International Peer Reviewed Journals and Books
Not a member yet
2732 research outputs found
Sort by
Role of Gut Microbiota in Human Health and Disease
Get PDFPurpose: The aim of the study is to examine the role of gut microbiota in human health and disease.
Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries.
Findings: The study revealed a profound influence of gut microbiota on various physiological processes, including digestion, metabolism, immune function, and neurological signaling. the significance of gut microbiota in maintaining health and contributing to disease susceptibility has led to the development of innovative therapeutic approaches, such as probiotics, prebiotics, dietary modifications, and fecal microbiota transplantation, which hold promise for restoring microbial balance and improving clinical outcomes. the integration of microbiota research into clinical practice has the potential to revolutionize patient care by enabling personalized interventions tailored to an individual\u27s unique microbial profile.
Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Microbiome-Immune Crosstalk, Dysbiosis Theory & Microbial Metabolism Theory may be used to anchor future studies on the Role of Gut Microbiota in Human Health and Disease. Integrate knowledge of gut microbiota into clinical practice to personalize treatments and improve patient outcomes. Establish guidelines and regulations for the development and marketing of microbiota-based therapeutics, ensuring their safety, efficacy, and quality standards
Impact of Air Quality on Respiratory Health in Children in Mexico
Get PDFPurpose: The aim of the study was to analyze the impact of air quality on respiratory health in children in Mexico.
Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries.
Findings: High air pollution levels in Mexico, largely from traffic and industry, worsen respiratory health in children. This includes higher rates of asthma, respiratory infections, and decreased lung function. Urban areas with limited healthcare access are hit hardest. Urgent action is needed, including stricter regulations and public health initiatives, to protect Mexican children\u27s well-being.
Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Environmental determinism theory, bronfenbrenner\u27s ecological systems theory & health belief model (HBM) may be used to anchor future studies on analyze the impact of air quality on respiratory health in children in Mexico. Encourage pediatricians and healthcare providers to routinely discuss air quality issues during visits and provide guidance on minimizing exposure, especially in areas with known poor air quality. Policy initiatives should aim to reduce the emission of key pollutants identified in the research as harmful to children\u27s respiratory health
Socio-Demographic Characteristics Associated With Dental Caries among Patients Attending Malindi Sub-County Dental Clinic, Kenya
Get PDFPurpose: The goal of this study was to determine socio-demographic characteristics associated with dental caries among patients attending dental clinic at Malindi sub-county.
Methodology: The study design was a cross-sectional descriptive study design consisting of 223 participants. This study took place at the Malindi Sub County Dental Clinic. A systematic random sampling method was used to pick the participants on a daily basis until we had contacted all the eligible individuals and enrolled them. This study was done from March, 2023 to November, 2023 approved by ERC reference (ISERC/MSc/041/2022). The pretested questionnaire was used for collecting data on socio-demographic characteristics associated with dental caries among patients attending dental clinic at Malindi sub-county. The data were analyzed using statistical package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) Version 21.The descriptive statistics were done on socio-demographic factors, associated with the dental caries among dental patients seeking services in Malindi Sub County. The data was presented in frequency tables. Ethical approval no P688/09/2016) was obtained.
Findings: The study recruited 223 participants, 117 (52.5%) female and 106 (47.5%) males. Of the 223 participants, 49 (21.9%) were less than 18 years old, 63 (28.3%), 76 (34.1%) and 35(15.7%) were 18 to 29, 30 to 49 and ≥50 years old respectively. The prevalence of dental caries found in this study was 72.6% among patients attending Malindi sub county Hospital dental clinic. The socio-demographic factors, associated with the dental caries were those aged 18- 29 years who were 2 times at risk of having dental caries as compared with those aged less than 18years old. Almost two-thirds (n=138, 61.9%) reported to occasionally use sugary food, 72 (32.3%) moderately sugar exposures per day.
Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: This study revealed a high prevalence of dental caries among patients visiting the dental clinic in Malindi Hospital. The demographic factors associated with dental caries were among ages 18 to 29 years old. Oral health care should focus on addressing dental caries and emphasized in the policies by Ministry of health aimed at mitigating dental caries among this age group
Examining Barriers to the Utilization of Malaria Control and Prevention Services in the South West Region, Cameroon
Get PDFPurpose: The purpose of this study is to examine the barriers to the utilisation of malaria control and prevention services in the southwest region of Cameroon precisely in the Fako division. Cultural beliefs and practices significantly influence health-seeking behaviours in communities, even when faced with life-threatening diseases like malaria.
Methodology: Qualitative data were collected through structured interviews to understand the preferred treatment methods for malaria, the rationale behind the disease\u27s continuous prevalence within the community, and the low usage of prevention methods prescribed in the hospitals. The data were analysed using a thematic technique, and presented following the themes that were elicited during the in-depth interviews and focus group discussions.
Findings: This study found that herbal medical practices are deeply rooted in the community\u27s culture and need to be more quickly supplanted by modern medical practices. The study found that the resistance to malaria prevention methods was fueled by a lack of awareness about the importance of malaria prevention and control, contributing to the high malaria prevalence rate in the community. Also, the study found that the current healthcare system needs to be culturally sensitive, potentially leading to a lack of trust and confidence among community members. Additionally, financial constraints significantly impact the utilisation of preventive and treatment measures like mosquito nets, health centres, and community health workers.
Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: These findings aligned with the Health Belief Theory (HBT), which explains that individuals\u27 beliefs and attitudes towards malaria prevention in these communities constitute a significant barrier to malaria eradication. Community members perceive malaria as a severe disease and believe they are at risk of contracting it, leading to action due to susceptibility. However, traditional remedies are preferred due to perceived barriers to mosquito nets, such as cost, lack of access, and perceived ineffectiveness of the mosquitoes’ nets. The study concluded that a culturally sensitive approach to malaria treatment and prevention, built on the community\u27s beliefs and practices, can improve health outcomes. Therefore, organisations in charge of malaria prevention must adapt their approach to align better with the community\u27s cultural values. The study further recommended that education and awareness campaigns about malaria prevention and control should be tailored to the community\u27s cultural realities
Impact of Patient Flow on Satisfaction of Care at the Outpatient Department at University Teaching Hospital of Butare (CHUB): A Cross-Sectional Study
Get PDFPurpose: Patient satisfaction is important for assessing the efficiency of healthcare services provided to clients. When people visit healthcare institutions, they strongly desire high-quality care. Unsatisfying anticipated requirements and expectations may result in dissatisfaction. This study aimed to determine the impact of patient flow on satisfaction of care at outpatient departments of the University Teaching Hospital of Butare (CHUB).
Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted at CHUB, with 779 outpatients. Surveys were used to obtain information regarding patient characteristics, waiting time, and level of satisfaction.
Findings: The overall patient satisfaction rate was 81%. Satisfaction levels varied significantly across different outpatient departments, with the Maternity department having the highest satisfaction rate at 90% and the Surgery department t with the lowest at 78%. There was a significant association between the total time spent on services and patient satisfaction (p = 0.001). Specifically, an increase in the time spent in services by 1% was associated with a decrease in patient satisfaction (B = -0.002, 95% CI [-0.003, -0.001]).
Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The analysis found that Overall, client satisfaction was high. Addressing patient flow issues, such as high wait times, lack of medecine in pharmacy and lack of orientation, to greatly increase patient satisfaction in CHUB outpatient departments, to improve care quality, targeted interventions, such as appointment systems, additional personnel, and improved customer service should be implemented
Decoding Public Policy Making: Unraveling the Variables and Analytical Questions for Systematic, Comprehensive Analysis
Get PDFPurpose: Government employees, like persons in the private sector, spend a lot of their time in public service. Consequently, employee satisfaction is essential for safeguarding long-term effectiveness and efficiency in both private and public sector organizations. Creating satisfactory working environments improves employees\u27 work-life balance, thus higher satisfaction levels. Every year, job satisfaction levels are measured throughout all the UAE public sector institutes. This is done through a survey sent by the Dubai Government Excellence Program (DGEP) to the employees every year. With the United Arab Emirates being heralded as one of the leading countries to create ideal work environments for employees, this study aims at determining the underlying factors that affect employee satisfaction in Dubai Police traffic department.
Methodology: The study adopted descriptive research design. The research applied a purposive simple random sampling technique and probabilistic sampling technique. Data was collected on Dubai police traffic department employees. A quantitative and qualitative data analysis was conducted for the current research based on the collected data from the questionnaires circulated within the employees of police traffic department. Data were then analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS-15) for statistical analysis. The results were presented in form of tables.
Findings: While the socio-demographic factors could be considered factors explaining job satisfaction, age and marital status are the only factors that strongly explain the relationship due to their significant result. Additionally, for the nine environmental factors, using factor analysis to determine variables that strongly explain the dependent variables, the variable under "my work directly contributes towards organization\u27s goals" efficiently explains the status of job satisfaction. Furthermore, execution of mandates informed by the ability of the company to address public complaints and safe work environment influences job satisfaction levels.
Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Although salary and work directly contribute towards an organization\u27s goals, companies can ensure that job levels are acquired in the right way. This way, the organization can efficiently address public complaints and promote a safe and healthy working environment. , these findings will inform further studies on behavioral management and workplace productivity in organizations
Exploring the Influence of Cultural Diversity on Project Team Performance in International Entrepreneurial Ventures in India
Get PDFPurpose: The aim of the study was to investigate exploring the influence of cultural diversity on project team performance in international entrepreneurial ventures
Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries.
Findings: In Pakistan, machine learning and dimension reduction techniques have been applied to analyze high-dimensional and complex data, including genomics, neuroimaging, and text data. These efforts have led to significant advancements in disease genetics, brain imaging, and text mining. While promising, challenges such as data quality and interpretability persist, underscoring the importance of continued research and collaboration in these fields.
Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Identity theory, Cultural intelligence theory & Hofstede\u27s cultural dimensions\u27 theory may be used to anchor future studies on exploring the influence of cultural diversity on project team performance in international entrepreneurial ventures. Implement diversity training programs and cross-cultural workshops to enhance cultural awareness and sensitivity among project teams in international entrepreneurial ventures. Advocate for policies and initiatives that promote diversity and inclusion in international entrepreneurial ventures, such as establishing diversity quotas or implementing diversity management programs
Influence of Project Management Practices on Performance of Projects in Rwanda
Get PDFPurpose: This research aimed to assess how project management aspects, specifically project risk control, planning, and monitoring and evaluation processes, impact the performance of USAID-sponsored projects in Rwanda. The study focused on the CORE project in Rubavu District, supported by USAID and the Rwanda Governance Board.
Methodology: A descriptive research design was employed, targeting 170 individuals involved in the CORE project. A sample size of 119 participants was determined using Yamane’s simplified formula, with purposive and stratified sampling methods ensuring a representative selection. Data were collected using a combination of questionnaires and an interview guide, including both closed and open-ended questions. The reliability of the instruments was ensured through test-retest and input from a university supervisor. Internal consistency was confirmed using Cronbach’s alpha, with a reliability coefficient of 0.7 or above considered acceptable. Data were analyzed using SPSS software, and inferential analysis and multiple regression were employed to determine the significance of each variable.
Findings: The study achieved a 92.4% response rate, with a higher proportion of male (50.9%) and degree-holding participants (50.9%). Findings revealed that project risk management (Mean = 3.9108) had the greatest impact on project performance, followed by project planning (Mean = 3.9545) and monitoring and evaluation (Mean = 3.7369). These factors were found to significantly influence project success.
Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The research recommends strategies to strengthen adherence to effective monitoring and evaluation processes, particularly focusing on improving risk management and planning practices to enhance project performance in USAID-sponsored initiatives
Project Management Strategies and Optimization of Construction Supply Chain in Rwanda’s Construction Projects
Get PDFPurpose: This study explored management strategies and their influence on optimizing the construction supply chain in Rwanda, focusing on the Amahoro Stadium project. The specific objectives included assessing the impact of logistics management, technology integration.
Methodology: A mixed-methods approach with a descriptive survey design was used, targeting 128 individuals and entities involved in the construction supply chain of Amahoro Stadium. The sample size of 97 respondents was determined using the Granular formula. Data were collected through questionnaires and interviews, combining both quantitative and qualitative insights.
Findings: The study revealed that logistics management, technology integration, and customer management all have significant positive relationships with the optimization of the construction supply chain in Rwanda. Key findings included a strong agreement among respondents that effective transportation (43.2%), inventory control (48.4%), and customer feedback (83.6%) influence supply chain optimization. The correlation analysis showed that 87.6% of the variation in construction supply chain optimization can be explained by these three independent variables. The study concluded that a comprehensive strategy involving logistics management, technology integration, and customer engagement is essential for optimizing construction supply chains in Rwanda.
Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Recommendations include investing in logistics training, adopting advanced technologies, and fostering customer relationships to improve satisfaction and project outcomes. Further research into the long-term impacts of these strategies on supply chain optimization and sustainability was also suggested
Financial Innovation and Risk Management in Japan
Get PDFPurpose: The aim of the study was to investigate the Financial Innovation and Risk Management.
Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries.
Findings: Japan has seen a surge in financial innovation driven by fintech startups and digitalization efforts by traditional banks. However, this innovation comes with regulatory challenges and risks that must be managed. Regulatory frameworks are being updated to address new risks like cybersecurity threats. There\u27s also a growing focus on corporate governance, risk culture, and sustainability integration.
Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Option pricing theory, capital asset pricing model (CAPM) & modern portfolio theory (MPT) may be used to anchor future studies on the financial innovation and risk management. Foster a culture of innovation within financial institutions by promoting collaboration between risk management professionals and product development teams. Establish regulatory sandboxes and innovation hubs to facilitate responsible experimentation with financial innovations while maintaining regulatory oversight