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The Impact of Technology Adoption on Efficiency and Transparency in Public Procurement Processes in Kenya
Get PDFIn recent years, global public procurement has witnessed a paradigm shift with the integration of technology, a phenomenon embraced by countries like Kenya. The Kenyan government has actively modernized its procurement system through the adoption of e-procurement systems, blockchain, and artificial intelligence, aiming to bolster efficiency and transparency. The purpose of this research work was to assess the impact of technology adoption on efficiency and transparency in public procurement processes in Kenya. This research addressed a critical gap in understanding the nuanced impacts of these technological advancements on the intricate dynamics of public procurement in Kenya. Investigating the adoption's influence on efficiency and transparency, the study explored experiences, challenges, successes, and overall implications. The findings are of significance to public governance, offering insights to policymakers, practitioners, and technology developers. Aligned with global sustainable development initiatives, the study advocated for digital literacy training, cybersecurity measures, infrastructure improvement, policy incentives, a national digital procurement strategy, private sector collaboration, policy reviews, and data-sharing initiatives. By embracing the recommendations, Kenya can navigate challenges and capitalize on technology for an efficient, transparent, and resilient future in public procurement, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals
Innovaciones en la cadena de valor de la miel de Melipona beecheii localizada en un área natural protegida
Get PDFLa abeja Melipona beecheii es una especie nativa sin aguijón cuyo aprovechamiento se produce a menor escala que la apicultura. El objetivo de este trabajo fue identificar innovaciones en la cadena de la miel de M. beecheii con meliponicultores de comunidades mexicanas ubicadas en el Área de Protección de Flora y Fauna Cañón del Usumacinta. Se utilizó la metodología EC0818 de cuatro fases: mapeo de la cadena, análisis de los procesos de producción, identificación de la innovación y diseño de una estrategia de gestión de innovación. Se encontró que el mercado para este tipo de miel es local y principalmente, para autoconsumo. Los meliponicultores cuentan con un bajo número de colmenas y la cosecha se realiza una vez al año de forma artesanal. Para mejorar la calidad de la miel es importante implementar buenas prácticas de manufactura y analizar la calidad para cumplir con las características que el mercado meta requiere. La creciente demanda de productos naturales favorece las oportunidades para la comercialización de la miel en productos cosméticos y la posibilidad de comercializarlos en plataformas digitales. Una estrategia a implementar es la organización de los productores en asociaciones para tener acceso a fuentes de financiamiento, además de incursionar en otras actividades relacionadas con la meliponicultura.
The Melipona beecheii is a native stingless species that is exploited on a smaller scale than beekeeping. The objective of this work was to identify innovations in the M. beecheii honey chain with beekeepers from Mexican communities located in the Usumacinta Canyon Flora and Fauna Protection Area. The four-phase EC0818 methodology was used: chain mapping, analysis of production processes, identification of innovation, and design of an innovation management strategy. It was found that the market for this type of honey is local and mainly for self-consumption. The beekeepers have a low number of hives and the harvest is carried out once a year in an artisanal way. To improve the quality of honey, it is important to implement good manufacturing practices and analyze the quality to meet the characteristics that the target market requires. The growing demand for natural products favors opportunities for the commercialization of honey in cosmetic products and the possibility of marketing them on digital platforms. One strategy to implement is the organization of producers into associations to have access to sources of financing, in addition to venturing into other activities related to bee farming
Impact of Official Development Assistance on Economic Growth in the East African Community
Get PDFThis research focuses on the effect of Official Development Assistance (ODA) on the economic development of the East African Community, with Trade openness as a moderating variable. This study adopts a Vector Error Correction Model (VECM) for 1974-2022 to investigate the cointegration between ODA balance, trade openness, and economic growth in five East African countries. The findings reveal a complex dynamic: whereas ODA has a negative individual impact on economic growth, the interaction of ODA and Trade openness has a positive and significant value. This means that characteristics of the trade policy condition the ability of ODA to promote economic growth. Based on the findings, the study adds to the ever-ongoing aid inefficiency discourse by underlining the necessity of an 'enabling environment' in the form of trade openness, significantly boosting the growth impact of ODA. These outcomes have significant implications for policymakers in countries of the third world where compliance with ODA missions could be made efficient by implementing the missions of trade openness. According to the study, there is a call for the strategies of foreign aid and trade liberalization toward the development of economic growth in developing countries
Contribution de l'intelligence artificielle à la performance des projets de recherche scientifique
Get PDFL’avancement des connaissances et les progrès dans divers domaines dépendent de la recherche scientifique. L'évolution rapide de l’intelligence artificielle (IA) offre de nouvelles perspectives pour améliorer l’efficacité et les résultats de ces efforts scientifiques. L'IA, notamment l’apprentissage automatique et la manipulation du langage naturel, à le pouvoir de transformer le processus de recherche scientifique. Elle permet d'analyser efficacement de vastes ensembles de données, révélant des modèles complexes difficiles à détecter manuellement. L'IA stimule également les avancées scientifiques en formulant des hypothèses de recherche. De plus, elle libère les chercheurs en automatisant les tâches répétitives, leur permettant de se concentrer sur les aspects créatifs de leur travail. Cependant, l'intégration de l'IA dans la recherche scientifique soulève des questions et des obstacles importants. La crédibilité des résultats obtenus grâce à l'IA peut être remise en question, et comprendre les choix effectués par les systèmes d'IA peut être complexe pour les chercheurs. Il est donc essentiel de comprendre l'impact de l'IA sur la performance des projets de recherche scientifique, afin de maximiser les avantages tout en atténuant les risques. Notre étude vise à étudier l’impact de l'IA sur la recherche scientifique en utilisant une approche qualitative. Nous mènerons des entretiens approfondis avec des doctorants chercheurs. En suivant une méthodologie rigoureuse et systématique, nous chercherons à obtenir un aperçu complet des perspectives des chercheurs et à générer des connaissances sur le rôle de l’intégration de l'IA dans la recherche scientifique.
The advancement of knowledge and progress in various fields depends on scientific research. The rapid evolution of artificial intelligence (AI) offers new opportunities to improve the efficiency and outcomes of these scientific efforts. AI, including machine learning and natural language manipulation, has the power to transform the scientific research process. It allows for efficient analysis of large datasets, revealing complex patterns that are difficult to detect manually. AI also stimulates scientific advances by formulating research hypotheses. In addition, it frees researchers by automating repetitive tasks, allowing them to focus on the creative aspects of their work. However, the integration of AI into scientific research raises important questions and hurdles. The credibility of the results achieved through AI can be questioned, and understanding the choices made by AI systems can be complex for researchers. It is therefore essential to understand the impact of AI on the performance of scientific research projects, in order to maximize benefits while mitigating risks. Our study aims to investigate the impact of AI on scientific research using a qualitative approach. We will conduct in-depth interviews with research doctoral students. Following a rigorous and systematic methodology, we will seek to gain a comprehensive overview of researchers' perspectives and generate knowledge on the role of AI integration in scientific research
Optimisation d’un réseau de transport durable : le pré et le post acheminement des marchandises import-export du Mali
Get PDFLa continentalité du Mali fait que les produits importés et exportés ont un long parcours. L’objectif de l’étude est d’analyser la conception d’un réseau de transport en optimisant les flux et en tenant compte des impacts environnementaux. L’approche méthodologique s’est focalisée d’une part sur des recherches documentaires basées sur la lecture et l’analyse des ouvrages, des rapports d’activités, des articles scientifiques, des thèses de Doctorat et des sites Internet, d’autre part, des explorations de terrain faites avec un guide d’entretien auprès de 11 personnes. Cela a permis d’obtenir des résultats. Pour le choix des enquêtés, nous avons fait recours à la technique d’échantillonnage non probabiliste, notamment la méthode par choix raisonné. Pour l'analyse des données, nous avons fait le choix de l’analyse du contenu. Enfin, un modèle d’optimisation faisant apparaître les trois paramètres a été formulé et testé avec le logiciel LINGO 11.00. Les résultats obtenus indiquent qu’en minimisant les temps et les coûts des pré- et post- transports, nous pouvons considérablement réduire les effets des transports sur l’environnement. De même, des mesures de réduction des coûts de transport et des temps de parcours ont été proposées. La mise en œuvre des mesures proposées permet de réduire les coûts logistiques, de minimiser le temps de parcours des marchandises et d’atténuer aussi les effets du transport des marchandises sur l’environnement.
The continental nature of Mali means that imported and exported products have a long journey. The objective of the study is to analyse the design of a transport network by optimising flows and taking into account environmental impacts. The methodological approach focused on the one hand on documentary research based on the reading and analysis of works, activity reports, scientific articles, Doctoral theses and websites, on the other hand Field explorations carried out with an interview guide with 11 people. This has led to results. For the choice of respondents, we used the non-probability sampling technique, in particular the purposive choice method. For the data analysis, we have chosen to analyze the content. Finally, an optimization model showing the three parameters was formulated and tested with LINGO 11.00 software. The results obtained indicate that by minimizing pre- and post-transport times and costs, we can significantly reduce the effects of transport on the environment. Likewise, measures to reduce transport costs and travel times have been proposed. Implementation of the proposed measures makes it possible to reduce logistics costs, minimize the travel time of goods and mitigate the effects of transport of goods on the environment
Language Play in Postmodern Literature: A Study of Lydia Davis' Stories
Get PDFThe paper explores the role of language play in postmodern literature through a close examination of Lydia Davis' stories. Known for her minimalist style, Davis employs innovative narrative techniques and distinctive word choices to disrupt conventional storytelling and invite readers into a complex interaction with language. The analysis highlights how Davis’ manipulation of narrative structure and stylistic devices – such as fragmentation, repetition, irony, etc. – transforms language from a simple medium of expression into a subject of inquiry. This study examines the function of language play in her stories, emphasizing how Davis’ techniques reflect broader postmodern themes of ambiguity, subjectivity, and the fluid nature of meaning
Investigating university students' colloquial speech utterances of English in intercultural settings: a case study in Albanian context
Get PDFIn today's world, the widespread use of English, along with student mobility, democratisation, cultural diversity, and the influence of media—especially the Internet—shapes the language environments of higher education institutions from a broad cultural and international communication perspective. This situation is also evident at the University "Ismail Qemali" in Vlore, Albania. The author of this paper researched how English is utilized by both local and foreign students outside the classroom. To gather data, informal conversations were recorded and systematically analyzed using descriptive approaches, statistical modeling, and conversation analysis methods, involving a corpus of 60 students from different native backgrounds (47 local Albanian students and 13 European students). Qualitative and quantitative data were collected to identify phonetic patterns, their occurrences in colloquial speech, and the reasons behind certain linguistic usages or deviations observed in students' "small talk" in multicultural settings. Some participants noted that they are influenced by English and American cultures and lifestyles to varying degrees. Conversely, other students communicated in their native languages while applying basic speech acts that were typical of their original cultural backgrounds. This behaviour illustrated some inconsistencies in phonetics, grammar, and vocabulary. These linguistic deviations reflect how language embodies individual personalities and cultural backgrounds, as speakers adapt their styles and settings in conversation
Exploring Disease Manifestations and Influencing Factors in Acute and Chronic Hepatitis B
Get PDFScope and Aims: The investigation of disease manifestations and influencing factors in both acute hepatitis B (AHB) and chronic hepatitis B (CHB) remains limited, with varying results. This study aimed to explore the factors influencing AHB and CHB and their disease manifestations within a Ghanaian population, with the goal of developing a control strategy.
Methods: A retrospective study was conducted on 569 admitted hepatitis B cases. Demographic data and disease manifestations were compared between AHB and CHB patients. Logistic regression and correlation analyses were employed to identify the factors influencing the progression of the disease.
Results: Significant differences were observed between AHB and CHB patients in terms of median age and hospitalization duration. Variations in age, gender, education level, and occupational distributions were statistically significant (P < 0.05) between the two groups. Symptoms such as fever, nausea, polydipsia, palpitation, anicteric presentation, anorexia, and itching were less common in CHB patients (P < 0.05), while abdominal pain, jaundice, and enlarged liver were more frequent (P < 0.05). CHB patients exhibited significantly higher levels of aspartate aminotransferase, viral load, bilirubin, prothrombin time, partial thromboplastin time, HBeAg, albumin, abdominal ultrasound findings, and globin (P < 0.05), while HBsAg and liver function test levels were significantly lower (P < 0.05) in CHB patients compared to AHB patients. Logistic regression identified age, gender, occupation, education level, and hospitalization duration as significant influencing factors.
Conclusion: Males and the adult population represented a higher proportion of CHB patients, with a significant association between CHB and elevated clinical and laboratory characteristics. Age, gender, occupation, education level, and hospitalization duration were established as key influencing factors in the progression of hepatitis B
Le suivi de l’efficacité et de la tolérance des antiviraux à action directe dans le traitement de l’hépatite virale C chronique à l’Hôpital national Donka CHU Conakry
Get PDFIntroduction : L’hépatite virale C est un véritable problème de santé publique dans le monde. Patients et Méthodes : Il s’agissait d’une étude analytique prospective portant sur tous les patients suivis dans le service durant la période d’étude. Elle a été menée du 1er Janvier 2022 au 30 Mars 2024 soit 27 mois en consultation externe du service d’Hépato-Gastroenterologie de l’hôpital national Donka CHU Conakry. Le but de notre travail était d’évaluer la tolérance et l’efficacité des antiviraux à action directe chez les patients porteurs du VHC virémiques. Résultats : Les résultats concernaient 83 patients, 46 étaient des hommes (55,7%) et 37 des femmes (44,3%), avec un sex ratio H/F de 1,24. L’âge moyen des patients était de 46 ans avec des extrêmes de 22 à 80 ans. La tranche d’âge de 30-50 ans était la plus touchée par l’hépatite virale C avec une fréquence de 56%. Les protocoles thérapeutiques utilisés étaient le Sofosbuvir-Velpatasvir (95,18%), le Sofosbuvir-Velpatasvir-Ribavirine (4,82%). La réponse virale soutenue a été de 100% chez les patients terminé leur traitement. Des effets secondaires indésirables ont été observés chez 40 de nos patients soit une fréquence de 48,19%. Les principaux effets indésirables étaient des céphalées (36,14%), des nausées et vomissements (32,53%), un prurit (12,04%), des crampes musculaires (10,84%). Conclusion : Le traitement de l’hépatite virale C repose sur les antiviraux à action directe qui sont efficaces et bien tolérés permettant d’obtenir une réponse virale soutenue à 100%. Chez les patients guéris avec une fibrose hépatique F3-F4 la surveillance doit être maintenue.
Introduction: Viral hepatitis C is a real public health problem worldwide. Patients and Methods: This was a prospective analytical study involving all patients followed in the department during the study period. It was conducted from January 1, 2022, to March 30, 2024, i.e. 27 months in the outpatient clinic of the Hepato-Gastroenterology department of the Donka CHU Conakry National Hospital. The aim of our work was to evaluate the tolerance and efficacy of direct-acting antivirals in patients with viremic HCV. Results: The results concerned 83 patients, 46 were men (55.7%) and 37 women (44.3%), with a sex ratio M/F of 1.24. The mean age of the patients was 46 years with extremes of 22 to 80 years. The age group of 30-50 years was the most affected by viral hepatitis C with a frequency of 56%. The therapeutic protocols used were Sofosbuvir-Velpatasvir (95.18%), and Sofosbuvir-Velpatasvir-Ribavirin (4.82%). The sustained viral response was 100% in patients who completed their treatment. Adverse side effects were observed in 40 of our patients, i.e. a frequency of 48.19%. The main adverse effects were headache (36.14%), nausea and vomiting (32.53%), pruritus (12.04%), and muscle cramps (10.84%). Conclusion: Treatment of viral hepatitis C is based on direct-acting antivirals that are effective and well tolerated, allowing a sustained viral response of 100%. In cured patients with F3-F4 liver fibrosis, monitoring should be maintained
Contribution to the sustainable management of water and soil resources in North-West Benin: characterization of the watershed heads of the Ouémé and Pendjari rivers in the commune of Copargo
Get PDFWatershed heads, which are the upstream areas where rivers originate, are crucial zones for water resource management. Defined by first- and second-order streams according to Strahler’s classification, watershed heads are often overlooked in water resource planning due to limited information and knowledge about these areas. This oversight leads to anthropogenic pressures and negative impacts on water quality, soils, and biodiversity. The objective of the present study is to characterize the watershed heads of the Ouémé and Pendjari rivers within the Copargo municipality, with the aim of improving understanding of sustainable water and soil resource management in this region. For this purpose, mapping techniques and geographic information systems were employed to identify and delineate the watershed heads. Criteria related to morphometry, land use, and land cover were utilized to characterize the areas of the watershed heads. Exploratory and principal component analyses based on various characteristics of the watershed heads were conducted using the R software, which highlighted the different challenges associated with these areas. The study delineated 25 watershed heads: 14 in the Pendjari watershed and 11 in the Ouémé watershed, revealing their surface area and occupancy within the respective watersheds. The average unit area of the watershed heads is 23.6 km² in the Ouémé watershed and 21 km² in the Pendjari watershed. Across all watershed heads, the Gravelius compactness index ranges from 1.2 to 1.5, while slopes vary from 1.5% to 4.5%. Most watershed heads in Copargo are characterized by high proportions of agricultural land, moderate forest cover, and low levels of urbanized area. The high proportion of agricultural land has significant implications for water and soil resources. The results of this study provide valuable data for decision-makers and reveal the vulnerability of watershed heads to anthropogenic pressures. With a view to assessing the impact of anthropogenic pressure on the water resources of the study area, it would be beneficial in the future to proceed with the physicochemical and bacteriological characterization of these resources.