Documentary Review Research Articles

Influencia de los Delitos Cibernéticos Económicos en Perú

This article aimed to analyze the influence of economic cybercrimes in Peru during the year 2024, addressing the most common modalities, their economic impact, and deficiencies in the legal framework. Economic cybercrimes, such as phishing, identity theft, attacks on payment platforms, and e-commerce scams, have grown significantly in recent years, generating substantial economic losses and affecting user confidence in digital platforms. The methodology adopted was qualitative, with an exploratory and descriptive approach. For data collection, semi-structured interviews with criminal lawyers, prosecutors, and cybersecurity experts were used, along with the analysis of relevant court cases and the documentary review of official reports. The results showed a 26% increase in economic cybercrimes compared to the year 2023. Among the conclusions of the study, the urgent need to update the Peruvian legal framework to adapt to the new criminal modalities that arise with technological advances was highlighted. This analysis sought to provide a critical view on the incidence of economic cybercrimes in Peru.

The Evolution of tiny houses: A review of 20th and 21st century prototypes

INTRODUCTION. Tiny Houses are prototypes of compressed housing, conceived from technological and sustainable innovations, especially during the 20th and 21st centuries. They represent an alternative to address the lack of housing. Research question: What are the key principles and limitations in the creation of Mini House prototypes? OBJECTIVE. Analyze and compare design strategies for the development of Mini Houses to serve as a guide in future developments of innovative prototypes. METHOD. In this documentary review on minimal prototypes, a qualitative approach based on three stages is proposed, first with the bibliographic review and selection of recognized prototypes, then, the analysis of the prototypes and finally, the evaluation of criteria and strategies applied. RESULTS. Three design strategies or principles have been identified: functional optimization, constructive innovation, transformation and temporality. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS. Tiny Houses are innovative housing prototypes, they experiment with construction technologies to improve energy efficiency and bioclimatic adaptation, they can be embedded in different environments and create new community relationships. However, they represent a challenge to the lifestyle of their inhabitants. Due to their limited scale, their temporality of use and their capacity for transformation over time are restricted.

Factors Influencing Application of Mixed Research Designs Among Graduate Students: A Case Study of Master's Degree Students at The Institute of Accountancy Arusha, Dar Es Salaam Campus

This study evaluates the effectiveness of mixed research designs among master's degree students at the Institute of Accountancy Arusha. Using a sample of 150 questionnaire respondents and 30 interview respondents. Furthermore, a documentary review was conducted on 50 dissertations for students in the Master of Finance and Investment (2022/2023). Descriptive and content analysis were used during the analysis. The results show a notable deficiency in students' proficiency with mixed research designs. One of the biggest challenges that has to be addressed is the lack of resources and training. Furthermore, the findings revealed significant gaps in students' understanding and application of mixed methods, highlighting the need for enhanced training and support. The results indicate the need for more training and assistance since they show notable gaps in students' knowledge and use of mixed research designs. The Institute of Accountancy Arusha, Dar es Salaam Campus could take the following actions to encourage dissertation writers to employ mixed methodologies research designs; create thorough teaching modules about mixed methods research, improving access to resources, such as software and literature, to support students in their research. This could involve providing access to online databases and research software and incorporating more practical examples and hands-on workshops into the curriculum. This will help students to better understand how to apply mixed methods in their research.

The Strategies for Involving Community in Sustaining Government-Funded School Projects in Morogoro Region

The main objective of the study reported in this study was to determine the strategies for involving community in sustaining government-funded school projects in Morogoro region. The study used case study research design to determine the strategies from a total sample of 23 comprising of 10 headmasters, 1 ward councillor, 2 Ward educational officers and 10 school board chairmen who were selected using interviews (Semi-structured Interview) and documentary review were technique. Both interviws guide and open ended questionnare were used for collecting qualitative data which were then analzyed using thematic approach which allowed identification of key themes and patterns that emerged from the participants' perspectives on the community engagement strategies. Findings have revealed that community involvement in government- funded school projects is critically low in Morogoro region despite the recognized importance of community engagement in enhancing educational outcomes and project sustainability. It is therefore suggested that the formed project committee members should play a vital role in enhancing community ownership, fostering buy- in, and ultimately contributing to the successful achievement of project objectives.

The immediate causes of the Amhara Fano Force's rebellion against the government of Abiy Ahmed

ABSTRACT With careful investigation, this article looks into the immediate causes that led to Amhara Fano's conflict with Abiy Ahmed's administration. Even though the people of Amhara stayed silent through many pains, 2022 was the turning point for Amhara Fano to start official conflict with Abiy Ahmed’s administration. The research design for the study is an exploratory case study. Document review, audio-visual sources, and a semi-structured interview were employed to investigate the recent reasons for Amhara Fano Force's conflict with Abiy Ahmed’s administration. The Pretoria agreement, the establishment of Sheger City, the attempt to tear down the Amhara Regional Force, the absence of trust with Abiy Ahmed's leadership, and delay in providing soil fertiliser to Amhara farmers were a few recent factors that led to the Amhara Fano Force struggle. Based on these findings, the researcher suggests that before the political apparatus, economy, and humanitarian security of Ethiopia are at risk again and affect East Africa, international organisations and international communities need to be part of the solution and provide assistance in establishing negotiation and agreement between these two warring factions like they did for the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) and the federal government of Ethiopia.

Assessing the role of non-state actors in health service delivery and health system resilience in Myanmar

BackgroundDue to the weaknesses of the public health system and its low reach, especially in border areas, provision of health services by non-state actors (NSAs) has historically played an important role in Myanmar. NSAs include local and international NGOs and civil society organisations (CSOs), but also Ethnic Health Organisations (EHOs) in the border areas, as well as the private (for profit) sector. This study aims to understand the changing role of NSAs in the shifting political environment of Myanmar between 2010 and 2022, and to explore their contribution to health system resilience.MethodsOur study includes three main components: a documentary review (n = 22), key informant interviews (KIIs) at central level (n = 14) and two township-level case studies (13 KIIs, 4 FGDs). Mostly qualitative data were collected in 2022 and synthesized, using a health system resilience framework to structure the analysis.ResultsDuring the transition period (2010–2014) and the new political era (2015–2020), while the country gradually transitioned to a democratic system, the government increasingly recognized NSAs. Initially, engagement with NSAs remained focused on disease-specific activities and government oversight was limited, but later it expanded to health system strengthening, including the start of a “convergence” with ethnic health systems. Progress was relatively slow, but defined by a clear vision and plans. The military coup of February 2021 brought a halt to this progress. Collaboration between government and NSAs was interrupted, and NSAs restored previous practices and parallel systems. Initially, most health service provision stopped, but with time coping strategies emerged, which showed the capacity of NSAs to absorb the shocks (focusing on basic services; using informal communication channels; maintaining buffer stocks of supplies) and adapt (changing modes of delivery and supply chains, and adjusting HRH training).ConclusionsThe study highlights the role of NSAs during crises, and provides insights on how the resilience capacities built over time by NSAs to provide services in adverse circumstances have informed the response to the latest crisis. While strategies of absorption and adaptation are noted in the study, we did not identify any transformation strategy – which might indicate the difficulty of NSAs to introduce radical changes when subjected to multiple shocks and a hostile political environment.

DESAFIOS DO MANEJO DO LÍTIO NO PACIENTE PSIQUIÁTRICO: ESTRATÉGIAS PARA GARANTIR A SEGURANÇA E EFICÁCIA DO TRATAMENTO

Although lithium has been used for decades, its management remains a clinical challenge, since it is a drug with narrow therapeutic indices and with possible adverse effects. Therefore, this study aims to present evidence and clinical challenges of lithium management in psychiatry, in order to contribute to a better understanding of the use of this drug and the conscious management of patients who use this medication. This is a retrospective, documental Integrative Literature Review about the challenges of lithium management in psychiatric patients. For the development of this work, the following steps were followed: 1) Construction of the theme and the guiding question; 2) Establishment of inclusion and exclusion criteria; 3) Collection of studies in the scientific bases; 4) Evaluation of the selected abstracts; 5) Evaluation and categorization of studies in full; 6) Analysis and interpretation of the results. Lithium, as a mood stabilizer, was a great historical discovery and its importance lies in its effectiveness in controlling the symptoms of bipolarity, being considered a first-line mood stabilizer for the treatment of bipolar disorder and other psychopathologies. It is concluded, therefore, that the management of lithium in the treatment of psychiatric disorders requires a careful and individualized approach, taking into account the efficacy of the drug, patient safety and possible drug interactions and clinical conditions. Knowledge of the common and rare side effects of lithium is essential to ensure successful and safe treatment.

A construction contract administration (CCA) framework for graduate architects’ professional development

PurposeConstruction contract administration should be carried out by a person (normally engineer or architect depending on the type of contract) with expert technical knowledge of the construction process, strong leadership quality, highly developed interpersonal skills and an understanding of contractual, legislative and statutory underpinnings. However, due to a shortage of architects, graduate architects have been assigned to perform a partial role. Architectural firms are disappointed with the quality of the graduates and still note that they have to mentor them to be competent for their jobs. This paper aims to develop a construction contract administration (CCA) framework for graduate architects that aids the smooth running of a construction contract.Design/methodology/approachSeven housing projects in Malaysia have been selected as case studies. Documentation review and semi-structured interviews relevant to selected case studies were conducted to collect data to develop the CCA framework. The draft framework will then be validated through a focus group study.FindingsA total of 5 themes and 11 sub-themes with core tasks were developed in the CCA framework. The themes involved are claims and legal matters management, communication and relationship management, project management, design management and quality assessment and management. Sub-themes are authority matters, building certification, meetings, coordination checklist, letter writing, contract documentation, building material, design brief, building sustainability and workmanship quality standards, contractors’ submission and building details.Originality/valueThe contribution of this study can be utilized for developing further models in the future that would improve the work performance of graduate architects. The framework assists the university by moving forward to the professional practice stage. In addition, it indirectly enhances the potential of graduate architects to perform efficiently and intensifies the bonding between project stakeholders.

Modelling the properties of aerated concrete on the basis of raw materials and ash-and-slag wastes using machine learning paradigm

The thermal power industry, as a major consumer of hard coal, significantly contributes to harmful emissions, affecting both air quality and soil health during the operation and transportation of ash and slag waste. This study presents the modeling of aerated concrete using local raw materials and ash-and-slag waste in seismic areas through machine learning techniques. A comprehensive literature review and comparative analysis of normative documentation underscore the relevance and feasibility of employing non-autoclaved aerated concrete blocks in such regions. Machine learning methods are particularly effective for disjointed datasets, with neural networks demonstrating superior performance in modeling complex relationships for predicting concrete strength and density. The results reveal that neural networks, especially those with Bayesian Regularisation, consistently outperformed decision trees, achieving higher regression values (Rstrength = 0.9587 and Rdensity = 0.91997) and lower error metrics (MSE, RMSE, RIE, MAE). This indicates their advanced capability to capture intricate non-linear patterns. The study concludes that artificial neural networks are a robust tool for predicting concrete properties, crucial for producing non-autoclaved curing wall blocks suitable for earthquake-resistant construction. Future research should focus on optimizing the balance between density and strength of blocks by enhancing the properties of aerated concrete and utilizing reliable models.

Developing an Ideal Change Management Framework for Enhancing Service Delivery in Government Parastatals: A Case Study of Kampala Capital City Authority in Uganda.

Purpose: This study aims to develop an ideal change management framework specifically tailored to government parastatals in Uganda, focusing on the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), to enhance service delivery. Methodology: The research adopted a cross-sectional and exploratory approach, utilizing both quantitative and qualitative methods. The study population comprised 298 participants from various departments within KCCA. Data collection involved self-administered questionnaires, interviews with key informants, and documentary review. Validation of study instruments was conducted using the Content Validity Index, and reliability was assessed through Cronbach’s Alpha coefficient. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and bivariate regression, while qualitative data underwent content analysis. Findings: The study concluded that the change management process for service delivery in government parastatals in Uganda is well-defined. However, the ideal change management framework necessary for improving service delivery among these parastatals remains unidentified. Recommendations: Based on the findings, it is recommended that KCCA administrators adopt a more holistic approach to change management, addressing various enabling factors and components necessary to enhance service delivery effectively.

Public information dissemination and its impact on force account implementation in Kalambo district council, Tanzania

The study assessed dissemination of public information and its impact on implementation of force accounts in Kalambo District Council in Tanzania. A cross-sectional design was employed in collecting data at one point in time with a mixed methods research approach which was used in an attempt to gain detailed information. A total of 145 participants which includes ward development committees, construction committees and community members were involved whereby 46 key informants were selected purposely based on their positions while simple random sampling technique was used in selecting 99 respondents from the community. The survey, interview, focus group discussion and documentary review method were used to gather both quantitative and qualitative data. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistical analysis whereas qualitative data were analysed using content analysis. The study findings revealed that information is not easily accessible to the public and a few shared information is not clear due to confidentiality and technical language. The findings also indicate that the public is unaware about the progress force account due to ineffective dissemination of information which leads to untimely completion of works and misuse of resources. The study concludes that there is inadequate information in the implementation of force account projects, thus resulting in poor support, acceleration of low value for money and lack of accountability due to poor public scrutiny. The study recommends that the government institutions should emphasise the use of authorised social and religious gathering in an attempt to raise awareness. Moreover, the selected committee must engage the public in decision making in order to improve transparency in implementation of projects.

Internal quality assurance strategies for enhancing students’ soft skills in Tanzania’s higher education institutions

This paper explored the strategies used by the Internal Quality Assurance (IQA) units of the Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) to enhance soft skills among university students in Tanzania. The qualitative research approach was adopted using a multi-case study design involving a sample of thirty-nine (39) participants obtained through purposive and convenient sampling procedures. The study used interviews, focus group discussion and documentary review methods to collect data for the study. The paper deployed thematic and content analysis procedures in the analysis of data. The findings revealed four quality assurance strategies to enhance university students’ soft skills, including developing and reviewing curricula, prolonged field attachment, student assessment and developing academic personnel. The study concludes that there is more to be done to ensure that HEIs students are competent in soft skills for their future life realities. The study recommends assigning soft skills greater emphasis in HEIs curricula due to their importance in future life of the students. More studies on the studied topic using larger samples and different contexts are also recommended.

Seguridad Nacional y Construcción del Estado-Nación: El Rol del Centro de Altos Estudios Nacionales en la Historia Contemporánea del Perú

This article aims to analyze and highlight the contributions of the Centro de Altos Estudios Nacionales (CAEN) in the construction of the nation state and the consolidation of national security in Peru. It addresses the growth of the institution from its founding as the Centro de Altos Estudios Militares (CAEM) to its transformation into CAEN, and explores its roles and achievements in the context of the Peruvian reality. To do so, a methodology based on a documentary review of historical and academic sources has been used, analyzing how philosophical and political theories have influenced its development; in addition, a multidisciplinary perspective has been incorporated to understand the relationship between development and security in the Peruvian context. It is concluded that this institution has played a central role in the training of military and civilian leaders capable of facing the challenges of national security from a comprehensive perspective. Its contributions have been significant in terms of socioeconomic development and in the creation of public policies oriented towards equity and social inclusion, since the strategic approach and reforms promoted by the CAEN have contributed to a vision of Peru as an integral entity, which considers its diverse populations, cultures and problems.

African Indigenous Knowledge Systems in the Contemporary Era: A Historical Reflection in Sukuma Land, Tanzania

This paper examined the Sukuma indigenous knowledge systems, which have for centuries been practiced by the Sukuma people of Tanzania. The study identified the Sukuma indigenous knowledge systems practiced in the contemporary era in Sukumaland. The study used the Transformative Learning Theory as an analytical tool to learn the Sukuma indigenous knowledge systems. The study used both primary and secondary sources of data. Data was gathered from Sukuma Custodians of indigenous knowledge systems and Bujora Sukuma Museum Curator through interviews to identify and different Sukuma indigenous knowledge systems. Documentary review sources such as Sukuma history books, journal articles, research papers and online sources were also used to supplement other sources. Findings revealed that Sukuma people still embrace and practice their indigenous knowledge in various aspects of life, such as health, religious beliefs, leadership, environment, numerical and mathematics. Some of the recommendations are that African custodians of indigenous knowledge systems should continue retaining, practicing, valuing and handling over the Sukuma culture to the next generation for the welfare and sustainability of Africans.

Head Teachers’ Team Leadership Practices’ Influence on Financial Performance in Church of Uganda Founded Secondary Schools in Namirembe Diocese

The influence of Head Teachers’ team leadership practices on the financial performance is highly acknowledged. The paper aims to highlight the challenges of head teachers’ team practices and advance insights on how they can be overcome to enhance financial performance. The methodology employed was a mixed-methods approach. Quantitative data was gathered through questionnaires assessing perceptions of the above metrics. Qualitative data was collected through documentary review of reports and interviews to explore the underlying mechanisms through which the variables above interrelate. The total number of respondents were 326 sampled from eight out of twenty-three schools. Quantitative analysis revealed that it has a coefficient of 0.52 and a p-value of 0.004 which indicates a strong correlation and statistically significant relationship between effective team leadership and financial health. This indicated that a team leader yielded better cash flow management, alignment with financial objectives, and overall sustainability. Qualitative insights supported the above crucial role that head teachers’ have in engaging teams of CFSs in shaping financial decision-making processes. The study concludes by emphasizing the need to foster team cohesion, positive financial culture and ensuring the long-term sustainability of CFSs. Recommendations include strengthening leadership development programs that are not available currently in Church of Uganda. Further, to enhance team dynamics and aligning leadership practices with organizational goals to optimize financial performance in these settings

Instructional Methods Used by Secondary School Teachers in Classroom to Develop Students’ English Writing Skills in Iringa Municipality, Tanzania

This study examined instructional methods employed by secondary school English language teachers in classroom to develop students’ English writing skills in Iringa Municipality, Tanzania. Specifically, the study sought to assess English language teachers’ understanding of the purpose of English language syllabus for secondary education; to investigate the teaching and learning techniques used by teachers in classroom to develop students’ English writing skills; and to evaluate the effectiveness of the techniques used in developing English writing skills among students. The social-cultural theory and communicative competence theory were adopted to guide the study. The study employed an interpretivism paradigm, qualitative approach and a phenomenological research design. The study involved 33 participants (12 English teachers and 21 FIII students) who were selected purposively from 3 public secondary schools in Iringa Municipality. The data were collected using documentary review, classroom observations, and interviews, and thematically analysed. The findings revealed that teachers had differing understanding of the purpose of the English syllabus. Also, the findings showed that teachers used techniques, such as explanation and demonstration, writing practice and exercise, reading-writing integration, sentence combining, genre-based instruction, and collaborative writing, in teaching English writing skills. Moreover, the study found that the techniques used were ineffective to develop students’ English writing abilities as many students struggled to write in English. The study concludes that the opposing understanding of the purpose of the subject syllabus among teachers limits teachers from effectively using instructional methods to develop writing skills in English among students. Therefore, teachers should be trained on the purpose of the subject syllabus to enable them effectively use instructional methods in a manner that focuses to develop English writing skills among students per requirements of the subject syllabus

DEXAMETHASONE WEAN POST CRANIOTOMY FOR MENINGIOMA- A CASE STUDY

Abstract AIMS Case review/analysis of dexamethasone wean post craniotomy for meningioma. To identify any quality of life issues experienced during the wean, how and why steroid wean was adjusted and any impact steroid use had on serum cortisol level causing adrenal insufficiency. METHOD Review of documentation to identify steroid related side effects, how and when this impacted on the patient’s quality of life. Collection of data; steroid doses, length of time on steroids (pre-surgery and post-surgery), serum cortisol result. Clinical choices regarding dose/timings of dexamethasone reviewed and compared to literature. RESULTS Delays/changes with theatre dates, capacity, neurological symptoms on presentation led this individual to a four month pre-surgical dose of dexamethasone which led to weight gain, pre-diabetes and insomnia. Quality of life pre and post-surgically affected by steroid use namely mental health, employment and social belonging. This case study confirms adrenal insufficiency was precipitated by the prolonged pre-surgical use of dexamethasone. Clinical nurse specialists are integral in adjusting steroid dose to manage neurological recovery and safely wean steroids to zero as well as identifying adrenal insufficiency. CONCLUSION Data collection from a large sample size is required to confirm how many patients coming through the neurooncology surgical pathway have confirmed adrenal insufficiency post neurosurgery secondary to Dexamethasone. Once data is collected guidance on how to manage a safe post surgical steroid wean and minimise impact of quality of life can be formalised.

An Assessment of the Working Conditions in Enhancing Teachers’ Job Motivation in Public Secondary Schools Bunda Town Council-Tanzania

The study is based focused on assessment of working conditions of secondary teachers’ job motivation; teaching facilities in Bunda Town Council, Tanzania. The paper discusses the factors of motivation that can lead to teacher’s job satisfaction, Data were collected through questionnaires, interview and documentary review. Qualitative data were coded and transcribed and subsequently analyzed thematically. With regard to quantitative data: descriptive analysis was done including index scale measurement. The findings of the study indicate that one of the motivation factors is to have autonomy in decision-making and be involved in decision-making when discussing about school affairs, it is in this sense, teachers can feel that they are accepted and recognized by the administration and the community at large. As such, teacher can be collaborative among themselves and collaborate with the school administration and make the school a better place to teach. The study concluded that, when teachers are given autonomy in decision making and involved in decision-making, they feel that they are accepted and recognized by the administration and the community at large. It was also concluded that, teachers can teach based on the current curriculum and hence students become updated. Teacher feels comfortable when they are teaching a manageable class

Impostor syndrome among Ecuadorian women in the labour market

This article deals with the impostor syndrome in Ecuadorian women in the labour market, highlighting its impact on professional development and emotional well-being. The literature review analyses its definition, causes and manifestations, as well as its effect on decision-making and labour relations. A qualitative methodology was used for data collection, including a documentary review and interviews with experts to gain an in-depth understanding of the phenomenon. In this sense, the importance of addressing this syndrome to promote gender equality, well-being at work and productivity is highlighted.

Determinants of Low Coverage of the Free Surgical Care Programme for Trachomatous Trichiasis in Rural Guinea in 2022.

This study aimed to describe the experiences of healthcare personnel and patients in the organization of free surgical campaigns and care for trachomatous trichiasis in the health district of Siguiri in Guinea, including challenges experienced in providing surgical care. This was an explanatory qualitative study conducted in 2022 in the health district of Siguiri. A total of 20 participants were interviewed including patients (n = 7; 35%), community health workers (n = 4; 20%), health services managers, and healthcare providers (n = 8; 40%). Two main data collection technics were used: documentary review and in-depth individual interviews. All interviews were transcribed and manually coded using an Excel extraction spreadsheet. Data were analysed using inductive and deductive approaches. The results showed several organizational, structural, and community challenges that underlined the low surgical coverage of trachomatous trichiasis in the health district of Siguiri. Organizational challenges included the low involvement of local actors in planning activities, the limited timeframe of the campaigns, and the lack of logistics for activities supervision and patients' transportation to surgery sites. Structural challenges included the inadequacy of health centres to provide surgical services, poor health infrastructures, and sanitation conditions in some areas. Individual challenges included remoteness of surgical sites and costs associated with services provision including medicines. Community challenges included fear of surgery and the coincidence of the campaigns with agricultural and mining activities. The results of the study call on the national neglected tropical disease program and its partners to adopt and promote micro-planning of trachomatous trichiasis surgical activities, with the effective participation of local stakeholders in endemic health districts. They should also envision integrating the management of surgical treatment including costs associated with care (transportation, food, rehabilitation support for patients who have undergone surgery) and complications of surgical procedures for an expansion of the trachomatous trichiasis free surgical care coverage in endemic health districts in Guinea.