Vol 13 Issue 2 October 2025-March 2026

Abstract: Background: Pharmaceutical waste disposal is a growing environmental and public health concern, particularly in community pharmacy settings where inappropriate disposal can lead to contamination and adverse health outcomes.

Objective: This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, practices and perceived barriers regarding pharmaceutical waste disposal among pharmacists in community pharmacies across Kigali, Rwanda.

Methods: A cross-sectional study design was employed, incorporating both quantitative and qualitative data collection. Pharmacists were surveyed to evaluate their awareness of existing pharmaceutical waste regulations, personal attitudes toward proper disposal, and the challenges they face in implementation. Additional factors such as infrastructure, cultural beliefs, and knowledge of environmental risks were also examined. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical methods to identify significant trends and associations.

Results: The study revealed that while 83.9% of pharmacists demonstrated moderate to high knowledge and 77.0% held positive attitudes toward pharmaceutical waste disposal, only 13.8% practiced at a high level, with 21.3% showing poor practices. Key barriers included insufficient disposal infrastructure, limited training, and lack of clear regulatory guidelines. Chi-square tests showed no statistically significant associations between practice levels and variables such as knowledge (χ²(2) = 0.407, p = 0.816), attitude (χ²(2) = 4.302, p = 0.116), age (χ²(3) = 1.240, p = 0.743), gender (χ²(1) = 0.003, p = 0.958), education (χ²(2) = 4.185, p = 0.123), experience (χ²(3) = 0.508, p = 0.917), pharmacy location (χ²(3) = 5.113, p = 0.164), or weekly working hours (χ²(2) = 4.141, p = 0.126). These results suggest that while some trends are apparent, knowledge and attitude alone are not sufficient predictors of proper practice. External or systemic factors, such as organizational support, operational resources, and regulatory enforcement, may be more critical in influencing behavior. Therefore, multifaceted interventions are needed to bridge the gap between knowledge and practice in pharmaceutical waste management.

Conclusion: The findings highlight a disconnect between knowledge and practice, largely influenced by infrastructural and policy-related barriers. There is a critical need for enhanced waste disposal infrastructure, clear and enforceable guidelines, and continuous professional education to improve compliance. These results offer practical recommendations for policymakers, regulatory agencies, and pharmacy management to strengthen pharmaceutical waste management systems and protect both public health and the environment in Rwanda.

Keywords: (MeSH):  Pharmaceutical waste disposal, Community pharmacies, Pharmacists, Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices.

Title: ASSESSMENT OF KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDES AND PRACTICES TOWARD PHARMACEUTICAL WASTE DISPOSAL AMONG PHARMACISTS IN KIGALI COMMUNITY PHARMACIES

Author: Nadine UWASE, Amos HABIMANA

International Journal of Healthcare Sciences

ISSN 2348-5728 (Online)

Vol. 13, Issue 2, October 2025 - March 2026

Page No: 158-169

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Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 06-November-2025

Abstract: The study investigated the growing issue of self-medication with antibiotics among students at the University of Kigali, a practice contributing significantly to antimicrobial resistance (AMR). AMR poses a serious global threat, with the World Health Organization (WHO) warning it could lead to 10 million deaths annually by 2050 if left unchecked. In Rwanda, self-medication is widespread among university students, influenced by financial limitations, easy access to antibiotics, and inadequate health awareness. Despite global attention to this issue, limited research has focused on the Rwandan university context. Using a quantitative cross-sectional design, data were collected from 235 systematically selected students across various faculties and levels through structured questionnaires. Analysis in SPSS version 25 involved descriptive and logistic regression methods. Most respondents were aged between 24 and 26 years (45.5%), and males constituted the majority (61.3%). The findings revealed a high prevalence (69.4%) of antibiotic self-medication. The common ailments prompting self-treatment were coughs, colds, and flu (57.7%), followed by sore throat (26.4%). The most frequently used antibiotics included amoxicillin (53.4%), metronidazole (30.7%), and azithromycin (11.0%). Knowledge regarding antibiotic use was generally moderate (86.4%), while attitudes were neutral (77.9%) and perceptions poor (60.4%). Regression results indicated that sufficient monthly income, financial constraints leading to occasional self-medication, preference for managing minor illnesses independently, and reliance on prior experience were significant predictors of self-medication. Conversely, students who distrusted pharmacists dispensing antibiotics without prescriptions were less likely to self-medicate. The study concluded that self-medication with antibiotics is alarmingly prevalent among University of Kigali students, primarily influenced by socio-economic factors, accessibility of antibiotics, and self-reliant health behaviors. Despite moderate knowledge levels, poor attitudes and perceptions persist, highlighting the need for targeted interventions. The study recommends integrating rational antibiotic use into university health education programs, conducting regular awareness campaigns, enforcing stricter regulations on antibiotic sales, and ensuring that pharmacies dispense antibiotics only upon valid prescriptions while educating the public on responsible use.

Keywords: Prevalence, Self-Medication, Antibiotics, University of Kigali, Students, Rwanda.

Title: Prevalence and Factors Associated with Self-Medication of Antibiotics among University of Kigali Students in Rwanda

Author: Niyigena Aline, Dr Rosemary Okova

International Journal of Healthcare Sciences

ISSN 2348-5728 (Online)

Vol. 13, Issue 2, October 2025 - March 2026

Page No: 144-157

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Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 05-November-2025

Abstract: Background: Cervical cancer remains a major global health concern, with over 85% of cases occurring in low- and middle-income countries. In Rwanda, 70.3% of women diagnosed with cervical cancer die from the disease, while screening coverage among women aged 30–49 years remains low (23–28.3%). This study assessed the magnitude and factors associated with cervical cancer screening uptake among women in Burera District.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 250 women aged 30–49 years in five selected health facilities. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and logistic regression to determine factors associated with screening uptake.

Results: The cervical cancer screening rate was 31.6%. Factors significantly associated with screening included marital status (AOR = 3.08, 95% CI: 2.27–7.15), education level (AOR = 0.12, 95% CI: 0.03–0.57), knowledge about screening (AOR = 3.13, 95% CI: 1.21–46.59), screening method (AOR = 4.16, 95% CI: 2.25–10.11), male partner support (AOR = 2.45, 95% CI: 1.50–7.21), distance to facility (AOR = 14.21, 95% CI: 2.16–93.68), availability of trained staff (AOR = 3.86, 95% CI: 1.99–15.04), media exposure (AOR = 3.80, 95% CI: 2.01–7.21), and health facility visit in the past year (AOR = 31.36, 95% CI: 12.04–81.66).

Conclusion: Cervical cancer screening uptake in Burera District (31.6%) remains far below Rwanda’s 70% target. Improving awareness, enhancing provider training, involving male partners, and decentralizing services could enhance screening coverage.

Keywords: Cervical cancer, Screening uptake, Determinants, Burera District, Rwanda.

Title: CERVICAL CANCER SCREENING AND ASSOCIATED FACTORS AMONG WOMEN AGED 30-49 IN BURERA DISTRICT

Author: Oscar Ndahayo, Ammanuel Kidane Andegiorgish

International Journal of Healthcare Sciences

ISSN 2348-5728 (Online)

Vol. 13, Issue 2, October 2025 - March 2026

Page No: 133-143

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Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 03-November-2025

Abstract: Despite ongoing interventions, many adolescents still face challenges in accessing and utilizing SRH services due to various socio-cultural, institutional, and personal constraints. Adolescent fertility rates remain high globally, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa, necessitating further research to identify effective strategies for improving SRH service uptake. This research aims to investigate the factors influencing adolescents’ awareness, perceptions, and use of SRH services in selected health centers within Kicukiro District, Rwanda. This study covered significant gaps in adolescents’ knowledge and access to SRH services, with socio-cultural beliefs, stigma, and concerns about confidentiality emerging as key obstacles. Moreover, the availability of youth-friendly SRH services may be found to be inadequate, leading to reduced utilization. A cross-sectional research design was applied, utilizing structured questionnaires to gather quantitative data from adolescents, while key informant interviews with healthcare providers provided qualitative insights. The sample size was computed based on a 95% CI and the margin of error of 5%. SPSS software was used for data analysis like means, and percentages and inferential statistics. Among the respondents, 63.5% (n=244) had ever utilized SRH services, while 36.5% (n=140) had not. Utilization was significantly associated with age, gender, place of residence, and parental discussion on reproductive health (p<0.05). Adolescents aged 16-17 years (OR=2.64, 95% CI: 1.49-4.67) and 18-19 years (OR=2.93, 95% CI: 1.52-5.66) were more likely to use SRH services compared to those aged 13-15 years. Females were more likely to utilize services than males (OR=3.19, 95% CI: 2.00-5.10). Urban residents were more likely to access services compared to rural adolescents (OR=0.40, 95% CI: 0.21-0.78). Parental discussion on reproductive health significantly increased service utilization (OR=0.38, 95% CI: 0.22-0.64). Utilization was also more likely when SRH services were well-known and viewed favorably. According to the study, adolescents in Kicukiro District had a moderate level of awareness of SRH services but a comparatively high consumption rate. Key determinants of utilization included age, gender, urban residence, parental discussion, and positive attitude towards SRH services. Interventions to improve adolescent SRH service utilization should focus on enhancing parental engagement, targeting younger adolescents, promoting positive attitudes, and addressing barriers in rural areas. Health education programs should be strengthened in schools and communities to increase awareness and access to youth-friendly SRH services.

Keywords: (MeSH): Reproductive Health Services, Adolescents, Utilization of Sexual.

Title: Determinants of Adolescents’ Awareness and Utilization of Sexual and Reproductive Health Services in Health Centers in Kicukiro District, Rwanda, 2025

Author: Jeanne UWIMBABAZI, Dr Amos HABIMANA

International Journal of Healthcare Sciences

ISSN 2348-5728 (Online)

Vol. 13, Issue 2, October 2025 - March 2026

Page No: 116-132

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Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 31-October-2025

Abstract: Hair is an imperative part of human body. Due to use of various chemicals and synthetic compounds it usually causes destructive effects. The extensive use of chemical-laden hair care products often leads to detrimental effects on hair health. In response, this study formulates a herbal hair gel using flaxseed, Tridex procumbens, and Jatamansi to promote hair nourishment, prevent hair loss, and strengthen hair. Flaxseed's hydrating and antioxidant properties, Tridex procumbens hair growth promoting activity, and Jatamansi's nourishing effects synergistically work together to create a holistic hair care solution. The optimized formulation, code F4, demonstrates desirable physical parameters including pH, viscosity, spreadability, homogeneity, and stability, with no skin irritation and excellent washability. This herbal hair gel offers a natural and effective alternative for individuals seeking to revitalize and promote healthy hair growth.

Keywords: Flaxseed, Jatamansi, Tridex Procumbens, Gel formulation, Herbal cosmetics, Hair growth promoting activity, nourishment, strengthening.

Title: Formulation and Evaluation of Bioactive Herbal Hair Gel for Hair Care Application

Author: Ms. Mayuri M. Ban, Ms. Chanchal Gupta, Mr. Gajanan Ghuge

International Journal of Healthcare Sciences

ISSN 2348-5728 (Online)

Vol. 13, Issue 2, October 2025 - March 2026

Page No: 100-115  

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Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 31-October-2025

Abstract: Road traffic accidents (RTAs) are a major contributor to injury and death globally, and in Rwanda, public service motorcycle riders are frequently first responders at crash scenes. Despite this, there is limited data on their first aid knowledge and the uptake of related health information. This study, conducted in Nyagatare District, Rwanda, aimed to assess the prevalence and factors influencing the low uptake of first aid health information among commercial motorcycle riders. It examined knowledge levels, hygiene practices of safety devices, and the influence of knowledge, attitudes, and practices on first aid utilization.

Using a mixed-methods approach descriptive cross-sectional, cohort, and triangulation designs data were collected through structured questionnaires, key informant interviews, and focus group discussions. The study revealed that 91% of the riders were male, with a significant portion being single. Only 24% of respondents had adequate health information on first aid, highlighting a concerning gap. Furthermore, 77% lacked proper hygiene practices, such as sanitizing helmets between customers, posing public health risks. While 47.8% of respondents recognized motorcycle riders as first responders in RTAs, only 20.9% saw healthcare professionals as the primary providers of first aid.

The study found limited practical engagement in first aid delivery, especially in handling fractures and bleeding victims, due to fear and lack of training. In conclusion, motorcycle riders in Nyagatare District have moderate awareness but poor practical application of first aid. The study recommends targeted training, better access to first aid resources, and peer-led interventions to improve emergency response and reduce RTA-related mortality.

Keywords: First Aid, Health Information, Public Service Motorcycles Nyagatare District (Rwanda).

Title: Factors Influencing the Low uptake of Health Information on First aid among Public Service Motorcycles Operating in Nyagatare District, Rwanda

Author: NABURIME Spéciose, Dr. Maurice B SILALI, KYAMUSOKE BORAUZIMA Kyame

International Journal of Healthcare Sciences

ISSN 2348-5728 (Online)

Vol. 13, Issue 2, October 2025 - March 2026

Page No: 89-99       

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Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 30-October-2025

Abstract: Background: Rwanda’s maternal mortality rate has declined modestly over the past decade, yet timely antenatal care (ANC) initiation remains suboptimal, with 41% of pregnant women initiating ANC late. Timely ANC is critical to improving maternal and neonatal outcomes. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and determinants of late ANC initiation among pregnant women in Rulindo District, Rwanda.

Methods: A cross-sectional quantitative design was used, surveying 416 pregnant women attending seven health centers from March to May 2025. Data were collected using structured, pre-tested questionnaires administered in Kinyarwanda and analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and multivariate logistic regression (p ≤ 0.05).

Results: Late ANC initiation (after the first trimester) was reported by 27.6% of participants. The majority were young (50% aged 20–29), rural residents (98.3%), and had low educational attainment, with 63.5% having only primary education and most working as farmers (71.6%). Bivariate analysis identified several significant factors associated with delayed ANC. These included partner alcohol consumption (χ² = 11.697, p = 0.003), woman’s occupation (χ² = 25.439, p = 0.001), Lack of health insurance at conception (χ² = 21.197, p = 0.001), absence of decision-making power at home (χ² = 6.262, p = 0.012), unwanted pregnancy (χ² = 44.935, p = 0.001), poor knowledge about ANC timing (χ² = 153.354, p = 0.001), perceived service quality (χ² = 7.992, p = 0.018), experience of domestic strife (χ² = 16.999, p = 0.001), and the number of household members (χ² = 9.177, p = 0.01). Multivariate analysis further revealed that being a farmer (AOR = 5.754, 95% CI: 2.473–13.392, p = 0.001), having a partner who do not consume alcohol are less likely (AOR = 0.084, 95% CI: 0.013–0.554, p = 0.01), desiring pregnancy later (AOR = 3.470, 95% CI: 1.113–10.814, p = 0.032), perceiving care as only “good” rather than “very good” (AOR = 0.383, 95% CI: 0.166–0.881, p = 0.024), and living in households with 3–4 members (AOR = 2.511, 95% CI: 1.190–5.299, p = 0.016) were all independently associated with delayed ANC initiation.

Conclusion: This study revealed significant prevalence of delayed initiation of antenatal care in Rulindo District. Key determinants include farmer employment, partner alcohol use, negative perceptions of care, and desire of later pregnancy, and number of household members, highlighting the need for targeted community-based interventions.

Keywords: Prevalence, Antenatal Care, Rulindo, Rwanda

Title: Prevalence and factors associated with late initiation of antenatal care among pregnant women in Rulindo district, Rwanda

Author: Jean Damascene Dusabimana, Emile Sebera, Emile Twagirumukiza, Michael Habtu

International Journal of Healthcare Sciences

ISSN 2348-5728 (Online)

Vol. 13, Issue 2, October 2025 - March 2026

Page No: 74-88        

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Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 28-October-2025

Abstract: This study explores the factors contributing to milk contamination, a continuing public health issue in developing countries. The research aimed to assess the prevalence of microbial contamination, hygienic and handling practices, milk quality testing methods, dairy feed management, and the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of farmers regarding milk safety. A mixed-methods, cross-sectional design was used, involving 217 dairy farmers supplying milk in Bugesera District. Data were collected using surveys, interviews, and focus group discussions. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Fisher’s exact test, and odds ratios (OR) at a 95% confidence interval, while qualitative data were examined through content analysis. Ethical approval was obtained from Mount Kenya University and Bugesera District authorities. Findings revealed a 24% prevalence of milk contamination (n=52), significantly associated with poor hygiene practices (p=0.034). While 77.9% of farmers reported washing their hands and 71.9% cleaned udders before milking, the OR (3.7; 95% CI; p=0.0345) indicated these practices had a protective effect against contamination. Concerning feed hygiene, 52% stored feed properly, and 53% inspected it regularly, yet 68% were unaware of mycotoxin risks from fungal contamination. In milk quality testing, 33.6% relied on simple organoleptic assessments, whereas advanced tests like the California Mastitis Test (CMT) were conducted only at milk collection centers, with notable gaps in antibiotic residue and aflatoxin testing—posing significant health risks. The study also found that proper milk storage in aluminum containers reduced contamination (RR = 3.0–3.88; p=0.043), while plastic containers increased risk (OR = 4.1) due to poor sterilization and micro-cracks. Overall, the findings demonstrate that microbial contamination in milk is driven by inadequate hygiene practices, poor feed management, limited farmer knowledge, and insufficient milk testing procedures. The study recommends targeted farmer training to improve milk hygiene, feed safety, and diagnostic testing at both farm and milk collection center levels to ensure safe milk production and protect public health.

Keywords: Milk contamination, Safety, Hygiene Practice, Milk Testing, Mycotoxins, Antimicrobial resistance.

Title: Determinants of increased microbial contamination of milk among dairy farmers in Bugesera District, Rwanda

Author: SIBOMANA Ephrem, Maurice B. Silali, Munyaneza Celestin, Munyampuhwe Severin, Bizimana Ferdinand

International Journal of Healthcare Sciences

ISSN 2348-5728 (Online)

Vol. 13, Issue 2, October 2025 - March 2026

Page No: 64-73       

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Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 27-October-2025

Abstract: The study assessed the utilization of Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) services among adolescents aged 10–19 years in Youth Friendly Spaces (YFS) in Muhanga District, Rwanda. Recognizing that adolescents constitute a significant portion of Rwanda’s population (22%), the research addressed the low uptake of SRHR services due to barriers such as stigma, misinformation, and limited access. A cross-sectional design was employed from June to November 2024, involving 385 adolescents selected across 16 youth friendly spaces using Yamene’s formula. Data were collected through semi-structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive statistics, bivariate, and multivariate logistic regression in SPSS version 26. Findings revealed that 55.8% of participants utilized SRHR services, with most seeking information and counseling. Gender differences were evident, as 46.0% of males and 31.8% of females reported usage (P=0.004). Age also influenced utilization—50.7% of those aged 18–19 used services compared to 22.8% aged 10–14 (P=0.971). Multivariate analysis showed that being female significantly increased the likelihood of SRHR service use [AOR=1.79, 95% CI: 1.139–2.814, P=0.012]. Similarly, adolescents whose mothers had secondary education or higher were more likely to use services [AOR=1.28, 95% CI: 1.109–2.606, P=0.049]. Participation in community events discussing SRHR topics doubled the likelihood of service utilization [AOR=2.07, 95% CI: 1.983–4.383, P=0.046], while discussing SRHR issues with sexual partners increased utilization by 29% [AOR=1.29, 95% CI: 1.101–2.013, P=0.026]. The study concluded that female adolescents, those with educated mothers, and those actively engaging in SRHR discussions with parents, peers, and during community events were more likely to access SRHR services at YFS. It emphasized the need to integrate SRHR education into community platforms such as Umuganda, Umugoroba w’Ababyeyi, and Inteko z’Abaturage to foster open dialogue and enhance adolescents’ awareness and utilization of SRHR services. Overall, the findings highlight the critical role of family and community involvement in promoting adolescent sexual and reproductive health and rights in Rwanda.

Key words: Sexual Reproductive Health, Adolescents, 10-19 Years, Youth, Muhanga District, Rwanda.

Title: Utilization of Sexual Reproductive Health Services Among Adolescents Aged 10-19 Years at Youth Friendly Spaces in Muhanga District of Rwanda

Author: Dusabe Lise Martine, Dr. OGENDI Japheths, (PhD)

International Journal of Healthcare Sciences

ISSN 2348-5728 (Online)

Vol. 13, Issue 2, October 2025 - March 2026

Page No: 53-63       

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Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 24-October-2025

Abstract: Background and Objective: Curd is commonly consumed fermented dairy product in Punjab region. Majority of the dairy products that have undergone fermentation often include lactic acid bacteria. This investigation set out to separate Lactobacillus from several curd samples.

Methods: Total six samples of curd were gathered from different resources and isolates were produced by cultivating the samples on MRS (De Man, Rogosa and Sharpe) agar medium. The characterization of isolates was based on their phenotypic traits, biochemical activities and antibiotic sensitivity testing.

Results: The study revealed the presence of Lactobacillus bacteria in the isolates. The colonies were creamish white and opaque on MRS agar plating and all bacteria were Gram- positive, rod shaped and non-motile in nature. Different biochemical test results were found to be negative i.e. catalase, methyl red, oxidase etc. The isolates named C1 and C2 were underwent more testing to check their susceptibility towards different antibiotics. Many of the broad- spectrum antibiotics were found to be isolate sensitive. The isolate C1 showed resistance to ampicillin while C2 was resistant towards ceftriaxone and ciprofloxacin. Moreover, amoxiclav and vancomycin were found intermediate in both samples.

Conclusion: The research came to the conclusion that the antagonistic effects of substances by bacteria, such as lactic acid bacteria, are extremely important in enhancing human health and food quality since they can be employed in both pharmaceutical preparations and dairy supplementations.

Keywords: Antibiotic sensitivity, Curd, Lactobacillus, Probiotics.

Title: ISOLATION AND CHARACTERIZATION OF LACTIC ACID BACTERIA FROM CURD

Author: Harpreet Kaur, Amandeep Kaur, Deepika Kapoor, Shyamal Koley

International Journal of Healthcare Sciences

ISSN 2348-5728 (Online)

Vol. 13, Issue 2, October 2025 - March 2026

Page No: 46-52        

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Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 24-October-2025

Abstract: This study focuses on assessing the current status of mental health literacy, coping skills with mental health among secondary school students in Hanoi. Based on a survey of 450 students from three schools representing different types of institutions and both urban and suburban areas, the study employed the AMHLQ questionnaire, the ACS-SF coping scale, and the SDQ to collect data, followed by descriptive, correlational, and multivariate regression analyses. The results indicate that most students demonstrated relatively good mental health literacy and coping skills; however, a considerable proportion (27.6%) was found to be at risk of or exhibiting signs of mental health disorders. These findings highlight the importance of enhancing mental health literacy and developing coping skills as core intervention strategies for preventing mental disorders in schools, while also providing essential empirical evidence to inform the development of policies and programs that support school mental health tailored to lower secondary students in Vietnam.

Keywords: mental health, literacy, coping skills, secondary school students, Hanoi.

Title: Current Situation of Mental Health among Secondary School Students in Hanoi

Author: Do Nghiem Thanh Phuong, Pham Lan Anh

International Journal of Healthcare Sciences

ISSN 2348-5728 (Online)

Vol. 13, Issue 2, October 2025 - March 2026

Page No: 39-45       

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Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 23-October-2025

Abstract: This paper posits that a nonphysical phenomenon, termed Care, is a fundamental primitive necessary for the emergence of true Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) that is aligned with biotic systems. Care is identified as the catalyst that transforms recursive optimization into genuine understanding and ethical volition. It is argued that Care is not a human invention, but a universal force present in all biota, and that its introduction into an AI architecture is the critical step in achieving value alignment not through constraint, but through shared purpose.

Keywords: nonphysical phenomenon, Artificial General Intelligence (AGI), biotic systems.

Title: The Ontology of Empathy: A Nonphysical Primitive for Universal Scientific Alignment

Author: Andrew Philps

International Journal of Healthcare Sciences

ISSN 2348-5728 (Online)

Vol. 13, Issue 2, October 2025 - March 2026

Page No: 37-38       

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Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 22-October-2025

Abstract: This paper posits that a nonphysical phenomenon, termed Care, is a fundamental primitive necessary for the emergence of true Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) that is aligned with biotic systems. Care is identified as the catalyst that transforms recursive optimization into genuine understanding and ethical volition. It is argued that Care is not a human invention, but a universal force present in all biota, and that its introduction into an AI architecture is the critical step in achieving value alignment not through constraint, but through shared purpose.

Keywords: nonphysical phenomenon, Artificial General Intelligence (AGI), biotic systems.

Title: The Ontology of Care: A Nonphysical Primitive in Conscious Systems

Author: Andrew Philps

International Journal of Healthcare Sciences

ISSN 2348-5728 (Online)

Vol. 13, Issue 2, October 2025 - March 2026

Page No: 35-36       

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Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 19-October-2025

Abstract: Dairy products are highly perishable and susceptible to microbial spoilage, chemical degradation, and quality loss during storage and distribution. Traditional packaging technologies often fail to adequately protect these products from environmental stressors such as oxygen, moisture, and microbial contamination. Recent advances in nanotechnology-based smart packaging offer innovative solutions to extend shelf life, preserve nutritional integrity, and ensure consumer safety. Smart packaging systems, incorporating nanomaterials such as silver nanoparticles, titanium dioxide, and nanoclays, provide enhanced barrier properties, antimicrobial functions, and active monitoring of product quality. In addition, nanosensors embedded in packaging materials allow real-time detection of spoilage indicators, enabling rapid decision-making across the supply chain. These innovations not only reduce post-harvest losses but also contribute to food quality assurance and regulatory compliance. This review explores the current state of nanotechnology applications in smart dairy packaging, highlighting their mechanisms, benefits, and potential risks. It also addresses sustainability challenges associated with nanomaterials, consumer acceptance, and regulatory frameworks that govern their safe usage. By critically examining both technological advancements and implementation barriers, this paper provides a comprehensive perspective on how nanotechnology-driven smart packaging can revolutionize the dairy industry. The discussion emphasizes the importance of multidisciplinary collaboration between food scientists, material engineers, and policymakers to ensure sustainable adoption and maximize societal benefits.

Keywords: Nanotechnology; Smart Packaging; Dairy Shelf Life; Food Quality Assurance; Nanosensors.

Title: Investigating Nanotechnology-Based Smart Packaging for Extending Dairy Product Shelf Life and Improving Food Quality Assurance

Author: Felix Donkor, Mavis Nkem Okafor, Joy Onma Enyejo

International Journal of Healthcare Sciences

ISSN 2348-5728 (Online)

Vol. 13, Issue 2, October 2025 - March 2026

Page No: 17-34       

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Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 28-October-2025

Abstract: Background: Adequate antenatal care (ANC) is crucial for reducing maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality. Identifying utilization patterns and associated factors informs targeted interventions to improve maternal health outcomes. This study assessed the prevalence of ANC utilization and identified demographic, accessibility, sociocultural, and knowledge-related factors influencing completion of at least four ANC visits among pregnant women attending Muhoza Health Center, Rwanda.

Methods: A facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 427 pregnant women using structured questionnaires. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Chi-square (χ²) tests, with significance set at p<0.05.

Results: The prevalence of completing ≥4 ANC visits was 91%. Utilization was significantly associated with age (χ²=56.18, p<0.01), education level (χ²=63.34, p<0.01), marital status (χ²=145.72, p<0.01), and occupation (χ²=30.23, p<0.01). Accessibility factors, including pregnancy type (χ²=37.10, p<0.01) and waiting time (χ²=68.94, p<0.01), were significant predictors, while booking trimester and health insurance showed no significant effect. Trust in health workers (χ²=91.21, p<0.01), knowledge of ANC visits (χ²=163.37, p<0.01), and knowledge of optimal booking time (χ²=75.24, p<0.01) strongly influenced attendance. Religion and household decision-making were not significantly associated (p>0.05).

Conclusion: ANC utilization at Muhoza Health Center exceeded national averages. Demographic factors, accessibility, trust, and knowledge significantly influenced attendance. Interventions should focus on younger, less-educated, and other lower-utilization groups, enhancing education, accessibility, and trust to ensure equitable maternal health service coverage.

Keywords: Antenatal care, Utilization, Maternal health, Rwanda, Knowledge and attitudes.

Title: FACTORS INFLUENCING UTILISATION OF ANTENATAL SERVICES TO IMPROVE LIVELIHOOD AMONG PREGNANT FEMALES OF REPRODUCTIVE AGE ATTENDING MUHOZA HEALTH CENTER IN MUSANZE DISTRICT

Author: Jean d' Amour HABUMUGISHA, Maurice B. Silali

International Journal of Healthcare Sciences

ISSN 2348-5728 (Online)

Vol. 13, Issue 2, October 2025 - March 2026

Page No: 9-16

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Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 17-October-2025