Digital Commons Network^™

Advancing Statistical Literacy In Eye Care: A Series For Enhanced Clinical Decision-Making: Part 1: Introduction To Statistical Tools For Eye Care Research, Daniela Oehring, Pedro Miguel Serra

School of Health Professions

Purpose. Advancements in eye and vision care hinge on therigorous application of research and the precise interpretationof clinical data. However, the field of Eye and Vision Research(EVR) frequently encounters research waste attributed tomethodological flaws and improper statistical analyses, un-dermining the validity of studies and inefficiently utilisingsubstantial financial resources. This paper, the first instalmentin the series “Advancing Statistical Literacy in Eye Care: A Se-ries for Enhanced Clinical Decision-Making,” aims to addressthese challenges by enhancing the statistical literacy of eyecare professionals.Material and Methods. Through a comprehensive narrativeliterature review and the generation of simulated clinicaldatasets, this study identifies essential statistical concepts,common pitfalls, and …

Quantitative Risk Assessment In Thermo-Chemical Waste-To-Energy Facilities, Fakhrul R. Ridzwan, Syaza Izyanni Ahmad

Platform: A Journal of Engineering (PAJE)

This study presents a Quantitative Risk Assessment (QRA) of thermo-chemical Waste-to-Energy (WtE) technologies, specifically incineration and gasification, by utilising simulation tools PHAST and SAFETI. Hazard identification, consequence analysis, and risk assessment were conducted to compare the safety profiles of these two technologies and proposed risk reduction strategies for a safer design. Accident scenarios were modelled for Tuas South Incineration and Borregaard Gasification facilities to analyse dispersion and effects of fire and explosion. Hazards indicated that only gasification exclusively involves flammable releases because it reacts as a partial combustion, with carbon monoxide and hydrogen as flammable byproducts. Results revealed that while …

Mathematical Modelling And Analysis For The Co-Infection Of Viral And Bacterial Diseases: A Systematic Review Protocol, Timothy Kiprono Yano, Ebenezer Afrifa-Yamoah, Julia Collins, Ute Mueller, Steven Richardson

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

Introduction Breaking the chain of transmission of an infectious disease pathogen is a major public health priority. The challenges of understanding, describing and predicting the transmission dynamics of infections have led to a wide range of mathematical, statistical and biological research problems. Advances in diagnostic laboratory procedures with the ability to test multiple pathogens simultaneously mean that co-infections are increasingly being detected, yet little is known about the impact of co-infections in shaping the course of an infection, infectivity, and pathogen replication rate. This is particularly true of the apparent synergistic effects of viral and bacterial co-infections, which present the …

Shalom In Social Media Marketing Shalom In Social Media Marketing, Jill R. Risner, Thomas Betts

University Faculty Publications and Creative Works

This paper will examine social media and the ways in which it currently does and does not contribute to shalom through an examination of both the platforms themselves as well as the content shared through them. As Christ’s ambassadors in the world and the primary funders of social media, marketers have power and an obligation to consider social media’s impact on shalom in the world and to use it in ways that contribute to shalom. This paper will provide several recommendations of how marketers can do this including posting content that intentionally contributes to shalom, engaging on platforms that support …

The Radical Oxidation Of Hydroxyacetone: An Insight Into The Reaction Mechanism And Potential Tetraoxide Intermediates, Edward Buck

Master's Theses

This thesis presents the reaction of hydroxyacetone, a common volatile organic compound (VOC), with chlorine radicals in the presence of oxygen. Chapter one explores VOCs and their specific reactions and how tetraoxide intermediates could be formed from them. Chapter two analyses the experimental and computational methods used and the key theoretical concepts behind these methods. Experimental data was collected using multiplexed photoionization mass spectrometry at the Advanced Light Source Chemical Transformations Beamline, Lawrence Berkeley National laboratory. This data is combined with theoretical data using the CBS-QB3 composite method to determine the key reaction intermediates and mechanisms.

The main chapter of …

A Retrospective Analysis Of The Effects Of Pneumonia And Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease On Patient Mortality In Southwest Missouri, Cameron Smith, Monika Ziogaite, Lindsay Doolan-Mattice, Heather Vonhegel, Mariam Akhtar, Nova Beyersdorfer, Kerry Johnson, John Paulson

Student Publications

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a progressive lung disease. In this study, we aimed to explore the effects of COPD and pneumonia on the mortality rates among patients admitted to the Freeman Health System in Southwest Missouri, to provide a better idea of whether there is a correlation between the two and whether the presence of both adds to the mortality rates. Patient data were extracted from electronic medical records, focusing on patients with or without COPD and pneumonia diagnoses. Analyses revealed a statistical difference, with a p-value of <0.0001, in mortality rates between COPD patients with (P1) and without (P3) pneumonia, indicating that pneumonia did have an impact on COPD patients. However, pneumonia patients without COPD (P2) had a higher, but non-statistical difference in mortality rates compared to COPD patients with pneumonia (P1), with a p-value of 0.0806. These findings emphasize the severe influence of pneumonia in both COPD and non-COPD populations in the area, warranting further investigation and emphasizing the importance of timely and appropriate treatment. These results provide insights into the interplay between COPD and pneumonia in the geographic area, which may provide guidance in treatment decisions that may improve patient outcomes.

Forecasting Air Pollution Driven By Vehicle Growth, Public Transport, Industry, And Household Waste, Chandra Harjono, Ludy Gianto, Rachmattullah Sidik, Dyah Lestari Widaningrum

Journal of Environmental Science and Sustainable Development

Jakarta, Indonesia's bustling capital, is grappling with escalating air pollution levels attributed to a confluence of socio-economic and infrastructural factors. This study employs Vensim modelling to project PM2.5 pollution trends through 2040, analysing the dynamic interplay among major contributors: increased vehicular emissions, industrial activities, public transportation deficiencies, and waste management inefficiencies. Materials and Methods: The method that will be used in this air pollution analysis is to integrate empirical data spanning three years to construct a predictive model underpinned by a robust causal loop diagram that elucidates the relationships between system variables and air quality. The results of this paper …

Catalyzing Meteorological Insights With A Cost-Effective Weather Monitoring System, Ariful Alam, Sidratula Muntaha, Poonam Munshi, Israt Khan, Rakibul Islam, Jamil Bhuian, Md.Yasir Arafat, Md. Ridwanul Hasan

Journal of Environmental Science and Sustainable Development

Undoubtedly, one of the biggest alarming phenomena of this decade is the tremendous fluctuations in the weather and climate. Therefore, different types of surveys, investigations, and research are required in this regard in every region. A low-cost weather monitoring system can be implemented in every educational and research institute to collect and analyze different types of weather-related data. This study establishes the method of developing such a system and analyzing data in a simplified way which the data gathered during thunderstorms and cyclonic activity in Bangladesh. The system was designed with Proteus 8 professional software and developed by using a …

Assessing The Environmental Impact Of Municipal Solid Waste, Ojo Oluwayinka Florence, Olaniyan Olatunji Sunday, Akolade Adebola Saheed, Alabi Oluwaseyi Omotayo, Olaomotito Precious Adesope, Adebayo Kehinde John

Journal of Environmental Science and Sustainable Development

Municipal solid waste (MSW) management presents significant environmental challenges, especially with increasing urbanization and population growth. This study assesses the environmental impacts of MSW, focusing on waste composition, management practices, and their effects on air, water, and soil quality. The primary objective is to evaluate how MSW contributes to environmental degradation and to explore strategies for mitigating these impacts. A hypothesis was developed that optimizing waste composition through proper sorting and treatment can reduce the environmental footprint of MSW management by at least 10% in terms of leachate production and greenhouse gas emissions. Samples were collected using a randomized sampling …

Assessing Potential Energy Sustainability Of Micro-Hydropower System Through A Sustainable Indicator Approach, Icmi Alif Safitri, Muhammad Sulaiman, Rachmawan Budiarto

Journal of Environmental Science and Sustainable Development

The development of micro-scale renewable energy power generation systems, such as micro-hydropower (MHP), often needs more consideration for sustainability during the planning stages. Many small-scale renewable energy systems have shorter-than-expected lifespans, jeopardizing Indonesia's Net Zero Emission Target for 2060 or earlier. Despite this, only some studies have examined the long-term viability of installed renewable energy generation projects, particularly MHP plants not managed by state-owned companies or PLN (Pembangkit Listrik Negara). The primary objectives of this research are to evaluate the feasibility of retrofitting and assess the potential sustainability of a decommissioned MHP in Banjarnegara, Central Java. A cash flow analysis …

Determining The De-Dieselisation Priorities Of Distributed Diesel Generators In An Electricity Company, Kresna Nurdianto, Ratih Dyah Kusumastuti

Journal of Environmental Science and Sustainable Development

The Indonesian Electricity Company (PLN) is one of the main players in the energy transition in Indonesia, and the company plans to achieve net zero emissions by 2060. One way to do this is by implementing the de-dieselisation program, i.e. reducing the use of diesel power plants (PLTD) with new energy and renewable power plants. The Indonesian electricity supply business plan (RUPTL) 2021-2030 targets the reduction of electricity supply from PLTD by 87% by 2030. The program requires a method to determine the order of priorities of PLTDs to be de-dieselised. This research uses multicriteria decision making, namely, analytical hierarchy …

Impact Of Urban Development On Uv Exposure: A Clustering And Machine Learning Assessment, Taufik Roni Sahroni Mr., Verdi Yasin, Lulut Alfaris, Reza Ariefka, Ruben Cornelius Siagian, Mohammad Alfin Karim, Nana Rahdiana, Ade Suhara

Journal of Environmental Science and Sustainable Development

The relocation of Indonesia's capital city is anticipated to promote inclusive economic growth while embracing cultural diversity. However, this transition may affect ultraviolet (UV) radiation exposure patterns. The study investigated variations in UV exposure in the IKN region, focusing on urban development factors such as land use and population density that affect public health, sun protection, and skin cancer prevention. The research hypothesized that UV radiation is significantly correlated with these factors. UV Index data from 2010-2023, a hierarchical clustering method, identifies complex data patterns without determining the number of clusters. XGBoost, a machine learning model, was used for handling …

Sustainable Practices And Green Marketing In Healthcare Sector: Visual Trends And Future Insight, Muhammad Alfarizi, Lissa Rosdiana Noer

Journal of Environmental Science and Sustainable Development

The healthcare sector faces critical challenges, including climate change, rising healthcare demands, and resource inefficiencies, making sustainability a priority. This study investigates the integration of sustainable practices and green marketing within the healthcare sector using a bibliometric analysis of 194 journal articles published from 2015 to 2024. Key research questions explore evolving trends, thematic areas, and gaps in the literature to address sustainability issues. The study employs a rigorous five-phase bibliometric methodology, utilizing Scopus database data and tools like Bibliometrix and VOSViewer to identify key themes and relationships. The research demonstrates an annual growth rate of 56.24%, reflecting the rising …

Finite Element Models For Predicting Moisture Effects On Bolt Embedment And Connection In Timber, Henry Meleki Kiwelu

Tanzania Journal of Science

The mechanical performances of timber connections are particularly important for timber engineers involved in the design of the wood structures. The mechanism of connection must be well understood in order to design a safer connection and avoid catastrophic failure. Often connections are made weak fuse elements by deliberate intent to ensure that if structural systems fail it will be by controllable ductile deformation of connections in load paths. Model method of determining engineering design capacities of laterally loaded dowel fasteners, such as bolts, screws and nails was developed. It should however be pointed out that FE and similar continuum model …

Design And Optimization Of Eco-Friendly Biocomposite Films For Packaging Applications Using Response Surface Methodology, Ba Omoike, Fe Okieimen, C Imoisi

Tanzania Journal of Science

The use of synthetic polymers as packaging materials constitutes environmental pollution due to the accumulation of plastic waste after they are discarded. This study aimed at preparing and optimizing an environmental-friendly carboxymethyl starch/PVA/kaolin composite film using response surface methodology to develop potential solutions for replacing synthetic packaging and optimize the formulation of the biocomposite films. The biocomposite films were prepared by solution casting method. The interactive effect of carboxymethyl starch (CMS) (2.0-5.0 g), poly(vinylalcohol) (PVA) (0.0-3.0 g) and kaolin (0.00-0.22 g) on the ultimate tensile strength (UTS), percentage elongation at break (%EB) and water vapour permeability (WVP) were determined. The …

Mathematical Analysis Of Monkeypox Transmission Dynamics With Control Strategie, Singo Juma Singo, Furaha Michael Chuma, Zubeda Seif Mussa

Tanzania Journal of Science

This study develops a mathematical model to analyze the transmission dynamics of Monkeypox and evaluate the effectiveness of control strategies. The model is formulated as a system of nonlinear differential equations, capturing key factors such as human-to-human transmission, zoonotic reservoirs, and control measures like vaccination, culling, personal hygiene and treatment. The model's equilibrium points, including the disease-free and endemic equilibria, are determined and analyzed for stability using the effective reproduction number, Re. Conditions under which Re<1 ensure the elimination of Monkeypox, while Re>1 indicates sustained transmission. A sensitivity analysis is performed to identify parameters that significantly influence Re​, such as the contact rate, effectiveness of control …

Analysis Of Unsteady Convective Boundary Layer Flow With Magnetic Fields, Chemical Reaction, Thermal Radiation And Variable Fluid Properties, Jonas A. James, Makungu J. Ng’Oga, Augustino I. Msigwa, Ali A. Omary

Tanzania Journal of Science

This study extends the previous work by Kitengeso et al. (2018) by investigating unsteady convective boundary layer flow, incorporating magnetic fields, chemical reactions, radiation, and variable fluid properties over the inclined plate. The boundary layer and Boussinesq approximations are used to derive the magnetohydrodynamic flow equations. Thereafter, the equations are transformed into similarity form using similarity variables and then solved using the 4th order Runge - Kutta method. The key parameters such as the magnetic parameter, chemical reaction rate, variable fluid properties, unsteadiness, convection, and radiation parameter significantly affect flow behavior over an inclined plane. It was found that increasing …

Modelling The Effects Of Antiretroviral Therapy On Kidney Diseases Among Hiv Infected Individuals In Tanzania, Janeth Pancras Mchwampaka, Eunice Mureithi, Nyimvua Shaban Mbare

Tanzania Journal of Science

This study examined the role of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) in the dynamics of kidney diseases among HIV-infected individuals. A deterministic model was formulated for the dynamics of kidney disease in HIV-infected people with HAART as treatment in the model. Numerical simulations showed that though HAART reduces HIV progression to the AIDS stage, there is an increase in HIV-related kidney diseases. Also, the result obtained in this study showed that reducing the effective contact rate of HIV and improving the effectiveness of HAART by 99% in preventing the progression from HIV without symptoms group to HIV-related kidney diseases can …

Adopting Association Rule Learning For Detecting And Ranking Influential Users On Hashtags, Layal Abu Daher, Islam Elkabani, Rashed Zantout

BAU Journal - Science and Technology

Social Media platforms are networks of relationships in which users are considered as nodes in a graph and relationships between users are considered edges. These graphs symbolize online groups or communities. It has been a challenge for researchers to study the evolution of such communities due to their rapid and dynamic development. The contribution of our work is twofold: (i) studying the effectiveness of a set of Direct and Indirect Influence Measures that identify the factors that urges users to participate in certain communities; (ii) proposing an Association Rule Mining technique to identify influential users on a dataset of a …

Cropsync: Ai-Powered Sustainable Crop Management, Ziad Doughan, Ibrahim Mneimneh, Zouheir Nakouzi, Noor Al Khaib, Samer Damaj, Jamal Chaaban, Hamza Mrad, Sari Itani

BAU Journal - Science and Technology

CropSync is a smart agriculture system that uses AI and IoT technologies to enable sustain- able crop management and precision farming. The system aims to address the challenges faced by the agriculture sector, such as increasing food production to meet global population demands while minimizing environmental impact. CropSync integrates sensors, cameras, and cloud-based analytics to provide farmers with real-time insights and recommendations for optimizing crop cul- tivation. The system upholds engineering professional and ethical standards, considering broader social, environmental, and economic implications. From a social perspective, CropSync improves food security and enhances farmers’ livelihoods through increased productivity and efficient re- …

Designed For Limb Loss: An Artificial Intelligence-Based Bionic Prosthetic Arm Transition From Simulation To Reality, Amira J. Zaylaa Dr., Imane Haidar, Ziad Doughan, Mohammad Moumnieh, Hamza Mrad, Ali M. Haidar

BAU Journal - Science and Technology

Limb or organ loss of human remains challenging especially in the world of incessant reliance on touch-based screens and tasks. Thereby, patients can barely withstand and cope with the augmenting restrictions that they encounter due to this loss. Modern means and technologies, such as advanced and artificial parts reduced restrictions on patients with disabilities or a lost limb or organ. Hand prostheses, for instance, provided a powerful tool for improving the functional capabilities of human limbs, thereby improving the quality of life of the user. However, patients using prosthetic arms are still encountering numerous problems, such as, suffering from intact …

The Faithfulness Of An Extension Of Lawrence-Krammer-Bigelow Representation On The Group Of Conjugating Automorphisms $C_N$ In The Cases $N=3$ And $N=4$, Mohamad Nasser

BAU Journal - Science and Technology

Let $C_n$ be the group of conjugating automorphisms. V. Bardakov defined a representation $\rho$ of $C_n$, which is an extension of Lawrence-Krammer-Bigelow representation of the braid group $B_n$. Bardakov proved that the representation $\rho$ is unfaithful for $n \geq 5$. The cases $n=3,4$ remain open. M. N. Nasser and M. N. Abdulrahim made attempts towards the faithfulness of $\rho$ in the case $n=3$. In this work, we prove that $\rho$ is unfaithful in the both cases $n=3$ and $n=4$.

A Novel Format For Math Circles: Circles With No Center, Frederick A. Peck, Ian P. Renga, Nick Grener, David R. Erickson, Matt B. Roscoe, Ke Wu

Journal of Math Circles

This paper shares a novel format for Math Circles, which we call “circles with no center.” Circles with no center do not have a traditional facilitator. The problem or activity is novel to everyone in the room. All members engage in mathematical inquiry, and everyone takes responsibility for running the gathering. The “no center” format has benefits for participants and organizers. For participants, the format offers more freedom and more responsibility. For organizers, the format is easier to organize, more fun, and involves less pressure. Our assessment of a 3-day retreat for teachers suggests participants may prefer a circle with …

Navigating Wound Closure Strategies: Primary Closure Vs. Delayed Primary Closure In Digestive Surgery—A Systematic Review And Meta-Analysis On Surgical Site Infections, Lam Sihardo, Arnetta Nl Lalisang, Afid B. Putra, Bagus A. Suryawiditya

The New Ropanasuri Journal of Surgery

Introduction. Surgical site infection (SSI) is a significant concern following digestive surgery, with varying incidence rates based on wound contamination levels. The choice between Primary Closure (PC) and Delayed Primary Closure (DPC) impacts SSI occurrence, making it essential to evaluate their comparative effectiveness. DPC is hypothesized superior to PC to prevent SSI or wound infection after a contaminated abdominal surgery.

Methods. This systematic review study was carried out through PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane (CENTRAL). Quality was assessed using Risk of Bias (ROB-2) tool. All results were summarized, and quantitative analysis was performed using a random-effect model. This study …

Identifying The Types Of Collective Engagement Structures That Manifest In Middle Grade Mathematics Classrooms, Tye G. Campbell, Michael A. Lawson, Erin Rich, Sheunghyun Yeo, W. Boden Robertson

Teacher Education and Leadership Faculty Publications

While the potential of collaborative problem solving in mathematics is well known, facilitating effective group work is often challenging. One reason for this persistent difficulty educators face with collaborative problem solving can be traced to research and practice models that are not well-equipped to attend to the complexity of group work. The emerging construct of “collective engagement structures” represents one novel framework designed to attend to the complexity and variation of individual and group experience in collaborative problem solving. This study extends initial theorizing on collective engagement by offering descriptive accounts of the different types of collective engagement structures that …

Ang Tanawing Pangwika Bilang Pook-Lunan Ng Mga Usaping Pangwika Sa Pilipinas, Ian Mark P. Nibalvos

Malay Journal

Ang negatibong pagtingin ng mga Pilipino sa kanilang mga sarili ay mababakas sa sitwasyon ng wikang Filipino at ng mga lokal at dayuhang wika sa bansa sa pamamagitan ng pagtingin at pag-usisa sa ating kapaligiran partikular ang wikang makikita rito na tinatawag na tanawing pangwika o linguistic landscape (LL). Ito ang sitwasyong nais suriin ng papel na ito, partikular ang ipinahihiwatig ng mga pag-aaral kaugnay sa tanawing pangwika sa iba’t ibang pook sa bansa na may tuon sa tinatawag na “top-down signs” o mga karatula o signages na ginawa o nagmula sa pamahalaan o mga ahensiyang pampamahalaan. Partikular na nais …

The Challenges Of Teaching Fine Arts In Federal Government Colleges In Adamawa State, Nigeria, Muhammad Sani Yahaya, Mohammadu Yahaya Waziri, Nasruddeen Abubakar

Jurnal Sosial Humaniora Terapan

This paper was a survey carried out to identify the challenges of teaching Fine Arts in Federal Government Colleges in Adamawa State, Nigeria. The hypothesis is HO₁: There is no significant difference in the mean ratings of teachers and students on the challenges of teaching Fine Arts in these colleges. The research instrument was made up of a questionnaire which was divided into two sections with parts I to III. The Colleges studied were Federal Government College-Ganye, Federal Government Technical College- Michika and Federal Government Girls’ College- Yola. Eighteen Fine Arts’ teachers and ninety students were purposively sampled. …

Impact Of Chia Seed Ingestion And Physical Activity On Insulin Resistance And Triglyceride Levels In Men And Women, Ali Abdulraheem Jabbar, Maysaa Jalal Majeed, Muataz Fawzi Hussein

Modern Sport

The Chia seeds are a herbaceous plant native to southern Mexico and Guatemala. They have many nutritional and medicinal uses because they contain fibers, minerals and vitamins. These components have a significant impact on insulin resistance, which is considered a source of risk for many diseases, most notably type 2 diabetes. High levels of triglycerides. It is considered a source of danger for many diseases, the most important of which is heart disease. This study aims to evaluate the effect of consuming chia seeds on parameters of insulin resistance and triglyceride levels in individuals who suffer from insulin resistance. The …

Persepsi Guru Terhadap Implementasi Asesmen Diagnostik Dalam Pembelajaran Yang Berpusat Pada Siswa Sekolah Dasar, Khoirrun Nissa, Faradilah Nurbadriyah, Sasti Nanda Jayanti, Rossa Ayudyah Firdausa, Rossa Ayudyah Firdausa, Halimatus Sa'diyah, Puguh Darmawan, Albertina Kusumawardani

Journal of Innovation and Teacher Professionalism

This research aims to describe teachers' perceptions of Diagnostic Assessment in Learning at SDN Sawojajar 6, Malang City. Qualitative methods were employed. Data were obtained through semi-structured interviews with instrument grids. Qualitative descriptive analysis was conducted on the data. The results indicate the importance of planning and implementing diagnostic assessments. Teachers' knowledge of students forms the basis of assessment design. Assessments are conducted at the beginning of learning using questionnaires and observations to map students' abilities and needs. Analysis of the results helps in designing appropriate learning and providing feedback. Success is influenced by teachers' awareness, content relevance, alignment with …

Pendekatan Berdiferensiasi Pada Pelajaran Pendidikan Jasmani Olahraga Dan Kesehatan, Fatih Iqbal Maulana, Febrita Paulina Heynoek

Journal of Innovation and Teacher Professionalism

Differentiated learning particularly in health, sport and physical education is limited and rarely practiced by educators. Therefore, here we would like to evaluate research through a literature review on the use of differentiated instruction in teaching physical education, sport, and health. Then the purpose of writing this literature review is to (1) explain how the differentiated approach is done, (2) what happens when the differentiated approach is applied and why, and (3) the possibilities that arise when the differentiated approach is used in physical education, sports, and health education. After the scientific publications were analyzed, researchers used Google Scholar to …