bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
CONSTRUCTION AND STANDARDIZATION OF THE LEARNED INABILITY SCALE AND ITS RELATIONSHIP TO EMOTIONAL AROUSAL AMONG WEIGHTLIFTERS
Authors: Zahra Haider Kazem Abdel 
Published: November 2024

The study aimed to build and codify the measures of acquired disability. As well as to identify the level of acquired disability and emotional arousal of weightlifters. As the imposition of research, there is an inverse moral correlation between the acquired disability and emotional arousal of the research sample, while the research areas have included the human field: weightlifters in the central and southern regions. The time domain is determined: The period from 3/4/2024 to 3/6/2024. While the spatial field in the sports halls was weightlifting. The researcher built and legalized the measure of acquired disability for weightlifters, and the researcher used the (survey) method, where the research community was determined, namely the weightlifting players for the southern and central region for the year 2023-2024, which numbered 150 players, and the research sample was chosen in a deliberate way, so that the research sample became 140 players by 93.33%, 5 were excluded due to absence and were distributed to several samples, including the exploratory experiment 7 players and by 4.33% from the research community, and the construction sample included 100 players and by 66.66% from the research community, and the application sample included 30 players and by 20% to extract the significance of the differences between the arithmetic and hypothetical means. The SPSS system was also used to obtain the results of the research, and the researcher concluded that there is an inverse correlation between the acquired disability and the emotional arousal of the research sample, i.e. the greater the degree of acquired disability, the lower the degree of emotional arousal and vice versa. The researcher recommended providing assistance to the players to discover their strengths and weaknesses and try to address them through coaches or those in charge of training. He urged the players to rehabilitate the psychological aspect by listening to lectures and scientific seminars to reduce psychological pressure.<p> </p><p><strong> Article visualizations:</strong></p><p><img src="/-counters-/soc/0715/a.php" alt="Hit counter" /></p>
THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN BODY MASS INDEX AND ORTHOSTATIC HYPOTENSION AMONG ADULTS
Authors: Balapala Kartheek R. , Mwanakasale Victor , Siziya Seter , Silitongo Moono 
Published: November 2024

Background: Orthostatic hypotension (OH) is a condition characterized by a significant drop in blood pressure upon standing, potentially leading to dizziness and falls. Body Mass Index (BMI) has been identified as a potential risk factor for OH, yet the relationship remains underexplored, particularly in specific populations. Objective: This study investigates the association between BMI and the prevalence of OH among adults in Ndola City, Copperbelt Province, Zambia, while also examining the influence of gender on this relationship. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted involving adults aged 16 to 60 years, selected through simple random sampling from local health centers. Data on BMI, blood pressure measurements, and demographic information were collected. Chi-square tests were employed to assess associations between BMI and OH, as well as between gender and OH. Results: The analysis revealed a statistically significant association between BMI and the occurrence of OH (Pearson Chi-Square: 63.8815, p &lt; 0.001). In contrast, no significant association was found between gender and OH (Pearson Chi-Square: 1.8646, p = 0.172). These findings suggest that variations in BMI are related to the prevalence of OH among adults in Ndola City, while gender differences appear to have minimal impact. Conclusion: The study highlights the importance of monitoring BMI as a potential risk factor for orthostatic hypotension in adults. While gender does not significantly influence the occurrence of OH, further research is warranted to explore additional contributing factors and develop targeted interventions for the local population. These insights can inform public health strategies aimed at managing OH related to BMI.<p> </p><p><strong> Article visualizations:</strong></p><p><img src="/-counters-/soc/0798/a.php" alt="Hit counter" /></p>
AGEING, ORTHOSTATIC HYPOTENSION, AND MENTAL HEALTH: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY IN NDOLA CITY OF ZAMBIA
Authors: Balapala Kartheek R. , Mwanakasale Victor 
Published: November 2024

<p><strong>Background:</strong> This study examines the relationship between ageing, standing blood pressure, and mental health in 770 adults from Ndola City, Zambia, focusing on orthostatic hypotension (OH). OH, characterized by a significant drop in blood pressure upon standing, is particularly prevalent among older adults and is associated with mental health disorders such as depression and stress. <strong>Methods:</strong> Using a cross-sectional design, participants were categorized by age, and standard blood pressure measurements were taken to assess OH. Mental health was evaluated using the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS21) and the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ12). Statistical analyses, including Pearson chi-square tests, were employed to explore associations between age groups, the prevalence of OH, and mental health conditions. <strong>Results:</strong> Results indicated no significant association between age and the occurrence of OH (Pearson chi2(4) = 7.5702, Pr = 0.109). However, a significant relationship was found between age and depression (Pearson chi2(8) = 23.4265, Pr = 0.003), suggesting that older age correlates with higher depression levels. In contrast, anxiety did not show a significant association with age (Pearson chi2(4) = 4.5814, Pr = 0.333). Stress levels were significantly associated with age (Pearson chi2(8) = 37.1247, Pr = 0.000), as were distress levels (Pearson chi2(4) = 9.9089, Pr = 0.042). Conclusion: While age does not significantly impact the occurrence of OH, it is correlated with increased levels of depression and stress among older adults, highlighting the need for mental health interventions in this population.</p><p> </p><p><strong> Article visualizations:</strong></p><p><img src="/-counters-/soc/0794/a.php" alt="Hit counter" /></p>
THE ROLE OF NUTRITIONAL STATUS IN THE PERSISTENCE OF MEASLES IMMUNITY AMONG CHILDREN: A MULTIVARIATE ANALYSIS
Authors: Gardner Priscilla Nkonde , Hangoma Jimmy , Fwemba Isaac 
Published: November 2024

<p><strong>Background:</strong> The persistence of measles immunity in children is influenced by multiple factors, including nutritional status. This study aimed to assess the role of body mass index (BMI) as a proxy for nutritional status in the persistence of measles immunity, alongside other socio-demographic factors, in a pediatric population. <strong>Methods:</strong> A multivariate logistic regression analysis was conducted on 200 children (2-15 years) attending the University Teaching Children's Hospital in Lusaka, Zambia. Immunity retention was measured through IgG serology. BMI represented nutritional status, and the analysis adjusted for key variables such as HIV status, breastfeeding history, sex, and education level. Odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated to determine the association between nutritional status and immunity persistence. <strong>Results:</strong> Children categorized as well-nourished had significantly lower odds of waning immunity (OR = 0.37, 95% CI = 0.16–0.83, p = 0.016). However, for children with over or under malnutrition, the association was not statistically significant (OR = 0.23, 95% CI = 0.03–1.62, p = 0.140). Additionally, HIV-positive status was associated with decreased immunity retention (OR = 0.28, 95% CI = 0.14–0.56, p &lt; 0.001). Breastfeeding was positively associated with immunity persistence (OR = 3.34, 95% CI = 1.53–7.29, p = 0.003), while other socio-demographic factors such as sex and education level showed no significant effect. <strong>Conclusion:</strong> Nutritional status, as measured by BMI, plays a significant role in the persistence of measles immunity among children, with over- and under-nourished children being associated with lower immunity retention. These findings suggest that nutritional interventions may be necessary to improve vaccine efficacy, particularly in populations with high rates of malnutrition or obesity. The results also highlight the need for further investigation into the mechanisms linking nutritional status to immune response and the development of targeted public health strategies to optimize measles immunization outcomes in children.</p><p> </p><p><strong> Article visualizations:</strong></p><p><img src="/-counters-/soc/0722/a.php" alt="Hit counter" /></p>
PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT IN TRAINING ON THE TRANSITIONING OF LEARNERS WITH INTELLECTUAL DISABILITY FROM SCHOOL TO EMPLOYMENT IN NAIROBI CITY COUNTY, KENYA
Authors: Kerubo Ondara Dorcah , Makanya Margaret 
Published: November 2024

This study sought to investigate parental involvement and transitioning of learners with intellectual disabilities from school to employment in Nairobi City County, Kenya. The study utilized a descriptive survey research design. The study targeted 5 SNE centers, 65 SNE teachers, 5 head teachers and 900 parents with learners with ID. Purposive sampling was used to obtain the 5 SNE centers, 65 SNE teachers and 5 head teachers who were used for the study, while stratified sampling techniques were used to obtain 90 parents to participate in the study. Questionnaires for SNE teachers, interview schedules for head teachers, and focus group discussions for parents were administered for primary data collection. The validity and reliability of the instruments was ascertained through pilot testing. Data collected was subjected to Statistical Packages for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 27 for analysis and presented using frequency tables, percentages and figures. The study findings revealed concerning gaps and challenges. Teachers expressed mixed perceptions regarding parental understanding of ID needs (11.3% strongly disagreeing, 16.1% disagreeing, 27.4% unsure, 33.9% agreeing, 11.3% strongly agreeing). Similarly, there were discrepancies in perceptions of parental involvement in training programs (11.3% strongly disagreeing) and satisfaction with communication about transition (22.6% strongly disagreeing). The study concluded that parental involvement is critical in supporting the successful transition of learners with ID from school to employment. The dissatisfaction expressed by teachers regarding the overall collaboration and transition planning process indicates a clear need for schools to enhance communication strategies, establish structured engagement opportunities, and provide more support for parental involvement. The study recommended that school administrators should promote inclusive policies that mandate schools to engage parents as equal partners in the identification and planning processes for learners with ID. Provide resources and training for educators to facilitate effective collaboration with parents, ensuring that transition plans are tailored to meet each child's unique needs. The Ministry of Education, through quality assurance, should conduct training sessions for educators focused on effective communication strategies with parents of learners with ID. These sessions should emphasize the importance of clear, accessible, and culturally sensitive communication.<p> </p><p><strong> Article visualizations:</strong></p><p><img src="/-counters-/soc/0735/a.php" alt="Hit counter" /></p>
FACTORS INFLUENCING THE SOCIAL-EMOTIONAL BEHAVIOR OF CHILDREN WITH AUTISM: THE INFLUENCE OF PSYCHOMOTOR CLUMSINESS
Authors: Dimitrios Sarris , Kiriakos Tsodoulos , Travlos K. Antonios , Siafaka Vassiliki , Skordilis Emmanouil , Foteini Christopoulou , Papadimitropoulou Panagoula , Mavropalias Tryfon , Thanou Eleni 
Published: November 2024

Children with autism manifest detection first, then parallel behavior, cooperation, autistic behavior, and communicate less with other children. Higher autism functioning was associated with probing, parallel, cooperative and partnering behavior and lower with autistic behavior. Children had more difficulty in tests where the children were stationary and the environment was changing, followed by tests where the children were moving, and better performance was observed in tests where the children were stationary, and the environment was stable. Psychomotor clumsiness produced negative effects on socio-emotional behavior, while physical activity within school and group play produced positive effects. Autism functionality emerged as a moderator in the relationship between psychomotor clumsiness and socioemotional behavior.<p> </p><p><strong> Article visualizations:</strong></p><p><img src="/-counters-/soc/0755/a.php" alt="Hit counter" /></p>
INFLUENCE OF TEACHERS’ PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATIONS ON ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE OF LEARNERS WITH VISUAL IMPAIRMENT (VI) IN INTEGRATED PUBLIC PRIMARY SCHOOLS IN NAIROBI COUNTY, KENYA
Authors: Onyango Chaba Mark , Muthee Jessina J. M. , Olewe Alice 
Published: November 2024

The purpose of this study was to influence teachers’ professional qualifications on the academic performance of learners with visual impairment (VI) in integrated public primary schools in Nairobi County, Kenya. The research assumed an expressive survey design exploiting quantitative techniques. The targeted audience was 206 respondents, whereas the sample population would be 68 respondents comprising four head teachers, 31 teachers and 33 learners with VI. The research was conducted in integrated community primary schools in Nairobi municipality. Purposive sampling was employed to select 31 teachers from the four integrated public primary schools. For the learners with VI, convenience sampling was used to select 33 out of 98 available learners across the four schools. All 4 head teachers from the selected schools were included in the study using purposive sampling. Piloting allowed the researcher to test the clarity, relevance, and comprehensiveness of the questions and items included in the questionnaires and observation checklists. The research employed both qualitative and quantitative data collection techniques. Quantitative data was analyzed and coded using Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS V 23.0). The findings showed that at least half of teachers had received training on special education; only about a third lacked formal training and had no training on special education. Most of them, followed by teachers with bachelor's degrees, Diploma education had certificate P1, master's degree, and diploma PGDE, while only a tiny fraction had PhD qualifications. The study concluded that professional qualification significantly influenced the academic performance of learners with VI, braille proficiency of teachers significantly influences the academic performance of learners with VI, and ICT integration has improved the quality of assessment in school, thus advancing the academic performance of learners with VI. The study recommended that the government needs to put down measures to ensure adequate assessment instruments for the learner and offer the necessary training to teachers on adequately using the instruments. Policymakers and education stakeholders should formulate policies ensuring that most teachers receive special education when dealing with learners with VI and other disabilities.<p> </p><p><strong> Article visualizations:</strong></p><p><img src="/-counters-/soc/0736/a.php" alt="Hit counter" /></p>
DEMYSTIFYING AGRICULTURAL POPULISM IN MAASAI RANGELANDS IN THE SOUTHWESTERN KENYA
Authors: Amanullah Hanif , Kiaka Richard Dimba 
Published: November 2024

Agricultural expansion in Kenya’s Amboseli region has resulted in proven negative effects both on native megafauna that use the ecosystem as a dispersal area, as well as on grazing and water resources utilized by local livestock herds. While community conservancy programs supported by non-governmental organizations (NGOs) provide an ecologically sustainable alternative to farming’s increasing popularity, the claim that agriculture is the most profitable land-use option for the region remains dominant –– even as increasingly frequent droughts interrupt agricultural processes. This study presents a comparative analysis of the overall benefit of land-use– agriculture and conservancies– in the Amboseli region. We draw on fieldwork conducted between March - May 2023, in the former Kimana Group Ranch in the Amboseli region of southwestern Kenya. Data was collected through household surveys with 150 landowners, and key informant interviews with leaders and officers of various conservancies and NGOs in the area. We conducted approximate analyses of the annual cash flow reported by each household to compare the profitability of different land-use options. The results of the study show that, while agriculture is by far the most popular land-use option in Amboseli, the region’s traditional pastoralist practices remain the most financially stable and lucrative land-use option. Leasing land for conservation through community conservancies was the second most profitable. Irrigated agriculture, mostly practiced by non-Maasai people, showed relatively short-lived financial returns. We argue that increased farming in Maasai rangelands is fueled primarily by land privatization and the promise of immediate profits –– promises whose benefits are far outweighed by long-term economic and socio-ecological consequences. Considering that indigenous Maasai pastoralism is most sustainable for the semiarid rangeland and that our research indicated agriculture is practiced most by non-Maasai, we argue for an examination of how traditional ecological knowledge (TEK) competes with non-indigenous practices, especially considering that rangelands in East Africa are increasingly becoming fragile due to climate change.<p> </p><p><strong> Article visualizations:</strong></p><p><img src="/-counters-/soc/0821/a.php" alt="Hit counter" /></p>
THE INFLUENCE OF MEDIA EXPOSURE ON CULTURAL ATTITUDES, PARTICULARLY BEHAVIOR IN SAUDI ARABIA
Authors: Abed Lowai G. 
Published: November 2024

<p>The study sought to establish whether media exposure influences people's cultural attitudes and behavior in Saudi Arabia. Few related studies exist, and this study is set to fill a gap. Media in the context of this study entailed both social media and traditional media. The study employed a quantitative study to analyze data collected using a structured questionnaire. The study used 156 respondents of varying variables in terms of gender, age, and social media usage. Descriptive and inferential statistics were employed to analyze the data. The findings indicate that media exposure does not influence cultural attitudes and behavior. This was different from some of the studies reviewed in this study. The findings suggest that people's personalities and upbringing have more influence on them than what they encounter momentarily in media. </p><p> </p><p><strong> Article visualizations:</strong></p><p><img src="/-counters-/soc/0799/a.php" alt="Hit counter" /></p>
Cost and Return Analysis of Tomato Cultivation in Three Different Districts of Bangladesh
Authors: Tanjina Afrin  
Published: November 2024

This paper attempts to analyze the costs, return and production problems of tomato in three districts namely Gazipur, Rangpur and Cumilla in Bangladesh. It is necessary to enunciate that through purposive sampling technique, the data were collected from 225 tomato cultivators of Cumilla and Rangpur districts. Human labour, fertiliser, bamboo sticks, thread, seeds and seedlings, ploughing, irrigation, insecticides and pesticides, hormone, etc. are all necessary for the production of tomatoes. Transport expenses must be taken into account as well. Together, the aforementioned elements were taken into account to estimate the cost of tomato production. Every data set was subjected to statistical and economic analysis, with validated outcomes via a series of tables. Numerous issues affect farmers, and this study sheds insight on this situation. The findings showed that the total cost was highest in Gazipur (Tk.333,800/ha) than that of Rangpur ( Tk. 304,600/ha) and Cumilla ( Tk.282,670/ha). Gross returns from tomato in Cumilla and Rangpur were Tk. 234,942/acre and Tk. 212,213/acre respectively. The net returns were found higher in Gazipur (Tk. 206,200/ha) than that of Rangpur (Tk. 135,400/ha) and Cumilla (Tk. 97,330/ha). Based on overall costs, the Gazipur, Rangpur and Cumilla districts' benefit cost ratios for tomato production per hectare were determined to be 1.60,1.40 and 1.30, respectively. The most notable limitations in were the high cost of inputs, the absence of storage facilities, price fluctuations, and damage from insects and diseases.
Moderate N fertilizer reduction with straw return modulates cropland functions and microbial traits in a meadow soil
Authors: Duan Yan , Cao Minghui , Zhong Wenling , Wang Yuming , Ni Zheng , Zhang Mengxia , Li Jiangye , Li Yumei , Meng Xianghai , Wu Lifang 
Published: November 2024

Abstract. Nitrogen (N) fertilization has received worldwide attention due to its benefits with regard to soil fertility and productivity, but excess N application also causes an array of ecosystem degenerations, such as greenhouse gas emissions. Generally, soil microorganisms are considered to be involved in upholding a variety of soil functions. However, the linkages between soil cropland properties and microbial traits under different N fertilizer application rates remain uncertain. To address this, a 4-year in situ field experiment was conducted in a meadow soil from the Northeast China Plain after straw return with the following treatments combined with regular phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) fertilization: (i) regular N fertilizer (N + PK), (ii) 25 % N fertilizer reduction (0.75N + PK), (iii) 50 % N fertilizer reduction (0.5N + PK), and (IV) no N fertilizer (PK). Cropland properties and microbial traits responded distinctly to the different N fertilizer rates. Treatment 0.75N + PK had overall positive effects on soil fertility, productivity, straw decomposition, and microbial abundance and functioning and alleviated greenhouse effects. Specifically, no significant difference was observed in soil organic carbon (SOC), total N, P content, straw C, N release amounts, microbial biomass C, N content, and cellulase and N-acetyl-D-glucosaminidase activities, which were all significantly higher than in 0.5N + PK and PK. Greenhouse gas emissions was reduced with the decreasing N input levels. Moreover, the highest straw biomass and yield were measured in 0.75N + PK, which were significantly higher than in 0.5N + PK and PK. Meanwhile, 0.75N + PK up-regulated aboveground biomass and soil C:N and thus increased the abundance of genes encoding cellulose-degrading enzymes, which may imply the potential ability of C and N turnover. In addition, most observed changes in cropland properties were strongly associated with microbial modules and keystone taxa. The Lasiosphaeriaceae within the module-1 community showed significant positive correlations with straw degradation rate and C and N release, while the Terrimonas within the module-3 community showed a significant positive correlation with production, which was conducive to soil multifunctionality. Therefore, our results suggest that straw return with 25 % chemical N fertilizer reduction is optimal for achieving soil functions. This study highlights the importance of abiotic and biotic factors in soil health and supports green agricultural development by optimizing N fertilizer rates in meadow soil after straw return.