Digital Commons Network^™

Affordability And Usability Of Digital Learning Resources In Higher Education: A Case Of Online Mathematics Tutorials For Engineering Students At The University Of Dar Es Salaam, Fatuma S. Ikuja, Idrissa S. Amour, Abdi T. Abdalla

Tanzania Journal of Engineering and Technology (TJET)

Effective learning requires engagements with both learning contents and instructor’s personalized support. Large class sizes often limit opportunities for personalized instruction and timely feedback. Digital resources offer a viable solution to enhanced engagement and independent learning. This study investigated the affordability and usability of online digital learning resources for mathematics tutorials, specifically targeting engineering students at the University of Dar es Salaam. A quasi-experimental research design was adopted, focusing on digitization of undergraduate course: Matrices and Basic Calculus for Non-Majors (MT161). The course was delivered through the Moodle Learning Management System integrating STACK to support Mathematics questions. Data was collected …

Denoising Low Dose Ct Images Using Enhanced Autoencoder Deep Learning Model: A Phantom Study, Ali O. Masoud, Khamis O. Amour, Ahmed M. Jusabani, Adithya Rajnaryanan, Manoj Kumar, Yasir M. Haji, Mwingereza J. Kumwenda

Tanzania Journal of Engineering and Technology (TJET)

Reducing radiation dose in Computed Tomography (CT) inherently leads to increased image noise, which can compromise clinical interpretation. To address this limitation in Low Dose CT images (LDCT), numerous computational techniques particularly convolutional neural networks (CNN) have been explored for CT image enhancement. Various CNN architectures with different convolutional layer designs have been developed to improve image quality. This study evaluates the effectiveness of a developed CNN-based autoencoder for denoising LDCT images while preserving diagnostic integrity. An end-to-end CNN autoencoder with information bottleneck (IB) pipeline was designed and trained using CT phantom images with varying noise levels, aiming to suppress …

Space Vectors Discretization-Based Direct Torque Control Scheme For High Performance Induction Motor Drives, Francisco Balenga, Francis Mwasilu

Tanzania Journal of Engineering and Technology (TJET)

In this paper, a direct torque controller (DTC) based on discretization of space vectors (DSV-DTC) for induction motor drives is proposed. By using this technique, the number of voltage vectors is increased, consequently it reduces the torque ripple compared to the conventional DTC control scheme. Specifically, the switching table of the proposed DSV-DTC scheme is comprised of thirty-six nonzero voltage vectors compared to the six voltage vectors in the conventional DTC scheme. Furthermore, it makes use of a five – level torque hysteresis comparator instead of three-level of the conventional DTC. The performance of the proposed control scheme is validated …

Dynamic-Based Assessment Of Shear Connectors In Composite Bridges With Data Taken From The Surface Of The Deck Slab, Emmanuel S. Leo

Tanzania Journal of Engineering and Technology (TJET)

Most bridge management systems generally rely on visual inspections for condition assessment; this means that damage in inaccessible parts of the structure, such as shear connectors in concrete composite bridges, can remain undetected until failure occurs. Localised non-destructive techniques are limited to small areas, time-consuming, and require prior knowledge of the damaged zone. These limitations can be overcome by using dynamic-based techniques. This study aims to investigate experimentally the efficiency of dynamic-based techniques in assessing the condition of shear connectors based on measurements taken from the surface of the deck slab. The study involved the construction of five composite beam …

Lean Manufacturing Implementation Barriers For Micro, Small And Medium Industries In Tanzania: Fuzzy Analytical Hierarchy Process, Juma M. Matindana, Francis D. Sinkamba, Mussa I. Mgwatu

Tanzania Journal of Engineering and Technology (TJET)

With rising global competition, manufacturing industries are adopting Lean Manufacturing (LM) to stay competitive. However, LM implementation in Africa, especially among micro, small, and medium industries (MSMIs), remains low, with research estimates at just 1%. This study examines the barriers to LM implementation in Tanzanian MSMIs. Data were collected from 243 respondents using survey research and purposive sampling. Descriptive and inferential statistics using SPSS version 27.0.1, along with the Fuzzy Analytical Hierarchy Process (FAHP), were used for analysis. The top five LM barriers for micro industries are lack of training on LM tools, poor understanding of lean philosophy, high investment …

Estimation Of Crop Water Requirements And Irrigation Demand For Maize And Rice In Morogoro, Tanzania Using The Cropwat 8.0 Model, Regina Pasiani, Johnson Mangesho, Paul Ts Limbu

Tanzania Journal of Engineering and Technology (TJET)

This study assessed the crop water requirements (CWR) and irrigation demands of maize and rice in Mvomero District, Morogoro Region in Tanzania, under varying seasonal rainfall and soil conditions. Using the CROPWAT 8.0 model, agrometeorological parameters such as temperature, rainfall, evapotranspiration, and effective rainfall were integrated with crop-specific characteristics and soil properties to simulate irrigation demands and quantify water needs across different crop phenological stages. The analysis employed decadal climatic data and crop coefficients (K_c) to simulate both the net and gross irrigation requirements. The findings revealed that maize, cultivated predominantly on red loamy soils, had a seasonal …

Impacts Of Climate Variability On Hydrological Response And Water Resources: Case Of Little Ruaha Catchment -Tanzania Using Ground And Chirps Data, Florence H. Mahay, Patrick C. Valimba, Madaka H. Tumbo, Fides J. Izdori, Leonard Maketa

Tanzania Journal of Engineering and Technology (TJET)

The Little Ruaha River catchment in Tanzania is increasingly affected by climate variability, with implications for agriculture, hydropower, and water supply. This study evaluates the effects of climate variability on rainfall and streamflow and assesses the usefulness of satellite-based rainfall data for hydrological modeling. Thirty-year records (1991–2020) of rain gauge and river flow data were analyzed using the Mann–Kendall test, and the HBV rainfall–runoff model was run with both gauge and CHIRPS satellite rainfall inputs. Annual rainfall exhibited no significant trends at most stations (p > 0.05), except for a notable decline at one eastern site. Seasonal rainfall and streamflow showed …

Numerical Simulation Of Corner Reinforced Concrete Column-Beam Joint With Differential Concrete Grades And Steel Fibres Under Monotonic Loading, Daudi S. Augustino, Emmanuel Safari Leo

Tanzania Journal of Engineering and Technology (TJET)

Structural elements are composed of joints that are essential for force transfer. In particular, for concrete structures, the column-beam joint is an integral section that requires insight due to the traditional use of different concrete grades, forming a strong-column-weak-beam (SCWB) system. A numerical model of the joint was developed in Abaqus to explore the axial load performance and damage tolerance of corner column-beam joints with different concrete grades under monotonic static loading. A concrete-damaged plasticity model (CDPM) was used to model the damage behaviour of concrete, utilising the available strain-stress models in literature and EuroCode 2. Results show that concrete …

Cost Of Safety: Evidence From Building Construction Projects In Tanzania, Juma M. Matindana, Kamugisha J. Kajumulo, Fatma K. Mohamed

Tanzania Journal of Engineering and Technology (TJET)

Cost of safety is a condition where a project determines the magnitude to which its resources are used for activities that prevent poor safety outcomes, that appraise the safety quality of the project services, and that result from safety failures. Reducing the cost of safety remains a major challenge in Tanzania's construction industry and reflects trends in many developing countries. A positive safety environment in which projects reduce costs associated with safety performance is critical to project success. This study investigates the cost of safety of building construction projects in Tanzania. The questionnaire was distributed to 255 contractor companies managing …

In-Depth Review Of Animal Anatomy In Veterinary Medicine, Fatima Ayad Hasan, Sarah Kamal Naser

Al-Bahir

This review explores the significance of animal anatomy across different fields, emphasizing both microscopic and macroscopic structures. The text covers teaching methods in veterinary medicine, with a focus on diagnostics and surgery. It also delves into various anatomical and moral issues, alongside contemporary teaching approaches. The importance of anatomy in both biological and clinical contexts continues to be central in advancing veterinary education, even with the presence of various digital tools and cutting-edge imaging technologies.

Health Implications Of Heavy Metal Contamination In Commercially Available Deodorant And Antiperspirant Products Sold In Benghazi, Libya, Maysson Yaghi, Khaled Elsherif

Al-Bahir

The extensive usage of deodorants and antiperspirants raises concerns about the potential health risks posed by heavy metal content. This study quantified the levels of five heavy metals: Aluminum, Zirconium, Lead, Cadmium, and Chromium in 22 commercial products widely used in Benghazi, Libya, and assessed the associated health risks. Samples, categorized into gel, stick, and roll-on formulations, were analyzed using iCAP TQ ICP-MS. Al and Zr showed the widest concentration ranges, reflecting their intentional use as active ingredients. Al levels ranged from trace amounts (0.032 mg/kg) up to a maximum of 99.10 mg/kg, while Zr was found exclusively in gel …

Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy In A 55-Year-Old Female With Atypical Chest Pain And A History Of Autoimmune Disease, Carrie Greene, Dana Mathew

Florida Journal of Emergency Medicine (FJEM)

A 55-year-old woman with rheumatoid arthritis and supraventricular tachycardia presented with acute chest pain radiating to the back/left shoulder, with nausea and lightheadedness. Initial ECG showed inferior–lateral ST-segment elevation with reciprocal depressions; within 90 minutes the STE resolved with new incomplete RBBB and diffuse low voltage. High-sensitivity troponin rose (delta ~270 ng/L). Point-of-care and formal echocardiography revealed LV wall-motion abnormalities. Emergent catheterization showed no obstructive CAD (<30% distal OM) with apical ballooning and EF 40–45%, consistent with Takotsubo cardiomyopathy; cardiac MRI confirmed myocardial edema. She was managed with anticoagulation initially, telemetry, and supportive care, and recovered uneventfully with normalization of function on follow-up.

ED Takeaways

• TTC can mimic STEMI with transient STE and conduction changes.

• Troponin rise + non-obstructive coronaries should prompt consideration of TTC.

• Consider TTC in post-menopausal women and those with autoimmune disease; use …

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Unexpected Companions: Appendicitis And Bilateral Testicular Torsion, Jc Alvarenga, Melissa Kirk, Michelle Osorio-Rodriguez

Florida Journal of Emergency Medicine (FJEM)

Abdominal pain is a frequent chief complaint in the emergency department (ED), responsible for 5% of all visits yearly. Despite emergency room work ups, 25% of these cases go undiagnosed. In the pediatric population, abdominal pain can be even harder to differentiate with causes ranging from low acuity constipation to emergent surgical emergencies like torsion or appendicitis. During these visits, the likelihood of two emergent surgical diagnoses occurring concurrently is a rare and often overlooked occurrence.

This case describes a 15-year-old male with a chief complaint of nausea and vomiting starting several hours prior to arrival. In the ED, history, …

Caring More For Our First-Year, First-Generation And Low-Income Students: Perceptions Of Barriers And Transitional Success, Joshua Burns

Journal of Access, Retention, and Inclusion in Higher Education

First-generation and low-income (FGLI) students often encounter challenges during their transition into higher education, including limited access to institutional knowledge, social networks, and financial resources. While many colleges and universities offer targeted programs to support FGLI populations, not all eligible students enroll in or engage with these initiatives. This qualitative phenomenological study explores the lived experiences of first-year, nonprogrammatic FGLI students who are not actively participating in formal support programs to better understand how they navigate the transition to college. Through in-depth interviews, the study investigated the types of support these students seek independently, the institutional and social barriers they …

Bridging The Gap: Exploring The Impact Of Graduate Preparation Programs On Undergraduate Stem Students, Faika Tahir Jan, Thomas Nelson, Travis Chan, Tremayne O. Waller, Cynthia Hampton, Sherif Abdelhamid

Journal of Access, Retention, and Inclusion in Higher Education

This study explores the impact of the "A Step to the Doctorate" (S2D) program on the academic trajectories of undergraduate STEM students, focusing on how it fosters academic success and prepares participants for graduate education. Drawing on data from pre and post surveys and semi structured interviews of 60 participants, the research addresses two primary questions: (1) Which program components do participants find most impactful? Moreover, (2) How has the program influenced their academic aspirations and preparedness for graduate school? The findings highlight that mentorship, peer networking, and targeted workshops are key in boosting academic self-efficacy and enhancing participants’ confidence …

The Success Equation: Scaling The Pivot Framework For Stem & Healthcare Student Success, Ryan Clark, Jarrod Lockhart

Journal of Access, Retention, and Inclusion in Higher Education

Student success in STEM and healthcare increasingly depends on intentional design of equitable, scalable pathways that integrate structured programming, immersive experiential learning, and modern workforce-aligned upskilling. This manuscript introduces the PIVOT Framework— Pathways, Innovation, Vision, Opportunity, and Transformation—as a comprehensive, evidencedriven model for reimagining student success strategies in STEM and healthcare education. The framework emphasizes early engagement, longitudinal support, and competency-based preparation, ensuring students develop the skills and professional identities necessary for success. Drawing from a range of high-impact practices—including paid internships, research-based learning experiences, mentoring structures, digital skills integration, and stackable credentialing—the manuscript demonstrates how coordinated institutional strategies improve …

Foreword, Orikideh Mohajeri

Journal of Access, Retention, and Inclusion in Higher Education

No abstract provided.

Point Of Care Ultrasound For Rapid Identification Of Central Retinal Artery Occlusion And Subsequent Vision Rescue Utilizing Intravenous Alteplase, Joseph Pepe, Karl Kasischke, Calen Hart

Florida Journal of Emergency Medicine (FJEM)

Central retinal artery occlusion (CRAO) is a rare but critical diagnosis to make in patients with acute vision loss. Cases of central retinal artery occlusion historically have a poor prognosis due to delayed presentation, lack of early identification, and limited effective treatment options. Due to these challenges, patients are often left with permanent loss of vision.

We present a case of a male patient in his late 70s with sudden onset of loss of vision to the right eye. Identification of CRAO was made utilizing point of care ultrasound (POCUS). After discussion with neurology, the patient was treated with alteplase …

Development Of An Artificial Intelligence Web Based System For Classification Of Tomatoes Disease, Joshua Sokowonci Mommoh, Etinosa Noma-Osaghe, Vera Nimo Timai, Odike Arnold Uchechi, Solomon Obhenbhen Ibharunujele, Blessing Godday

Mansoura Engineering Journal

The development of this platform addresses the challenges associated with traditional tomato disease detection methods as well as the challenges of current machine learning and deep learning models in accurately detecting tomato diseases. Conventional methods of tomato disease diagnosis typically rely on expert evaluation but are time-consuming and susceptible to human mistakes. Incorrect diagnoses of certain diseases could lead to poor control measures, resulting in decreased agricultural productivity. In this research, the PlantVillage dataset, comprising 18,160 tomato leaf images distributed across 10 classes, was used to train two machine learning models, namely, Inception-ResNetV2 and Inception V3. The models were configured, …

Metamaterial-Based Microstrip Antenna For Safe Detection Of Tiny Breast Tumors, Shrouk E. El-Sawy, Mohamed G. Abdelfattah, Nihal F.F. Areed, Ahmed Shaban Samra

Mansoura Engineering Journal

This study describes the construction of a compact microstrip patch antenna (MPA) with a triangular-shaped metamaterial layer for the safe detection of tiny breast tumors at 2.4 GHz. The metamaterial considerably improves the antenna's gain and directivity when compared to typical designs that do not include it, resulting in improved detection performance. The radiating patch of proposed antenna measures 29.3 × 38 × 1.6 mm and has been tested through simulations and experimental tests, exhibiting successful tumor identification in a realistic breast phantom. The results of both calculations and testing demonstrate a sensitivity of 6.643 dB/mm, allowing for precise detection …

Experimental Investigation On Thermal And Exergetic Performance Improvement Of A Half-Cylindrical Solar Still Using Pcm And Reflectors, Ahmed Saad Soliman, Ping Cheng, Ahmed A. Sultan, Osama Abdelrehim, Asmaa Khater, Mohamed A. Sultan

Mansoura Engineering Journal

This study explores the potential of enhancing solar still performance by integrating a corrugated absorber with phase change material (PCM) and a reflector. The study aims to improve water yield, extend operation beyond sunset, and boost thermal and exergy efficiencies compared to a conventional flat absorber. Experiments were carried out on flat, corrugated, and corrugated-with-PCM absorbers, both with and without reflectors, to evaluate the effect of each modification. The results show that using a reflector with a flat absorber improved daily productivity by 22%. A corrugated absorber increased accumulated productivity by 38%, and when combined with a reflector, the improvement …

Ultrasound-Guided Needle Aspiration Of A Peritonsillar Abscess In The Emergency Department, Elizabeth Piwowarski, Kenith Dsouza, Taryn Hoffman

Florida Journal of Emergency Medicine (FJEM)

Background

Peritonsillar abscess (PTA) is a relatively common diagnosis to encounter in the emergency department (ED). If untreated, PTA can lead to serious outcomes such as airway compromise, deep space infections and septicemia. Point of care ultrasound (POCUS) can be used by the emergency physician to confirm the suspected diagnosis, evaluate the size and depth of the abscess, and be used as a guide during needle aspiration.

Case

A 26-year-old male presented to the ED with a sore throat and was found to have a peritonsillar abscess on exam, which was confirmed using computerized tomography (CT) imaging. Providers were unable …

Academic Ophthalmology Physician Financial Compensation In The United States: Trends And Distribution By Rank, Sex, Race/Ethnicity, And Geography, Sofia Miguez, Dheeman Futela, Victoria Marks, Jessica Chow, Ajay Malhotra

Journal of Academic Ophthalmology

Background: Despite diversity efforts, under-representation and compensation inequities persist in academic ophthalmology.

Purpose: To investigate the trends and distribution of academic ophthalmology physician financial compensation in the United States and compare them by rank, sex, race/ethnicity of faculty, and geographic location of programs. Methods: This was a cross-sectional, retrospective study of the compensation of full-time ophthalmology faculty with a medical doctorate or equivalent degree at U.S. medical schools from 2017 to 2023. This national study uses data from the AAMC Faculty Salary Report. The main outcome measure was total compensation. Total compensation was analyzed by faculty rank …

Analyzing The Research Publications Of Successful Ophthalmology Residency Matches In 2024: Trends, Impact, And Outcomes, Ethan Abizadeh, Aaron Abizadeh, Aaron Lavi, Eli Berglas, David Musheyev, Hadar K. Shimshon, Julia Glatman, Neekoo Farahmandpour, Matthew A. Wilneff, John J. Laudi

Journal of Academic Ophthalmology

Purpose: To analyze the quantity and quality of research publications of medical students who matched into the top 25 ophthalmology programs in the 2024 cycle and compare these results to previous match cycles.

Methods: This was a retrospective cross-sectional study. Participants included matriculating ophthalmology residents attending the top 25 programs as determined by Doximity. The Doximity Residency Navigator website was used to determine which programs were ranked in the top 25 in the country, and several websites were used to determine which students matched at the top 25 residencies. Once these students were identified, their research publications were …

Evaluating The Diagnostic Accuracy Of Ophthalmology Residents: Balancing Resident Autonomy With Patient Safety, Charles Zhang, Sinan Ersan, Timothy-Paul H. Kung, Yousef Yousef, Margaret M. Deangelis, Andrew L. Reynolds

Journal of Academic Ophthalmology

Background: Ophthalmology residency programs aim to cultivate competent, independent-thinking ophthalmologists. However, achieving a balance between resident autonomy and patient safety presents a difficult challenge.

Purpose: To evaluate the diagnostic accuracy and safety of a resident-driven on-call model, wherein consulting with a senior resident or attending physician is at the discretion of a postgraduate year 2 or 3 resident.

Methods: This was a retrospective study evaluating emergency department ophthalmology consultations at Erie County Medical Center, a level one trauma center in Western New York, between 1 January 2019 and 31 December 2021. Resident diagnoses and critical examination findings …

Teaching Slit Lamp Funduscopy With A Self-Guided E-Learning Module With Model Eye And Validation Of A Self-Assessment Tool, Irene Pak, Isabell Kassaye, Adam Alyafaie, Albert Xu, Neeti Parikh, Madeline Yung

Journal of Academic Ophthalmology

Background: Slit lamp funduscopy is an essential diagnostic tool used by ophthalmologists to visualize the posterior structures of the eye. However, the fast-paced nature of outpatient care in ophthalmology often limits preceptor teaching opportunities for medical students during clerkships. This challenge is exacerbated by the minimal preclinical exposure to ophthalmology and the technical complexity of the slit lamp examination. Therefore, curricular reform is needed to improve medical student competency in ophthalmic examination skills.

Purpose: To develop a self-guided e-learning module to teach medical students slit lamp funduscopy and evaluate a self-assessment tool for slit lamp funduscopy skills.

Methods …

Potential Cost Savings At A Single Tertiary Care Center Through Implementation Of A 340b-Compliant Multiuse Drop Protocol For Cataract Surgery, Carla Baaklini, Sabrina Duong, Jieon Jenny Kim, Samer Hajji, Aaron D. Webel

Journal of Academic Ophthalmology

The University of Missouri Healthcare system is seeking to implement a multiuse drop protocol for cataract surgeries, allowing preoperative eye drop bottles to be utilized for multiple patients rather than being discarded after single use. This presents an opportunity for reducing medical waste and achieving considerable cost savings. A key challenge, however, lies in maintaining compliance with the 340B Drug Pricing Program, which currently limits our ability to fully adopt this practice. We additionally encountered barriers including infection control concerns and staff adaptation to new workflows. We detail the barriers we have encountered thus far and present a potential 340B-compliant …

Evaluating Ergonomics Education In United States Ophthalmology Residency Programs, Simran Ohri, Changseok Lee, R. Rishi Gupta, Alice Y. Zhang

Journal of Academic Ophthalmology

Background: Musculoskeletal disorders are prevalent among ophthalmologists because of occupational risks that include repetitive movements and uncomfortable postures. Teaching proper ergonomic practices early in an ophthalmologist’s career may help avoid outcomes such as chronic pain and early retirement.

Purpose: To investigate the level of formal ergonomics education in U.S. ophthalmology residencies.

Methods: An Association of University Professors of Ophthalmology (AUPO) approved survey was distributed to program directors and coordinators of 113 residency programs via the AUPO email listserv.

Results: The survey had a response rate of 33.6%. Of the 38 programs that responded, only 13 (34.2%) …

Womeninophthalmology: Gender Diversity In Ophthalmology Residency Program Social Media, Aretha Zhu, Jasmine Mahajan, Owais M. Aftab, Tyler P. Steidl, Daniela Yakobashvili, Priya Tailor, Rashika Verma, Catherine Ye, Rose S. Maisner, Miriam Habiel

Journal of Academic Ophthalmology

Purpose: Although women constitute a significant portion of medical students and physicians, representation of women in ophthalmology is relatively low. Residency programs are increasingly using social media to showcase and represent their program culture. The purpose of this retrospective cross-sectional study was to assess representation of gender diversity in social media posts by U.S. ophthalmology residency programs.

Methods: Instagram, Facebook, and TwitterTwitter/X accounts of ophthalmology residency programs accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education were identified. Social media posts from 2019-2021 were analyzed for representation of gender diversity and/or explicit statements regarding gender diversity. Program metrics, including geographic …

Pilot For A Virtual Regional Ophthalmic Health Disparities Journal Club For Pre-Medical And Medical Students: A Three-Year Analysis, Bridget Croniger, Ariane Kaplan, Anjali R. Shah, Chaesik Kim, Rachel Riddle, Tannia M. Rodriguez, Anju Goyal

Journal of Academic Ophthalmology

Background: Social determinants of health influence ophthalmic health outcomes in the United States. Understanding these factors is crucial for current and future physicians, but there is no standardized curriculum to teach learners about this topic.

Purpose: This pilot study evaluated the impact of three virtual regional ophthalmic health disparities journal clubs on pre-medical and medical students’ understanding of ophthalmic health disparities, interest in ophthalmology, and comfort in appraising medical literature.

Methods: Three annual virtual journal clubs were held in 2022, 2023, and 2024. Each session featured a different peer-reviewed published article related to ophthalmic health disparities as well …