Peer-reviewed international research papers published open-access with EOI assignment and global indexing across engineering, computer science, environmental science, social sciences, and more.
Two heavy metals that are frequently found in the environment and have negative effects on the central nervous system are lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd). It is unknown if they work together, despite the fact that both have been shown to have neurotoxic qualities. In this study, twenty (20) Wistar rats were exposed to different concentrations of Pb (40mg/kg), Cd (50mg/kg) and their combinations (50mg/kg Pb + 50mg/kg Cd), for 4 weeks. After the rats were put to sleep, the hippocampal tissue was removed for histological analysis. According to the observations, when compared to the control, combined exposure to Pb and Cd may result in abnormalities in neurobehavior, memory, and spatial learning, which may ultimately worsen neurotoxicity in the test groups. Additionally, the rats' locomotive activity was inhibited by either Pb or Cd staining, which was boosted by their high concentrations in a mixture. Molecular, pyramidal, and multiform cell layers burst and shrank, indicating severe brain damage, according to the histopathological analyses. All exposed groups exhibit disorganised, vacuolated, and apoptotic cells. This study offers a crucial theoretical foundation for the toxicity of mixed heavy metal exposure to the study animals.
Keywords: Heavy metals; co-exposure; neurotoxicity; Lead; Cadmium
This study aimed to examine the extent to which school policies in District III, Cotabato City are Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, and Expression (SOGIE)-focused and how these contribute to gender-based policy reforms in promoting a peaceable classroom for LGBTQ+ students. Specifically, it analyzed the level of implementation of policies in terms of purpose, content, and procedures, as well as their influence on students’ sense of safety, inclusion, and acceptance. The study employed a convergent parallel mixed-methods design, utilizing a checklist for quantitative data and in-depth interviews for qualitative data. The respondents of the study were members of the Child Protection Policy Committee, while the participants were LGBTQ+ students. Findings revealed that SOGIE-focused policies were implemented to a very great extent across the three schools. However, qualitative results showed that LGBTQ+ students continue to experience emotional distress, lack of belongingness, reduced self-confidence, and safety concerns. Several challenges were identified, including non-inclusive policies, weak implementation, lack of awareness, and absence of explicit LGBTQ+-focused provisions. The study concludes that while policies exist, their effectiveness depends on proper implementation, awareness, and inclusivity.
Keywords: Gender-Based Policy Reforms, Rights of LGBTQI, Peaceable Classroom, Cotabato City
The aim of this project is to develop an environmentally friendly and economical bio-composite sound insulation
panel from artichoke leaves, which are an agricultural waste product. In the study, artichoke leaves were subjected to
two different processes: boiling in water and chemical fiber extraction using NaOH. The resulting fibers were formed
into panels using a starch binder and subjected to acoustic performance tests after the drying stage. Sound
transmission loss measurements were conducted using a closed test chamber and the Decibel Meter mobile app; the
sound intensity behind the panel was compared to the reference sound emitted by a speaker. Experimental
measurements revealed that both panel types exhibited significant sound absorption properties. While the water -
boiled panel was effective at certain frequencies, the panel treated with NaOH was observed to absorb sound energy
at a higher rate. The findings indicate that natural fibers derived from artichoke leaves constitute a viable alternative
material for sound insulation. The project demonstrated, through both applied and experimental data, that a
sustainable waste product can be transformed into a functional product
Les marchés boursiers sont devenus de nos jours la poutre centrale des économies modernes en ce sens qu’ils assurent une dotation pharaonique de liquidité à l’économie et permet de rentabiliser l’épargne, autrefois placée sous peine des taux d’internes modiques. Ils assurent la liquidité des titres, facilitent l'allocation efficace du capital et servent d'indicateur de santé économique mondiale. En somme, la Bourse agit comme un moteur indispensable pour la croissance économique et la gestion de patrimoine à l'ère moderne.
L'importance des mouvements des flux de capitaux vers les pays d'Afrique, ces 25 dernières années est impressionnante et expliquée essentiellement par la stratégie d'intégration dans l'économie mondiale. En effet, afin d'intégrer la sphère mondiale et incorporer les nouvelles valeurs de libéralisation dans leurs propres économies, un certain nombre de PED ont opté pour un flux libre du capital à travers leurs frontières. Ils ont favorisé la participation des investisseurs nationaux dans leurs marchés boursiers domestiques grâce au mécanisme de libéralisation du capital aux nationaux afin de réduire le rapatriement des capitaux et assurer la distribution du revenu de la richesse nationale au pays. Cette attitude a eu pour effet l'augmentation des flux de capitaux d'une manière considérable et spécialement des flux de capitaux privés.
Considérant donc ce que représente le secteur minier de la RDC, il devrait se prépare à une nouvelle vague d'investissements et à une transition vers des activités à plus forte intensité de capitalisation financière, vers une composition de l'actionnariat du secteur évoluée, diversifié et étranger-congolais, vers une perspective d’ouverture d’un marché boursier minier et vers des mesures visant à libéraliser les capitaux investis dans le secteur minier dans un marché avec nécessité de souscription aux actions libérés pour les nationaux afin de réduire le rapatriement des capitaux et permettre à ce derniers le partage de la richesse de son sous-sol et de la valeur ajoutée qui en sort. Cette réflexion est délicate au moment où le secteur s’étend vers une nouvelle vague de nouveaux investissements ayant une intensité économique plus élevée.
Although rainwater harvesting is a common practice in developing countries, the radiological quality of the collected water may be impacted by roofing materials. In Otukpo, Benue State, Nigeria, this study assessed the radiological properties and related health risks of rainwater collected from four common roofing materials: aluminium, clay tile, asbestos cement, and galvanised metal. The activity concentrations of 226Ra, 232Th, and 40K were determined by collecting and analysing 20 rainwater samples (five for each roofing material) using high-purity germanium (HPGe) gamma spectrometry. Asbestos roofs had the highest activity concentrations, which ranged from 0.18–0.42 Bq L⁻¹ for 226Ra, 0.09–0.31 Bq L⁻¹ for 232Th, and 1.45–6.82 Bq L⁻¹ for 40K. While falling short of the WHO reference level of 0.1 mSv y⁻¹ for drinking water, the annual effective dose resulting from ingestion ranged from 0.012 to 0.067 mSv y⁻¹. The excess lifetime cancer risk values were between 4.6×10⁻⁵ and 2.6×10⁻⁴. Rainwater collected from asbestos roofs consistently showed higher radiological contributions, even though all radiological indices were within internationally permissible limits. Therefore, it is advised that public awareness and ongoing monitoring be implemented to guarantee the long-term radiological safety of harvested rainwater.
La formation technique repose sur l’intégration des apprentissages théoriques et pratiques. Toutefois, dans plusieurs établissements secondaires techniques de la ville de Mbujimayi, l’absence d’infrastructures d’atelier constitue un défi majeur pour l’acquisition des compétences professionnelles. Cette étude vise à évaluer l’impact de la disponibilité d’un atelier électrique sur les performances scolaires des élèves en humanités techniques. Une approche quantitative comparative a été adoptée, impliquant deux groupes d’élèves de troisième année : un groupe disposant d’un atelier et un autre sans atelier. Les données ont été collectées à l’aide de tests standardisés mesurant les compétences théoriques et pratiques. Les résultats révèlent des écarts significatifs entre les deux groupes. Les élèves ayant accès à un atelier ont obtenu une moyenne de 73,5 % en théorie contre 42,1 % pour ceux sans atelier. En pratique, les performances sont respectivement de 61,7 % contre 16,9 %. Par ailleurs, une corrélation positive forte a été observée entre les compétences pratiques et théoriques. Ces résultats confirment que la disponibilité des infrastructures d’atelier constitue un facteur déterminant de la performance des élèves. L’étude apporte des données empiriques locales utiles à la planification éducative en République Démocratique du Congo.
Mots-clés : formation technique, atelier pédagogique, performance scolaire, compétences pratiques, infrastructures éducatives
This study determined the utilization of Artificial Intelligence in instructional planning and in aspects of assessment among secondary school English teachers in the Division of Dinagat Islands to formulate an evidence-based policy guideline. Specifically, it sought to determine the demographic profile of respondents, extent of teachers utilizing AI in instructional planning and in the aspects of assessment, as well as the extent of teachers’ perceptions to which AI contributes to academic misconduct—through a validated researcher-made questionnaire. The study further explored challenges encountered by teachers in utilizing AI in instructional planning and in the aspects of assessment using the validated interview guide. A mixed method research design was employed. Data were analyzed using appropriate statistical tools. Findings revealed that respondents were mostly young female teachers in their mid-career teaching experience and moderate exposure to AI. AI was highly utilized in instructional planning and assessments particularly in generating instructional materials and differentiated activities. Teachers perceived AI as contributing to academic misconduct such as misrepresentation of student learning, plagiarism, and cheating. The extent of AI use in the aspects of assessment and how it contributes to cheating are shaped by years of teaching experience, frequency of use, and adoption practices among teachers. Utilizing AI needs improvement on its alignment with the curriculum standards and learner needs, relevant professional development, and better institutional support for teachers.
Keywords: Artificial Intelligence, Instructional Planning, Assessment, Academic Misconduct, AI-CARE Policy Guidelines
This study explores the use of gamification in improving the listening skills of Grade 4 pupils, focusing on learners obtaining information, learning vocabulary, and identifying central ideas of spoken texts or passages. Further, this study investigates the effectiveness of integrating gamified tasks and activities in the teaching and learning process in English to Grade 4 learners in Dapa Central Elementary School. The research employed a quasi-experimental design, comparing pre and post-tests results of a single group of thirty learners exposed to various gamification-based activities. Data was collected through pretests and post-tests of listening skills that include listening for gist, specific information, detailed information, and specific vocabulary. The findings indicate that employing gamification in teaching listening significantly enhances students' listening skills, specifically in listening for gist and listening for specific vocabulary.
Keywords: gamification, listening skills, gamified activities
Disaster responders play a vital role in protecting communities from escalating hazards. This study explored disaster responders’ lived experiences of courage under crisis using the Photovoice method. Six participants from Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Offices (MDRRMOs) in Agusan del Sur, purposively selected, participated in the study. Data were collected through photographs, written reflections, and in-depth interviews guided by the SHOWED framework. The data were transcribed and analyzed using Braun and Clarke’s thematic analysis. Seven major themes emerged: courage grounded in preparedness and readiness; courage rooted in service and humanitarian commitment; personal factors strengthening responders’ courage; social and organizational support fostering collective courage; environmental risks motivating responsive action; empowerment through competence and preparedness; and identity formation through service and leadership. The study concludes that courage in disaster response is not merely an individual trait, but a dynamic process shaped by the interaction of multiple factors. It is recommended that the administration improve training programs, enhance inter-agency coordination, and strengthen the professional development of disaster responders by implementing structured and evidence-based strategies.
Keywords: courage, crisis, preparedness, disaster, humanitarian commitment, resilience, empowerment, identity formation
This study evaluated the reading skills of Grade 4 learners at Sta. Cruz Elementary School in Dinagat Islands using animated videos as a scaffolding tool. It assessed four key competencies: comprehension and noting details, identifying text structure and method of development, recognizing text types and author’s purpose, and drawing conclusions. A one-group quasi-experimental design based on the ADDIE model was used, involving 26 learners who took pre- and post-tests. Statistical tools such as frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation, and paired sample t-test were applied. Results showed significant improvement in overall reading skills after the intervention, particularly in foundational areas like comprehension, identifying details, and understanding text structure. However, gains in higher-order thinking skills, such as drawing conclusions, were less pronounced. The animated videos were found to be highly acceptable in terms of content quality, design, organization, and accuracy. These materials were implemented through a structured four-week, learner-centered lesson plan incorporating interactive strategies. The study concluded that animated videos effectively enhance reading skills, especially foundational competencies, while increasing learner engagement. It recommends that educators, administrators, and parents adopt animated videos as interactive tools to support reading development and align with educational standards.
Keywords: Animated videos, scaffold reading, One-group quasi-experimental, level of reading skill
This study employed a narrative literature review to synthesize empirical evidence on emotional distress, behavioral problems, and parent-reported teasing behaviors among elementary school students. Peer-reviewed quantitative studies published between 2019 and 2025 were analyzed through thematic synthesis, focusing on emotional and behavioral risk factors as well as protec-tive influences such as school belonging, social support, and resilience. Findings indicate that emotional distress and behavioral problems are consistent predictors of teasing and bullying be-haviors among school-aged children. Children with higher psychological distress, impulsivity, and emotional dysregulation are more likely to engage in negative peer interactions. In contrast, pro-tective factors such as school connectedness, supportive relationships, emotional intelligence, and resilience reduce bullying involvement. Parent-reported observations provide early behavioral in-dicators that support multi-informant assessment in identifying at-risk learners. The study empha-sizes early identification and intervention targeting emotional and behavioral difficulties. It con-tributes to promoting safe, inclusive, and supportive learning environments aligned with Sustain-able Development Goal 4 (Quality Education).
This study investigates the regulatory role of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in managing Private Guard Companies (PGCs) in Ekiti State, Nigeria. Anchored on Regulatory Theory and Public–Private Partnership (PPP) Theory, the research examines the NSCDC’s regulatory framework, operational challenges, compliance levels of PGCs, and the impact of regulation on community safety. A mixed-methods approach was adopted, combining quantitative surveys with qualitative interviews and focus group discussions. The study targeted NSCDC officers, PGC owners and managers, service users, and members of the general public, using a multi-stage sampling technique to select 298 survey respondents and 30 key informants for in-depth interviews. Findings reveal that although the NSCDC has established guidelines for registration, licensing, training, and supervision of PGCs, enforcement remains inconsistent due to limited manpower, inadequate funding, and logistical constraints. Compliance among PGCs was moderate, with greater adherence to visible requirements such as licensing and uniforms, but weaker compliance with substantive standards including training, reporting, and welfare obligations. Regulatory oversight has contributed to improved professionalism, discipline, and public confidence in private security services, although its direct effect on crime reduction remains limited. The study concludes that the NSCDC plays a critical role in professionalizing private security but faces institutional and operational challenges.
Keywords: NSCDC, Private Guard Companies, Regulatory Compliance.
Objective: This study investigates on-campus hostel accommodation preferences among students at the University of Eldoret (UoE), Kenya, with the aim of generating empirical evidence to inform the design of a proposed Student Village with associated amenities.
Methodology: A quantitative descriptive survey was administered to 392 students drawn from all seven schools of the university. A structured 37-item questionnaire covering nine thematic areas including facility preferences, study environment, cost, accessibility, social life, sustainability, and safety was distributed electronically via Google Forms. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and percentage distributions.
Key Findings: The majority of students (87.0%) reside off-campus, with rental apartments being the most common arrangement (65.2%). Affordability (73.5%), privacy (64.8%), and security (60.5%) are the principal drivers of accommodation choice. Students overwhelmingly prefer single-occupancy rooms (74.2%), private bathrooms (77.8%), in-room kitchenettes (91.8%), and low-to-medium-rise buildings (81.9%). Internet connectivity (43.4%) and 24-hour security (42.3%) are the most desired additional facilities. Overall satisfaction with existing hostel facilities is low, with a mean score of 2.68 out of 5.0.
Conclusions: Significant gaps exist between current on-campus housing provision and student expectations at UoE. The findings recommend development of a purpose-built Student Village near Gate C, featuring single-occupancy ensuite rooms with kitchenettes, comprehensive Wi-Fi, robust security infrastructure, universal design compliance, and integrated sustainability features, structured around a tiered pricing model anchored at Ksh. 10,000 per semester.
Microalgae have become a major area of research in the fields of biotechnology and health sciences in recent years due to the bioactive compounds they contain.Among these microalgae, Haematococcus pluvialis is significant microorganisms for its astaxanthin content, which has a notably high antioxidant capacity.The aim of this study was to investigate, in vitro, the effects of an algal extract derived from Haematococcus pluvialis on cell viability and proliferation in HEK293T cells, a human embryonic kidney cell line. In the experiments, HEK293T cells were cultured under appropriate conditions and seeded into 6-well culture plates. The algal extract was prepared in DMSO and applied to the cells at various doses ranging from 3–30 µg/mL. Only DMSO was used in the control groups. Cell viability was assessed 24 and 48 hours after application using the Trypan blue exclusion method. The obtained data were validated through technical and biological replicates. The results demonstrated that the algal extract reduced cell viability and proliferation in HEK293T cells in a dose- and time-dependent manner. At low doses, cell viability remained close to that of the control groups; however, a significant decrease in cell count was observed at high doses, particularly in measurements taken at 48 hours. In the control groups, however, cell proliferation was found to continue normally. These findings suggest that the extract may have inhibitory effects on cell proliferation. This study is expected to contribute to the understanding of the cellular effects of microalgae-derived natural compounds and to provide a basis for future mechanistic studies.
Modern lifestyle, less activity and more sedentary life have contributed to anthropometric risk factors to hypertension among young adults globally. The study had sought to establish the effects of anthropometric risk factors on the on pre-hypertension among young adults (18-24 years) at a Medical Training College in, Nairobi, Kenya. The study used descriptive cross-sectional study that provided a "snapshot" of the prevalence and characteristics associated with a condition in a population at a specified time, the study targeted 5000 young adult students aged 18 -24 years at a Medical Training College in, Nairobi, Kenya. Through stratified random sampling the study selected 407 respondents with data collected through structured questionnaires. The respondents BP Measurement and Random Blood Sugar Testing were assessed using a standardized protocol and guidelines. Descriptive statistical analytics presented data results in form of mean, frequencies, percentages and standard deviation while inferential statistical analysis comprised of Pearson Correlation and Multi-Linear Regression. Results indicated that BMI, waist circumference for both male and female young adult students had an effect on whether the young adult’ students had prehypertension conditions or not, however Hip Circumference and Waist to Hip Ratio did not significantly affect prehypertension among male young adult students aged between 18-24 years. The study recommended that there is a need to screen young adults for prehypertension and hypertension, which include BMI and waist circumference measurement routinely as part of preplacement medical examination as they join institution of tertiary learning or employment so that cases can be detected early and managed
This note presents two original and creative divisibility tests for the integers 2
and 5. Both rules use the factorial of the last digit of a number, combined with
a small correction when the factorial value would disrupt the required modular
congruence. The resulting tests are mathematically equivalent to the classical last-
digit rules but reach the same conclusion through an unconventional factorial-based
approach. Each theorem includes a short proof sketch, an explanation of the mech-
anism, and four worked examples. The methods are valid precisely because 2 and 5
divide the base 10, allowing the last digit to fully determine the remainder modulo
these divisors. The work is intended as an accessible piece of recreational number
theory for educational purposes.
Based on the remark of Nikola Tesla, that the Universe can be explained by electromagnetism and that gravity is electromagnetic phenomenon, it was concluded that the electromagnetic field moves in a vortex, in a series vortex from the largest to the smallest and thus shapes the structure of the entire Univers.
This study analyzes the applicability of the Computable General Equilibrium (CGE) model to assess the effects of the energy transition in developing countries, particularly the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This transition, based on renewable energy, significantly increases the demand for critical minerals such as cobalt, lithium, and copper.
Macroeconomic data show fluctuating growth in the DRC, notably affected by the 2020 crisis. The SAM framework reveals interconnections between sectors, economic agents, and production factors. Results indicate that rising global demand stimulates the mining sector and exports, while also generating multiplier effects across other sectors through economic linkages.
However, the Congolese economy remains weakly diversified and highly dependent on mining. Therefore, the DRC should develop local value chains and diversify its economy to better benefit from the energy transition.
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