In consumer behavior research, effective policy design and market intervention must integrate perceived psychological and social risks alongside traditional economic and demographic indicators. Departing from conventional models that treat risk perception merely as a background characteristic, this study develops a Risk-Adjusted Behavioral Intention Framework, embedding perceived risk as a moderating force within the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB). A structured, theory-driven measurement design captures attitudes, subjective norms, behavioral control, and multi-dimensional risk perception particularly hygiene, quality, and social judgment concerns to assess their joint influence on consumers’ willingness to purchase second-hand clothing. Using a dataset of 500 respondents in Haiti, we apply simple and moderated least squares regression to quantify the impact of psychological and contextual factors on purchase intention. Our results reveal three major findings. First, the TPB constructs remain robust predictors of purchase intention: positive attitudes, social approval, and behavioral competence significantly enhance consumers’ willingness to buy. Second, perceived risk exhibits a strong dampening effect, weakening both the influence of favorable attitudes and individuals’ confidence in navigating the market indicating that emotional and hygiene-related concerns materially shape the decision process. Third, integrating perceived risk into the behavioral model substantially increases explanatory power compared with traditional TPB specifications, demonstrating that risk-adjusted behavioral measures outperform models relying solely on attitudinal or economic indicators. This research advances consumer behavior literature by formally introducing perceived risk as a behavioral modifier rather than a passive descriptor, offering a scalable analytical framework for studying informal markets in low-income contexts. It provides actionable insights for policymakers and market actors seeking to strengthen quality assurance, reduce hygiene-related uncertainty, and enhance trust in Haiti’s second-hand clothing ecosystem. Keywords: Second-hand clothing; Purchase intention; Theory of Planned Behavior; Perceived risk; Informal markets; Haiti.
This study, titled Applicant Tracking and Hiring Decision Support System (ATHDSS) for the Department of Education – Schools Division of Sorsogon, focused on the design, development, and evaluation of an automated recruitment and selection system. The scope of the project covered applicant registration, document handling, evaluation, ranking, and report generation aligned with DepEd Order No. 7, s. 2023. The Rational Unified Process (RUP) served as the development methodology, guiding the system through the phases of Inception, Elaboration, Construction, and Transition to ensure structured and iterative refinement. The completed system was evaluated by IT experts, Human Resource Management Officers, and selection committee members using the ISO/IEC 25010 software quality model to assess its performance across eight quality characteristics. The findings of the study revealed that the system successfully implemented secured applicant registration, efficient document management, and automated evaluation processes. Role-based access ensured that applicants, HR personnel, evaluators, and assessors performed their tasks securely and efficiently. Scoring algorithms and server-side logic generated accurate Comparative Assessment Results and Registry of Qualified Applicants, minimizing manual errors and enhancing transparency. Evaluation using ISO/IEC 25010 showed very high ratings across all areas, with the system achieving an overall mean score of 4.76, indicating excellent functional suitability, usability, security, performance, and maintainability. Based on the results, the study concluded that the Applicant Tracking and Hiring Decision Support System effectively addressed the challenges of the manual recruitment process. It provided a reliable, secure, and data-driven platform that automated key procedures, supported merit-based evaluation, and improved the overall efficiency of recruitment operations in the SDO Sorsogon. The system met all specified requirements and demonstrated readiness for institutional adoption, as evidenced by high evaluation scores from technical and administrative experts. In light of these conclusions, the study recommends the full implementation of the system across the Schools Division of Sorsogon to enhance transparency and consistency in recruitment. Continuous system updates and maintenance are suggested to ensure long-term performance, compatibility, and security. Additional modules - such as analytics dashboards and automated notifications - may be integrated in future enhancements to further streamline HR operations. Finally, regular training for HR personnel, evaluators, and applicants is advised to maximize the system’s usability and organizational impact. Keywords: Applicant Tracking System, Decision Support System, Hiring Decision Support System, Human Resource Information System, Public Sector Human Resource Management, Recruitment and Selection, Recruitment Automation, Schools Division of Sorsogon
This study investigates the environmental impacts in air pollution aspect of foreign direct investment (FDI), economic growth, renewable energy usage, industrial structure, trade openness, and population in Southeast Asia, including fine particles (PM2.5), carbon dioxide emissions, and nitrous dioxide emissions. The research aims to explore both short-term and long-term effects, with a particular focus on the diverse dynamics across countries in the region. The study uses a Pooled Mean Group Autoregressive Distributed Lags model (PMG-ARDL) to estimate long- and short-run relationships in panel data and employs Fully Modified Ordinary Least Squares (FMOLS) as a ro-bustness check for the long-term findings. The results reveal that FDI contributes to increased pollution in the long term, particularly for fine particle and nitrogen dioxide emissions, supporting the pollution haven hypothesis. Economic growth demonstrates mixed effects, reducing fine particle and nitrogen dioxide emissions while increasing carbon emissions in some cases. Short-run analyses reveal consid-erable variability across countries, focusing on the importance of policy interventions. The study concludes by recommending policies that prioritize renewable energy expansion, enforce stricter environmental regulations on foreign investments, and promote cleaner industrial practices. These measures are critical for achieving sustainable development in Southeast Asia while addressing the environmental chal-lenges caused by rapid economic growth and industrialization.
Early identification of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) enables timely intervention that improves developmental, educational, and psychosocial outcomes. In Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), autism is commonly identified late, often after school entry. This narrative review synthesises evidence on barriers to early autism identification within primary health care (PHC) systems in SSA. Barriers are grouped into system, workforce, measurement, sociocultural, and socioeconomic domains. Evidence shows that limited policy recognition, low PHC worker knowledge, lack of culturally validated screening tools, weak referral pathways, stigma, and poverty interact to produce significant diagnostic delays. Practical recommendations are proposed, and a Zimbabwe-focused policy brief is provided.
Background Healthcare accreditation has evolved from a regulatory compliance mechanism to a potential strategic enabler for patient safety and organizational excellence. While numerous studies demonstrate that accreditation fosters improvements in safety outcomes, the evidence regarding its long-term effectiveness, sustainability, and integration with modern management frameworks remains fragmented and inconsistent across diverse healthcare contexts, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Objectives This systematic review aimed to: (1) synthesize evidence on accreditation's impact on patient safety outcomes including reductions in medical errors, hospital-acquired infections, and mortality; (2) explore how accreditation influences hospital policies, clinical practices, and staff adherence to safety protocols; (3) identify organizational changes, leadership engagement patterns, and culture transformation driven by accreditation; (4) examine operational, financial, and contextual barriers to effective implementation, especially in LMICs; (5) assess the sustainability of improvements beyond initial certification cycles; and (6) compare the effectiveness of different accreditation models in alignment with strategic healthcare management. Methods A systematic review following PRISMA 2020 guidelines was conducted across multiple databases (PubMed, CINAHL, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library) from 2013–2025. Inclusion criteria encompassed empirical studies (randomized controlled trials, observational cohort studies, qualitative and mixed-methods research) examining accreditation interventions in healthcare organizations. Study quality was assessed using validated tools including the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale, Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool, ROBIS, and Hawker et al.'s Framework. Thirty-seven studies were included in the final synthesis with data extraction and analysis guided by a conceptual framework integrating Resource-Based View (RBV), Stakeholder Theory, Donabedian Model, and management frameworks (Balanced Scorecard, Total Quality Management, High Reliability Organization theory, and Operational Excellence). Results Of 37 included studies, six were rated high quality, 27 moderate quality, and four lower/unclear quality. Fifty-seven percent (n=21) of studies reported positive associations between accreditation and improved patient safety outcomes, 32% (n=12) reported mixed results, and 11% (n=4) showed no clear benefit. Meta-analytic synthesis for infection rates revealed a 22% lower risk in accredited hospitals (RR 0.78, 95% CI 0.64–0.94, p<0.01). Accreditation was associated with improved policy standardization (67% of studies), increased staff adherence to safety protocols (70% of studies), enhanced leadership engagement (65% of studies), and stronger safety culture scores (62% of studies). However, significant barriers emerged, particularly in LMICs: financial constraints (reported in 78% of LMIC-focused studies), inadequate infrastructure (73%), and insufficient trained personnel (69%). Sustainability of improvements varied considerably; longitudinal data (8 studies) showed sustained benefits in 50% of cases over 2–3 years when continuous leadership support and monitoring were maintained, while 50% experienced deterioration within 12–18 months post-certification. Joint Commission International (JCI) and context-adapted models (NABH, CBAHI) demonstrated superior effectiveness compared to ISO standards alone, particularly when integrated with leadership engagement and organizational learning mechanisms. Conclusion This systematic review provides robust evidence that healthcare accreditation functions as a strategic enabler for patient safety and organizational excellence, with demonstrated improvements in safety outcomes, clinical practice adherence, leadership accountability, and quality culture. However, effectiveness is highly contextual, dependent on organizational readiness, sustained leadership commitment, and adequate resource allocation. The sustainability of benefits beyond reaccreditation cycles remains inconsistent and requires embedded systems for continuous monitoring and improvement. Significant disparities exist between high-income and low- and middle-income countries, necessitating tailored accreditation frameworks that balance standardization with contextual feasibility. Future research should prioritize longitudinal and controlled studies, standardized outcome measurement frameworks, comparative effectiveness analysis across accreditation models, and economic evaluations to optimize accreditation as a transformative mechanism for healthcare quality and safety globally. Keywords Healthcare accreditation; patient safety; quality improvement; organizational excellence; strategic enabler; hospital governance; clinical outcomes; safety culture; healthcare management; systematic review; PRISMA guidelines
Background: Superficial fungal infections remains a major public health concerns in Nigeria among-st the populace with potential long-term consequences, Therapeutic options for its treatment mainly involves the use of medical plants and few orthodox anti-fungal agents. The plant, cassia alata is used in folk-medicine for the treatment of ringworm infections .The aim of this study was to determine the anti-fungal activity of crude methanol extract of cassia alata leaves on isolated fungi from skin infections in Enugu East community. The study adopted aqausi experimental design, the fungal isolates were subjected to anti-fungal activity using both crude methanol extracts of cassia alata, fractions and some bio-active components using broth micro dilution method both for the conventional antifungal agents for control. Cassia alata leaves were obtained from lake bank of Nike lake. It was dried, grounded and extracted with methanol using soxhlet extraction. The phytochemical, proximate and mineral components were determined, while the bioactive components were determined using the standard analytical methods. The result of this experiment showed that the methanol crude extract of cassia alata at concentration of 6.25mg/ml, 12.5mg/ml, 50mg/ml,and 100mg/ml had good activity against Microsporum audounii , candida albicans and Asperillus niger . The bioactive component, rutin had good activity against trichophyton rubrum, Aspergillus niger and candida albican. The crude methanolic extract of Cassia alata leaves demonstrated significant antifungal activity against the isolated dermatophytes at varying concentrations in comparison to the conventional antifungal agents used as the control, thereby suggesting its potential as an alternative or complementary treatment option..The results highlight the potential of plant-based treatments, particularly those derived from cassia alata, in the management of superficial fungal infections, especially in areas with limited access to conventional antifungal medications Keywords: Epidemiology, Anti-fungal Activity, Cassia alata leaves, Dermatophytes, candida albicans, Aspergillus niger, and penicillium, Phytochemical, bioactive component.
This study presents an extensive comparative evaluation of the strength and durability properties of paving stones produced using conventional concrete and those manufactured with crushed burnt bricks as a full replacement for coarse aggregate. The study aims to determine the structural suitability of burnt-brick aggregates as sustainable and cost-effective alternatives capable of reducing construction expenses, minimizing environmental impact, and promoting the reuse of locally available waste materials. Two paving-stone categories—granite-based concrete paving stones and burnt-brick aggregate paving stones—were produced under controlled laboratory conditions and tested for compressive strength, flexural strength, density, and water absorption in accordance with established ASTM and BS guidelines (ASTM C140, 2016; BS EN 1338, 2003). For both categories, mix ratios of 1:2:4 and 1:3:6 (cement: fine aggregate: coarse aggregate) were selected for the study. The results showed that concrete has an average strength of about 19.35(7days) to 28.15(28days) while burnt bricks has 10.6 N/mm² (7days) to 16.15 N/mm² (28days). The flexural strength is 3.75 N/mm² (7days) and 5.3 N/mm (28days) for concrete and 2.3 N/mm² (7days) to 3.4 N/mm² (28days) for burnt bricks. The density also shows that concrete has average of 2415 kg/m³, while burnt bricks have average of 1885 kg/m³. The water absorption rate for concrete is 5.6% while burnt bricks have average of 11.1%. The results indicate that conventional concrete paving stones consistently exhibited higher compressive and flexural strength values, reflecting superior load-bearing capacity. In contrast, paving stones made with burnt-brick aggregates were lighter in density, displayed moderate water absorption, and achieved strength levels adequate for pedestrian and medium-traffic applications. Overall, the findings suggest that burnt-brick aggregates offer a viable material alternative for paving stone production, particularly in low- to medium-load environments, and support sustainable construction practices through resource conservation and waste reduction Keywords: Paving stones; Concrete; Burnt bricks; Compressive strength; Density; Water absorption; Sustainable materials.
The efficient dissemination of academic examination results remains a significant challenge for educational institutions, particularly in regions with limited or unreliable internet infrastructure. Traditional methods, such as physical notice boards, printed transcripts, and web portals, are often plagued by delays, congestion, and accessibility issues, leading to student anxiety and administrative inefficiency. This paper presents the design, implementation, and evaluation of a novel SMS-Based Results Notification System that leverages the ubiquity and reliability of Short Message Service (SMS) to deliver results directly to students' mobile devices. The proposed system features a three-tier architecture comprising a secure MySQL database, a PHP-based processing engine, and an integration with the Twilio SMS gateway API. A key innovation is the system's robust security model, which employs AES-256 encryption for sensitive data at rest and strict access controls to ensure confidentiality. The system was rigorously tested under simulated operational conditions. Results demonstrated a dramatic reduction in dissemination time from several hours to an average of 8.2 seconds per result batch. Furthermore, the system achieved a 98.3% delivery success rate across diverse network conditions. A comparative analysis with existing methods highlights the system's superiority in terms of speed, accessibility, and cost-effectiveness. The study concludes that this SMS-based paradigm offers a highly effective, secure, and scalable solution, substantially improving institutional communication efficiency and ensuring equitable, timely access to critical academic information. Future work will explore multi-channel delivery, two-way authentication, and advanced analytics. Keywords— SMS Notification, Academic Results, Mobile Communication, Information Dissemination, System Security, PHP, MySQL, Twilio API.
Flooding poses a significant threat to housing infrastructure in Yenagoa Metropolis, Bayelsa State, Nigeria, exacerbated by rapid urbanization, poor planning, and vulnerable building practices. This study assessed housing type vulnerability to flooding, with objectives to examine flood impacts on housing infrastructure and map adversely affected areas. Using a mixed-methods approach, data were collected via questionnaires and observational checklists from 400 respondents across ten flood-prone communities. Descriptive and inferential statistics, including ANOVA, were employed for analysis. Findings revealed that flood damage costs predominantly ranged between ₦100,000–₦1,000,000, with skirting, sanitary wares, and electrical appliances being most affected. Spatial analysis identified Azikoro, Okutukutu, and Swali as the most impacted communities. Statistical results confirmed significant variation in housing typologies across communities (p < 0.05), underscoring differential vulnerability. The study concludes that housing vulnerability in Yenagoa is influenced by structural deficiencies, high exposure in flood-prone zones, and socio-economic disparities. It recommends the adoption of flood-resilient building designs, enhanced land-use planning, community-based risk reduction programs, and improved geospatial data management. This research contributes to evidence-based strategies for resilient housing development in flood-prone urban environments, aligning with the Urban Resilience Theory and addressing a critical gap in localized vulnerability assessments. Keywords: Housing Type, Vulnerability, Flooding, Yenagoa Metropolis, Urban Development
Cambarellus patzcuarensis, a dwarf crayfish from Mexico's Patzcuaro basin, suits ornamental aquaculture farming and considerable economic potential. This study assessed the impact of the influence fresh biofloc on water quality performance and survival of C. patzcuarensis. A controlled laboratory experiment was conducted using three feeding treatments—commercial feed, a combination of commercial feed and microfoc, and biofloc only each with four replicates. The biofloc produced from Nile tilapia waste contained 29% protein and was dominated by Chlorophyceae (62.79%). This study demonstrates that the combined application of formulated feed and fresh biofloc resulted in the highest survival rates for both broodstock (100%) and larvae (80%), supported by improved nutritional availability and stable water quality. In contrast, formulated feed alone produced moderate survival, while biofloc as the sole feed source was insufficient to support broodstock reproduction, resulting in low survival and no larval production. These findings indicate that fresh biofloc is most effective as a supplementary component rather than a complete feed replacement, contributing to sustainable broodstock management and improved early life-stage performance.
This study explores the complex relationships between leadership, ideology, and development in post-colonial Africa, focusing on the experiences of four influential leaders: Kwame Nkrumah (Ghana), Ahmed Sékou Touré (Guinea), Modibo Keïta (Mali), and Julius Nyerere (Tanzania). By examining the intersections of power, identity, and ideology, this research sheds new light on the ongoing relevance of socialist-populist thought in Africa's pursuit of development and transformation. The study draws on the latest scholarship in African studies to provide an understanding of the complex relationships. Through a comparative analysis of these leaders' policies and practices, this study reveals the tensions and contradictions between socialist-populist ideology and the realities of post-colonial development. The study highlights the significance of ideology in shaping development policies and practices in post-colonial Africa. The ideologies plays a crucial role in defining the goals and objectives of development. The research emphasizes the crucial role of leadership in promoting development and transformation in Africa. The study reveals the challenges faced by African countries in promoting development and transformation in the post-colonial era. African countries have struggled to overcome the legacy of colonialism and promote sustainable development. The study offers valuable insights for policymakers, scholars, and development practitioners seeking to understand the ongoing relevance of socialist-populist thought in Africa's pursuit of development and transformation._x000D_ Key words: Power, Identity, and Ideology
The study, entitled “Development of a Centralized Document Filing and Archiving System for Senior High School Teachers at Magallanes National High School,” focused on designing and implementing a web-based system to manage the filing and archiving of academic records and 201 files. The system was developed using the Agile Development Methodology, which allowed iterative and flexible phases including planning, requirements gathering, design, development, testing, and deployment. Key features such as the User Management Module, Administrator Management Module, notification system, and multi-device compatibility were incorporated to ensure efficiency, accessibility, and user-centered functionality for teachers, administrators, and super administrators. The findings revealed that the system successfully operated as intended, with the User Management Module enabling smooth account management, document filing, and profile updates. Compatibility tests confirmed seamless performance across desktops, laptops, tablets, and smartphones, promoting flexibility and accessibility. The notification module efficiently communicated system updates, document approvals, and alerts between teachers and administrators. Additionally, the Administrator Management Module strengthened oversight by allowing administrators to manage personnel profiles, approve documents, generate reports, and promote users, thereby reducing time and effort for monitoring tasks. Evaluation using ISO 25010 Software Quality Standards demonstrated high performance, with the system receiving an overall rating of 4.35, interpreted as “Highly Applicable,” and all quality characteristics rated as “Far exceeds expectation.” Based on the findings, it was concluded that the system effectively managed academic records and 201 files while maintaining user-friendly interfaces, multi-device accessibility, and reliable communication channels. The Administrator Management Module enhanced operational efficiency and compliance reporting, while the system as a whole performed exceptionally according to ISO 25010 quality standards. Users confirmed its effectiveness, reliability, and ease of use, making it a practical solution for record-keeping challenges in the school environment. It is recommended that the school continue using and maintaining the system, regularly test and update device compatibility, utilize the notification module for timely communication, provide training for administrators to maximize system features, and conduct periodic ISO 25010 evaluations to sustain high performance and user satisfaction. These steps will ensure the system remains effective, efficient, and responsive to the evolving needs of Magallanes National High School. Keywords: Archiving System, Digital Filing, Document Filling, Filing System, Senior High School System
The objective pursued in this research is to demonstrate the contribution of Bayesian networks in the design of expert systems for the powerful modeling of the uncertainty approach in a probabilistic environment, to do this we are part of the basic theories on the Bayesian network, passing through the contribution of the Bayesian network in the design of expert systems, by falling through a case study and in order to make a modeling focused on the Bayesian network.
This study examined the personal profiles, social backgrounds, and contributing factors associated with individuals charged with murder in Laoag City, Ilocos Norte. Specifically, it aimed to identify the demographic characteristics of the accused in terms of sex, marital status, and educational attainment; describe their social background in relation to occupation, income level, family role, and community involvement; and determine the factors that influenced their alleged involvement in the crime of murder. The study employed a quantitative descriptive research design. Data were gathered from seventeen individuals facing murder charges who were detained at the Ilocos Norte Provincial Jail and the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology in Laoag City. Total enumeration was utilized, and data were collected through a structured questionnaire checklist administered with strict ethical safeguards. The gathered data were analyzed using frequency counts and percentage distributions. Findings revealed that all respondents were male, predominantly married, and mostly fathers with limited educational attainment. Most were engaged in low-income and unstable occupations and earned ₱15,000 or below monthly, indicating significant socioeconomic disadvantage. Despite community and religious involvement, respondents remained vulnerable to violent incidents. The most commonly reported factors influencing their involvement in murder were self-defense or perceived threat and claims of false accusation, while peer influence and emotional triggers were less frequently cited. The study concludes that involvement in murder cases is shaped by a complex interaction of personal, economic, and situational factors. The findings underscore the importance of socioeconomic support, legal awareness, and rehabilitation-oriented interventions. An informative video on the elements of murder and its legal penalties was developed to enhance public awareness and promote crime prevention Keywords: Individuals charged with murder, Personal profile, Social background, Contributing factors, Criminology, Ilocos Norte, Murder cases, Legal awareness
This study investigates the principal barriers to innovation among small and medium-sized manufacturing enterprises (SMEs) in Sri Lanka using a sequential mixed-methods design. A structured survey (n=187, response rate=93.5%) identified financial constraints as the dominant impediment, with the highest severity scores for high innovation cost (M=4.52), lack of internal funds (M=4.48), and limited bank credit access (M=4.33). Follow-up interviews with 18 firm leaders contextualized these findings, revealing how financial limitations interact with regulatory complexity and skill shortages to create a self-reinforcing cycle: firms cannot innovate without capital, yet cannot secure capital without demonstrating growth through innovation. The combined evidence indicates that single-track interventions are ineffective. Instead, coordinated policy measures blending tailored financing, administrative streamlining, and capacity-building are required. We propose piloting a credit-guarantee scheme (e.g., covering 50% of collateral for loans up to LKR 5 million) coupled with technical-assistance vouchers and a unified digital portal for permits and incentives. Findings emphasize the need for policies calibrated to firm size, as small firms report significantly higher constraints than medium firms. The study contributes a contextually grounded, theory-informed analysis of innovation barriers in a post-crisis economy.
The design, management, prediction of flooding, erosion and evaluation of farm irrigation depend on the rate of runoff that is directly affected by the rate of infiltration, and necessary to determine availability of water for crop growth. Hence, there is need for an optimum model to estimate the infiltration rates. The study aimed at analyzing the selected infiltration models (Revised Modified Kostiakov, Soil Conservation Service and Philip) for use in furrow irrigation practice. The volume balance and inflow-outflow methods were used to measure the cumulative infiltrations from the experimental field at Geriyo Irrigation Project Yola, during the 2024 irrigation season. The irrigation events were monitored in plots A, B and C with nine furrows, three from each plot to form a total of twenty-seven irrigation treatments. Infiltration parameters were generated from the data collected in plots A, B and C and fitted into the models for prediction of cumulative infiltrations. Thereafter, the predictions from the models were compared with the measured field cumulative infiltrations obtained from the inflow-outflow data to validate the models. Three comparison criteria including coefficient of determination (R2), root mean square error (RMSE) and t-test were used to determine the best performing model. The results of the analysis showed that the Revised Modified Kostiakov model was ranked best with R2 value of 0.9985, RMSE of 0.05220, and t, -0.0253 at 5% level of significance. The soil conservation service model following closely with R2 value of 0.9969, RMSE of 0.12849, and t, -0.0332 at 5% level of significance. Finally, Phillip model was the least in terms of performance with R2 value of 0.9965, RMSE of 0.14943, and t, -0.0527 at 5% level of significance. However, considering the overall performance and suitability of these models, the Revised Modified Kostiakov model was considered the most suitable model because it presented the highest value of R2 and t-test and the least value of RMSE at 5% level of significance. The study recommends that the Revised Modified Kostiakov model should be used in predicting cumulative infiltrations in the study area.
This study examines how cognitive variety can improve the efficacy of cross-functional teams' decision-making, with a particular emphasis on groups of university students. Differences in team members' viewpoints, methods for solving problems, and mental processes are referred to as cognitive diversity. 150 university students working on cross-functional projects in a variety of fields provided the primary data used in the study. The results imply that cognitive diversity improves creativity and innovation by offering a variety of viewpoints that impact the quality of decision-making. Cognitive diversity does, however, bring with it drawbacks, like heightened conflict and delayed decision-making. In order to maximise the advantages of cognitive diversity while minimising its disadvantages, these difficulties highlight the necessity of employing strong dispute resolution and leadership techniques.
This study, entitled Facial Recognition Monitoring System with Short Message Service (SMS) Notification for Gubat National High School, aimed to design, develop, and implement a facial recognition-based monitoring system integrated with SMS notifications to improve the accuracy, efficiency, and transparency of student attendance tracking. The system was designed to capture student entry and exit, automatically record attendance, track habitual absenteeism, late arrivals, and early departures, and generate reports through an administrator portal. The study employed the Rational Unified Process (RUP) methodology to guide iterative development, flexibility, and collaboration. Evaluation was conducted with fifteen end-users—including teaching personnel, non-teaching personnel, and students—and ten IT experts, using the ISO/IEC 25010 software quality model to assess functional suitability, performance efficiency, compatibility, usability, reliability, security, maintainability, and portability. Findings revealed that the developed system effectively streamlined attendance monitoring, making it user-friendly and functional for administrative purposes. Real-time SMS notifications allowed parents and guardians to receive immediate updates about student entry and exit, fostering positive school-community relationships. The administrator portal supported efficient management of records, reports, and system settings, while the facial recognition module accurately captured attendance and monitored patterns of absenteeism, tardiness, and early departures. The ISO 25010 evaluation confirmed that the system performed far beyond expectations, with an overall rating of 4.51, indicating superior quality, reliability, and usability. Based on these findings, the study concluded that the developed system significantly improved the monitoring of student attendance, enhanced communication with parents, ensured transparency, and provided timely, actionable data to support interventions for students. The system’s high evaluation rating validated its compliance with industry standards, demonstrating its capability to meet user needs in terms of functionality, performance, usability, security, maintainability, and portability. It also confirmed that the system could be used for long-term administrative purposes through the enrollment of new users and updating of existing records. Recommendations for future development include integrating mobile app or web portal access to increase accessibility, enhancing SMS notifications with customizable alerts, expanding reporting tools for analytical insights, and implementing multi-factor biometric verification such as fingerprint or iris recognition for added security. Regular maintenance, system updates, cloud-based storage, and collaboration with other educational institutions are also suggested to ensure continued high performance, scalability, and alignment with evolving school management needs. These improvements aim to further strengthen student attendance monitoring, school-family communication, and overall educational administration. Keywords: Attendance Automation, Contactless Attendance, Facial Recognition, Monitoring System, Real-Time Alerts, SMS Notification, School Management System, Student Tracking.
La présente recherche analyse l’apport de l’activité de taxi-moto dans le développement socio-économique de la population de la ville de Kikwit sur la période 2018–2024. Dans un contexte marqué par l’insuffisance des emplois formels et la faiblesse des infrastructures de transport public, le taxi-moto s’est imposé comme une activité génératrice de revenus pour une large frange de la population urbaine. A partir d’une enquête menée auprès de 181 acteurs du secteur, les résultats montrent que le taxi-moto constitue la principale source de revenu pour la majorité des enquêtés et que les revenus générés sont principalement utilisés pour satisfaire les besoins essentiels des ménages tels que l’alimentation, la santé, l’éducation, l’habitat et l’épargne. Malgré son caractère informel et les risques qui y sont associés, l’activité de taxi-moto contribue significativement à l’amélioration des conditions de vie et au dynamisme socio-économique local.