bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microresearch
Authors: Bortolussi Robert
Published: December 2022

Objectives: (a) to show that investment in research is an extremely wise move for any country, (b) to illustrate how research influences health decisions, and (c) to illustrate pathways in the “decolonization” of research in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC).

As shown by data compiled by UNESCO (Figure), the Gross Expenditure on Research and Development (GERD) as percent of national GDP greatly enriches its citizens (it’s an investment). For example, the Netherlands (NL), a country with few natural resources, invests heavily in research and has achieved a high level of prosperity for its citizens. Economists concluded that research is an essential investment for a country’s prosperity!

The decision-making process by any government is a complex process influenced by budgetary, political, legislated, and other considerations. The importance of “embeddedness” in this process was identified by Koon et-al. who showed that ministerial decisions on health are primarily influenced by people who have a reputation for research and work within the local system. This phenomenon is seen in both rich and poor countries; people who know and understand the culture and context of a country are key influencers on the decision process.

The challenges of LMIC to develop capacity in research was the topic of a UNESCO conference in Bamako Mali in 2008. Ministers-of-health from LMICs realized that research is critical in any decision process to ensure “evidence-informed” policy decisions. Their “Call to Action” recognized an essential need to build community-based research capacity to ensure health agendas would be decided by national needs informed by their own researchers.

The pathway to decolonization began anew in 1976 with the introduction of Microfinance offering startup funding, capacity-development, and coaching for local people with entrepreneurial ambition. Like Microfinance, MicroResearch (MR) is an innovative, capacity building, community-focused program, empowering local health researchers to improve health in their communities. Conceived in 2008 MR puts local research teams firmly in the driver’s seat from question selection, proposal development to knowledge translation. As of 2022:

19 partner institutions in 8 countries

Over 40 two-week training workshops

1,250 health workers and professionals trained

Including >300 doctors, >200 nurses and 600 other professions

126 MR teams have launched research projects (over 50 completed)

Over 50 PubMed publications and/or policy changes

Thousands of lives saved as a result of MR research-initiated changes

MR training programs have been incorporated into local institutes

MR has shown that high-quality research can be achieved locally when supported by training, coaching and access to small grants. MR decolonizes and democratizes research in LMIC.
Development of a complete meal from underutilized indigenous and exotic foods
Authors: Arimi Joshua , Musembi Amos , Muia A , Kibowott C , Kiptoo K , Awino Annette
Published: December 2022

A complete meal is a food served and eaten in one sitting whose nutrient variety has been optimized. Green bananas are a good source of resistant starch and dietary fibre while Irish potatoes are rich in starch and dietary fibre. Moringa leaves are rich in protein, minerals and vitamins while being low calorific value. Fig gourd leaves are mainly rich in vitamins. However, many people prefer ripe bananas as snacks/fruit to cooked green ones. Moringa leaves are mainly used for medicinal purposes hence rarely used as a food item. Exotic vegetables are mostly preferred in food processing to indigenous ones hence making the indigenous vegetables underutilized. Development of a complete meal using these neglected food items would improve their utilization. The bananas, fig gourd leaves and Moringa leaves were oven dried at 60 C and ground into powder using a blender. A composite powder was prepared that could be reconstituted at the time of need. The flours were blended into a paste and a pellet as the final product in a ratio of Moringa: potato flour: fig gourd leaves (1:10:1). The paste and pellets were subjected to proximate analysis and sensory evaluation. The proximate composition of the paste was 3.22±0.5, 12.83±0.8 2.86±0.2, 11.32±0.6% for protein, fat, fibre and ash. The product was formulated to provide the RDA for an average adult of 62kg. The overall acceptability of the product by sensory panelist was liked moderately by 70% of the panelists making it viable food product.
Determination of physicochemical properties of model beverages and baked products incorporated with avocado seed powder
Authors: Oirere Clinton Nyakang’i , Marete Eunice , Ebere Rebecca , Arimi Joshua
Published: December 2022

Consumption of Avocado (Persea americana mill) has increased worldwide in the recent years. The pulp is used but the peel and seed are discarded as waste. Studies have shown that the seeds are rich in phytochemicals that can be utilized in food systems. The objective of this study was to evaluate the potential of Hass avocado seed as a source of polyphenols in the processing of model beverages and baked products with functional properties. The proximate analysis of the avocado seed powder was carried out. The shelf life of phenols in avocado seed powder (ASP) stored in darkness, amber and transparent bottles was studied for six months. The seed extract was incorporated into model beverages of different pHs and the shelflife was monitored for 140 days. The seed powder was incorporated into baked products followed by total phenols and sensory properties analysis. Proximate composition of the seed powder for moisture, ash, protein, fiber, fat and total carbohydrates were 14.19, 1.82, 7.05, 4.00, 13.64, and 59.30 percent, respectively. During storage of the seed powder, there was no significant difference (P>0.05) in the phenol content under the different storage light conditions for six months. In the model beverages, the rate of phenol degradation was higher in lower pH levels (2.8, 3.8, and 4.8), and those stored at ambient temperatures lost more phenols than those refrigerated in 140 days. The concentration of phenols in the baked products reduced due to the loss of thermolabile phenolics during the baking process. The sensory evaluation of the cakes in terms of color for all the formulations was liked very much. The aroma of 0% and 15% ASP was liked very much, while the other formulations were liked moderately. The overall acceptability decreased with the increase in avocado seed powder in the queen cakes. Avocado seed can be utilized to produce acceptable queen cakes and extracts incorporated into beverages to make them functional with health-promoting properties.
Farmers’ Knowledge, Attitude and Perception towards Uptake and Utilization of Treated Human Excreta as Organic Fertilizer in Imenti South, Meru County
Authors: Ntabathia Festus M , Rutto Jane J. , Kirimi James G. , Kiogora Domenic S.
Published: December 2022

Universal access to safe and adequate sanitation for everyone remains a global challenge as over 35% of the total global populations have no access to adequate sanitation. This call for action and a paradigm shift from the sanitation conventional approach systems to onsite sanitation approach to ensure complete sanitation value chain and safeguard circular nutrient economy. This study explores small scale farmers’ knowledge, attitude, perception and practices on the uptake and utilization of treated human excreta as organic fertilizer. Data was collected from 96 respondents comprising of the farming household heads using both stratified and purposive sampling techniques across the six wards of Imenti South Sub-County using questionnaires. The study showed that education level and religion significantly influence on the level of utilization (p<0.05), while gender, occupation and farming duration had no significance level (p>0.05) on the utilization of treated human excreta. Half (50%) of the respondents agreed that increase in knowledge, positive attitudes and perceptions on treated human excreta improved on their application of treated human excreta as organic fertilizer. However, negative attitudes and health risk perceptions were the main limiting factors to utilization of treated human excreta. The type of sanitation technology used also influenced on the uptake and utilization of treated human excreta where by improved sanitation practices increased usage and application of human excreta as organic fertilizer by 52%. Therefore, there is a need for frequent open dialogues around the benefits and risks of treated human excreta utilization as organic fertilizer to increase farmers’ knowledge on it proper application. Further, it is important to understand the nature and direction of attitudinal influence dimensions and characteristics of farmers for mainstreaming circular economy interventions.
Determination of the effect of human capital on service quality of accredited universities in Kenya.
Authors: Nyongesa Godfrey , Mbugua Doris , Boit Rose
Published: December 2022

Design/Methodology- this study was guided by the positivist domain which is a major doctrine or theory in social sciences largely used in survey types of research. The study employed both cross-sectional research design and explanatory research design. The target population comprised the 74 public and private universities in Kenya. The sample size was 222 respondents. The main data collection tool was a questionnaire. Both descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyze the data Findings- the study established that human capital had a significantly positive relationship with service quality. Human capital explained about 38% of the variation in service quality of accredited universities in Kenya.  Practical Implications- The human capital such as strategic leaders in universities should be aligned and increase their adoption of strategic leadership practices in order to inspire good managerial practices in universities. Additionally, the finding that human capital affects service quality is consistent with the Upper Echelons theory. This theory offers a framework for viewing leaders as wise, experienced and educated change agents who serve as a critical asset capable of enhancing service quality in their institutions.
Comparative study on the effects of quarry dust and natural fines on performance of concrete blocks
Authors: Mugi Kinuthia
Published: December 2022

Natural fine aggregates have been used in the construction industry to bind with cementing materials in the presence of water for building structures. Its use has led to increased daily demand with a subsequent rise in prices as the reserves get exhausted. Its overdependence has resulted in increasing scarcity because of over-harvesting from river beds causing an increase in demand. Moreover, uncontrolled sand harvesting has imposed dire impacts on the various environmental subcomponents of the river ecosystem such as water quality and quantity, bedforms, sediment milieu, flora and fauna, and socio-economic conditions of the people in the long run. This has led to the agitated search for an ecofriendly and less expensive substitute that can produce comparable compressive strength when used in concrete making. Quarry dust, a waste product of the quarry's grinding operation, is gaining momentum as a viable alternative to the conventional aggregates in concrete manufacturing due to its accessibility and lower cost. Quarry dust poses environmental pollution when dumped hence its use in the production of concrete will mitigate the pollution. This research was to determine the impacts of the addition of quarry dust in the performance of Concrete blocks (CB). This was achieved through the evaluation of the compressive strength of the CBs when quarry dust is used instead of natural fine aggregates. The concrete blocks were cast using molds of size 150 mm x 150 mm x 150 mm and then cured for seven days, fourteen days, and twenty- eight days. The size of particle distribution, the slump and workability test, and compressive strength was done respectively for the fresh and cured concrete blocks. The 28-day prepared CBs were subjected to alternate dry and wet cycles to assess their durability performance. A cost-benefit analysis of the use of quarry dust in place of fine aggregates in CB was also be conducted. The results obtained was be subjected to a T-test to study the significant difference in the performance between CB and the control.
administrative use of information communication technology in management of secondary schools
Authors: Kimani Joseph W. , Ibuathu Njati Charles
Published: December 2022

This research sought to determine the management of public day secondary schools through infusion of information and communication technology. The study was carried out in Githunguri Constituency, Kiambu County, Kenya. The objective of the Study was to: determine the departments of day secondary school that have been functionally integrated with ICT, establish the strengths of integrating ICT in the running of a day secondary school. The study used descriptive research design. The study sample was 270 participants derived 22 public day secondary schools through stratified techniques. The study’s main findings were inadequate awareness by principals on the need for use of ICT integration in management, inadequate ICT resources and related infrastructure and lack of technical support for heads of departments as well as low resource mobilization by board of management influenced ICT integration in public secondary schools to a great extent. The main conclusions of the study is poor attitude towards ICT integration and inadequate resources and lack of technical support were the main hurdles towards ICT integration in school. The study recommended that principals of secondary schools work with the ministry of Education together with the Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development should come up with tailor made ICT integration programs to impart relevant skills, knowledge and attitude to school administrators. Therefore, further studies could be done on the effectiveness of use of ICT in managing secondary school affairs.
Role of information professionals in alleviating student plagiarism for academic integrity in Kenyan universities: a review of literature
Authors: Diki Paul Mutethia , Gibendi Ruth
Published: December 2022

Academic integrity is the commitment and demonstration of honest and moral behavior in an academic setting. This is most relevant at the university level as it relates to providing credit to other people when using their ideas. In simplest terms, it requires acknowledging the contribution of other people. Plagiarism is the act of taking someone else’s work and passing them off as your own. Student plagiarism is a known problem facing universities around the world. Plagiarism is perceived to be a growing problem in Kenyan universities and these universities are being required to devote increasing time and resources to combating it. This fraud behaviour of students in Kenyan universities is of great concern today. As result of explosion of plagiarism among Kenyan university students, these universities have been using technologies to detect and combat deceitful plagiarism behaviour of students. As information literacy experts, information professionals are especially suited to take the lead in educating students about plagiarism and promoting academic integrity. Librarians working in Kenyan universities can develop information literacy programs to address the issue of student plagiarism. Through combining librarians knowledge of research and information literacy with subject heading, and integrating these skills into the curriculum, students will feel more empowered and competent in their academic assignments. This article will review literature on different types of plagiarism practiced by Kenyan university students and the factors that have necessitated this norm. The paper will also give recommendations on how information professionals can help in alleviating the plagiarism menace.
Implementation of the ISO 27001:2013 standard in an academic library: case of Meru University of Science and Technology
Authors: Gibendi Ruth , Walubuka Elijah , Mutethia Paul
Published: December 2022

Academic libraries are often considered the ‘heart’ of academic institutions.  They are charged with provision of a range of resources, services, tools and software that are increasingly made available online.   With information as the key resource under its responsibility, information security is a pertinent component to assure its confidentiality, integrity and availability.   This paper describes the process of implementing the ISO 27001:2013 Information Security Standard for the library system of Meru University of Science and Technology. Theoretical models in information security in the library are examined.  Next, details of the approach undertaken in meeting the requirements of the standard are discussed.  The benefits gained and challenges that were faced are presented  The lessons gained herein will assist similar institutions seeking to get certified using this standard.
Effectiveness of Covid-19 contact tracing solutions
Authors: Munene Kenneth
Published: December 2022

COVID 19 has become a global pandemic requiring public health officials to take many measures to contain its spread. Amongst the measures is tracing those who have been in contact with infected people i.e. contact tracing. This paper examines some digital contact tracing applications that were developed soon after the outbreak (in the year 2020) and how effective they have been. The paper highlights a study done on these applications which shows that there are some issues around the use of the applications which hinders their wider adoption by the public (adoption of these applications by the public is one of the surest ways of containing the spread of the pandemic). The paper goes on to examine an instance where one of the issues raised (security of Personally Identifiable Information, PII) is addressed in a proposed design solution. The paper concludes by suggesting what should be done by contact tracing application developers to ensure their products are more acceptable to consumers thereby leading to their wider adoption.
Health-related quality of life: differences between human-wildlife interface and non- wildlife zones of Meru county, Kenya
Authors: Miriti Gervase , Karani Caroline
Published: December 2022

Background: EuroQol-five dimension-five level (EQ-5D-5L) instrument is one of the most applied patient reported outcomes questionnaire globally. However, its novel application to surveil, compare and report the Health Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) of different populations is rare.This study aimed to estimate and compare the HRQoL of residents at the interface of Meru National Park in Igembe Central and the non-wildlife zone of Tigania West Sub-Counties of Meru County, Kenya. Methods: Sample frames were constructed from Meru County Ministry of Health registers and respondents systematically sampled. Data were gathered through EQ-5D-5L and structured demographic questionnaires and analyzed. Associations between HRQoL variables and hypothesis were tested through chi statistic and odds ratios respectively. Results: The HRQoL dimension of worry statistically differed significantly by nearness to the National Park between the two populations at 95% CI. χ² (1, N=525) =35.5281, p< .001. Populations at the brink of Meru National Park were 3 times more likely to report problems in the worry dimension of the EQ-5D-5L than their counterparts in the non-wildlife zones of Tigania West (OR3.068, 95% CI: 2.109 to 4.463) p< .00001). Further studies are required to establish the cause of anxiety/depression in this area to improve population mental health.
Characterization and antimicrobial susceptibility of salmonella isolates from food sources of animal origin in Meru municipality, Kenya
Authors: Mwangi Brian , Kagendo Dorothy , Nyaboga Evans
Published: December 2022

Salmonella infections originating from food sources have become a menace to the world. Salmonella causes gastroenteritis and eventually death especially to children below five years of age and individuals who are immunocompromised. Antibiotics are the major therapeutic means used to mitigate Salmonella species. However, in the recent past, studies have reported that Salmonella species have developed resistance to common drugs available in the market. This study aimed at isolation and characterization of salmonella species from food sources of animal origin in Meru Municipality, Kenya. To achieve this collected samples were subjected to culture and sensitivity testing where seventy-six (76) meat samples were collected from butcheries, hotels, supermarkets, and slaughterhouses. Of these 14 (18.4%) were found positive for salmonella species. Additionally, 72 egg samples were collected from vendors and these yielded a two percent (2.1%) prevalence of salmonella species. In 80 milk samples collected from milk vendors in Meru township, all the samples were found free of salmonella species. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing indicated that majority of the salmonella isolates (40%) were resistant to more than four of the tested antimicrobial agents. The study recommends further studies to determine gene sequence and thus check for base pair differences among the salmonella isolates obtained. This will enable understand mutational changes which could be attributable to reported antimicrobial drug resistance among the isolates. Data obtained will enable policy change especially on use of antimicrobial agents especially during treatment of food animals. The study recommends working together of key players in the health sector, environmental sector and animal health sector in a view to improving the one health strategy in the study area, which may later be cascaded to all other counties in the country and beyond.
Wildlife-Human Conflicts and Community Perceived Benefits with Proximity to Meru National Park, Kenya
Authors: Miriti Gervase , Karani Caroline
Published: December 2022

Background: Communities and wildlife living in close proximity bear the brunt of direct impacts from human-wildlife conflicts (HWC). HWC can lead to hostility to animal species and loss of livelihoods. However, few studies have examined HWC and perceived community benefits with proximity to wildlife conservancies. We examined HWC and perceived community benefits of residents bordering Meru National Park, Kenya. Methods: Data were collected via a structured questionnaire and focused group discussion guide in a cross-sectional study. Ethical clearance was obtained from Meru University of Science and Technology Ethical Review Committee (MIRERC). Authority to carry out interviews was sought from the County Government of Meru. Data were coded and analysed through STATA and summarized using descriptive statistics. Results: Overall, 96.7 % of the study population were aware of human-wildlife conflict or had experienced it. The Elephant, monkey, hyena, lion and the leopard were the frequently reported conflict animals to cause crop damage, loss of livelihood, bodily injuries and destruction of property. Conclusions Only 26.6% of respondents were aware of benefits associated with proximity to the park. A multifaceted approach through KWS, community and government urgencies is essential in the management of HWC, to address HWC and reduce risk of zoonotic diseases.
Tracking the flow of excreta across the sanitation service chain in Nkubu town
Authors: Gituma Karen Karimi
Published: December 2022

Inadequate access to improved sanitation and water remains a huge factor contributing to increased mortality and morbidity rates, especially among children. Despite the growth in economy and recognition of sanitation as a basic right, investment in sanitation infrastructure has not yet been achieved, particularly in low- and middle-income area. As such, nearly 827 000 people die yearly due to inadequate sanitation, water and hygiene. To track the flow of excreta in Urban areas, the existing sanitation systems were assessed, the proportion of community with access to safely managed feacal sludge was examined, the challenges facing service delivery was assessed and finally, a Shit Flow Diagram for Nkubu town was developed. A descriptive cross-sectional survey was employed. The research instruments involved were use of key informants’ interviews, observation for primary data. The secondary data was gotten from existing data.  The Susana platform and the shit flow diagram tools were used for data analysis and generating SFD for Nkubu town. The data collected has been presented using a shit flow diagram, tables, graphs and charts.  The results indicate that only 28% of the excreta is safely managed. The pit latrines were the most used containment method with 45% and 3% of the population practicing open defecation. Only 40% of the feacal sludge taken to the treatment was properly treated and disposed. The challenges experienced in the management of fecal sludge were high water table in the area and high license and service fee charged. The findings imply that the unsafely excreta management practices in Nkubu town pose a risk to the health of residents in and around the town and the quality of water sources. This study points to the possible areas of interventions such as proper planning of the town and also creating an enabling environment for feacal sludge management.
The effect of purple tea extract activity on selected metabolic syndrome parameters in mice
Authors: Mwangi Erastus , Wandili Sarah
Published: December 2022

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a cluster of metabolic abnormalities. Prevalence of MetS is documented at 50% and 87.5% in Africa and Kenya respectively. It is managed by combining lifestyle modification and pharmacotherapy. Although Camellia sinensis TRFK306 has been proven to induce weight loss in mice and humans, its effect on metabolic syndrome is yet to be investigated. This study aimed to investigate the effect of Camellia sinensis TRFK306 extract on MetS induced Sprague Dawley male rats.  A total of thirty-five, six-weeks-old rats were acclimatized for one (1) week and randomized into 5 groups (n=7).  Metabolic syndrome was induced using high- fat fructose diet for eight (8) weeks. Post-hoc statistical analysis using Tukey’s multiple comparison test was used to analyze the effect of freeze-dried extracts of Camellia Sinensis TRFK306 on various markers of metabolic syndrome. Random blood sugar levels revealed significant differences (p = <0.0001), for experimental animals. Oral glucose tolerance results were significant (p = <0.0001). Total serum triglyceride levels was significant (p = <0.0001). Mean serum HDL-C levels revealed significant differences between the normal control and negative control (p = 0.0009), the negative control and low dose test (p = 0.0023), the negative control and high dose test (p = 0.0025) and the negative control and positive control (p = 0.0014). The mean serum LDL-C levels revealed significant difference (p= <0.0001). Camellia Sinensis TRFK306 possessed significant beneficial effects on various markers of metabolic syndrome.
Integration of container-based sanitation service provision in cities: influence of gender, religion and culture.
Authors: Ouko Vera , Riungu Joy , Kiogora Domenic
Published: December 2022

The purpose of this study was to investigate the challenges and opportunities in container based sanitation service provision in cities. Container based sanitation is an innovative technology where waste is collected and captured in sealable containers transported and treated use and/or safe disposal. CBS and non-CBS users’ perspectives were sought, to gain understanding on their experiences and perception about CBS services integration. Users were unpacked into three groups: households using CBS as pay per use, those running CBS as business and household with CBS installed in their residential. The study also sought to establish whether CBS suited sanitation needs of the users’ in line with social factors surrounding latrine adoption and User toilet Preference .Further, the study sought to establish the CBS stakeholders perspectives; support and perception of CBS as a sanitation option for the high density low income settlements The study adopted descriptive survey research design that enabled collection and analysis of both quantitative and qualitative data. The study was conducted among household members of Mukuru Kwa Njenga. Semi-structured questionnaires were used as primary collection tools, collection technique included observation, questionnaires and interviews. Additionally, ten in-depth interviews were conducted, with community chairmen, public utility representative, service providers and a government official. Quantitative data was analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) Version 20.0, qualitative data was thematically presented and reported in a verbatim prose. The study established that CBS service provision was rated as most preferred sanitation technology by 92% and 60% among CBS and non CBS household sampled. In addition CBS though most dominant option among the residents of Mukuru kwa Njenga, there some aspects of this innovative technology that needed to be upgraded including: Reevaluation on the CBS cost, structural improvement customized on the users sanitation preferences in line with socio-factors underpinning latrine usage, increased stakeholders involvement.  The results from this study can be applied by container based service providers operating in low-income high density settlement for upscaling of CBS service provision ,this could be achieved through integration of CBS  users preferences in the CBS technology upgrade. Additionally the results are also relevant to sanitation stakeholders including public and private institutions for strengthening of partnerships with an aim of creating an enabling platform for CBS operation for the betterment of CBS services especially in the informal area, where CBS has been demonstrated as viable.
Influence of performance expectancy on individual adoption levels of human resource analytics among human resource professionals in microfinance institutions in Kenya
Authors: Moturi Damaris , Wekesa Susan , Juma Dennis
Published: December 2022

Performance expectancy is when individuals believe an innovation supports their performance. Myriad challenges facing organizations have forced them to innovate to remain competitive. Human resource analytics is one such innovation which measures human resource functions for purposeful alignment with the organizations’ objectives. Earlier studies showed that 71% of respondents regarded human resource analytics as key. However, other studies found out that the uptake of human resource analytics was slow. The purpose of this study was to establish the influence of performance expectancy on individual adoption levels of human resource analytics among human resource professionals in Microfinance institutions in Kenya. The study was conducted in registered deposit taking Microfinance Institutions in Kenya. A cross-sectional survey was done on 500 human resource professionals. Stratified random and purposive sampling methods were used, obtaining a sample of 222 respondents. Questionnaires were used to collect data.  The findings revealed that using human resource analytics improves job efficiency, making human resource professionals strategic. The study concludes there is a significant positive correlation (R = 0.754, p = 0.00) between performance expectancy and individual adoption levels of human resource analytics and that performance expectancy has positive significant effect on adoption levels (β = 0.855, p = 0.000). The study recommends that organizations align data analytical tools with management systems and also train its employees to increase the perceived usefulness of human resource analytics hence aiding with adoption.
Promoting innovations in SMEs - findings from Kenya
Authors: Gatobu Rintaugu
Published: December 2022

This paper looks closely at the relationship existing between entrepreneurial activity, innovations and the development of Small and Medium Sized Enterprises (SMEs). Most SMEs result from implementing the entrepreneurial spirit, through which the entrepreneurs’ activity which is conducted in different domains. One of the most important aspect is the innovation in SMEs as an indicator of the entrepreneurial activity, on the one hand and as a contributor to the organization’s performance, on the other hand. This study therefore analyses the SMEs innovation activity over a period of time as an indication of entrepreneurship evolvement and manifested in Kenya as an East African country that integrated relatively recently into the East African Community Common market (EAC). The paper envisages looking at how innovations in SMEs from Kenya have evolved in the period 2010 to date. The innovative activities in SMEs are examined from a dynamic perspective and the analysis is based on the study of a number of aspects related to innovations, such as: types of innovative activities, investments in innovations, the intensity of renewing the existing products, the use of IT, the use of the Internet, etc. Based on these findings, the paper attempts to characterize the innovative activities in Kenyan SMEs and their evolution in time with emphasis on the recent times.
Analysis Of Nursing Care on Congestive Heart Failure Disease Using Semifowler’s Position to Increase Oxigen Saturation
Authors: Tantri Puspita  , Prayoga Rangga , Mulyana Yusup , Widadi Sri Yekti
Published: December 2022

Background: Cardiovascular disease is a health problem in both developed and developing countries. One of the most common cardiovascular diseases in Indonesia is congestive heart failure. Congestive heart failure is a condition in which the heart is unable to maintain adequate cardiac output to meet metabolic and tissue oxygen demands despite good venous flow. Objective: This case study aims to obtain an overview of applying semi-fowler position to increase oxygen saturation in patients with congestive heart failure.

Methods: The method used was a descriptive case study by conducting nursing care and literature review. Participants in this study were patients with congestive heart failure with impaired breathing patterns. Result: This case showed that applying semi-fowler position to Cardiac Heart Failure Patient was increased the oxygen saturation, which is characterized by a significant increase in oxygen saturation value with an average value of 3% each day. Conclusion: nurse can help patient increasing the oxygen saturation on CHF patient using semi fowlers position.

 

Keywords:Nursing Care, Heart Failure, semi-fowlers
Literature Review: The Effectiveness of Endorphin Massage on Reducing Dysmenorrhea Pain in Young Women
Authors: Zuhrotunida  , Desiyanti Nella , Triani Dewi
Published: December 2022

Abstrak         

Nyeri haid atau dismenorea adalah kram yang terjadi saat menstruasi dan merupakan salah satu masalah ginekologi pada Wanita dari segala umur dan ras. Terapi pijat yang dapat diberikan kepada penderita nyeri haid yaitu pijat endorphin dan pijat tekanan (counter pressure). Pijat endorphin merupakan pijatan setuhan ringan yang diberikan pada punggung badan. Pijat yang diberikan dapat merangsang tubuh untuk dapat melepaskan senyawa endorphin dan menciptakan perasaan nyaman dan rileks. Endorphin sudah sangat dikenal sebagai zat dengan berbagai manfaat. Beberapa diantaranya seperti mengatur produksi hormon pertumbuhan dan seks, pengendali rasa nyeri dan sakit, pengendali stress, dan meningkatkan imun tubuh. Metode Penelitian ini menggunakan metode Literature Review dengan melakukan analisis dari beberapa hasil penelitian pada 10 jurnal. Berdasarkan hasil yang didapat bahwa Penurunan nyeri tergantung pada tingkat endorphine yang dihasilkan. intervensi Endorphine massage terhadap penurunan nyeri disminore terjadi penurunan derajat nyeri (nyeri sedang ke nyeri ringan). Endorphine massage dilakukan minimal selama 30mnt untuk dapat meringankan nyeri disminore. Disimpulkan bahwa banyak terapi komplementer yang dapat di berikan dan di lakukan oleh tenaga kesehatan untuk mengurangi intensitas Nyeri dismenorrea.

 Kata kunci : Pijat Endorphin, Dismenorea, nyeri
Mathematical problem-solving ability: The effect of numbered head together (NHT) model and mathematical prior knowledge
Authors: Widyastuti Rany
Published: December 2022

This study aimed to determine the effect of the NHT (Numbered Head Together) cooperative learning model on mathematical problem-solving abilities in terms of students' mathematical prior knowledge. The researchers employed quasi-experimental research and collected the mathematical problem-solving data using a description test. At the same time, the researchers investigated students’ mathematical prior knowledge using the mid-semester examination (UTS) scores. The hypothesis was tested using the two-way ANOVA with unequal cells. The results showed that the NHT learning model provided better problem-solving skills than the direct learning model. The category of students' prior knowledge also affected their mathematical problem-solving abilities. Therefore, teachers should pay attention to the prior knowledge possessed by students so that an appropriate learning model can be selected.
Schoology-based e-learning: The impact on concepts understanding and mathematical communication abilities
Authors: Yuningsih Yolla Yulia Astuti , Farida Farida , Pratiwi Dona Dinda
Published: December 2022

The purpose of this study (1) To find out the effect of schoology-based e-learning media on concepts understanding and mathematical communication abilities.(2) Knowing the effect of schoology-based e-learning media on the ability to understand concepts. (3) Knowing the effect of schoology-based e-learning media on mathematical communication ability. The study used a quasi-experimental design with Posttest-OnlyControlDesign. Random sampling technique with a population of 259 students of class X MAN 1 East Lampung. The sample of the experimental class is 30 students, and the control class is 30.  Collecting data in the form of tests, interviews, and documentation. The data analysis technique used is One-way Multivariate Analysis of Variance test with a significance level of 5%. The result of the study is (1) There is an effect of schoology-based e-learning media on concepts understanding and mathematical communication abilities, the F value is 3,821 with a significance of 0,042. (2)There is an effect of schoology-based e-learning media on the ability to understand concepts with an F  value of  126.761. (3) There is an effect of schoology-based e-learning media on mathematical communication ability with an F values of 19.532. it can be concluded that schoology-based e-learning media is effective in increasing the concepts understanding and mathematical communication abilities. However, in this study, it has not emerged what learning model is used in applying the schoology media. Hence, when measuring mathematical communication ability, students only measure in the form of written communication (answers to description questions). Further research can be done by showing the use of appropriate learning models for schoology media. Also, the measurement of mathematical communication ability must also be considered in other forms, namely during discussion forums in schoology
Exploring Student Learning Concentration Through Whatsapp Group: A Classroom Teacher's Effort in Online Learning During The Pandemic
Authors: Juhji Juhji , Riduan Ahmad , Syaepudin Syaepudin , Liani Dira Afrina
Published: December 2022

This study analyzes the teacher's efforts in increasing student concentration in online learning and the role of parents in assisting their children's learning. The method used in this research is a survey method. The data collection technique used was interviews with teachers and parents of students at MIN 2 Serang and MIN 4 Serang. The data from the interviews were analyzed and then concluded in the form of a narrative. The study results reveal that teachers can know the concentration of their students when they learn to use video call media. In addition, parents play a role in assisting their children's learning. These findings indicate that teachers have increased students' learning concentration. It is proven effective in increasing students' learning concentration, marked by an increase in learning outcomes, and students' parents provide learning assistance to their children. The study recommends that teachers use video calls to overcome the concentration of students' learning and learning assistance for students at home by their parents.
Análisis descriptivo de la mediación lingüística: revisión actualizada del cuarto modo de comunicación
Authors: Canales Hernández María del Pilar
Published: December 2022

La mediación lingüística, una incipiente y, a su vez, próspera actividad de lengua presente en el Marco Común Europeo de Referencia desde 2001, ha contribuido a ofrecer una dimensión más amplia y realista del concepto de competencia comunicativa añadiendo, asimismo, un factor intercultural en el enfoque comunicativo al establecer la figura del “mediador” como puente de conexión en situaciones de incomprensión entre uno o varios usuarios pertenecientes a culturas diferentes. El objetivo de este artículo es realizar un recorrido a lo largo del concepto de mediación, las características distintivas que lo definen y las estrategias que facilitan su práctica. Centraremos nuestra atención, igualmente, en el campo de la traducción como soporte instrumental, más concretamente en la traducción pedagógica (TP) y la traducción audiovisual (TAV), por su rentabilidad y éxito en la transmisión y comprensión del mensaje.
Reseña de La gitanilla española: Poema dramático, de George Eliot, ed. e intro. María Jesús Lorenzo-Modia, trad. María Donapetry Camacho
Authors: Prieto Fernández Alba
Published: December 2022

Reseña de:

George Eliot, La gitanilla española: Poema dramático, ed. e intro. María Jesús Lorenzo-Modia, trad. María Donapetry Camacho, Soria, Vertere. Monográfico de la revista Hermeneus (Universidad de Valladolid), nº 22, Diputación de Soria, 2020, ISBN:978-89-16446-65-0, 303 pp.
MDB e ARENA nas charges: a imagem do sistema bipartidário da ditadura em disputa
Authors: Motta Rodrigo Patto Sá
Published: December 2022

O artigo estuda e interpreta as mensagens políticas de um conjunto de charges veiculadas por cinco jornais da grande imprensa brasileira (Correio da Manhã, Folha de S. Paulo, Jornal do Brasil, O Estado de S. Paulo e Última Hora) a respeito do sistema bipartidário vigente na ditadura militar entre os anos de 1966 e 1979. O propósito é analisar as diferentes maneiras como as charges representaram os partidos para o seu público leitor, levando em consideração as mudanças que ocorreram ao longo do tempo e os posicionamentos dos chargistas e respectivas empresas jornalísticas frente ao projeto político do regime ditatorial.
“Alguns desenhos guardados aí...” A censura ao humor gráfico durante o regime militar brasileiro. Um estudo de caso
Authors: Toulhoat Mélanie
Published: December 2022

Este artigo propõe uma reflexão sobre as motivações híbridas e complexas da censura imposta à imprensa independente e ao humor gráfico sob o regime militar brasileiro, com base na análise de fontes visuais inéditas. Os documentos estudados são um conjunto de desenhos feitos pelo cartunista Nani (Ernani Diniz Lucas) enquanto trabalhava na redação do semanário satírico Pasquim nos anos 70. Enviadas para Brasília para serem censuradas previamente, as produções ficaram retidas por anos antes de serem devolvidas ao artista, marcadas com cruzes e outros traços das proibições. Os desenhos permitem assim entrar no mundo dos censores, tornando as categorias e a própria definição do político mais complexas: atestam uma preocupação global por parte das autoridades em relação a todos os temas suscetíveis de minar a imagem de uma sociedade harmoniosa e moderna, e assim contrariar a visão política do regime e de seu imaginário autoritário.
Ensinar e Aprender História em tempos de (des)esperanças
Authors: Pacievitch Caroline , Andrade Juliana Alves de , Rossato Luciana
Published: December 2022

Apresentação da Seção temática “Os desafios de ensinar e aprender história no tempo presente”
O Estágio Curricular como espaço de formação de docentes sensíveis ao ensino de História Indígena
Authors: Oliveira Nucia Alexandra Silva de
Published: December 2022

Este trabalho traz à discussão algumas das experiências vivenciadas na disciplina de Estágio Curricular Supervisionado quando um grupo de estagiários/as ministrou aulas cujo eixo temático foi a História Indígena. O conjunto de fontes a ser analisado é composto por projetos de ensino e pesquisa, planos de aula, relatórios e artigos escritos pelos grupos. As aulas foram ministradas para duas turmas do 6º ano do Colégio de Aplicação da UFSC em 2019. A questão central da presente investigação foi suscitada a partir da percepção do grande interesse do grupo de estagiários/as frente ao tema e ao compromisso do grupo com o desenvolvimento dessa temática para o aprendizado histórico das turmas. Assim, algumas perguntas movimentam a escrita deste texto: que escolhas foram feitas no momento de preparação dessas aulas? Que materiais foram selecionados? E por fim: o que se pode dizer sobre a tarefa de ensinar História Indígena para estudantes da Educação Básica? O ensino de História Indígena na Educação Básica tem sido uma obrigatoriedade desde o estabelecimento da Lei 11.645/08, e também é obrigatória a sua presença em livros didáticos. No entanto, entre a obrigatoriedade da lei e a vivência nas salas de aula, temos um percurso de muitos desafios e enfrentamentos. O presente estudo, portanto, traz como objetivo perceber as tensões presentes na realização dos planos e das aulas desse grupo de estagiários/as. Além disso, tem o interesse de apontar as potencialidades desse movimento na formação de professores comprometidos com temáticas relativas à diversidade e com foco em currículos mais plurais.
Dimensões didáticas e disciplinares do Ensino da História: o caso do 6º ano do ensino fundamental no Brasil e do 3e cycle du primaire no Quebec
Authors: Moerbeck Guilherme , Araújo-Oliveira Anderson
Published: December 2022

Este artigo parte de um exercício comparativo sobre o 6º ano do ensino fundamental no Brasil (alunos de 11 anos, em média) e o 3º ciclo do ensino fundamental no Quebec (alunos de 11 a 12 anos). Um historiador e um pedagogo fazem uma análise comparativa dos programas curriculares dessas duas realidades. A partir dessa estratégia hermenêutica, colocam-se em discussão os conteúdos disciplinares específicos relacionados ao 6º ano no Brasil, juntamente àqueles do 3º ciclo primário no Quebec. Considerando as tensões disciplinares entre a Educação e a História, este artigo visa examinar a aprendizagem da História nas escolas, principalmente no que tange à construção curricular, ao desenvolvimento de competências e, em particular, do pensamento histórico.
Comentários sobre “L’avventura”, de Giorgio Agamben: um ensaio sobre deuses, destino e literatura
Authors:   University of Basilicata, Tonin Thays , Sevignani Luan Luis ,   Université de Trente
Published: December 2022

Publicado em junho de 2015, na Itália, pela editora Nottetempo, e ainda aguardando por sua publicação em português, este pequeno ensaio intitulado L’avventura, de Giorgio Agamben, não deixa de pagar tributo tanto aos propósitos warburguianos quanto ao seu constante diálogo com Heidegger. Agamben, neste ensaio, passa pelas “Saturnais” de Macróbio, assim como pela poesia cavalheiresca medieval, por Goethe, Dante, Simmel, Hegel e tantos outros, reconstruindo dessa forma os vários sentidos da palavra “aventura”. Aventura essa, que não é apenas um exercício estético, já que, nas palavras do autor, “aventura e palavra, vida e linguagem, se confundem e o metal que resulta da respectiva fusão é o destino”. Eis a proposta agambeniana: dar conta das várias formas (e corpos) que o termo “aventura” conserva, bem como articulá-la às constantes máscaras sob as quais os deuses se apresentam.