bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Refractive errors among schoolchildren in the Middle East: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Mohamed Zoelfigar D. , Ismail Galal M. , Alrasheed Saif H. , Vankudre Gopi S. , Noushad Babu , Ayyappan Janitha P. 
Published: October 2024

Background: Refractive errors are the most prevalent ocular conditions among adolescents and children.Aim: The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to evaluate the prevalence of refractive error (RE) among children aged 5–17 years in the Middle East Region.Method: The research adhered to the Preferred Reporting Criteria for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (2020) in conducting the study. A comprehensive search for relevant studies was conducted on multiple databases. The analysed dataset was classified based on gender and the methods employed to estimate REs.Results: The meta-analysis included data from 38 population-based studies in 11 countries, covering 103 053 children. The overall pooled prevalence rates of myopia, hyperopia and astigmatism were 5.74%, 5.35% and 13.16%, respectively. Females had slightly higher prevalence rates at 7.25%, 5.54% and 15.50%, compared to males at 6.09%, 5.07% and 12.20%, respectively. The prevalence of myopia, hyperopia and astigmatism was higher with cycloplegic refraction at 6.33%, 6.36% and 14.39%, respectively, compared with non-cycloplegic refraction at 4.07%, 2.73% and 9.64%, respectively. Significant heterogeneity was observed between the reviewed studies (p 0.0001).Conclusion: This meta-analysis revealed that astigmatism was the most common RE in Middle Eastern children aged 5–17 years, followed by myopia and hyperopia. There was no significant difference in the pooled prevalence of RE between genders. The findings indicated that myopia, hyperopia and astigmatism measurements varied between cycloplegic and non-cycloplegic refractions.Contribution: These findings concur with the global trend and emphasise the need for deliberate action to address childhood REs in the Middle East.
Prevalence and determinants of low bone mineral density among people living with HIV on antiretroviral therapy in Lusaka, Zambia: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Shawa Chisomo J.W. , Sitali Jonathan I. , Banda Justor , Mweemba Aggrey 
Published: October 2024

Background: Reduced bone mineral density (BMD) is a common complication of people living with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) on antiretroviral therapy (ART). However, there is lack of information on the factors associated with reduced BMD in people living with HIV and on ART. We assessed the prevalence of reduced BMD and its associated determinants in people living with HIV and were on antiretroviral therapy.
Methods: A cross-sectional study on people living with HIV and on ART was conducted at the largest tertiary teaching adult hospital, in Lusaka Zambia from August 1, 2019 December 31, 2020. Included in the study were participants aged between 50 and 69 years of age. A Dual-energy X-ray Absorptiometry scan was employed to assess Bone Mineral Density. Low Bone Mineral Density was defined as both osteoporosis and osteopenia. Logistic regression analysis was employed to establish determinants associated with BMD.
Results: Of the 315 participants, 43.8% were females and the median age was 55.0 years (IQR 60-51). The overall prevalence of reduced bone mineral density was 82.6% and of these, 34.0% had osteopenia and 48.6% osteoporosis. After adjusting for confounders, age 55 years and older (AOR 5.87, 95% CI 3.34-10.30, p=<0.001) was independently associated with osteoporosis while CD4 count ≥ 500 cells/mm3 (AOR 0.21, 95% CI 0.08-0.55, p=<0.001) and an increase in Body Mass Index (AOR 0.94, 95% CI 0.90-0.99, p=0.008) were associated with decreased odds of osteoporosis.
Conclusions: Our study highlights a high prevalence of low Bone Mineral Density. Older age was positively associated with osteoporosis while a high CD4 count and high body Mass Index revealed a decreased odds for osteoporosis.
Influence Of Principals’ Students Financial Support Practices On Students’ Retention In Public Day Secondary Schools In Nakuru County
Authors: Njambi Nyaga Elsie , Nyabisi Emily , Oigara Peterson 
Published: October 2024

The purpose of this study was to establish the influence of principals’ students financial support practices on students’ retention in public day secondary schools in Nakuru County. The study was guided by Tintos’ student integration theory. The mixed methods research approach was adopted using the concurrent triangulation research design. The target population was 38,863 comprising of 293 principals, 3962 teachers and 34597 students in public-day secondary schools only and 11 Sub- County Directors of Education. The sample size was 574 participants, comprising of samples of 90 principals 363 teachers, 110 students and 11 SCDE. The sample size of 363 teachers was determined using Slovenes’ formula. Interview schedules were used to collect qualitative data from Sub-County Director of Education while questionnaires were used to collect quantitative data from principals and teachers and focus group discussions from students. Quantitative data was analysed using descriptive such as frequencies, percentages and means, and inferential statistics which included Pearson Correlation and Regression Analysis. The study findings showed that the principal’s financial management practices had a positive correlation with significant effects on student retention (r= 0.360; p < 0.05). The study recommends that Schools should implement income-generating projects, raise awareness of bursaries and scholarships, and provide flexible payment options to reduce financial barriers and improve student retention. Authorities should promote policies that support financially disadvantaged students by encouraging such initiatives, ensuring access to scholarships, and offering flexible payment options for essential programs.
Use of X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy for the determination of rare-earths contained in the concentrates and in landfills from the beneficiation plant of Gakara rare-earth deposit in Burundi
Authors: De Cliff Steve , Niyongabo Desire , Nihorimbere Manasse , Simbavimbere Jean Paul 
Published: October 2024

The Gakara rare-earth ore deposit in Burundi is the only operating rare-earth mine in Africa and one of the richest rare-earth deposits in the world with an in-situ content of 47 to 67% rare-earth oxides (REO). However, although the country has significant mineral resources, Burundi has not yet developed a mining industry and even the Kabezi rare-earth concentration plant only produces concentrates, exported as such to the raw state, without any added value. Prior to the results of the present study, no quantitative data from researchers was available on the content of the said concentrate, much less on the nature of the substances that contain it. Therefore, the present research work focused on quantitative analysis by X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy on rareearth concentrates and on landfills scattered around the said beneficiation plant. The findings of the present research work reveal that the rare-earth concentrate from Gakara rare-earth ore deposit in Burundi contains seven metals of this strategic ore including lanthanum (20.5% in elements; 18.0% in oxides), yttrium (0.16%; 0.15%), cerium (37.75%; 33.75%), praseodymium (2.80%; 2.63%), neodymium (12.14%; 10.00%), samarium (1.00%; 0.90%) and gadolinium (0.47%; 0.35%). With a total rare-earth elements (TREE) content of 74.84 ± 0.33%, the Gakara rare-earth concentrate can be refined into seven rare-earth metals. The corresponding total rare-earth oxide (TREO) content is of 65.78 ± 0.29%. Such findings are highly revealing and constitute a critical step which must lead to an in-depth research on the optimization of a technological separation and purification process which could be used specifically for this deposit considered as one of the most strategic globally. Regarding the waste dumps, the present research found that they contain quantities of thorium (0.127%) and lead (0.237%) at levels that should not be ignored. No uranium was detected.
Proximate composition, minerals analysis and antibacterial potential of <i>Syzygium cumini L</i>. leaves, flower and bark extracts against foodborne pathogens
Authors: Ali Javid , Hussain Arshad , Siddique Muhammad , Ur Rehman Inayat , Zeb Anwar 
Published: October 2024

The current study was carried out to evaluate the proximate compositions, minerals assessment and antimicrobial activities of leaves, bark and flower of Syzygium cumini L. Proximate compositions were carried out using standard methods. The mineral analyses were assessed by Flame Photometer and Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer. Antibacterial potential were assayed using Well-diffusion assay for three extracts (decoction, infusion and tincture). The proximate composition of Syzygium cumini L. leaves, flower and bark were found in the range i.e. moisture 3.5-05%, ash 05-07%, crude fat 0.4-2.5%, crude fiber 08-23%, protein 02-04%, carbohydrate 64.1-78.9% and energy 268-335Kcal/100 g dw. Similarly the minerals quantification (mg/Kg) range were calculated as Sodium 1300-1600, Potassium 3250-5000, Calcium 12500-24000, Magnesium 5000-9600, Zinc 30- 60, Iron 140-500 and Manganese 30-100. The tincture observed the most efficient extract followed by infusion and decoction. While bark showed the least antibacterial potential against the pathogenic bacteria as compared to leaves and flower. The results commonly observed that generally the high opposing were observed by Gram-ve microbes to the Syzygium cumini L. extracts as compared to Gram-positive bacteria. These findings observed that Syzygium cumini leaves, flower and bark are a connection of health promoting major mineral elements and nutrition ingredients. Therefore, it can be a latent resource of natural minerals, fiber, protein and antibacterial agents in food, feed and medicine. This study exemplifies the latent of this plant as a substitute feed and food supplement to make stronger food security.
Serological and Molecular Detection of Low Pathogenic Avian Influenza Subtype H9N2 in Commercial Poultry Flock in Kaduna and Kano State Nigeria
Authors: Mkpuma Nicodemus , Oyedeji Lukman Muftahu , Akintule Alexander Oluyinka , Chinyere Chinonyerem N. , Agbato Adeyinka Olamide , Bitrus Inuwa , Shehu Shamsuddeen , Olawuyi Kayode A. , Tige Donna Bala , Gado Dorcas A. , Meseko Clement A. 
Published: October 2024

The poultry business in Nigeria has been severely affected by highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), particularly the H5 variant. Unlike H5 and H7 subtypes, low pathogenic strains like the H9N2 are not notifiable to the OIE. However, in many instances in the West African sub-region, this strain poses a threat to chicken and turkey farming. In the present study, reports of mortality in commercial layer chicken with clinical indications and lesions of Newcastle disease and E. coli septicemia from two farms in Kano and Kaduna states. Ten tracheal, cloacal swabs, and blood samples were collected from moribund and dead birds on each of these farms and sent to the lab for analysis. Using the Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay, antibodies against the H9 subtypes of the AIV were found in 85 percent (17/20) of the sera. Low pathogenic avian influenza subtype H9N2, Escherichia coli and Klebsiella spp were detected in six samples by RT- qPCR and Microbiology respectively as well as virus isolation in 9-11day old specific antibody negative embryonated chicken egg. Hyperaemia, oedema, necrosis and loss of cilia on the epithelial lining of the trachea with heterophils and lymphocytes infiltration of the lamina propria were observed in all the samples. These findings confirmed the presence and circulation of the low pathogenic subtype H9N2 in commercial layer flock; though the virus is biologically low pathogenic, co-infection with other pathogens could exacerbate infection and cause severe economic losses. We suggest that all subtypes of avian influenza virus be monitored at all times across the country.
Advancing equitable access to care and strengthening workforce development for kidney health in Rwanda: National Symposium proceedings, March 15, 2024
Authors: Nyenyeli Darlene L. , Twagirumukiza E. , Neil Kara L. , Niyonsenga Simon P. , Rugamba G. , Ntihabose C. , Habyarimana O. , Ntirenganya J. , Gasana Africa G. 
Published: October 2024

Kidney disease is a global health burden with significant economic and public health impacts. Rwanda’s Kidney Diseases Management Symposium was a national-level gathering aimed at discussing the outcomes of existing renal programs and exploring approaches to advance and ensure equitable access to care and optimal medication practice for kidney health in Rwanda. The symposium brought together over 100 healthcare providers, academicians, researchers, patient representatives, and policymakers across Rwanda. Presentations, discussions, and roundtable sessions took place on the epidemiological and management aspects of acute kidney injury and chronic kidney disease, which are the most common renal diseases among the Rwandan population. Breakthrough discussions also took place on the establishment and impact of kidney transplantation programs in Rwanda. A common understanding of the achievements in renal disease management in Rwanda made in the last decade was reached. The symposium highlighted the importance of raising community awareness about kidney diseases, enforcing preventive practices and early detection programs, optimizing the availability and accessibility of renal medications, developing a renal registry for real-world data and practice, and bridging the health workforce shortage through training. Renal initiatives in Rwanda are overall operating effectively, with significant national and institutional support and commitment. By fostering partnerships and intersectoral collaborations, Rwanda is well on its way to universal access to kidney care and a sufficient workforce to meet the needs of the population.
Assessment of the Dose Coverage at the PTV for EBRT for Cervical Cancer Treatment Plan Using AAA Varian Eclipse TPS at Ocean Road Cancer Institute, Tanzania
Authors: Ngowi Kelvin G. , Kumwenda Mwingereza J. , Amour Khamis O. 
Published: October 2024

The implementation of the Eclipse treatment planning system software (Version 15.1) at Ocean Road Cancer Institute (ORCI), Tanzania has made the Anisotropic Analytical Algorithm (AAA) the necessary routine tool for dose calculations. However, the accuracy of the AAA algorithm in planning doses specifically for cervical cancer treatment is not well known. Therefore, this study investigated the accuracy of the AAA in dose calculation in terms of the dose coverage at the Plan Target Volume (PTV) for cervical cancer treatment at the ORCI. 50 treatment plans of adult patients with International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) stage IB-IIIB cervical cancer who underwent 3D-CRT were analyzed. The results show that most of the patients received at least 95% of the prescribed dose, averaging 48.3 Gy, which is about 96.6% of the prescription. The average maximum dose was about 53.7 Gy, equivalent to 107.4% of the prescribed dose. When compared to other studies, minor dosimetric differences, typically less than 2% for all the PTV dose parameters, were observed. In conclusion, the results affirm that the Eclipse AAA algorithm is sufficiently accurate for dose calculations for cervical cancer treatment planning at the ORCI.
Keywords: AAA; Cervical cancer; FIGO; PTV; TPS
Natural Bee Space and Comb Cell Dimensions of Honey Bee Colonies in Mwinkantsi Village, Babati District, Tanzania
Authors: Theobald Theobald J , Kidabaga Richard A , Mashilingi Shibonage K 
Published: October 2024

The use of improved beehives in beekeeping is emphasized to facilitate easier colony manipulations. The improved beehives used in Tanzania are either imported or manufactured locally by adopting dimensions for European honey bees. However, the dimensions adopted are faulty to the dimensions of local honey bees, leading to cross-combing problems which hinder realization of the expected management advantages. This study assessed the characteristic natural bee space and comb cell dimensions of honey bee colonies occupied the traditional split log hives in Mwinkantsi village, Babati district. Results showed that honey bee colonies in Mwinkantsi village exhibited an overall bee space of 11.82 ± 0.36 mm, larger than a range of 7.5 ± 1.5 mm bee space reported for European honey bees. The colonies also exhibited 22.21 ± 0.62 mm overall average comb thickness, 12.01 ± 0.57 mm comb cell depth, and 5.05 ± 0.46 mm comb cell width. Moreover, both bee space and cell dimensions showed significant variations influenced by comb type. These findings add to the body of knowledge and suggest extensive agroecological investigations on natural characteristic dimensions of local honey bee colonies in Tanzania. This will inform the construction of improved hives that suit local honey bee colonies.
Keywords: Honey bees; Bee space; Comb thickness; Cell dimensions; Tanzania.
Adsorptive Performance of Composite of Sugarcane Bagasse Fibres and Multiwalled Carbon Nanotubes for Simultaneous Removal of Multi–pollutants from Wastewaters
Authors: Sengasu Joseph W , Philip Joseph YN , Kilulya Kessy F 
Published: October 2024

This paper reports on the performance of the prepared Sugarcane Bagasse Fibres – Multiwalled Carbon Nanotubes (SBF–MWCNTs) composite for simultaneous removal of Crystal Violet (CV), Pb(II), Cr(III), Cd(II) and Co(II) from the effluent using a fixed bed method. Different composites of SBF–MWCNTs biosorbent were prepared from mixtures of varied ratios of SBF and MWCNTs at 25 °C. The SBF–MWCNTs materials were characterized by FT-IR spectroscopy and thermogravimetric analysis. Crystallinity index and swelling behaviour of the materials were also determined. Thomas model linear equation was applied in the assessment of pollutants adsorption performance at different conditions. With a column height of 8 cm containing 1.5 g of SBF–MWCNTs, flow rate of 2.5 mL min-1, pH > 6, and pollutant initial concentrations of ≤25 mg/L, the SBF–MWCNTs composite containing 2% MWCNTs had higher pollutants adsorption capacity (mg/L), 6.61 ± 0.092 Pb(II), 4.78 ± 0.132 CV, 4.58 ± 0.080 Cr(III), 4.09 ± 0.181 Cd(II), 2.98 ± 0.230 Co(II). Whereas, that of unmodified fibres (SBF) were 5.53 ± 0.056 Pb(II), 4.48 ± 0.091 CV, 3.77 ± 0.072 Cr(III), 3.41 ± 0.050 Cd(II) and 2.42 ± 0.031 Co(II). Statistical analysis at 0.05 significance level has shown that adsorption capacity of each contaminant by the SBF–MWCNTs is significantly higher than that of SBF. These results indicate that SBF–MWCNTs composite is a potential biosorbent for the removal of multi–pollutants from aqueous systems.
Keywords: Wastewater treatment; Multi–pollutants; Carbon nanotubes; Sugarcane bagasse; Fixed bed
Utilization of Digital Platforms in Realizing SDG 8.3 Entrepreneurship in MSMEs with the 9F Model Approach: A Study on the Hijab Fashion Business in Sidoarjo District, East Java.
Authors: Khairinia Kusuma Alvitariani , Ratna Lindawati Lubis  
Published: October 2024

The utilization of digital platforms has become a key strategy to increase the competitiveness of MSMEs in Indonesia, particularly in the hijab fashion sector. This study aims to analyze the impact of digital platforms and the implementation of the 9F Entrepreneurship Model on MSMEs in Sidoarjo District, as well as its contribution to achieving Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 8.3, which focuses on promoting economic productivity and entrepreneurship. This qualitative research employs a case study method involving five MSMEs in the hijab fashion industry, selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected through in-depth interviews and direct observations of business owners.

The findings indicate that integrating digital platforms such as Instagram, WhatsApp, Facebook, Shopee, and TikTok with the 9F model significantly enhances innovation, visibility, and flexibility in MSMEs’ responses to market changes. Among the 169 MSMEs in the fashion sector in Sidoarjo, 26 focus on hijab fashion, with five MSMEs participating in this research. These MSMEs reported improvements in market reach and operational efficiency through digital platforms. Additionally, the integration of digital strategies supports economic growth aligned with SDG 8.3.

This approach shows that the combination of digital platforms and the 9F Entrepreneurship Model can be an essential strategy for developing MSMEs in the hijab fashion sector, contributing to local economic growth and government efforts to achieve SDG 8.3.

Keywords: MSMEs, digital platforms, 9F entrepreneurship, SDG 8.3, hijab fashion
ANALISIS YURIDIS PERLINDUNGAN HUKUM HAK CIPTA DALAM DUNIA DIGITAL MELALUI UNDANG-UNDANG NOMOR 28 TAHUN 2014 TENTANG HAK CIPTA
Authors: Aprilia Silvi Suciana Aprilia 
Published: October 2024

Hak cipta adalah hak pribadi, dan alasannya adalah bahwa ciptaan berasal dari ciptaan pencipta. Sebuah karya yang lahir dari pemikiran dan kreativitas penciptanya. Hak Cipta harus muncul dari kreativitas manusia, bukan sesuatu yang sudah ada di luar aktivitas atau hasil kreativitas manusia Dengan adanya perkembangan tersebut maka hukum hak cipta harus terjadi sebuah perkembangan, dahulu perlindungan ciptaan hanya pada ciptaan fisik, kini diperlukan perlindungan ciptaan digital. Rumusan masalah dalam penelitian ini ialah 1. Bagaimana perkembangan teknologi digital serta dampak pada karya hak cipta Digital? dan 2. Bagaimana Implementasi Undang-Undang Nomor 28 Tahun 2014 tentang Hak Cipta dalam dunia Digital? Penelitian ini menggunakan metode yuridis normative dan kesimpulan pada penelitian ini adalah Pentingnya HKI bagi karya-karya yang dibuat agar tidak menjadi sia-sia. Teknologi digital saat ini adalah suatu alternatif bagi para penghasil / pencipta untuk mempublikasikan hasil karyanya. Mengingat pesatnya perkembangan teknologi, para pencipta sebaiknya melakukan usaha preventif dengan mendaftarkan hasil karya/ciptaannya secara legal kepada pemerintah untuk mencegah terjadinya pelanggaran Hak Cipta, Untuk mengatasi hal tersebut hukum perlu berkolaborasi dengan teknologi, dalam hal ini teknologi yang digunakan ialah teknologi pengaman. Undang- Undang No.28 tahun 2014 tentang hak cipta telah memiliki beberapa pengaturan tentang teknologi pengaman yang perlindungannyan mencakup perlindungan hak moral dan hak ekonomi.

Copyright is a personal right, and the reason for this is that the creation comes from the creator's creation. A work born of the thought and creativity of its creator. Copyright must arise from human creativity, not something that already exists outside the activities or results of human creativity with these developments, copyright law must occur a development, formerly the protection of creation only on physical creation, now requires the protection of digital creation. The formulation of the problem in this study is: 1. How is the development of digital technology and the impact on Digital copyright works? and 2. How is the Implementation of Law Number 28 of 2014 concerning Copyright in the Digital World? This research uses normative juridical methods and the conclusion of this research is the importance of IPR for works created so as not to be in vain. Digital technology today is an alternative for producers/creators to publish their work. Given the rapid development of technology, the creators should make preventive efforts by registering their works/creations legally to the government to prevent Copyright infringement, to overcome this law need to collaborate with technology, in this case, the technology used is security technology. Law No.28 of 2014 on copyright already has some arrangements on security technology whose protection includes the protection of moral rights and economic rights.