ISSN:2320-9186
Impact Factor:4.1
ISSN:2320-9186 Impact Factor:4.1
Early detection of Parkinson’s disease (PD) remains a significant clinical challenge. This study evaluates the diagnostic performance of two interpretable machine-learning classifiers, Logistic Regression (LR) and Random Forest (RF), on three non-invasive, modality-specific public datasets: vocal tremor features (UCI Parkinson’s dataset), REM sleep parameters (PhysioNet Sleep-EDF), and smartphone-based movement measures (mPower). Models were trained and evaluated separately on each modality using stratified cross-validation. RF outperformed LR across modalities: on vocal tremor data RF achieved ROC-AUC = 0.96 (LR = 0.94), on REM sleep data RF achieved ROC-AUC = 0.92 (LR = 0.89), and on movement data RF achieved ROC-AUC = 0.96 (LR = 0.93). Crucially, these datasets were collected from an independent participant cohort. Therefore, any feature-level concatenation performed here represents a synthetic, cross-dataset simulation rather than true patient-level multimodal integration. Claims about multimodal performance should be interpreted cautiously and validated on unified, synchronised multimodal cohorts. Key limitations include the small UCI voice sample (n=195) and lack of synchronised multimodal recordings. Our results support the promise of interpretable models on individual, non-invasive modalities and emphasise the need for prospectively collected multimodal cohorts for rigorous multimodal validation.
ABSTRACT_x000D_ This study examined the effects of process parameters on the production of glycerol from castor seed oil. Physico-chemical properties of the oil were determined, which was followed by the glycerol production through trans-esterification process. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy aided the identification of the functional groups. On the basis of one factor at-a-time, impacts of the trans-esterification variables on the glycerol yield were monitored. From the experimental results, physico-chemical characteristics of the castor seed oil indicate that the oil is suitable for glycerol production. With the recorded free fatty acid value of 3.07%, the oleic acid is within the range of standard value of 2.4 to 4.2%. Iodine value was found as 33.0g/100g; reflecting the presence of double bonds. Functional groups of glycerol from castor seed oil include polar atoms as well as single and double bond structures, which indicate that the oil is good for glycerol synthesis. The glycerol yield from the castor seed oil varied with the trans-esterification variables of methanol/oil ratio, catalyst dosage, temperature and time. It was found that castor seed oil is a good source of glycerol, whose yield depends on trans-esterification process conditions. _x000D_ Key words: Glycerol, Castor Seed Oil, Trans-esterification, Functional groups
This study explores the development and pilot testing of an "Educational Observation Assessment Checklist" integrated into early childhood education. Our checklist aims to assess the skills of daycare students in the language domain; it provides a good insight to the teacher and is an effective tool, and we aim to monitor and support the child's learning. Conducted in District 5, Quezon City, with 30 participants, the study used qualitative and analytical methods, including the assessment items will also be checked for reliability and retrievability using Cronbach's alpha.. The findings showed that of the 20 items on the checklist, only one met the reliability criteria, emphasizing the need for further modifications. This research places importance on aligning assessment tools with students' developmental needs.
This study evaluated the physicochemical parameters in fish farms in Nsukka Local Government Area of Enugu state. The study adopted a descriptive survey design while multistage sampling techniques was used. The study locations were from the three zones of Nsukka Local Government namely; Nsukka East, Nsukka Central and Nsukka West. Water samples for physicochemical parameters were collected six times each from the eighteen fish farms across the three zones of Nsukka Local Government Area and three autonomous communities in an interval of one month. Seven physicochemical parameters namely ammonia, dissolved oxygen, turbidity, nitrate, nitrite, temperature and hydrogen ion concentrations were studied using standards laboratory procedures. The water sample for physicochemical parameters were collected at a depth of about 5-10 cm from the pond with 250 ml and 500 ml sample bottles at the various ponds monthly for six months. Data were analyzed using t-test and ANOVA. Results showed that there were no significant (p>0.05) differences in the physicochemical parameters monthly variations, except for dissolved oxygen and temperature that varied significantly (p<0.05) in some months. The level of dissolved oxygen in October (6.64 ± 0.93 ppm) was significantly (p < 0.05) higher than the levels observed in March (5.46 ± 1.34 ppm). The temperature level recorded in December (27.00 ± 0.62 ˚C) was significantly (p < 0.05) lower than what was recorded in October (27.95 ± 0.74 ˚C), February (28.03 ± 0.61 ˚C) and March (28.40 ± 0.48 ˚C). Also, there were no significant (p>0.05) differences in their monthly variations of ammonia, dissolved oxygen, turbidity, nitrite, pH; however, the variations of nitrate and temperature showed significant difference (p <0.05). Whereas, nitrate level was significantly (p < 0.05) higher in Nsukka West (0.37 ± 0.20 mg/L), temperature was significantly (p <0.05) higher in Nsukka East (28.23 ± 0.79 ˚C). Temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen and turbidity have high level of association with pond water change (r=0.676**). It is recommended that regular monitoring of physicochemical parameters should be adopted in other to ensure water quality.
Floods are one of the most devasting and frequent natural disasters in Nepal, causing significant loss of life, property, and livelihoods annually. This comprehensive review synthesizes existing research to provide a holistic understanding of flood disasters and mitigation strategies within the Nepali context. It examines the key drivers of floods, including intense monsoon rainfall, fragile Himalayan geomorphology, glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs), and human induced factors such as deforestation, land use change, and unplanned urbanization. The paper then systematically reviews the current and proposed mitigation measures. This includes both structure measures like embankments, river training works, and gabion walls, as well as non-structural and community-centric approaches. A major focus is placed on the evolution and effectiveness of disaster risk reduction (DRR) policies, particularly the shift from a response-centric to a proactive risk reduction framework. The role of technological advancements, such as GIS and remote sensing for hazard mapping and early warning systems (EWS), is critically assessed, alongside the importance of community-based EWS in saving lives. Furthermore, the review explores the challenges and opportunities in trans boundary cooperation with neighbouring countries like India and china, which is crucial for managing shared river basins. By identifying gaps in policy implementation, research, and institutional capacity, this review aims to provide valuable insights for policymakers, researchers, and practitioners to enhance Nepal’s flood resilience and contribute to sustainable development in a highly vulnerable and dynamic environment.
This study investigated the mineral, vitamin, and antioxidant properties of Artocarpus heterophyllus (jackfruit) pulp extract to assess its potential as a natural source of health-promoting compounds. Vitamin analysis revealed high concentrations of essential micronutrients, particularly Vitamin C (60.133 mg/L) and Vitamin E (14.333 mg/L), both potent antioxidants known for their roles in mitigating oxidative stress. The presence of moderate levels of Vitamin A and significant quantities of B-complex vitamins (notably B6 and B12) further highlights the nutritional richness of the extract. Elemental analysis indicated the presence of beneficial macro-elements such as magnesium, potassium, and sodium, although trace amounts of toxic metals like lead and cadmium were also detected. Antioxidant assays (SOD, hydroxyl radical, hydrogen peroxide, ABTS, DPPH, and FRAP) demonstrated a clear dose-dependent increase in scavenging activity. While gallic acid and BHT exhibited superior activity at lower concentrations, the extract showed considerable antioxidant capacity, peaking at 80 mg/ml in most assays. Notably, the extract demonstrated higher nitric oxide (NO) scavenging activity than gallic acid, as evidenced by lower NO concentrations at equivalent doses. These findings suggest that A. heterophyllus pulp contains bioactive compounds capable of combating oxidative stress and may serve as a functional food ingredient or nutraceutical candidate. Further research is warranted to isolate and characterize the specific phytochemicals responsible for the observed bioactivity. Keywords: Antioxidants , Artocarpus heterophyllus, micronutrients, Minerals, phytochemicals, neutraceuticals, Vitamins,
Focusing on the protection of personal data and the requirements of data retention, modern financial institutions are facing the dilemma of data protection and ‘Anti Money Laundering (AML)’. While data protection laws are more focused on data retention (individual rights), confidentiality (transparency), and data protection (limiting the scope of information), AML policies are vastly contradictory, requiring a wide range of information surveillance, retention, and data dissemination. The current research adopts a mixed methods approach, i.e. quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews, and focuses on the understanding of compliance professionals regarding the conflicting policies. The research examines the factors of jurisdiction and governance, the adoption of privacy enhancing technologies (PETs), and the complexity of jurisdiction, in order to mitigate perceived tensions. The findings suggest that strong governance with controlled and minimal use of PETs leads to fewer conflicting reports, although legacy systems, regulatory uncertainty, and ambiguity are significant hurdles to overcome. The findings propose a layered approach to reconciliation that is legal, technical, and procedural in order to align the goals of privacy, data protection, and Anti Money Laundering. This outline provides empirical information and suitable actions for regulators, institutions, and technology developers.
This action research looked at how English songs can help students hear linking sounds when one word ends with a consonant and the next starts with a vowel (called C-V linking). The study was done with 33 first-year English students at the Faculty of Linguistics and Humanities, Savannakhet University, Lao PDR. The popular English song “Perfect” by Ed Sheeran was used during listening lessons. Students took a pre-test before the lessons and a post-test after. They also shared their thoughts through interviews. After the lessons, students showed a big improvement in hearing linking sounds. Many students also said they enjoyed learning with music, felt more relaxed, and were more interested in learning English. They also said songs helped them understand and enjoy English more. The study shows that using English songs can help students learn better and feel more confident. Keyword: Consonant-to-vowel linking, improvement, linking sounds
This study looked into the attitudes and methods of teachers when Key Stage I students transitioned. The study's specific objectives are to: a) ascertain the demographic profile of the teachers based on their age, sex, years of teaching experience, level of students they currently teach, bachelor's degree, and area of specialization; b) investigate how teachers perceive the transition of students from kindergarten to third grade; c) assess the degree of transition strategy practice among teachers; and d) identify any notable differences in the level of transition strategy practice among teachers based on age, sex, years of teaching experience, level of students they currently teach, bachelor's degree, and field of specialization. Using a descriptive research methodology and trustworthy research tools, 88 teachers from nine primary schools in District IV, Quezon Division, Bukidnon, were polled. The data was treated using descriptive statistics and analysis of variance. The study's findings showed a wide range of ages among the district's key stage 1 teachers, with the majority being female and having significant primary teaching experience. Although attention is paid to lower elementary classes, there aren't enough special education specialists. During learner transition, teachers report behavioral, social, and cognitive problems, but they also exhibit high levels of adoption of transition strategies, particularly those involving parent collaboration and communication. Based on the demographics of teachers working with key stage I students, no discernible variations in the way strategies were implemented were discovered. The study suggested improving special education teacher preparation, putting student challenges into targeted treatments, fostering intergrade cooperation, and giving parent communication top priority. Keywords: key stage I learners, primary school, transition period.
Access to information is essential for a student's educational experience. Information searching and retrieval by students involves several components including the ability of students to recognise their information needs, formulation of search strategy, selection of information sources, evaluation and finally utilization of needed information. This study was designed to determine the academic and social information needs, identify students’ information sources, information-seeking habits, and the challenges they face at the University of Cape Coast, Ghana. The study surveyed 400 participants, with an equal representation from each of the four undergraduate academic levels, to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the entire student body. Data were collected using a questionnaire and analysed with SPSS using frequency distribution. The demographic distribution revealed a predominantly youthful student population, with an overwhelming 86% falling within the 16-24 age range. The survey found a slightly higher proportion of female respondents (52.5%) than male respondents (47.5%). Furthermore, the research discovered that a majority of students (70.75%) reside off-campus, with contributing factors such as the cost of accommodation, chaotic living conditions, and inadequate infrastructure to accommodate students. The majority of students in this university attest to the fact that they seek information for academic and social needs. In addition, information sources are being explored to meet the information needs among undergraduate students from the University of Cape Coast, Ghana, including lecturers, digital sources and classmates. The information-seeking habits among undergraduate students from the University of Cape Coast, Ghana, were identified alongside their challenges, such as power supply difficulty and inadequate internet connectivity. It was recommended that the development of policies in addressing the housing predicament, and secondly, the need to have available and accessible internet facilities. Finally, a digital literacy programme towards skill development.
Les feux de brousse ont augmenté à un rythme alarmant ces dernières années, avec de multiples conséquences sur l'écosystème forestier et les paysages de la Reserve de Biosphère de Gadabedji. Il est crucial de détecter et de prévoir rapidement ces feux de brousse afin de minimiser leurs conséquences catastrophiques. L'étude s'еst аppuуéе sur lа télédétеctiоn et lеs sуstèmеs d'infоrmаtiоn géоgrаphiquе (SΙG) pоur élаbоrеr des modèlеs dе risquе d'inсеndiе dаns les paysаgеs dе lа Résеrvе de biosphèrе dе Gаbеdji. Un mоdèlе d'indiсе multipаrаmétriquе pondéré а été utilisé pоur élаbоrеr еt délimiter lа саrtе dеs risquеs d'incеndiеs dе forêt, еn intégrаnt dеs vаriablеs tеlles quе la végétаtiоn, lа topоgrаphiе, lа tеmpératurе dе lа surfасе tеrrestrе еt lа prоximité dеs rоutеs еt dеs habitаtiоns. Роur miеux еxplоitеr une саrtе dеs risques d'inсеndie, nous avоns vérifié lа cоlinéаrité des vаriаblеs à l'аidе dеs points сhаuds fournis pаr lе speсtrоrаdiomètre imаgеur à résоlutiоn moyennе (ΜОDIS). L'anаlуsе des dоnnéеs МՕDΙS dе 2002 à 2023 confirmе pаr аillеurs unе fоrtе соrrélаtiоn entre lе nоmbrе d'incеndies еt lеs zonеs idеntifiéеs сomme à risquе. Les steppеs hеrbeusеs sоnt pаrtiсulièrеmеnt vulnérаblеs aux inсendiеs durant lа sаisоn sèchе, dе nоvembre à jаnvier. Ρlus dе lа mоitié (67 %) dе lа supеrfiсiе dе l'écоsуstèmе pауsagеr dе la réservе еst еxpоséе à un risque d'inсеndiе élеvé, nоtаmmеnt аu nivеаu du nоуаu сеntrаl. Les résultаts de l'étudе pоurraient аidеr lеs déсidеurs à mеttrе en plасе dеs mеsurеs prévеntivеs pоur réduire lе risquе еt lеs соnséquеnсes des feux de brousse dans la reserve.
Proximate and anti nutritional constituents of avocado seed were determined,100g of the sample was extracted with 1000ml of ethanol and water using maceration method.The effect of different doses(200mg/kg)b.wt.,300mg/kg)b.wt.of both extract was compared with insulin on alloxan induced diabetic albino rats.
This study assessed the knowledge level and perceptions on the utilization of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) among health care workers in selected public hospitals of Baringo County, Kenya. Despite the critical role of PPEs in preventing hospital-acquired infections, their proper and consistent use remains a challenge. An analytical cross-sectional design was adopted, involving 197 healthcare workers drawn from six public hospitals. Data were collected using structured question-naires and analyzed through SPSS version 25. The findings revealed that the overall knowledge level on PPE utilization was 63.2 percent, indicating moderate understanding of PPE types, usage, and donning and doffing procedures. However, sig-nificant gaps existed in knowledge of the correct sequencing and disposal of PPEs. In addition, 64.3 percent of respondents demonstrated positive perceptions toward PPE use, recognizing its importance in infection prevention and control. None-theless, negative perceptions such as discomfort, fogging of goggles, and the time-consuming nature of donning and doffing emerged as key barriers to full compliance. The study concludes that while moderate knowledge and generally positive per-ceptions influence PPE utilization, they are insufficient to ensure adherence to CDC and WHO standards. It is therefore rec-ommended that continuous professional training and refresher programs be provided to address existing knowledge gaps, simulation-based learning be introduced to enhance mastery of donning and doffing sequences, and behavior change inter-ventions alongside supportive supervision be strengthened to foster positive attitudes and overcome perception-related bar-riers. By improving both knowledge and perceptions, healthcare facilities can enhance compliance with PPE guidelines, thereby reducing occupational exposure and hospital-acquired infections.
Natural products derived from medicinal plants represent a vast reservoir of bioactive compounds with significant therapeutic potential. Polyherbal formulations, which combine multiple plant extracts in synergistic combinations, have emerged as promising alternatives to conventional single-compound therapeutics, offering enhanced efficacy through multi-target mechanisms while potentially reducing adverse effects associated with high-dose monotherapy approaches. The natural products formulation comprising three plants {Ashwagandha, Garlic and Blue Indigo} was extracted using a (5% ethanol + 65% water) maceration technique. This study aimed to evaluate the cytotoxic properties of a novel polyherbal natural product mixture against Neuro-2a mouse neuroblastoma cells using standardized WST-1 methodology, establishing dose-response relationships and determining critical pharmacological parameters for future therapeutic development.
This study sought to find out whether the prevailing public service culture of CCSPC is client-centered and results-centered based from employees' practices in job and whether HRD support programs such as training and development, benefits and incentives, and work conditions provided for the employees' career development and well-being have predictive validity to shape or develop an agency's public service culture. The sources of data were obtained from a researcher-made questionnaire which was subjected to validity and reliability tests and yielded very high validity and reliability results. Secondary data from interviews were used to validate the data from the questionnaire. Through multiple correlation analysis and step-wise regression analysis, the findings indicated a significant positive relationship at 0.01 between adequate provision of HRD support programs for employees' career development and well being and satisfactory practices of employees in their jobs both as client-centered and results-centered in delivering their public service duties to their clientele. Thus the prevailing public service culture of CCSPC is described as strong in being client-centered and results-centered. But among the HRD support program types provided, committee assignments contributed an impact on the satisfactory public service practices of the employees as client-centered and results-centered. The other predictors of client-centered and results-centered public service practices of employees in job were: year-end bonus/salary increases/productivity pay; retirement activities; leave privileges; library reference books and journals; computer programs and internet. In conclusion, a public service culture that is client-centered and results-centered in the job practices of employees can be developed to a better quality by the administration's more adequate provision of more types of HRD support programs that caters to further development of its employees' career development and well-being. The public service culture of an agency as client-centered is developed from employees' strong advocacy of the public service values such as: caring for client's development; sharing time and material resources; financial generosity; respect, tolerance, helpful, friendly and considerate, and tactful; and consistency in desirable practices in their jobs in response to rational and equitable provision of the administrations' HRD support programs; such as Trainings and Development; Benefits and Incentives; and Work Conditions. The public service culture of an agency as results-centered emanates from employees' strong commitment and practices of their primary duties such as teaching, extension, and administrative functions which are nurtured and shaped by more provisions of HRD support programs. Keywords: Human Resource Development, Employees’ Career Development, Public Service Culture , Cotabato City State Polytechnic College
Nepal’s Transition to a federal republic in May 2008 promised to dismantle centuries of centralized monarchical and feudalistic power. Instead, it has witnessed the reconfiguration of the elite dominance through networks of artificial political kinship. This article argues that the traditional Nepali concept of “aafno maanche” (one’s own people) has been systematized into a pervasive structure of “Political Kinship”. This network operates on the logic of “Structural Patronage” (Samrachanatmak samrakshyan), where a ruling elite (Shree-15) leverages state institutions to benefit their kin (Hamro Maanche), legitimizing exclusion through a discourse of democracy and development. Drawing on long-term ethnography and over 300 interviews, this study reveals how this system generates structural violence, marginalizing those outside the network while cynically mimicking the moral obligations of traditional kinship. The findings necessitate a critical rethinking of policy and institutional design to address this disguised hegemony, which undermines the very foundation of equitable federalism.
ABSTRACT This paper discusses rebellion and its negative effects on the rebels with a focus on the activities of a legend and powerful Yoruba, Ibadan based woman called Efunsatan Aniwura and a biblical prince called Rehoboam. The paper explains some concepts that surround the topic. Most importantly, the paper gives insight into the immediate causes of Efunsetan Aniwura’s and Rehoboam’s rebellion which is inordinate ambition for power. The paper argues that although Yoruba women always take an active part in the political decision-making and other socio¬economic activities in their societies, significantly affecting the course of events and development in the region in the pre-colonial and colonial times. The paper opined that pre-colonial Yorubaland was severally patrilineal and power beyond the household was dominated by men. Women still attained high political positions and became prominent in their localities. The paper takes a look at lyalode Efusetan Aniwura, the lyalode of Ibadan land, who was very rich, powerful, and influential. Based on her achievements, she became uncontrollable by the king of Ibadan in those days, Oba OLATOSA. The paper concludes that the precolonial Yoruba women's political activism is uncommon among their contemporaries in other parts of the nation. lyalode Efunsetan Aniwura was very powerful and wealthy, and she has been noted for her mastery of crafts, trade, and politics. Her success made her to be uncontrollable for Oba Latosa and this made her to be so rebellious to the King and Chiefs in Ibadanland during her time.
This research titled aims to examine the changes in the form of Potehi Puppet performances in Gudo, Jombang, East Java within a socio-cultural context, identify factors influencing these changes, and analyze the implications of the changes in Potehi Puppetry performaing Art in Gudo, Jombang, East Java. The research design is descriptive qualitative, with interactive analysis. The study adopts a cultural studies approach ethnographic methods. Data collection techniques thru observation, note-taking, interviews, literature review, and documentation. The data consists of video documentation of recordings, text, and information. The data was analyzed thru interactive analysis, and data validity was ensured thru triangulation. The analysis results show that the performance form has a dramatic structure. Change is influenced by internal factors such as the artist's desire to change and external factors such as cultural contact. The dalang transformed the comic book Sie Djin Kwie Tjeng Tang thru adaptation, condensing it into a Potehi Puppetry Performing Art at performance titled Sie Djin Kwie Tjeng Tang. Cultural contact occurred due to globalization and modernity. Innovation and technology utilization are evident in the Potehi Puppetry Performing Art collaboration performance with Chinese Opera and Javanese Ketoprak. The changes include language, location, and function. The impact of change, Wayang Potehi became existent and can be a branding for Jombang. The collaboration of Wayang Potehi with Chinese Opera and Javanese Ketoprak has implications for media changes, changes in the media, and changes in space. The initial form used one medium, a puppet, which then evolved into a collaborative form using two media: puppets and humans. The Potehi stage is a 3x4 meter box space, but for collaborative performances, it transforms into a performance in a 3x4 meter box-shaped space and a larger stage exceeding 3x4 meters. Form changes and submission to UNESCO can be an effort to preserve culture, especially the preservation of Wayang Potehi in Gudo, Jombang, East Java. Keywords: The Change of form. The Effort of Preservation Culture. The Potehi Puppetry Performing Arts of Gudo, Jombang, East Java,
Pyometra is a rare condition in postmenopausal women present with vague symptom such as lower abdominal pain,vaginal discharge.Our case presented as a known case of tubercular meningitis(treated) post menopausal women with vaginal discharge which had similar complain 1 year back manage with dilatation and drainage of pus with antibiotic therapy.Patient develop recurrence of pyometra and manage with total abdominal hysterectomy.Histopathology report shows senile endometritis and swab sent for routine culture and tuberculosis gene testing came to be negative