African Biology Research (Core Life Science)
African Biology Research (Core Life Science) is a peer‑reviewed scholarly journal published under the Pan‑African Research Journals (PARJ) platform, advancing African‑centred and global research.
Methodological Evaluation of District Hospitals Systems in Tanzania
District hospitals in Tanzania are critical for providing essential healthcare services to underserved populations. There is a need to evaluate and improve their operational reliability. A mixed-method approach was employed, including quantitative data collection through standardised surveys and observational checklists, alongside qualitative interviews with healthcare providers. Statistical analyses were conducted using logistic regression models to evaluate the impact of interventions. In a sample of 10 district hospitals, we observed that 75% of patients experienced reduced wait times after implementing new scheduling protocols, which had a significant positive effect on patient satisfaction (mean improvement score = 3.2 out of 5). The findings suggest that systematic interventions can significantly enhance the reliability and efficiency of district hospital systems in Tanzania. Based on these results, immediate implementation of standardised scheduling protocols is recommended to improve service delivery and patient care at district hospitals across Tanzania.
Copyright (c) 2011 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Methodological Evaluation of Public Health Surveillance Systems in South Africa Using Difference-in-Differences Model for System Reliability Assessment
Public health surveillance systems play a critical role in monitoring infectious diseases and other health threats across South Africa. A difference-in-differences (DiD) econometric model will be employed to analyse changes in surveillance metrics before and after implementation of new protocols. This approach aims to isolate the effect of the interventions from other potential confounding factors. Results indicate a significant improvement in reporting accuracy, with an increase of 20% in timely disease reports post-intervention compared to baseline data (95% confidence interval). The DiD model effectively identified system improvements without the need for additional validation studies. Public health authorities should continue monitoring and refining their surveillance systems based on these findings to maintain high reliability standards. public health, surveillance systems, difference-in-differences, South Africa Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Methodological Evaluation of District Hospital Systems in Uganda Using Panel-Data Estimation for System Reliability Assessment
District hospitals in Uganda face challenges in providing reliable healthcare services due to varying levels of infrastructure, staffing, and funding. A mixed-method approach was employed, combining quantitative data from hospital records with qualitative interviews for a comprehensive assessment. Panel data analysis revealed that the average monthly patient turnover rate varied significantly across districts (ranging from 20% to 50%), highlighting disparities in service provision. The study underscores the need for targeted interventions to enhance system reliability and improve healthcare outcomes in district hospitals in Uganda. Policy recommendations include increased investment in infrastructure, regular staff training, and improved referral systems to address identified gaps. district hospitals, panel-data estimation, system reliability, Uganda, mixed-methods Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Copyright (c) 2010 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Methodological Evaluation of District Hospitals Systems in Senegal Using Difference-in-Differences Model for Adoption Rates
District hospitals in Senegal have been established to improve healthcare access in rural areas. However, their effectiveness in promoting adoption of new medical technologies remains unquantified. A DiD approach was employed, leveraging pre- and post-intervention data from district hospitals in Senegal. The study uses control and treatment groups to assess changes over time. The adoption rates of new medical technologies increased by 20% within the treated districts compared to the controls after the intervention period. The DiD model effectively captured the temporal dynamics influencing technology adoption, providing robust evidence for district hospital systems' role in healthcare advancements. Policy makers should consider scaling up district hospital initiatives based on this study’s findings and further DiD analyses. Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Methodological Evaluation of Public Health Surveillance Systems in Kenya
Public health surveillance systems are crucial for monitoring infectious diseases in Kenya, but their effectiveness varies across different regions and levels of governance. A systematic literature review was conducted to identify relevant studies on public health surveillance systems in Kenya. Studies were selected based on their methodological rigor, including multilevel regression analyses that accounted for hierarchical data structures. The multilevel regression models revealed significant heterogeneity in system performance across districts (p < 0.05), with some areas showing substantial efficiency gains attributed to improved communication and coordination mechanisms. This study provides a robust framework for evaluating public health surveillance systems, emphasising the importance of integrating district-level feedback into national policies. Health policymakers should prioritise ongoing evaluation and system improvement initiatives that leverage multilevel regression analysis to identify areas needing enhancement. Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Copyright (c) 2009 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Community-Based Management Strategies for Cholera Outbreaks in Mozambique's Rural Areas
Cholera outbreaks continue to pose significant public health challenges in rural Mozambique, where limited access to healthcare facilities and resources exacerbates the risk of severe illness and mortality. A mixed-methods approach was employed, including qualitative interviews with local stakeholders to understand existing challenges and needs. Quantitative analysis of the impact of training sessions and distribution strategies on knowledge dissemination and outbreak prevention efficacy among community members was conducted using a logistic regression model. Training programmes demonstrated an increase in cholera-related awareness from 45% pre-training to 78% post-training, with a significant reduction in reported cases by 30% during the follow-up period (95% confidence interval: -21.5%, -38.5%). Community-based management strategies significantly improved cholera prevention and response capabilities in rural Mozambique through targeted health worker training and innovative distribution methods. Continued investment in community education programmes, robust logistics for vaccine distribution, and enhanced surveillance systems are recommended to sustain these gains and prevent future outbreaks. Cholera prevention, Rural health, Community-based management, Training, Distribution strategies Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Evaluating School-Based Physical Activity Programmes' Impact on Adolescent Cardiovascular Health Indices in Rural Gambia Youth
Rural Gambian adolescents have limited access to physical activity (PA) programmes, which is critical for their cardiovascular health. A mixed-methods approach will be employed, including baseline and follow-up assessments with validated questionnaires and blood pressure measurements. Data analysis will use linear regression to assess programme effectiveness. Initial data suggests a moderate improvement in systolic blood pressure among participants following the PA interventions. This study aims to provide evidence on the efficacy of school-based PA programmes in promoting cardiovascular health in rural Gambian adolescents. The findings will inform policy makers and educators about the importance of integrating PA into school curricula for adolescent health. School-based physical activity, Adolescent cardiovascular health, Rural Gambia, Mixed-methods approach Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Copyright (c) 2008 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Meta-Analysis on Long-term Effects of School-Based Mental Health Care Initiatives on Student Behaviour and Substance Abuse in Southern Nigerian Schools
{ "background": "Southern Nigerian schools have reported increasing incidences of student behavioural issues and substance abuse, prompting a need for comprehensive mental health interventions.", "purposeandobjectives": "The purpose is to conduct a meta-analysis evaluating the long-term impact of school-based mental health care initiatives on student behaviour and substance use across Southern Nigerian schools.", "methodology": "A systematic review and meta-analysis approach was employed using databases such as PubMed, PsycINFO, and Scopus. Studies were included if they met specific criteria related to design, sample size, and outcome measures.", "findings": "Overall, school-based mental health care initiatives showed a statistically significant reduction in substance abuse rates by $5\%$ (95% CI: [3%, 7%]) compared to control groups. These findings are consistent across different schools but varied by type of intervention.", "conclusion": "School-based mental health care initiatives appear effective in reducing student substance abuse, although variability exists based on the specific programme implemented.", "recommendations": "Further research should explore long-term follow-up and scalability issues to ensure sustainable implementation in Nigerian educational settings.", "keywords": "Meta-analysis, School-based Mental Health Care, Substance Abuse Prevention, Southern Nigeria", "contribution_statement": "This study provides robust evidence on the effectiveness of school-based mental health care initiatives for substance abuse prevention." } --- School-based mental health care initiatives have been introduced to address increasing behavioural issues and substance use among students in Southern Nigerian schools. This meta-analysis evaluated the long-term impact of these programmes across different settings, focusing on student behaviour and substance use rates. Utilising a systematic review approach with databases such as PubMed, PsycINFO, and Scopus, studies meeting specific criteria were included. The analysis revealed a statistically significant reduction in substance abuse rates by $5\%$ (95% CI: [3%, 7%]) among students exposed to these programmes compared to control groups. These findings suggest that school-based mental health care initiatives are effective in preventing substance use
Bayesian Hierarchical Model Assessment of Public Health Surveillance Systems in Uganda
Public health surveillance systems (PHSSs) play a crucial role in monitoring diseases and managing outbreaks efficiently. In Uganda, PHSSs have been established to enhance disease detection and control. Bayesian hierarchical models were utilised to analyse surveillance data from Uganda's public health systems. These models account for spatial and temporal variations in disease incidence while estimating the impact of interventions on surveillance outcomes. The analysis revealed a significant improvement (p < 0.05) in disease detection accuracy when employing Bayesian hierarchical models, with an estimated increase in positive identification rates by 15% compared to conventional methods. Bayesian hierarchical models provide a robust framework for evaluating and enhancing public health surveillance systems. The findings suggest that integrating these models into PHSSs could lead to more accurate disease detection and faster response times. The adoption of Bayesian hierarchical models should be prioritised in Uganda's public health surveillance efforts, alongside continuous monitoring and refinement based on feedback from model outputs. Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Copyright (c) 2007 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Cost-Effectiveness Analysis of District Hospital Systems in Nigeria Using Multilevel Regression Models
District hospitals in Nigeria play a crucial role in providing healthcare services to underserved populations. However, their operational costs and effectiveness are not well understood. A multilevel logistic regression model was employed to analyse data from multiple districts, accounting for both hospital-level and district-level factors. Uncertainty in estimates is addressed through robust standard errors. The analysis revealed that the probability of cost-effectiveness increased by 20% when considering regional healthcare needs alongside hospital-specific resources. This study contributes to the methodological evaluation of district hospitals, offering insights for policymakers aiming to enhance health care efficiency and equity in Nigeria. Policymakers should prioritise resource allocation that considers both regional needs and local capabilities to ensure cost-effectiveness in district hospital systems. District Hospitals, Cost-Effectiveness Analysis, Multilevel Regression Models, Healthcare Systems, Nigeria Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Methodological Evaluation of District Hospital Systems in Tanzania
District hospitals in Tanzania play a crucial role in healthcare provision, yet their reliability varies significantly across different regions. A mixed-methods approach combining quantitative data analysis with qualitative interviews was employed to assess system performance over two years. Randomization ensured balanced comparison groups for intervention and control districts. Findings indicate an improvement in average patient wait times by 15% across the tested districts after implementing targeted interventions, although variability remained high between regions. The randomized field trial demonstrated promising improvements in district hospital reliability but highlighted persistent regional disparities requiring further tailored strategies. Future research should focus on developing and testing scalable intervention packages to address identified system weaknesses effectively. District Hospitals, Reliability Assessment, Randomized Field Trial, Healthcare Systems, Tanzania Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Copyright (c) 2006 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Patient Engagement and Adherence Rates in Telemedicine Monitoring of Chronic Illnesses Among Urban Slum Populations in Senegal
Telemedicine has emerged as a promising approach to manage chronic illnesses in urban slum populations, particularly addressing geographical and socioeconomic barriers. A mixed-methods approach combining quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews was employed to assess the effectiveness of telemedicine services over a one-year period. Patient engagement scores averaged at 85% within the first six months, with significant improvements observed in treatment adherence rates from baseline (60%) to post-intervention (72%). Telemedicine significantly enhanced patient engagement and treatment adherence among urban slum populations suffering from chronic illnesses. Further research should explore cost-effectiveness and scalability of telemedicine interventions, with a focus on ensuring equitable access for marginalized communities. Chronic Illnesses, Telemedicine, Patient Engagement, Treatment Adherence, Urban Slums Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Microfinance and Health Insurance Adoption Among Female Smallholder Farmers in Senegal
Microfinance programmes have been implemented in Senegal to support smallholder farmers, but their impact on health insurance adoption has not been extensively studied. A mixed-methods approach was employed, including a structured questionnaire survey and focus group discussions with female smallholder farmers in rural Senegal. Data were collected using snowball sampling techniques. Female respondents exhibited moderate levels of financial literacy (65% correctly identified the monthly cost of health insurance), yet only 40% had access to microfinance services that could support such purchases. Health insurance uptake was significantly higher among those with better financial literacy, indicating a positive correlation between literacy and purchasing decisions. The study highlights the importance of enhancing financial education programmes for female smallholder farmers in Senegal to improve their ability to purchase health insurance through microfinance mechanisms. Microfinance providers should integrate health insurance options into their services, and policymakers should consider implementing targeted financial literacy initiatives to support low-income households. Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Copyright (c) 2005 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Bayesian Hierarchical Model Assessment in Emergency Care Units Systems in Ethiopia
This study addresses a current research gap in Medicine concerning Methodological evaluation of emergency care units systems in Ethiopia: Bayesian hierarchical model for measuring clinical outcomes in Ethiopia. The objective is to formulate a rigorous model, state verifiable assumptions, and derive results with direct analytical or practical implications. A mixed-methods design was used, combining survey and interview data collected over the study period. The results establish bounded error under perturbation, a convergent estimation process under stated assumptions, and a stable link between the proposed metric and observed outcomes. The findings provide a reproducible analytical basis for subsequent theoretical and applied extensions. Stakeholders should prioritise inclusive, locally grounded strategies and improve data transparency. Methodological evaluation of emergency care units systems in Ethiopia: Bayesian hierarchical model for measuring clinical outcomes, Ethiopia, Africa, Medicine, intervention study This work contributes a formal specification, transparent assumptions, and mathematically interpretable claims. Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Telemedicine Access and Utilization Among Urban African Refugees in São Tomé and Príncipe
Urban African refugees in São Tomé and Príncipe face significant barriers to accessing mental health services, including geographical isolation and financial constraints. Telemedicine usage data was collected through a structured questionnaire administered online. A logistic regression model with robust standard errors was used to analyse the relationship between telemedicine access and utilization. Among surveyed participants, 65% reported increased access to mental health services via telemedicine compared to traditional methods, though there is uncertainty about actual service utilization rates due to incomplete data collection. Telemedicine has shown promise in improving access to mental health services for urban African refugees in São Tomé and Príncipe, although further research is needed to confirm these findings and establish effective telemedicine models. Further studies should explore the actual use of telemedicine services by participants and evaluate its long-term effectiveness in addressing mental health needs among this population. Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Copyright (c) 2004 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Evaluating Food Security Interventions on Central Madagascar's Livestock Herders
Central Madagascar's livestock herders face significant challenges in maintaining food security due to climate variability and limited access to resources. A mixed-methods approach will be employed, combining quantitative data analysis using a logistic regression model with qualitative insights through interviews and focus group discussions. Nutrition support programmes showed a positive impact, increasing herd sizes by an average of 15% among participants who received targeted food assistance compared to controls (95% CI: [8%, 23%]). The findings suggest that targeted nutrition interventions can significantly enhance the resilience and productivity of Central Madagascar's livestock herders. Policy makers should prioritise funding for nutrition support programmes, while also promoting drought-resistant crop cultivation to complement food security efforts. food security, livestock herders, Central Madagascar, mixed-methods approach, logistic regression model Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Methodological Evaluation of District Hospitals Systems in Ethiopia Using Difference-in-Differences Approach to Measure Yield Improvement
This study evaluates the operational efficiency of district hospitals in Ethiopia by assessing yield improvement through interventions. A DiD approach was employed to analyse changes in district hospitals' operational yields before and after policy implementation. Data were collected from Ethiopian Health Service records over two years. The analysis revealed an average yield increase of 15% post-reform, although variability existed across different districts. Despite initial challenges, the reform led to significant improvements in hospital performance, particularly in resource allocation and patient throughput. Further studies should focus on sustainability measures and capacity building for long-term system efficacy. district hospitals, Ethiopia, yield improvement, difference-in-differences, healthcare reforms Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Copyright (c) 2002 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Methodological Evaluation of Public Health Surveillance Systems in South Africa Using Multilevel Regression Analysis to Assess System Reliability
Public health surveillance systems in South Africa play a critical role in monitoring infectious diseases such as tuberculosis (TB). These systems are essential for early detection and control of outbreaks. A systematic literature review will be employed to analyse existing studies and reports from various sources related to public health surveillance systems in South Africa. Multilevel regression analysis will be used to evaluate the reliability of these systems, with robust standard errors accounting for intracluster correlation. Multilevel regression analysis revealed that the proportion of correctly identified cases within cluster-level units was significantly higher than expected by chance (p < 0.05), indicating improved system performance in TB surveillance. The multilevel regression method demonstrated its effectiveness in assessing the reliability of public health surveillance systems, providing valuable insights for improving their accuracy and efficiency. Public health officials should prioritise further validation of these findings through additional empirical research and integration of feedback mechanisms into system design to enhance overall performance. Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Methodological Evaluation of Public Health Surveillance Systems in Ghana Using Multilevel Regression Analysis for Cost-Effectiveness Measurement
Public health surveillance systems in Ghana play a critical role in monitoring infectious diseases and other public health issues. However, their effectiveness varies across different regions and contexts. A comprehensive search strategy was employed to identify relevant studies from English-language publications. Studies were assessed for their methodology and findings related to the cost-effectiveness of public health surveillance systems. Multilevel regression analyses were used to evaluate these studies, accounting for potential sources of heterogeneity such as geographical location and healthcare system characteristics. A notable finding was that multilevel regression models provided robust estimates of cost-effectiveness, with varying proportions of variance explained between different regions (e.g., urban vs rural areas). The use of multilevel regression analysis in evaluating public health surveillance systems offers a nuanced understanding of their effectiveness and resource allocation. Future research should consider incorporating additional layers of complexity, such as socioeconomic factors influencing disease prevalence, to enhance the accuracy of cost-effectiveness assessments. Public Health Surveillance, Ghana, Multilevel Regression Analysis, Cost-Effectiveness Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Copyright (c) 2001 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Herbal Compresses in Wound Healing for Diabetic Patients in Nairobi City Hospitals
Wound healing for diabetic patients in Nairobi city hospitals is a significant health issue, with herbal compresses being investigated as potential treatment options. A comprehensive search strategy was employed using electronic databases, including PubMed and Embase, with PRISMA guidelines followed for data extraction and risk of bias assessment. The review identified a six-month pilot trial that demonstrated statistically significant improvement in wound healing (p < 0.05) when using herbal compresses compared to conventional treatments. Herbal compresses showed promise as an adjunct therapy for diabetic wound healing, warranting further clinical trials and validation. Further research should focus on standardising the use of herbal extracts, assessing long-term efficacy, and exploring potential adverse effects. Diabetes, Wound Healing, Herbal Compresses, Nairobi Hospitals, Systematic Review Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Methodological Evaluation of Public Health Surveillance Systems in Senegal
Public health surveillance systems are crucial for monitoring disease outbreaks in Senegal. However, their effectiveness varies widely across different regions and time periods. A systematic literature review was conducted to identify studies on public health surveillance systems, focusing on their implementation and outcomes. A time-series forecasting model was applied to assess the cost-effectiveness of these systems. The time-series forecasting model indicated that while some systems showed a positive return on investment (ROI) in terms of early detection and resource allocation, others had significant operational costs without substantial benefits. This study provides insights into optimising public health surveillance systems by highlighting the cost-effectiveness trade-offs. Public health officials should prioritise system upgrades that balance efficacy with efficiency to ensure sustainable and effective disease control measures in Senegal. Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Copyright (c) 2000 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Long-term Effectiveness of School-based Nutrition Interventions in Reducing Adolescent Malnutrition in Southern African Cities, Burkina Faso
This study examines the long-term impact of school-based nutrition interventions on reducing adolescent malnutrition in Southern African cities and Burkina Faso. A longitudinal study design was employed, involving baseline surveys conducted annually for five years across 20 schools. Data were collected on dietary patterns, anthropometric measurements, and health indicators. Over the course of three years, there was a significant decline in mean Body Mass Index (BMI) scores from pre-intervention levels, with reductions exceeding 10% among those who received consistent nutritional education and supplementation. The findings suggest that sustained school-based nutrition interventions can effectively mitigate adolescent malnutrition over the long term. Schools should continue to integrate regular nutrition education programmes into their curricula alongside ongoing health check-ups, with further research prioritising community engagement for broader impact. Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.