Digital Commons Network^™

Biosensor Development In East Africa: A Systematic Review Of Technologies, Applications, Challenges, And Future Directions, Ally Mahadhy

Tanzania Journal of Science

Biosensors integrate biological recognition elements with signal transduction systems to generate quantitative or semi-quantitative analytical information and have applications across healthcare, food safety, agriculture, environmental monitoring, and wildlife health. Despite substantial global advances, biosensor development in East Africa remains poorly characterized. This systematic review, conducted according to PRISMA 2020 guidelines, evaluated published evidence from 1995 to 2025 within a predefined East African Community geographical scope. Eligibility was based on IUPAC-aligned operational criteria requiring an integrated biological recognition element, transduction mechanism, and quantitative or semi-quantitative signal output. Three locally developed biosensors met the criteria: an electrochemical nano-biosensor for schistosomiasis diagnosis in …

Scombrotoxin Poisoning In Marine Fish From Unguja Island, Zanzibar: Risks And Public Health Concerns, Khamis O. Haji, Prosper L. Mfilinge, Mwita J. Chacha

Tanzania Journal of Science

Histamine is the primary cause of Scombrotoxin Fish Poisoning (SFP) worldwide and poses health risks to populations dependent on fish and fish products. This study investigated histamine levels, awareness of SFP among health-care personnel and consumers, and fish preservation practices in Zanzibar. Three species, Auxis thazard, Sardinella gibbosa, and Lethrinus mahsena, were sampled on board (at sea during fishing), at landing sites, and in markets in Malindi and Chwaka. Histamine concentrations were measured using an amperometric enzymatic biosensor (BIOFISH-300 HIS, Biolan). Additionally, 270 consumers and 72 health-care personnel were surveyed using structured questionnaires, while post- harvest handling and preservation practices …

Modelling Acute Haemorrhagic Conjunctivitis In East Africa: An Integrated Approach To Transmission Dynamics And Outbreak Response Strategies, Geofrey Wingi Sikazwe

Tanzania Journal of Science

Acute hemorrhagic conjunctivitis (AHC) poses a significant global health risk, with the potential for rapid spread during outbreaks. For instance, a localized outbreak in Yunnan Province, China, recorded infection rates of up to 48%, illustrating how transmission can intensify under favourable epidemiological and environmental conditions. Existing mathematical models of AHC transmission overlook seasonal variations, a critical factor in epidemic spread. This study combines species distribution models (SDMs) and epidemiological modelling to analyse key drivers of AHC in East Africa. We use the SEIR type (Susceptible-Exposed-Infected-Recovered - incorporating waning immunity) framework with temperature-dependent infectivity rate as the key driver of an …

Plasmodium Falciparum Parasite Density And Its Association With Malaria Rapid Diagnostic Test Positivity Among School-Aged Children Across Diverse Malaria Transmission Settings In Mainland Tanzania, Felista Mwingira

Tanzania Journal of Science

Malaria rapid diagnostic tests (mRDTs) are widely used for malaria diagnosis and surveillance; however, their performance is influenced by parasite density. This study assessed the relationship between parasite density and mRDT positivity among school-aged children (SAC) across diverse malaria transmission settings in mainland Tanzania. Data were obtained from 17,131 school-aged children participating in a nationwide malaria survey. Malaria infection was assessed using mRDT and quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) targeting the Plasmodium falciparum lactate dehydrogenase (PfLDH) gene. Parasite density distributions were examined across demographic, environmental, and epidemiological characteristics. Malaria prevalence was 19.5% by malaria rapid diagnostic test (mRDT) and 19.2% …

Leadership And Integrated Governance: New Recipe To Transforming Institutional Capacity For Sustainable Village-Owned Enterprises (Bum Desa), Amni Zarkasyi Rahman, Satria Aji Imawan, Prihantoro Prihantoro, Dyah Lituhayu, Ika Riswanti Putranti

BISNIS & BIROKRASI: Jurnal Ilmu Administrasi dan Organisasi

This study aims to investigate the interaction between integrated leadership and governance in strengthening the institutional capacity and resilience of Village-Owned Enterprises (BUM Desa). It addresses the academic gap where leadership and governance are rarely explored as an integrated framework for rural economic transformation. Using a qualitative case study approach, the research compares two contrasting models: BUM Desa Tirta Mandiri, which utilizes a hierarchical governance structure, and BUM Desa Puspa Jagad, which employs an egalitarian, community-based approach. Data were gathered through in-depth interviews with key stakeholders and a comprehensive analysis of internal policy documents. The results reveal that integrated governance …

Health And Aging Societies In Asia – Are We Ready For The Silver Tsunami?, Mark Stephan Felix

Asia-Pacific Social Science Review

No abstract provided.

Is Knowledge Of Policy Key To Its Implementation?The Legal Approach To Promoting The Rights Tohealth Of The Elderly In The Philippines, Roberto E. Javier Jr., Crisanto Regadio Jr., Antonio P. Contreras, Dennis S. Erasga

Asia-Pacific Social Science Review

The general aim of the study is to seek evidence on the role of knowledge in implementing a health policy on aging. In specific terms, it sought evidence on the actual translation of the law on senior citizens’ access to health benefits and social services. To do so, a combination of policy analysis, archival research, and key informant interviews with local executives of selected respective government units were conducted. Overall findings strongly suggest low compliance with health policy implementation efforts attributable to limited knowledge among local government unit heads of the overarching legal framework relative to other agencies. Validation of …

Social And Physical Realities Of Aging In Northeast India: A Study Of Folk Societies, Kaushalendra Pratap Singh, Kanchan Devi

Asia-Pacific Social Science Review

Population aging in Northeast India has emerged as a significant social concern in the context of rapid socioeconomic transformation and the gradual weakening of traditional family support systems. In the traditional folk societies of Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim, older adults increasingly face challenges related to social isolation, inadequate care support, and limited access to healthcare services. The outmigration of younger generations for employment and education has further reduced family-based caregiving, whereas geographical remoteness and insufficient healthcare infrastructure continue to affect the physical well-being of elderly populations. This study examines the social and physical conditions of elderly people in Arunachal Pradesh …

Resilience In Aging: A Grounded Theory Study On How Older Japanese Adults Navigate Chronic Illness, Dominic Bryan S. San Jose

Asia-Pacific Social Science Review

Japan’s population is one of the world’s oldest. As of 2025, over 29% of its citizens are 65 years old or older. Chronic illnesses like hypertension and diabetes are prevalent among the older population, presenting significant problems for the already stretched healthcare system. However, little is known about how older Japanese citizens actively manage chronic illness. Examining their actual experiences can help us comprehend the resilience of Japan’s elderly population on a deeper level. Using the Glaserian grounded theory approach, this study aimed to develop a theoretical framework that explains how resilience emerges in aging individuals within a Japanese sociocultural …

Exploring The Lived Experiences Of Older Adultswith Osteoarthritis: A Qualitative Study Ofhealthcare And Caregiving Practices In Kishoreganj,Bangladesh, Samiur Rahman Anadi, Arnika Jannat Mou

Asia-Pacific Social Science Review

Many older adults are affected by osteoarthritis (OA), a common condition that causes pain, stiffness, and a loss of mobility. Given the increasing number of older adults in Bangladesh, it is critical to comprehend the unique requirements and challenges faced by older adults with OA, especially in underdeveloped areas with limited access to healthcare. Informal caregivers, typically family members, play a critical role in providing care for older adults with OA. However, they frequently lack support, training, and resources. There is a substantial knowledge gap regarding the complete scope of the needs and difficulties faced by older adults and their …

Digital Companions Or Relational Substitutes? Understanding The Use Of Generative Ai As Storytelling Companion Among Young Adults, Lail Queeny Nurfaizah, Syurawasti Muhiddin Ms

Jurnal Psikologi Sosial

Objectives. This study aims to explore the factors underlying the use of GenAI as a storytelling companion among young adults. Method. A qualitative approach was employed within an interpretivist paradigm, using an open-ended questionnaire as the primary data collection instrument. A total of 412 participants aged 19–33 years were recruited through purposive sampling. Data were analyzed using data-driven thematic analysis following Braun and Clarke's six-phase framework. Results. Two major themes emerged: Driving Factors and Barriers to Continuing Interaction. Each theme comprised four sub-themes organized around cognitive, affective, instrumental, and social dimensions, yielding 26 sub-themes in total. Driving factors were predominantly …

Editorial Note: Navigating Institutional Complexity Across State, Civil, And Market Sectors, Muhammad Ramaditya, Rijal Ramdhani

BISNIS & BIROKRASI: Jurnal Ilmu Administrasi dan Organisasi

No abstract provided.

Cso’S Strategic Approaches For Improvement Of Health Services: A Case Of Ccbrt Hospital Dar Es Salaam Region, Tanzania, Andrew Abia Mushi, Emelda Kivumbi Lwena

BISNIS & BIROKRASI: Jurnal Ilmu Administrasi dan Organisasi

Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) play an increasingly important role in complementing government efforts to improve access to and quality of health services, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. However, limited empirical attention has been given to the strategic approaches through which CSOs contribute to health service improvement in Tanzania. This study explored the strategic approaches employed by the Comprehensive Community Based Rehabilitation in Tanzania (CCBRT) to improve health services in Tanzania. The study adopted a qualitative approach and a descriptive research design. Twenty respondents were purposively and conveniently selected from a study population of 100 participants. Data were collected through …

Transfer Pricing Dispute Resolution: How Feasible Is The Implementation Of Safe Harbors In Indonesia?, Daniel Edgar Hirasma Saragi, Antonius Ragil Kuncoro

BISNIS & BIROKRASI: Jurnal Ilmu Administrasi dan Organisasi

This study aims to explore the feasibility of implementing safe harbors in transfer pricing regulations in Indonesia. Safe harbors are alternative tax policies for taxpayers on specific transactions, which can exempt them from general provisions if meets certain specific regulations set by the tax authority (United Nations, 2017). Using a qualitative methodology, this study explores data from various literature and the results of interviews with experts in the field of transfer pricing. Moreover, this research utilizes interpretative paradigm, inductive approach, and descriptive study. With the help of NVIVO software, the researcher conducted a thematic analysis of the data obtained. This …

The Value Of Information Shared By Indonesian Social Media Influencers Living In Germany, Atika Aisyarahmi Munzir

Jurnal Wacana Politik

This article examines the informational value and influence of Indonesian Social Media Influencers (SMIs) in Germany as informal information intermediaries, highlighting how they disseminate knowledge about living in Germany and shape Indonesians' perceptions of educational and employment opportunities abroad. The study adopts a critical narrative literature review combined with reflexive digital observation of publicly available content produced by Indonesian SMIs residing in Germany. The findings suggest that the informational value of SMI content is shaped by three interrelated dimensions: utility, relatability, and credibility. Indonesian SMIs provide practical information about education, employment, migration, culture, and everyday life in Germany, while their …

The Algorithmic Narcissus: Ai Validation And The Atrophy Of The 'Athletic' Social Self, Ilham Phalosa Reswara, Anggi Mayangsari

Jurnal Psikologi Sosial

Artificial intelligence systems designed around continuous affirmation and minimal friction are becoming increasingly prominent as social and relational partners in everyday life. This article examines how sustained interaction with such frictionless AI systems may reshape the developmental conditions under which social selfhood forms and is maintained. Drawing on Cooley's (1902) looking glass self, Kohut's (1971) concept of optimal frustration, and the developmental literature on social competence, the article argues that frictionless AI may distort the social mirror through which identity forms, remove the manageable frustration that appears necessary for psychological growth, weaken empathic capacity, and erode the social stakes that …

The Future Starts Here: Stay Rounds For Meaningful Nurse Engagement And Job Satisfaction, Shelly L. Brody

International Nursing Research Congress (INRC)

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic posed challenges for the workforce, leading  to high turnover. Leaders worked on engaging employees and creating a culture that encourages retention. The global nursing workforce totals 27.9 million, with about 5.9 million vacancies. "Stay Rounds" is an innovative strategy to improve nursing retention in healthcare institutions, focusing on preventing burnout and turnover by fostering a supportive work environment.

Purpose: The project aims to enhance employee retention and engagement through a comprehensive process that involves conducting Stay Round Interviews with employees, ultimately leading to a reduction and reduction in turnover rates.

Methods: The project was carried out …

Virtual Reality Pedagogy To Improve Clinical Judgment And Work-Readiness: An Integrative Review, Maria Hurd

International Nursing Research Congress (INRC)

Aims: To appraise the literature examining the impact of virtual reality (VR) on the development of clinical judgment and work readiness in undergraduate nursing students.

Background: Preparing nursing students for safe entry into practice remains challenging due to limited clinical placements and increasing expectations for competence. VR simulation provides immersive, repeatable pedagogical experiences that support clinical reasoning and decision-making [1,2]; however, its effectiveness in developing work readiness remains unclear.

Methods: PubMed and CINAHL were searched for studies examining VR-based pedagogical approaches and outcomes related to clinical judgment and work readiness. Of 216 articles identified, 193 were screened after duplicates were …

Adaptasi Dan Validasi Skala Kelekatan Terhadap Kecerdasan Artifisial, Theda Renanita, Julaibib Julaibib, Yohanes Budiarto

Jurnal Psikologi Sosial

Recent years have witnessed renewed interest in how attachment is no longer limited to human figures. Instead, the attachment discourses now also encompass artificial intelligence (AI). Attachment to AI could be caused by a number of factors which could potentially lead to some psychological consequences, hence this new dynamic calls for further in-depth inquiries to understand it better.

To date, no previous study has developed an Indonesian version scale to measure AI attachment that is adequate in terms of its psychometric properties. The primary aim of this study is to demonstrate the adaptation and validation of the attachment to AI …

Pemaknaan Perilaku Phubbing Dalam Interaksi Sosial Pada Generasi Z Dan Generasi Milenial: Sebuah Studi Kasus Berganda, Ikhwanul Ihsan Armalid, Zidan Achmad, Wulan Zaesa Aurellia, Azimatul Mardliyah

Jurnal Psikologi Sosial

The development of digital technology has transformed patterns of social interaction and given rise to the phenomenon of phubbing, which refers to ignoring one’s interlocutor due to smartphone use. This study aims to examine the meaning-making of phubbing behavior among the Millennial Generation and Generation Z in social interactions, focusing on differences in meaning, emotional responses, and ethical judgments. This study employed a qualitative approach with a multi-case study design. Data were collected through in-depth interviews and observations involving seven participants selected using purposive sampling techniques. Data analysis was conducted through verbatim transcription, coding, and thematic analysis using the constant …

Learning, Unlearning And Transformation: Recommendations For A Successful Workplace Integration, Archana Paul

International Nursing Research Congress (INRC)

Background: The process of learning, unlearning, re-learning, and ultimately transformation is a fundamental aspect of personal and professional growth. Internationally Educated Nurses (IENs) bring extensive knowledge, skills, and experience to their practice areas. However, they must undergo a process of change to assimilate, adapt, and practice competently as a nurse. Despite the existence of some studies exploring IENs' transition into their workplace, there is a significant scarcity of focus on their experiences of relinquishing old habits, beliefs, and ideas to acquire new or alternative knowledge and skills, which ultimately facilitate transformation. It is crucial to recognize the significance of this …

Creating And Implementing Multinational Research Collaborations In Nursing, Allison P. Squires

International Nursing Research Congress (INRC)

As a profession, nursing possesses a unique body of knowledge that guides our practice and service delivery. The creation of our knowledge comes from the production of research using the scientific method and involves both creating local knowledge reflective of local practices as well as contributing to the global evidence to inform clinical practice and policy. The COVID 19 pandemic highlighted the need for strengthening research capacity in nursing, especially in countries where it is nascent or a relatively recent phenomenon. Strengthening research capacity in nursing and healthcare more broadly is also a key goal of the World Health Organization's …

Assessing Bse Knowledge And Practice Among Female Undergraduates In Oyo, Nigeria, Esther Oluwatoyin Famutimi, Phoebe O. Ayandokun

International Nursing Research Congress (INRC)

Background: Breast cancer is a major global health burden and the most common malignancy among women in Nigeria. Early detection through Breast Self-Examination (BSE) remains a cost-effective method for reducing mortality, especially in low-resource settings. Despite high awareness levels, many young women lack adequate knowledge and regular practice of BSE. This study, therefore, assessed the knowledge and practice of BSE among female undergraduate students in two tertiary institutions in Oyo State, Nigeria.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional research design was adopted. The study population comprised female undergraduates from Atiba University and Emmanuel Alayande University of Education, Oyo. A multistage sampling technique …

Social Determinants Of Health: Beliefs About Healthcare As A Right Or A Privilege, Dianne Mcadams-Jones

International Nursing Research Congress (INRC)

Nursing education nationwide has integrated Social Determinants of Health (SDoH) into curricula to prepare future healthcare providers to address inequities and improve outcomes. While understanding SDoH is essential for equitable care, nurses’ own beliefs—shaped by personal experiences and environments—can influence practice behaviors and perpetuate disparities (Egede, Walker & Williams, 2024). This qualitative descriptive pilot study explored perceptions of healthcare as a right or privilege, examining how personal beliefs intersect with SDoH and bad science which ultimately impact healthcare outcomes (Bandura, 1971). Using an unstructured survey distributed via email, 110 responses were received, with 64 healthcare professionals and first responders included …

Flexible Scheduling: Pathway To Building Sustainable Nursing Workforce: A New Zealand Context, Adetoun Adebimpe Oyekunle

International Nursing Research Congress (INRC)

Background: Hospital nurses frequently work long and irregular shifts, exposing them to high fatigue and stress that undermine wellbeing and retention. Rigid rosters limit autonomy, erode work-life balance, and contribute to turnover. In New Zealand, the situation is intensified by chronic workforce shortages, an ageing nursing population, and rising reliance on internationally qualified nurses. Flexible scheduling and shift choice, which give nurses greater control over when and how they work, may offer an effective strategy to reduce fatigue,increase job satisfaction, and improve retention.

Aim: To explore how flexible scheduling and shift choice affect fatigue, job satisfaction, and retention among nurses …

Gambaran Generasi Z Yang Kesepian Dalam Penggunaan Chat Ai Sebagai Pemenuhan Kebutuhan “Someone To Talk”, Ikhwanul Ihsan Armalid, Febty Zahra Arsiwi, Qisthi Fathiyyah, Ratri Mayzakky Afra Syahida

Jurnal Psikologi Sosial

This study aims to understand the experiences of Generation Z individuals who experience loneliness in utilizing Chat AI to fulfill their need for someone to talk to within a socio-emotional context. The study employed a qualitative approach using a phenomenological method involving six Generation Z participants aged 18 to 25 who had used Chat AI for emotional sharing or venting. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and analyzed using thematic analysis. The thematic analysis yielded six main themes: the dynamics of Generation Z social interactions, experiences of loneliness in social life, patterns of Chat AI usage, Chat AI as a …

Spectrum, Volume 57, Issue 3, Sacred Heart University

Newspapers (Obelisk & Spectrum)

Highlights include:  CIT Turns 10! -- AI: Tool or Terror? -- When Life Gives You Lemons, Make a Difference -- Dining On Your Own Dime -- SHU Theatre Arts: “The Miss Firecracker Contest” -- Preparing for a Slam-Dunk Season-- Women’s Basketball for THREEEEE

Generative Artificial Intelligence, Academic Integrity And Authentic Assessment Within An Irish University, Louise Nagle, Brigid Crowley, Laura Rafferty, Susan Horgan, Colin O'Brien

Publications

Academics need both an overarching policy on Generative Artificial Intelligence (Gen AI) use in teaching and learning, yet agency in its application across various disciplines. Clarity on the use of the technology for both students and staff is therefore a challenge and characterised by uncertainty given how its application is still unfamiliar. This research examines the organisational context in which Gen AI is being embraced and was conducted by the digital teaching support functions within an Irish university. Students and staff were surveyed (n=1,746) on various aspects of digital use within their education and workplace, including Gen AI. …

Youth Participation In Kediri, Indonesia: An Urban Communication Perspective, Nissa C. Adinia, Budi Guntoro, Roso Witjaksono

JURNAL KOMUNIKASI INDONESIA

This article examines how young people in a mid-sized Indonesian city participate in producing the meaning of urban space, and how far a participatory communication intervention succeeds in opening dialogue with city stakeholders. Urban communication scholarship has developed primarily around metropolitan cities in the Global North, while participatory communication research often assumes that facilitated dialogue leads to empowerment. This article addresses both gaps through a Photovoice study conducted in Kediri, East Java, involving 37 young people from three social typologies: pelajar (students), santri (Islamic boarding school-affiliated youth), and pekerja/wirausaha (young workers and entrepreneurs). Drawing on Lefebvre’s spatial triad and Couldry’s …

Risk Assessment And Distribution Of Haemoparasitism In Indigenous Achai And Crossbred Cattle In Lowland Areas Of Northern Hindukush Mountains, Muhammad Zahid Shah, Maaz Saleem, Zia Ur Rehman Khalil

Journal of Bioresource Management

The current study was conducted in low land area of Northern Hindukush region to explore the prevalence of blood parasites in in indigenous Achai and it’s crossbred with Jersey cattle associated with different risk factors like breed, gender, age, herd size, feeding system and deworming. A total (n= 250) blood samples were collected from different cattle. Giemsa stain was used to assess the presence of blood parasites eggs or ova. Results revealed an overall prevalence of 43.6 % (109/250) in the study area. Crossbred were found more susceptible to heamoparasitism than indigenous Achai cattle (34.0%, P= .008), while female cattle …