Stratford Peer Reviewed Journals and Books
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Substance and Drug Abuse on Human Health; A Case Study of Youth in the USA
No full textA drug is a chemical substance that alters the functioning of the whole body and brain. The study sought to determine the effects of substance and drug abuse on human health among the youth in the USA. The study adopted the descriptive research design. The study used a purposive sampling technique to get a sample size of 200. The collection of the data was done using questionnaires. The analysis of the study was done using descriptive and inferential statistics. The study used tables to present the data. The study found that substance and drug abuse is negatively and significantly related to human health (β=-0.548, p=0.005). Thus, when the rate of substance and drug abuse increases by one unit, the human health among the youth in the USA will reduce by 0.548 units while other factors that influence human health are held unchanged. Substance addiction has numerous negative physiological and psychological health consequences. Drug addiction affects your brain and behavior to the point where you can't control your use of legal or illegal drugs. The study concluded that youth substance and drug abuse is a problem affecting both developing and developed countries. The study recommended that prevention of drug problems can employ knowledge about family dynamics to address personal and social concerns of family members that otherwise would lead to drug abuse, both concerning dysfunctional and intact families. The youth need to be enlightened on the consequences of substance and drug abuse on their health. Measures should be put in place to help the affected youth reform from the use of drugs. Centers for counseling and rehabilitation should be set up to care for the youths who have fallen into this trap of substance abuse.
Keywords: Substance and drug abuse, human health, youth, US
Tender Dropping Efficiency in the Roads and Highways Department of Bangladesh: A Cost and Time Context Comparison of Manual and E-procurement
No full textBangladesh has used a manual tendering system since its inception, following the legislative direction of PPA-2006 and PPR-2008. Manual tendering has long been a source of concern for bidders when dropping tender documents in terms of tension, cost and time. To overcome this problem, the Government of Bangladesh launched the e-Procurement system in 2011 under the e-GP guidelines. Following the successful pilot testing conducted under the umbrella of the CPTU, all public Procurement Entities (PE) are attempting to implement e-procurement tenders. This study aims to test the cost and time involved in tender dropping both manual and e-procurement tenders. The roads and Highways Department (RHD) is chosen as the population. Sample data was collected from the 11 RHD zones. Structured survey questionnaires were made to collect primary data from the bidders of RHD. The independent samples t-test was used to perform a hypothesis test of two groups like tender dropping cost and tender dropping time. The test results indicated that e-Procurement tender dropping costs and time were less than manual tendering. Academicians, students, practitioners, researchers, and policymakers will benefit from the study's conclusions.
Keywords: Tender dropping cost, Tender dropping time, e-Procurement, t-test, e-GP Guideline, PPA-2006, PPR-2008
 
Procurement Practices and Quality of Food Supplies in Secondary Schools: A Case of Nairobi County, Kenya
No full textThis research aimed at determining Procurement Practices on the Quality of Food Supplies in Secondary Schools in Nairobi County. Quality of food supplies is a global issue that this study wishes to respond to in Kenyan Secondary schools of Nairobi County. The research was guided by the following objectives: first, to investigate the relationship between e-Procurement and the quality of food supplies in secondary schools in Nairobi County. Secondly, to assess the influence of supplier relationship management between suppliers and schools on the quality of food supplies. Thirdly, to establish how procurement planning affects the quality of food supplies and finally, to evaluate how risk management practices influence the quality of food supplies in secondary schools, Nairobi County. The research used mixed method convergent parallel design. This study used total quality management theory and agency theory. The research used mixed method convergent parallel design. The researcher preferred this design since it was used to collect both qualitative and quantitative data, and it provided a better understanding of the research problem as well as built on the strengths of both qualitative and quantitative data. The study adopted a census technique since the population was small. The target population was 32 secondary schools. The study sample was 96 respondents including 32 principals, 32 procurement officers and 32 storekeepers sampled from 32 secondary schools in Nairobi County. Data collection was done through interview schedules and questionnaires. Quantitative data were analyzed descriptively through the distribution of frequencies, which have been expressed in means and percentages. The results were achieved using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) program and presented in tables and graphs, while qualitative data were transcribed and translated into themes that support the quantitative findings through a content analysis approach. In its findings, the study revealed that e-Procurement, supplier relationship management, procurement planning, and risk management practices significantly influence the quality of food supplies. The study has therefore recommended that to enhance the quality of food supplies, schools should fully make use of e-procurement, which includes e-sourcing, e-tendering and e-advertisement. In addition, there should be proper management of suppliers to ensure that they supply on time and provide quality food supplies. The procurement planning processes should be adhered to to ensure that no part of the process is skipped. The risks faced in procurement should be documented and minimized or eliminated. All these will ensure an efficient procurement process.
Keywords: E-Procurement, Inspection, Procurement Practices, Quality, Supplier relationship
 
Innovation, Leadership and Supply Chain Resilience. A Theoretical Review
No full textThe area of supply chain resilience continues to gain increasing attention from scholars and practitioners as new risks and unforeseen disruptions have emerged posing serious threats to operational performance. In particular, the COVID-19 pandemic exposed the fragility of global supply chains. Against these growing concerns, supply chain networks need to be re-examined as organizations grapple with the challenge of strengthening their capacities for preparedness, response, recovery and growth from disruptions. This study analyses the body of literature on innovation, leadership and resilience in the supply chain from different perspectives. The conceptual, theoretical and empirical review was undertaken on 101 relevant journal articles and publications across the study area. Issues that present a case for a new theoretical model to advance the present understanding of the constructs and the emerging phenomenon in the supply chain were identified. It emerged that the concept of leadership suffers from an unclear conceptualization and is inconsistent in the characteristics of its dimensions. Similarly, there is a lack of common understanding of innovation; how organizations should deal with it; and how it relates to leadership. In addition, there are few empirical studies involving innovation, leadership, and supply chain resilience. This study presents a new theoretical framework linking the three constructs to help in developing the implementation of capabilities necessary in attaining resilience in supply chain networks.
Keywords: Innovation, Leadership, Supply chain, Supply chain resilience
 
Effect of Budget Allocation and Procurement Processes on Budget Utilization in the Public Sector in Kenya: A Case of The Judiciary
No full textBudget management has great implications for the realization of the objectives of the budgets in institutions. If the budget is not prepared with the greatest dedication and also genuineness it is not possible to understand the fantastic capacity of finances as tools for national progression. The budgeting and budgetary controls have attained high focus among institutions in the present day and thus offer high prospects which this research study examines. This study sought to establish the influence of budget allocation on budget utilization in public institutions within Kenya and to analyze the influence of procurement processes on budget utilization in public institutions within Kenya. The study was anchored on Resource Based Theory with a descriptive research design being adopted. The targeted population for the study was the Chief registrar, Court Registrars, Deputy Registrars, Directors and Deputy Directors in the Judiciary totaling to 40. The study used census approach where the entire population of 40 respondents was used in the study. Additionally, the data collection instruments comprised of both questionnaires and the interview guides. Additionally, qualitative analysis was done using content analysis and SPSS was used to analyze the quantitative data. The inferential statistics included the Pearson correlation and multiple linear regression model. Frequency, percentage tables, charts and graphs was used to present the data. Correlation results indicated that budget allocation was positively related to budget utilization (Pearson’s Correlation Coefficient of r = 0.798, p-value 0.0001). The results indicated that procurement process was positively related to budget utilization (Pearson’s Correlation Coefficient of r = 0.608, p-value 0.0001). The regression results indicated that budget allocation and procurement processes have a positive and significant relationship with budget utilization in the Judiciary. The study recommended for a classification that enables better links between policy priorities and funding programs. The study further recommended that the budget should provide unambiguous information on all aspects of Judiciary policy. Oversight should be enhanced for proper compliance to statutes and internal controls.
Keywords: Budget Allocation, Procurement Processes, Budget Utilization, Public Institutions, Judiciar
Association between Family History and Hypertension among the Patients in Nairobi: A Case Study of Mbagathi Hospital
No full textHypertension is an important public health issue globally. With the global prevalence of hypertension being 40%, Africa ranks the highest with a prevalence of 46%. The high burden in developing countries is attributable to the high levels of risk factors. In Kenya, 20-30% of adults had hypertension in 2013. However, there is little information on the prevalence of hypertension and its association with family history as its risk factor among adult patients seeking medical care in Nairobi. The primary goal of this study was to determine the association between family history and hypertension among adult patients at Mbagathi Hospital. Fisher’s formula was used to determine the sample size which was composed of 384 respondents while systematic random sampling was used to select the study participants. The study adopted a cross-sectional, descriptive study design. Data collection included the use of a questionnaire that included both open and closed-ended questions given to each participant with each being allowed to exercise informed consent before responding to questions. Descriptive statistics mainly means and percentages were used to analyze data. Inferences were made using the chi-square statistic. Statistical significance was set at P <05. Patients with hypertensive parents had a high prevalence of hypertension (42.2%). A significant connection between family history and hypertension (p=0.017) was discovered using a statistical chi-square test while 69.9% of the participants had a family member who had hypertension. Family history was an associated risk factor for hypertension; respondents who had a family member with hypertension and mostly those with a hypertensive mother were more likely to be hypertensive.
Keywords: Hypertension, Family history, Patients, Mbagathi Hospita
Causes and Effects of Obesity on Health of Children in Australia
No full textWHO defines obesity as an abnormal or increased fat accumulation where Body mass index (BMI) is significant. Obesity in children is rising in many countries like the USA, the UK, and Australia. Thus, the study examined the causes and effects of obesity on the Health of Children in Australia. The study reviewed the literature to make conclusions. Based on the findings from the previous studies, it was established that obesity in children is caused by poor food choices, inadequate or low physical activity and family eating habits. Sociocultural factors, family, environmental aspects, metabolism, genetics, and short sleep patterns are also factors that contribute to children's obesity. The effects of obesity are that it increases the risks of developing a variety of chronic health problems, like coronary heart disease, hypertension, cancer, sleep apnea, gallstones and osteoarthritis. Obese children also perform academically poorly in school compared to those of normal weight. Childhood obesity can profoundly affect physical health, social and emotional well-being, and self-esteem. The study concluded that children who are obese tend to stay obese in adulthood and are prone to increased risk for diabetes and cardiac problems at a younger age. Obesity has been on the rise among children in Australia. Obese children perform poorly academically than the recommended normal-weight children, with a negative relationship noted between obesity and cognitive skills. It is recommended that a comprehensive approach is required to prevent and reduce childhood obesity. This includes professional medical assistance and lifestyle interventions to increase energy intake, physical activity, and behavioural change. In addition, it is recommended that policies be developed to help intervene in how the increase in weight among children can be reduced. The school should ensure they expose the children to regular exercise to reduce their weight and remain fit
Keywords: Obesity, Health, Children, Australi
Catastrophic Healthcare Expenditures and Household Poverty in Kenya: The Case of Cancer
No full textCancer is a leading cause of mortality in many countries. Thus, the study sought to examine the relationship between catastrophic healthcare expenditures and household poverty in Kenya with a case of cancer. The study used a secondary dataset from the Kenya Household Health Expenditure and Utilization Survey (KHHEUS) 2018. The sample size was 37500. The study findings established that the direct and indirect costs of cancer treatment in Kenya are financially catastrophic for many households. The costs of cancer treatment, including medications and medical procedures, can be financially catastrophic for households in Kenya. Cancer is a leading cause of mortality and the disease likely has a significant effect on household poverty. Household level of education, Gender and locality is negatively related to household poverty while the household size is positively related to household poverty. Some geographic areas may have higher rates of poverty due to a variety of factors such as lack of job opportunities, limited access to education and healthcare, and other structural issues. The study recommended the government enhance the implementation of a universal healthcare coverage program and the expansion of healthcare facilities in underserved areas. There is a need to increase funding for cancer research. Additionally, there is a need to have efforts to increase competition in the pharmaceutical market and to regulate the pricing of healthcare services. It is important for policymakers and healthcare providers in Kenya to be aware of the potential economic impact of cancer and to work to mitigate its effects on households. Governments and insurance companies should implement policies that help to reduce the cost of cancer treatment, such as negotiating lower prices with manufacturers or providing financial assistance to patients. Moreover, there is a need to have gender balance and equal opportunities need to be established for all. The vices of discrimination based on gender need to be addressed. Efforts to address household poverty and gender inequality should focus on improving access to education, employment, and resources for women, as well as promoting gender equality and challenging discriminatory social norms.
Keywords: Catastrophic healthcare expenditures, household poverty, cancer, Keny
The Role of Forgiveness in Countering Youth Radicalization into Violent Extremism in Eastleigh, Kenya
No full textRadicalization has endured as a grave contemporary threat to peace in the world, given the constant rising numbers of terrorist attacks. Youth are at risk of radicalization and recruitment to militant groupings that carry out diverse forms of extreme violence. The surge of youth radicalization into violent extremism across the globe has become a worrying trend. Despite all the efforts to counter radicalization among the youths, more are still being radicalized. This study sought to investigate the role of forgiveness in countering youth radicalization into violent extremism in Eastleigh, Kenya. This study adopted mixed methods sequential explanatory design, combining experimental, correlational and phenomenological research methods. This study was conducted in Nairobi County, Kamukunji Sub- County, Eastleigh suburb, in St Theresa’s Catholic Church and Riyadh Mosque, since Churches and mosques traditionally are the center for community activities and ideas. The study employed both probability and non-probability sampling methods. The sample size for the study was 222 respondents comprising of 212 youths and 10 key informants. The review found that there was weak, negative and insignificant correlation between self-forgiveness and extremism. The study concluded that the level of forgiveness among the respondents was above average. The study recommends that the Heartland Forgiveness adds to the known levels of forgiveness by virtue of its different elements that can be measured. Dispositional forgiveness is likely to be a method that make it possible for people to turn their focus away from unfavourable personal responses to rewarding dimensions of their lives. Therefore, the tendency to forgive, as gauged by Heartland Forgiveness scale contributes to the existing comprehension of significant personality distinctions
Keywords: Forgiveness, Radicalization, Youth & Violent Extremis
The Role of the Church in Ensuring Peace and Harmony in Haiti
No full textThe main and essential teaching of all churches worldwide is to promote love, compassion, tolerance, tranquility, mutual respect, understanding and cooperation. World peace and harmony are phenomena that everybody wants to enjoy without limits. The Christian customs have already noted fantastic success as it promotes peace in many areas. Lack of peace and harmony causes human suffering through fatalities, the devastation of resources, regular displacements and insecurity. Thus, the study sought to examine the church's role in ensuring peace and harmony in Haiti. The study was literature-based and its findings were based on the findings from the preceding studies. The study discovered that the contemporary church is teaching the love of God to individuals of different descents and ensures that this is evident among the believers since whatever the church preached will influence society either positively or negatively. The churches play a critical role in ensuring the peace is maintained. The study concluded that Christian leaders live by what they teach or preach to alter other people's behavior. The Christian customs have already noted fantastic success as it promotes peace in many areas. The study recommended that churches need not only preach love and forgiveness but are also required to show true love to everyone regardless of religious affiliation. They are required to be actively involved in solving disagreements through mediation and arbitration. Christians are actively involved in solving conflicts throughout the World. Christian or church leaders need to play priestly duties to end spiritual differences. These duties include: preparing intercessory prayers for the nation, teaching messages of love, forgiveness, and reconciliation and informing the people on the sound doctrines of the Christian faith. The study also suggests that Christianity as a religion of peace is required to promote peaceful coexistence in the land with the influence of Christian leaders.
Keywords: Peace, harmony, church, Hait