Volume 13, Issue 2, February 2025 Edition - GSJ Journal Publication

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Adaptive Strategies to Climate Change in ASAL Pastoral Communities of Northern Kenya []


Climate change significantly impacts pastoral communities in Northern Kenya's arid and semi-arid lands (ASALs), particularly among the Turkana and Somali pastoralists. Rising temperatures, prolonged droughts, and erratic rainfall patterns threaten traditional livestock-dependent livelihoods, worsening food insecurity and economic stability. This study aims to assess the climate change adaptation strategies employed by these communities and evaluate the effectiveness of policy interventions in supporting resilience. A mixed-methods approach was used, including household surveys, focus group discussions, and key informant interviews with 200 pastoralist households. Results indicate that mobility, herd diversification, water conservation techniques, and alternative livelihoods are key adaptation strategies. However, challenges such as inadequate institutional support, weak policy implementation, and land tenure disputes hinder long-term resilience. The study concludes that strengthening community-based resource management, improving climate-resilient infrastructure, and integrating indigenous knowledge into policymaking are crucial for sustainable adaptation. Policy implications emphasize the need for tailored interventions that address socio-economic and cultural dynamics to enhance climate resilience in ASAL regions of Kenya. Keywords:, Climate Change Adaptation, ASAL, Pastoralism, Northern Kenya

Biological Work in Thermodynamics []


This research paper explores the ideas on how an understanding of thermodynamics helps us appreciate the remarkable efficiency of biological systems in performing work.

A New Model of Sorting Trash Recycling Using Ensemble ANN: Case Study of Nasiriyah City South of Iraq []


The challenges associated with waste management technology in smart cities are significant, and the interim solutions implemented thus far have proven inadequate. The circular economy (CE) vision for smart cities is currently hindered by difficulties in meeting recycling standards, primarily due to practical issues in waste sorting. This study proposes a virtual model based on artificial neural networks (ANN) designed to automatically sort generated waste and classify it according to recycling standards. The proposed model incorporates a sophisticated classifier developed by integrating features extracted through image processing. Various models are constructed based on different features, with each model producing a single decision. Additionally, machine learning techniques are employed to determine the classification type. The model's effectiveness is demonstrated by analyzing a dataset comprising 2,600 images of potential recyclable waste, categorized into three groups. The evaluation reveals that the proposed model achieves an accuracy rate of 91.7%, highlighting its capability to automatically sort and classify waste in alignment with recycling standards. Overall, this study suggests that a digitally integrated CE vision could improve waste sorting services and recycling decisions across the entire value chain in smart cities.

SEROPREVALENCE AND RISK FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH HEPATITIS B VIRUS INFECTION AMONG PREGNANT WOMEN ATTENDING ANTENATAL CLINIC OF DUTSE, GENERAL HOSPITAL JIGAWA, STATE NIGERIA []


Hepatitis B virus is a potential life threatening liver infection and major global health problems. It causes a chronic and lead to a high risk of death from liver cirrhosis and cancer. The burden of viral diseases including those of liver on global health is considered substantial with significant records of death over the years. The seroprevalence and risk factors associated with hepatitis B virus infection among pregnant women attending antenatal clinics of Dutse General Hospital, Jigawa State, Nigeria. The descriptive, cross sectional study was conducted among 150 consent pregnant women attending Dutse General Hospital within aged range of 15-44years between July,2024-Febuary 2025.The structured questionnaire was used to determine socio-demographic and risk factors associated with hepatitis B virus and blood samples was used to test for hepatitis B surface antigens using rapid immuno assy techniques. The overall prevalence of HBsAg was fond to be 8 positivite samples (5.33%) tested for HbSAg.Chi square method was used for the analysis of data to determine the significant association between socio demographic and risk factors with seroprevalence of hepatitis B virus using SPSS version 23.0.The aged group of 15-20 years have a highest prevalence rates of 8% followed by 21-26 years with prevalence of 7.55%.The p value less than or equal to 0.05 was considered statistically significant and greater than 0.05 was statistically insignificant between the socio demographics and risk factors with seroprevalence of hepatitis B virus. All socio demographics factors were statistically insignificant with seroprevalence of hepatitis B virus and some risk factors such as blood transfusion and sharing of sharp objects was statistically significant with seroprevalence of hepatitis B virus. The seroprevalence of hepatitis B surface antigens among pregnant women attending antenatal clinic of Dutse General Hospital was 5.33% which is lower than the national prevalence rate of hepatitis B virus infection. Hence it is recommended for the proper screening of pregnant women to prevent mother to child transmission of the infection and making public awareness about the implications of the infection. Key Words: Seroprevalence, hepatitis, risk factors, pregnancy.

MOLLUSCICIDAL EFFECTS OF CALOTROPIS PROCERA (TUMFAFIYA) LEAVES ETHANOL EXTRACTS AND IT’S POTENTIAL FOR SCHISTOSOMIASIS CONTROL IN JIGAWA STATE []


Calotropis procera is a plant known for its medicinal properties including molluscicidal activity. This study aimed to evaluate the molluscicidal effects of Calotropis procera (Tumfafiya) leaves ethanol extracts and their potential for integration into existing Schistosomiasis control programs in Jigawa State. In this study, the phytochemical analysis of the leaves extracts has revealed the presence of bioactive compounds (flavonoids, saponins, tannins, alkaloids, glycosides, and steroids/triterpenes). These compounds are of interest due to their potential to control intermediate hosts of schistosomiasis, particularly Biomphalaria species. Flavonoids and tannins are known to exhibit molluscicidal properties. The molluscicidal activity of the ethanol extract shows a positive correlation between extract concentration and snail mortality. The coefficient of determination (R²) having a value of 0.7174 indicated a moderately strong relationship between extracts concentration and snail mortality. An LC50 value of 48.04 mg/L was determined using probit analysis, which signifies the concentration required to kill 50% of the exposed snail population. The LC50 value shows the significant molluscicidal activity of C. procera leaf ethanol extract. The dose-response relationship was further confirmed by probit analysis, where increasing concentrations led to higher mortality rates. These findings support the potential of C. procera as a natural molluscicide for the control of schistosomiasis. The study shows the importance of continued exploration into the molluscicidal potential of C. procera and its applicability in controlling snail populations that transmit parasitic diseases. Keywords: Calotropis procera, ethanol extract, molluscicidal activity, phytochemical analysis, Probit analysis, schistosomiasis.

IOT-ENABLED WASTE COLLECTION AND MONITORING SYSTEM USING IONIZED AIR DISINFECTION SYSTEM FOR ABA SOUTH MUNICIPAL AUTHORITY []


Traditional waste collection systems in developing areas, particularly in Aba South LGA of Abia State, are often ineffective and pose significant health hazards. This is mainly due to the gap between the high volume of waste generated and the delayed response in waste collection, leading to overflowing bins. This research aims to enhance waste management by integrating artificial intelligence into waste bins, equipping them with solid-level sensors and Arduino microcontrollers to detect waste levels, oxidize harmful gases like hydrogen sulfide (H₂S), ammonia (NH₃), Volatile organic compounds such as aldehydes, hydrocarbons, etc., and promote timely waste collection and disposal. The research employs a Rapid Application Development (RAD) approach, using the Object-Oriented Application Development (OOAD) model to design the system as interacting objects. The waste bin is equipped with a detection sensor, decontamination module, and communication module to provide real-time status updates via a mobile device. The Arduino microcontroller is programmed using C++ and the Arduino Integrated Development Environment (IDE) to facilitate data collection and communication. The system's implementation successfully enables real-time monitoring of waste levels and enhances timely waste collection. The real-time data transmission allows for more efficient waste management by municipal authorities. Additionally, the system reduces foul odors from waste bins through oxidation reactions between ionized air and harmful gases, improving air quality. This IoT-based waste management system significantly reduces the environmental hazards of overflowing waste bins and the health risks associated with them. It also contributes to cleaner, healthier communities and supports the transition towards smart cities. The evaluation shows the system’s effectiveness in providing timely waste management solutions, ensuring a cleaner and safer environment for residents and visitors.

ALMOST A DECADE OF COMMUNITY REINTEGRATION: LIFE AFTER INCARCERATION []


This study explored the reintegration experiences of ex-offenders in the community following incarceration. It focused on the programs undertaken during imprisonment, the struggles encountered during reintegration, coping mechanisms employed, motivations to avoid recidivism, and the current lives of the participants who have successfully reintegrated for nearly a decade. Using a qualitative phenomenological approach, the research captured the lived experiences of five ex-offenders who are not recidivists, were incarcerated for 6 years and above, and have been reintegrated into the community for 8 years to 10 years in the Province of Ilocos Norte. The participants were purposefully selected. Based from the data, there were themes formulated, which are the Technical, Vocational, and Livelihood Program, Social Stigma, Positivity amidst Negativity, Community Engagement, Specific Deterrence, Hope Through Family, Free Will, Work Done, and Community Acceptance. The findings highlight the pivotal role of rehabilitation programs in skill development, the significant impact of stigma and discrimination as barriers to reintegration, and the importance of community support and personal resilience. Themes of family motivation and community engagement emerged as critical to sustaining long-term reintegration and reducing recidivism. This study underscores the need for comprehensive aftercare services, societal acceptance, and targeted interventions to facilitate sustainable reintegration and societal harmony.

Girl children’s access to Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics Education: A search for sustainable learning in Zimbabwean rural ecologies. []


ABSTRACT The main purpose of this research was to explore girl children’s access to STEM education in Zimbabwean rural ecologies. Critical Emancipatory Research (CER) was applied as the theoretical framework of this study because it promotes empowerment and encourages girl children to actively participate in research. The views of the marginalised people - in this case, rural girl children, teachers and parents were considered in this study which was situated within an interpretivist paradigm aligned to a qualitative research design. The sample size of forty-two (42) participants composed of six (6) school administrators, six (6) STEM teachers, six (3) parents and twenty-seven (27) learners. The sample was purposively selected from the three high schools in the Masvingo Rural District. Data was generated through qualitative narrative interviews, narrative discussions, and narrative reflections. Data was analysed by applying narrative and thematic analysis methods. Emanating from the findings, a framework was formulated to increase girl children's access to STEM education in Zimbabwean rural ecologies. The research results revealed that girl children are underrepresented in STEM education in Zimbabwean rural ecologies. Furthermore, challenges such as walking long distances to-and-from school, household chores, socio-cultural biases, shortage of resources, and the lack of role-models were evident; these affected girl children's access to STEM education. The research findings also revealed that STEM teachers, parents, learners and other stakeholders should be more supportive concerning the implementation of STEM education in schools. For example, parents should prioritise girl children's STEM education activities by encouraging them to attend career guidance programmes, and STEM clubs as early as the first stages of primary school so that they share science experiences and engage in problem-solving activities. Additionally, the Government should construct industries and promote business activities to absorb rural girl children with STEM qualifications into the labour market. Also, female STEM teachers should be deployed in rural areas so that they act as role-models to encourage girl children to access STEM education. Importantly, the Government and private sector should promote positive representation of rural girl children in STEM education by providing them with scholarships to pursue their studies. This research study recommends that the Government and other stakeholders provide resources and opportunities such as mobile laboratories and easy access for girls concerning the teaching and learning of the Sciences in Zimbabwe's rural ecologies. This study unpacked STEM education as being critical to rural girl children because it equips them with skills which enable them to be innovators who can contribute to the economy of the country. KEY WORDS: Critical Emancipatory Research, girl children, rural ecologies, Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematic Education

AI and Machine Learning in Multimedia Platforms: Present Applications and Future Implications []


The rapid advancements in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) have profoundly transformed the multimedia landscape, revolutionizing how content is created, curated, recommended, and distributed. This comprehensive literature review explores the current applications and future implications of AI and ML in multimedia platforms, covering the period from 2000 to 2020. The study employs a wide-ranging search strategy, incorporating peer-reviewed articles, conference papers, and industry reports. The review is organized around key thematic areas: the evolution of content recommendation systems, the automation of content creation, the future of content curation, and the ethical challenges and opportunities associated with these technologies. The findings reveal that AI-driven recommendation systems enhance user experience and operational efficiency, while AI-generated content achieves quality comparable to human-created content. Automated content moderation and curation streamline platform operations, fostering safer online environments. However, data privacy and algorithmic bias remain pressing ethical concerns. This review underscores the transformative potential of AI and ML in multimedia platforms, emphasizing the need for continuous adaptation and ethical vigilance. The study concludes with a discussion of the implications for future research and practice in the field.

The Impact of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Counselling on Middle-Aged Women in Myanmar []


Abstract In Myanmar, middle-aged women face a range of social, cultural, and economic challenges, from caregiving responsibilities and traditional gender norms to political instability and limited access to mental health services), a mixed-method approach to mental health was used in 20 middle-aged women in urban and rural settings. Symptoms of anxiety, depression, stress, and trauma were assessed before and after counseling using quantitative measures (e.g., GAD-7, PHQ-9, DASS-21, PCL-5), and qualitative interviews provided a more in-depth picture. Results showed that there were significant reductions in anxiety, depression, stress, and trauma following the counseling, with many participants’ symptoms changing from moderate to severe, mild, or mild after the intervention, and that while problem-solving increased participants’ emotional resilience and autonomy, there were also some barriers, such as stigma, financial constraints, lack of trained counselors, and limited access to services in rural areas. A culturally sensitive approach that integrates local attitudes, family involvement, and social networks to reduce stigma and acceptance. Overall, the study suggests the effectiveness of adapted cognitive behavioral therapy in improving mental health among middle-aged women in Myanmar. Larger sample sizes and longer follow-up periods are needed to better understand the long-term impact of counseling on this vulnerable group. Keywords Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Counseling, Middle-Aged Women, Mental Health, Anxiety, Depression, Stress, Trauma, Psychological Well-Being, Empowerment, Socioeconomic Barriers

Rising from the Ashes []


This research study explored the experiences of individuals affected by a house fire incident, focusing on the causes of the fire that completely destroyed their homes, the struggles they faced, the actions taken during and after the incident, and their recovery efforts. Utilizing a phenomenological design, six individuals from the Province of Ilocos Norte who had experienced such incidents were purposefully selected for in-depth interviews. The analysis revealed the emergence of six key themes, namely: unmonitored situations, electrical issues, lack of means to suppress the fire, challenging situations, alternative remedies, and support received. These findings provide a comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted nature of experiences related to house fires, emphasizing the resilience of individuals in overcoming adversity and the critical importance of preventive measures and support systems in mitigating the impact of such devastating events. Based on the findings, the researchers recommend that the Bureau of Fire Protection, in collaboration with local NGOs and community organizations, consider establishing strategically located water storage tanks across barangays to enhance fire response capabilities. Additionally, it is recommended that community fundraising initiatives be organized to generate emergency relief funds for victims of house fires would provide essential financial support during crises. It is also proposed that barangay officials, local leaders, and volunteers receive comprehensive training in fire safety and emergency response, enabling them to assist their communities more effectively in the event of a fire. The creation of dedicated barangay firefighters within each barangay would further strengthen preparedness for fire-related emergencies. Finally, implementing community-wide educational programs focused on fire prevention, safe cooking practices, and the proper use of electrical appliances is crucial as these programs could significantly contribute to reducing the incidence of house fires and improving overall community safety. Key words: House fire, Recovery Efforts, Fire, Life Experiences, Preventive Measures, Fire Incident, Ashes

A Road Safety Practices: An Assessment of Tricycle Passengers []


This research aimed to assess the safe driving practices of tricycle drivers as observed by students. The study sought to examine the respondents' profiles based on gender and program enrolled, assess the safe driving practices as observed by students, determine the problems students face when commuting by tricycle in terms of fare price, driver’s behavior, and comfortability, and identify actions taken by students with the problems they have encountered. A mixed-methods research design was used, combining both quantitative and qualitative data. A total of 374 respondents provided quantitative data, while six participants contributed qualitative data. The data were analyzed using frequency and percentage, weighted mean, and thematic analysis. Findings revealed that students often observed irregularities in various aspects of tricycle services. The researchers developed six (6) themes: (a) Accede to the demanded fare; (b) passivity; (c) seek another trike to ride; (d) compromise with the fare; (e) have no choice but to ride; and (f) ride on to avert late. Based from the results of the study, it is concluded that while tricycle drivers in Laoag City generally comply with safe driving practices, irregularities persist in areas such as fare pricing, driver behavior, and comfortability. Furthermore, many students were unaware of where to report such issues, leaving these problems unaddressed. Hence, it is recommended that distributing informative stickers to students to raise awareness among students and other passengers about where to report irregularities in tricycle services may be done. This would help in ensuring that these problems are reported and, ideally, resolved. Keywords: || Accede to the demanded fare, Passivity, Seek another trike to ride, Compromise with the fare, Have no choice but to ride, Ride on to avert late.

GROWTH IN EUROPEAN E-COMMERCE : ANALYZING THE SURGE IN ONLINE SHOPPING AND CONSUMER BEHAVIOUR []


The European retail landscape has undergone a profound transformation in recent years, with e-commerce emerging as a dominant force that has reshaped consumer behaviour and preferences. This research paper examines the growth of e-commerce in Europe, analyzing the factors driving this surge and the evolving consumer trends that have accompanied it. Through an analysis of key economic, technological, and social trends, the study examines how advancements in digital infrastructure, mobile technology, and consumer trust have accelerated online shop-ping adoption. The findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the forces behind the European e-commerce boom and offer insights into the future of online retail, emphasizing the strategic implications for businesses aiming to capitalize on these shifts.

PUBLIC HIGH SCHOOL TEACHERS’ WELFARE AND QUALITY OF TEACHING UPON IMPLEMENTATION OF THE IMMEDIATE REMOVAL OF ADMINISTRATIVE TASKS IN CANDELARIA, ZAMBALES []


The study addresses the impact of the removal of administrative responsibilities on public high school teachers' welfare and teaching quality in the district of Candelaria, Zambales, following the implementation of DepEd Order No. 2, s. 2024. Using quantitative, cross-sectional design and structured questionnaires, this research assessed teachers' welfare and teaching quality. Findings indicate that teachers generally agree on the state of their welfare, expressing higher satisfaction in community respect and professional development but lower satisfaction in salary, health, and retirement benefits. Teachers rated their teaching quality highly, with the greatest satisfaction in the learning environment and personal growth, although content knowledge and pedagogy received slightly lower ratings. The results also show that the number of subject preparations significantly impacts teachers' welfare, while the number of teaching loads significantly affects teaching quality. Additionally, a positive correlation was found between teachers’ welfare and their quality of teaching, suggesting that enhanced welfare may contribute to higher teaching quality.

AN IMPROVED MOBILE AGENCY BANKING SYSTEM []


ABSTRACT The introduction of agency banking system in Nigeria has created a new economy with the adoption and the use of POS terminals to enhance business transaction and the inclusivity with respect of the unbanked population in rural areas of the country. The widespread use of internet-based banking led to a significant increase in the use of electronic payment systems and POS terminals play a major role. As technology continues to advance, financial institutions have deployed agency banking system using POS terminals to create outlets that serve the public in terms of account creation, savings, transfer and withdrawal respectively. This approach have brought more customers into the banking net and reduced the level of the unbanked promoting financing inclusivity. Irrespective of the accruable benefits of agent banking there remains the challenge of failed, declined, uncommitted and wrongly debited transactions leading to loss of funds and valuable man-hour. This project therefore, proposed the development of an improved agency banking system to mitigate the aforementioned challenges using mobile application development framework to report POS the above cases to the NIBSS remotely without going to the baking hall. The system was developed using objected oriented analysis and design methodology (OOADM) which is a software development paradigm suitable for mobile application development and Java programming language in android studio integrated development environment (IDE). The system outperformed the existing system in terms of response time, flexibility, efficiency, data security and integrity.