203 Articles
Alima Khatun
Russian writer Fyodor Mikhailovich Dostoevsky’s (1821-1881) amazing and insightful short story “A Gentle Spirit” (1876), is a piece comes with the subtitle of “A Fantastic Sorry”, demonstrates the narrator's self-defence and sharing his thoughts in profound manner and showing that he was guiltless in his wife’s sudden committing of suicide. Throughout the course of the story the narrator gives every possible details of the course of their relationship. Like his other writings Dostoevsky here deals with psychology of the characters covertly if not overtly. Jacques Lacan (1901- 1981), a French psychoanalyst provides lucid ideas about human being’s mental condition. According to Lacan a person can be either a neurotic, or a psychotic or a pervert and he gives the symptoms of these three types of problems. The narrotor of the short story shows neurotic tendencies (According to Lacanian psychoanalysis) , though obsessional neurosis to be particular. His wife shows hysterical tendencies which is also a part of ‘neurosis' . The narrator’s constant breakdown, questioning himself, his awareness of his present condition and his repression of desires lead one to diagnose him nothing but an ‘obsessional neurotic'. His wife also shows tendencies of hysteria, though the narrator addresses her repeatedly as a hysteric but a reader can also perceive that through her characteristics. If not then why she suddenly takes the path of suicide which is a typical neurotic tendency.
Sanjay. Pattanshetty
The rapid expansion of digital platforms has transformed pricing practices and consumer expectations in India, leading to the emergence of a pervasive discount culture. This study examines the relationship between discount strategies, consumer behaviour, and market responses using secondary data drawn from industry reports, academic literature, and policy publications across multiple sectors including FMCG, e-commerce, electronics, and online food delivery services. Using descriptive and comparative analytical methods, the study identifies structural price sensitivity, psychological drivers of promotional engagement, and the role of digital platforms in institutionalizing discount dependence. Findings reveal that while discounts enhance short-term demand and platform engagement, they weaken brand loyalty and create sustainability challenges for firms. The study concludes that future market stability depends on transitioning toward transparent pricing mechanisms, loyalty-based retention strategies, and balanced promotional ecosystems. The research contributes to literature on digital consumer behaviour by offering a cross-sectoral perspective on discount culture in emerging digital economies.
Dr. Basavaraj P Bommanahalli, Dr. Jeenu J Jayan, Dr. Shakuntala S Aramani, Dr. Susmitha S
Neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) are uncommon epithelial neoplasms originating from neuroendocrine cells, within the gastrointestinal tract—particularly the jejunum and ileum, being the most frequent primary sites. While NETs account for approximately 0.5% of all malignancies, metastatic spread occurs in about 30% of cases, most commonly to the liver. Testicular metastasis from NETs is extremely rare, representing less than 1% of testicular tumors. We report a rare case of 65-year-old male who presented with a painless right scrotal swelling. Imaging revealed a well-defined hypervascular testicular mass and a similar lesion in the midjejunum with mesenteric involvement. The patient underwent segmental jejunal resection and right high inguinal orchidectomy. Histopathology and immunohistochemistry confirmed the diagnosis of a welldifferentiated - Grade I -jejunal NET with testicular metastasis.
Dr. Alvikar Annapurna R.
The formulation of a bio-based coating employing mucilage powders integrated with protein–lipid complexes presents a novel strategy for postharvest preservation of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum). Mucilage fractions extracted from Parkia biglandulosa, Bombax ceiba, Spathodea campanulata, and Muntingia calabura exhibited significant hydrocolloidal properties that directly influenced water dynamics within the fruit tissues. Experimental application of these coatings to tomato fruit resulted in enhanced physiological indices, including total water content, relative water content, cellular succulence, and osmotic potential. These parameters are closely associated with maintenance of cellular turgor, which serves as a critical determinant of postharvest freshness and visual appeal. Turgidity preservation, achieved through mucilage-mediated modulation of osmotic balance and water retention, reflects the efficacy of the coating in mitigating postharvest desiccation. Tomato fruits treated with varying concentrations of the mucilage complex displayed a marked reduction in moisture loss, delayed softening, and improved structural integrity throughout the storage period. Consequently, shelf-life extension was observed, along with superior retention of textural and physiological attributes. The valorization of mucilage polymers sourced from waste floral, foliar, and fruit biomass of roadside avenue species further underscores the ecological and economic potential of this approach. Beyond offering a biodegradable and non-toxic alternative to synthetic coatings, such utilization addresses the dual objectives of waste reduction and sustainable crop management. Thus, mucilage-based edible coatings representa promising frontier in post harvest biology for maintaining the market quality of tomato fruits during handling, storage, and distribution.
Zinia Nasrin Shumon
Putranjiva pundrabogura Zinia & Miraz is described and illustrated (Fig-1) as a new species from the district of Bogura, Bangladesh Putranjivaceae contains 3 genera and about 210 species of evergreen trees of the tropics, especially Africa to Malesia. Drypetes (about 200 species) is found throughout this area. It is morphologically similar to P. roxburghii but is distinguished by the tree size, leaves texture, bark texture, fruiting position, smallest leaf size etc. Putranjiva pundrabogura Zinia & Miraz, this new species available in Bogura district and RDA campus. After the rainy season seedlings are available under this tree. After diagnostic the morphological characters for Putranjiva pundrabogura Zinia & Miraz include the round wavy trunk (Images-G & H), not hairy leaves and branches. These are the main characteristics of this new species. Whitish-ash color bark on trunk and branches of this species compare with another species P.roxburghii Wall. Morphologically (Fig-1) most similar, which is also available in Bangladesh. Also, the fruits shape, leaves-shape difference showing below in mentioned of these 2 species (Fig-2). Showing chart (Fig-3). Distribution showing in map (Fig-4) also. Medium to big tree also seen in P. pundrabogura Zinia & Miraz. But P.roxburghii Wall seen as a medium tree. Mentioning also that Chinese Putrajivi is a big shrub. “The leaves are dotted beneath with glands which exude a waxy excretion. Seed 1.2 x 0.55 cm, drying orange brown.”- Putranjiva zeylanica. This narration not matching with P. pudrabogura Zinia & Miraz leaves, fruits color and seeds. Showing these 3 species differences below.
Oghenehoro Evi Eni
This review paper compares immigration programs for investors, and entrepreneurs in the United States and Canada as of 2024. It looks at how the programs are designed, who can apply, how much money is required, how applications are processed, recent policy changes, and what results have been seen so far. On the United States side, the focus is on the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program, the International Entrepreneur Rule, and the E-2 Treaty Investor visa. For Canada, the review examines the Start-Up Visa and the provincial entrepreneur streams. The review finds that: The United States EB-5 program requires large investments, and is mainly centered on creating jobs, with new reforms aimed at reducing fraud. The United States offers fewer direct options for start-up founders compared to Canada. Canada’s Start-Up Visa allows entrepreneurs supported by investors to get permanent residence, with some positive, but still limited economic results so far. Canada’s provincial programs give local governments flexibility, but lead to mixed rules and outcomes across provinces. Furthermore, both countries face trade-offs between attracting more applicants, ensuring program integrity, and supporting innovation. The paper also suggests measures of success, quicken processing for founder visas, and better tracking of long-term economic impact.
Dr. Komal G. Dave, Dr. Samir B. Shah
For joining standardized metals and alloys, conventional fusion-based welding methods like electron beam welding (EBW), laser beam welding (LBW), friction stir spot welding (FSSW), and resistance spot welding (RSW) are frequently employed. Nevertheless, these procedures frequently experience uneven weld quality, thermal distortion, and metallurgical degradation because of high processing temperatures. Solid-state joining technologies, especially ultrasonic consolidation (UC) and ultrasonic additive manufacturing (UAM), have been developed as a result of these constraints. In order to create metallurgical bonds between metallic or non-metallic foils at almost room temperature, UC/UAM uses high-frequency ultrasonic vibrations under moderate normal pressure. This allows for the creation of low-temperature, multi-layered solid structures without melting the base materials.
Deepika KK., Dr. A. Maheswari., Soundarya B.
Financial statement analysis is an important tool to evaluate the financial performance and position of a company. The survival and growth of any business mainly depend upon its profitability, liquidity and solvency position. The present study attempts to analyse the financial performance of D2D International Private Limited, Tirupur, by using various accounting ratios and comparative financial statements. The study covers a period of three financial years. Ratio analysis and trend analysis techniques have been applied to interpret the financial data. The study reveals the overall financial position and operational efficiency of the company. Furthermore, this study incorporates primary data through hypothesis testing to gauge employee perception of the company's cost-control measures.
Asso. Prof. Jyothi Martin K, Mr. Cesin Anil Mathew, Ms. Arathi V. V, Ms. Arunima P. P, Ms. Sona Jose, Ms. Sradha J, Prof. R. Mageswari
Hearing loss, particularly due to noise exposure is a growing public health concern, especially among young adults. The widespread use of personal audio devices at high volume levels has been linked to noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL). The present study aims to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) regarding the ill-effects of prolonged use of in-ear audio devices among BSc. nursing students in a selected college at Kozhikode. The objectives of the study were: to assess the knowledge of nursing students on the ill effects of prolonged usage of in- ear audio devices, to assess the attitude of nursing students towards the prolonged use of in-ear audio devices, to assess the practice of prolonged usage of in-ear audio devices, to find out the association between knowledge, attitude and practice with demographic variables. The conceptual framework was based on Health Belief Model. The tools used included socio-demographic performa, self-structured knowledge questionnaire, attitude rating scale and practice checklist. A pilot study was conducted, followed by data collection among 270 BSc nursing students. The data collected were tabulated and analysed. The findings showed, 42% (113 students) have good knowledge, 51% (139 students) have adequate knowledge, 7% (18 students) have poor knowledge. 50% (136 students) have good attitude, 50% (134 students) have average attitude. 58% (156 students) have good level of practice, 40% (107 students) have average level of practice, 2% (7 students) have poor level of practice. The study emphasizes the importance of health education and awareness programs regarding the safe use of audio devices.
P.G.R.N.I. Pussella, Pubudu Karunarathna
The Sri Lankan offshore fishing industry faces numerous challenges including dynamic weather conditions, financial constraints, and limited technological adoption for locating productive fishing grounds within the country's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). This study aimed to develop a GIS based model integrating fuzzy membership analysis to identify the Yellowfin Tuna (Thunnus albacares) potential zones in EEZ of Sri Lanka. Six oceanographic parameters were used in the model: sea surface temperature (SST), chlorophyll-a concentration (CHLO-a), dissolved oxygen (OXY), salinity (SAL), density (DEN), and bathymetry (BATHY). Monthly data for 2019 were obtained from Copernicus Marine Service and General Bathymetric Chart of the Ocean (GEBCO) data catalogs. Parameter maps were reclassified using fuzzy membership functions based on species-specific optimal ranges derived from literature (SST: 22-30°C; CHL-a: 0.05-0.25 mg/m³; BATHY: <160 m; SAL: 32-37 PSU; DEN: 1020-1027 kg/m³; OXY: >5 mg/L). Fuzzy overlay analysis generated monthly habitat suitability maps, which were combined to produce an annual forecast map. Validation used 63,105 fishery dependent catch locations from the Department of Fisheries (2019) and 67,310 random points. Results showed that an 80.3% accuracy within forecasted suitable zones. Forecast maps revealed seasonal variability in potential fishing grounds, with sensitivity of 75.7% and specificity of 84.5%. The Kappa coefficient of 0.60 indicated substantial agreement beyond chance, while ROC analysis yielded an Area under the Curve (AUC) of 0.86, demonstrating excellent discriminatory ability. With persistent high suitability areas identified in eastern and southern EEZ regions. The model successfully generated potential fishing zone predictions at 4 km resolution. As the forecasted areas are mostly within close range of the shore, they will reduce travel and search time, resulting in beneficial fuel savings for fishermen. This GIS-based fuzzy approach provides a cost-effective, scientifically robust tool for identifying Yellowfin Tuna potential zones, with direct applicability for sustainable fisheries management in Sri Lanka and potential adaptability for other data-limited regions.
Deepika B, Meenaroshini.P.M, Revathi K
Venpulli corresponding to vitiligo in modern dermatology is a condition a chronic acquired depigmentary disorder marked by circumscribed hypopigmented macules resulting from melanocyte dysfunctions. This is condition poses significant therapeutic challenges due to it complex pathogenesis involving autoimmune mechanism oxidative stress genetic susceptibility and neurocutaneous factors. Siddha medicine classified kuttam 18 types vitiligo also comes under kuttam disorder. it is also called (Venkuttam/ Venpulli/Ven padai /Suvethakuttam ) where imbalance of pitham and kapham leads to dearrangement of skin colour regulation nuna kadugu thailam a classical siddha medicated oil intended for external and internal application has been traditionally indicate for the management of Venpulli.
D.G.C.P. Nawarathne, Farookshi Fahma, N.A.D.C. Sathsarani
In the emerging market, heritage brands are under growing pressure to update their visual and digital appearance without losing brand equity and consumer trust that have long been built. This paper presents a multidisciplinary re-branding model to a national fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) heritage brand in Sri Lanka. The main goal of the study is to investigate how a traditional brand may be modified aesthetically and strategically without the loss of its cultural identity. The research design adopted a mixed approach including consumer surveys (N=200), focus group discussion, and competitor benchmarking in the FMCG industry. The three phases of the re-branding process were structured and included pre-production research, production design implementation and post-production assessment. The essential deliverable was redesign of the logo, packaging modifications in various stock-keeping units, 3D product images, electronic promotional materials, and a single brand style guide. The post-launch performance measurements showed that the consumer perception, digital interaction, and sales increased. The results show that the trade-off between heritage symbolism and modern design aesthetics increases brand relevance in younger customer segments without reducing loyalty among current customers. The study will add to branding literature by offering a feasible framework of modernizing heritage brands in the developing economies that will incorporate the theory of brand equity, emotional branding, and sustainable design approaches. The framework that has been created as part of this research can be used as the scalable example of other legacy brands aiming at strategic change in digitally driven markets.
Janni Laxman, Lekkala Sai Jayanth, Malla Navya Teja
Background Lichtenstein tension-free mesh repair is the standard open technique for inguinal hernia repair; however, it is still associated with complications such as chronic groin pain, nerve entrapment, meshoma formation, and recurrence. Amid’s modifications to the conventional Lichtenstein technique aim to improve mesh coverage, minimize fixation, and protect inguinal nerves, thereby reducing postoperative morbidity. Objective To compare the outcomes of conventional Lichtenstein mesh repair with Amid-modified Lichtenstein repair in patients with primary unilateral inguinal hernia. Methods This prospective comparative study was conducted in the Department of General Surgery, GIMSR, from November 2023 to November 2024. Sixty-five patients aged 18–70 years with primary unilateral inguinal hernia were enrolled and divided into two groups: Group A (conventional Lichtenstein repair, n=32) and Group B (Amid-modified Lichtenstein repair, n=33). Primary outcomes assessed were chronic groin pain (>3 months) and recurrence. Secondary outcomes included seroma, hematoma, wound infection, meshoma, and operative time. Pain was assessed using the Visual Analogue Scale. Patients were followed up for 12 months. Statistical analysis was performed using appropriate parametric and non-parametric tests, with p < 0.05 considered significant. Results Baseline demographic characteristics were comparable between the two groups. Early postoperative complications such as seroma, hematoma, wound infection, and meshoma were lower in the modified technique group, though not statistically significant. Chronic groin pain was significantly reduced in Group B compared to Group A (6.1% vs 21.8%, p = 0.03). No recurrence was observed in the Amid-modified group during the follow-up period, whereas one recurrence occurred in the conventional group. Operative time was comparable between the two groups. Conclusion Amid-modified Lichtenstein hernioplasty significantly reduces the incidence of chronic groin pain and postoperative complications compared with conventional Lichtenstein repair, without increasing operative time. With adequate training, the modified technique may be recommended as a preferred open repair for primary unilateral inguinal hernia.
Kishore Mukhopadhyay, Poulami Ghosh
The purpose of the study was to scientifically discussed the different aspects of cleanliness according to yoga and bathing technique according to Ayurveda, the ancient Indian wisdom of spirituality and healing. Yoga and Ayurveda can be considered as mind body medicine. The effects of different types of snana or bathing procedures (which is consider as external cleaning) directly influence to reestablished the Tridoshas and heal our bodily illness. The internal cleaning procedure of yoga is effective for balancing sapta dhatus (seven Tissues), digestive fires, excretory process and promote sustainable disease -free life and wellbeing. The concept of bathing technique according to naturopathy is also included in the text. The present study tries to compare the different schools of thoughts on both the cleansing procedures.
Sanjai kaanth B, Suganya C, Thirumalaivasan M, Venkatesh T
Lichenification is a chronic dermatological condition characterized by epidermal hyperkeratosis, persistent pruritus, and skin thickening, commonly resulting from prolonged scratching and inflammation. Aristolochia bracteolata, a traditionally used medicinal plant in Siddha medicine, exhibits diverse pharmacological properties that may contribute to the management and reversal of lichenified skin. The plant contains bioactive constituents such as flavonoids, alkaloids, phenolic compounds, and terpenoids , which are known to exert anti-inflammatory, anti-pruritic, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and wound-healing effects. This review aims to integrate Siddha medicinal concepts with contemporary scientific evidence to evaluate the therapeutic potential of A. bracteolata in lichenification . Although preliminary findings are promising, further experimental and clinical studies are required to establish its long-term safety and therapeutic efficacy.
Govarshni A, Janani A.M, Madhumitha M, Sharujah S
Childhood obesity is a growing concern worldwide, linked to unhealthy diet and sedentary habits. In Siddha medicine, obesity is known as "Athithoola Noi"and in children as "Balar Athithoola Noi". The condition arises due to deranged "lyam (Kapham)" and weak "Agni (digestive fire). Management includes internal medicines, external therapies, and lifestyle regulation. One such external therapy, "Podi Thimirthal" (powder massage). It uses dry herbal powders with scraping and fat-reducing properties, applied through vigorous upward massage. This therapy improves circulation, metabolism, and lymphatic drainage, thereby reducing excess fat and toxins.
Angel, S., Janani, A. M., Kaviya, R., Sugamathi, P.
Siddha medicine, one of the most ancient traditional systems of medicine originating from South India, emphasizes holistic health, immunity enhancement, and disease prevention. In the context of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection, depletion of CD4 T-lymphocytes remains a major concern as it leads to progressive immunodeficiency. While modern antiretroviral therapy (ART) effectively suppresses viral replication, immune restoration may be slow and incomplete in some patients. Siddha medicine offers supportive and complementary approaches aimed at improving immune strength, enhancing quality of life, and supporting CD4 cell regeneration. This review elaborates on the theoretical concepts of Siddha medicine, the role of immunity (Uyir Thathukkal and Udalthathukkal), and the importance of specific Siddha formulations such as Nilavembu Kudineer, Thiripala Chooranam, and Aya Birungaraja Karpam in maintaining and improving CD4 cell counts in HIV patients.
Janani A.M, Jananisri .S, Madhupriya S, Sowmiya O V
Female reproductive and menstrual disorders are increasingly observed among women of reproductive age due to stress, hormonal imbalance, obesity, and sedentary lifestyle. Conditions such as irregular menstruation, dysmenorrhea, polycystic ovarian syndrome, and infertility affect both physical and psychological well-being. Yoga is a holistic health science that addresses the body and mind together. Surya Namaskara is a dynamic yogic practice that combines physical postures, breathing techniques, and mental awareness. This review summarizes existing literature on the effects of Surya Namaskara on female reproductive health. Available studies suggest that regular practice improves hormonal regulation, reduces stress, enhances metabolic activity, and supports menstrual regularity.
Dr. Lakshmamma H. R., Dr. Radhika B.
The aim of this study is to examine the nature of HRD practices that exist in Indian Public and private sector banks and their effect on the professional effectiveness and furthermore to companion them with the end goal to discover the association between them. The understanding of various HRD practices would necessitate relative study of practices in the banks. The expert would have to understand what practices have been viable and conditions under which they are successful, and how they incorporate with the entire system in a quick changing situation In the wake of globalization, evolution, liberalization and privatization on economic front, organizations are relied upon to make target appraisal of existing status of their HRD framework and methods with the end goal to advance need based commonsense HRD Agenda for what is to come. In this setting the present investigation provides a solid base and supervision as it gives the experimental proof as respect to current status of HRD Sub-frameworks and initiators in connection to HR profitability with reference to Indian Private Sector and Public Sector Organizations. All the chosen sub-frameworks of HRD (with the exception of Employee Communication and Employees' Empowerment) have been detected to be reasonably successful.
Mr. Bharath Raj, N
The purpose of the study was to find out the relationship between leg power and long jump performance. For the accomplishment of the objective of the study total 30 intercollegiate level male long jump athletes were randomly selected as subjects. The age range of the selected subjects were 18 to 25 years. The leg power was assessed with the help of vertical jump and horizontal jump tests. To analyse the collected data the descriptive statistics, mean, SD and Pearson’s coefficient of correlation was employed with the help of SPSS 21.1. the level of significance was 0.05 level.
Dr. A. Maheswari, Dr. T. Kavitha
This study examines students’ study habits and their impact on academic performance through the collection and analysis of primary data. The main objective was to identify common study behaviors, determine the average time students dedicate to studying, and evaluate the relationship between study habits and Grade Point Average (GPA). A descriptive research design was used, and data were collected from 30 students using a structured questionnaire. The collected data were analyzed using simple statistical methods, including frequency distribution, percentages, and mean averages. The findings indicate that the majority of students study between one to three hours per day, with self-study being the most preferred learning method. The analysis reveals a positive relationship between the number of study hours and academic performance. Students who studied for longer and maintained consistent study routines generally achieved higher GPAs. However, several challenges were identified, including lack of concentration, social media distractions, and time management issues, which negatively affected academic outcomes. The study concludes that effective and consistent study habits significantly contribute to improved academic performance. It recommends that students adopt structured study schedules and minimize distractions to enhance learning outcomes. Although limited by a small sample size and basic statistical tools, the research provides useful insights into how study behaviors influence student achievement.
Mr. S. Vinoth Kumar, Subiksha Vishwanath Selvarani
Hostel life plays a significant role in shaping the physical health, emotional stability, and overall well-being of college students. For many students, staying in a hostel is the first experience of living away from family, which brings both independence and challenges. Factors such as food quality, sleep patterns, academic environment, safety, peer interaction, and emotional support directly influence students’ physical and psychological health. This study aims to analyse the impact of hostel life on the physical and psychological well-being of college students in Coimbatore City. The research is based on primary data collected through a structured questionnaire from students residing in college and private hostels. Percentage analysis has been used to interpret the collected data. The study highlights key issues faced by hostel students, including stress, health problems, sleep disturbances, and emotional challenges, while also identifying positive aspects such as peer support and independence. The findings of this study may help educational institutions and hostel authorities to improve hostel facilities and create a healthier living environment for students.
Dr. Jaspal Kaur
Value-added courses have arisen as an important academic support, aiding conventional educational programs by providing students with skill enhancement, industry exposure and increased employability by providing placement opportunities. This research paper analyses the concept, objectives, importance, implementation practices, benefits, challenges, and future potential of value-added courses in the context of modern higher education. With the implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, Indian higher education has undergone a major transformation toward an integrated, interdisciplinary and skill-focused approach. Value-Added Courses (VACs) have arisen as an important constituent of the transformation, notably in management education. This research paper analyses the conceptual model, importance, execution, and results of value-added courses for management students in accordance with UGC guidelines and NEP 2020. The key findings of the study focus on how VACs improve employability, entrepreneurial skills, ethical values, and lifelong learning among students.
Chidera Johnson, Michael Ukpeh, Nsikak Thompson, Okengwu A. Ugochi
This systematic review investigates the role of Multilingual Artificial Intelligence (AI) Platforms in facilitating cross-regional collaboration and accelerating startup development among young graduate entrepreneurs. Driven by the exponential growth of Natural Language Processing (NLP) research, these platforms—including advanced machine translation, AI assistants, and cross-lingual information retrieval systems—have become strategic imperatives. The review confirms that AI provides a critical competitive advantage by directly mitigating linguistic barriers in collaboration, enabling instant global market access, personalizing product development, and streamlining AI-enabled fundraising, thereby overcoming resource constraints faced by young ventures. However, the adoption is tempered by significant ethical and technical constraints, particularly algorithmic bias, data privacy risks, and the challenge of developing culturally nuanced models for low-resource languages. The findings confirm that while AI acts as a strategic enabler, its effective, equitable use requires targeted investment in ethical development and infrastructure to support truly inclusive global entrepreneurship.
Agboola, Opeyemi Ebenezer, Oparinde, Olayiwola Raheef, Salmon Fadekemi Tawakaltu
This study examined the influence of administrative support and professional development on instructional efficiency among public secondary school teachers in Osun State, Nigeria. A mixed-method descriptive survey design was adopted to provide both quantitative and qualitative insights into leadership practices and professional learning experiences in schools. The population comprised all public secondary school teachers and principals in the state, from which a sample of 360 respondents (324 teachers and 36 principals) was selected using a multi-stage sampling procedure. Using a mixed-methods survey of 324 teachers and interviews with 36 principals, the study advances prior analysis by estimating a multiple regression model and integrating qualitative explanations of leadership and learning processes. Findings indicated that both administrative support and professional development significantly predict instructional efficiency, with professional development showing the stronger unique effect, while administrative support exerts both direct and enabling influences. Qualitative findings explain how feedback, recognition, time allocation, and resource access translate professional learning into classroom practice. The study contributes to international debates on instructional leadership by evidencing the complementary—rather than substitutive—roles of leadership support and sustained professional learning in resource-constrained systems. Limitations and policy-relevant implications are discussed. The study concludes that instructional efficiency in public secondary schools is best achieved through the integration of supportive leadership practices and sustained professional development. It is therefore recommended that education authorities institutionalize continuous professional learning and strengthen leadership capacity to improve teaching outcomes.
Prashanth. M. C
The growing integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in public sector governance has significantly transformed tax administration by enhancing efficiency, accuracy, and taxpayer engagement. In India, the adoption of AI based tax filing systems marks a shift toward automated, data-driven compliance mechanisms aimed at reducing errors and administrative burden. However, taxpayer acceptance of such systems depends on multiple technological and behavioral factors. This study examines the determinants influencing the adoption of AI-based tax filing systems among Indian taxpayers using an extended Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) framework. A quantitative, cross-sectional research design was employed, with primary data collected from 300 Indian taxpayers through a structured questionnaire. Key constructs analyzed include performance expectancy, effort expectancy, social influence, facilitating conditions, and trust in AI-based tax systems, with behavioral intention as the dependent variable. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS and AMOS, applying reliability analysis, exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis, and structural equation modeling. The results indicate that performance expectancy and trust in AI systems are the most significant predictors of behavioral intention, followed by facilitating conditions and effort expectancy. Social influence also shows a positive but comparatively weaker effect. The proposed model explains 68 percent of the variance in behavioral intention. The study highlights that effective implementation of AI-based tax filing systems requires not only technological sophistication but also institutional trust, transparency, and digital readiness. The findings offer valuable implications for policymakers and tax authorities in designing inclusive, citizen-centric AI-enabled tax governance frameworks.
Mr. Aditya Gawde, Mr. Anand Gupta, Ms. Lavanya Gone, Ms. Mitali Gavali, Ms. Nandini Banerjee, Ms. Sanjyot Varvatkar
Cancer continues to be a major global health burden, with conventional therapies often limited by relapse, resistance, and toxicity. Immunotherapy, particularly PD-1/PD-L1 checkpoint blockade, has transformed treatment by reactivating antitumor T-cell responses. While monoclonal antibodies against PD-1/PD-L1 have shown remarkable success, their high cost, intravenous delivery, immune-related side effects, and resistance highlight the need for alternatives. Small molecule inhibitors (SMIs) offer advantages such as oral bioavailability, improved tumor penetration, reduced immunogenicity, and lower production costs. However, the broad PD-1/PD-L1 interface poses design challenges. Recent advances in computer-aided drug design (CADD)—including docking, pharmacophore modeling, QSAR, virtual screening, and in silico ADME/T prediction—are driving progress in developing effective SMIs. This review outlines the biology of the PD-1/PD-L1 axis, the evolution of checkpoint therapy, and current efforts to harness CADD for novel small molecule inhibitors.
Diri, Darapu Tumini, Dr. Daniel Aniekan Aloysius, Nwosu, Eleazar Chimezie
Agricultural engineering offers practical solutions for improving productivity, resource efficiency, climate resilience, and value-chain development in Nigeria. This study investigates the impact of agricultural engineering innovations on sustainable agricultural growth, using data from smallholder and medium-scale farmers across major agro-ecological zones. Primary data were collected via structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and multiple regression models. Results indicate that agricultural engineering significantly enhances productivity, optimizes resource utilization, strengthens climate resilience, and reduces post-harvest losses, thereby improving value-chain performance. The findings highlight the need for targeted investments in mechanization, irrigation, renewable-energy technologies, post-harvest infrastructure, and capacity-building programs. Policy recommendations include increased R&D funding, coherent engineering-focused agricultural policies, farmer training programs, and incentives to adopt climatesmart technologies. The study concludes that integrating agricultural engineering into Nigeria’s agricultural development strategies is critical for achieving sustainable growth, food security, environmental sustainability, and economic resilience.
Alex Mugala, Anthony Alorkpa
This article develops a framework by examining how the Free Senior High School (Free SHS) Policy can advance mathematics teacher education at the teacher training institutions in Ghana. Combining Social Cognitive Theory, Constructivist Learning Theory, Contextual Interaction Theory, and Education for Sustainable Development, this framework pays special attention to how teacher self-efficacy, pedagogical practices, and the implementation of the Free SHS policy support the policy system in enhancing student teachers’ instructional quality and sustainability competencies. This framework provides a conceptual model that connects policy, student teacher preparation, and STEM outcomes, suggesting guidance for research and practices that can strengthen mathematics education at teacher training institutions, thereby contributing to the promotion of Ghana’s national sustainable development goal.
Mr. Sri Raghavan, Ms. Jayasri. S, Ms. Sowmiya. S, Ms. Srimathi. M, Ms. Thahamina. A.F
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) are transforming modern cities into smart, data-driven urban environments. It highlights how emerging AI technologies— such as machine learning, deep learning, computer vision, natural language processing, and Edge AI- enable real-time analysis, prediction, and automation of city services. These innovations help manage critical areas like transportation, energy, waste, healthcare, and public safety, improving efficiency and citizens’ quality of life. The study also discusses advanced approaches like Federated Learning and Explainable AI (XAI) that enhance data privacy, reduce latency, and make AI decisions more transparent. Despite their potential, the paper notes key challenges including data security, ethical concerns, interoperability issues, algorithmic bias, and high energy demands. Finally, it looks toward the future of smart cities, focusing on cutting-edge ideas such as Quantum AI, digital twins, and human centered AI that could shape the next generation of sustainable and intelligent urban systems. Overall, the paper provides a comprehensive overview of how AI and IoT integration can support sustainability, innovation, and trustworthy governance in smart city development.
Dr.A.Karunamurthy, R.Sujitha
We propose an AI-driven resume screening and job recommendation system designed to improve efficiency and accuracy in modern hiring processes. The system integrates two key components: a resume screening module that extracts and evaluates candidate features using a fine-tuned BERT model, and a job recommendation engine that combines similarity matching with predictive analytics. The resume screening component processes textual data to generate feature vectors, which are then compared against job requirements using cosine similarity for candidate ranking. Furthermore, the job recommendation component employs a hybrid scoring mechanism, blending similarity scores with predictive probabilities from a Gradient Boosting Machine to suggest suitable roles. The proposed method addresses critical challenges in recruitment, such as scalability and bias reduction, by automating feature extraction and decision-making. Our approach demonstrates significant potential to streamline hiring workflows while maintaining high accuracy, as evidenced by preliminary experiments. The system’s modular design allows seamless integration into existing recruitment platforms, offering practical value for both employers and job seekers. Moreover, the combination of transformer-based NLP and ensemble learning ensures robustness across diverse datasets and job domains. This work contributes to the growing body of research on AI-assisted hiring by introducing a unified framework that balances interpretability and performance. The results highlight the system’s ability to enhance candidate-job matching, thereby reducing manual effort and improving overall hiring outcomes.
Ma. Abigail C. Nolasco, Rino Andro Inocencio
The study investigated the sustainability practices of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in selected municipalities in Aklan, Philippines, focusing on businesses that have been operational for over five years. Recognizing the vital role SMEs play in economic development, the research aimed to identify effective strategies that contributed to their longevity and success. Through qualitative interviews with seven SME owners, the study explored key themes such as customer-centric approaches, adaptation and innovation, and effective operational and financial management. Findings revealed that these enterprises have achieved significant financial growth while adopting environmentally friendly practices and prioritizing social responsibility. However, challenges such as market dynamics, resource limitations, and regulatory compliance persist. The study emphasizes the importance of collaboration, clear communication, and personalized strategies in overcoming these obstacles. Ultimately, the research provides valuable insights for SME owners, policymakers, and support organizations, highlighting the need for tailored strategies to enhance sustainability and foster long-term success in the competitive business landscape.
Baishali Niyogi, Chaitanya Vyas, Navya Mediratta, Shashwat Mundada, Shibanshu Nayak, Sragvi Saxena
The growing accumulation of agricultural biomass waste has intensified the need for sustainable waste management strategies. This study investigates the production and characterization of biochar derived from pistachio shells through chemical activation and thermal treatment at 300°C. Proximate analysis and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) were conducted to evaluate carbon stability and surface functional groups. The fixed carbon content was found to be 24.20%, indicating moderate carbonization. FTIR analysis revealed aromatic structures and oxygen-containing functional groups, suggesting potential suitability for soil amendment and nutrient retention. However, comparison with published studies indicates that higher pyrolysis temperatures are required to enhance fixed carbon content and structural stability. The findings support pistachio shell biochar as a sustainable, low-cost material with scope for optimization in environmental applications.
Dr. Enosegbe, Daniel Lucky, Dr. Theophilus Aniemeka Enem, Mr. Suleiman Abu Usman, Mr. Tajuddeen Mashkur Muhammad
Kidney stone disease is a common ailment that needs to be diagnosed in due time and in an accurate manner to avoid extreme complications like obstruction of the kidney, infection and permanent damages to the kidney. Computed Tomography (CT) imaging is considered the gold standard of kidney stones detection as it has the high sensitivity and specificity. Manual interpretation of CT scans is difficult and time consuming however, it is likely to have inter-observer variation and extend a lot on the skills of radiologists. This paper seeks to solve these problems by coming up with an intelligent computerized tomography image analysis system to detect kidney stones automatically through deep learning methods. The paper uses a Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) that has been trained on a simulated set of labeled CT scans, which are positive and negative of kidney stones. Noise reduction, normalization, and data augmentation techniques were used to enhance the quality of the images and generalization of the model. The CNN model can automatically obtain hierarchical features of the images, which can be used to classify the images effectively without feature engineering. Accuracy, precision, recall, F1-score, specificity, and confusion matrix analysis of performance evaluation proved that the proposed system attained an average accuracy of 94.2, high sensitivity and low false negative rates. Comparative analysis indicated that CNN was better as compared to the traditional machine learning practices and the available models in the literature. The findings suggest that automated detection systems based on deep learning are capable of promoting efficiency in diagnostic, a decrease in workload of radiologists, and reliability in clinical decision-making. The paper offers a platform upon which future research can be undertaken on how best the incorporation of intelligent imaging systems can be integrated to real world medical practice especially in the healthcare settings, which are resource limited.
Obamoh Hannah Yetunde, Obamoh Samuel Olaolu, Okon Fortune Samuel, Usoro Ifiok Boniface
The real estate market in Nigeria has seen impressive growth, largely driven by urbanization and improvements in infrastructure, with Akwa Ibom State playing a pivotal role in this development. One of the key elements that can make or break a construction project is effective material management, as it has a direct effect on costs, timelines, and overall quality. This study dives into the material management strategies used in Akwa Ibom's real estate sector and evaluates how well they work in boosting project outcomes. To gather insights, we used a mixed-methods approach that included semi-structured interviews with 20 stakeholders—like project managers, procurement officers, and suppliers—along with a thorough analysis of procurement documents and project performance data. The research uncovered several common strategies, including just-in-time delivery, vendor-managed inventory, and RFID integration, with just-in-time delivery and RFID standing out for their positive effects on project costs, time efficiency, and quality. However, we also found that issues like logistical disruptions, tech limitations, and delays in material deliveries can really throw a wrench in the works. To tackle these challenges, the study suggests adopting advanced technologies like Building Information Modeling (BIM) and RFID, fostering better collaboration among stakeholders, and investing in training programs to enhance material management practices. These insights can be incredibly useful for stakeholders looking to improve construction project performance and add to the growing knowledge on material management in developing economies.
Dr. Juhi Aggarwal, Sahil Raj, Urvashi Midha
Vitamin D and vitamin B12 are essential micronutrients with distinct but complementary roles in maternal and fetal health. Vitamin D regulates calcium and phosphate homeostasis, supports fetal skeletal development, and modulates immune function; deficiency during pregnancy has been linked to complications including pre-eclampsia, gestational diabetes, preterm birth and impaired fetal bone mineralization. [1,2] Despite abundant sunlight in many regions of India, multiple studies and reviews have documented a high prevalence of vitamin D insufficiency and deficiency among pregnant women, driven by limited sun exposure, skin pigmentation, cultural clothing practices, urban lifestyles and low dietary intake of vitamin D-rich foods. [3,4,5] Vitamin B12 is a key cofactor in one-carbon metabolism required for DNA synthesis, methylation reactions and neural development. Maternal B12 deficiency is associated with neural tube defects, intrauterine growth restriction and adverse neuro-developmental outcomes in offspring. [6,7] India shows a high burden of maternal B12 deficiency in many cohorts, particularly among vegetarians and low-income populations lacking regular animal-source foods. [8,9] Global and national guidance acknowledges the importance of assessing maternal micronutrient status. The World Health Organization's antenatal care guidance reviews vitamin D supplementation and notes potential benefits for maternal serum status and some pregnancy outcomes while not recommending universal supplementation for all pregnant women without risk stratification.[10] Indian antenatal protocol sand dietary guidelines (ICMR/NIN) emphasize micronutrient support during pregnancy, including calcium with vitamin D in antenatal management where indicated. [11] Given the regional variability and population-specific risk factors, point-prevalence studies of vitamin D and B12 during early pregnancy are valuable to inform screening and supplementation strategies. This study aims to examine the prevalence of vitamin D and vitamin B 12 status during the first trimester among pregnant women attending a tertiary care center in North India, and to explore associations between these two micronutrients and demographic factors.
Ihsan Safwan K, Mohd Kamal N.H, Saidatul Husni S, Zaridah Mohd Zaki
Persicaria minor is a widely consumed Southeast Asian herb with emerging pharmacological relevance; however, comprehensive evaluation integrating antioxidant efficacy and safety profiling remains limited. This study systematically investigated the in vitro antioxidant capacity, in vitro lipid peroxidation modulation, and preliminary toxicity profile of the aqueous leaf extract of P. minor. Antioxidant activity was assessed using DPPH radical scavenging and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assays, while total phenolic content (TPC) was quantified via the Folin–Ciocalteu method. Oxidative stress attenuation was evaluated by measuring malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, and preliminary safety was determined using the Brine Shrimp Lethality Test (BSLT). The extract demonstrated total phenolic content reaching approximately 500 mg GAE/g at 1 mg/mL. DPPH radical scavenging activity ranged from approximately 73–94% inhibition across concentrations (0.046875–6 mg/mL), approaching the activity of ascorbic acid (~98%) at higher doses. FRAP analysis revealed consistent ferric reducing capacity, with values around 159.5–159.7 µmol Fe²⁺ equivalents across tested concentrations. In the lipid peroxidation model, MDA levels were reduced from approximately 4.6–4.8 nmol/mg protein in the negative control to about 1.8–1.9 nmol/mg protein in the treated group, representing roughly 55–60% inhibition. Brine shrimp survival rates remained above 80% across concentrations (0.097–100 mg/mL), with no LC₅₀ detected within the tested range, indicating low acute toxicity. Collectively, these findings demonstrate that P. minor aqueous extract possesses potent antioxidant activity, effectively mitigates lipid peroxidation, and exhibits minimal preliminary toxicity, highlighting its potential as a safe natural antioxidant candidate for further pharmacological and toxicological investigations.
Nkeriuka P. Okozor, Raphael C. Eze, Valentine S. Enyi
Reliable estimation of global solar radiation (GSR) is essential for the proper planning and performance evaluation of solar power systems. This research presents a neural network–based approach for estimating monthly mean GSR across South East Nigeria, covering Enugu, Imo, Ebonyi, Anambra, and Abia States. Twenty years of meteorological records (2005–2025), including air temperature, relative humidity, and wind speed, were utilized for model development. A feedforward multilayer perceptron trained using the backpropagation technique was implemented for the prediction task. Model evaluation indicates good agreement between predicted and observed values, with a mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) of less than 5%, a coefficient of determination (R²) of 0.95451, and a root mean square error (RMSE) of 0.32 MJ/m²/day. The findings demonstrate that the developed model can effectively estimate solar radiation in tropical locations where measured solar data are scarce. This approach can support informed decision-making in the design and expansion of solar energy projects within the region.
Bara’ah Saleem Salim Al Batrani
Background: Standard precautions of infection control are the most important practices that help to protect nursing students and health care providers from acquiring and transmission of communicable diseases. Communicable and infectious diseases are still existed in hospitals in Oman especially in critical areas and medical wards. Since communicable diseases are existed in hospitals around the world as well as in Oman, it becomes a challenge for infection prevention and control to control spread of infectious diseases especially in clinical settings. One of the factors that lead to transmission of communicable diseases is improper use of SPs. Methodology: This is a quantitative descriptive cross sectional study of knowledge, and compliance with SPs of infection control among Nursing students at Nizwa university. In this study 81 nursing students completed the self-administered questionnaire nursing students to obtain data about nursing student’s knowledge and compliance to standard precautions. Result: This study revealed that nursing students of University of Nizwa has a satisfactory level of knowledge (80.51%) on standard precautions, and have suboptimal compliance to SPs practices (51.79%) (n= 3.1). Conclusion: It is important to investigate the reasons of the suboptimal compliance of nursing students to standard precautions, the topic of nursing students’ compliance to SPs is an important topic for further and wider researches to be done.
Gatluak Nhial, Prof. Edgar Nyanga
This paper has endeavored to assess effects of environment management, policy, and sustainability in the Gambella region, in relation to Gambella town. The research objectives entailed identifying problems related to the town’s environmental management, the measurement of the effects of environmental management, policy, and sustainability, and the review of the regulations and policies by the government of environmental management and efficiency of the roles of the stakeholders in improving the issues of environmental management and sustainability. The current study is based on quantitative and qualitative studies, which are descriptive in character. The sample size of the respondents was 165; the response rate was 95.7, and 4.2 was non-response. The study found that significant issues were being experienced in environmental protection, which involved the government, stakeholders, community, and individuals. These were some of the problems that delayed the appropriate management of the environment in Gambella town. The findings indicate that the effects have both adverse and beneficial effects on environmental protection. Even though the results were positive, some issues caused the impact on the efficiency of environmental management practices and sustainability. The government was already formulated on environmental management and environmental sustainability laws and policies, but these policies and laws had limitations on how they could be implemented and enforced, and this limited their effectiveness in being able to affect the real actions of environmental protection. Environmental protection was highly criticized by the stakeholders.
Barakatu Abdullahi, Bawa, John, Vincent Yohanna Iwah
A well-educated population is essential for driving economic growth andorganise innovation, as well as competitiveness, leading to improved economic outcomes and reduced poverty. The study assessed the diagnostic parameters for access to basic education in Akko Local Government Area, Gombe State. The study employed survey research design. The population of the study consisted of all the 1,984 primary schools and lower junior secondary schools’ teachers in Akko L.G.A where a sample of 322 respondents were drawn from the population using proportionate stratified sampling technique. Questionnaire was used for data collection and was validated and tested for reliability (a crumbach alpha of 0.723 was recorded). Data were analyzed using mean and standard deviation to answer the research questions while chi-square was used to test the hypotheses at 0.05 level of significance. The findings revealed that students/pupils in Akko L.G.A, Gombe State need basic education but are faced with some difficulties in getting learning resources. Also, there is a wide gender disparity of learne existsat exist in all the basic education schools. It was recommend the government tvernment should develop policies that will reduce difficulties faced by learners to avert its ef the basicon basic education programme. Furth the government tvernment should organize campaigns to create awareness against gender bias in school enrolment and learning.
Mr. Bior Paul Panchol
This research aims to investigate the diversity, distribution, and abundance of avifauna within the Sudd Wetland, a critical ecological zone in South Sudan. The general objective is to provide a comprehensive assessment of bird species across various habitat types within this unique wetland ecosystem. Specific objectives include determining and comparing bird species diversity, distribution, and abundance; relating habitat features to bird abundance; and compiling a detailed checklist of avian species present in the study area. By employing systematic survey methods and statistical analyses, this study seeks to elucidate patterns of avian diversity in relation to environmental variables such as vegetation structure, water availability, and human impact. Understanding these dynamics is vital for conservation efforts and management strategies aimed at preserving the ecological integrity of the Sudd Wetland. This research not only contributes to the existing body of knowledge regarding wetland avifauna but also serves as a baseline for future studies focused on biodiversity conservation in rapidly changing environments.
Aminat Omope Yusuf, Catherine Nadabo, Chukwuekezie Chidiebere Nkemakonam, Ebenezer Kolawale Adeosun, Ethel Ihemjiaba Ekam, Michael Kehinde Olujoba, Timothy Olugbenga Ogundeko
Cervical cancer remains a major public health concern in low- and middle-income countries, including Nigeria, where inadequate awareness and low utilization of screening services contribute significantly to late diagnosis and high mortality. Objective: This study assessed and compared awareness and attitudinal barriers to cervical cancer screening among women in urban and rural areas of Plateau State, Nigeria. Method: A comparative cross-sectional study design was adopted, involving 203 women aged 21–65 years selected through multistage sampling from Jos Metropolis (urban) and Bassa Local Government Area (rural). Data were collected using a structured interviewer-administered questionnaire that assessed socio-demographic characteristics, awareness of cervical cancer and screening methods, and attitudes toward screening and HPV vaccination. Data was analyzed using IBM SPSS version 27. Descriptive statistics summarized key variables, while binary logistic regression identified factors associated with cervical cancer awareness, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05.
C.L. Kumarage, K.M.S Weerasinghe, N.M.P. Neththasinghe, P.D.R.S. Pethiyagoda
Sustainable landscapes in higher education settings offer multifaceted benefits beyond aesthetics, supporting psychological well-being, social cohesion, and experiential learning. This study assesses and analyzes the perception and the experiential social and educational value of these landscapes by the students, staff, and visitors of the University of Sri Jayewardenepura. Data were gathered through focus group discussions and in-depth interviews and analyzed via thematic analysis. The findings of this research highlight the fact that the sustainable landscapes of the University of Sri Jayewardenepura promote stress reduction, enhance emotional wellbeing, and aid cognitive recovery, thereby functioning as psychologically restorative environments (SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being). The university community became cohesive and informal social interaction was strengthened (SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities). The campus community engaged in experiential learning, observation of the campus and curricula integrated landscape of the campuses ecosystems (SDG 15: Life on Land). Restricted aesthetic and ecological design was appreciated for its interpretive design, outdoor classrooms, social interaction pathways, and socially responsible environmental stewardship and learning (SDG 15: Life on Land). The expressive landscaping design of the university altered community perceptions through visual advocacy and enhanced articulated digital community advocacy (SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure).
Dr. Geetha P S
Sustainability has become a key concern in contemporary consumer decision-making; however, a noticeable gap persists between consumers’ green intentions and their actual engagement in sustainable behaviours. This study examines the drivers of consumer engagement in sustainability and its influence on sustainable purchase behaviour in Erode District, Tamil Nadu. Using a descriptive research design, primary data were collected from 170 consumers through a structured questionnaire. The data were analysed using SPSS, employing reliability analysis, exploratory factor analysis, correlation, and multiple regression techniques. Exploratory factor analysis identified four key dimensions of perceived value economic, functional, emotional, and social value explaining a substantial proportion of variance. Reliability analysis confirmed strong internal consistency across all constructs. The results reveal that environmental concern is positively and significantly associated with consumer engagement in sustainability, and that consumer engagement significantly influences sustainable purchase behaviour, explaining 23.4 per cent of its variance. The findings highlight that moving consumers beyond green intentions requires strengthening perceived value and engagement mechanisms. The study offers valuable insights for marketers, policymakers, and sustainability advocates aiming to encourage active consumer participation in sustainable consumption practices.
Dr Sunita Dutta
This paper reviews the management principles and organizational structure inherent in the Satras of Majuli, the 15th-16th century Vaishnavite monasteries in Assam, India. Far surpassing their function as purely religious institutions, the Satras operate as complex, self-sustaining socio-cultural enterprises. Their centuries-long existence, resilience against ecological threats, and enduring cultural impact reveal a sophisticated and practical management model. This paper analyzes the Satra system through the lens of modern organizational theory, identifying principles such as participative governance, mission-centric strategic planning, functional specialization, human resource development, and sustainable financial management. The study concludes that the Satra model offers valuable, time-tested insights for contemporary organizations seeking longevity, cultural alignment, and stakeholder engagement.
Akwuobi Bridget Udekwesili (PhD), Okeke Onyekachi Nath (PhD), Onyeogubalu Ogochukwu Nkiru (PhD)
The study examined the effect of board diligence on the asset quality of listed deposit money banks in Nigeria. The study adopted an ex-post facto research design over the period 2015 to 2024. The population comprised thirteen listed deposit money banks on the Nigerian Exchange Group, with a sample size of twelve banks after excluding Unity Bank due to missing 2024 reports. Secondary data were collected from the annual reports of the selected banks, focusing on the number of board meetings as a measure of board diligence and the non-performing loan ratio as a measure of asset quality. Panel EGLS (Period Seemingly Unrelated Regression) was used to test the hypothesis at 1% significance level and correct for heteroskedasticity and cross-sectional dependence. The findings revealed that board diligence has a negative effect on asset quality, as an increase in the number of board meetings leads to higher non-performing loan ratios (β = 0.0056; p = 0.0000). In conclusion, frequent board meetings may not necessarily translate into improved asset quality, but may instead be a response to worsening loan conditions. The study recommended that boards of listed deposit money banks in Nigeria improve the effectiveness and quality of their meetings by ensuring that each session focuses on strategic oversight, timely risk assessment, and practical credit management decisions rather than frequent routine deliberations. Board members should be provided with adequate information and analysis before meetings to enable data-driven discussions that directly address emerging loan quality issues.
Ishmum Muhib, Jafirullah Khan, Tanveerullah Khan Adnan
Positioning of brands was once a sensitive marketing communication tool, shaped by consumer perceptions. Positioning, however, has become increasingly relevant in contemporary business settings due to intense competition. It discusses brand positioning as a strategic management tool and, in an argumentative manner, argues that it should be viewed as an organizational competence rather than a promotional tool. The study assesses the application of positioning in light of its impact on competition, strategic decision-making, and the organization's long-term performance. The study has shown that proper positioning entails integrating an organization's internal capabilities and strengths with market capabilities and strengths, enabling firms to develop distinctive and sustainable identities in the market. Organizations can perform well due to corporate strategy and positioning, which enhance differentiation and deter competitors from imitating them. The discussion has identified the positioning aspects that may affect managerial activities, organizational culture, and coordination across organizational functions. Finally, according to the article, the policy component of positioning must be based on normal governance, strategic control regimes, and market repositioning. It is argued that positioning is a dynamic strategy process that must be reviewed and revised over time in response to technological change or an upsurge in customer demand. The results indicate that a company that positions itself as a strategic planning tool has a greater competitive advantage and higher long-run performance. Generally, the article is a valuable contribution to the management literature because it presents a multidimensional tool for positioning the brand based on organizational identity, the company's market image, and market performance.
D.G.C.P. Nawarathne, N.A.D.C. Sathsarani, S. Mark Robinson
Sri Lanka tourism is distanced from dire times and with the arrival of Spaniards in droves. But there remains a real-world problem: the absence of tailored, language-specific services to directly link these visitors with qualified local professionals. To address this gap, this design-based applied research project involved the development of a curated brand identity and an organised three-month integrated marketing strategy for a localised travel planning platform called "Vamos Lanka." This methodology uses a design-based approach during pre-production, production, and post-production phases. Pre-production: thorough research on tourism marketing, target audience psychographics and cultural adaptation. This project contains the following design outputs: a brand guideline, original multimedia assets, and localised social media content. provide empirical grounding, a visual identity and marketing material's comprehension was confirmed through a survey with the target audience that evaluated knowledge of brand perception as well as clarity on what the platform is about. The study results reveal that the visual elements tailored to a specific culture, in this case, logo, colour palette and content, successfully evoke the perception of energy and tropicality in line with the Spanish market. This research adds to the body of work within destination branding scholarship by showing how localised digital design and contextual multimedia marketing can successfully fill service gaps and enable brand trust in nascent tourism emergences.
Ogweyo Peter Ogalo
Tourism plays a critical role in Kenya's economy, contributing approximately 7.9% to the national GDP and supporting around 1.6 million jobs. However, the sector faces mounting challenges including environmental degradation, sociocultural disruptions, and the impacts of climate change, necessitating a shift toward sustainable tourism practices. Despite the growing global emphasis on sustainability, there remains a significant gap in the knowledge and skills required by tourism professionals in Kenya to align with international sustainability standards. This study aimed to bridge this gap by: (1) identifying the knowledge and skill deficits among tourism professionals; (2) evaluating the extent to which sustainability principles are integrated into current training programs; (3) outlining essential competencies for sustainable tourism; and (4) assessing the effectiveness of current training methods in developing these competencies. A qualitative, descriptive survey design was employed. A purposive sample of 120 respondents was drawn from a target population of 171 professionals across diverse tourism sub-sectors using Yamane’s formula to ensure broad representation. Data collection involved curriculum reviews, policy document analysis, semi-structured questionnaires, and key informant interviews. Quantitative data were analysed using SPSS, and qualitative data were thematically examined using NVivo. Cronbach’s Alpha (≥ 0.7) confirmed instrument reliability. Findings indicated underrepresentation of frontline actors such as tour guides (8.3%) and community tourism leaders (3.3%) in training programs, while educators comprised the majority (55%). Regression analysis (B = 0.451, p = 0.019), correlation (r = 0.632, p < 0.001), and ANOVA (F = 8.808, p < 0.001) all underscored the significant impact of experiential, hands-on learning on competency development. Qualitative insights emphasized the importance of digital literacy, community engagement, and practical skills. The study concludes that for Kenya to advance sustainable tourism aligned with its development agenda, training programs must become more inclusive, practice-oriented, and sustainability-focused. Key recommendations include the development and implementation of a national sustainable tourism competency framework; targeted upskilling for underrepresented frontline professionals; the mandatory integration of practical sustainability modules into all tourism curricula; and the establishment of robust industry-academia partnerships to foster experiential learning. Additionally, creating a sustainability certification scheme for training institutions, adopting competency-based assessments, investing in digital tools and trainer capacity, and launching a national knowledge-sharing platform are proposed as essential steps. The study concludes that for Kenya to realize a sustainable tourism sector aligned with its development agenda, professional training must become fundamentally more inclusive, rigorously practice-oriented, and strategically focused on actionable sustainability competencies.
M. Vishnu Vardhan Reddy Martha
Background Open surgical tracheostomy remains an essential airway procedure in otolaryngology practice. However, structured exposure during early residency training is frequently limited by patient safety considerations and reduced operative autonomy. Cadaver-based surgical simulation provides high anatomical fidelity and may offer a practical solution for structured skill acquisition. Objective To design and evaluate a faculty-supervised cadaver-based tracheostomy training module and to quantify its impact on resident knowledge, technical competence, confidence, and procedural anxiety. Methods This prospective educational interventional study was conducted over two academic years (2023–2025). Sixteen first-year otolaryngology residents underwent structured cadaver-based surgical tracheostomy training. Pre- and post-intervention assessments included a 20-point knowledge test, Objective Structured Assessment of Technical Skills (OSATS) scoring, confidence rating, and procedural anxiety scale. Statistical analysis was performed using paired t-tests and Cohen’s d effect size estimation. Results All assessed domains demonstrated statistically significant improvement. Knowledge scores increased from 12.1 ± SD to 17.5 ± SD (p < 0.001). OSATS global rating improved from 2.3 to 4.0 (p < 0.001). Confidence improved significantly, while procedural anxiety decreased markedly. Effect sizes exceeded 1.2 across domains, indicating large educational impact. Conclusion Structured cadaver-based tracheostomy training significantly enhances cognitive understanding, technical proficiency, and psychological readiness. Integration of cadaveric modules into otolaryngology residency curricula is recommended, particularly in resource-constrained training environments.
Akshat Raghunath Daksh, Dr. Om Prakash Singh
This research paper explores the rise, development, and impact of the Chamar caste movement in Bijnor district (Uttar Pradesh) during the first half of the twentieth century. Emphasizing the socio-political awakening among the Chamars, this study analyses the role of key leaders, caste organizations, religious identity assertion, and their contribution to the anti-caste and national freedom movements. Using archival sources, oral traditions, and secondary literature, this paper highlights how the Chamars of Bijnor transformed their socio-political status from a marginalized leather-working caste to a politically active community asserting dignity and representation.
Aliyah P. Bermejo, Czarina Mhae I. Lic-o, Denise Dorothy P. Canlas, Dr. Marianne Shalimar G. Del Rosario, Joseph Varrick D.C. Red, Kian D. Canlas, Rufino Gabriel B. De Vera
This study aimed to determine the impact of having a designated area and equipment for the Air Transportation students' learning and skills development, and preparedness in the aviation industry. Facilities and equipment provide students the opportunity to have hands-on experience and to better grasp the concepts of the technical subjects, such as meteorology and aircraft instruments. The researchers use qualitative and quantitative approaches, descriptive and correlational research designs to determine the importance and relationship of facilities and equipment to the students' overall development. Using Slovins' Formula and stratified sampling, the researchers determined the respondents with an acceptable rate of 30% to 40%, which resulted in a number of 85 respondents. The researchers conducted the online survey with eighty five(85) respondents, aside from that, the researchers interviewed one (1) fourth-year student, one (1) Air Transportation Instructor, and one(1) third-year student to ensure reliability of the findings. To analyze and organize data, the researchers used ANOVA, Weighted mean percentage, and Thematic Analysis. The results suggest that the implementation of facilities and equipment for the subjects of meteorology and aircraft instruments is very significant in the students' overall performance if the said facility is accessible and large enough to accommodate students, essential equipment is provided, instructors were expert in the subject's concepts and equipment, and the implementation is integrated into the institution's curriculum. In conclusion, having a designated area and equipment for the Air Transportation students will make a huge contribution to the students' skills, learning development, and preparedness for their future occupation.
Adeola Ladeji, Aderonke Abah, Afolabi Oyapero, Mofoluwaso Abimbola Olajide, Olasunkanmi Kuye
Background: Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma (OSCC) is said to be the most common malignancy affecting the oral cavity while Squamous cell carcinoma of the Sinonasal tract (SNSCC) is less common. Changing patterns have been observed in the incidence of these lesions in recent years. Objective: This study aims to determine the demographics, clinical and histopathologic characteristics of Oral Squamous Cell carcinoma and Sinonasal Squamous Cell Carcinoma in a Nigerian (African) population over a period of 7 years (2013 to 2019). Materials and Methods: In this retrospective study, records from the archives of the Oral Pathology laboratory, Faculty of Dentistry, Lagos State University College of Medicine over a period of 7 years (2013 to 2019) were reviewed to retrieve the age, sex, site, grade and variant (where indicated) of cases. Data was analyzed using IBM SPSS (version 20). Results: The prevalence of OSCC in our study was 34.5% of all oral and maxillofacial malignancies, while SNSCC accounted for 5.5%. Mean age for OSCC was 56.5(SD±16.4) years, while that of SNSCC was 47.0 (SD±9.23) years. These lesions were more frequent in males (63.2% and 66.7% for OSCC and SNSCC respectively) than females. The most common site of involvement in OSCC was the tongue (28.9%). 66.7% of the SNSCC was the Keratinizing type. 55.3% of OSCC were graded as moderately differentiated. Conclusion: This study demonstrates that oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) accounts for a substantial proportion (34.5%) of head and neck malignancies diagnosed at our centre, confirming its significant disease burden within the oral and maxillofacial region. The tongue is the most affected oral site. Sinonasal squamous cell carcinoma (SNSCC) was still relatively rare (5.5%), occurred at a younger mean age than OSCC, and also demonstrated male predominance. Although the keratinizing subtype of SNSCC was more common, histological type was not significantly associated with sex. Overall, the findings highlight important clinicopathologic patterns of OSCC and SNSCC in our environment and provide baseline data for improved diagnosis and future research.
Demba SM Yabou, Sulayman Ceesay
Road traffic accidents remain a devastating public health crisis in low and middle-income countries, which account for over 90% of global fatalities despite having less than 60% of the world's vehicles. This study investigates community perceptions of accident causes in The Gambia's Central River and Upper River Regions using a mixed-methods approach that combined surveys, open-ended responses, and direct observation of road conditions.
Mohammad Zafar Shafaq, Roheed Khaliqyar, Sayed Abid Sadat
Web development frameworks fundamentally shape application security posture, yet empirical, evidence-based comparisons of their security efficacy remain scarce. This study provides a documented feature-level analysis of Django 4.2+ and Laravel 10+ benchmarked against the OWASP Top 10 2021 vulnerabilities. By analyzing official documentation, source code verification, and 43 framework-core CVEs (2020-2023), we quantified default protection levels, configuration burden, and real-world vulnerability patterns. Results demonstrate Django achieves superior out-of-the-box security with 3/3 default protection scores on seven categories, while Laravel scores 1-2/3 on six categories, requiring explicit activation. CVE data reveals Laravel suffers 2.6× more total vulnerabilities, with 42% attributed to misconfiguration versus Django's 8%. Configuration burden metrics indicate Laravel demands approximately 12 manual security steps compared to Django's 5, correlating directly with heightened misconfiguration risk. This research quantifies the security-by-default versus flexibility tradeoff, concluding Django significantly reduces vulnerability exposure for development teams with limited security expertise, while Laravel offers equivalent security potential for experienced practitioners capable of managing configuration complexity. The findings provide the first CVE-backed, feature-level security matrix to inform evidence-based framework selection in academic and industrial contexts.
Gauri Rajput, Gayatri Sarode, Mayur Patil, Ragita Nair
This research explores the transformative potential of telemedicine in addressing the deep-seated healthcare disparities between India’s urban hubs and its vast rural interior. While over 65% of the population resides in rural areas, the majority of specialized medical infrastructure remains concentrated in cities, creating a critical gap in accessibility. By utilizing Information and Communication Technologies (ICT), telemedicine offers a bridge for remote diagnosis, real-time monitoring, and specialist consultations.
Bulyaba R, Turyayesiima N
This study investigated the contribution of Climate Smart Agriculture (CSA) practices to household food availability in refugee settlement areas of Yumbe District, Uganda. The research was motivated by increasing pressure on land due to refugee settlement and agricultural expansion, which prompted government and non governmental organizations to promote CSA practices from 2018 onwards. Despite these efforts, limited empirical evidence existed on the actual impact of CSA interventions on household food availability in refugee contexts. The study was conducted in Bidibidi settlement and host communities, targeting 375 farming households. Data were collected on household socio demographic characteristics, CSA practices, and food availability indicators. Descriptive statistics were used to profile households, while binary logistic regression was applied to estimate the relationship between CSA practices and household food availability. Results revealed that agroforestry (p = 0.096) and irrigation (p = 0.048) significantly improved household food availability, whereas kitchen gardening (p = 0.067) negatively influenced food availability due to its limited scale. The findings highlight that while most households had access to agricultural land (97.1%), ownership was low (37.1%), particularly among refugees who rely on temporary allocations. Women constituted the majority of household heads (56.3%), underscoring their central role in food security within refugee settlements. The study concludes that CSA practices, especially agroforestry and irrigation, enhance resilience and productivity, thereby contributing to household food security, while small scale kitchen gardening alone is insufficient to meet household food needs. Policy recommendations include scaling up agroforestry and irrigation interventions, strengthening gender responsive programming to empower female farmers, and improving land access arrangements for refugees and host communities. Overall, the study provides evidence that CSA practices can play a transformative role in enhancing food availability and resilience in refugee contexts, with implications for both national agricultural policy and regional refugee management strategies.
Chukwuma Joseph Uzoigwe, Ebenyi Hyacinth Okwe, Edegbe Felix Osuogu, Ekuma Moses Ikenna, Jegede Olushola Olakunle, Nwachukwu Augustine Anayo, Ogundolire Adeleye Niyi, Okeite Chukwuneke Sampson, Okezie Micheal Mbadiwe, Solomon Kenechukwu Anyimba
Background: Prostatic adenocarcinoma remains a significant health burden in Nigeria, with most cases presenting at advanced stages. Understanding relationships between PSA levels, Gleason scores, and grade groups is crucial for risk stratification and treatment planning. However, comprehensive data from southeastern Nigeria remain limited.
Charles Austin Ho, John Eric Tambalque, Khail Cedric Moreno, Raven Jeremy Daza
This study developed “Courtyard Reserva”, a web-based single-court booking system with data visualization and a scheduling algorithm to improve the reservation process for community sports facilities. Traditional manual booking methods are inefficient, prone to errors, and limited by accessibility. The system allows users to view available schedules, request reservations online, and manage bookings in real time, while storing user profiles and booking records in a secure database to ensure accuracy and accessibility.
Trywell Nankulo
Background: People living with HIV (PLWH) are at increased risk of severe COVID-19 outcomes, yet limited evidence exists on their vaccine-related knowledge, attitudes, and uptake in Zambia. This study assessed COVID-19 vaccination prevalence and examined the factors shaping vaccine behaviors among PLWH attending ART services in Livingstone District, Zambia. Methods: We employed a cross-sectional mixed-methods design at Mahatma Gandhi Clinic from April to June 2022. Systematic random sampling (every third patient) was used to select 384 PLWH aged ≥18 years from a clinic population of 2,197. Quantitative data on vaccine uptake, knowledge, and perceptions were collected via structured interviews. Purposive sampling selected 20 participants for in-depth qualitative interviews exploring attitudes and explanatory narratives. Descriptive statistics and multivariable logistic regression identified predictors of vaccination; qualitative data were analyzed using Braun and Clarke's thematic analysis framework. Results: Vaccination prevalence was 78.9% (303/384; 95% CI: 74.5%-82.8%). Knowledge and positive perceptions were widespread: 97.1% knew COVID-19 had no cure, 98.2% recognized vaccines as preventive, and 99.5% were aware of vaccine availability. Most perceived vaccines as safe (97.1%), effective (96.4%), beneficial to all (97.9%), and trusted manufacturers (96.6%). Multivariable logistic regression identified significant negative predictors of uptake: perceiving vaccines as not beneficial to all (AOR = 5.41, 95% CI: 1.20-24.32, p=0.028), distrust of manufacturers (AOR = 3.48, 95% CI: 1.43-8.48, p=0.006), belief that vaccination controls human activities (AOR = 2.31, 95% CI: 1.10-4.85, p=0.027), and belief that suppliers act in bad faith (AOR = 2.39, 95% CI: 1.13-5.05, p=0.022). Qualitative analysis revealed three themes: 1) Trust in biomedical authority ("it has been approved medically"); 2) Genocidal conspiracy beliefs ("they have intentions of wiping out the entire Africa"); and 3) Vaccination as social control ("to stop us from going to church"). Conclusions: While COVID-19 vaccine uptake among PLWH in Livingstone is high and grounded in trust in medical approval, a significant minority remain hesitant due to deep-seated conspiracy beliefs framing vaccination as a tool for population control and harm. This dual reality must inform targeted interventions leveraging trusted healthcare relationships within ART programs.
Dr. Mohamed Alnejem, Ms. Fatema Al-Akhzami, Ms. Maram AL-Hinai
As sustainability and innovation continue to shape the future of the creative industries, design education is increasingly expected to move beyond the teaching of aesthetics and toward the stimulation of transformative thinking. This study explores the integration of a purposefully designed Creative Studies course within a de-sign program, aimed at inspiring student innovation, fostering sustainable mindsets, and developing creative confidence. Grounded in experiential learning and interdisciplinary collaboration, the course encouraged stu-dents to progress from surface-level problem-solving to deeper, concept-driven, and impact-oriented design practices. Through open-ended briefs, real-world design challenges, and iterative studio-based activities, stu-dents engaged with core Course Learning Outcomes (CLOs) focused on ideation, originality, critical reflec-tion, and sustainability. Using student feedback alongside performance data, including project outcomes and CLO assessments, the findings demonstrate notable growth in students’ ability to generate innovative and socially responsible design solutions. These improvements were evident not only in classroom projects but also in students’ senior capstone projects and professional portfolios. Ultimately, this research reframes creativity as more than a skill, presenting it as a mindset that is essential for preparing designers to innovate sustainably and contribute meaningfully to the creative industries of the future.
Agunanne Benjamin Chukwuemeka, Agunanne Christiana Chikaodiri, Best Ordinioha, Chiejine Gibson Ifechukwude, Chinekwu S. Anyaoku, Duluora Nneka Chidimma, Nnaemeka Emmanuel Akubue, Ogbonna Vivian Ifeoma, Okoli Adaora Ukamaka, Omoteniola Taiwo-Ojo
Background Domestic violence (DV) against women remains a pervasive public health problem worldwide. Disclosure and help-seeking behaviours are critical pathways for accessing support and protection, yet they remain poorly understood in low- and middle-income countries, including Nigeria. This study examined the determinants, disclosure patterns, and help-seeking behaviours related to DV among women in rural and urban settings. Methods A comparative cross-sectional mixed-methods study was conducted in Nnewi North (urban) and Anaocha (rural) Local Government Areas. A total of 588 women aged 18 years and older were recruited. In addition, 20 survivors who disclosed DV during the survey were purposively selected for in-depth interviews. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics and multivariable logistic regression while qualitative data were thematically analysed. Results The mean age of respondents was 31.88 ± 10.1 years, with the majority aged 20–29 years (35.4%), married (67%), and self-employed (56.3%). Key determinants of DV included alcohol and substance abuse by partners (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 1.45; 95% CI: 1.03–2.04), economic hardship (aOR: 0.66; 95% CI: 0.47–0.92), and educational disparity between partners (aOR: 1.75; 95% CI: 1.18–2.62). Economic hardship was more significant in rural areas, whereas alcohol and substance abuse were more prevalent in urban areas. Overall disclosure rates were below 50%, with survivors primarily confiding in parents or siblings (28.4%) and in-laws (17.9%), while disclosure to healthcare providers was rare, particularly among urban women. Help-seeking prevalence was 42.2% among rural women and 38.1% among urban women, with emotional support being the most commonly received form and legal support the least accessed. Conclusion Domestic violence against women in Anambra State is influenced by partner-related, socioeconomic, and educational factors, with low disclosure and limited help-seeking observed across rural and urban settings. Interventions should promote safe disclosure, strengthen formal support systems, and address contextual determinants to improve the protection and well-being of survivors.
Admasu Fenta Worku, Berhanu Regassa Jima, Mekonen Tekliye Cherinet, Tadele Andargie Wudineh, Yodit Fikadu Demissie
Ethiopian cuisine has less protein and minerals on the wheat-based products resulting protein and mineral deficiency. This can be offset by the addition of nutrient rich sweet lupine and moringa leaf flour, which are both cost-effective. This study was conducted on determining of nutritional composition, functional and pasting properties of wheat, sweet lupine and moringa leaf composite flour. Standard procedures were used during experimental determination of composite flour. Completely randomized design (CRD) was used in experimental analysis. The bulk density of composite (wheat, sweet lupine and moringa leaf powder) flour was 0.45g/cm3 (BR1), 0.45 g/cm3 (BR2), 0.45 g/cm3 (BR3) and ), 0.46 g/cm3 (BR4). 0.87g/g (BR1), 0.84 g/g (BR2), 0.83 g/g (BR3), 0.86 g/g (BR4) of water absorption capacity, 1.03 g/g (BR1), 1.11 g/g (BR2), 1.04 g/g (BR3) and 1.00 g/g (BR4) of oil absorption capacity. As the lupine and moringa flour ratio increase the water absorption and oil absorption capacity of composite flour increase that indicates it contains more protein. The protein content of wheat sweet lupine and moringa flour were 9.32%, 40.03%, 31.61%, respectively. The calcium and zinc content of wheat, sweet lupine and moringa flour were 27.46 mg/100g, 174.07 mg/100g, and 1008.19 mg/100g, 0.78 mg/100g, 2.91 mg/100g, 1.54 mg/100g (zinc), respectively. The anti-nutritional composition ingredients were 53.28, 84.16, 1745.39, catechin equivalent mg/100g (tannin), and 1.47%, 3.25%, 7.66%, (alkaloid) wheat, sweet lupine and moringa leaf flour, respectively. The study found that composite flour made from 79%wheat, 20%sweet lupine, and 1% moringa flour has better nutritional values that could be used to make nutrient rich food in industrial application.
Mfon Okpu Esang
Flooding has become increasingly frequent and severe in Akwa Ibom State, largely driven by rising rainfall variability, rapid urbanization, and limited early warning infrastructure. This study assessed long-term rainfall trends, flood incidence patterns, community risk perception, institutional capacity, and determinants of household preparedness between 2005 and 2026. Secondary data were obtained from NEMA and Akwa Ibom State Emergency Management Agency, while primary data were collected through structured questionnaires administered across selected Local Government Areas. The Mann–Kendall trend test revealed a statistically significant upward trend in annual rainfall (τ = 0.74, p < 0.001), with Sen’s slope estimator indicating an average increase of 38 mm per year. Pearson correlation analysis showed a strong positive relationship (r = 0.87, p < 0.001) between annual rainfall and flood events. Logistic regression results identified access to early warning systems (OR = 4.14), mobile phone ownership (OR = 3.16), education level (OR = 2.09), prior flood experience (OR = 1.86), and income level (OR = 1.78) as significant predictors of household preparedness (Model accuracy = 76.3%; Nagelkerke R² = 0.48). Despite high levels of flood experience (87.4%) and growing risk perception (81.6%), more than half of respondents (54.3%) exhibited low preparedness, while institutional assessments revealed major gaps in real-time monitoring, last-mile communication, and mobile-based alert systems. The findings underscore the urgent need for integrated, technology-driven, and community-centered early warning systems to enhance resilience and reduce flood-related losses in the state.
K.A.N.C. Karunanayaka, K.M.D. Hasara
Marine Spatial Data Infrastructure (MSDI) serves as the foundational framework for managing and disseminating marine geospatial data, with bathymetric data being one of its most critical components. However, the usability and reliability of bathymetric datasets within MSDI are fundamentally dependent on the quality and completeness of accompanying metadata. This paper introduces a new Metadata Quality Index (MQI) framework is presented with special focus on bathymetric data evaluation of the MSD. MQI framework measures metadata completeness on eight fundamental categories including general information, identification information, description, extent, accuracy parameters, point of contact, meta-metadata, and processing information. A weighted grading scale (0-100) was created on the basis of the importance of individual parameter in data accuracy and a decision to be made by a user. The framework was applied to 12 bathymetric datasets (1991-2024) from Sri Lanka, covering various technologies including Single-Beam Echo Sounders (SBES), Multi-Beam Echo Sounders (MBES), and modern integrated systems. Findings showed that there were strong temporal patterns in metadata quality with pre-2000 datasets having a mean MQI of 18.4 (Poor), 2000-2010 datasets had a mean MQI of 32.7 (Fair), 2010-2020 datasets had a mean MQI of 71.3 (Good) and post-2020 datasets had a mean MQI of 78.5 (Good). The most significant gaps were found during all periods, with the most significant being the lack of any calibration documentation (0% compliance) and the systematic missing links in uncertainty reporting (8.3% compliance in pre-2010 datasets). The suggested MQI framework is a quantitative, standardized assessment of metadata quality tool that may be used to offer evidence-based prioritization of retrospective documentation tasks and set minimum metadata requirements to integrate MSDI. The study will add to the operationalization of the quality management of MSDI and the FAIR (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, Reusable) principles of data in the marine scene.
Akaniyene Eyo Udo, Ekemini Anietie Johnson
Amidst an escalating digital arms race, the burgeoning complexity of Trojan horse architecture has neutralized the efficacy of conventional signature-reliant defense paradigms. This research pioneers a high-fidelity Intelligent Detection Framework designed to transcend static identification by leveraging the predictive power of ensemble learning. Our experimental architecture utilized a curated corpus of 4,000 observations, maintaining a strict equilibrium between malicious Trojan payloads and benign system processes. The operational pipeline transformed raw telemetry into a refined feature space through a sequence of one-hot encoding, Min-max scaling, and rigorous Principal Component Analysis (PCA). By distilling the input data into the 20 most significant behavioral dimensions, the framework mitigated computational latency while amplifying signal clarity. Performance benchmarks revealed a stark divergence between the evaluated heuristics: while the Decision Tree (DT) model offered baseline competence, the Extreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost) configuration attained a dominant 98.7% accuracy and a 99.2% recall. This near-absolute sensitivity is pivotal, as it virtually eliminates the "blind spots" typically exploited by zero-day mutations. By fusing behavioral telemetry with high-performance gradient boosting, this study establishes a scalable blueprint for fortifying endpoint security against the next generation of stealth-oriented cyber threats.
Monimoy Das, Soumita Chowdhury
Soil erosion induced by intense rainfall and surface runoff poses a serious threat to the stability and serviceability of road and railway embankments and hill slopes, particularly in high-rainfall and seismically sensitive regions. Natural fibre–based geotextiles, especially jute geotextiles (JGTs), offer a sustainable and biodegradable alternative to synthetic materials for short- to medium-term erosion control. This paper presents the design, development, laboratory evaluation, and field implementation of newly standerdised open-weave jute geotextiles of 600 GSM and 1200 GSM, aimed at addressing performance gaps identified in existing Indian specifications. Constructional parameters, mechanical properties, hydraulic characteristics, and field applicability were assessed through mill surveys, laboratory testing, and pilot installations on National Highway hill slopes in Mizoram, India. The results demonstrate that the newly developed JGTs provide enhanced tensile strength, improved stability on steep slopes, and effective erosion control under varying soil and climatic conditions. The study further highlights the need for harmonization and refinement of existing standards for open-weave jute geotextiles.
Alka Kumari, Atul Kumar Anand, Rajesh Kumar Sonkar, Shubham Kumar
An ethnomedicinal survey was conducted in Pilibhit Tiger Reserve (PTR) located in the Pilibhit and Shahjahanpur districts of Uttar Pradesh. The present study aimed to document medicinal plant species used by indigenous people for the treatment of various ailments, with particular emphasis on common and chronic diseases. Ethnomedicinal information was collected through structured questionnaires, personal interviews and field interaction with traditional healers and local inhabitants. The survey documented a total of 52 medicinal plant species belonging to 49 genera and 31 families used to treat a wide range of health conditions, including abdominal disorders, skin diseases, malaria, jaundice and other ailments. The results highlight the urgent need for systematic documentation of indigenous ethnobotanical knowledge before it is lost and emphasise the importance of conservation strategies for medicinal plant resources in the region.
Hainawu Chimsi, Mohammed Ali, MPH, PhD, Zakaria Abotiyire Iddrisu
Background: Transitions of donors create threats to health systems in low- and middle-income countries that depend on external financing. In Northern Ghana, this study evaluated the financial, operational, and policy implications of USAID’s withdrawal from maternal, child health, and nutrition (MCHN) programs. Methods: We used a mixed-methods design, integrating quantitative data from eight districts with qualitative inputs from key informant interviews and focus group discussions, triangulating financial records, service utilization indicators, and community perspectives. Findings: Donor withdrawal resulted in fiscal shortfalls, with health directors at district level reporting budget cuts of 35–45% and NGOs noting that 42%–100% of their programs were halted. Metrics on service use including antenatal care (92%), skilled delivery (76%), and child immunization (84%) continued to be stable but under strain. Supply chain disruption is widespread: vaccine delays have been recorded in 75% of districts, 88% of districts have experienced shortages of Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Food (RUTF), and all districts faced logistical constraints, including cold-chain equipment and transport fuel. Policy Implications. Donor departure influenced reforms. The President of Ghana mandated that the Minister of Finance to swiftly fill funding gaps, NGOs fostered innovations by the private sector, and local governments with Members of Parliament supported efforts sustain gains and progress in the health sector into the future. Conclusion: Donor withdrawal revealed weaknesses but also launched responsive measures, like emphasis on basic services, resource innovations, and reinforced community ownership. Both risks of dependency on donors and opportunities for resilience when local systems re-calibrate are emphasized by these findings.
Aparna Bachkaniwala, Krutika Narola, Patel Khushi
Background: Balance impairments and falls are major causes of reduced mobility and independence in the elderly. Age-related decline in muscle strength, sensory feedback, and coordination often leads to instability and fear of falling. Exercise-based interventions targeting postural control can significantly improve confidence and quality of life. The Balance Enhancing Exercise Program (BEEP) integrates static and dynamic balance training with sensory variation to stimulate adaptive mechanisms. Although international evidence supports its efficacy, limited research exists on its impact in the Indian elderly population. Objective: To review the effect of the Balance Enhancing Exercise Program (BEEP) on balance and quality of life in elderly individuals and to determine its potential as a structured intervention for fall prevention and functional improvement. Methodology: Relevant studies were reviewed using databases from PubMed, Google Scholar, Pedro, ResearchGate, and ScienceDirect, using search words such as BEEP program and fall prevention, fall risk, quality of life in elderly individuals, Fall risk reduction exercises etc and focusing on research published between 2000–2024. Literature indicates that BEEP programme improves balance and reduces fall risk. Results: A total of 13 studies were reviewed, out of which 6 were excluded due to insufficient methodological quality or lack of direct relevance to BEEP intervention. Previous research suggests BEEP yields superior improvements in dynamic balance, postural control, and confidence. Participants receiving BEEP are expected to show greater gains in balance and quality-of-life scores. Conclusion: BEEP is a simple, cost-effective, and evidence-based physiotherapy intervention that may enhance balance, prevent falls, and improve overall well-being among elderly individuals in India.
Cybil Mave H. Gonzales, Kainah Quennie Marisell O. Mapa, Khawla U. Abdulkarem, Sheriel Blaize L. Mañapao
Patient education plays a vital role in promoting health literacy, treatment adherence, and overall wellness. Traditional methods, such as verbal instructions or printed materials, are often limited by literacy levels, comprehension barriers, and time constraints in clinical settings. With the growing accessibility of multimedia tools, this study explores the effects of educational videos in enhancing patient’s level of knowledge. This quasi-experimental study was conducted among selected patients to assess their understanding of specific health-related topics before and after viewing educational videos. A pre-test and post-test design was used to measure knowledge levels. The intervention involved presenting a short, informative, and professionally curated educational video tailored to the patients’ needs. Data collected were analyzed using appropriate statistical tools to determine whether there was a significant improvement in knowledge after the intervention. The results revealed that most participants demonstrated a notable increase in their knowledge levels following exposure to the educational video. Statistical analysis confirmed a significant difference between pre-test and post-test scores, indicating that audiovisual content can serve as an effective tool for patient education. The findings highlight the importance of adopting modern, engaging, and patient- centered educational strategies in healthcare. Educational videos offer a visual and auditory experience that enhances comprehension and information retention. This study provides valuable insight into the potential of integration of technology within pharmacy and clinical practice to improve patient outcomes. Further research is recommended to examine long- term effects, different video formats, and their applicability across diverse patient populations and medical topic.
Enemchukwu Onyinye Victory, Enemuo Emeka H, Enemuo Ijeoma C
Phenanthrene, an aromatic compound, represents the majority of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons found in the environment. Sources include, burnt smoky coal particles, soil and sediment, diesel emissions, tobacco and food smoke. The aim of the study was to determine the effect of phenanthrene on oxidative stress markers in male wistar rats. Fifty healthy rats weighing between 100 and 180g were used for this study. They were administered phenanthrene via oral gavage at 5mg and 10mg over 21days, 180mg and 900mg once. Results of the experiment showed significant increase in Superoxide dismutase, Xanthine oxidase levels and in Total antioxidant capacity. Phenanthrene increased oxidative stress, in male wistar rats.
Mrs Swetha, Mubashira, Nasheeda, Navya, Prof. Shine Thomas, Shameem, Shanib
This one-group pretest-posttest experimental study assessed knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding universal precautions among hospital attenders at KMCT Medical College Hospital, Kozhikode, and measured the impact of a structured teaching program. ¬¬Using convenience sampling, 55 attenders completed structured questionnaires, Likert scales, and opinionnaires before and after the intervention. Pretest results showed low knowledge in 14.54%, moderate in 47.27%, good in 36.36%, and excellent in 1.81%; posttest improved to excellent knowledge in 49.09% and good in 36.36%. Attitudes shifted from low awareness (1.81% pretest) to high (61.86% posttest). Practices were already high pretest (98.1%) and reached 100% posttest. Significant improvements in knowledge and attitudes were observed, with a statistically significant association between knowledge levels and gender.
Annie Penda, Astridah Musonda, Biggie Shanzuwa, Charles Cheelo, Kasonde Mundende, Oliver Magasu
This study examines the effectiveness of guidance and counselling (G&C) services for students with disabilities enrolled in Open and Distance Learning (ODL) programmes in Zambia. Anchored in Humanistic Theory, the objectives were to: (i) explore strategies employed by three universities in supporting ODL students with special educational needs (SEN); (ii) identify challenges faced in providing G&C services; and (iii) propose measures to enhance effectiveness. A qualitative, descriptive design was adopted. Data were collected through structured interviews and focus group discussions with 15 participants, including lecturers, students, administrators, interpreters, and a counsellor. Thematic analysis was applied to ensure methodological rigor, supported by triangulation and member checking. Findings reveal that while some assistive technologies (e.g., screen readers, audio lessons, sign language videos, remote counselling, and peer mentorship) were available, their provision was inconsistent and insufficient. Institutions lacked trained counsellors, adequate adaptive technologies, and permanent support staff. Students reported stigma, discrimination, and difficulties accessing learning materials, underscoring systemic gaps in inclusivity.
Dr Ahmed Abebe, Dr Mesay Mekonnen, Dr Seyfe Bekele
Majority of percutaneous drainage are done for the purpose of draining an obstructed upper system be it sterile or septic obstruction. The procedure might be done for the obstruction caused by either a benign or malignant condition. Most of patients who undergo this procedure are its mainly done as a permanent and is part of palliative care given for them. As an objective of this study, we are going to explore the safety and efficacy of our procedures done to alleviate the renal upper system obstruction in a wide variety of causes.(1)
Aina, Olajide Funmi, Daniel Aniekan Aloysius PhD, Felicia I. Obomanu
This study examines the effects of emojis on paralanguage in social media communication among students in federal Polytechnics in South-South, Nigeria. With the rapid growth of digital interaction, emojis have become an essential element of online discourse, functioning as non-verbal cues that supplement written language. Five research questions and hypotheses were formulated to guide the study. This research used the Socio-Semiotic Perspective theory. This is an appropriate theoretical framework for this study because it comprehensively addresses the social and cultural dimensions of communication, crucial for understanding how meaning is constructed and negotiated through various semiotic resources, including emojis. Survey research design was used in the study. The area of the study was South-South, Nigeria. The study population was 10,788 ND 2 students from four federal Polytechnics in South-South, Nigeria out of which 381 was sampled using Krejcie and Morgan population and sample frame. A structured questionnaire known as “effects of emojis on paralanguage in social media communication among students Questionnaire (EEPSMCSQ)” was used in collecting data for the study. A pilot test was conducted using 30 students from a federal Polytechnic outside the main study area. The data generated was analyzed using dependent t-test analysis to answer the research questions and test the null hypotheses at 0.05 level of significance. The result showed that emoji usage significantly affects paralanguage in social media communication. It revealed that emojis enhance message interpretation while excessive use negatively impacts grammatical accuracy, vocabulary development, and formal writing proficiency. The study concluded that while emojis improve clarity and emotional expression in informal contexts, their misuse can lead to misunderstandings and the transfer of informal habits into academic writing. It recommended among others that students should be educated on the appropriate use of emojis in informal as well as formal contexts.
Chibuogwu, Dupe Ejabena PhD, Diri, Darapu Tumini, Nwosu, Emmanuel Ehikioya
Financial accountability is critical in higher institutions due to the significant funds they manage from government subventions, tuition fees, and internally generated revenues. This study examined the effects of external audit on financial accountability in higher institutions in Akwa Ibom State. Using a descriptive survey design, data were collected from 117 finance officers, audit committee members, and external auditors across universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education, employing census sampling. Structured questionnaires and interviews were used, and data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and regression analysis at 0.05 significance level. Findings revealed that external audit significantly improves transparency, compliance with financial regulations, detection and prevention of irregularities, and implementation of audit recommendations. The study concludes that external audits are vital for enhancing financial accountability, and timely implementation of recommendations is essential. Recommendations include strengthening audit implementation, enhancing auditor independence, and providing capacity building for finance personnel.
Dr. G. Sunil Kumar, Dr. V. Govindu
Dynastic (Varasatva) politics remains a defining feature of Andhra Pradesh’s political system, particularly within the Telugu Desam Party and the YSR Congress Party. National studies show that nearly 25– 30% of legislators in India come from political families, and Andhra Pradesh reflects similar patterns at the Assembly and parliamentary levels. Since the 2014 bifurcation, the state has faced revenue deficits exceeding ₹20,000 crore annually and unemployment concerns despite welfare expansion. This study argues that reducing dynastic dominance can strengthen internal party democracy, improve accountability, and promote sustainable development through merit-based leadership and transparent governance.
Mr. Shameek Chatterjee, Prof. (Dr.) Shree Raman Dubey
Adventure and adrenaline tourism has emerged as one of the fastest-growing segments of global travel, driven by tourists seeking thrill, challenge, and immersive experiences. Jharkhand, a state in eastern India, remains largely underexplored despite its rugged terrain, waterfalls, dense forests, and tribal heritage that provide immense potential for adrenaline-based tourism activities such as trekking, rock climbing, rappelling, rafting, paragliding, and wildlife safaris. Jharkhand, though boasts immense tourism potential with its rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and historical significance ; the promising area of Adrenaline Tourism in Jharkhand, is often overshadowed by more prominent Indian destinations, remains a hidden gem with immense untapped potential. Jharkhand’s tourism sector remains underdeveloped despite its vast potential, lacking infrastructure and awareness. By examining the state’s rich cultural heritage, natural landscapes, and tribal traditions, the study highlights potential opportunities for leveraging digital platforms, smart technologies, and start-up ecosystems to enhance visibility, accessibility, and visitor engagement This paper explores how digital innovation and entrepreneurship can redefine adrenaline tourism management in Jharkhand, positioning the state as a competitive and sustainable destination. Today, energetic Youths are more inclined towards physical activities and curious to explore the possibilities of engagement in adventure tourism. Thus by integrating smart technologies, digital platforms, and entrepreneurial ecosystems, Jharkhand can enhance visibility, accessibility, and visitor engagement. The present case studies of Ranchi, Netarhat, and Betla National Park illustrate practical applications of promising adrenaline tourism. A conceptual framework linking digital entrepreneurship with sustainable adrenaline tourism development is proposed, aligning Jharkhand’s growth with India’s broader vision of innovation-driven sustainable development.
Dr.P.Balamurugan, Santhi.S
The success of any organization depends on appropriate use of human assets available in the organization. All other assets could only be supplementary to human assets. Towards augmenting the human resources and to cope with changes – both internal and external, the organization has to concentrate necessarily on developing the ability, wisdom and skills of its workforce. For the development of human asset, ‘training’ becomes the base. As quoted by Chidambaram and Ramachandran Amutha [2012] Training is a tool to attain individual, organizational needs related to the jobs undertaken and is also intended to improve the work culture of the group involved in a group task. An ideal training programme can be expected to change the attitude, skills and develop forward vision of the participants towards the task. This paper summarizes the results of the literature review on the effectiveness of training programmes of employees from Banking sector.
Akanksha Yadav, Minni
The food security of women is contingent upon their economic status, education levels, health, and their position within the family and society and these factors are closely linked to a woman's own nutritional status. In this paper we try to analyze how the consumption of certain food items by women is affected by various socio economics factors using the NFHS 5 dataset. It has been found that mobility, decision making power, financial autonomy, higher education, wealthier households and employment have a positive impact on the consumption of food items.
Dr. Tina Allen-Abulhassan
This qualitative study explores the academic barriers and frustrations faced by English Language Learners (ELLs) as they transition into Western higher education. Using a basic qualitative research design, data were collected from eighteen adult ELLs enrolled in ESL programs at three adult learning centers and community colleges in Indiana, United States. Participants shared perceptions of challenges encountered prior to and during their higher education experiences. Findings revealed persistent language-related barriers, including pronunciation difficulties, limited vocabulary, grammatical challenges, low confidence, inadequate instructional environments, limited opportunities for practice, and insufficient learning materials. The study also identified systemic shortcomings in English instruction within non-English-speaking countries that negatively affect long-term academic success. Additionally, challenges faced by non-native English-speaking instructors, such as instructional anxiety and reduced effectiveness, were noted. The findings highlight a gap in the literature regarding effective instructional strategies and materials to mitigate these barriers. Implications underscore the need for equitable resources, qualified instruction, and supportive learning environments to promote academic success for adult ELLs in higher education.
James Stephen Meka, Jayasree Pinajala, Nitalaksheswara Rao Kolukula, Pavan Satish Chandaka, Pavani Devi M
Improving antibody-antigen interactions is critical for therapeutic antibody development. The artificial intelligence-powered method improves binding affinity and specificity by leveraging deep learning and structural bioinformatics. Despite these advances, significant hurdles remain, including the difficulty of simulating dynamic interactions under physiological settings, the scarcity of data for uncommon antigens, and the computational demands of structural predictions. To address these issues, this paper combines Variational Auto Encoders (VAE), transformers, and graph-based models into a single pipeline, resulting in enhanced structure prediction and binding affinity estimation on benchmark datasets. Specifically, transformer-based models such as Alphafold and RoseTTAFold are employed to predict antibody structures, focusing particularly on variable regions like the CDR-H3 loop, while Graph Neural Networks (GNN) and Graph Transformer Networks (GTN) are used to model complex binding interfaces. The proposed method achieves the RMSE of 0.15 and MAE of 0.10, indicating the low error rate. These findings demonstrate the system potential to produce structurally stable, high-affinity antibodies while also greatly speeding up rational therapeutic antibody design
Col Jeeva George, Dr Laxmipriya Parida, Lt Col Blaize Johny
Maternal perception of fetal movement is recognized as an important indicator of fetal well-being1.Passive, unstimulated fetal activity begins as early as the seventh week of gestation and becomes progressively more coordinated and purposeful toward the end of pregnancy2. Most pregnant women perceive fetal movements between 18 and 20 weeks of gestation, although multiparous women may detect them as early as 16 weeks3. Initially, these movements are faint and may be mistaken for intestinal activity, but as neuromuscular development continues, the movements become stronger, more rhythmic, and sustained2 . Fetal movements are broadly categorized as generalized and small movements. Generalized movements, such as stretching, kicking, and rollovers, are typically perceived by the mother4 .Small movements, including gripping, non-nutritive sucking, tongue protrusion, finger and toe flexion, and fetal breathing movements, are not usually perceived5 . The frequency and strength of perceived fetal activity in late gestation largely reflect the vigor of generalized body movements involving the trunk and lower limbs2 .In response to adverse intrauterine conditions, the fetus exhibits physiological adaptations aimed at conserving energy.6 These include redistribution of blood flow away from non-vital organs, often resulting in a reduction in overall body movement.6 Decreased fetal movements (DFM) may therefore signal chronic placental insufficiency and fetal growth restriction.7 DFM has also been associated with congenital anomalies, chromosomal disorders, intrauterine infections, hypoglycemia, oligohydramnios, neurodevelopmental impairment, threatened preterm labor, umbilical cord complications, emergency delivery, induction of labor, cesarean birth, stillbirth, and neonatal death.7,8 In many cases of intrauterine fetal demise, a reduction or cessation of movement is reported several days beforehand, supporting the concept that fetal movement monitoring may help detect early deterioration.1,9Fetal movement monitoring functions as an indirect assessment of central nervous system integrity.5 The increasing coordination of fetal body movements reflects neurological maturation similar to that observed in preterm infants.2Monitoring is particularly valuable in cases of prolonged placental insufficiency.6 A sudden reduction in movement is considered a clinically significant finding and has therefore been proposed as a simple screening tool for fetal compromise.1 Conversely, the presence of vigorous movements is generally reassuring.1 When perceived fetal activity decreases, further evaluation of underlying maternal or fetal complications is warranted, typically through fetal heart rate monitoring or ultrasonography.8 Women presenting with DFM face an increased risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes.7 The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommend maternal fetal movement counting (“kick counting”) as an effective and non-invasive method for monitoring fetal well-being.10 However, awareness and practice of kick counting among expectant mothers remains suboptimal.4 Growing evidence suggests that maternal education on fetal movement monitoring may help reduce adverse outcomes, including stillbirth.3,9Kick counting allows women to recognize their baby’s usual movement pattern and detect deviations early.10 Although not all stillbirths are preventable, research indicates that many cases are preceded by warning signs such as decreased fetal activity, offering a potential opportunity for timely medical intervention.7,8 This study aims to assess the knowledge and practice of fetal movement monitoring among antenatal women attending the antenatal OPD.
Florante D. Poso, Jr., MCE, Ph. D, Kenneth Bryan M. Tana
This study investigates the current state of industry-academia research collaboration within the Philippine civil engineering management sector, emphasizing its significance to engineering management practices. Recognizing the essential role such partnerships play in fostering innovation, addressing industry challenges, and improving operational efficiencies, the research explores the key barriers and opportunities for strengthening these collaborations. An online survey was administered to civil engineers from both academia and industry to gather insights into their experiences, perspectives, and perceived challenges regarding joint research activities. The findings reveal that limited time, resources, and a lack of clear research incentives within the industry are substantial impediments to active participation. Institutional misalignment, administrative bottlenecks, and funding constraints further hinder sustained collaboration. Despite these challenges, the study identifies a shared interest among professionals in fostering strategic partnerships, particularly in areas critical to engineering management, such as construction project management, infrastructure sustainability, and technological innovation. The research highlights the need for proactive strategies to bridge the gap between academic research and industry practice. Recommendations include establishing structured engagement platforms, incentivizing collaborative initiatives, and aligning academic outputs with industry needs. This study contributes valuable insights into the field of engineering management by exploring how industry-academia collaboration can improve decision-making processes, resource allocation, and project management within the civil engineering sector. It provides practical recommendations for policymakers, academic leaders, and industry stakeholders, aiming to enhance professional development and the impact of civil engineering practices in the Philippine context.
Rupesh Kumar Verma
Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) in STEM fields continue to face low engagement and completion rates, often below 15% in open/free formats despite platform growth and innovations. This study examines the integration of interactive 3D simulations built with Unreal Engine and Unity into STEM MOOCs to boost learner engagement and retention. A prototype virtual physics laboratory was developed using Unreal Engine and Unity, incorporating real-time physics, Niagara visual effects, Blueprint scripting, and features for experiments such as projectile motion and circuit simulations. The module was deployed in a Coursera-style MOOC platform with 248 participants (control group: traditional video lectures, n=124; experimental group: 3D interactive group, n=124). Quantitative results indicated a 42% increase in average module completion rate (from 38% to 80%) and a 31% improvement in post-test scores in the experimental group. Engagement metrics (time-on-task, interaction logs) increased by 57%. Qualitative feedback emphasized enhanced immersion and reduced cognitive load. Findings demonstrate that game engines like Unreal Engine and Unity provide scalable, cost-effective tools for experiential learning in online STEM education. Limitations include device compatibility, bandwidth demands, and lack of long-term retention data. Future directions should prioritize long-term follow-up studies, optimization/cloud-based streaming for accessibility, multi-user VR/AR extensions, cost-benefit analyses, and broader demographic sampling.
Dr. A. Maheswari, Manju Joshna Ebilin K, Renuka B
Financial performance analysis plays an important role in evaluating the operational efficiency and profitability of a business concern. The survival and growth of a business depend on its ability to generate profits and maintain financial stability. The present study analyses the financial performance of Kaveri Garments, a sole proprietorship textile unit located in Tirupur, Tamil Nadu. The study covers a period of selected financial years and uses ratio analysis as a primary tool. Key ratios such as Gross Profit Ratio, Net Profit Ratio, Operating Profit Ratio, Working Capital Turnover Ratio, Current Ratio, and Absolute Liquid Ratio are applied to evaluate profitability, liquidity, and efficiency. The study helps in understanding the financial strength and weaknesses of the company and provides suitable suggestions for improvement. Furthermore, this study incorporates primary data through hypothesis testing to gauge employee perception of the company's working capital management.
Dr. Yasin Kuso Ghabon, Musobo Job Ngeywo
This study evaluated the impact of e-government platforms on public service delivery in Kenya, with a particular focus on how digital systems influence the efficiency, transparency, accessibility, and responsiveness of public institutions. It examined the extent to which platforms such as eCitizen, IFMIS, iTax, and Huduma services enhance the capacity of government agencies to deliver services effectively to citizens. The research explored existing e-government mechanisms, institutional and technical challenges, and perceived service delivery outcomes, offering insights into the broader implications of digital governance for accountability, public trust, and social equity. The study adopted a descriptive research design and targeted institutional actors directly involved in the implementation and use of e-government platforms, including officials from national ministries, county governments, ICT departments, and service delivery agencies. The target population comprised 600 stakeholders, from which a sample size of 234 respondents was determined using Krejcie and Morgan’s formula, alongside 30 purposively selected key informants. A mixed-methods approach was employed, utilizing structured questionnaires to collect quantitative data and Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) to gather qualitative insights. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical techniques, while qualitative data were subjected to thematic analysis and presented narratively to complement the quantitative findings. The findings revealed that e-government platforms have significantly improved public service delivery in Kenya by reducing bureaucratic delays, minimizing opportunities for rent-seeking, enhancing service accessibility, and increasing transparency in government operations. However, the effectiveness of these platforms is constrained by challenges such as inadequate ICT infrastructure, digital exclusion of marginalized populations, limited technical capacity among public servants, resistance to organizational change, and intermittent system failures. Public perceptions indicated that while e-government has enhanced efficiency and convenience, persistent gaps in inclusivity and system reliability undermine its full potential. The study recommends increased investment in ICT infrastructure, particularly in rural and underserved areas, to bridge the digital divide and ensure equitable access to e-government services. Capacity-building programs should be strengthened to enhance digital literacy among public servants and citizens. The government should also improve system integration across agencies to reduce duplication and enhance service interoperability. Additionally, robust data protection frameworks and cybersecurity measures must be reinforced to safeguard user information and build public confidence. Finally, a continuous monitoring and evaluation framework should be institutionalized to assess the performance and impact of e-government platforms, enabling evidence-based improvements in public service delivery.
Isimah P.E, Oladele G.M, Oladele G.O, Tetteh M.B
The synthetic drugs in use for the treatment of inflammation and pains often comes with side effects and high costs, this has led to the increased interest in exploring natural remedies from the plants. Syzygium aromaticum is one of the widely used medicinal plants for its pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties and the plant was extracted in distilled water using cool maceration method. Three different models; Acetic acid-induced writhing test, Hot plate reaction test, and Tail flick test were used to evaluate the analgesic effects where doses of 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg of the aqueous extract of the plant were administered orally to three groups of mice for each model, while anti-inflammatory effect was evaluated using egg albumin-induced paw edema method in rats in which 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg were also administered orally to three groups of rats. Indomethacin and distilled water were used in both analgesic and anti-inflammatory evaluations as positive and negative controls respectively. The three models were used for analgesic action in order to evaluate the effects of the plant on both deep and peripheral pains. The results showed that the aqueous extract of the plant significantly (p<0.05) reduced inflammation and pain in dose-dependent manner when compared with control group. The extract also increased the pain reaction time in rats, indicating both central and peripheral analgesic actions, and these confirms the traditional used of the plant in the treatment of pain and inflammation related health problems.
Blessing Ben-Anioke, Chinwe Ejike, Collins Uchechukwu Obi, Ifeoma Joy Onuora, Ijeoma Nnenna Agbiogwu, Ikechukwu Vincent Obi, Ikemba Blessing Amarachukwu, Ogochukwu Chinwe Ugwunna
Breast cancer is the most common malignancy among women worldwide, and despite advances in detection and treatment, there is an ongoing need for reliable biomarkers that can aid in early diagnosis, prognosis, and monitoring of treatment response. C-peptide have been proposed as potential biomarkers in breast cancer. There is a scarce information on the relationship between C-peptide with cancer progression and prognosis and none of this information are related to Nigeria or any race in the country, Nigeria. This study aims to evaluate the levels of C-peptide in patients with breast cancer. The specific objectives were to assess and correlate the results obtained from C-peptide among breast cancer patients and healthy volunteer control individuals and their anthropometric measurement in Nnewi-North, Anambra state. Approvals for ethical consideration were obtained from the Ethical Committee of Ministry of Health, Anambra State of Nigeria. The study was carefully explained to the subjects and their informed consent obtained before they were recruited into the study. Including: Forty-five (45) breast cancer patients and forty-five (45) apparently healthy control individuals. The samples in the plain sample containers were spun for 10 minutes at 3000 revolutions per minute (RPM) and separated. Serum C-peptide was estimated using the sandwich ELISA Method. The outcomes of this study were statistically evaluated using SPSS software version 23.0, which is a statistical tool for social sciences. The result revealed that no significant difference was observed in the level of C-peptide (1.40±1.67 ng/mL) of the women with breast cancer from that of the control group (1.54±1.36 ng/mL) and (0.58±1.56ng/mL) respectively. No significant difference (p>0.05) in the serum C-peptide level between the age group. No significant correlation (p>0.05) between C-peptide level in the test and the control group and the anthropometric parameter. This study recommends that further research should be carried out to determine whether C-peptide have subtype-specific prognostic value in breast cancer and to explore other metabolic pathways that may influence disease progression.
Abdoul Salam DIARRA, Abou SOGODOGO, Borodjan DIARRA, Cheick Abou COULIBALY, Hamadoun SANGHO, Mamadou TOURE, Oumar SANGHO
Background: Vaccination is an essential public health intervention for reducing infant morbidity and mortality. The quality of service is crucial for the effectiveness of vaccination programs. This study evaluated the quality of services provided by the Expanded Program on Immunization (EPI) at the Banconi University Community Health Center (CSCOM-U) in Bamako in 2025. Methodology: This was a cross-sectional study conducted from January 2024 to March 2025 at the Banconi Community Health Center (CSCOM-U). The study population included 586 parents/guardians of children under one year old and 6 healthcare workers. Data were collected through questionnaires, individual interviews, document reviews, and observation grids, and then analyzed using SPSS version 25.0. The quality of the Expanded Program on Immunization (EPI) services was assessed using service ratings of good, average, and poor, with scores > 80%, 60-80%, and < 60%, respectively. Results: The majority of vaccinated children were one day old (32.4%), with a predominance of males (56%). Parental satisfaction was high in several aspects: ease of appointment scheduling (87.03%), reception (92.83%), clarity of information (99.5%), staff availability (99.3%), cleanliness of the unit (99%), comfort of the facilities (99.8%), and staff competence (99.8%). However, stockouts (BCG and polio) were noted (25%), indicating average quality in this respect. All functional requirements were met. Conclusion: This study highlights an overall satisfactory quality of PEV at CSCOM-U Banconi, stock shortage represents a major challenge requiring special attention.
Abingwa John Patrick, John Ssekabira, Nasser Kakembo, Onyai Patrick, Owori Francis
Introduction Omphalocele is a congenital midline abdominal wall defect resulting from failure of normal embryological development, characterized by herniation of abdominal viscera into a membranous sac [1,2]. The condition is frequently associated with other congenital anomalies and syndromes, which significantly influence neonatal outcomes, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) where diagnostic and treatment resources are limited [3]. Objective This study aimed to determine the prevalence and characterize congenital anomalies associated with omphalocele among neonates managed at Mulago National Referral Hospital (MNRH), Uganda. Methods A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted over eight months among neonates aged ≤28 days diagnosed with omphalocele at MNRH. Thirty-three neonates were consecutively enrolled after obtaining parental informed consent. All participants underwent detailed clinical evaluation, abdominal ultrasonography, babygram radiography, echocardiography, and random blood sugar testing. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analysed using SPSS version 20. Results The prevalence of omphalocele among neonates at MNRH was 0.1%. The male-to-female ratio was 1.1:1, and the median age at diagnosis was 4 days. Seventy-six percent of neonates were delivered at term, and approximately two-thirds had a birth weight above 2.7 kg. Beckwith–Wiedemann syndrome was the most common associated condition (33%), followed by pentalogy of Cantrell (3%). Cardiac anomalies were identified in 9% of cases, while musculoskeletal anomalies were present in 12%. Conclusion Omphalocele, though rare, is commonly associated with additional congenital anomalies, with Beckwith– Wiedemann syndrome being the most frequent. Comprehensive neonatal evaluation is essential for early identification of associated defects and optimal management.
K.I Malalgoda, K.M.S Weerasinghe
The germplasm conservation gardens at university has a potentiality to facilitate experiential learning, environmental stewardship, and the conservation of biodiversity, and thus aid in the achievement of several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in the areas of Quality Education (SDG 4), Climate Action (SDG 13), and Life on Land (SDG 15). This study utilized a qualitative method to value the educational, conservation, and sociocultural aspects of the Guava Germplasm Conservation Garden at the University of Sri Jayewardenepura in Sri Lanka. Stakeholders, who comprised 90 of the undergraduates and post-graduate students and academic and landscaping management staff, were interviewed through a variety of data collection techniques, which included semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions, and field observations. This data collection was carried out until thematic saturation was achieved, and thematic analyses were conducted and then coded through the NVivo software, which also facilitated the coding triangulation. Five primary themes emerged: (1) conservation of plant genetic diversity, (2) experiential and place-based learning, (3) guava's cultural and nutritional value, (4) stewardship and environmental responsibility, and (5) the garden's future challenges and opportunities. These findings point to the garden being a ‘living laboratory’ which augments learning, and promotes awareness of conservation and socio-cultural engagement. The study, however, also details the inadequate infrastructure and bureaucratic constraints that hinder the optimal use of the garden. Other suggestions are the incorporation of the garden into more curricula, enhancing interpretive infrastructure, and broadening community engagement for maximizing impacts related to the SDGs. This study illustrates the diverse possibilities of university germplasm gardens functioning as integrated sustainability hubs.
Aji Sofyan Effendy, Muhammad Saleh Mire
This study aims to determine and assess the effects of government and private foreign debt, education, credit, and inflation on economic growth, poverty, and saving ability, using panel data from 34 provinces in Indonesia during 2017-2023. The results, using a path analysis model, indicate that an increase in private foreign debt (PFD) leads to increased economic growth; in other words, a higher PFD leads to higher economic growth. Meanwhile, for government foreign debt (GFD), the opposite occurs; in other words, a higher GFD leads to higher economic growth. Furthermore, education leads to a decrease in poverty but has a positive impact on saving ability. Furthermore, credit has no effect on economic growth or poverty but has a significant positive impact on saving ability inflation has no effect on either poverty or savings.
A Abhilasha, M Aswitha, Ms. M. Sri Soundharyaa, MCA., M.Phil., (Ph. D), S Dharani, S Sam Wesley
Artificial intelligence (AI) has transformed many aspects of modern life and continues to do so at an accelerating pace. AI is being deployed across diverse sectors including autonomous driving, healthcare, media, finance, industrial robotics, and online services. While this broad integration into the economy and society has improved efficiency and generated substantial benefits, it has also altered social structures and raised significant ethical concerns. Issues such as privacy breaches, algorithmic discrimination, workforce displacement, and security risks associated with AI systems have become matters of public, organisational, and governmental concern. Accordingly, AI ethics—the study of the ethical issues surrounding AI—has emerged as a critical research area. This article provides a systematic overview of the field by summarising and analysing the ethical risks and issues raised by AI, reviewing ethical guidelines and principles published by major organisations, examining approaches to address these issues, and discussing methods to evaluate the ethics of AI systems. Additionally, the article discusses challenges in implementing ethics in AI and outlines future research perspectives. This work aims to offer a clear, accessible overview of AI ethics for researchers, practitioners, and newcomers to the field.
P.G. Dilini Kanchana Kumarihamy
Stress is a significant contributor to declining mental and physical health, necessitating reliable and non-intrusive methods for early detection and continuous monitoring. This study proposes a deep learning–based framework for automated stress detection using facial expression and gesture recognition. Unlike traditional stress assessment methods that rely on self-reported surveys or physiological sensors, the proposed approach leverages visual behavioral cues to enable real-time, contactless monitoring. The system integrates a Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) for spatial feature extraction from facial images and a Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) network for modeling temporal dependencies in gesture sequences. Benchmark facial expression and gesture datasets were utilized for training and validation. Data preprocessing included normalization, augmentation, and structured dataset splitting to enhance model generalization. Performance evaluation was conducted using accuracy, precision, recall, F1-score, and root mean squared error (RMSE). Experimental results indicate that the proposed CNN–LSTM architecture effectively captures subtle stress-related patterns in visual data, demonstrating strong classification performance. The findings support the feasibility of visual-based stress detection as a scalable and non-invasive alternative to physiological monitoring systems. While limitations remain regarding dataset diversity and real-world variability, the study establishes a foundation for future multimodal and real-time stress detection systems applicable in healthcare, workplace monitoring, and human–computer interaction contexts.
Nguyen Thi Tuyet
In the context of Generation Z is increasingly accounting for a larger proportion of the workforce in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Hanoi, enhancing employee engagement has become a critical concern for managers. This study aims to examine the factors influencing employee engagement among Generation Z employees within SME settings. Data were collected from 259 valid survey responses and analyzed using Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) linear regression. The findings indicate that six factors—supportive leadership, career development opportunities, a positive working environment, recognition and rewards, person–organization value fit, and work–life balance—have significant positive effects on employee engagement. Based on these results, several managerial implications are proposed to enhance engagement levels and retain young talent in small and medium-sized enterprises.
G.K Carolin, R. Vijayatheepan
Information and Communication Technology (ICT) plays a highly significant role in today’s technological world. Accordingly, through successive educational reforms implemented in Sri Lanka, ICT has been introduced and implemented as a school subject. As one of the optional subjects offered in Grade 10, various factors influence students’ selection of ICT. In recent years, the selection rate of ICT has been observed to be very low among Tamil-medium provincial schools in the Colombo South Education Zone. Against this background, the present study was conducted with the objective of identifying the factors influencing students’ selection of ICT. This study followed a descriptive survey design and adopted a mixed-method approach. The study population consisted of 200 senior secondary students studying in four selected schools, and data were collected from all of them. In addition, four principals, four deputy principals, seven subject teachers, and twenty parents were selected as the sample. Quantitative data collected through questionnaires were analyzed using descriptive statistical methods, while qualitative data obtained through interviews and discussions were analyzed using thematic analysis. The findings revealed that among student-related factors influencing ICT subject selection, personal interest, the need for future career opportunities, parental guidance, prior knowledge of ICT from Grades 6–9, social recognition, proficiency in English, and understanding of ICT subject content (M = 3.5–4.5) had a very high level of influence. Among school resource-related factors, laboratory facilities (M = 3.9, SD = 0.85) had a very high level of influence. Among teacher-related factors, the suitability of teaching methods, individual attention given by the teacher, immediate correction of exercises, encouragement during learning difficulties, and preparation for examinations (M = 3.4–4.5) had a high level of influence. Among parent-related factors, parental encouragement and the provision of guidebooks (M = 3.5–4.4) had a very high level of influence. The study further suggests that providing appropriate awareness and guidance to students and parents regarding the importance of ICT in contemporary life and the world of work, as well as information about future educational pathways, can increase students’ interest in selecting the ICT subject.
Adebiyi, Y.B, Alfred, S.D.Y, Idowu, T.C, Ogunjobi, Olanrewaju Pius, Olalekan, O.M
This study assessed the perception-driven utilization of drone technology for smart farming among smallholder farmers in Ondo State, Nigeria. Specifically, the study: examined the socio-economic characteristics of arable crop farmers influencing the utilization of drone technology for smart farming in Ondo State; examined farmers’ perceptions of drone technology and; examined the factors affecting the utiliization of drone technology. Using a descriptive survey design and multi-stage sampling, primary data were collected from 120 arable crop farmers in Akure South and Ifedore LGAs. Descriptive statistics were employed. A descriptive survey design was used. Data was collected from 120 farmers selected through multi-stage sampling across Akure South and Ifedore LGAs using a structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistics (frequencies, percentages, means, and grand means) were employed. The findings revealed that most respondents were male, within the productive age group of 36–55 years, and smallholder farmers cultivating less than 2 hectares. Farmers generally had a positive perception of drones, with grand mean values above 4.00, indicating strong agreement that drones improve productivity, save time, and detect pests and diseases. However, drones were also perceived as complex. The major factors affecting adoption were high cost, lack of technical knowledge, poor internet connectivity, restrictive government regulations, and limited training opportunities. The findings contribute to policy and extension strategies for scaling precision agriculture in sub-Saharan Africa.
Chinemerem Maria-Gorretti Onwuka, Wale-Odunaiya Enitan
This study examines the financing architecture of Sustainable Development Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-Being) through the interconnected pillars of Partnerships, Investment, and Accountability, with specific attention to West Africa, using Nigeria as a case study and comparable developing economies. Despite global commitment to the 2030 Agenda, the financing gap for Universal Health Coverage (UHC) in Sub-Saharan Africa remains substantial, worsened by macroeconomic instability, currency depreciation, post–COVID-19 fiscal pressures, and, in some cases, a lack of accountability. Using a qualitative descriptive design grounded in interpretivism, the study analyses secondary data from the World Health Organisation (WHO), the World Bank, and Nigerian fiscal policy frameworks. The theoretical foundation integrates the Human Capital Framework (World Bank, 2018), the Fiscal Space for Health Framework (Barasa et al., 2018), the Health Governance Model (Brinkerhoff & Bossert, 2020), and the Health Systems Resilience Framework (Thomas et al., 2020) to examine structural constraints in health financing. Research shows that Nigeria’s reliance on Out-of-Pocket (OOP) payments—exceeding 70% of total health expenditure—continues to expose households to catastrophic costs and undermines equity objectives (World Bank, 2024; Adewole et al., 2021). While Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) and Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) offer potential pathways for infrastructure expansion, they remain constrained by exchange rate volatility, regulatory uncertainty, and political risk. The study also identifies weaknesses in domestic accountability systems, particularly in the administration of the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF) at sub-national levels (Eboreime et al., 2020). The study concludes that sustainable progress toward SDG 3 requires a shift from donor dependence to strengthened domestic resource mobilisation, mandatory social health insurance under the NHIA Act (2022), and institutionalised procurement transparency. Policy recommendations emphasise blended finance mechanisms, ring-fenced health taxes, Direct Facility Financing, and the adoption of Open Contracting Data Standards in health procurement.
Bulus Simon, Vincent Chieze Nwaokezi
This study assessed flood risk and developed climate-resilient drainage design strategies for communities in Essien Udim Local Government Area (LGA), Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. Increasing flood occurrences in the area have been linked to intensifying rainfall extremes, rapid land-use changes, and inadequately designed drainage systems. Field measurements of flood depth, drainage capacity, soil infiltration rates, elevation, and land cover characteristics were collected alongside socio-economic impact data. Rainfall records (2021–2025) were analyzed using the Mann–Kendall trend test and Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI) to determine hydro-climatic variability. Pearson correlation, multiple regression, and Principal Component Analysis (PCA) were employed to identify key flood determinants and assess community vulnerability, while hydraulic simulations were conducted to evaluate drainage performance. Results revealed significant upward trends in maximum 1-day rainfall (Z = 2.41, p = 0.016), 3-day rainfall (Z = 2.78, p = 0.005), and SPI (Z = 1.95, p = 0.049), confirming intensifying rainfall extremes. Impervious surface coverage, drainage efficiency, and elevation were identified as primary predictors of flood depth, jointly explaining 78% of observed variability. Vulnerability assessment indicated that communities such as Ekpenyong and Odoro Ikot exhibit high exposure and low adaptive capacity. Model validation statistics (NSE = 0.81, RMSE = 0.23 m, R² = 0.84) demonstrated strong predictive reliability. The study concludes that flood risk in Essien Udim LGA is driven by the interaction of climatic extremes, inadequate drainage infrastructure, land-use patterns, and socio-economic vulnerability. Climate-adjusted drainage design, green infrastructure integration, routine maintenance, and community-based adaptation are recommended to enhance long-term flood resilience.
Ajuru, C.G., Akoma, I. L, Anyanwu, H.O., Okwulehie, F.C., Ukozor, Auc., Ukwujiagu, C.U
Food technology is a multidisciplinary field that combines science, technology and engineering in the development of recipes to improve the production, processing of safe and quality food product. This study developed a ready-to-use complementary food using locally available food items (Soya bean, Dates (dabino) Yeast powder, Moringa seed and Maize (corn). The study adopted experimental design to generate three samples coded as sample A, B and C. The nutrient, anti nutrient, and organoleptic properties of the samples were determined. The data obtained from the study was subjected to one way analysis of variance (ANOVA). Fisher’s least significant difference (LSD) was employed to separate the means and difference accepted at 5% level of probability. The results show that the highest protein content was obtained in sample A which had the highest addition of yeast cells (10g). The carbohydrate in the samples was within the limit for infants for purpose of accurate assessment of nutritional status of 60g/day, 95g/day for 0-6months and 7-12months. The samples were high in calcium, iron, magnesium and potassium but low in Zinc. Based on the findings, recipe of complementary food with these local food items can improve the family food security and infant’s nutritional status.
Ezire Onoriode, Mercy Itohan Aboh, Obi Peter Adigwe, Okefu Oyale Okoko, Oluwatoyin Basirat Karimu
Introduction: To catalyse local manufacturing and reduce costs, Nigeria’s Zero-Tariff Executive Order for critical pharmaceutical inputs was promulgated as a strategic instrument to advance national medicines’ security. Whilst the policy is strategically positioned to deliver transformative benefits, empirical evidence on its early implementation and stakeholder experiences remains scarce. This study provides context specific insights into stakeholder awareness, experiences, and systemic constraints, offering evidence-based recommendations to ensure the policy delivers its intended national impact. Methods: A qualitative design was employed to elicit in-depth insights from selected stakeholders within pharma companies identified to benefit from the initiative. Semi-structured interviews explored critical thematic areas. The study cohort comprised industry representatives and other relevant experts in the manufacturing industry. Data were transcribed verbatim and analysed thematically to yield overarching themes and sub-themes, with trustworthiness ensured through triangulation and CASP checklist application. Results: The analysis revealed widespread awareness of the Order but highlighted the need for robust communication for experts who are unaware. Participants also indicated access to modest cost relief where exemptions were processed efficiently, whilst many eligible actors did not operationalise benefits. With regard to barriers, three key themes emerged from this study. These comprised regulatory and customs barriers, financial and economic pressures, and policy timeline and scope limitations. Stakeholders also put forward actionable recommendations, including extending the Order’s duration, periodically reviewing the exempted product list, harmonising HS codes, reforming customs and regulatory processes with transparent protocols, and establishing a multi-agency taskforce, among others. Conclusion: In conclusion, urgent operational reforms and supportive policy measures are required to convert policy intent into measurable gains for local manufacturing, affordability and access.
Mr. Adnane Guetarni, Mr. Rizk Guetarni
The ISO/IEC 17020 standard imposes on accredited inspection bodies (IBs) two distinct but complementary levels of evaluation: surveillance (continuous, integrated into daily activities) and internal audit (periodic, indepth). However, their articulation remains little explored in the literature. This article addresses the following question: how does the transition from surveillance to systematic audit strengthen the control of product approval activities ? Through a three-year longitudinal study (2023-2025) conducted within BETEC Inspection, an accredited body specialized in product approval, we analyze the evolution of the evaluation system. The results show that surveillance, although essential for daily management, has limitations (partial detection of non-conformities, superficial root cause analysis). The introduction of systematic internal audits revealed undetected non-conformities, identified organizational root causes, and reduced major non-conformities by 80% over two years. The article proposes a typology of non-conformities specific to product approval, an integrated surveillanceaudit model, and an audit grid specific to product approval operations. It demonstrates that the virtuous articulation between surveillance and audit constitutes a key factor in sustaining accreditation and improving IB performance.
Dg Junaidah Awang Jambol, Mohd Firdaus bin Zakaria, Mohd Waliuddin Mohd Razali, Nur Zaimah Ubaidillah, Nurul Asyikin Hassan, Rozaiha Ab Majid
The high initial costs of sustainable efforts and the challenges in assessing long-term returns make it difficult to link profitability with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This study investigates the relationship between SDGs and profitability in Malaysian listed companies. According to the Resource Dependency Theory, companies can enhance profitability and market positioning by strategically managing external dependencies to obtain resources and support, aligning with SDGs. Such alignment will help secure essential resources and improve operational efficiency. The study analyzed data from 73 Malaysian companies during 2021-2022. SDGs data were obtained from official company websites, while other variables company size, debts, liquidity, and profitability were sourced from annual reports. Regression results indicate a negative relationship between SDGs and profitability. While SDGs like environmental and social initiatives may increase costs and reduce short-term profits, they offer long-term benefits, such as improved reputation and customer loyalty. The study recommends that companies align SDGs with their core strengths and seek government support to mitigate financial burdens. Policymakers should provide incentives, such as tax breaks and subsidies, to encourage SDGs adoption. Finally, the study emphasizes the importance of balancing profitability with sustainability to ensure long-term success and societal impact.
Chibuogwu, Dupe Ejabena PhD., Diri, Darapu Tumini, Nwosu, Eleazar Chimezie, Otoibhili Emmanuel Ehikioya
This study examines the fiscal and macroeconomic effects of fuel subsidy removal in Nigeria during the postsubsidy period (2023–2025), focusing on fiscal reallocation and economic growth. Using annual time-series data for 2023–2025 and an Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) approach, the study investigates whether fiscal savings from subsidy elimination are redirected to productive sectors and how these allocations affect economic growth. Empirical findings indicate that subsidy removal significantly improves fiscal savings and partially enhances fiscal reallocation to capital and social sector spending. Fiscal reallocation positively influences economic growth, although short-term inflationary pressures and exchange rate depreciation moderate the benefits. The study concludes that fuel subsidy removal can promote sustainable growth if accompanied by effective fiscal reallocation, macroeconomic stability, and social protection policies.
Daniel A. Barawel, Nilo T. Gonzaga
This case study investigates the Civil Service Review Program at the College of Arts and Sciences, CBSUA, with a focus on evaluating the effectiveness of implemented intervention strategies in addressing program challenges and their impact on overall program outcomes. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the study utilized a researcher-developed questionnaire and document analysis of program records to collect both qualitative and quantitative data. Participants were purposively selected from students who had completed the review program and taken the Civil Service Examination, providing first-hand insights into program performance. Ethical protocols, including informed consent and confidentiality, were strictly observed. Findings indicate that while the program contributes to examinee preparation, several challenges, such as inflexible scheduling, outdated materials, unclear communication, inconsistent participant engagement, and technical limitations, impede its overall effectiveness. Evaluation of the strategies implemented to address these challenges reveals varying degrees of success in improving program outcomes, highlighting areas that require further enhancement.
Darwin G. Raralio
Structured Query Language (SQL) is a foundational skill in database management; however, many students struggle to master it due to its abstract structure and logical complexity. While gamification has been widely recognized as an effective strategy for increasing engagement and motivation, elimination-based competition often limits participation and reduces learning opportunities for students who are removed early from play. This study introduces a Point-Based SQL Survival Challenge designed to promote continuous participation while strengthening logical reasoning and query accuracy. Using a quasi-experimental design, undergraduate students were divided into control and experimental groups. The experimental group engaged in a team-based, turn-driven SQL challenge where correct queries earned points and incorrect queries resulted in penalties without eliminating participants. The system integrated roulette-based actions—SELECT, INSERT, DELETE, SAFE, and JOKER—to combine skill-based reasoning with strategic decision-making. Results indicate that students exposed to the gamified approach demonstrated significantly higher gains in SQL proficiency, engagement, and collaborative problem-solving skills compared to traditional instruction. The findings suggest that point-based competitive mechanics can balance motivation with inclusivity while reinforcing logical reasoning and practical competence. This study contributes to emerging research on gamified database education and provides insights into designing inclusive competitive learning environments.
Moushumi Pattnaik, Sujata Malik
The constitutional mandate of reservations in Panchayati Raj Institutions has significantly increased the political participation of Dalit women at the grassroots level in India. However, their numerical presence does not necessarily translate into substantive empowerment. This study examines the gendered perspectives of Dalit women representatives in Gram panchayats. Focusing on their lived experiences, roles, challenges, and agency within local governance structures. Using a gender and intersectionality framework, the research explores how caste and gender jointly shape Dalit women’s political participation and decision-making processes. This paper adopts a gender-sensitive framework to analyse how patriarchal norms, caste-hierarchies, and socio-economic marginalisation limit Dalit women’s effective participation. The experience of Dalit women in local governance is characterized by a constant struggle against a system designed to keep them on the periphery of decision-making, where they must navigate both patriarchy within their community and upper-caste domination in the political sphere. Dalit women face a unique compounded oppression being Women, Dalits and Generally poor. Although, Dalit women are elected as placeholders for their husbands or dominant caste members with roughly 85% of elected positions being effectively controlled by others. In meetings they are often not taken seriously with their issues rarely discussed approved or implemented particularly when challenging existing power structures. Elected Dalit women frequently experience verbal, physical, and caste-based violence including threats, harassment, and even assassination attempts when asserting their authority. While, the 73rd Amendment provided a reservation 33.3% but it has not automatically translated into empowerment due to deeply entrenched patriarchal and caste-based norms that marginalize them. Despite these some Dalit women are overcoming barriers through previous social activism or support although they remain a minority.
Dr. Ephraim K. Belemu, Niza Kangwa
Zambia’s private higher education expansion has catalysed unprecedented shifts in leadership structures, with younger individuals increasingly assuming roles traditionally associated with seniority and elderhood. This conceptual paper develops an integrated analytical framework for examining how generational identity, cultural expectations, and leadership behaviours intersect to shape perceptions of authority legitimacy and leadership effectiveness in private universities. Grounding the analysis in Social Identity Theory, Generational Cohort Theory, Cultural Dimensions Theory, Role Theory, and Emotional Intelligence frameworks—and enriching these with African philosophical perspectives including Ubuntu—the study proposes a unified conceptual model explicating age-leadership perception dynamics among academic and administrative staff. The framework positions manager age as the independent variable, perceived authority and leadership effectiveness as dual dependent variables, with emotional intelligence mediating these relationships while employee generational cohort and leadership style moderate them. Unlike existing Western-centric leadership models, the framework explicitly theorises age as a culturally embedded construct carrying symbolic authority value within high power-distance African societies. A qualitative multiple case study design across ten Lusaka-based private universities is proposed, employing purposive and maximum variation sampling for semi-structured interviews capturing diverse generational perspectives. Thematic analysis following Braun and Clarke’s (2006) framework will be complemented by rigorous trustworthiness measures including member checking, peer debriefing, and thick description. This research addresses a critical gap in African leadership scholarship by contextualising generational dynamics within Zambia’s cultural setting where age traditionally equates with wisdom and decision-making authority. The study’s contributions span four dimensions: theoretically, it advances a context-specific model integrating emotional intelligence as a mediating mechanism; methodologically, it demonstrates rigorous multiple case study application in African higher education research; contextually, it enriches African scholarship by centring indigenous philosophical perspectives; and practically, it offers evidence-based recommendations for leadership development, cross-generational collaboration, and inclusive governance in rapidly evolving private higher education institutions.
Adamu Ishaku Akyala, Agwu Enoch Ojenya, Akomolafe Busayo Kayode, Amos Dangana, Chinwe Ndidi Ugwu, Deborah Effiong, Emmanuel Sunday Badung, Helen Daniel Nanbol, Mangpin Leviticus Dansura, Mary Dooshima Indyeriyo-Kaan, Nanpon Miri, Zacchaeus Adeniran Adejuyigbe
Molecular characterization of influenza viruses is critical for understanding viral evolution, informing vaccine strain selection, and strengthening epidemic and pandemic preparedness). In Nigeria, influenza surveillance is conducted through national and global networks; however, molecular data specific to Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory, remain fragmented and under-synthesized. This scoping review aimed to map and summarize available evidence on the molecular characteristics of influenza viruses circulating in Abuja, Nigeria. A scoping review was conducted in accordance with the Arksey and O’Malley framework and the PRISMA-ScR guidelines. Peer-reviewed articles, national surveillance reports, and genomic databases published between January 2009 and January 2025 were searched across PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, African Journals Online, World Health Organization repositories, and the GISAID EpiFlu™ database. Studies reporting molecular or genetic analyses of influenza viruses from Abuja or national datasets that included Abuja were eligible for inclusion. Available evidence indicates the co-circulation of influenza A(H1N1)pdm09, influenza A(H3N2), and influenza B viruses in Abuja Molecular analyses demonstrate ongoing genetic drift in hemagglutinin and neuraminidase genes, with Abuja-derived viruses clustering phylogenetically with contemporaneous global strains, suggesting repeated viral introductions rather than sustained local evolution. Although current data indicate continued susceptibility to neuraminidase inhibitors, routine antiviral resistance monitoring and whole-genome sequencing specific to Abuja remain limited. In conclusion, influenza viruses circulating in Abuja exhibit genetic diversity consistent with global transmission dynamics. However, Abuja-specific molecular data are sparse, underscoring the need for expanded genomic surveillance and localized reporting to support evidence-based public health decision-making, vaccine policy, and pandemic preparedness in Nigeria.
Naman Soni, Pankaj Upadhyay, Priyanshu Pandey
Nutritional deficiency and lifestyle diseases such as diabetes and obesity are major public health challenges in India, compounded by the absence of dietary tools tailored to Indian food culture. Existing nutritional tracking platforms predominantly focus on Western dietary patterns and fail to interpret traditional Indian meals characterized by ambiguous portion sizes, regional preparation variations, and culturally specific food items. This paper presents the design, development, and evaluation of a web-based Nutritional Analysis and Diet Optimization Platform specifically tailored for Indian dietary patterns. The proposed system accepts natural language food descriptions, processes them through an Indian cuisine-specific nutritional estimation engine backed by NIN/ICMR food composition data, and generates comprehensive dietary sufficiency reports with personalized, goal-oriented recommendations. Validation on a dataset of 150 Indian meal descriptions yields a mean absolute error (MAE) of 4.2% for caloric estimation and 5.8% for protein estimation. A diet scoring mechanism (0–100) and weekly progress tracking support sustained behavioral change. Comparative analysis against HealthifyMe and MyFitnessPal demonstrates an 18.4% improvement in portion estimation accuracy for Indian meals. The platform is built using React, Spring Boot, Node.js, and MongoDB
Chukwuma Joseph Uzoigwe, Ebenyi Hyacinth Okwe, Edegbe Felix Osuogu, Ekuma Moses Ikenna, Jegede Olushola Olakunle, Nwachukwu Augustine Anayo, Ogundolire Adeleye Niyi, Okeite Chukwuneke Sampson, Okezie Micheal Mbadiwe, Solomon Kenechukwu Anyimba
Background: Prostatitis represents a significant inflammatory condition of the prostate gland with important clinical implications. While often overshadowed by prostatic cancer and benign hyperplasia, prostatitis contributes substantially to prostatic pathology and may play a role in disease progression. Understanding the patterns and clinical correlates of prostatitis in Nigerian populations is essential for optimal management.
Dr. Narendra Kumar Ray, Prof. (Dr.) Potsangbam Kumar Singh
Wheat cultivation in North-East India, particularly Manipur, faces constraints related to climatic variability, soil heterogeneity, and limited agronomic optimisation. This study formulates a holistic production and utilisation strategy for three wheat varieties—UP 2338, PBW 343, and HIM 304—by integrating optimised agronomic practices, sustainable crop management, and evaluation of industrial, nutritional, and medicinal potential. Field trials conducted over two rabi seasons demonstrated that optimised sowing (15–25 November), split nitrogen application (120 kg N ha⁻¹), and critical irrigation at CRI and grain-filling stages increased yield by 18–27% compared to conventional practices. Integrated pest management reduced yield loss by 12%. Quality analysis revealed protein content ranging from 11.8–13.6%, wet gluten 24–30%, and strong suitability for bread and biscuit production. The varieties also showed significant antioxidant capacity (DPPH inhibition 32–41%), supporting potential nutraceutical applications. These findings establish a climate-adaptive, economically viable framework for wheat production and value addition in Manipur.
A. G. Adeogun, A. L. T. Esan.
Good water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) practices and adequate sanitation infrastructure are essential for promoting public health and safeguarding the environment. This study investigates sanitation infrastructure, WASH knowledge, attitude and practices, water quality and their public health implications in Omu Aran, Nigeria. 423 households were selected and surveyed using structured questionnaire to assess sanitation conditions and perceptions. Water samples from wells, boreholes, and streams were analysed for pH, dissolved oxygen, heavy metals, and nutrients across dry and rainy seasons. Findings reveal that sanitation infrastructure is inadequate, with 42.5% using pit latrines and 30.83% practicing open defecation, indicating poor water quality and high malaria (56.67%) and typhoid (17.5%) prevalence. The absence of adequate solid waste disposal services for 56.67% of respondents indicates high risks of environmental contamination. Well and borehole water exhibit alkaline pH levels above WHO guidelines, with high concentrations of cadmium and iron in all water sources posing health risks. The high phosphate concentration in streams increases eutrophication risks. The study concluded that sanitation infrastructure and water quality in Omu-Aran is in a critical state requiring urgent intervention. Government should invest in modern sanitation and water systems, community-led maintenance programs, and individual adoption of water treatment practices.
Mr. Ankit Prakash, Prof. (Dr.) Shree Raman Dubey
The hospitality industry, characterized by long working hours, high customer interaction, and dynamic service demands, faces persistent challenges in ensuring employee work-life balance. Human Resource Management (HRM) practices play a pivotal role in addressing these challenges, directly influencing employee well-being, organizational performance, and customer satisfaction. This paper examines the impacts of HRM on work-life balance in the hotel industry, situating the discussion within the broader context of digital transformation. By exploring how digital marketing strategies and evolving consumer behaviour reshape hospitality management, the study highlights the need for redefined approaches to workforce engagement and organizational sustainability in the digital age. Drawing on multidisciplinary perspectives, the research investigates the interconnections between HRM policies, employee satisfaction, and service quality, while analyzing how digital tools—such as online booking platforms, social media engagement, and data-driven consumer insights—affect both managerial practices and customer expectations. The findings underscore that effective HRM strategies, aligned with digital innovation, can foster healthier work environments, reduce burnout, and enhance service delivery. Hotel industry's direct contribution to India's GDP is likely to touch $1 trillion by 2047, driven by a significant rise in domestic tourist visits as well as international arrivals, as per the 'Vision 2047’. Ultimately, the paper argues that redefining management through the integration of HRM, digital marketing, and consumer behaviour is essential for building resilient hospitality organizations that balance employee well-being with competitive advantage.
Muslim Mohd. Lehmood Al-Mamouri
This research explores the themes of identity and alienation in modern English and American theatre through a comparative study of selected texts written during the twentieth century and beyond, within evolving social and cultural contexts. The study focuses on the representations of individuals and groups experiencing identity crises and alienation from themselves, their communities, or their places, whether due to the colonial experience, class and racial conflicts, or the transformations of modernity and postmodernity. The study employs a cultural and postcolonial critical perspective to understand how these theatrical texts generate and re-enact these tensions on stage. The research utilizes a comparative analytical approach, combining texts from English theatre (Harold Pinter, Tom Stoppard, Caryl Churchill) and American theatre (Arthur Miller, Tennessee Williams, August Wilson) to explore the similarities in the existential experience of alienation and the differences in theatrical discourse within each cultural context. The research also explores how theatre contributes to questioning fixed conceptions of identity and opens up multiple possibilities for redefining the self in the face of oppression, marginalization, or oblivion. The research seeks to demonstrate how theatre becomes a tool of cultural resistance and a platform for renegotiating concepts of belonging, difference, and collective memory in a world of accelerating social, political, and cultural transformations.
Amrani Khadija
This review essay examines The Ministry for the Future (2020) by Kim Stanley Robinson as a significant contribution to contemporary climate fiction and climate humanities, arguing that the novel reframes climate change not as an apocalyptic spectacle but as a problem of planetary governance, structural violence, and collective responsibility. Focusing on Robinson’s experimental narrative form, the essay analyzes how the novel’s hybrid structure, combining fictional episodes with documentary modes such as reports, testimonies, and policy discourse, produces a form of speculative realism that mirrors the scale and complexity of the climate crisis. The article further explores the representation of climate catastrophe as historically produced and unevenly distributed, foregrounding mass death, displacement, and vulnerability as systemic consequences of global political and economic arrangements. Central attention is given to the novel’s reimagining of planetary institutions, particularly its effort to conceptualize legal and political frameworks capable of representing future generations and nonhuman life beyond the limits of the nation-state. Taken together, the review contends that The Ministry for the Future functions less as conventional narrative fiction than as a speculative thought experiment in planetary reform, offering a cautiously hopeful yet unsentimental vision of large-scale collective action under conditions of profound risk and uncertainty.
Karunarathne V. L, Wijayarathne S. K
The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) powered chatbots utilizing big data analytics is transforming educational environments by enabling personalized and adaptive learning experiences (Zawacki-Richter et al., 2019). AI-powered chatbots have been increasingly adopted in educational contexts to enhance student engagement, provide real-time feedback, and support individualized instruction (Winkler & Söllner, 2018). This study investigates the impact of AI-powered chatbots on student academic performance in a secondary school in Sri Lanka. A quantitative research design was adopted using a positive philosophy and deductive approach. Data were collected from 165 students selected through stratified sampling from a population of 1,600 students across grades 10 to 13. Primary data were gathered through structured online questionnaires and analysed using descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and multiple regression analysis.
Dr. Pratibha Gokhale, Sampada V. Jadhav
Artificial intelligence has become an integral part of education. In the present era of student-centric education, it has become essential to provide education as they are able to cope up. Personalizes learning, immersive learning experience with virtual reality and augmented reality, motivating and engaging students in learning process, saving the time of teachers from doing repetitive task is possible because of AI. The aim of the present study is to find out impact of AI on students of Library and Information Science education and basically of three learning styles Visual, Auditory and Reading. The finding revealed strong correlation among the three learning styles. And students are benefitted with the use of AI tools in developing their learning styles.
Anushka Tulaskar, Eileen Canday
Nutrition plays a vital role in growth, development, and long-term health, particularly during adolescence, a critical phase marked by rapid physical and psychological changes. Despite increased exposure to health information, adolescents often lack structured and scientifically accurate nutrition knowledge, especially those from non-science academic backgrounds. In recent years, growing scientific evidence has highlighted the importance of gut health, gut microbiota, probiotics, prebiotics, and dietary fiber in maintaining digestive and overall well-being. However, awareness regarding these emerging concepts remains limited among younger populations. The present study aimed to assess awareness regarding gut health, probiotics, prebiotics, and dietary Fiber among junior college-going adolescent girls and to evaluate the impact of a nutrition education intervention on awareness levels. A quantitative pre-test and post-test interventional study was conducted among 100 junior college-going adolescent girls (16–18 years) in Mumbai. A self-developed, expert-validated questionnaire was used to assess awareness before and after three structured nutrition education sessions. Paired t-test analysis revealed statistically significant improvement in post-test scores across all domains (p < 0.001). The findings indicate that structured, age-appropriate nutrition education can effectively enhance gut health awareness among adolescent girls and may contribute to improved nutrition literacy in this population.
Legesse Girma Sewore, Lemi Gonfa Debeli
Limited access to timely agricultural information remains a major constraint affecting productivity and market participation of smallholder farmers in Sub-Saharan Africa. Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) provide new opportunities for delivering weather forecasts and market information that support farm decision-making and income improvement. This study examined the impact of ICT-based weather and market information delivery on the income of pepper-producing smallholder farmers in Wera Woreda, Halaba Zone, Ethiopia. A mixed research approach was employed using cross-sectional data collected from 174 randomly selected households consisting of ICT users and non-users. Primary data were gathered through structured household surveys, focus group discussions, and key informant interviews, while secondary data were obtained from institutional reports and published sources. Descriptive statistics and Propensity Score Matching (PSM) were applied to estimate the causal impact of ICT utilization on household income. Results show that mobile phones, radio, and television were the dominant channels through which farmers accessed agricultural information. Logit model results indicate that education level, training exposure, frequency of extension contact, distance to market, and farmers’ behavioral characteristics significantly influenced ICT adoption. The PSM estimation revealed that ICT use increased household income of pepper producers by approximately 54.29 percent compared to non-users. However, several constraints limited effective utilization, including inadequate localized weather forecasts, limited ICT skills, language barriers, high service costs, and weak rural infrastructure. The study concludes that ICT-enabled advisory services significantly enhance farmers’ income by improving market participation and climate-related decision-making. Strengthening rural ICT infrastructure, localized information delivery, and farmer training programs is essential to sustain these benefits.
Roseline Sunday Osaat
Dermatoglyphics is the study of epidermal ridges of skin. Palmar ridge counts are the ridges found on the surface of the palm between triradius a, b, c, and d. The study aimed to investigate the importance of palmar ridge counts in screening Down’s syndrome subjects in Nigeria. Sample size of 101 1(58 males and 43 females) was used for Down’s syndrome and 100 1(65 males and 35 females) for control subjects. A descriptive survey design was used, and subjects were conveniently selected from various special and inclusive schools in different part of Nigeria. The data were analyzed using Mann Whitney U test. The trait analyzed were AB ridge count (ABRC), BC ridge count (BCRC) and CD ridge count (CDRC). The results revealed ABRC and BCRC were significantly lower for Down’s syndrome when compared to control subjects (p<0.05). It was also observed that CDRC was significantly higher for Down’s syndrome when compared to control subjects on both hands and for both sexes (p<0.05). for male subjects the same result was observed except that the CDRC on the left hand was not significant, while for the female only the ABRC on the left hand was significant different between Down’s syndrome and control subjects (p<0.05). From this study, ABRC may serve as supportive, low cost adjunct procedure for the screening of Down’s syndrome in Nigeria. BCRC and CDRC may serve to support the use of ABRC in screening Down’s syndrome. All of these traits may strengthen the early diagnosis and screening of Down’s syndrome pending further stronger suggestions.
Amaechi Okafor Anthony, Lois Ugomma Okafor, Sylvester Emeka Abonyi
In this research, Silver Telluride (Ag2Te) and Cerium doped Silver Telluride (Ce: Ag2Te), thin films have been successfully deposited onto FTO glass substrate using electrodeposition method to investigate the influence of Ce doping on the structural properties of Ag2Te thin films. Silver trioxonitrate (V) and tellurium (iv) oxide were the precursors used for silver and tellurium ions. Depositions of films made from cerium-doped silver telluride were conducted at room temperature. Variations of structural properties with concentration of cerium dopant, deposition time and with pH were considered in this research. The percentages concentration of cerium dopant used are 5% and10.0%. The Structural properties of Ag2Te and Ce doped Ag2Te thin films were investigated using X-ray diffractometry. The structural properties analysis of pure Ag2Te and cerium-doped Ag2Te thin films reveals significant changes in crystallographic properties (crystallite size, micro-strain and dislocation density) with increasing cerium concentration. The increase in crystallite size, coupled with the decrease in micro-strain and dislocation density, suggests that cerium doping improves the structural quality of Ag2Te thin films, potentially enhancing their properties. The higher intensities of the doped samples' diffraction peaks imply better crystallinity and possibly lower defect densities, which are beneficial for applications requiring high-quality crystalline materials. Longer deposition times and optimizing pH enhance crystallinity , where lower values generally improve crystal quality by reducing lattice distortions. The findings highlight how controlled doping, deposition time, and pH conditions can fine-tune the structural properties of cerium doped silver telluride thin films, making it suitable for applications in optoelectronics and electronic devices.
Nwobu, Chinedu Chigozie, Obi, Obinna Kingsley, Odigbo, Abigail Chidimma
Voltage regulation remains a persistent operational challenge in many Nigerian radial distribution networks due to long feeder lengths, high resistance-to-reactance ratios, and increasing load demand. This study investigates the influence of hybrid Distributed Generation (DG) on the voltage performance of a representative 11 kV feeder within the Enugu Electricity Distribution System (EEDS). A detailed network model comprising 47 load buses was developed and analysed using load flow simulation in ETAP. Two operating scenarios were examined: a base case without DG and a DG-integrated case incorporating synchronous generators, solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, and battery energy storage units. Base case results revealed widespread marginal under-voltage conditions, with a minimum bus voltage of 10.601 kV (96.37% of nominal), indicating systemic voltage depression along the radial feeder. Following DG integration, the minimum voltage improved to 10.685 kV (97.14% of nominal), representing an overall voltage enhancement of approximately 0.79%. The improvement was uniformly distributed across the feeder, confirming that hybrid DG primarily reduces feeder current magnitude and associated line voltage drops. No over-voltage violations were observed, demonstrating that moderate DG penetration can enhance voltage regulation without compromising statutory limits. The findings confirm that hybrid distributed generation provides measurable and technically meaningful voltage support in weak radial distribution systems such as EEDS. However, full restoration to nominal voltage levels requires coordinated reactive power control or higher penetration at the medium-voltage level. The study provides practical planning insights for distribution utilities seeking to integrate DG as a voltage support strategy in developing power systems.
Bright O. Nwosu, Ferdinand D. Giadom, Godwin J. Udom, Leonard I. Nwosu
Owerri, the capital of Imo State, depends almost exclusively on groundwater abstracted from shallow to intermediate-depth aquifers developed within the Benin Formation, a lithologic unit dominated by unconsolidated sands and sandstone with limited natural protection in most areas. This study integrates a GIS-based DRASTICA model with aquifer protective capacity evaluation derived from VES (longitudinal conductance values) to provide a comprehensive hydrogeospatial assessment of groundwater contamination risk in Owerri and its environs. 70 VES stations were interpreted to characterize subsurface lithology, determine vadose zone media, and aquifer protective potential, while digital elevation models, soil maps and LULC data were synthesized into a spatial database using ArcGIS 10.5 software. DRASTICA vulnerability indices range from 108 to 330 and delineate three dominant vulnerability classes: moderate (87.04%), high (12.42%), and very high (0.54%). Zones of elevated vulnerability are concentrated in densely urbanized areas and along the Imo River/Otamiri River zones, where shallow water tables, sandy vadose zones, minimal slopes collide with intense human activities to promote rapid contaminant infiltration. Longitudinal conductance values range from 0.004 to 31.003 Ω⁻¹, indicating predominantly poor to moderate aquifer protective capacity across greater parts of the Owerri, and consistent with areas of dominated by mostly sandy overburden. Areas of high longitudinal conductance correspond spatially with zones of low DRASTICA vulnerability, while areas of low conductance coincide with moderate to high vulnerability. The findings reveal the sensitivity of Owerri’s aquifer system to contamination from poorly managed waste disposal. The integrated DRASTICA–Aquifer Protective Capacity framework provides a replicable tool for groundwater protection planning, environmental monitoring, and sustainable urban development in rapidly urbanizing sedimentary environments.
Adekunle Adeoye Eludire, Adetunji Philip Adewole, Marcus Olakunle Ajilore, Mosud Yinusa Olumoye, Opeoluwa Omotayo Ajilore*
Identity verification remains a critical challenge in Nigerian educational institutions, particularly in high-stakes processes such as examinations, admissions, and certification. This study proposes a hybrid identity verification framework that integrates Siamese Neural Networks (SNNs) for biometric face verification with blockchain-based smart contracts for secure and tamper-resistant identity management. The SNN learns discriminative facial embeddings using a transfer-learning backbone, while a Solidity smart contract deployed on an Ethereum test network (Ganache) stores cryptographic hashes of verified embeddings to ensure immutability, auditability, and decentralized access control. Experimental evaluation was conducted using structured train, validation, and test splits of student facial identities, followed by an extended verification protocol involving 128 genuine–impostor pairs. Performance was assessed using Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) analysis, threshold optimization, and bootstrap confidence intervals, yielding an Area Under the Curve (AUC) of 1.000 with a 95% confidence interval of (1.000, 1.000), and an optimal threshold producing an F1-score of 1.000 on the evaluation set. An ablation study comparing Siamese distance learning with cosine similarity demonstrated comparable separability within the current dataset, while robustness testing under minor image perturbations confirmed stability of the learned embeddings. Despite these promising results, the dataset size and diversity remain limited, and therefore the reported performance should be interpreted as a proof-of-concept rather than full generalization. The blockchain component was successfully deployed and tested with seven registered student identities, demonstrating secure on-chain storage and verification of biometric hashes, though real-world scalability and latency require further investigation. Overall, the proposed AI–blockchain framework demonstrates the feasibility of combining biometric deep learning with decentralized infrastructure to enhance identity integrity in educational systems and provides a foundation for secure, transparent, and auditable student identity management in Nigerian higher education, with future work focused on validating scalability, fairness, and performance on larger and more diverse datasets.
Suresh Gopichand Isave
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as a transformative technology influencing teaching, learning, assessment, and research in higher education. Teacher education, which prepares future teachers for dynamic classroom environments, must adapt to these technological advancements. This paper examines the integration of AI in teacher education programmes such as Diploma in Teacher Education (D.T.Ed.), Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.), and Master of Education (M.Ed.). Using a conceptual and review-based approach, the study discusses the application of AI in teaching–learning processes, micro-teaching skills, lesson planning, lesson observation, internship, evaluation tools, community-related activities, research, and presentation skills. The paper also reviews relevant literature to understand current trends and challenges in AI integration. Further, it aligns AI integration in teacher education with the vision and recommendations of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. The study concludes that ethical and pedagogically sound use of AI can enhance professional competencies of student-teachers and contribute to the preparation of future-ready teachers.
Allan C. Taracatac, Arnel C. Fajardo
Automated metrics for natural language generation (NLG) often show weak or unstable alignment with expert judgment in domain-specific settings that require interpretability and tunability. Hence, this study designs and validates an interpretable composite metric that can be calibrated to expert consensus while being transparent. The researchers propose Comprehensive Quality Scoring (CQS), a hierarchical metric integrating contextual coherence and continuity (C3) with 5 interpretable linguistic factors, specifically relevance, readability, conciseness, structure, and information density, also introducing CLARION-G. This constrained calibrator learns a nonnegative simplex weight vector while preserving factor-level attribution. Evaluation uses 20 agriculture-oriented farmer FAQ items with responses generated by a local LLaMA 3.1 (8B) model and scored by expert panels across Agriculture, Linguistics, and Information Technology using a rubric based on MetricEval. Expert ratings are z-scored per rater and aggregated into a consensus target, with reliability assessed via ICC(2,1). To prevent leakage under 𝑛=20, calibration is performed strictly within leave-one-out cross-validation (LOOCV) (train on 𝑛-1, freeze weights, score the held-out item), with uncertainty quantified via Fisher-z confidence intervals and bootstrap resampling (B=1000). CLARION-G maximizes a penalized correlation objective with fixed coefficients 𝜆1=0.01, 𝜆𝑏𝑎𝑙=0.005, and 𝜆𝑣𝑎𝑟=0.003, optimized using Differential Evolution (population=15, maxiter=50, tol=10−4, polish=True) with optional L-BFGS-B refinement (maxiter=300-500, ftol=10−6-10−8). In Agriculture, calibrated CQS achieves Pearson’s 𝑟=0.688 with 95% CI [0.353, 0.867], surpassing baselines (e.g., BERTScore, Prometheus, METEOR) with statistically significant dependent-correlation gains. Learned top-level weights allocate 0.4 to C3 and 0.6 to linguistic quality, emphasizing relevance and information density. Bland-Altman analysis shows no fixed bias with limits of agreement ±0.1134, and runtime remains practical (≈1.254 ms/item), supporting CQS/CLARION-G as an interpretable and operationally lightweight framework for expert-aligned NLG evaluation in specialized domains.
F. Baruwa, L.E. Etsename, O. F. Kayode
Prepress is an integral part of print production process which must be appropriately done in order to have quality prints. It includes planning of layout, determining the paper sizes that would go with a particular job, image areas, margin, colour (RGB or CMYK), the gripping of the printing machine, grains direction of paper or card, colour guide (Pantone), plates, image resolution/compression of the entire artwork, exporting method, bleeding, binding/collating method, folding, suggestion for the type of machine to be used, type of finishing required. Prepress in print production cannot be under estimated. It must be accurately done so as to make the final printed material looks impeccable and attractive. Prepress technically, can help to detect huge printing errors on time, it can also help to determine how final job will look like in terms of size, quality and precision. However, due to the negative stereotypes faced by the printers in Somolu based on their printing works, the investigation becomes imperative to know how prepress affects the overall print production process. Somolu printing works are usually referred to as “Somolu Prints”. This statement is often negatively used by some corporate print patrons and some members of the public to denote inferior or low-quality prints most especially in offset lithographic printing. Investigation by the researcher reveals that this is not true about the whole printers in Somolu. Against this backdrop, the researcher feels it is necessary to assess prepress aspect of print production to know its impacts on the whole process based on graphic design principles whether the printers put it into consideration in Somolu. In this research work, survey method was used and the analysis was done using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) tool (descriptive statistics including simple percentages, frequencies, mean and standard deviation) were used to analyse the data.
Genesis Izang
Background: The study on investigating the effective use of instructional materials to enhance teaching and learning of Biology, the foundation of all medical professions in Government Secondary School Uburu, South East, Nigeria was aim to examine the availability and level of usage of instructional materials by teachers while teaching Biology subject to students, it will also correlate between the use of instructional materials and students academic performance in external examinations and to give recommendation to government, school management, teachers , parent- teachers association and old students union on the provision and effective usage of instructional materials. Methodology: Assessment of West African Senior Secondary School Examination grade record for 2020/2021 with148 students consisting of 66 males and 82 females with overall 38.5 percent (%) pass and 61.5% fail, 2021/2022 with 154 students consisting of 68 males and 86 females with overall 42.2% pass and 57.8% fail and 2022/2023 with 159 students consisting of 70 males and 89 females with overall 37.7% pass and 62.3% fail. Interview, observation and questionnaires case study research method was also used to generate information from three Biology teachers on the availability of instructional resources, the total number of instructional materials that are supposed to be use (NIMSU), number of instructional materials that was used (NIMU), and number of instructional materials that was not used (NIMNU), for 1st, 2nd and 3rd term to senior secondary one (SS1) students, 2023/2024 session. The data was collected and analyzed using access and excel version 13, for simple mean and percentage computation. Result: 1st term finding shows that out of the total 90 NIMSU and 9.0 mean of 100% NIMSU only 38 NIMU with 3.8 mean of 42.22% NIMU were utilized while 52 NIMNU with 5.2 mean of 57.78% NIMNU were not utilize by a Biology teacher to students. 2nd term findings shows that out of the total 100 NIMSU and 10.0 mean of 100% NIMSU only 51NIMU with 5.1mean of 51% NIMU were utilized while 49 NIMNU with 4.9 mean of 49% NIMNU were not utilized by a Biology teacher to students. 3rd term findings shows that out of the total 112 NIMSU and11.2 mean of 100% NIMSU only 38 NIMU with 3.8 mean of 34% NIMU were utilized while 74 NIMNU with 7.4 mean of 66% NIMNU were not utilize by a Biology teacher during lesson to students. Summary result of findings for 1st, 2nd and 3rd terms shows that out of the total 302 NIMSU and 10.06 mean of 100% NIMSU only 127 NIMU with 4.23 mean of 42% NIMU was utilized while 175 NIMNU with 5.83 mean of 58% NIMNU were not utilized by the biology teachers to students. Conclusion: There was no effective use of instructional materials by SS1 Biology teachers of Government Secondary School Uburu, Nigeria, the cause of poor students’ performance in external examination. Government should provide adequate instructional materials and support teachers training.
Nokuthula Ngabisa Dlamini
This research investigated the intersection of food security and juvenile justice, examining how unsustainable food systems in Eswatini drive juvenile criminality. Utilising a qualitative research approach, the phenomenology design, data were collected through focus group discussions with 30 juveniles currently incarcerated at His Majesty’s Correctional Services (HMCS)’s Juvenile Facility. This approach allowed for a deep exploration of the lived experiences of justice-involved youth and the socio-economic pressures preceding their offenses. The findings revealed that traditional punitive measures fail to address systemic stressors specifically chronic malnutrition and household instability that push minors toward survival-based crimes. Narratives from the participants highlight a direct correlation between the collapse of subsistence livelihoods and the onset of delinquent behavior. The study concludes that juvenile criminality in Eswatini is inextricably linked to unsustainable food systems; a heavy reliance on rain-fed agriculture and high vulnerability to climate shocks create a volatile environment for the nearly 50% of the population under age 20. The current system fails to provide ecological justice, leading to social isolation and a diminished sense of belonging, known precursors to delinquency. The implications of this study suggest that juvenile justice reform in Eswatini must move beyond individual rehabilitation to include systemic food policy interventions. Addressing youth recidivism requires integrating sustainable agricultural support and nutritional security into social welfare frameworks. By fostering ecological justice, the state can mitigate the structural triggers of crime, ultimately promoting long-term social stability and youth reintegration.
Devipriya M.T., Janani A.M., Jovita S., Nivethitha A., Vaishya K.S.
The term Viresanam normalizes dearranged vatham. According to Siddha Vayathiya Thirattu, Lavangathi Mathirai contains six ingredients that induce purgation. This literature review validates the purgative action of Lavangathi mathirai through its chemical constituents and action. Substances such as eugenol, sodium tetra borate, mercuric ions, and purified mercury have a purgative action. The present study was undertaken evaluate the efficacy of Lavangathi mathirai in inducing purgation as a cleansing method and to improve metabolism and balance the three humours of the Siddha system. This study assesses the nature of purgation induced by Lavangathi Mathirai based on the onset of bowel movements, frequency of stools, and completeness of evacuation. These suggest that purgative is safe and effective.
Patrick P. Echano, Sonia S. Carbonell
This study aimed to determine how leadership in the digital age shapes school heads’ influence on the use of technology in classrooms. The study employed quantitative method using descriptive-correlational research design with survey questionnaire as the primary data-gathering tool. This instrument was validated by five experts and subjected to pilot testing and Cronbach's alpha for its reliability. The study included eight school heads and 126 teachers N=134 from the San Vicente–San Lorenzo Ruiz District. Results were analyzed using weighted mean and Pearson Product-Moment Correlation Coefficient r. The findings revealed that school heads demonstrated a high level of digital-age leadership competence, particularly in promoting technology integration, encouraging digital innovation, and supporting teachers’ adaptability to technology. Teachers consistently adopted technology in their classrooms, showing strongest competence in utilizing technology for instruction, although the use of specific digital tools was comparatively lower. A significant positive relationship was found between school heads’ leadership practices and teachers’ classroom-level technology adoption, indicating that effective leadership influences technology integration in teaching. Both teachers and school heads reported notable challenges. Teachers expressed the need for clearer directives, consistent expectations, increased training, and regular monitoring and support. Meanwhile, school heads identified budget limitations, gradual teacher adoption, rapid technological changes, and the need for additional technical training and policy support as key concerns. In response to these findings, Project Visionary Institutionalization for Sustainable Technology Advancement (V.I.S.T.A.) was developed to enhance digital-age leadership, strengthen teachers’ ICT competencies, and promote collaborative and sustainable technology integration in schools.
Dr. Mahantesh V. Angadi
The use of AI in organic product marketing is changing how firms communicate with environmentally sensitive consumers. As the demand for organic products grows, corporations are using AI to create marketing strategies that increase consumer involvement and promote sustainable consumption habits. The manuscript provides a valuable conceptual framework for exploring how AI may enhance marketing with a focus on organic products. Machine learning algorithms enable artificial intelligence to sift through vast consumer databases, categorize target groups, and construct marketing campaigns. Predictive analytics enables organizations to anticipate future customers' trends and habits, allowing them to better place products and manage inventory. Furthermore, artificial intelligence-based suggestion systems strengthen the relationship by urging consumers toward organic by recording their previous purchasing history, resulting in a deep and intelligent brand engagement with the environment care consumer. AI — What role can it play in improving traceability in the supply chain, and how does this give consumers with the essential credentials up or down the chain to establish or grow their faith in eating organic through greater information on such product passports? The article highlights potential challenges, including data privacy concerns, ethical considerations, and the risk of marginalizing certain consumer segments with limited access to AI-powered platforms. However, the article also highlights the numerous benefits of AI. The authors present a paradigm that connects artificial intelligence, consumer behavior, and organic product marketing theories, guiding future study and implementation. Artificial intelligence can replace traditional marketing methods for organic products while maintaining environmental sustainability. However, there are ethical and practical implications to consider.
Obamoh Hannah Yetunde, Obamoh Samuel Olaolu, Raphael Ofori -Adeniran
Nigeria’s ambitious Energy Transition Plan (ETP) which is currently a top-priority government policy, $410 billion to achieve the planned net-zero emissions target by 2060. But the key to success is already being hindered by a $10 billion annual funding gap. This study explores an innovative financing mechanism leveraging up to 10 per cent of Nigerian Diaspora’s $20 billion annual remittances to fund green infrastructure, focusing on the model of the private sector-inspired Nigerian Renewable Energy Village (NREV). Motivation: This study is motivated by the need to bridge Nigeria’s green financing gap using the untapped resources of diaspora capital for sustainable development. Data and Methodology: Using secondary data from the Central Bank of Nigeria, World Bank, Rural Electrification Agency (REA), the United Nations (UN), NREV project documents and reports from other authoritative sources, we propose a Green Transition Fintech capturing 10% of remittances ($2 billion/year) via fees and exchange rate margins, integrated with a Diaspora Cooperative offering dividends and carbon credits. Findings: The model could fund NREV’s $120 million solar mini-grid and EV infrastructure, electrifying 100,000+ people, creating 700+ jobs, and reducing emissions. Policy Implications and Recommendations: Regulatory reforms for Fintech and carbon markets, tax incentives for diaspora dividends, and public awareness campaigns are critical to drive adoption. The model is scalable across Africa.
Deepak Baskandi
Traditional highway maintenance in India relies on fixed periodic resurfacing cycles, leading to resource inefficiencies and delayed repairs. This paper presents a framework for maximizing flexible pavement network life cycles through condition-triggered and risk-weighted optimization. The methodology integrates Indian Roads Congress (IRC) assessment techniques, specifically IRC:115 for structural evaluation and IRC:37 for design, with lifecycle economics and probabilistic risk modelling. Deterioration models were calibrated to account for tropical monsoon climates and Indian traffic heterogeneity. The framework was validated through a 20-year case study of a 48-kilometer State Highway near Chennai, Tamil Nadu. Statistical validation via Monte Carlo simulation showed the optimized solution led to an 18% reduction in discounted life-cycle costs compared to traditional periodic resurfacing. Key improvements included a 26% increase in serviceable network duration and a 45% decrease in major structural strengthening interventions. By shifting from age-based cycles to state-dependent optimization, this framework provides a robust and feasible pathway for Indian highway agencies to implement performance-based asset management. The results confirm that considering functional indices and structural assessments ensures fiscal resilience under budget constraints.
Aldino Jiao Gonzales
This study explores the lived experiences of lay teachers engaged in the Lasallian mission of education within the Philippine context. While lay educators increasingly sustain faith-based educational institutions historically founded by religious congregations, limited phenomenological research has examined how they interpret and embody this mission in practice. Guided by transcendental phenomenology (Moustakas, 1994) and informed by hermeneutic attentiveness to lived meaning (van Manen, 1990, 2014), the study investigates how experienced lay teachers describe the integration of vocation, professionalism, spirituality, community, and sociohistorical context in their educational work.
Francis Muromo, Mbongeni Proud Dube, Nkosinathi Muyambo
Many factors have been identified as contributing to the sustainability of community boreholes and/or groundwater projects, from technical specifications to community power struggles. However, the effect of local sociocultural values and norms on borehole and groundwater sustainability in the region of Sub-Saharan Africa, as they are ‘whispered’ by the local communities within a socio-ecological milieux, has not been investigated. From the basis of the practical norms concept and socio-ecological literature, this paper explores how people's sociocultural values and norms influence local perceptions of community boreholes and/or groundwater projects. It suggests that ‘locally whispered’ water stories can enhance our understanding of the boreholes’ and/or groundwater projects’ societal impact, how they shape local actions, behaviours, and decisions for borehole and groundwater sustainability. The paper uses storytelling to investigate two distinct borehole and/or groundwater tales from Wards 13 and 17 in rural Gwanda, Zimbabwe, possessing a shared commonality. Ward 13's borehole and/or groundwater source, installed near a swamp, where snoop holes or shallow wells were traditionally dug and managed by locals, promotes community identity and ecological wisdom, while Ward 17's system, on dry capped land, reflects failed projects due to neglect of same values or norms. The paper highlights the importance of understanding local sociocultural realities in sustaining boreholes and/or groundwater projects, especially by the technical expertise. It posits the complex relationship between boreholes, groundwater, and sociocultural vibrancy, suggesting that community boreholes and/or groundwater projects should serve as "communal storytelling hubs" for sustainable water solutions.
Ndiokwere, Chioma Gabriella, Osivmete V. Andrew, Theresa Alphonsus Udoidem
Accurate prediction of bacterial growth rates is essential for optimizing laboratory experiments, industrial bioprocesses, and food safety monitoring. Traditional mechanistic models, while interpretable, often struggle to capture the non-linear and interactive effects of environmental variables such as temperature, pH, and nutrient concentration. This study evaluates the performance of two machine learning models Random Forest (RF) and Support Vector Regression (SVR) in predicting bacterial growth rates using a curated dataset of 200 experimental observations. Data preprocessing included feature standardization, and model evaluation employed a hold-out validation approach with metrics including Mean Absolute Error (MAE), Mean Squared Error (MSE), and R² score. Results demonstrate that the RF model substantially outperformed SVR, achieving an R² of 0.853, MAE of 0.0542, and MSE of 0.0205, compared to SVR’s R² of 0.587, MAE of 0.1354, and MSE of 0.0574. Feature importance analysis revealed that temperature was the dominant determinant of growth (63%), followed by pH (31.1%) and nutrient concentration (5.9%). Visualization via scatter plots, grouped bar charts, and heatmaps confirmed the superior predictive accuracy of RF and highlighted the nonlinear growth responses characteristic of bacterial cultures. The findings indicate that RF-based models provide a robust, data-driven framework for predicting microbial growth, reducing experimental workload, and guiding optimal culture conditions in laboratory and biotechnological applications. Limitations include strainspecificity and the black-box nature of the model, which does not explicitly account for underlying metabolic mechanisms.
Chelsea C. Nwabuisi, Chidiebere J. Nwankwo, Isaiah C. Abonyi, Justina N. Okoli, Matthew M. Nwachukwu, Peter M. Eze, Vincent I. Obi
Background: Malaria remains a major public health challenge in sub-Saharan Africa, with environmental conditions strongly influencing mosquito breeding and disease transmission. University communities represent understudied high-risk settings due to dense populations and often suboptimal residential environments. Objective: This study assessed how key environmental factors—including ambient temperature, relative humidity, and poor sanitary conditions such as stagnant surface water and clogged drainage—contribute to malaria transmission among university students in Okofia community, Anambra State, Nigeria. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive and observational study was conducted among 200 students residing in 20 randomly selected private lodges. Environmental parameters, including ambient temperature, relative humidity, and the presence of stagnant water (including clogged drainage and uncovered water receptacles around student accommodations) were assessed through direct observation and measurement over seven consecutive days. Malaria occurrence data were obtained from structured questionnaires and university clinic records over a two-month period. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize socio-demographic variables, environmental parameters, and malaria occurrence. Results: The mean ambient temperature across lodges was 28.1°C, while mean relative humidity was 84.3%, both within optimal ranges for Anopheles mosquito survival and Plasmodium parasite development. Stagnant water, including surface water, clogged drainage, and uncovered water receptacles around students’ dwellings, was widely present. A total of 229 malaria cases were recorded within the two-month period. Conclusion: Malaria transmission among university students in Okofia community is associated with favorable environmental conditions and poor environmental sanitation management. Factors such as stagnant surface water, clogged drainage, and uncovered water receptacles facilitate prolific mosquito breeding. Integrating environmental sanitation and larval source management into malaria control strategies is essential for reducing malaria burden in university residential settings.
Biniyam Melaku Ejigu
Teachers face enormous hurdles in organizing instruction and guaranteeing inclusive learning opportunities for every student in today's classrooms due to the growing diversity of learners. Pedagogical approaches that support equitable participation and engagement are necessary due to differences in talents, learning styles, sociocultural origins, linguistic proficiencies, and behavioral demands. A promising educational technology that can offer immersive, interactive, and multisensory learning experiences that cater to a variety of student demands is virtual reality (VR). This study looks into how virtual reality (VR) might improve classroom management techniques and promote inclusive learning environments in secondary schools. The study, which used a mixed-methods research methodology, looked at how VR-supported instruction affected classroom conduct, student engagement, and involvement as well as how teachers felt it managed diversity in the classroom. Following the incorporation of VR-based activities, quantitative results showed significant increases in students' on-task behavior, learning motivation, and classroom involvement. More involvement and fewer disruptive behaviors were shown by students with a variety of learning requirements, including those with impairments and attention-related issues. Additionally, qualitative results showed that teachers thought VR was a useful tool for promoting inclusive participation, assisting with tailored instruction, and establishing more organized and controllable learning settings. In line with Sustainable Development Goals 4 (Quality Education) and 10 (Reduced Inequalities), the results offer empirical proof that VR may help inclusive education by improving classroom management and assisting different learners. Despite its benefits, the study also points to issues with infrastructure, teacher preparation, and resource accessibility, especially in settings with little resources. The study includes a discussion of the practical ramifications for educators, school administrators, and legislators.
Dr. Manusankar C, Sumaja Sasidharan, Vijayalakshmi M Nair
Mental health disorders — depression, anxiety, and stress — have surged in global prevalence, creating urgent demand for automated assessment tools that can operate at scale. Natural Language Processing (NLP) offers a compelling path forward: it can analyse large volumes of informal text, from social media posts to chatbot conversations, and surface linguistic patterns that correlate with psychological distress. This paper reviews NLP-based methods for mental health sentiment analysis and frames them within a conceptual architecture for a Mental Health Sentiment Analytics Dashboard — a unified system that integrates sentiment inference, temporal pattern analysis, and mood forecasting into a single, clinician-facing interface. Rather than describing a working implementation, the paper synthesises the literature across four analytical dimensions: text representation, learning paradigms, temporal modelling strategies, and real-world application domains. A consolidated comparative table covering major NLP approaches and benchmark datasets is provided to enable side-by-side evaluation. The paper also critically examines the ethical tensions, methodological gaps, and deployment challenges that must be resolved before such systems can be responsibly integrated into clinical practice.
Shila Nasrin
Microfinance programs have expanded rapidly, with women representing the majority of recipients. This study aims to examine the contribution of microfinance programs to women’s empowerment in rural Bangladesh and to identify challenges that limit their effectiveness and sustainability. Using a structured questionnaire and purposive sampling, survey research was conducted with 376 respondents to generate empirical evidence on the role of microfinance in enhancing women’s empowerment. The results indicate that microcredit significantly promotes economic and intra-household empowerment, with the strongest positive effects observed in income generation and decision-making within the family, while its influence on political participation remains limited. Despite these gains, challenges such as rigid repayment schedules, limited sectoral diversification, and insufficient training support persist, potentially affecting the long-term sustainability of microfinance programs. The study highlights that while microcredit strengthens economic capabilities and household agency, achieving broader and lasting women’s empowerment requires complementary social, political, and institutional support mechanisms. Based on these findings, policy recommendations are proposed to improve microcredit programs and enhance the overall empowerment of women in rural communities. This study contributes to a nuanced understanding of both the benefits and limitations of microfinance as a tool for women’s empowerment in Bangladesh.
Ferdinand CHIPINDI, Munukayumbwa MUNDIYA, Tommie NJOBVU, VILIZA Silwamba
The transition from rural secondary schools to higher education poses significant academic, social, and technological challenges for students in Zambia. This study examined the lived experiences of rural-origin students as they navigate academic acclimatization within Private Higher Education Institutions (PHEIs), focusing on their adaptation to pedagogical expectations, social environments, and digital learning demands. Guided by a qualitative phenomenological design and framed through Chickering and Reisser’s Seven Vectors of Student Development and Perry’s Cognitive-Structural Theory, data were collected from sixteen participants via semi-structured interviews, observations, and document reviews. Findings indicate that the students faced multifaceted challenges, including academic underpreparedness, cultural dislocation, difficulties with social integration, and digital exclusion. Despite these hindrances, the students demonstrated resilience, motivation, and self-agency, gradually developing autonomy, intellectual competence, and identity transformation. Based on these findings, the authors propose a framework of integrating developmental support mechanisms with institutional interventions that enhance academic and social adjustment. Interventions such as bridging programs, culturally responsive mentorship, digital literacy training, and inclusive peer support structures prioritize students’ well-being.
Aizel Mae Pescadero, Aldiomer Mocay, Charlee Joy Andales, Glecy Bayate, Honedy Castro, Jambay Baylosis, Jian Ferl Suico, Joel Datulio, Kathleen Mae Amor Enclonar, Ruffa Mae Maluya
With the rapid advancement of technology, maintaining academic integrity has become an increasingly pressing concern in educational institutions, affecting both the credibility of academic achievements and the learning process. This phenomenological study explored the phenomenon of student cheating from the perspective of teachers in a public school in Pantukan, Davao de Oro. This is guided by the Deterrence Theory by Beccaria (1764), which posits that individuals are less likely to engage in certain behaviors if they perceive the potential consequences as severe. The participants in this study were six purposively selected public school teachers; three participated in focus group discussions (FGDs) and three in in-depth interviews (IDIs) using open-ended interview guide questions. Results revealed four major challenges: over-reliance on AI tools, similar or duplicated answers in assessments, plagiarized outputs, and mobile device-facilitated cheating. Teachers responded with strategies including establishing clear classroom rules, imposing disciplinary sanctions, monitoring and constant guidance, promoting a culture of honesty, and using AI detection tools. Their insights highlighted flexible teaching approaches, fairness and ethical responsibility, fostering independent learning, and guiding the proper use of AI tools. These findings suggest that addressing academic dishonesty requires a balanced approach that combines clear rules, ethical guidance, and the strategic use of technology to uphold integrity while supporting student learning. Additionally, adopting flexible teaching methods, promoting fairness, encouraging independent learning, and providing guidance on responsible AI use can help educators prevent cheating and cultivate a culture of academic honesty.
Erastus Misheng’u Mwanaumo, Grant Mulenga
Rural roads are frequently promoted as a tool for increasing smallholder agricultural productivity, yet evidence from real-world, climate-stressed contexts remains mixed. This paper examines how rural road rehabilitation under the Zambia Improved Rural Connectivity Project has affected agricultural productivity and resilience among small-scale farmers in Nyimba and Chibombo districts. Using a concurrent mixed-methods design, the study combines survey data from 372 households, stratified by district and distance from rehabilitated roads, with qualitative interviews, focus group discussions, and key informant interviews. The analysis focuses on land ownership and activation, cropping patterns and yields for maize, sunflower, soya beans and groundnuts over two recent agricultural seasons, including the climatically adverse 2023/24 season. Results show that land ownership is widespread in both districts and that improved roads have supported land activation and crop diversification, particularly in previously more peripheral parts of Nyimba. Maize cultivation remains entrenched, but participation in commercial oilseed and legume crops has expanded or been sustained along rehabilitated corridors. However, yield outcomes are highly volatile: maize and soya yields contracted sharply in 2023/24 season, particularly in Chibombo, despite improved physical access to depots and markets, and sunflower and groundnut yields are uneven across distance bands and local agro-ecologies. Interpreted through the Spatial Development Theory and the Sustainable Livelihoods Framework, the findings support a “necessary but not sufficient” interpretation: Improved Rural Connectivity Project roads raise the ceiling of feasible productivity and help farmers stay engaged in key value chains, but realised productivity gains depend critically on climate, agronomy, liquidity and local market and service ecosystems. Policy implications emphasise integrating rural road investments with climate-smart agriculture, timely input systems and rural finance.
Ashwini Idhole, Dr. Rachana Pachori
Biosurfactant are amphiphilic molecule synthesized by variety of microorganisms as secondary metabolites. Due to non toxicity, biodegradability and eco-friendly nature, biosurfactant can be utilized in various sectors. Previous research studies reported that biosurfactant possess antimicrobial activity against human pathogens. On the circumstances of the increasing market of biosurfactant all over the world, the present study focused on Optimization and characterization of biosurfactant produced by Pseudomonas aeuginosa. Optimization of production media and physiochemical parameters for efficient biosurfctant production was carried out using MSM broth supplemented with 2% soyabean oil. Statistical analysis was carried out. Biosurfactant was characterized on the basis of TLC and Mass spectrometry. The results revealed that soyabean oil as carbon source, KNO3 as nitrogen source, aeration rate of 25vvm, agitation rate of 200 rpm, pH 8, 144 hrs. incubation periods, inoculum size 4% and temperature 30 ̊C was found to be statistically significant for the production of rhamnolipid by Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The finding of thin layer Chromatography showed two spots on silica gel plate after drying. The Rf value was found to be 0.53 and 0.67 respectively confirming presence of mono and di- rhamnolipid. The mass spectra showed the presence of both potassium adducts (M+K)+ ions sodium adducts (M+Na)+ ions confirming the presence of rhamnolipid. Hence, Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolated from oil contaminated soil could be utilized for rhamnolipid production.
Shri Sateesh Sukhadev Melinamani
In the contemporary era of globalization, rapid technological advancement, and changing employment patterns, higher education systems are under increasing pressure to produce graduates who are not only knowledgeable but also skilled, adaptable, and industry-ready. Traditional content-centric curricula have often failed to bridge the gap between academic learning and practical application. In response to this challenge, educational reforms such as the Choice Based Credit System (CBCS) and Outcome-Based Education (OBE) have emerged as transformative frameworks in higher education, particularly in India. The integration of skill-based curriculum development within CBCS, supported by clearly defined OBE programme objectives, represents a significant shift from teacher-centric to learner-centric education. This research paper examines the conceptual framework, relevance, and implementation of skill-based curriculum development under CBCS aligned with OBE programme objectives. It explores the objectives, need, scope, methodological approach, and emerging concerns related to this integration. The study emphasizes how skill-oriented curricula promote employability, entrepreneurship, lifelong learning, and holistic development among students. Furthermore, it highlights the systemic issues that necessitate such reforms and sets the foundation for analyzing advantages, challenges, and policy-level recommendations. The paper adopts a descriptive and analytical research design based on secondary data to critically evaluate the role of CBCS and OBE in enhancing the quality and relevance of higher education.
Aileen C. Sindac, Wilson Angel H. Villarin
The primary objective of this study is to describe the various pedagogical approaches utilized by Junior High School science teachers in teaching science to students. According to the findings of this research, most science teachers employ a collaborative teaching method, which is then followed by experimentation and differentiated instruction in their classrooms. This agrees with an article that was posted on the internet by Cox (2019), saying that the most effective methods for teaching science include collaborative learning and differentiated instruction.
Dr. Shabna Babu, Dr. Vineeth K. M., Neena Merina
Mera Bill Mera Adhikar Scheme or My Bill, My Rights was developed by the government and was launched on 01 September 2023 to bring an essential change in the behaviour of the general public so that they can start considering it their right and entitlement to demand bills form all the sellers. Our study aims to know how well the people are aware about the scheme, their level of expectancy regarding the app and usage intention. Both primary and secondary data shall be used for the study and suitable statistical inferential tools shall be used for data analysis and interpretation. The study concluded that the public awareness is neutral but better usage intention is expected in the days to come through the nudging of Government through attractive prizes.
A.O. Adefolaju, A.S. Owolabi, P.O. Ayansiji
Early patient mobilization is one of the most important factors in postoperative pain management, especially in orthopedic patients. Poor pain management can lead to delayed recovery, poor functional status, and high healthcare costs. This study assessed the perceived impact of postoperative pain management on early patient mobilization at the National Orthopedic Hospital, Igbobi, Lagos State, Nigeria. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 152 patients using simple random sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS version 29 software, with results presented in descriptive form and graphical illustrations. The study population was predominantly middle-aged (36.2%), male (73.0%), married, and had undergone major surgery (67.1%). Pain management techniques used included positioning and immobilization (36.2%), physiotherapy (32.2%), and analgesics (21.1%). Despite this, 54.6% of the patients suffered severe pain in the last 24 hours, with only 15.8% mobilized within 12 hours of surgery. Pain intensity (23.7%), fear of injury (25.7%), and lack of motivation (27.0%) were the major barriers to mobilization. Deep breathing exercises (39.5%) and relaxation techniques (27.6%) were employed as coping mechanisms, but communication barriers and cultural beliefs were major limitations. The results bring to light the shortcomings in pain management strategies and their effects on delayed early mobilization. Nurses are critical in filling these gaps through patient education, cultural competency in communication, and inter-professional collaboration for early ambulation and optimal recovery. It was recommended that improving patient and nurse communication, integrating cultural competency into treatment plans, and encouraging early mobilization are critical strategies that nurses can use to improve outcomes and achieve early mobilization in orthopedic patients.
D Pavan Kumar, P. Narendra, P. Revanth, SK. Shakeer Basha, Vakati Radha Krishna
The escalating cost of cement poses significant barriers to affordable construction, limiting access for individuals and smaller entities beyond governments and affluent sectors. This study explores sustainable alternatives by investigating the compressive strength properties of high-performance M50 grade concrete incorporating Ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS) and silica fume (SF) as partial cement replacements. Three distinct concrete mixtures were developed with GGBS replacement levels of 0%, 10%, 15% & 20% by weight of cement, combined with SF additions of 0%, 15%, 20% & 25%. Concrete cubes were cast, compacted, and cured in a controlled tank environment for 7, 28 and 56 days. Post-curing, specimens underwent density determination followed by compressive strength testing at each interval to evaluate early-age and long-term performance. Incorporating these pozzolanic materials reduces cement demand by up to 35%, lowering production costs, minimizing CO₂ emissions, and promoting resource efficiency. This approach fosters sustainability in the construction industry, enabling economic viability for broader infrastructure development while maintaining structural integrity. Future work could extend to flexural, tensile, and durability assessments under varied exposure conditions.
M Asif Chishti., Mehwish Iqbal., Muhammad Wajid Khan, Raees Abbas.
The High-Performance Computing (HPC) systems demand effective resource-utilization as well as the performance of its execution. Older models of hypervisor-based virtualization provide isolation at the expense of performance, whilst the new models of container-based virtualization (e.g., Docker, Singularity) are lightweight and near-native in terms of performance. This paper will provide a comparative performance analysis of virtual machines (VMs) versus containers on HPC based on CPU, memory, I/O throughput, and execution latency values. With the help of the latest benchmark studies and experimental evidence, we show that container-based environments tend to have lower overhead and better performance than the traditional VMs across different workloads. We also single out the important cases in which hypervisor virtualization is beneficial. The results provide a recommendation to adopt suitable virtualization software in the contemporary HPC clusters. Future work will involve the study of hybrid strategies and methods of orchestration to improve performance when using large cloud and HPC deployments
Judie L. Velasco, Julio Raymundo M. Pasagui, Mary Chris M. Castillo, Riza Jane T. Andig, Sheemaiah Kylle L. Hasim
This study investigated the anti-angiogenic potential of Imperata cylindrica (cogon grass) leaf extract through an integrated network pharmacology–guided in silico approach coupled with in vivo validation, focusing on the multi-target behavior of its bioactive compounds. Given the central role of angiogenesis in tumor growth and metastasis, identifying plant-derived compounds capable of modulating angiogenic pathways remains a strategic priority in cancer research.
Harsharan Singh, Ria
The field of neurological disorders is a growing public health issue, and India has shown this trend in a very uneven distribution between metropolitan and non-metropolitan areas. Air pollution, chronic stress, sedentary lifestyles, and the availability of better diagnosis have become the causes of reported increasing incidence of stroke, migraine, dementia, and Parkinson's disease among metropolitan population. In contrast, non-metropolitan regions have to experience more prevalence of epilepsy, neuroinfections, neurotrauma, and neurological impairment secondary to malnutrition due to late diagnosis and limited specialist care. The current pharmacological treatments are mostly symptomatic with common side effects and potential lack of disease-modifying effects. Neurotherapeutics derived from plants provide a potential, less expensive and culturally rooted alternative. Established medicinal species, including Withania somnifera, Bacopa monnier have multi-target effects, which are antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and neuromodulatory. Because of their extensive use in treatments, their analogs having similar activities must be found, to extend the spectrum of potential neuroprotective agents and reliance on ecologically endangered species is minimized. Further, this review summarises the metropolitan and non-metropolitan neurological disease incidence in India, where the inducers of neurological disorders might be similar but effects may vary due to availability of diagnosis, treatment and various other environmental and societal conditions. The review points out the therapeutic potential of already known plant compounds and their less-studied structural analogs. Through a combination of phytochemical research and a region-specific medical requirement, plant-based molecules may assist in filling diagnostic gaps and offer more accessible and sustainable treatment for neurological conditions in India.
Dr. Mohammad Ali Asraf Suhag, Dr. Sufi Sumsul Yeaman, Dr. Sumon Ray Chowdhury
Precision medicine in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) shifts from uniform treatment to individualized strategies addressing genetic, metabolic, environmental, and clinical heterogeneity. Key pillars include continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) for dynamic glycemic insights, subtype stratification (e.g., severe insulin-resistant diabetes [SIRD], severe insulin-deficient diabetes [SIDD]), pharmacogenomics-guided therapy, and interventions enabling remission. CGM improves time in range, reduces variability, and supports tailored adjustments beyond HbA1c limitations. Clustering identifies differential complication risks and drug responses, favoring SGLT2 inhibitors in SIRD or GLP- receptor agonists in SIDD. Remission sustained normoglycemia without medication
Maryam Huseyinova
This work is devoted to the topic of preparation and study of a composition based on butadiene-styrene polymer using wood tar. An optimal recipe for obtaining a rubber mixture using butadiene-styrene rubber and wood tar (which we will sometimes call Kamden in the future) was selected and each component was justified. The rubber mixture was prepared in a mixer located in the laboratory of Bakrezin JSC and the mixing mode was set at a temperature of 1200C for 14 minutes, and the obtained homogeneous dispersed system was cooled to 800C, sulphur and accelerators were added to it. Then the kinetics of the vulcanization process was found. The vulcanization mode was determined as follows: T-1580C, P -12MPa, t - 26 minutes. The physical and mechanical properties of the vulcanization were studied and it was shown that the indicators of the obtained product meet the requirements of the standard. To determine the durability of these rubber products obtained, the physical and mechanical properties of the vulcanization were determined and the sample had the following characteristics: Tensile strength, 22 MPa, Elongation at break 340%, Residual elongation 12%. Hardness according to TM-2, 85 conventional units.
Dr.A.Vijayakumar
A library is a repository of the knowledge and wisdom of great thinkers of the past and the present. The documents of the libraries are the priceless heritage of mankind as they preserve facts, ideas, thoughts, accomplishments, and evidence of human development in multifarious areas, ages & directions. The very old records constitute a natural resource and are indispensable to the present generation as well as to the generations to come. Any loss to such materials is simply irreplaceable. Therefore, preserving this intellectual, cultural heritage becomes not only the academic commitment but also the moral responsibility of the librarians/information scientists, who are in charge of these repositories.
Justice Badam Parmaak, Sandra Asabea
Postpartum depression is a mental disorder that may affect both genders. Postpartum depression may include poor mood, impatience, fatigue, sleeplessness, hunger changes, worry, inability to cope, guilt, suicidal thoughts, and worthlessness. However, Ghana lacks epidemiological evidence on postpartum depression and its related causes. This study aimed at assessing the prevalence and associated risk factors of Postpartum depression (PPD) among new mothers at the Tamale Teaching Hospital (TTH). In April and May 2022, 135 postpartum mothers visiting the prenatal clinic at Tamale Teaching Hospital participated in a facility- based, analytical cross-sectional survey. Postpartum and Neonatal Intensive Care Unit registers were randomly sampled. Data gathering employed a structured questionnaire and the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale. To look at postpartum predictors, descriptive, bivariate (using chi-square), and multivariable logistic regression analyses were used. According to the research, out of the 135 mothers, the majority of them were married (96%) with more than 10 household members, literate (78%) because most were urban residents (53%), Muslims (87%), traders (37%), and aged between 21 and 30. The study also revealed that almost one in ten (10.37 percent) of the respondents had Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale depressed symptoms scores classed as high. Finally, of all the socio-demographic, maternal, clinical, lifestyle, and psychological factors considered, only two variables were significantly linked with postpartum depression symptoms, which were pressure from immediate family or friends (AOR=13.18; CI=2.069-84.009; p=004) and daily hours of sleep during the postpartum period (AOR=0.745; CI=0.020-6.615; p=0.048). This study concludes that the incidence of depression symptoms among mothers at TTH is quite high. Despite the observed improvement, pressure from close ones and daily hours of sleep during the postpartum period were identified as risk factors for PPD. To treat postpartum depression among postpartum mothers, immediate interventions such as counseling and psychological assistance at home and in health facilities are required.
Ayobami Alade OKUNDARE, Emmanuel Akinyemi ADENUGA, Saıdat Bola ADEGBITE
The rising trend and prevalence of non-communicable diseases in Nigeria are alarming, underscoring the need to increase awareness and promote the adoption of preventive healthcare services to enhance healthy living among employees and improve productivity. Therefore, this study assessed the awareness and utilization of preventive healthcare services among non-teaching staff of the Federal College of Education, Abeokuta, Ogun State. A cross-sectional analytical research design was employed and a total of 125 non-teaching staff members recruited with a stratified random sampling technique were used for this study. The sample size was proportionally allocated across the various subunits within the College. Data were collected using a self-developed questionnaire. The research questions were analyzed with frequencies percentage, mean standard deviation and the hypothesis was tested at a significance level of p < .05 with an independent samples t-test. The findings revealed that respondents’ awareness of preventive healthcare services was above average (M = 5.33, SD = 0.48). Blood pressure checks, weight checks, and Pap smear screening recorded high levels of uptake. Despite the high level of awareness observed among respondents, a statistically significant difference in utilization was found based on socio-demographic characteristics, t(118) = –2.861, p = .006, with a mean difference of –4.95. It was therefore recommended, among other measures, that non-teaching staff be specifically targeted through structured health promotion and education programs to improve consistent utilization of preventive healthcare services and encourage the adoption of healthy lifestyle practices, thereby enhancing productivity within the educational environment.
Akinyele ADISA, Bamidele KOLUDE, Bukola Folasade ADEYEMI, Mofoluwaso Abimbola OLAJIDE
Background- Ameloblastoma is a benign aggressive neoplasm of odontogenic epithelium. It has a high rate of recurrence, occasional metastasis and malignant transformation. Reversion-inducing cysteine rich protein with kazal motifs (RECK) gene is a tumour suppressor gene expressed in various normal organs and has been found to be important in suppressing tumour invasion, metastasis and angiogenesis. RECK levels are significantly down regulated in many tumours compared with the adjacent normal tissue and detection of normal or elevated RECK levels in tumour samples has been associated with decreased invasiveness and metastatic potential, with improved prognosis. Poor clinical prognosis in ameloblastoma may be associated with decreased RECK expressions. The aim of this study was to assess the prognostic significance of RECK in ameloblastoma and ameloblastic carcinoma, by determining expression of RECK protein. Methods- Selected Paraffin blocks of 50 ameloblastoma cases, 8 ameloblastic carcinoma cases and 50 control cases (pyogenic granuloma) were sectioned and stained with commercial antibodies for RECK. Immunohistochemical staining of stromal and tumour cells in individual cases and study controls was assessed at X100 magnification to obtain a quantified combined score for each one. Proportion of cases with positive expression of RECK were compared between ameloblastoma and ameloblastic carcinoma, using chi square statistics. Mean scores for RECK expression in ameloblastoma and ameloblastic carcinoma cases were compared with that of the control group using the ANOVA test. Results- RECK was positive in a greater proportion of ameloblastoma (96%) than ameloblastic carcinoma (87.5%) than in control cases (80%) (p = 0.049). The mean score of RECK expression in Ameloblastoma was higher than Ameloblastic carcinomas. The mean score of RECK expression was also higher in unicystic ameloblastoma than solid multicystic ameloblastoma. Conclusion- RECK may be a promising prognostic marker in ameloblastoma and ameloblastic carcinoma.
Augusto Cam Rojas, Essalud Angamos, Guillermo Moises Díaz Quiroz, Vanessa Ma Lei
Endometriosis is a chronic gynecological disorder characterized by the implantation and growth of endometriallike tissue outside the uterine cavity, with a highly variable clinical course and complex underlying biology. The objective of this review was to synthesize current mechanistic evidence explaining how endometriosis progresses from initial ectopic implantation to sustained lesion expansion and long-term persistence. A narrative integrative approach was employed to analyze experimental, translational, and clinical studies addressing implantation, immune modulation, endocrine dysregulation, angiogenesis, neuroangiogenesis, and microenvironmental remodeling. The reviewed evidence indicates that lesion establishment is a selective process requiring coordinated adhesion, invasion, and extracellular matrix remodeling, supported by permissive immune and stromal environments. Chronic inflammation and immune tolerance consistently emerge as foundational features, enabling ectopic tissue survival despite ongoing inflammatory signaling. Endocrine alterations— particularly local estrogenic activity and progesterone resistance—interact with inflammatory pathways to reinforce proliferative and anti-apoptotic programs. Angiogenesis and neuroangiogenesis further contribute to lesion expansion by providing metabolic, vascular, and neural support, while microenvironmental stressors such as hypoxia and oxidative stress promote long-term remodeling and persistence. Collectively, the findings support a systems-based model of endometriosis progression in which immune, endocrine, vascular, neural, and stromal mechanisms converge through reinforcing feedback loops. This integrative perspective advances the understanding of endometriosis as a progressive and adaptive disease process and highlights the need for multidimensional research and therapeutic strategies that address interacting biological domains rather than isolated pathways.
Dr. Yashaswini. B
India is a critical sector for a sustainable 2025 and beyond, as the country currently generates approximately 62 million tonnes of waste annually—a figure projected to reach 165 million tonnes by 2030. Rapid urbanization, changing consumption patterns, and population growth have intensified solid waste management challenges across the globe. In India, semi-urban and rural areas face unique difficulties due to limited infrastructure, lack of awareness, and inadequate institutional support. Improper waste disposal leads to environmental degradation, health hazards, and reduced community resilience to environmental risks.
Eljie Mae M. Cenia, Ernesto G. Tenajeros Jr., Estrello L. Estrebillo, Glenne B. Lagura, DPA, Ivy M. Acaso, Joanaros P. Fahit, MSSW, Joshua A. Limbing, Ronel G. Dagohoy, DPA, Troy Jon N. Ancho
This qualitative case study examined the development, implementation, and challenges of reintegration programs for juvenile offenders in Panabo City, Philippines. Through key informant interviews with five program implementers, the study explored how local government units operationalize Republic Act 9344 (Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act of 2006) through community-based rehabilitation initiatives. Using thematic analysis based on Creswell's framework, three major themes emerged: program development driven by policy alignment and multi-stakeholder collaboration; implementation through needs-based interventions and community-based strategies; and persistent challenges including resource limitations, inadequate family support, and behavioral adjustment difficulties. Findings revealed that successful reintegration requires coordinated efforts among the City Social Welfare and Development Office, Philippine National Police, Department of Social Welfare and Development, NGOs, and community stakeholders. The program's three-year structured plan emphasizes individualized interventions, vocational training, and psychosocial support. However, implementation faces significant barriers including budget constraints, limited facilities, social stigma, and emotional adjustment issues among youth participants. The study demonstrates that effective juvenile reintegration transcends punitive measures, requiring sustained commitment to rehabilitation, adequate resource allocation, and community acceptance. These findings contribute to understanding how local governments can develop responsive juvenile justice systems that balance public safety with children's rights to rehabilitation and social reintegration.
Damaris Kyoni Dangiwa, Dauda Audi Dangiwa, Enoch Gback Dangiwa, Ikechukwu Felix Onwuliri, Isaac Hezekiah Achwai, John Kayode Falana, Josiah Nanpon Dangun, Moses David Audu, Ogaraku Marvin, Timothy Olugbenga Ogundeko, Yusufu Maigari
Substance use disorders (SUDs) among adolescents constitute a growing public health concern in Nigeria and sub-Saharan Africa, with prevalence estimates ranging from 32.9% to 69.3% nationally and approximately 41.6% regionally. This retrospective cross-sectional study reviewed 220 clinical case files of adolescents and young adults treated for substance use disorders at Quintessential Healthcare Centre, Jos, between 2010 and 2018. Data extracted included socio-demographic characteristics, substances of abuse, assessment instruments, psychosocial interventions, number of admissions, and relapse episodes. Descriptive analysis was conducted using SPSS version 20.0. Findings showed marked male predominance (83.6%) and a mean age of 29.88 ± 8.84 years, indicating early initiation with persistence into adulthood. Alcohol, tobacco, and cannabis were the most frequently abused substances. The mean number of admissions was 1.50 ± 1.01, while the mean relapse rate was 0.71 ± 1.12. Relapse was associated with peer influence, unemployment, family dysfunction, and limited structured aftercare. Strengthened prevention, gender-sensitive services, and structured post-discharge follow-up are recommended.
Ezenwaeze, Malachy Nwaeze, Okeke Miracle Chidiebere, Ortuanya Kelvin Emeka
Background: Retained placenta is a significant complication of the third stage of labour and an important cause of postpartum haemorrhage and maternal morbidity in low-resource settings. Despite improvements in emergency obstetric care, delayed presentation and unbooked status remain common challenges in South-East Nigeria. Aim: To determine the incidence, risk factors, clinical presentation, management modalities, and maternal outcomes of retained placenta at Enugu State University Teaching Hospital (ESUTH), Parklane, Enugu, over a five-year period. Methods: This was a retrospective descriptive study of women managed for retained placenta at or beyond 28 weeks of gestation between January 2018 and December 2022. Case records were retrieved from the labour ward, gynaecology emergency unit, and medical records department. Relevant socio-demographic, obstetric, clinical, and outcome variables were extracted and analyzed using SPSS version 26.0. Results were presented using descriptive statistics. Results: A total of 112 cases of retained placenta were identified during the study period. Most affected women were aged 20–30 years (48.2%) and multiparous (58.1%). The majority were unbooked (82.1%) and delivered outside the study centre, mainly at home or with traditional birth attendants (59.8%). Active haemorrhage was present in 30.4% at presentation. Manual removal of the placenta was the predominant treatment modality (65.2%), and 43.8% required blood transfusion. Although 89.3% were discharged without complications, 10.7% experienced morbidity. No maternal mortality was recorded. Conclusion: Retained placenta remains a clinically significant third-stage complication at ESUTH, particularly among unbooked and non-institutionally delivered women. Improved antenatal care utilization, skilled birth attendance, and strengthened referral systems are essential to reducing associated maternal morbidity.
Swati Pal
The concept of the Anthropocene frames climate change as the cumulative outcome of human activity, suggesting a shared and universal responsibility for planetary degradation. However, this universal framing risks obscuring the historically uneven structures of power, production, and consumption that have shaped the climate crisis. This paper critically re-examines the Anthropocene through a political economy lens, arguing that the climate emergency is not simply the result of “humanity” as a whole, but of a historically specific model of industrial capitalism concentrated in the Global North. By interrogating patterns of historical carbon emissions, industrial expansion, resource extraction, and global trade asymmetries, the study demonstrates how environmental degradation has been structurally embedded within unequal North–South economic relations.
Dr Soni T L
Existing research reveals a notable gap at the intersection of sustainable development studies and classical ethical thinking. The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) provide a comprehensive global framework for addressing contemporary social, economic, and environmental challenges. This study addresses this gap by reviewing Thirukkural, a classical Tamil ethical text by Thiruvalluvar, and using the SDGs as an interpretive analytical lens. Using thematic analysis, the study conceptually aligns each SDG with the ethical principles articulated in Thirukkural, including justice, moderation, compassion, ethical governance, and collective responsibility. The analysis deliberately avoids anachronism and recognises that Thirukkural does not engage with modern institutional mechanisms or global governance structures. Instead, it offers an ethical framework that reinforces contemporary understandings of sustainability. The study argues that sustainable development cannot be achieved through policy design alone but requires moral reorientation rooted in ethical accountability and social solidarity.
Ayobami M. Ola, Ndidi M. Ofole
This study examined the level of risky sexual behaviour among adolescents in semi-urban settlements in Ibadan, Nigeria, and explored the relationship between knowledge of HIV/AIDS, emotional intelligence, and risky sexual behaviour. A descriptive correlational design was adopted with a sample of 200 in-school adolescents. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, and multiple regression analysis. Findings revealed a moderate level of risky sexual behaviour among the respondents (weighted mean = 2.53). Significant negative relationships were found between knowledge of HIV/AIDS and risky sexual behaviour (r = −.24, p < .05), and between emotional intelligence and risky sexual behaviour (r = −.31, p < .05). A significant positive relationship also existed between knowledge of HIV/AIDS and emotional intelligence (r = .38, p < .05). The regression analysis showed that knowledge of HIV/AIDS and emotional intelligence jointly predicted risky sexual behaviour, explaining 49.6% of the variance (R = .704, R² = .496; F (2,197) = 82.41, p < .05). Emotional intelligence emerged as the stronger predictor. The study concludes that both HIV/AIDS knowledge and emotional intelligence significantly influence adolescents’ risky sexual behaviour. It is recommended that adolescent health programmes integrate HIV/AIDS education with emotional intelligence and life-skills training to promote safer sexual decision-making.
Manasi Patro
This research paper examines Family Courts Act 1984 in Odisha, focusing on its implementation and effects. The Family Court Act 1984 aims to provide quick and effective resolutions for family issues while supporting personal security and maintaining family ties. The study uses a mixed-methods approach, gathering feedback from litigants, judges, lawyers, and NGO staff for better understanding of the impact of the Act. It highlights the constitutional foundations of the Act and emphasizes resolving conflicts amicably through mediation instead of conventional legal processes. Family Courts prioritize relationships and welfare of children in dispute resolution. Despite these goals, challenges in this legal process, such as delays, lack of awareness, and procedural complexities hinder effective implementation of the Act. The research compares how Family Courts operate across different districts and shows variations in response times and case resolutions. Recommendations are given to improve the Act's effectiveness which includes simplifying procedures, reducing delays, and aligning with gender justice goals. The study calls for ongoing monitoring of Family Courts to ensure successful implementation and uphold gender equality rights. It aims to aid legislators, judges, and organizations committed to gender justice and resolving family disputes, ultimately helping to maintain family bonds.
Joseph Ampadu
Purpose: Technology-Enhanced Learning (TEL) has become a central feature of contemporary education, offering digital platforms and tools to improve teaching and learning. In Ghanaian Senior High Schools (SHSs), TEL adoption has accelerated, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, yet questions remain about its impact on student engagement and motivation. This study therefore examined role of technology-enhanced learning on student engagement and motivation in selected Ghanaian Senior High Schools. Methods: Anchored in Self-Determination Theory, the study employed a positivist paradigm and a descriptive cross-sectional survey design. A deductive approach guided the analysis of theoretically grounded constructs. The sample comprised 73 students purposively selected from two public SHSs with established digital infrastructure. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire administered via Google Forms, adapted from validated instruments, and analysed using IBM SPSS (Version 27). Descriptive statistics summarised perceptions, while Pearson’s correlation tested associations among digital literacy, motivation, and engagement at a 95% confidence level. Findings: Findings revealed that students perceived digital literacy particularly confidence and positive attitudes toward digital tools as critical enablers of TEL use. Confidence in digital skills strongly influenced collaboration and motivation (Mean = 4.00; r = 0.93). Digital tool use was highly correlated with improved focus, enjoyment, and active participation in TEL classrooms (r = 0.91–0.94). These results highlight that competence and confidence are stronger predictors of motivation and engagement than peer influence or system usability. Conclusion: The study concludes that TEL can significantly enhance student motivation and engagement when supported by digital literacy. Implications: The implications highlight the need for targeted teacher training, equitable resource allocation, and digital literacy programmes to maximise TEL’s benefits in Ghanaian SHSs, thereby advancing SDG 4 (Quality Education). Originality: The originality of this research lies in its focus on the relationship between digital literacy and motivational outcomes in Ghanaian SHSs, moving beyond access and infrastructure debates to provide empirical evidence on how TEL shapes students’ learning experiences.
Santhosh Kumar Shrinivas, Verina Merlin Tauro
The rapid expansion of internet access and smartphone penetration has transformed the career decision-making landscape of youth, particularly in digitally dynamic contexts such as India. This conceptual paper develops an integrated theoretical framework to explain how social media engagement influences career selection intentions among Indian youth. Drawing upon Social Cognitive Career Theory (SCCT), Social Comparison Theory, and Digital Capital Theory, the study argues that social media does not directly determine career choices but reshapes the cognitive, emotional, and evaluative processes underlying them. Social media functions as a contemporary learning environment where exposure to professional narratives, influencer trajectories, and peer achievements influences career self-efficacy, work values, and outcome expectations. Simultaneously, upward social comparison processes may intensify aspirations while also generating employment anxiety and perceived competition. The framework proposes that these psychological mechanisms mediate the relationship between social media engagement and career selection intentions, while digital literacy, socio-economic background, and institutional guidance moderate the strength and direction of these effects. By extending traditional career development theory into algorithmically mediated environments and contextualising the analysis within India’s socio-economic landscape, the paper offers a nuanced and theory-driven explanation of youth career formation in the digital age and provides a foundation for future empirical research and policy interventions.
Akmal Adanan, Mohamad Daim Darson, Mohd Adib Izzat, Nur Diyanah Saffa Mohd Noor, Nurul Ain Mohd Shamsul
The hospitality industry, in recent years, has undergone widespread digitalization with self-service kiosks (SSKs) being one of the key innovations aimed at enhancing operational efficiency, reducing customer wait time, and enhancing overall service experience. The research explores SSK usability and attitude of customers towards SSKs in Malacca's hospitality industry in Malaysia, a city rich in cultural heritage and having a rapidly developing tourism sector. Although the application of these technologies has seen growing prevalence globally, minimal research of this kind has been conducted in the Malaysian context, particularly in culturally oriented destinations where cultural diversity and digital literacy levels can have a bearing on user acceptance. Drawing upon the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), this study evaluates how usage experience, features and functionality, and perception and attitudes contribute to the successful adoption of SSKs in hospitality settings.
Karunarathne.V.L, Wijayarathne.S.K
Databases are essential for storing and managing information in modern applications, organizations, and institutions. However, accessing data from relational databases typically requires knowledge of Structured Query Language (SQL), which many users do not possess. Formulating accurate SQL queries also demands an understanding of database schemas, table structures, and syntax rules. Natural Language to SQL (NL2SQL) systems aim to overcome this limitation by enabling users to interact with databases using everyday language (Affolter, 2019). Despite significant research in Natural Language Interface to Databases (NLIDB), existing systems still struggle with ambiguity, synonym variation, and complex query structures such as aggregation functions and joins (Li & Jagadish & Yu et al.). Therefore, a semantic-based novelty approach is needed to improve accuracy and usability.
Ajenikoko S.J, Aregbesola O.C, Ayo-Dada O.D, Kayode E.I., Olowoyeye F.A, Osuolale B.T
As a viral infection targeting the liver, hepatitis poses significant risks, including the potential progression to cirrhosis, hepatic failure, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Hepatitis B (HBV) and Hepatitis C (HCV) persist as critical public health concerns, predominantly in developing regions characterized by insufficient screening programs, vaccination coverage, and disease awareness. This study determines the prevalence of Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C among men attending Oke Iyimi Health Facility, Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State, Nigeria, and it identifies the rate of co-infection within the study population. A cross-sectional study design was employed. Venous blood samples (n = 138) were collected from male participants. Plasma samples were analyzed using Promed® rapid diagnostic test kits for the detection of Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and Hepatitis C virus antibody (anti-HCV). Data were analyzed using Microsoft Excel and SPSS version 26. Results showed that 12 participants (8.7%) tested positive for HBV, while 1 participant (0.7%) tested positive for HCV. The only HCV positive patient was also HBV-positive, indicating one case of HBV/HCV co-infection. The highest HBV positivity occurred among participants aged 31–40 years (15.4%), followed by 21–30 years (13.5%) and 51–60 years (6.3%). The HCV infection (0.7%) was observed in the 21–30 years age group. Based on these findings, it is recommended that routine screening for viral hepatitis be intensified at the community and primary healthcare levels. Public health education, vaccination programs, and awareness campaigns should also be strengthened to promote early detection, prevention, and control of Hepatitis B and C infections among men.
Aarthi D, Haritha M, Janani, Sharon tharunika S
The Siddha system of medicine is one of the oldest traditional medical systems, originating in South India. It is based on the fundamental principle of Mukkutram—Vaatham, Pitham, and Kabam. According to Siddha philosophy, health is maintained by the equilibrium of these three humors, and disease occurs due to their imbalance. Siddha medicine follows a holistic approach that includes herbal, mineral, and herbo mineral formulations, along with dietary regulation and lifestyle modification. This system is widely used in managing various systemic disorders. Respiratory ailments such as cough, bronchial asthma, and bronchitis are mainly attributed to Kabam imbalance. Classical Siddha drugs like Adhatoda vasica and Tinospora cordifolia exhibit anti-inflammatory, bronco dilatory, and antioxidant properties, supporting respiratory health. Fever and immune disturbances are managed through immuno modulatory herbs and formulations that enhance the body’s resistance. Digestive disorders are considered central in Siddha, as impaired digestion leads to humoral imbalance; herbs like Terminalia chebula and Zingiber officinale are commonly used to improve digestion and metabolism. Thus, Siddha medicine provides an integrative and complementary approach for managing respiratory, febrile, digestive, and dermatological conditions in contemporary healthcare.
Emmanuel Amukohe Shikanga, Walter Edwin Ogara Odhiambo
Soils in gold mining areas are threatened by heavy metal contamination, posing a a great danger to the environment and to both animal and human health. This study was aimed assessing the uptake and bioaccumulation of Cu, Pb, Cd, and Zn, in Pennisetum purpureum grown on a gold mine dump in western Kenya. Soil and plant samples were randomly collected from four points on the mine dump in March 2024. The control samples were collected away from the mine dump. The samples were collected in triplicate and air-dried for two weeks. The plant samples were separated into the different parts, and with soil samples, they were each separately ground into fine powder. 50 g of each set of replicates was combined to form a composite sample. The samples were digested and the levels of the metals were determined using atomic absorption spectroscopy. The amount each metal in the samples from the mine dump was higher than the WHO permissible levels for agricultural soils and plants. The quantities of the heavy metals in the soil and plants were in the order Cd<Pb<Zn<Cu. The metal levels in the plants were, Cu: soil>roots>leaves>stem, Pb: soil>leaves>roots>stems, Cd: soil>stems>roots>leaves, and Zn: soil>roots>stems>leaves. Synergistic interactions were observed between the quantities of the different metals in the soils and in different plant parts. Although P. purpureum samples from the mine dump were contaminated by Pb, Cu, Zn, and Cd, hence unfit for livestock consumption, the crop has great potential for phytoremediation of the heavy metal in contaminated soil.
Huseyinova Lamiya, Yunis Qarayev
This study investigates the modification process of SREPT-60 with grape leaves.. It is shown that modification requires obtaining grape leaf nanoparticles and then performing the modification. The study found that the optimal amount of grape leaf particles for modification is 8-10% by weight. The wear resistance and electrical resistance of rubber obtained from SREPT-60 rubber compounds and grape leaves were studied. The results show that increasing the grape leaf mass to 8 parts by weight improves the overall rubber performance. At a frequency of 50 Hz, the permittivity decreases from 2.3 to 2.9, and the dielectric loss tangent tanδ decreases from 10⁻² to 10⁻³, while the breakdown strength increases. In this study, grape leaves were used for the first time to modify rubber. The modification process of a composite based on Skep-60 and grape leaves was studied in detail using modern research methods. The melt flow rate of the composite was also studied to determine the processing parameters of the resulting composite.
Dr. B P Bommanahalli, Dr. Divyashree, Dr. Shakuntala Aramani, Dr. Susmitha S
Oculocutaneous albinism (OCA) is a rare autosomal recessive disorder characterized by generalized deficiency of melanin pigment, which normally protects against ultraviolet (UV) radiation–induced DNA damage. Consequently, affected individuals are predisposed to cutaneous malignancies, most commonly squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), whereas basal cell carcinoma (BCC) occurs less frequently. The synchronous occurrence of SCC and BCC in a single patient with OCA is exceedingly uncommon. We report a 41-year-old male with OCA who presented with ulcerated lesions over sun-exposed areas. Histopathological examination revealed two distinct tumors. One lesion showed features of SCC with nests and sheets of malignant squamous cells demonstrating nuclear pleomorphism and keratinization, and tumor cells exhibited strong nuclear positivity for p40 (ΔNp63 isoform of p63), confirming squamous differentiation. The second lesion demonstrated basaloid tumor nests with peripheral palisading and stromal retraction clefts, consistent with BCC, and showed cytoplasmic positivity for B-cell lymphoma 2 (BCL-2). This case highlights the importance of careful clinical evaluation, histopathological examination, and immunohistochemistry in identifying synchronous malignancies in OCA. Early diagnosis and strict photoprotective measures are essential to reduce morbidity in individuals genetically susceptible to UV-induced skin cancers.
Dr Sydrique MIARAKA
Justice is a fundamental pillar of the rule of law and democracy. In Madagascar, despite the 2010 constitutional provisions guaranteeing judicial independence, a major contradiction persists between the stated principle and institutional reality. This article aims to demonstrate the mechanisms by which the executive branch exercises control over the judiciary and analyze the consequences for public confidence. The methodology is based on an exegetical analysis of constitutional texts and organic laws, combined with an observation of institutional practices and governance indicators. The results reveal significant executive control over career management, the budget, and appointments to the High Courts via the High Council of the Judiciary. Assessments by the World Bank and Transparency International correlate this structural dependence with levels of perceived corruption. This situation leads to administrative delays and a loss of public confidence, threatening social cohesion and the culture of Fihavanana. A comparative perspective with other African systems sheds light on Madagascar's specificities. In conclusion, judicial independence remains textual rather than substantive. Structural reform that excludes direct influence from the executive branch and incorporates the contributions of magistrates is urgently needed to restore the legitimacy of the justice system and guarantee the separation of powers.
Iin Susilawati, Ujang Hidayat Tanuwiria, Zalfa Auliya
Silage is one of the alternative feed sources produced through anaerobic fermentation, which can preserve nutrient quality and extend the storage life of feed materials, especially when fresh forage availability is limited. The utilization of agricultural by-products as silage materials also has the potential to improve the efficiency of sustainable ruminant feed production. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of different ratios of corn stover and pineapple peel silage on in vitro rumen fermentation. The experiment was conducted using a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) consisting of four treatments with five replications, namely T1 (90% corn stover + 10% pineapple peel), T2 (80% corn stover + 20% pineapple peel), T3 (70% corn stover + 30% pineapple peel), and T4 (60% corn stover + 40% pineapple peel). The observed parameters included total volatile fatty acids (VFA) concentration, ammonia (NH₃) concentration, total gas production, and gas kinetics. The data were analyzed using analysis of variance (ANOVA) followed by Duncan’s Multiple Range Test. The results showed that different ratios of corn stover and pineapple peel silage significantly affected (P < 0.05) total volatile fatty acids (VFA) concentration, which ranged from 115.34 mM to 179.82 mM. Meanwhile, ammonia (NH₃) concentration ranged from 1.38 mM to 1.79 mM and was not significantly affected by the treatments (P > 0.05). Total gas production ranged from 118.8 mL/g DM substrate to 132.9 mL/g DM substrate, while gas kinetics values ranged from 60.86 mL/g DM substrate to 67.51 mL/g DM substrate, and both parameters were not significantly affected by the treatments (P > 0.05). Overall, the ratio of 80% corn stover and 20% pineapple peel produced the most optimal and efficient rumen fermentation, indicating its potential as an alternative silage feed ingredient for sustainable ruminant nutrition.
Annisa Nazaliya Nurramdhani, Iin Susilawati, Ujang Hidayat Tanuwiria
The availability of forage during the dry season tends to decrease, which requires preservation technology to mantain feed availability and nutrient stability. Silage is a forage preservation technology that utilizes anaerobic fermentation to maintain nutritional quality of feed. This study aims to evaluate the effect of corn stover and pineapple peel ratios on the physical characteristics, Fleigh value, and dry matter changes of silage. This study used a completely randomized design (CRD) consisting of four treatments and five replicates. The treatments applied included T1 = 90% corn stover + 10% Pineapple peel, T2 = 80% corn stover + 20% pineapple peel, T3 = 70% corn stover + 30% pineapple peel, T4 = 60% corn stover + 40% pineapple peel. The chopped corn stover and pineapple peel were then mixed with molasses and fermented in plastic containers for 22 days. The data were analyzed using analysis of variance (ANOVA) followed by Duncan’s multiple ranged test at a 5% significance level. The observed variables included the physical characteristics, Fleigh value, and dry matter changes. The results showed that the treatment had a significant effect on the color of silage (15.70-17.35; P < 0.05). Thereby, had no significant effect on aroma (20.20-20.70), texture (13.45-16.40), taste (17.55-19.10), Fleigh value (88,68-94,77), and dry matter change (7.21-25.20%). All parameters indicate that the silage results are in the good category. Combination of 60% corn stover and 40% pineapple peel can improve the color characteristic of silage without reducing fermentation quality.
J. Jeevitha, R. Ravithas
In recent times, the incidence of students dropping out of school education has been increasing. This situation negatively affects students’ future lives and has also become a factor influencing the educational development trajectory of Sri Lanka. Against this background, this study was conducted to examine the impact of socio-economic factors on student dropout in Tamil-medium secondary schools in Division 01 of the Nuwara Eliya Education Zone in Sri Lanka. The objectives of the study were to identify: the current status of student dropout; the economic and social factors influencing dropout; and the measures taken at the school level to reduce student dropout. The study was designed using a descriptive survey method and a mixed-method approach. Eighteen Tamil-medium secondary schools were selected for the study. Using purposive sampling, 54 teachers, 18 principals, 44 parents, and 66 dropout students were selected as the sample. Quantitative and qualitative data were collected through questionnaires, interviews, and document analysis. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistical methods, including mean and standard deviation, as well as thematic analysis. The findings revealed that the average dropout rate over the past three years was 25%. The dropout rate was higher among male students compared to female students, and higher among students in Grades 9–11 compared to those in Grades 6–8. Among the economic factors, parental poverty (M = 4.8) and living separately from parents (M = 4.7) had a very high level of influence. Additionally, failure to meet basic needs (M = 3.8) and parents’ occupational status (M = 3.7) showed a moderately high level of influence. Among the social factors, early marriage (M = 4.6), engagement in household work or urban employment (M = 4.6), and family problems (M = 4.7) had a very high level of influence. Similarly, association with over-age peers (M = 3.9) and sexual abuse (M = 3.9) were found to have a moderately high impact. Furthermore, the study found that the measures implemented at the school level to reduce student dropout were neither sufficient nor satisfactory. It is suggested that student dropout can be reduced to some extent through the effective and collaborative implementation of activities aimed at promoting students’ continuous learning.
Mr. Mahshooq AT, Mrs. Shincy Susan ME, Mrs. Shine Thomas, Ms. Jabin Fathima, Ms. Krishnapriya KV, Ms. Rehna A, Ms. Rinsha Fathima
Menstruation involves the shedding of endometrial layers, with average blood loss of 50–80 mL. The menstrual cup—a reusable, non-toxic, silicone device—collects menstrual fluid effectively, yet adoption remains low among many populations, including healthcare trainees. This study examined knowledge disparities among nursing students in Kerala, India. Researchers aimed to assess knowledge levels regarding menstrual cup use and explore associations with demographic factors. The conceptual framework followed the Modified Open System Theory. This quantitative, descriptive study surveyed 100 nursing students selected through purposive sampling. Data came from a validated 15-item knowledge questionnaire, analyzed via descriptive statistics and chi-square tests (p<0.05). Knowledge levels proved predominantly high: 61% scored excellent (12–15 marks) and 32% good. Significant associations emerged between knowledge and residence (χ²=18.116) and marital status (χ²=25.55; both p<0.05). These results highlight strong baseline awareness among nursing students, despite limited uptake.
Aideyan Donald Osaro, Ivande James Serumun, Omale Joseph
This study focused on analysing the reported cases of birth complications in Makurdi, Benue State. The data for this study is a secondary data obtained from the Medical Record Book of General Hospital North Bank, Makurdi, Benue State from January, 2020 to December, 2022. The statistical software such as Eviews and Minitab was used for the overall statistical analysis for this research work. From the research findings, the reported cases of birth complication for the period of 36 months (2020 – 2022) was found to be stationary. Also, it was found to have quadratic trend analysis model; hence the general movement can be predicted over time. In the research study ARMA (1, 0, 1) model was found to be the best fit for the time series data on reported cases of birth complications for the period of time covered. Based on the analysis carried out, the Cases of birth complications at time t-1 negatively affects the terms of birth rate at time t, hence a knowledge of the immediate past value of reported cases of birth complication in General Hospital North Bank Makurdi in Benue State can be useful in forecasting the future values. Due to the way the past values of reported cases of birth complications negatively affect the present values, it was recommended that policies should be made to improve the measures that can help in birth complications.
Ancheta, Oscar Jr. R, Arbollente, Jomari Chones D, Dela Cruz, Marie C, Dilim, Angela S, Soriano, Ashley C, Soriano, Lailanie B
The purpose of the study is to gain insights into the challenges, strategies, and factors that enable effective support for young children's emotional literacy in real-world settings. By understanding the experiences and perspectives of practicing teachers, the researchers can better prepare for their future role and make informed decisions about teaching practices. A qualitative research design was utilized in this study, and data was gathered via an interview guide that was distributed to the target Early Childhood teachers. This study aims to gather recurring themes on their Observable improvement in children’s emotional awareness, self-regulation, and expression, Positive behaviour and self-control in classroom settings, Assessment through observation and interaction in daily routines, Emotional literacy fosters empathy and positive peer relationships, enhances focus, motivation, and classroom participation, supporting academic success. The findings seek to offer insights that will highlight that emotional literacy is more than just a social skill it is a foundation for lifelong success.
Ashok Kumar, Dr. Ajay Kumar
Background Multi-crystalline silicon remains crucial for cost-effective photovoltaic manufacturing. Directional solidification furnaces enable large-volume ingot casting with control. Objective This study investigates furnace-controlled growth mechanisms for multi-crystalline silicon. It focuses on heat transfer, impurity transport, and stress formation. Methods A simulation-led furnace workflow is outlined for interface stabilization. Thermal fields are interpreted using design–stress relationships from literature. Impurity and SiC behaviour are mapped to process configuration choices. Results Reported studies show crucible properties reshape melt interface geometry. Optimized heat transfer improves crystal quality under vacuum systems. Furnace design changes reduce thermal stress and defect susceptibility. Comparison with Literature Impurity reduction strategies align with crucible cover optimization reports. Carbon–oxygen transport modelling supports contamination control approaches. SiC formation and engulfment mechanisms support cleanliness-focused redesign. Conclusion Directional solidification performance depends on coupled thermal–chemical control. Furnace optimization can improve quality, stability, and manufacturability outcomes.
Kiran Kumar Kattappagari, Siddi Sathvik Kuruba
In oral biology, trace elements are crucial because they affect the host immune system, microbial ecology, salivary function, and the structural integrity of tooth tissues. Fluoride, zinc, copper, selenium, iron, manganese, and other elements are involved in the mineralization of dentin, the development of enamel, antioxidant defense systems, and enzymatic control. These micronutrients influence the onset and course of dental caries, periodontal diseases, and disorders of the oral mucosa by modifying signaling pathways, gene expression, collagen formation, and oxidative stress responses at the molecular level. While fluoride encourages remineralization and inhibits demineralization by producing fluorapatite, zinc and copper boost antibacterial activity and matrix metalloproteinase regulation. Manganese and selenium protect oral tissues from damage from reactive oxygen species because they are cofactors for antioxidant enzymes. Both an excess and a deficit of trace elements can disrupt oral homeostasis, which can lead to reduced enamel, delayed wound healing, altered salivary composition, and increased susceptibility to infection. Trace elements are used in clinical practice for a variety of prophylactic and therapeutic purposes, including dental implants, bioactive restorative materials, fluoride products, and adjunctive periodontal therapy. Recent research shows their potential in nanotechnology-based drug delivery systems and regenerative dentistry. This review covers the most recent studies on the molecular mechanisms and clinical applications of trace elements in dentistry, with an emphasis on their dual role in maintaining dental health and causing disease when out of balance. Understanding these linkages is the foundation for developing targeted therapeutic and preventive approaches in modern dentistry.
Preethika J, Ragasri S S, Simal, Vishnuprasanna M
Siddha medicine is one of the oldest traditional healing systems that utilise metals to transform hazardous components into potent therapeutic agents. The traditional Indian medicine “Siddha” uses metals that are toxic or have no proven toxicity. According to traditional purification methods in Siddha medicine, the toxic effects of heavy metals such as iron, copper, lead, zinc, steel, etc., are reduced [2]. These metals may act on specific diseases without purification, but at high doses they can cause severe complications. The purification techniques, collectively called “Suthi” (purification), involve a multi-step process that varies according to the metal, including washing and boiling, and are aimed at reducing toxicity and enhancing medicinal properties.[1] Scientific analysis indicates that purification yields safer components suitable for clinical applications. Metals are used after impurities and toxic components are removed. Non-purified metals can cause multi-organ failure and systemic effects. To ensure and prevent side effects, purified metals are essential for medicines [2]
Alemar de la Rosa Betito
As organizations navigate rapid digital transformation, leadership and technology increasingly work together to shape sustainable organizational outcomes. This study examines how transformational leadership and AI-enabled Total Quality Management (TQM) influence sustainable organizational performance in both school and business management contexts. Using a quantitative research design, data were collected through a structured survey questionnaire administered to 342 administrators, managers, and supervisors from educational institutions and business organizations. The data were analyzed using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) to examine the relationships among the variables. The results indicate that transformational leadership significantly influences the implementation of AI-enabled Total Quality Management (β = 0.62, p < 0.001), highlighting the role of leadership in facilitating the adoption of technology-driven quality management systems. Furthermore, AI-enabled TQM significantly affects sustainable organizational performance (β = 0.54, p < 0.001), suggesting that the integration of artificial intelligence within quality management practices enhances operational efficiency, innovation capacity, and long-term sustainability. The findings also show that transformational leadership directly influences sustainable organizational performance (β = 0.31, p < 0.01). In addition, mediation analysis confirms that AI-enabled TQM partially mediates the relationship between transformational leadership and organizational performance, indicating that leadership becomes more effective when supported by intelligent quality management systems. Overall, the study highlights the importance of integrating transformational leadership and AI-enabled quality management practices to strengthen organizational effectiveness and support sustainable performance in both educational and business organizations. Keywords: transformational leadership; artificial intelligence; total quality management; sustainable organizational performance; digital transformation.
Dr. Vivek Balyan, Neha Sharma, Tushar Jangra
This paper analyses the adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the hotel sector of Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh (JKL) using a synthesis of theoretical perspectives on the subject by combining the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and the Diffusion of Innovation (DOI) theory. Whereas AI-driven change in the hospitality sector has been a widely researched topic in urban and technologically developed markets, little has been done to examine adoption dynamics in geographically marginalized and infrastructure-sensitive tourism economies. The study uses qualitative secondary data research design in which it systematically synthesizes peer-reviewed literature, government reports, regional tourism statistics and policy documents. The results show that perceptions of usefulness expressed in terms of revenue optimization, efficiency, personalization, and predictive maintenance is a major influence on adoption intention. Such attributes of diffusion as relative advantage and observability that are owed to DOI promote diffusion further, especially in competitive tourism settings. Adoption is however regulated by structural factors such as infrastructural differences, SME dominance, skill limitations in the workforce and seasonality effects in tourism which increase perceived complexity and financial risk. The research extends the adoption theories of innovation by adding structural moderators to the TAM-DOI model and offers region-specific findings on digital transformation in the peripheral hospitality systems. The results can help AI-hospitality literature by providing a context-based theory-based account of the technological diffusion in developing tourist destinations.
Archna Saxena, Chandra Mohan Saxena
Ultrasonic and transport study of binary liquid mixture Ethyl Amine and Allyl Alcohol at 303.15 K can provide good information about the molecular interactions between liquid mixtures. Ultrasonic studies and densities in binary liquid mixture of Ethyl Amine and Allyl Alcohol have been measured. Acoustic parameters like isentropic compressibility, intermolecular free length, available volume, molar volume, Nissan’s parameter and their excess function have been calculated for this binary liquid mixture at 303.15K. The corresponding excess functions are a better measure of the extent of interactions present between the component molecules of the system. It is used in so many fields of scientific researches in physics, chemistry, biology, medicines and industry. These properties also provide important information about molecular packing, molecular motion and the chemical nature of the component molecules.
Chipo Makamure, John Tenha
The purpose of this article is to examine the perceptions of school heads on how the distributed leadership practice was enacted in high performing primary schools in Zimbabwe. The study adopted a qualitative research approach and a case study research design to collect data. Three school heads were purposively selected as participants for this study. Structured interviews and document analysis were used to gather data. The distributed leadership theory by Spillane (2005) informs this study which examines school heads’ perceptions on distributed instructional leadership practices in high performing Zimbabwean primary schools. The findings from the study indicated that school heads who practised instructional leadership effectively enacted distributed leadership. The distributed leadership practice was enacted through various ways such as through staff development and teacher involvement in leadership activities at the schools. This study concludes that school heads enactment of distributed leadership practices suggests a positive impact on the performance of their schools. The concept of heroism by school heads must be avoided and replaced by the distributed leadership practice.
Dr. Poonam Gupta
A 60 yr male presented with carcinoma supraglottic larynx. He underwent neoadjuvant chemotherapy followed by radical concurrent chemoradiotherapy. After 9 months he developed distant metastasis to inguinal node.
David D, Okolo N.V, Ukah C
The rapid growth of urban population, coupled with the magnifying impact of climate change, places unprecedented pressure to ensure sustainability, resilience and livability. Smart cities concept provide path-ways to integrate digital innovation with sustainable development, but technology alone cannot deliver climate resilience, health and well- being. This paper argues that policy innovation (new governance instruments, flexible regulations, participatory design) and role innovation (evolving responsibilities of government, private sector, civil society and digital systems are critical enablers of smart urban management. Drawing on global case studies such as , stockhome’s Hammarby Sjostad, Modellin’s social urbanization, Aarthus’ water sensitive planning, and Vienna’s inclusive housing policy, we present an integrated framework demonstrating how policy and role innovation reinforce climate resilience, enhance public health, and promote citizen well- being. The paper concludes with policy recommendations for embedding participatory governance, green infrastructure, and health centered design within smart city planning.
Dr. Pradip Kumar
The effective utilization of maternal and child health (MCH) services remains central to reducing preventable maternal and child morbidity and mortality in rural India. This study examines the uptake of antenatal care (ANC), postnatal care (PNC) and childhood immunization services in Sant Kabir Nagar district of Uttar Pradesh, using district-level evidence derived from NFHS-based District Nutrition Profiles, Health Management Information System (HMIS) bulletins and supporting literature. The analysis reveals substantial improvements between 2016 and 2020 in institutional deliveries, skilled birth attendance, postnatal care for children and full immunization coverage. However, continuity of antenatal care, particularly completion of four or more ANC visits, remains relatively low and uneven across blocks. The findings suggest that while programmatic interventions have successfully increased service contact at delivery and immunization stages, persistent socio-economic, infrastructural and administrative barriers continue to limit comprehensive maternal care. The paper argues for a shift towards block-specific micro-planning, strengthened follow-up mechanisms and improved data quality to ensure equitable and sustained MCH service utilization.
Ulyanov Vladimir
The article examines the integration of artificial intelligence tools into user scenarios of digital financial platforms from the perspective of user experience approaches. It investigates how the choice of forms of visualizing predictive data, the degree of autonomy of intelligent agents and the mechanisms for explaining results affect the perception of services, the level of trust and users’ willingness to delegate routine operations to algorithms. It analyzes the balance between automation and the preservation of user control, as well as the role of adaptive personalization based on machine learning in shaping sustainable models of interaction with financial products.
Aminu A, Dimas B, Malgwi D. W., Onoja A., Osemeahon S. A
The coating industry's quest for sustainable alternatives has been sparked by the buildup of non-biodegradable expanded polystyrene (EPS) trash and the environmental harm caused by traditional petroleum-based binders. The purpose of the study was to assess how these two waste streams could work in concert to improve the final paint binder's physicochemical characteristics. Excellent performance characteristics were demonstrated by the optimized hybrid binder (PS/CNSO), which recorded a density of 1.280 g/cm³, a pH of 4.78, and a turbidity of 101.2 NTU. A refractive index of 1.556 and a melting point of 139°C were determined by thermal and optical analyses, respectively. Importantly, the binder showed good brushability with a viscosity of 16.2 mPa.s, and it showed no moisture uptake, indicating outstanding hydrophobic qualities and environmental endurance.These findings show that the combination of CNSO and PSPO improves flexibility and water resistance while successfully reducing the brittleness of recycled plastics. This study offers an economical and environmentally responsible method for producing high-quality paint by using waste materials that are produced locally, greatly lowering the environmental impact of plastic and agricultural waste. By using a batch pyrolysis process to transform solid EPS waste into a liquid intermediate and mixing it with locally sourced Cashew Nut Shell Oil (CNSO) in different concentrations, this study effectively illustrates a "waste-to-wealth" strategy
M Sabbir Ahmed Shihab, Md. Easin, Md. Omar Faruk Shakib, Mostafizur Rahaman
AI technologies improving rapidly in Bangladesh have eased the path to novel forms of digital harm, such as deepfake harassment (using manipulated videos or images to create false representations), AI-assisted impersonation (using AI to mimic someone's identity), extortion, phishing, and algorithmic discrimination (bias in automated decision-making processes). This scenario raises doubts about the robustness of our current legal system in safeguarding individuals from AI-induced harm. The study examines the absence of a legal response to violence against women in Bangladesh by asking if laws are sufficient, whether institutions are prepared and capable of assisting victims and how accessible justice is for them. Using a mixed-methods approach, we analyzed survey data from 435 respondents aged 18–35 and two case studies of AI-generated deepfake harassment and blackmail. Overall, the results show that a majority of respondents (55%) perceive AI misuse as “very common," with women and children being perceived as particularly vulnerable groups. In addition, most respondents (65%) believe that existing laws and regulations are inadequate at preventing new harms caused by AI. The report also says that most people support new or updated laws and that digital literacy is a good way to stop problems before they happen. The paper concludes that to address the legal response deficit and ensure robust protection in an AI-driven society, Bangladesh requires victim-centered legal reform, enhanced digital forensic capabilities, clear liability regulations, and a more cohesive framework for AI governance.
Manisa Mohanty, Tapas Kumar Das
Pratibha Ray’s “Yajnaseni” (1984) and Virginia Woolf’s “A Room of One’s Own” (1929) are both powerful feminist texts. Although they emerge from different cultural and historical backgrounds, they share strong concerns related to women’s voice, freedom, and space. This paper compares how Ray and Woolf present feminist ideas through the central female figures of Draupadi in “Yajnaseni” and the woman writer in Woolf’s essay. Few studies have compared these texts to examine feminist themes of voice and space across cultures. This study highlights how an Indian mythological narrative and a modern feminist essay both explore women’s search for identity and autonomy. The research uses a qualitative comparative literary method and feminist theoretical approaches. It analyses Ray’s use of myth, memory, and interior monologue alongside Woolf’s argumentative and analytical style. Ray employs myth, memory, and interior monologue, while Woolf uses argument, social critique, and analytical prose. Key themes explored include gender inequality, the silencing of women’s voices and the desire for autonomy. Both texts show how social expectations restrict women while they strive for dignity and freedom. Despite differences in style and contexts, both authors emphasise that the struggle for voice and space is central to women’s lives.
Bandana Mohanty, Dr. Dipti Panda
Vladimir Nabokov's Lolita and Tennessee William's A streetcar named Desire provide a deep dive into the twisted male psyche of Humbert Humbert and Stanley Kowalski. This research paper examines how sexual violence, manipulation and intimidation become the perfect mechanism to drive a woman into submission, stripping her of any psychological or bodily autonomy. It examines how sexual violence emerges not from desire alone but from a destructive interplay of memory, the need to establish their status and superiority, repression, the desire to add value to their incomplete existence, fantasy as well as the aggressor's desperate pathological need for absolute control. This research provides a psychoanalytic exploration of Humbert Humbert's constant obsession with “nymphets” which reflects his sick and twisted fixation on his unresolved romance with childhood sweetheart Annabel. In Freudian context, Humbert's paedophilia reflects his desire to reclaim authority on his adolescent romance which he lacked any control over, given her untimely death. His fixation and eventual exploitation of Lolita (Dolores Haze) symbolize narcissistic objectification where his entire sense of self stems from him trying to force his way into her life and be finally able to control the unfinished “childhood sweethearts” narrative that left him traumatized, with a strong feeling of powerlessness. Stanley Kowalski on the other hand represents the Id, raw primal masculine instincts, aggression and physical desire operating without any restraint or moral consciousness. His entire self-concept rests on his belief that he is an “alpha male” in complete control of his territory. However, the grandeur of his masculinity is easily an illusion as he feels constantly threatened by the women surrounding him. Stanley brutalizes and weaponizes sexuality to annihilate anything that he cannot exert control over reflecting deep insecurity. This research analyses his psyche as an amalgamation of brutality, desire, fragility, insecurity and thirst for power becoming an unconscious territory of destruction. This research aims to thoroughly establish how sexual violence is used by one to derive identity, all the while being used by the other to preserve it.