Precision Feeding in Dairy Ration Cost Minimization Under Producer's Risk Management

The biophysical simulation data from Cornell Net Carbohydrate and Protein System were used in non-linear programming model for least cost ration incorporating ingredient nutrient and price variations. Precision feeding practice indicated to have lower mean cost ration than whole herd feeding in terms of ration cost.Non-linear programming, nutrient variation, price variation, precision feeding, environmental pollution, phosphorus, nitrogen, mean cost ration, whole herd feeding, Livestock Production/Industries, Risk and Uncertainty,

Risk management on application of minimum-cost feed ration for nitrogen and phosphorus reduction on dairy farm

The traditional mathematical programming model with the objective function of feed ration cost minimization is used to accommodate risk management responses to price variability associated with feeding a particular feed ration over time. The model incorporated biophysical simulation data using Cornell Net Carbohydrate and Protein System (CNCPS) software in addressing nutrient requirements and excretions. In addition, it used historic feedstuff prices in a mean-variance (E-V) framework analysis. The optimized seasonal feeding indicated to have a lower mean ration cost and lowest nutrient loading followed by optimized uniform feeding program. The feed cost optimization proved to be a better strategy in minimizing ration cost and reducing excretions both manure and nutrients. The results in this study can be used as guidelines for making nutrient. The information in this study can be used by a producer facing feed price risk to select optimal ration while reducing environmental pollution.Risk and Uncertainty,

Users’ perceptions of outpatient quality of care in Kilosa District Hospital in Central Tanzania

Use of users’ perception in measuring quality of care has been shown to be useful in screening problems and in planning for improvement of quality of health care delivery. Traditionally, quality of care has been measured using professional standards, neglecting users’ opinions which may leave psychosocial needs unattended. The objective of this descriptive cross-sectional study was to assess users’ perceptions of quality of care given at outpatient department (OPD) at Kilosa District Hospital in Central Tanzania. Hospital based exit interviews were conducted to adult patients or caregivers of children attending the hospital. Focus Group Discussions were conducted among community members in selected villages within the hospital catchment area. Information on perceptions on care provider-patient interaction, cost of service, availability of medicines, equipment and health personnel was sought from the participants. Overall OPD was perceived to have several shortcomings including verbal abuse of patients by care providers, lack of responsiveness to patients’ needs, delays, inadequate examination, unreliable supply of medicines, lack of confidentiality and favouritism in health care provision. Cost of service was perceived to be reasonable provided medicines were available. In conclusion, provider-patient interactions, timely services, supply of medicines and favouritism were the major factors affecting quality of service at the hospital. Efforts should be made to address the shortcomings so as to improve quality of care and users perceptions.Key words: users’ perceptions, health care, quality, hospital, Tanzani

An Integrated Precision Production and Environmental Management Analysis of a Kentucky Dairy Farm

This study compares and contrasts the profitability of different dairy management practices through precision livestock farming. Feed analysis and crop yields were simulated. The proposed alternative feeding program demonstrated less manure and nutrient excretions. When mathematical programming model was employed, uniform rate application manifested the highest selected economic values.Management practices, environmental, Environmental Economics and Policy,

Comparison of Decision Rules for Subsurface Drip Irrigation Practices Using a Nonlinear Mathematical Programming Model

A comparison of decision rules has been made for case studies of corn production using subsurface drip irrigation under three agricultural management practices (no irrigation, uniform irrigation, and variable rate irrigation). The uniform irrigation strategy appeared to perform the best than the other two management practices under different risk scenarios.corn production, mathematical programming, profitability, risk management, subsurface drip irrigation, variable rate irrigation, Farm Management,

Exploring Effective ICT Integration Strategies in Education: A Case of Two Public Primary Schools in Mombasa, Kenya

Purpose: The contemporary education landscape is undergoing a significant transformation, largely driven by the integration of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT). This paper explores the experiences of educators as they incorporate ICT into teaching and learning. Methodology: The study was conducted in Mombasa City, Kenya, and utilized qualitative research methods, including in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, and classroom observations, in a case study design involving two urban primary schools. The research meticulously documented the experiences of 16 participants. Findings: The findings of the study highlight several advantages of using ICT in teaching and learning, including easy access to information, interactive and personalized learning opportunities, as well as collaboration. However, the data also revealed significant challenges faced by educators, such as unstable electricity, inadequate ICT gadgets, internet fluctuation, and a lack of skills to integrate ICT into teaching. Unique Contribution to Theory, Policy, and Practice: Educators consistently stressed the importance of continuous support and professional development to enhance their ICT integration skills. Furthermore, the research emphasized several promising recommendations, including the installation of alternative sources of electricity, sourcing for additional ICT devices, supervising learners while using ICT gadgets, and conducting professional development initiatives tailored to the creation of a collaborative community of practice (COP), which have the potential to effectively address these challenges. To fully leverage the potential of ICT for enriching the learning experience, equipping students with essential digital skills, and preparing them for a digital-centric world, educational institutions, and policymakers must prioritize investments in technological infrastructure and foster a culture of innovation and collaboration among educators

Risk factors for placental malaria and associated adverse pregnancy outcomes in Rufiji, Tanzania: a hospital based cross sectional study

Background: Prevention and treatment of malaria during pregnancy is crucial for reduction of malaria in pregnancy and its adverse outcomes. The spread of parasite resistance to Sulphadoxine-Pyrimethamine (SP) used for Intermittent Preventive Treatment for malaria in pregnancy (IPTp), particularly in East Africa has raised concerns about the usefulness and the reliability of the IPTp regimen. We aimed to  assess the effectiveness of two doses of SP in treating and preventing occurrence of adverse pregnancy outcomes.Methodology: The study was an analytical cross sectional study which enrolled 350 pregnant women from Kibiti Health Centre, South Eastern Tanzania. Structured questionnaires were used to obtain  previous obstetrics and medical history of participants and verified by reviewing antenatal clinic cards. Maternal placental blood samples for microscopic examination of malaria parasites were collected after delivery. Data was analyzed for associations between SP dosage, risk for PM and pregnancy outcome. Sample size was estimated based on precisionResults: Prevalence of placental maternal (PM) was 8% among pregnant women (95%CI, 4.4-13.1%). Factors associated with increased risk of PM were primigravidity (P<0.001) and history of fever during pregnancy (P= 0.02). Use of at least 2 doses of SP for IPTp during pregnancy was insignificantly associated with reducing the risk PM (P=0.08), low birth weight (P=0.73) and maternal anemia (P=0.71) but associated significantly with reducing the risk of preterm birth (P<0.001).Conclusion: Two doses of SP for IPTp regime are ineffective in preventing and treating PM and adverse pregnancy outcome. Hence a review to the current IPTp regimen should be considered with possibility of integrating it with other malaria control strategies.Keywords: Placental malaria, intermittent preventive treatment, Sulphadoxine-Pyrimethamine, Malaria in pregnanc

Risk factors, management and outcomes of adverse drug reactions in adult patients on antiretrovirals at Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi

Background: Antiretrovirals have been associated with serious adverse drug reactions. Several factors have been suggested as independent risk factors for their development. Identification of these factors may help in prevention and management of the adverse drug reactions.Objective: To describe the factors associated with adverse drug reactions, their management, and the clinical outcomes.Design: A retrospective cohort study.Setting: Kenyatta National Hospital, Comprehensive Care Centre.Subjects: Adult patients receiving antiretrovirals from 2003 to 2006.Main outcome measures: The primary outcomes were the risk-factors, interventions and outcomes of documented adverse drug reaction after exposure to antiretrovirals.Results: Systematic random sampling was used to pick 350 patients’ files. The risk factors for experiencing at least one adverse drug reaction were: having a baseline CD4 count less than 123 (odds ratio [OR] = 1.82, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.18 to 2.79; p=0.006); treatment with antiretrovirals for more than 32 months (OR =1.76, CI: 1.15 to 2.71; p=0.010), using didanosine containing regimens (OR=3.7, CI: 1.40 to 9.70; p=0.008) or being on stavudine containing regimens (OR=4.4, CI: 2.53 to 7.71; p=0.001). The most common intervention was addition of a non-antiretroviral while 41% of events resulted in a change of anti-retroviral therapy. Conclusions: Current standard regimens in resource-limited countries are associated with an increased risk of adverse drug reactions. Almost half of adverse reactions are managed by addition of a non-anti-retroviral drug alone but 41% necessitated a change of anti-retrovirals