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

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UTILIZATION OF PHENOLIC ACIDS CO-PIGMENTATION IN IMPROVEMENT OF COLOUR CHARACTERISTICS AND THERMAL STABILITY OF ROSELLE (HIBISCUS SABDARIFFA) ANTHOCYANINS []


The present study investigated the co-pigmentation effects of four phenolic acids (gallic, rosmarinic, caffeic, and coumaric acids) on the colour characteristics, thermal resistance, and antioxidant activity of anthocyanins extracted from Roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.) calyces. Anthocyanin-rich extracts were obtained via aqueous extraction and characterized by UV-Visible spectrophotometry. Co-pigmentation reactions were conducted at various pigment-to-co-pigment molar ratios (1:0; 1:5; 1:10; 1:20 and 1:30) and tempera-tures ranging from 65°C to 95°C. It was found that rosmarinic acid exhibited the strongest stabilizing effect, producing a bathochromic shift of 8.5 nm and a hyperchromic effect of 37.7% at a 1:30 molar ratio. Gallic acid also demonstrated significant enhancement in both absorbance intensity and thermal protection. Caffeic acid showed moderate stabilization capabilities. Coumaric acid exhibited the weakest effect among the tested phenolic acids, with lower bathochromic and hyperchromic shifts, and a more pronounced de-cline in anthocyanin retention at elevated temperatures. Nevertheless, coumaric acid still contributed to improved pigment stability compared to the control. Additionally, antioxidant activity assessed via DPPH radical scavenging assays confirmed dose-dependent inhibition, with an EC50 of 0.945 g extract/g DPPH. These findings advance the usage of phenolic acids, in particular; rosmarinic and gallic acids, as natural co-pigments for improving the thermal stability and functional performance of Roselle anthocyanins in thermal-ly processed food products.

Effect of procurement fraud detection practices on company performance, A case of Rwanda Energy Group, in Rwanda []


The main purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of procurement fraud detection on performance of Rwanda Energy Group company. Specifically, to assess the effect of contract implementation on company performance, to examine the effect of procurement planning on company performance, to determine the effect of tender committee team on company performance, a case study of Rwanda Energy Group. The theories that guided this study were theory of contract, theory of planning and theory of realistic evaluation. The study employed the descriptive and correlational research design to address the statement of the problem. this study used the target population of 100 people. A sample size of 100 respondents and census method were used in this study. The questionnaire and interview guide tools were used to collect data from respondents. The data were analyzed through descriptive and inferential statistics using SPSS version 25.0. The study findings indicate that there is effect (M=4.02, SD=1.011) of contract implementation on company performance, there is effect (M=4.27, SD=0.872) of procurement planning on company performance, and there is effect (M=4.15, SD=0.927) of tender committee evaluation on company performance. Moreover, there is a statistically no significant effect (p=0.338˃0.05) of contract implementation on performance, there is statistically significant effect (p=0.005˂0.05) of procurement planning on performance and there is statistically significant effect (p=0.017˂0.05) of tender committee evaluation on performance. The study recommends that REG should develop a contract management plan, provide contract management training, and establishing key performance indicators to identify ineffective parts of the contract management process. Staff should also schedule lead time for procurement processes, prepare and analyze a table with key dates, and decide when to review sources of fraud, contract implementation, and delivery of products or services.

Impact of project life cycle on success of agriculture project in rwanda []


Agriculture is Rwanda’s economic backbone, contributing significantly to GDP and employing many. It ensures food security, improves livelihoods, and fosters growth. This research assesses the project life cycle’s impact on agriculture projects in Rwanda, with a focus on the Agro Processing Trust Corporation (APTC). Guided by three specific objectives, it examined the Initiation Phase’s effect, the Planning Phase’s effect, and the Execution Phase’s impact. Theoretical reviews included Project Life Cycle Theory, Systems Theory, and Stakeholder Theory. This study used a descriptive research design. The target population was individuals involved in three key projects under the APTC: the APTC Poultry Farming project, Gako Livestock Farm, and the Fertilizers and Seeds Distribution project. The group consisted of 153 research respondents, selected using a census approach. This study employed structured questionnaires and structured interviews to gather both quantitative and qualitative data from participants in three APTC agricultural projects. Data collection involved pre-testing instruments for clarity, using SPSS for statistical analysis, and thematic analysis for qualitative insights. The findings revealed that project life cycle phases significantly influenced agricultural project performance at APTC. In the first objectives, the initiation phase showed 62.09% agreement and 33.33% strong agreement on feasibility studies (M = 4.27, SD = 0.57), while stakeholder identification scored similarly (M = 4.24, SD = 0.58). In the second objective looks at planning where, for planning, 62.09% agreed and 33.33% strongly agreed on scope definition (M = 4.30, SD = 0.52), with budgeting and scheduling at 58.82% agreement and 35.29% strong agreement (M = 4.28, SD = 0.53). And finally, the third objectives which is execution, in execution, 69.93% agreed and 24.84% strongly agreed on resource management (M = 4.17, SD = 0.56), with timeline adherence at 71.90% agreement (M = 4.18, SD = 0.68) and lasting impacts at 68.63% agreement (M = 4.21, SD = 0.64). Overall performance was high (M = 4.57, SD = 0.33). Correlation analysis showed strong positive relationships: initiation (r = .850, p < .000), planning (r = .844, p < .000), and execution (r = .861, p < .000). Regression analysis revealed phases explained 92.5% (R² = 0.925) of performance variance, with planning having the strongest influence (B = 0.232, p = 0.048). These findings underscore the importance of structured project management for enhancing agricultural project success, sustainability, and efficiency. The study concluded by showing the critical role of project life cycle phases—initiation, planning, and execution—in enhancing agricultural project performance, with planning showing the highest influence due to its emphasis on strategic resource alignment and risk mitigation. Recommendations call for organizations like APTC and policymakers to prioritize comprehensive feasibility studies, robust stakeholder engagement, advanced planning practices, and adaptive execution strategies supported by modern tools. For future research, longitudinal studies on the long-term effects of structured project cycles, the integration of advanced technologies, and the evolving role of stakeholder dynamics are suggested to inform sustainable practices and scalability in Rwanda's agricultural sector, fostering innovation and resilience. Key words: Project Lifecycle, Project Success, Agro-processing and Agriculture project

WOMEN’S PARTICIPATION IN CONFLICT RESOLUTION MANAGEMENT IN THE PROVINCE OF MAGUINDANAO DEL SUR []


The main purpose of this study is to evaluate the extent knowledge of women on their roles in participating conflict resolution, and how they manage their involvement during the process. The data gathered serves as a reference that aids in determining and assessing the elements that support the significance of women’s involvement in conflict resolution management. The research design used in this study was a combination of both qualitative and quantitative methods of research. This study was conducted at five (5) selected mmunicipalities in the province of Maguindanao Del Sur such as; Datu Piang, Rajah Buayan, Datu Salibo, Sultan Sa Barongis, and Datu Saudi Ampatuan, respectively. The instrument used for data gathering is a survey questionnaire as the main tool of data collections for this study. The findings revealed for the women’s participation in conflict resolution management in terms of being proactive in peace building and peace negotiations was interpreted as always, also involvement of women in the conduct of dialogue, mitigation, resolution and settlement between conflicting parties was interpreted as always, but in terms of involvement of women as mediators and having a seat in a negotiation table thus committed to address local conflict resolution was interpreted as sometimes. Common problems encountered by the women in participating conflict resolution management appeared as rank 1 was sometimes women are neglected to be part of conflict resolution, followed by no membership of women in the mediation, unification and reconciliation task force created by the LGUs as ranked 2, women are poorly equipped with appropriate skills in mediation ranked 3. On the other hand, Limited collaboration with LGUs ranked 4 and ranked 5 is that the limited opportunity of women to participate. The researcher recommended to strengthen advocacy on women empowerment, encourage more women to participate in the local conflict resolution management, and process as peace builders and peace advocates, provide more trainings and sustainable support for women local mediators, and to recognized the effort and potentials of women as local mediators. Keywords: Women’s Participation, Conflict Resolution, Management, Maguindanao del Sur

DEVELOPMENT OF LESSON EXEMPLAR – BASED DESIGN IN PRECALCULUS []


This study investigated the proficiency levels of Grade 11 STEM students in various Precalculus topics and explored the influence of demographic factors on their academic performance. The majority of the respondents were aged 16 to 17, predominantly female, and residing in rural areas, with most mothers having attained college-level education and both parents generally engaged in formal or informal employment. The results revealed that students exhibited low to moderate proficiency in Precalculus, performing relatively better in geometry-based and visual topics such as Conic Sections and Inverse Trigonometric Functions, but encountering significant difficulties with more abstract topics like Mathematical Induction and Circular Functions. Statistical analysis showed a positive correlation between the father's educational attainment and student performance in Circular Functions, while the father's occupation showed a negative correlation, implying that demanding jobs may limit parental academic support. To address these challenges, a lesson exemplar was developed and evaluated, demonstrating very high validity across content, organization, and mechanics. The study recommends targeted interventions including the use of interactive, technology-enhanced instructional strategies, tailored academic support for students from rural areas or with parents in demanding occupations, and strengthened parental engagement initiatives. The validated lesson exemplar is proposed for classroom implementation, with minor refinements based on feedback and diverse learning needs. Future research is encouraged to further validate these findings and enhance the instructional strategies in Precalculus education.

NEUROLOGY/ BIOLOGY/ LET THE MIND BLOOM: PARTHENOCISSUS QUINQUEFOLIA FOR HOPE []


This study is the first scientific investigation to explore the potential neuroprotective effects of a poisonous plant, Virginia creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolia) extract on neuronal viability in neurodegenerative diseases, particularly Alzheimer’s. Since neurodegenerative disorders are associated with processes such as oxidative stress, inflammation, and neuronal loss, the study aimed to determine whether this plant extract could provide protective benefits for neurons under oxidative stress conditions. In the experiment, Sh-SY5Y human neuronal cells were exposed to different concentrations of the Virginia creeper’s extract in a cell culture laboratory setting to assess its effects on cell viability, oxidative stress suppression, and overall cellular functionality. The experimental results demonstrated a dose-dependent effect. While low concentrations of the extract did not produce significant changes in neuronal viability, higher concentrations led to improved cell survival rates. These findings suggest that the extract may contribute to reducing oxidative stress and enhancing neuronal resilience, potentially supporting cellular defense mechanisms. However, the results also indicated that the effects varied depending on dosage, emphasizing the need for precise dose optimization in future studies. As the first study to experimentally demonstrate the potential neuroprotective properties of Virginia creeper extract, this research represents a significant step in developing new therapeutic approaches for neurodegenerative diseases. Although Virginia creeper is classified as toxic for human consumption, its potential benefits in a controlled medical context highlight the necessity for further preclinical and clinical investigations. Understanding its mechanisms of action and determining safe dosage ranges could pave the way for novel treatment strategies targeting oxidative stress and neuronal loss in conditions like Alzheimer’s.

Correlation of fasting glucose and serum lipid profile during gestational pregnancy. []


Abstract: Objective: During gestational diabetes mellitus, altered glucose metabolism causes the lipid metabolism to promote itself as the main energy source for the maternal-fetal body. The changes in the lipid metabolism depends on the severity of GDM. However, GDM is independent of severity in obesity and so is altered lipid profile while other typical parameters are not always responsible for GDM progression and to investigate the correlation between fasting glucose and lipid profile. Along with the suggestion that the abnormal levels of lipid profile during pregnancy are associated with the impaired glucose metabolism. Materials and methods: A total of 120 pregnant women in their late 2nd and early 3rd trimester were taken. Out of which 60 were healthy with fit family background while 60 were affected by GDM with unfit family background. All the women were in the 3rd trimester and belonged to the age group of 25-35 with average BMI of 26.9-30.0 kg/m2 in which family history was not considered along with glucose and lipid tests were performed according to their physicians. Results: When significance was α=0.05, among OGTT, FBG and HbA1c, OGTT showed a strong negative correlation (180.23 ±7.8143, r= -0.7873, p<0.001) and an inverse relationship between glucose and lipid profile. Concluding that although FBG and HbA1c have a weaker relationship as compared to OGTT, but still the high level of FBG is associated with GDM. On the other hand, total cholesterol presented a very strong negative correlation with GDM (192.43 ±8.666, r=-0.7873, p-value= 8.647 × 10⁻¹⁴). Suggesting that as total cholesterol decreases, glucose levels increase. These results also show a highlighting relationship between glucose intolerance and lipid metabolism along with triglycerides, HDL-C, LDL-C. Conclusion: Profile OGTT had the strongest negative correlation among the glycemic markers while HbA1c was not able to prove any correlation. The results of this study states that all the parameters are directly or inversely proportional to each other while some parameter, HbA1c, showed a positive correlation with the GDM. Hence, we were able to say that the objective of this study has enough evidence to support the hypothesis, “ dyslipidemia particularly elevates total cholesterol, and triglycerides are closely linked with impaired glucose metabolism during pregnancy”. Keywords: gestational diabetes, lipid metabolism, metabolic alterations, serum lipid profile.

Evaluating the Effectiveness of the General Information Technology (GIT) Subject in Enhancing Digital Literacy among secondary grades students in Sri Lanka []


This study evaluates the effectiveness of the General Information Technology (GIT) subject in improving digital literacy among secondary grades students in Sri Lanka. The research looks at how well the GIT curriculum matches digital literacy standards, how it is taught, how ready the teachers are, and how well the students are doing. Using a mixed-methods, the study used surveys, interviews, and a review of the curriculum to find out what is working well and what needs to be improved in the current system. The findings show that students’ digital skills have improved slightly, but there are still challenges. Many schools lack sufficient digital equipment, students do not receive enough hands-on practice, and teachers have varying skill levels. The study recommends curriculum revision, improvements in teacher training, investment in infrastructure, a stronger practical component, regular monitoring system, and certified recognition.

CONTRIBUTION OF FINANCIAL INCLUSION ON THE GROWTH OF SMALL BUSINESS IN RUBAVU DISTRICT, RWANDA []


This study investigates the contribution of financial inclusion to small business growth in Rubavu District, Rwanda, from 2018 to 2023. The primary objective is to assess the impact of financial accessibility, financial technology, and financial literacy on small business growth. A descriptive and correlational research design was adopted, with a sample of 91 participants, including 87 business owners and 4 representatives from the Private Sector Federation (PSF). This study was based on the Financial Intermediation theory and Resource-Based View (RBV) Theory. Descriptive statistics were used to determine frequencies and percentages, while regression analysis and Pearson correlation coefficients were employed to analyze the relationships between variables. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS version 28. The pilot study tested the research tools with 13 respondents (representing 10% of the sample size) to check their accuracy and consistency. Experts confirmed the tools' validity with a score of 0.8, and reliability was proven with a Cronbach’s alpha of 0.789, showing the tools were effective for data collection. The study reveals that small businesses in Rubavu show strong growth potential, with 45.05% of respondents agreeing and 35.16% strongly agreeing that their businesses are profitable (mean = 4.09). Additionally, 49.45% report paying taxes on profits (mean = 3.99), reflecting positive formalization. Despite these successes, challenges remain in financial accessibility, with many businesses struggling to secure loans due to high-interest rates (mean = 3.60) and collateral requirements (mean = 3.58). Financial technology has positively impacted businesses, with mobile banking and mobile money contributing to profit growth (mean = 3.57) and reduced theft (mean = 3.88). However, variability in experiences, especially related to digital literacy and infrastructure, indicates areas for improvement in supporting small businesses. These findings underscore the importance of financial inclusion and the need for tailored digital literacy programs to foster sustained business growth in Rubavu. Key words: Financial inclusion, Business growth

Security Compliance or Civil Society Crackdown? Analysing Zimbabwe’s new PVO Acts Impact on Development, Civic Space and State-Society Relations []


The Zimbabwe government recently passed the Private Voluntary Organisations (PVO) Amendment Bill, which greatly rewrote the legal framework governing civil society organizations (CSOs). This qualitative study, based on thematic analysis of document reviews as well as secondary data and expert interviews, describes the Bills elements, articulated rationale and contestations, and describes potential implications. The government has justified the law mainly as being required to satisfy Financial Action Task Force (FATF) recommendations to combat money laundering and terrorism financing (AML/CFT). However, beneath the surface, a thematic analysis of the Bill’s provisions shows that it confers overly broad discretionary powers to the executive, overly broad restrictions on “political activities” and foreign funding, and impose overly harsh penalties, well outside the FATF approach of risk-based analysis. Critics — from domestic CSOs to UN experts, human rights bodies, and foreign governments — consider the law as a weaponisation of FATF compliance to narrow civic space, clamp down on dissent (especially in governance and human rights), and consolidate state control in violation of international standards on freedom of association. Now, the Bill 2 brings considerable operational challenges for PVOs that will threaten critical services (health, education, humanitarian) provided by the sector throughout history, undermine development assistance, cost jobs and stunt progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially SDG 16. On the theoretical level, the laws implications highlight a shift toward an authoritarian statism through the challenge of paradigms of participatory development and the global trend of diminishing civic space. It threatens to undermine aid effectiveness, exacerbates state-society distrust and threatens development, despite its professed objectives. Ultimately, the PVO Amendment Bill, now gazetted as Act 1 of 2025, represents a grave danger to Zimbabwes path to an open and participatory democracy and sustainable development, the paper further concludes. Key Words: PVO Amendment Bill, Civil Society, Civic Space, NGO Regulation, State- Society Relations, Authoritarianism.

SELF MANAGEMENT AND SERVICE INNOVATION OF INSURANCE INDUSTRY, SOUTH-SOUTH, NIGERIA. []


This innovative study investigates the intricate relationship between Self-Management and Service Innovation in the insurance sector of South-South Nigeria. Employing a cross-sectional survey research design, this study sampled 210 respondents from a population of 440 employees across 22 insurance firms in the region. The cross-sectional survey approach enabled a snapshot of the relationship between Self-Management and Service Innovation at a specific point in time, providing valuable insights into the current state of service innovation in the insurance industry. The data collected was analyzed using Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) constructed with Amos21 software, which enabled the modelling of complex relationships between variables, including the moderating effect of Organizational Structure. Additionally, the Spearman Rank Order Correlation Coefficient was used to indicate the strength and direction of these relationships. The findings reveal significant positive relationship between self-management and service innovation. Moreover, organizational culture emerged as a potent moderator between the variables, underscoring its critical role in fostering innovative work behaviour. The findings have important implications for insurance firms seeking to foster a culture of innovation, highlighting the need for leaders to develop their emotional intelligence especially in the area of self-management and create a conducive work environment that supports service innovation.

SELF-AWARENESS AND PROCESS INNOVATION OF INSURANCE INDUSTRY, SOUTH-SOUTH, NIGERIA. []


This study examines the multifaceted relationship between Self-Awareness and Process Innovation in the insurance sector of South-South Nigeria. Utilizing a cross-sectional survey research design, this study sampled 210 respondents from a population of 440 employees across 22 insurance firms in the region. The cross-sectional survey approach provided a snapshot of the relationship between Self-Awareness and Process Innovation at a specific point in time, offering valuable insights into the current state of process innovation in the insurance industry. The data collected was analyzed using Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) constructed with Amos21 software, which enabled the modelling of complex relationships between variables, including the moderating effect of Organizational Structure. Additionally, the Spearman Rank Order Correlation Coefficient was used to indicate the strength and direction of these relationships. The findings reveal a significant positive relationship between Self-Awareness and Process Innovation. Moreover, organizational culture emerged as a potent moderator between the variables, underscoring its critical role in fostering innovative work behavior. The findings have important implications for insurance firms seeking to foster a culture of innovation, highlighting the need for leaders to develop their emotional intelligence, particularly in the area of Self-Awareness, and create a conducive work environment that supports Process Innovation.

case study []


As education gains increasing recognition and respect, the relationship between digital technology and learning, especially language acquisition continues to strengthen. Researchers frequently explore the concept of digital language to address learners' diverse needs. This study investigates various aspects of digital language to provide a comprehensive understanding of its significance in providing to learners’ different requirements. The rapid advancement of technology has led to the development of digital language tools, which offer accessibility, flexibility, and personalization. This paper explores the benefits and challenges of online language learning, highlighting the potential of digital language to create dynamic, engaging, and effective learning environments. The findings suggest that digital technology is widely perceived as relevant, useful, and essential in an educational context. However, despite its advantages, challenges such as the digital divide, financial constraints, and cybersecurity concerns must be addressed. By acknowledging the importance of digital language tools, educators, developers, and policymakers can create more inclusive and effective language learning experiences.

Renewable Energy/CRET/SOLAR FARM []


This paper presents a numerical analysis of energy storage systems within hybrid renewable energy grids using the Centre for Renewable Energy Technology (CRET) solar energy farm in Federal University of Technology Akure (FUTA) as a case study. The case study describes the modeling of the output from an energy-producing facility, which is a solar farm consisting of 108 photovoltaic (PV) panels rated at 300 W each, a deep-cycle battery bank for energy storage made up of 16 units of 12 V, 200 Ah batteries, and average peak sun hours of around 4 hours per day. The simulation is implemented using a standard fourth-order Runge-Kutta (RK4) technique for daily, monthly and annual energy generation, load consumption, and battery performance over a full year period. Results indicate that about 60 kWh is produced by the system from solar energy per day, which comfortably meets the daily load requirement of 24 kWh. However, the capacity of the available PV battery storage system leads to surplus power generation on many occasions and its underutilization. Graphical analysis indicates that SOC (State of Charge) of the battery remains close to 100% for most of the year, depicting that there does not exist the optimum use of available energy through any means of storage or diversion. Storage optimization and grid integration were areas of concern underlining this study to maximize the utilization efficiency of energy. The research showcases the applicability of different numerical methods for Hybrid Renewable System analyses and optimization, primarily based on Runge-Kutta approaches. Such findings give enormous insights to researchers and engineers as well as energy managers who have to spend their efforts to design better solar-based micro grids specifically for developing regions.

SOCIAL MEDIA USAGE: A PHENOMENOLOGICAL CERTITUDE ON ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE []


Social Media Usage is the utilization of the multimedia infrastructure as a means of communication and other relative form thereto. It is utilized in mediating people to people in the community for any form or purposes. The 250 social studies participants were studied in two (2) years from academic year 2022-2024. They were studied phenomenologically in their lived experienced regarding the social media usage for academic performance. Although Bytedance, Instagram, Facebook, Discord and WhatsApps were ranked high according to their usability but contributed low in academic performance. The eight to ten hours of social media utilization do not support nor scaffold the LMS. Instead, they were utilized for information, communication and socialization. So, social media bridges only the gaps in connecting people to people through communication and information. It does not support to be a platform for a classroom instruction. Using this to be a platform or tool for instruction use the ILMS (Institutional Learning Management System).