bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Organizational Ethical Leadership Practices and Adoption of Solar Photovoltaics in Climate-Smart Agriculture in Uasin-Gishu County, Kenya
Authors: KORIR David KIPKOSGEI , OUMA Caren , OKECH Timothy
Published: April 2024

The study examined the influence of organizational ethical leadership practices on adopting solar energy technology in Climate-Smart Agriculture in Uasin Gishu County, Kenya. The study adopted a positivist research philosophy and descriptive correlational research design targeting the county's 240 executive, policy, legislative, and decision-making level staff as of December 2022. A census was applied to all the target population. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed in terms of descriptive and inferential statistics using SPSS version 28. The study showed a strong positive correlation between organizational ethical practices and solar photovoltaic adoption, while the Chi-Square test results strongly associated organizational ethical practices with solar photovoltaic adoption. Regression analysis revealed that the organizational ethical leadership practices significantly predicted solar photovoltaic adoption. Thus, the study rejected the null hypothesis that organizational ethical practices did not significantly influence solar photovoltaic adoption in Uasin Gishu County, Kenya. The findings for the regression analysis after moderation showed that stakeholder perceptions significantly moderated the relationship between organizational ethical practices and solar photovoltaic adoption, and thus, the study rejected the null hypothesis that ‘stakeholder perceptions did not significantly moderate the relationship between organizational ethical practices and solar PV adoption.' The results of the study indicated that the respondents agreed on the need for high-level commitment and worker empowerment and hence concluded and recommended that the Uasin Gishu County government leadership develop an appropriate reward system to recognize employees' efforts in Climate Smart Agriculture toward solar photovoltaic adoption. It further recommended that the county leadership establish codes of conduct to regulate and align with environmental, sustainability, and governance standards to support business dealings with ESG-compliant stakeholders that incorporate solar PV adoption in their mitigation measures against climate change.
DESIGN OF A LOW-COST MICROCONTROLLER-BASED LIGHTNING MONITORING DEVICE
Authors: Gilbert Mwangi Kamau  , Samuel Kang'ethe  , Stanely Irungu Kamau  , Nick Giesen
Published: April 2024

Lightning data is not only important for environment and weather monitoring but also for safety purposes. A device that monitors and keeps track of occurrences of lightning strikes has been developed. A communication interface is established between the sensors, data logging circuit and the microcontroller.Â  The digital outputs of the lightning sensor and data from GPS are processed by the microcontroller and logged onto an SD card. The interface program enables sampling parameters such as distance from the lightning strike, time of strike occurrence and geographical location of the device. For archiving and analysis purposes, the data can be transferred from the SD card to a PC and results displayed using a graphical user interface program. Data gathered shows that, the device can track the frequency and movement of lightning strikes in an area. The device has many advantages as compared to other lightning sensor stations in terms of huge memory, lower power consumption, small size, greater portability and lower cost. The device shall be used in designing a lightning networks.
LEAD METAL EXPOSURE TO RESIDENTS RESIDING IN INFORMAL SETTLEMENT
Authors: Joseph Odhiambo Owino  , Philip E Ragama  , Christopher M. Maghanga  , Ngoci S Njeru
Published: April 2024

The study was conducted with the aim of determining the level of lead exposure to residents living in slum areas, sewage areas and close to waste dumpsites of Nakuru Municipality using a sample of 120 individuals. Cross sectional study design, was adopted where a representative proportion of the population at different age groups was included in three sites, viz: dump site, slum areas and sewage prone areas. The level of lead exposure was determined by subjecting human hair samples to Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy tests after wet acid digestion using Nitric acid analytical grade. Result indicate that the incidence of presence of lead in samples were 0.45Â±0.106; 0.17Â±0.064 and 0.29Â±0.057 of 0-6, 6-17 and >17 years of age respectively. There was a significant difference (Pâ‰¤0.05) among sites with majority of those sampled from dump site having 5 g/l and above. This study therefore concludes that, Nakuru being one of the fastest growing towns in East Africa faces a high level of Lead heavy metal contamination among residents, a fact that has not been documented as a necessity in accommodating the growing population, industrial, and commercial activity.
Toxicity and efficacy of aqueous crude extracts from Allium sativum, Callistemon citrinus and Moringa stenopetala against L. major
Authors: Kinuthia Geoffrey Kariuki
Published: April 2024

Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) treatment involves pentavalent antimonials, amphotericin B, pentamidine, miltefosine among others. These drugs are toxic, costly, and require prolonged use. CL is a protozoan skin infection which may lead to disfiguring and stigmatization. In Kenya, CL is common in Baringo County where it is caused by Leishmania major and transmitted by infected female phlebotomine sand fly. Leishmaniases are common in poverty stricken areas where victims opt for local herbal therapies. Herbs used havenâ€™t been tested scientifically to verify their toxicity and efficacy. The current study determines in vitro toxicity and in vivo efficacy of aqueous crude extracts of Moringa stenopetala, Callistemon citrinus, and Allium sativum against L. major. The IC50 of aqueous extracts against promastigotes ranged from 297Âµg/ml to 575Âµg/ml compared to Pentostam and liposomal amphotericin B with IC50 of 0.26Âµg/ml and 0.82Âµg/ml respectively. The viability of promastigotes upon exposure to extracts ranged from 52.55% to 60.57%. Similarly the IC50 of extracts against vero cells ranged between Â 467Âµg/ml to 2105Âµg/ml compared to 108Âµg/ml and 60Âµg/ml for pentostam and liposomal amphotericin B respectively. Orally administered A. sativum reduced L. major caused footpad lesions significantly (P < 0.05) when compared to control PBS. The efficacy of oral C. citrinus extracts (B) in reducing amastigotes in spleens of infected BALB/c mice was 82.99%, followed by oral M. stenopetala (A) at 66.96% and oral A. sativum (C) at 60.37% compared to pentostam and liposomal amphotericin B at 66.40% and 60.62% respectively. The difference between the mean total LDUs for aqueous oral C. citrinus extracts and control oral PBS was significant (P = 0.017). It was concluded that crude aqueous extracts of A. sativum, M. stenopetala, and C. citrinus show antileishmanial activity at low toxicity.Â  Inclusion of garlic and moringa in the diets of people in leishmaniases foci should be emphasized.
Biology Education: A Teachers Perspective on the Challenges in the Delivery of Content and Performance in Biology
Authors: Kennedy W. Nyongesa
Published: April 2024

Biology is a teaching and learning subject at secondary school level in Kenyan schools. Biology plays a key role in industrialization and other sectors of the economy.Â  Biology is a practical subject, which equips students with concepts and skills that are useful in solving the day-to day problems of life.Â  The study of biology aims at providing the learner with the necessary knowledge with which to control or change the environment for the benefit of an individual, family or community.Â  However, the secondary school studentsâ€™ performance in biology as a learning subject in the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) in Bungoma District has been quite low over the years.Â  The public outcry and concern by parents, teachers, educationists and students about poor performance in science subjects and mathematics in national examinations is a clear indication that factors influencing studentâ€™s performance in these subjects need urgent investigation.Â  The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of teacher related factors on performance of secondary school students in biology.Â  The Cross-sectional descriptive research design and the Ex post facto were employed in this study.Â  Nine (9) secondary schools were randomly selected for study out of 139 schools in Bungoma district.Â  Different categories of schools were used depending on the school set-up and these were (i)Â  Single- gender boys boarding schools (ii)Â  Single- gender girls boarding schools (iii)Â  Single- gender girls day schools (iv)Â  Co-educational boarding schools (v) Co-educational day schools (vi)Â  Co-educational boarding / day schools.Â  A total of three hundred and sixty (360) form three students were randomly selected for the study.Â  A student questionnaire (SQ) and a teacher questionnaire (TQ) were used as the main instruments for data collection. Class mark lists were used as tracking records of performance in biology. Data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics.Â  The study established that boys perform better than girls in biology. Female teachers were found to have a higher level of science anxiety in the teaching of biology compared to the male teachers. It was established that most teachers still used the traditional lecture method in the teaching of biology and only a smaller percentage were using the new approaches. This study was expected to significantly contribute in the provision of information that could be used by teachers, parents, educationists and policy makers to improve on the teaching, learning and performance of students in biology.
Integrating Learner Disabilities in Inclusive Schools in Njoro Sub-County
Authors: Jesse Kimani
Published: April 2024

The complexities and daily challenges experienced by learners with special needs in inclusive primary schools make them feel frustrated and unable to perform optimally in their studies. Sometimes they are unable to cope effectively with inclusive learning, and this makes them withdrawn. In order to avert such situations, counselling services are required in mainstream programmes to aid the learners develop academic, social and personal competencies that assist in their adjustment for life-long development. Â 
The purpose of this study was to explore ways of integrating disabilities into the school for international, national and personal development among learners with disabilities in Njoro Sub-County. Data was collected using two questionnaires which were administered to 100 learners and 20 teachers. Interviews were conducted among 5 education officers in the sub-county. The data was analysed using the stastical package for social sciences (SPSS) to obtain descriptive statistics(percentages and frequencies). Â The findings showed that learners with special in inclusive schools in Njoro sub county faced diverse psycho-social challenges including self-pity and self-devaluation among others.Â  These challenges require well programmed guidance and counselling services. The findings of the study are expected to provide a basis upon which the ministry of Educations and the school administrators can operate to fully integrate learners with disabilities into all educational institutions for development. They can also help the ministry to formulate guidelines to address the challenges facing this special group of learners. The study recommended that the admission of learners into all schools should be so structured to include learners with disabilities irrespective of their gender and nature of impairment.Â
An assessment of impacts of extractive industries on landscape
Authors: Kefa Omoti  , Jackson Kitetu  , Joseph M. Keriko
Published: April 2024

Kenya is endowed with a wealth of natural resources comprising minerals, forests, wildlife and other forms of biodiversity. In the recent past, the Country has witnessed increased attention in the extraction of minerals such as titanium, gypsum and gold to mention a few. Spurred by a progressive Constitution and an aggressive long term development blueprint, the extractive industry is expected to expand. Mining activities are potentially important contributors to landscape changes and loss of biodiversity.Kajiado County residents have in the past violently protested against land degradation and if nothing is done to understand the nature and magnitude of landscape changes in the study area, environmental management will continue to be a challenge. Discussions in the literature on impacts of gypsum mining on landscape are site specific and lack in details. This study sought to establish the impacts of gypsum mining activities on landscape in Kajiado. The study adopted the descriptive/diagnostic design. Questionnaires were used alongside interview schedules to collect data from a sample of 95 respondents and key informants selected through Simple Random Sampling (SRS), Stratified Random Sampling (SRS) and Purposeful Sampling. Satellite imagery and photography were employed to investigate landscape changes in the study area over the past 32 years. Data was analyzed in descriptive and inferential statistics. Imagery analysis revealed significant land degradation and loss of biodiversity. Questionnaire study however indicated minor importance (Â =95, Pâ‰¤0.001) to the overall contribution of gypsum mining to the county landscape. The study recommends systematic land rehabilitation and re-vegetation
Exploring the Use of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTS) For Peacebuilding in Mount Elgon Region
Authors: Cherotich Mung’ou
Published: April 2024

Conflicts have brought great distress and loss of lives across the globe. Unfortunately, the African continent has witnessed the greatest impact of these conflicts. However, from 2011, other the predominantly Muslim countries especially in the Middle East, Arabia and Africa also witnessed similar conflicts that led to loss of lives and overthrow of dictatorial regimes. The intra-ethnic conflict witnessed in Mount Elgon region between the Soy and Ndorobo clans of the Sabaot in 2006-2008 had great socio-economic implications in the region. While most literature has focused on the causes of intra-ethnic conflicts in Africa and Kenya in particular, there has been less focus on peacebuilding. More so on the role of ICTs to the peacebuilding process for societies emerging from conflicts. This study was designed to assess the ICTs used in the peacebuilding process in Mount Elgon region. The study was based on the conflict transformation theory which argues that conflict transformation is a long process requiring different interventions by different actors employing various approaches towards attainment of peace. The theory also posits that ICTs have the potential of transforming conflicts into peaceful co-existence characterized by new structures and new relationships. The study used questionnaires, in-depth interviews, and focus group discussions to collect data. The target sample was the residents and the state and not-state actors involved in the peace building process in Mt Elgon region. The study showed that ICTs such as mobile telephones, the Internet and radio, social media platforms and ICTs greatly contributed to the peacebuilding process in the region. The paper contributes to the on-going dialogue on peace building efforts in Mt. Elgon and other regions experiencing similar conflicts and recommends. The study recommends more investment in ICTs by both state and non-state actors involved in the peace building process in the region.
FREE DAY SECONDARY SCHOOL EDUCATION
Authors: Nelson N. Ngare  , Theodore Ayodo  , Johanness Koech
Published: April 2024

The study endeavoured to investigate factors that cause dropout of secondary school students in Kipkelion Sub County. The study was guided by social demand theory. The objective of the study was to identify factors that cause drop out in secondary schools in Kipkelion Sub County.Â  Â The Study population comprised 1600 form 4 students and 25 head teachers in 25 secondary schools in Kipkelion Sub County. The sample size consisted of 343 students and 19 head teachers which were selected using both purposive and simple random sampling techniques. Quantitative data was analysed using descriptive statistics. Questionnaires and document analysis were used to collect quantitative data while interviews with the principals and sub county directors generated qualitative data. Validity of instruments was confirmed by involving experts. Reliability was determined by using parallel form technique and chronbachâ€™s alpha of 0.78 was obtained.Â  It was established that despite the introduction of free day secondary school education (FDSE), there is still a good number of obstacles. The greatest causes of dropouts are early marriages and teenage pregnancies among girls. There are also latent costs which are beyond the reach of most parents and others are retrogressive cultural practices, pregnancies, lack of sufficient teachers, HIV and AIDS.Â  In spite of innovative strategies the Government of Kenya has undertaken, the cost of education has not substantially decreased for a majority of students whose backgrounds are poor. The recommendation is that the Government of Kenya through the ministry of education should increase the amount of capitation and sensitize the communities on the importance of taking their childrenâ€™s education more seriously especially the girl-child and elimination of retrogressive cultural values.
EFFECT OF PRESCHOOL TEACHERS EXPERIENCE ON STRATEGIES TO SCAFFOLD SOCIOEMOTIONAL COMPETENCE AMONG PRESCHOOL CHILDREN
Authors: Elizabeth Akinyi Owino  , HEZBORN NELLY KODERO  , ROSE RUTO KORIR
Published: April 2024

The learning process, mental health and well-being of children in the future are founded on their Pre-school experiences. Focal to this is the childrenâ€™s Socio-Emotional Competencies (SEC) which help them recognize, understand and appropriately express their emotions as well as identify and appreciate othersâ€™ emotional expression. Children with poor SEC end up with deprived overall life outcomes. This paper examines the effect of pre-school teachersâ€™ experience on the strategies they use to scaffold SEC in children. Teachersâ€™ experience was categorized into: novice; fairly experienced and experienced while socio-emotional competence was examined in four areas including self-awareness, relationship management, social awareness and self-management. Using a mixed method research design 98 private and public pre-schools were sampled; 301 pre-school teachers purposively selected; 6 pre-school teachers interviewed and 2 pre-school classrooms observed. Data was collected using questionnaires, observation checklist and interview schedules.Â  Results revealed a significant effect of pre-school teachers experience on strategies used to scaffold SEC in children at a p value = 0.003; with teachersâ€™ strategies to scaffold SEC among children improving with experience. The identified strategies for experienced teachers were that they showed concern for one another as well as taking keen interest in the childrenâ€™s individual differences. The study concluded that pre-school teachersâ€™ experience influence scaffolding strategies to childrenâ€™s SEC. The study recommends that efforts be made to control high turnover of pre-school teachers. Professional development and continuing education that focuses on non-cognitive skills in children should be encouraged among all pre-school teachers.
REVIEW OF POLITICAL PARTY DEMOCRACY IN KENYA
Authors: Ian M.A Segita
Published: April 2024

Kenyaâ€™s independence elections of 1963 were contested on multi-party democracy. Over fifty years later, political parties still revolve around personalities. It is difficult to distinguish the leading political parties by clear ideology. Consequently, consolidation of political party democracy in Kenya has been derailed. The purpose of this study was to establish the institutional deficiencies that have undermined political party democracy in pre and post independent Kenya. The researcher studied the countryâ€™s political history from various authoritative sources and noted in narrative form the events that influenced political party democracy in Kenya. The study found out that political party democracy in Kenya pre independence to 2010 when a new constitution was promulgated has been undermined by executive power excesses, negative ethnicity, and political corruption. The study recommended faithful and full implementation of the Constitution of Kenya 2010. Short of this, consolidation of political party democracy will remain elusive in Kenya.
The Efficacy of Career Counseling on Job Retention among Employees
Authors: Erick Nyakundi Onsongo  , Sharon Matama Gichaba
Published: April 2024

Career-related decision-making, career erudition/progress and development are as a result of considered and enviable results from a broad array of interventions required to shore up individuals in making flourishing career transitions all the way through their lifetimes.Â  However, achieving precision about the accurate nature of the interventions required to achieve these outcomes, and the conditions essential to support their thriving execution is not clear-cut.Â  Even at a fundamental level, the nature of career decision-making and career counseling is, itself, contested this is due to theÂ  Changes in the labour market for instance the advancement of information technology and globalization which have challenged the relevance of the career counseling, the view of career change is a one-off experience in an individualâ's development, substituting it with a wider indulgent of how transitions into, and throughout, career counseling, instruction and service are more multifaceted, more stretched and often span lifetimes Whereas the cutthroat benefit for organizations in the previous economy centered on pecuniary investment and expertise, the new market dictate stressing on investment in human capital, skills, and the dedication and zeal of the employees. The center of attention in the business world has shifted from corporeal assets to information and knowledge such as intellectual capital. Career guidance helps people to reflect on their aspiration, interests, experience and capability. It helps them to comprehend the labour market and edification systems, and to transmit this to what they discern in relation to themselves.
FOOD SAFETY RISK FACTORS IN SELECTED OUTSIDE CATERING ENTERPRISES IN NAIROBI, KENYA
Authors: Dorothy Jepkoech Rotich
Published: April 2024

Outside catering requires preparation and service of food at a site away from the business establishment. The specialized requirements of this type of catering however produce many challenges in the preparation, production, transportation and service of food that may affect the safety of food exhibiting potential outbreak risks of food-borne illnesses. These procedures add to the increased risk of food contamination. The food safety risk factors exposed through these processes are what this study sought to investigate. The study focused on selected outside catering events in Nairobi targeting food handlers of outside catering events in the city. The sample size was 60 from which data was collected. The collected data was then subjected to Correlations and multiple linear regression and ANOVA for analysis. The results showed a significant positive relationship between the hygiene, food handling processes and personnel control of cross contamination habits; and food safety. The regression coefficient of the three independent variables: hygiene practices (-0.294), food handling process (0.042) and personnel control of cross contamination habits (-0.304)) were positively and significantly related. In conclusion a positive change in control of cross contamination, enhanced food handlers supervision, control of food handling processes in firms offering outside catering services would ensure provision of safe food.
THE ROLE OF PRINCIPALS IN INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGY (ICT) POLICY FORMULATION IN PUBLIC SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN KENYA
Authors: Laban Murithi Mutwiri  , Violet Nabwire Kafwa  , Marcella Mwaka-Kyalo
Published: April 2024

The appreciation of the role of Information Communications and Technology (ICT) in recent years has driven many countries and Institutions of learning in particular to adopting these developments with an aim to enhance effective instructional designs. Its usage has widely been linked to one of the key catalysts towards attainment of Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). Inclusion of key stakeholders in the formulation of policies that guide its implementation is therefore vital. This paper is an examination of the role played by Principals in ICT policy formulation in public secondary schools. To achieve this objective, the study employed a descriptive design sampling 211 public secondary schools from Meru County through stratified sampling technique. The study sample comprised of 335 teachers, selected through simple random sampling method and 211 Principals purposively selected. Data was collected by triangulation, which made use of interview schedule, questionnaire, and observation guide. The data collected was analyzed using descriptive statistics using frequencies and percentages.Â  The authors found out that most schools lacked compressive ICT policy on the use of ICT in teaching and learning.
Key words: ICT, Principals, School leadership, Curriculum, ICT Policy, Policy formulation.
Linking Strategy Implementation with Organizational Performance in Kenyan Universities
Authors: Titus Ndunda Mwanthi
Published: April 2024

The business environment is characterized by turbulence, unpredictability, and ever changing circumstances. This calls for organizations to position themselves in the ever changing environment the effort to remain competitively advantaged. Universities in Kenya are not an exception, and therefore have to adapt to the dynamic environment and create a competitive edge. For organizations to remain competitive they need to embrace strategy implementation which entails putting into place intented strategies towards organizational performance. This paper sought to establish whether strategy communication, organizational leadership, employee participation, and resource allocation had a positive influence on strategy implementation in Kenyan universities. This study also sought to establish whether Kenyan universities successfully implement their strategic plans and how this impacted on organizational performance. The study was conducted in 10 universities (5 public and 5 private universities). The paper studied a sample size of 384 university employees. The study found that all the four factors had a positive influence on strategy implementation.
The Role of Internal Organizational Factors in Strategy Implementation in Kenyan Universities
Authors: Titus Ndunda Mwanthi
Published: April 2024

The business environment is dynamic and ever evolving thus compelling organizations to continuously change and adapt to the ever changing environment. Organizations create competitive edge through studying the environment and adjusting accordingly. One sure way to adapt to environmental change is by embracing culture change, improving organizational systems and organizational structure. Strategy implementation entails putting into action strategies towards organizational performance. This study sought to establish the influence of organizational culture, organizational systems, and organizational structure on strategy implementation. The study was conducted in 10 universities (5 public and 5 private universities) in Kenya. The sample size for this study was 384 university employees. The study was quantitative in nature and adopted cross-sectional design. The study found that the three internal organizational factors had a positive influence on strategy implementation.
EXPECTED OUTCOME OF HUMAN RESOURCE PRACTICES ON LABOUR TURNOVER IN RESTAURANTS IN KENYA
Authors: JACQUELINE CHEPTEPKENY KORIR
Published: April 2024

Labour turnover (LTO) disrupts organizations both indirectly and directly through increased costs of recruitment, training and social systems. This paper provides an understanding of the effects of human resource practices on labour turnover and how it can be managed in restaurants. The study was based on the equity theory and descriptive research design was used. The study covered a total of 80 restaurants operating in five major towns in Kenya namely: Mombasa, Nairobi, Kisumu, Nakuru and Eldoret with 284 respondents comprising employees randomly selected. Structured questionnaires were used to collect data. Frequency tables were used to present descriptive data while regression analysis and ANOVA were used to analyse the data. ANOVA results pointed to the fact that HRM practices were basically the same in all the towns studied. It was also established that socio-demographic characteristics and existence of gross informal human resource management practices in the restaurants have contributed to labour turnover. Thus, the study recommended that the Ministry of Labour enact, enforce and monitor standard management procedures that could reduce labour turnover. In addition, ways in which Human Resource Management practices could be used to manage labour turnover in the hospitality industry were given.
Customer Suppliers Relations, Customer Knowledge, Strategic Alliance Licensing Agreement, customer knowledge and Business Performance of Pharmaceutical Firms in Nairobi County
Authors: James Ngari Karimi
Published: April 2024

Customer supplier relations, customer knowledge and strategic licensing agreements re sub variables of Relational capital that helps the organization to interact positively with business community members to motivate the potential for wealth creation by enhancing human and structural capital. Â Relational capital comprises the knowledge embedded in all the relationships an organization develops whether it is with customers, competitors, suppliers, trade associations or government bodies. The purpose of the study was to test the relationship between, Strategic Alliances, Licensing and Agreements, Customer and Supplier Relations and influence performance of pharmaceutical firms in Nairobi County. The study was carried out in Nairobi since most of the pharmaceutical firms were located here apart from a few, which were based outside Nairobi. The research study adapted three research designs namely: Quantitative, explanatory and descriptive research design. The target population constituted 89 pharmaceutical firms and the sample frame was comprised of 31 local pharmaceutical firms. Thus represented 35% of the total population. Purposive sampling procedure was used to arrive at 31 pharmaceutical firms while judgmental sampling was used to target the human resource managers. Out of the 31 pharmaceutical firms the response rate was 18 companies. The instrument of data collection was a structured questionnaire with questions anchored on a five (5) point Likert type ranking scale which was administered to the respondents. The data processing and analysis was done mainly by the use of logarithmic multiple linear regression analysis. The results and findings of the study indicated that the sub variables of relational capital (customer supplierâ€™s relations, customer knowledge, strategic alliance licensing agreement) influenced business performance of pharmaceutical firms in Nairobi County. The overall model indicated that Customer Suppliers Relations with a P-Value of 0.031and Customer Knowledge with a P-value of 0.070 had positive and significant influence to business performance of pharmaceutical firms in Kenya, while Strategic Alliance Licensing Agreement 0.160 had a positive but insignificant influence on business performance.
Maternal Determinants of Iron Deficiency Anaemia among pregnant women in migratory community, Narok county
Authors: Violah Chepkorir Ngeno  , Wesley Bor  , Chebiwot Kipsaina Kipsain
Published: April 2024

Backround: Globally Iron deficienc anaemiahas been known to have negativeeffects of more than 2 billion people (WHO,2011).In addition,other studies have reported that anaemiacontributes to 20% of all maternaleaths (Tyaga, Kaushik & Ranga, 2016).
Objective: To identify maternal determinantsof Iron deficiency anaemia among pregnant women in migratory community, Narok county
Design: A cross sectional study design was adopted
Setting: Antenatal care clinic at Ewaso ngiro health centre
Study Participants: Pregnant women aged 15-49 years
Results:There was a statistical significance between age,education and parity status
Conclusion: Maternal determinants of IDA wereage, education and parity
Recommendation: There is need for a longitudinal study on the effect ofsocio-cultural practices on Iron deficiency naemia
Relationship Between Inter-Functional Coordination On Performance Of Universities In Kenya
Authors: Daisy Bowen
Published: April 2024

Inter-functional coordination is one of the market orientation components which is based on the the customer and competitor information entailing a businessâ€™s coordinated efforts involving not only marketing department, but all the organizationsâ€™ departments and resources in order to create superior value for customers.Â  Â The main purpose of the study was to analyse the relationship between inter-functional coordination on performance of universities in Kenya. Â The philosophical foundation of this study was positivism.Â Â  Descriptive and correlation designs design was adopted for the study.Â  The target population for this study was 63 universities in Kenya. Â A total of 115 respondents who include 3 staff and 2 students were selected from a sample of 23 universities.Â  Both stratified sampling and purposive sampling were used in selecting respondents from the population.Â  A structured questionnaire, administered through drop and pick was used in collecting data.Â  Descriptive and inferential statistics were used in analysing data through the multiple linear regression by using of Stata software, SAS System and Statistical Package for Social Sciences.Â  The relationship between market orientation and university performance were analysed using correlation analysis.Â  The analysed data was presented in frequency tables, pie charts, graphs and percentages.Â  The results show that there was a significant positive relationship between inter-functional coordination and university performance at 1% level of significance respectively.Â  This mean that the independent variable inter-functional coordination was significant in performance of universities.Â  The study concludes that universities in Kenya were market oriented through inter-functional coordination. Implying that that inter-functional coordination is an important market orientation concept that needs to be adopted and implemented by universities in Kenya.Â  This study recommends that universities in Kenya should make an effort and focus more on ensuring smooth flow of communication and sharing of information across all the universityâ€™s departments.Â  The university management need to know that their institutions would perform well if they develop inter-functional coordination capabilities that will support competitive behaviour of innovativeness.
Nurse's Knowledge Aspects of Enhancing Haemoglobin Level and Safety through Delayed Cord Clamping Time in a Semi-urban Hospital in South Rift Region, Kenya
Authors: Wesley Kipkorir Bor  , Dorcus K Mbithe  , Irine Ogada  , Wesley K Too
Published: April 2024

Background: The clamping of the umbilical cord can be done at different times after delivery, although delaying the clamping of the cord for â‰¥ 1 minute after birth improves the haemoglobin levels for newborn and variation may lead to safety issues and influence of the haemoglobin status of the infants. There is limited literature on the knowledge of health care providers on the optimal time to clamp the umblical cord after delivery.
Objective: To assess the nurseâ€™s knowledge aspect on enhancing haemoglobin levels through delayed cord clamping in a semi urban Hospital in South Rift Region, Kenya
Methods: The Participants nurses in the study were enrolled through simple random sampling in maternity and delivery rooms and the aspect of knowledge was assessed using Pre-test questionnaire.
Results: Half of the nurses (50%) had knowledge that delayed clamping is recommended. However, 69% had knowledge that delayed cord clamping should be performed for those infants requiring essential care under maximum safety conditions while 94% reported that delayed cord clamping is beneficial to the infant and does not interfere assessment of the baby and administration of uterotonic drugs. A bout 31% had incorrect knowledge that delayed umblical cord clamping increases the infantâ€™s risk of acquiring HIV. Half of the nurses (50%) of nurses had knowledge that the World Health Organization (WHO) 2014 guidelines recommended delayed cord clamping for all infants without medical complications including infants of women who are HIV positive. 
Conclusion: The nurseâ€™s knowledge on the optimal time to clamp the umblical cord after delivery was not uniform. Majority of the nurses had knowledge that delayed cord clamping increases the risk of mother to child HIV transmission and aspect of knowledge affected the safety level of infant haemoglobin levels.
Recommendation: Relevant stakeholders should consider developing national guideline and standard operational procedures on Umblical Cord Clamping after delivery.
Retrospective analysis of our knowledge regarding the genetics of relevant traits for rootstock breeding
Authors:   EGFV, Univ. Bordeaux, Bordeaux Sciences Agro, INRAE, ISVV, 33882 Villenave d’Ornon, France, Ollat Nathalie
Published: April 2024

Rootstocks were the first sustainable and environmentally friendly strategy to cope with a major threat for Vitis vinifera cultivation. In addition to providing Phylloxera resistance, they play an important role in protecting against other soil-borne pests, such as nematodes, and in adapting V. vinifera to limiting abiotic conditions. Today viticulture has to adapt to ongoing climate change whilst simultaneously reducing its environmental impact. In this context, rootstocks are a central element in the development of agro-ecological practices that increase adaptive potential with low external inputs. Despite the apparent diversity of the Vitis genus, only few rootstock varieties are used worldwide and most of them have a very narrow genetic background. This means that there is considerable scope to breed new, improved rootstocks to adapt viticulture for the future. However, in comparison to the extensive research effort devoted to fruit varieties, there is little scientific knowledge to support grapevine rootstock breeding. Since grafting became widespread in viticulture, very few studies have been done on the genetic architecture of the relevant traits in rootstocks, even for resistance to Phylloxera or grafting ability. The current presentation will provide an overview of our knowledge on the genetics of specific rootstock traits, covering resistance to Phylloxera and nematodes, rooting and grafting abilities, and adaptation to drought and salinity. An attempt to list the resources and initiatives at the international level will be made. Acknowledgements: The research for rootstock breeding in Bordeaux has been supported over the years by numerous funding agencies and has benefited from the support of the wine industry. Louis Bordenave, Bernard Douens, Jean-Pierre Petit, Cyril Hévin and Nicolas Hocquard are to be acknowledged for their great involvement in the management of genetic resources and the monitoring of plant material.
Hak Nafkah Madhiyah Istri dalam Konsep Hukum Islam dan Implikasinya pada Putusan Pengadilan Agama
Authors: Muhammad Zhilal Haq  , Muchlis Bahar  , Zainal Azwar
Published: April 2024

The Compilation of Islamic Law has stipulated that all forms of income obtained by a married couple will become joint property regardless of who made the effort to obtain the income. On the other hand, the Compilation of Islamic Law has also stipulated that the husband is obliged to bear the wife's maintenance. So the question arises from which assets the husband takes to fulfill this maintenance. From these two rules, it seems that there is a normative contradiction. This has implications for the decision of the Religious Court in the case of Nafkah Madhiyah. This qualitative research is conducted by studying the primary data sources of the decision documents of the Talu Religious Court Number 440/Pdt.G/2020/PA. Talu and the Padang Religious High Court Number 6/Pdt.G/2021/PTA.Pdg and the Compilation of Islamic Law (KHI). The focus of this research examines the judge's legal logic towards the fulfilment of the wife's right to nafkah madhiyah in a divorce case in the decision of the Talu Religious Court (PA) which was then appealed to the Padang Religious High Court (PTA). The results of this study indicate that the decision of the PTA Padang judge who rejected and cancelled the PA Talu judge's decision regarding nafkah madhiyah was more appropriate because the husband left the house with only the clothes he was wearing, while the wife could still fulfil her minimum living needs with the joint property left by her husband.
Kekerasan Dalam Rumah Tangga Sebagai Alasan Perceraiaan (Analisis Putusan Nomor 737/Pdt.G/2021/PA.TPI Perspektif Saddu Adz-Dzari’ah)
Authors: Rizki Amar  , Isyaq Maulidan  , M. Rafli Kurniawan
Published: April 2024

This paper aims to examine the decision of the Religious Court No. 737/Pdt.G/2021/Pa.Tpi regarding the case of divorce due to domestic violence from the perspective of saddu adz-dzari'ah. This paper focuses on the reasoning of the panel of judges who directed their consideration to article 19 letter (f) of PP No. 9 of 1975 'jo article 116 (f) KHI and saw the relevance of the decision to the saddu adz-dzari'ah theory. This research uses a juridical-empirical approach and makes saddu adz-dzari'ah as an analytical. From this study, it is known that the panel of judges interpreted the act of domestic violence as a result of disputes and quarrels, therefore the Panel of Judges in its legal considerations applied Article 19 letter (f) PP No. 9 of 1975 jo. Article 116 letter (f) KHI. The granting of the divorce suit follows the theory of saddu adz-dzari'ah where marriage which should be a wasilah to happiness, the benefit of husband and wife does not materialise. On the contrary, the marriage becomes a wasilah to kemafsadatan (disputes and quarrels) and prohibited behaviour (domestic violence).
Integrasi Tarjih dan Maqasid asy-Syari’ah : Sebuah Analisis Pemikiran Maqasid Sayf al-Din al-Amidi
Authors: Rahman Muhammad Minan , Moh. Mufid
Published: April 2024

في هذا المقال دراسة لفهم مفهوم الترجيح ومقاصد الشريعة في فكر سيف الدين الأميدي. تعتمد هذه الدراسة على منهج تاريخي واقعي، مع التركيز على فكر الشخصية كموضوع البحث. وتعتبر هذه الدراسة نموذجاً للبحث المكتبي. وتشمل البيانات الأساسية التي اعتمدها الباحث كتاب "الإحكام في أصول الأحكام" لسيف الدين الأميدي. وتتألف البيانات الثانوية من المراجع الببليوغرافية التي تناولت سيف الدين الأميدي وفكره والنقاشات المتعلقة بالبحث. وقد توصلت الدراسة إلى أن الأميدي قدم إسهاماً مهماً في تطور مفهوم القانون الإسلامي، حيث عبّر عنه من خلال مفهوم الترجيح الذي يُقدم كأداة لفهم وتحقيق أهداف المقاصد. ويُظهر هذا أن القرارات القانونية يجب أن تتفق مع المصلحة العامة. ويعكس الأولويات التي أعطاها الأميدي للمقاصد تحليلًا حادًا للترابط بين القانون والمقاصد. فالتكامل بين الترجيح والمقاصد لا يقتصر فقط على تقديم نهج جديد للإجتهاد، بل يعمق فهم المفاهيم الكلاسيكية في أصول الفقه أيضًا.
Does Lack of Knowledge and Hardship of Information Access Signify Powerful AI? A Large Language Model Perspective
Authors: Idrees A. Zahid  , Shahad Sabbar Joudar
Published: April 2024

Large Language Models (LLMs) are evolving and expanding enormously. With the consistent improvement of LLMs, more complex and sophisticated tasks will be tackled. Handling various tasks and fulfilling different queries will be more precise. Emerging LLMs in the field of Artificial Intelligence (AI) impact online digital content. An association between digital corpus scarcity and the improvement of LLMs is drawn. The impact it will bring to the field of LLMs is discussed. More powerful LLMs are insights to be there. Specifically, increase in Reinforcement Learning from Human Feedback (RLHF) LLMs release. More precise RLHF LLMs will endure development and alternative releases.
Social Media as a Virtual Public Sphere in Health Education: A Systematic Review from the Perspective of Habermas' Public Sphere Theory
Authors: Nangi Mohamad Guntur , Kamaruddin Syamsu A , Adam Arlin , Lestari Sari Arie
Published: April 2024

Social media has become an important platform in health education. It allows individuals to connect and share information about health. However, no studies have systematically explored the role of social media as a virtual public space in health education. This systematic review aims to explore the role of social media as a virtual public sphere in health education, from the perspective of Habermas' public sphere theory. The review was conducted by searching for research articles published in reputable scientific journals between 2010 and 2023. The method used to write this article is a systematic literature review (SLR). The systematic literature review method used in this research is the PRISMA method. Article search, article extraction, and article classification using the Watase UAKE application. The article search was conducted online using two (2) database sources, namely Scopus (Q1-Q4) and Semantic Scholar. The review showed that social media has the potential to be an effective virtual public sphere in health education. This platform can be used to. Increase awareness and understanding of health Provide information and support for individuals in need, strengthen community participation in health education, However, social media also has some limitations in supporting health education. These limitations include: Disinformation and misinformation, Polarization of opinion Conflict of interest. In this review concludes that social media can be a valuable tool for health education. However, it is important to be aware of its limitations and take steps to overcome them.
Pengaruh Media Busy Board terhadap Perkembangan Motorik Halus Anak di TK Iqra’ Tunggul Hitam Padang
Authors: Afriani Afni , Angraini Vivi
Published: April 2024

Fine motor skills are acquired through practice and education. Defined as precision movements that use small muscles or specific body parts. From observations made at Iqra' Kindergarten, it can be seen that children's fine motor development is still lacking. The aim of this research is to evaluate the extent to which busy board media can help kindergarten students at TK Iqra' ANGKAL Hitam Padang in developing their fine motor skills. This research stands out for its emphasis on quantitative elements and using an experimental research approach. The researchers used word and action assessments to collect data. To test the data, homogeneity and normality checks were carried out. The average score of the experimental class was 14.17, while the control group's score was 12.75, based on research findings before and after the test. The significance level of 0.05 is somewhat exceeded by the two-sided p value of 0.009. As a result, we can say that the difference between the experimental group and the control group is statistically significant. As a result, there were striking differences between the experimental group and the control group. Thus, it can be concluded that the null hypothesis (Ho) is refuted and the alternative hypothesis (Ha) is validated. The results showed that there were significant differences in the fine motor skills of experimental and control group children aged 5-6 years. This shows that the Media Busy Board is an effective way to help teenagers in this age range improve their fine motor skills.