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Impact of Financial Regulations on Market Liquidity in Germany
Get PDFPurpose: The aim of the study was to investigate the impact of financial regulations on market liquidity in Germany.
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: Financial regulations in Germany impact market liquidity through a complex interplay of factors. While they enhance stability and investor protection, compliance costs and altered trading dynamics may initially hinder liquidity. However, regulatory initiatives driving innovation and global harmonization can ultimately foster a more efficient market environment, benefiting both domestic and international
Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Market microstructure theory, information-based theory of liquidity & agency theory may be used to anchor future studies on the impact of financial regulations on market liquidity in Germany. Financial institutions should proactively adapt their trading strategies and liquidity management practices in response to changing regulatory environments. Regulators should adopt a balanced approach to financial regulation, considering both the benefits of market liquidity and the need for stability and investor protection
Financial Management Practices and Financial Sustainability in Mission Hospitals, Kiambu County, Kenya
Get PDFPurpose: The study aimed to examine the role of financial management practices in the financial sustainability of mission hospitals in Kiambu County, Kenya. It seeks to understand how financial planning, funding practices, working capital management, and health sector regulations impact the economic stability and operational viability of these vital healthcare institutions.
Methodology: The study utilized a descriptive cross-sectional research design to explore the financial management practices and their impact on the financial sustainability of mission hospitals in Kiambu County, Kenya. Data collected on various financial indicators and management practices were analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 22. Descriptive statistics such as mean and standard deviation were computed to summarize the financial management practices observed in the hospitals. The findings were presented using tables to display the summary statistics and charts and graphs to illustrate trends and comparisons across different financial indicators. Additionally, inferential analyses, including Pearson correlation and multiple linear regression, were conducted to assess relationships between variables and determine the predictors influencing the financial sustainability of the hospitals.
Findings: The study achieved an 89.6% response rate, revealing a predominantly male (53.4%) and mature workforce, with most respondents aged 31–40 and over 51. Significant positive relationships were found between financial sustainability and financial planning and control practices (β1 = 0.241, p = 0.003), financing and funding practices (β2 = 0.231, p = 0.002), and working capital management practices (β3 = 0.332, p = 0.000). Financial management practices explained 39.2% of the variation in financial sustainability. Health sector regulations significantly moderated the relationship between financial planning and control practices and financial sustainability (β4a = -0.215, p = 0.035), but had no significant moderating effect on financing or working capital management practices.
Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The study findings align with several financial theories, providing valuable insights into financial management practices in mission hospitals. They support the Pecking Order Theory by highlighting the prioritization of internal financing to maintain autonomy and minimize information asymmetry. Additionally, the findings contribute to the Cash Conversion Cycle Theory, emphasizing the role of efficient working capital management in enhancing liquidity and reducing the need for external financing. Moreover, the research supports contingency theory by underscoring the influence of financial management practices on financial sustainability and advocating for tailored financial strategies in mission hospitals. The study also contributes to the theory of budgeting by stressing the importance of systematic budgeting in financial decision-making for resource allocation and financial stability. These insights offer valuable guidance for both policymakers and practitioners in mission hospitals, informing policy decisions and providing practical recommendations to enhance financial management practices and achieve greater financial sustainability in these healthcare institutions
Advanced Data Science Applications in Vehicles: A Comprehensive Review
Get PDFPurpose: This research paper aims to explore the transformative impact of data science applications within the automotive industry, with a focus on the evolution of vehicles into intelligent, connected, and autonomous entities. Through an extensive literature review and analysis of recent developments, the paper seeks to provide a comprehensive understanding of the current state and future prospects of data science in vehicles.
Methodology: Advancements in sensor technologies, such as LiDAR, HD maps, radars, location tracking and cameras, are discussed, highlighting their role in data collection for applications like advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and autonomous driving. Relevant citations are provided. This subsection covers the collection and transmission of real-time data through telematics systems, showcasing their importance for predictive maintenance, fleet management, and personalized insurance programs. Citations support the presented information. The deployment of edge computing for real-time data processing in vehicles is discussed, emphasizing its significance for safety-critical applications like collision avoidance. Citations are provided to support the information. This section explores the application of machine learning algorithms to predict vehicle failures, optimize fuel efficiency, and analyze driver behavior. The importance of leveraging historical data to create accurate models is highlighted with supporting citations.
Findings: The pivotal role of data science in enabling autonomous vehicles to navigate complex environments is discussed, emphasizing the use of machine learning models for real-time decision-making. Citations support the presented information. This subsection explores the integration of data science in traffic management systems, covering dynamic traffic signal control, congestion prediction, and route optimization. Citations support the findings related to traffic management applications. The paper discusses challenges associated with widespread implementation, including data privacy concerns, cybersecurity risks, and the need for standardized communication protocols. Additionally, potential future directions are outlined, such as the integration of blockchain for secure data sharing and the development of advanced human-machine interfaces.
Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: This research paper provides a well-rounded contribution by seamlessly integrating theoretical concepts, practical applications, and policy considerations in the realm of advanced data science applications in vehicles
Effectiveness of Telemedicine Interventions on Mental Health Outcomes during Pandemics in Brazil
Get PDFPurpose: The aim of the study was to analyze the effectiveness of telemedicine interventions on mental health outcomes during pandemics in Brazil.
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: Research in Brazil shows promising results for telemedicine\u27s effectiveness in improving mental health outcomes during pandemics. Telemedicine interventions, like virtual therapy sessions, enhance access to care, especially in remote areas. Patients express satisfaction with remote mental health support, citing convenience. However, challenges such as the digital divide and privacy issues require attention for equitable and confidential service delivery.
Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Social cognitive theory (SCT), technology acceptance model (TAM) & health belief model (HBM) may be used to anchor future studies on analyze effectiveness of telemedicine interventions on mental health outcomes during pandemics in Brazil. Telemedicine platforms should be designed to accommodate Brazil\u27s diverse cultural and linguistic landscape. Policy makers should develop clear regulatory guidelines for telemedicine practice in Brazil, particularly concerning licensure, privacy protection, and reimbursement policies
Prevalence and Factors Associated with the Fourth Standard Antenatal Care Utilization among Pregnant Women Attending Ruli District Hospital, Rwanda
Get PDFPurpose: The purpose of this research is to identify the prevalence of adherence to the recommended four antenatal care (ANC) visits and to analyze factors associated with achieving the fourth ANC visit among pregnant women attending Ruli District Hospital in Gakenke District, Rwanda. The study aims to address gaps in ANC attendance, focusing on improving maternal and fetal health.
Methodology: A cross-sectional study design was used, with a sample size of 421 women, determined through Fisher et al.\u27s (1998) formula. Systematic sampling was employed to select participants between November 20, 2023, and January 20, 2023. Data collection included informing participants about the study and obtaining consent. Confidentiality was maintained by anonymizing participant data. Analysis was conducted using SPSS version 25, applying descriptive statistics such as percentages, means, and frequencies. Bivariate and multivariate regression analyses were used to identify relationships between independent and dependent variables, with significance assessed at p < 0.05.
Findings: The study found that 57.5% of respondents adhered to the four recommended ANC visits, while 42.5% attended fewer than four. Factors significantly associated with increased ANC attendance included higher educational attainment, abstinence from alcohol by both the mother (AOR=1.953, CI: 1.202-3.174, P<0.007) and husband (AOR=2.041, CI: 1.112-3.747, P<0.002), planned pregnancies (AOR=4.159, CI: 1.975-10.326, P<0.001), and absence of mistreatment toward women (AOR=3.040, CI: 1.367-6.762, P=0.006).
Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The study recommends enhanced supportive supervision and mentorship of Community Health Workers for home visits to pregnant women. Additionally, improving customer care and the quality of ANC services is advised. These insights are expected to guide policymakers in Rwanda, including the Ministry of Health, Ruli District Hospital, and other stakeholders, in enhancing ANC adherence and improving maternal health outcomes
Viral Suppression among Men Who Have Sex with Men Living With HIV on Risk Reduction Interventions in Mvita Sub-County, Mombasa County, Kenya
Get PDFPurpose: The aim of this study was to compare viral load suppression levels among men who have sex with men (MSM) living with HIV who were put on risk reduction interventions versus a control group in Mvita sub-county, Mombasa County, Kenya between December 2020 and June 2021.
Methodology: A quasi-experimental study design using quantitative methods was conducted among MSM living with HIV from December 2020 to June 2021. The study involved a questionnaire and various laboratory investigations. The respondent-driven sampling (RDS) was used to obtain the sample of respondents. A total of 114 HIV positive MSM completed the study and were all subjected to a battery of tests. Blood was drawn for alcohol, syphilis, hepatitis B, and viral load tests, while urine was used to screen for drugs and gonorrhoea. Half (57) of the HIV positive MSM were actively followed and risk reduction interventions such as adherence to ARVs, general counselling, and HIV prevention measures such as prompt treatment of STI/OI and condom use were offered after every 2 months. The control group (57) received no risk reduction interventions. Thereafter, both groups were asked to respond to a questionnaire. Since the study was carried out during COVID-19, the risk reduction interventions were conducted over the phone to minimize transmission. Log-binomial univariate and the multivariate regression analysis model was used to identify the variables which were associated with undetectable viral load. Undetectable viral load was defined as having an HIV viral load of less than 50 copies/ml. Data generated from the questionnaires were collected, cleaned, coded and analysed using STATA software, Version 17. Level of significance was fixed at 5% (95% confidence interval).
Findings: Majority of MSM living with HIV were between 19-20 years and 49% were actively followed by the researcher and received risk reduction interventions while 54% were in the control group. However, the baseline demographic characteristics were not significantly different (all p>0.05). MSM in the control group who were neither Christian nor Muslim (11%) and had a lower income (35%), were likely to have detectable viral load. However, MSM who had a higher income in both groups (1.8%), were likely to have undetectable viral load. MSM in the control group, who reported ever use of PEP/PrEP (44%), were likely to have detectable viral load while MSM who received interventions, who reported condom break more than once during anal sex (61%), who had more than one regular anal sex partner (61% both groups), and those who drunk more than 2 bottles of beer (33% both groups) were likely to have undetectable viral load. However, MSM who received interventions but used non-prescribed injectables drugs 1 to 2 times in a week (15%), were likely to have detectable viral load. MSM in the control group who reported being always high on alcohol during anal sex (19%), were likely to have detectable viral load but those chewing muguka (type of khat) (79%) were likely to have undetectable viral load. MSM who received interventions who reported feeling uneasy while seeking health services (75%), had detectable viral load while those in the control group who attended private clinics (42%), had undetectable viral load. Overall, after six months, the proportion of MSM achieving viral load suppression was significantly higher in the intervention group as compared to control group by 60% (95% CI 49‒70)), p-value < 0.001.
Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The study found out that majority of HIV positive MSM who received risk reduction intervention, had undetectable viral load as compared to those in the control group. HIV viral suppression is the desirable outcome for MSM on ART, since once achieved, MSM cannot transmit the virus to their sex partners. The Government/NGO should encourage peer-led HIV services to run the HIV programmes involving MSM with other stakeholders. Thus, many MSM will be able to access the HIV services where their needs will be addressed and supported in a non-judgemental environment
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Training and Its Impact on Health Care Students\u27 Knowledge and Anxiety Levels
Get PDFPurpose: This study examines the impact of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) training on the knowledge and anxiety levels of healthcare students in the Home Patient Care Program. Cardiac arrest, a life-threatening condition requiring immediate intervention, underscores the critical importance of proper CPR application.
Methodology: The research utilized an experimental design with pre-test and post-test evaluations, involving 77 first-year students from Kastamonu University\u27s Tosya Vocational School of Health Services. Participants were divided into experimental (n=34) and control (n=43) groups. The experimental group received five weeks of CPR and stress-anxiety management training based on the European Resuscitation Council\u27s 2015 guidelines. Data were collected using a CPR knowledge questionnaire and the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI).
Findings: Results revealed significant improvements in the CPR knowledge scores of the experimental group, increasing from 3.47 (±1.73) to 10.09 (±1.68) (p < 0.001). Concurrently, their state anxiety levels decreased from 45.09 (±10.54) to 38.50 (±9.08) (p < 0.001), and trait anxiety scores showed a moderate reduction. No significant changes were observed in the control group.
Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The findings highlight the necessity of integrating CPR training with stress and anxiety management programs in healthcare education. Such training enhances students\u27 ability to perform CPR effectively and reduces psychological barriers, ultimately improving patient outcomes. Further research with broader samples is recommended to validate these results
An Investigation of the Transformation Process from Manual to E-Recruitment in Tanzania Public Service
Get PDFPurpose: The innovation of e-recruitment was to embrace the flow of recruitment and selection of young people in Tanzania public service. Currently, e-recruitment has not yet achieved the intended objectives. As a result, the wellbeing of the country human capital is being compromised. The extant studies have not examined the effectiveness of e-recruitment transformation process. In line with the existing gap, investigating the transformation process from manual to e-recruitment in Tanzania Public Services Recruitment Secretariat remains is the focus of this study. Specifically, the study examined why e-recruitment was an alternative to the manual recruitment, the regulatory frameworks governing e-recruitment, e-recruitment implementation strategies, and processes and finding out how the management of forces for change may explain the reasons why e-recruitment does not meet the intended objectives.
Methodology: With the sample size of 25 respondents, five respondents were purposively interviewed and nine responded to questionnaires, and the remaining 16 respondent were conveniently distributed into two FGDs basing on their willingness, availability, willingness, and accessibility. Qualitative data were analysed using thematic and content analysis.
Findings: The findings revealed that the adoption of e-recruitment was due to challenges facing manual recruitment such as diseases, unfairness, insecurity of applicants\u27 information, the cost of running the recruitment process and time. The e-government Act of 2019, e-government regulations of 2020 and the PSRS Rules of operations of 2021 were identified as the regulatory frameworks governing e-recruitment. The PSRS uses both human capital sand technological strategies in facilitating e-recruitment. Finally, the inability of using e-recruitment system, limited reach, budget constraints, and inadequate system integration were the reasons why e-recruitment does not meet the intended objectives.
Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The study recommend for the government to ensure integration and interoperability of between e-recruitment system and other government systems for accurate data sharing and verification purposes
Determinants of Nyumba Kumi Community Policing Initiative on Maintenance of Law and Order in Migori County, Kenya
Get PDFPurpose: The study sought to determine the key factors influencing the success or failure of the Nyumba Kumi initiative in maintaining law and order within Suna West Sub-County, Migori County, Kenya. More specifically, it set out to explore how community awareness, collaboration with law enforcers, technology in use, and information sharing influence the success of this community policing endeavor. The study further points out difficulties inhibiting the success of this initiative, such as frayed relations between the community and police force, mistrust, and issues related to personal vendettas, which have undermined the initiative\u27s goal of reducing insecurity.
Methodology: This study utilized a descriptive cross-sectional research type to investigate the extent to which selected associated factors affected the implementation of the Nyumba Kumi initiative in Suna West Sub-County. Local community members, Nyumba Kumi leaders, and local administration officials were interviewed using structured questionnaires. A total sample of 210 respondents was represented from all key stakeholder groups using a stratified random sampling technique. Statistical analyses were performed to summarize variables of interest with the help of descriptive statistics like means, and standard deviations (SD) using SPSS version 26. The study also used inferential statistics (Pearson product-moment correlation) to examine the relationships between variables. Findings were tabulated and graphically displayed for trends and comparisons between indicators.
Findings: The study achieved a high response rate, highlighting strong positive relationships between the maintenance of law and order and several key factors. Significant associations were found with community awareness (r = 0.759, p < 0.001), collaboration with law enforcement (r = 0.793, p < 0.001), technology use (r = 0.450, p < 0.001), and information sharing (r = 0.673, p < 0.001), all of which contributed to enhanced security in Suna West sub-county, Migori County. These findings indicate that the Nyumba Kumi initiative thrives on increased community awareness, effective collaboration with security agencies, and the integration of technology. Despite challenges such as strained relationships between community members and law enforcement, the initiative has led to reduced crime rates, quicker emergency response times, and more peaceful conflict resolution in the area.
Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The study reinforces key theories related to community policing. It supports Collective Efficacy Theory by demonstrating how communities contribute to law and order through informal support and social control. It also bolsters Social Cohesion Theory, emphasizing the significance of strong social bonds for effective community policing. Furthermore, it validates social cognitive theory by illustrating how observational learning and social interactions influence community behavior in security initiatives. From a practical standpoint, the study recommends enhancing community training, fostering collaboration with law enforcement, integrating technologies such as mobile applications and GIS, and improving information sharing. These strategies serve as a practical framework for strengthening grassroots security efforts and enhancing the effectiveness of community policing within the Nyumba Kumi initiatives. Additionally, the study offers valuable policy recommendations that advocate for supporting community training, encouraging collaboration with law enforcement, promoting technology use, and enhancing information sharing. Implementing these policies would significantly improve community policing outcomes by facilitating better cooperation between communities and law enforcement agencies
Resource Allocation Influence on Performance of County Government Funded Water Projects in Kisii County, Kenya
Get PDFPurpose: The aim of the study was to examine how resource allocation influences performance of M&E practices on county government funded water projects in Kisii County.
Methodology: The study will adopt a descriptive survey design. The study target population includes 201 county water staff managing 90 water projects across the county. The census method was used to research the 201 staff involved in water projects. The primary data was collected by use of questionnaires and Key Informant interviews. Quantitative data was analyzed by employing descriptive statistics and inferential analysis, and the results were presented by tables and figures. Whereas, qualitative data was done through narrative analysis and presented in form of verbatim and narrations.
Findings: findings indicated that a mere 12.9% of the participants agreed that the county government allocated a specific budget for M&E activities, while 12.4% strongly agreed. However, a significant 38.2% disagreed with this allocation. Similarly, the budget\u27s adequacy came under scrutiny, with only 3.5% deeming it sufficient, while 37.6% disagreed. Infrastructure provision for M&E activities raised uncertainty among 8.8% of respondents, and only 16.5% agreed on its adequacy. Furthermore, while the allocation of adequate human resources for M&E garnered strong agreement (31.8%), it was met with disagreement by 14.7% of participants.
Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: This study was anchored in the change theory. The county government of Kisii County can capitalize on this finding by prioritizing adequate resource allocation for M&E activities. This capitalizing may involve dedicating specific budgets, ensuring infrastructure provision, and allocating sufficient human resources. Policymakers and project managers should closely evaluate the resource allocation process, addressing concerns raised by participants in the study. Adequate resources lay the foundation for streamlined operations, data collection, and stakeholder engagement. By recognizing the strategic significance of resource allocation, the county government can significantly enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of water project implementation