Abstract - IRJSTEM

Growth, survival, and physical qualities of Mangrove Crab (Scylla olivacea) in a net cage with different size and embedding depth

admin_irjstem Abstract Cage size, Embedding depth, Growth and survival rates, Mangrove crabs, Physical qualities

A B S T R A C T

This experiment was done to see the results of rearing Scylla olivacea crabs in cages of different size and embedding depth. The variables under considerations in the assessment were growth and survival rates and physical qualities of the experimental crabs. Additionally, this research aims to find out if the tested methods of confinement could produce better than the conventional culture practices. Three sizes of experimental cages such (45cm-l X45cm-w X60cm-h), (61.0cm-l X61.0 cm-w X75cm-h), and (76cm-l X76cm-w X90cm-h) and three embedding depths such as (30 cm), (45 cm), and (60 cm) labelled as treatment 1, treatment 2 and treatment 3 were tested. On the basis of cage size, highest mean on growth and survival rates of 279 grams and 88.90 % were obtained in treatment 3 followed by treatment 2 with 274.20 grams and 86.40 % and lowest mean of 269.31 grams and 82.25% was obtained from treatment 1. When assessed based on embedding depth highest growth and survival rates of 276.31 and 88.99% were obtained from treatment 3 followed by treatment 2 with 273.81 grams and 87.40% and treatment 1 with 272.71 grams and 81.25% being the lowest. Findings revealed that growth and survival rates obtained from three different cage sizes and three different embedding depths tested were relatively higher than that of what had been recorded and published. It was further noted that survival rates obtained were within the range (80-100%) considered as ideal. Growth and survival rates attained by different treatments were not significantly different. There were also no interaction effects attributed by size and embedding depth of experimental cages. Physical attributes of harvested mangrove crabs that were assessed based on the completeness of appendages, meat content, meat color, odor and taste were all at the mean value described as excellent. It is concluded that the methods of rearing tested improves growth, survival rates and mud crab physical qualities.

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The relevance of science and technology research in community development: A case study of C. K. Tedam University of Technology and Applied Sciences

admin_irjstem Abstract Community development, Science and technology, Science café

Belinda Seyram Berdie, Nasir Koranteng Asiedu, Elliot Akuna, Bernard Kissi Abrokwah, Vincent Anum Ankamah-Lomotey
Corresponding email: [email protected]

A B S T R A C T

This study explored the lived experiences of second-career teachers in relation to their new professional roles and responsibilities in the public secondary schools. Using a qualitative methodology, specifically the phenomenological approach, the data were gathered from 10 participants through an in-depth interview. The participants were purposively selected with the inclusion criteria that the participants must be regularpermanent teachers, have taught in the division for at least two years, previously undertaken a degree in a field outside of education, and employed in a profession unrelated to education. The data were recorded, transcribed, validated, and analyzed using Creswell’s method of analyzing lived experiences. This data revealed four themes, namely: (1.) impetus for career shift, (2.) the hurdles of teaching, (3.) overcoming public school realities, and (4.) the gift of public school teaching. The impetus for career shift includes two subthemes namely: (a.) influence of significant others and (b.) the lure of better pay and privileges. The theme hurdles of teaching include four subthemes namely: (a.) struggling with the basics, (b.) dealing with changing behavior in changing times, (c.) the dearth of learning support in the public school and (d.) overwhelming clerical work. Overcoming public school realities include three subthemes: (a.) gaining wisdom from the older one, (b.) shelling-out of personal resources, and (c.) tapping first career experience. Lastly, the gift of public school teaching is a theme that describes the satisfaction and fulfillment of second-career teachers in public school teaching. Recommendations point to the need of implementing policies and practices and providing support for second career teachers’ professional development.

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Regenesis and revelation of the novel profession: Lived experiences of second-career teachers

admin_irjstem Abstract Lived-experiences, Public school teaching, Secondcareer teachers

Jewel A. Oliveros, Ramon Clemente Martin F. Lachica
Corresponding email: [email protected]

A B S T R A C T

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Enhancing peanut plant growth with bio-enzymes derived from kitchen wastes

admin_irjstem Abstract Bio-enzyme, Germination, Hydrolytic activity, Peanut, Seedling

Moe Moe Tun, Lai Lai Aung, Saw Sandar Maw
Corresponding email: [email protected]

A B S T R A C T

Solid wastes such as municipal wastes and agricultural wastes can pollute our environment if they are not disposed properly. In contrast, under manipulation, they can be changed into valuable products such as bio-enzymes and bio fuel. Bio-enzymes derived from kitchen wastes and agricultural wastes are cost effective and can be utilized in industry and agriculture with cutting in cost. This research is carried out to provide information about the cost-effective bio-enzymes with emphasis on their effect on germination and growth of seedlings of peanut (Arachis hypogea L. subsp. fastigiata). For bio-enzyme production, kitchen wastes such as onion-peels, cruciferous and citric fruits were used as solid substrate. Fermentation method was solid state fermentation with and without isolated microbes. The fermented formulation was that the mixture of three substrates at a weight/weight/weight ratio of 1:1:1 was placed into four airtight plastic containers containing the mixture of molasses and water at a volume/volume ratio of 1:10. Isolated bacteria, P1, P2 and P105 were introduced into three formulated mixtures, BE2, BE3, and BE4, respectively. All of them were fermented at 25℃ – 30℃ for three months. From this research, different hydrolytic activities of these four formulated bio-enzymes were investigated and their concentration being likely to impact on the germination and growth of peanut were examined in comparison to Hydro treatment used as negative control. Among BE1, BE2, BE3, BE4 and Hydro treatments, BE3 treatment at 1:200 dilution significantly showed the most effective activity on germination index, vigor index, branches per plant and pods per plant with 6.31 ± 0.29, 44.9 ± 23.63, 6.85 ± 0.15 branches per plant and 28.98 ± 0.07 pods per plant, respectively. This research shed light on the effect of bio-enzymes on peanut plant cultivation, particularly BE3, and it may become a potential for smallholder farmers.

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Impact of dehydration on the performance of cricket athletes in Sri Lanka: A systematic review

admin_irjstem Abstract Biochemical analysis, Hydration, Hypohydration, Skill performance, Throwing speed

AKDK Chathurangi
[email protected]

A B S T R A C T

Cricket is a sport highly sensitive to natural weather conditions such as temperature, rainfall, and sunlight. In regions with hot and humid climates, like Sri Lanka, cricket players often encounter significant physiological challenges, resulting in substantial fluid loss and dehydration. This dehydration can have direct or indirect consequences on their precision and tactical performance during matches. This study primarily aimed to explore the broader implications of various environmental factors on the dehydration levels of cricket players and how this condition influences their motor and skill performance. The research findings revealed a noteworthy negative impact of excessive hydration on the physiological, motor, and skill performance of cricket athletes, particularly in the context of hot and humid conditions, as frequently experienced in Sri Lanka. Understanding these effects is crucial for cricket players and their support teams to develop tailored strategies that optimize hydration, mitigate performance decline, and enhance overall gameplay in challenging environmental conditions.

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Family engagement: Partnering with families towards agricultural promotion and environmental protection

admin_irjstem Abstract Agricultural community, Agricultural education, Environmental education, Sectoral partnership, Stakeholders engagement, Sustainable development goals

Arman S. Martorillas, Samson M. Lausa, Aireen Jane L. Martorillas
Corresponding email: [email protected]

A B S T R A C T

Agriculture plays a significant role in food security and economic development while environmental education puts an emphasis on ensuring a healthier place to live with. This study seeks to determine the family’s engagement in agricultural promotion and environmental protection in one Sitio of Sagay City, Negros Occidental. A quantitativedescriptive method utilizing survey questionnaire was administered to 51 families during the last semester of 2021-2022. The families are moderately promoting agriculture while well-engaged in environmental protection. No significant difference exists in promoting agriculture as to profile except for the educational attainment of the mother and the father. The participants’ profile does not influence the family’s engagement in environmental protection. Results disclosed that families vary in their engagement in promoting agriculture and environmental protection. A comprehensive sectoral partnership plan and program may be implemented for sustainable engagement improving societal outcomes and achieving sustainable development goal/s.

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Determination of the optimal location for maximizing wind energy generation in Northern Nigeria

admin_irjstem Abstract Electricity, Energy generation, Turbine, Wind energy, Wind power density

Samuel Oluyemi Owoeye, Duada Mokolade Raheem, Abiodun Abideen Yussouff, Quadri Ademola Mumuni
Corresponding email: [email protected]

A B S T R A C T

The global energy consumption has surged from the minimal requirements of primitive societies to today’s extensive needs, which are being met primarily by fossil fuels. However, the environmental impact of these fuels, emitting greenhouse gases and contributing to global warming, prompts a reevaluation. Renewable energy is becoming an essential alternative energy source, and wind energy is one of the viable options. This study investigates the viability of wind energy in Northern Nigeria as a safer alternative to fossil fuel-based energy generation. Comprehensive wind data of two decades was obtained for six stations across three geographical zones in Northern Nigeria, detailing hourly readings at 10-meter and 80-meter heights. The study determined monthly and yearly wind speeds, as well as wind power density (WPD) at 10 meters per station. Results unveiled the regional distribution of mean wind speed, ranging from the highest in Jos (9.9 m/s) to the lowest in Yola (1.86 m/s). Employing diverse wind turbine models, including Acciona 70/1500 class I, GE 1.6-100, and Samsung 2.5/90, the study evaluated the Annual Energy Output and Net Capacity Factor. Notably, Jos exhibited the highest WPD (1402 W/m²), contrasting with Yola’s lowest (15.9 W/m²) at 80 meters. The findings indicate that Sokoto, Kano and Jos possess enough potential capable of generating electricity for integration into the national grid, while the remaining stations hold sufficient wind energy potential suitable for powering irrigation devices and other agricultural activities. It is recommended that the areas with high potential for wind energy should be harnessed into the national grid by the Government by providing funds to actualise this project on a large scale for the nation.

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Phytochemical analysis and microbial inhibition activity of Serpentina (Rauvolfia serpentina) leaves syrup on Escherichia coli causing Diarrhea

admin_irjstem Abstract Alkaloids, Escherichia coli, Flavonols, Serpentina leaves, Tannins

Vladimir D. Credo Jr.
[email protected]

A B S T R A C T

Diarrhea is among the leading global causes of child morbidity and death worldwide (WHO, 2018), and this disease also kills 1.8 million people yearly. Contaminated food and water resources are the most common causes of diarrhea. 1 out of 10 people still doesn’t have improved water sources, leading to people being infected by diarrhea, WHO, 2019. Moreover, this study is aligned with SDG number 3, or good health and well-being, as this study was done to determine the content and the microbial inhibition of Serpentina leaves syrup against Escherichia coli causing diarrhea. Tests were: I. Phytochemical analysis (Alkaloids, Flavonoids, and Tannins) II. Disk Diffusion method on 4 different concentrations. III. Shelf life determination. IV. One-way ANOVA. For phytochemical analyses, serpentina leaves showed chemicals that can inhibit E. coli causing diarrhea, with implications such as pharmacological and microbial inhibition effects. Specifically, it showed the presence of alkaloids, flavonols, a subclass of flavonoids, and tannins. The disk diffusion method showed that serpentina leaves syrup has intermediate to susceptible efficiency against E. coli causing diarrhea (50% to 70% interprets that it’s intermediate effective while 75% and above interprets that it’s susceptible effective) as results showed that it is 65% effective with 25% and 50% concentrations, 70% effective with 75%concentration, and 80% effective with 100% concentration, which clearly states that the syrup can be used as a potent remedy against diarrhea due to its effective inhibition. After the shelflife determination, it was observed that serpentina syrup could last for up to 2 weeks, as the syrup changes in color on the 13th day and both in color and appearance on the 14th day. Following the one-way ANOVA, the results indicated a significant difference between the 4 concentrations and the positive control group, with F (73.344) > 3.48.

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Numerical analysis of internal flow phenomena in a backward curved centrifugal fan

admin_irjstem Abstract Backward curved centrifugal fan, CFD-CFX, Internal flow phenomena, Mass flow rate

Khema Theint, War War Min Swe, Aung Kyaw Soe, Aung Ko Latt
Corresponding Email: [email protected]

A B S T R A C T

Centrifugal fans are widely used in applications for the ventilation of air to induce pressure and drive the flow medium. The centrifugal fans are applied not only to produce fresh air but also to absorb toxic gases from the environment. Complex flow patterns are present in the centrifugal fan’s impeller and volute casing. The flow patterns of a backward curved centrifugal fan are the main topic of this study. The flow in the impeller blade channels needs to be better understood to optimize the design and performance of any turbomachine. This work uses numerical analysis to examine the flow patterns inside a backward curved centrifugal fan employed in the ventilation system. Computational fluid dynamic code serves as the foundation for numerical analysis, ANSYS-CFX 21.2. The fan under investigation in this study has an operational speed of 1500 rpm, a pressure head of 4 m, and a volume flow rate of 3 m3min-1. A change in mass flow rates has a direct impact on the pressure and velocity distributions in the centrifugal fan’s impeller passageways. By varying the mass flow rates, the numerical results have demonstrated the three-dimensional properties of the flow, particularly in the impeller blade passageways and the casing. The fan casing contains the high-pressure region, while the impeller intake is the low-pressure area. The area within the volute tongue in which flow recirculation occurs. The backward curved centrifugal fan has a static efficiency of 93% and a total efficiency of 96% at the specified volume flow rate. This suggested methodology can be used to identify fluid flow constraints in the volute casing, comprehend internal flow patterns in the backward curved centrifugal fan, and enhance centrifugal fan performance.

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Exploring practitioners’ knowledge of circular economy in the Ghanaian construction industry

admin_irjstem Abstract Circular economy, Circularity, Construction practitioners, Themes

Emmanuel Asiedu, Andrew Victor K. Blay Jnr, Senyo Kwame Denutsui
Corresponding email: [email protected]

A B S T R A C T

The circular economy model is gaining traction in a multitude of sectors, including construction. Incorporating this model into construction operations is anticipated to promote environmental sustainability while improving the industry’s notorious reputation. This study investigates the knowledge level and comprehension of circular economy among 13 experienced professionals in the construction industry in Ghana. The research employed a qualitative methodology and used a semi-structured interview schedule to gather data. Participants’ responses were analyzed using a thematic approach. Seven themes were established after participants shared their opinions. The themes included reuse and recycling, waste minimization, resource management, environmental approach, passive design concepts, sustainable/eco-friendly material selection, and collaborating/partnering, with reuse and recycling being the dominant theme. The study’s findings indicate that construction practitioners were primarily concerned with reuse and recycling, with little awareness of circular economy applications. The limited knowledge and huge comprehension gap surrounding the theory and practice of circular economy must be addressed if construction professionals want a sustainable environment.

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