methods A 6-step model was used to tailor an R/GAHC module within an existing curriculum. Steps included identifying the medical education problem; conducting needs assessments with residents and educators; and designing, implementing, and evaluating the curriculum. The module was piloted in 2022 with internal medicine residents in 3 training programs at one institution during 4-hour small-group academic half-days. We evaluated the module’s feasibility with time and cost analysis and residents’ self-reported readiness to provide R/GAHC through essential tasks and knowledge. We evaluated acceptability by assessing whether residents and educators engaged in and completed the curriculum, and evidence of administrative support.

Results A needs assessment clarified the educational problem as an urgent need to educate residents on the implications of legal changes affecting R/GAHC. Curriculum planning occurred over 2 months and implementation over 3 months. Of 175 eligible residents, 164 (94%) were trained. Evaluation showed that the curriculum was well received by residents, whose post-training self-assessment showed readiness to provide R/GAHC. Faculty time to plan and implement the module was substantial (estimated 207 person hours), yet participation was consistent, and administrative commitment constant.

Conclusions We demonstrated a generalizable approach for expeditiously tailoring curricula to prepare residents to navigate changing laws affecting health care provision.
A Qualitative Study of Workplace Gossip in the Residency Learning Environment
Authors: Chaikof Michael , Bodley Janet , Farrugia Michele , Tannenbaum Evan , White Bobbie Ann Adair
Published: December 2024

Background Gossip is a ubiquitous sociocultural phenomenon serving many functions in human interactions, including in workplace and academic settings. Gossip can have profound positive and negative impacts; however, its impact on medical residents and their learning environment is unknown.

Objective To understand the function and impact of workplace gossip—from and about colleagues and supervisors—on medical residents’ experiences in their learning environment.

Methods This exploratory study used principles of constructivist grounded theory. Data were collected from residents in the obstetrics and gynecology and psychiatry programs at a large academic institution via semistructured interviews in 2021. Seven residents were interviewed. Transcripts were analyzed using inductive coding, and themes were identified.

Results Thematic analysis revealed perceived positive and negative impacts of gossip. Perceived positive impacts included affirmation and roadmapping. Perceived negative impacts included anxiety/fear and the role of gossip in reinforcing the educational hierarchy. Other themes, which are perceived to have both positive and negative impacts, included the role of gossip in learning and in group status. The identity of the gossiper, audience, and subject of gossip also impacted its effects. Gossip between residents about faculty members was perceived as roadmapping, or an affirming role, whereas gossip involving faculty members created anxiety and reinforced negative aspects of the hierarchy.

Conclusions Workplace gossip serves both positive and negative roles within the medical learning environment. It can function as informal debriefing and can also threaten psychological safety. Its impact on residents is affected by the identities of the gossiper, subject, and audience.
Towards a coordinated, integrated, contextualized response to the ongoing Mpox emergency in the Democratic Republic of the Congo
Authors: Mukadi-Bamuleka Daniel
Published: December 2024

In 2024, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is facing an unprecedented mpox outbreak. Cases are caused by MPXV Clade I across the country. But a new variant, Clade Ib, emerged in eastern provinces and spread to neighboring countries. This paper provides an extensive overview of priorities to consider for future actions in mpox response. Diagnostic tools will play a central role closer to the hotspots, to accelerate testing. But their performance should be further addressed. Genomic sequencing will detect viral mutations capable to affect performance of diagnostic tools and medical countermeasures. Surveillance should be contextualized to urban frameworks, prone to correct existing gaps, and conducted together with community members. Vaccines and therapeutics would be used through randomized controlled trials and MEURI protocol, while their safety and efficacy data are collected. Additional funding will support logistics for vaccines and therapeutics. Their acceptability will be facilitated by a good communication plan and community engagement forerunning field actions. The crisis response organizations should be endowed with all the resources necessary to masterfully manage their activities. Scientists should initiate inter-institutional collaboration to ensure their alignment to same purposes. The response to ongoing emergency should be conducted through specific working groups and supported by the Government and partners.
Received August 22th, 2024
Accepted September 10th, 2024
https://dx.doi.org/10.4314/aamed.v17i4.1
Tomodensitometry aspects of intestinal intussusception in adults: a retrospective analytical descriptive series of 26 cases
Authors: Emmylou Andrianah Prisca Gabrielle , Gordienco Natalia , Miora Randrianalison Lovatiana , Hasina Ny Ony Rajaonarison Narindra Lova , Blangy Sylvie , Hasina Ranoharison Dina , Ahmad Ahmad
Published: December 2024

Context and objective. Intestinal intussusception (II) is the penetration of a segment of intestine into the more downstream portion of the intestine, and is very rare in adults compared with children. The aim of this study was to describe the scanographic aspects of II in adults. Methods. This was a descriptive series of cases of II, received in the Medical Imaging Department of the Eaubonne-Montmorency Hospital Group (France), between 2011 and 2015. Patients over 15 years of age who had been diagnosed with II on CT scan were included. The parameters of interest were clinical, scanographic, anatomopathological and therapeutic data. Results. Twenty-six cases were collected. The mean age was 49.9 years, with a preponderance of women (53.8%, sex ratio M/F 1/1.16). Occlusive syndrome was the most common clinical sign (19%). CT scans showed the following forms: ileo-ileal (16%), colo-colic (6%) and 1% recto-sigmoid, antro-duodenal and ileo-caecal. Surgical treatment by intestinal resection was used in 19% of cases; the other patients received conservative treatment with ultrasound monitoring. Anatomopathology tests revealed tumoral and inflammatory lesions in the post-operative biopsies. Conclusion. Imaging, including CT scanning, has played a crucial role in establishing the diagnosis, identifying complications and, in particular, the causes of intestinal intussusception in adults.
Received: January 20th, 2024
Accepted: July 28th, 2024
https://dx.doi.org/10.4314/aamed.v17i4.13
Pyoderma gangrenosum complicated by cerebral abscesses in an HIV-infected patient
Authors: Savané Moussa , Diouldé Kante Mamadou , Touré Mariame , Barry Abdoulaye , Cisse Mohamed
Published: December 2024

Pyoderma gangrenosum (PG) is a rare ulcerative neutrophilic disease that usually affects the skin, with rare extracutaneous involvement. A few cases associated with HIV have been reported. We report a case with cerebral manifestations in the form of an abscess. A 35-year-old woman presented with a chronic ulceration of the left thigh that had been evolving for 6 months. The onset was progressive, marked by a pustule that became ulcerated, extending centrifugally and painfully. She had had multiple consultations with no improvement. Examination revealed an ulcero-necrotic lesion 6cm in diameter, with an infiltrated edge that was painful to palpate. Elsewhere, there were no particularities. Anatomopathological examination confirmed PG, serology tests were positive for HIV1, T-CD4 count was at 283 cells/mm3, and the viral load at 299 copies/ml. The patient was started on prednisone 1mg/kg/day and antiretrovirals, with good improvement after 3 weeks. Headache and left focal signs followed. Aetiologies of an intracranial expansive process were sought but were negative, and CT showed cerebral abscesses. The patient died five days later. In the case of PG, it is important to look for associated pathologies, particularly in the brain.
Received: April 29th, 2024
Accepted: August 16th, 2024
https://dx.doi.org/10.4314/aamed.v17i4.17
Etiologic agents and antibiotic susceptibility of pathogens isolated from blood cultures of patients admitted to some hospitals in Kisangani city, Republic Democratic of Congo
Authors: Amegiede Abibi Irénee , Falay Sadiki Dady , Dauly Ngbonda Nestor , Kikuni Takaisi Pascal , Iyamba Liesse Jean-Marie
Published: December 2024

Context and objective. Bacteremia is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in hospitalized patients. However, data on bacteremia in sub-Saharan African countries are scarce. The aim of the study was to identify the etiological agents isolated in the bacteremia of patients admitted in several hospitals in Kisangani, Democratic Republic of Congo. Methods. This was a series of suspected cases of severe infections admitted to five Kisangani hospitals (Cliniques Universitaires de Kisangani, Village pédiatrique, Hôpitaux généraux de références de Kabongo, Lubunga et de Makiso) between 2017 and 2019. Blood cultures were performed in BACT/Alert FA blood culture bottles. Organisms were identified using standard microbiological techniques. Antibiotic sensitivity was determined using the Mueller Hinton agar diffusion method, as recommended by the European Committee on Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing (EUCAST). Results. Of 2825 blood culture samples taken from patients, 338 (12.0%) were positive. The pathogens isolated included, Staphylococcus aureus (25.7%, n = 87), Salmonella Typhi (19.6%, n = 66), Pseudomonas sp (16.0%, n = 54), Enterobacter sp (9.2%, n = 31), Klebsiella sp and E. coli (6.2%, n = 21), respectively. On sensitivity testing, almost all bacteria were sensitivity to the antibiotics tested, with the exception of Gram-negative bacteria, which were resistant to ampicillin, cotrimoxazole, gentamicin and third-generation cephalosporins. Conclusion. Strains of Enterobacteriaceae and S. aureus were the main etiological agents isolated from bacteremia. These strains were highly resistant to antibiotics commonly prescribed in routine practice.
Received: July 7th, 2023
Accepted: June 6th, 2024
https://dx.doi.org/10.4314/aamed.v17i4.2
Pathways of engagement with a terrorist group in Mozambique
Authors: E. Feniasse Tamele , Mari Katayanagi
Published: December 2024

The rapid expansion of terrorism has threatened the security and stability of Mozambique. The terrorist group locally called "al-Shabaab" has attracted many people, established terrorist camps in the bush, and created military bases in occupied villages. This research aims to understand who these people are, what strategies the terrorist group use to engage local people, and what form the actual engagement takes. Applying a qualitative approach, interviews with 54 informants were conducted and thematically analysed, including 35 prisoners confined on charges of terrorism in Cabo Delgado and several key stakeholders in government institutions.We identified five types of engagement in terrorist groups: voluntary, through enticement and deception, forced, by birth, and ambiguous (people who were not aware of their involvement in the terrorist groups). Based on our analysis, we drew two major conclusions. First, engagement in terrorism and engagement with a terrorist group should be distinguished asseparate actions. Second, the massive engagement involves three factors: the terrorist groups' strategies, local vulnerabilities, and a weak state's response.
Representation of women in selected Ghanaian television commercials: a rhetorical-feminist literary approach
Authors: Watson-Nortey, NAA Korkor Leeyoo , Ahima Baffoe GLORIA , Okae-Anti. ASARE
Published: December 2024

In this study, a careful attention was given to the representation of women in selected Ghanaian television commercials. Specifically, the study approached the representation of women as portrayed in Ghanaian television adverts from the rhetorical-feminist perspective. The research presented a blend of the rhetorical triangle vis-à-vis the rhetorical appeals as exposed and demonstrated in these selected commercials. The study further engaged the discussion on the representation of women within Post Feminism theory using a qualitative approach and a descriptive analysis method whilst dwelling on the rhetorical appeals and the relevance toaudience understanding. It is often debated that most forms of women representation endorse patriarchal ideology in that women are subservient and only caters to standards set in a patriarchal society. The study revealed that some roles played by women in these television commercials are gendered and appears dependent to men. The research recommended that The Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection should liaise with advertising companies to ensure that advertisements produced do not project cultural norms further suggested that the reasons men are attributed to be the centre of strength may be looked at in other studies.
Stability analysis of a computer virus epidemic model at disease-free equilibrium
Authors: Philip Ochi O. , Andrew Agada A. , Ezekiel Udonsa A. , Timothy Jeremiah , Shamaki Timothy A.
Published: December 2024

In this study, we partitioned the population into Susceptible (Sc), Protected (Pc), Exposed (Ec), Infected (Ic), Quarantined (Qc) and recovered (Rc) individuals with their corresponding parameters. We analyzed a ScPcEcIcQcRcSc compartmental nonlinear deterministic mathematical model of Computer virus epidemic in a community with constant population. Analytical studies were carried out on the model to: investigate the existence and uniqueness of solution of the model equations and explore the basic properties of the model equations. The disease-free equilibrium points of the model is computed and proved to be locally and globally asymptotically stable if R0 < 0 and unstable if R0 > 0. Finally, we simulate the model system in MATLAB and obtained the graphical behavior of the infected compartmental variables in the model. From the simulation, we observed that the Computer virus infection was eradicated when R0 < 0 while it persist in the environment when R0 > 0.
Determination of heavy metals, physicochemical and bacteriological Profile in Water from Selected Bore Holes within Karu, Nasarawa State, Nigeria
Authors: Oshukunuofa Raymond J. , Madu Pascal C. , Adams Moses D.
Published: December 2024

Heavy metal, physicochemical and bacteriological profile of borehole water from selected locations in Karu LGA of Nasarawa State was carried out. Borehole water which was collected from three locations in Mararaba, New Karu, Masaka, Auta Balefi and Uke were subjected to atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS) to determine the heavy metal level and their physicochemical and bacteriological status. While the mean concentration of chromium was higher than the world health organization (WHO) standard for drinking water, the levels of copper, arsenic, cobalt and nickel were lower than the standard. The result also revealed that manganese, cadmium, lead and zinc were not within the detectable region of AAS in the borehole water. Iron concentration was within the WHO specification. Chromium levels which are above the WHO standard for drinking water may be adduced to surface contamination arising from pollution, environmental and topographical sources. Iron, copper and nickel levels which were below WHO standard may not predispose to renal failure. Physicochemical analysis indicated that all parameters assessed were either below or within the WHO standard. Microbiological analyses showed no visible presence of bacteria except for traces of E. coli and total coliform observed in Masaka as well as those of S. typhi in New Karu and V. cholerae observed in Uke. The alterations in metal and physicochemical parameters showed that the sample may not have deleterous effect. The lack of visible presence of bacteria in most locations and little traces in few locations are not sufficient enough to cause tyhoid and cholera.
Consumer Studies educators’ digital technology use: A case in North West, South Africa
Authors: Du Toit A , Goosen L
Published: December 2024

Digital technologies have the potential to significantly promote education. Current generations of school learners are digital natives and will especially benefit from its incorporation into their educational processes. Incorporating digital technologies into education contributes toward preparing learners for life and the world of work. Increasingly, research reports on the use of digital technologies to support education in various school subjects. However, no such research could be uncovered for Consumer Studies (CS) – a valuable and meaningful South African school curriculum subject. As CS teachers have repeatedly reported a dearth of resources to foster education in the subject, digital technologies could contribute to ameliorating this problem. The purpose of this paper is, therefore, to report on a study that explored CS teachers’ use of digital technologies to support teaching-learning in this valuable subject. The overarching goal of the research was to understand if and how CS teachers are utilising digital technologies for teaching-learning purposes and to develop recommendations for enhancing its use to buttress CS education in South Africa. An exploratory qualitative case study was conducted using purposive convenience sampling in the North West province. Twenty CS teachers voluntarily and anonymously completed an online questionnaire. The questionnaire’s items aimed to explore if and how these teachers utilise digital technologies in enacting the CS curriculum. Inductive data analysis was employed. The findings indicate that several CS teachers embrace digital technologies but with a limited range of educational intentions. Informed by these findings, recommendations are made to enhance the use of digital technologies as a teaching-learning resource in CS and support these educators in enacting the curriculum of this valuable subject.
Ethics Management for Effective Public Service Institutions in Tanzania: The Case of Kinondoni Municipal Council
Authors: Mtasigazya Paul
Published: December 2024

The main objective of this study was to examine ethics management in public service Institutions in Tanzania. Specifically, this paper examined the extent in which public servants comply on Code of Ethics and Conduct for Public Service. This paper was guided by specific objectives such as i. to examine the mechanisms put forward to ensure public servants’ compliance on code of ethics, also ii.to explore the factors which hinder ethical practices in public services. Additionally, this study examined the measures to be taken to increase ethical practices in public service. The research methodology adopted were both qualitative and quantitative research methods and sampling techniques such as random sampling and purposive sampling were used in selecting different categories of respondents from their respective departments from Kinondoni Municipality. The target population was Kinondoni Municipal Staff and the citizens who are receiving services from Kinondoni Municipality. The sample size was composed of 80 respondents selected using random and purposive sampling techniques. The methods of data collection were interviews and documentary review which were used in collecting both primary and secondary data to complement the gaps left by primary sources. Thus, data analysis was done through thematic data analysis and descriptive statistics were used to establish frequencies and percentages. The major findings revealed that low incentives, conflict of interest and mal-administration contributed to unethical practices in Kinondoni Municipal Council. The mechanisms established by the government were not effective in promoting compliance on ethical codes of conduct which in long run caused a poor services delivery particularly health services, judicial services, education services.
Anchoring Sustainability: The Role of Goal Management in Rural Agricultural Projects
Authors: Simbeye Renard
Published: December 2024

Sustainable agricultural practices are vital for supporting rural livelihood and addressing environmental challenges, particularly in resource-constrained regions such as Tanzania’s Momba District. Despite various initiatives, many agricultural projects in rural areas fail to achieve long-term sustainability due to ineffective goal management practices. This study examines the impact of goal management — focusing on goal clarity, alignment with sustainability objectives, and adaptability — on the sustainability of agricultural projects. Adopting a quantitative research approach, data were collected from 154 farmers and project managers in the Momba District, and multiple regression analysis was employed to explore the relationship between goal management practices and sustainability outcomes. The results revealed that goal management significantly enhances sustainability, with factors such as adaptability to climate and market changes, clear goal-setting, and regular evaluation emerging as the most critical contributors. These findings highlight the importance of integrating responsive and structured goal management practices to foster resilience and meet community sustainability needs. The study recommends that project managers and policymakers in Tanzania develop robust frameworks to enhance goal clarity, adaptability, and continuous monitoring, thereby improving project outcomes and ensuring long-term agricultural sustainability
Impact of Stakeholder Engagement on the Success of Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene Projects in Babati, Tanzania
Authors: Sanka Emili
Published: December 2024

This study investigates the impact of stakeholder engagement on the success and sustainability of donor-funded Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) projects in Babati District, Tanzania. The research adopted a pragmatic approach, employing a mixed-meethods design that combines quantitative and qualitative data collection techniques. Key aspects of stakeholder engagement examined include involvement of local communities, alignment with community needs, integration of diverse perspectives, active participation, and capacity-building efforts. The findings revealed that impactful stakeholder input and active participation significantly enhance project success, fostering community ownership and relevance. However, challenges such as ineffective capacity-building initiatives and difficulties in managing diverse perspectives can hinder outcomes if not strategically addressed. The study concludes that successful WASH projects require structured frameworks for stakeholder engagement, effective communication and feedback mechanisms, and context-specific capacity-building programs. Recommendations emphasize the need for inclusive decision-makingaking processes and conflict-resolution strategies to balance diverse stakeholder interests while maintaining efficiency.
Factors Affecting Water User Associations’ Performance in Managing Water Resources in Ruvu Catchment, Pangani Basin, Tanzania
Authors: Nyamulo Patrice , Pastory Dickson
Published: December 2024

This study evaluates factors influencing Water User Associations (WUAs) in managing water resources within Tanzania's Ruvu Catchment, Pangani Basin, and identifies key determinants of their performance. Employing a quantitative approach and case study design, data were collected from 91 WUA leaders, members, staff, and stakeholders through purposive sampling using questionnaires. Data analysis, conducted with IBM SPSS V27, included descriptive and inferential statistics presented in tables. Results indicate that financial constraints significantly hinder WUA operations, particularly for MIWALENI Spring WUA. Limited access to training and capacity-building programs weakens effectiveness. Governance practices favor decentralized and hybrid models, encouraging participatory decision-making; however, community involvement remains moderate due to training and technical resource limitations. Infrastructure deficiencies and lack of technical expertise further impact performance. The study underscores the need for comprehensive capacity-building and institutional support to enhance WUA effectiveness. To address financial constraints, sustainable funding mechanisms, including water tariffs, donor grants, and public-private partnerships, are recommended. Additionally, regular technical and governance training programs should be implemented to bridge knowledge gaps and empower WUA members. These measures can contribute to more effective and sustainable water resource management in similar catchment areas.
Effectiveness of De-Snaring Strategies in Protecting Tanzania's Wildlife at Serengeti National Park
Authors: Phurna Protius
Published: December 2024

This study evaluates the effectiveness of de-snaring as an anti-poaching strategy in Serengeti National Park (SENAPA), focusing on poaching techniques, community perceptions, and operational challenges. The study involved 67 respondents, including SENAPA staff, former poachers, and village leaders, selected through purposive and stratified random sampling. Findings revealed that snaring is the most common poaching method, followed by shooting, trapping, and water poisoning, all threatening biodiversity. Community perceptions showed 59.7% believe poaching has declined over the past five years due to enhanced patrolling and de-snaring. Despite progress, challenges like limited resources, vast park coverage, and insufficient funding hinder effectiveness. Awareness of de-snaring efforts was high (74.6%), with 75% rating cooperation as excellent or good, though 25.4% were unaware of these initiatives. The study recommends strengthening community involvement through education, training, and participatory conservation programs. Increased government funding, stricter anti-poaching laws, and advanced surveillance technologies are essential. SENAPA should focus on capacity building, targeted resource allocation, and improved monitoring. Sustained, collaborative approaches are crucial to preserving Serengeti National Park’s ecological integrity.
Multiple regression analyses of traits contributing to the skin value of South African ostriches
Authors: Nemutandani K.R. , Engelbrecht A. , Cloete S.W.P. , Dzama K. , Tada O. , Muvhali P.T.
Published: December 2024

The contribution of various skin traits to determining skin value was investigated in South African slaughter ostriches. Processed skins (n = 747) from the South African Black ostrich breed slaughtered between 2003 and 2019 and aged 282–588 d were used. Tannery data (skin size, skin grade, and quill value) were used to calculate individual skin price based on the prices paid to producers in October 2020. The PROC REG model of the SAS statistical package was used for stepwise multiple regression analyses to investigate the influence of various skin traits on skin price. Traits included skin size, skin grade, quill value, nodule size score, nodule shape score, hair follicle score, and pitting score. Pearson correlations coefficient (r) among variables were calculated using Minitab software. Skin grade accounted for most of the variation in the monetary value of individual skins at 76.66%, followed by skin size and quill value with respective contributions of 5.12% and 1.42% to the cumulative R2 of the final model. When quill value was omitted from the model, nodule shape contributed 0.26% to the variance in skin value. When skin grade was not modelled, skin size accounted for most of the variation in skin price; pitting score contributed only 0.62% to the cumulative R². Pearson correlations confirmed that skin grade was the dominant regression variable for skin value (r = -0.88); quill value and skin size were significant, but less important. No strong correlations were observed between skin grade and quill value. Therefore, it seems that skin grade is the dominant force determining the price currently paid to ostrich farmers in South Africa.
Effect of long-term, exogenous administration of oxytocin on milk production, composition, somatic cell count, and progesterone in postpartum Nili-Ravi buffalo
Authors: Murtaza S. , Sattar A. , Ahmad N. , Khan I.R. , Ijaz M. , Ahmad T. , Farooq A.A. , Basit M.A. , Javid M.A. , Saleem M.U. , Ahmad J. , Zia A. , Azam B.
Published: December 2024

This study sought to explore the effect of the administration of long-term, exogenous oxytocin on buffalo milk. In this study, newly-calved postpartum buffaloes (Nili-Ravi) (n = 24) were divided equally into three groups: (control without oxytocin – CON, 10 i.u. oxytocin – LOW, 30 i.u. oxytocin – HIGH). Oxytocin was injected twice a day before each 154-day milking. Milk production, milk composition, somatic cell counts, and progesterone (P4) were evaluated daily, weekly, and fortnightly, respectively. Results revealed that the HIGH group produced high milk production and pH values, but lower milk density than the CON and LOW groups. The HIGH group and LOW group had higher milk fat and solid-not-fat (SNF) compared to the CON group. SNF and protein were higher in the LOW group than the CON group. Freezing point, lactose, solids, somatic cell count, and P4 were similar in all three groups. Overall, it can be concluded that long-term, exogenous oxytocin has a positive effect on milk production, fat, SNF, and protein, with a negative effect on milk pH. None of the oxytocin treatments affected somatic cell counts and P4 concentration in postpartum buffalo milk.
The first morphological study of the Sloughi dog breed in Algeria
Authors: Haddam H.Y. , Mennani A. , Yilmaz O. , Abdelbari H. , Mkedder I. , Benhamadi M.E.A. , Hamel W. , Gaouar S.B.S.
Published: December 2024

act The present work aims to study morphometric profile, calculate body indices, and determine mathematical models that will be used for the estimation of adult live weights based on body measurements using multiple regression models in an endangered heritage breed, the Algerian Sloughi dog, raised in three different geographical regions of Algeria. The animal material of the study consisted of 105 Sloughi dogs, which included 30 individuals belonging to the eastern, 35 from the central, and 40 from the western regions of Algeria. Least squares means for height at withers and rump; head length and width; muzzle, ear, neck, body, tail lengths; muzzle, head, chest, waist, thigh, forearm, and wrist circumferences were used as body measurements. Least squares means for indices of massiveness, format, cephalic, body–tail, bone, muzzle–head, withers–rump, head–neck, ear–head length, and ear–head width were calculated using body measurements. Of the multiple regression models, the highest coefficients of determination (R2 ) were obtained from the models formed from height at withers, height at withers and thigh circumference or height at withers, thigh circumference and chest circumference together (R2 = 0.70, R2 = 0.79 and R2 = 0.86 respectively). This study concluded that live weight of Algerian Sloughi dog breed could be estimated with a high accuracy using body measurements and statistical methods.
Effects of nettle content and delivery route on performance, nutrient digestibility, intestinal morphology, immune response, and antioxidant capacity of heat-stressed broiler chickens
Authors: Sadeeq N. , M’Sadiq S. , Beski S.
Published: December 2024

This study was conducted to assess the effect of nettle supplementation on heat-stressed broiler performance and physiology. A total of 540 Ross-308 broiler chicks were randomly assigned to nine treatments each with six replications of 10 birds. Three contents of nettle were offered in either a fermented or unfermented (0, 1.5, and 3 g/kg) diet or in the drinking water (0, 1.5, and 3 g/L). At day 10, feed intake and FCR increased with nettle content in the diet. Heat-stressed birds that received powdered nettle had a better FCR. At day 35, increasing nettle improved the FCR. Nettle-supplemented broilers had increased dry matter, protein, and fat digestibility. The interaction of factors indicated that a higher NDV titre in birds that received 3% nettle in all forms. A higher NDV titre was found in birds that received fermented nettle, whereas a lower titre was found given the nettle extract. Unfermented nettle substantially increased the immunoglobulin titre of heat-stressed broilers. The interaction of factors indicated an increased total antioxidant capacity (TAC) in birds that received 3% of either fermented or unfermented nettle. The TAC was higher with fermented nettle. The activity of glutathione peroxidase increased with fermented nettle supplementation. Villi length and villous height/crypt depth increased with the supplementation of nettle and was higher in birds that received the unfermented nettle. In addition to its growth promoting properties, this study indicates nettle as a potential agent against heat stress in broiler production.
The effect of plumage colour and sex on growth, carcass, and meat quality traits of Japanese quail
Authors: Önk K. , Sarı M. , Gülbaz G. , Karadağoğlu Ö. , Tilki M.
Published: December 2024

The aim of the study was to determine the effect of plumage colour and sex on growth, slaughter-carcass, and meat quality characteristics of Japanese quails. The effect of plumage colour on live weight values from hatching to sixth week was statistically significant. The highest live weight was obtained in quails with grey plumage colour, with the lowest live weight in brown quails. Plumage colour and sex were important determinants in slaughter and carcass traits, except for head and feet values. The highest slaughter, hot carcass, and cold carcass weights were determined in grey quails and the lowest in brown quails. Meat colour parameters (L*, a*, and b*) were similar. Yellow plumage colour produced the best pH24 and male quails were generally preferable in terms of meat characteristics. In terms of water holding capacity, the meat of brown and white quails was drier, whereas the meat of grey and yellow quails was juicier. Grey and yellow quails had a lower cooking loss. Grey, followed by yellow, quails had the best live weight, carcass, and meat quality characteristics. Female quails had higher live weight and carcass traits than male quails, but meat quality characteristics of males and females were similar.