Infrastructure Deficiencies Research Articles

Updates on the feasibility of utilizing e-learning to sustain medical radiation technology education in light of the escalating conflict in Sudan.

The purpose of the following paper is to offer an update on the feasibility of using e-learning to sustain medical radiation technology education in light of Sudan's ongoing crisis. The Sudanese acting Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research issued a resolution on October 7, 2023, to reopen higher education and scientific research institutes, as well as resume all academic activities at both governmental and private higher education institutions, effective October 15, 2023. Unfortunately, due to infrastructure deficiencies and a lack of appropriate capabilities to resume face-to-face teaching of medical radiation technology in Sudan's safe states, the majority of universities, including several medical radiation technology colleges, have decided to continue the educational process via e-learning. However, Sudan's e-learning system, currently the sole means of maintaining medical radiation technology education, suffers from significant flaws. If these challenges persist, students may graduate with a limited theoretical and practical grasp. Furthermore, the implementation of this style of education deprives eligible students, particularly those living in conflict zones, of the educational opportunities they require in light of the increased threat of war continuation.

Policy options to address the effectiveness of health service management graduates in solving Iranian health system challenges: a mixed scoping review and policy Delphi approach

Iran's healthcare system is grappling with multifaceted challenges, including financial constraints, staffing shortages, infrastructural deficiencies, legal hurdles, and cross-sectoral coordination issues. The integration of health service management graduates into the healthcare workforce is vital to tackle these obstacles effectively. However, the lack of skilled managers can exacerbate problems, leading to inflated costs, and wasted resources. This study aims to propose policy options to improve the effectiveness of healthcare management graduates in exposure to the challenges of Iran's health system. The study used a mixed-methods design that combined a scoping review and interviews with academics specializing in healthcare management and hospital management, as well as key informants of the Ministry of Health and Medical Education (MoHME), the vice chancellor and deans of faculties of management and paramedicine (December 1, 2022 to February 30, 2023), and a policy Delphi technique (April 1, 2023 to Jun 30, 2023). In the scoping review, we searched PubMed, Web of Science Platform, MEDLINE, Scopus, Google Scholar/Academia, and ERIC for articles published from the inception of each database until August 10, 2022, with an update on October 6, 2022. The search terms included "health services," "healthcare organizations," "healthcare management," "health management education," "Iran," "challenges," "issues," "policy," "interventions," "policy options," "solutions," "policy-making," "effectiveness," "efficacy," and similar terms. We incorporated scholarly articles that presented instances or resolutions demonstrating the impact of health service management graduates in addressing the issues encountered by Iran's healthcare system. Non-English research papers, except Persian, were excluded due to translation resource limitations. Articles from peer-reviewed journals were included based on their publication type, while conference abstracts, book reviews, commentaries, and editorial pieces were considered for review. In the present study, the first step of the modified Delphi methodology involved conducting interviews and qualitative content analysis. Then, through two rounds of online surveys, the policy Delphi technique engaged experts and stakeholders in reviewing and prioritising policy options. In the scoping review, our initial search of the main databases retrieved 553 articles, with an additional 14 articles from gray literature and 5 studies from local databases, totaling 572 references. 426 studies remained after removing duplicates and reviewing them. We excluded 339 studies that did not align with our study's objectives, leaving us with 87 articles. We had access to the full text of 63 of these studies and ultimately selected 31 for review and thematic analysis. The study involved 21 participants, with a 100% response rate in the interview phase. In the Delphi phase, 64 experts were invited, with 41 participating in Round 1 (64% response rate) and 32 in Round 2 (78% response rate). The scoping review identified eleven policy options, followed by designing an interview guide and presenting nine more options based on expert insights from the interviews. We evaluated twenty policy options using a 5-point Likert scale and modified Delphi methodology to assess their effectiveness, feasibility, relevance, and acceptance cost. The study produced four policy options that were culturally and ethically appropriate, as well as compatible with the context and target population. These options were: 1) training and capacity building based on Iran's health system model; 2) development of the framework of Entrustable Professional Activities (EPAs) for healthcare management graduates; 3) determining the career pathways of healthcare management graduates and reviewing the job categories approved by the Ministry of Health and Medical Education (MoHME); and 4) providing effective collaboration between healthcare management graduates and professionals, policymakers, and stakeholders for integrated health system improvement. The study provides evidence-based recommendations for improving the education, training, and professional deployment of healthcare management graduates in Iran. This work was supported by the National Agency for Strategic Research in Medical Education (NASR) (Grant Number 4020159).

Factors influencing youth sports participation in India: A narrative review

Through this narrative review, we attempted to summarize and dissect the multiple dimensions affecting youth sports participation in India, using current literature to cover a broad spectrum of socio-cultural, economic, educational, and policy infrastructure; physical health; as well as media and technology perspectives. The analysis reveals that youth sports engagement is significantly influenced by familial, peer, and community dynamics, alongside cultural attitudes and gender disparities. Economic barriers, including affordability and accessibility of sports facilities, pose challenges, particularly for marginalized communities. Educational institutions play a pivotal role in fostering sports participation but face challenges in balancing academic pressures. Policy and infrastructure deficiencies hinder participation, necessitating robust interventions and community-based initiatives. Health considerations underscore the importance of managing injury risks and promoting inclusive programs. Moreover, media and technology emerge as powerful influencers, shaping youth attitudes and behaviors towards sports. This review also emphasizes the need for nuanced interventions and further research to more effectively reduce disparities and ensure inclusive youth sports participation in India.

The Challenges and Opportunities of NEP-2020 in the Reference of Inclusive Education in India: An Overview

The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 provides a transformative vision for India's education system by emphasizing inclusive education and offering equal learning opportunities for children from varied socio economic, cultural and ability backgrounds. This paper looks at the challenges and opportunities given by NEP 2020 for promoting inclusive education in India. Infrastructure deficiencies, insufficient teacher preparation, and social biases are major hurdles, but policy-driven changes, technological integration, and financial support mechanisms present potential. This report gives an overview of the challenges and opportunities for implementing inclusive education in light of NEP 2020. Poor infrastructure, a lack of specialized teacher training and entrenched social attitudes about disability and marginalization all impede progress. However, opportunities arise as a result of policy-driven efforts, growing use of information and communication technology (ICT), and financing provisions aimed at fostering more equal learning settings. The research emphasizes the need of teacher capacity building, community participation, and long-term policy commitment in overcoming these challenges and realizing NEP 2020's inclusive vision. According to the findings, successful policy implementation requires stakeholder engagement to establish a more inclusive and easier to able education system in India.

Dr. Meena and mission maternal health: building allies in the government hospital

Research methodology The case study is based on field data, including in-depth semi-structured interviews with the main protagonist and related stakeholders of a large government hospital in Western India. After informed consent, the interviews with the stakeholders were conducted, transcribed and analyzed verbatim. In addition, secondary data from policy reports, newspaper articles and government websites was used to create the case. Since the protagonist works in the government system, her identity and other identifying information are disguised to maintain confidentiality. Case overview/synopsis The case study investigates the leadership challenges in a healthcare facility/hospital in public health. It traces the evolution of Dr Meena Sharma (Dr Meena), a leader in the government hospital ecosystem facing challenges such as infrastructural deficiencies, manpower deficit, healthcare bureaucracy and heavy patient load. This first-generation medical practitioner who transitioned from a private practice to a governmental one juggles balancing her demanding clinical practice, administrative responsibilities and teaching in the government hospital with her family responsibilities setup. However, in the wake of the upcoming LaQshya – Labour Room Quality Improvement Initiative by the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, she strives to put together and motivate her team to work toward improving the quality of care during delivery and the immediate postpartum period at her hospital. Various issues arise in the organizational leadership for a woman leader such as adopting appropriate leadership style and using appropriate motivation and communication strategies for optimal performance. Complexity academic level The case study is aimed at teaching/training a) departmental heads of public and private hospitals, b) health program managers at higher and middle-level leadership roles, c) health policymakers at various levels in the government and other organizations and d) graduate and postgraduate students of public health, hospital management/administration. In addition to this, it can also be used for general management programs to teach organizational behavior, communication and leadership courses.

Socioeconomic and behavioral factors of road traffic accidents among drivers in Ethiopia: systematic review and meta analysis

BackgroundRoad traffic accidents (RTAs) are a pressing public health issue in Ethiopia, exacerbated by rapid urbanization and motorization. Despite efforts, escalating rates persist due to various factors like human behavior and road infrastructure deficiencies. This study addresses the need for comprehensive data on RTAs in Ethiopia, aiming to uncover socioeconomic and behavioral factors to inform evidence-based policies.MethodsA systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted from March to April 2024, adhering to PRISMA guidelines. Major databases like Google Scholar, PubMed, and the Cochrane Library were searched using specific keywords related to RTAs and Ethiopia. Studies conducted between 2014 and 2024 were included, with eligibility criteria. Data extraction followed a standardized Microsoft Excel format. Study quality was assessed using the JBI checklist, with high-quality articles included. Statistical analysis, conducted using STATA version 17, included descriptive analysis, forest plots for RTA prevalence, and examination of publication bias using Egger and Begs tests. Subgroup analysis and meta-regression explored moderating factors and sources of heterogeneity.ResultsThe systematic review identified eight studies meeting inclusion criteria, conducted between 2014 and 2022. RTA prevalence was 36% (95% CI: 23; 49). Sensitivity analysis confirmed the robustness of the estimated prevalence. Publication bias was detected via Egger’s test, though Begg’s test was non-significant. Meta-regression found no significant influence of publication year or sample size on RTA prevalence. Socioeconomic factors like income level and driving experience, alongside behavioral factors like traffic rule violations and substance use, were identified as key drivers of RTAs in Ethiopia.ConclusionsThe study highlights the significant burden of road traffic accidents in Ethiopia, influenced by socioeconomic and behavioral factors. Socioeconomic factors such as income level and driving experience, along with behavioral factors like traffic rule violations and substance use, emerged as prominent determinants of RTAs. Policymakers should prioritize evidence-based interventions targeting these factors to improve road safety nationwide.

Advancing pharmaceutical care in rural and underserved communities: Strategies for improving global healthcare access

Pharmaceutical care in rural and underserved communities faces significant challenges, including limited access to healthcare services, geographic isolation, and infrastructure deficiencies. This review explores innovative strategies to optimize patient care delivery and expand access to essential medications in these areas. It highlights the potential of telepharmacy and digital health solutions in bridging the gap between patients and pharmacists, ensuring timely consultations, and enhancing medication adherence. Additionally, community-based healthcare initiatives and pharmacist-led interventions are examined as practical solutions for improving care delivery at the grassroots level. The review further discusses necessary policy reforms and incentives that can support healthcare professionals in underserved regions, along with long-term strategies such as localized drug production and international collaboration to sustain improvements in global healthcare access. By integrating these approaches, healthcare disparities can be reduced, leading to improved outcomes for vulnerable populations worldwide. Keywords: Telepharmacy, Rural Healthcare. Medication Access, Pharmacist-led Interventions, Policy Reforms.

Challenges Afflicting Prisons – A First-hand Observation

Prisons encounter numerous challenges stemming from systemic, social, and administrative shortcomings. Overcrowding stands out as a significant problem, with facilities operating well beyond their intended capacities, leading to strained resources, increased tensions, and substandard living conditions. The high volume of pretrial detainees exacerbates overcrowding, prolongs the wait for justice, and creates excessive difficulties for those who are imprisoned. Deficiencies in infrastructure, a lack of initiatives to build new prisons or expand the capacity of current facilities, insufficient medical care - particularly in mental health services - and shortages of staff all jeopardize the well-being and safety of inmates. Additionally, gender-specific issues, such as insufficient facilities for women and the absence of open prisons, underscore the system's failure to support marginalized groups. Furthermore, the scarcity of rehabilitation programs hinders the reintegration of prisoners into society. Malpractices, gang activity, and substance abuse in prisons worsen these conditions, leading to violence and fatalities that hinder reform initiatives. Addressing these interconnected challenges requires extensive reforms that involve robust administrative commitment, investments in infrastructure and workforce, improvements to the legal framework, and the creation of rehabilitation programs aimed at cultivating a more humane and efficient prison system.

Impact Of Road Connectivity On Daily Livelihood Sustainability Of Commuters In Sandeshkhali-I CD Block, North 24 Parganas, West Bengal, India

Background: The study area has different infrastructural deficiencies with compare to other regions. The natural constraints for communication, Poverty, Infrastructural deficiency, Rurality, and Transportation barriers are the main problems in this region. This study has tried to determine the different road connectivity and their impacts on daily sustainable livelihoods among the commuters of Sandeshkhali-I CD block in North 24 Parganas district of West Bengal, India. Materials and Methods: The study has used the Primary and Secondary data to fulfill the objectives. To execute the objectives, road networks are differentiated to measure the road connectivity indices (Alpha, Beta and Gamma Index) from different Gram Panchayats (GPs) to find out the road network condition in this rural deltaic region of the Indian Sundarban. Using the Random sampling to collect the primary data through questionnaire from commuters at different busiest places in the study area. Based on different selected livelihood components, the daily livelihood sustainability index has been evaluated. To find out the relationship the road connectivity Indices (R.C.I.) and daily livelihood sustainability index (D.L.S.I.) are correlated with the help of Karl Person ‘r’ value. Results: The highest values of Alpha, Beta and Gamma Indices are 0.34, 1.89 and 0.65 with respect to Metalled and Unmetalled roads. The daily livelihood sustainability index value has been found 54.33 and 17.54 as the highest and lowest respectively. The positive and negative values are present in the correlation between R.C.I. and D.L.S.I. Conclusion: From the outcome, most of the GPs are under the low and very low livelihood sustainability category whereas, the rest of the GPs have medium to high livelihood sustainability status as per selected class. The study concluded that the development needs to be accounted for because of intra-regional imbalance among the road connectivity as well as daily livelihood sustainability that has already existed in this area

Synthesis of evidence for managing hypertensive disorders of pregnancy in low middle-income countries: a scoping review

Background and objectivesHypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDPs) remain one of the leading causes of maternal mortality globally, especially in Low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). To reduce the burden of associated morbidity and mortality, standardized prompt recognition, evaluation, and treatment have been proposed. Health disparities, barriers to access to healthcare, and shortage of resources influence these conditions. We aimed to synthesize the literature evidence for the management of HDPs in LMICs.MethodsA scoping review was conducted in five databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Epistemonikos, Clinical Key and, Scielo) using MeSh terms, keywords, and Boolean connectors. We summarized the included studies according to the following categories: study design, objectives, settings, participant characteristics, eligibility criteria, interventions, assessed outcomes, and general findings.ResultsSix hundred fifty-one articles were retrieved from the literature search in five databases. Following the selection process, 65 articles met the predefined eligibility criteria. After performing a full-text analysis, 27 articles were included. Three themes were identified from the articles reviewed: prevention of HDPs, management of HDPs (antihypertensive and non-hypertensive management) and pregnancy monitoring and follow-up. The topics were approached from the perspective of LMICs.ConclusionsLMICs face substantial limitations and obstacles in the comprehensive management of HDPs. While management recommendations in most LMICs align with international guidelines, several factors, including limited access to crucial medications, unavailability of diagnostic tests, deficiencies in high-quality healthcare infrastructure, restrictions on continuing professional development, a shortage of trained personnel, community perceptions of preeclampsia, and outdated local clinical practice guidelines, impede the comprehensive management of patients. The development and implementation of protocols, standardized guides and intervention packages are a priority.

CHALLENGES OF MEDICAL EDUCATION IN SIALKOT: A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF PUBLIC AND PRIVATE MEDICAL COLLEGES

Background: Medical education in Pakistan is hindered by infrastructure deficiencies, outdated curricula, shortage of qualified faculty, and limited clinical exposure, which collectively impact the quality of healthcare training. This study highlights challenges in medical colleges of Sialkot affecting educational standards and compares the challenges faced by medical education between public and private medical colleges, focusing on infrastructure, curriculum, faculty quality, clinical training, and assessment methodologies. Methods: An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted in public and private medical colleges of Sialkot from October 2023 to March 2024, after approval by the Institutional Review Board of Sialkot Medical College. Data from 200 medical students were collected via convenience sampling and analyzed using a questionnaire covering infrastructure, curriculum, faculty, clinical exposure, and assessments. SPSS-21 and Chi-square tests were used for analysis. Results: A total of 200 students participated from the public and private sectors. Notable differences were observed in laboratory resources, curriculum transparency, and problem-based learning availability, with public colleges generally faring better. However, critical thinking promotion, student-teacher interaction, and clinical rotations did not significantly differ between the two sectors. Conclusions: The study identified shared and distinct challenges in medical education within public and private sector medical colleges of Sialkot. Public colleges showed superior resource allocation and curriculum transparency, yet both sectors need improvements in faculty development and clinical training. These findings suggest targeted reforms to enhance standards of medical education and outcomes in Pakistan. Pak J Physiol 2024;20(3):77–80, DOI: https://doi.org/10.69656/pjp.v20i3.1653

Disaster Preparedness among Households in the Municipality of Pura, Tarlac: An Analysis

This research endeavors to evaluate the level of disaster preparedness among households in the Municipality of Pura, Tarlac, employing a quantitative descriptive research approach. A survey questionnaire was utilized to gather data from 112 household respondents, selected through random sampling across barangays most vulnerable to disasters. Data analysis, facilitated by SPSS analytical statistics software, focused on identifying trends and correlations between disaster preparedness levels and encountered challenges. The findings reveal both strengths and challenges in disaster preparedness. While emergency plans, risk awareness, and response capacity demonstrate commendable efficacy, deficiencies in emergency supplies, community engagement, and infrastructure persist. Correlation analysis underscores the positive relationship between proactive measures and mitigation of challenges, emphasizing the importance of investing in comprehensive disaster management strategies. Recommendations are proposed based on the research findings. Strengthening emergency supplies and resources through equitable distribution mechanisms and community collaboration is advised. Fostering greater community engagement and collaboration, enhancing emergency plans, and improving response and recovery capacity are also recommended. These measures, encompassing workshops, collaboration initiatives, and resource provisions, aim to empower households with the necessary knowledge and resources for effective disaster preparedness, response, and recovery. Implementation of these recommendations is crucial for enhancing disaster resilience and readiness in the Municipality of Pura, Tarlac. By addressing identified challenges and bolstering proactive measures, the community can better safeguard its residents and infrastructure against future disasters, ensuring their safety and well-being.

Ethiopia and BRICS: Prospects and Challenges

This study examines Ethiopia's relationship with the BRICS group (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa), exploring both the opportunities and challenges this affiliation presents. As emerging economies gain global influence, Ethiopia's inclusion in BRICS represents a significant chance to leverage economic, political, and technological strengths. The research highlights the potential benefits for Ethiopia, including enhanced trade, investment, and technology transfer, which could drive the country's economic growth and development. However, Ethiopia also faces substantial challenges, such as infrastructure deficiencies, skill gaps, and regulatory barriers that may hinder its ability to fully align with BRICS frameworks. The study underscores Ethiopia's strategic motivations for engaging with BRICS, including accessing new markets and fostering innovation. It also addresses the risks of economic dependency and the need for a balanced diplomatic strategy with traditional Western partners. Through a mixed-method approach, the research combines quantitative and qualitative analyses to provide a comprehensive understanding of Ethiopia's position within BRICS. The study emphasizes the geopolitical significance of BRICS in reshaping global power dynamics and Ethiopia's potential role in this transformation. The study offers strategic recommendations to enhance Ethiopia's engagement with BRICS, aimed at a mutually beneficial partnership aligned with Ethiopia's development goals and regional influence. This contribution is crucial for policymakers and researchers interested in South-South cooperation and its impact on Africa's fastest-growing economies.

The dynamics of land-based financing in Ghana: An institutional perspective for implementation

ABSTRACT In recent years, most sub-Saharan African cities have been urged to leverage the rising land values resulting from rapid urbanization through the instruments of land-based financing (LBF) to finance basic infrastructure projects. However, a significant concern of LBF in the Global South has been its limited application due to institutional and technical challenges. The study examined how institutional structures and legal frameworks in Ghana influence the implementation and effectiveness of LBF mechanisms and the role capacity building, technological infrastructure and stakeholder engagement play in enhancing the operational effectiveness and public acceptance of LBF in Ghana. Using the Greater Accra Metropolitan Area, Ghana as a case study, interviews were conducted with urban planners, policy makers, developers, local government officials and key informants and content analysis was used to analyse LBF policy documents. Key findings highlight significant legal gaps in the legal frameworks governing LBF, which can result in inconsistent application across municipalities and undermine revenue generation. Additionally, the study highlights the challenges of property valuation and tax collection due to inadequate and targeted capacity building programs for staff, technological infrastructure deficiencies, ineffective interagency collaboration, and limited stakeholder engagement, which ultimately affects the legitimacy and success of LBF initiatives. The study recommends the implementation LBF through legislative reforms, capacity-building programs, technological infrastructure investments, and interagency collaboration, emphasizing stakeholder engagement and transparent communication for effective implementation.

Ingesting digital archives into long-term storage system through free open-source software in South Africa

Purpose In South Africa, public institutions face challenges in transitioning their digital records to trusted digital repositories due to a deficiency in skills, infrastructure and systems. Free and open-source software (FOSS) presents a viable solution for facilitating the transfer of digital archives for permanent preservation. Despite the existence of FOSS policy in South Africa, the public sector has yet to fully use it to engage in the development and implementation of products for records management and archive preservation using open-source software. This study aims to explore the ingestion of digital archives into an approved long-term storage system through FOSS in South Africa with the view of developing a framework. Design/methodology/approach The study adopted a qualitative research approach to collect data through interviews with purposively selected participants (records managers, archivists and IT officials) from national government departments that have implemented records management systems for digital curation of archives, as well as the National Archives and Records Services of South Africa (NARSSA), which regulates archives and records management, and the State Information Technology Agency, which regulates information technology in government. Findings The findings of the study suggest that the systematic transfer of digital materials from public entities to NARSSA, as required by statute, has not taken place. Research limitations/implications The study specifically targeted national government departments that have implemented digital archives and records management systems. Consequently, perspectives from departments that have not implemented these solutions were excluded. Originality/value A framework is proposed for the transfer of digital archives, using interoperable FOSS, from government agencies responsible for records management to NARSSA for archival preservation. This framework, it is hoped, will facilitate infrastructure and skills development in the management of records and preservation of archives through open platforms.

The Impact of Digital Transformation on Productivity in the Middle East

Digital transformation is transforming sectors worldwide, increasing productivity, efficiency, and economic development. This study investigates the influence of digital transformation on productivity in the Middle East, focusing on important industries such as banking, manufacturing, and services. Using case studies from the region's top economies—namely the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt—this study investigates the adoption of modern digital technologies such as AI, blockchain, cloud computing, and automation. The report identifies considerable productivity advantages in early adopting areas, particularly banking and e-commerce, while also highlighting ongoing problems such as infrastructural deficiencies, regulatory impediments, and a digital skills shortage. The research assesses the influence of digital technology on productivity development using both descriptive analysis and econometric models. The findings indicate that, while digital transformation has the potential to increase economic output greatly, further governmental support and investment in digital infrastructure and workforce development are required to achieve these benefits fully. This study adds to the increasing body of information about digital economies in developing countries and makes policy suggestions to promote equitable and sustainable growth in the area.

Socioeconomic Determinants of Malnutrition in East Africa:Addressing Poverty, Inequality, and Access to Resources

Malnutrition was a significant public health challenge in East Africa, driven by a complex interplay of socioeconomic determinants such as poverty, inequality, and limited access to essential resources including healthcare, education, and clean water. This review examined the role of poverty in perpetuating malnutrition, highlighting how economic constraints limit food security, dietary quality, and healthcare access, thus exacerbating undernutrition and related health issues. The impact of gender inequality was also explored, demonstrating how systemic barriers to resources and opportunities for women adversely affect nutritional outcomes for both women and children. Furthermore, the review discussed the critical importance of access to essential resources, emphasizing how deficiencies in healthcare infrastructure, educational opportunities, and clean water and sanitation contribute to the persistence of malnutrition. Using a comprehensive literature review methodology, this paper underscored the need for integrated policy interventions that address the socioeconomic roots of malnutrition, advocating for poverty alleviation, gender equality, and improved access to essential services to foster a healthier and more equitable future for East Africa.

Socioeconomic Determinants of Malnutrition in East Africa:Addressing Poverty, Inequality, and Access to Resources

Malnutrition was a significant public health challenge in East Africa, driven by a complex interplay of socioeconomic determinants such as poverty, inequality, and limited access to essential resources including healthcare, education, and clean water. This review examined the role of poverty in perpetuating malnutrition, highlighting how economic constraints limit food security, dietary quality, and healthcare access, thus exacerbating undernutrition and related health issues. The impact of gender inequality was also explored, demonstrating how systemic barriers to resources and opportunities for women adversely affect nutritional outcomes for both women and children. Furthermore, the review discussed the critical importance of access to essential resources, emphasizing how deficiencies in healthcare infrastructure, educational opportunities, and clean water and sanitation contribute to the persistence of malnutrition. Using a comprehensive literature review methodology, this paper underscored the need for integrated policy interventions that address the socioeconomic roots of malnutrition, advocating for poverty alleviation, gender equality, and improved access to essential services to foster a healthier and more equitable future for East Africa.

Socioeconomic Determinants of Malnutrition in East Africa:Addressing Poverty, Inequality, and Access to Resources

Malnutrition was a significant public health challenge in East Africa, driven by a complex interplay of socioeconomic determinants such as poverty, inequality, and limited access to essential resources including healthcare, education, and clean water. This review examined the role of poverty in perpetuating malnutrition, highlighting how economic constraints limit food security, dietary quality, and healthcare access, thus exacerbating undernutrition and related health issues. The impact of gender inequality was also explored, demonstrating how systemic barriers to resources and opportunities for women adversely affect nutritional outcomes for both women and children. Furthermore, the review discussed the critical importance of access to essential resources, emphasizing how deficiencies in healthcare infrastructure, educational opportunities, and clean water and sanitation contribute to the persistence of malnutrition. Using a comprehensive literature review methodology, this paper underscored the need for integrated policy interventions that address the socioeconomic roots of malnutrition, advocating for poverty alleviation, gender equality, and improved access to essential services to foster a healthier and more equitable future for East Africa.

The current state of institutional repositories in universities of Türkiye: An applied research study

The purpose of this article is to analyze the current state of institutional repositories owned by Turkish universities, identify the challenges faced by librarians responsible for managing these repositories, and propose solutions to overcome these obstacles. A survey was distributed to 181 institutions in Türkiye. Responses were received from 80 institutions. The findings revealed the difficulties experienced by librarians working in institutional repositories and the areas where they need improvement. Researchers spend too much time uploading their publications, data entry is not mandatory in institutional repository policies, copyright/ownership issues, a lack of understanding of the importance of institutional repositories, legal infrastructure deficiencies, budget constraints, and a lack of technical support are among the main challenges faced by institutions. The first three areas that institutional repositories need are budget, support and attention from university administration and adequate and competent staff. Again, the study revealed that Council of Higher Education did not fulfill its duties and responsibilities regarding institutional repositories. As a result of the study, solutions specific to the problems and needs experienced by institutional repositories have been proposed. The study aims to bridge literature gaps on repository processes in Turkish university libraries, providing insights and practical solutions for enhancing institutional repository performance.