RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN FINANCIAL RESOURCE MOBILISATION AND INTERNAL EFFICIENCY OF TECHNICAL TRAINING INSTITUTIONS IN BUNGOMA COUNTY, KENYA

This paper looks at the relationship that exists between financial resource mobilisation and internal efficiency of public technical training institutions located in the county of Bungoma Kenya. For the objectives of technical training to be attained, financial resources is needed. This is because, instructional resources, infrastructural facilities or human resources all depend on the budget that their institutions develops and utilises on yearly basis. The study was conducted in four public technical training institutions in Bungoma County. The methodology for the study was mixed employing qualitative and quantitative methods. Data was collected through questionnaires and interviews from the following respondents; 4 principals, 16 managers in charge of IGAs, and 239 tutors from the four institutions mentioned above. The sample size involved 4 TTIs principles, 16 resource mobilisation managers and 150 tutors. The respondents were selected using stratified and systematic random sampling methods and purposive (judgmental) sampling methods. Data was collected through questionnaire and interview schedules. Analyais of data was performed using descriptive and inferential statistics to answer research question and test the research hypothesis. Computed correlation values (r=0.336 and p=0.001) showed that there existed weak positive relationship between financial resource mobilisation and internal efficiency of public training institutions in Bungoma County. Therefore, public TTIs need to increase their financial resource mobilisation strategies with the hope of increasing internal efficiency. Moreover, automation of financial system in public technical training institutions in the study is necessary.  Article visualizations

INSTITUTIONAL STAFFING CAPACITY AND INTERNAL EFFICIENCY OF TECHNICAL TRAINING INSTITUTIONS IN BUNGOMA COUNTY, KENYA

This paper investigates how institutional staffing processes influence internal efficiency of public technical training institutions in the county of Bungoma, Kenya. The study was guided by resource dependence theory. The target population involved public TTIs tutors, principals of the TTIs and resource mobilisation officers in the four institutions located in the county of Bungoma; Sangalo Institute of Science and Technology, Kisiwa, Matili and Musakasa Technical Training Institutes. The study adopted mixed method research which was cross-sectional in nature. The data collection instruments involved use of questionnaires, interview schedules and document checklist. Qualitative data was transcribed and presented in verbatim with the use of content analysis method. Quantitative data analysis was done using descriptive (frequencies, percentages, means and standard deviation) and inferential (Multiple Linear Regression) statistics. The results in Table 4.5 show that there exist a moderate positive relationship (r=0.473 and p=0.00) between institutional staffing capacity at the four public TTIs in Bungoma county. The relationship appears to be significant at 99% confidence level. The study recommends that there is need for public TTIs to consider collaborating with other institutions within and outside the country for benchmarking of staff exchange programmes that could be important in improving skills and knowledge among the staff.  Article visualizations

EFFICACY OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITY COUNSELLING INTERVENTIONS DELIVERED IN PRIMARY CARE: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW AND META-ANALYSIS

Background: Overwhelming success has been achieved in disease control through environmental interventions such as vaccinations and improved hygiene to increase life expectancy, many authorities in the field of preventative healthcare are of the opinion that too little has been done to target behavioral factors, particularly physical inactivity. Research suggests that the impact PA counselling in primary care could have at a population level is tremendous. However, gaps still exist between the science and the practice when it comes to prescribing exercise in the healthcare context. Objectives: To compare the effectiveness of health provider delivered interventions for physical activity (PA) promotion verses placebos or no or minimal intervention among community dwelling adults Search methods: We searched Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials in the Cochrane Library, Ovid MEDLINE(R), Embase Ovid, Web of Science, CINAHL (EBSCOhost) and SPORTDiscus (earlier dates to 10 January, 2020) electronic databases regardless of language or publication status using the optimal sensitive search strategy developed by The Cochrane Collaboration. We used Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) [1], Looked up words in text word, abstract, title [2], then Combined [1] with [2] using Boolean logic (OR) and then Set up proper filters. Selection criteria: Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and cluster randomised trials. We excluded quasi-RCTs and cross-over trials. We will include studies comparing health provider counselling intervention to placebo or no counselling/exercise prescription. We excluded studies that had more than a 20% loss to follow-up if they did not apply an intention-to treat analysis. The studies were considered if the outcomes were measured on a continuous scale and results reported in terms on mean change, confidence intervals of change, standard deviations or standard error and mean. Studies with dichotomous outcomes were excluded. Data collection and analysis: Two review authors (EKW and MW) independently carried out data extraction for each included record using a pro forma specifically designed for the purpose. We resolved differences in data extraction by discussion. We plotted the results of each trial as point estimates, using means and standard deviations for the continuous outcomes. Since studies reported different outcome measures but measured the same concept, we calculated the standardised mean difference (SMD) with 95% confidence interval (CI) using a random-effects models. Main results: There were 15,269 apparently healthy adults who participated in the 24 included studies. All studies recruited both genders. The stated age range of participants was from 18 to 80 years. Meta-analysis of data from these trials suggests that health provider-led physical activity counselling interventions in primary care may lead to increased self-report physical activity (SMD 0.11, 95% CI 0.04 to 0.17; participants = 13211; studies = 16; I2 = 50%), total energy expenditure (SMD 0.20, 95% CI 0.13 to 0.27; participants = 3376; studies = 8; I2 = 2%; overall effect P=0.00001) and systolic blood pressure at six showed a mean difference (MD) favouring health provider-led physical activity counselling interventions compared to usual care of -0.10 mmHg (SMD 0.27 95% CI 0.72 to 0.18;I2 = 0%, overall effect P = 0.006) among patients. However meta-analysis showed that health provider-led physical activity counselling interventions in primary care did not lead to increased aerobic fitness (SMD 0.06, 95% CI -0.01 to 0.12; I2 = 35%), body mass index (SMD -0.04, 95% CI -0.15 to 0.07) and total cholesterol (SMD -0.27, 95% CI -0.72 to 0.18 and Waist circumference (SMD -0.05, 95% CI-0.15 to 0.06; I2 = 0%;overall effect P=0.24). Although there were limited data, there was no evidence of an increased risk of adverse events. Authors' conclusions: Counselling delivered by health providers, probably leads to similar or better physical activity outcomes for patient conditions (moderate-certainty evidence). However, these results must be interpreted with a degree of caution, recognising the variation in interventions reported within studies and the complex interplay of factors affecting outcomes. Several studies included multiple intervention methods, which made it difficult to tease apart which intervention components were the active ingredients  Article visualizations

EXERCISE PRESCRIPTION: A STRUCTURAL EQUATION ANALYSIS OF THE THEORY OF PLANNED BEHAVIOR AMONG KENYAN HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS

Objective: To describe the physical activity prescribing behaviour of Kenyan healthcare professionals and determine if the theory of planned behaviour explains this behavior. Design: The study design was a cross-sectional analytical, that utilized quantitative methods. Setting: The study was conducted in Public health facilities in Kakamega County, located in Western Kenya. These facilities were four (4) Sub-County hospitals, two (2) County hospitals and one (1) County referral hospital. Sample: Stratified random sampling was embraced to divide the population into homogeneous subgroups as per the professional cadres then simple random in proportion to their number in the population was done. Formulae that was used for calculating the sample size was Cochran) with an attrition rate of 10%, since the sample size was less than 10,000 people, the sample size was adjusted with the finite population correction for proportions based on the populations of nurses, doctors and clinical officers (n = 221) Analysis: Data was analyzed through Structural Equation Modelling (SEM). Alpha level for all the computations was considered significant at an α <0.05. Main outcome measures: Self-reported PA prescription behaviour, PA involvement, attitude, subjective norm, perceived behavioural control (PBC) and intention related to PA prescription behaviour were assessed. Results: The estimation of this hypothesized structural model yielded an acceptable fit to the data, χ2 =1634.6, df = 770; χ2/df ratio =2.123(good), CFI = .962; RMSEA = .061, with 90% C.I. = .044 - .073, SRMR = .068. Subjective norms itself was a direct predictor of intention (β = .137, p = .007), attitude was a direct predictor of intention (β = .393, p < .001), perceived control was a direct predictor of intention (β = .207, p = .023) but it was not a significant predictor of exercise prescription (β = .07, p = .318). Intention was a direct predictor of exercise prescription (β = .251, p < .001). Conclusion: The theory of planned behaviour provided useful insight into physician prescription behaviour. A replication study on healthcare professionals with different characteristics should be conducted to increase the understanding of psychosocial predictors of this behaviour.  Article visualizations

DO HEALTH BELIEFS PREDICT EXERCISE BEHAVIOR? EXPLORING THE CONSTRUCTS OF THE HEALTH BELIEF MODEL

Objective: To determine if the tenets of the health belief model explain exercise behavior among residents of Kakamega county. Design: The study design was a cross-sectional analytical, that utilized quantitative methods. Setting: The study was conducted in Kakamega County, located in Western Kenya. Kakamega County has twelve sub-counties; Kakamega North (Malava), Kakamega Central (Lurambi), Kakamega South (Ikolomani), Kakamega East (Shinyalu) and Butere/Mumias. Sample: Simple random sampling was used to sample respondents. The formula that was used for calculating the sample size was Cochran with an attrition rate of 10% (n = 221). The sample consisted of participants from five sub-counties of Kakamega: Kakamega central (23.1%), Kakamega south (22.6%), Kakamega east (22.2%), Butere (17.5%) and Kakamega north (14.5%) Analysis: Data were analyzed through structural equation modeling (SEM). The alpha level for all the computations was considered significant at an α <0.05. Main outcome measures: Perceived susceptibility, modifying factors, perceived threat, perceived severity, cues to action and exercise behavior Results: The measurement model included six latent constructs measured by 22 indicator variables. All of the completely standardized parameter estimates obtained were significantly different from zero (t > 1.96) and loaded satisfactorily onto their corresponding latent variable. In the structural model, the estimation of this hypothesized structural model yielded an acceptable fit to the data, χ2 =1434.7, df = 680; χ2/df ratio =2.453(good), CFI = .822; RMSEA = .059, with 90% C.I. = .045 - .075, SRMR = .058. The perceived threat was a direct predictor of exercise behavior (β = .294, p < .001), the variable formed by perceived benefits minus perceived barriers was a direct predictor of exercise behavior (β = .017, p <.001). All variables explained 57% of the variance in exercise behavior. Conclusion: The health belief model provided useful insight in explaining exercise behavior of the respondents. Other theories should be investigated (e.g. Social Cognitive Theory, Health Action Process Approach) to determine which theory better explains behavior in the context and population of interest.  Article visualizations

ASSESSMENT OF PRE-SEASON ANTHROPOMETRIC TESTS OF RUGBY PLAYERS IN A CHAMPIONSHIP CLUB, KENYAN RUGBY UNION

Objective: The objectives of the present study were to evaluate the anthropometric factors of rugby players on preseason before the onset of the training in a championship club (Kisumu Rugby Rfc Setting: The study was carried out in a Kenya at a Kenya rugby union (Kisumu Rfc) championship club. Sample: Sampling frame consisting of 52 players who were registered in the club at the time of the study. (n =52) Analysis: Data were analyzed through descriptive and inferential statistics, linear and multiple regression analyses. Main measures: Maximal Aerobic power, demographics and strength tests of back squat and Bench press. Results: The estimation of this hypothesized factors that affect maximal aerobic power were age, Primary position, weight, injury F (7,44) =.622, P<.735, R2=. There was correlation between several factors that affect maximal aerobic factors with the linear regression formula generated being Maximal Aerobic Power (VO2Max) = 12.12 + (0.49xAge) - (017xWeight) – (0.657xPosition) + (257X FMSTM (z-score) – (0.52x100m) + (.170xPlanks) + (0.37xPush-ups) Conclusion: aerobic power (VO2Max) is influenced by several factors including age of the rugby players, weight of the players and the playing positions of the players. Recommendation: Future research should further clarify how preseason testing and anthropometric tests of rugby players would influence the outcome on fitness before the start of the season which the ultimate goal of most rugby players and coaches.  Article visualizations

HEALTH PROMOTION BEHAVIOUR FOR NON-COMMUNICABLE DISEASES AMONG HEALTHCARE WORKERS IN KAKAMEGA COUNTY, KENYA

Introduction: The rising burden of non-communicable diseases poses a great health system challenge in Kenya. Healthcare workers have a critical role to play in health promotion, in addressing patients’ lifestyle risk factors. However, their own lifestyle habits can influence their attitude and practices towards patient care. Opportunistic counselling of patients by health professionals signifies one of the most cost-effective medical interventions in combatting non-communicable diseases. Objective: To determine the attitudes and practice of health promotion for the prevention and management of non-communicable diseases among healthcare workers In Kakamega county. Methods: A cross-sectional mixed method study was carried out from June to July 2018 at Kakamega county referral hospital. For the quantitative method, one hundred and eighty-five doctors and nurses were recruited through stratified sampling. Data on healthcare workers; socio-demographic characteristics, lifestyle practice, attitude, and practice of health promotion was collected through self- administered questionnaires. Frequency and percentage distributions tables were used to initially describe the study population while, Chi- square test of significance was used to evaluate the association between healthcare workers attitudes and practice of health promotion and their socio-demographic features. Secondly, a total of 12 doctors and nurses were purposively selected based on age, gender and profession of participants for the qualitative method. Data on healthcare workers perspective on health promotion and organizational support factors were collected through in-depth interviews. The recorded interviews were transcribed and data analysis was done using content analysis of thematic areas. A verbatim approach was used to describe study findings. Results: 69.2% of the respondents were females, mean age was 36 years and the median years in profession was 12 years. The respondents exhibited good lifestyle practices with alcohol and tobacco prevalence at 30.8 %and 3.8% respectively. 72% of the respondents demonstrated a positive attitude towards health promotion while, 31% showed good health promotion practices. Less than half of the respondents inquired about a patient’s lifestyle practices during routine visit. The study found that healthcare workers with a positive attitude were four times more likely to have good health promotion practices (OR = 3.54,

COMPARATIVE STUDY OF ANTHROPOMETRICS, BLOOD PRESSURE PHENOTYPES AND BIOMOTOR VARIABLES AMONG SPORTS AND NON-SPORTS UNIVERSITY STUDENTS

The aim of this investigation was to compare anthropometric, blood pressure phenotypes and bio-motor variables between sports and non-sports university students aged 21.4 ± 2.1 years (mean ± s) and also to study the discriminating power of selected anthropometric and bio-motor variables among university students in the two groups (sports n=119 and non-sports n=166) in Kenya. A cross-Sectional analytical study design was used in the study. University students randomly selected in both groups (n = 285) volunteered as subjects. Anthropometric parameters assessed included body mass, height, and body fat percentage. The bio-motor variables assessed included upper body endurance and abdominal endurance. Blood pressure phenotypes assessed included pulse rate and mean arterial blood pressure which was computed from systolic and diastolic blood pressures. Multivariate analysis of covariance (MANCOVA) and Linear discriminant analysis (LDA) were used for analysis in Statistical packages for social science version 25. The results showed that the non-sports group had a numerically high BMI and body fat percentage (23.4; 22.2) compared to the sports group (19.8; 17.5). With regards to blood pressure, the mean arterial blood pressure and pulse rate of the non-sports group was high (87.9; 83.3) compared to the sports group (85.9; 75.2). The multivariate test of differences in groups as a result of the linear combination of all predictor variables showed that the mean vectors for the two groups were significant for groups (Pillai’s T, P<0.01) but not for the covariate Age (Pillai’s T, P=.149). Results for the individual test of differences in adjusted means (marginal means) showed that there were statistically significant differences adjusted for age between the sports and non-sports groups in all dependent variables(p<0.05) except Mean arterial blood pressure (f (2,282) =.988, p=.321). Results from the LDA yielded only one significant function and all six variables significantly contributed to the discriminant analysis (Wilks A = 0.639, x2 = 125.34, df=6, p < 0.01, R2 = .36). The structure coefficients of all variables were greater than 0.25. The original classification summary showed that 81.8% of the cases were correctly classified in their respective group. In conclusion, the anthropometric, bio-motor and blood pressure phenotypes of sports students were significantly different from non-sports students. The study recommended that well-planned programs of physical and mental health should be initiated in all educational institutes.  Article visualizations

Polêmicas contemporâneas sobre o método científico: uma revisão sistemática da literatura

Science, since its emergence as we know it, between has occupied an increasingly prominent place in human society. Often referred to and defined as the source of truth and the producer of unquestionable facts, gradually became free from contestation. The scientific method merges with modern science, but little is discussed about its possible practical and epistemological limitations - precisely because it is a term already naturalized and that supports the scientific metanarrative. In the collective imaginary, the scientific method is what gives legitimacy to science and its production of truths. In the present work, our objective was to investigate in the literature studies that problematized the scientific method in contemporaneity. We retrieve 205 articles in the search and only seven problematized the scientific method. All the works were in a foreign language (not portuguese) and articulated questions about the method with scientific education. The retrieved articles agreed on some aspects: the scientific method is not universal; does not follow predefined steps and is not linear. On the contrary, according to the authors, scientific research is complex, depends on the creativity of the researcher, and often the objectivity desired by such a method may limit the research process.A ciência, desde sua emergência como a conhecemos, entre os séculos XVI e XVII, vem ocupando um lugar de destaque cada vez maior na sociedade humana. Sendo frequentemente referida e definida como a fonte da verdade e produtora de fatos incontestáveis, tornou-se aos poucos isenta de contestações. O método científico se funde com a ciência moderna, mas pouco se discute sobre suas possíveis limitações práticas e epistemológicas - justamente por esse ser um termo já naturalizado e que sustenta a metanarrativa científica. No imaginário coletivo, o método científico é o que confere legitimidade à ciência e sua produção de verdades. No presente trabalho, nosso objetivo foi investigar na literatura estudos que problematizassem o método científico na contemporaneidade. De 205 artigos recuperados na busca, apenas sete problematizavam o método científico. Todos os trabalhos eram em língua estrangeira e articulavam questionamentos sobre o método com a educação científica. Os artigos recuperados concordaram em alguns aspectos: o método científico não é universal; não segue etapas pré-definidas e não é linear. Ao contrário, segundo os autores, a investigação científica é complexa, depende da criatividade do pesquisador e, muitas vezes, a objetividade almejada com tal método pode limitar o processo da investigação

ACADEMIC SELF-EFFICACY, ATTITUDES AND KNOWLEDGE AMONG UNDERGRADUATE BIOSTATISTICS STUDENTS

Objective: The objectives of the present study were to evaluate the academic self-efficacy, content knowledge and confidence in these responses, as well as attitudes of students in an undergraduate biostatistics course. Design: The study was a cross-sectional analytical design. Setting: The study was carried out in Masinde Muliro University of science and technology Sample: Sampling frame consisting of 114 students who had at least taken a biostatistics course. Probability sampling technique of purposive sampling method was applied to select the students. (n = 114) Analysis: Data were analyzed through path analysis and confirmatory factor analysis. Main measures: Self-efficacy, confidence, attitude and knowledge Results: The estimation of this hypothesized structural model yielded an acceptable fit to the data, χ2 =45.9, df = 2; χ2/df ratio =22.123 (good), CFI = .933; RMSEA = .071, with 90% C.I. = .044 - .083, SRMR = .078. Attitude was a direct predictor of self-efficacy (β = .490, p < .001), confidence was a direct predictor of self-efficacy (β = .400, p < .001), self-efficacy was a direct predictor of knowledge (β = .515, p < .001). Conclusion: The study concludes that academic self-efficacy and optimism were strongly related to performance. Therefore, this study supports previous literature that found academic self-efficacy affects the success of students in the sciences. Recommendation: Educators should be aware of students' personality antecedents in order to improve their students' beliefs about their capabilities to master different areas of coursework.  Article visualizations