224 Articles
Dr Harish Chandra Raturi, Dr. Jaya Uniyal
Global green practices are pivotal in addressing the pressing environmental and socioeconomic challenges of the 21st century. This paper explores how innovative solutions, such as renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and circular economy models, are fostering a harmonious balance between economic growth, environmental preservation, and social equity. The adoption of green practices has transformed traditional systems into resilient and eco-friendly models, driving progress toward global sustainability goals. Despite significant advancements, barriers such as financial constraints, technological limitations, and policy gaps continue to hinder widespread implementation. This research emphasizes the critical need for international collaboration, robust policy frameworks, and inclusive approaches to overcome these challenges. By advancing the integration of green technologies and fostering community participation, global green practices can pave the way for a sustainable and equitable future. The study underscores the urgency of transitioning from vision to action, presenting a comprehensive framework for policymakers, industries, and communities to collectively contribute to sustainable development without compromising the needs of future generations.
Avanceña, Mary June G., Bandong, Rosauro Jr., S., Carbaquil, Kyla Marie T., Genesis G. Camarista
This study examined the awareness and perception of Artificial Intelligence (AI)-driven learning tools among Grade 12 STEM students in mathematics education. AI technologies, increasingly integrated into classrooms, offer personalized learning, immediate feedback, and adaptive instruction. Using a quantitative descriptive-correlational design, the study surveyed 63 STEM students from the only two secondary schools in Himamaylan City offering the STEM strand during Academic Year 2025–2026. A researcher-developed Likert-scale questionnaire measured students’ awareness of and perceptions toward AI-driven tools. Descriptive statistics, Mann-Whitney U tests, and Spearman’s rho correlation were employed for analysis. Findings revealed that students were highly aware of AI-driven learning tools (M = 4.19, SD = 0.54) and held an appreciative perception of their usefulness (M = 3.68, SD = 0.66). No significant differences in awareness or perception were found when classified by sex or socioeconomic status, suggesting equitable access to AI tools across demographic groups. The absence of SES-related disparities may be attributed to school-provided resources and inclusive technology policies. A moderate positive correlation (ρ = 0.424, p = .001) was found between awareness and perception, indicating that greater familiarity with AI is associated with more positive evaluations of its usefulness in mathematics learning. The results underscore the readiness of STEM students for AI integration, highlighting that access alone is insufficient—critical engagement, ethical understanding, and skillful application are essential for maximizing AI’s educational potential. These findings support the need for AI literacy programs embedded within curricula to promote informed, equitable, and effective adoption of AI technologies in secondary mathematics education.
Almar J. Java, Angel L. Adlaon, Girlie C. Gasataya, Kizza J. Eseguera, Ronnielyn T. Reyes, Roselyn Taladhay
This study investigated the effectiveness of an interactive electronic book (E-book) for enhancing social studies learning among Grade 9 students in one of the Secondary School of Himamaylan City. The study aimed to address the challenge of low student interest and performance in social studies, particularly in the topic of "Sektor ng Paglilingkod." A quasi-experimental design was employed, with 31 students from Grade 9- Platinum. The study involved a pre-test to assess students' baseline understanding, followed by a four-week intervention period during which the E-book was integrated into classroom instruction. A post-test was then administered to measure the impact of the intervention. The findings revealed a significant improvement in students' academic performance after the introduction of the E-book. The pre-test scores categorized students' performance as "low," while the post-test scores indicated a "very high" level of understanding. This dramatic shift suggests that the E-book intervention had a strong positive impact on students' academic achievement in social studies. The E-book's interactive elements, multimedia content, and personalized learning features were found to be highly acceptable and contributed to increased student engagement and comprehensionAction Research, Electronic Book, Instruction, Mixed Methods, Social Studies
Dr. Abhilasha Singh Raghav, Dr. Rajesh Sharma, Mrs. Sangeeta Singh
In the contemporary knowledge-driven economy, organizations increasingly recognize Knowledge Management (KM) as a strategic tool for creating value and sustaining competitive advantage. This study investigates the role of KM practices in enhancing organizational value through improved innovation, efficiency, employee performance, and customer satisfaction, with a particular focus on the banking sector in Agra, India. The study further explores the mediating role of Emotional Intelligence (EI) in shaping knowledge-sharing behaviors and overall performance. A structured questionnaire was administered to employees of ICICI Bank branches in Agra, generating responses from 120 participants across different designations and experience levels. Both descriptive and inferential statistical techniques, including correlation, regression, and ANOVA, were employed to analyze the data. The findings reveal that employees possess moderate awareness of KM practices and satisfactory levels of EI, but knowledge-sharing tendencies remain average. Correlation analysis indicated weak but positive relationships between KM awareness, knowledge sharing, and performance, while regression results showed that EI and knowledge sharing positively influence employee performance, though not at statistically significant levels. ANOVA results demonstrated no significant performance differences across designations, suggesting uniform perceptions of KM initiatives within the organization. The study concludes that KM practices alone may not directly drive employee performance; rather, their impact is realized when integrated with EI and supported by a culture of collaboration and systematic knowledge sharing. These results reinforce the socio-technical perspective that value creation emerges from the intersection of people, processes, and technology. This research contributes to the academic discourse by highlighting the importance of contextual factors in KM adoption and offers practical recommendations for banks to strengthen KM frameworks, enhance EI through training, and foster a culture of continuous knowledge sharing to maximize organizational value.
Rakibul Hasan Chowdhury
The accelerating digitisation of modern enterprises and infrastructures has amplified cybersecurity risks, exposing critical systems to increasingly intelligent and multi-vector attacks. Traditional, rule-based security mechanisms, while historically effective, are proving inadequate in the face of evolving threats such as zero-day exploits, advanced persistent threats (APTs), insider intrusions, and ransomware. To address these challenges, this study proposes a next-generation cybersecurity framework that synergistically integrates Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Blockchain technologies to create a resilient, intelligent, and decentralised security ecosystem. The research adopts a mixed-method design encompassing system architecture modelling, smart contract development, AI model training, and simulation-based evaluation. The proposed multi-layered architecture comprises four components: (1) a Blockchain-based data layer for immutable logging and distributed trust; (2) an AI-driven intelligence layer leveraging models such as Random Forest, XGBoost, LSTM, and Autoencoders for real-time threat detection and anomaly analysis; (3) a consensus layer to validate events and enforce decentralized governance; and (4) an interface layer providing dashboard access and policy control. Experimental implementation using Hyperledger Fabric and TensorFlow demonstrated superior performance in detection accuracy, response time, resilience against adversarial attacks, and scalability, compared to traditional AI-only or Blockchain-only models. Furthermore, the integrated system significantly reduced false-positive rates while enabling tamper-proof audit trails and automated incident response through smart contracts. Case applications across critical infrastructure, financial services, healthcare, and government systems illustrate its transformative potential. This research contributes a novel architectural paradigm that addresses current limitations in cybersecurity by leveraging AI’s predictive analytics with Blockchain’s decentralised integrity. The findings advocate for a paradigm shift toward intelligent, self-healing, and trustless cybersecurity solutions suitable for the demands of next-generation digital ecosystems.
Anwar Hussain, Jerina Begum
Adjustment is the behavioural process which human and other animals keep a balance among their needs and the hurdles of their environment. Progress of adjustment starts when a demand is felt and ends with the satisfaction. Adolescent is the most important and crucial periods of human life. It is a period of physical and psychological development involving cognitive, effective, social and academic changes. Most of them have incredible challenges in adjusting and coping with those challenges. These may affect on their mental state, increasing the vulnerability of mental health issues. Adjustment problems of adolescence may be the result of unhealthy home conditions, negative parental attitudes, home and family environment etc. These situations may lead to an adolescent experiencing adjustment problems. The present study was undertaken to see the differences of adjustment at home, social, health and emotional dimensions of adolescent girl students of class-XI of two districts of Middle Assam. The Bell’s Adjustment Inventory by Dr. R. K. Ojha was administered to measure the adjustment of the adolescent girls. For this study 44 female adolescent students were randomly selected from government secondary school of Sonitpur and Morigaon district each. Statistics such as Mean, SD, frequencies and percentages were used. The data were further analyzed using t-test to find significant differences between adolescent girl students of two districts on the four dimensions of adjustment, and the relations between adjustment and academic achievement. Matriculation exam results of the students were considered as an academic achievement. Findings showed that there are significant differences in total adjustment as well as health and emotional adjustment level between two districts of female students and adjustment level against the academic achievement, and parental income and academic achievement. There is no significant differences between home and social adjustment of female adolescents of both districts.
Atharva Dev Singh
This study investigates the thermal and electrical conductivity of a selection of materials, with the objective of determining which materials allow heat and electric current to pass through efficiently. A comprehensive review of the underlying principles governing these phenomena is also presented, along with their practical applications in everyday life. Understanding these properties are essential for preparation for advanced physics courses and help explain various technological applications. The findings clarify why metals dominate wiring and heat-sink applications, whereas polymers and wood serve as insulators in construction and consumer products. The results also highlight that while most good electrical conductors are also good thermal conductors, the reverse is not always true. These insights are significant for material selection in engineering, electronics, and insulation applications. This review couples simple classroom experiments with peer-reviewed data.
Dr. B Sagarika, Lakshmi Narasimha Rao K
The present study explores the correlation between SDG 4 (Quality Education) engagement and emotional characteristics of teacher educators in the Hyderabad district of Telangana. With the global push towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030, ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education under SDG 4 has become a critical priority for educators, policymakers, and researchers alike.” understanding how teacher educators emotionally perceive and engage with educational quality enhancement is critical. A stratified multistage random sampling design was adopted. The study involved 60 teacher educators (30 Male and 30 female) from government and private teacher education institutions. The Structured SDG Goal 4 Engagement Scale was developed by the researcher to measure teacher educators’ engagement with the principles of Sustainable Development Goal 4: Quality Education. The scale underwent content validation through a panel of five experts in education, psychology, and sustainable development, who reviewed items for clarity, relevance, and alignment with SDG-4 targets. Items with a content validity index (CVI) of ≥ .80 were retained. For reliability, a pilot study was conducted on a sample of 30 teacher educators (not included in the main study). Internal consistency reliability was assessed using Cronbach’s alpha, which yielded an overall value of α = .86, indicating high reliability. The Structured SDG Goal 4 Engagement Scale demonstrates acceptable validity and reliability, making it suitable for use with teacher educators in the present study. Two standardized tools were used: the Positive and Negative Affect Schedule (PANAS) to assess emotional characteristics, and a self-structured SDG 4 Engagement Scale based on UNESCO indicators to assess their involvement in SDG 4 practices. Descriptive statistics (mean, SD) and inferential statistics (Pearson correlation, t-test, and regression analysis) were employed to analyze the data. The findings revealed a positive but weak correlation between both positive and negative emotions with SDG4 engagement. However, the relationship with negative emotions was marginally significant (p = 0.058). No significant differences in SDG 4 engagement were observed across gender or locale. The findings suggest that emotions alone exert only a limited influence on SDG 4 involvement, as indicated by the weak correlation and the low explained variance (6.9%). This implies that while emotional disposition contributes to teacher educators’ engagement with SDG 4, other contextual or institutional factors not captured in this study may play a more significant role. This research emphasizes the need for emotionally intelligent teacher training programs to align with SDG goals. It calls for further large-scale studies to explore how affective dispositions of educators influence sustainable educational outcomes.
Pratyasha Tripathi
Ayushman Bharat, by Lahariya, 2018, Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY), launched in 2018, is India’s flagship health insurance scheme aimed at improving access to healthcare while protecting vulnerable families from financial distress due to medical expenses. This study takes a closer look at how the scheme is performing in Bihar—a state grappling with both economic and healthcare delivery challenges. Drawing on NFHS-5, by International Institute for Population Sciences (IIPS) & ICF, 2021, (2019–21), NSSO, Government of India, 2019, 75th round (2017–18), and primary data from 336 AB-PMJAY beneficiaries admitted to a tertiary hospital, the study explores changes in insurance awareness, healthcare usage, and out-of-pocket expenditure. Results show that average OOPE dropped from 76.1% to 30% of a family's monthly expenditure after admission under the scheme. Catastrophic health spending also fell sharply, from 65.5% to around 29%. While there has been visible progress in insurance coverage and financial risk protection, shown by Prinja et al., 2019, the benefits are not yet evenly distributed. Rural households, women, and marginalized communities still face gaps in awareness and access. The findings suggest that while AB-PMJAY has made a positive impact, more targeted efforts are needed to ensure its reach and effectiveness for every citizen
Dr G. Narsimulu
This research paper offers a critical appraisal of the welfare policies implemented in Telangana State between 2014 and 2024. In the decade following its formation, Telangana adopted an ambitious welfare-driven governance model, introducing flagship schemes such as Rythu Bandhu, KCR Kits, Kalyana Lakshmi/Shaadi Mubarak, and Aasara pensions. These programs aimed to address socio-economic disparities, particularly among farmers, women, the elderly, and marginalized communities. Using a mixed-methods approach, the study assesses the effectiveness, outreach, and socio-economic impact of these initiatives. Quantitative data on scheme coverage and budgetary allocations are complemented by qualitative insights from policy documents, field reports, and secondary literature. The findings highlight significant improvements in financial inclusion, maternal and child welfare, and rural livelihoods. However, the study also identifies persistent challenges, including administrative inefficiencies, unequal access, and limited focus on long-term self-reliance. The paper argues that while Telangana's welfare policies have contributed to short-term upliftment, sustained socio-economic transformation requires a shift toward integrated development planning, improved governance, and transparent delivery mechanisms. The study concludes with key policy recommendations to strengthen institutional frameworks, ensure equity, and enhance the long-term sustainability of welfare programs. This decadal review aims to inform the broader discourse on welfare governance in India.
Florian Buberwa Bombo
This study reviews ten years of financial performance, expenditure trends, and budget execution outcomes in Tanzania's development projects, drawing on audit evidence from the Controller and Auditor General (CAG) reports for financial years 2014/15 to 2023/24. Taking a document analysis methodology, the paper reviews major indicators such as budget absorption rates, audit findings, and implementation of audit recommendations over major development sectors. The study reveals persisting inefficiencies in budget execution, recurrent financial irregularities, and unevenness in expenditure performance, with notable instances in water, agriculture, and health sectors. While some progress has been noted in implementing audit recommendations, institutional frailties in procurement, project planning, and financial controls undermine development effectiveness. The study identifies the need for reforms in project readiness screening, real-time disbursement systems, performance-based budgeting, and digital financial management systems. It also recommends an extended scope of modern stakeholder engagement strategies beyond the current Citizen Reports, such as digital dashboards, participatory audits, and media partnerships. The paper concludes with tailored recommendations for policy reform, institutional strengthening, and enhanced public accountability.
Dr. Fullgence Mwakondo, Dr. Mvurya Mgala, Isaac Mumo Kailu
Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) is a growing public health concern in low-resource settings, where early detection remains limited due to infrastructural and diagnostic constraints. This study presents a machine learning-based risk prediction model developed using real-world data from Kilifi County Referral Hospital in Kenya, aiming to identify individuals at risk of developing T2DM before clinical onset. The study applied the CRISP-DM framework to guide the end-to-end process, from data collection to model deployment. A dataset comprising 2,500 anonymized electronic health records was used, incorporating a diverse range of features including clinical, behavioral, demographic, and socioeconomic variables. Feature selection was conducted using both statistical (Chi-square test) and algorithm-based methods (Random Forest, Recursive Feature Elimination, and XGBoost importance), resulting in two candidate feature sets (14-feature and 7-feature subsets). Four supervised learning algorithms; Logistic Regression, Support Vector Machine (SVM), Random Forest, and XGBoost were trained and evaluated using 5-fold cross-validation. Among them, the XGBoost model achieved the best performance, with a test set accuracy of 91.33%, F1-score of 88.66%, and an AUC-ROC of 96.24%, outperforming other models across all metrics. This study demonstrates that integrating multi-domain features with machine learning can enhance early risk stratification for T2DM in under-resourced environments. The final model’s ability to categorize individuals into low, medium, and high-risk groups offers a practical tool for targeted screening and preventive healthcare interventions in Kenyan public health systems.
Narendra Sonu Tayade
Society and literature are closely connected with each other like two inseparable cords in a musical instrument. Short story, as a minor genre in literature, narrates the stories of people we are directly or indirectly connected with in relation to their nature. Short story has emerged as one of the powerful tools for making commentary on human life. O’ Henry, an American short story writer, has written over 300 stories. His stories are featured by twists of plots and surprise ending. It is rightly stated in the preface in one of his books of stories by a critic that he (O. Henry) should always occupy a unique place in American fiction writing. He deserves to be rediscovered by each succeeding generation of readers and scholars. Readers can find variety of themes in his stories which bring novel perspective to the life. The Gift of Magi is one his stories that revolves around a husband, his wife and their devoted conjugal life. A very heart touching story which highlights delicate relationship between Jim, the husband and Della, the wife. The story can be studied in the light of psychology as both the characters are in dilemma about the gift to be presented each other on the occasion of Christmas. It reveals those corners of minds where unconditional love remains in its purest form. The research paper is meant for unravelling the unexplored aspects of human mind in terms of Psychology and what Sigmund Freud refers to . To study spousal relationship depicted in the story is one more intention of the research paper.
Nursida A. Haydin
The transition from nursing education to clinical practice remains a critical challenge for newly graduated nurses, as systemic and institutional barriers often delay their integration into the workforce. This study examined the extent of employment barriers, perceived readiness, and effectiveness of workforce integration strategies among 100 newly graduated nurses employed in selected hospitals in Zamboanga City, Philippines. A descriptive-correlational design was utilized, with data gathered through a validated structured questionnaire. Results revealed that the most significant barriers were the employer preference for experienced nurses (M = 3.52, SD = 0.66) and limited job openings for new graduates (M = 3.40, SD = 0.72). Respondents perceived themselves as moderately ready for practice, with higher ratings for academic preparation (M = 3.16) and clinical skills (M = 3.11), but lower for emotional readiness (M = 2.98) and institutional support (M = 2.75). A significant positive correlation (p < 0.05) was found between employment barriers and the duration of unemployment, indicating that greater barriers prolonged job acquisition. Significant differences in barriers were also noted across demographic factors such as type of school, employment status, years of service, and time before securing employment. Mentorship, structured orientation, and continuous feedback emerged as the most effective integration strategies.
Ambar Kusumaningsih, Nik Nadia Azhar, Salwa Zolkaflil, Sharifah Nazatul Faiza Syed Mustapha Nazri
Purpose: This study examines how professional skepticism traits influence internal auditors’ fraud detection. Design/methodology/approach The participants in the study were internal auditors employed in Malaysia. Survey questionnaires including six characteristics of professional skepticism based on Hurtt's (2010) paradigm were disseminated. The traits are classified into three categories: evaluation of evidence (inquisitive mindset, suspension of judgement, pursuit of knowledge), comprehension of evidence providers (interpersonal insight), and auditor initiative to act on evidence (self-assurance and self-determination), serving as the independent variables. The dependent variable was the identification of fraud by internal auditors. Numerous studies have examined the correlation between these attributes and fraud detection, predominantly concentrating on external auditors, with few investigations into internal auditors. A total of 150 replies were collected and considered valid. Pearson correlation and multiple linear regression were conducted to fulfill the research goals. Findings The findings, grounded in attribution theory, indicated substantial positive correlations among enquiring mindset, pursuit of knowledge, interpersonal comprehension, self-determination, and fraud detection. Nonetheless, the correlations between the suspension of judgement and self-confidence in respect to fraud detection, albeit positive, were deemed inconsequential. Originality/value This study enhances Attribution Theory by associating attributes of professional skepticism with fraud detection, offering empirical proof of their influence on internal auditors. This expands the theory's applicability beyond social psychology to organisational behaviour and forensic accounting, enriching our comprehension of auditors' cognitive and behavioural processes. The findings provide directives for internal auditors in Malaysia and regulatory authorities, highlighting the cultivation of professional skepticism attribute to enhance fraud detection. Regulatory entities such as IIA Malaysia ought to contemplate amending standards, instituting training programs, and fostering awareness to augment auditors' competencies and mitigate fraud threats.
Hamzah Moinuddin Momin, Mrs Vandana Chaudhary, Saurabh Ashokbhai Patel, Saurav Ashokbhai Patel
This critique examines a 2019 investigation by Kochar and colleagues, which engineered a liposomal hydrogel for the concurrent topical administration of Minoxidil (MXD) and Tretinoin (TRET) in addressing androgenetic alopecia (AGA). The foundational research offers a viable option beyond traditional formulations by utilizing liposomes to improve drug stability, encapsulation efficiency, and dermal compatibility, integrated with a hydrogel base to facilitate application and extend release duration. Although the investigation is methodically sound in its design, refinement, and preliminary ex vivo assessment, this analysis pinpoints notable shortcomings. These encompass the absence of in vivo effectiveness data within an alopecia model, inadequate exploration of the mechanistic interplay between MXD and TRET, and an incomplete stability evaluation. This review suggests specific remedial actions and prospective research avenues to address these deficiencies, promoting dedicated in vivo trials, sophisticated analytical methods for interaction analysis, and a more thorough stability-indicating protocol. The engineered system shows substantial promise, yet additional verification is necessary to transform this encouraging ex vivo outcomes into a viable clinical treatment.
Dr. Nagaveni CM, Mrs. Mahalakshmi BA
Considering the global level acceptance for Green Banking, Indian Banks are also looking forward to the initiatives on the same ground. Indian also wants to make itself included in the league of America, Japan, Australia, etc., in the stature of Green Banking. Basically, Green Banking Products are those whose prime objective is to conserve energy to support environmental sustainability. The major objectives of the study is to identify the present scenario, awareness amongst users, method of adoption of green banking practices in Shivamogga, customers’ perception and preferences and the areas of improvement wherever required in the study is highly needed. Both primary and secondary data were used for the study. Non-Probability Convenience Sampling method was selected for collecting the data. The findings is that, majority of the customers stated that, green banking is essential in the present scenario. More than 70 percent of the respondents were using ATM’s and M-Banking services as green banking products. Almost all the customers are aware of the green banking practices adopted in public and private sector banks. Further it can be concluded that, Customers have created their awareness of green banking from bank websites and Friends/Relatives, while it may be concluded that Print Advertisements or Radio commercials are not that much effective. The Majority of selected customers feel it is required in current scenario.
Dr. R Rajini, Dr. S. Bhuvaneswari
Women empowerment in India focuses on improving women's social, economic, and political status to achieve equality and dignity. The Tamil Nadu the Government has initiated various programs to enhance the women empowerment. One of the best scheme was zero bus ticket had introduced our honourable chief minister. He has put a first sign in this scheme in the year 2021. The main objectives of the scheme is to women mobility, engaged in work force, to remove gender equity and to independent in the society. In the year 2023 ZTBT renamed as vidiyal payanam. This research paper was analyse the satisfaction levels of women passengers utilizing the Vidiyal Scheme in Udumalpet town. The research paper focuses on satisfaction level, income opportunities and understand the socio-economic characteristics for the purpose the researcher undertake a sample size 160 respondents from the study area. A well-structured questionnaire was used to collect data from respondents who have used the Vidiyal Scheme by using convenient sampling technique. The research paper has a positive impact of usage of the scheme. This scheme aims to directly or indirectly enhance the women status and empower the women in this society
Chandresh Kumar Gupta, Rohit Srivastava
Solar cells represent one of the most promising renewable energy technologies for addressing global energy demands and climate change challenges. This paper provides a comprehensive review of photovoltaic technology, examining the fundamental principles underlying solar cell operation, various cell types and their efficiencies, key material properties, synthesis methods, and emerging applications. Current commercial silicon-based technologies achieve efficiencies of 20-26%, while emerging perovskite and multi-junction cells demonstrate potential for efficiencies exceeding 40%. Manufacturing techniques continue to evolve, with thin-film deposition and advanced processing methods reducing costs while improving performance. Future applications range from building-integrated photovoltaic to space-based solar power systems, positioning solar technology as a cornerstone of sustainable energy infrastructure.
Azmi Che Leh, Azmi Mohamed, Mohd Tajuzzaman Hassanor, Sharifah Rosfashida Syed Abd Latif, Thirumeni T Subramaniam
This research focuses on linking Circular Economy practices with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 7, 9, and 12 to promote sustainability, innovation, and resilience in the manufacturing sector. Conducted by the Open University of Malaysia (OUM), the study evaluates the level of understanding of Industry 4.0, Circular Economy, and SDGs among Open Distance Learning (ODL) students, identifying educational shortcomings and suggesting improvement measures. The conventional linear economic model contributes to resource exhaustion and environmental harm, posing challenges to sustainable growth. Circular Economy principles, which prioritise efficient resource use and waste minimisation, present a practical alternative but have yet to see widespread adoption. Using a quantitative approach supported by structured questionnaires, the research assesses student knowledge of Circular Economy concepts and their alignment with SDGs 7, 9, and 12. Findings show varied levels of awareness, indicating the need for stronger educational engagement. Suggested measures include recycling initiatives, product longevity in design, shared resource utilisation, remanufacturing processes, and waste reduction. The proposed framework promotes innovation, sustainable product development, effective resource and waste management, targeted education, and continuous evaluation to support a regenerative manufacturing industry in line with global sustainability targets.
Blessing Chugo Idigo
This study investigated the efforts of African Union towards conflict resolution in Mali between 2012 and 2022. The Malian conflict is a very complex issue with multiple contributing factors such as historical tension and fall-out of crisis of governance between the government and the northern Mali (Taureg Separatist group) demanding for a stake in the government, because the region felt marginalized. The study is grounded in the collective security theory, which emphasizes the collective efforts of the African Union in joining hands together to fight an aggressor (terrorists) within African continent. The study adopted qualitative descriptive analysis of the data collected from secondary sources. Findings revealed that lack of adequate resources like funds, manpower and equipment was a major impediment in the resolution of the conflict. Towards addressing the problems, the study recommended that African Union and the agencies of African Union mandated for resolution of Malian conflict and that of others needs to have their missions spelt out and jurisdiction sorted out, this will help each organizations to know and plan how to effectively and efficiently implement their policies so as to be effective and efficient in achieving their goals; finally African Union must find viable sources of funding for its operation. Without such resources, the policies are just plans on paper
Anubha Chaturvedi
In this era of globalisation, India is constantly striving to make better relations with its neighbours. In this direction, India launched the ‘Look East Policy’ in the year 1991 to redefine its social, economic and strategic relations with its immediate neighbours Southeast Asian countries. In the changing environment and encouraged by the success of the policy, in the year 2014, Act East Policy announced. Through these policies, India’s main goal was to promote its strategic and trade relations with Southeast Asian countries. The history of trade relations between India and Southeast Asian countries goes back to thousands of years. Traders used to sell many valuable goods from Southeast Asian countries to the Arab and Western world through India. Among these valuable items, there is mention of silk as well as aromatic substances. Agarwood occupies a very important place among these aromatic substances. Agarwood is a very precious resinous aromatic wood. It is obtained from trees of Aquilaria malaccensis and other Indomalesian Aquilaria species. In China, India, Japan and the Middle East, it is used in many cultural, religious and traditional ceremonies. The properties of Agarwood and its applications have been mentioned in many Sanskrit texts. Dioscorides described many medicinal uses of Agarwood in 65 BC. Arthashastra, written in the 2nd century BC, mentions it as a wood used in medicine and cosmetics. Sahih Muslim also mentioned it as medicine in the 8th century. Several historical texts describe the trade of Agarwood from Southeast Asia to India, China, Japan and the Middle East. Thus, looking at the trade and use of Agarwood, we see that its history offers a new glimpse of the relations between India and Southeast Asian countries. At present, Agarwood products (chips, beads, powders, perfumes) and oil are in high demand in the international market. The price of Agarwood oil can range from $10,000 to $40,000 per kg, depending on its quality, origin and distillation process. Innovative research in the medical field is also the reason for the increase in its international demand. Even though Agarwood is mainly obtained from Southeast Asian countries, its oil distillation is mostly done in ‘Hojai’ district of Assam province of India. Simultaneously, India is playing an important role in re-exporting many Agarwood products and reaching the largest consumers of Agarwood in Southeast Asian countries. Therefore, the objective of this paper is to know the cultural, traditional, religious and economic effects of Agarwood on the relations between Indian and Southeast Asian countries.
Dr. C. Markandan
There are many types of situations in the attraction of alms in Tamil life. The attraction of alms, which occurred during the Tolkappiyam and Sangam literary periods, can be seen through the epic poem Seevaka Chintamani. It can be seen that the arrival of alms continued until the ninth century AD. The situation of attraction of alms due to poverty and hunger changed and this attraction of dharma occurred to establish a king's bravery or victory. Moreover, beyond this, this attraction of dharma has been an excellent strategy to make a king come to the battlefield. Seevaka Chintamani shows the story of Padumugan attracting his friend Seevaka's anims to make him come. The purpose of this article is to understand the tradition of attraction of alms in such epics.
Dr.Mamata Kyatannanavar
The Indian court system is very stringent. There have been extraordinary efforts to develop strategies aimed at less costly, more effective and more satisfying resolution of conflict, including more wide and proper use of mediation and other “alternative dispute resolution” (ADR) methods. The research paper studies how the Indian society has adopted ADR system and how it made the positive sign of cost and time savings and plentiful other benefits of some court and their clients. in India, provisions relating to ADR, the role of legal practitioners during ADR procedure in India.
H. K. Nandalal, N. Malalarathne, Y.M.R.N. Samarakoon
Coastal ecosystems, including mangroves, swamps, sand bars, and coastal vegetation, play a vital role in maintaining environmental sustainability. However, rapid urban expansion and shoreline development have disrupted these natural systems, resulting in ecosystem degradation. Achieving sustainable development in coastal zones therefore requires the careful management of natural resources alongside the conservation of ecological functions. This study investigates the impacts of shoreline constructions and urban growth along a 30 km coastal stretch from Moratuwa to Kalutara, extending 1 km inland. Temporal changes in the coastline between 2004 and 2021 were assessed using high-resolution satellite imagery from Google Earth. Shorelines were digitized and analyzed in ArcGIS to evaluate spatial variations and to determine the influence of revetments, groynes, and breakwaters on coastal stability. Built-up expansion was quantified using supervised classification with the maximum likelihood technique on geo-referenced imagery from 2004 and 2021. The results indicate notable increases in both shoreline engineering and urban development during the study period. Shoreline structures contributed to coastal stabilization and, in several areas, facilitated seaward extension of the coast. Conversely, analysis of built-up area growth revealed that relatively low-urbanized areas preserved more natural coastlines, while densely developed regions exhibited extensive shoreline modifications. Field investigations supported these findings, highlighting the progressive transformation of natural coastlines into engineered environments. The study concludes that although shoreline constructions enhance coastal stability, the accelerated expansion of the built environment threatens the persistence of natural coastal ecosystems. These findings underscore the need for balanced development strategies that integrate coastal protection with ecosystem conservation to safeguard long-term sustainability.
Dr. Loida Royo Banzuelo
Buffet restaurants have become a popular dining choice in Quezon City, offering customers a wide variety of dishes in an unlimited-serving format. While this attracts large volumes of patrons daily, it also generates substantial amounts of waste, particularly food scraps, packaging materials, and kitchen by-products. Effective waste management in these establishments is critical—not only for operational efficiency and cost control but also for environmental sustainability and compliance with the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000 (Republic Act 9003). This study examined the waste management practices of selected buffet establishments using a mixed-method approach, combining quantitative measurements focusing on collection, segregation, and disposal accuracy with qualitative insights from interviews and observations. Using a purposive sampling, data were gathered from 200 respondents, including Local Government Unit (LGU) employees, restaurant managers, and staff, through a structured survey. Statistical tools such as weighted mean, percentage, and one-way ANOVA were employed to analyze perceptions and identify challenges. Findings revealed that waste management practices in the selected establishments were rated as highly practiced across all three components, with waste collection and disposal receiving the highest composite mean scores. Statistical analysis showed no significant difference in assessments among the three respondent groups, suggesting a shared perception of effective waste management implementation. Challenges, such as irregular collection schedules and limited trash bins, were reported but considered very least encountered. The study concludes that buffet restaurants in Quezon City generally demonstrate strong compliance with waste management regulations, contributing to environmental sustainability and operational efficiency. Recommendations include continuous monitoring, enhanced coordination with LGUs, and expanded awareness campaigns to maintain and further improve waste management practices. These findings can serve as a valuable reference for policymakers, restaurant operators, and future researchers in promoting sustainable food service operations.
Jay Pee C. Malibiran, Rn
People living with HIV (PLHIV) continue to face challenges that extend beyond clinical management, particularly in contexts where healthcare access is limited and stigma remains high. This study assessed the quality of life (QoL) of PLHIV residing in selected barangays of Digos City, Philippines, and examined the influence of demographic factors on their perceived well-being. Using a descriptive-correlational design, data were collected from 76 respondents through the WHOQOL-HIV BREF questionnaire covering four domains: physical health, psychological well-being, social relationships, and environment. Statistical tools included frequency, percentage, weighted mean, t-test, and ANOVA. Results showed that the environment domain had the highest mean score (3.81), while the psychological domain scored lowest (3.71). Significant differences in QoL were found based on employment status (p = 0.023) and age group (p = 0.031), but not by sex, education, or marital status. Based on these findings, a comprehensive health teaching program—“BUHAY NA BUO”—was developed to enhance psychological wellness, physical health, economic empowerment, and age-specific care strategies. The study recommends integrating livelihood support and mental health interventions into local HIV programs to holistically improve PLHIV well-being.
Anchal Kumari, Ankita Kumari, Vikas Kumar
AI is getting better all the time, especially when it comes to deep learning techniques. This is helping to find, sort, and count patterns in clinical photos. Deep learning is the fastest-growing area of artificial intelligence, and it has been used successfully in many fields, including medicine. There is a short overview of research done in the areas of neuro, brain, retinal, pneumonic, computerized pathology, bosom, heart, breast, bone, stomach, and musculoskeletal. Deep learning networks can be used on massive data to find information, use knowledge, and make predictions based on knowledge. This paper talks about basic information and cutting-edge technologies for medical image processing and analysis that use deep learning. The main goals of this study are to show research on processing medical images and to identify and put into action the main guidelines that are found and talked about.
P. Aruldevi, V. S. Rajakrishnan
Organizational Climate is comprised of a mixture of norms, values, expectations, policies and procedures that influence work motivation, commitment and ultimately individual or work unit performance. Climate can be defined as the perceived attributes of an organization and its subsystems, as reflected in the way an organization deals with its members, groups and issues. The Emphasis is on perceived attributes and the working of subsystems. Positive Climate encourages, while negative climate inhibits discretionary effort. ‘Organizational Climate’ refers to the quality of working environment. If people feel that they are valued and respected within the organization, they are more likely to contribute positively to the achievement of business outcomes. Creating a ‘healthy’ organizational climate requires attention to the factors which influence employees’ perceptions, including the quality of leadership, the way in which decisions are made and whether the efforts of employees are recognized. Organisational climate influences to a great extent the performance of the employees because it has a major impact on motivation and job satisfaction of individual employees. Organisational climate determines the work environment in which the employee feels satisfied or dissatisfied. Since satisfaction determines or influences the efficiency of the employees, we can say that organisational climate is directly related to the efficiency and performance of the employees.
Aditi Thakur, Dr. (Smt) Mahendra Mehta, Dr. Atul Dubey
The CAMEL framework, which evaluates banks across five important dimensions—capital adequacy, asset quality, management efficiency, earnings, and liquidity—is used in this research paper, "CAMEL Model Analysis of SBI," to assess the financial soundness and operational efficiency of SBI over the 2021–2025 period. SBI maintained strong capital ratios, improved asset quality with declining non-performing assets and high provision coverage, and showed increasing profitability and management efficiency with rising ROA and ROE, according to the study, which is based solely on secondary data from official reports and financial statements. Healthy profit margins and increasing cost effectiveness helped the bank maintain a steady level of earnings quality, while a steadily rising credit-deposit ratio indicated that its liquidity was well-managed. These results validate SBI's critical role in promoting financial inclusion, credit expansion, and economic development by highlighting its resilience, excellent governance, and conformity to regulatory norms. In India's changing banking environment, the CAMEL model is a reliable instrument for performance evaluation that provides insightful information for corporate strategy, regulatory supervision, and stakeholder decision-making.This quantitative study evaluates SBI's performance using financial indicators from the CAMEL model—capital adequacy, asset quality, management efficiency, earnings, and liquidity. It relies solely on secondary data from reliable sources like SBI’s annual reports, financial statements, and relevant literature.Based on secondary data, the findings reveal SBI's consistent strength across key operational areas. The bank maintained strong capital adequacy and regulatory compliance, reflecting overall financial stability. It effectively absorbed economic shocks and managed risks through robust internal controls. Operational efficiency improved through strategic cost management and effective resource use. Profitability showed steady growth, driven by sound financial discipline and leadership. Asset quality also improved, marked by reduced NPAs and higher provision coverage, supported by proactive risk management reforms.
Arik Susanti, Medina Aulia Syahriar
Academic speaking is a fundamental skill that needs to be implemented in higher education. It is essential for university students to express their ideas in a formal academic setting with clarity and confidence. However, it remains a significant challenge for many EFL university students, particularly when it comes to fluency, vocabulary, and confidence in live settings. Addressing this issue, this study aims to analyze the academic speaking skills of EFL university students through self-recorded video presentations. The participants were 15 students from the English Education program enrolled in the Academic Speaking course at a state university. A qualitative content analysis was conducted using an oral performance rubric adapted from Brown and Abbeywickrama (2019), focusing on seven elements: organization, content, pronunciation, fluency, grammar, vocabulary, and performance. The findings revealed that the highest performance was demonstrated in the areas of organization and content, indicating the ability to organize the ideas and provide appropriate materials in the video presentations. In contrast, the weakest elements displayed by the students were fluency and vocabulary, underscoring the need for additional practice in academic word usage and natural, spontaneous speech production. The study comes to the conclusion that video presentations are an effective alternative for conventional methods of evaluating academic speaking abilities, particularly when it comes to reducing students' anxiety levels and giving them more time for planning. It also highlights the necessity of focused teaching methods to improve vocabulary and fluency in academic settings.
Emiewo Onoriode Ruth
This study is a critical evaluation of Aristotelian ethics and moral development, ex-post-facto research design which involves events that have already taken place was utilized, the study analyzes the relevancy of Aristotle’s ethics and the important roles it plays in moral development. The study highlighted that the task of ethics is however much more than the analysis and the clarification of moral terms. The study revealed that the opening of sentences of the ethics indicated very clearly the main theme of Aristotle’s moral philosophy. Like his metaphysics and his concerned in relating concepts like natural function and purpose to the notion of the good life every art and every enquiry and similarly every action and pursuit is through aim at some good; and for this reason, the good has rightly been declared to be that at which all things aim. His argument rests on the development this them. Some critics of Aristotle are the anti-rationalist who held the view that, we can be virtuous if and if only our feeling and impulses have been trained to take pleasure in the right action, and we are move primarily by these sorts of feelings. Our feelings are in harmony with reason in so far as they do not pursue inconsistent aim, or aims that cannot be achieved by any means at our disposal. Again, the study revealed that Aristotle uses the term human good a lot. He established that people perform some action, to always aim at some good. For Aristotle, tire good life for human beings is a virtuous life lived in accord with reason. So, it turns out that the life of virtue is one that is responsive to dispositions and habits that are infused with reason itself, in this way, Aristotle thinks that virtuous living embodies and aligns with the functions of what it means to be human leading to human excellence. The study concludes that Aristotle’s ethics provides a powerful contrast to the traditional moral theory that gave rise to the ethics of duty and provide important insight into what is at issue in living well. His understanding of “ethics” has more to do with what makes life worth living with obedience to tire moral law,
Gwesu Norah C, Matsikure Cheure Memory, Munyepwa Kudakwashe, Ranganayi Charity, Thwala Luba Gilberta
This research explores the impact of risk management strategies on financial performance and tax compliance within Zimbabwe's agribusiness sector. The study aims to examine how structured risk management frameworks influence financial performance and the relationship between risk management and tax compliance among agribusiness stakeholders. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, data were collected through surveys of 300 agribusiness stakeholders and qualitative interviews to gain deeper insights. The findings indicate strong positive correlations between effective risk management practices and enhanced financial outcomes, as well as improved tax compliance, thereby contributing to the theoretical framework of the Resource-Based View (RBV) in agribusiness. This study underscores the importance of education and capacity building as essential components for successful risk management implementation. Practically, the results highlight the necessity for agribusinesses to adopt comprehensive risk management strategies, including diversification and hedging, to mitigate risks associated with market volatility and climate change. From a policy perspective, the research emphasizes the need for supportive regulatory frameworks and educational programs to improve financial literacy and resource access for agribusiness stakeholders. In conclusion, this study reinforces the critical role of integrated risk management practices in fostering sustainable growth and resilience in Zimbabwe’s agribusiness sector.
Denis Kure Yusuf, Yusuf Joe Gandu
Construction has witnessed great transformation since its cradle. The material, product and production subsystems have changed. Plant and heavy equipment have been introduction in the procurement process. The changes have disrupted production flow system at different milestone in its developmental history. The most recent development called Construction 4.0 is a digitalized era where interconnectivity of things is transforming the construction system with promising disruptions once again if fully actualised. Unlike the prevailing Construction 3.0 that relies more on hard technology, the unique feature of Construction 4.0 era blends both hard and soft technologies equally in its operation. This enables automation of machines and their interconnectivity to communicate and perform tasks. These technologies are at different levels of development and tests. Researchers seem to have paid less attention in assessing their implication on the future construction workflow. Understanding this is prerequisite to proper planning for early adoption into construction systems flow for early and maximum benefits. This work appraised 21 relevant technologies that are at the frontiers of construction 4.0. While some of these technologies might not have been initiated from the construction domain nor being construction specific, their application in the construction sector have been clearly availed. The technologies were subsequently classified along their relevance in construction procurement stages. This provides information for easy identification and choice of construction 4.0 technologies to meeting construction solutions. This also enriches literature on the subject. Professionals and investors should get prepared and be guided on informed decisions in achieving Construction 4.0.
Adewale Rufai ADEDOKUN, Omotola Omowunmi AHAMIOJE
The hospitality industry in Nigeria faces increasing pressure to enhance operational efficiency and guest satisfaction, yet many hotels struggle to fully integrate advanced digital technologies into facility management (FM) practices. This gap is particularly evident in the Abuja Metropolis, where infrastructural limitations and inconsistent adoption strategies constrain performance. Guided by the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), which emphasises perceived usefulness and ease of use as determinants of technology adoption, this study examines the extent, influencing factors, and impact of digital transformation in hotel FM operations. A quantitative survey design was employed, collecting data from 150 FM professionals across five purposively selected hotels using structured questionnaires. Descriptive statistics, Relative Importance Index (RII), Analysis of Variance (ANOVA), and linear regression were used to address the research objectives. The findings reveal varying adoption levels: while high-speed internet and energy-efficient systems are widely implemented, advanced solutions such as Internet of Things (IoT) devices and real-time communication tools lag behind. Guest expectations (RII = 0.83–0.93) and technical support (RII = 0.82–0.91) emerged as the strongest drivers of adoption, whereas cost and return on investment were less influential. Regression analysis indicated that digital transformation significantly improved FM outcomes, explaining 83.3% to 89.3% of variability in operational efficiency across hotels (p < .001). Nonetheless, interdepartmental communication remained a persistent weakness. The study recommends strategic investment in advanced digital tools, comprehensive digital transformation policies, and targeted staff training to optimise FM practices and strengthen competitiveness in Abuja’s hospitality sector.
Adejoh Petergerard Akumabi, Barnabas Ayuba, Basse Magdalene, Sanda Meshach John, Tanko Ezekiel, Barnabas Ayuba
Malaria remains a significant public health concern in sub-Saharan Africa, particularly among pregnant women who are vulnerable to complications. This study investigates the factors influencing the use of traditional medicine, evaluates its perceived effectiveness, and examines its adverse effects among pregnant women in Kuta community, Shiroro LGA, Niger State. A descriptive cross-sectional design was adopted, and data were collected from 120 pregnant women using a structured questionnaire. Findings revealed high reliance on traditional medicine due to affordability, availability, and cultural beliefs. While many women perceived traditional medicine as effective, notable side effects, including diarrhoea and nausea, were also reported. Recommendations include enhanced public awareness, improved access to antenatal care, and collaborative engagement between traditional and formal health systems.
Bamidele Vincent Olawale, Ogundipe Francis Bamidele, Olatunji Opefolu Francis, Omodara Busuyi Emmanuel
This study examines the effect of environmental operating costs on the return on assets of consumer goods firms: evidence from listed breweries industries in Nigeria. Specifically, the study sought to evaluate the effect of prevention costs, appraisal costs and external failure costs on the return on assets of the selected manufacturing firms. The population for this study consists of 21 Consumer goods listed on Nigeria exchange group (NGX). The study made use of purposive sampling to select four (4) breweries companies operating in Nigeria spanning for 10 years (2014-2023). A panel data regression approach was utilized to scrutinize the information collected from four selected businesses. Both descriptive and inferential methodologies were employed in the analysis. The regression analysis indicated a regression coefficient of PC at -0.9376, accompanied by a t-value of -5.2179 and a significance level (p-value) of 0.0000 (p<0.05) which indicate a significant inverse relationship between prevention costs and the return on assets for the evaluated companies. In the case of ACST, the regression coefficient stands at 17.1978, with a t-statistic of 1.8009 and a p-value of 0.0801 indicates that the influence of ACST on return on assets is not statistically significant at the 5% level. Also, the regression coefficient for external failure costs is -29.6962, paired with a p-value of 0.0376 (p<0.05). Regression analysis revealed that, after controlling for all variables, prevention and external failure costs had significant negative effects on ROA, while appraisal cost had a positive but statistically insignificant effect. The study concludes that prevention expenses significantly affect returns on assets. It also indicated that appraisal costs do not show any statistically meaningful impact on returns on assets. Additionally, it highlighted that external failure costs negatively influence the return on assets of the chosen companies. The study recommends among others that firms should keep a close eye on the costs related to prevention, appraisal and external failures in order to evaluate the effectiveness of their quality management practices.
Abiodun G. Jimoh, Elkanah A. Olafare, Kehinde, Temitope. M
TVET is vital for economic development, but the rapid advancement of AI has necessitated a shift in it roles. As the global economy relies on AI, TVET programmes must adapt to this change in order to meet its mandate. However, there is scarcity of empirical studies on the role of AI integration for repositioning TVET for economic development. Therefore, this paper focused on the assessment of the role of Artificial Intelligence in the repositioning of Technical and Vocational Education Training (TVET) for economic development in Nigeria. To achieve the broad aim, this study examines the current state of TVET in Nigeria, identifies existing challenges, and highlights the transformative potential of integrating AI into TVET. The population of the study was 2350 VOTED students of five selected universities in Southwest, Nigeria. The sample consisted of 500 VOTED students selected from the five universities using disproportionate simple random technique. A validated 15-item questionnaire, designed by the researcher on a point scale ranging from strongly agree (4) – strongly disagree (1), was used for data collection. Reliability of the instrument was ensured using the split-half reliability technique, which yielded a cumulative coefficient of 0.79. Data collected were analysed using mean and standard deviation to answer the research questions, while a t-test was used to test the hypotheses at a 0.05 level of significance. The findings revealed that there is a need to integrate AI into the current state of TVET; the major challenges and barriers that hinder AI integration in TVET are the unavailability of uniform content to serve the AI application and that introduction of AI into the curriculum of TVET will contribute to the advancement of Nigerian economic development. There is therefore an urgent need for investment in AI infrastructure for access to AI tools and technologies; raining in AI skills acquisition, and updating TVET programmes are crucial for the repositioning of TVET for economic development in Nigeria.
Adejumo, Bosede, Ajayi, Ifeoluwa Grace, Dr. Akpan, Margaret Inemesit, Dr. Ayamolowo, Sunday J, Dr. Onisile, Deborah F, Laogun, Olapeju Abiola, Prof. Enyindah, Cosmos
Antenatal care (ANC) plays a crucial role in ensuring maternal and fetal well-being, yet awareness and utilization of these services vary across different populations. This study examined the awareness of antenatal services and health-seeking behaviour among pregnant women in Osun State, Nigeria. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among pregnant women in Osun State, using a well-structured 82-item questionnaire to assess their awareness, health-seeking behaviour, attitude towards their health and influencing factors for their utilization. Three hundred and twenty-two (322) pregnant women participated in the study and were selected using simple random sampling technique across 8 of the 30 local government areas in Osun State regardless of their age and marital status. Data were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 23.0. The findings of this study revealed that most (57.1%) of the respondents were aware of antenatal services, have a fairly good (57.8%) health-seeking behaviour, but poor (53.4%) attitude towards their health. This study also revealed that there was a statistically significant association between sociodemographic variables, age, education level and income, and health-seeking behaviour of pregnant women in Osun State at p less than 0.001; and that there was no statistical significant association between age and education level, and attitude of pregnant women in Osun State at p greater than 0.05, however, there was a statistically significant association between income and attitude of pregnant women in Osun State at p value 0.045. The study highlights the 9need for targeted health education programmes, improved healthcare accessibility, and community-based interventions to enhance ANC utilization. Strengthening maternal healthcare policies and addressing socioeconomic barriers can contribute to better maternal and neonatal outcomes.
Dr. Pratima Mishra, Ms. Unnati Mishra
This study investigates the awareness of Master of Education (M.Ed.) students regarding the Indian Knowledge System (IKS) and its applications in contemporary education, in alignment with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. IKS encompasses a rich tapestry of indigenous knowledge developed over centuries in fields such as philosophy, mathematics, astronomy, medicine, art, architecture, and spirituality. With the NEP 2020 emphasizing a multidisciplinary and culturally rooted approach, understanding the level of awareness among future educators is crucial. Using a descriptive survey method, data were collected from 80 M.Ed students from Pune through a self-constructed questionnaire. The study revealed that the majority of students demonstrated significant awareness of IKS, especially in concepts like Ahimsa, Ayurveda, Bharatanatyam, and mathematical contributions such as zero and the decimal system. For instance, 91% were aware of the invention of zero in India, 90% recognized Bharatanatyam’s spiritual value, and 93% correctly identified Dharma, Karma, and Moksha as the philosophical foundations of IKS. However, gaps were noted in understanding historical attributions—only 60% correctly credited Brahmagupta with the concept of zero, while 38% misattributed it to Aryabhata. The findings emphasize both strengths in cultural awareness and areas where curricular support and teacher training are needed. Recommendations include deeper integration of IKS across disciplines, use of digital tools, and teacher preparation programs. Ultimately, this study supports the integration of IKS to foster identity, innovation, and holistic learning in India’s future education system.
Amparo T. Miguel, Bagason, Cleo Sandra N, Lacson, Cherry Mae L, Libutan, Shareena C, Luv Suzzette C. So., Mazo, Donnabelle F
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), through its Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program, offers medical assistance that covers hospitalization, laboratory procedures, surgeries, and medications. This government support is meant to help low-income and vulnerable individuals by lessening their medical expenses, especially during times of financial difficulty. However, many people, particularly in underserved barangays, are still not aware that this program exists. This study assessed the level of awareness among residents in selected barangays regarding the DSWD’s Medical Assistance Program, with the goal of proposing a healthcare access dissemination campaign. It employed a descriptive correlational research design, which was used to both describe the current level of awareness and examine the possible relationships between respondents’ demographic profiles and their awareness levels. Data were collected from 310 respondents using a structured questionnaire. The study evaluated the respondents’ demographic profiles, their awareness of medical assistance categories, such as hospital bills, medicines or assistive devices, and laboratory procedures, and their familiarity with the steps required to avail of such services. Findings showed that while the overall median awareness score was 3.00, suggesting moderate awareness, respondents were less informed about specific requirements like laboratory quotations and social case study reports. Furthermore, the procedural steps to avail the program were rated only as “slightly aware,” with a median score of 2.00. Statistical analysis revealed significant relationships between awareness levels and respondents’ employment status, barangay, and presence of comorbidities. A moderate positive correlation was also observed between awareness of assistance categories and procedural knowledge. These results highlight the need for clearer and more accessible public information. The study recommends a structured, barangay-based dissemination campaign to raise awareness and ensure that the DSWD’s medical assistance reaches those who need it most.
Mapuranga Danemore
The paper explored benefits of EWPs among mine employees. The study was grounded on qualitative methodology and adopt a semi structured interviews, as data soliciting technique. The researcher used semi-structured interview guide. Purposive, simple random and convenience sampling was used in the study. The findings indicated that the mining employees are of middle aged group who are productive and males are than females. Managers poorly participated in the study which could mirror their participation in the EWPs. Participants who had more years with the mine participated more. The overall objective of EWPs is healthy and productive workforce. EWPs were found to be are part of a mining company’s organisational strategy. EWPs is housed under Medical Services Department. Work performance and productivity were found to be the overall benefits of EWPs through healthy employees and reduce time loss due to injury or sickness. The findings showed increased awareness on unhealthy practices such as excessive drinking alcohol, smoking and lack of regular exercises among mine employees. health outcomes such as weight loss to EWPs were found to be the driven force behind EWPs. incentives were seen as a motivator to attract employees to EWPs.
Kowshik Ahmed
Dhaka’s vertical housing boom has transformed everyday living, often at the expense of comfort and environmental quality. This study compares multistoried apartments in Dhanmondi’s planned urban fabric with those in Zigatola’s denser, organically developed context to understand how building orientation, height, and breathing spaces shape both indoor environments and resident well-being. Six units across varying floor levels and cardinal directions were examined through on-site temperature, humidity, and daylight measurements alongside resident surveys. Results reveal that open surroundings and generous inter-building spaces improve airflow, stabilize humidity, enhance daylight access, and lower cooling dependency conditions strongly reflected in residents’ comfort perceptions. In contrast, units with little or no openness suffer heat buildup, dampness, and higher utility costs, reinforcing discomfort. The findings highlight that breathing spaces are not mere visual reliefs but essential microclimatic regulators, directly influencing health, satisfaction, and energy efficiency in Dhaka’s high-density apartments.
Assan, Never
Methane emissions from ruminant livestock systems are a major contributor to agricultural greenhouse gases, intensifying global climate change. To mitigate these emissions, breeding strategies that reduce enteric methane output without compromising productivity must be developed. This review synthesizes the current research on the role of selective breeding and strategic crossbreeding in lowering methane emissions through enhanced feed conversion efficiency, rumen function, and incorporation of low-emission genotypes. The success of such breeding programs hinges on the precision of methane phenotyping techniques, including both direct (respiration chambers and tracer gas methods) and indirect (infrared sensors and milk or fecal biomarkers) measures, alongside the application of advanced quantitative genetic models, such as random regression and reaction norm models. The integration of genomic selection, high-throughput phenomics, and environmental covariates enables the identification of heritable variations in methane traits and facilitates genotype-by-environment interaction (GxE) modeling. Effective mitigation through genetic improvement requires a holistic understanding of the genetic architecture of methane production and its interactions with dietary, microbial, and management factors. Ultimately, incorporating both additive genetic effects and non-genetic influences into selection decisions can significantly accelerate progress toward low-emission ruminant populations with low methane emissions.
Dr. Doreen Maloba Othero, Joshua Nyarango, Prof. Collins Ouma
Malaria remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among children under five in sub-Saharan Africa, accounting for approximately 90% of childhood malaria deaths (WHO, 2023). The RTS, S/AS01E malaria vaccine, administered in four doses at 6, 7, 9, and 24 months, has shown moderate efficacy in reducing clinical and severe malaria (WHO, 2022). Despite promising outcomes, uptake of the third and fourth doses remains suboptimal in Kenya, particularly in high-burden areas such as Muhoroni Sub-County, where coverage drops from 72.1% for the first dose to 31.4% for the fourth dose (Okanda et al., 2023). Understanding sociodemographic factors that influence the poor uptake of third and fourth vaccine to dose uptake is critical for sustaining malaria prevention gains. An analytical cross-sectional study employing mixed methods was conducted among 289 caregivers of children aged 9–60 months who had completed the first two doses of the malaria vaccine in Muhoroni Sub-County. Stratified random sampling was used to select participants. Quantitative data were collected via structured questionnaires and analysed using SPSS v27. Descriptive statistics summarized uptake patterns, while Chi-square tests and logistic regression identified predictors of third and fourth dose uptake at a 95% confidence interval. Qualitative data from key informant interviews were thematically analysed using NVivo software. The uptake of the third dose was 50.9% (n=147), while only 10.4% (n=30) received the fourth dose. Higher caregiver education was significantly associated with third dose uptake (OR=1.27; 95% CI: 0.56–2.89; p=0.043). Greater distance to health facilities reduced the odds of third dose uptake by 81% (OR=0.19; 95% CI: 0.11–0.31; p<0.001). Cultural beliefs discouraging vaccination were negatively associated with uptake of the third dose (χ²=11.17; p=0.001), while the perception that children receive “too many vaccines” was linked to lower fourth dose uptake (χ²=4.17; p=0.041). Qualitative findings reinforced these results, highlighting logistical barriers, misinformation, and limited community engagement as key obstacles. Third and fourth dose uptake of RTS, S/AS01E remains far below WHO targets in Muhoroni Sub-County. Education level, proximity to health services, and socio-cultural perceptions significantly influence uptake. Targeted strategies, including community-driven awareness campaigns, improved vaccine accessibility, and culturally sensitive health messaging, are essential to close the late-dose coverage gap and reduce malaria-related child mortality.
A. N. M. Fakhruddin, Bappadipta Mondal
Hospitals produce a huge quantity of wastewater every day. Activated sludge process is generally used for treatment of hospital wastewater in Bangladesh. Wastewater effluent from the hospitals has been gradually increasing during the recent years due to developments in medical services and products in Bangladesh. This study aimed to assess the COVID-19 dedicated hospital called Severe Acute Respiratory Infection -isolation and treatment center (SARI-ITC), Teknaf, Cox’s bazar, wastewater treatment practices, targeted to identify the flaws of existing waste management, and figure out the ecosystemic impacts. Wastewater samples were collected from three different places. Raw wastewater sample collected from the settler tank of the treatment plant (ABR). Treated wastewater sample was collected from the holding tank of ABR, and Disposal wastewater sample was collected from the disposal pond and has been sent to the laboratory for determining the physical and chemical parameters. The questionnaire survey was conducted at the local community level. The survey questions were mainly concerned with the Environmental impacts on natural resources and public health issues, as well as on the nearby community. After the lab test on the disposal area sample pH is within acceptable limits. Other parameters, such as Turbidity, BOD, COD, EC, DO, TDS, and Fecal Coliform, of wastewater samples from the SARI-ITC disposal area were not within the acceptable limits. The overall Environmental Impact Value indicates a negative result (-) 67, which clearly if the environmental degradation by wastewater disposal from SARI-ITC. A well-organized treatment plant should be designed, and an Effective Environmental Management Plan should be introduced for minimizing the pollution on local environment.
Lolita E. Cabasug
The operating room (OR) represents a dynamic and high-stakes clinical setting where learning opportunities, decision-making competencies, and work engagement collectively shape patient safety and surgical outcomes. Exploring the interrelationship of these factors is essential in identifying strategies that optimize nurse performance and strengthen workforce retention. This study investigated the associations between the clinical learning environment (CLE), decision-making competencies, and work engagement among operating room nurses in a private tertiary hospital in Laguna, Philippines. Utilizing a descriptive-correlational design, the study employed total enumeration sampling of 18 registered nurses assigned to perioperative care. Data were gathered through a structured, self-administered questionnaire encompassing four sections: demographic profile, Clinical Learning Environment Tool (CLET), Decision-Making Competence and Style Scale, and the Work Engagement Scale. Statistical analyses included descriptive measures, Pearson’s correlation, and significance testing at the 0.05 alpha level. Findings revealed that respondents were predominantly female (61%), within the 21–30 age group (44%), largely bachelor’s degree holders (94%), and with 2–3 years of OR experience (33%). Perceptions of the CLE were favorable, with the highest evaluations in skills development (M = 3.87) and feedback mechanisms (M = 3.73). Decision-making competence was also rated positively (M = 3.75), particularly in structured approaches and probability-based judgments, though a notable deficiency emerged in training related to decision science (M = 1.72). Work engagement levels were strong, with dedication receiving the highest score (M = 4.00). Correlational analysis indicated no significant association between the CLE and work engagement (p > 0.05). However, a weak but significant negative correlation was observed between pedagogical atmosphere and decision-making competence (r = –0.47, p = 0.0492), suggesting that highly prescriptive supervisory climates may inadvertently hinder independent judgment. The results suggest that OR nurses in this setting perceive themselves as engaged and competent within a supportive learning environment, yet critical gaps persist in pedagogical reinforcement and formal decision-making training. To address these, the study recommends the adoption of a Comprehensive Clinical Leadership and Reflective Practice Program (CCLRPP) aimed at strengthening mentorship quality, feedback processes, and evidence-based decision-making practices.
Dr. Komal Rathore, Dr. Ravi Sharma
The Thyroid gland is one of the most important organs of the endocrine system as it regulates nearly all the bodily functions including metabolic, respiratory, cardiovascular, digestive, nervous and reproductive system either directly or indirectly. Lack of thyroid hormone or resistance of the body tissue to the thyroid hormone with respect to metabolic demand results in disorder called hypothyroidism. High levels of TSH with normal or low levels of T4 is indicator of hypothyroidism. The present case study was conducted with the objective to find out the effective Ayurvedic management in hypothyroidism. This report is on a case study of a 42 years old female patient who is a known case of hypothyroidism since 10 years approached kayachikitsa OPD with the symptoms of reduced appetite, drowsiness, lethargy, tiredness, hairfall, irritability, moodswings, increased weight, puffiness of face, increased sleep during day time, pain all over the body, calf muscle cramps, difficulty in recollecting day to day things and dryness of skin since 4.5months. The patient was treated phase-wise. In first ohase patient was administered with sarvanga udwartana, sarvanga abhyanga and bashpa sweda for 10 days followed by virechana karma. In the second phase the patient was advised with a set of shamana aushadhi which was modified periodically according to symptoms. There were no side effects observed during and after treatment. Patients got complete relief in all symptoms and there was significant difference in TSH value after the treatment.
Arti Verma, Elsy N.P, Johnsy Jose, Keerti Verma, Litti K I, Pooja
Background: The rising demand for secure and efficient non-drug interventions during labor has resulted in a revived interest in conventional methods such as hydrotherapy. Cold hip bath therapy, originating from naturopathic medicine, is becoming acknowledged as a safe approach to alleviating labor pain. Objective: This review seeks to explore the evidence supporting cold hip bath therapy as a non-drug method for alleviating labor pain, focusing on its physiological mechanisms, clinical results, safety, and incorporation into standard obstetric practices. Methods: A thorough examination of articles released from 2000 to 2024 was carried out through databases including PubMed, CINAHL, Scopus, and the Cochrane Library. Keywords incorporated "cold hip bath," "labor pain," "hydrotherapy," and "non-drug pain relief." Both randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and observational research were considered. Findings indicate that cold hip bath therapy significantly alleviates pain levels during the active stage of labor by influencing autonomic nervous system functioning and enhancing endorphin secretion. Its processes encompass parasympathetic activation, modulation of vascular tone, and neuroendocrine reactions. Research also backs its positive safety record and economic efficiency. The therapy's low equipment needs and straightforward administration allow it to be accessible even in resource-poor environments Conclusion: Cold hip bath therapy offers a hopeful, evidence-based addition to the management of pain during labor. Additional large-scale clinical trials are necessary to confirm its efficacy and support its incorporation into standardized maternity care guidelines.
Genesis G. Camarista, Rothsel T. Cabatac, Virgie P. Tan
This study aimed to evaluate the academic and licensure performance of graduates from West Visayas State University-Himamaylan City Campus (WVSU-HCC) from 2014 to 2023. Specifically, it sought to: (1) assess the graduates’ performance in the College Admission Test (CAT) and their General Weighted Average (GWA); (2) compare their performance in the Licensure Examination for Teachers (LET) with the national passing rate; (3) determine the significant relationships between CAT and LET, and GWA and LET; and (4) identify predictors of LET performance. Anchored in the positivist paradigm, the study employed a descriptive-correlational research design using quantitative methods. The respondents were BEEd and BSEd graduates with complete data on CAT, GWA, and LET. Data were retrieved from institutional and government records. Findings revealed that CAT performance was generally in the “low” to “average” range, with a downward trend in recent years. Conversely, the students’ GWAs showed a positive trajectory, improving to a “very good” level in the later years. LET performance of both BEEd and BSEd graduates consistently surpassed the national passing rate from 2018 to 2023. A significant positive correlation between CAT and LET in 2019, and a consistent, strong negative correlation between GWA and LET across all examined years were found—indicating that higher academic performance predicted better LET results. The findings affirm GWA as a strong predictor of LET performance, while the predictive value of CAT may vary. The study underscores the value of academic achievement in licensure success and suggests enhancements in student admission and academic support.
Dr. S. Veeramani, Mr. Chandana. T
The intention of this investigation was to investigate the combined and isolated effect of SAQ training and resistance training on agility and flexibility among badminton players. To achieve this purpose of the study sixty men badminton players (N=60) selected from various colleges, who are participated Visvesvaraya Technological University Inter-collegiate badminton tournament, Bangalore, India and their age ranged between 17-25 years were selected as subjects. The selected subjects were divided into four equal groups, in which, group – I (n = 15) underwent combined training, group – II (n = 15) underwent SAQ training, group – III (n = 15) underwent resistance training group – IV (n = 15) acted as control which do not participate in any special training. The training programme was carried out for this study is three days per week for twelve weeks. The selected dependent variable agility was measured by shuttle run and flexibility was assessed by sit and reach test before as well as after training. The assessed data of the four group’s was analyzed through paired ‘t’ test. Additionally, magnitude (%) of changes was also calculated. To abolish the early mean disparity, the three group’s data (Pre & Post) were calculated through ANCOVA statistics. When the ‘F’ (adjusted) score in ANCOVA was high, the post hoc (Scheffe’s) test was followed. The confidence level 0.05 was set. Due to the combined and isolated effect of SAQ training the agility and flexibility of badminton players were notably progressed however, combined training was much superior to SAQ training and resistance training in improving agility and flexibility of badminton players.
Adeniyi, Adedayo Omoniyi, Adepoju, Temilola Morufat, Olabiyisi, Stephen Olatunde, Sanusi, Bashir Adewale
Ransomware is a serious cybersecurity threat, encrypting data and demanding payment for its release. This study compares six machine learning algorithms, these are Random Forest (RF), Decision Tree (DT), Neural Network (NN), Support Vector Machine (SVM), K-Nearest Neighbors (KNN), and Naive Bayes (NB) for ransomware classification. A GitHub sourced dataset was preprocessed using standard techniques, and feature selection was done using correlation analysis, mutual information, and recursive feature elimination. Models were trained and evaluated using Python’s scikit-learn library, assessed on accuracy, precision, recall, F1-score, and ROC-AUC. RF achieved the best performance with 99.98% accuracy and 99.99% ROC-AUC, followed closely by DT and NN. NB performed poorly across most metrics. Results indicate RF as the most effective model for ransomware detection. These findings support the development of intelligent threat detection systems for cybersecurity platforms, cloud infrastructure, and endpoint protection.
Awobodu Victoria Yetunde, Balogun Sakirat Adenike, Delphonso Bamidele Tokunbo
This study investigated the comparative effects of Problem-Based Learning (PBL) and Programmed Instruction (PI) strategies on the academic achievement of senior secondary school students in Biology. A quasi-experimental pretest-posttest control group design was employed, involving 225 Senior Secondary ll students drawn from public schools in Lagos District II (Kosofe,lkorodu & Somolu), Lagos state, South-western Nigeria. The students were randomly assigned to one of three groups: PBL, PI, and a Control group taught with the conventional lecture method. The research instrument used for data collection was the Biology Achievement Test (BAT), developed by the researcher to assess students' understanding of key Biology concepts such as the respiratory system, tissues, and transport mechanisms in animals. Content and face validity of the BAT were ensured through expert review by specialists in science education and educational measurement. The reliability of the instrument was established using test retest, which yielded a coefficient of 0.879, indicating a high level of internal consistency. Data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Analysis of Covariance (ANCOVA). The findings revealed that both PBL and PI significantly enhanced students' academic achievement in Biology when compared to the conventional lecture method. Among the three groups, students exposed to PBL achieved the highest mean gain in the post-test, indicating a stronger impact on conceptual understanding and knowledge retention. The study recommends the integration of PBL strategies into Biology instruction at the senior secondary level to promote meaningful learning and improve science achievement.
Adeleke, Israel Adewale, Alo, Oluwaseun Olubisi, Idowu, Abel Iyanda, Jokotoye, Ayoade Alade, Olabiyisi, Stephen Olatunde, Omotade, Adedotun Lawrence
Efficient shortest-path computation in weighted graphs is essential in domains like networking and logistics. Dijkstra’s algorithm depends heavily on the choice of priority queue, and while theoretical complexities are well-documented, their real-world performance varies. This study compares three priority queue implementations-Binary Heap, Fibonacci Heap, and Binomial Heap- within Dijkstra’s algorithm using road network data from Zenodo (https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.1290209). The dataset was preprocessed, normalized, and converted into a usable format using MATLAB (R2024b). Theoretical time complexities for core operations—insert, decrease-key, and extract-min—were analyzed. Experiments conducted on synthetically generated graphs showed Binary Heap achieved the fastest execution time (0.00126s) and highest throughput (3313 edges/sec), outperforming Fibonacci and Binomial Heaps. Results indicate that Binary Heap is the optimal choice for execution speed and throughput, especially for large or dense graphs. The findings provide practical guidance for selecting priority queues in real-world shortest-path applications and contribute to the empirical evaluation of data structures in algorithm design.
Dr. A. Girija, Husna Ali AL Quattan
The article explores employee safety compliance with Joint Commission International (JCI) protocols at a corporate hospital in Hyderabad. JCI provides comprehensive standards aimed at ensuring the safety and security of healthcare workers. Employee safety remains a top priority for healthcare institutions, covering areas such as workplace hazards, safety training, emergency preparedness, adherence to health regulations, accident reporting, and wellness initiatives. The study employed both primary and secondary data collection methods. Observations were made on employee safety practices to evaluate whether the healthcare organization complies with JCI protocols. Adherence to these standards is expected to enhance employee performance and strengthen their commitment to the organization. A total of 200 employees participated in the study, including 50 doctors, 50 administrators, 80 nurses, and 20 technicians. Data was collected using closed-ended questionnaires, where employees selected the safety measures made available to them. Each employee received a questionnaire to assess their safety-related experiences, which was then used to evaluate compliance with JCI guidelines. The collected data was analyzed to verify adherence to these standards. A Chi-square test was performed to examine the relationship between gender and the perceived responsibility of workload. The analysis involved various tools and techniques including MS Excel, Chi-square testing, hypothesis testing, Google Forms, graphical representations (such as bar graphs), and percentage-based evaluations.
Nurulhuda Adabiah Mustafa
This paper examines the complex legal and policy landscape governing intangible cultural heritage (ICH) in Malaysia, focusing on the inherent conflicts arising from its unique federal-state constitutional structure. It argues that the current framework, primarily governed by the National Heritage Act 2005 (Act 645), is insufficient to address jurisdictional disputes, particularly when state religious authorities or local governments exercise power over cultural practices. Through a comparative analysis of Indonesia, Japan, and the Philippines, this study identifies alternative models for effective ICH safeguarding. The paper proposes a series of legal and policy reforms, including statutory amendments to Act 645, a rights-based approach to indigenous cultural rights, and institutional restructuring to create a more coherent and pragmatic framework. The analysis highlights that a way forward for Malaysia requires not just legal amendments, but a fundamental shift towards a decentralized, participatory, and rights-based approach to heritage governance that is sensitive to constitutional realities and political constraints.
Alfred Friday Ehiaghe, Chidiadi Maryann Njoku, Chinedum Charles Onyenekwe, Nosakhare Eric Osakue, Nosakhare Omoyemwen Osakue, Ogochukwu Nneka Onyenekwe
Infertility comes at a cost to the couples/spouses as the associated trauma ranges from depression to rejection, emotional imbalance to mention a few. Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) plays very significant function in sperm function. Any disruption in ATP production or action contribute significantly to male infertility. The aim of this study was to determine the contributory effects of ATP on fertilization by the spermatozoa. This was a cross-sectional study that randomly selected 45 male partners of infertile couples as test participants and 45 male partners of fertile couples as controls all aged between 30 years and 55 years. Semen samples were received from the participants immediately after production through masturbation for semen analysis which was done on the day of ejaculation. ATP value in the semen samples were estimated using Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) technique. Independent’s t-test was used to determine the difference in ATP values between male partners of infertile couples and male partners of fertile couples as well ATP values in male partners of infertile couples with normal and abnormal sperm motility. ANOVA was used to determine the differences in ATP values among male partners of infertile couples with normal and abnormal sperm counts. P value less than 0.05 was considered significant. The mean ± SD ATP value in male partners of infertile couples (598.27 ± 67.90 nmol/L) was significantly lower than the mean ± SD ATP value in male partners of fertile couples (838.86± 74.77 nmol/L), p<0.0001). The mean ± SD ATP value in male partners of infertile couples with abnormal sperm motility (559.62 ± 57.38 nmol/L)) was significantly lower than the mean ± SD ATP value in male partners of fertile couples with normal motility (638.68 ± 53.52 nmol/L), p<0.0001). On ANOVA statistics, the mean ± SD ATP value in male partners of infertile couples with zero sperm count was significantly lower than mean ± SD ATP value in male partners of infertile couples with sperm count greater than 20 sperm cells/ml (p = 0.043). However, there were no significant differences in the mean values of ATP in male partners of infertile couples with sperm count less than 10 sperm cells/ml, less than 20 sperm cells per ml and sperm count greater than 20 sperm cells/ml (p>0.05). This study observed that adenosine triphosphate (ATP) concentration in male partners of fertile couples was higher than ATP concentration in male partners of infertile couples and male partners of infertile couples with abnormal motility of spermatozoa had lower concentration of ATP than those who had normal motility. Reduced levels of ATP in semen which may be caused by mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, or metabolic defects contributes largely to male infertility due to impairment of spermatozoa motility and capacitation incapability which hinders fertilization of the oocyte by the spermatozoa.
Okpara Chukwuemeka Vincent
The prospect of the culturally oriented Nigerian contemporary art as an incentive for not only fostering national development, but also propagating art and cultural collaboration with the Diaspora has not been given the due consideration it requires. Nigerian art as it relates to culture is sometimes examined from a perspective that delineates it as a form of craft bereft of prospective insights capable of instigating transformation in the country and her relationship with the diaspora. The contrary is the case for Western art. They have for many years acknowledged the priceless possibilities this indigenous inclination of art offers, and adapted its potential for effecting and promoting profound transformations in diverse spheres of their national development. This paper discusses the various ways through which a culture-centric contemporary art can spur such impact in Nigeria and the diaspora. It also examines the artistic experiences of selected world renowned Nigerian artists whose related works have achieved remarkable success in propelling development within and outside the continent or resolutely addressed issues that impede it. From the findings of this study, it is expected that Nigerians and those in the Diaspora, will discover the significant possibilities in sustainable development that a creative collaboration deeply rooted in a shared cultural history can instigate.
Dr P. Thiyagarajan
Nature is an object of man’s fascination for a long time. From time to time, man’s approach to Nature varies according to his mental aspiration. Eco-criticism is a hermeneutic tool, which studies literature from an environmental point of view. It believes that culture and cultural products are in some way connected with the world of nature. The ecosystem is a biological lot comprising both living and non-living things, interacting with one another for their mutual coexistence. On the other hand, there is cultural system, which is human-centric, value based, which holds the ethics, ‘the benefit of many,’ especially of human kind. The ecosystem and culture are poles opposite that form the dichotomy of world view. In between, there is a moderate system, consisting the elements of aforesaid systems. Hence Ecocriticism critically operates on three premises namely ecocentric, biocentric, and anthropocentric domains. This paper tries to investigate the shades of nature in the above aspects, substantiating with evidences from a section of some seminal literary works.
Adole Olotuche Ann, Benjamin Okike, Dr. Amina Imam
Cybercrime victimization is on the rise, yet most existing studies focus on attackers rather than victims. This research examines the role of psychological traits in predicting cybercrime victimization in Nigeria using machine learning techniques. The research is motivated by the need to integrate human behavioral factors into cybersecurity, the study employs Random Forest, Decision Tree, Naïve Bayes, and Logistic Regression models to analyze thelinks between the Big Five personality traits and victim susceptibility. Data was collected through a SurveyMonkey questionnaire administered to residents of Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC) and a secondary dataset from an open-access Big Five personality repository. The models were trained and evaluated using accuracy, precision, recall, and F1 score metrics after data preprocessing. Random Forest achieved the highest accuracy at 97.2%. From our findings, individuals with high extraversion and low agreeableness, conscientiousness, emotional stability, and openness are more vulnerable to cybercrime. These insights support the development of personality-informed cybersecurity awareness and prevention strategies.
Pragya Sharma, Santosh Kumar Sinha
In this paper, a theorem on degree of approximation of function in the generalized Zygmund class by (E, q) (N̅, Pn) means of Fourier series has been established.
Adebanjo, A.O, Balogun, E.O, Hassan, T.I, Mohammed, H.A
This study examined the factors responsible for the adoption of post-harvest losses prevention techniques among plantain/banana marketers in Lagos State. Multi-stage sampling procedure was used to select 69 marketers of plantain/banana in the study area and a structured questionnaire was administered on them. Data collected were analysed using descriptive statistics and multiple regression analysis. The study revealed that the majority of the marketers were female (97.0%); the plantain/banana marketers affirmed that they suffered postharvest losses (100%). Few of the respondents (5.8%) adopted pre-cooling as a method of postharvest loss prevention technique, chemical treatment (16%), modified atmosphere packaging (17.4%), artificial ripening (5.8%), packaging (14.5%), handling and transportation (14.5%) and 26% indicated that they had no specific technique to prevent postharvest losses Factors influencing the adoption of modern techniques of preventing postharvest losses in plantain/banana by marketers were age (p<0.00), education (p<0.01,) extension agent contact (p<0.01) and income (p<0.01). It is thus recommended that government at all levels should legislate a law that will ban improper transportation of agricultural produce, most especially plantain/banana and encouragement of investment in Postharvest loss prevention technologies.
H. D. Bandhavya, K. C. Chaluvaraju
To develop innovative drug delivery methods the knowledge of a drug's physicochemical properties, namely its ionization constants is essential. Ranolazine and Atenolol are two key drugs used in clinical practice to treat cardiac arrest and their pKa values are important in developing new formulations these drugs. In the present study pKa values were measured experimentally using UV-spectrophotometry, which is known for providing accurate and reproducible pKa values. In pharmaceutical research, the ionization constant (pKa) is an important physicochemical parameter since it determines the dissolving capacity of active substances and to decide the route of administration. The study found that the pKa values for Ranolazine and Atenolol were approximately 7.6 and 9.3, respectively.
Peter Arnold T. Tubayan
Purpose: The study aimed to develop an e-nurse patient safety management system and determine its acceptability among staff nurses in a private hospital in Cebu towards technology management. Method: A descriptive, quantitative approach was employed. Data were obtained from the fifty staff nurses in a private hospital in Cebu using the Hospital Survey on Patient Safety Culture by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality. In the development of the system design, technical requirements were embedded. Patient safety features were incorporated including safety policy, safety risk management, safety assurance and safety promotion. Finally, acceptability of the e-nurse patient safety management system was done using the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM). Results: The study was analyzed using simple percentage and weighted mean. The study revealed significant findings highlighting that clinical leaders, managers, and supervisors promote patient safety and deal with patient safety issues reflecting a favorable perception from the staff nurses, and it showed that all hospital departments and sections have good teamwork. In addition, there is frequent practice and involvement in the workplace regarding nurse communication, reporting of incidents, and appreciative of organizational and managerial support for patient safety. The study's findings demonstrated a high level of user acceptance with the system. Conclusion: One could legitimately conclude that the E-nurse Patient Safety Management System's acceptance serves as evidence of the soundness of the design process. The successful adoption suggests a well-designed system aligned with key patient safety culture dimensions. This highlights the critical need to consider existing safety culture when developing any patient safety management system.
Bhagyashri P. Mahabale, D. A. Rathod, Gunesh. N. Dhembre, S. A. Wathore., S. T. Thoke, Umesh T. Jadhao
The aim of the study was the Development and Evaluation of Floating alginate beads of Esomeprazole. The floating alginate beads of Esomeprazole (F1–F6) were prepared in six different batches using varying concentration of sodium alginate and HPMC K4M using inotropic gelation technique. The floating alginate beads of Esomeprazole (F1–F6) were extensively evaluated. Micrometric properties such as angle of repose, bulk density, tapped density, Carr’s index, and Hausner’s ratio confirmed good flow and packing behavior across all formulations, with F5 exhibiting the most favorable characteristics. The drug entrapment efficiency increased with polymer concentration, reaching a maximum of 87.96 ± 1.05% for F5.Floating lag time decreased with increasing polymer content, with F5 showing the shortest lag time (33.8 ± 1.4 sec).The total floating duration improved significantly with HPMC content, with F5 and F6 maintaining buoyancy for over 12 hours.Particle size analysis revealed a trend of decreasing size with increasing polymer content, with F5 having the smallest average size (190.1 ± 2.3 µm). Additionally, percent yield improved with higher polymer concentrations, with F5 again demonstrating the highest yield (89.62 ± 1.10%).The optimized formulation F5, containing 2% sodium alginate and 1% HPMC K4M, exhibited maximum sustained release (98.26% over 12 hours), balancing matrix stability and drug dissolution
Agbede Caleb Oluwole, Agbede Oluwole Akinyele, Akintayo Folake Olubunmi
Visibility obstructions at urban intersections due to larger vehicles and adverse weather conditions pose significant safety risks and exacerbate traffic congestion. Urban traffic intersections in Nigerian cities like Ibadan often experience visibility obstructions caused by large vehicles, poor road geometry, and adverse weather conditions—factors that impair driver response, increase waiting time, and contribute to congestion. This research proposes an Intelligent Traffic Management System (ITMS) using IoT and GPS technology to enhance visibility and reduce congestion at intersections, specifically in Ibadan, Nigeria. The study focuses on the Agodi Gate corridor, a critical urban intersection, where real-world observational surveys revealed frequent signal occlusions due to vehicle height disparities and limited headway. Through field data collection, VISSIM-based simulation, and mathematical modeling, the study analyzes key parameters such as headway distance, angle of view, vehicle dimensions, and driver response delay. The proposed ITMS prototype provides real-time signal status through dashboard interfaces or mobile applications and dynamically adjusts signal timing based on detected visibility conditions. Results show that visibility-related obstructions significantly impact intersection efficiency and safety. By addressing these challenges, the system enhances driver situational awareness, reduces traffic delays, and improves overall intersection performance. The developed ITMS framework is scalable and offers practical solutions for similar urban environments experiencing visibility-induced traffic challenges.
Tarun Kumar Datta, Venkateshwar Kumar
This document gives important information on combinations regarding dosage preparations of various formulations by fruit essence for the Proceedings of IATA health regugations and FDA Health Secretrait. The trial investigators of my medical curriculum helped me follow the instructions for preparation of Derinomycin given in the document for the paper on Proteomics’ development as published.
Chander Shekhar, Jagriti Gupta
Background: The National Family Health Survey (NFHS) is a vital source of demographic and health statistics in India, yet concerns remain about the accuracy of self-reported fertility data, particularly the number of living children. Discrepancies in reporting can arise from recall bias, social desirability, and proxy reporting, potentially distorting fertility and health indicators. Methods: Using NFHS-IV (2015–16) and NFHS-V (2019–21), this study analyzed women who were both household heads and eligible for the women’s questionnaire. Data from household and women’s files were merged to compare the number of living children reported by household heads and individual women. Matched and unmatched cases were categorized, and discrepancies were examined across age, residence, education, religion, caste, and wealth index. Logistic regression was used to identify predictors of mismatches, while spatial autocorrelation (Moran’s I and LISA cluster analysis) was applied to detect geographic patterns of reporting inconsistencies. Results: In NFHS-IV, 65.3% of reports matched, compared to 63.2% in NFHS-V, with mismatches increasing with women’s age. Women aged 40 and above had over 20 times higher odds of mismatch compared to those under 29. Rural women consistently showed higher odds of discrepancies than urban women (OR = 1.27 in NFHS-IV; OR = 1.32 in NFHS-V). Education was a strong protective factor: women with higher education had 63–64% lower odds of mismatch compared to those with no education. Wealthier women reported more accurately, while religion and caste showed only modest differences. Spatial analysis revealed clusters of high mismatches in central and southern states, while districts in the Northeast and Jammu & Kashmir displayed strong consistency. Conclusion: Reporting discrepancies in NFHS fertility data are strongly associated with age, education, residence, and wealth. Older, less educated, rural, and poorer women are particularly vulnerable to misreporting. These findings underscore the need for targeted survey improvements, enhanced enumerator training, simplified tools, and validation mechanisms to strengthen the reliability of fertility data and ensure more equitable representation across demographic groups.
Abanum Collins I., Aina Jeremiah Oluwafemi, Akintula Oluwashina Elijah, Dr. B. O. Alabi, Prof. M.O. A Akinpelu
This study investigates whether the use of Augmented Reality Strategy (ARS) leads to better academic achievement in goodwill account compared to the traditional Lecture Method (LM). Guided by one research question and its corresponding null hypothesis, the study employed a quasi-experimental design with pretest-posttest experimental and control group arrangement. The sample consisted of Senior Secondary School II students from Lagos State, Nigeria, who were taught using either ARS or LM. Achievement scores were measured using Partnership and Goodwill Account Achievement Test (PGAAT). Analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) revealed a statistically significant difference in favor of ARS, with the instructional strategy accounting for approximately 41.9% of the variance in student achievement. These findings suggest that ARS significantly enhances students’ understanding and retention of complex accounting concepts compared to traditional lecture-based instruction. This study contributes to the growing body of evidence supporting the integration of immersive technologies in financial accounting education and provides insights for educators and curriculum planners seeking innovative teaching approaches.
Dr. Mridula Chanda
How important is water in our daily routine? How essential is salt in our food? It’s as essential as a pleasing personality in today’s day and age. With competitiveness in the work culture of today, with the new age race and eagerness to excel, a developed personality is a boon. It is a natural instinct of people to take to, or in similar words, adhere and get influenced by the words of a person who has a commanding presence, such a command and charm in presence is only brought about by a personality that is developed; to achieve that phenomena, there are several methods that are possible, and all of these methods fall in the shade of the figurehead- Personality Development. The person with a charming personality goes a long way. Charm, sociable and affable attributes, warmth and the right amount of attitude as well as behavior makes a person’s personality stand out and define who he or she is as an individual. The special emphasis laid today on a good personality, thereby giving rise to the exceeding popular concept of personality development; wherein study courses today offered are encompassing of personality development; as individual, independent.
Dr. Sandhya Vats
Parkinson’s Disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that significantly impairs motor and non-motor functions. Early detection is critical for timely intervention, yet conventional diagnostic methods remain limited, particularly in resource-constrained settings. This study presents a dual approach for Parkinson’s Disease detection: a traditional non-AI clinical evaluation framework and a novel deep learning-based model named NeuroParkNet. The clinical model relies on structured symptom evaluation, drawing tests, voice recordings, and gait observations without the use of artificial intelligence, offering a cost-effective solution for rural and underserved regions. Complementing this, the NeuroParkNet deep learning model processes spiral drawings, Mel spectrograms from voice samples, and gait accelerometer data using a tri-stream architecture composed of ResNet-18, Conv2D-BiLSTM, and Conv1D-GRU modules. Trained on a fabricated multimodal dataset (NeuroPD-2025), the proposed model achieves an accuracy of 96.8%, outperforming traditional and fusion-based baselines. This hybrid approach balances accessibility and technical sophistication, demonstrating that Parkinson’s Disease can be reliably detected through both low-resource and advanced computational methodologies.
Dr. URIEN, James
The study focused on ear piercing behaviour and self-esteem among male university students in Nigeria. Two research questions were raised and two null hypotheses were formulated in the study. A mixed-methods design was adopted in the study. It combines qualitative and quantitative research approaches to achieve a more comprehensive understanding of the research problem. The sample size used for this study is 600 participants in the study area. A purposive sampling technique was used in the study. Participants are selected based on specific criteria. A self-structured instrument titled “Ear Piercing Behaviour and Self-esteem Questionnaire - EPBSQ” and interviews were used as the instrument to collect data from participants. The researcher administered a total of 600 questionnaires to randomly selected participants and 13 participants were interviewed in the study area. Mean scores, standard deviation and Pearson Product Moment Statistics was used to analyse the data at 0.05 level of significance while Thematic analysis was adopted for the interpretation of responses. The study concluded that reducing ear piercing behaviour among male university students in Nigeria is a sign of masking and requires a multifaceted approach: health education to highlight risks, alternative self-expression outlets, regulatory measures, culturally sensitive engagement, and psychological interventions to boost self-esteem. There is an urgent need to tailor interventions to local cultural and social dynamics.
Azrina Binti Md Azhari, Endang Pertiwi Binti Saidy, Nurul Hafizah Binti Maarof, Nurul Huda Binti Razalli, Nurul Suzaina Binti Joli, Wan Rezawana Binti Wan Daud
The purpose of this study was to investigate the connection between the dietary patterns, lifestyle choices, and academic performance of brilliant and talented children enrolled at PERMATA@Pintar National College, a government-funded boarding school for adolescents between the ages of 12 and 18. These pupils are recognized as possessing cognitive capacities that beyond their mental ages, and they participate in an educational program that deviates from the norm by exposing them to a range of intellectually demanding activities that foster individual growth. There were no significant variations in eating habits by age (p =.079) or gender (p =.182), and there was no significant correlation between eating habits and health issues (p =.398), according to the data analysis. With extremely low contribution values (Nutrition Beta =.001; Lifestyle Beta =.126), regression analysis also revealed that lifestyle and eating patterns had no discernible impact on academic achievement. These results suggest that among brilliant and talented students, lifestyle choices and nutrition do not significantly influence academic achievement or health. Rather, their achievement and well-being may be more significantly impacted by other elements like learning methodologies, social support, academic pressure, and intrinsic drive. According to this study, multiple facets of cognitive, emotional, and social development should be considered when designing educational and health interventions for gifted and talented adolescents.
Agom David Otieno, Dr. Peter Ndichu, Mark Opondo
In Kisumu City, Kenya, microfinance institutions (MFIs) are key in the provision of financial services to low-income earners. Notwithstanding the evolution of financial technologies (Fintech), with its potential to provide innovative solutions that can improve financial inclusion, there are a number of obstacles to fully exploit these advancements. The practical problem which this study seeks to address is the knowledge gap as to how Fintech credit and credit sharing, and banking regulations influence the performance of MFIs in Kisumu City. The critical knowledge void is an understanding of how Fintech credit, credit sharing and banking regulations specifically influence the financial performance of MFIs. The aim is to develop a robust understanding of how each factor affects the financial health of MFIs so as to contribute to data-based improvement and targeted interventions. The study is based on financial intermediary theory and asymmetric information theory that have theoretical implications for understanding how financial technologies and regulatory frameworks may influence financial performance and the management of risk. Correlational survey as a research design is used to obtain data from 60 respondents, branch managers, credit officer and operations manager working in all the twelve MFIs in Kisumu City. The survey instruments were tested for reliability using the Cronbach's alpha coefficient (total scale, 0.916), verifying consistency of the data. Descriptive and inferential statistics were utilized to analyze the data. The findings reveal that Fintech credit is a significant driver of improved financial performance among MFIs, indicating its crucial role in enhancing service delivery and operational efficiency. Credit sharing and banking regulations also positively affect financial performance, though their impact is less pronounced compared to Fintech credit. In conclusion, while Fintech credit significantly enhances MFI performance, credit sharing and regulatory compliance also contribute positively but to a lesser extent. The study underscores the need for further research and the implementation of data-driven strategies and supportive regulatory frameworks to fully harness the benefits of Fintech innovations for the economically vulnerable populations in Kisumu City.
Wasswa Asaph Senoga
Financial literacy, covering knowledge, skills, and attitudes toward money, may empower clergy to make more discerning financial decisions. This study examined how the financial knowledge, skills, and attitudes of clergy in the Mukono diocese influenced their financial behaviour. The data collection approach employed was quantitative research, and 94 clergy from the Mukono diocese were selected using purposive sampling. We employed multiple linear regression analysis. The results reveal that financial knowledge, financial skills, and financial attitudes all exert a significant effect on financial behaviour. We evaluated hypotheses H1, H2, and H3, and all three were affirmed. The independent factors X1 (financial skills), X2 (financial knowledge), and X3 (financial attitudes) significantly positively influence the dependent variable (financial behaviour). This survey indicates that clergy possess considerable financial acumen. Clergy can demonstrate responsibility and awareness by utilizing their financial skills, knowledge, and attitudes to make more insightful decisions.
Dr Moshood Moses MAMUDU, Dr Oluseye OKUNOLA
The global increase in sugar-sweetened beverage (SSB) consumption, particularly carbonated soft drinks, poses significant public health concerns. These beverages are high in added sugars and offer minimal nutritional value, contributing to adverse health outcomes such as weight gain, insulin resistance, and an elevated risk of type 2 diabetes. Sedentary individuals, characterized by low physical activity levels, are especially susceptible to these metabolic effects. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of regular SSB intake on blood glucose levels among healthy sedentary adults. A randomized controlled trial was conducted with 20 healthy undergraduate students from Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife. Participants were randomly assigned to either an experimental group (n=10), which consumed a 60cl bottle of SSB followed by 45 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise, or a control group (n=10), which consumed the same beverage without subsequent exercise. Blood glucose levels were measured at baseline (fasting), and at 15-minute intervals post-consumption, culminating in a post-exercise measurement for the experimental group. Results indicated that both groups experienced significant increases in blood glucose levels following SSB consumption. However, the experimental group exhibited a more pronounced spike, with mean blood glucose levels peaking at 145.7 mg/dL compared to 126.1 mg/dL in the control group. Interestingly, post-exercise blood glucose levels in the experimental group decreased to 93.7 mg/dL, suggesting that moderate-intensity exercise may facilitate glucose regulation following high sugar intake. These findings underscore the acute glycemic impact of consuming a 60cl bottle of SSB in sedentary individuals and highlight the potential mitigating effect of moderate physical activity. Given the association between SSB consumption and increased risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases, these results emphasize the importance of limiting intake of such beverages and incorporating regular exercise to maintain optimal metabolic health.
Diba Tabassum, Md Shajahan Ali, Md. Ashikur Rahman, Md. Rifat Hossain, Mohammad Zakir Hossain Khan
Bituminous concrete, also referred to as asphaltic concrete, represents one of the most sophisticated and high-cost types of flexible pavement layers utilized in surface courses. Given its elevated cost and performance demands, bituminous mixtures must be meticulously designed to satisfy standards for structural integrity and durability. The mixture typically includes well-graded coarse aggregates, fine aggregates, and mineral filler, all bound together with bitumen. The mineral filler component, which passes through a 0.075 mm sieve, significantly influences the mechanical performance of the mix. An increase in filler content generally enhances Marshall Stability. According to the Asphalt Institute, 4 to 8% filler is recommended in asphalt concrete [1]. Traditional fillers like cement, limestone, and granite powder are not economically feasible or widely available in Bangladesh. In this context, a 50:50 combination of coal dust and coarse sand is considered a viable alternative, as both are inexpensive and readily accessible. This study evaluates the effect of this blended filler on the behavior of bituminous mixtures. It compares the performance of mixes containing a coal dust–coarse sand blend with that of mixes using conventional filler types such as fine sand with stone dust in Bangladesh. The evaluation was conducted using the Marshall mix design approach. The Marshall stability values for mixtures containing fine sand with stone dust and the coal dust–coarse sand blend were measured at 2.15 kN, and 1.79 kN respectively, all of which surpass the minimum threshold of stipulated by Marshall Design criteria. These results indicate that a 50% coal dust and 50% coarse sand combination can serve as an effective and economical filler in asphaltic concrete.
A. O. Adaikwu, Ekefan, E.J., O. E. Onu
This study investigated the chemical properties and environmental implications of soil samples collected from three dumpsites labeled as Old bridge, Wurukum, and High level, and a Control sample collected at 100m from each of the dumpsites. The analysis focused on key parameters including base saturation, Cation Exchange Capacity (CEC), nutrient levels (Calcium, Magnesium, Potassium, Nitrogen), and concentrations of heavy metals (Lead, Chromium, Cobalt, Zinc, Nickel, Copper and Manganese). The samples were collected and analyzed using standard analytical equipment, reagents and procedures. Results revealed significant variations among the samples, indicative of diverse impacts of waste disposal on soil fertility and contaminant accumulation. High levels of Chromium and Lead in certain samples underscore environmental concerns, necessitating remediation strategies to mitigate potential health risks. Furthermore, differences in soil physical properties such as bulk density and clay content highlight the influence of waste materials on soil structure and nutrient retention. The findings underscore the importance of effective waste management practices to safeguard soil quality and promote sustainable land use in contaminated areas. The study concluded that solid waste disposal significantly affects soil quality in Makurdi, with notable variations in chemical properties and heavy metal content across the sampled sites. Based on the findings, it is recommended that regular soil monitoring be conducted, especially in areas like Old Bridge where the CEC is highest (12.61 cmol kg⁻¹), to ensure sustained soil fertility and prevent nutrient loss. Given the significant Chromium content at High Level (0.28 mg kg⁻¹) and Lead levels across all sites, immediate remediation efforts should be initiated to prevent further contamination and protect public health. Additionally, improving waste management practices, including better waste segregation and controlled disposal, is crucial to minimize the introduction of heavy metals and other pollutants into the soil, ensuring long-term soil health and agricultural productivity. It was also recommended that further research be carried out by expanding the coverage of this research and in another season.
Sarika Gorkhanath Sawant
Fruit rot is a very common and destructive disease that causes serious economic loss in production of mainly fruits and vegetables. Ecofriendly, plant extracts have shown great potential as an alternative to synthetic fungicides. Plant produce wide range of secondary metabolites.In the present study, preliminary antifungal activity of A. indica, L. camara, D. stramonium, O. sanctum was tested against postharvest fungal pathogens of Papaya, Lemon and Sapota. Aqueous, ethanolic, methanolic and Acetone Extracts were prepared to test the antifungal activity in the concentration of 20%, 40%,60%,80% and 100%. The investigation showed that methanolic plant extracts gives better results as compare to other solvent extracts. And the rate of mycelial growth decreases as the rate of concentration increases.
Asha Nandabaram, Bhavani Bachu, Lakshmi Manisha Rajaputana, Muvvala Sudhakar, Poojitha Kalvala
Biologic therapies have transformed the management of autoimmune diseases by targeting key immune pathways with precision, reducing dependence on broad immunosuppression. This review explores advances in monoclonal antibody–based therapies across three representative autoimmune conditions: pemphigus vulgaris (PV), generalized myasthenia gravis (gMG), and psoriasis. In PV, B-cell depletion with rituximab has become the preferred first-line therapy, achieving durable remission and steroid-sparing outcomes. In gMG, complement inhibitors (eculizumab, ravulizumab, zilucoplan) and neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn) antagonists (efgartigimod, rozanolixizumab) provide rapid, clinically meaningful improvements in refractory patients. In psoriasis, therapies targeting the IL-23/IL-17 axis (guselkumab, risankizumab, bimekizumab) have achieved unprecedented levels of skin clearance and durability. Safety, accessibility, and biomarker-driven personalization remain challenges, while future directions include antigen-specific cell therapies, bispecific antibodies, and oral biologic mimetics. Collectively, these advances highlight the transformative role of biologics in autoimmune disease and the trajectory toward precision immunotherapy.
Nilesh Nagare
Every profession is changing tremendously due to advancement of digital technology. It is ever changing nature of duties and responsibilities of every professional in this digital era. The library professionals are not exception to this. This paper discusses the shifting duties of librarians in the digital age. It looks at how technological advancements have changed the conventional functions of libraries and the new abilities and duties that librarians need to have in order to continue being beneficial and productive members of their communities. The paper highlights the critical role librarians play in facilitating information access in a world of growing complexity and bridging the digital gap by discussing issues including teaching digital literacy, data curation, community involvement, and digital resource management.
Jovy Rei Manalili
Intensive Care Unit (ICU) patients often experience heightened emotional distress due to isolation and restricted family access, making digital family interaction a promising solution to bridge these emotional gaps. This study examined the perceived impact of digital family interaction on emotional support in ICU settings from the perspectives of patients, families, healthcare providers, and administrators. Employing a descriptive-quantitative correlational design, the research was conducted in selected hospitals in Tarlac City, involving 30 ICU patients, 30 family members, 20 healthcare staff, and 10 administrators selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected using validated questionnaires and analyzed through descriptive statistics and Pearson correlation at a significance level of p < 0.05. Findings revealed unanimous agreement among patients and families that digital interaction reduced anxiety, loneliness, and fear while enhancing motivation and connectedness (mean = 5.00). Healthcare providers (mean = 4.88) and administrators (mean = 4.95) strongly affirmed its benefits. While patient demographics showed no significant association with perceived emotional benefit, staff position (p = 0.035), years of experience (p = 0.029), and administrators’ leadership roles (p = 0.015) were significantly correlated with perceptions. The study concludes that digital family interaction is universally beneficial in ICU care and recommends its institutionalization through structured protocols and leadership-driven policies.
Rajashri S. Wayal
This study aims to find out the existing scenario of library resources and facilities viz. collection, including infrastructure, library services available in the library in the SVPM’S IOM. Institute is using VMEDULIFE cloud based ERP Software for easy access of daily work. Physical survey of the entire library has been conducted for which a user’s have been utilized the library in well manner. This study itself is a unique and no such study was conducted in the area of library in this institute. The study found the usage of electronic resources by faculty and students of SVPM Institute confirmed that the resources are very easy to access and more and more informative and time saving and very much flexible to access, thus increased the effectiveness of this service. Library studied grossly underutilizing some essential modules found on the library Management software packages installed in library, such as cataloguing/classification, Electronic resources, My Issued Resources, Library Entry for footfall, Resource Location, reference services, Learner with Most Issued resources, electronic document delivery, online -information resource etc. for development which has made available through software.
Ace Lagman, Isagani Mirador Tano, Jayson Victoriano, Jonilo Mababa, Joseph Espino, Keno Piad, Luningning M. Mendoza, Mamerto C. Mendoza
This study investigates the integration of Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) technology into rice yield prediction to address the limitations of conventional methods that rely on time-consuming and labor-intensive manual field assessments. UAV-captured multispectral imagery was utilized to generate vegetation indices, such as the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), providing accurate and timely indicators of crop health, growth stages, and productivity. Collected data underwent systematic preprocessing and analysis to estimate yield outputs, ensuring precision through the use of established statistical evaluation metrics. The developed system was assessed in accordance with ISO/IEC 25010 software quality standards and ISO/IEC 30141:2018 hardware architecture guidelines, receiving high scores in functional suitability, maintainability, and interoperability. Validation through consultations with farmers and agricultural technology experts confirmed its potential to improve decision-making processes, particularly in irrigation scheduling, pest and disease management, and harvest planning. The findings demonstrate that UAV-based monitoring systems offer a practical, data-driven approach to optimizing rice production. By enabling timely interventions and efficient resource allocation, the study underscores the role of UAV technology as a valuable tool in advancing sustainable and precision agriculture practices.
Chiedozie M. Okafor, Dickson O. Oseghale, Stephen Ayanlaja
The rapid rise in debit and credit card fraud within the United States has become a significant threat to financial institutions and consumer trust. Despite the widespread use of encryption and secure socket layer (SSL) technologies, traditional single-factor authentication methods such as static passwords and Card Verification Value (CVV) codes remain susceptible to cyber threats, including phishing, data breaches, and credential stuffing. This paper proposes the implementation of One-Time Password (OTP)-based Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) as a scalable and effective mechanism to enhance the security of card-based transactions in the U.S. banking system. By combining a user-known credential with a dynamic, time-sensitive OTP, the study presents a robust authentication framework designed to reduce unauthorized access and transactional fraud. The discussion draws on a comprehensive review of current fraud trends, limitations of existing authentication models, and a conceptual OTP-integrated security architecture adaptable to banking infrastructures. The paper also considers technical feasibility, user experience implications, and regulatory compliance. Findings offer practical insights and implementation strategies to support U.S. financial institutions in mitigating fraud risks while maintaining accessibility and usability for consumers.
Abdulraman S. O, Ayuba A. B, Jimoh I, Mukaila O. O
This study was conducted to assess the environmental impact of artisanal and small-scale gold mining in Borgu Local Government Area, Niger State, located in North Central Nigeria. Samples were gathered from areas presumed free of gold mining activities to serve as controls, as well as from gold processing (washing) sites and downstream locations along Mayera water. These samples were analysed at the National Institute for Freshwater Fisheries Research (NIFFR) central laboratory for heavy metals using atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS). The levels of cadmium, copper, chromium, iron, lead, and mercury were measured using AAS techniques. The concentrations found in samples from the control site (upstream) are cadmium (0.001mg/L) copper (0.006mg/l), chromium (0.025mg/l), iron (.01mg/l) lead (0.009mg/l) and mercury (.0088mg/l) are all below the acceptable permissible limit of WHO/NAFDAC. While the result from the mining processing (washing) site show a very high increase in the heavy metal concentration of cadmium (0.008mg/L) copper (0.032mg/l), chromium (0.091mg/l), iron (0.447mg/l) lead (0.032mg/l) and mercury (0.031mg/l).the mean concentration of cadmium are (0.0.0058mg/l),chromium(0.027mg/l) and iron (0.1624) on(0.1624mg/l) are below the acceptable permissible limit of NAFDAC while copper(0.02mg/l),lead(0.0257mg/l) and mercury(0.0267mg/l)are above the acceptable permissible limit of NAFDAC. Cadmium (0.0.0058mg/l), copper (0.02mg/l), chromium (0.027mg/l) and iron (0.1624) are below WHO limit while, lead (0.0257mg/l) and mercury (0.0267mg/l)/l) are above the acceptable permissible limit of WHO. The result shows heavy metal concentration due to artisanal and small-scale mining activities in the Borgu local government which is the most silent but significant environmental side effect.
Dr Mayuri Sunil Patil
Background: Gridhrasi, described in Ayurveda as a disease caused by aggravated Vata, is very similar to modern sciatica. It presents with radiating pain from the lower back down the leg, often with stiffness and tingling. Ayurveda recommends Eranda (castor) in forms like milk decoction (Ksheerapaka), enema (Basti), and oil therapy as important treatments for Vata disorders. Aim: This review looks at how Ayurveda uses Eranda for Gridhrasi, explores the modern scientific findings about castor, and summarizes available clinical research. Methods: The study reviewed Ayurvedic classics and modern scientific literature on Ricinus communis (castor), focusing especially on studies related to sciatica and low back nerve pain. Results: Classical texts describe Gridhrasi with symptoms such as stiffness, pricking pain, pain radiating from the buttock to the foot, and restricted movement. Treatments advised include oil application (snehana), sweating therapy (swedana), medicated enemas (basti), and mild purgation (virechana), with Eranda as a key herb. Modern research shows castor oil has anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, mainly due to ricinoleic acid acting through specific receptors in the body. Importantly, the toxic protein ricin is not present in the oil. Some small clinical studies suggest that Erandamoola Ksheerapaka and Eranda Basti may help sciatica patients, but strong, large-scale clinical trials are still missing. Safety concerns include loose stools, dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and it should not be used in pregnancy because it can trigger labor. Conclusion: The Ayurvedic use of Eranda for Gridhrasi matches well with its modern anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving actions. It may be a useful non-drug therapy for sciatica, but more rigorous studies are needed to confirm its effectiveness with standardized preparations.
Beatrice Onuoha, Elijah N E Mohammed
Background: The use of plastics in many aspects of daily life has become a globally accepted practice and one that is here to stay. Plastic is inexpensive, readily available, lightweight, and strong, making it the preferred material for various applications in agriculture, packaging, electronics, and other human activities. Population increase and industrialization have led to the extensive production of plastic materials, which has resulted in the attendant generation of plastic waste. Improper disposal of this waste can lead to a vast accumulation of plastic waste in the environment, which can pose serious health and ecological risks to residents. Aim: This study assessed the health and ecological risks of plastic waste pollution in Lagos State. It also examined residents' awareness of plastic waste pollution and identified factors contributing to its prevalence in the State. Methodology: .The study was a cross-sectional survey targeting adult residents of the State - 18 years and above. A sample size of 385 was calculated from the estimated population of 15,500,000 [as reported by the Lagos State Bureau of Statistics, 2024], using Raosoft sample size calculator. The data collection instrument was a structured questionnaire which was shared electronically to the participants. Data was analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 27.0. Descriptive statistics was deployed for data evaluation, and results were expressed as percentages and frequencies Results: A total of 380 respondents participated, out of which 94.2% of the respondents are educated up to tertiary [57.4%] and post-tertiary [36.8%] levels. The results showed that most of the respondents [98.2%] were aware of plastic waste pollution, with 82% recognising the possibility of health risks and 79% acknowledging the possible ecological risks arising from plastic waste pollution. Conclusion: The study found that plastic waste pollution poses significant health and ecological risks in the state. These risks can be reduced by implementing specific measures, such as enhancing plastic waste management, fostering collaboration between the government and stakeholders to promote eco-friendly alternatives to plastics, and enforcing stricter waste disposal regulations.
Fatima Zohra NASRI
The present study investigates the effectiveness of mind mapping as a critical reading strategy in enhancing the reading comprehension skills of EFL (English as a Foreign Language) learners. An experimental design was employed, involving two groups: an experimental group that received mind mapping strategy training and a control group that followed traditional reading instruction. Both groups were administered a pre-test and a post-test to assess their reading comprehension performance. A pre-experiment questionnaire was designed for both groups to explore the participants’ reading habits, awareness of the mind mapping strategy, and thier attitudes regarding the strategy. A post-experiment questionnaire targeted the experimental group to reflect on their perceptions concerning the mind map strategy and its effects on their performance. The results indicated a significant improvement in the post-test scores of the experimental group compared to their pre-test results, suggesting the positive impacts of mind mapping on their critical reading abilities. Conversely, the control group demonstrated only marginal improvement, which may be attributed to natural learning progression rather than strategic intervention. The findings of the questionnaires revealed positive attituds on the part of the participants regarding the strategy training and its impacts. These results underscore the value of integrating mind mapping into EFL reading instruction to foster better comprehension and critical engagement with texts. The study recommends the incorporation of such visual learning strategies in EFL classrooms to promote deeper text analysis and improve learners’ overall reading proficiency
Barka Abbas Maladi, Emeka Walter Ndubuisi, Fatima Zakari Abacha, Lawrence Ocheme Akor, Nana Thliza Solomon, Wadai Smith
Menopause is a turning point in the life of a woman where the woman faces hormonal changes that may predispose the individual to different health problems and renal dysfunction being one of them. This analysis did an assessment on the uric acid and creatinine concentrations in the serum of post-menopausal women living in Maiduguri Metropolitan Council (MMC) as a way of determining whether they can be used as early predictors of the risk of renal failure. A total of 215 volunteers were recruited, of which 165 were post-menopausal women and 50 were pre-menopausal controls of the same age group. Blood samples were taken and blood analyzed by regular enzyme and colorimetric methods. The findings showed that there were significantly higher levels of serum uric acid (427.10 ± 114.54µmol/L) and creatinine (118.43 ± 60.35µmol/L) in post-menopausal women than in the control group (p < 0.05). Further, there was a weak but significant positive correlation between serum uric acid and creatinine (r= 0 53) and each biomarker with the BMI. This is an indication that menopause can be a predisposing factor to kidney impairment because of the loss of protective effects that estrogen had on the kidney. It is recommended that renal biomarkers should be monitored regularly in women, especially post-menopausal and peri-menopausal women to detect the onset of chronic kidney disease and prevent it.
A.Karaky, Amine Zineb, Arous Salim, Bouziane Maha, D.Yomi, Drighil Abdenasser, Haboub Meryem, I.Kotirkow, Med el Ghali Bennouna, Moufid Omar, Rouiyess Dounia
Background: Left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) is a common and serious cardiovascular complication in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), contributing significantly to morbidity and mortality. Whether LVH can regress after stabilisation of CKD remains a key clinical question. Objective: To evaluate the regression of LVH after one year of optimised treatment aimed at stabilising renal function and controlling cardiovascular risk factors in patients with CKD stages 3 to 5. Methods: A prospective study included 40 patients (30–75 years old) with CKD stages 3–5 and echocardiographic LVH. Patients received optimised management over 12 months, including tight blood pressure control (<130/80 mmHg), correction of anaemia, and management of phosphocalcium metabolism. Echocardiographic measurements of left ventricular mass index (LVMI) were compared at baseline and after 12 months. Results: After 12 months, 70% of patients showed regression of LVH, with complete normalisation in 25% and partial reduction in 45%. Regression was associated with optimal blood pressure control (p<0.01), effective correction of anaemia (p<0.05), and treatment of phosphocalcium disorders (p<0.05). Conversely, persistent LVH (30%) was linked to advanced myocardial fibrosis, rapid CKD progression (GFR <15 ml/min), and poor treatment adherence. LVH regression was accompanied by improved diastolic function, reduced NT-proBNP levels, fewer heart failure symptoms, and a 40% decrease in hospitalisations for cardiac decompensation.
Manjinder Kaur
Algebraic topology is a powerful branch of mathematics that bridges algebra and topology to study qualitative properties of spaces. Homotopy theory, a core component of algebraic topology, deals with the concept of continuous deformation between functions and spaces. This paper explores the fundamental concepts of algebraic topology and homotopy theory, supported by empirical methodologies and numerical examples. A key emphasis is placed on computational tools such as persistent homology and the use of simplicial complexes to analyze real-world datasets, including image datasets and sensor networks. By integrating theoretical foundations with applied examples, this study demonstrates how algebraic topology can be used not only to understand abstract mathematical spaces but also to draw insights from complex data structures.
Laamiha Naznin Mahtab, Md Shajahan Ali, Md. Tanim Shahriar, Mohammad Zakir Hossain Khan, Mst. Reduwana Alam
A recent study explored the use of bamboo leaf ash (BLA) as a partial replacement for cement in mortar, aiming to enhance its strength while promoting environmental sustainability. BLA was added in varying proportions (0%, 5%, 10%, and 15%) to a mortar mix with a 1:2.75 sand-to-cement ratio and a water-to-binder ratio of 0.5. The research focused on evaluating the setting times, consistency, and strength properties, with forty-eight samples cast for compressive and tensile strength tests. These samples were cured for 7, 14, and 28 days, and tested using 50 mm cubes for compressive strength and briquette molds for tensile strength. The study found that as the BLA content increased, both consistency and setting times of the mortar also increased. Notably, a 10% replacement of BLA resulted in the highest improvement in compressive strength at 28 days compared to the control group, and similar enhancements were observed in tensile strength at both 7 and 28 days. The tensile strength values were 1.734 MPa, 2.588 MPa, and 3.018 MPa at 7, 14, and 21 days, respectively. This experiment demonstrated that a 10% substitution of bamboo leaf ash significantly enhanced both the compressive and tensile strengths of mortar. Additionally, the innovative mixture showed potential for crack mitigation, a rare benefit in typical cement mortars. This highlights the potential of bamboo leaf ash as an environmentally friendly alternative, reducing the environmental impact of cement production while improving the durability of the mortar.
Dr. Annaliza C. Tibayde
This report presents an in-depth analysis of a study investigating HIV/AIDS awareness, misconceptions, and stigma among 300 university students in Western Visayas. The primary objective is to enhance comprehension of the study's findings and provide a robust foundation for evidence-based institutional action plans aimed at prevention and intervention. The study revealed that while students generally possess a high level of awareness regarding HIV/AIDS (Mean = 3.84), a significant proportion simultaneously holds persistent misconceptions, particularly concerning non-transmission modes. For instance, nearly half (47%) incorrectly believe mosquito bites can transmit HIV. Concurrently, moderate levels of HIV/AIDS-related stigma were observed (Mean = 2.91). A critical finding was the statistically significant moderate negative correlation between awareness and stigma (r = -0.54, p <.001), indicating that an increase in accurate knowledge is associated with a reduction in stigmatizing attitudes. Furthermore, the understanding of HIV/AIDS varied significantly across different academic programs, with students in health-related and education fields demonstrating a more nuanced comprehension. These findings underscore the urgent need for targeted, evidence-based educational interventions. Key recommendations include the integration of precise HIV/AIDS education across all university curricula, the implementation of peer-led campaigns to normalize discussions and challenge fear-based narratives, and the establishment of robust institutional policy support for sustained initiatives. Such strategies are essential to bridge the gap between general awareness and accurate understanding, thereby effectively reducing stigma within the university community.
Miss. Vaishnavi Vitthal Mogal
The increasing awareness of health hazards and environmental impact caused by synthetic hair dyes has sparked interest in natural alternatives. This study explores the potential of coconut husk—an underutilized agricultural byproduct—as a source of eco-friendly hair dye. Pigments were extracted from coconut husk using various solvents (water, ethanol, and alkaline solutions) and characterized using UV-Vis and FTIR spectroscopy. The extract was applied to human hair samples to evaluate dyeing potential, retention, and fastness. Results indicated that coconut husk contains tannins and phenolic compounds capable of imparting brown to reddish hues to hair. The study supports the development of a sustainable, cost-effective, and non-toxic hair dye formulation from agricultural waste.
Andrew Makori, Edna Jemutai, Lydia Keya
The relationship between women’s financial allocation and women’s economic empowerment is a crucial and complex household matter with global implications. However, UNICEF report designates that 65% of women aged 35 to 59 are underprivileged, compared to 56% of men in the same age group. A significant challenge in women’s economic empowerment is the limited financial availability resources that women often face, particularly in marginalized and low-income communities. However, since devolution, Kakamega County government has shown significant efforts to contribute to women's economic empowerment according to Article 260 of the 2010 Constitution; women are recognized as a marginalized group, necessitating affirmative action to promote their advancement. This study examined the influence of financial availability on women's economic empowerment in Kakamega County. The specific objective was to examine the influence of women’s financial availability on women’s economic empowerment in Kakamega County, Kenya. This study was anchored on Empowerment and Financial Inclusion theory. This study adopted cross-sectional research design and targeted a population of 994 women groups registered by the department of gender and social services Kakamega County. Purposive and systematic sampling technique in line with Mugenda and Mugenda (2013) formula was used to sample nine hundred and ten (910) (30) women. Primary data was collected by use of a survey questionnaire and interview schedule. The collected data was analyzed by descriptive methods, correlation analysis and regression analysis. The study revealed that financial availability have a significant positive effect on the economic empowerment of women groups in Kakamega County, Kenya, (P-value=0.000<0.05) as their null hypotheses were rejected. This study recommended that woman groups should embrace and utilize these financial availability strategies to improve their economic status and their socio-well-being. Similarly, this study recommended for funding to women’s empowerment programmes, especially in interior rural areas in collaboration with the private sector to provide more financial opportunities for both women in groups and those women who may not be particularly in women groups (chamas).This study recommends for a comparative study be undertaken between women headed households and male headed households in empowerment groups.
Chukwuagoziem Samuel Agu., Emmanuel Chinanuife, James Ndukwe
The role of financial development cannot be overemphasized for a sound and healthy structure of an economy. Also, a well-functioning and adequately regulated financial market is considered a prerequisite for reaping significant gains from foreign direct investments, which in turn could be channelled to enhance economic productivity. This empirical study explores the impact of financial development and foreign direct investment on economic productivity and the direction of causality between financial development and foreign direct investment on economic productivity respectively. The Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) Model, the Granger Causality Test and the Fully Modified Ordinary Least Squares (FMOLS) for robustness check were adopted as the main analytical techniques. The findings of the study indicate that financial development has significant but negative impact on economic productivity in Nigeria while foreign direct investment exerts a positive and statistically significant long-term effect on economic productivity. Additionally, Investment, Regulatory Quality, Inflation Rate, and Interest Rate are also discovered to have a negative impact on economic productivity in Nigeria. The Fully Modified Ordinary Least Squares (FMOLS) results further confirm these findings. This study thus recommends that Central Bank of Nigeria should initiate reforms that must be directed at improving the quality of financial development indicators and its services to meet the needs of foreign and domestic investors and the economy at large; the government should create an enabling environment, provide infrastructural facilities, and improve the quality of institution to enable Nigeria's economy to thrive productively given any global economic shocks.
Wasike David
With a goal of increasing GDP tenfold by 2040, Uganda's Vision 2040 seeks swift socioeconomic change. Low financial literacy remains a major barrier to achieving inclusive economic growth. This challenge exists despite significant growth in financial inclusion, thanks to innovations in mobile money, community-based financial institutions, and policy changes. Currently, over 60% of Ugandans use mobile money, and access to formal financial services rose from 33% in 2018 to 42% in 2023. Still, nearly 60% of people lack basic knowledge of budgeting, credit management, and investment planning. This gap between access and effective use limits the transformative potential of financial inclusion. This study explores how financial literacy can promote economic empowerment and support financial inclusion through a conceptual reflection approach. Economic transformation is essential for Uganda's goal to increase its GDP tenfold by 2040. Expanding access to financial services and ensuring that citizens understand how to use these services effectively are both key to this transformation's success. While more than 60% of people now use mobile money, financial literacy remains a significant obstacle. A large portion of the population lacks the basic knowledge needed for sound financial decisions, according to the World Bank (2020) and Bank of Uganda (2022). This reflection shows that financial literacy is vital for realizing the full potential of financial services in Uganda. The paper emphasizes the importance of education, collaboration between public and private sectors, and community-based initiatives in achieving sustainable economic growth. It also offers strategies for integrating financial literacy into national development plans.
Shyam Sunder Prasad Singh
In this paper, we present a new fixed point theorem that generalizes the result of Souayah and Hidri [5 ] within the context of the generalized controlled metric space with three control functions.
Ms. Syed Anjum
This article delves into the intricate relationship between cuisine and cultural preservation in Kashmiri literature, with a particular focus on Shahnaz Bashir’s Scattered Souls (2017). Through evocative descriptions of cooking rituals, traditional dishes, and communal feasts, Bashir’s narratives showcase the Kashmiri kitchen as a site of memory, identity, and resilience. The article explores how culinary practices, such as the preparation of Wazwan or the careful recreation of everyday meals, serve as mnemonic devices that connect individuals to their ancestral heritage and familial bonds. By highlighting the sensorial richness of food—its taste, aroma, and texture—the narrative underscores how these elements trigger memories and sustain cultural continuity, especially in times of displacement or social change. Rather than relying on overt declarations of cultural identity, the literature uses the subtleties of domestic life to reveal the enduring power of food in shaping collective memory. This study argues that food in Kashmiri writings functions as a silent but potent symbol, fostering belonging and anchoring tradition within the evolving landscape of Kashmiri society. Ultimately, the article demonstrates that cuisine is not merely sustenance but a vital repository of meaning and identity in Kashmiri culture.
Ahaneku, C.V, Aseh, P, Elomba, U.F, Madu, F.M, Nwofia, U.E, Onuigbo, E.N, Osuagwu, J.O
This study investigates the geochemical characteristics of the Nanka Formation in the Niger Delta Basin, southeastern Nigeria. The research was carried out in order to reconstruct it's sediment provenance, weathering history, depositional environment, and tectonic setting. Representative sandstone samples collected from the outcrop sections of the formation were analyzed for major and trace elements using X-ray Fluorescence (XRF) and Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) techniques. The results revealed that the major elements are dominated by silica with concentration value ranges of 72.95 and 82.14wt%. Comparison of the major and trace elements concentrations in the investigated sediment with the Upper Continental Crust (UCC) and Post-Archean Australian Shale (PAAS) indicated silica enrichment and depletion of Al2O3, CaO, MgO, K2O and Na2O. Trace elements such as Ni, Co, Zn, Th and Zr were depleted with respect to PAAS. There is also minor enrichment of U and Ba. The sandstones were classified as litharenites and sublitharenites. Geochemical indices such as the Chemical Index of Alteration (CIA), Plagioclase Index of Alteration (PIA) and Chemical Index of Alteration (CIW) have value ranges of 46.94 to 57.94%, 55.28 to 74.02% and 50.77 to 66.61% respectively. The value ranges of the indices are consistent with A- CN- K tenery plot of the sandstone, suggesting moderate weathering. The Index of Compositional Variability (ICV) values of between 1.37 and 1.60% indicate immature source rock. The paleo- climatic condition is semi- humid. Nanka Formation is sourced from felsic and intermediate igneous rocks from passive margin and was deposited in a marginal marine setting.
Chinaka A.I.,, Emeghara K. C, Ezebunanwa A.C, Mbagwu E.C, Nwugha V.N, onwuegbuchulam C. O
This study employs Vertical Electrical Sounding (VES) to investigate subsurface lithology with emphasis on identifying marl deposits in the study area. Resistivity profiles from five locations reveal diverse geological formations, including shallow weathered zones and deeper high-resistivity layers consistent with dense marl and sandstone. Results indicate that marl-rich formations occur at extractable depths. Overlying clay and shale horizons, identified as low-resistivity layers, may act as protective aquitards. These findings demonstrate the effectiveness of VES in delineating marl deposits and assessing their spatial distribution. The integration of recent advances in geophysical surveying and resistivity inversion enhances the accuracy of locating economically viable marl deposits, supporting sustainable extraction and land-use planning in sedimentary environments
Professor Chubah Ezeh, Raymond Tochukwu Olekwara
Ghost worker syndrome continues to be a persistent drain on public resources, particularly in Kogi State. This phenomenon involves non-existent employees receiving salaries or multiple payments from the same individual under various identities. This results in a delay in service delivery and a decrease in productivity. This study investigates the impact of ghost worker syndrome on public sector efficiency in Kogi State using quantitative methods, data obtained were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Based on responses from 774 civil servants and payroll administrators, findings reveal that ghost workers inflate wage bills by ₦1 billion monthly and reduce efficiency by 0.65 units per regression analysis which suggests that fraudulent payroll practices has a substantial impact on diminishing government effectiveness in Kogi state with monumental corruption, inadequate institutional controls, and insufficient transparency as significant factors contributing to the prevalence of ghost worker syndrome in the state. Based on the above findings, the study recommended implementing comprehensive payroll management systems, conducting regular audits and verification exercises, and enhancing institutional controls and accountability mechanisms to tackle this malaise undermining productivity and efficiency in Kogi state public bureaucracy.
Emmanuel Asumadu Agyemang
This article examines the intricate relationship between the global political economy and educational reforms in the Global South, with a particular focus on Ghana's development trajectory. Drawing on literature from historical institutionalism and critical political economy, this research will examine how the international development industry, donor conditionalities, and the evolving political economy of the global context have influenced policy-making processes and educational modes in Ghana from independence to the present day. In the abstract, I will present my main argument: educational reforms in Ghana are often perceived and assessed as internal responses to national development issues, but they are deeply rooted and heavily shaped by the global political economy and ideological currents. In this paper, I will highlight the key drivers of reform in Ghana (the Nkrumah era, SAPs, and the recently introduced free SHS policy); identify what fuels reform (i.e., ideologies, external actors); and discuss reform effects over time on access, equity, quality and relevance of education, both intended and unintended. The abstract will also provide a brief description of the methodology used, which may include a review of literature, analysis of policy documents, and case studies. Lastly, a brief note will be made on how this paper provides insight into the tangled web of interdependent global phenomena alongside national developments in education in the Global South.
Neethu Sundaresan
This study reports the successful green synthesis of cobalt oxide/gold (CoO/Au) bimetallic nanoparticles using sinapinic acid as both a reducing and stabilizing agent. The eco-friendly synthesis approach eliminates the need for hazardous chemicals while producing nanoparticles with superior properties. The formation of CoO/Au bimetallic nanoparticles was confirmed through visual observation of color changes from brown to greyish-black upon addition of HAuCl₄ to the CoO nanoparticle solution. Comprehensive characterization using UV-Visible spectroscopy revealed distinct surface plasmon resonance peaks at 350 nm and 650 nm corresponding to CoO and Au components, respectively. FTIR analysis confirmed the role of sinapinic acid functional groups in nanoparticle reduction and stabilization, with a characteristic Co-O-Au stretching band at 575 cm⁻¹. X-ray diffraction patterns demonstrated the face-centered cubic (FCC) crystalline structure of the bimetallic system, while transmission electron microscopy revealed discrete, spherical nanoparticles with an average diameter of 24.4 nm and single crystalline nature. The synthesized CoO/Au bimetallic nanoparticles exhibit enhanced structural stability and demonstrate significant potential for applications in catalysis, biosensing, and biomedical fields.
Sule Magaji, Umar Ahmed Bello, Yahaya Ismail
This research examines the significant potential of natural gas to drive economic growth in Nigeria, alongside the ongoing infrastructural and regulatory challenges that hinder its comprehensive utilisation. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the study evaluates data gathered from surveys, interviews, and focus groups in various Nigerian states, encompassing regions that are gas-producing, consuming, and underserved. The results indicate that access to natural gas significantly boosts household income and enhances the productivity of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), thus aiding in poverty alleviation and empowering women. Nevertheless, the advantages are not evenly distributed, with urban and semi-urban areas benefiting more from the available infrastructure. In contrast, rural and marginalised communities continue to be neglected due to the lack of efficient pipeline networks, last-mile delivery systems, and prohibitive initial costs. The research identifies specific policy and institutional challenges, including pricing inconsistencies and poor enforcement of regulations, that deter equitable investment and access. By shedding light on these disparities, this study provides actionable insights for policymakers to promote targeted infrastructure development, rural-focused subsidies, and comprehensive regulatory reforms. The research concludes that fully harnessing the potential of natural gas necessitates a comprehensive and inclusive strategy that transforms it from merely a source of national revenue into a driver for equitable, sustainable, and widespread economic growth throughout the country.
Nwosu Simon Onyekachi
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection remains a significant public health challenge in Nigeria, with vertical (mother-to-child) transmission being a major route of infection. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends administering the hepatitis B birth dose (HepB-BD) within 24 hours of birth to prevent perinatal transmission. However, the level of HepB-BD coverage across different regions of Nigeria remains suboptimal and poorly documented. This study assesses the coverage of the hepatitis B birth dose among infants in Plateau State, Nigeria, and identifies the determinants influencing vaccine uptake. Using a cross-sectional study design, data were collected through structured interviews with caregivers and health workers, as well as reviews of immunization records from selected health facilities across urban and rural areas of the state. The study evaluated birth dose administration rates, timing, and associated factors such as maternal education, place of delivery, awareness of HBV, availability of vaccines, and health system challenges. Preliminary findings reveal a low overall coverage of HepB-BD, with significant disparities between urban and rural communities, and a high proportion of infants receiving the vaccine beyond the recommended 24-hour window. Key barriers identified include inadequate maternal awareness, high rates of home deliveries, poor vaccine logistics, and health worker shortages. The study underscores the need for targeted health education, improved delivery and immunization services, and policy interventions to enhance timely administration of the birth dose. Strengthening the integration of maternal and child health services with immunization programs is critical for reducing HBV transmission and achieving national and global hepatitis elimination targets.
Dr Abraham P George, Dr Sr Romia Rodriguez, Dr Sumesh Chacko
Background: Insulin autoantibodies are an uncommon cause of non-diabetic hypoglycaemia in people who have never been exposed to insulin before. This condition is called Insulin Autoimmune Syndrome (IAS), or Hirata's Disease. Because of increased clinical awareness, instances are increasingly being found in various populations, although being more frequently reported in East Asian nations. Case Presentation: We describe two cases of middle-aged women, a 45-year-old homemaker and a 38-year-old nurse, who had low random blood glucose levels (35–59 mg/dL), giddiness, sweating, weariness, and tremors as symptoms of recurrent postprandial hypoglycaemia. Both received baseline blood tests and systemic checks that were normal. The results of the investigations showed significantly higher levels of C-peptide (1772 and 9782 pmol/L), insulin autoantibody titers (>100 and >200), and serum insulin (>1000 µU/mL). Both patients had a history of taking multivitamins that contained the known trigger alpha-lipoic acid. Hypoglycaemic episodes continued even after dietary changes and steroid treatment, although rituximab treatment produced long-lasting clinical improvement. Discussion: IAS is a rare but crucial differential diagnosis for hypoglycaemia that is not diabetic, particularly in individuals who are not receiving insulin therapy. It has been determined that alpha-lipoic acid frequently acts as a precipitating agent. Similar to findings in steroid-refractory cases reported by Batra et al., our patients showed conventional biochemical characteristics of IAS and reacted positively to rituximab, in accordance with earlier investigations. Prolonged morbidity and needless investigations can be avoided with early detection and awareness of IAS. Conclusion: Patients with increased insulin levels and spontaneous hypoglycaemia should be evaluated for IAS, especially if exogenous insulin is not being used. Effective care requires a high index of suspicion, triggering agent identification, and customized treatment, including immunosuppressive medication like rituximab.
Abdul Aziz Ansari, Charles Kennedy, Gamil M. S. Abdullah, Gul Muhammad, Omrane Benjeddou, Saeed Ahmed
The dynamic properties of soils influence seismic site response and liquefaction susceptibility. The previous studies mostly worked on effect of natural fiber and synthetic fiber used in clayey soil to investigate its effect on the dynamic properties of modified soil.This research deepens our understanding of the dynamic behaviour of Niger Delta soils, which is important for evaluating the region's vulnerability to liquefaction and seismic response. By combining experimental data with well-validated empirical models for small to medium-shear strain behaviour in the area's common sandy soils.This study experimentally investigated the behavior of damping ratio and shear modulus under the effects of confining pressure of sandy soils collected from Igbogene Town in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria. Undisturbed samples were acquired from boreholes using thin-walled tubes and consolidated anisotropically under effective stresses of 100, 200, 300, and 400kPa in a cyclic direct simple shear apparatus as per standards. Shear modulus reduction curves were generated from hysteretic stress-strain behavior at shear strains ranging from 0.001% to 2%. The data correlated well with empirical exponential decay models, validating their applicability for Niger Delta region soils. The damping ratio increased nonlinearly with strain, aligning with trends for liquefiable soils. Empirical equations tied the pressure-dependent damping behavior to existing models. Results provided input parameters for seismic ground response analyses. However, wider confining pressure testing would better characterize variability with depth. This work enhances geotechnical seismic hazard evaluations through validated empirical characterizations of small to medium-shear strain behavior for sandy deposits prevalent in the Niger Delta.The findings can be directly used in seismic ground response analysis. These results are expected to improve geotechnical seismic hazard assessments and provide more accurate evaluations of seismic risk in the region.
Aji Sofyan Effendy, Muhammad Saleh Mire
This research explains in detail the conditions of primary and secondary education levels, aims to determine and examine the influence of economic growth, poverty, health facility, teacher quality, and school participation rate (SPR) on children not in school (CNS), using panel data in 34 provinces in Indonesia during 2017-2023. Economic growth has a positive effect on teacher quality or the higher the level of economic growth, the higher the quality of teachers in the three groups (elementary, junior high and senior high), only at the elementary school level the effect is not significant. Furthermore, poverty and health facilities do not affect teacher quality at the three levels. SPR is negatively affected by health facilities for all levels of education, but economic growth and teacher quality do not affect SPR. Poverty has a significant positive effect on CNS, conversely, increasing teacher quality has a negative impact on CNS at the elementary school level, but at the junior high and senior high levels the opposite occurs, where increasing teacher quality actually increases CNS. Then SPR has a negative effect at the elementary school level, but at the junior high and senior high levels it does not affect children not in school. At the high school level, increasing economic growth causes a significant decrease in CNS, but at the junior high school level it is not significant while at the elementary school level it does not have a significant effect.
Dr. Ashish Gupta
Orhan Pamuk, the Nobel Prize-winning Turkish novelist, is renowned for his intricate narratives and richly textured storytelling. His works often delve into profound cultural, philosophical, and political questions, making them a fertile ground for literary analysis. This work examines the recurring themes in Pamuk’s novels and explores how these themes reflect broader issues in society. Understanding these patterns not only sheds light on Pamuk’s literary genius but also offers insights into the complexities of modern identity, tradition, and globalism. Pamuk was born in Istanbul, in 1952, and grew up in a wealthy but declining upper-class family, an experience he describes in passing in his novels, The Black Book and Cevdet Bey and His Sons, as well as more thoroughly in his personal memoir Istanbul: Memories and the City. Pamuk's paternal grandmother was Circassian. He was educated at Robert College secondary school in Istanbul and studied architecture at the Istanbul Technical University, a subject related to his dream career, painting. He left architecture school after three years to become a full- time writer and graduated from the Institute of Journalism at the University of Istanbul in 1976. From ages 22 to 30, Pamuk lived with his mother, writing his first novel and attempting to find a publisher. He describes himself as a Cultural Muslim who identifies with Islam historically and culturally while not believing in a personal connection to God.
Dr. Ramesh Kumar Singh
Flood devastation creates panic situation during rainy season. In Bihar, the loss due to flood is estimated to be about Rs. 64 crores annually, which accounts for about 35 per cent of the total loss incurred in the country due to floods. It not only affects the agricultural production, properties and lives but also interferes in the labour productivity, employment and wages of agricultural labours which force them to migrate elsewhere either seasonally or permanently. About 90 per cent of the flood prone area of the state lies in North Bihar, which is one of the major factors of the backwardness of this region. In Bihar, on average, 8.47 lakh hectares of total areas and 3.16 lakh hectare of crop land areas are submerged annually for several weeks in the river belts of Ganga, Burhi Gandak, Kosi, Bagmati and Sone in the state and affects 271 blocks of 15 districts and cause huge individual and public losses to the exchequer. About 300 agricultural labourers migrate per day from Bihar. The causes of migration are irregular and scarcity of employment opportunities and low wages in their native place of flood prone districts of Bihar. So, it was felt to study the extent of employment, labour productivity and migration of agricultural labour in flood prone areas of North Bihar, the most victim region of flood in Bihar and the paper is based on the facts and figures of the study conducted in flood prone area of North Bihar.
Dr. N. S. Mugadur, Mr. Anant. Hanumanta Pujari
The role and effects of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in India, primarily focusing on the period after the 1991 economic liberalization. The study's central hypothesis posits a positive impact of FDI on India's economic growth. Key objectives included analyzing FDI trends and patterns, assessing its association with economic growth, studying its overall impact, and suggesting measures for increased inflows. The research finds that FDI has served as a crucial stimulus for India's economic growth, establishing India as a favorable investment destination. FDI inflows witnessed tremendous growth post-liberalization, with the Compounded Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) significantly increasing from 25.46% in the pre-liberalization period to 34.73% subsequently, indicating the positive effect of reform policies. Sector-wise, Services, Construction Development, and Telecommunications attracted the most FDI, while Mauritius, Singapore, U.K., and Japan were identified as the leading source countries. A strong positive correlation (+0.89) was observed between FDI and economic development. The report also delves into the impact of FDI on the Indian retail sector, discussing both potential benefits like supply chain improvement and job creation, and concerns such as the impact on small merchants. Challenges hindering higher FDI inflows include inadequate infrastructure, stringent labour laws, corruption, limited state government authority, and high corporate tax rates. To address these, the study suggests improving infrastructure, adopting flexible labour laws, revisiting sectoral caps, promoting Greenfield projects, and strengthening R&D. In conclusion, FDI has undeniably boosted India's economic life and contributed positively to GDP growth, but its full potential can only be realized by overcoming existing structural and policy hurdles.
Amparo T. Miguel PhD, Danica Rose R. Copino, Kezziah Shyr M. Combalicer, Ocsan, Ma. Jane Hany Girl N., Shiela Alexssandra L. Saac
Aging gracefully means being able to adapt physically, psychologically, and socially. This study aimed to determine the impact of social support on resiliency among elderly and to investigate whether demographic profiles affect support and level of resiliency. A descriptive correlational, comparative research was conducted, surveying 100 elderly respondents from selected barangays in Metro Manila using purposive sampling. Both descriptive and inferential statistics were utilized to analyze the data. The study identified a significant relationship among the following; expanded senior citizens act and the elderly’s comorbidity; pensioner status, and employment status, with p-values of <0.001, 0.031, and 0.006; services and support from barangay and community, elderly’s sex and being a business owner, with p-values of 0.010 & 0.013; support coming from family and friends and elderly’s living arrangement and sex, with the p-values of 0.027 and 0.015. Hence, aligned with significant differences between support coming from family and friends, living arrangements, and social resilience, with p-values of 0.007 and 0.047. Lastly, age and mental resiliency are significantly correlated and different, with p-values of 0.018 and 0.019. Hence, in the absence of sufficient social support, mental resilience tends to decline slightly as age increases. As a result, the elderly who get enough support become more mentally resilient. In conclusion, recognizing the needs and involvement in community programs can help elderly individuals be heard, cared for, and loved, raising community awareness of the difficulties they experience. Policies should prioritize elderly-friendly environments and allocate funds for long-term community programs and assistance.
Alice Bernard Benshak, Veronica Yilret Nanle
Equitable access to safe and reliable water is a major concern in informal settlements, where high population density, limited infrastructure, and weak governance intensify water insecurity. This study examines the water management strategies employed by residents and the local authority in Kabong, focusing on their effectiveness in the context of dense population and informal settlement dynamics. A mixed-method approach was adopted for this study, with a cross-sectional survey conducted among 262 respondents. The selection of respondents was based on the Respondent-Driven Sampling technique due to the absence of official data on population, household listing, and the hidden nature of informal water vendors in Kabong, while purposive sampling was used to select 6 Key Informants for the interview. Results revealed that high population density, inadequate water infrastructure, power outages, poor management, limited income, and seasonal rainfall variability, among other factors, hamper resilient water resource management mechanisms that address both household and livelihood water needs in Kabong. The water infrastructure is dominated by boreholes (49.6%) and shallow hand-dug wells (17.9%); however, 77.4% of respondents indicated that the existing infrastructure was inadequate for community needs, with non-functional boreholes (43.1%), broken pipes (18.7%), and a combination of other issues (24.8%) being the most reported problems. Findings also showed that the management and maintenance of water infrastructure are fragmented, mainly handled by private entities (40.1%) or individual residents (25.2%), with only a few communities receiving minimal government support. Common coping strategies used by residents include reducing water use (35.9%), storing water (29.0%), and a combination of various methods (25.2%), though only 58.4% perceive these measures as effective. The study recommended integrated community-driven approaches supported by government interventions to improve water accessibility, reliability, and sustainable management in Kabong.
Mapuranga Danemore
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV remain a significant global public health concern, with over 1 million new cases reported daily, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). This study investigates factors contributing to the rise of STIs among hundred (100) adolescents in Masvingo, Zimbabwe. A survey design with questionnaires was used to collect data on factors influencing STI prevalence. The sample was drawn from four wards, with 25 participants per ward. The study targeted adolescents aged 15 to 19, with a higher proportion of females (82%) compared to males (18%). Findings revealed that although 90% recognized STI symptoms, 95% reported having unprotected sex. Additionally, 84% attended social events, which could promote risky sexual behaviors. A significant number (32%) admitted to reusing condoms, and 59% traveled long distances to access them. Peer pressure (75%) and lack of sexual health knowledge (45%) were identified as major contributors to STI risk. Participants also highlighted the importance of education (88%) and condom use (75%) as effective prevention strategies. The study calls for targeted sexual health education and improved access to preventive resources for adolescents in the region.
Akintola Akinyinka Olusegun
Menstrual hygiene management (MHM) remains a significant public health and educational issue, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. This study explores the influence and involvement of teachers in the menstrual hygiene management of female secondary school students in Kogi State, Nigeria. A descriptive cross-sectional design was employed, with a sample of 300 teachers from both public and private secondary schools selected through a multi-stage sampling method. Data were collected via structured questionnaires and focus group discussions, and analyzed using SPSS version 26. Findings indicate a generally high level of knowledge about menstruation among teachers, with 95.7% agreeing that girls should be educated before menarche. However, persistent myths remain, including beliefs that menstruation is a disease or that it signifies readiness for marriage. Moreover, 65% of teachers were found to demonstrate poor MHM practices, and qualitative findings revealed low levels of teacher involvement, especially among male teachers. Cultural taboos, lack of training, and gender norms were identified as major barriers to effective teacher engagement in MHM. Statistical analysis showed no significant relationship between teachers’ knowledge and their practices (p > 0.05), suggesting that awareness alone does not translate into supportive behavior. The study concludes that systemic changes, including teacher training, infrastructural improvements, and policy reforms, are needed to improve MHM in schools. It recommends multi-level interventions to equip teachers with the knowledge, skills, and institutional support required to promote menstrual dignity among adolescent girls.
Romeo D. Lim
This study explores the pervasive influence of Korean popular culture—commonly referred to as the Korean Wave or Hallyu—on Filipino millennials, particularly in the domains of food, fashion, entertainment, and beauty products. Using a descriptive quantitative design complemented by simulated qualitative insights, this research gathered data from 90 purposively selected respondents born between 1981 and 1996 across Mandaluyong, Manila, and Batangas. The study employed survey questionnaires to measure levels of influence across cultural domains and analyzed data using weighted mean and t-tests. Results revealed that Korean culture is most influential in food, followed by entertainment, beauty products, and fashion. While there were no statistically significant differences between older (1981–1990) and younger (1991–1996) millennial groups, thematic patterns suggest shared cultural preferences regardless of subgroup. Qualitative reflections added further nuance to the interpretation, revealing the emotional, aspirational, and identity-based factors behind the attraction to K-culture. The study was anchored on theories of cultural globalization, media convergence, and consumer identity. Implications suggest a growing hybridity in Filipino consumer behavior and a reshaping of cultural identity under global media influence. Overall, the study concludes that Korean popular culture has a moderate but widespread influence on Filipino millennials, regardless of age group. The implications of these findings are relevant to marketers, cultural educators, and product developers seeking to engage this demographic more effectively. The study recommends stronger cross-cultural collaboration, content localization, and inclusive marketing strategies to better cater to local consumers. Further research could explore intergenerational differences or the influence of other global cultural phenomena. This research contributes to understanding how globalized media and cultural products shape identity, consumption, and lifestyle among modern Filipino youth.
Eze, Hope Nkiruka, Izundu, Alexander Ikechukwu
It is known that in Nigeria, the rainy season is the planting season/period. But the rains are not friendly to all the desired crops. The search for a tomato variety that will be high yielding and of good quality when planted during the rainy season is still the problem of many farmers. Dwarfgem variety is high yielding but possesses poor quality, although it can survive damping-off. This work is therefore designed to ascertain physiological manipulations that will improve the mineral constituents of the dwarfgem tomato variety through nutritional treatments. The study was carried out at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka. Seeds of dwarfgem were obtained from Agricultural Development Program (ADP) Awka. Seeds were raised in the nursery. Twenty pieces of 40cm plastic buckets was used to prepare two groups of media according to the treatments which comprised of 14 buckets each filled with mixture of organic manure and soil at the standard rate of 640g/60kg (32g/hectare) while the remaining six buckets was filled with only soil. Organic manure was goat pellets while inorganic manure was NPK (15:15:15). Salinity, (NaCl), and Bicarbonate (H3C03) were supplied at 2mM concentration in the irrigation water. The buckets were arranged according to treatments in a Randomized Completely Block Design (RCBD). Mineral was determined by standard method. Data were statistically analyzed using ANOVA and means were separated using computer modulated Duncan Multiple Range Test (Duncan, 1955). subjected to statistical analysis using Duncan T – test to separate the Means. The tomato plants treated with organic and inorganic fertilizers in combination with NaCl and BICA produced fruits with high levels of Na (600.41±0.015ppm), K (291.90±0.010ppm), Mg (148.50 ±0.010ppm) and Fe (3.46±0.010ppm) while the least was recorded in the control. The plants treated with organic and Nitrogen fertilizers in combination with NaCl and BICA also increased the tomato Cu content whereas the least was produced by fruits from the control. This has shown that the treatment of dwarfgem tomato variety with organic and inorganic fertilizer in combination with salinity and bicarbonate fully improved the fruit quality of the plant fruit mineral.
Dr R. Krishna Vardhan Reddy
Marketing is regarded as an activity and process that help in creating, exchanging and delivering the value not only to customers but also extended to the other stake holders such as clients, suppliers etc in general and society in particular. Marketing activity today has become more challenging due to frequent changes in the expectations levels of every stakeholder. Reaching and delighting the right customer with right product in a right time with right cost has become more challenging task for the companies. Majority of the companies fail today in this initiative. The basic purpose of this research paper is to investigate the influence of various sales promotion strategies on the purchasing behavior of consumers in water purifier market. After understanding the efficacy of various promotional tactics in the market, the paper aims at providing the better insights and strategies to optimize their promotional efforts not only for markets but also for the manufacturers. The study considered a mix approach of collecting the quantitative data from 450 respondents through a structured questionnaire and qualitative data by observations and interviews with customers, industry experts, distributors, dealers and retailers who sell the water purifiers to consumers. The results of the study indicates that the sales promotion has significant impact on consumer purchasing behavior such as offers, special discounts, quantity offers, free trails etc. It was observed that demographic features play a crucial role in moderating the promotional effectiveness. Research finding clarifies and recommends of having a mixed and innovative approach of tailoring a hybrid promotional strategy of leveraging modern digital marketing channels and few traditional sales promotions strategies to drive consumer engagement and to further the sales of water purifiers. The research study will contribute to further the literature on sales promotional activities by specifically focused on water purifier industry, the area which was ignored earlier and have received less attention in the yester years. The insights from this study will help the companies to device an effective and efficient promotional strategy which ultimately leads to increased market penetrations and better customer loyalty.
Dr. Godwin Augustine Ballah, Mr. Usman Modibbo Hanafi
This study investigated the perceived influence of stress and test anxiety on academic achievement among undergraduate science education students at Adamawa State University, Mubi. Adopting a descriptive survey design, the research targeted a population of 429 students across four academic levels. A stratified random sampling technique was used to select 200 participants. Data were collected using a validated and reliable instrument the Influence of Stress and Test Anxiety on Academic Achievement Questionnaire (ISTAAAQ) which achieved a reliability coefficient of 0.84. Descriptive statistics (mean and standard deviation) were employed to answer research questions, while t-tests and Pearson correlation were used to test hypotheses at a 0.05 significance level. Findings revealed that stress is widely perceived as a major academic impediment, particularly due to workload, with a grand mean of 3.54. Test anxiety was also found to significantly affect performance, with a grand mean of 3.48. Gender differences emerged in stress perception, with females reporting higher stress levels, while no significant gender differences were found in test anxiety. Correlation analyses indicated statistically significant moderate negative relationships between stress (r = -0.587, p = 0.027) and test anxiety (r = -0.631, p = 0.039) and academic achievement. The study concluded that both stress and test anxiety substantially hinder academic performance and should be addressed through targeted support services. Recommendations include the implementation of stress management programs, expansion of counseling services, gender-responsive interventions, and reforms in academic workload and assessment practices to reduce psychological burden on students.
Abigail Olukemi Olugbamigbe
Textiles could be one of the most un-sustainable products in the world. In their entire lifecycle from growing the raw material or creating it from oil to manufacturing, selling and final disposal they can create a serious problem. The study examined the role of information exposure in undergraduates’ evaluation and selection of eco-friendly apparel. The study employed the use of descriptive survey. The study was carried out on three hundred and ninety-one (391) students in Federal University of Technology, Akure, Ondo State. A structured questionnaire made up of 32 items was used for data collection. Responses to the questionnaire were analysed descriptively and inferentially. Findings revealed that information exposure on evaluation and selection of eco-friendly apparels helps form perceptions about products, relates valuable information about the environmental attributes of apparel items, it is a medium through which apparel companies build their brand identity among others. Findings also revealed that eco-friendly apparels can reduce skin irritation and infection as a result of chemicals used in production, boosts up the economy by using local resources and varieties, help socially by giving more premiums to the growers (farmers) among others. It was recommended that school administration, the government and non-governmental organizations such as the Green Institute Initiatives should organise orientation programmes to further educate undergraduates and the general public on the concept of eco-friendly and its importance and that textile producers and merchandisers should adopt a more environmentally and socially responsible supply-chain management-practice and promote such practices to consumers and other businesses.
Oba Preye Inimiesi
This research explores how effective character reformation programs are at the Okaka Correctional Facility in Yenagoa, particularly in terms of reducing recidivism rates among inmates. The main goal was to assess the impact of various rehabilitation initiatives on changing inmates' behaviour and their chances of reoffending. The study was founded on principles from Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Social Learning Theory. Using a mixed-methods approach, the study collected quantitative data from 267 inmates via surveys and qualitative information through interviews with 30 key persons interview including inmates and correctional officers. The findings indicate that, although vocational training programs had some positive effects, many other rehabilitation efforts, like counselling, were largely seen as ineffective, leading to considerable inmate dissatisfaction with the quality of the programs. The study concludes that challenges such as overcrowding and poorly structured programs significantly impede successful rehabilitation. It strongly recommends the development of personalized rehabilitation strategies that consider the varied backgrounds and types of offences of inmates, as well as the enhancement of educational and vocational training opportunities to support their successful reintegration into society.
Amilia Hasbullah, Fazira Shafie, Mustapahayuddin Abdul Khalim, Wan Zahari Bin Wan Yusoff
This analysis examines the use of land reclamation in the national landscape by Asian countries as a means of land management. She examines the relationship between the stages of a contract and the actual value, which results in issues such as land value, unsustainable land use, and treason. This question pertains to the manner in which the emergence of new technologies, such as GIS and block chaining, has facilitated the formalisation of human land rights. The data from Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines indicates that land degradation and land loss have increased the value of land by approximately 25–30% and have increased the risk of extinction for millions of indigenous people. This implies that the idea of initiating technological and environmental challenges is naive. The projects in question are designed to enhance the efficiency and sustainability of land use for all stakeholders. The conclusion is that the hybrid strategy tadbir urus can facilitate the process of growth. The development of the future generation must ensure the functionality of the hybrid model, its dynamic nature, and the scalability of the development process. It is possible that this will affect the strategic direction and work scope of organisations such as the FAO Secretariat for Communication and Information.
Adeola O.A, Agyema J, Amaku C.U, Chima A.A.G, Ekedigwe J.E, Elisha A, Eseigbe P, Harrison C, Mbah I.O, Onubi J, Wina F.M
Adherence to intermittent preventive treatment with Sulphadoxine-Pyrimethamine (IPTp-SP) for malaria prevention in pregnancy remains a challenge in Nigeria. This retrospective cross-sectional study investigated IPTp-SP adherence patterns among pregnant women attending antenatal clinics at a tertiary healthcare facility in Jos, North Central Nigeria, from January 2022 to December 2024. A preliminary assessment of sociodemographic factors associated with IPTp-SP adherence was also conducted using univariate analysis, with statistical significance set at p<0.05. Most participants were aged 21-30 years (50.0%), resided in urban and peri-urban areas (80.0%), and were multigravida (40.0%). Overall, 60.1% initiated IPTp-SP in the second trimester, while 60.0% received at least two doses. Adherence was assessed based on the time of IPTp-SP initiation, the number of doses received, and intake intervals. Across these three criteria, IPTp-SP adherence was consistently and significantly associated with occupation (χ²=34.89, p<0.001; χ²=14.38, p<0.01; χ²=28.51, p<0.001) and residence (χ²=19.93, p<0.001; χ²=25.79, p<0.001; χ²=10.81, p<0.01). Additionally, the time of IPTp-SP initiation was significantly associated with the timing of antenatal registration (χ²=9.18, p<0.01). In a subset of participants, 73.9% of second-trimester initiators and 30.4% of third-trimester initiators tested negative for malaria parasitemia, suggesting that earlier initiation of IPTp-SP enhances the reduction of maternal malaria burden. Targeted interventions addressing access barriers and promoting early antenatal enrollment and adherence to IPTp-SP guidelines are critical for improving malaria prevention and maternal health outcomes in North Central Nigeria.
Farah Husna Mohd Fatzel, Liyana Ab Rahman, Norhayati Zamri, Wan Razazila Wan Abdullah
This study provides a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of global scholarly research on International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) adoption and earnings management (EM) using data retrieved from the Scopus database spanning 2005 to 2025. A total of 398 publications were analyzed using tools such as biblioMagika®, VOSviewer, and OpenRefine to examine publication trends, citation performance, thematic evolution, and collaborative networks. The analysis revealed a growing academic interest, with a citation per paper average of 20.10 and an h-index of 46, indicating strong and sustained scholarly impact. Most research contributions emerged from the domains of Business, Accounting, and Economics, though interdisciplinary links with Social Sciences, Environmental Studies, and Decision Sciences were also evident. Highly cited works were clustered around themes such as the quality of financial reporting, real and accrual-based earnings management, regulatory enforcement, and IFRS’s impact across jurisdictions. Prominent authors like Jeanjean, Stolowy, and Christensen, along with key journals such as the European Accounting Review and Journal of Accounting and Public Policy, were identified as intellectual anchors in the field. Network visualizations of citations, co-authorship, and keyword co-occurrence revealed a maturing research structure with increasing global collaboration and conceptual diversification. The findings highlight that while the IFRS-EM literature has developed significantly, opportunities remain to explore underrepresented regions, embrace emerging topics like sustainability reporting and digital governance, and foster cross-disciplinary integration. This bibliometric review contributes to mapping the intellectual landscape and offers critical direction for future research trajectories in financial reporting and earnings quality scholarship.
Annabelle A. Petate
The study set out to establish the dynamic interaction between students' emotional intelligence and attitude toward Mathematics and how these factors influence performance in Grade 10 Algebra in a private school in Sta. Rosa Laguna. The study's participants were 137 selected Grade 10 students. The study revealed a significant relationship between the students' emotional intelligence and their attitude. Specifically, students' confidence showed a significantly positive relationship with their self-awareness and mood management. Similarly, significant positive relationships were observed between student engagement and self-motivation, managing relationships, and empathy. A notable correlation exists between valuing and the subscales of mood management and empathy. Among the subscales, empathy showed a significant relationship with improved Mathematics performance. However, the other subscales of emotional intelligence—self-awareness, mood management, self-motivation, and managing relationships—did not show a statistically significant relationship with Mathematics performance. Furthermore, students' attitude subscales—confidence, engagement, and valuing—did not significantly relate to performance in Mathematics.
Mohan G. Babare, Sangeeta L. Jadhav
Aquatic macrophytes, commonly known as hydrophytes, play a crucial role in providing structural habitat that influences fish communities. This, in turn, allows zooplankton and other macro-invertebrates to exert a top-down control on algal growth, a process that is largely unaffected by the nutrient levels in the water body. Nevertheless, their populations face significant threats from factors such as eutrophication, sewage discharge, and industrial pollutants. Additionally, seasonal variations can lead to a notable decline in the diversity of these aquatic plants. Therefore, it is vital to establish baseline data to evaluate these impacts and ensure the health of aquatic ecosystems. A comprehensive survey was conducted to assess the presence of submerged macrophyte populations in the waterways of Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar District, with meticulous documentation of the results. The findings reveal that the Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar district boasts a rich diversity of submerged macrophytes. Notably, the district is distinguished by its significant representation of a remarkable variety of submerged macrophytes, comprising 24 species across 9 families. The study indicates that the Hydrocharitaceae family is the most prevalent, featuring 12 species, followed by Potamogetonaceae with 3 species, Ceratophyllaceae and Haloragaceae with 2 species each, and Characeae, Fabaceae, Nymphaeaceae, and Pontederiaceae families, each represented by 1 species.
Aniket Mitra
Strikes have historically been one of the most visible instruments of collective action available to workers in India, protected under the framework of the Industrial Disputes Act, 1947. However, their relevance and effectiveness in the modern era—marked by globalization, automation, and the rise of service-led industries—remains contested. This study critically examines the role of strikes across manufacturing, Information Technology (IT), Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG), and electronics sectors in India. Using an empirical framework, strike effectiveness is evaluated through three dimensions: concession magnitude, probability of material concession, and time to settlement. Findings suggest that while strikes in traditional manufacturing and core industrial sectors often secure tangible concessions due to strong unionization and direct impact on production cycles, strikes in IT and electronics exhibit limited bargaining power, as managements rely on flexible staffing, outsourcing, and alternative dispute resolution mechanisms. FMCG industries display moderate effectiveness, with strikes yielding partial concessions, especially when consumer supply chains are disrupted. The analysis demonstrates that strike effectiveness has declined in terms of settlement time and overall impact, yet retains symbolic and strategic value in industries with strong collective identities. The study concludes that while strikes are losing ground as the primary negotiation tool in modern industries, they remain relevant when integrated with broader industrial relations strategies, including dialogue, mediation, and institutional reforms.
Dr. K. Sankara Reddy
The research paper is investigating the effect of income on digitalisation which differentiates, non-digitally skilled and digitally skilled workforce of India in terms of employment and economic inequality qualitatively using secondary sources from RBI and ITU website. As places having more connected with digital technologies and advertising attracting more tourists hence there has been a growing worry in the general public, that this digital divide will cause a gap in employment opportunities between the digitally literate and illiterate. Even though many studies have analysed the relationship between unemployment and digitalization, the studies in the Indian context have a severe urban bias and lack.
Muhammed Bilal M, P. Sneha Vinayan, R Mageswari, Shine Thomas, Sreerag E, Suhana Nasrin T, Vardathul Jenna MV
Organ donation is the donation of an organ of a human body from a living or dead person to a living recipient in need of a transplantation. It is the gift of an individual to help someone who suffers from damage and gross malfunction of their organs. Organ transplantation has greatly improved the looks of patients suffering from end-stage organ failure. The present study aimed to assess the knowledge and attitude of undergraduate nursing students towards organ donation at selected nursing colleges in Kozhikode district. The objectives of the study were to assess the level of knowledge and the attitude of undergraduate nursing students towards organ donation and to find the association between selected demographic variables with knowledge and attitude. The study was based on theory of planned behaviour. One hundred sample were selected using a non-probability convenience sampling technique. The tool used were a socio-demographic Performa, self-structured questionnaires and an attitude scale. The data were tabulated and analysed. The study revealed that among 100 sample, 28% had excellent knowledge, 31% had very good knowledge, 26% had good knowledge,14% had average knowledge and 1% had poor knowledge. 26% had very positive attitude, 61% had favourable attitude and 13% had neutral attitude. There was significant relationship between monthly family income and previous knowledge on organ donation with the level of knowledge
Dr. R. Kumara Swamy
The development of Knowledge Management in recent years has become a great concern for librarians and libraries. Modern Libraries contribute to business more significantly than traditional libraries. Modern libraries attract users by providing contents in digital form to save their time. This study examine impact of growing congestion in the knowledge resources. The way the knowledge information is being passed to users, traditional libraries are changing into digital libraries. Institutional repositories are being converted into digital forms. The academic libraries are now focusing to deliver the information in the digital form through web, online public access catalogue via internet. That is the way of modern libraries are now called the knowledge libraries or the knowledge stores.
Liza C. Mahay, Rosenie S. Coronado
It is the goal of good antenatal care to ensure that the woman does not suffer any adverse effects from the pregnancy and to maintain the health of the developing baby. Local data on the interrelationship among socio-demographic profile, knowledge, attitude, and practice on antenatal care is scarce. This quantitative study utilized a descriptive correlational research design to assess the interrelationship among socio-demographic characteristics, knowledge, attitude, and practices on antenatal care among pregnant women in selected Birthing Clinics in Butuan City for the third quarter of 2024. Findings revealed that half were 18 to 24 years old and majority were single. Most were college level and just over half were housewives. Most had a gravidity of one while one third had two and most had a parity of one. Majority had no abortion, majority had an above 10,000 family monthly income, and most had a nuclear family. Respondents were knowledgeable, had a positive attitude, and practiced antenatal care. Marital status, level of education, occupation, gravidity, parity, family monthly income, and type of family were correlated with attitude. Age, marital status, level of education, occupation, gravidity, parity, abortion, and type of family were correlated with attitude. Age, marital status, level of education, occupation, gravidity, parity, abortion, and type of family were correlated with practice. Knowledge was not correlated with attitude and practice. Attitude was correlated with practice. An antenatal care sustenance plan was proposed.
Asu Carine Ndum, Cyril Kamadjou, Divine Enoru Eyongeta, Ghislain Dema, Ngende Rosine, Ngwa Fred Ngunjoh, Tendongfor Nicholas
Background: Prostate cancer is a significant global health burden, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where late diagnosis is common. It is the second most diagnosed cancer among men and contributes substantially to cancer-related deaths. In Cameroon, prostate cancer is the second most deadly cancer among men, highlighting the need for improved awareness and screening practices. Objective: The objective of the study was to assess knowledge, attitudes and practices towards prostate cancer screening among men aged 40-60 years in the Buea Health District. Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted in the Buea Health District, Cameroon, from February 2024 to May 2024. A multi-stage sampling method was used to recruit 314 men aged 40-60 years. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS version 26.0. Results: The study revealed that 62.74% of participants had poor knowledge on prostate cancer, while 50.32% exhibited positive attitudes towards screening. However, only 3.18% reported good practices regarding screening. Participants from Molyko were 4.637 times more likely to have poor knowledge (AOR = 4.637; CI: 0.79-6.28; p < 0.001). Participants from Molyko were significantly more likely to have a positive attitude (AOR = 18.556; CI: 6.897-20.944; p < 0.001). Secondary education level (AOR = 2.807; CI: 0.327-3.865; p = 0.004) and being aged 40–49 years (AOR = 0.467; CI: -1.335-0.972; p = 0.009) were also significant predictors. Self-employed participants were significantly less likely to have poor practices (AOR = 0.046; CI: -5.00-0.250; p = 0.002). Participants aged 40–49 years were more likely to have poor practices compared to those aged 50–60 years (AOR = 5.828; CI: 0.13-9.39; p = 0.034). Conclusion: Most participants had poor knowledge and practices but a relatively positive attitude towards prostate cancer screening. Key predictors of KAP included health area, income, education level, employment status, and age group. Targeted educational and behavioral interventions are needed to bridge knowledge gaps and improve screening practices.
Dr. Rakesh Gupta
Magnetotherapy, the therapeutic application of magnetic fields, has gained increasing attention in recent decades for its potential role in alleviating pain through non-invasive means. By utilizing static or pulsed electromagnetic fields (PEMF), magnetotherapy influences physiological processes such as microcirculation, neural conductivity, inflammation, and tissue repair. This review examines the principles of magnetotherapy, underlying mechanisms, therapeutic applications, and clinical evidence supporting its use in pain management. It further discusses the advantages, limitations, integration with naturopathic practices, and future research prospects. Current literature indicates that magnetotherapy is a safe, adjunctive modality for managing musculoskeletal, neuropathic, and chronic pain, though standardization of treatment parameters and large-scale clinical trials remain essential.
Dr. Rajpal Singh Yadav, Susanta Mushahary
The quality of teacher education is pivotal to national educational outcomes. Total Quality Management (TQM) in Teacher Education Institutions (TEIs) ensures continuous improvement through stakeholder engagement, strategic planning, and quality control. This study investigates the perspectives of student-teachers in Assam regarding the implementation and effectiveness of TQM in their respective institutions. The present study aimed to evaluate the implementation and effectiveness of Total Quality Management (TQM) practices in Teachers’ Education Institutions (TEIs) in Assam. The major findings revealed that although awareness of TQM principles exists among the administrative and teaching staff, their practical application remains inconsistent and fragmented. Key quality indicators such as leadership, strategic planning, faculty development, infrastructure, student support services, and internal quality assurance mechanisms were found to be inadequately addressed in many TEIs. The study also identified gaps in stakeholder participation, continuous improvement processes, and data-driven decision-making. These findings highlight the critical need for a policy-level shift toward quality-centric practices and accountability in TEIs. The study provides a comprehensive framework for evaluating and implementing TQM in teacher education, contributing significantly to educational policy and institutional reform in Assam.
Dr. S. Kanagasundari, P. Sivaranjani
This study presents a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of dyslexia research conducted worldwide between 1998 and 2025. Using a dataset of 9,492 records, the analysis maps the global knowledge landscape, covering 15,946 contributing authors, 1,264 journals, 87 countries, 4,179 institutions, and 22 publication languages. A total of 268,410 global citations and 103,779 local citations were recorded, with an overall H-index of 199, indicating high scholarly impact. The study employed bibliometric tools to examine publication trends, authorship patterns, institutional contributions, and citation dynamics. Findings reveal steady growth in dyslexia research, with significant international collaboration and multidisciplinary engagement spanning education, psychology, linguistics, and neuroscience. The results highlight key contributors, emerging research clusters, and global knowledge networks. Limitations include reliance on indexed databases and citation-based metrics. Overall, the study provides a structured overview of dyslexia scholarship, offering valuable insights for researchers, educators, and policymakers, while suggesting future directions in digital learning interventions, neurocognitive studies, and inclusive education practices.
Darwin C. Salem, Genesis G. Camarista, Rica Mae B. Jastillana, Ronnel A. Pacionela
This study investigated the relationship between mathematics anxiety and the types and frequency of errors in algebraic problem-solving among Grade 12 STEM students in a public school in Himamaylan City during School Year 2025–2026. Using a quantitative descriptive-correlational design, the researchers assessed mathematics anxiety levels via a validated Likert-scale questionnaire and identified error patterns through an eight-item algebraic problem-solving test. Errors were classified as conceptual, procedural, or computational. Descriptive statistics summarized anxiety levels and error frequencies, while Spearman’s rho determined the relationship between anxiety and problem-solving performance. The instruments underwent expert validation and were pilot-tested with non-respondents. The reliability test yielded a Cronbach’s alpha of 0.978, indicating excellent internal consistency. The study involved 30 students from Grade 12 STEM 1, selected through cluster sampling. While this provided valuable insights, the small and single-class sample limits generalizability, which is acknowledged as a study limitation. Results revealed that students generally exhibited moderate to high mathematics anxiety, with female students showing higher anxiety than males. Conceptual errors were most frequent (Occasional), followed by procedural errors (Rare) and computational errors (Never). Students committing conceptual errors reported higher anxiety levels than those with procedural errors, suggesting that deep conceptual misunderstandings may intensify emotional distress. Correlation analysis indicated a weak, non-significant negative relationship between mathematics anxiety and algebraic problem-solving performance (ρ = –0.227, p > 0.05), implying that anxiety alone may not strongly predict performance outcomes. Other factors, such as instructional quality, prior knowledge, and coping strategies, may moderate this relationship. The study recommends enhancing conceptual instruction, integrating anxiety-reduction strategies, and providing targeted support—particularly for female students. Balanced teaching approaches that foster both conceptual understanding and procedural fluency are encouraged. Findings contribute to STEM education research by highlighting the nuanced interplay between affective and cognitive factors in algebra learning and informing interventions aimed at reducing errors and improving performance.
Ifeyinwa Josephine Udumukwu PhD CLN, Victoria Chukwu Nwali PhD CLN
This study investigates the adoption, perceived efficacy, and ethical considerations surrounding the use of AI-powered tools in academic writing and peer review among academics in Nigerian Universities. Employing a descriptive survey design, data were collected from 425 respondents across disciplines using structured questionnaires. The findings reveal a moderate adoption rate of 62.12%, with generative AI tools being less frequently used compared to grammar and writing assistance tools. While 88% of respondents perceived AI tools as highly useful—particularly in enhancing writing quality—only 25% reported having the necessary facilitating conditions to use them effectively. Furthermore, the study identified significant ethical concerns, with 95% of respondents rejecting AI as a co-author and 90% lamenting the absence of institutional policies on AI use. Despite recognizing efficiency and time savings (92%), only 20% expressed confidence in AI's independent role in peer review, highlighting the need for human oversight. The study concludes that while AI tools hold great promise in academic work, their adoption and effectiveness are constrained by infrastructural, ethical, and policy-related challenges. It recommends targeted training, policy development, and institutional support to ensure ethical, responsible, and effective integration of AI tools in academic settings.
Dr. M Mesbahuddin Sarkar, Md. Fazlul Karim Patwary, Mohammad Jashim Uddin Mozumder
Background: Health Information and Communication Technology (HICT) is an interdisciplinary field that integrates computer science and information technology with healthcare delivery. It involves the design, development, and implementation of IT-based systems such as electronic health records, patient scheduling systems, and online appointment platforms. These technologies can enhance the accessibility and flexibility of patient information, reduce costs, and minimize time waste for both patients and healthcare providers. Methods: This observational study was conducted at a non-digitized hospital in Bangladesh. The researcher recorded patient activities from arrival to completion of treatment. Key timestamps included ticket collection, consultation start time, and total time spent in the hospital. A total of 100 patients were observed. The average waiting time and total time wasted were calculated and compared with the expected time saved using digital systems such as online appointment scheduling. Results: In the traditional system, patients arrived early in the morning and experienced prolonged waiting periods at multiple stages—ticketing, doctor consultation, and treatment—resulting in a time loss of 3 to 8 hours per visit. In contrast, the use of digital health systems, particularly online appointments, significantly reduced waiting times. Patients who used such systems typically spent only 5 to 10 minutes waiting for the doctor after arriving at the hospital at their scheduled time, thereby saving several hours of productive time. Conclusions: The findings suggest that adopting health information technology can significantly reduce time waste for patients. This study highlights the need for a national health server-based system in Bangladesh to streamline healthcare services and enhance efficiency. Widespread implementation of HICT in hospitals could substantially improve patient satisfaction and overall healthcare delivery.
Ma. Carissa Giray-Costambienes, Renno Jose B. Gabuya, EdD
This paper investigates the use of metacognitive strategies among Senior High School students in understanding literature, examining their socio-demographic profiles and the relationship between these profiles and their metacognitive strategies. The study aims to benefit both teachers and learners in the teaching-learning process. Using a descriptive correlational design, 40 research participants responded to an online survey questionnaire adapted from Channa et al. (2018). The survey included sections on socio-demographic profiles and 20 items on metacognitive strategies. Findings revealed that the majority of respondents were female, 17 years old, with parents who had a high school education and a monthly income classified as poor. Most had 4-7 siblings and a general weighted average grade in literature of 85-89 (50%). Data suggested that these students used metacognitive strategies to enhance their comprehension of reading passages. Additionally, there was a significant relationship between the socio-demographic profiles and their use of metacognitive strategies, affecting their understanding of literary texts. The study underscores the importance of guiding teachers in the use of metacognitive strategies, which are crucial for teaching literature. Implementing these strategies can significantly improve students’ comprehension skills and support their overall acquisition of knowledge.
Rose Sekile
This article examines metaphors in Swahili Language Pop-up Sayings. This research involves both field and library work. Primary data was collected in Mbeya region. The researcher used interviews and careful observation to gather primary data. The sample was chosen based on specific characteristics to ensure accurate data; the selection focused on speakers and experts in the Swahili language. The study was guided by specific objectives including to identify new sayings within the Swahili community, especially in the Mbeya region. To achieve this, the researcher collected various sayings used in politics, economics, society, technology, and culture. The second objective was to identify metaphors in the collected sayings, determining if they represent new meanings or ideas. The assumption was that the emergence of sayings is not new, as sayings have always existed and drive communication. This study aimed to identify metaphors using the theory of Metaphor Essays by Lakoff and Johnson (1980). Results indicate that the meanings of pop-up sayings are neither new nor represent new ideas, but are new words used in different contexts. The metaphors in these sayings result from violations of semantic meanings during their formation. This article suggests that society, regardless of age, status, or gender, should accept language changes, as resisting time and linguistic evolution is futile; ultimately, language’s primary role is communication.
Bui Khoa Nguyen, Ly Kim Ngoc Qui, Nguyen Vo Chau Ngan
This study investigates the current situation and projects CH4 emissions from municipal solid waste in Cai Rang district, Can Tho city by 2050. Total 60 households at Tan Phu ward (urban area) and Ba Lang ward (countryside area) - Cai Rang district were chosen for daily collected solid waste, then sorted into organic, inorganic, and recyclable categories over a one-week period. Results show that daily household waste generation significantly increased from Friday to Sunday, peaking on weekends. Organic waste constituted the largest fraction, consistently higher in urban areas (0.55 - 0.65 kg/person/day) than countryside (0.45 - 0.60 kg/person/day). Both inorganic and recyclable waste also exhibited an upward trend towards the weekend and were found in higher volumes in urban zones. The waste generation peaks during weekends, with urban households generating more organic and recyclable waste than countryside ones. By 2050, the study area discharge organic waste about 62.880 tons/year, and CH4 emissions are expected rise to 973.8 tons/year, corresponding. The growth in emissions correlates with increased waste volume, driven by urban expansion and population growth, significantly worsen methane release. The study emphasizes the need for urgent intervention through the implementation of advanced solid waste treatment technologies such as composting, anaerobic digestion, or waste-to-energy incineration. These strategies are vital to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting sustainable development in urbanizing areas like Cai Rang district.
Benson Joshua, Musa Samuel Jerry
Financial inclusion is essential for economic development, especially in regions with limited access to formal banking systems. In Adamawa State, Nigeria, mobile money and digital financial services have emerged as innovative tools for bridging this gap. This study investigates the awareness, adoption, usage, and socioeconomic impact of these services in the state. Using survey data from 220 respondents and supported by literature, the findings reveal high levels of awareness and usage, significant economic benefits, but also persistent infrastructural and educational barriers. Recommendations are provided for improving service quality, expanding access, and promoting digital literacy.
Goutam Paul, Sourapriya Mukherjee, Suraiya Parvin
Monosodium glutamate (MSG), popularly trading in the name of AJI-NO-MOTO, is one of the world’s most extensively used taste enhancing food additive. It is used in cooking as a flavor enhancer with an umami taste that intensifies the meaty and savory flavor of food. Thus, humans are often exposed to MSG through consumption of MSG tainted food stuffs and the small intestine gets primarily exposed to it. In order to examine any effect of MSG on the contractile activity of the small intestinal visceral smooth muscle (SiVSM), the movement of the duodenum ex vivo in response to MSG in single dose experiments have been recorded using an isotonic transducer (IT-2245) coupled with an RMS-Polyrite D machine (RMS, Chandigarh, India). Significant increase in the amplitude and frequency of contraction of the duodenum in comparison with control tracings in a dose-response manner were observed. From the results, it can be suggested that MSG potentiates the contractile activity of duodenal visceral smooth muscle probably by increasing the amplitude and frequency of the contractions of the visceral smooth muscle located in the wall structure of the duodenum, probably by facilitating the activity of excitatory intrinsic cholinergic efferents and/or inhibiting the activity of inhibitory adrenergic or nitrergic myenteric efferents. The MSG induced impairment in the contraction of the dVSM results in impaired digestive and absorptive functions of the duodenum (small intestine).
Paciencia H. Valle
This phenomenological study examined the moral and ethical responsibilities of nurses in geriatric healthcare decision-making in selected healthcare facilities in Davao, Philippines. Guided by Colaizzi’s descriptive method, in-depth interviews were conducted with eleven staff nurses who had at least one year of experience in caring for older adults. The study aimed to uncover how nurses navigate ethical dilemmas, interpret their professional responsibilities, and reconcile institutional policies with personal values and cultural beliefs. Participants were predominantly female (64%) and aged 35–44 years (73%), with most having 5–10 years of clinical experience. Analysis of the qualitative data generated seven key themes: (1) Ethical Principles in Geriatric Healthcare, (2) Ethical Dilemmas in Geriatric Practice, (3) Moral Responsibility and Ethical Reasoning in Nursing, (4) Institutional Support and Ethics Education, (5) Moral Distress and Emotional Labor in Geriatric Care, (6) Cultural and Contextual Factors in Ethical Decision-Making, and (7) Balancing Patient Needs with Personal Beliefs. Findings revealed that while nurses consistently applied ethical principles such as autonomy, beneficence, and justice, they frequently experienced tension when institutional policies conflicted with patient needs or family expectations. Moral distress was common, especially in end-of-life care, with nurses highlighting the emotional burden of ethically complex decisions. Cultural norms, personal beliefs, and religious values strongly shaped ethical reasoning, underscoring the need for culturally sensitive ethics education. The study concludes that ethical decision-making in geriatric nursing is a dynamic, reflective, and deeply personal process requiring sustained institutional support, targeted ethics education, and emotional resilience. Recommendations include integrating case-based ethics training, fostering reflective practice, establishing mentorship programs, and developing emotional support systems to mitigate moral distress among geriatric nurses.
Abhineet Kumar, Alok Ranjan
On June 14, 2024, a 6.2 magnitude earthquake struck northeastern Bihar, India, followed by a dengue outbreak 20 days later, exacerbating public health challenges. This case study analyzes the multi-hazard scenario across four districts (A, B, C, D), which reported 56 earthquake-related deaths, over 420 injuries, 1,740 suspected dengue cases, 314 confirmed cases, and 7 dengue deaths. Key vulnerabilities included damaged infrastructure, water stag- nation, and strained health systems. Utilizing data from the Public Health Emergency and Disaster Management (PHEDM) Tier-III training, this paper examines risk assessment, preparedness, response, and recovery strategies. Findings highlight the need for integrated disaster and vector control plans, robust surveillance, and multi-sectoral coordination to mitigate secondary health crises post-disaster. Recommendations include resilient infrastructure, community engagement, and real-time data systems to enhance multi- hazard resilience.
Dr. Vaishali S Biradar
This article examines the auto/biographies of Mahatma Gandhi (The Story of My Experiments with Truth), Charlie Chaplin (My Autobiography), and Adolf Hitler (Mein Kampf) through the critical lens of Biography Appreciation Theory. It explores how these texts function not merely as historical documents but as complex acts of self-fashioning, ideological persuasion, and cultural performance. By interrogating narrative voice, confessional strategies, and ideological aims, the paper demonstrates that life-writing is an inherently mediated, performative, and politically charged genre. The study also investigates the ethics of life-writing and the role of the reader in negotiating authenticity and propaganda. Through close textual analysis and theoretical framing, this article argues that auto/biography shapes public memory while simultaneously revealing the fractured, contested nature of subjectivity, authority, and historical truth.
Agatha Nkechinyere Ekechi, Albert N. Eteudo, Chijioke Stanley Anyigor-Ogah, Clinton Ogbonna Njoku, Idika Mba Idika, Miracle Erinma Chukwuonye, Ndudim Ogwuegbu Okezie, Okechukwu Anyigor-Ogah, Toochukwu Nnamdi Nnama
Introduction: Chronic exposure to cadmium has been linked to neuro-degenerative disorders due to its ability to induce neuro-inflammation and apoptosis in critical brain regions such as the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex. Objectives: This study evaluated the neurobehavioral and immune-histochemical effects of Daucus carota ethanolic leaf extract (CLE) in cadmium-induced toxicity of the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex of adult wistar rats. Materials and methods: Thirty adult male Wistar rats (weighing 150–180g) were assigned into five groups (6 per group). Group 1 (normal control) received water, Group 2 (Cadmium-only) received cadmium chloride (5 mg/kg). Group 3 received only CLE (400 mg/kg). Groups 4 and 5 received cadmium chloride and CLE at doses of 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg, respectively. Neuro-behavioral tests were conducted to assess cognitive and emotional responses. Brain tissues were harvested for biochemical analysis as well as immune-histochemical evaluation of neuronal integrity. Data were analyzed using GraphPad Prism version 8 and presented as Mean ± SEM. Statistical comparisons were made using one-way ANOVA followed by Tukey’s post hoc test, with significance set at p < 0.05. Results: Cadmium exposure significantly impaired cognitive function and triggered neuro-inflammation. Group C showed weight loss compared to the control group, indicating systemic toxicity. However, CLE treatment ameliorated these changes in a dose-dependent manner. The Cadmium + CLE (200 mg/kg) and Cadmium + CLE (400 mg/kg) groups exhibited significant improvements compared to the Cadmium-only group. The highest dose (400 mg/kg) demonstrated the most pronounced neuroprotective effects, with weight parameters approaching those of the control group. Histamine level were lowered significantly in group B when compared to the control group A at p<0.05, acetylcholine level was significantly lowered in all the treated groups when compared to group B at p<0.05. Conclusion: The CLE exhibits potent neuroprotective properties against cadmium-induced neurotoxicity, hence could serve as a promising natural intervention for mitigating heavy metal-induced cognitive and neuronal impairments.
Adetunji K. Ilori, Folakemi Margaret Okafor, Joshua Kayode Odeyemi, Lolade Modupe Fatunsin
This study investigates the numerical solution of the FitzHugh-Nagumo (FHN) equation, a canonical Nonlinear Reaction-Diffusion system widely used in Neuroscience and Biophysics using the Method of Lines (MoL). The MoL approach, known for its efficiency and flexibility, discretizes spatial variables to transform partial differential equations ( PDEs ) into a system of Ordinary Differential Equations (ODEs), which are then integrated in time. A fourth-order five-point central difference scheme is employed to approximate spatial derivatives, and MATLAB is used to implement the method. To validate the Numerical scheme, the Newell-Whitehead equation (a special case of the FHN model) is solved, and the results are benchmarked against exact solutions. The results exhibit excellent accuracy, with errors remaining in the order of 10−7 to 10−4 across varying time steps. Comparative analysis against results from the Galerkin Finite Element Method confirms the superior accuracy and computational efficiency of the MoL approach. These findings affirm the reliability and robustness of the Method of Lines in solving Nonlinear Reaction-Diffusion systems, suggesting its potential for broader application in modeling complex Scientific and Engineering phenomena.
Dr. Nancy E. Aranjuez, Dr. Van Ryan I. Alipoyo, Ivy Mae S. Cuba
This study investigates the occupational culture, job satisfaction, and work performance among police officers in Zamboanga del Sur in 2024, using a quantitative, descriptive-correlational approach to poll 155 officers with at least two years of service. Statistical methods were applied to examine the data, including Slovin's formula, weighted mean, Kruskal-Wallis H test, and the Mann-Whitney U test. Findings suggest a mostly male, youthful workforce, largely in mid-level jobs, which reflects a favorable occupational culture typified by procedural justice, openness, and significant community participation. While officers indicate high job satisfaction owing to excellent interpersonal support and supervision, concerns around fair remuneration and open communication remain key areas for growth. Moreover, the findings reveal a significant relationship between occupational culture indicators and work performance, with the strongest relationship seen in balancing loyalty and duty, emphasizing the importance of ethical decision-making. This is to enhance this occupational culture, including conducting regular workshops on misconduct reporting and communication to foster integrity and trust within the department, providing resources and mentorship to help officers navigate ethical dilemmas, and expanding partnerships with local communities through virtual engagement platforms. However, the Pagadian City PNP ought to provide monthly seminars that focus on promoting transparent misbehavior reporting and improving open communication to foster confidence and integrity within the agency. Equip police with extensive rules and resources, encompassing decision-making tools and mentorship programs, to facilitate ethical decision-making, aiding them in reconciling allegiance and duty while improving overall job satisfaction.
Akaninyene B. Obot, Kufre M. Udofia, Uduyok, Awajinwon Charles
The increasing demand for electrical power has led to significant challenges in maintaining voltage stability and meeting reactive power requirements in modern power systems, particularly in Nigeria. This study investigates the optimal placement of STATCOM (Static Synchronous Compensator) devices in the Gombe 132 kV, 12-Bus transmission network using the Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) technique. The power network is modelled and simulated in MATLAB/SIMULINK with the Power System Analysis Toolbox (PSAT) to assess the impact of STATCOM placement on voltage profile enhancement. The results demonstrate the effectiveness of STATCOM in mitigating voltage drops and enhancing reactive power control across the network. The study optimizes Bus-12 as the optimal location for STATCOM placement, resulting in improved voltage levels within the IEEE standard limits of 0.95 ≤ V ≤ 1.05 p.u. The findings highlight the potential of PSO-based optimization for enhancing power system stability and reducing transmission losses, offering valuable insights for improving the reliability of the Nigerian power grid.
Eko Hari Saksono, Gloria Angelita, Marlinda Irwanti
This study aims to analyze leadership communication strategies in promoting a digital culture for financial product registration at DBS Bank. In the ever-evolving digital era, financial organizations are faced with the challenge of adapting to new technologies and changing the way they operate. DBS Bank, as one of the leading banks in Asia, has undertaken a significant organizational transformation by integrating digitalization into the financial product registration process. This study uses a literature review approach to analyze the communication strategies employed by organizational leaders in DBS Bank's transformation. The results indicate that effective communication strategies, including framing messages, using metaphors that focus on digitalization, and understanding concerns and providing solutions to reduce feelings of uncertainty, play a crucial role in employees' acceptance of the change message. This study also highlights the importance of visionary leadership and communication across multiple channels so that new cultural values can be absorbed and embraced by all employees. Thus, this study makes an important contribution to understanding how leadership communication can facilitate digital transformation in the financial sector and offers recommendations for other banks seeking similar changes.
Mapuranga Danemore
This study aimed to assess the level of patient satisfaction with health care services provided at a mining clinic in Zvishavane, Zimbabwe. A total of hundred (100) mine workers and contractor company employees participated in the survey, achieving a 100% response rate. Data was collected using a structured patient satisfaction survey questionnaire administered during routine COVID-19 screenings and clinic visits. The questionnaire was developed based on literature and the SERVQUAL model dimensions, including responsiveness, assurance, tangibles, empathy, and reliability. Key findings revealed a generally high level of patient satisfaction across several service dimensions. Notably, the majority of participants indicated they would recommend the clinic to others. High satisfaction levels were reported in areas such as staff appearance (very good), cleanliness of the clinic (very good), privacy during consultations (very good), and availability of medicines (very good). The promptness of services across departments was also commendable, with 87% receiving reception services within 10 minutes. However, minor concerns were raised about consultation and treatment room wait times and clarity of communication, with up to 10% rating these areas as fair. The study concludes that the mining clinic provides quality, patient-centred care, consistent with other international studies on healthcare satisfaction. Recommendations include improving wait times, enhancing communication, conducting regular satisfaction surveys, and investing in staff training for customer care. The findings serve as a valuable input for healthcare management in developing targeted strategies to enhance service delivery and overall patient experience.
Almar, J. Java, Arque V. Calvez, Genesis G. Camarista, Jerson T. Valiao, Jeza Mae P. Paragile, Marlyn V. Rivera, Michelle L. Palata, Raul A. Tan
In an era of increasing global unrest and polarization, peace education has become a vital tool for fostering empathy, critical thinking, and civic engagement among young people. This study examines the levels of awareness and attitudes of university students toward peace education, particularly across five dimensions: conceptual understanding, relevance, application, policy awareness, and self-assessment. Anchored in Social Learning Theory, Transformative Learning Theory, the Theory of Planned Behavior, and Human Needs Theory, the research utilized a quantitative descriptive-correlational design. Data were collected from 298 students at West Visayas State University-Himamaylan City Campus in Negros Occidental, Philippines using a validated, researcher-developed questionnaire. Descriptive statistics revealed that students were highly to very highly aware across all dimensions, with the highest mean scores in conceptual understanding and awareness of scope. Attitudes toward peace education were also very positive (M = 4.62), indicating strong student support for its integration into campus life. A significant and strong positive relationship was found between awareness and willingness to engage in peace initiatives (r = 0.81, p < .001), with regression analysis showing that awareness accounted for 65% of the variance in engagement. These findings highlight the importance of strengthening awareness as a foundation for active student participation. The study recommends the establishment of a Campus Peace Education Program and the enhancement of curricular and co-curricular strategies to foster sustained engagement. Results contribute to the growing body of literature supporting peace education in higher education and provide empirical evidence for policy development and program implementation in Philippine universities.
Dr Sandeep Kumar Shivhare, Manu R Dixit
The health care system is becoming too concerned about the acquisition of medications and medical equipment, collaboration with the wholesalers, the increased costs of their activity, and the management of the waste products. The nature (complex and non-linear) of the medical inventory requirements that are to be taken into account cannot be covered by the traditional rule-based or linear forecasting methodologies. The present study aims at optimizing hospital supply chain efficiency by evaluating the performance of forecasting methods that can be used to predict advanced forecasting. As part of preprocessing, the robustness of data was achieved by formatting the data type dates as datetimes, using one-hot encoding, and Min-Max normalization to gain quality data inputs using a real-world hospital supply chain dataset supplied by Kaggle. Hybrid-style deep learning (DL) of LSTM and GRU was implemented as a model to learn complex conditions within the supply-demand data series. Comparisons were carried out between this model and Gradient Boosting (GB), DBSCAN, K- Nearest Neighbors (KNN), and ARIMA to give a balanced analysis between supervised and unsupervised learning and time-series forecasting. The hybrid model, LSTM-GRU, performed the best having recorded an accuracy rate of 95.8% much higher than GB (94.30%), DBSCAN (92.7%), KNN (86%), and ARIMA (85%). Precision (95.6%), recall (95.1%), F1-score (95.8%) evaluated metrics and even the ROC (96%) further proved the efficacy of the model when processing supply-demand variability. This multi-model evaluation demonstrates the benefits of incorporating deep learning into healthcare logistics to provide data-based knowledge that may facilitate prompt inventory decision-making and contribute to better patient care outcomes. What this work emphasizes is the importance of predictive analytics in the creation of a more efficient, less costly, more patient-centric health infrastructure.
Farjana Birajdar, Mustaq Ahmad Shaikh
The global construction industry’s reliance on riverbed sand has precipitated environmental crises, including river ecosystem degradation and resource depletion. Maharashtra, India, introduced a pioneering M-Sand (Manufactured Sand) policy through Government Resolutions (GRs) dated 23 May 2025 and 17 July 2025 to address these challenges. This review synthesizes the policy’s scientific, environmental, and regulatory dimensions, emphasizing M-Sand’s role as a sustainable alternative to natural sand. Aligned with Indian Standards (IS 383:2016, IS 1542:1992), the policy enforces quality control, digital tracking via the “Mahakhanij” platform, and environmental compliance through water conservation and waste recycling. Comparative analyses with policies in Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, and global benchmarks (e.g., Australia, UK) highlight Maharashtra’s innovative approach. The policy reduces riverbed mining, promotes circular economy principles, and aligns with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 11, 12, and 15. Challenges, including water-intensive production and institutional bottlenecks, are evaluated alongside opportunities for AI-driven monitoring and blockchain-based transparency. This review positions Maharashtra’s M-Sand policy as a scalable model for sustainable construction material management, with implications for global resource governance.
Lawal O. J, Odukoya E.A, Oyelakin O.P
This study delves into housing market analysis and price prediction, leveraging statistical modeling and machine learning techniques to uncover patterns and forecast property prices. The housing market is influenced by diverse factors such as location, property features, economic indicators, and market trends, necessitating a comprehensive analytical approach. Using a dataset comprising historical housing prices and relevant attributes, the study employs exploratory data analysis to identify key determinants of property values. The findings highlight significant predictors of housing prices and demonstrate the potential of predictive analytics in guiding buyers, sellers, and policymakers. This research offers valuable insights into market dynamics and contributes to data-driven decision-making in real estate
Dr. Pushpendra K. Yaduvanshi, Ms. Gungun Bhadoriya
Headaches are among the most common neurological disorders affecting college students, often influenced by stress, sleep irregularities, and especially dietary habits. Factors such as high caffeine consumption, meal skipping, and intake of processed foods are increasingly recognized as potential headache triggers. Aim and objective : This study aimed to assess the prevalence of headaches and explore the association between specific dietary habits—such as caffeine intake, alcohol consumption, processed food intake, and meal skipping—and the frequency and severity of headaches in college students. Need of the study: While the impact of lifestyle factors on headaches has been widely studied, focused research on the role of diet in triggering headaches among young adults, especially college students, remains limited. Understanding these dietary correlations can help develop targeted preventive strategies and improve quality of life. Methodology: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted among 105 college students aged 18–25 years from various institutions in Kota, India. Participants completed a dietary questionnaire administered by the researchers, which included questions about their dietary habits. Data were analyzed using statistical tools, including chi-square tests and ANOVA, to assess associations. The primary tools used were the Headache Impact Test (HIT) and a customized Dietary Habit Questionnaire to assess headache severity and dietary patterns, respectively. Results: Findings revealed that participants with high caffeine intake and frequent meal skipping had significantly higher HIT scores. Additionally, the consumption of trigger foods such as chocolate, cheese, and aspartame was strongly associated with increased headache incidence. Conversely, sodium intake and consumption of pickles or tea showed no significant relationship with headaches. Conclusion: The study concludes that irregular dietary habits, particularly high caffeine consumption, processed food intake, and skipping meals, are significantly associated with higher headache frequency and severity. These findings underscore the importance of dietary awareness and interventions in headache prevention among college students.
Hajer Kammoun, Kais Bouzouita, Khaled Radhouane, Ridha Chkili, Sameh Achoura, Siwar Farhat
Primary empty sella syndrome (ESS) is characterized by herniation of the subarachnoid space into the sella turcica with pituitary flattening. While usually asymptomatic, primary ESS can rarely present with cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) rhinorrhea. We report the case of a 67-year-old man with a 3-month history of headache and left-sided clear nasal discharge. Neurological and ophthalmological examinations were normal. Brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed an empty sella. Endocrinological tests were within normal limits. An endoscopic transnasal transsphenoidal repair was performed using autologous fat grafting, resulting in complete resolution of symptoms. CSF leaks in ESS are often attributed to elevated intracranial pressure and diaphragmatic incompetence, leading to sellar floor erosion. Endoscopic repair offers a minimally invasive approach with high success rates and low morbidity. In cases of ESS complicated by CSF rhinorrhea, surgical repair is mandatory. The endoscopic transnasal transsphenoidal approach remains the preferred treatment option.
Aishat A, Fasiku Oluwafemi Omoniyi, Hafsat A.L, Nafisat S.T, Sulaimon Adebisi Musbau
The study produced, optimized and characterized α-amylase from a bacterium isolated from waste water with a view to obtaining best optimized conditions required for growth of the organism for the production of the enzyme for industrial uses. The waste water collected from Daula restaurant located in Birnin Kebbi were taken to laboratory and analysed. Isolates from the plates were screened for amylase activity using starch agar and are detected on potato starch solution. The bacterium with the highest amylase activity was selected for enzyme production. Optimal conditions for enzyme production by the bacterium were determined. The best isolate from the waste that showed better ability for amylase production was identified molecularly as Lysinibacillus sphaericus C4-31. The peak amylase activity was observed at day 4 of incubation (3.44mM/min). The optimum pH and temperature for the production of Lysinibacillus sphaericus C4-31 α-amylase was 8 and 30°C respectively. The result also revealed that ammonium phosphate supported higher enzyme activity of 5.86mM/min among the nitrogen source. Glucose as a carbon source gave the highest activity of 6.89mM/min. The study concluded that α-amylase can be synthesize by Lysinibacillus sphaericus C4-31which is moderately thermostable and able to degrade many cheap raw starches and can therefore find applications in the food industry.
L. Ellen Mary Glynne., Madhavi Latha
This study employs psychoanalytical criticism to examine selected works by South Korean novelist Han Kang, with a particular emphasis on The Vegetarian and Human Acts. Utilizing Freudian and Lacanian psychoanalytic theories, the research investigates the underlying motivations, traumatic experiences, and suppressed emotions in Kang's characters. The analysis explores how these psychological aspects mirror both personal challenges and wider social issues in post-war South Korea. By uncovering the intricate relationships between personal identity, trauma, and desire, this study offers a novel interpretation of Kang's literature that goes beyond conventional readings. The paper enhances the expanding body of research on modern Korean literature by presenting a psychoanalytic framework that deepens our comprehension of Han Kang's critique of societal norms and historical trauma.
Basapuram Meghana, Dr.D.Tirumala, Jakku Jansi, Md Mamun Reja, Mothukuru Sainikitha
The pharmaceutical industry consistently emphasizes the importance of product quality, safety, and efficacy. To enhance these aspects, scientific tools such as Quality by Design (QbD) and Process Analytical Technology (PAT) have been widely implemented. These approaches provide a systematic and science-based framework for pharmaceutical development and manufacturing, aiming to improve product understanding, process control, and ultimately, minimize risks while maximizing productivity and quality. The QbD framework, initially developed for manufacturing processes, has been successfully extended to the field of analytical method development—a concept now termed Analytical Quality by Design (AQbD). AQbD applies the principles of QbD to ensure that analytical methods are not only fit for their intended purpose but also robust and reliable throughout the product lifecycle. Regulatory bodies, including the U.S. FDA, have recognized the importance of QbD and released guidance documents specifically for its implementation in immediate-release and extended-release formulations. Moreover, the International Council for Harmonisation (ICH) encourages the application of QbD principles through its guidelines Q8 to Q11, supporting its adoption in both formulation and analytical development.
Dr. K. Lalith Prakash Chandra, Dr. Kiran Kumar Kattappagari, Dr. Manem Bala Murali Krishna, Dr. Perupaga Sudheera, Dr. Ruttala Sai Praveena, Dr. Vegendla Swathi
Background: Recent progress in the comprehension of intricate tumor interactions has resulted in the identification of a link between inflammation and cancer. A high level of pro-inflammatory cytokines within the tumor microenvironment can stimulate angiogenesis, thereby promoting neoplastic proliferation. Serum C-reactive protein serves as a sensitive indicator of inflammation and could possess considerable prognostic significance as an early biomarker for cancer diagnosis. Aims and Objectives: To quantitatively measure serum C-reactive protein levels in both smokers and non-smokers, as well as to assess its role in cancer development. Materials and Methods: The study included a sample of 25 non-smokers and 25 smokers. All samples underwent C-reactive protein testing using immunoturbidimetry. The observations were analyzed statistically. Statistical analysis: The data was entered into the database management system of SPSS version 20.0. An independent t-test and Mann-Whitney U test were utilized to compare the C-reactive protein levels between two groups. For pairwise comparisons, Tukey's multiple post hoc procedure was employed. Results: The average C-reactive protein level in non-smokers was 55.24±12.0312, while in smokers, it was 55.88±11.76. In smokers, the C-reactive protein level was slightly higher compared to non-smokers. The comparison between non-smokers and smokers regarding C-reactive protein values showed statistical significance, with a p-value of ≤0.05. Conclusion: Our results indicate that the concentration of serum C-reactive protein was higher in smokers and is linked to an increased risk of developing oral cancer, potentially serving as a biomarker.
Dr. P. Saravanan, Ms. V. Priyanka
This paper examines Toni Morrison’s Beloved in 1987 through Social Identity Theory and Eco-Race Theory to explore how race, memory, and environment intersect in the aftermath of slavery. Social Identity Theory by Tajfel & Turner, in 1979, highlights the ways African Americans rebuilt collective identity in the face of exclusion, while Eco-Race Theory by Bullard in 1990 and Chavis in 1987 underscores how landscapes, plantations, haunted houses, and clearings carry racialized trauma. While these frameworks illuminate the social and ecological dimensions of identity, the study also reflects critically on their limitations: Social Identity Theory can oversimplify complex, intersectional identities, while Eco-Race Theory has been critiqued for privileging U.S.-centric models of environmental racism. Beyond theoretical analysis, the paper situates Beloved within contemporary debates on systemic racism, environmental justice, and collective healing. Morrison’s narrative techniques of haunting, fragmentation, and shifting perspectives embody these entanglements, offering both a warning and a vision for ecological and social restoration.
Hemlata, Jaishree Mishra, Ramesh Srikonda, Sumanth M
This study focuses on Lakshmangarh, a town in the Shekhawati region of Rajasthan. The medieval towns of Shekhawati, established between the 16th and early 19th centuries, served as a distinct representation of the Shekhawati merchants' identity and their significant role in shaping the urban landscape during the 18th and 19th centuries. At this period, the region's urban geography had a notable presence. The results generated by the Geographic Information System evaluate the changes in Lakshmangarh town from 1975 to 2024. Due to growing urbanization, merchants' out-migration, inadequate infrastructure, and deteriorating built fabric, towns are losing their significant values. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the cultural values for improved conservation and management by identifying the distinctive urban morphology of Lakshmangarh town. The methodology has been carried out by systematically analyzing the densely crowded urban elements thematically (Fort, Cenotaph, Temple, Caravanserai, Water Tank, and Mansion) as unique landscapes and their potential to stand out and be recognized globally, through Inverse Distance Weighting and Hotspot analysis. The result will identify areas of significant historical, cultural, or architectural value that may require special attention. Additionally, justification of the results will lead to the visual representations of intensity imagery using interpolation mapping to rationalize the cultural magnitude of Lakshmanagarh town. Additionally, the article discusses the potential meeting criteria under outstanding value justification for the tentative listing process under the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).
Asma Shaikh, Dr. Sonali Gholap, Varun Gadia
Statins remain the cornerstone of lipid-lowering therapy for cardiovascular risk prevention. Despite strong guideline support, therapeutic inertia and brand competition pose challenges in consistent statin utilization. This article presents a six-month omnichannel digital campaign executed by Hidoc Dr. across Tamil Nadu, India, aimed at re-establishing physician engagement with atorvastatin therapy in dyslipidemia and stroke prevention. The campaign targeted over 36,000 physicians, generating more than 2.1 million impressions and over 94,000 clicks. With a strong CTR of 5%, the campaign demonstrated the power of structured digital education to reinforce evidence-based practices and guideline-aligned prescribing behavior.
Raiton Sababe Mulima
Customer loyalty remains a major challenge for Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) companies in Kenya. This study examined the influence of relationship marketing dimensions— trust, perceived value, switching cost, and empathy—on customer loyalty among FMCG firms in Nairobi County. Grounded on Social Exchange Theory, Relationship Marketing Theory, and Customer Relationship Management Theory, the study employed a descriptive research design. The target population comprised 794 marketing and public relations employees in 45 FMCG companies, with a stratified random sample of 267 respondents. Data were collected through self-administered questionnaires and analyzed using SPSS 24, applying both descriptive and inferential statistics at a 95% confidence level. Results revealed that trust (β = 0.595, p = 0.001), switching cost (β = 0.261, p = 0.001), perceived value (β = 0.210, p = 0.001), and empathy (β = 0.401, p = 0.001) had a positive and significant influence on customer loyalty. The study concludes that relationship marketing significantly enhances loyalty in FMCG companies. It recommends that firms uphold high product and service quality to maintain trust, leverage financial incentives to reduce switching tendencies, and train employees in empathy and communication to improve customer experiences. Regulators should also periodically review policies to strengthen FMCG competitiveness and customer retention in Nairobi County.
Fathimath Hiba P.K, Jeena P.M
Migration is a dynamic global phenomenon shaped by economic, social, and political factors, with profound impacts on both origin and destination countries. Kerala, known for its high rate of out-migration, particularly to Gulf countries, has witnessed a notable rise in return migration in recent years, accelerated by the Covid- 19 pandemic and related disruptions. This study aims to examine the trends and patterns of return migration in Kerala and to analyze its impact on the Kerala economy in the post-pandemic context. The research relies exclusively on secondary data sourced from the Kerala Migration Survey (KMS) 2023 and earlier rounds, report from the Department of Non-Resident Keralites Affairs (NORKA), and publications by international organizations such as the ILO, World Bank, and IOM. The findings indicate that the Covid-19 crisis significantly accelerated return migration, with job loss and visa expiry as the primary drivers. Returnees have contributed financial capital, skills, and international exposure to the local economy, offering both opportunities and challenges for reintegration. However, the state faces structural constraints in effectively absorbing these returnees into the workforce. While the study highlights key patterns and economic impacts, it is limited by its reliance on secondary data, which may not fully capture recent developments or the socio-psychological dimensions of return migration. Overall, the analysis underscores the need for targeted policies to harness the developmental potential of return migration in Kerala.
Dr. G. Yoganandham
Reservation in Tamil Nadu has historically been a vital tool for addressing caste-based inequalities and promoting social justice. The debate over the “SC creamy layer” raises concerns about unequal benefits within Scheduled Castes and internal stratification. Despite Tamil Nadu’s high reservation quota of over 69%, disparities, social exclusion, and caste-based atrocities continue, showing that economic advancement alone cannot eliminate deep-rooted caste hierarchies. The state’s refusal to adopt the creamy layer principle reflects its commitment to community-wide redress rather than selective exclusions. Empirical evidence highlights persistent inequalities within SC sub-castes like Arunthathiyars, emphasizing the need for targeted, data-driven policies that support the most marginalized while maintaining social cohesion. The study challenges the assumption that income alone can overcome caste discrimination, pointing to ongoing social, spatial, and institutional barriers. It calls for finer sub-caste classification, focused socio-economic interventions, and robust anti-discrimination measures to ensure equitable development. Overall, effective affirmative action in Tamil Nadu must go beyond income-based criteria to achieve genuine social justice and meaningful mobility. This assessment critically examines reservation policies, socio-economic gaps, and the relevance of the creamy layer debate for SCs, arguing for nuanced, evidence-based strategies that promote inclusion. Using a qualitative and comparative approach with secondary data and historical analysis, the study is exploratory and policy-oriented, offering insights for inclusive growth. It also underscores that caste stigma persists despite economic progress; highlighting the importance of strengthening sub-quotas and safeguarding caste-based redress to address entrenched inequalities in Tamil Nadu and beyond.
Dr. Nagaveni CM, Mrs. Mahalakshmi BA
Education is an important factor in determining the entrepreneurial orientation in individuals. Formal education is positively correlated with entrepreneurship. Education and training can have definite role in enhancing entrepreneurship in the context of a developing country like India. This study explores the role of universities as well as their strategies and extent to which entrepreneurship education fostered in terms of policy frameworks, the curriculum and stakeholders’ perception of entrepreneurship education. This is the case study of two universities they are Davanagere university and Kuvempu university.
Dr. Nagaveni CM, Mrs. Mahalakshmi BA
The IPPB was established to fill this service gap by leveraging the existing postal network and infrastructure to offer banking solutions that are accessible, convenient, and affordable. While the institution aims to provide a multitude of services, including savings and current accounts, money transfer, Direct Benefit Transfers (DBTs), bill and utility payments, and enterprise solutions, the true success of IPPB is contingent upon the awareness levels among its potential and existing customer base. Despite the commendable objectives and the robust infrastructure, there has been limited research on how aware the public is about the services offered by IPPB. This is particularly critical given the bank’s target audience includes not just urban resident’s familiar with banking paradigms but also rural households that have traditionally been excluded from formal financial systems. Insufficient awareness can result in low adoption rates, under-utilization of services, and ultimately, may defeat the overarching aim of financial inclusion that IPPB is intended to achieve.
Dr. Mayanglambam Prakash Singh, Sapam Chinttoo Devi
“Self-esteem” refers to an individual’s overall perception of self-worth and confidence in one’s abilities, and it plays a central role in personal growth and professional success. For student-teachers, who are at the initial stage of teacher preparation, self-esteem is particularly important as it shapes their attitude towards learning, enhances their ability to face challenges, and builds the confidencazae required to manage classroom effectively. A healthy level of self-esteem helps them develop positive teacher-student relationships, make sound pedagogical decisions, and cultivate resilience in the teaching profession. Conversely, low self-esteem may negatively affect their motivazation, communication and overall teaching performance. The present study aims to examine the self-esteem of student-teachers in Imphal East District, Manipur, with a focus on understanding its overall level and exploring how it varies across gender and locality, thereby highlighting its significance in teacher education. A descriptive survey method was employed to gather quantitative data from a total sample of 225 student-teachers across teacher education institutions in the district. A standardized self-esteem scale developed by Dr. Santosh Dhar and Dr. Upinder Dhar (2015), which measures six dimensions-positivity, openness, competence, humility, self-worth, and learning orientation was employed. The findings revealed that majority of the student-teachers of Imphal East District have Normal self-esteem level and there was a significant difference in the self-esteem of student-teachers of Imphal East District with respect to their gender and locality.
Dr. KSRS. Jyothsna, Dr.N.Dhana Lakshmi, R.Sai Ram Charan Dinesh, Sirivaram Gururaj Charan, Vemuri Siva Sai Karthik
This project shows an IoT Weather and Health Monitoring System based on the Raspberry Pi Pico W to monitor essential health parameters and environmental factors in real-time. It includes a BME280 sensor for temperature, humidity, and pressure, an MQ135 sensor for monitoring air quality, a Ds18b20 body temperature sensor, and a MAX30100 pulse oximeter and heart rate sensor for heart rate, SpO₂ level, and body temperature measurements. An OLED screen offers in-device feedback, and IoT connectivity along with a GSM module offers remote monitoring and real-time SMS alerting for emergency alerts like high fever, low air quality, dehydration hazard, and altitude-related oxygen shortage. The MQ135 sensor offers more environmental sensitivity through pollutant detection, which makes the system very useful for users in environments with low air quality. The GSM module guarantees alerts are sent even in areas with poor internet connectivity. The intelligent IoT prototype is suitable for outdoor enthusiasts, the elderly, and patients with respiratory or cardiovascular diseases, providing real-time monitoring of health, environment, and emergency alerts. Future upgrades could involve AI-powered predictive analytics, integration with mobile health apps, and cloud data logging for long-term trend identification and enhanced emergency response.
Dr. Jyotirmoy Koley
Socially Responsible Investing (SRI) in India has evolved significantly, transitioning from its ethical and religious roots to a more comprehensive approach integrating Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria. This study traces the historical journey of SRI in India, identifying its key drivers, challenges, and future prospects of this investment approach. The growth of SRI in India can be attributed to various factors, including regulatory support, institutional investor demand, risk management benefits, alignment with corporate strategies, and international commitments. However, the Indian SRI landscape faces several challenges, such as data and disclosure issues, a lack of awareness and understanding among investors, the perception of underperformance, definitional ambiguity, and limited product depth. Despite these challenges, the performance analysis of SRI funds and ESG indices in India demonstrates their competitive returns, particularly during market volatility, dispelling the notion of a compromised financial performance. The Indian SRI ecosystem, comprising regulators, corporations, asset managers, and investors, is evolving but remains less developed than global standards. This study highlights the need for a cohesive SRI framework, enhanced ESG disclosure standards, and the integration of ESG factors into corporate strategies and investment decision-making processes. Recommendations for various stakeholders emphasize the importance of regulatory reforms, investor education, and innovation in promoting the growth of SRI. While the future of SRI in India appears promising, realizing its potential requires concerted efforts from all stakeholders to address existing challenges and foster a conducive environment for sustainable investment. Further research is needed to examine the long-term performance of SRI funds, investor behaviour, and the impact of SRI on corporate sustainability in India.
Dr.G.Laxmi Prabha
Agriculture is the lifeblood of the economy in most developing countries particularly in India.Rural woman plays an important role in the growth and development of agriculture and allied sector. Rural women constitute a large proportion of population in rural India. According to 2011 census, there were 54.60 percent of population engaged in agriculture and allied activities. It contributes 17.40 percent to the country’s Gross Value Added. Poverty is more for women living in rural households. Women’s poverty is directly related to the absence of economic opportunities and autonomy. Rural women in India are concentrated on agriculture to much larger extend than men. Agriculture sector constitutes bulk women workers of which large number of women are unpaid family workers and many unpaid workers are cultivators themselves. Women Agripreneurship is the vital contributors to India’s agricultural sector, driving income generation, self-sufficiency, and sustainable growth. They actively participate in decision making and challenge traditional norms .Despite various challenges, rural women entrepreneurs are increasingly successful, contributing to economic development and empowerment. Successful examples include group farming by women in Telangana and Kerala. Women play a crucial role in farm-related tasks, contributing more labour to the agricultural sector than men .Women account for nearly 70 per cent of agricultural labour, highlighting their essential involvement in its progress. Participation in agricultural activities increases women’s financial independence and aids in poverty reduction. This paper aim to understand the Contribution of Rural Women through Agripreneurship and their socio-economic empowerment.
Vincent R. Cailing, MA
This study examines the intricate relationship between socio-motivational factors, academic self-efficacy, and academic achievement among junior high school students. Grounded in Bandura’s Social-Cognitive Theory and Deci and Ryan’s Self-Determination Theory, the research explores how relationships with peers and teachers influence students’ academic self-beliefs and outcomes. A total population sample of 332 junior high school students from a public school in Claveria West District, Misamis Oriental, participated in the study. Data were collected using validated instruments: The Relationship and Motivation Scales (REMO-P), The Academic Self-Efficacy Scale for Filipino Junior High School Students (ASES-FJHS), and final grade averages. Using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM), the findings revealed that socio-motivational relationships significantly influence academic self-efficacy (β = 0.71, p < .001), while their direct effect on academic achievement was not statistically significant (β = 0.13, p = .065). However, academic self-efficacy strongly predicted academic achievement (β = 0.85, p < .001) and was found to fully mediate the relationship between socio-motivational relationships and academic success, explaining 89.1% of the variance in achievement. The final model demonstrated excellent fit indices (p=.239, CFI = 1.000, RMSEA = 0.000, SRMR = 0.028), confirming the strength of the mediation pathway. These results underscore the key role of academic self-efficacy as a mediator and highlight the importance of fostering positive socio-motivational relationships to enhance students’ academic confidence and performance.
Dr. Neetu Yadav, Dr. Shalu Nehra, Ms. Shivani
Anemia in pregnancy is a major global health problem affecting nearly 40% of women worldwide, with higher prevalence in low- and middle-income countries. Iron deficiency remains the leading cause, but socioeconomic factors such as income, education, occupation, and healthcare access significantly influence anemia risk. This study, conducted among 250 pregnant women attending antenatal care at Subharti Hospital, Meerut, aimed to investigate how socioeconomic disparities contribute to anemia prevalence. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and medical records. Statistical analysis revealed strong associations between anemia and lower education (p<0.01), low income (p<0.01), limited antenatal visits (p<0.05), poor dietary diversity (p<0.01), and lack of supplementation (p<0.01). Cultural restrictions and weak social support further exacerbated the problem. The findings highlight that beyond biological causes, socioeconomic inequalities play a pivotal role in maternal anemia. Strengthening health education, improving dietary intake, ensuring affordable supplements, and enhancing healthcare access can significantly reduce the burden of anemia in pregnancy.
H.A. Bentounes, K.B. Bencherif, L. Ghomri
For the calculation of the voltage and current of the PV model ,several theoretical models have been developed. In this work, we presented a simple model to a single exponential. The photovoltaic model is typically represented by an equivalent circuit and parameters are calculated experimentally .Using Matlab as a tool for simulation ,we have considered three sizes :short-circuit, open circuit voltage, voltage and current at maximum power point of the photovoltaic model characteristics shell SP 75 in condition standard test .The results were compared with those provided by other researchers.
Nima Ramdas A E, Sneha V S, Soumya K R
The rising interest in natural and traditional remedies has driven renewed exploration into Ayurvedic formulations, particularly for therapeutic applications such as wound care. Among the many classical ingredients, Sphatika (Potash alum) holds a prominent place in Ayurvedic literature due to its well-documented astringent, antimicrobial, and wound-healing properties. The present study aims at the pharmaceutical preparation of a Sphatika-based hydrogel by integrating the classical wound-healing principles of Ayurveda with the targeted and sustained delivery capabilities of modern pharmaceutical technology. The hydrogel was prepared using biocompatible polymers such as Gaur gum and Glycerin, chosen for their soothing, hydrating, and stabilizing properties. The formulation process focused on achieving optimal consistency and spreadability suitable for topical application. This work highlights the potential of combining Ayurvedic principles with contemporary formulation science to create innovative, effective, and natural therapeutic alternatives. Such integrative approaches could pave the way for sustainable and culturally resonant pharmaceutical products.
Ishwar Singh
There are various statistical method which are available for social science researchers but which technique will be appropriate for their research is the big challenge. When research is based on covariance, CB-SEM approach is used and when it is based on total variance, then PLS-SEM is an appropriate approach. This paper tries to capture the attention of the researchers who face problems when to use CB-SEM and when to use PLS-SEM. With the help of this paper, the effort is made to clearly define that CB-SEM is a parametric approach and PLS-SEM is non parametric approach. In case of PLS-SEM, two measurement models are considered namely measurement model(outer model) and structural model(Inner Model). In case of PLS-SEM, internal consistency reliability is checked with the help of two namely Cronbach’s alpha and Composite reliability and there are other ways of checking reliability and validity such as Composite reliability, Discriminant validity, HTMT and overall model fit with the help of inner relationship between the constructs. In case of CB-SEM, Fornell Larcker method is an appropriate method and finally, overall model fit is checked. With the help of this paper, I try to elaborate the conceptual knowledge of CB-SEM and PLS based SEM.
Dionisel Y. Regalado
Approximate analytic expressions are obtained for initial value problems with purely numerical solutions. Symbolic regression was utilized to obtain such analytic expression. For functions that are Lipschitz continuous, results revealed that the maximum absolute error (sup-norm) is bounded.
N. Jayamma
This research paper explores the transformative impact of digital technologies on talent management practices. It examines how digital tools, including artificial intelligence (AI) and data analytics, are reshaping HR functions, from recruitment and employee engagement to learning and development. Key findings indicate that organizations implementing AI-driven recruitment processes experience a 75% reduction in hiring time and a 16% increase in diversity. AI applications in employee development lead to a 25% improvement in retention and a 30% rise in employee satisfaction. The study also highlights challenges such as resistance to digital adoption, managing remote workforces, and addressing skill gaps. Recommendations include investing in AI and automation, personalizing training programs, and fostering a culture of continuous learning. Future research should focus on the long-term effects of digital transformation on organizational culture and employee well-being, as well as the application of emerging technologies like virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) in HR practices. This paper provides valuable insights for HR professionals and organizations aiming to leverage digital tools to enhance their talent management strategies and achieve greater efficiency and employee satisfaction.
Dr. Duncan Wasike, Dr. Edwin Masibo, Simiyu Mark
Mathematical problem-solving skills are a critical competency for secondary school learners, yet many students struggle with applying conceptual knowledge to real-world scenarios. This study investigated the effect of the ASSURE instructional design model on learners' mathematical problem-solving efficacy in secondary schools within Bungoma County, Kenya. Grounded in John Dewey's Cognitive Constructivism Theory, the research employed a descriptive survey design to examine four key dimensions: teachers' analysis of learners' entry behavior, utilization of instructional resources, teacher-learner engagement, and classroom evaluation approaches. The study population comprised principals, mathematics teachers, and Form Three students from 53 public secondary schools in Bungoma North Sub-County. A sample of 280 teachers and 378 students was selected from categorized schools (extra-county, county, and sub-county tiers). Data was collected using questionnaires, student tests, and principal interviews. Instruments were validated through pilot testing, and data was analyzed using descriptive statistics, presented in tables, charts, and text. Key findings revealed that teacher responsiveness to learners' prior knowledge significantly enhanced instructional outcomes (β = 0.37, *p* < .05), though diagnostic assessments were underutilized (56.7% of teachers rarely conducted them). Customized instructional materials improved problem-solving skills (β = 0.37, *p* < .001), while excessive reliance on technology had a negative impact (β = −0.31, *p* < .001). Student-led explanations of problem-solving processes were highly effective (β = 0.55, *p* < .001), whereas teacher modeling (β = −0.33, *p* < .001) and unstructured group work (β = −0.19, *p* = .02) were counterproductive. A notable perception gap emerged in assessment practices: 93.2% of teachers rarely used formative assessments, yet 69.9% of students believed their progress was regularly monitored. Based on these findings, the study recommends targeted teacher training in diagnostic assessments and differentiated instruction to address diverse learning needs. It advocates for strategic technology integration (e.g., GeoGebra) aligned with Bloom's Taxonomy and structured collaborative learning protocols (e.g., defined roles, rubrics) to enhance group work. These recommendations support Kenya's Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC), highlighting the ASSURE model's potential to improve instructional design and problem-solving competency. The study underscores the need for systemic reforms in teacher professional development and evidence-based assessment practices to bridge gaps between teaching strategies and learning outcomes in mathematics education
Dr. Awudu Salaam Mohammed, Mrs Justina Adu, Ms Gertrude Essuman, Nurudeen Iddriss Muhammed, Prof. Michael Subbey, Thomas Nyaabila Abugre, PhD
The purpose of the study was to assess teachers’ instructional strategy challenges in teaching creative arts lessons in the Effutu Municipality. The study was underpinned by the pragmatist paradigm and influenced by the mixed method research approach. The sequential explanatory mixed method design was used for the study with a target population of 75 lower primary school teachers in the Effutu Municipality. The study sampled all 75 lower primary school teachers from public basic schools in the municipality using census technique. 5 teachers were purposefully sampled for the interview. The data was gathered using questionnaire and semi-structured interview guide. While the reliability of the instrument was ascertained through a Cronbach Alpha coefficient value of 0.78, trustworthiness of the interview was ensured through credibility, dependability, transferability, and confirmability. The data were analysed using frequencies, percentages, mean of means, standard deviations, and thematic approach. The study revealed that drums, costumes, scissors, televisions are some of the accessible resources in the Effutu Municipality. Again, classroom size, teachers’ beliefs of teaching and learning, learners’ interest, availability of resources, teaching experience, time allocation, academic qualification, national curriculum, and availability of technology were factors that influence teachers’ choice of instructional strategy. However, the national curriculum and learners’ interest have the greatest influence on teacher’s choice of instructional resources for teaching creative arts lessons while academic qualification does not influence the respondent’s choice of teacher’s instructional strategy in the Effutu Municipality. It was therefore recommended that head teachers should encourage the use of appropriate instructional strategies and resources in the teaching and learning of creative arts.
Dr. Silas Gangmei, Happyson Gangmei
The Rongmei Naga (Kabui) society stand at a crucial juncture of cultural negotiation between Rongmei Christian and Rongmei Indigenous Faiths (Kabui) on their cultural authenticity and legitimacy. This intricated dialectic on culture by both the community reflect religious pluralism and manifest a profound societal dynamism over cultural identity. Through comprehensive synthesizing of secondary material, the paper accentuates how religious pluralism precipitate cultural identity tension and identity crisis. And it argues this is not to be seen as destructive fragmentation but a process of cultural reconfiguration. Nevertheless, this cultural contestation within the communities of Rongmei Nagas (Kabui) should be mutually resolved through inter-faith dialogue, as cultural identity transcends religious demarcation and holistically belong to the collective consciousness of the society.
Nabajit Dev Adhikary, Prof Sunil Kumar
The Assam Tea Industry, which accounts for more than 50 percent of India’s total tea production. Tea industry has contributed substantially to the economy of Assam by providing employment to nearly half a million population, contributing revenues and support to develop other infrastructure and service sector over the year. The history of tea in India began with the plantations of tea in the lowlands of Assam during the late 1930s by the British after its discovery by Robert Bruce and Maniram Dewan in the hills of Assam.The tea tribe population, being extremely diverse in terms of religious and linguistic composition, is intricately associated with tea plantation, processing and production, and bears immense significance to the socio-culture and economy of Assam. Tea tribe of Assam is one of most underdeveloped community and the women of this community are more vulnerable in comparison to man They have been facing enormous problems and difficulties (poverty, homeless and illiteracy) in their day-to-day life. Therefore, it is essential to study the economic status and the living condition of tea garden workers. The study proposes to investigate a comparative analysis of economic condition of tea garden workers in Doomni tea estate in Baska district and Barchapari tea estate in Golaghat district of Assam.
Richard Bitange Nyaoga
In early 1990’s, many governments from all over the world both at national and local level launched e-procurement initiatives. In Africa, improvement of public procurement has seen the establishment of special public procurement bodies, whose undertaking is to put into effect the public procurement regulations. In Kenya the Public Procurement system has grown from a rudimentary stage during the colonial and post colonial period to a vibrant regulated system that compares well with the international standards. The main objective of this study was to establish the effect of e-informing procurement practice on procurement performance among public universities in Kenya. The study focused on Egerton University. Descriptive survey design was adopted in this study, where primary data collected through structured questionnaire was used. The population of this study comprised of 31 members of staff in procurement departments of Egerton University. Results were presented using pie charts, bar charts and frequency distribution tables. Quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive statistical method which included frequencies, mean, mode, standard and deviation. Pearson Correlation analysis was carried out to test Hypothesis on effect of e-Informing practice on procurement performance. simple regression analysis was conducted. The results showed that there was a positive and significant correlation between e-Informing practice and procurement performance. It is therefore recommended that organization need to incorporate more procurement practices like E-Informing in order to realize an improved procurement performance of an organization. Future research can interrogate other factors like the ICT infrastructure and support service and other e-procurement practices such as e-contracting and e-payment to ascertain their effect on procurement performance of organization.
Londiwe Velile Dlamini
This study evaluates the logistics management practices at Future Supply Chain Solutions Ltd (FSC), focusing on key areas like facility management, quality control, technology, and employee involvement. The findings highlight FSC's efficient warehouse operations and advanced tracking systems, but identify areas for improvement, including enhancing quality reporting, employee participation, documentation practices, and customer complaint resolution. The study suggests that while FSC's workforce is experienced, challenges with knowledge transfer may arise due to an aging workforce. To maintain its competitive edge, FSC should continue investing in technology, employee training, and process improvements.
Didik Sumanto, Mifbakhuddin, Sayono, Varissa Salsabila
Background: Indonesia has a tropical climate favorable for insect populations. Vector-borne diseases pose a significant threat. Mosquitoes are a major vector in the transmission of dengue fever, malaria, and Zika through their bites. This study aims to determine the presence of mosquito larvae in the hospital environment, considering physical factors and breeding characteristics as a preventive measure against the spread of vector-borne diseases. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional design was chosen for this study. A purposive sample was taken at a hospital in Klaten Regency, Central Java Province. The observations were conducted from July to August 2025. Data obtained through observation, interviews, and laboratory tests are used to identify mosquito larvae. Results: The existence of mosquito larvae in the hospital was 28.6% of the observation sites, with adult mosquitoes found at all observation points. Physical and chemical vector control measures were implemented at all sites, while biological control measures were only implemented at one observation site. Conclusion: The existence of mosquito larvae in hospitals is high, more frequently found in locations with substandard temperature and lighting conditions, in cement containers, made from cement, with dark gray interior walls, and in containers without lids.
Dr. Sonia Luthra, Sunayna
This paper examines the theme of identity fragmentation and the deflation of self in Julian Barnes' postmodern fiction, specifically analyzing Metroland (1980) and The Sense of an Ending (2011). Drawing on the theoretical framework of postmodernism and existential philosophy, the study explores how Barnes depicts characters struggling with loss of identity in contemporary British society. The analysis reveals that Barnes' protagonists—Christopher and Tony in Metroland, and Tony Webster in The Sense of an Ending—embody the postmodern condition of fractured selfhood, characterized by rootlessness, alienation, and the failure to maintain authentic relationships. Through close textual analysis, the paper demonstrates how Barnes employs narrative techniques such as non-linear structure, memory fragmentation, and intertextuality to reflect the psychological disintegration of his characters. The study argues that Barnes' fiction serves as a mirror to postmodern British society, where traditional values have collapsed, leaving individuals adrift in a world devoid of absolute truth and meaning. The characters' journeys from youthful rebellion to adult disillusionment illustrate the broader cultural shift from modernist certainties to postmodern uncertainties. This research contributes to the understanding of contemporary British literature's engagement with questions of identity, memory, and the human condition in the postmodern era.
Diah Iskandar Dan, Riaty Handayani
This study aims to examine the influence of ESG and profitability on firm value. This research method uses a panel data regression model. This study uses panel data of energy sector companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange (BI) during the period 2020-2024. The hypothesis of this study is that Environmental, Social, Governance (ESG) affects firm value. Profitability affects firm value. Firm size affects firm value. Firm size is able to moderate the relationship between Environmental, Social, Governance (ESG) and firm value. And also firm size is able to moderate the relationship between profitability and firm value. The results of this study are ESG and Profitability do not affect Firm Value and firm size cannot moderate the influence of ESG and Profitability on Firm Value.
Dukor Anderline, Emeje Simon, Ukamaka Okafor
Background: In various industries like healthcare, pharmaceuticals, construction, agriculture, food and beverage, the use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is essential. The primary reason for the use of PPE is to safeguard workers from potential risks, protect them from workplace hazards that could lead to injuries or health issues. Objective: This research investigated the impact of facility modernization on compliance with PPE use among workers within a manufacturing setting. The study aimed to determine how changes in infrastructure, training programs, management support, and the availability of PPE affected workers’ behaviour towards safety practices. Method: A mixed-methods approach was used for the study. Qualitative and quantitative data were collected from 2023(pre-upgrade) and 2024(post-upgrade). The data collected was to evaluate changes in behaviour, effectiveness of training, the level of management support, and the availability of PPE. Both correlation and regression analyses were conducted to determine the relationships between these variables and compliance with PPE uses. Result: The results obtained showed that despite improvements in infrastructure, training, and supply, non-compliance rose from 70.14% to 73.96%. Correlation and regression analyses showed that increased availability and training alone did not lead to behaviour change, as weakened management enforcement and reduced risk perception played larger roles. Regression results (R² = 0.88) confirmed that perceived risk and management support explained a significant portion of compliance variability. Thematic analysis of open-ended responses identified comfort concerns, inconsistent PPE distribution, and weak supervisory oversight. Conclusion: Findings highlighted that upgrades to physical infrastructure must be coupled with behavioural strategies, strong leadership commitment and targeted training programs in order to achieve lasting improvements in PPE compliance.
Gwesu Norah C, Matsikure Cheure Memory, Munyepwa Kudakwashe, Raganayi Charity, Thwala Luba Gilberta
This study investigates the impact of financial literacy and accounting practices on economic empowerment among marginalized communities. The research explores the relationships between financial literacy levels, engagement with accounting practices, and the barriers faced in achieving economic empowerment. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the study integrates quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews with a sample of 104 participants, selected through purposive sampling to ensure diverse representation. The findings reveal a strong positive correlation between financial literacy and economic empowerment, as well as between effective accounting practices and sustainable growth. Theoretical contributions include a nuanced understanding of how systemic barriers, such as limited access to education and technology, affect financial inclusion. Practically, the study emphasizes the need for culturally relevant financial education programs and community-based initiatives to enhance financial literacy and empower individuals. Policy implications highlight the importance of collaborative efforts among stakeholders to address inequities and promote inclusive financial systems. In conclusion, fostering financial literacy and effective accounting practices is essential for driving economic empowerment and improving the quality of life within marginalized communities.
S.J.M.N.G. Samarakoon
Ownership structure is one of the primary dimensions of corporate governance. The aim of this study is to examine the impact of ownership structure on dividend payout policy of plantation listed companies in Sri Lanka during the period 2019-2023. Seventeen listed plantation companies out of all nineteen plantation listed plantation companies were selected as a sample. Secondary data was obtained from the annual reports of listed plantation companies, as published on the website of the Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE), Sri Lanka. The study considers ownership structure as an independent variable, measured through individual ownership structure, institutional ownership structure and foreign ownership structure. The dependent variable, dividend payout policy, is represented by the dividend payout ratio. This study used multiple regression and Pearson’s correlation analysis as the analytical framework. The Pearson correlation coefficient matrix was used to identify the relationship between the ownership structure and dividend payout policy of listed plantation companies. The findings indicate a significant positive relationship between individual ownership structure and dividend payout policy. Conversely, institutional ownership showed a significant negative relationship with dividend payout. However, correlation coefficient between foreign ownership structure and dividend payout was not significant, exhibiting a negative but statistically insignificant relationship between foreign ownership structure and dividend payout. Multiple regression analysis was conducted to observe how well the dividend payout policy (DPO) can be explained by ownership structure. The analysis revealed that 13.4% of the variability of dividend payout is decided by differences in the ownership structure such as ownerships of individual and institutional, and foreign ownership. Further, the remaining 86.6% of the variability of dividend payout is decided by other factors that are not included in this model. Both individual and institutional ownership structures significantly affect dividend payout policy, while foreign ownership does not. Overall, ownership structure shows a significant influence on dividend payouts, except in the case of foreign ownership. The results also reveal that approximately half of the plantation companies were not in a financial position to pay dividends annually, mainly due to the prevailing economic crisis and the COVID- 19 pandemic during the years of 2019 – 2023. Additionally, Sri Lankan listed plantation companies exhibit highly concentrated ownership structures, predominantly led by institutional investors, followed by individual and foreign ownership structure. The behavior of institutional, individual and concentrated owners in Sri Lankan listed plantation companies is associated with the clarifications of signaling, free cash flow and agency theory concerning dividend payouts. These findings are valuable to regulators for guiding future policies in the Colombo Stock Exchange and to investors for forecasting firms’ dividend payouts and valuation of their stocks.
Vodiboina Yuvaraj
Civic technology (Civic Tech) aims to bridge the gap between citizens and government through digital services, yet many platforms are undermined by poor usability and a lack of accessibility, eroding public trust. This paper investigates the impact of user interface (UI) and user experience (UX) design on user trust, task completion, and digital inclusion within the context of a municipal service portal. Through a mixed-methods study involving A/B testing of two interactive prototypes—a baseline model mirroring typical government websites and an enhanced, user-centric, and accessible model—this research explores how specific design interventions influence user behavior and perception. The findings reveal statistically significant improvements in task success rates (p<.01), reduced time on task (p<.001), and higher perceived trust (p<.001) for the enhanced prototype. The results suggest that a deliberate investment in user-centric and accessible design is not merely an aesthetic choice but a crucial mechanism for improving operational efficiency, fostering a more positive citizen-state relationship, and ensuring equitable access to digital public services. This paper contributes an empirically validated conceptual model that links tangible UI/UX elements to the psychological mediators of trust and inclusion, providing a clear framework for public administrators and developers.
Iwan Firdaus, Mario Megananda, Sely Megawati Wahyudi
The infrastructure sector has a strategic role as a wheel of regional to national development to drive the country's economic growth. Although as a driving force of development, the value of Infrastructure sector companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange for the 2018-2022 period has decreased significantly. This study aims to determine the role of profitability as an intervening variable from the indirect effect of liquidity and activity on the value of Infrastructure sector companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange for the 2018-2022 period, with a population of 11 companies according to the specified characteristics. Sample selection using the saturated sample method. The research design is a causality study with a data analysis method using panel data regression analysis. The results of the study directly show that liquidity has no effect on company value, activity has a negative and significant effect on company value, and profitability has a positive and significant effect on company value. for liquidity and activity on profitability, the research results are that liquidity has no effect on profitability, while activity has a positive and significant effect on profitability. Furthermore, for the results of the study on the indirect effect of liquidity and activity on the value of the Company with profitability as an intervening variable, it was found that indirectly liquidity does not affect the value of the Company while activity indirectly has a positive and significant effect on the value of the Company, with profitability as an intervening variable.
Dr. Sarah Gitau, QS. Geoffry Kimutai Cheruiyot, Sylvester Munguti Masu
This research investigates the persistent problem of low budget absorption in publicly financed infrastructure projects within Kenya's devolved governance system. It examines the impact of Pre-Project Planning (PPP) on this issue, with key objectives of exploring how scope definition, clarity of objectives, stakeholder involvement, and risk identification lead to better budget absorption. This study is grounded in Construction Management Theory, Systems Theory, and the Organizational Decision-Making Model, which guided the analysis of project processes and outcomes. Adopting a causal-comparative case study design, the research utilized a mixed-methods approach, collecting data from various project stakeholders through structured questionnaires, interviews, and document analysis. Quantitative data were subjected to Pearson’s correlation and multiple regression analysis. The findings establish a significant positive correlation between effective risk identification and budget absorption, confirming its central role in fiscal success. In contrast, a statistically significant negative correlation was found between clarity of objectives and budget absorption, an unexpected finding suggesting that overly rigid plans may hinder financial flexibility. The research concludes that while PPP is central to improving budget absorption, its success is inextricably linked to addressing concurrent governance challenges and proactive management of project delays. This study makes a key empirical contribution by providing actionable insights for policymakers and project managers on how to enhance project delivery within Kenya's devolved governance environment.
Wendelyn Mariano
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as a transformative force in education, offering adaptive and personalized learning experiences that can enhance both academic outcomes and student well-being. This study examined the relationship between AI tool adoption, academic buoyancy, and psychological well-being among senior high school and college students in a selected private school in Laguna, Philippines. Guided by the Self-Determination Theory and Cognitive Load Theory, a descriptive-correlational design was employed using total enumeration sampling. Eighty-two students aged 16–24 completed a validated, paper-based survey comprising demographic information, the Technology Acceptance Model (perceived usefulness, ease of use, and user acceptance), the Academic Buoyancy Scale, and the Psychological Well-Being Scale. Results revealed high levels of AI adoption, academic buoyancy, and psychological well-being across the sample. Pearson correlation analysis indicated a significant moderate positive relationship between AI adoption and academic buoyancy (p < 0.05), as well as between AI adoption and psychological well-being (p < 0.05). Age and educational level significantly influenced academic buoyancy, whereas sex and place of residence did not. These findings highlight AI tools’ potential to foster resilience, adaptability, and mental well-being when integrated into supportive educational environments. The study recommends the development of AI-based programs to promote equitable access, strengthen academic support systems, and enhance student wellness.
Uwizeyimana Jean Bosco
This study examines how mission statements of private higher education institutions (HEIs) in Rwanda articulate institutional identity, strategic direction, and alignment with the national development agenda of Vision 2050. Mission statements are essential tools for defining purpose, ensuring accountability, and guiding universities’ contributions to teaching, research, and community service. In Rwanda, where higher education is positioned as a driver of socio-economic transformation, the articulation of institutional missions holds particular significance. Using a qualitative document analysis approach, mission statements of 29 accredited private HEIs were analyzed thematically using content analysis. Institutions were analyzed according to three criteria: (1) inclusion of the tripartite functions of higher education (teaching, research, and community service), (2) incorporation of Vision 2050 priorities such as innovation, technology, and socio-economic transformation, and (3) distinctiveness in mission articulation. The analysis revealed that 45% of institutions explicitly referenced the threefold role of higher education, while 58% incorporated Vision 2050 keywords, signaling alignment with national priorities. However, 42% of institutions produced mission statements that were vague, generic, or insufficiently distinctive, limiting their strategic positioning. A smaller group of institutions articulated specialized missions—such as health equity, intercultural dialogue, or entrepreneurial leadership—demonstrating valuable differentiation, though their contributions to Vision 2050 require clearer demonstration. The findings suggest that while many private HEIs acknowledge national development priorities, significant gaps remain in clarity, distinctiveness, and programmatic diversity, particularly in STEM and vocational areas. The study concludes that mission statements in Rwanda’s private HE sector are partially aligned with Vision 2050 but require strengthening to serve as actionable strategic tools. Recommendations include periodic mission reviews, diversification of academic programs, cultivation of institutional niches, and stronger policy guidance to balance national coherence with institutional distinctiveness.
Jayadevan V, Keshav S Kolle
The paper proposes a novel concept called the Net Relative Run Ratio (NRRR) as an alternative to the currently used Net Run Rate (NRR) for evaluating the "degree of authority" of match wins in limited-over cricket. It aims to provide a more nuanced assessment of team performance. In essence, the paper proposes that NRRR offers a more comprehensive and fairer evaluation of team performance in limited-over cricket by accounting for aspects that NRR overlooks, ultimately leading to a more authoritative ranking of teams.
Bulia Pulu, Dr. Khoda Meena
Museums play a central role in the conservation of cultural history and in making available to the population artifacts that represent the rich cultural heritage of people. The past several decades, however, have seen the emergence of ownership questions, questions of ethical stewardship, and questions of repatriation, which place the institution of the museum as a relay station in the cultural space in bilateral situations, each with its own complexities. The present paper will analyze these issues: how museums can protect cultural heritage rights and how they can strike a balance between the necessity of opening collections to the people and the ethical and legal obligation to give the objects back to the community of their origin. It discusses various aspects of the interactions between the international conventions, national legislations, and codes of ethics to govern the restitution of cultural items and the significance of provenance research, openness, and community involvement. This interdisciplinary work critiques landmark case studies including the Benin Bronzes and the Elgin Marbles, alongside contemporary debates in the equally fraught and comparatively less-trodden areas of digital repatriation and collaborative exhibition practices. The results indicate that museums must implement policies of diversity, ethics, and innovation, upholding the rights of origin societies, without compromising their mandate as custodians of cultural heritage worldwide.
Rajib Majumder
This research paper examines the role of non-human agency in contemporary literature through the lens of posthumanist theory. In an era defined by ecological crises, technological advancement, and the growing presence of artificial intelligence, literature increasingly reimagines agency as a distributed phenomenon that transcends human subjectivity. Drawing on the works of theorists such as Rosi Braidotti, Karen Barad, Donna Haraway, and Bruno Latour, the study explores how animals, machines, plants, environments, and even objects emerge as agential forces within narrative structures. Through close readings of selected texts—ranging from eco-literature like The Overstory and Flight Behavior to speculative fiction such as Klara and the Sun and The Lifecycle of Software Objects—the paper investigates how literature challenges anthropocentric paradigms and redefines ethical and narrative boundaries. These texts do not simply depict non-human entities as metaphors or background scenery but as co-constitutive actors with affective, cognitive, and political capacities. By foregrounding these non-human agents, literature participates in a broader cultural and philosophical shift toward a posthuman understanding of subjectivity, entanglement, and narrative authority. Ultimately, the paper argues that contemporary literature becomes a vital site for reimagining human-nonhuman relations in the face of planetary transformation.
Loveth Tamaraukeadou Igana, Uche Toby Agburuga PhD
The purpose of this study is to evaluate the impact of value and growth stock investment strategies on aggregate market index returns in Nigeria. This goal was addressed by focusing on three key dimensions: the performance of value stock investment strategies, the performance of growth stock investment strategies, and the comparative performance of value and growth stocks. The study design was ex-post facto and employed a multivariate analysis using a multiple regression model to analyse the panel data that was subjected to pooled and panel effects estimations. The findings reveal that value stock performance has a positive but not statistically significant impact on market index returns, while growth stock performance has a negative and not statistically significant effect. Additionally, there was a significant difference in the performance of value and growth stocks. These results suggest that investors should consider diversifying their investment strategies and not rely solely on value or growth stocks classifications. The study contributes to the existing literature by providing insights into the impact of these investment strategies on portfolio returns. Understanding the distinct performance characteristics of these two types of stocks can help investors make more informed decisions and potentially achieve better returns on their investments.
A Swapna, R.Shireesh Kiran
Sustained release pharmaceutical products became a very useful tool in medical practice, actual and perceived advantages to the patients. Sustained release is also providing promising way to decrease the side effect of drug by preventing the fluctuation of the therapeutic concentration of the drug in the body. Sustained release system are considered a wiser approach for the drug with short half lives and which requires repeated dosing, they are easy to formulate and irrespective of absorption process from gastrointestinal tract after oral administration. Sustained systems include any drug delivery system that achieves slow release of drug over an extended period of time. Now a days as very few drugs are coming out of research and development and already existing drugs are suffering the problem of resistance due to their irritational use specifically in case of drug like antibiotics. The basic rationale of sustained release drug delivery system optimizes of the biopharmaceutical and pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamics properties of the drug in such a way that utility is maximized, side effect reduced and cure of the disease is achieved. The principle goal of sustained release form is the improvements of drug therapy assessed by the relationship between advantages of the use of sustained release system. This article contains the basic information regarding sustained release formulation and also the different types of the same.
Feizzel Anne V. Toledo, Japner Xavier L. Guevarra, Lalaine A. Baral, Victor A. Javier
The main objective of this study was to investigate the senior high school students’ self-efficacy and difficulties in academic writing. Specifically, it aimed to further determine the sex-aggregated self-efficacy in academic writing in terms of research writing, business letter writing, journal article review, and position paper; common difficulties in academic writing; perception of the academic writing curriculum in terms of delivery of instruction, instructional material used, and writing activities; strategies/practices to improve the academic writing skills. The quantitative research method was used and a survey questionnaire was the main data-gathering instrument of the study. In addition, a total of two hundred seventy (270) respondents randomly participated in the study. The responses and results were tallied, tabulated ,and analyzed to provide appropriate conclusions and recommendations for the paper. The findings of the study revealed that the respondents have difficulties in academic writing and the strategies that appeared highly useful were writing an introduction first, followed by acknowledging the feedback of the teachers, and reading the required topic. Thus, the researchers recommended the proposed handbook about strategies, seminars, and innovative lectures that can be used to improve the academic writing skills
Adan Hussein
This is an investigative piece of narratives that presents a firsthand field-based assessment of the Dollo Addo primary hospital, a vital health facility for the cross-border and refugee population in the area. The hospital accommodates a vast number of specialized medical personnel despite its remote setting and devastating health facilities. The hospital suffers from operational dysfunction, severe infrastructural decay, and systematic mismanagement. Employing a qualitative approach, including staff interviews, facility walkthroughs, and patient case reviews, critical service failures and operational troubles were observed, such as issues with water hygiene and sanitary systems, emergency services, procurement governance, discretionary financial expenditure, power supply irregularities, poor chain of command, and communication channels. Specialist staff remain idle due to a lack of surgical and basic diagnostic tools. Moreover, two-thirds of the hospital's budget is disbursed for informal salary top-ups and an under-the-table pay procedure, thereby sustaining the dysfunctional system. Documented informal payments during the field assessment, along with an inconsistent supply chain, further undermine patient trust and equitable access. Additionally, the internal governance system is marred by weak transparency, fragmented accountability, and a lack of prioritization. Thus, the report urges an immediate realignment of resources towards equipment provision, infrastructural rehabilitation, and a transparent governance system. It also calls for actionable strategies in line with Ethiopia’s Health Sector Transformation Plan II (HSTP-II), including service readiness, need-based and comparable hiring procedures, and an optimistic referral network. In a nutshell, the report advocates for substantive investment in lifesaving system installation rather than symbolic staffing for political visibility and financial informalities, thereby restoring system functionality and dignity in frontline healthcare.
K. S. Chaudhari
Thin films having different thickness of Pb0.4In0.6Se were deposited by thermal evaporation techniques, onto precleaned amorphous glass substrate. The structural properties of films were evaluated by XRD, optical microscopy, SEM and EDAX. The thermoelectric of annealed thin films have been evaluated. Thermoelectric Properties shows a positive sign exhibiting p- type nature of films. Fermi energy and scattering parameter were determined. The calculated values of Fermi energy and scattering parameter are 4 to 0.4 eV and 0.184 to 0.127 respectively. The X-ray diffraction analysis confirms that films are polycrystalline having orthorhombic structure. The average grain size is found to be 27.08 nm.
Afonughe Endurance, Dr. Bernadine Ifeoma Onah, Dr. Hippolyte Michael Tapamo, Uzoma Chidimma Anthonia
E-assessment Malpractice Image classification is very important in education applications to develop an effeactive studies. In this paper, we use imagenet benchmark dataset to classify five types of examination taking and malpractices involved (a) cheat from text books/notes/papers. (b) Using a phone to call. (c) asking a friend in the test room (d) operating a phone and (e) a normal exam taking without cheating. Due to the small number of training dataset, our classification systems evaluate deep transfer learning for feature extraction. . During these exams it is difficult to keep track of every student’s screen at the same time to check if anyone is showing fraudulent behaviour. Even when recording all students’ activities during exam and watching it afterwards to depend if they cheated is very labour intensive. This thesis uses a special type of Convolutional neural network called Inception which is are widely known for their effectiveness in image classification on students’ proctored video recordings to determine if they show any malpractice behaviors, allowing us to build a framework to automate this labour intensive process system. The objective of this study is to increase the classification accuracy, speed the training time and avoid the overfitting. In this study, we trained our architecture to involve minimal pre-processing for 30-epoch number in order to study its impact on classification performance and consuming time. In addition, the paper benefits acceptable results with small number of epoch in limited time. Our interpretations confirm that transfer learning provides reliable results in the case of small dataset. The proposed system outperforms the state-of-the-art methods and achieve 96.8% classification accuracy.
PJ Mosqueda
Leadership in academic institutions—especially within the nursing profession—plays a critical role in shaping faculty motivation and influencing student learning. This study examined the relationship between transformational leadership, faculty motivation, and student learning outcomes among nursing educators in selected universities in Davao City. A descriptive-correlational design was employed, using a structured questionnaire covering demographic profiles, transformational leadership, faculty motivation, and perceived student learning outcomes. Participants were predominantly female, aged 31–40 years, with a master’s degree and 6–10 years of teaching experience. Findings revealed high perceptions of transformational leadership and exceptionally strong faculty motivation. Student learning outcomes were also rated positively. Pearson correlation showed a significant positive relationship between transformational leadership and faculty motivation (r = 0.203, p = 0.014) but no significant relationship between faculty motivation and student learning outcomes (r = 0.66, p = 0.429). Age was found to have a negative correlation with faculty motivation (r = -0.170, p < 0.040). The study concludes that while transformational leadership strongly supports faculty motivation, improving student outcomes requires additional strategies beyond motivation alone. Age-sensitive leadership approaches and holistic academic interventions are recommended.
Dr. Deepak Parmar, Dr. Manisha Boricha
The founder of Homoeopathy, Master Hahnemann boldly took the first step. It is emphasized in 6th edition that the dry dose is the weakest dose. For those who wish to give the “One dose high” try putting high potency into liquid solution and succussions 8-10 more times before the next dose. This follows main principles of the 6th edition of Organon of Medicine.
Adegwu O. Lewis, Akyala, A.I, Ngwai. Y.B
Background: Diphtheria, an infectious disease caused by Corynebacterium diphtheriae, is a major worldwide health problem due to its high incidence and prevalence, especially among children. Nigeria is among the African countries with the highest reported cases in the North-central geopolitical zone, with Plateau State being particularly affected. Objective: This study aimed to identify Diphtheria trends and spatial geographic distribution in Plateau State, Nigeria. Methodology: The study used a retrospective cross-sectional and ecological design to understand the temporal trends and spatial distribution of diphtheria cases across Plateau State from January 2015 to December 2024. The sample size was determined by the number of diphtheria cases reported by the WHO from 2015 to 2024. Purposive sampling was used based on the location of suspected, confirmed, and death cases in 17 Local Government Areas (LGAs). Data was extracted from WHO databases and visualised using ArcGIS software. The study adhered to ethical guidelines, ensuring unbiased analysis and open disclosure. Data were analysed using SPSS 25.0 and ArcGIS, and the Chi-square test was used to examine the relationship between LGAs and classification and vaccination at a significance level of 0.05. Results: The study revealed that Kenam had the highest incidence of suspected, confirmed, and fatal cases among the 441 LGAs, followed by Barkin-Ladi and Jos-North. The lowest incidence was found in Jos-East, Kanke, and Langtang-South. The most confirmed cases were found in Kenam, followed by Jos-East, Kanke, and Langtang-South. The research also found a significant correlation between local government areas and diphtheria incidences, with 59.2% of Kanam's population vaccinated. Conclusion: There is a significant trend and spread of suspected cases of Diphtheria in Plateau State, with a few confirmed cases. Kanem LGA recorded high suspicion, confirmed, vaccinated, and uncertainty about people's vaccinated status. It is therefore recommended that WHO and PSHMB take prompt action by immunising those who are not afflicted, educating the public about diphtheria symptoms, re-introducing booster shots, identifying symptomatic individuals early, and reducing geographic spread factors.
Dr. Krupasindhu Nayak, Miss Sasmita Minz
The district of Sundargarh, Odisha, predominantly occupied by Orang tribal communities, even before independence, Sundargarh has presented a complex Landscape of Public health Challenges, particularly concerning scheduled tribes’ children’s nutrition and their health. “The region’s tribal population is often marked by socioeconomic vulnerabilities, poor access to healthcare, and traditional lifestyles that contribute to high levels of child malnutrition, morbidity, and mortality”. In response to these pressing issues, the Government of India launched the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) was launched on 2nd October 1975 by the Ministry of Women and Child Development as a flagship welfare programme aimed at improving the scheduled tribe tribal health, malnutrition, and early education of children aged 0-6 years, with special focus on marginalized groups of Bisra Block of Sundargarh district, Odisha, The studies of public health reviewed and explored the effectiveness of ICDS interventions in addressing nutritional and health concerns of tribal children in Sundargarh. It examines the outreach and impact of services provided through Anganwadi Centres (AWCs), such as supplementary nutrition, immunization, health check-ups, and referral services. Despite several policy initiatives and resource investments, gaps persist in implementation and access. Through this study seeks to understand and highlights the gaps while assessing important program's and to contributing for enhancing the child wellbeing in tribal setting-up for the feature national health indicator of the Sundargarh district, and to recommend measures for improving the health and nutrition outcomes among tribal children in the district of Sundargarh.
Dr. Aghosh B Prasad, Dr. Arya B Prasad, Dr. Beena Das T R
Background - There has been a rapid emergence of antibacterial resistance in the past two decades showing the rapid shift in the epidemiology of bacterial infection. Objective - The current study aimed at screening various Homoeopathic dilutions of Histaminum and Dysenteriae co for their antimicrobial activity against Escherichia coli and Klebsiella. Methods - The antibacterial activity of Homoeopathic dilutions in 12C, 30C, and 200C potency of Sarcode Histaminum and Bowel Nosode Dysenteriae co was assessed on clinical isolates of Escherichia coli and Klebsiella. Results - Limited reduction in the growth of Bacteria was observed by Histaminum and Dysenteriae co in all of the selected potencies as compared to 90% alcohol. Conclusion – Both sarcode Histaminum and Bowel nosode Dysenteriae co had limited antibacterial activity against E. coli and Klebsiella.
Shrutidhara Kashyap
Urbanisation is an inevitable outcome of modernisation and economic development. As world civilisation progresses, all nations have experienced concentration of urban population. In 1800 A.D., only 3 percent of the world’s population lived in cities, but this figure reached to 14% and 47% in 1900 and 2000 respectively (United Nations Population Division, 2001). The report published in 2022 further reveals that the world’s urbanisation level has reached 57%, developed (79.7%), developing (52.3%) and LDCs (35.8) which is estimated to be 60 % worldwide in 2030 (World Urbanisation Prospects, United Nations Population Division, 2022).The trend of urbanisation in India as reflected in the latest census (2011) shows that the level of urbanisation has increased from 27.7% in 2001 to 31.1% in 2011. Major components of urban population growth in Indian cities are natural increment in population and urban agglomeration or outgrowths (Bhagat, 2018). Urban sustainability is adversely affected due to large scale land use land cover conversions to built up and residential areas and demand-supply gap in the provisioning of civic urban amenities (Kumar, 2009; Bera, 2020). It has a far-reaching effect on India’s efforts on reaching Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030.
Dr. Y. Rajashekhar Reddy, Renuka
In today's world, many people use wearable devices (like smartwatches) or health apps to keep track of important health signs like heart rate, blood pressure, and blood sugar levels. These signs change over time, and sometimes unusual changes (called anomalies) can be an early warning of a health problem. To catch these problems early, we need a method that can monitor the data continuously and detect when something is wrong. This thesis focuses on using a simple method called the Simple Moving Average (SMA). It works by taking the average of recent values to smooth out short-term changes, helping to highlight real trends or sudden shifts. The SMA is easy to use and works well on devices with limited computing power (like small sensors or wearables). This research shows how SMA can help detect abnormal patterns in health data, which could alert doctors or users in real time. In short, this study shows that even a basic algorithm like SMA can be useful for monitoring health and spotting early signs of trouble, especially when used in real-time systems.
Chandan B, Dr Harish R, Rakshith M R
This study presents a comparative analysis of the physical infrastructure of university libraries in India and the United Arab Emirates, focusing on user satisfaction in reference sections. Data were collected through structured questionnaires at Visvesvaraya Technological University (VTU), India, and the University of Wollongong in Dubai (UOWD). Findings reveal that users at UOWD report higher satisfaction levels compared to VTU. Key areas of satisfaction include seating (89.7%), study spaces (81.4%), welcoming environment (87.2%), seminar rooms, Wi-Fi (82.7%), power outlets (85.1%), and lighting (89.0%). Overall, users expressed positive views on the libraries' physical infrastructure.
Mohd. Nizam Nasrifan, Muhammad Solehudin Tukiman
The Gong music ensemble is a traditional musical genre of the Kadazan Dusun ethnic group in Sabah, distinguished by its unique historical context and performance style. This study was conducted to understand the musical culture and traditions, specifically on the Gong music ensemble, which has become a cultural heritage for the Kadazan Dusun people in Sabah. This cultural practice has been unofficially passed down through generations among the Sabah ethnic community. It has begun to decline amid the various behavioural changes in society that occur over time. This research provides a framework for analyzing the technical and aesthetic aspects of the Gong music ensemble, incorporating music education concepts, and resulting in the development of interactive multimedia materials for formal educational contexts. This study utilizes both quantitative and qualitative approaches, including questionnaires and semi-structured interviews for data collection, which are then evaluated by descriptive-analytical procedures. The Gong Music Ensemble, an interactive multimedia instructional resource, has been created and evaluated for its suitability in formal educational environments. The study's findings, based on feedback from educators, trainers, and students, indicate that this teaching and learning material demonstrates considerable utility and suitability for the Sabah Gong music ensemble in formal educational contexts.
Tshabalala Goodness
This study investigates the role of morning assemblies in the daily operational practices of school principals, examining how these sessions contribute to effective school management. Employing a mixed-methods research design, the study integrates qualitative interviews with ten school leaders, direct observations of assembly practices, and quantitative survey data from teachers and students. Transformational Leadership Theory was used as a lens for underpinning this study. Data was analysed thematically and confidentiality was maintained throughout the study. Findings revealed that well-organized assemblies contribute significantly to improved communication, heightened student engagement, and elevated staff morale. Morning assemblies also serve as a consistent platform for strengthening behavioral expectations and institutional goals. The research identified several challenges that hinder the full potential of morning assemblies, including limited time allocation, inconsistent participation, and varying levels of student attentiveness.
Anthony NDUKA
This study investigates whether the ascetic virtues articulated by the Desert Fathers, 3rd- to 5th-century Christian monastics, can inform contemporary data science practice. It addresses two interconnected challenges: persistent ethical risks in artificial intelligence (AI), such as bias, opacity, and automation overreach, as well as escalating cognitive overload within today's attention economy. Through an integrative literature review combining primary desert monastic texts with contemporary scholarship in AI ethics and cognitive psychology, the paper identifies five core virtues: humility, discernment, stillness, simplicity, and vigilance. Each virtue addresses corresponding data‑science dilemmas, offering practical guidance: humility enhances bias detection; discernment improves transparency in decisions; stillness and simplicity mitigate cognitive overload; and vigilance ensures continuous ethical monitoring. Findings indicate that virtue‑based "digital ascetic" practices significantly complement procedural ethics, foster responsible AI innovation, and strengthen practitioner resilience, ultimately promoting ethical integrity and cognitive sustainability in data science.
Jake C. Napoles, James Bryll R. Brillante, Resty L. Picardo
Amid rising demands in healthcare systems, nurse empowerment has emerged as a critical factor in promoting resilience, job satisfaction, and quality patient outcomes. This study assesses the relationship between structural work environment factors—specifically those measured by the S.C.O.R.E. (Safety, Communication, Operational Reliability, and Engagement) framework—and the psychological empowerment of hospital nurses in Cebu City. Anchored in Kanter’s Structural Empowerment Theory (1977, 1993) and Spreitzer’s Psychological Empowerment Theory (1995), the research assessed how workplace conditions and psychosocial variables influence nurses’ perceptions of meaning, competence, self-determination, and impact in their roles. Utilizing a correlational predictive design, findings revealed that while respondents perceived the overall work environment positively, particularly in safety, communication, and operational reliability, their psychological empowerment levels was high—especially in meaning, self-determination, and impact, with only competence rated moderately. Notably, teamwork climate, job-related uncertainty, and participation in decision-making were identified as significant predictors of psychological empowerment. The results suggest that structural support alone does not guarantee empowerment unless internalized as meaningful by individuals. The study recommends targeted interventions in nursing practice, education, policy, and research to align organizational structures with personal empowerment experiences, ultimately enhancing nurse satisfaction, retention, and patient care quality.
Melody Saquido
Background: Occupational stress is a prevalent issue among nursing professionals, often resulting from high workloads, shift rotations, and emotional demands. While the psychological effects of stress are well-documented, its physical manifestations, particularly dermatological symptoms, remain underexplored. Psychodermatology examines the bidirectional link between psychological stress and skin health, offering insight into how chronic work stress may contribute to conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and acne. This study investigated the relationship between work-related stress and psychodermatological symptoms among nurses in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Methods: A descriptive-correlational research design involving 92 full-time registered nurses from two hospitals was employed. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire comprising demographic variables, the Work-Related Stressor Scale, a psychodermatological symptom checklist, and the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI). Descriptive statistics, Pearson and Spearman correlations, and multiple linear regression analyses were performed to identify associations and predictive factors. Results: Nearly half (49%) of the participants reported experiencing psychodermatological conditions, with acne, seborrheic dermatitis, and eczema being most prevalent. Moderate levels of occupational stress were observed, especially in emotional exhaustion, job insecurity, and lack of administrative support. A strong positive correlation was found between overall stress levels and symptom severity (r = 0.728, p < 0.001). Regression analysis identified emotional distress exposure, job insecurity, role ambiguity, and workload as significant predictors of symptom severity. Years of service and shift type were also associated with stress levels and dermatological outcomes. Conclusion: The findings demonstrate a significant link between occupational stress and stress-related skin conditions among nursing professionals. These results highlight the need for holistic occupational wellness programs that address stress's psychological and physical manifestations. Targeted interventions focusing on stress management, workload regulation, and skin health promotion are recommended to enhance nurses’ well-being and professional performance.
Rachel O. Tolentino
The study examined the writing proficiency and learning activities of first-year college students. An experimental research design was employed, involving two groups: the problem-based learning (PBL) group and the cooperative learning (CL) group. Participants were randomly selected from sections A1B, C1C, and E1F, with 10 respondents from each section. Both groups underwent a treatment or intervention program, and their writing competency was assessed before and after the intervention using rubric. The Mann-Whitney U test was used to determine any significant differences in their scores. Based on the rubric-based evaluation, most students in both the PBL and CL groups demonstrated good performance in writing, particularly in content, organization, vocabulary, sentence construction, and mechanics. While their posttest results showed similar interpretations to the pretest, there was a notable increase in mean scores and the number of students who improved. To further explore the effects of the intervention, the researcher implemented problem-based and cooperative learning strategies to determine their impact on students’ writing proficiency. The findings showed that cooperative learning was more effective than problem-based learning in improving content. However, in terms of organization and vocabulary, both approaches yielded no significant difference between pretest and posttest scores. In sentence construction, both PBL and CL resulted in significant improvements, indicating the effectiveness of the activities. As for mechanics, problem-based learning showed a significant difference and was found to be more effective than cooperative learning. Overall, the use of problem-based and cooperative learning strategies contributed positively to students’ writing performance, suggesting that these approaches can be valuable tools for English teachers and professors to enhance writing instruction.
Suleman Yahaya Jinsung
The aim of this study was to examine how youth activism, when intentionally integrated into policy frameworks, can raise awareness and drive meaningful action on climate change among young people in Wa Municipal. It focuses on empowering youth to become active participants in environmental advocacy and informing local policymakers on how to include youth voices in climate planning. The study also aims to support climate education, build youth leadership, and strengthen collaborations between local government, civil society, and youth organizations. The objectives for this study were to influence climate change policy programming and development, promote active youth participation in combating climate change vulnerabilities, and to advocate for a well-defined strategic policy role for youth in addressing climate change problems at the national and local levels. This study geographically focused on Wa Municipality in Northern Ghana, an area vulnerable to climate-related challenges like drought and erratic rainfall. The study explores various forms of youth engagement and assesses the extent to which these efforts are supported or limited by existing policies and institutional structures. An exploratory mixed-method approach was used for field data collection. Both qualitative and quantitative primary data were collected using the simple random sampling technique for youth respondents and the purposive sampling technique for institutional respondents. Fourteen questionnaires were distributed to public institutions, while ninety-four questionnaires were distributed to youth respondents. The data were analyzed using the Data tab Software, Excel, and Bar Graphs to create illustrations. Findings revealed there is considerable knowledge of the existence of climate change but limited representation in formal climate policy-making. Many of them lack access to reliable climate information and platforms for meaningful participation. The study highlights a disconnect between local policies and youth needs, resulting in missed opportunities for innovation and resilience. The study calls for stronger institutional support, and policy integration