122 Articles
Dr. Neelam Kanwal Jalal
Hill state Uttarakhand is famous for his rivers, Mountains, National Park and rich green forest. Forest resources are back boon of rivers and agricultures, all medical plant and precious trees is finding in whole area. It is a home of animals and several types of creatures. Forest of Uttarakhand for his natural beauty and valley of flowers known in whole world. It is spread in 24,295 sq kilometer. The total geographycil area of forest is 45.43 percent. These forest is divided in hill and plan’s area. All Uttarakhand forest is reach economicaly. It is a resources of river’s small water pond’s base of economy of Uttarakhand. But forest fire is damaged state’s economy biodiversity of forest and destroy water resources. Every year 1750 hectares of forest fire occurs automatically in the season.
Sumeet Kaur
Corruption continues to threaten the democratic governance in India. The Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act,2013 symbolizes a landmark step in India’s fight against corruption, promising to institutionalize accountability and strengthen governance in the country. This paper critically examines the effectiveness of the Lokpal through doctrinal analysis, performance assessment and comparative perspectives with international ombudsman institutions. Findings reveal that despite its “transformative” potential the Lokpal’s operational record remains weak and merely symbolic with negligible prosecutions. While the legislation created an independent anti-corruption ombudsmen at the central and state levels, its implementation has been marred by delays in appointment, political resistance and structural limitations. Comparative analysis with Hong Kong’s ICAC and Scandinavian Ombudsmen highlights the importance of autonomy, constitutional entrenchment and prosecutorial effectiveness. Recommendations are proposed to strengthen the Lokpal’s role as a genuine pillar of democratic accountability.
Abdul Rahim Mohammed Saif Abdo, Dr. Sultan Hassan Mohammed ALhalemi
This study aims to examine the role of the responsibility accounting system-specifically its dimensions of cost centers, profit centers, and investment centers-in achieving competitive advantage in Yemeni food industrial companies. A descriptive analytical approach was adopted, and a questionnaire was used to collect data from employees in 13 food industrial companies. The sample included financial managers, accounting managers, accountants, audit managers and auditors, cost managers, cost accountants, production managers, and sales managers, totaling 122 respondents. The findings revealed that the responsibility accounting system is implemented to a very high degree in the companies under study. However, the level of attention varies across its dimensions, with cost centers ranking first in terms of application, followed by profit centers and then investment centers. Statistical analysis confirmed a significant positive impact of the responsibility accounting system on achieving competitive advantage in Yemeni food industrial companies.
Mrs. Carunia Jeyasutha, Mrs. Maryline Flinsi
Indwelling Foley’s catheterization is a common procedure in hospitalized patients for urinary drainage following surgical and medical conditions. The method adopted prior to catheter removal plays a vital role in preventing urinary retention and avoiding re-catheterization. However, the effectiveness of clamping versus bladder training varies depending on patient age, duration of catheterization, and associated comorbidities.
Chander Verma, Krishna Anand, Rajkumar, Vimal Saini
Heavy metal contamination in drinking water has become a major environmental and public health concern due to the toxic, persistent, and non-biodegradable nature of metals such as lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), arsenic (As), and mercury (Hg). Lead is known for its neurotoxic effects, particularly impairing cognitive development in children, while cadmium primarily affects renal function and causes bone demineralization. Arsenic, commonly found in groundwater, is a well-established carcinogen associated with skin, lung, and bladder cancers, whereas mercury, especially in its organic forms, severely damages the central nervous system and leads to neurological disorders. The increasing presence of these metals in water resources is mainly attributed to industrial discharge, mining operations, agricultural activities, and improper waste disposal. The present study focuses on the removal of these hazardous metals from drinking water through a comparative evaluation of low-cost adsorption techniques and conventional chemical treatment methods. Low-cost adsorbents such as biochar, rice husk, activated carbon, and clay minerals have gained considerable attention due to their high surface area, porous structure, and the presence of functional groups capable of binding metal ions through mechanisms such as ion exchange and surface complexation. On the other hand, chemical methods including precipitation, coagulation–flocculation, ion exchange, and redox processes offer rapid and effective removal, particularly in large-scale water treatment systems, although they are often associated with higher costs and secondary sludge generation. Comparative analysis indicates that while chemical methods ensure faster removal efficiency, adsorption-based approaches provide a more sustainable, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly solution, especially for rural and resource-limited areas. Furthermore, the integration of both approaches offers a promising strategy for improving overall treatment performance. This study highlights the need for developing efficient, affordable, and scalable technologies to ensure safe drinking water and reduce the adverse impacts of heavy metal contamination.
Prof. Shivakumar Kanasogi, Shreekrishna N. Bugatyagol
Access to safe drinking water is fundamental to public health, environmental sustainability, and rural development. Despite significant infrastructural expansion under the Government of India’s Jal Jeevan Mission, ensuring safe drinking water at the point of consumption remains a challenge in drought-prone districts. This study critically examines safe drinking water practices among rural households in Koppal District, Karnataka. Using a descriptive–analytical research design, primary data were collected from 260 respondents across four taluks through structured interviews. Statistical tools including cross-tabulation, Chi-square tests, and logistic regression analysis were employed. The findings indicate that while 48% of households have access to tap connections, unsafe storage practices (37.69%), lack of treatment (38.07%), and irregular supply undermine safety. Education and income significantly influence adoption of safe practices (p < 0.05). Logistic regression confirms that higher education increases likelihood of water treatment adoption (OR = 2.41). The study concludes that infrastructural expansion must be complemented by behavioural change communication, community participation, gender inclusion, and sustainability planning to ensure long-term water safety.
A.J Abdullah Al-Gburi, David I. Forsyth
A multi-channel wavelength division multiplexed (WDM) transmission system using non-degenerate four-wave mixing (FWM) in a semiconductor optical amplifier (SOA) with spectrum-sliced ASE inputs from a single LED high powered incoherent source is presented. Three incoherent ASE inputs generate twelve SOA output channels, nine of which are FWM generated, and all are modulated at 10 Gb/s after the FWM process to avoid phase-noise limitations. SOA input power saturation characteristics were investigated and eye diagram analysis confirms high-quality transmission for each FWM channel, with an average achievable link length of 63.9 km, proving the validity of the scheme. By decoupling carrier generation from data encoding, this post-FWM architecture enables clean performance despite incoherent seeds, offering a low-cost, scalable solution for WDM in access and metro networks and wavelength conversion if required.
Dr. Saravanakumar Thayuman, Levin Tony Raja, Prof. Dr. Raja Susai
Quantum Electrodynamics (QED) currently provides the most accurate description of electromagnetic interactions, yet it treats photon energy quantization exclusively through frequency. Motivated by conceptual limitations in the photon hypothesis, the Einsmax Theory of Light Quanta and Massless Particles introduces a complementary quantization framework in which amplitude plays a primary mathematical role. In this paper, a unified theoretical and mathematical formulation is presented that fully preserves Maxwellian wave propagation, the Planck–Einstein relation, and relativistic momentum conservation. Discrete amplitude quantum levels at fixed frequency are derived and shown to provide deeper explanatory power for interference, black-body radiation, and image formation in darkness. This work establishes amplitude as an active quantum variable, offering a mathematically grounded extension to the foundations of optical physics.
Dr. Ganesha B, Dr. Vijayakumar
This study explores how financial technology (FinTech) influences financial inclusion in banking services, with particular emphasis on emerging economies. An analysis of global panel data from 2012 to 2024 indicates that FinTech does not have a statistically significant effect on financial inclusion in developed economies. However, in developing regions such as India and parts of Africa, it demonstrates a strong positive impact, especially by increasing digital account ownership and the use of mobile-based financial services. A review of existing literature supports these findings, showing that innovations such as mobile payments, peer-to-peer (P2P) lending, and digital wallets improve access to financial services in rural and underserved areas. However, their effectiveness depends on factors like digital infrastructure, user literacy, and trust in technology. Case studies from India and Africa further highlight regional differences. In Africa, FinTech has contributed to greater financial awareness and increased mobile transaction usage, though its overall impact is limited by low levels of financial literacy and restricted internet access. In India, platforms such as UPI, P2P lending systems, and rural banking networks have expanded financial access, but adoption continues to face challenges related to technology gaps and regulatory issues. Despite its advantages, FinTech also presents risks, including algorithmic bias, cybersecurity threats, regulatory limitations, and the possibility of increased household debt. Moreover, while it helps reduce disparities between rural and urban populations and improves wealth distribution to some extent, it has not significantly addressed gender-based financial inclusion without targeted interventions. In conclusion, FinTech holds considerable promise for enhancing financial inclusion in underserved markets. Nevertheless, achieving its full potential requires a comprehensive strategy that includes improving digital and financial literacy, strengthening technological infrastructure, ensuring transparency in automated systems, and developing regulatory frameworks that balance innovation with consumer protection.
Harini D, S. Mahalakshmi
The eating patterns of children are a complex interaction of the choice of their parents, the mode of preparing meals and their preferences especially when it comes to packed school lunches. Knowledge of these factors is crucial towards improving the nutritional value of lunches, as well as the actual consumption habits of the children. The current study was to investigate the influences on the quality of packed school lunch and children eating behaviour, parents influence and difficulty with preparation. The research design used was descriptive survey research and 100 pre-adolescent children aged between 9-12 years were used and sampled using a structured questionnaire that was administered, using an online platform. The measured aspects of parental involvement, nutrition awareness, information sources, and the impediments to making nutritious lunches. To maintain the clarity and reliability of the tool, a pilot study was carried out. The data was analysed with descriptive statistics (frequencies and percentages) and inferential statistics, such as the Spearman rank correlation and ANOVA one-way test. The result has revealed that there is a statistically significant but weak negative correlation between determinants of lunch decisions and the number of uneaten foods indicating that the number of uneaten foods can be reduced by planning and considering of all issues. Also, there were considerable differences in obstacles to packing healthy lunches in relation to the various criteria of study, and as a result, age and level of independence differences were identified. On balance, it is possible to note that the work highlights the necessity of making informed choices and setting context-related priorities in enhancing the quality of lunch and the eating behaviour of children, as well as the problem of food waste in schools.
Mrs. M. Yamunambigai, P. Vasikaran
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), emerged in Wuhan, China in December 2019 and was declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization on March 11, 2020. The present study aimed to assess the prevalence of COVID-19 among people at Kalitheerthalkuppam, Puducherry, and to determine its association with selected demographic variables. A quantitative research approach with a descriptive research design was adopted. A total of 30 samples were selected using a convenient sampling technique. Data were collected over a period of two weeks using demographic variables and a rating scale. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used for data analysis. The findings revealed that 50% of participants had a moderate level of prevalence, 26.7% had a high level, and 23.3% had a low level of prevalence. The mean prevalence score was 16.03 with a standard deviation of 5.334. Among demographic variables, occupation and vaccination status showed a statistically significant association with prevalence (p < 0.05). Other variables such as age, sex, education, marital status, family type, comorbidities, and testing history were not significantly associated. The study concludes that moderate prevalence was observed among the majority of participants, highlighting the need for continued public health interventions and large-scale studies.
Bazrina Ramly, Muhamad Danial Hakimi Shahrul, Nik Nur Amalia Nik Arman, Nur Zulaikha Mat Kamil, Sharifah Ayuni Fatin Al-Idrus Syed Yussof Aman Shah Al Idrus, Ummu Natasha Qaysara Mohamad Sharil
Leaving children unattended in a parked vehicle had already become a major concern, especially related to death caused by heatstroke or “Forgotten Baby Syndrome”, including the risk of car theft. Motion Guard is a product designed to increase the efficiency of vehicle safety systems and provide a sense of security to vehicle owners, specifically parents and guardians. Even with a variety of inventions and technologies, there's a need for an effective, low-cost, real-time alert system capable of detecting the presence of children in parked vehicles. This research focuses on fulfilling these needs by presenting a sustainable Internet of Things (IoT) based child presence detection system to monitor and send fast alerts in order to increase car safety. Motion Guard has merged an ESP32 microcontroller with a Passive Infrared (PIR) and GPRS communication module to provide real-time alert notifications while the engines turn off. When motion is detected, the system will automatically send a Telegram notification within 10 seconds. The Telegram application was selected for its low storage requirements and user-friendliness. Moreover, this innovation implemented solar power technology to avoid frequent battery replacements, which would otherwise compromise the product's effectiveness. This study used an online questionnaire via Google Forms, distributed to vehicle owners, to collect data on experiences, awareness, and community needs regarding this new system. Results showed that 67.50% of survey participants rated the invention as a “Very Effective” system, indicating that the system was strongly recognised by users. The outcome has shown that Motion Guard provides a dependable and effective solution to decrease the risk of child death issues in relation to leaving children unattended in parked vehicles and vehicle-related crime, consequently promoting a safer society.
Faiza Farhat Mohammad Mustafa
This research paper explores the transformative power of Afrofuturism in redefining Black identity within literature and culture. Afrofuturism, a movement that blends elements of science fiction, fantasy, and Afrocentrism, has emerged as a vital force in challenging stereotypes, empowering Black voices, and imagining alternative futures. Through an analysis of key characteristics, including the fusion of African culture with futuristic elements, the centring of Black experiences, and the exploration of identity, history, and technology, this paper examines how Afrofuturism has reshaped narratives of Blackness. The paper discusses prominent Afrofuturist works such as Octavia Butler's "Parable" series and N.K. Jemisin's "Broken Earth" trilogy, highlighting their impact in challenging traditional power structures and reshaping cultural perceptions. It also addresses critiques and challenges Afrofuturism faces, such as its lack of mainstream recognition, appropriation of aesthetics, and issues of intersectionality and inclusivity within its spaces. Despite these challenges, Afrofuturism remains essential in empowering Black individuals and communities, challenging stereotypes, and inspiring new generations of writers and artists. Its ongoing importance in literature and beyond is affirmed through its ability to offer alternative visions of the future where Black identity is celebrated and embraced in all its complexity. As Afrofuturism continues to evolve, it stands as a testament to the resilience, creativity, and innovation of Black culture. This paper concludes by affirming Afrofuturism's significance as a catalyst for social change, inviting us to reimagine the past, present, and future through the lens of Black imagination and empowerment.
Bosede Olajoke Ishola, Catherine Olatorera Olaleye, Dorcas Atinuke Adedokun, Rachel Ihunanya Adeniran, Simeon Ayoade Adedokun
The rapid proliferation of agentic artificial intelligence (AI) systems, which are autonomous agents capable of perceiving, reasoning, planning, and executing multi-step tasks with minimal human intervention, presents foundational challenges for the design of effective oversight architectures. Although developers report using AI assistance in approximately 60% of their work, empirical estimates suggest that full delegation remains feasible for only 0–20% of tasks, establishing a persistent and consequential human-AI collaboration boundary that current frameworks struggle to characterize with sufficient precision. This study carried out a systematic review that synthesized peer-reviewed studies published between 2020 and 2026 to map the state of the art in human-in-the-loop (HITL) frameworks, oversight mechanisms, and trust calibration strategies across eight high-stakes sectors, which are healthcare, criminal justice, financial services, autonomous transportation, education, manufacturing, content moderation, and human resources. Following a PRISMA-aligned protocol, the study analyzed sources drawn from the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM), Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), NeurIPS, the Association for the Advancement of Artificial Intelligence (AAAI), and major journal databases. The analysis revealed four recurring tensions in the literature, which are the explainability–performance tradeoff, autonomy–accountability gap, over-trust/under-trust duality, and the participation–effectiveness paradox. Building on these tensions and the synthesized evidence, the study introduced the Adaptive Oversight Calibration Model (AOCM), a sector-agnostic framework comprising six formal propositions that relate task criticality, AI competency boundaries, human cognitive capacity, institutional constraints, trust dynamics, and feedback loops to optimal oversight configurations. The AOCM advances prior work by operationalizing meaningful oversight as a continuous, context-sensitive function rather than a binary or static design choice, and by providing testable propositions amenable to empirical validation. Implications for system designers, policymakers, and AI practitioners are discussed, with particular attention to the European Union AI Act (2024) and NIST AI Risk Management Framework (2023) as regulatory anchors.
Prof. Dr. Rashmi Sonar, Punam S. Somkuwar, Ritika R. Junekar, Shruti A. Dhote, Yash B. Aware
Agriculture in India, particularly in states like Maharashtra, faces constant threats from plant diseases that can wipe out 20–40% of crops annually, leading to severe income losses for small and marginal farmers who often lack access to expert agronomists or expensive monitoring tools. Conventional methods involve manual field scouting — walking row by row, examining leaves for spots, wilting, or discoloration — which is extremely time-consuming, physically demanding, error-prone (especially for subtle early symptoms), and impractical for farms spanning even a few acres. To address this real-world problem affordably, our team developed Agro Drone AI, an end-to-end intelligent crop monitoring framework using low-cost drone technology combined with state-of-the-art AI. We specifically selected the Dynalog DR-DG600C GPS drone (a budget-friendly model priced around ₹9,000–₹12,000 depending on variants and sellers like Flipkart/Amazon/ZoneAlpha, weighing under 250g so no DGCA registration is required for educational use) for image acquisition. This drone features a claimed 4K (often interpolated/upscaled from 1080p native) camera with 120° wide-angle lens, adjustable tilt (up to 90°), 5GHz WiFi FPV for live view, GPS for stable hovering and return-to-home, follow-me/orbit/waypoint modes, and flight times of 12–20 minutes per battery (longer with dual-battery Pro versions). Captured aerial images — which frequently suffer from motion blur, low contrast due to altitude/sun angle, compression artifacts, or wind-induced shake on a lightweight consumer drone — are first enhanced using Re-al-ESRGAN (a powerful GAN-based super-resolution model that realistically reconstructs fine details without introducing unnatural artifacts). The sharpened images are then fed into the DeiT-small (Data-efficient Image Transformer) model, fine-tuned on the PlantVillage dataset, for multi-class disease classification (healthy vs. specific diseases like bacterial spot, early blight, leaf mold, etc.) with confidence scores and basic severity esti-mation. Our experiments (using PlantVillage for training/benchmarking + some self-captured/simulated aerial views from the Dynalog drone) demonstrated clear improvements: super-resolution boosted visibility of subtle symptoms (e.g., tiny vein yellowing or powdery mildew specks), and DeiT's global attention mechanism han-dled aerial perspectives better than local-feature-focused CNNs. This low-budget pipeline offers a practical path for early disease detection in precision agriculture, reducing manual labor, minimizing broad-spectrum pes-ticide use, and empowering farmers/cooperatives in resource-constrained areas like Vidarbha.
Mr. Srinivasan S, Rajesh P., Santhosh M., Sudharsan G, Suman T.
This paper presents the design, implementation, and evaluation of an AI-powered system for real-time digital addiction detection and screen-time behavior analysis. The proposed system addresses the growing concern of excessive smartphone usage and its impact on mental health, academic performance, and workplace productivity. Existing solutions lack behavioral intelligence, real-time data extraction, and actionable intervention mechanisms. The platform integrates Android Debug Bridge (ADB)-based app usage extraction, a five-factor weighted machine learning (ML) risk scoring engine with sigmoid normalization, and a large language model (LLM)-powered insight generation module using Groq's LLaMA 3.3 70B to produce severity-rated behavioral recommendations. A Chrome Extension supplements the system by tracking browsing history in real time, enabling domain-level categorization and detection of inappropriate web content. Risk classification is performed across four levels — Minimal, Low, Moderate, and High — based on screen time, social media percentage, unlock frequency, night usage, and app concentration. A multi-channel alert system delivers warnings via ADB push notifications, ntfy real-time popups, and WhatsApp deep links when predefined thresholds are exceeded. The web dashboard renders hourly usage charts, app breakdowns, weekly trends, and a seven-day usage forecast powered by ARIMA time-series modeling. All data is persistently stored in Firebase Firestore with real-time synchronization. Experimental results confirm an average app usage detection accuracy of 97.5%, 100% risk classification accuracy across all four addiction levels, and sub-three-second AI response times. A dedicated ethics and privacy framework governs user consent, data storage, third-party API transmission, and compliance with GDPR and CCPA.
Ashwini Mulik, Chandan Durgaram Malviya, Chinmay Santosh Shinde, Sujal Anil Mohite, Yash Mohan Jadhav
This paper presents the design and development of an AI-Based Personal Health & Lifestyle Assistant system that helps users manage their health in a smarter and easier way. The system combines different features such as disease prediction, chatbot support, hospital search, and diet planning into one platform. The disease prediction module uses machine learning to analyze user symptoms and suggest possible health conditions. A chatbot is included to answer health-related questions and guide users. The hospital locator helps users find nearby medical facilities using location services, and the diet planner provides personalized meal suggestions based on user needs. The system is built as a web-based application for easy access and smooth user interaction. Testing results show good accuracy in disease prediction and effective chatbot responses, along with positive user feedback. Overall, the system helps users take better care of their health by providing early guidance, useful suggestions, and easy access to healthcare information.
Mr. Anup Arun Govande
Modi Lipi is an old, cursive script used for centuries to write records in the Maratha Empire and neighbouring regions from approximately the 13th to the early 20th century. Today, hundreds of thousands of these documents are stuck in archives because very few people can still read them. To fix this, through this paper researcher created ModiAnuwad, an AI system model that automatically reads these handwritten scripts and translates them into English. The process works in five steps: it cleans up the document images, breaks them into individual characters, identifies them using a powerful neural network, translates the text using a "Transformer" model (similar to the tech behind ChatGPT), and then fixes any grammar mistakes.
Dr. Nitin Mishra, Dr. Rohit
Recent progress in Artificial Intelligence (AI) has made it possible to create smart systems that make smart cities safer for women. This paper offers an extensive evalua- tion of current AI-driven predictive frameworks, emphasizing their functionalities, constraints, and prospective advancements in proactive threat identification and mitigation. The review looks at a number of different methods, such as surveillance systems based on deep learning, gesture and voice recognition techniques, predictive crime mapping, mobile safety apps, and WiFi-based models for recognizing human activity. Research that combines technologies like YOLO, Res Net, Open Pose, BiL STM, and CNN-GRU shows that it is possible to find distress signals, suspicious behavior, and environmental risks in real time. The paper additionally discusses about how smart infrastructure solutions like intelligent street lighting, geospatial safety analytics platforms, and crowdsourced safety scoring systems can make cities safer for women. There are also talks about privacy- preserving machine learning and explainable AI frameworks to deal with ethical and transparency issues that come up with large-scale surveillance systems. The paper identifies important research gaps based on the literature that was reviewed. These gaps include the need for unified multimodal systems, zero- device safety mechanisms, and better integration with smart city infrastructure. The study concludes that AI-driven predictive systems, when integrated with ethical safeguards and urban planning strategies, can substantially improve women’s security, emergency responsiveness, and inclusivity in forthcoming smart cities.
B. Yoga Amrutha, B.V. Ramana, K.V.S. Naga Vignetha, S. Ahalya
Amyloid beta (Aβ), which was previously recognized predominantly for its neurotoxic properties in Alzheimer's disease, is now being acknowledged for its unforeseen potential to inhibit oncogenic proliferation. Recent research indicates that Aβ can enhance tumor antigen presentation and invigorate the activity of innate immune cells. This observation aligns with the established inverse relationship between neurodegeneration and cancer, which modifies the tumor microenvironment in an anti-cancer manner. Antitumor immunity is amplified through Aβ-induced microglial activation and cytokine production, which emulates the modulation of immunological checkpoints. These findings contribute to the development of innovative immunotherapeutic strategies that modulate neuroinflammatory signals and peptides derived from Aβ. Researchers are integrating the fields of oncology and neurology to precisely target cancer treatment by harnessing Aβ's immune-enhancing attributes while ensuring neuroprotection. This presents novel avenues for repurposing neurodegenerative pathways in the pursuit of precision cancer therapy.
Dr. Lalit Kumar Dubey, Pradeep Kumar Tiwari
Climate change poses significant challenges to agricultural sustainability and environmental stability, particularly in regions heavily dependent on monsoon patterns. This paper presents a comprehensive assessment of climate change impacts on agricultural crop patterns and the environment in Bahraich District, Uttar Pradesh, India. Utilizing climate data from 2009 to 2025, the study reveals a 51.7% worsening in climate conditions, characterized by a temperature increase of 1.1°C, rainfall variability reduction of 63.5%, and a significant increase in heatwave days. These climatic shifts have disrupted traditional cropping patterns, particularly affecting water-intensive crops such as paddy and sugarcane. The research documents the emergence of adaptation strategies, including solar-powered irrigation systems and crop diversification towards millets and pulses. Primary data collected from farmer cooperatives demonstrates that 97 solar irrigation units now benefit 8,700 farmers across 1,872 acres, reducing cultivation costs and enhancing climate resilience. The study concludes with policy recommendations for sustainable agricultural practices in vulnerable ecosystems.
Dr. Anita Singh, Nidhi Sharma
The ethnobotanical heritage protection and the systematic description of the traditional ecological knowledge are unavoidable requirements in modern pharmacognosy and biodiversity conservation. The study is an ethnobotanical survey of the Alaniya Village located in Ladpura tehsil of the Kota District, Rajasthan. The area is characterized by semi-dry climate and hydrological effect of the Chambal River basin, thus maintaining a specific floristic community used by the native population, especially Bhil, Meena, and Gurjar tribes. The focus was to discover, document, and critically examine the medicinal flora that was used in the local traditional treatment regimes. The field work lasted between March 2025 and February 2026 and utilized unstructured interviews and participatory methodologies of rural appraisal carrying out 75 interviews (45 males and 30 females). Identifications of the specimens were made possible through the application of Plant Net and later compared against the official regional floristic monographs. The survey produced 53 medicinal taxa spread out in 28 botanical families. The predominant ones were Fabaceae (10 species), then Asteraceae (7 species) and Euphorbiaceae (5 species). The findings revealed new traditional uses including the use of Canscora diffusa in archaeological refuse to prevent neurodamage and use of Blastania garcinii to treat jaundice. Gastro-intestinal and dermatological afflictions proved to be the most common mentioned categories of ailments. All these observations add to the urgent need of concerted efforts to preserve the endangered diversity of the Hadoti region and globally by promoting unified conservation efforts to preserve a fading body of traditional knowledge.
Anthony Mwutor Atsu, Friday Ukrakpo, Mathias Ekpu, Peter Osame, Thomas Nelson Akhalumeh
Continuous improvement has become essential for manufacturing organizations seeking to reduce waste and enhance productivity in today’s competitive environment. The study analyzes the impact of lean principles on waste reduction in a U-bolt and nut manufacturing process. It identifies major waste categories—such as defects, overproduction, waiting, and unnecessary motion—which continue to be highlighted in recent lean literature. Using lean tools including 5S, Value Stream Mapping (VSM), Kaizen, Standard Work, and the Muda framework, the study systematically uncovers inefficiencies across production stages, consistent with findings from contemporary lean-tool application studies. A case study approach was adopted to evaluate real-time production data from a small-sized U-bolt manufacturing firm, with key performance indicators such as takt time, defect rate, and inventory levels measured before and after lean implementation-an approach aligned with recent lean improvement case studies. Findings show significant waste reductions: material waste decreased by 49%, takt time improved by 50%, and work-in-process inventory dropped by 45%. Improvements in lead time and product quality following lean adoption mirror outcomes reported in other small/medium-scale manufacturing studies. The study demonstrates that even in traditional discrete-part manufacturing settings, lean principles can yield substantial operational benefits when applied systematically, supporting recent evidence of lean effectiveness in SMEs. Beyond establishing the relevance of lean methodologies in U-bolt manufacturing, the research offers a scalable framework for continuous improvement in similar manufacturing systems and aligns with current discussions on sustainable manufacturing practices.
Veronica Minnoli Hareendren
Down syndrome is a genetic condition resulting from the presence of an extra chromosome 21, which can generate several health problems during the development of the subject. One of these changes is the delay in language development and cognition in the child, who presents a greater deficit in expressive language than in comprehension. This study aims to analyze the morphological characteristics and communication development in Down syndrome among Tamil speaking individuals. In this study, the approach is suggested as a teaching methodology which is Mirror Teaching technique. A total of 30 population of young Downs’ syndromes were selected and analyzed. After this initial analysis, it was identified that more than half of this population made basic errors in their language production and acquisition because of inefficient morphological condition, and this was integrally analyzed. It was found that there is a consensus regarding the presence of a deficit in language development in children with Down syndrome compared to the process of children with typical development. The suggested teaching method was applied for the selected individuals and the improvement of Tamil morphological context was observed. The successful results were obtained, that the mirror teaching technique stimulated and increased their expressive language skills especially, the morphological abilities.
Boyi Mairiga, Dr. Emmanuel Omomoh, Dr. Rogers Rengje Danlami Gujahar, Dr. Sunday Nannim, Gwamzhi Ponsah Emmanuel, Gyang Davou Yusuf, Moses Omitunde Omirinde
planning, and sustainable socioeconomic development. In Nigeria, conventional census methodologies are characterised by high costs, lengthy implementation timelines, and recurring controversies, resulting in extended inter-censal intervals without reliable demographic data. The most recent comprehensive national census was conducted in 2006, nearly two decades ago. This study investigates the efficacy of integrating remote sensing and Geographic Information System (GIS) technologies for continuous population monitoring and estimation, using Ilorin East Local Government Area (LGA) in Kwara State as a case study. High-resolution QuickBird satellite imagery, combined with GIS-based building footprint extraction and systematic field enumeration, was employed to classify residential zones into high-, medium-, and low-density categories. Stratified sampling across 35, 25, and 15 households respectively determined average household sizes per density stratum. Population estimates were derived using an empirically validated counting formula. Results indicate estimated populations of 4,024, 1,610, and 904 inhabitants for high-, medium-, and low-density areas respectively, demonstrating a consistent positive correlation between building concentration and population density. Validation yielded an overall R² of 0.90 and a mean relative error of approximately 1.8%. The findings confirm that remote sensing and GIS provide a cost-effective, scientifically reliable framework for inter-censal demographic monitoring. The methodology offers a replicable foundation for spatial planning and urban development in Nigeria and comparable data-scarce environments.
Khushi Dipakbhai Khokhar, Ms. Hemangni Mehta
Arts education plays a significant role in the holistic development of students by enhancing their cognitive, emotional, social, and creative abilities. While modern curricula increasingly prioritize STEM disciplines, arts education remains equally important for maintaining a balanced and comprehensive learning experience. This paper examines the contribution of arts education—encompassing visual arts, music, dance, drama, and literature—to student development, with a focus on creativity, critical thinking, academic achievement, emotional intelligence, and cultural awareness. A qualitative, descriptive methodology is employed, drawing on secondary sources including peer-reviewed journals and reports from organizations such as UNESCO and the OECD. The study also proposes an Arts-Integrated Learning Model that embeds artistic activities into core academic subjects through five structured components: curriculum design, teaching methodology, digital tools, student engagement activities, and an evaluation mechanism. Key challenges such as limited funding, shortage of trained educators, and the dominance of standardized testing are identified. The findings affirm that arts education is essential for developing well-rounded individuals capable of adapting to real-world challenges.
Abiodun Abolade Moshood
Ensuring credible and high-quality auditing largely depends on the auditor's independence. Whenever auditors grow too close to their clients, their impartiality is compromised, and thereby the integrity of their professional judgment is also in jeopardy. The present research studies the effect of auditor independence on audit quality in sample deposit money banks in Nigeria. The research population included twenty-four (24) listed banks, of which ten (10) were purposively chosen. Data was collected from the annual reports of these banks audited. Descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and the Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) regression technique were applied. The results reveal that audit fees and audit firm rotation are positively associated with audit quality, while longer audit tenure adversely impacts it. Additionally, audit quality shows a significant negative association with leverage, but a significant positive relationship with firm size. The study recommends strengthening auditor independence by implementing measures such as mandatory rotation of audit firms, limiting auditor tenure, and ensuring fair audit compensation to enhance credibility and transparency in financial reporting.
Ananna Mostafiz
The environmental impact of the global fashion industry has intensified concerns regarding unsustainable production practices and the rapid accumulation of textile waste. As the fast fashion model continues to dominate global clothing markets, researchers and industry stakeholders are increasingly exploring circular strategies capable of reducing environmental harm while maintaining economic viability. Among the most widely discussed approaches are recycling and upcycling, both of which aim to extend the lifecycle of textile materials and reduce dependence on virgin resources. However, existing academic literature often discusses these strategies separately, with relatively few studies offering a systematic comparison between them within the context of sustainable fashion design. This study presents a structured literature review that critically examines recycling and upcycling as complementary strategies within circular fashion systems. Academic articles, books, institutional reports, and conference publications published between 2010 and 2024 were identified through systematic searches of databases including Scopus, Google Scholar, and JSTOR. After applying inclusion criteria related to relevance, academic credibility, and thematic focus, 65 sources were selected and analyzed using thematic content analysis. The findings indicate that recycling is primarily associated with industrial-scale material recovery and technological processing that allows large volumes of textile waste to be converted into new fibers. While this approach can reduce reliance on virgin materials, it may involve technological limitations such as fiber degradation and energy-intensive processing. Upcycling, in contrast, is strongly linked to design innovation and creative reuse, enabling designers to transform existing garments or textile waste into new products without destroying the original material structure. Upcycling can promote emotional durability, cultural value, and consumer engagement in sustainable fashion, although it often faces challenges related to scalability and integration within industrial supply chains. The study argues that recycling and upcycling should not be viewed as competing strategies but rather as complementary components of a broader circular fashion ecosystem. Hybrid models that combine recycling infrastructure with design-led upcycling practices may offer more holistic solutions to the environmental challenges facing the fashion industry. By synthesizing existing research and presenting a comparative framework, this paper contributes to sustainable fashion scholarship and provides insights for designers, policymakers, educators, and industry stakeholders seeking to transition toward regenerative fashion systems.
A.D.S. Samadaree, E.K.M.C Egodage, K.M.S Weerasinghe
University convocations mark important milestones in students' academic careers, representing years of work and success. More and more, universities are using innovative landscape architecture and eco-friendly design to improve the experience of the emotional and physical spaces of the graduation ceremonies. This study explores students’ perceptions and experiences of plant-designed convocation storyboards as curated landscapes during the 50th and 51st convocations at the University of Sri Jayewardenepura. These storyboards were made of ornamental plants and landscape design to create an eco-friendly and visually appealing backdrop for students to take pictures. A qualitative methodology was used in the research to examine students' emotional reactions and feelings to the green installations. Semi-structured interviews were used to capture the experiences of the students participating in the convocation ceremonies and the plant storyboards. A total of 50 students from different faculties who participated in the 50th and 51st convocation ceremonies were interviewed, and the collected qualitative data were analyzed using thematic analysis to identify the main themes of the students' experiences. The students regarded the plant storyboards as visually appealing, ecologically good, and symbolically associated with their academic success. Students noted that the greenery present in their graduation photos, the social places that made the experience memorable, and their emotional ties to the campus were enhanced. The use of real plants was noted to help foster an awareness of the environment. This research elucidates the contribution of green campus initiatives to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) notably SDG 4 (Quality Education) by fostering experiential learning, SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) through sustainable campus architecture, and SDG 15 (Life on Land) by encouraging campus biodiversity and green infrastructure. The findings highlight the importance of integrating landscape design and sustainable green installations into ceremonial university spaces, providing practical insights for university planners, landscape architects, landscape curators and event organizers seeking to enhance meaningful student experiences through environmentally responsible design.
Kenneth Okello Otieno
The active engagement of the citizens has long been viewed as one of the key pillars of the democratic policy and a significant requirement towards the enhancement of the quality of decision making regarding the citizens. In the context of decentralized governance, the local governments are supposed to develop institutional structures whereby citizens should contribute to planning, budgeting, implementation and control of the public programs. Nevertheless, despite the high level of promotion of participatory governance in policy circles, there is still some confusion on whether or not citizen involvement enhances the quality of local government decision making, in particular the situation in developing country environments where institutional and political barriers tend to undermine participation. In this study, the authors investigated the impact of citizen involvement in local government decision making on the quality of local government decision making through a qualitative design guided by secondary data. Peer reviewed journal articles, scholarly books, reports of policy, and legal and regulatory frameworks on decentralization and local governance were used to get the data. The research utilized the document review and the thematic analysis to make some of the most significant patterns connected to the participation mechanisms, governance outcomes, and identification of implementation challenges. The results reveal that while the process of citizen participation usually goes through the form of a public meeting, participatory budgeting, community consultation, local councils, and advisory platforms. When these mechanisms are actually practiced, local government decisions can be enhanced on transparency, accountability, responsiveness, inclusiveness, and legitimacy. Nevertheless, political interference, a lack of civic awareness, institutional capacity, unequal power relations, and elite capture were also found to adversely affect the quality of participation in most of the studies. The research finds that citizen involvement can enhance the quality of the local government decisions, and the effect is contingent on the institutional structure, inclusiveness and integrity of the participation mechanisms. This study suggests that institutional frameworks of participation should be strengthened, increased civic education, enhanced administration capacity, and also protect forums of participation against manipulation to ensure better outcomes of participation and effective governance is achieved.
Dr. B. Anitha, Nenavath Suresh, P. Venkateshwar Reddy, Pagidipalli Durga Rao, Shivva Vinod Kumar
The rapid growth of e-commerce and smart logistics systems has increased the demand for efficient and contactless package delivery solutions. This paper presents the design and development of an Internet of Things (IoT) based community package delivery robot using the ESP8266 microcontroller. The proposed system is capable of wireless navigation, real-time monitoring, and secure package handling. The robot is controlled through Wi-Fi communication, enabling users to operate it remotely using a mobile device or web interface. A motor driver module (L298N / L293D) is used to control the movement of DC motors for directional navigation. An IP webcam is integrated into the system to provide live video streaming, assisting the user in monitoring the robot’s surroundings during delivery operations. To ensure package safety, a solenoid lock mechanism is implemented for secure storage and controlled access. The system is designed to be low-cost, energy-efficient, and suitable for applications such as campus delivery, residential communities, and industrial environments. Experimental implementation demonstrates reliable movement control, effective wireless communication, and enhanced delivery security. The proposed robot contributes to the advancement of smart delivery technologies by offering a practical and scalable solution for last-mile delivery challenges.
Abdoul Salam Diarra, Abou Sogodogo, Belle Fortune Kuaguim Kenfacck, Borodjan Diarra, Cheick Abou Coulibaly, Fanta Sangho, Jean Paul Tchapebong, Mariam Sékou Kone, Oumar Kone, Oumar Sangho, Sid Ahmed Nour Ghoutam, Yaya Togo
In Mali, malaria remains a major public health challenge with heterogeneous transmission patterns. This study compared malaria morbidity in two distinct geographical contexts: Koulikoro (Sudanian zone) and Timbuktu (irrigated Sahelian zone). It was a descriptive, analytical study based on data from the DHIS2 (2018–2022). The variables analyzed included prevalence, seasonality, gender, age, and methods of biological confirmation (RDT, thick blood smear). Comparative statistical analysis used chi-square tests and logistic regressions to identify factors associated (age, sex, seasonality) with the observed variations. In 2021, Koulikoro recorded 58,999 confirmed cases of malaria. The region followed a strict rainfall pattern with a peak in the third quarter (T3). While Timbuktu experienced off-season peaks linked to irrigation (peaking in Q1 2021 with 13,883 cas-es), children under 5 were the most affected in Koulikoro (56.5% in 2022), whereas adults (≥ 5 years) bore 80% of the burden in Timbuktu. Thick-droplet irrigation use increased from 18.2% to 59.2% in Koulikoro, while Timbuktu remained 97% dependent on rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs), a statistically significant differ-ence (p<0.001). In Koulikoro, the prevalence of malaria increased significantly, rising from 4.99% in 2018 to a peak of 19.21% in 2021. In Timbuktu, the prevalence more than doubled between 2018 (8.04%) and 2020 (18.225%), before gradually declining to 14.87% in 2022. The study demonstrated the need to decentralize control strategies. Strengthening microscopy in the North and adjusting the schedule of the Integrated Malaria Control Program (IMCP) in irrigated areas are essential for sustainably reducing the burden of malaria in Mali.
Beebi SK, LakshmanaRao G, Suresh P
This work reports on the ultrasonic velocity, density, viscosity, and derived acoustic parameters of binary mixtures of ethylbenzoate with 2-butanol and 2-methyl-2-propanol over a range of compositions at 303.15 K, 308.15 K, 313.15 K, and 318.15 K. The experimental measurements were used to calculate adiabatic compressibility, intermolecular free length, internal pressure, and acoustic impedance to elucidate underlying molecular interactions. For both systems, increasing ethylbenzoate mole fraction produced higher velocity and density, and lower viscosity and compressibility, indicating enhanced structural ordering. The ethylbenzoate + 2-butanol system exhibited stronger cohesive interactions, as revealed by higher ultrasonic velocities, acoustic impedance and internal pressure compared to the ethylbenzoate + 2-methyl-2-propanol system, attributed to reduced steric hindrance and more effective hydrogen bonding in the former. Temperature elevation weakened interactions in both mixtures, consistent with increased thermal agitation. These findings are significant for designing solvent systems in chemical processing and provide fundamental insights into mixture behavior relevant to industrial and environmental applications.
Dr. Olusegun A. Afolabi, Mr. Oluwafemi E. Ajibade
The study examined laterite, an abundant and eco-friendly material, as a partial replacement for fine aggregate in concrete. It considered how laterite affected workability, compressive strength, and split tensile strength by using a mix of 1:1.5:3 (cement:fine aggregate:coarse aggregate). The laterite replaced 0%, 5%, 10%, and 15% of fine aggregate, both with and without 1% superplasticizer (based on the weight of cement). A total of 144 cubes (150mm) and 144 cylinders (150mm × 300mm) were cast and tested at various intervals: 3, 7, 10, 14, 28, and 42 days. The workability tests revealed that 5% laterite without superplasticizer achieved the highest slump at 55mm. Meanwhile, 10% and 15% dropped to 40mm, while the control was at 35mm. The presence of superplasticizer increased the slump by 109 to 271%, making all mixes practical for construction. At 28 days, the mix with 10% laterite and no superplasticizer showed the highest compressive strength at 31.19 MPa, which was better than the control at 29.26 MPa. When superplasticizer was added, 5% laterite reached 42.27 MPa, a 5% improvement over the control at 40.26 MPa. The split tensile strength also peaked at 3.01 MPa with 5% laterite plus superplasticizer, exceeding the control by 1.69%.. The mix at 5% laterite with superplasticizer gave maximum compressive strength of about 40 N/mm2, making it suitable for structural applications. Laterite shows itself to be a viable alternative to sand. It is effective up to 10% without superplasticizer and 15% with it, supporting eco-friendly construction in areas rich in laterite.
Abiola S. Ogungbe, Adesina T. Sode, Austin C. Egba, Emmanuel O. Somoye, Eugene O. Onori, James Whetode, Juwon A. Adebanjo, Olorunfemi Fakunle, Oluwatosin R. Obasi-Oma, Yusuf O. Kayode
Rainfall and solar activity are vital components of Earth’s environment system. This study investigates the correlation between monthly rainfall and solar activity during three different solar epochs at Lagos (Lat 6.56 oN Long. 3.34 oE), Nigeria. Despite the established influence of solar activity on Earth’s climate, the relationship between monthly rainfall patterns and solar activity during different solar epochs remains poorly understood. Using Pearson correlation coefficient analysis, this study examines the variations of solar activity (sunspot numbers) and monthly rainfall patterns from 2002 – 2012 a full solar cycle. Contrary to explanations, results show no significant correlation between monthly rainfall and solar activity during the different solar epochs. However, further analysis reveals weak correlations varying across solar maxima (0.024), moderate (0.273) and minima (0.237) phases respectively. These findings suggest that the relationship between rainfall and solar activity is more complex than previously thought, highlighting the need for further research into the underlying mechanisms. This study contributes to improved understanding of solar-climate relationships.
Alhaji M. Kolo, Auwal. A. Mahmoud, Dahiru Ibrahim, Istafinus. Y. Chindo, Suleiman Bulama
This study investigated the potential of expired Lopinavir-Ritonavir (LPV-RTV) co-formulated antiretroviral drug, a pharmaceutical waste product, as a corrosion inhibitor for mild steel. The corrosion inhibition efficiency of expired LPV-RTV was evaluated through three complementary methods: weight loss, potentiodynamic polarization (PDP), and Scanning Electron Microscopy with Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (SEM-EDX). The results demonstrated that expired LPV-RTV significantly enhanced the corrosion resistance of mild steel, achieving maximum inhibition efficiencies of 95.7% by weight loss and 93.0% by PDP. SEM-EDX analysis of the steel surfaces revealed the formation of a protective layer, further supporting the corrosion inhibition mechanism. These findings highlight the effectiveness of expired LPV-RTV as an efficient, eco-friendly corrosion inhibitor. The study also emphasizes the potential of utilizing expired pharmaceuticals for sustainable resource recovery, offering a viable solution for both pharmaceutical waste reduction and industrial corrosion control.
Ezebuike, I. R., Onyewuchi, U. U., Opara, T.
The study applied a stochastic frontier cost function to analyze cost efficiency of yam farmers and ascertained variation in cost efficiency due to inefficiency effects on yam production in the study area. Data were collected with the aid of a well-structured questionnaire from 35 randomly selected yam farmers from 5 purposively selected communities. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and stochastic cost function. Results showed that the mean age of yam farmers was 41 years and more males (91.4%) were involved in yam production. Cost of land, yam seed, hired labour, agrochemicals and transportation were significant factors that are determinants of total cost associated with yam production in the study area. That is, 1% increase in the cost of land, yam seed, hired labour, agrochemicals and transportation will increase total production cost by approximately 0.69%, 0.49%, 0.29%, 0.57% and 0.40% respectively with the value of the sigma squared (δ2) being 0.820 indicating a good fit. The maximum likelihood estimates for the Stochastic cost function used in explaining the inefficiency parameters for yam farmers showed that the coefficient of credit availability, farming experience, extension contact all had the a priori expected signs and statistically significant showing that an increase in any of them decreases cost inefficiency. The mean cost efficiency was 0.63, meaning that an average yam farmer in the study area has the scope for increasing cost efficiency by 37%. It was concluded that farmers are not cost efficient from their cost efficiency indices.
Ogili Solomon Nnaedozie
The fast development of the Internet of Things (IoT) has resulted in more and more complex and dynamic network traffic, which poses a serious challenge to the effective routing of the network in a resource-limited environment. This paper suggests a Variational Autoencoder (VAE)-gated recurrent unit (GRU)-based network traffic forecasting and routing enhancement framework to the IoT communication systems. The framework uses VAE to learn latent representations of network traffic, which includes latent patterns and variability, and a GRU to learn time-based dependencies so as to make accurate multi-step predictions of traffic. Traffic information is also predicted and included in a traffic-aware routing engine whereby optimal routes are chosen dynamically in response to congestion, remaining node energy, and Quality-Of-Service (QoS) needs. The Python network simulator is used in the implementation and evaluation of the system and its performance is compared with the performance of the conventional routing protocols like RPL and AODV. The simulation findings prove that the proposed VAE-GRU framework can drastically enhance the performance of the network with a Mean Absolute Error (MAE) of 0.052 and Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) of 0.074 in traffic prediction. At the network level, the predictive routing mechanism reduces end-to-end delay (61-132ms), increases packet delivery ratio (91.8-99%), enhances throughput (346-468kbps), and lowers average energy consumption per node (1.41-2.54J) across varying traffic loads. These findings substantiate the fact that predictive intelligence in traffic and adaptive routing help to provide a scalable, energy-efficient, and resilient solution to IoT networks. This framework is especially efficient in the high-traffic and dense network environment, which outlines its usability in the next-generation IoT communication systems that demand a high-quality and reliable, proactive and resource-conscious routing.
A. Y. Muhammad, I. D. Umar, Idris Saadu Idris
The escalating global demand for water conservation, coupled with the need for sustainable and efficient agricultural practices, has accelerated the development of smart irrigation systems based on the Internet of Things (IoT). However, despite significant progress, existing systems largely rely on threshold-based control using soil moisture data, with limited integration of advanced artificial intelligence (AI)-driven predictive models that incorporate multi-source inputs such as weather forecasts, evapotranspiration rates, and crop-specific water requirements. This limitation reduces the overall efficiency and adaptability of irrigation systems under dynamic environmental conditions. In response, this study presents the design and implementation of an IoT-based smart irrigation system that integrates real-time sensing, remote monitoring, and automated control to optimize water usage and enhance crop productivity. The proposed system combines soil moisture sensing, environmental monitoring, and cloud-based data processing to enable intelligent, data-driven irrigation scheduling. A key contribution of this work is the development of a data-driven decision-making framework that improves irrigation efficiency beyond conventional manual and threshold-based approaches. The research further examines core system components, including IoT-enabled sensor networks, meteorological monitoring devices, and AI-based predictive analytics, while reviewing diverse architectures such as Arduino-based microcontroller platforms, wireless sensor networks, and cloud computing infrastructures. Empirical evaluations demonstrate that the proposed system achieves significant reductions in water wastage while improving crop yields through precise irrigation control. Overall, this study provides a comprehensive and scalable system architecture that integrates hardware, communication networks, and cloud platforms, offering a practical solution for precision agriculture. It also highlights the potential for incorporating advanced AI models and secure communication mechanisms, such as blockchain, to enhance system reliability, scalability, and cybersecurity in future smart irrigation applications.
D. Boesten, J. Bolte, J. Schreuder, L. Arntzen, M. van der Hoek, U. Wyder
In this paper, the design, simulation, fabrication and characterization of a prototype single fiber MRI compatible cascaded pressure sensor is presented. This paper represents the extended version of earlier communication on this topic. In addition to the earlier communication, in this paper, we report on a crucial design requirement: the immunity to Electro-Magnetic Interference (EMI). This immunity has been experimentally tested by combining the prototype sensors with a Siemens 1.5T Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) apparatus at Haga Hospital (The Hague). No disturbance was observed during a full MRI imaging cycle. The system allows for long lasting usage in the range -50 mmHg to 300 mmHg without damage to the membrane. A static pressure resolution (averaged over the array) of 3.6 mmHg was found, a performance that needs improvement in the future. Simulations show that the desired resolution of 1.0 mmHg is feasible within this design approach. The dynamical response allows for registration of dynamical features up to 20 Hz, already meeting dynamical requirements of this low-cost sensing system and already exceeding expectations expressed in advance. Future work includes further miniaturization, catheter integration, improvement of static pressure resolution, tackling separation of temperature-pressure crosstalk by implementing alternating independent Fibre Bragg Grating (FBG) temperature sensors in the array and further enhancing dynamical properties.
Dr Muhammad Yabagi, Dr Suleiman Salami, Prof. M. S Tijjani, Rukayya Tijjani Ibrahim
Taxation has been an age-old means of revenue generation for governments of nations, which is used by governments to fund its programs such infrastructure, health care and provision of social infrastructure to citizens. Despite the importance of taxation, tax non-compliance places a huge bottle neck and hinders government effort to achieve this fundamental objective. Researchers agree that over 50 years of tax research has not resulted in a generalized solution to tax compliance issues and therefore recommend contextualised research on taxation to proffer solution to tax compliance issues. This paper therefore decided to investigate empirical research on determinants of tax non-compliance behaviour in Nigeria and determine if the align with factors stipulated by the economic deterrence model to ascertain whether economic deterrence factors are applicable within the Nigerian context with a view to proffering solutions to tax non-compliance issues. The paper seeks to answer three questions: what are the determinants of tax non-compliance in Nigeria? Are they the same as those stipulated by the deterrent theory? Can learnings from studies guided by deterrent theory be adapted within the Nigerian context? The research effort utilises a literature survey and analysis of content to arrive at an inference. The Survey reveals that deterrent factors such as tax rates, the benefits of tax evasion, the likelihood of fraud being detected, and the severity of penalties are major determinants of tax non compliance behaviour in Nigeria alongside other factors such as Tax Morale, Tax Education, Tax knowledge, Gender, Ability to pay, Quid Pro Quo, Tax System complexity, as well as attitude and perception . The study also confirmed that deterrent theory factors can be used within the Nigerian context by stakeholders such as Nigerian revenue services, tax practitioners and firm managers to formulate tax compliance strategies. The study recommends future studies and in-depth analysis on determinants of tax non-compliance behaviour in Nigeria for a more robust analysis.
Adeniran, A.O., Ukabrinachi, E.I.
Continuous, high-precision air measurement in off-grid and resource constrained environments is a major challenge in the fields of environmental science, precision agriculture, and climate studies. The development of Internet-of-Things (IoT) and renewable energy technologies has introduced significant advances to the creation of autonomous and affordable monitoring of meteorological parameters, in particular to detect weather phenomena in Nigeria. As a counter measure, this paper designed, built, and deployed a solar-powered weather station, which uses ESP32 microcontroller to read and record local weather conditions in the atmosphere. The sensor package included a DHT11 thermistor-humidity sensor, an MQ135 particulate-matter sensor, an IR fog detector, a rainfall-intensity gauge, and an LDR to measure the solar irradiance and darkness. The transmission of real-time data is done through the Blynk dashboard and Google Sheets simultaneously with the presentation of numeric values on a specific LCD display. All sensor modules yielded the same results according to the requirements of the manufacturers in the laboratory and in the field. The I2C LCD was able to cycle through all the parameters screens. The ESP32 had also been very stable in terms of Wi-Fi connectivity and was also very efficient when it came to transmitting structured data to the Blynk server as well as the Google sheets endpoint where timed records of the environmental variables were recorded in real time. The LM7805 voltage regulator provided a constant 5.01V -0.03V at the entire input voltage of the solar charging subsystem. The noise of analog sensors was reduced to reasonable values of measurements by applying a 20-sample moving-average hardware filter. Performance measures were measured in the field under natural conditions and found that the performance metrics showed high correlation in temperature and relative-humidity measurements, effective fog detection, consistent rainfall status measurements and accurate irradiance measurements. The system was fully initialized and was successful in data transfer (98 percent) in both Google Sheets and the Blynk dashboard. This platform has thus been easily implemented in agricultural, meteorological and environmental management applications without requiring infrastructure other than a local access point of Wi-Fi.
Adeboboye, A. J., Atoki L.O., Oji Dobe Okpa
Urban safety and effective emergency management depend greatly on the efficiency of road network systems. This study focuses on developing a Geographic Information System (GIS)-based road network database for enhancing urban safety and emergency response in Awka, Anambra State, Nigeria. The research integrates spatial data derived from satellite imagery, Global Positioning System (GPS) surveys, and administrative datasets into a digital geodatabase using ArcGIS 10.7. Network analysis tools such as Service Area and Closest Facility were employed to evaluate the distribution of police stations, determine emergency response coverage, and optimize travel routes.Results revealed significant disparities in police coverage across Awka’s urban core, particularly in rapidly developing neighborhoods like Ifite, Okpuno, and Ngozika Estate. These areas fall outside optimal emergency response radii, increasing vulnerability to delayed security intervention. The study recommends establishing additional police outposts and adopting GIS-based monitoring systems to ensure more balanced spatial coverage. The developed GIS model serves as a decision-support tool for urban planners, transport authorities, and law enforcement agencies, demonstrating how spatial analysis can reduce response time, enhance resource allocation, and strengthen community safety.
Dr. Cheenepalli Ravi Shankara
Dhruvaṁ Janma Mṛitasya Cha (र्ध्रुवं जन्म मृतस्य च) is the popular and famous adage found in Bhagavad Gita about reincarnation. An attempt is made in the article to view the concepts of death and reincarnation as indicated in Gita and compared them with the views of modern reincarnation researchers. What was told in Bhagavadgita 5,000 years in a handful of slokas is indicated in the works of modern reincarnation researchers around the world. There is every possibility that researching reincarnation using modern tools on the lines indicated in Bhagavad gita may one day provide meaningful, scientific mechanism of reincarnation.
Chaitanya Haryan, Gaurav Kalsait, Khandu Sontakke, Satyam Prajapati, Sonali Pakhmode
This study about the project presents the design and development of an AI-based Digital Doppelganger aimed at modeling and simulating an individual’s personality, communication patterns, and cognitive characteristics. The proposed system integrates natural language processing techniques, similarity analysis, and adaptive learning mechanisms inspired by transformer-based architectures such as LLaMA2. This approach prioritize consistent personality, emotional depth, and contextual awareness over simple task execution or information retrieval. By continuously learning from user interactions and real-time data, the system is able to reproduce human-like tone, intent, and linguistic behavior while preserving coherence across conversations. The Results show the unique personality of an individual by its digital twin. Experimental results indicate strong performance in intent recognition and contextual relevance, suggesting that the Digital Doppelganger framework can be effectively applied in personalized virtual assistants, digital identity representation, and research on advanced human–AI interaction.
Akash Nahak, Kamal Agrahari, Kiran Deshmukh, Rutvik Gondekar, Sahil Deshmukh
Managing a food-service establishment involves constant negotiation between perishable inventory, fluctuating customer demand, and narrow profit margins. Despite these pressures, a substantial fraction of independent restaurants in India continue to rely on isolated point-of-sale terminals that provide no decision-support for procurement, workload forecasting, or shift scheduling. This paper introduces DineFlow ERP, a cloud-native, microservice-based enterprise resource planning platform engineered exclusively for restaurant environments. The system unifies the complete order lifecycle, kitchen-order-ticket (KOT) dispatch, table and floor coordination, live inventory tracking, payroll processing, and contactless QR-based guest ordering within a coherent three-tier architecture. A dedicated Predictive Intelligence layer integrates Ridge Regression and Random Forest for short-horizon demand forecasting; a Collaborative Filtering engine combining Singular Value Decomposition (SVD) with the Apriori association-rule algorithm for personalised menu recommendations; a Log-Log Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) dynamic pricing module; and a Heuristic Waste Predictor aligned with UN SDG Target 12.3. Identity and access management is enforced through Auth0, RS256-signed JSON Web Tokens, and AES-256-CBC client-side encryption distributed across five role-based access control (RBAC) personas. A live production deployment recorded 98 % module completion, a 7.6 % MAPE on stable SKUs via Random Forest, a 23.4 % reduction in procurement over-ordering, and zero critical OWASP vulnerabilities.
Alok Kumar Ray, Nilay Anand
This study presents a comprehensive numerical investigation of the dynamic thermo-mechanical behavior of non-ballasted slab track systems incorporating Cement Asphalt Mortar (CAM) and Steel Fiber Reinforced Concrete (SFRC) under high-speed rail (HSR) loading conditions. A three-dimensional finite element framework is developed to simulate coupled effects of moving wheel loads, thermal gradients, and material nonlinearity. The fatigue life of the CAM layer and the structural performance of SFRC-based slab tracks are systematically evaluated. Results indicate that the CAM layer experiences a maximum compressive stress of 0.31 MPa under dynamic loading, corresponding to an exceptionally high fatigue life of 167.21 million axle repetitions, significantly exceeding the design requirement. Incorporation of SFRC reduces the peak compressive stress in CAM to 0.22 MPa and limits long-term plastic deformation to 0.138 mm, compared to 0.187 mm in conventional reinforced slabs. The maximum vertical and lateral displacements are 0.114 mm and 0.283 mm, respectively, which are well within the permissible limits specified by HSR standards. Furthermore, SFRC exhibits improved damage resistance, with substantial reductions in tensile and compressive damage in the slab.
Sunday Agholor
The advances in technology have made online learning more popular in educational institutions across the globe. Consequently, researchers have conducted investigations on the effects of online learning on students’ academic performance using questionnaire as instrument for data collection. These have led to three divergent reports. While some researchers agreed that online learning is as good as onsite learning in terms of students’ academic performance, others are of strong opinion that online learning is better than onsite learning. Still, a third school of thought affirmed that onsite learning is more effective than online learning. Since these studies relied on self-reported data from students and lecturers, who are participants, the contradictory results need to be further investigated using a method devoid of questionnaire as the participants may be biased when filling the questionnaire. It is against this background that an e-Classroom Management System was developed. The system was evaluated alongside onsite learning using College students. The results from the study showed that onsite learning gives a better academic performance than online learning.
Okwulehie, Felicia C., Ukozor, Alphonsus UC, Ukwujiagu, Chiamaka U., Uzoegbu, Patricia U.
This study evaluated the effects of processing methods on the proximate composition, vitamin content, and sensory properties of tiger nut milk extracts. Four samples were prepared: sprouted (STNM), roasted (RTNM), fermented (FTNM), and control (CTNM). Standard analytical methods were used for nutrient determination, and sensory evaluation was conducted. Results showed significant (p < 0.05) differences among samples. Moisture content ranged from 75.25% (RTNM) to 78.95% (FTNM). Protein was highest in FTNM (4.80%) and lowest in CTNM (3.22%). Fat and ash contents were highest in RTNM (4.19% and 1.22%, respectively), while crude fiber ranged from 1.35% (FTNM) to 1.74% (RTNM). Carbohydrate content was highest in CTNM (14.94%) and lowest in FTNM (11.09%). Vitamin C was significantly higher in FTNM (17.87 mg/100 g), whereas vitamin A was highest in CTNM (2.28 µg/100 g).Sensory evaluation also showed significant differences, with CTNM having the highest scores in appearance (8.40), taste (8.00), aroma (7.90), and overall acceptability (8.10). RTNM was moderately accepted, while FTNM recorded the lowest sensory ratings.The study demonstrates that processing methods significantly improved the nutritional value, but reduced the sensory qualities of tiger nut milk. Fermentation enhanced protein and vitamin C, roasting improved fat and mineral content, while germination showed moderate effects. These methods can be utilized to improve the nutritional value ,while process optimization should be employed to enhance consumer acceptability of tiger nut milk for an improved food and nutrition security.
A. Radhika, Dr. K. Satyamurthy
Preventive health is gaining major attention in these days due to increasing number of lifestyle related disorders and psychological stress. Coming from yoga, as a complete lifestyle system, the aspect of any discipline on diet and breath regulation for homeostasis is indispensable. The current study investigates the impact of sattvic diet and yogic breathing practices on physical health and mental well-being. A cross-sectional survey of 357 respondents was conducted, and a quantitative research design used. Data were collected via a structured questionnaire to measure adherence to sattvic dietary practices, frequency of yogic breathing, perceived physiological health, and psychological well-being. The proposed hypotheses were tested using descriptive statistics, correlation analysis and multiple regression. It showed that sattvic diet and physiological health; yogic breathing practices and physiological health were significantly positively associated with each other. Meanwhile, yogic breathing proved to be a significantly stronger predictor than self-belief in the ability of breathing techniques to exert parasympathetic control over physiological responses. The interaction analysis demonstrated that both diet and breathing practices work synergistically, as the combined adoption of a dietary regulation mild had significantly greater improvements in physiological health and psychological well-being than either component alone. These findings are in keeping with the holistic premise of yoga that lifestyle practices synergistically work to positively impact overall health. The results may also serve as a welcome addition to the literature on integrative health by demonstrating empirical support for yoga-based lifestyle intervention efficacy. It also has practical implications for wellness programs by underscoring the importance of integrating nutritional knowledge with breath-based therapeutic modalities. Longitudinal and/or experimental designs will allow researchers to establish these relationships with greater confidence in the future.
Bresca Merina, Doni Sugianto Sihotang, Ganjar Wibowo, Mar’atul Fahimah, Nur Hidayah, Usep Suhud, Wenni Wahyuandari, Zenita Afifah Fitriyani
This study aims to empower Indonesian female migrant workers in Malaysia through home-based industry training as part of an international community service initiative aligned with the Tri Dharma of Higher Education. The programme was conducted over three days, from 23 to 25 January 2025, involving 34 participants and applying a training-based approach that integrates conceptual understanding of women’s economic empowerment with practical entrepreneurial skills. The implementation emphasised interactive learning to enhance engagement and contextual relevance. The findings show that the program raised participants' awareness of other economic opportunities, especially in informal and home-based areas, and enhanced their knowledge on starting small-scale ventures businesses using limited resources. In addition, participants demonstrated stronger motivation to enhance household income and a more proactive economic orientation. These results indicate that brief, focused training programs can be a good starting point for helping migrant women gain economic strength. The program also emphasizes the significance of international community service to share knowledge across borders and contribute to academic efforts. However, the short time frame and lack of follow-up processes could impact the long-term sustainability. Overall, the initiative demonstrates that integrating empowerment concepts with practical training can generate meaningful socio-economic benefits for migrant workers and contribute to the broader discourse on international community engagement.
Jeric C. Biol
Fusarium wilt, caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense (Foc), particularly Tropical Race 4 (FocTR4), remains one of the most destructive diseases affecting global banana production. The susceptibility of Cavendish cultivars, including ‘Grand Nain’, and the long-term persistence of the pathogen in soil have rendered conventional control strategies largely ineffective. In response, increasing attention has been directed toward sustainable approaches such as biological control using plant-associated microorganisms. Among these, bacterial endophytes have emerged as promising candidates due to their ability to colonize internal plant tissues and confer protection against pathogens through multiple mechanisms. Vetiver (Chrysopogon zizanioides), a perennial grass known for its resilience to environmental stress and extensive root system, serves as a potential reservoir of functionally diverse microbial endophytes. This review synthesizes current knowledge on vetiver-associated bacterial endophytes and evaluates their potential as biocontrol agents against Fusarium wilt in banana. Key mechanisms discussed include the production of antimicrobial compounds, secretion of cell wall-degrading enzymes, induction of systemic resistance, competition for nutrients and ecological niches, and enhancement of plant growth and stress tolerance. Despite promising findings from related systems, direct evidence supporting the efficacy of vetiver-derived endophytes against Foc in banana remains limited, with most studies confined to In vitro or non-banana models. Critical challenges include inconsistent field performance, limited understanding of host–endophyte compatibility, and the absence of standardized evaluation protocols. Future research should focus on strain selection, molecular characterization, formulation development, and field validation to bridge the gap between laboratory findings and practical application. Harnessing vetiver-associated endophytes offers a novel and sustainable strategy for managing Fusarium wilt and improving the resilience of banana production systems.
Deepali, Dr. Indu Bala
Disturbed sleep is a matter of concern to all individual. When the problem reaches to the height it is called insomnia. In Insomnia, “insomnolent thoughts” (IT) prevent sleep and create heightened cognitive hyperarousal, which is a growing public health concern. Interventions conventionally used till now such as pharmacotherapy and CBT though gives relief, but often have limitations related to side effects. This process has openness to all, variable effectiveness and worth issues too. Age old approaches, especially yoga, have shown positive results in improving sleep quality by reducing stress and IT patterns. Present research are largely on isolated yoga practices or specific populations, which lacks generalisation. This study employs a randomized controlled trial (n = 292, adults aged 18–60, Delhi NCR) to examine the psychological benefits of nine diverse yoga interventions: Hatha, Yoga Nidra, Restorative, Vinyasa, Ashtanga, Kundalini, Iyengar, Bikram, and Pranayama, each combined with talk therapy, compared against a control group receiving talk therapy alone. Over 12 weeks, participants will undergo structured sessions (3 per week), with pre- and post-assessments conducted using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, Perceived Stress Scale, and Cognitive Behavioral Insomnia Questionnaire. The study hypothesizes that yoga-based interventions, and particularly Yoga Nidra and Restorative Yoga, demonstrated greater improvements in sleep quality, stress reduction, and mitigation of insomnolent thoughts compared to talk therapy alone. By systematically comparing varied yoga modalities, this research clarified the mechanisms through which yoga enhances sleep and psychological well-being, while providing evidence-based guidelines for integrative, non-pharmacological treatments for insomnia.
Adonuja Joy Amuofu, Agbajor Godwin Kparobo, Akpolile Franklin Anita, Omoriwhovo Oghenekome Jude, Ukerun-Akpesiri Avwerosuoghene Amanda
This study investigated the electromagnetic field (EMF) exposure and Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) levels associated with different mobile phone models operating at frequencies of 900 MHz and 2100 MHz. The objective was to assess the electric field strength, magnetic field strength, and power density emitted by these devices, and to determine the potential impact of mobile phone radiation on human health. Using an EMF Multi-Function Meter (GQ EMF-390V2 Electronics), measurements of the electric field (E), magnetic field (H), and power density (S) were obtained. The specific absorption rate (SAR) and health risk index (HRI) were computationally analyzed from dielectric and density data for seven (7) head tissues and the measured electric field over a range of popular mobile phone models and compared their EMF exposure levels against the safety limits set by the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP). The study found that while most mobile phones complied with ICNIRP safety standards, significant differences in radiation emission were observed between models, with certain devices exceeding recommended SAR thresholds. The findings suggested that radiation exposure varies across phone designs and operating frequencies, with potential implications for long-term health, especially in sensitive tissue areas like the brain and cerebrospinal fluid. This study indicated the importance of adhering to EMF safety guidelines and encourages consumers to be aware of SAR values when selecting mobile devices, particularly those frequently used close to the head.
Bassam Lawan Abdulrahman
Nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) is a critical determinant of sustainable sesame production in the Sudan Savanna zone of Nigeria. This study evaluated the nitrogen use efficiency and internal nitrogen efficiency of three prominent sesame varieties (Yandev-55, E-8, and NCRI-Ben-01M) under varying nitrogen application rates (0, 30, 60, and 90 kg N ha⁻¹). Field experiments were conducted during the 2025 cropping season at two locations: Bayero University Kano (11.9758°N, 8.5380°E) and a farmers' field in Kura Local Government Area (11.7753°N, 8.4339°E). The experiment was laid out in a split-plot arrangement in a randomized complete block design with four replications. Varieties were assigned to main plots while nitrogen levels constituted the sub-plots. Results showed that nitrogen application significantly (P < 0.001) influenced grain yield, with mean yields ranging from 727-952 kg ha⁻¹ across sites and treatments. Variety Yandev-55 consistently produced the highest grain yields (857-934 kg ha⁻¹), followed by E-8 (821-896 kg ha⁻¹) and NCRI-Ben-01M (779-878 kg ha⁻¹). Agronomic efficiency (AE) decreased with increasing nitrogen rates, ranging from 2.81 kg kg⁻¹ at 30 kg N ha⁻¹ to 1.41 kg kg⁻¹ at 90 kg N ha⁻¹. Apparent nitrogen recovery (ANR) averaged 43-45% across varieties and nitrogen levels. Physiological efficiency (PE) showed a declining trend from 6.84 kg kg⁻¹ at 30 kg N ha⁻¹ to 3.16 kg kg⁻¹ at 90 kg N ha⁻¹. Internal nitrogen efficiency (IE) was highest at 30 kg N ha⁻¹ (23.20 kg kg⁻¹) and lowest at 90 kg N ha⁻¹ (13.91 kg kg⁻¹). Quadratic regression analysis revealed optimum nitrogen rates of 98.4, 81.7, and 68.7 kg N ha⁻¹ for Yandev-55, E-8, and NCRI-Ben-01M, respectively. The study demonstrates that moderate nitrogen application (60-80 kg N ha⁻¹) optimizes grain yield while maintaining reasonable NUE in sesame production. Variety Yandev-55 exhibited superior performance in both yield potential and nitrogen use efficiency. These findings provide crucial information for developing nitrogen management strategies for sustainable sesame production in the Sudan Savanna agroecological zone.
Avery Sengupta, Mustafa Chaiwala, Zainab Feroz Hussain
The hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) are among the leading causes of chronic liver diseases worldwide. The two viruses, with or without complications such as cirrhosis and liver cancer, are responsible for a large part of the illness and death globally, directly or indirectly. Despite the fact that the scientific world has made huge advances in their diagnosis and treatment, HBV and HCV continue to pose a formidable challenge to health of communities around the world. The current paper seeks to comprehensively and comparatively describe the clinical and virological aspects of HBV and HCV including their epidemiology, pathogenesis, transmission, diagnosis, and therapy. Being a DNA virus, HBV can exist in the form of covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA) which the cell nucleus can keep as a reservoir, and this persistence makes it possible that restoring a patient completely free of virus may not be achieved, and long-term treatment with antiviral drugs will be necessary in order to maintain a low level of viral load. On the other hand, HCV is an RNA virus and since does not have a stable intracellular reservoir it can be almost completely eradicated in most of cases by the use of direct-acting antivirals (DAAs). Such major differences have resulted the two viruses being targeted for very different prevention and treatment approaches. For instance, there is a highly effective vaccine against HBV while there is not yet a vaccine against HCV.This paper also discusses the major problems in disease control today such as underdiagnosis, restriction of treatment availability, and difficulties in the global elimination of viral hepatitis. By reviewing state-of-the-art knowledge and drawing attention to the main differences between HBV and HCV, the present work demonstrates that there is a great need for specific interventions, better healthcare services, and ongoing research to meet the target of eliminating viral hepatitis as a public health threat.
Alfred A. Abiodun, Awopeju K. Abidemi, Bright F. Ajibade
Using the Exponentiated approach and three-parameter Weibull distribution as baseline function, a newly generalized distribution was formed called the Exponentiated Generalized Modified Weibull distribution. One of the properties of a proper probability density function was used to ascertain that the resulting function is a proper probability density function. Statistical properties of the newly generated distribution were studied and graphs of probability density and cumulative density functions of the distribution were plotted using varying parameter values. Monte Carlo simulation approach was used for the test of homogeneity of the distribution and it was observed that the parameters in the distribution approach the true value as sample size increases. The distribution was compared with some of the existing distributions in its category and it was observed that the distribution outperformed the existing distributions using secondary data. Therefore, it was concluded that Exponentiated Generalized Modified Weibull distribution can be adopted in modeling events involving distributions of its category.
Anosike, F.C., Benneth, I.C., Nkwocha, G.A., Prudent, O. I., Uwandu, A.C.
Extrusion cooking is a contemporary and sustainable approach in food industries used to produce a wide range of improved products such as ready to eat breakfast cereals, confectionary snack products, meat analogue, dairy products and pet food among others. During extrusion cooking, modification in the structure of raw materials occurs such as starch gelatinization, protein denaturation, destruction of anti-nutritional factors and microorganisms using cold or hot extrusion operating as single or twin screw design. Basically raw materials are fed into the extruder barrel and the screw(s) then convey the food down it. Further along the barrel, lesser flights restrict the volume and increase the resistance to movement of the food. As a result, it fills the barrel and the spaces between the screw flights and becomes compressed. As it moves along the barrel, the screw cooks the material into a semi-solid, plasticized mass. The food is then passed to the section of the barrel having the negligible flights, where pressure and shear force is further increased. Finally, it is forced through an opening die at the discharge end of the barrel. In comparison with other processing techniques it was reported that extrusion cooking has low cost of production with little energy consumption, high versatility and production output with minimum time and nutrient retention ability as well as bioavailability of bioactive compounds. The work intends to review from past studies the production of innovative, sustainable and diverse food products. The review highlights the mechanisms of operation of extruders, types of extruders, extrusion cooking ingredients, variables and extrusion cooking applications in food.
Anushree Sinha, Dr. G.L. Devnani, Dr. Manisha T Sharma
Synthetic Fibers are derived from the petrochemical route, which is an issue for the environment. Natural fibers are novel materials that are sustainable, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly options to be reinforced in various polymer matrices. Natural fibers have tremendous potential to replace synthetic fibers like glass, Aramid, etc., also they are giving a boost to the rural economy as they are waste material for the agricultural sector. A combination of high mechanical performances and plant-based origin, flax fibers are Flax is the key member in the family of traditional natural fibers. High volume of research articles and reviews targeted on the processing technologies and characteristics of flax-based sustainable composites in various diverse applications, along with semi- structural materials. This article compiles the recent developments in the processing and characterization of polymer composites reinforced by this novel fiber. The moisture absorption of flax fibres, as well as the poor interfacial adhesion between flax fibres and the matrix.
Ajay Singh Thakur, Ankita Yadav, Deepak koshti, Ramdarshan Parashar, Vaibhav Rajoriya, Yogesh Sharma
Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by cognitive decline, memory loss, and impaired daily functioning. Alzheimer's disease is commonly managed using cholinesterase inhibitors such as Galantamine Hydrochloride, which enhances cholinergic transmission in the brain by inhibiting acetylcholinesterase enzyme activity. The present study was aimed at the formulation and evaluation of Orodispersible Tablets (ODTs) of Galantamine Hydrochloride to improve patient compliance, particularly in geriatric patients who experience difficulty in swallowing conventional tablets. ODTs were prepared by direct compression method using suitable superdisintegrants and excipients. Pre-compression parameters such as angle of repose, bulk density, tapped density, Carr’s index, and Hausner ratio were evaluated to assess flow properties of the powder blend. Post-compression evaluation included hardness, thickness, weight variation, friability, disintegration time, wetting time, drug content, and in-vitro dissolution studies. All formulated batches complied with pharmacopoeial limits. The optimized batch showed acceptable mechanical strength, rapid disintegration, and satisfactory drug release profile. The results indicated that the developed Orodispersible Tablets of Galantamine Hydrochloride can provide rapid onset of action and improved patient convenience, making them a promising alternative to conventional dosage forms for the effective management of Alzheimer’s disease.
Agwu Kelechi Destiny, Irouke Vitalis Maduabuchi, Okoyeh Irving Izuchukwu
Multi-household compounds are common throughout urban Nigeria, where different households interact and use shared infrastructures, facilities, and public spaces. Although such buildings offer a crucial retreat for the rapidly expanding city-dwellers, they often become grim due to overcrowding, neglect by authorities, and minimal servicing—all leading to a housing shortage. Specifically, this paper investigates the value of residents’ feedback (as measured through post-occupancy evaluations, satisfaction surveys, and collective perceptions) as a governance mechanism to shape better housing quality and urban development. Based on consumer satisfaction theory and urban governance perspectives, the article builds a conceptual model that links resident experience to housing performance and policy change. Case studies from Enugu indicate how grievances related to common property resources, public services, and developer behaviour can shape adaptive governance, regulatory reform, and accountability of developers. The paper interprets housing satisfaction as a policy tool and claims that resident feedback must be formally incorporated into housing quality standards, monitoring, and enforcement. The contribution is to the dialogue between theory and practice—a scalable model of integrating resident voices into housing policy innovation. This will help create urban living that is responsive to citizen needs, enhance accountability, and build resilience in Nigeria's rapidly expanding urbanizing cities.
Ashok Kumar Mishra, Thakur Abhinav Amar
The evolution of supply chain management (SCM) is accelerating toward a human-centric, technology-driven paradigm - Supply Chain 5.0 shaped by artificial intelligence (AI), predictive analytics, and sustainability imperatives. This review synthesizes contemporary research across five key areas: future trends, innovation and analytics, omnichannel retailing, adaptive models, and AI-driven service ecosystems. ~~It explores how digital twins, blockchain, and big data enable predictive, resilient, and transparent networks, while IoT and automation redefine logistics and last-mile delivery. Adopting a systematic literature review methodology guided by the PRISMA framework, this study critically evaluates 49 peer-reviewed sources to explore how digital twins, blockchain, and big data enable predictive, resilient, and transparent networks, while IoT and automation redefine logistics and last-mile delivery. The paper further highlights the strategic role of generative AI in decision-making and personalization in hospitality and tourism. Critical challenges such as data privacy, workforce skills, and ethical AI governance are discussed, along with future research directions for interdisciplinary collaboration. A unified conceptual framework is proposed to integrate the five thematic areas, revealing that technological adoption alone is insufficient without corresponding investments in human capital and ethical governance. The findings underscore that next-generation supply chains must integrate technology, sustainability, human creativity, and adaptive intelligence to deliver competitive advantage and societal value in an increasingly complex and volatile global environment.
Dr. Wing Cheung TANG MCGI
This article provides an extensive review of peer-reviewed studies to explore the implementation, effectiveness, and broader implications of gamification within secondary education. It addresses the theoretical underpinnings, empirical findings, practical uses, and challenges encountered when applying gamification at this educational stage. The compiled research generally indicates positive effects on student motivation, engagement, and learning outcomes, with particularly notable benefits observed among at-risk groups, such as immigrant students and those with learning difficulties like dyslexia. Effect sizes reported vary from moderate to large; however, some studies show only partial improvements, suggesting that success depends on factors including the quality of implementation, contextual variables, and individual student characteristics. A recurring theme across multiple investigations highlights the central role of teachers in effective gamification adoption: although secondary educators acknowledge its potential advantages, they frequently cite constraints such as limited time, insufficient training, scarce resources, and lack of institutional support as significant hurdles. The review also uncovers notable gaps in the literature, especially regarding the systematic study of optimal session length and intensity. The article closes by offering evidence-based suggestions for researchers, practitioners, and policymakers, advocating for design-based research approaches that encourage collaboration between researchers and teachers, robust teacher professional development, and the creation of integrated pedagogical and technological frameworks to support enduring gamification practices in secondary school contexts.
Dr Aboubacar Jallow, Fatty, Fatou K, Prof. Liu Changhai
Gender equality in education is a central objective of global development agendas; however, persistent disparities continue to characterize participation in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), particularly at the tertiary level. While women’s access to higher education has improved globally, their representation in STEM disciplines remains disproportionately low, especially in developing countries. This study examines gender disparities in STEM education at the tertiary level in The Gambia, with a focus on identifying key barriers that limit female participation, retention, and success, as well as enablers that support women’s engagement in STEM fields. The study adopts a mixed-methods research design, integrating quantitative data from institutional enrollment records and student surveys with qualitative insights from semi structured interviews involving students, faculty members, and academic administrators. The findings reveal persistent gender gaps across STEM programs, particularly in engineering, information technology, and physical sciences. Major barriers include socio-cultural norms, financial constraints, limited access to female role models, gender-insensitive institutional environments, and psychological factors such as low self-efficacy. Conversely, targeted scholarships, mentorship programs, supportive family attitudes, and emerging gender-responsive policies emerge as critical enablers. The study contributes to the limited empirical literature on gender and STEM education in The Gambia and provides evidence-based recommendations for promoting gender equity in tertiary STEM education.
Abdelmajid Soulaymani, Hayate Koubri, Hinde Hami, Nazih El Kouartey
Each year, many people suffer medical errors or lose their lives due to unsafe and poor-quality care. Most of these occurrences could be prevented. To date, most research on health security has focused mainly on health services' security in hospitals and has paid little attention to the context of primary healthcare, which represents the main means of achieving sustainable universal health coverage. This study falls within this perspective. Descriptive exploratory study, based on documentary analysis of health security studies in the context of primary healthcare, questionnaires and interviews, conducted with 300 professionals from primary healthcare establishments, following proportional stratified sampling. The main results revealed that, generally, the culture of safety in primary healthcare is poorly developed or even absent. More than 53% of respondents consider that the security level of primary healthcare is low. In addition, over 65% are unaware of errors that occur in their primary healthcare establishments. 40% declare the absence of a process for collecting and reporting medical errors or adverse effects related to healthcare. More than 60% of respondents consider that factors related to working conditions, daily tasks and organizational factors have a strong influence on healthcare safety. It is essential to improve healthcare safety and quality, which is an issue of global importance, and to act on several factors to reduce the incidence of adverse effects of care.
Emmanuel C. Nnabuihe, Henry Okolie, Jane Mbadianya, Ndukwe O.Okorie, Obasi C,Chiamaka, Obidiebube A. Eucharia, Obinweke Stellamaris, Umeh A.Ogechukwu
Objective The objective of this study was to examine the parent-hybrid relationships in single pair wise F1 crosses between Ikom and Riverine bitter leaf cultivars in Awka, Southeastern Nigeria. Overview The experiment was conducted during the 2024 and 2025 cropping seasons at the Teaching and Research Farm, Faculty of Agriculture, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka. The one-way crosses involved Ikom x Ikom, Riverine x Riverine and Ikom x Riverine in a Pair-wise mating design which were replicated three times on a RCBD Experimental site. The leaves of the progenies were tested for phytochemical and proximate compositions at the Biotechnology Lab National Root Crop Research Institute Umuahia, Abia State. Results Evaluation at 5% degree level of significance showed that Ikom x Riverine (I1 x R1) hybrid progeny outperformed the Ikom x Ikom (I1 x I2), and Riverine x Riverine(R1 x R2) inbred lines in all the measured agronomic parameters showing high mid parent heterosis (MPH) estimate in plant height(65%), number of branches(73%), number of leaves (67%), measured leaf area(82%), stem girth(23%) and longest branch length(88%). Positive heterosis for fat (+60%), and vitamin C (+8.9%) showed nutritional superiority. Among the phytochemical parameters, the same hybrid progeny showed negative MPH in Alkaloids (-12%), Saponins (-20%) and Oxalates (-12%) which indicated better palatability and digestibility. Conclusion The Ikom x Riverine cross progeny high heterosis on agronomic and nutritional components makes it a high yielding and nutritious bitter leaf hybrid that is relatively less bitter and well situated for commercial production. Although F1 off springs are highly heterogeneous and tend to lose most of its desirable traits in further crosses, the progeny can conveniently be multiplied through cloning which retains most of these traits.
Adamugono Endurance, EKENO Precious Eroboghene, Nwachokor, Samuel Chukwuemeka, Opuh Jude Iwedike, ORUGBA Kenneth Obokparo, Oshiokpu Ijeoma Edith, OVILI Henry Peter
The speedy heterogeneous incorporation of AI technologies is intensely redesigning the dynamics of work athwart the Nigerian commercial sector, producing both significant economic chances and important labor market trials. This study examines the multipart interplay among AI adoption and human capital willingness in Nigeria, converging specifically on the identification of dangerous skill breaches, the assessment of existing corporate and general drill initiatives and the plan of net job formation against displacement. Retaining a mixed-methods tactic that comprises a quantitative review of 150 principal Nigerian corporations across finance, technology and manufacturing, added by qualitative investigation of government strategy and workforce interviews, the investigation divulges a significant shortage in high-demand technical capabilities like data engineering, machine learning upkeep and AI ethics. Outcomes signpost that while up to 25% of predictable administrative responsibilities face high automation jeopardy, the rate of new job formation hinges unfavorably on the speedy implementation of embattled, scalable reskilling plans. We clinch that overcoming this essential skill shortage through thoughtful outlay in tertiary education adjustment and robust private-public partnerships for endless vocational scholarship is obligatory for Nigeria to successfully influence the AI revolution for inclusive economic development and safeguard long-term workforce resilience.
Tefera Ephrem Markos
Channel estimation in reconfigurable intelligent surface (RIS)-aided unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) systems is severely hindered by high-dimensional cascaded channels, UAV-induced fast time variation, and the passive nature of RIS elements that precludes conventional pilot-based acquisition. This paper proposes a hybrid deep learning framework synergistically combining convolutional neural networks (CNN) for spatial feature extraction with bidirectional long short-term memory (BiLSTM) networks for temporal sequence modeling. The architecture hierarchically decomposes estimation into: CNNs extracting multipath spatial patterns from canonical K-path representations, then BiLSTMs modeling temporal evolution across sequential snapshots, effectively capturing spatial-temporal coupling in RIS-UAV propagation. We develop comprehensive methodology with DeepMIMO ray-tracing generation, K=10 path selection achieving >95% channel power capture, and systematic preprocessing. Extensive evaluation across SNR -10 to 30 dB demonstrates hybrid CNN-BiLSTM achieves NRMSE 0.018 at 30 dB (21.7% improvement over CNN, 33.3% over BiLSTM, 50-60% over LS/LMMSE/CS-OMP), correlation 0.989, SSIM 0.985, with 3.5M FLOPs and 2.0 ms inference on NVIDIA Tesla V100 enabling real-time operation within 5-10 ms UAV channel coherence time. This validates the hybrid approach as an enabling technology for next-generation 6G aerial communications requiring ultra-reliable, low-latency channel acquisition in highly dynamic three-dimensional environments.
Agnes A. Balinas, LPT, MAED-SPED AREA 1, Anthony B. Bongcales, LPT, MAED, Jeeve C. Bonjibon, LPT, MAED-SPED AREA 3, Megan Gaile A. Labao, LPT, MAED, Regine Phoelea Mae F. Del Carmen, LPT, MAED-SPED AREA 3, Welmark T. Bagus, LPT, MAED-TSS
Learners with disabilities (LWDs) continue to experience barriers to equitable education in mainstream classrooms due to teachers’ limited training, insufficient resources, and persistent social stigma. These conditions challenge the realization of inclusive education policies such as Republic Act 11650 in the Philippines. This study aimed to explore the lived experiences and inclusive practices of selected Junior High School teachers in shaping just, equitable, and democratic classrooms for learners with disabilities. Using a sequential exploratory mixed methods design, the study first employed qualitative interviews with eight purposively selected teachers, followed by the development and pilot testing of a quantitative instrument grounded in the qualitative themes. Thematic analysis and reliability testing (Cronbach’s α = 0.731) were conducted to ensure validity and internal consistency. Findings revealed that teachers foster inclusivity through collaboration, differentiated instruction, peer support, and reflective practice despite lacking formal training in special needs education. They encountered emotional and behavioral challenges but demonstrated patience, adaptability, and empathy in managing diversity. Dialogical learning and praxis emerged as central to cultivating students’ critical consciousness, while advocacy practices reinforced empathy, respect, and social responsibility among learners. The study confirmed that inclusive teaching is a transformative process shaped by teachers’ continuous reflection and emotional engagement. The study concludes that critical pedagogy effectively informs inclusive classroom practices by integrating reflection, dialogue, and action. Its implications emphasize the need for sustained professional development in inclusive education and stronger institutional support for teachers. Future research is recommended to expand the model across diverse school settings and to further validate the developed instrument through confirmatory factor analysis and large-scale implementation.
Obiekezie Theresa Nkechi, Udevi Boniface Achike
Geomagnetic Storms caused by perturbations of the Earth's magnetic field, induce currents within the Earth's crust. The induced currents yield measurable variations in geo-electric field at dip equatorial latitudes in West Africa. The induced effects of geomagnetic storms in the geo-electric field variations at dip equatorial latitudes in West Africa was studied using data obtained from ten West African geomagnetic and telluric electric field stations during the International Equatorial Electrojet Year (IEEY) between 1992 and 1994. Disturbance storm time (Dst) index value of less than -100nT were used to characterize the storm. The analysis was conducted using hourly mean values of the horizontal component (H), the magnetic declination (D) and vertical component of the geomagnetic field (Z) along with the north-south (Ex) and east- west (Ey) components of the geo-electric field obtained from 1992 and 1994 using telluric Field lines operated along the meridian chains of stations across the geomagnetic dip equator in West Africa. The results reveal that the magnitude of the geo-electric field responses due to geomagnetic storms varies depending on the observational station and the daytime enhancements in the telluric field noticeable between 08:00 hours Universal Time and 16:00 UT with slight increase near the dip equatorial stations.
Dr. Allan Q. Quismundo
This study investigates the instructional practices and their effectiveness correlates to institutional academic performance in selected Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in Metro Manila, focusing on administrators, faculty, and students in mechanical engineering programs. The research aims to assess current faculty instructional practices, professional profiles, and participation in training and development programs, as well as to determine how these factors relate to institutional academic outcomes. Data were collected through structured survey questionnaires and institutional records from 415 respondents across four HEIs Eulogio Amang Rodriguez Institute of Science and Technology, Polytechnic University of the Philippines, Rizal Technological University, and Technological University of the Philippines using a descriptive normative research design to provide both breadth and depth of analysis. The results indicate that faculty generally demonstrate adequate instructional practices and engagement in professional development, while administrators and students report varying perceptions regarding teaching effectiveness and institutional support. Descriptive analyses revealed that professional development participation, instructional strategies, and faculty qualifications are positively associated with student learning outcomes and program performance. Significant gaps were noted in the integration of innovative teaching technologies, interdisciplinary approaches, and curriculum enhancement initiatives. Correlation analyses further suggest a moderate to strong relationship between faculty instructional practices and institutional academic performance. Based on these findings, the study concludes that mechanical engineering programs in the selected HEIs exhibit competent faculty and structured instructional delivery; however, targeted interventions are needed to enhance faculty development, integrate advanced teaching technologies, and strengthen curriculum innovation. Implementing these strategies will improve teaching effectiveness, student learning outcomes, and overall institutional academic performance.
John Rommel J. Leop
This study aimed to examine the mean performance level, and the level of ambiguity that can be tolerated in the classroom, with a specific focus on the subject of mathematics. This study employed a quantitative research method, specifically a descriptive correlational research design. The study involved a sample size of 88 students, selected randomly from the pool of 722 grade 10 students at Camarines Norte National High School for the School Year 2022-2023. Data were collected on the students' mean performance level (MPL), level of tolerance (LoT), and underlying causes. Correlational research was employed to determine the presence and extent of any significant relationship between MPL and LoT. The results revealed that the mean MPL in mathematics of grade 10 student was Outstanding (x ̅=90.04) and the level of tolerance was Very High (x ̅=63.08). Furthermore, the causes for intolerance, specifically Novelty is High (x ̅=17.83), and for Complexity (x ̅=33.14) and Insolubility (x ̅=12.11) are both Moderate. The null hypothesis of no significant correlation between MPL and LoT was retained (p = 0.7687, α = 0.05), and the level of tolerance did not significantly predict MPL in the regression model. These findings suggest that, within this sample, students’ ambiguity tolerance and mathematics performance are independent of each other. Exposure to problem-based and inquiry-based learning approaches may have contributed to the students’ high ambiguity tolerance, though causal interpretations are beyond the scope of this correlational design.
Ogili Solomon Nnaedozie
Adaptive beamforming in Multiple-Input Multiple-Output (MIMO) systems is now an important technology in 5G and 6G networks because of the growing need of high-speed, steady, and energy-saving wireless communications. In this paper, an adaptive beamforming framework through Reinforcement Learning (RL) is proposed which uses a Deep Q-Network (DQN) to train the best beam selection policies with respect to channel state variables, such as Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR) and beam index. The model is trained on the 5G Adaptive Beamforming with SNR dataset and an ε-greedy exploration-exploitation strategy and experience replay are used to guarantee a steady convergence. The results of simulation and tests prove that the RL-based model has the significant benefit compared to the traditional approaches. Through the proposed approach, a mean throughput was 6.41bps/Hz, energy efficiency 3.54bits/Joule, and SINR 22.8dB, though both the MRT and ZF performed poorly. The model also demonstrated to be reliable in a range of SNR and remained the same in terms of learning behaviour as cumulative rewards were stabilised at the 250 training episodes. These results show that convergence of reinforcement learning and adaptive beamforming can be effectively used in dynamic MIMO to enhance spectral and energy efficiency. The proposed design offers a scalable and data-driven technology to the next-generation wireless networks and can be implemented to select intelligent beams that can modify to the varying channel conditions and maximises the overall network throughput and power usage.
A. Tewogbade, A.A. Alabi, A.D. Ojo, O. Ikotun, S.A. Adefemi
Mental disorders such as Bipolar Type-1, Bipolar Type-2, and Depression continue to affect millions of people worldwide, yet early and accurate diaganosis is challenging due to stigma, limited resources, and the subjectivity of self-reporting. Trying to bridge this gap, this project sought to develop a mental health diagnosis system that possesses the ability to classify individuals into Bipolar Type-1, Bipolar Type-2, Depression, or Normal states based on organized user input. Utilizing data acquired from an online repository, the system was designed with careful data cleaning, pre-processing, and class balancing using SMOTE for equal representation. Logistic Regression, Decision Tree, and Random Forest models were trained individually and then ensemble together using both hard and soft voting ensemble methods to obtain more stable predictions. The final ensemble model outperformed the individual models with accuracy up to 80%. This solution was deployed as a simple web app where users are able to answer a few guided questions and receive AI-generated feedback about their possible mental state instantly. The project demonstrates that the application of an ensemble of machine learning models will enhance early mental health screening and provide a supportive, accessible tool that will encourage individuals to seek professional help when needed.
Debashis Chakrabarti
Freudian psychoanalysis has long framed homosexuality as a developmental deviation rooted in libidinal conflict. Yet this account remains theoretically individualist and weakly coupled to social structure. I formalize Freudian logic as a constrained dynamical system that enforces a single normative attractor and show that such a system necessarily produces psychological crisis when social heterogeneity is present. I then develop a Marxian materialist dynamical model in which sexual orientation is an emergent state variable shaped by cultural recognition, political-economic security, ideological enforcement, and affective support. Stability analysis shows that non-repressive regimes admit multiple stable equilibria — including non-heteronormative ones — whereas regimes dominated by repression collapse to enforced singular equilibria associated with distress. The results corroborate sociological and public-health observations: pathology is a consequence of repression, not of same-sex desire. The paper places mathematical modelling squarely in the service of social theory and policy.
Flores M. Gabayoyo
This study was conducted to determine the level of mentoring and coaching practices, needs, and challenges encountered by school heads in the Schools Division of Guimaras, Province of Guimaras, Philippines during the School Year 2018-2019. The subjects of the study were the school heads in the entire province of Guimaras. They were equated according to school size, job performance, length of service, educational attainment and municipality. The study utilized the descriptive research design that determined the level of mentoring and coaching practices, needs, and challenges encountered by school heads. The statistical tools used were the frequency count, percentage, mean, Mann-Whitney U-test, Kruskall-Wallis H-test, and Spearman rho. The levels of significance for inferential statistics were set at 0.05 alpha. The findings of the study revealed that majority of the respondents were from small school size, outstanding in job performance, have long (21 years and above) length of service, bachelors degree with MA units, and from the municipality of Nueva Valencia. There is a very high level of mentoring and coaching practices of school heads when taken as a whole and when categorized according to school size, job performance, length of service, educational attainment, and municipality. There is a moderate level of mentoring and coaching needs among school heads when taken as a whole and when categorized according to school size, job performance, length of service, educational attainment, and municipality. There is a high level of mentoring and coaching challenges encountered by school heads when taken as a whole and when categorized according to school size, job performance, length of service, educational attainment, and municipality. There are no significant differences in the level of mentoring and coaching practices of school heads when categorized according to school size, job performance, length of service, educational attainment, and municipality. There are significant differences in the level of mentoring and coaching challenges encountered by school heads when categorized according to school size and length of service. However, there were no significant differences in the level of mentoring and coaching challenges encountered by school heads when categorized according to job performance, educational attainment, and municipality. There are no significant differences in the level of mentoring and coaching needs of school heads when categorized according to school size, job performance, length of service, educational attainment, and municipality. There are significant relationships in the level of mentoring and coaching practices and needs and mentoring and coaching challenges encountered and needs. There are no significant relationships in the level of mentoring and coaching practices and challenges encountered by the school heads.
Dr. Paulino V. Pioquinto, Dr. Rey Aranzado, Jennice M. Jumalon, Mr. Guilbert Mansueto, Ms. Karen Abegail Cuizon
The primary objective of this study was to explore and understand the lived experiences of neophyte patrolwomen serving as Tactical Police Non-Commissioned Officers at Police Regional Training Center 7 (PRTC 7), with particular emphasis on how they perform their roles as molders of future public servants within a disciplined institutional setting. This study employed a phenomenological–transcendental research design to capture the distinct features of the informants’ lived experiences as neophyte trainers. Ten patrolwomen served as informants and were chosen through purposive sampling, as they satisfied the predetermined qualifications of the study. Of these, six participated in the Focus Group Discussion (FGD), while four took part in the In-Depth Interview (IDI). The research was conducted at Police Regional Training Center 7, Camp Jesse M. Robredo, Sitio Laray, Barangay Jugan, Consolacion, Cebu. The research instruments included an informed consent form, a transmittal letter, and a validated interview guide. This study was able to draw nine (9) emergent themes out from the significant statements of the informants. The positive experiences were encapsulated in the themes: Bastion of Transformation, Fruit of Dedicated Labor, and The Reciprocity of Knowledge and Growth. In contrast, the negative experiences of the informants were incorporated in the themes: Facing the Music of Scarcity and Pedagogical Challenges Amidst Resource Scarcity. On the other hand, the coping strategies revealed two (2) themes: Collaborative Resilience and Peer-Mediated Support Systems and Penny for a Thought. Lastly, the aspirations of the informants unravels two (2) themes: Education the Indomitable Force and The Catalyst for Transformative Instruction. This study recommends the enhancement of policing functions through the Basic Internal Security Operations Course (BISOC), the provision of inclusive access to role-specific training, and the improvement of classroom facilities to support optimal learning. It further advocates for the augmentation of training personnel, the promotion of psychological health and overall well-being of neophyte trainers, and greater emphasis on the role of mentorship in trainers’ professional growth. Moreover, the study underscores the importance of work–life balance in the professional lives of trainers and highlights the influence of technological adaptation on their performance and development.
Chinwe E. Okoli, Kennedy F. Chah, Nicholas N. Pilau
This study investigated the molecular characteristics, virulence gene profiles, phylogroup distribution, and genetic relatedness of Escherichia coli isolated from cattle carcasses and slaughterhouse environments in Abuja, Nigeria. A total of 540 swab samples were collected from processed carcasses and meat-contact surfaces, including butchers’ hands, knives, wheelbarrows, kill floors, washing water, and effluent, at a government-owned Gwagwalada slaughterhouse (n = 340) and a privately owned Dei-Dei slaughterhouse (n = 200). Standard microbiological methods were used for isolation and identification. Overall, 105 confirmed E. coli isolates were recovered, yielding a prevalence of 19.4% (18.5% in Gwagwalada and 21.0% in Dei-Dei). All isolates were screened by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for eight virulence-associated genes (eaeA, EAST, traT, hly, omp, bfp, stx, and cnf) and classified into phylogroups using the Clermont quadruplex PCR method. The most prevalent virulence genes were omp (96.4%), cnf (74.5%), and stx (72.7%). Phylogroup analysis revealed predominance of B1 (38.1%) and A (28.6%), while virulence-associated phylogroups B2 and D accounted for 21.9% of isolates. No statistically significant association was observed between virulence gene carriage and sample source (p > 0.05). Genetic relatedness assessed using the unweighted pair group method with arithmetic mean (UPGMA) clustering demonstrated five major clusters and one singleton at an 80% similarity threshold. Clusters comprised isolation from carcasses, knives, effluent, and washing water, indicating potential intra-facility cross-contamination and shared contamination routes. The coexistence of diverse phylogroups and high prevalence of Shiga toxin and necro toxigenic determinants underscores significant food safety and occupational health risks. These findings highlight slaughterhouses as critical convergence points for pathogen amplification within animal–human–environment interfaces. Strengthening hygiene enforcement, wastewater treatment, and routine molecular surveillance under a One Health framework is essential to mitigate zoonotic and foodborne transmission in Nigeria and similar settings.
Adebisi Esther Enochoghene, Yetunde Folasade Taiwo
National identity is often defined in terms of distinctive language, culture, and traditions. Elements in the environment should equally be used in this definition. Identifying and expressing ‘Nigerianness’ in terms of her unique natural heritage is a very important vital element in the sustainable use and development of the nation’s biodiversity. Nigeria is endowed with many endemic plants and animals due to the nation’s diverse ecosystems. The value of these unique species to global biodiversity requires special attention for their sustainability. Some vertebrates endemic to Nigeria were considered in this work in view of the various stages of the nation’s policy on environment. The aim is to accentuate the urgent need of closing the gap between policy makers and the local communities in making sustainable use of these important components of the environment. The Nigerian Policy on Environment was formed in 1988 and has gone through several levels of improvements in its implementation over the years. Nigeria is a signatory to several global policies on the environment, such as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) and Convention on Biodiversity. This level of commitment gives a globally accepted platform for the nation’s policies on the environment. The paper concludes by proposing the integration of the knowledge of the local community of the natural heritage into the nation’s educational policy, while laying more emphasis on awareness campaigns as provided in the National Policy on Environment. With this holistic approach of documenting Nigeria’s natural heritage by Nigerians, the nation will be reaping great benefits of conserving her unique natural heritage, which in turn will be added value to the world’s benefits from biodiversity.
Ginalyn B. Bacanto, RN, Joan P. Bacarisas, DM, MAN, RN
Effective nursing handoff communication and accurate documentation are essential for ensuring safe and continuous patient care in hospital settings. Despite their importance, limited local studies have examined the relationship between these two practices among nurses in DOH-retained hospitals. This quantitative study employed a descriptive–correlational research design to determine the level of nursing handoff communication and nursing documentation practices and to examine their relationship among nurses in a DOH-retained Level 2 hospital. Data were collected from 205 nurses using adopted standardized questionnaires on nursing handoff communication and nursing documentation practices. Findings revealed that nursing handoff communication was rated at a very high level across its dimensions, while nursing documentation practice was generally good. Profile variables were not significantly related to documentation practice, while current position and work schedule showed significant associations with handoff communication. A significant positive relationship was also found between nursing handoff communication and nursing documentation practices. The study concludes that effective handoff communication supports stronger documentation practices, contributing to continuity of care and patient safety. Strengthening structured communication and reinforcing standardized documentation practices are recommended to sustain quality nursing care in hospital settings.
Alamu, E.A, Asieba, L.N, Ogunmoyela, O.B
Ukpo-oka, a type of maize-based pudding, has similarities to moi-moi, a steamed bean pudding. Typically, deficient in protein content, ukpo-oka is often consumed without any additional protein sources. The prevalence of nutritional deficiencies can be linked to the excessive reliance on single food items, resulting in monotonous diets. Cereals like maize are notably insufficient in protein, vitamins, and minerals. This study investigated the nutritional properties as well as the sensory evaluation of enriched ukpo-oka produced from an optimized maize-pigeon pea flour blend. An i-optimal mixture design within the framework of response surface methodology was employed for the optimization. The predictive models gave an optimal maize-pigeon pea blend of 54.3% maize and 45.7% pigeon pea with a desirability factor of 0.605.Proximate analysis of the enriched pudding revealed 36.2%, 13.49%, 10.35%, 2.93%, 3.86%, and 33.17% for moisture, protein, fat, crude fibre, ash, and carbohydrate respectively with an energy value of 408.79 ± 0.13 kcal. Mineral analysis on the enriched pudding showed improved levels of iron, zinc, potassium, calcium, and magnesium which were 6.42 mg/100 g, 3.13 mg/100 g, 136.28 mg/100 g, 52.68 mg/100 g and 74.85 mg/100 g respectively. The essential amino acids: leucine, lysine, phenylalanine, tryptophan, valine, methionine, histidine, isoleucine, and threonine levels were 7.3 g/100 g, 4.46 g/100 g, 3.96 g/100 g, 1.29 g/100 g, 3.51 g/100 g, 1.25 g/100 g, 2.35 g/100 g, 4.03 g/100 g and 3.25 g/100 g respectively for the enriched pudding. Sensory evaluation revealed that 100% maize pudding (control) was preferred than the enriched pudding across all attributes analysed. Overall, the results showed that the enriched ukpo-oka had better nutritional profiles than the 100% maize pudding. However, because of the high pigeon pea content in the optimized flour blend, the sensory study revealed that it was significantly different (p ≤ 0.05) from the traditionally known ukpo-oka. Nevertheless, this resulting pudding offers a wholesome and promising solution for promoting dietary diversification and contributing to nutrition security.
Nnadi Kingsley Ifeanyi, Oleka Chioma Violet
The fast development of autonomous aerial systems has given the focus on the necessity of intelligent navigation methods that would be able to operate in complex, dynamic, and unstructured environments. This paper is dedicated to the optimization of Deep Reinforcement Learning (DRL) with the usage of Computer Vision (CV) in autonomous drone navigation with the focus on the simulation-based testing of the model performance before its practical application.. The study has followed a simulation-based approach with a combination of Proximal Policy Optimization (PPO) of reinforcement learning and computer vision models of convolutional neural networks (ResNet50 and YOLOv5). The simulation environment is a recreation of diverse scenarios such as indoor, urban, forested and open field scenarios. It has 500 flight episodes, in which the performance of the UAV is measured with the key metrics including rate of reaching target, number of collisions, total rewards, navigation accuracy, convergence rate of DRL algorithms, and power consumption. The most important results show that the integrated DRA-CV model reached a target-reaching success rate of 96 percent and also had an average number of collisions in the form of 1.33 per episode. PPO algorithm performed better than DQN, A3C and SAC in terms of convergence, and optimal policies were obtained on an average of 177.5 episodes. CNN-based visual perception was able to identify obstacles with 94 percent accuracy of the obstacle with a low rate of false positive (3 percent) and false negative (2 percent) to navigate a dynamic environment safely. The average cumulative reward was 1847 units and the energy consumption was optimised to 1184.7 Joules which proved to be an efficient use of resources..
Alumuku L., Iortile J.T.
Dioscorea rotundata, is a staple food crop in many tropical regions. Despite its importance, the crop is highly perishable, leading to significant post-harvest losses. This review aims to provide an overview of the effects of X-irradiation on the microbial load, nutritional quality, and shelf life of Dioscorea rotundata. A key finding of this review is the relationship between X-irradiation and the physical properties of Dioscorea rotundata. Notably, a consistent inverse relationship is observed between attenuation and thickness across the tubers, indicating that as the thickness of the tuber increases, attenuation decreases. Conversely, attenuation is found to increase with density. This understanding is important for optimizing the X-irradiation process to achieve the desired preservation effects. Furthermore, the application of X-irradiation has been shown from current findings to have a profound impact on the preservation of Dioscorea rotundata. It is noted that all variants of the crop experience a reduction in both sprouting and rot as the absorbed doses of irradiation increase. Several findings suggest that X-irradiation can be an effective method for extending the shelf life of Dioscorea rotundata and has also shown to significantly diminish the microbial colony count in Dioscorea rotundata, with a reduction of approximately 90% following X-irradiation. The substantial decrease in microbial load contributes to the extended shelf life and improved food safety of the crop. By reducing the microbial load, X-irradiation holds promise to minimize the risk of spoilage and contamination, leading to a reduction in post-harvest losses. Overall, this review highlights the potential of X-irradiation as a preservation technique for Dioscorea rotundata, offering a promising solution to reduce post-harvest losses and improve food security.
Eghe Amenze Oyedoh, Justina Oduwa Okhonmina, Kessington Obahiagbon
This study is aimed at optimizing biodiesel production from palm kernel oil (PKO), using heterogeneous catalyst made from carbide slag and termite hill clay. The precursors (carbide slag and termite hill clay) were prepared and characterized. The composite catalyst was doped with Zn(NO3)2 by wet impregnation method. The PKO was characterized to obtain its different properties. Design of Experiments (DOE) was systematically used to study the effects of different variables on biodiesel yield and to ascertain the ideal conditions for optimum yield. The modelling was limited to RSM, using Box-Behnken design. The PKO’s acid value, saponification value, average molecular weight, density, viscosity, moisture content, iodine value and peroxide value were obtained as 7.34 mgKOH/g oil, 234.18 mgKOH/g oil, 741.93 g/mol, 0.901 g/cm3, 4.7 mPa.s, 1.09%, 18.7 mg I2/100g oil and 16.2 mEq/kg respectively. The XRF results showed that the carbide slag contained 89.763% CaO, 4.036 % SiO2, 3.880 % Al2O3, etc., while the THC contained 46.924% SiO2, 24.144% Al2O3, 20.619 % Fe2O3, etc. The composite contained the required oxides for carrying out esterification and transesterification process simultaneously. The yield was observed to be significantly impacted by all the factors. RSM numerical optimization gave an optimum yield of 98.22% at 66.95 oC, 94.04 minutes, 11.98:1 alcohol/oil ratio, and 2.39 wt% catalyst loading. There was an overall reduction of 28.4% in yield between the first and sixth reactions, for the catalyst reusability studies, which catalysed six different reactions. The produced biodiesel was characterized and the properties were found to be in agreement with the ASTM D6571 and EN 14214 standards.
Azubuike John Chuku, Daniel Tamunodukobipi Iduabia
This study presents a parametric sensitivity analysis of ship manoeuvring performance using Planar Motion Mechanism (PMM)-derived hydrodynamic coefficients. A three-degree-of-freedom horizontal-plane model was developed to compute turning radius, tactical diameter, advance, sway velocity, yaw rate, and hydrodynamic forces. Systematic variations in vessel length (50–300 m), PMM oscillation amplitude (0.1–2 m), oscillation frequency (0.01–0.2 Hz), and forward speed (2–18 m/s) were implemented to evaluate their influence on manoeuvring metrics. Results indicate that turning radius and tactical diameter scale proportionally with vessel length, while sway forces and yaw moments increase with oscillation amplitude, frequency, and forward speed. The study provides quantitative relationships and engineering insights, facilitating improved PMM experiment design, accurate manoeuvring prediction, and optimisation of ship handling characteristics for both preliminary design and operational assessment.
Joan P. Bacarisas, Odette M. Mantilla
Whistleblowing plays a critical role in ensuring ethical standards and patient safety within healthcare institutions. Nurses, being frontline providers, are in a vital position to report unethical behavior; however, their willingness to whistleblow is influenced by the prevailing ethical climate in the workplace. Despite increasing awareness of ethical concerns in nursing practice, limited studies in the Philippine context, particularly in government hospital settings, have investigated the relationship between nurses’ perceptions of whistleblowing and the ethical climate. This study aimed to determine the relationship between the nurses’ demographic profile, their perception of whistleblowing, and the ethical climate in a government hospital. A quantitative descriptive-correlational design was utilized. Total enumeration sampling was employed, involving 151 staff nurses who met the inclusion criteria. Data were collected using two standardized instruments: the Whistleblowing Questionnaire adapted from Park et al. (2020) and the Ethical Climate Questionnaire adapted from Victor and Cullen (1988). Descriptive statistics summarized the levels of whistleblowing and ethical climate, while Pearson’s r and Chi-square tests assessed relationships among variables. Results revealed that nurses perceived a high level of both whistleblowing and ethical climate. Significant relationships were found between area of assignment and both variables. A moderate positive correlation was observed between whistleblowing perception and ethical climate. These findings affirm the relevance of the Theory of Planned Behavior and Ethical Climate Theory in understanding nurses’ ethical actions. To address these insights, a Whistleblowing and Ethical Climate Enhancement Plan was proposed.
Dr. {Prof.} Amit Kataria, Dr.Vikash Kaushik
Background Mild diarrhea remains one of the most prevalent pediatric conditions worldwide and is associated with significant physiological alterations despite minimal systemic manifestations. Children are particularly vulnerable due to immature digestive mechanisms, higher total body water content, and reduced physiological reserve. In Ayurveda, diarrhea is described under Atisara, primarily resulting from Agnimandya (impaired digestive fire) and Dosha vitiation, particularly Vata and Pitta. The present paper aims to explore the physiological changes occurring in mild diarrhea in children from both Ayurvedic and modern scientific perspectives and to analyze the mechanistic role of Bilvadi Kwatha and Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS). Objective To systematically analyze and correlate the internal physiological changes occurring in mild pediatric diarrhea as per Ayurvedic classical concepts and contemporary biomedical science, and to elucidate the pharmacophysiological mechanisms of Bilvadi Kwatha {Divitya} and ORS in its management. Methods A comprehensive conceptual review was conducted based on classical Ayurvedic texts including Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, Ashtanga Hridaya, and Kashyapa Samhita, along with modern pediatric and gastrointestinal physiology literature. Ayurvedic principles such as Agnimandya, Aama formation, Dosha prakopa, Rasa Kshaya, and Ojas involvement were analyzed and correlated with modern mechanisms including intestinal hypersecretion, increased motility, malabsorption, electrolyte imbalance, and immune activation. The pharmacodynamic properties of Bilvadi Kwatha{Divitya} and the molecular mechanism of ORS were reviewed comparatively. Results Mild diarrhea in children represents an early but significant disturbance of gastrointestinal and systemic physiology. Ayurvedically, the condition originates from Agnimandya, leading to Aama formation and Vata-Pitta aggravation, resulting in increased intestinal motility (Vata) and secretion (Pitta), ultimately causing Mala Atipravritti. Early depletion of Rasa Dhatu corresponds to mild dehydration. From a modern perspective, enterotoxin-mediated activation of adenylate cyclase increases cAMP, stimulating chloride secretion via CFTR channels, while inflammatory mediators enhance intestinal motility and impair absorption. Children are especially susceptible due to high fluid turnover and immature renal compensation. Bilvadi Kwatha acts through Deepana, Pachana, Grahi, and Dosha Shamana mechanisms, restoring Agni, reducing secretion, improving absorption, and controlling motility. Modern pharmacological evidence suggests anti-secretory, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and mucosal protective effects. ORS functions via sodium-glucose co-transport (SGLT-1), facilitating effective rehydration even during ongoing diarrhea and correcting electrolyte imbalance. Conclusion Mild diarrhea in children involves complex yet reversible physiological changes affecting digestion, secretion, motility, fluid balance, and immunity. Ayurvedic concepts of Agnimandya, Dosha Prakopa, and Rasa Kshaya show strong correlation with modern gastrointestinal physiology. The combined administration of Bilvadi Kwatha {Divitya}and ORS offers a rational integrative therapeutic approach addressing both pathogenesis and fluid-electrolyte imbalance, thereby preserving Bala and preventing progression to severe dehydration. This integrative understanding supports evidence-based incorporation of Ayurvedic formulations in pediatric diarrheal management.
Dr. Pratima Upadhyay, Thakor BhargaviBen Balvantsinh
The number and sophistication of cyberattacks have dramatically expanded due to the quick development of digital technology, cloud computing, and Internet of Things (IoT) devices. Conventional intrusion detection systems are ineffective against zero-day and dynamic threats since they primarily rely on predetermined signatures and criteria. By examining both previous and current data, predictive threat intelligence (PTI) aims to foresee cyberattacks before they happen. Intelligent methods for extracting hidden patterns from massive network traffic are offered by machine learning (ML). Using the UNSW NB15 dataset, this study suggests a predictive threat intelligence system based on machine learning. A number of supervised learning methods are used and assessed, such as Random Forest, Artificial Neural Networks, Support Vector Machine, Logistic Regression, and EnXGBoost. According to experimental results, EnXGBoost performs the best, achieving an accuracy of 93.5% for multi-class classification and 98.7% for binary classification. In contemporary networks, the suggested approach facilitates real-time deployment, lowers false alarms, and improves proactive security.
Dr. Shailendra Kumar Singh
The Indian food heritage is said to be a rich body of knowledge encompassing nutrition, ethics, sustainability, spirituality, and social equity. The contemporary hospitality education in India is largely influenced by Western culinary practices, which push the local food culture and service delivery systems out of the mainstream. This is a review-based research that examines the relevance of Sattvik food and traditional Indian food service models based on the Bhagavad Gita, Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS), and the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. The paper provides an argument on why the curriculum should be reformed to safeguard and implement Indian food heritage in hospitality education by analyzing the classical texts, policy papers and the existing literature in the field of hospitality education. The research has presented instructional practices, curricular reforms, and institutional approaches with a specific focus on educational, cultural, and industry-related outcomes. The findings show that the Indian food heritage inclusion is not only a culturally significant issue but also a practical and industry-specific task, given the current directions of the global wellness and sustainable hospitality segment.
Ameh, J.A, Enefe, N.G, Enem, S.I., Nafarnda, W.D., Okeke, O.C.
This study accessed the prevalence and molecular characteristics of antibiotic-resistant Escherichia coli O157:H7 in humans and poultry within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nigeria. A total prevalence of 9% was observed in humans, with 7.5% in Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps and 10.5% in hospitals, while poultry showed a prevalence of 0.8%. The isolates exhibited multiple antibiotic resistance, with 100% resistance to oxytetracycline in both human and poultry samples. Extended-Spectrum Beta-Lactamase (ESBL) enzymes were detected, and virulent genes including rfbE, eaeA, stx1, and stx2 were identified. Phylogenetic analysis revealed close genetic relationships between human and poultry isolates, suggesting possible cross-transmission and zoonotic potential. These findings highlight the urgent need for judicious antibiotic use, regular surveillance, and molecular monitoring to guide antimicrobial therapy and prevent outbreaks. The study underscores the importance of adopting a One Health approach to address antimicrobial resistance and safeguard public health.
Jeanda T. Tarre, Joan P. Bacarisas
This study aimed to assess whether the profile of pediatric nurses predicted their clinical cultural competence in a government hospital in Surigao City. A quantitative descriptive-correlational-predictive design was employed. The study utilized a total enumeration sampling design, wherein all 112 registered nurses who met the inclusion criteria and were affiliated with the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, Pediatric Ward, and Pediatric Respiratory Unit were included as respondents. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire adapted from the Campinha-Bacote Model of Cultural Competence, measuring cultural awareness, knowledge, skills, encounters, and desire. Descriptive statistics summarized the profile and competence levels, while regression analysis examined the predictive relationship between nurse characteristics and cultural competence. Findings revealed that the respondents demonstrated very high levels of clinical cultural competence across all domains, with cultural awareness being the highest. Regression analysis showed that age, civil status, current area of assignment, and frequency of caring for patients from diverse cultures significantly predicted cultural competence. Other variables, including sex, educational attainment, years of experience, and employment status, were not significant predictors. Although the pediatric nurses exhibited high overall competence, certain demographic and experiential factors influenced their cultural competence. The results highlight the need for targeted interventions to strengthen cultural responsiveness. Based on the findings, a Clinical Cultural Competence Enhancement Plan was proposed to guide hospital-based initiatives aimed at improving culturally sensitive pediatric care.
Dr. Arlyn C. Tabinas, Dr. Christopher B. Dacer
This study investigated the social communication skills of fishmongers in Mercedes, Camarines Norte, and assessed the effectiveness of a structured intervention aimed at enhancing their verbal, non-verbal, and collaborative abilities. Given the vital role of communication in customer engagement, business success, and economic resilience, the study sought to identify existing skill gaps and implement a learning program tailored to the fishmongers' needs. Descriptive design was used, integrating both quantitative and qualitative data collected through surveys, a Social Skills Self-Assessment, a Training Needs Assessment (TNA), and Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) with 32 small-scale fish vendors. The intervention featured seminar-workshops focused on active listening, understanding social cues, and building effective teamwork. Pre- and post-training assessments were used to evaluate changes in participants’ social communication skills. Findings showed that most fishmongers had limited formal education, and training, yet demonstrated a strong desire to improve their communication abilities. Post-intervention results indicated notable improvements in verbal fluency, non-verbal responsiveness, and collaborative behaviors, which translated into enhanced customer satisfaction, increased confidence in conflict resolution, and improved sales outcomes. The study concluded that strengthening the social communication skills of fishmongers fostered individual empowerment and contributed to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those related to quality education (SDG 4) and decent work and economic growth (SDG 8). It was recommended that continued implementation of such community-based interventions and greater policy support to promote sustainable livelihood opportunities within the local fishing sector. Tabinas, A.C. (2025). Project Fintastic: An Intervention on Social Skills for Fishmongers. (Unpublished Dissertation). Central Bicol State University of Agriculture-Pili.Christopher B. Dacer
Joan P. Bacarisas, DM, MAN, RN, Sherry Mae Y. Santillana., RN
This study utilized a quantitative descriptive–correlational research design to determine the levels of psychological empowerment, structural empowerment, and personal initiative among nurses in a Level 2 government hospital, and to examine the relationships among these variables. Data were gathered from nurse-respondents using standardized adopted questionnaires measuring psychological empowerment, structural empowerment, and personal initiative. Descriptive statistics were used to determine the levels of the variables, while Pearson r correlation was employed to test the significance of relationships. Findings revealed that nurses demonstrated very high levels of psychological empowerment, structural empowerment, and personal initiative. Further analysis showed significant positive relationships between psychological empowerment and personal initiative, and between structural empowerment and personal initiative. These results indicate that nurses who experience stronger empowerment, both internally and organizationally, tend to exhibit higher levels of proactive and self-starting behaviors at work. The study concludes that empowerment plays an important role in promoting personal initiative among nurses. Strengthening both psychological and structural empowerment may help sustain proactive nursing behaviors and improve organizational outcomes. A Professional Empowerment and Initiative Enhancement Blueprint was proposed to support empowerment-based nursing management practices.
Ibrahim A. M, Lawal Y. S, Machina M. A., Machina M.M
Following the World Bank’s recommendation, the Federal Public Procurement Act was enacted in Nigeria in 2007 to ensure transparency, competition, and value for money in the procurement of goods, works, and services, with all states mandated to adopt a local model. In 2016, Yobe State implemented the Yobe State Public Procurement Law to achieve these goals. This study examines the implementation and compliance of the Yobe State law, utilizing structured questionnaires from 160 stakeholders selected through a purposive, maximum variation sampling approach. The participants included 40 procurement officers, 40 accounting officers, 50 contractors, 15 civil society organization officials, and 15 staff of the Yobe State Bureau for Public Procurement. Analysis of field data on five key procurement drivers, showing strong internal consistency (Cronbach’s α = 0.864), revealed an overall weighted mean score of 2.31 on a 4-point Likert scale, indicating widespread dissatisfaction with the law’s implementation and compliance. The study concludes that the law is not currently achieving its desired goals and recommends, among others, establishing a statutory commission comprising judges, prosecutors, and engineers, with full authority to prosecute and try violators.
Dr. Sreena K., Reshma Balakrishnan PV
This paper offers a comparative study of Han Kang’s The Vegetarian and C.S. Lakshmi’s (Ambai’s)A Kitchen in the Corner of the House, two seminal works that echo women’s bodies and autonomy in acts of resistance within patriarchal societies. Although they both emerge from different cultural contexts-the Korean and the Indian-the underlying core in terms of women’s questionings on everyday violence, expectations, and silencing would speak to each other. The Vegetarian depicts Yeong-hye’s radical refusal of meat as symbolic rebellion against bodily control, showing how women’s agency is pathologized and punished. While Ambai’s stories centre on domesticity, particularly kitchens, to reveal how the woman negotiates identity, creativity, and desire within crippling family structures. The present paper makes an attempt through feminist literary analyses as to how symbolism, narrative fragmentation, and embodied metaphors are used to represent the struggle for selfhood of women in both works The study concludes that both texts expand the discourse on feminist consciousness by portraying the kitchen and the body as contested terrains shaped by social control yet capable of profound transformation.
Dr. Alemar D. Betito, Dr. Jay A. Sario, Dr. Maria Rosario F. Briones
This study examined the influence of responsible leadership and digital transformation capability on sustainability performance in business organizations and higher education institutions. Specifically, it determined the levels of responsible leadership, digital transformation capability, and sustainability performance; tested the significant relationships among these variables; examined the mediating role of digital transformation capability; and identified whether significant differences existed when institutions were grouped according to sector. Using a quantitative, explanatory-correlational, cross-sectional survey design, data were collected from 400 respondents, composed of 200 participants from business organizations and 200 participants from higher education institutions. The data were analyzed using weighted mean, standard deviation, Pearson product–moment correlation, independent samples t-test, and structural equation modeling for mediation analysis. The findings revealed that responsible leadership, digital transformation capability, and sustainability performance were all manifested at a high level. The results further showed that responsible leadership had a significant positive relationship with digital transformation capability and sustainability performance, while digital transformation capability was also significantly and positively related to sustainability performance. Mediation analysis confirmed that digital transformation capability partially mediated the relationship between responsible leadership and sustainability performance. Comparative analysis revealed no significant sectoral difference in responsible leadership and sustainability performance, but a significant difference was found in digital transformation capability, with business organizations demonstrating relatively stronger digital readiness than higher education institutions. The study concludes that responsible leadership serves as a foundational organizational driver, while digital transformation capability functions as an enabling mechanism that strengthens sustainability performance across both sectors. The findings provide empirical support for an integrated framework linking leadership, digital capability, and sustainable institutional outcomes.
Precious Bernadette DM Estrada, Roilingel P. Calilung
The study revisits the Religare student leadership program of the University of the Assumption, examining its historical themes from Academic Years 2005–2006 to 2019–2020 to guide in the development of a leadership training design. Using secondary data from souvenir programs and accomplishment reports of UACSC presidents, the study employed thematic analysis to identify recurring leadership concepts, values, and competencies embedded in program implementation. Findings revealed a progression from foundational leadership and team-building activities to values-driven, servant-oriented, and globally conscious leadership themes. The analysis further highlighted implicit alignments with Astin’s Theory of Student Involvement, Kouzes and Posner’s Leadership Challenge, and Greenleaf’s Servant Leadership Theory, demonstrating the program’s potential for systematic leadership formation. Based on these insights, a structured and scaffolded leadership training design is proposed, integrating experiential learning, behavioral competencies, and values-based development to enhance student leadership across multiple levels.
Dr. Jeffrey B. Villena, Mr. Jason Robert P. Santos, Mr. Marvin Lhenard B. Alunan
This study examined the relationship between reward and recognition practices and job satisfaction among managers, supervisors, and staff in selected casual dining establishments in Metro Manila. It analyzed how recognition systems, perceived fairness of rewards, supervisory support, and workplace conditions influence employee satisfaction while identifying key workplace challenges. A mixed-methods design was employed, integrating survey data from 90 respondents (15 managers, 15 supervisors, and 60 staff) with semi-structured interviews. Results indicate that reward and recognition practices are generally highly implemented, particularly in terms of timely acknowledgment, consistent feedback, and equitable access to rewards. Job satisfaction was also rated highly, with employees emphasizing positive workplace relationships, meaningful roles, and supportive supervision. Statistical analysis revealed a moderate, significant relationship between reward and recognition practices and job satisfaction (r = 0.507, p < .001). However, the strength of this relationship suggests that additional factors such as interpersonal dynamics and organizational culture also play a substantial role. The findings underscore the need to strengthen performance-based rewards, improve consistency in recognition practices, expand non-monetary incentives, and enhance supervisory support. These strategies may improve employee satisfaction, service quality, and long-term sustainability in the hospitality sector.
Carl Vincent B. Cowas, James L. Paglinawan, Raul Orongan
This study investigated the relationship between school-based management, instructional styles, and teachers' productivity in the Damulog North and South Districts during the 2023-2024 school year. It assessed teachers' attitudes towards school-based management and examined various instructional styles: authority, facilitator, delegator, hybrid, and demonstrator. The research described teachers' productivity in the teaching-learning process, student outcomes, and professional growth, exploring correlations with the independent variables. Data were collected from 203 public school teachers via surveys, revealing that teachers demonstrated a high level of agreement toward school-based management and instructional styles, with generally high productivity reported, particularly in student outcomes. Satisfactory ratings were noted in the teaching-learning process and professional growth. Significant relationships were found between school-based management, instructional styles, and productivity, with teachers’ attitudes towards implementation and the five instructional style components correlating with productivity. Regression analysis identified demonstrator, teachers’ attitudes, and authority as significant predictors of productivity, while delegator was not found to be statistically significant.
Nancy, Shubham
Communication gap between the deaf and hearing communities remains an important obstacle to social integration. Recent advances in artificial intelligence, in particular, in the fields of deep learning and computer vision, have also provided the prospect of truly radical assistive technologies that could translate sign language gestures to readable text or spoken audio in real time. The current study introduces a novel system of real-time sign language interpretation, which integrates the multi-modal gesture recognition, flexible deep neural networks, and context-based translation schemes to support effective and natural user interactions. The system that was developed uses the convolutional and recurrent neural network architectures to process the spatial and temporal properties of signing gestures. A dedicated set of movements of the Indian Sign language (ISL) was created based on MediaPipe Holistic and OpenCV to obtain the hand, face, and body keypoints and to be trained comprehensively with the help of the TensorFlow workflows. The model is optimized to the minimal-latency processing which ensures fluid real-time interpretation on devices with limited processing power. Besides making progress in the technical aspects of instantaneous gesture recognition, this research will provide a solution to an im- portant social need; that of allowing people with new auditory or speech disabilities to communicate easily and independently. The system has a high recognition accuracy, adaptability to different illumination and environmental conditions, and sequential sign pattern expansion. Also, the architecture offers a platform upon which new features, including gesture- to-voice translation, cross- linguistic understanding, and portability or mobile compatibility will be built. By integrating technology enhancement with the human-centered design concepts, this study provides a scaling, efficient, and holistic solution that enhances the level of access and facilitates the equity of communication across all the societal groups.
Denia Feliciano Tanas
Frequent brownouts in rural schools disrupt learning and compromise safety. At PACDA Elementary School in Benguet, a 5 kWp hybrid solar photovoltaic (PV) system was installed, consisting of 20 panels rated at 250 W each and a 10-kWh lithium-ion battery bank, producing an average of 20 kWh per day. This study examined its feasibility, sustainability, and broader impact on education and safety. Using a mixed-methods approach, data were collected from teachers, learners, and community stakeholders to evaluate outcomes. Statistical analysis confirmed significant improvements: classroom disruptions decreased by 80% (t(49) = 9.82, p < 0.001), student engagement rose by 65% (t(49) = 7.45, p < 0.001), and homework completion increased by 60%. Safety outcomes also improved, with nighttime accidents reduced by 80% (t(39) = 6.45, p < 0.001) and vandalism incidents declining by 75%. Qualitative findings highlighted strong community involvement, with parents and leaders actively maintaining the system and supporting renewable energy adoption. Beyond technical advantages, the project cultivated environmental awareness, promoted sustainable practices, and encouraged active participation, positioning PACDA Elementary as a pioneering model for sustainable rural education. These results underscore the critical role of renewable energy in bridging educational gaps, ensuring safety in resource-constrained settings, and inspiring replication in similar communities. The study contributes meaningfully to the discourse on sustainable school innovations, demonstrating solar energy as a practical and transformative solution aligned with DepEd electrification goals and the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.
Dr. T. Anuradha, Sakshi Siva Ramakrishna
The availability of data can be a concern in recommender systems which is one of the main reasons that contribute towards prediction accuracy, model stability and personalization issue. User–item interaction matrices obtained from real-world deployments are often sparse with high percent sparsity, leading to inaccurate similarity calculation. This situation results in under-determined latent factor learning and high generalization error. Since their inception as recommendation models, these systems evolved rapidly with data availability. But getting complete user-item interaction data is practically not possible. To deal with the sparsity issue, a lot of work is done in the field of recommendation systems. In this paper, we provide an organized analytic synthesis of algorithmic methods suggested to tackle problems generated by sparsity. It covers a comparative study across collaborative filtering, matrix factorization improvements, deep learning architectures, and hybrid multi-modal systems. Real-world evidence suggests that traditional collaborative filtering becomes less effective in highly sparser regimes, while deep learning and hybrid approaches perform significantly better under extreme sparsity and cold-start conditions.
Ashwini Mulik, Ayyan Gharade, Nikhil Pawar, Rahul Jadhav, Yogiraj Shinde
Stock EST helps people learn about investing through simulated trading using artificial intelligence. Real-time stock information flows into the platform, making each session feel alive and current. Instead of guessing, users see patterns clearly thanks to dynamic charts that respond instantly. Learning happens naturally when guidance appears just before confusion sets in. Built with modern web frameworks, it runs smoothly even during intense market shifts. Risk-free practice allows beginners to explore choices freely, building confidence slowly. Behind the scenes, smart algorithms adjust support based on how someone interacts. Clarity comes not from overload but from well-timed insights delivered quietly. Experience grows not by lecture but by doing - again and again. Accuracy stays high because live data feeds never lag behind reality. Users try trading with fake money on this tool, see how their investments do over time while charts show what is happening in markets. A smart chat helper explains money topics, points out trends someone might miss. Tests ran on it showed smooth navigation, quick number crunching, conversations feel natural
Ann Maria Paul, Anna Rose Baiju, Anupama K J, Chesna Johnson, Ierin Babu
Polypharmacy, the simultaneous use of multiple medications, significantly increases the risk of adverse Drug-Drug Interactions (DDIs), posing serious challenges to patient safety and healthcare systems. Traditional DDI detection methods are often binary and lack clinical interpretability, failing to provide actionable risk assessments for healthcare professionals. This survey comprehensively reviews computational approaches for DDI prediction, with a focus on Graph Neural Network (GNN) architectures and their integration with Large Language Models (LLMs) for enhanced clinical decision support. We analyze ten representative works spanning relational graph convolutional networks, meta path based heterogeneous networks, multimodal fusion frameworks, and hybrid approaches. Our analysis reveals that while GNN based methods show superior performance in capturing molecular relationships, significant gaps remain in clinical interpretability, risk level classification, and real world deployment. Building on these insights, we propose an integrated framework combining GNNs for molecular analysis with LLMs for contextual reasoning and recommendation refinement. The proposed system categorizes DDI risks into low, moderate, and high levels and suggests safer alternative drugs. We discuss the societal relevance of DDI prediction systems in promoting sustainable healthcare and their alignment with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Finally, we outline future research directions including real time clinical integration, multimodal data fusion, and enhanced explainability for non-technical users.
N. Rajendiran, P. Ramasamy, P. Senthilraja, S. Senthilmurugan
The spectral characteristics of 4, 4-diamino 3, 3-dimethyl biphenyl (DADMB) with various solvents, α-cyclodextrin (α-CD) and β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) at pH ~3, pH~7, were investigated using UV–visible, fluorescence, time-resolved fluorescence measurements, and PM3 computational methods. The DADMB–CD inclusion complexes and Cu:DADMB:CD nanomaterials were synthesized and characterized by DSC, SEM, FTIR, 1H NMR and XRD techniques. DADMB form 1:2 inclusion complex with CD. In the DADMB molecule, the horizontal bond lengths between the amino groups are higher than the CD cavity size suggest DADMB not fully encapsulate in the CD cavity. The powdered form of Cu nano, DADMB, Cu:DADMB:α-CD and Cu:DADMB:-CD nanomaterials were investigated by SEM, DSC, FTIR, XRD and 1H NMR. SEM picture clearly shows the morphological difference between copper nano, DADMB and the Cu:DADMB:-CD. The chemical shift value of DADMB protons are shifts to up field and down field and the peak intensities are very low in the nano copper with CD nanomaterials indicate that all the protons of DADMB are interacting with Cu nano and CD cavity protons.
N. Rajendiran, P. Ramasamy, P. Senthilraja, S. Senthilmurugan
The spectral characteristics of 4-phenylenediamine (4PDA) in various solvents, and in the presence of α-cyclodextrin (α-CD) and β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) at pH~3, and pH~7 were investigated using UV–visible, fluorescence, time-resolved fluorescence measurements, and PM3 computational methods. Both pH conditions, 4PDA exhibited distinct absorption and emission shifts upon complexation with α-CD and β-CD. In various solvents, the absorption and emission maxima of 4PDA were similar to those of 4-anisidine. 4PDA showed a single broad emission band in all solvents, whereas dual emission observed in CD solutions indicates the presence of a twisted intramolecular charge transfer (TICT) process in the 4PDA molecule. The fluorescence lifetimes of the inclusion complexes were greater than that of free 4PDA. The 4PDA–CD inclusion complexes and silver:4PDA:CD nanomaterials were synthesized and characterized by SEM, FTIR, and XRD techniques. SEM–EDX data confirmed the presence of 2.9 % silver in the nanomaterials.
Adeola Ajayi, Ifeoluwa Desmond
Objective: The construction industry faces persistent challenges in managing complex project information, ensuring safety, coordinating distributed teams, and minimizing costly errors. Extended reality (XR) technologies—virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and mixed reality (MR)—have emerged as transformative tools that fundamentally change how construction professionals visualize, interact with, and manage building projects. This systematic review synthesizes current knowledge on XR applications in building construction, examining their benefits, implementation challenges, and integration with Building Information Modeling (BIM) systems across the project lifecycle.
David Paolo S. Tombo, Jon-Jon Martinez
This study investigated the effect of interactive learning tools—specifically simulation-based training, virtual clinical modules, and mobile learning applications—on the perceived clinical competence of Level 3 nursing students in a selected College of Nursing in Cavite, Philippines. A quantitative pretest–posttest research design was employed, involving 100 nursing students. Data were collected using a self-developed structured questionnaire that assessed respondents’ demographic profile, level of exposure to interactive tools, and perceived clinical competence across four domains of the Perceived Clinical Competence Scale (PCCS): clinical knowledge, psychomotor skills, clinical reasoning and judgment, and confidence/self-efficacy. Additionally, usability, learning process, and perceived barriers and support were evaluated.
Dumadi, Lintang Prahita Ningarum, Mohamad Badrun Zaman, Ratna Yuliana, Roni
This study aims to determine and analyse the effect of the implementation of management accounting, cost analysis, and decision-making on the financial performance of Brebes Regional General Hospital (RSUD Brebes), both partially and simultaneously. The population in this study consisted of all employees of RSUD Brebes, totalling 511 individuals. The sample was determined using the Slovin formula with a 10% margin of error, resulting in 84 respondents selected through an incidental sampling technique. The data used in this study were primary data obtained from respondents’ answers to questionnaires. Data analysis was conducted using multiple linear regression analysis with the assistance of SPSS software. The theoretical framework underlying this study includes Contingency Theory, management accounting, cost analysis, decision-making, and financial performance. The results of the study indicate that, both partially and simultaneously, the implementation of management accounting, cost analysis, and decision-making has a significant effect on the financial performance of RSUD Brebes. These findings suggest that effective application of management accounting practices, accurate cost analysis, and appropriate decision-making processes contribute to improving financial performance. In conclusion, the integration of management accounting, cost analysis, and decision-making plays an important role in enhancing the financial performance of hospitals, particularly in non-profit healthcare institutions such as RSUD Brebes. These factors support better financial management, efficiency, and organisational sustainability, while also helping organisations respond more effectively to operational challenges and resource constraints.
Abel Simeon Igah
This study examined the nexus between research-based education and technological advancement in Nigeria, situating it within Africa’s broader struggle to overcome colonial legacies of rote learning and underdevelopment. Drawing on a sample of 400 students across six federal universities. The overall purpose of this study was to investigate whether there existed a relationship between Research-Based Education and Technological Advancement, influenced positively by the implementation of the Research-Based Policy Implementation, and conversely influenced negatively by the Non-Policy Implementation.The study employed a cross-sectional survey design and Karl Pearson’s Product Movement Correlation Coefficient, with analyses conducted using SPSS (v.27) and EViews (v.10). The study explored five dimensions of research-based learning (Ontological, Epistemological, Methodological, Axiological, and Practical learning), and their influence on technological advancement, measured through automation and nanotechnology. The results demonstrated statistically significant positive relationships across all dimensions, with methodological and practical learning showing particularly strong predictive power. Policy implementation was found to enhance these relationships, while non-policy implementation weakened them, underscoring the critical role of institutional frameworks in sustaining educational reform. These findings provide empirical support for theoretical critiques of Africa’s colonial educational inheritance, which privileged memorization over inquiry and creativity. By validating the transformative potential of research-based, learner-centered pedagogy, the study contributes to ongoing debates on how African education systems can drive innovation and global competitiveness. The originality of this work lies in its integration of historical critique with empirical evidence, offering a comprehensive framework for understanding how educational reform can catalyze technological progress. The study concluded that research-based education is not only a pedagogical imperative but also a strategic pathway for Africa to achieve sustainable development, particularly in the context of automation and nanotechnology. The study warned that delay of Africa to embark on active research-based learning would place her on the defensive, rather than the offensive; thus lagging behind at the forthcoming UN’s Education 2030 Agenda for Africa.
Kunjlata Lal
The Morvan Dam is located in the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh, specifically in Morvan Village, which is part of Neemuch district in Jawad Tehsil. The dam is built on the Gambhiri River, which is a tributary of the Chambal River. It was mainly built to supply water for both irrigation and drinking purposes, and it provides water to 26 villages in the Neemach district. The dam is made of stone masonry and was constructed in 1960. Its coordinates are latitude 27° 37’ 06” N and longitude 75° 03’ 30” E. The length of the dam is 990 meters, and its width is 12 meters. The dam can hold a total of 16.46 million cubic meters of water. The maximum depth is 27.42 meters, while the average depth is 13 meters. This dam is very important for the villagers because it supplies drinking water, helps with farming through irrigation, and supports fish farming. It covers about 267,100 hectares of land that is used for irrigation. As development, industrialization, and population growth continue, the need for water is increasing significantly. Dams like the Morvan Dam are used by people and animals for drinking and also for raising fish. Because of this, it is important to monitor the water continuously to ensure its long-term sustainability and proper management.
Dang Tien Thang, Le Quoc Thang, Nguyen Bao Giang, Pham Ngoc Diem
English plays a crucial role in advancing the connection between customer and seller in the international market, especially in e-commerce. The use of English business terminology has become increasingly common in commercial livestream sessions on TikTok. However, proving that its use affects the purchase intention has still not been explored in prior studies. Therefore, this study would fill this gap by surveying 242 Gen Z customers in Ho Chi Minh City through the questionnaire. The findings demonstrated that customers' trust and engagement are affected significantly by English business terminology, but the purchase intention is not affected. Additionally, customers’ trust and engagement play the mediating role between the use of English business terminology and purchase intention. These detections showed the important part of English business terminology in enhancing the trust and interaction during livestream commerce. Furthermore, it also provides some implications for exploring the influence of language in online trading.
Jellyfer B. Bello, Sarilyn R. Lopez.
To properly manage the landslide threat and minimize property damage and fatalities, a landslide susceptibility map must be created. The municipality of Kayapa has seen landslides, just like many other hilly areas, which have caused lives, injuries, and property damage. Therefore, the purpose of this work was to use a Geographic Information System-based spatial multicriteria approach to create map of landslide susceptibility. For the current assessment, seven parameters were chosen, that include elevation, land cover, rainfall, slope, road distance, and river distance. Four susceptibility classes low, moderate, high and very high—were identified on the landslide susceptibility map that resulted from the integration of Analytical Hierarchy Process and Geographic Information System methodologies. The thematic maps provide a more detailed representation of the places that are susceptible. The data indicates that 7288.12 hectares are classified as low susceptible, 14138.65 hectares as moderate susceptible, 16525.27 hectares as highly susceptible, and 11618.47 hectares as very highly susceptible to landslides. The study also reveals that the Slope is the most influential factor affecting landslide vulnerability. Additionally, the field survey and geotagging validation provide positive findings, meaning that the verified spots match the susceptibility levels on the landslide susceptibility map. The visualization of landslide susceptibility is a useful tool for disaster preparedness since it allows local government agencies to put specific policies in place to reduce the danger of landslides, particularly in high-risk areas.
Abdoul Salam Diarra, Bakary Diarra, Borodjan Diarra, Cheick Abou Coulibaly, Fanta Sangho, Housseini Dolo, Nouhoum Telly, Oumar Sangho, Souleymane Sékou Diarra, Yaya Togo
Context: Faced with barriers to accessing healthcare, Mali undertook a reform of its community health system in 2010. This study evaluated the contribution of Community Health Workers (CHWs) in the fight against malnutrition in five regions (Kayes, Koulikoro, Sikasso, Ségou, Mopti) in Mali. Methodology: A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted. It combined a retrospective review (2010-2024) of DHIS2 data and a perception survey (2024-2025) of stakeholders and beneficiaries. Quantitative data from questionnaires were entered and analyzed using SPSS software (version 25.0) . Retrospective modeling was performed using the Lives Saved Tool integrated into Spectrum software, and qualitative interviews were conducted with 385 stakeholders and beneficiaries. Results: Our study found that the profile of community health workers (CHWs) reveals a high proportion of women (68.24%) and a high level of professional experience (57.85% aged 28 to 38). Clinically, CHWs managed a cumulative total of 142,327 cases of moderate acute malnutrition (MAM) and 520,439 cases of severe acute malnutrition (SAM). While user satisfaction is high (97.92%), accessibility is hampered by a critical lack of transportation (4.6%) and frequent stockouts of essential supplies (62.86% availability). Average coverage of target populations remains limited to 14.42% for MAM and 27.89% for SAM. Conclusion: The Essential Community Care strategy in Mali has proven its ability to manage simple cases of malnutrition, treating over half a million cases in ten years. Despite the expertise and social commitment of community health workers, coverage remains limited by critical mobility (4.6%) and logistical disruptions. Sustaining these gains requires increased professionalization and a more secure supply chain.
Sunday Eze Ikeokwu
Traditional mediation has long been a cornerstone of conflict resolution in Nigerian communities, drawing upon the cultural authority and influence of community leaders to foster reconciliation and peace. This study examines the role of traditional mediation in resolving political conflicts in Obrikom-Omuoku, Rivers State, Nigeria, a community that has faced recurring tensions and violence stemming from political rivalries, resource control disputes, and socio-economic inequalities. The research focuses on the period from 2014 to 2019, a time of heightened political unrest in the community. Through interviews, surveys, and focus group discussions, the study identifies the remote and immediate causes of the conflicts, assesses the strengths and limitations of traditional mediation, and explores opportunities for integrating traditional methods with modern conflict resolution frameworks. The findings reveal that community leaders were instrumental in fostering trust and dialogue between conflicting factions, leveraging their cultural knowledge and moral authority to mediate disputes effectively. Traditional mediation was found to be culturally relevant, accessible, and centered on restorative justice, making it a preferred mechanism for conflict resolution in the community. However, the process faced significant limitations, including perceived bias, lack of formal enforcement mechanisms, and difficulties in addressing systemic political and economic grievances. The study concludes that while traditional mediation remains a valuable tool for fostering peace, its effectiveness can be enhanced through hybrid approaches that integrate its cultural strengths with the formal structure and resources of modern institutions. Such collaboration can provide a more sustainable framework for resolving conflicts and building lasting peace in Obrikom-Omuoku and similar politically volatile communities.
Gerephace Mwangosi
This paper examines the contribution of Swahili sayings in preserving and protecting the environment in Tanzania. The primary data for this study were collected in the Mbeya region, specifically in Rungwe district, in Kandete ward (Ipelo and Bujingijira villages) and Luteba ward (Kilasi and Mpunguti villages). Interviews and discussions were conducted to gather first-hand information from participants. In the selected villages, 48 participants were employed with an average of 16 respondents per chosen village. The selection of participants considered both gender and age. Documentary reviews were also undertaken, using library research methods to verify the primary data. The findings are presented descriptively, guided by Ecological theory. Results indicate that in the context of environmental care and preservation, sayings provide moral guidance and behavioural norms related to ecological responsibilities, particularly in promoting sustainable and appropriate use of natural resources. This study underscores that in a world facing climate change and ecological degradation, the meaningful use of sayings can catalyse positive change in environmental conservation efforts.
Kamau, Joseph Ngugi, Omboto, Jane Kwamboka, Saoke, Churchill Otieno, Wekesa, David W.
This study evaluates wind resource characteristics, wake effects, layout optimization, uncertainty, and operational strategies using long-term hourly wind data (2010 - 2019) and a one-year validation dataset from the year 2022. The power loss is analyzed using the Jensen wake model, and simulation for power output done with simulations in PYTHON®. The most frequent wind speeds occur within the 4 - 6 m/s range, with a mean extrapolated hub-height wind speed of 9.38 m/s at 50 m. The shape and scale parameters were k = 3.29 and c = 9.81 m/s, corresponding to a Betz-adjusted extractable power of 509 W/m², classifying the site as Wind Power Class V at 50 m. Wake modelling showed that the existing layout experiences wake losses of 28.2%, reducing the no-wake Annual Energy Produced (AEP) from 61.86 GWh to 44.41 GWh. Genetic Algorithm-based layout optimization aligned turbine spacing with the dominant wind direction (≥4D along-wind and ≥3D cross-wind), reducing wake losses to 23% and yielding an approximate 5% AEP improvement. Sensitivity analysis demonstrated that ±0.02 variations in the wind shear exponent result in 6–8% changes in AEP, while ±10% perturbations in the Weibull scale parameter produce energy yield variations exceeding ±15%, magnitudes comparable to wake-loss reduction gains. Further, approximately 27% of annual hours occur at wind speeds below 6 m/s, primarily during May-August, as well as during nocturnal and early-morning hours (2100hours - 0300 hours). Maintenance scheduled within these low-wind windows incurs only about 15% of the energy loss associated with maintenance conducted at mean wind conditions, corresponding to an estimated 85% reduction in maintenance-related energy losses. The results demonstrate that maximizing energy yield at Ngong Hills requires a combined strategy integrating aerodynamic layout optimization, uncertainty-aware modelling, and wind-aware maintenance scheduling.
Chijioke, Edmond Ogochukwu, Eke, Bemsodi Linda
Solid waste buildup, urban sprawl, and energy shortage are the results of Enugu's rapid urbanization, population growth, and economic activity. Even if there is now a clear connection between garbage and energy, the term "waste-to-energy" is still ambiguous in Nigeria. Despite urban growth, the study has revealed some prospects for the Enugu urban region to turn its solid waste into electricity. According to the report, Enugu's six waste management zones produce roughly 420 tons of solid trash every day. The investigation makes it clear that each tonne of municipal solid trash from Enugu has the capacity to produce 17.001 million BTU. This indicates that solid waste in the Enugu metropolitan region may potentially provide 5.0 MW of energy per day. If solely organic garbage is burned, it will produce roughly 2.96 million Btu (1.1MW), which is enough to power about 900 homes in the city of Enugu. According to the research, the authorities should establish strict regulations for solid waste management and provide clear guidelines for garbage collection and transportation methods. Additionally, the landfill site needs to include a biofiltration system for odor control; sanitary landfills must be used in place of open dumps; and anaerobic digestion, a cost-effective method of converting solid waste into energy, should be taken into consideration. In order to meet the need for energy, the government must ultimately collaborate with the private sector to acquire technology that can turn solid waste into gas or electricity.
Akinseloyin G, Aarinola, Ogundipe R, Josiah, Orogun O, Emmanuel
The increasing global transition towards renewable energy has highlighted the critical role of photovoltaic (PV) systems in sustainable electricity generation. This research investigates fault detection techniques for single-phase transformerless grid-connected PV systems using advanced wavelet-based analysis and machine learning classifiers. Focusing on critical system components, the study explores fault scenarios including DC link capacitor, IGBT, ground fault, AC filter capacitor, and short circuit conditions. By implementing Discrete Wavelet Transform (DWT) with Daubechies-4 mother wavelet and extracting statistical features, the research developed a comprehensive fault detection framework. Three machine learning models Support Vector Classification, Random Forest, and Neural Network were evaluated for fault classification accuracy. Results of the research reveals that the neural network model achieved the highest overall accuracy at 99.46%, followed by Random Forest at 99.40%, and Support Vector Classification at 99.20%. The precision metrics indicate superior performance of the SVC model in correctly identifying positive cases across all fault categories. The recall values demonstrate the models' effectiveness in identifying all relevant instances of each fault type, with the neural network model showing strength in this aspect. The results demonstrated exceptional performance, highlighting the potential of wavelet-based techniques in enhancing PV system reliability and safety. The methodology provides a robust approach for near real-time capable fault detection in simulation environments, offering significant implications for improving renewable energy infrastructure resilience.
Emmanuel O. Ayodele, Iyinoluwa T. Idowu, Peter A. Idowu, Peter S. Idoko
Thyroid gland disorders represent a significant public health challenge globally, with a particularly pronounced burden in low- and middle-income countries like Nigeria. This paper focuses on selecting best features for early detection of Thyroid disorder in Nigeria using machine learning approach. In machine learning, feature selection is crucial to designing a good model and obtaining the best model performances. The redundant and undesired features may need to be removed from the original datasets to train the model faster, easily interpret the data, and avoid overfitting problems. This paper focuses on a robust ML-based selective features for prediction of early detection of thyroid gland disorders in Nigeria, leveraging clinical data (TSH, T3, T4, autoantibodies), ultrasound findings, demographic variables (age, sex, BMI), and environmental factors (iodine status, goitrogen exposure). This study employs a dual-pronged approach to feature selection, combining filter-based methods with Random Forest techniques to ensure comprehensive identification of the most predictive variables. The result showed that Random Forest and Gradient Boosting delivered superior results, with Random Forest slightly outperforming Gradient Boosting. Using all features, Random Forest achieved accuracy = 0.9978, precision = 0.9986, recall = 0.9971, F1-score = 0.9978, and ROC-AUC = 0.9999, indicating near-perfect discrimination. Gradient Boosting closely followed with similar metrics (accuracy = 0.9971, ROC-AUC = 0.9999). In conclusion, the comparative analysis confirms that Random Forest and Gradient Boosting offer the most reliable and accurate predictions, benefiting from their ensemble architecture and ability to model complex interactions.
Grayfield B Bajao, Guilbert Mansueto, Paulino V. Pioquinto, Ronalyn B Daño, Yvonne Mae Inoc Lagura
This study explored the work world of the Philippine National Police Scene of the Crime Operatives (PNP-SOCO). Specifically, this study sought to answer the following: the positive and negative experiences of the informants, addressing the challenges encountered during the performance of their duties and the aspiration of the informants to improve the quality of RFU7-SOCO. This study employs a qualitative research design, utilizing a phenomenological approach. This inquiry utilizes ten (10) informants from the Regional Forensic 7 and members of the SOCO with at least 5 years of experience. Using a validated interview guide with open-ended questions prepared by the researcher, the informants were all interviewed individually. Colaizzi’s thematic analysis was employed to analyze the collected data. Three themes summarized the positive experiences of the informants. These were: Preparedness and Role Clarity Boost Confidence and Effectiveness, Team Coordination and Communication Enhance Operational Success and Evidence Recovery Skills Directly Impact Investigation Outcomes. As to the negative experiences, the themes revealed were: Inadequate Crime Scene Management and Logistics, Evidence Contamination and Improper Collection and Need for Enhanced Availability of Standard Comparison Materials for Forensic Examination. To address the challenges encountered as SOCO Members in the performance of their duties three themes were created: Professionalism, Integrity, and Faith in Handling, Effective Communication, Collaboration and Coordination and Adaptive Coping and Problem-Solving Strategies. And three emergent theme to express the aspiration of the informants to improve their performance as SOCO member, to wit: Strengthening Workforce and Resource Capacity, Enhancing Training Programs and Standards, and Upholding and Improving Standards of Practices. The researcher advocates a qualitative exploration of the lived realities of Scene of the Crime Operatives (SOCOs) deployed to Regional Forensic Unit 7. This study aims to deliver a comprehensive examination of the distinct obstacles encountered in crime scene processing, evidence retrieval, and meticulous documentation. By closely analyzing these experiences, the study may provide actionable recommendations addressing the operational, structural, and psychological dimensions of their roles. Recognizing these obstacles could improve investigative protocols, safeguard the authenticity of evidence, and ultimately facilitate the effective prosecution of cases.
Dr. Jeffrey B. Villena
This study examined the relationship between work-life balance and employee performance outcomes in selected Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in Metro Manila, focusing on school administrators, faculty, and non-academic staff. Specifically, it analyzed how workload distribution, institutional support, and organizational practices influence employee well-being and performance, while identifying key workplace challenges. A mixed-methods research design was employed, integrating quantitative data from structured surveys (n = 192) and qualitative insights from semi-structured interviews. Findings revealed that employees generally perceive work-life balance and employee performance outcomes as favorable, particularly in terms of workload manageability, resource adequacy, and task timeliness. However, qualitative results highlighted the presence of resilient professionalism, wherein employees maintain high levels of performance despite workload pressures, limited flexibility, and inconsistent supervisory support. Faculty members, in particular, reported greater exposure to role overload and work-life balance challenges. Inferential analysis indicated a moderate, statistically significant positive relationship between work-life balance and employee performance outcomes (r = 0.503, p < .0001). Despite these positive perceptions, persistent challenges were identified, including excessive workload, limited scheduling flexibility, uneven supervisory support, and operational inefficiencies. These findings suggest that performance outcomes are sustained through adaptive and compensatory mechanisms rather than optimal working conditions. Therefore, HEIs are encouraged to implement strategic interventions such as workload realignment, flexible work arrangements, strengthened supervisory practices, and institutionalized work-life balance policies to enhance employee well-being and sustain organizational performance.