Volume 13, Issue 4, April 2025 Edition - GSJ Journal Publication

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GIS-BASED ANALYSIS OF LANDSLIDE SUSCEPTIBILITY AND ITS TRIGGERING FACTORS IN RULINDO DISTRICT, RWANDA []


In Rwanda, communities are seriously threatened by landslides, especially in the Rulindo District. This research aims to explore the creation of a landslide susceptibility map and the factors that lead to them in the Rulindo district using remote sensing and GIS-based techniques. The Weighted Overlay Analysis (WOA) method was used to integrate several geospatial factors that affect the likelihood of landslides, including elevation, slope angle, soil aspect, soil texture, lithology, land use and land cover (LULC), Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), and rainfall patterns. This was made possible by the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP). Multi-criteria analysis, factor weighting, and the creation of the final landslide susceptibility map were all done using GIS software. Areas with differing degrees of landslide susceptibility have been highlighted on the resulting map, offering useful data for Rulindo District's land use planning, risk mitigation plans, and disaster management initiatives. According to the results, elevation is the primary triggering component that has the greatest impact on landslide susceptibility, ranking first at 48.50%. Landslides are influenced by a number of factors, with slope ranking second (15.40%), inadequate and/or inappropriate land use and land management ranking third (14.30%), and rainfall ranking fourth (8.30%). In addition to supporting decision-making processes pertaining to infrastructure planning, community resilience, and sustainable development, the study's findings are anticipated to advance knowledge of the spatial distribution of landslide hazards in Rulindo sectors. For proper community disaster planning and response, they were therefore able to assist policy makers and partners in understanding the necessary landslide hazard prevention measures. The study results lead to the conclusion that if appropriate land use and land management measures including Best Management Practices (BMPs) such as reforestation, agro-forestry, and radical terraces in steep slope are applied properly and well controlled, further consequences such as landslide, roads and houses destruction, and soil erosion along with soil and water pollution can be minimized in Rulindo district. The policy makers and local leaders were recommended to give priority to prone areas identified buy this study, while developing and implementing land use and land management strategies, according to the guidelines from developed district land use master plan 2050.

Optimizing Conflict Resolution: The Power of Interpersonal Communication Skills []


Conflicts are an inevitable part of human interactions and can significantly impact the quality of relationships and group harmony. This paper investigates the role of interpersonal communication skills in conflict resolution, focusing on speaking, body language, listening, and empathizing skills. Through a quantitative study involving 105 respondents, this research explores how these skills influence various conflict resolution styles, including competing, avoiding, collaborating, and accommodating. The results reveal significant positive correlations between speaking skills and collaborative conflict resolution, body language skills and collaborative resolution, listening skills and collabo-rative resolution, and empathizing skills and accommodating resolution. These findings align with existing literature, highlighting the im-portance of clear articulation, non-verbal communication, active listening, and empathy in fostering effective and harmonious conflict resolution. However, no significant correlations were found between body language skills and competing styles, or empathizing skills and avoiding styles, suggesting these skills are less relevant in adversarial or withdrawal-based approaches. The study underscores that conflict resolution is a multifaceted process where different styles may be employed depending on the context. Practical suggestions include devel-oping comprehensive training programs focusing on these key communication skills to enhance conflict resolution effectiveness and organizational harmony.

EFFECT OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY ADOPTION ON SUPPLY CHAIN PERFORMANCE: A CASE STUDY OF MEDIASOL PHARMACEUTICAL DEPOT LTD IN RWANDA []


ABSTRACT The study assessed the effect of Information Technology Adoption on Supply Chain performance: a case study of Mediasol Pharmaceutical Depot Ltd in Rwanda. The objectives were to evaluate the effect of Auto-identification technologies on Supply Chain performance of MEDIASOL Pharmaceutical Depot Ltd; to analyze the effect of E-procurement systems on Supply Chain performance of MEDIASOL Pharmaceutical Depot Ltd; and to evaluate the relationship between IT adoption and supply chain performance of Mediasol Pharmaceutical Depot Ltd. A mixed-method approach, combining qualitative and quantitative methodologies, was employed. The study targeted 237 individuals involved in IT, management, operations, and supply chain functions at MEDIASOL Pharmaceutical Depot Ltd, with a sample size of 149 respondents selected through stratified and purposive sampling techniques. Data collection relies on both primary and secondary sources, analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 23.0. The analysis included descriptive and comparative research designs, utilizing multiple linear regression models to examine relationships between variables. Descriptive statistics described the data meaningfully, while regression analysis quantified the relationships between IT adoption and supply chain performance. Findings were presented in tables and interpreted to address the research questions. The study provided understandings into optimizing IT adoption strategies in the Rwandan pharmaceutical sector, contributing to both academic literature and practical applications in supply chain management. The study's findings revealed a strong positive relationship between IT adoption and supply chain performance. Specifically, Auto-identification technologies, such as RFID, barcode scanning, QR codes, and NFC, had a significant positive impact on improving stock management, reducing errors, and enhancing operational efficiency. E-procurement systems also contributed notably to procurement efficiency, supplier collaboration, and stock optimization. The Pearson correlation coefficient of 0.605 between IT adoption and supply chain performance, along with statistically significant relationships in both Auto-identification (r = 0.247) and E-procurement (r = 0.452), supports the conclusion that IT adoption plays a crucial role in enhancing supply chain effectiveness at MEDIASOL Pharmaceutical Depot Ltd. Regression analysis further confirmed that Auto-identification and E-procurement technologies together accounted for a substantial portion of the variance in supply chain performance, with an F-statistic of 20.033 (p-value = 0.000). The study’s findings suggest that continued investment in IT, including the integration of real-time tracking and automated inventory systems, is vital to further improving supply chain performance. Recommendations include enhancing staff training, deepening IT system integration, and continuous monitoring to optimize performance.

Understanding Health-Seeking Behaviors during Cholera Outbreaks in rural Zimbabwe and the Role of Faith Leaders: The case of Mwenezi district []


This study collected data through a survey for n=135 respondents in Mwenezi District to assess health seeking behaviours among community members in Mwenezi on Cholera response and the role of Faith Leaders in shaping such behaviours. The survey revealed that interfaith group leaders in Mwenezi have influence over a significant proportion of the total population in the district and as such can influence the health seeking behaviours of a large number of people on response to pandemics such as cholera. The study suggests that Open dialogue be initiated with these groups comprised of Traditional healers, Prophets, and religious leaders as well as with community members to come up with an integrated framework on managing pandemics. Key Words: Health, Behaviour, Knowledge, Cholera, Traditional Healing, Spiritual Healing,

IMPACT OF E-LEARNING DURING AND AFTER COVID-19 PANDEMIC FROM STAKEHOLDERS PERSPECTIVES IN NORTHWESTERN NIGERIA []


ABSTRACT This study explores the impact of e-learning during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, with a focus on the perspectives of teachers, students, and parents in Northwestern Nigeria. The transition to e-learning became imperative as the pandemic forced educational institutions to adopt online learning platforms. The study utilized a descriptive research design with a total sample size of 154 re-spondents, including 92 students, 46 lecturers, and 16 parents, who were selected using stratified random sampling techniques. Data were collected through an online questionnaire, administered via Google Forms, focusing on respondents’ demographics, experi-ences with e-learning platforms, and their views on its effectiveness, challenges, and future prospects. Results indicated that most students (91%) and lecturers (87%) had computer knowledge, with a significant increase in participation in e-learning programs dur-ing the pandemic. Despite high levels of satisfaction with e-learning quality, issues such as poor internet access, lack of power, and digital illiteracy were prominent barriers identified by both parents and students. The findings also highlighted a strong preference for continuing e-learning beyond the pandemic, with 76% of students and 89% of parents supporting its continuation in higher edu-cation. In contrast, concerns about the adequacy of resources and infrastructure for long-term e-learning remained evident. Rec-ommendations include improving digital infrastructure, enhancing digital literacy training for both students and lecturers, adopting hybrid learning models to combine face-to-face and online learning, investing in interactive e-learning content, and creating policies that regulate and support e-learning initiatives in Nigeria. Keywords: e-learning, COVID-19, ICT, Jigawa State, Nigeria, education.

Neurology/Biology/The Dose-Dependent Effect of Rheum Palmatum on Neuronal Viability []


This study examines the neuroprotective effects of Rheum palmatum root extract on neuronal viability. In vitro experiments showed that the extract preserved 96% cell viability at 0.2% concentration but dropped to 89% at 2%, indicating a dose-dependent effect. The findings suggest potential therapeutic benefits at optimal doses, while higher concentrations may be toxic. Further studies are needed to explore its role in neurodegenerative disease treatment.

La surveillance comme levier d'amélioration au rendement des organismes d'inspection accrédités []


Surveillance constitutes a strategic and relevant tool within the framework of maintaining and continuously improving the performance of accredited IOs. Our article constituting the continuity of the first article relating to guaranteeing reliability and skills through accreditation Based on case studies, even feedback from organizations accredited to the international standard (ISO/IEC 17020), the analysis highlights the positive effects of surveillance on the rigor of the organization's processes, technical competence, customer satisfaction and the sustainability of management systems. The article also suggests avenues for improvement to strengthen the effectiveness of surveillance mechanisms with a view to supporting and developing capacities outside of the traditional control system

DEVELOPMENT OF AN AUTOMATED SCHEDULING SYSTEM FOR NEUST PAPAYA OFF-CAMPUS: A PARTIAL ADDIE MODEL APPROACH []


Efficient academic scheduling is fundamental to the smooth operation of higher education institutions, particularly in resource-constrained campuses like NEUST Papaya Off-Campus. This study aims to address persistent challenges in manual scheduling—such as overlapping classes, administrative delays, and inefficient room and faculty allocation—by developing a context-specific Automated Scheduling System. Guided by the first three phases of the ADDIE instructional design model (Analysis, Design, and Development), the researchers conducted qualitative assessments with registrar staff, designed user-centered functionalities, and built a prototype system. The system can automatically detect scheduling conflicts, synchronize class programs, and generate comprehensive room and faculty schedules. Initial testing showed positive results, with the system reducing manual workload, improving accuracy, and allowing configurability based on institutional constraints. Although limited to prototyping and tested using mock data, the system represents a significant step toward institutional digital transformation. It lays the groundwork for future scaling and full implementation across NEUST campuses.

A Five-Year Development Plan for the Social Studies Teacher Education Program in Daraga Community College (DComC) []


Abstract – This study is designed to provide a scaffold to social studies teacher education program in a community college by devising a five-year development plan. It sought to determine the status of the program, the problems encountered in its implementation, and its strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats. The study utilized an explanatory sequential design under mixed methods for the conduct of research, purposive sampling for the selection of the participants, document analysis guide, interview guide and focus group discussion as tools for gathering data, as well as document analysis, descriptive statistics, qualitative content analysis, SWOT analysis and force field analysis for interpreting the data gathered. The study revealed that there are periods of significant growth and decline in the overall enrollment and graduation trends of the program while there are periods of significantly high and low performance rating in the Licensure Examination for Teachers (LET). On the other hand, the program encounters several problems along curriculum, support to students, and faculty development. Meanwhile, the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats present in the program vary. In response to these, a five-year development plan was devised. This plan was anchored on the data gathered, the needs of the program, and the limitations present in it brought by uncontrolled factors. In addition, the plan was divided into eight key results area (KRI) namely admission, graduation, Licensure Examination, employability, curriculum, support to students, faculty development, and monitoring and evaluation. Key Concepts: Development Plan, Social Studies Teacher Education Program, Community College

Etude Critique des Procédés de Fabrication et d’Extraction des Matériaux de Construction dans la Ville de Kisangani : Cas de Briques Cuites, Moellons, Graviers et Sables. []


Our research involves studying the manufacturing and extraction processes of building materials in the city of Kisangani, including "fired bricks, rubble, gravel, and sand." In Tshopo Province in general, and the city of Kisangani in particular, many people use fired bricks, gravel, sand, and rubble to build their homes because they are durable and considered sustainable materials. To complete this research, we used civil engineering methods: This method outlined the process to follow for the manufacturing and extraction of building materials, as well as several techniques, including documentary research. Through which we consulted books related to our study, and through direct observation through field visits, we observed problems that prevented the materials from meeting manufacturing and extraction standards. To conclude our study, we presented our results by discussing our research followed by a general conclusion. Keywords: Study, processes, manufacturing and extraction, materials, construction.

Etude Technique de Construction d’un Bâtiment en Béton Armé : Cas d’un Hôpital à trois Niveaux soit (R+3) au bloc la voix du Congo au quartier IMBOLO Commune Mangobo à Kisangani. []


This research paper is part of a technical study of the construction of a reinforced concrete building in the case of a three-level hospital (R+2) in the Voix du Congo block in the IMBOLO Town of Mangobo commune in Kisangani. The study consists of producing calculation notes on the structural elements, based on the architectural plan. The frame of the building consists of a reinforced concrete structure (floor – beam – posts, etc.) resting on isolated footings. The technical requirements used are the BAEL 91 modified 99 rules. The methodology used is that of a manual calculation supported by some established formulas and consisted mainly of a load descent, pre-dimensioning, a complete calculation of the reinforcements and a study of the foundation. The dimensioning was carried out at the ELU then verified at the ELS and the reinforcement plans established with the Robot software taking into account the constructive provisions. The foundation study was conducted taking into account economic criteria, stability and safety, and ease of construction. Keywords: Study, technique, construction, reinforced concrete, hospital, three levels.

Projet de Construction d’un Centre Spirituel à Six Niveaux soit (R+6) pour les Sœurs de la Sainte Famille de Kisangani. []


Currently, the Congregation of the Sisters of the Holy Family is experiencing a significant increase in the number of aspirants who wish to dedicate their lives to the service of the Lord. To better support and monitor their formation, we planned a study of the construction of the spiritual center. To complete this research, we used the public works method as well as several documentary techniques, free observations, interviews, and webography, utilizing the BAEL 91 mod. 99 standards. We studied the materials needed for the construction of this structure, designed it in an architectural manner according to the standards using AutoCAD software for plan views, Sketch Up for the presentation of the various facades, and Robot Analysis for the sizing of the structure. We also performed calculations of the structural elements, highlighting the calculation notes, the various execution plans, and the reinforcement plans. Finally, we verified the stability of the structure, i.e., the effective stress of the building was lower than the permissible stress of the soil. Key words: Project, construction, spiritual center, levels.

The Role of Governance In Promoting Inclusive Societies, Montserrado County, Monrovia, Liberia []


Good governance is fundamental to promoting an inclusive society, ensuring transparency, accountability, participation, and the rule of law. In Liberia, challenges such as corruption, economic disparity, social exclusion, and limited citizen participation hinder governance effectiveness. This study explores the role of governance in fostering inclusivity in Montserrado County, Liberia, by assessing economic, political, social, and cultural factors that impact governance adherence and societal inclusion. This study was conducted in Montserrado County. It employed a mixed-methods approach, incorporating both qualitative and quantitative data collection. Surveys were administered to 425 participants, including government officials, civil society representatives, and marginalized community members. Focus group discussions and interviews provided more profound insights into governance practices. Data analysis involved frequencies and proportions and thematic analysis of qualitative responses. Findings indicated that, 262 (39%) believe that employment opportunities are partially distributed. Minority 7(2%) of the respondents confirmed transparency of government policies in promoting inclusivity, with 218 (72%) still seeing gender equity as a challenge. Despite the effort, there are still 333 (78%) participants who believed that no system put in place to address stereotyping. All groups, including community, Civil Society organizations (CSOs), and marginalized, testified that participation in decision-making is limited. A lack of trust between CSOs and local authorities also hampers effective collaboration. While efforts to promote good governance exist, economic disparities, corruption, gender inequality, and cultural biases were identified as significant barriers to inclusivity. Strengthening accountability mechanisms, increasing public participation, and addressing socio-economic disparities are crucial for achieving an inclusive society in Liberia. Policy recommendations include fostering multi-stakeholder collaboration and implementing targeted economic and educational reforms to bridge existing gaps.

Effects Of Thermal History on The Fatigue and Healing Properties of Crumb Rubber Asphalt []


Abstract: In this paper, the effects of thermal history on the fatigue characteristics as well as healing capabilities of crumb rubber modified asphalt binders. Six asphalt binder samples: two reference binders and four modified binders incorporating crumb rubber, SBS, and high viscosity modifiers were conditioned with cyclic loading and temperature cycles. The quantitative values of damage accumulation, fatigue life, and healing efficiency at different temperature levels of 5°C, 15°C, 25°C, and 35°C are determined through a test known as Linear Amplitude Sweep (LAS) test and numerical modeling by Viscoelastic Continuum Damage (VECD) model. The results indicate that Base Asphalt1 (QP) and Base Asphalt 2 (DY), which are unmodified binders, exhibit higher damage accumulation rates and lower healing rates, particularly after thermal aging. Modified binders, on the other hand, demonstrated relatively better performance in terms of fatigue and healing resistance. It means that in case of DY+8X+2S, the healing index and elasticity recovery were the highest. The FTIR of the modified binders also revealed the existence of more aromatics and hydrocarbon chains, showing changes in the chemical structure of the binders that would assist the improvement of performance. This study calls for alteration of the asphalt binder in a way that enhances the services’ life of the asphalt pavement particularly for a region with significant fluctuations of temperature. Keywords: Crumb Rubber, Asphalt Binders, Thermal History, Fatigue Endurance, Capacity to Self-Heal, Viscoelastic Continuum Damage (VECD)

Seismic Performance of Elevated Water Tank Considering Soil-Structure Interaction []


Earthquakes are natural disasters that generate ground vibrations, often leading to some of the most destructive forces on Earth. These seismic events have the potential to cause severe damage to infrastructure, including lifeline facilities. Elevated storage reservoirs must remain operational even after a major earthquake. However, past seismic events have shown that elevated storage tanks frequently sustain damage or even collapse worldwide. The primary cause of such failures has been identified as the inadequate performance of their supporting frame staging. To ensure the seismic safety of these structures, it is essential to classify damage into quantifiable states. Among various parameters used to assess damage levels, the top drift of the frame staging serves as a reliable indicator. This study evaluates the seismic vulnerability evaluation of reinforced concrete (RC) elevated water tanks frame staging with plain bar under different ground motion using fragility curve. Seven numbers of unscaled ground motion time histories are used to get the demand parameter in terms of drift. The drift capacity of the structure is determined from pushover analysis. A model of Intze type elevated water tank in Banke area is taken for analysis and analytical fragility curves are obtained for reservoir full, half full and empty case for fixed base, Spring base, and Half space condition. The effects of Fluid-Structure interaction and Soil-Structure in overall Fragility are also discussed.

RESTORATION OF DEGRADED HISTORICAL DOCUMENT OF YORUBA CULTURAL MUNUSCRIPT USING GENERATIVE ADVERSARIAL NETWORKS AND LINEAR SHADE ALGORITHM []


Over the years the preservation and restoration of historical handwritten Yoruba documents is a pressing concern due to their vulnerability to degradation, deterioration, and loss. Despite efforts to address this issue using deep learning, existing methods often fall short in addressing document-specific challenges, such as text clarity. This study proposes the use of a novel approach combining Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs) with the LSHADE algorithm to restore Yoruba documents. The proposed LSHADE-GAN model is designed to overcome the limitations of traditional GANs, including unstable training, sensitive hyper-parameters, and slow convergence. The model's performance was evaluated using five samples and compared to two conventional deep learning models. The results show that LSHADE-GAN outperforms the other models in terms of Peak Signal-to-Noise Ratio (PSNR) and Mean Squared Error (MSE). The LSHADE-GAN model achieved a PSNR of 13.25, significantly higher than DE-GAN and PSO-GAN, which had PSNR values ranging from 5.91 to 12.97. The model also demonstrated a lower MSE of 0.04, compared to DE-GAN (0.05) and PSO-GAN (0.07). Qualitative assessments revealed improved visual quality, including reduced noise, clearer text, and enhanced readability. These results demonstrate the potential of LSHADE-GAN model to achieve adequate restoration of degraded Yoruba documents and significantly improve text clarity. This breakthrough has significant implications for the preservation of cultural heritage, enabling the recovery of valuable historical information and facilitating a deeper understanding of the past. The expected result will be restoration of degraded documents and text clarity. With this expected outcome the conclusion can be drawn as well as state the implication of study with recommendation of future work.

MULTIPLE RESPONSE OPTIMIZATION OF ETHANOL-FOAMED WARM MIX ASPHALTCONCRETE USING BOX BEHNKEN DESIGN (BBD) []


This study optimized the ethanol-foamed warm mix asphalt concrete mixture design using Box Behnken Design (BBD) to achieve multiple responses. The optimization process considered three independent variables: ethanol, foaming dosage, temperature, and asphalt content. The responses evaluated were flow number, indirect tensile strength, indirect tensile stiffness modulus, and mixing temperature. The results showed that the optimized mixture design achieved improved workability, enhanced mechanical properties, and reduced energy consumption. The optimized mixture design was obtained using the desirability function, which combined individual responses into a single response. This study demonstrates the potential of ethanol-foamed warm mix asphalt concrete to reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions while maintaining or improving mechanical properties.