Vol 14 Issue 3 July 2026-September 2026

Abstract: Soil erosion and declining agricultural productivity remain major challenges in Rwanda's hillside farming systems, highlighting the need for effective soil and water conservation (SWC) practices. This study evaluated the effectiveness of SWC practices in improving agricultural productivity in the Rwabicuma Hillside Irrigation Scheme, Southern Rwanda. Specifically, the study identified the SWC practices implemented, assessed their effects on crop productivity, and examined the relationship between SWC practices, crop yield improvement, and soil erosion reduction. A mixed-methods research design was employed, combining structured questionnaires administered to 300 randomly selected farmers, interviews with 15 key informants, and field observations. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, analysis of variance (ANOVA), and correlation analysis, while qualitative data were analyzed thematically.

The findings showed that terracing was the dominant SWC practice (34.29%), followed by terracing combined with mulching (29.21%), whereas cover crops were the least adopted (1.90%). Crop productivity increased significantly following the adoption of SWC practices, with mean yields rising from 5.84 ± 0.70 t ha⁻¹ before implementation to 10.33 ± 1.24 t ha⁻¹ after implementation, representing an overall increase of 56.52% (p < 0.0001). Integrated SWC practices demonstrated stronger positive relationships with crop yield improvement than terracing alone, with terrace plus mulching showing the strongest correlation (r = 0.82, p = 0.01).

The study concludes that integrating structural and biological SWC practices within hillside irrigation systems substantially enhances agricultural productivity while strengthening soil conservation. It recommends expanding farmer training, promoting integrated conservation practices, and strengthening institutional support to improve the sustainability of hillside agriculture in Rwanda.

Keywords: Agricultural productivity; hillside irrigation; Soil and water conservation; sustainable land management, terracing.

Title: Assessing Effectiveness of Soil and Water Conservation Practices for Enhancing Productivity: A Case Study of Rwabicuma Hillsides Irrigation Scheme

Author: Solange Umubyeyi, Pauline Niyomugabo, Christophe Mupenzi

International Journal of Life Sciences Research

ISSN 2348-313X (Print), ISSN 2348-3148 (online)

Vol. 14, Issue 3, July 2026 - September 2026

Page No: 127-137

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Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 29-August-2026

Abstract: The plant products are natural resources that promise an alternative strategy to replace synthetic drugs. The phytoproducts applied in medicine are increasingly used and are often preferred because of their minimal side effects. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), about 65 to 80% of the world population relies on efforts to fight disease and maintain health by using ingredients prepared from medicinal plants. The medicinal plant Spondias pinnata, genus Spondias consisting of 18 species, has been used as a traditional medicine for the treatment of various diseases. It is also cultivated commercially in multiple countries to be marketed locally and internationally. The phytochemistry screening of Spondias pinnata has found it to contain saponins, tannins, alkaloids, flavonoids, terpenoids, and phenolic acids. These phytochemicals have antimicrobial, anticancerous, antioxidant, immunomodulatory, anthelmintic, antidiarrheal, anti-inflammatory, diuretic, laxative, and other biological properties. The present review highlights the current advances in phytochemical compound screening, biological effects, and the molecular mechanism of action of Spondias pinnata in health.

Keywords: Spondias pinnata, Phytochemicals, Pharmacological therapeutics.

Title: A Review on: Therapeutic Potential of Spondias pinnata Linn.

Author: Sweta Pandey, Pradeep Kumar

International Journal of Life Sciences Research

ISSN 2348-313X (Print), ISSN 2348-3148 (online)

Vol. 14, Issue 3, July 2026 - September 2026

Page No: 121-126

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Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 21-August-2026

Abstract: Dry eye disease is a chronic condition affecting millions of people worldwide, causing discomfort, visual impairment, and decreased quality of life. This research was designed as a clinical and laboratory based study for investigating the use of genetic testing to tailor treatment plans to individual patients. One hundred and twenty subjects, 58 (48.3%) males and 62 (51.7%) females with dry eye disease between the ages of 18-65 years were enrolled in the study. Tear assessment, Tear Break Up Time test (TBUT) using fluoresciene dye and tear flow rate test using schirmer strip without anesthesia were done clinically to confirm Dry Eye Disease (DED), tear film samples were collected using sterile swab and genetic investigations were carried out in the molecular laboratory to detect the enrichment of variants responsible for Dry Eye Disease (DED) and Ocular Surface Inflammation (OSI); DNAJB6 was detected in 59 subjects and absent in 61 subjects, MAML3 was detected in 47 and absent in 73 subjects, LINC02267 was detected in 13 subjects and absent in 107 subjects, MUC16 was detected in 14 subjects and absent in 106 subjects, SIRPB3P was detected in 48 subjects and absent in 72 subjects, GAS2L3 was detected in 13 subjects and absent in 107 subjects, KLF4 was detected in 81 subjects and absent in 89 subjects, and PAX6 was detected in 28 subjects and absent in 92 subjects. LINCO2267 and GAS2L3 were the least detected among genetic variants for OSI and DED respectively while KLF4 was the most detected among genetic variants for OSI and DED. The significant representation of DNAJB6, MAML3, LINC02267, and MUC16 variants shows molecular relationship between DED and OSI. From SPSS version 23 data output, data analysis using the Pearson Product Moment Correlation Coefficient at 0.05 level of significance revealed for DED genetic variants a p-value of 0.00. Since p(0.00) <0.05, there is an association between genetic variants and dry eye disease. For ocular surface inflammation, SPSS version 23 data output, data analysis using the Pearson Product Moment Correlation Coefficient at 0.05 level of significance revealed a p-value of 0.00. Since p(0.00) < 0.05, there is an association between genetic variants and ocular surface inflammation. In conclusion, the results of the study showed that dry eye disease and ocular surface inflammation were strongly influenced by genetic variation in epithelial and inflammatory pathways. The results also showed that the initiation and progression of dry eye were multifactorial. It is therefore recommended that eye care practitioners consider genetic testing as an alternative approach for the diagnosis and treatment of dry eye disease. Incorporating genetic testing alongside regular eye examinations can help eye care practitioners better understand each patient’s condition.

Keywords: Discomfort, impairment, assessment, investigations, enrichment, inflammation, multifactorial.

Title: PERSONALISED DRY EYE TREATMENT: THE USE OF GENETIC TESTING TO TAILOR TREATMENT PLANS TO INDIVIDUAL PATIENTS

Author: Y.R. Eronini, N.C. Ikoro, A.U. Megwas, Y.C. Azuamah, C.M. Chukwuoha, G.I. Ugwuoke

International Journal of Life Sciences Research

ISSN 2348-313X (Print), ISSN 2348-3148 (online)

Vol. 14, Issue 3, July 2026 - September 2026

Page No: 116-120

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Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 13-August-2026

Abstract: Currently, there are many theories regarding the impact of cat coat color on personality traits. I aimed to compare the personalities of cats of different colors to see how closely they align with these theories. I collected data from a survey of 300 cat owners and found that the percentages of cats whose personalities matched the theories were as follows: orange cats 30.3%, white cats 21.7%, black cats 9%, calico cats 13%, tortoiseshell cats 13%, and tabby cats 13%. These findings suggest that a cat's coat color does not entirely determine its personality. It also depends on the rearing system, the care it receives, and traumatic events that may cause changes in its personality.

Keywords: cat, coat, personality, orange, white, black, calico, tortoiseshell, tabby.

Title: A Study of the Relationship between Cat Coat Color and Personality Traits

Author: Aditep Saynoi

International Journal of Life Sciences Research

ISSN 2348-313X (Print), ISSN 2348-3148 (online)

Vol. 14, Issue 3, July 2026 - September 2026

Page No: 110-115

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Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 13-August-2026

Abstract: Background: Chronic constipation is a common gastrointestinal disorder characterized by infrequent bowel movements, hard stools, and difficulty in defecation. It adversely affects quality of life and may lead to complications such as hemorrhoids and psychological distress. Complementary therapies such as Yoga and Naturopathy are increasingly utilized for managing chronic constipation through lifestyle modification and natural therapeutic approaches.

Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of Yoga and Naturopathy interventions in patients with chronic constipation.

Methods: A case series involving five patients with chronic constipation was conducted in a Naturopathy and Yoga outpatient setting. Patients received a comprehensive treatment protocol including dietary modification, hydrotherapy, mud therapy, massage, acupressure, acupuncture, yogic practices, and lifestyle counselling for three weeks. Clinical outcomes including bowel movement frequency, stool consistency, laxative dependence, and associated symptoms were assessed.

Results: All five patients demonstrated improvement in bowel movement frequency and stool consistency. Patients who were dependent on laxatives reported reduced usage or complete discontinuation. Improvements in abdominal bloating, physical comfort, and overall well-being were also observed.

Conclusion: The findings suggest that Yoga and Naturopathy interventions may serve as effective complementary approaches in the management of chronic constipation. Further controlled studies with larger sample sizes are recommended.

Keywords: Chronic constipation; Yoga therapy; Naturopathy; Lifestyle modification; Integrative medicine; Case series.

Title: Effect of Yoga and Naturopathy Interventions in the Management of Chronic Constipation: A Case Report

Author: Dr. Ishwariya, Dr. V. Deepa, Dr Keerthana .K, Dr. V. Seviga Devi, Dr. Vasunthara. M, Dr. Naveenprasath. V

International Journal of Life Sciences Research

ISSN 2348-313X (Print), ISSN 2348-3148 (online)

Vol. 14, Issue 3, July 2026 - September 2026

Page No: 101-109

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Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 11-August-2026

Abstract: This study comparatively evaluated the nutrient composition of chicken manure and catfish effluent by determining their nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) contents, with the aim of assessing their relative potential as organic nutrient sources for sustainable crop production. Samples of chicken manure and catfish effluent were collected in triplicate from farms and ponds in Gobirawa, Zaria, Kaduna State, and analysed for NPK content using standard laboratory procedures. Data were summarised as mean ± standard deviation and compared using an independent-samples t-test at p < 0.05. Chicken manure consistently contained significantly higher concentrations of all three macronutrients than catfish effluent (nitrogen: t(4) = 83.56, p < 0.001; phosphorus: t(4) = 44.39, p < 0.001; potassium: t(4) = 42.90, p < 0.001). Mean nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium contents of chicken manure were 2.80 ± 0.03%, 1.50 ± 0.03% and 1.10 ± 0.02%, respectively (total NPK = 5.40%), compared with 1.20 ± 0.02%, 0.65 ± 0.02% and 0.48 ± 0.02% for catfish effluent (total NPK = 2.33%). Within each source, nitrogen constituted the largest share of the nutrient pool (51.8% in chicken manure and 51.5% in catfish effluent), followed by phosphorus (27.8% and 27.9%) and potassium (20.4% and 20.6%). When considered as a combined pool, chicken manure accounted for approximately 70% of the total nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium, while catfish effluent contributed about 30%. The study concludes that although both by-products possess fertilizer value, chicken manure is a significantly richer source of NPK and is more suitable where rapid nutrient supplementation is required, while catfish effluent remains a useful organic amendment that can complement chicken manure in integrated nutrient management systems.

Keywords: chicken manure; catfish effluent; organic fertilizer; NPK; nutrient recycling; sustainable agriculture; independent t-test.

Title: Comparative Nutrient (NPK) Analysis of Chicken Manure and Catfish Effluent as Organic Fertilizer Sources

Author: Rabi'u Idris Abdurra'uf, Usman Muhammad Kurmi, Jabir Abdullahi, Sakina Musa Tanimu, Aisha Abubakar

International Journal of Life Sciences Research

ISSN 2348-313X (Print), ISSN 2348-3148 (online)

Vol. 14, Issue 3, July 2026 - September 2026

Page No: 95-100

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Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 08-August-2026

Abstract: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is widely recognized as a silent pandemic, threatening decades of medical progress and complicating the treatment of infectious diseases worldwide. Among the myriad resistance determinants, extended-spectrum β-lactamases (ESBLs) have emerged as a major driver of therapeutic failure in clinical medicine. This study is aimed at determining the pattern of resistance of ESBL-producing enterobacteriaceae isolated from fish collected from integrated poultry-fish farms at Ila Orangun, Osun State, Nigeria. From November 2024 to April 2025, a total of 18 catfish were aseptically and randomly collected from six poultry-fish farms, processed and bacteriologically analysed using standard microbiological techniques. Isolated isolates were conventionally characterized, ESBL-production in them were confirmed via double-disc synergy test, and antibiogram of the confirmed ESBL+ isolates were carried out via Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method. Out of 47 isolates recovered from the catfish, 2 (4.26%) were ESBL+. The ESBL+ isolates were totally resistance (100%) to the beta-lactam combination, the cephems and the monobactam respectively tested in this study but totally susceptible (100%) to the carbapenem. They were totally (100%) multidrug-resistance (MDR) with 50% of them resisting 5 and 4 classes of antibiotics respectively, and showing 0.6 and 0.4 multiple antibiotic resistance index (MARI) respectively. The results confirm integrated agro-ecosystems as important reservoirs of MDR, ESBL-producing Enterobacterales. Urgent interventions in the farming practices, surveillance, and public education are needed to mitigate MDR, ESBL-producing enterobacteriaceae spread from farms produce to human through the food chain. 

Keywords: Enterobacterales, Antimicrobial resistance, Extended-spectrum β-lactamases, Pandemic, Catfish.

Title: ANTIBIOGRAM OF ESBL-PRODUCING ENTEROBACTERIACEAE ISOLATED FROM FISH COLLECTED FROM INTEGRATED POULTRY-FISH FARMS AT ILA ORANGUN, OSUN STATE, NIGERIA

Author: Adeluwoye-Ajayi, Olayemi Amos., Akinnibosun, Faith Iguodala., Akinnibosun, Henry Adewale., Iyekowa, Osaro., Akinnibosun, Adeyemi Osarodion

International Journal of Life Sciences Research

ISSN 2348-313X (Print), ISSN 2348-3148 (online)

Vol. 14, Issue 3, July 2026 - September 2026

Page No: 82-94

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Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 08-August-2026

Abstract: Solid waste management (SWM) remains a major environmental and public health challenge in Nyanza District, Rwanda. This study examined household solid waste management practices and their effects on environmental quality and community health in Busasamana and Rwabicuma sectors using a descriptive cross-sectional mixed-methods design. Data were collected from 392 households through stratified random sampling. Quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS, while qualitative data from interviews and field observations were analyzed thematically. Findings indicated inadequate household waste management, with only 39% of households practicing waste segregation, 31% accessing regular waste collection services, and many relying on open dumping (34%) and open burning (26%). Poor waste disposal methods were strongly and significantly associated with soil pollution (r = 0.68, p < 0.01), water contamination (r = 0.63, p < 0.01), and air pollution (r = 0.72, p < 0.01). Conversely, waste segregation was significantly associated with reduced environmental pollution, showing negative correlations with soil pollution (r = −0.52, p < 0.01), water contamination (r = −0.48, p < 0.01), and air pollution (r = −0.50, p < 0.01). Comparative analysis revealed that Rwabicuma experienced greater environmental and health burdens than Busasamana, reporting higher levels of soil pollution (61% vs. 47%), air pollution (64% vs. 49%), and waste-related illnesses (49% vs. 34%). Qualitative findings attributed these challenges to inadequate waste management infrastructure, irregular collection services, weak enforcement of regulations, low public awareness, limited institutional support, high collection costs, and the absence of designated disposal sites. These conditions contributed to widespread open dumping and burning, mosquito infestation, foul odors, respiratory illnesses, and contamination of nearby water sources. The study concludes that ineffective household solid waste management significantly contributes to environmental degradation and adverse community health outcomes. It recommends strengthening waste management infrastructure, enforcing waste regulations, promoting household waste segregation, and investing in recycling and composting initiatives to enhance environmental sustainability and public health.

Keywords: Solid Waste, Management Practices, Community, Environment, Nyanza district.

Title: Assessment of Solid Waste Management Practices and their Impacts on Community and Environment in Nyanza district, Rwanda

Author: Reverien BIMENYIMANA, Prof. Isaac Olajide AREO, Jean de Dieu MUNEZERO, Valentine NIRERE

International Journal of Life Sciences Research

ISSN 2348-313X (Print), ISSN 2348-3148 (online)

Vol. 14, Issue 3, July 2026 - September 2026

Page No: 71-81

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Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 03-August-2026

Abstract: Background: Primary dysmenorrhea is one of the most common gynecological disorders affecting adolescent girls and young women. It is characterized by painful uterine contractions resulting from increased prostaglandin production, reduced uterine blood flow, and transient ischemia. Although hot fomentation has been widely used in hydrotherapy and naturopathic practice for relieving menstrual pain, its physiological basis has not been comprehensively explained.

Objective: To review the anatomical and physiological mechanisms underlying the analgesic effects of hot fomentation in primary dysmenorrhea, with particular emphasis on thermoregulation, vascular responses, neurophysiology, and segmental reflex mechanisms. An illustrative five-patient case series is included to relate the proposed mechanisms to clinical practice.

Methods: A narrative review was conducted using standard textbooks of anatomy, physiology, hydrotherapy, and pain science, together with published research on primary dysmenorrhea and heat therapy. Evidence from experimental studies, randomized controlled trials, systematic reviews, and classical hydrotherapy literature was integrated to develop a mechanistic explanation of regional hot fomentation. An illustrative five-patient case series using a standardized hot fomentation protocol was also presented.

Results: Hot fomentation produces coordinated physiological responses rather than acting through superficial warming alone. Heat applied over the suprapubic region, lumbosacral region, and the anterior, medial, and lateral aspects of the thighs activates cutaneous thermoreceptors, promotes nitric oxide-mediated vasodilation, improves regional circulation, reduces muscle guarding, and modulates nociceptive transmission through spinal and supraspinal pathways. The shared segmental innervation of these regions with the uterus provides a physiological basis for somato-visceral, viscero-somatic, cutaneo-visceral, and viscero-cutaneous reflexes, supporting the regional application of hot fomentation described in classical hydrotherapy. The accompanying case series demonstrated consistent reductions in pain intensity following treatment.

Conclusion: Hot fomentation appears to relieve primary dysmenorrhea through the combined effects of thermal, vascular, neural, muscular, and autonomic mechanisms. Integrating classical hydrotherapy principles with contemporary anatomy and neurophysiology provides a stronger scientific rationale for regional hot fomentation in the management of primary dysmenorrhea. Further well-designed clinical and mechanistic studies are needed to validate these proposed pathways.

Keywords: Primary dysmenorrhea; Hot fomentation; Hydrotherapy; Naturopathy; Pain modulation; Thermoregulation; Segmental reflexes; Somato-visceral reflex; Neurophysiology; Heat therapy.

Title: Physiological Mechanisms of Regional Hot Fomentation in Primary Dysmenorrhea: Integrating Classical Hydrotherapy Reflex Areas with Modern Anatomy, Neurophysiology, and Vascular Responses-A Mechanistic Review with a Five-Patient Case Series

Author: V. Vishnu Priya

International Journal of Life Sciences Research

ISSN 2348-313X (Print), ISSN 2348-3148 (online)

Vol. 14, Issue 3, July 2026 - September 2026

Page No: 60-70

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Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 01-August-2026

Abstract: Vegetable oils are valuable sources of energy and essential fatty acids, making them important components of human nutrition and various industrial products. Their quality is influenced by processing methods, particularly refining. Analyses of crude and processed oil extracted from Adzuki beans (Vigna angularis) seeds were carried out to establish the effect of processing on identity and quality characteristic of the oils. The crude oil was subjected to refining process: degumming, neutralisation, and bleaching. There was no remarkable difference in the Specific Gravity, refractive index and moisture content of the crude and processed oils. However, there is slight increase in Smoke Point (°C) (110 ± 0.12-115 ± 0.31), Flash Point (°C) (121 ± 0.50-131 ± 0.63), Fire Point (°C) (125±0.20-138 ± 0.35) and a slight decrease in Colour (unit) (22.00±0.20-15.00±0.15) of the oil samples. Free fatty acid (% Linoleic) (0.58±0.02-0.12±0.01), Acid Value (mg/KOH/g oil) (1.18±0.01-0.24±0.05), Peroxide Value (meq Peroxide/kg) (12.05±0.05-10.05±0.01), Saponification Value (mg/KOH/g oil) (195.05±0.05–190.05±0.01) and increase in Iodine Value (105.00±0.03-112.00±0.23) while there is an increase in the value of Palmitic acid (22.05-23.05%), Stearic (56.05-56.91%), Lauric (1.05- 1.45%) Oleic (78.60-80.50%), Linoleic (18.50-21.48%), Linolenic (16.58-16.65%) as the crude oil was processed to bleached oil. The oil high proportion of unsaturated fatty acids, high iodine value and low free fatty acid content are all attribute that qualify oil to be safe for consumption. The oil quality will be further enhanced if it is processed to deodorisation.

Keywords: Extraction, Degumming, Fatty acid, Neutralisation, Physicochemical, Vigna Angularis, Seed oil.

Title: EFFECT OF PROCESSING ON THE PHYSICOCHEMICAL PROPERTIES AND FATTY ACID COMPOSITION OF (Vigna angularis) Adzuki Bean SEED OIL

Author: Jide Alfred O., Aladejimokun A.O., Karimu O. A., Victor-Osanyinlusi Remi

International Journal of Life Sciences Research

ISSN 2348-313X (Print), ISSN 2348-3148 (online)

Vol. 14, Issue 3, July 2026 - September 2026

Page No: 52-59

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Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 30-July-2026

Abstract: Wetlands are among the most productive ecosystems globally, yet they continue to experience rapid degradation due to agricultural expansion and urbanization. This study examined land use and land cover (LULC) dynamics and wetland conversion in the Rugeramigozi Wetland, Muhanga District, Rwanda, over a 30-year period (1993–2023). Specifically, the study assessed the magnitude and spatial patterns of LULC change, identified the principal drivers of wetland transformation, and evaluated the associated impacts on ecosystem services and environmental conditions. A mixed-methods approach was employed, integrating multi-temporal Landsat satellite imagery with secondary institutional data. Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Remote Sensing techniques were applied to supervised land cover classification, change detection, and classification accuracy assessment, while the Driver–Pressure–State–Impact–Response (DPSIR) framework guided the analysis of interactions between anthropogenic drivers, environmental pressures, ecological changes, and management responses. The results revealed a pronounced and continuous transformation of the Rugeramigozi Wetland from a predominantly natural ecosystem to an intensively human-modified landscape. Wetland vegetation declined from 52.4% (approximately 111 ha) in 1993 to 8.9% (approximately 14.5 ha) in 2023, representing a net loss of 43.5 percentage points over the study period. In contrast, agricultural land expanded from 34.6% to 74.3%, becoming the dominant land use and the primary driver of wetland conversion. Built-up areas increased from 4.2% to 13.6%, reflecting accelerated urban expansion, while water bodies decreased from 6.8% to 2.1%, indicating substantial hydrological alteration. Vegetation condition also deteriorated considerably, with the mean Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) declining from 0.62 in 1993 to 0.40 in 2023, signifying reduced vegetation vigor, biomass, and ecosystem productivity. The findings demonstrate that sustained agricultural intensification and urban development have substantially altered the ecological integrity of the Rugeramigozi Wetland, threatening its capacity to provide critical ecosystem services. The study recommends strengthening wetland governance through stricter enforcement of land-use regulations, improved wetland boundary demarcation and continuous monitoring using GIS and Remote Sensing technologies, promotion of sustainable agricultural practices within wetland buffer zones, and enhanced community participation in wetland conservation. Implementing these measures is critical for restoring ecosystem functions, enhancing climate resilience, sustaining local livelihoods, and advancing Rwanda's Vision 2050 and the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 6, 11, 13, and 15.

Keywords: Wetland Conversion, Land Use, Land Cover Dynamics, Rugeramigozi Wetland, Muhanga District.

Title: Assessing Wetland Conversion and Land Use/Land Cover Dynamics in Rugeramigozi Wetland, Muhanga District

Author: Dushimimana Dancille, Assoc. Prof Isaac Olajide AREO

International Journal of Life Sciences Research

ISSN 2348-313X (Print), ISSN 2348-3148 (online)

Vol. 14, Issue 3, July 2026 - September 2026

Page No: 34-51

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Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 24-July-2026

Abstract: Background: Hypertension is a global health issue characterised by elevated blood pressure levels, leading to an increased risk of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Insulin resistance is the inability of the liver, adipose tissue, and skeletal muscle to respond to insulin. Several prior studies have reported a correlation between impaired insulin sensitivity and elevated inflammatory markers. These conditions are believed to be associated with increased risk of incident hypertension by promoting endothelial dysfunction and inflammatory processes.

Objective: The current study aimed to investigate the association between insulin resistance (IR) and multiple inflammatory biomarkers in hypertensive patients.

Materials and methods: In this case-control study, 150 volunteers with normotension and 150 hypertensive patients participated. The enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to measure serum levels of insulin, tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF), high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), and interleukin–6 (IL-6). Body mass index (BMI) and homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) were computed. To ascertain the relationship between insulin levels and HOMA-IR with the pro-inflammatory indicators, logistic regression analysis was employed.

Results: Hypertensive individuals had significantly higher P values (P < 0.05) and higher serum levels of hs-CRP, IL-6, and TNF-α compared with normotensive volunteers. Elevated insulin levels and HOMA-IR index were also markedly observed (P < 0.001). Furthermore, positive correlations were found between insulin levels and the HOMA-IR index and inflammatory biomarkers (P < 0.05), but no association was found between IL-6 levels and the HOMA-IR index (P = 0.119). 

Conclusion: Hypertensive patients have significantly elevated levels of hs-CRP, TNF-a, and IL-6, which may be crucial in the pathophysiology and development of hypertension. These levels are also markedly correlated with high levels of insulin and HOMA-IR index among hypertensive patients.

Keywords: Insulin, hs-CRP, TNF-a; IL-6; hypertension, Iraqi population.

Title: Relationship between inflammatory biomarkers and insulin resistance in Iraqi hypertensive patients

Author: Layth A. Al-Fahham, Baraa Adil Hadi_, Majid Kadhum Hussain

International Journal of Life Sciences Research

ISSN 2348-313X (Print), ISSN 2348-3148 (online)

Vol. 14, Issue 3, July 2026 - September 2026

Page No: 27-33

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Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 07-July-2026

Abstract: Agroforestry is increasingly recognized as an effective strategy for promoting environmental sustainability and improving the livelihoods of rural households through income diversification and enhanced resilience. This study assessed the impact of agroforestry diversification on the livelihoods of smallholder farmers in Nyanza District, Rwanda. Specifically, it examined the extent of agroforestry diversification, identified livelihood outcomes among smallholder households, and evaluated the relationship between agroforestry adoption and livelihood improvement. A mixed-methods research design was employed. Quantitative data were collected using structured questionnaires administered to 396 smallholder farmers selected from the sectors of Busasamana, Cyabakamyi, Nyagisozi, and Rwabicuma. Qualitative data were obtained through semi-structured interviews with key informants, including agricultural extension officers and cooperative leaders. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics with SPSS version 20, while qualitative data were analyzed using thematic content analysis. The findings reveal that agroforestry diversification has a significant positive effect on household livelihoods. A strong positive correlation was established between agroforestry diversification and livelihood outcomes (r = 0.819, p < 0.01), indicating that increased adoption of diversified agroforestry practices is associated with improved household welfare. Respondents reported that agroforestry substantially increased income diversification (mean = 4.54), strengthened food security, and enhanced resilience to climate variability. The integration of trees with agricultural production enabled households to access multiple income sources while improving environmental sustainability and reducing vulnerability to climatic shocks. The study concludes that agroforestry diversification is an effective approach for improving the socio-economic well-being of rural households in Nyanza District. To maximize its benefits, the study recommends strengthening land tenure policies to encourage long-term investment in agroforestry, improving farmers' access to quality tree seedlings and technical extension services, and enhancing community participation in agroforestry initiatives. These measures are expected to promote sustainable rural development, increase household resilience, and contribute to national efforts toward climate-smart agriculture and poverty reduction.

Keywords: Agroforestry Diversification, Livelihoods, Nyanza District, Rwanda.

Title: Assessing the Impact of Agroforestry Diversification on Livelihoods in Nyanza District, Rwanda (Period: 2014-2024)

Author: UWAMAHORO Jeaninne, Dr. Aboubakar GASIRABO

International Journal of Life Sciences Research

ISSN 2348-313X (Print), ISSN 2348-3148 (online)

Vol. 14, Issue 3, July 2026 - September 2026

Page No: 14-26

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Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 06-July-2026

Abstract: The public sector is facing profound challenges as a result of demographic change, an acute shortage of skilled labor, and increasing societal expectations regarding transparency, efficiency, and innovation. Empirical studies indicate that the work motivation of public sector employees often lags behind that of their counterparts in the private sector, largely due to rigid hierarchical structures, limited career development opportunities, and the absence of performance-oriented incentive systems. At the same time, approximately one-third of the public workforce is expected to retire by 2030, further intensifying the need for strategic action.

Against this backdrop, this article examines how motivation and organizational performance in the public sector can be systematically enhanced. Theoretical frameworks such as Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs and Herzberg’s Two-Factor Theory suggest that sustainable motivation is driven less by monetary incentives than by meaningful work, autonomy, recognition, and opportunities for professional development. Building on the principles of New Public Management, participatory leadership approaches, life-phase-oriented human resource strategies, and intergenerational development programs are identified as key levers for strengthening employee engagement and performance.

Furthermore, the analysis demonstrates that data-driven management instruments, including Performance-Based Budgeting, international benchmarking systems, and the targeted application of generative artificial intelligence, can generate substantial efficiency gains when supported by a learning-oriented organizational culture. To address these challenges, the concept of Adaptive Performance Governance is introduced as an integrated management framework that combines technological innovation, decentralized decision-making, tolerance for experimentation and failure, and continuous competence development.

The findings highlight that a future-ready public administration can only be achieved through the interaction of modern leadership, motivation-enhancing working conditions, and continuous professional development. Such an approach not only strengthens organizational performance and innovation capacity but also enhances the attractiveness of the public sector as an employer, thereby ensuring its long-term sustainability and effectiveness.

Keywords:  Public Administration, New Public Management (NPM), Performance Improvement, Adaptive Performance Governance, Public Sector Modernization Framework, Agile Budgeting, Public Sector Innovation, Organizational Performance, Digital Transformation.

Title: Enhancing Performance in Public Administration

Author: Karl-Heinz Dieser

International Journal of Life Sciences Research

ISSN 2348-313X (Print), ISSN 2348-3148 (online)

Vol. 14, Issue 3, July 2026 - September 2026

Page No: 1-13

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Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 06-July-2026