20 Articles
Bhaghyashri Vishwanath Naik, Dr. Bishnupriya Mohanty MD, PhD
Cancer is widely observed across the globe and it's therapy uses different treatments which include Surgery, Chemotherapy, Radiation therapy and recently Immunotherapy. It is either given alone or in combination, for treating cancer patients. The utility of each therapy depends upon the type of cancer, grade and stage. Chemotherapy employs diverse drugs to target cancer cells and Radiotherapy uses energy beams for targeting cancer cells. Patients receiving Chemotherapy and Radiation therapy commonly develop clinical manifestations including persistent fatigue, anorexia, nausea, vomiting, altered bowel habits, and significant weight loss. The substantial burden of Chemotherapy and Radiotherapy- induced toxicities necessitates the exploration of safe, economical and immunomodulatory supportive therapies. In Ayurveda, Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia) is described as Classical Rasayan drug. It is also Tridoshahara, Jwaraghna and Balya posseses proven immunomodulatory, antioxidant and adaptogenic properties. This case study evaluates the supportive role of Guduchi in reducing chemotherapy and radiation therapy induced adverse effects in Cancer patient. Administration of Guduchi Kwatha (decoction) for 1&½ year showed marked improvement in appetite, fatigue, hematological parameters, immune status and overall quality of life. This study suggests that Guduchi can serve as safe and effective adjuvant therapy alongside conventional oncological treatment.
Fungai Hwacha, Tavengwa Norman
Zimbabwe ranks among the most flood-prone countries in Southern Africa; however, its existing flood warning systems lack adequate coverage and depend on insufficiently advanced technologies. In this study, we propose an applicable deep learning-based framework combining several sources of satellite, topographic, and in-situ data that would facilitate flood predictions and early warning systems implementation in three Zimbabwean catchments, the Save, Manyame, and Mazowe. Seven models were created and evaluated in this study; one of them, hybrid CNN-LSTM model, demonstrated better performance results with 95.9% accuracy, F1-score of 95.0%, and AUC-ROC of 0.981 for the independent test set. In addition, spatial cross-validation was applied to prove the generalization capacity of the proposed model. According to SHAP analysis, the following predictors were determined as the most influential: antecedent rainfall within 72 hours, distance to the closest river channel, and Terrain Wetness Index, all of which coincide with real-life features of Zimbabwe's hydrology. As for the end user, the suggested model could be incorporated into a four-level flood early warning system (advisory level, watch level, warning level, and emergency level).
Bhuvana R., Shashank S.
This study investigates the awareness and perception of the Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) issued by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) among residents of Bengaluru City. The rapid evolution of digital payment systems and the increasing interest in CBDCs globally prompted this research. The primary aim is to assess the level of awareness, understanding, sources from which they get awareness about CBDC or factors contributing their lack in the awareness about CBDC and acceptance of CBDCs among the urban population, considering various demographic factors. A structured questionnaire was designed and distributed among a diverse sample of Bengaluru residents to collect primary data. The questionnaire covered areas such as general awareness of digital currencies, specific knowledge about RBI's CBDC initiatives. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the demographic data and the general awareness levels. Statistical tests such as Mann-Whitney U test was employed to check if there was any difference between the overall awareness level about CBDC between male and female in Urban Bengaluru. Kruskal-Wallis test was conducted to check if there is any significant difference between the sources from which individual obtain information about CBDC and the level of awareness and to check if there is any difference between factors contributing to the lack of awareness about CBDC and their level of awareness. The study concludes that there is a need for increased public education and transparent communication from the RBI to enhance the understanding and acceptance of CBDCs. The insights gained from this research could inform policymakers and financial institutions in designing effective strategies for CBDC implementation and adoption.
Beaulah Mary R, Grace Jebakani Sweety G, Maheswari. K, Nandhini. G, Poomuhi. G
Obesity is a major global public health concern characterized by excessive fat accumulation that increases the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular disorders, and metabolic complications. The rising prevalence of obesity is strongly associated with sedentary lifestyles, unhealthy dietary habits, and increased consumption of processed foods, particularly among working populations such as college teachers. This study aimed to assess Body Mass Index (BMI) and determine the prevalence of underweight, normal weight, overweight, and obesity among college teachers in selected colleges of Coimbatore District. A quantitative descriptive research design was adopted with a sample of 60 participants. Anthropometric measurements were collected to calculate BMI, and baseline data on dietary habits and lifestyle factors were obtained using a structured questionnaire. The findings indicated a high prevalence of overweight and obesity among the participants. A nutritional education intervention, including a salad-based demonstration and counselling session, was implemented to promote healthy eating practices. The intervention emphasized increased consumption of fruits and vegetables, portion control, and reduction of processed foods. The results showed improvement in awareness and adoption of healthier dietary behaviours, highlighting the effectiveness of simple nutrition education strategies in obesity management.
Ahmad Isqandhar Sany Mohd Hassany, Athirah Amani A. Hussin, Bazrina Ramly, Hannah Eami Noramin, Luqman Hafiy Abdullah Zailani, Nur Zulaikha Mat Kamil, Nureen Sabrina Rusdi Aziz
This paper presents Alco-No, a portable, rapid-detection system that quantifies ethanol in food products to support halal compliance for Muslim consumers. The widespread use of ethanol in the food industry poses significant challenges to halal integrity, given Islam’s strict prohibition of alcohol. Existing laboratory-based ethanol detection methods are impractical for everyday consumer use, underscoring the need for accessible, real-time solutions. Alco-No addresses this gap by combining an MQ-3 alcohol sensor, an ESP32 microcontroller, and a cloud-connected notification system to deliver immediate, user-friendly results. The device enables non-contact analysis of both solid and liquid foods, providing a clear safety classification based on a 0.5% ethanol threshold aligned with halal standards. Pilot testing demonstrated robust performance, accurate detection, and high user satisfaction, especially among young Muslim consumers, who reported increased confidence and perceived safety when using the device. Despite current limitations—such as internet dependence and potential matrix interference—Alco-No represents an important step toward consumer empowerment and transparency in halal food verification. Future development will focus on expanding food-type compatibility, enhancing offline functionality, and integrating broader halal certification data. The innovation holds promise for advancing food safety governance and reinforcing consumer trust in the global halal supply chain.
Joy Oyiza Obadoba, Precious Hepzibah
This paper investigates the state of housing quality and its associated health impacts in the rural-urban region of Idah, Nigeria. Employing a descriptive cross-sectional approach, data were collected from a systematically sampled group of three hundred and fifty households using structured questionnaires. The collected data were subjected to descriptive analysis using statistical tools commonly employed in social science research. The findings reveal a worrying picture of housing and health conditions in Idah. Regarding public health impacts, the study found alarming health challenges among residents. The prevalence of typhoid and malaria cases was notably high, affecting 43% of the surveyed population. Additionally, cases of diarrhoea, malaria only, and undiagnosed illness (which refer to conditions where individuals experience sickness symptoms but do not seek medical testing or hospital care) were reported by 17%, 12%, and 11% of respondents, respectively. However, 62% of respondents lived in rooms that had only one window. Among these, only 23% had windows on both room walls, limiting ventilation and natural light. Furthermore, overcrowding was identified as a critical issue, with 38% of households accommodating more than four individuals in a single room. A significant proportion of the surveyed residents (69%) lacked access to a portable water source. In conclusion, this study underscores the grim reality of poor housing quality in Idah and highlights its significant association with various health issues experienced by the local population. These findings emphasise the urgent need for comprehensive interventions to improve housing conditions and, by extension, public health in the region. The study's implications extend beyond Idah and serve as a valuable reference for policymakers, researchers, international organisations and non-governmental organisations working towards enhancing housing quality and overall well-being in rural and sub-rural areas of emerging nations.
Awidi, A. U., Hussaini, F. A., Osu, M. U.
Bedbugs (Cimex lectularius) are hematophagous insects that have resurged globally, posing a significant public health concern. This review examines the potential of bedbugs as vectors of human disease, focusing on their ability to transmit pathogens such as hepatitis B virus, Trypanosoma cruzi, and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). A comprehensive analysis of 20 studies revealed that 70.0% reported bedbugs can harbor pathogens, but only 25.0% demonstrated experimental transmission to animals or humans. The review also evaluates current management, prevention, and control strategies, highlighting the effectiveness of heat treatment and the need for novel control methods. Knowledge gaps are identified, including the need for more research on experimental transmission, management effectiveness in different settings, and novel control methods. This review underscores the importance of understanding bedbugs as potential disease vectors and the need for effective management strategies to mitigate the risk of disease transmission.
Aondoakaa Lubem, Ebenezer Esidene Eneji, Omini Peter Omini, Yojorsam Stephen Okoi
LGBTQ populations in rural Cross River State, Nigeria face intersecting barriers to HIV prevention, gender-based violence (GBV) response, and access to justice, driven by criminalization, stigma, and limited availability of inclusive services. This study evaluated a community-led, multi-level intervention implemented in Yakurr Local Government Area, in Cross River State, Nigeria. A convergent mixed-methods implementation study was conducted between August 2023 and December 2024 among LGBTQ individuals in selected rural communities (Ugep, Mkpani, Ekori, and Idomi). A total of 457 LGBTQ participants were engaged in community dialogues, from which a purposively selected subset of 221 individuals receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART) participated in in-depth interviews. The intervention comprised peer-led advocacy, community dialogues, GBV response services, safety and security training, and healthcare worker engagement, implemented using Human Rights-Based Approach (HRBA). Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive and pre-post comparisons, while qualitative data were analyzed thematically. Findings were triangulated to assess effectiveness and implementation processes. At baseline, 72.4% of participants reported fear of arrest, and 68.9% reported prior exposure to GBV. Following the intervention, knowledge of HIV prevention increased from 54.2% to 81.7%, awareness of legal rights from 35.6% to 73.4%, and awareness of GBV response pathways from 41.3% to 78.9%. A total of 144 GBV survivors accessed integrated support services in addition, 178 individuals initiated ART, and 215 accessed viral load testing and counseling. Participants reported increased utilization of community-based GBV reporting mechanisms and improved linkage to LGBTQ-friendly healthcare services. Community-led, rights-based and multi-level interventions were associated with substantial improvements in knowledge, service uptake, and access to justice among LGBTQ populations in criminalized and resource-limited settings. Integrating peer-led systems with community mobilization and institutional engagement provides a scalable model for strengthening HIV and GBV responses in similar contexts.
Cris J-Son A. Romero, MAEM, Leo C. Naparota, PhD
This study examined the digital competence and its influence on the academic buoyancy of junior high school students in Godod District, Schools Division of Zamboanga del Norte, for the School Year 2025–2026. Using the survey method and descriptive-correlational design, data were gathered from 290 junior high school students and analyzed through weighted mean, standard deviation, and Spearman Rank-Order Correlation Coefficient using JAMOVI. The findings showed that technological access among the respondents was predominantly low, with 73.79% having low technology access and 2.42% having no technology access. The overall level of digital competence was average (AWV = 3.28), with information and data literacy rated highest (AWV = 3.50) and basics and access rated lowest (AWV = 3.11). Students showed high competence in using smartphones (AWV = 4.01), but lower competence in using computers (AWV = 2.97) and performing advanced digital tasks (AWV = 2.60). The remaining domains were all rated average. Likewise, the respondents’ academic buoyancy in English was average overall (AWV = 3.21), with confidence emerging as the highest-rated domain (AWV = 3.37) and composure as the lowest (AWV = 2.99), indicating that anxiety and worry continue to affect students’ academic experiences. Commitment, coordination, and control were also rated average. Moreover, a significant positive moderate relationship was found between digital competence and academic buoyancy (rho = 0.46, p < .001), suggesting that students with higher digital competence also tend to demonstrate greater academic buoyancy.
Aliyu Maimuna Umar, Bunza Jafaru Muhammad, Dallatu Muhammad Kabiru, Giwa Jamiah Ikeoluwa, Jidda, Muhammad Lawal, Ogunwale Kolawole Ayobami, Oladele, Blessing Shina, Umar Asiya Imam, Yusuf Habeb Demilola
According to new research, dysbiosis is a crucial link between chronic non-communicable diseases and infectious diseases. This review examines how malaria-induced dysbiosis and hypertension may exacerbate gut dysbiosis and summarizes the current understanding of the mechanisms underlying this relationship. Reduced microbial diversity, fewer bacteria that produce short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), and elevated levels of pro-hypertensive metabolites such as trimethylamine-N-oxide (TMAO) and lipopolysaccharides (LPS) are the hallmarks of dysbiosis in hypertension. These changes result in increased gut permeability, endothelial dysfunction, and systemic inflammation, all of which raise blood pressure. At the same time, parasite toxins from Plasmodium infection cause severe gut dysbiosis (e.g., hemozoin), systemic inflammation (TNF-α, IFN-γ), and related malnutrition. This dysbiosis linked to Malaria weakens the integrity of the gut barrier and impairs immune regulation, resulting in a leaky gut and a pro-inflammatory phenotype. We proposed that the dysbiotic state brought on by acute or recurrent Malaria may act as a latent risk factor, setting up the host environment for the emergence of hypertension via persistent barrier dysfunction, impaired SCFA signaling, and prolonged inflammation. This intersection implies that novel approaches to reducing the risk of hypertension in malaria-endemic populations may involve microbiome-targeted interventions.
Aamir Imam, Badruddeen, Ijlal Husain, Juber Akhtar, Khushi Mishra, Md. Hasheem Khan, Mohammad Ahmad, Mohammad Irfan Khan, Mohd. Mohsin
The present investigation focuses on the formulation and comprehensive evaluation of a novel gastroretentive floating tablet based on banana powder, designed to increase the gastric residence time of the drug and prolong the therapeutic action. Floating drug delivery systems (FDDS) offer a promising strategy to improve the bioavailability of drugs or nutrients that exhibit preferential absorption in the upper gastrointestinal tract or show instability under intestinal conditions. Banana (Musa acuminata), a rich source of flavonoids, phenolic compounds, resistant starch, and fructooligosaccharides, was selected for its documented gastroprotective, prebiotic, and antioxidant properties. Floating tablets were prepared by the wet granulation technique using xanthan gum and acacia gum as hydrophilic matrix forming polymers, sodium bicarbonate as gas generating agent, and starch and talc as pharmaceutical excipients. The developed formulations were systematically evaluated for physicochemical parameters including hardness, friability, thickness, weight variation, in vitro buoyancy and swelling behavior. The tablets exhibited satisfactory mechanical strength (hardness: 5.68 ± 0.15 kg/cm²; friability: 0.62%), uniform thickness (4.12 ± 0.02 mm), and acceptable weight variation within pharmacopoeial limits. Effective buoyancy and gastric retention were confirmed for both short term (52 seconds) and longer term (>12 hours) durations. The swelling index (78% at 6 hours) demonstrated controlled hydration and matrix integrity, supporting sustained release behavior. The findings highlight the potential of a banana-based natural polymer system as a safe, cost-effective, and gastroprotective floating drug delivery platform. This study provides a scientific basis for the development of plant-based gastroretentive formulations with advanced therapeutic and nutraceutical applications.
Gasim Abbasov, Lala Gurbanzada, Nurlan Khalilov
Azerbaijan's thermal water resources have been comprehensively investigated regarding their geological structure, physical-chemical properties, and economic potential. The primary objective is the scientifically grounded assessment of the therapeutic effects of thermal waters, their application prospects in the tourism sector, and their potential for utilization as energy resources. Research indicates that thermal waters can be utilized in industrial heat energy processes, greenhouse farming, residential district heating, and agriculture. This both lowers energy costs and strengthens energy security by reducing the country’s dependence on hydrocarbon reserves. From an ecological perspective, geothermal energy, as a clean and renewable source, contributes to the reduction of carbon emissions. Regarding tourism, resort zones, health centers, and recreational complexes established around thermal springs accelerate the socio-economic development of regions and reduce seasonal tourism dependency. Balneologically, thermal waters are effective in treating rheumatological diseases, skin problems, and nervous system disorders, thereby stimulating the development of sanatorium-resort complexes. Expanding this field increases public access to health services. As a result of a scientifically based approach and the application of modern technologies, it is possible to utilize the potential of thermal waters more effectively.
Aayushi Ganvir, Jitendra Choudhary, Priti Sanjay Patil
This paper presents the design and implementation of a gesture-controlled omnidirectional robot using mecanum wheels. The system uses ESP32 microcontrollers and ESP-NOW protocol for wireless communication. A gesture sensor (e.g. accelerometer/gyro or hand gesture module) captures user commands which are transmitted via ESP32 to the robot. The robot’s motion (forward, backward, left, right, strafe, rotate) is achieved through independent control of four mecanum wheels. Experimental results show responsive control, low latency, and reliable motion in various terrains. In addition to locomotion, the robot integrates an ESP32-CAM module for real-time video monitoring, a smoke detector for fire or gas detection, and a buzzer for audible alerts in case of abnormal events. The combination of these features enhances both mobility and safety, making the system suitable for surveillance, hazardous environment inspection, and smart monitoring applications. Experimental results demonstrate reliable gesture recognition, stable omnidirectional motion, and effective alert generation with the integrated modules. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first integrated platform combining ESP-NOW-based gesture control, mecanum wheel omnidirectional locomotion, MQ-2 smoke detection, and ESP32-CAM surveillance in a single low-cost robotic system. The proposed system achieves a gesture recognition accuracy of 96.3% and a control latency of 48 ms, outperforming Bluetooth-based alternatives.
Bavisha Pankaj, Dr. D. Deva Hema, Pranjal Upadhyay, Skanthah Lakshmi Senthilkumar
Early-Onset Parkinson’s Disease (PD) is a major clinical concern due to the continuous neurological degeneration and slight prodromal symptoms. The degeneration of dopaminergic neurons in patients with Parkinson’s Disease directly influences both motor and vocal activities. The acoustic degradation in patients’ voices is more pronounced than other motor activities. Vocal parameters such as jitter, shimmer, and harmonics to noise ratio have exhibited high potential for early Parkinson’s Disease detection. However, supervised learning models such as Logistic Regression and Gradient Boosting are unable to capture the non-linear variability in pathological speech. In this regard, a novel framework known as the Hybrid Neuro-Explainable Ensemble Framework (HNEF) is proposed. The framework integrates two supervised learning models, namely Regularized Logistic Regression and Gradient Boosting, using a weighted soft voting approach. The framework can capture linear and non-linear decision boundaries. Moreover, a novel hybrid oversampling technique is incorporated to tackle the common class imbalance in Parkinson’s Disease datasets. The technique combines K-Means-based synthetic minority oversampling and density-sensitive oversampling. The relevance of features is determined via a sequential two-stage pipeline consisting of Recursive Feature Elimination and Mutual Information scoring, thus ensuring the preservation of the most diagnostically relevant vocal features. The prediction pipeline incorporates features of interpretability via the SHAP-based global attribution and the attention mechanism, thus ensuring accountability in the telemedicine and AI-assisted clinical settings. The experimental results, considering the standard PD speech dataset, show the efficacy of HNEF with a classification accuracy of 97.8%, an F1-score of 97.1%, and an AUC-ROC value of 0.99, thus outperforming all the individual baseline models, including SVM, Random Forest, XGBoost, and deep neural networks. The ten-fold cross-validation results show the robustness of the findings with a high accuracy of 97.5% ± 0.5%. The potential of HNEF will be explored for the extension of the system to speech monitoring for tracking disease progression, its integration with multimodal biomarkers including gait and EEG, and its prospective validation with demographically diverse patients for achieving regulatory approval.
Joyceline Mbwomshunyu, Nsagha Dickson Shey, Vivian Enow Ayamba Eta
Background: Despite growing recognition of blended learning benefits in nursing education, implementation in resource-constrained African contexts faces substantial barriers. Understanding perceived effectiveness and implementation challenges is essential for successful adoption in Cameroonian nursing schools. Methods: A mixed-method study was conducted from December 2023 to July 2024 in three nursing institutions in Buea, Cameroon. The quantitative component recruited 385 nursing students and 90 instructors using multi-stage sampling, while the qualitative component involved purposive sampling of 12 class delegates. Structured questionnaires assessed perceived effectiveness and barriers, while semi-structured interviews explored implementation experiences. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 27 for quantitative analysis and thematic analysis for qualitative data. Chi-square tests determined associations between variables at p<0.05 significance. Results: Among students, 373 (96.9%) perceived blended learning as effective for enhancing flexibility, 367 (95.3%) for improving access to learning materials, and 354 (91.9%) for developing technology skills. However, only 12(3.1%) perceived blended learning as effective for replacing face-to-face clinical instruction. Major barriers included internet connectivity issues (reported by 89.6% of students and 92.2% of instructors), electricity supply challenges (78.4% students, 85.6% instructors), inadequate technological resources (81.3% students, 88.9% instructors), insufficient technological literacy (63.6% students, 71.1% instructors), and instructor unwillingness to adopt new methods (52.7% students, 43.3% instructors). Qualitative findings revealed four major themes: infrastructure deficiencies, pedagogical concerns, resource limitations, and resistance to change. Chi-square analysis showed significant associations between perceived effectiveness and academic level (p=0.018), prior technology experience (p=0.003), and institutional affiliation (p=0.029). Conclusion: While nursing students and instructors perceive blended learning as effective for enhancing flexibility and resource access, substantial barriers related to infrastructure, resources, and human capacity impede implementation. Successful blended learning adoption in Cameroonian nursing education requires comprehensive interventions addressing technological infrastructure, faculty development, resource provision, and institutional support systems.
Rhushikesh Pingale, Rushikesh Patil, Sangram Chavan, Siddheshwar Wanve, Sonali Jondhale, Sushant Sole, Sushma Ghadigaonkar
Cellular senescence, a hallmark of ageing, is characterised by irreversible proliferative arrest and the secretion of inflammatory mediators that influence tissue microenvironments. While senescence is protective in development, wound healing, and tumour suppression, the chronic accumulation of senescent cells accelerates inflammation, fibrosis, and organ dysfunction. Senotherapeutics, a novel pharmacological class that encompasses Senolytics and Senomorphics, aims to selectively eliminate senescent cells or suppress their harmful secretory activity. This review, based on seminar discussions and recent literature, outlines the mechanisms of senescence, associated biomarkers, links to chronic diseases, and current advances in Senotherapeutic strategies. Preclinical evidence and early clinical studies suggest their potential to extend health span in humans and animals.
Dr. Bello Hassaan T
The study adopts a qualitative and policy-analytical approach, drawing on recent financial market trends, regulatory developments, and institutional reforms within Nigeria. It synthesizes evidence from monetary policy actions, capital market initiatives, fintech expansion, and sustainable finance instruments to evaluate the structural strengths and weaknesses of the financial ecosystem. The analysis focuses on identifying policy gaps and proposing strategic reforms to enhance resilience, efficiency, and global competitiveness. The findings indicate that while Nigeria’s financial markets demonstrate strong potential driven by fintech growth, sustainable finance instruments, and digital currency innovation, macroeconomic volatility and regulatory fragmentation remain significant risks. Strengthening monetary stability, expanding digital infrastructure, harmonizing regulatory frameworks, promoting financial literacy, enhancing cybersecurity, and incentivizing sustainable finance are critical for sustained development. With coordinated policy implementation, Nigeria can consolidate its position as a leading financial hub in Africa, fostering economic diversification, financial inclusion, and long-term inclusive growth.
Jed I. Bete
This action research examined the impact of Project GUIDE (Guaranteeing Upkeep of Instruction and Daily Engagement) on classroom supervision and teacher attendance at Davao City National High School. Using a qualitative action research design, data were gathered from 14 participants composed of teachers and department heads through open-ended surveys and document analysis of attendance logs and monitoring reports. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis. Findings revealed that prior to the intervention, supervision was fragmented, sporadic, and manual, resulting in delayed detection of teacher tardiness, weak accountability mechanisms, and compromised classroom discipline and student safety. Following the implementation of Project GUIDE, results indicated a notable shift toward a structured and real-time monitoring system that strengthened accountability, improved teacher punctuality, and enhanced classroom order and safety. The intervention fostered a stronger sense of professional responsibility among teachers and enabled school leaders to respond more efficiently to instructional concerns. The study concludes that structured hourly monitoring enhances instructional supervision and institutionalizes accountability in school settings, although further research is needed to examine its direct impact on instructional quality and student achievement.
Ogala Ehimen, Prof Diepriye Okodoko
Background: Nursing students experience significant academic and psychosocial stress, which may adversely affect their academic performance and overall well-being. Aim: This study examined the relationship between stress, coping strategies, and academic performance among nursing students in Bayelsa State, Nigeria. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among 250 undergraduate nursing students (N = 250) selected using stratified random sampling from two accredited institutions in Bayelsa State. The response rate was 83.3%. Data were collected using the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) and the Brief COPE inventory. Academic performance was measured using students’ self-reported Grade Point Average (GPA) on a 5.0 scale for the most recent academic semester. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, and multiple regression analysis at a significance level of p < 0.05. Results: A high proportion of students reported moderate to high levels of stress, with academic workload, examinations, and clinical postings identified as major stressors. Problem-focused and religious coping strategies were the most commonly utilized. Stress showed a significant negative relationship with academic performance (r = –0.45, p < 0.001), while adaptive coping strategies demonstrated a significant positive association with GPA (r = 0.38, p < 0.01). Regression analysis indicated that stress and coping strategies were significant predictors of academic performance (R² = 0.42, p < 0.001). Conclusion: Stress significantly impairs academic performance among nursing students; however, the use of effective coping strategies, particularly adaptive and religious coping, can mitigate its adverse effects. The findings highlight the need for institutional interventions, including stress management programs and accessible psychological support services.
Dr E Elamathiyan, Dr. M Muthu Deepa, Dr. S Deepalakshmi
Literature is a world where readers can receive different kinds of experiences and perspectives and it always connects the nature with all living beings. Without the songs of nature, literature cannot exist. A vital tool which cannot be separated from the life of human beings is literature. Mamang Dai, a celebrated poet, novelist and journalist from Arunachala Pradesh portrays her views as “Is the Earth growing old” in her poem Hello Mountain. Her birth in Adi Community supplies the ideas for her writings. Her writings are rich in depicting the ecological consciousness and advocating the readers in preserving the nature. She always finds a way to create awareness among the readers through her pen. Mamang Dai could not digest the exploitation of world in the name of civilization and modernization. She has a special vision in viewing the interconnectedness of humans with nature. Her writings has a deep belief that everything has a life. This paper is an attempt to bring out the ecological consciousness which is abundant in the works of Mamang Dai The Legends of Pensam and Escaping the Land