Volume 12, Issue 2, February 2024 Edition - GSJ Journal Publication

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Human Gut Microbiota And Regulation Of Human Behaviour []


The human gut harbors a dynamic and complex microbial ecosystem, consisting of approximately 1 kg of bacteria in the average adult, approximately the weight of the human brain. The evolutionary formation of a complex gut microbiota in mammals has played an important role in enabling brain development and perhaps sophisticated social interaction. Genes within the human gut microbiota, termed the microbiome, significantly out number human genes in the body, and capable of producing a myriad of neuroactive compounds. Gut microbes are part of the unconscious system regulating behavior. Recent investigation indicate that these microbs majorly impact cognitive function and fundamental behavior patterns, such as social interaction and stress management. The gut microbiota-brain axis has become an intriguing field, attracting attention from both gastroenterologists and neurobiologists. The hippocampus is the center of learning and memory, and plays a pivotal role in neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease( AD) . Previous studies using administration, antibiotics,probiotics, germ- free mice, and feacal analysis of normal and specific pathogen free animals have shown that the structure and function of the hippocampus are affected by the gut microbiota. Genomic and neurochemical analyses revealed significant alterations in genes and amino acids in the hippocampus of AD Subjects following a remarkable shift in the gut microbiota. A comprehensive 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis of Dom and Sub mice revealed a significantly different gut microbiota composition that clearly distinguishes between the two behavioral modes. Finally, fecal microbiota transplantation into germ-free mice show that Sub-transplanted mice acquired Sub microbiota and adopted their behavioral and physiological features, including depressive like and anti-social behaviors alongside reduced eWAT mass, smaller adipocytes, and a Sub-like eWAT adipokine profile.

KNOWLEDGE-BASED EXPERT SYSTEM FOR DIAGNOSIS OF SOME TROPICAL DISEASES []


The advancement in computational processes and artificial intelligence has significantly improved the precision of medical diagnoses. Successful diagnosis of Tropical diseases like Malaria, Typhoid, Cholera, and Tuberculosis has been achieved through the years. This study introduces a medical expert system inference engine employing a Case Base Reasoning Algorithm to search the knowledge base for symptoms and associated therapies matching the input query. The system retrieves information from the database, containing various symptoms and datasets related to the mentioned diseases, during both training and query phases. The Medical Expert System (MES) serves as a valuable first-aid tool for individuals with limited medical knowledge, facilitating decision-making and alleviating physicians' workload during consultations.

Assessing the Environmental Impact of Land Reclamation in Ogbunabali, Port Harcourt []


Land reclamation is a widely practiced process that aims to enhance land usability for various purposes, including urban development and infrastructure projects. However, the environmental consequences of such activities are often complex and multifaceted. This study focuses on assessing the environmental impact of land reclamation in Ogbunabali, an indigenous community situated within the city of Port Harcourt, Nigeria. Employing a comprehensive approach, including stakeholder engagement, field investigation, data collection, and analytical methods, the study establishes a baseline understanding of the study area. Exploring the project proponent, specific activities, and the ramifications of land reclamation, the study evaluates changes in ecosystems, soil quality, water resources, and biodiversity. Furthermore, the research investigates potential disruptions to human activities, such as livelihoods and local practices, while also assessing effects on existing infrastructure and socio-economic aspects. In response to the identified negative impacts, the study proposes practical and sustainable mitigation measures. Recommendations are tailored for policymakers, urban planners, and stakeholders, advocating for the adoption of responsible land reclamation practices to minimize adverse effects.

L'UTILISATION DU BIG DATA DANS LES MILIEUX UNIVERSITAIRES : UNE REVOLUTION DANS LA GESTION DES DONNEES ET DES CONNAISSANCES EN RDC. []


Le Big Data, qui se réfère à la gestion et à l'analyse de vastes ensembles de données, est en train de révolutionner de nombreux domaines, y compris l'éducation et la recherche universitaire (Manyika, J., et al. (2011). Big data: The next frontier for innovation, competition, and productivity. McKinsey Global Institute). Dans le monde entier, les universités adoptent de plus en plus les technologies du Big Data pour optimiser les processus d'enseignement, améliorer la recherche, et gérer les données institutionnelles. En République Démocratique du Congo (RDC), l'université Catholique du Congo (UCC) s'intéresse également à cette révolution du Big Data, en explorant les façons dont elle peut contribuer à l'amélioration de l'enseignement, de la recherche, et de la gestion des données. Il s’agit ici d’une étude sur l’utilisation du Big Data dans les milieux universitaires à l’échelle mondiale et en RDC. En effet, cette étude fait voir comment le Big Data est en train de révolutionner de nombreux domaines, y compris celui de l’éducation et la recherche universitaire tout en offrant des opportunités significatives pour améliorer l’enseignement, la recherche, et la gestion des établissements d’enseignement supérieur. Nous allons présenter, en passant, les avantages tout comme les inconvénients du Big Data dans le domaine précité tout en tenant compte aussi des défis liés à l’utilisation de ce dernier et enfin les perspectives et les dispositions nécessaires pour pallier aux inconvénients liés à l’utilisation du Big Data dans ce domaine. Notre terrain de prédilection est l’Université Catholique du Congo (UCC) qui nous a permis de mener quelques investigations sur le plan local. Et avant de tirer la conclusion, nous avons fait des propositions concrètes à l’endroit des décideurs pour que les décisions judicieuses et pratiques puissent être prises quant à ce.

Effectiveness of Home Care Pharmacy Services for Elderly Hypertensive Patients in Rural Health Unit of Tantangan,South Cotabato []


Introduction: The study underscores the crucial role of home care pharmacy services in improving patient awareness, behaviour, and drug adherence. The intervention successfully enhanced health management and adherence, while also investigating its impact on blood pressure, appointment attendance, sodium intake, and self-reported pill count. Researchers designed this study to learn how senior hypertension individuals manage their illness and how responsible they are in taking their medications. Methods: A quasi-experimental approach was employed, involving 40 respondents of elderly individuals with hypertension who received home care pharmacy services out of 1,865 total population sizes. A Hill-Bone Compliance to High Blood Pressure Therapy Scale was developed to assess patients' compliance with three essential behavioral areas of high blood pressure treatment: reduced sodium consumption, appointment attendance, and medication adherence. Results: The findings and results revealed that there was an existing significant difference (p<0.05) on the level ofindicators based on sodium consumption, medication taking, and self-reporting pill counts on treatment groups (with intervention) compared to the control groups (without intervention). Sodium consumption mean response was 1.77; appointment keeping - the mean response was 2.97;self reported pill counts was 1.33; and adherence was 2.30; showing that care pharmacy services are generally effective. Discussion: The study's findings demonstrated that sodium consumption mean response was 1.77. The studies have shown it has low level of sodium intake, because during study most of the elderly already doesn’t eat salty foods, a reduction in dietary sodium not only decreases the blood pressure and the incidence of hypertension but is also associated with a reduction in morbidity and mortality from cardiovascular diseases. Appointment keeping - the mean response was 2.97, it shows that it has a high result which means that elderly patients are always go to their appointment for check up in the said schedule by their physicians. Self-reported pill counts were 1.33; and adherence was 2.30; showing that care pharmacy services are generally effective.

ENGAGEMENT LEVEL OF SCHOOL’S STAKEHOLDERS ALONG CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES []


This study investigates the engagement levels of stakeholders in curricular activities at Malbug National High School, located in Cawayan, Masbate, Philippines, throughout the 2022-2023 academic year. Employing a descriptive-survey-analytical method, the research aims to comprehensively understand various facets, including the demographic profiles of respondents, types of curricular activities attended, responsiveness to school initiatives, challenges encountered, and proposed solutions. With a total of 150 participants comprising parents, students, and teachers, the study employs statistical analyses to glean insights from the collected data. The findings elucidate the demographic distribution of respondents, revealing a predominance of female adolescents who require substantial guidance from both parental figures and educators. The research meticulously examines the diverse curricular activities participated in by stakeholders, ranging from classroom interactions to parent-teacher conferences and seminars, shedding light on their perceived significance and effectiveness in fostering engagement within the school community. Furthermore, the study delves into the levels of responsiveness exhibited by stakeholders, pinpointing key areas where prompt involvement and attentiveness are crucial for effective engagement in school initiatives. Moreover, the study uncovers a myriad of challenges faced by stakeholders, including stress management, communication barriers, and technological limitations, which impede their active participation in curricular activities. In response to these challenges, the research proposes a set of recommendations aimed at mitigating obstacles and enhancing engagement. These recommendations advocate for the maintenance of guidance for adolescents, the implementation of stringent attendance policies for parent-teacher meetings, and the creation of tailored collaborative learning environments to address students' diverse needs. By underscoring the importance of stakeholder participation and proposing strategies to bolster engagement, the study seeks to contribute to the improvement of the overall educational experience and the cultivation of positive relationships within the school ecosystem. Keywords: Curricular Activities, Educational Challenges, Parent-Teacher Collaboration, Secondary Education, Stakeholder Engagement, Student Responsiveness

Corporate Governance Practices in Commercial Banks of Nepal []


The main objective of this study is to examine the corporate governance practices in commercial banks of Nepal. Descriptive research design was used to find fact-adequate information on board member size, the number of independent directors, bank size, earnings per share, capital adequacy ratio, leverage and return on equity, and net interest margin. The research, conducted among 3 commercial banks in Nepal, utilized data extracted from their annual reports. Correlation and regression analyses were employed to assess the relationship and determine the level of significance. The findings revealed a negative correlation between board member size and return on equity, while the relationship between the number of independent directors and earnings per share was positive. Notably, the relationships with other variables did not exhibit significance. The implication is that banks should minimize the size of their boards and increase the presence of independent directors to enhance overall performance. Additionally, central banks are encouraged to prioritize the growth of banks and effectively govern their activities.

MONDIALISATION: DE L’ÉPIPHANIE AU FONDEMENT ONTOLOGIQUE []


Abstract If in theoretical debates on globalization, empirical thinkers try to situate its foundation either in a logical process led by the emergence of the capitalist system, or in a logic affirming a multidimensional process having as cause the interconnection, thanks to New Information and Communication Technologies (NICT), multiple activities related concomitantly to technology, politics, culture and economics, this article demonstrates that the true foundation of globalization, where the experience of the unity and the plurality of the world is more than expressed, comes from being; first from being as a being, and then from being of a man. Keywords: Globalization-Foundation-ontology-Being-Dasein

EFFECT OF PROJECT MANAGEMENT PRACTICES ON PROJECT SUCCESS. A CASE OF GICIYE III HYDROPOWER PLANT CONSTRUCTION IN NYABIHU DISTRICT, RWANDA []


The aim of this study was to assess the extent to which the success of Giciye III hydropower plant construction is affected by project management practices. The specific objectives of this study were to assess how project planning has affected the construction of the Giciye III hydro power plant, to identify the role of human resource factors on the success of Giciye III project, to assess the impact of monitoring and evaluation on the execution and success of the Giciye III and to determine how stakeholders contributed to the success of the Giciye III hydropower plant project. This study used descriptive research design to achieve these objectives. A Sample size of 90 respondents determined using Slovin‟s formula, was randomly extracted from from 832 people involved in Giciye III hydro power plant construction project employees. Structured questionnaire containing close-ended questions was used to collect primary data for this study. Analysis of quantitative data was done using descriptive and inferential statistics with use of Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 28. The results indicate that all independent variables had a positive linear relationship with project success in general. The relationship was strongest because human resource management and project planning practices have influenced Giciye III success at the rate of 63.2% (r=.632, sig=.028) and 58.6% (r=.586, sig=.079) respectively. While both stakeholder’s involvement and monitoring & evaluation practices had a weak positive correlation with the project success because they have contributed to the project success at the rate of 27.3% (r= .273, sig=.028 <.05) and 19.8% (r=.198, sig=.005 <.05) respectively. The model summary from multiple regression analysis shows that four predictors can explain 63.2% (r=.632) of change in project success namely Project planning, human resource management, monitoring & evaluation and stakeholders’ participation practices, an implication that the remaining 37.2% of the variation in v could be accounted for by other factors not involved in this research. This allow researcher to reject all formulated hypotheses of this research. From these findings, it was deduced that the Giciye III hydropower plant construction project were finished within the budgeted range and that they used the budget for all anticipated activities without deviations. The study suggests that project managers may plan ahead and allocate resources to the work and manage them well with the help of efficient human resource management. In addition, project planning should be done in a way that can effectively address the project's needs. Key words: Effect; project management practices, project success and Giciye III hydropower plant

Analyse sociolinguistique de la communication dans le domaine des soins infirmiers au Maroc : Fracture linguistique et perspectives d'amélioration []


La communication dans le domaine des soins infirmiers au Maroc est confrontée à des défis linguistiques significatifs, notamment une fracture entre la langue enseignée pendant la formation et celle utilisée dans la pratique quotidienne. L'étude, menée au centre hospitalier provincial de Kenitra, révèle que bien que le français soit la langue dominante dans la formation, les infirmiers se heurtent à des difficultés de communication, en particulier avec les patients.Cette enquête met en lumière le recours au technolecte comme moyen potentiel pour surmonter ces obstacles, soulignant l'importance d'adapter le langage professionnel à la diversité linguistique des patients. Les résultats indiquent également une volonté du personnel infirmier de trouver des solutions, telles que la vulgarisation du vocabulaire et la traduction, pour améliorer la compréhension. L'article propose des initiatives visant à sensibiliser les acteurs du domaine de la santé, à favoriser l'échange d'expériences entre les établissements de soins, et à intégrer la question du technolecte dans la formation continue. Ces recommandations visent à atténuer les défis linguistiques et à renforcer la communication efficace entre les infirmiers et les patients. Mots clés : Communication, Soins infirmier Défis linguistiques, Langue enseignée, Pratique quotidienne, Français, Technolecte, Vulgarisation du vocabulaire

HYDROCYANIC ACID (HCN) CONTENT OF CASSA-VA IN THREE DIFFERENT PROCESSING METHOD []


This study was conducted to analyze the hydrocyanic acid (HCN) content of cassava in two locations (Balo-i, Lanao del Norte and Dulay, Lanao del Sur at four different preparation techniques such as fresh, boiled, dried, and grated white cassava. Specifically, this study sakes to determine preparation techniques that gave the lowest content of hydrocyanic acid in cassava, to determine variation on the hydrocy-anic acid content of cassava grown in two locations, and to determine which treatment combination that produces the highest hydrocyan-ic acid. There are two locations where sample materials were taken; one is from a farm in Balo-i, Lanao Del Norte and the other sample materials are from a farm in Dulay, Marawi City, Lanao Del Sur. The experiment was conducted in a 2 x 4 factorial experiments and the experimental design used is Complete Block Design (CBD) in Completely Randomized Design (CRD). Location of the source of sampled cassava represents Factor A and the sample preparation technique represents Factor B. Each factor has sub-factors, The cassava variety used in the study is the white or known as traditional variety. This variety was adopted by majority of farmers in the provinces of Lanao del Norte and Lanao del Sur. Based on the result of the study, the cyanide content of white cassava taken from both locations (Balo-i farm and Dulay farm) are the same at constant laboratory detectable values of less than 0.05 mg/g. The same findings are observed from the results produced from different preparation techniques such as fresh, boiled, grated, and dried. Further, treatment combinations re-vealed the same findings of no different cyanide content.

Challenges Faced by ERP Systems in Middle East Region []


This is an era where every one of us is living in a world where data and information processing is a task in every organization. Data and information are integrated in such a way that multiple systems behave a single corporate system to benefit all entities in any organization. Gulf region is embarking to adopt ERP system implementation in all organizations but there are certain challenges involve being a diversified community. This paper highlights these digital challenges and suggests an innovative approach to somehow overcome these challenges that include cybersecurity concerns, cultural and regulatory diversities and integration with the legacy systems. The research paper facilitates the reader with primary research in which a questionnaire is formulated and relevant respondents are asked to validate the possible solutions that might be implemented in organizations to overcome such issues.

University Promotional Policy and Lecturers' Work Performance in University of Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria []


ABSTRACT This paper seeks to investigate the difference in University promotional policy and lecturers’ work performance in the University of Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. The ex-post-facto design was deemed fit for the study to gather information by the means of structured questionnaire. The population of the study comprises senior, associate and professors lecturers in the University of Uyo, Akwa Ibom State in Nigeria, totalling 844. The sample of the study stood at 439 lecturers. The research questions postulated were answered by the use of mean standard deviation while hypothesis testing were employed t-test and ANOVA analysis at 0.05 level of significance. The result showed that University Promotional Policy significantly influence lecturers’ work performance in University of Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. It was recommended among others that Lecturers should from time to time, ex-ray themselves to know if there are some necessary qualifications that have not been attained that may hold back their promotion and work towards accomplishing such qualifications. Key words: University, promotional policy, lecturers work performance.

"Technology use in Moroccan Middle Schools: Challenges and Opportunities" []


In today's educational landscape, the integration of technology has become paramount in enhancing the learning experience for students and educators alike. This article explores the importance of technology in education, focusing on its transformative impact on teaching methodologies, student engagement, and access to information. Through an analysis of current literature and empirical studies, we examine the benefits, and challenges associated with technology integration in educational settings and effective solutions to enhance the learning and teaching experience. By shedding light on the evolving role of technology in education, this article aims to provide insights into obstacles and effective strategies for employing its potential to create dynamic and inclusive learning environments.

Development and Evaluation of Modernized Binbot of Expired and Unused Medicines using Arduino uno []


Introduction: The escalating problem of pharmaceutical waste is a matter of mounting concern on a global scale. This issue has been steadily gaining prominence and is now recognized as a significant challenge that spans across borders, impacting communities and ecosystems worldwide. This study addresses this gap by introducing a novel approach—a modernized Binbot using Arduino Uno—to autonomously identify and sort expired and unused solid medicines (capsules, tablets), enhancing pharmacists' workflow. Method: This study utilized a mixed-method approach through purposive sampling technique among community pharmacists from five (5) chosen barangays of Koronadal City, South Cotabato. Qualitative data were collected through in-depth interviews and key informant interviews (KII) involving ten (10) participants. Thematic analysis was applied to these qualitative responses to gain insights into the design and development of the Binbot prototype, which four themes emerged. Concurrently, the same participants were surveyed using questionnaires based on the Binbot's user manual, the System Usability Scale (SUS), and the Post-Study System Usability Questionnaire (PSSUQ). Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the quantitative data. Results: The study's findings revealed participants' high enthusiasm for the modernized Binbot, recognizing its potential to improve operational efficiency, system functionality, inventory management, and medication identification. Based on the results in the evaluation, the prototype showed a very high level of accuracy in terms of withdrawal verification system (4.44), accurate counting system for pulled–out medicine cap/tab (4.52), efficient inventory management system (4.62), and sorting expired medicines (4.64).Conclusion: Overall, these findings underscore the transformative potential of modernized Binbot in improving accuracy, efficiency, and safety in healthcare and pharmacy settings.

INFLUENCE OF SHELTERBELTS ON SOIL PHYSICOCHEMICAL PROPERTIES IN KAURA NAMODA SEMI-ARID ECOLOGICAL ZONE, NIGERIA []


The research was carried out to investigate the influence of shelterbelts on microclimatic factors and soil physicochemical properties in Kaura Namoda semi-arid ecological zone. Electrical conductivity of the soils ranged between 35.30 and 44.25 μS cm-1. Result of soil texture analysis revealed that the soils are predominantly sandy, making the soils to fall into the sandy clay loam classification. Analysis of the physicochemical properties indicated that the concentrations of all the elements at the three locations, except boron were significantly (p < 0.05) different from each other. Concentrations of the elements ranged thus: Zn: 0.20-0.30 ppm, Ca: 6.69-9.74 ppm, Fe: 1.78-3.61 ppm, Cu: 0.09-0.25 ppm, B: 1.01-1.17 ppm, Mg: 1.87-5.47 ppm, Mn: 0.19-5.51 ppm, N: 38.00-42.00 mg/kg, K: 30.00-42.00 mg/kg, Na: 23.00-35.00 mg/kg, Cl: 30.20-39.40 mg/L, S: 0.41-0.61 mg/kg, P: 1.21-1.70 mg/kg and OC: 13.26-18.53%. It could be concluded that some of the soil nutrients within the studied areas were slightly below the recommended soil fertility for Northern Nigeria Savanna soil. However, it could be suggested that the presence of the shelterbelts played significant role in keeping the nutrients at the determined concentrations by preventing excessive leaching of soil nutrients due to the harsh weather condition of Kaura Namoda. Based on the findings, it could be recommended that farmers in Kaura Namoda should endeavour to leave behind agricultural wastes on the soils after harvesting as well as boosting the fertility of the soils with both organic and inorganic fertilizers to enhance productivity.

THE APPLICATION OF MORINGA LEAF EXTRACT AS A NATURAL PRESERVATIVE TOWARDS THE QUALITY DETERIORATION OF PATIN FISH FILET BASED ON ORGANOLEPTIC CHARACTERISTICS AT ROOM TEMPERATURE []


Pangasius filets are highly perishable or easily damaged; one of the reasons is that they contain a lot of water and amino acids. High water content causes spoilage in fish meat due to enzyme activity, biochemical changes, and the growth of microorganisms. Research on the addition of moringa leaf extract to the deterioration of pangasius filet quality aims to determine the best concentration of moringa leaf extract to the deterioration of pangasius filet quality as a natural preservative at room temperature (25-28oC) based on organoleptic characteristics. The method used in this study was experimental with moringa leaf extract soaking treatment consisting of the control treatment (0%), 5%, 10%, and 15% (v/v) and 20 semi-trained panelists. Moringa leaf extract soaking for 30 minutes, then stored at room temperature (25-28oC) for 14 hours. Observations of patin filets were made at the 0th, 2nd, 4th, 6th, 7th, 8th, 10th, 12th, and 14th hours. Parameters observed included scoring test measurement of organoleptic characteristics (appearance, aroma, and texture), acidity (pH), and weight loss. Analyzed Organoleptic data used by two-way non-parametric statistics, namely Friedman, and Chi-squared tests. Analyzed pH and weight loss data was used by descriptively based on observations during storage. Moringa leaf extract with a concentration of 10% is the best treatment based on observations of the quality of pangasius filets for 10 hours at room temperature with the average organoleptic data consists of; fish appearance is 7.9, odor 7.5, and texture 7, pH value is 6.5, weight loss is 4.3%.