bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Clinical and Socio-Demographic Predictors of Psychosocial Distress in Women with Breast Cancer in Nairobi, Kenya
Authors: Muriithi Wanjiru , Kaaria Zipporah , Mapesa Job 
Published: February 2025

Research shows that 25%–50% of breast cancer patients worldwide experience distress, with some African countries reporting 71% and Kenya 34-50% distress cases. This study investigated clinical and socio-demographic predictors of breast cancer patients' psychosocial distress. Poor quality of life outcomes, reduced adherence to treatment, and inferior clinical and psychosocial functioning are all associated with psychosocial distress. This study adopted an exploratory, sequential cross-sectional design. The study targeted 763, 18–70-year-old female breast cancer patients. Breast cancer patients, nurses, lay navigator, and oncologists were enlisted through opportunity sampling technique for collection of both the qualitative and the quantitative data. Interviews, focus group discussions, and questionnaires were used to collect data. Using a total score of >11, with NCCN cut-off mark of >4 for clinically significant distress; and >7 for severe distress, psychosocial distress was screened using distress thermometer and problem checklist. Notably, income and stage of diagnosis emerged as significant predictors of psychosocial distress, clinical anxiety, and depression. Income predicted severe distress (OR = 5.5, p = 0.001), anxiety (OR = 2.8, p = 0.004), depression (OR = 4.7, p = 0.001), and early diagnosis had an inverse relationship with distress (OR = 0.3, p = 0.006) and depression (OR = 0.5, p = 0.049). Still, testimonials showed that young women had more emotional distress, while elderly women had more physiological distress. Marriage provided two insurance policies. The study emphasises understanding of emotional and psychological distress factors, identifying patients who need extra help, and using psychotherapy and social interventions to alleviate suffering, enhance resilience, and improve treatment outcomes
Influence of Disability Diversity Policy Implementation on Service Delivery among Chartered Universities in Kenya
Authors: Maina Charity Nyambura , Nzioki Susan , Mugambi Kenneth 
Published: February 2025

Diversity entails embracing and recognizing the contribution of people with differences in education background, perspectives and experiences. Organizations have realized that they can attract and retain competent employees by embracing diversity. In Kenya, a diversity policy has been developed to guide the public institutions on the management of diversity at the workplace. The policy outlines the management of diverse workforce, such as persons with disability and ethnicity. However, there remains a notable research gap concerning the effect of diversity policies on service delivery in the universities. This study aimed at determining the influence of disability diversity policy implementation on service delivery in Chartered Universities in Kenya. The study was guided by the Social Identity theory, self-categorization and SERVQUAL model. Descriptive survey research design was adopted. The target population comprised eight Chartered universities in Kenya (both private and public) which were purposively selected; comprising 15,545 administrative staff and full-time lecturers. A sample size of 390 was drawn using the Yamane (1967) formula. Data was collected using questionnaires. Both validity and reliability of the research instruments were ensured. Inferential and descriptive statistics were adopted in the analysis. The findings of the study indicated that universities have a strong affirmative action policy for persons with disability. The study concluded that disability policy implementation established a positive and statistically significant effect on service delivery among chartered universities in Kenya. It recommends university management to collaborate with organizations dedicated to persons with disabilities, and to utilize accessible recruitment channels such as sharing job opportunities in braille, so as to attract individuals with disabilities. Furthermore, universities ought to enhance the accessibility of their premises by expanding the provision of assistive and supportive devices. The findings have implications to human resource practitioners in universities in enhancing quality service delivery by implementation of diversity policies.
Injection Safety Practices among Nurses in Kenyan Public Hospitals.
Authors: Chemoiwa R. , Tenambergen W. 
Published: February 2025

One of the priority areas identified by the World Health Organization in the service delivery building block is patient safety and quality of care. This is achieved by having systems and procedures that improve safety. Being a major area of intervention in the delivery of health services, the safety of injections has been identified and prioritized and as a result, a lot of resources have been invested in support of this priority. The study aimed at investigating the safety practices of nursing staff during preparation and administration of medications via injections. The study employed a cross sectional study design. The process of injection preparation and administration was observed using checklists for 355 patients proportionately sampled from 12 sites within the Rift Valley Provincial Hospital. The results showed that Nurses in medical wards were less likely to wash their hands 125 (35.2%) during injection procedures as compared to those in the surgical units 82 (23.1%). Approximately, 159(44.8%) of nurses involved reuse of injection devices during preparation of medication. Of drugs preparation, observations showed that 142 (40%) were prepared at the patient bedside. Among the patients, more than half, 218 (62.2%) received their medication after the prescribed time. There was a strong association between the number of hours a nurse had worked and the use of sterile needle and syringe to reconstitute medication was significant p=0.000.The number of patients admitted on the study sites had a significant effect on nurses’ hand washing behavior (p=0.000), preparation of injections in a clean environment (p=0.000) and the reuse of injection devices during administration of medication (p =0.000). The hospital should ensure adequate supply of injection devices and place emphasize on infection prevention to minimize reuse. Public sensitization and surveillance system for registering and reporting of unsafe injection practices to patients in hospitals should be established.
Risk Factors of Potentially Blinding Trachoma in Loodokilani Ward, Kajiado County, Kenya
Authors: Parsimei Ruth , Oirere B.O. N , M’mayi Consolata 
Published: February 2025

Trachoma is a neglected tropical disease, that is most prevalent in the nomadic communities greatly associated with poverty. This study sought to determine the ascendancy of potentially blinding trachoma and its prospect among adults aged 18-60 years in Loodokilani ward, Kajiado County. This research was a graphic transverse study. Multistage sampling technique was used where every location represented one unit. The initial stage used the random sampling which was used for listing of households in the study area. The second stage involved going through the listed households to identify patients. A total of 155 male and 267 female adults residing in the area of study were sampled. The comprehensive occurrence of potentially blinding trachoma was established as 44.5%. Sorted by age and location, it was noted that age was statistically vital (p <0.05) to potentially blinding trachoma. Geographical locations were also significant (p<0.05) to potentially blinding trachoma. However, gender of patients was not scientifically reliable (p>0.05) to location. Majority of the respondents did not own or utilize toilets; hence, a clear indication of open defecation especially at night that led to increased number of vector-musca sorbent flies responsible for chlamydia trachomatis bacteria which causes infection. Previous studies indicate that Kajiado West subcounty recorded the least average of 11.6% on water accessibility as compared to the county`s average of 62.3%. Due to the scarcity of water there was limited practice of hand and face washing. It was noted that all facial cleanliness and environmental hygiene indicators were statistically significant (p<0.05) to prevalence of potentially blinding trachoma, apart from presence of impermeable floored toilets and presence of eye seeking flies. Consistent community sensitizations on regular facial and environmental hygiene to achieve a trachoma free environment was recommended. Mass drug administration should continue annually until the prevalence drops below 5%.
Gaps in Examination Records Management Procedures: The Reasons for Missing Marks Syndrome in Universities in Kenya
Authors: Kiprono Samuel Serem , Gichuhi Zipporah W. 
Published: February 2025

Universities are institutions of higher education which confer undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in a variety of subjects. There is need for greater care in the management of examination records at every stage of the university student’s life cycle so as to avoid the pain of students failing to graduate on time. This study was conceived with the purpose of establishing if examination records management procedures could be the cause of missing examination marks in universities in Meru and Nyeri counties in Kenya. The objective in this paper is to demonstrate the relationship between missing marks and examination records management procedures in universities. Descriptive survey research design was used in the study. Target population of 482 full time lecturers and school examination coordinators with sample size of 214 respondents, and whose response rate was 128(60%) was used. Structured questionnaires were used to collect data. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics. The findings revealed that the selected universities had documented examination records management procedures that were updated after every five years; unfortunately, the enforcement of the procedure was lacking. The study concludes that the main cause of missing marks in the universities was lack of central enforcement of examination procedures. The study recommends the training of all lecturers and examination coordinators on basic records management to ensure adherence to examination procedures to check cases of missing marks and scripts.
Effects of Different Levels of Fertilizer Combinations on Quality and Yield of Rhodes Grass Cultivars in Meru County, Kenya
Authors: Rotich Christopher , Mugambi Mworia , Ncene William 
Published: February 2025

Production of forage plays an important role in development of livestock production systems. However, high quality and quantity of forage production is challenging to most livestock keepers due to inadequate knowledge on the effective fertilizer application and combinations for optimal production of improved grasses. The objective of this research was to determine the effect of different fertilizer combinations on yield and quality of two varieties of Rhodes grass. The treatments were; 0 Kg CAN/ha + 0 tons farmyard manure/ha, 75 kg CAN/ha + 5 tons farmyard manure/ha, 100 kg CAN/ha + 10 tons farmyard manure/ha, 125 kg CAN/ha + 15 tons farmyard manure/ha (L1, L2, L3 and L4) with two Rhodes grass varieties (Bhoma Rhodes and Katambora Rhodes grass). A randomized complete block design was used for establishment with three blocks of 2x1m separated by 1.0m pathway. Each block was subdivided into twelve subplots of 1x1m alienated by 0.5m pathways resulting into 36 plots. The data was collected on agronomic and qualitative parameters such as plant height and percentage dry matter. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was conducted to determine any significant differences between treatment means at (P<0.05). Significant means were separated using Least Significant Difference (LSD) at 5% significant level. There was significant effect (P <0.05) after applying different rates of both CAN fertilizers and farm yard manure on the agronomic and qualitative parameters of Rhodes grass varieties except for metabolizable energy and percentage invitro dry matter digestibility. The study concluded that increase in plant attributes was achieved by application of 125 kg CAN/ha + 15 tons farmyard manure/ha and Bhoma Rhodes grass variety responded better in all treatments than Katambora Rhodes grass variety.
Can the use of marlin fish by-product meal affect the performances of broiler chickens and the economic value of production?
Authors: Zulfan Zulfan , Allaily Allaily , Armya Yaser , Fitri Cut Aida Fitri , Jeksi Sri , Primasari Rizka , KN Afriyandi 
Published: February 2025

Exploring fish cutting discards, for instance, marlin fish (Makaira indica) originated from traditional fish markets, may provide a product of fish meal at a cheaper price. The objective of this study was to evaluate the growth and economic value of broiler chickens fed the commercial diet, of which 20% were substituted with a mixture feed containing marlin fish by-product meal (MFM) or commercial local fish meal (CFM) in 4 and 8% of inclusion. This study used 100 broiler chickens of strain MB202 in mixed batches. The study was performed in a completely randomized design consisting of five treatments, four replications, and five birds per experimental unit with the treatments: control (C) = 100% commercial diet (CD); CFM4 = 80% CD + 20% mixture feed with 4% CFM; CFM8 = 80% CD + 20% mixture feed with 8% CFM; MFM4 = 80% CD + 20% mixture feed with 4% MFM; and MFM8 = 80% CD + 20% mixture feed with 8% MFM. The results of this study showed that raising broilers fed the diet containing 4% MFM vs. 4% CFM for up to 35 days-old did not show the significant differences (p > 0.05) of all performance parameters. However, at the level of 8%, final body weight and daily body weight gain were significantly higher (p < 0.05) and feed conversion ratio was significantly better (p < 0.05) in MFM than in CFM-based diets. Protein efficiency ratio was very significantly higher (p < 0.01) in MFM than in CFM-based diets. Using MFM in broiler diet declined feed cost and increased income over feed costs, with the best economic receiving at 8% usage of MFM. In conclusion, using MFM in the diet resulted in better performances of broiler chickens and generated better economic value of production compared to using CFM.
Factors Influencing the Low Enrolment of King Abdulaziz University Engineering Students in Nuclear Engineering: Fears and Assurances
Authors: Oraby. K. K. , Mahmoud S. S. , Al-Enezi N. A. 
Published: February 2025

The continuous increase in Co2 emissions in the atmosphere calls for instant response to find better alternatives for fossil fuels. Nuclear energy as carbon free energy might be one of the best alternatives. Unfortunately, some of King Abdelaziz University (KAU) students are unwilling to join nuclear engineering for different reasons. Aim: This study is of great importance as it is meant to motivate KAU students to enroll in nuclear engineering NE as the most promising field. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is heading towards decarbonated industry and signed global agreements with this regard. Sample: The sample of the study was prep. year engineering students at King Abdulaziz university in 2024/25. Methodology: To conduct this study, the researchers used quantitative and qualitative research procedures. They designed a questionnaire to inform students about the importance of NE and to investigate the reasons behind students’ reluctance to join NE; in addition to finding ways to motivate and convince KAU students that NE is one of the best choices currently. In order to know the reasons for students’ reluctance from the instructors’ perspective, the researchers interviewed three PhD holders in NE from the NE department at KAU. Results: The findings of the study detected lack of awareness among the students with regard to the importance of NE. This was apparent in the bar charts where “I don’t know” bars are almost similar to “Agree”. It was also clear that students still have the traditional image that nuclear power is only associated with devastation and those who deal with this field will end up either handicapped or having permanent disability. Conclusion: The study recommended that schools, universities, and other related institutions should spread the awareness that nuclear energy is safe to deal with, job promising, and it is the future for low or zero emissions.
Organo-somatic Index and Condition Factor of Clarias gariepinus (Burchell, 1822) Sub-adult Exposed to Sub-lethal Concentrations of Gold Crew Oil Spill Dispersant
Authors: O. T. Lazarus, , D Amachree, , A Green, , C Wala, 
Published: February 2025

Organosomatic index and condition factor of fish is one way to assess the general health of fish and monitor the influence of environmental factors on fish. The organosomatic index and condition factor of Clarias gariepinus exposed to sub-lethal concentration (0.0ml/L (control), 0.075ml/l, 0.15ml/L, 0.3ml/L and 0.6ml/L) of gold crew oil spill dispersant was conducted over a two-week period. Ten fish (three replicates) were kept in a static renewal state for two weeks in a row and the liver, spleen, heart, gonad and viscera were excised on a weekly basis and weighed using a digital weighing scale, before the excision of the organs the fishes were first weighed and the length taken in cm. Physical and chemical parameters of the test medium was also conducted in-situ using a multi-parameter checker (Extech DO 700).Results for physicochemical variables revealed values for; temperature; week 1; 28.30°C (0.15ml/L ) - 27.20°C(0.0ml/L), week 2; 26.00°C (0.0ml/L,0.075ml/ and 0.3ml/L) -25.67°C (0.15ml/L and 0.6ml/L) , pH; week 1 ; 4.82(0.15ml/L) -4.06 (0.0ml/L), week 2: 7.38 (0.0ml/L) -5.94 (0.6ml/L), DO; week 1: 6.12mg/l(0.0ml/L) -5.00mg/l (0.15ml/L, 0.3ml/L and 0.6ml/L), week 2: 6.01mg/l (0.0ml/L) – 4.93mg/l (0.3ml/L), TDS: week 1 89.00mg/l(0.6ml/L)-154.00mg/l(0.3ml/L), EC: week 1: 188.33 µs/cm (0.6ml/L) - 166.33 µs/cm (0.0ml/L), week 2: 357.67 µs/cm (0.0ml/L) - 238.67 µs/cm (0.075ml/L). Results for organosomatic index revealed values for; HSI; week 1; 0.41 (0.0ml/L) - 2.52 (0.15ml/L), week 2; 0.93(0.075ml/l) – 1.52 (0.6ml/L); GSI; week 1; 1.58 (0.6ml/L) – 3.83 (0.15ml/L), week 2; 1.11 (0.0ml/L) – 4.66 (0.6ml/L), VSI; week 1; 2.91(0.6ml/L) – 3.70(0.15ml/L), week 2; 1.50 (0.0ml/L) – 4.33(0.6ml/L), SSI; week 1; 0.11(0.0ml/L) – 0.24 (0.15ml/L), week 2; 0.06(0.15ml/L) – 0.15(0.3ml/L), CSI; 0.07(0.3ml/L) – 0.16(0.075ml/L and 0.15ml/L), week 2; 0.11(0.0ml/L) – 0.19(0.6ml/L). Condition factor values revealed results for; week 1; 0.57(0.15ml/L) – 1.00(0.0ml/L), week 2; 0.71 (0.3ml/L) – 1.05 (0.075ml/L) depicting poor physiological condition for fishes in the treatment group. There is therefore urgent need for public awareness campaigns to educate communities about the risks associated with the dispersant use and the importance of minimizing their environmental footprint.
A Review on the Role of Probiotics in Aquaculture Production and their Future in Tropical Environments
Authors: Kolndadacha Oscar Dahenji , Omeje Victor Okonkwo , Clement Orgem , Lawrence Ude, Terlumun 
Published: February 2025

This review explores the potential of probiotics in enhancing fish production in tropical environments, characterized by high temperatures, humidity, and year-round precipitation, which covers about 36% of the world's land, where fish production activities as a global enterprise are fully based. Aquaculture is commonly referred to as fish farming because fish farming is the principal form of aquaculture which implies some sort of intervention in the rearing process to enhance production processes such as regular stocking, feeding, and protection from diseases and predators. The value or contribution of aquaculture to the globe cannot be over-emphasized in terms of the provision of animal protein, propagation of the desired species of fish, Aquaculture, the method of fish farming, plays a crucial role in providing animal protein, essential fatty acids (omega-3 and omega-6), and other health benefits while supporting global food security. This review revealed that one of the most significant technologies that evolved in response to successful aquaculture production and disease control problems is the use of beneficial bacteria (probiotics) which have been considered a valid alternative to prophylactic use of antibiotics with fast growth promotion of the aquatic animals. Effects of probiotics on the environmental temperature, immune modulations of aquatic animals, production, and reproductive performances such as good hatchability and survivability in fish production including Catfish (Heterobranchus dorsals), Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus), Carp (Cyprinus carpio) production and Stress tolerance responses to environmental factors have been reviewed. This work highlighted the extent of success and contribution of probiotics in the tropical environment.
Trends in Viral Load Suppression among Adults on ART: A Five-Year Retrospective Study in North-central Nigeria
Authors: Bem Tar , Nnaemeka Nwagbo Ambrose , Kelechi Ngwoke , Chukwudimma Okwudili Chiedu 
Published: February 2025

Aim: The aim of this study was to determine the trends in viral load suppression among adults on ART: a five-year retrospective study in North central Nigeria, since Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) has claimed the lives of many people globally and impacted negatively on the health care system especially in Nigeria. The viral load detection on HIV patient is a good standard for checking compliance and effectiveness of antiretroviral drugs.
Purpose of the Study: The main purpose of this study was to determine the viral load suppression, clinical characteristics and factors associated with viral load suppression.
Study Design: A retrospective cross-sectional study
Place and Duration of the Study: The study was carried out at Federal Medical Centre, Makurdi, Benue State, North Central-Nigeria from January 2020 to December 2024.
Methodology: Data was collected based on Secondary data abstraction on all HIV positive patients attending clinic at sexually transmitted infectious clinic at Federal Medical centre Makurdi, North Centre Nigeria. A total of 9727 HIV positive patients were retrieved and information on sociodemographic charactereristics, viral loads, clinical characteristics, duration of antiretroviral therapy, first CD4 counts and associated factors that favored viral load suppression were obtained and recorded. The data were analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Science (SPSS) Version 23.
Results: The results showed that age of patients ranges from 18years to above 65 years. The mean years was 46.69 + 10.89 years. However, the age ranges between 38-47years had the highest frequency of viral load suppression (38.7%). Also based on sex, female had better viral load suppression when compared to their male counterparts (70.8%). On educational qualification patients with secondary educational qualifications had better viral load suppression when compared to the other levels of educational qualifications (38.7%). Also, patients with first line regimen had their better viral load suppression when compared to those on second line (93.4%). Two thirds of the patients on antiretroviral therapy for at least ten years and above had more viral load suppression when compared to those less than ten years on ART (65%). About half of the patients who had first CD4 count <500 copies/ml, had better viral load suppression compared to those who had first CD4 count >500 copies/ml (52.5%). The highest prevalence of viral load suppression (100%) was seen in those patients aged 78 years and above, and was statistically significant (p<0.001). The female patients had higher prevalence (97.3%) of viral load suppression when compared to their male counterparts who had viral load suppression of 95.7%, which was statistically significant (p<0.001).
Conclusion: The age, sex, first line regimen and duration on ART were identified as independent predictors of viral load suppression.