Abstract

Abstract. An abstract of about 250-300 words should be presented immediately preceding the text. The abstract should concisely inform the reader of the manuscript’s topic, its methods, and its findings.

Spatial and temporal variations of soil microbial respiration under native and exotic tree species

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Lameck Davie Nyirenda1, James Majamanda, Anas Khalif, Mana Kanjanamaneesathian
Corresponding email: [email protected]

A B S T R A C T

Different tree species can directly or indirectly affect soil conditions. They influence soil microbial diversity and abundance and hence soil respiration. Trees and soil respiration have a complex relationship that is poorly understood, as does the seasonal and spatial variation that naturally occurs in them. This study was therefore conducted to evaluate soil respiration processes under two native tree species, Msuku (Uapaca kirkiana) and Mtondo (Julbernardia paniculata), and one introduced tree species, Malaina (Gmelina arborea). In 2019 (March and October), soil samples were taken at 0.5m, 1.5m, 2.5 m, and 3.5m intervals from the trunks of the chosen tree species at depths of 0–10 cm and 10–20 cm. Using the alkali absorption method, soil respiration was assessed. The findings demonstrated that respiration decreased with the increase in horizontal distance from the trunk of both indigenous species. On the contrary, soil respiration increased with the increase in horizontal distances from the trunks of introduced tree species. The findings also demonstrated that respiration was higher at 0–10 cm than at 10–20 cm soil depths in both March and October under all three tree species. The higher microbial soil respiration in the surface layer could be attributed to better soil aeration, as opposed to the sub-surface soil. Furthermore, soil respiration was higher for soils collected in March than soils collected in October, probably because March is associated with the rainy season in which soil moisture content is higher than October. It can be concluded that different tree species strongly influence spatial and vertical soil respiration differently. This calls for proper selection of tree species to be utilised in agroforestry. Therefore, knowledge of nutrient uptake of various tree species and the influence of tree species on soil processes, but also microbial population effects on nutrient cycling linked to various tree species is essential.

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Comparative analysis of pigment contents, phytochemical constituents, and antioxidant properties of selected plants in the Philippines

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Kim Mariel S. Casuga, Lexter R. Natividad
Corresponding email: [email protected]

A B S T R A C T

During the pandemic, people turned to cultivating ornamental plants in their gardens. One of the trending plants is Mayana (Coleus blumei) for its leaves are pleasing to the eyes. Katuray (Sesbania grandiflora) and Sweet Potato Tops (Ipomoeas batatas), on the other hand, can be found everywhere in the different localities in the Philippines. This study aimed to trace the presence of different phytochemical constituents of Mayana, Katuray, and sweet potato tops. The presence of phytochemical constituents in Ipomoea batatas gave its property of anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, and many more. In addition, results showed the presence of pigments in three plants such as carotenoid and chlorophyll content in the three plant samples. Further, the antioxidant properties were also identified. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) results showed that there is a significant difference among the three plants at a 5% level of significance in terms of total carotenoid content. Furthermore, statistical analysis showed that there is a significant difference in the chlorophyll a and b in Ipomoea batatas, however, the post hoc test revealed that Coleus blumei and Sesbania grandiflora have no significant difference in their chlorophyll content. Meanwhile, thinlayer chromatographic analysis revealed that Ipomoea batatas has the greatest number of spots of all plant samples. Analysis of the total phenolics and antioxidant activity exhibited that Ipomoea batatas has the least quantitative result which means that it is the most potent among the three plant samples. This study therefore concluded that Ipomoea batatas can be formulated as a drug or supplement due to its antioxidant properties. The remarkable presence of different phytochemical constituents can give rise to new pharmaceutical products in the market.

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Importance of English language on the role of foreign household attendants in attaining an electronically safe environment

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Rodalin N. Asenas, Mary Jean P. Dureza
Corresponding email: [email protected]

A B S T R A C T

This research directed to examine the worth of English language on the role of foreign household attendants in attaining an electronically safe environment. Therefore, the household attendants’ skillfulness in English language played a vital part in this research. Survey inquiry form was utilized in conducting this descriptive research design. The number of respondents was one hundred forty-five workers from eight (8) purposely selected countries, namely Philippines, India, Nepal, Indonesia, Korea, Pakistan, Thailand, and Malaysia. Illustrative data applying rate dispersal, proportionality, average, normal variation, mean and informative evaluations centered on 5-point range were employed, while T-test and Pearson Correlation were used for inferential statistics. Based on the findings, everyone’s achievement is reflected on individual practices and personal related factors which reveal patterns of actions and attributes that establish the connection on its role in attaining an electronically safe environment. Therefore, profiling is very important in the hiring process because household owners can expect that their workers aim at attaining an electronically safe environment while engaging with their tasks. Moreover, the overall results signified that the correlation is significant (2-tailed) at 0.01 level; stating that there is significant relationship involving the personal related factors of the foreign household attendants on the extent of the experienced safety in an electronic environment due to proficiency in English language. The findings further reveal that all items that are positively correlated; meaning its level of influence (increase/decrease) on the extent of experienced of safety is in the same direction. Thus, these variables are congruent in estimating the value of influence on the attainment of electronically safe environment by the foreign household attendants.

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Asphalt modification using thermoplastic polymer components

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Roy O. Anabo
[email protected]

A B S T R A C T

Asphalt modification using thermoplastic polymer components a plastic waste turned into an innovative product, environmentally friendly, and cost-effective. Plastics, specifically thermoplastics have many uses but with the increasing population, consumption of plastic is rampant. To come up with innovative solutions that can be used to minimize plastic and create usage in construction highways, buildings, and houses is the main concern in this study. Therefore, the study aimed to find innovative solutions using plastic waste that can use thermoplastics as an asphalt modification. An experimental research method was used to determine the acceptability and predict what may occur. Based on the findings of the actual observations made from two set-ups (Modified Asphalt and Unmodified Asphalt) it was found the results of acceptability data in the utilization of thermoplastic polymer components under set-up a got a final mean score of 3.9. However, set-up b provided the best result with the highest acceptability mean score of 4.8. Therefore, using thermoplastic polymer components in terms of texture, strength/durability, and soundness is highly acceptable. The cost of modified asphalt amounted to Php 10.00; it shows positively that the use of thermoplastics for modifying asphalt pavement is not costly but rather cheap. Utilization of recycled thermoplastic polymers as an asphalt modification will contribute strength of the pavements, help to attain sustainability in reducing plastic waste, and friendly environment innovation techniques. A highly recommended follow-up marshall-stability testing was conducted to have more reliable results regarding the strength/durability, modulus of elasticity, and rupture of the asphalt.

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Students’ acceptance of learning management system: Analysis of responses based on generational differences

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Mohamad Syafri, Jayanti Puspita Dewi
Corresponding email: [email protected]

A B S T R A C T

The dynamic improvement of technology has led the world to move at lightning speed, affecting aspects of human life, including education. The Learning Management System (LMS) is one of the crucial technologies nowadays, especially during and post-COVID-19. Prior studies have explored this subject, including seeing the user’s responses. However, little of the study could have a vast range with various background users as most education institutions are unlikely to have students from too heterogeneous backgrounds, especially age. Thus, this study aims to see how people from different generations, namely Generation X, Millennials, and Generation Z, respond to the LMS application. The study took place at Universitas Terbuka, one of the universities that implemented distance learning in their learning process. The 23-question adapted from the Technology Acceptance Model of Davis was designed and sent to students of Universitas Terbuka using Google Forms. Two main aspects of technology acceptance, behavior, and technology usefulness were the focus. Kendall’s Tau formula was utilized to analyze the obtained survey data. The findings show that all generations respond well to technology: Generation X (2,04/2,15), Millenials (1,90/1,94), and Generation Z (2,07/2,17). The further analysis explained that there was no correlation between age and technology acceptance for behavior towards technology (0,964) and usefulness (0,886). The research result is believed to help educators and stakeholders maximize the use of technology in education. It also brings a broader point of view regarding the issues by serving as the basis and reference for E-learning studies. This research is considered to be beneficial for those focusing on integrating technology into distance learning.

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Enhancing operational efficiency and financial reporting through Oracle NetSuite ERP implementation: A case study in a logistics company

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Stepani Sisca Wulandari, Kevin Maulana
Corresponding email: [email protected]

A B S T R A C T

The objective of this study is to investigate the outcomes of implementing Oracle NetSuite, an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software, in a logistics company located in Indonesia. This research presents a case study that examines the implementation of Oracle NetSuite to reengineer business processes within the company. Employing a descriptive research approach, this study explores the specific context of the business process redesign in one of the logistics companies in Indonesia as a case study for utilizing Oracle NetSuite ERP, which can provide valuable insights for future research. The data for this study was collected through semistructured interviews, observation, and documentation analysis. The findings reveal that “Logistics Company” utilizes various modules such as Procure to Pay, Inventory, Fixed Asset, and General Ledger within the ERP Oracle NetSuite system to generate financial reports for the company. In addition, the study focusing on the complications faced during transaction recording. The structure of the IT department in “Logistics Company” and the application of Oracle NetSuite software for financial reporting are both detailed. The study highlights the benefits and challenges associated with implementing ERP systems, emphasizing the importance of aligning the chosen ERP system with the organizational functionalities, culture, strategy, and structure. Also, the modules within Oracle NetSuite, including Procure To Pay, Inventory, Fixed Asset, and General Ledger, are explained, along with their respective functionalities. The research concludes by emphasizing the importance of Oracle NetSuite in effectively handling financial transactions and producing reports for the “Logistics Company”. The complexities of ERP projects and the need for thorough readiness processes are also explored, suggesting solutions for effective ERP implementation. The adoption of Oracle NetSuite ERP significantly benefits “Logistics Company” in its day-to-day operations and facilitates the preparation of financial reports.

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Students’ perception of community as classroom for learning Geography in middle secondary school

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Karma Sonam Rigdel , Mani Raj Thapa
Corresponding email: [email protected]

A B S T R A C T

It is crucial to collaborate with the local community for learning to assist students in understanding reality given the changing needs of the world. By considering this perspective, a community-centred approach is embedded within local to global contexts to enhance students’ learning and civic development. However, the Department of Curriculum and Professional Development (2019) revealed that Community-Based Learning is rarely integrated into Geography lessons. Given these contexts, the present study seeks to explore the use of Community as Classroom (CAC) as a teaching strategy in learning Geography in middle secondary schools. As guided by pragmatism, a mixed-method design is applied to assess the students’ perceptions of the use of CAC as a learning strategy. The study also explored the relationship between the use of CAC strategy and students’ learning outcomes, opportunities, challenges and relevancy of CAC in the Bhutanese Geography curriculum. The survey questionnaires were administered to 264 students and four focus group interviews consisting of 6 members in a group were conducted and employed a purposive sampling strategy. Responses were analyzed using statistical and thematic analysis followed by triangulation of the quantitative and qualitative findings. The study revealed that the CAC strategy was relevant in enhancing social and academic standards. The findings indicated that the communities have abundant resources and the use of CAC strategy has imperative opportunities. However, this potential is hindered by several challenges. Moreover, the findings are consistent with the Bhutan Baccalaureate which considered community inclusion towards the creation of a knowledgeable and sustainable society.

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Environmental friendly decorative electroless copper plating on Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene plastics

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Aung Than Htwe, Thet Mar Wint, Zayar Lin Myint
Corresponding email: [email protected]

A B S T R A C T

In the present research work, a new environment friendly electroless copper plating process, copper coating has been successfully achieved on acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) plastics by using a typical alkaline bath solution. A durable bright copper deposition on the ABS plastic was studied by the non-electrolytic process using alkaline copper(II) nitrate bath and gold chloride activator. The electroless copper plating was carried out by studying the impact of different factors such as variation of bath concentration, variation of plating time and variation of temperature. The optimum conditions of smooth surface coverage of quality grade coating were found to be plating time of 15 min, concentration of copper(II) nitrate as 2% (w/v) and the temperature of 60° ± 2 °C. This study suggests that electroless copper plating on acrylonitrile butadiene styrene polymers be used for coating applications in engineering, aircraft, oil and gas, construction, electronics, and a number of other fields based on the results achieved. 

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Improving the functionality, 5S rating, and inventory management system of the supply department of a regimental academy in the Philippines through industrial engineering applications

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Geraldine G. Nerona, Jorina R. Bohol, Kyla Nicole R. Decena, Jonathan N. Jose, Anjelika N. De Guzman, John Carlo R. Rodriguez, Kate Shyra M. Abiado, Mark Christian O. Aquino, Sandra Nicole L. Antolin, Nicole Ivy G. Kalaw, Anne Claire N. Paulino
Corresponding email: [email protected]

A B S T R A C T

The Philippine Military Academy’s (PMA) Cadet Mess Supply Room is the institution’s essential area for storing and dispatching tableware on a daily basis, as well as during conferences, functions, and events on the premises. Initial inspection and assessments done by the research team and Cadet Mess Supply Room staff revealed a lack of proper storing and inventory management, resulting in over and under-purchasing of supplies due to outdated inventory. The supply room was also cluttered and disorganized, which led to safety concerns and low functionality. Case study methodology and descriptive-comparative analysis were used to analyze collected data before and after the implementation of solutions. Systematic Layout Planning (SLP) was employed to design and implement a new facility layout that improved the workflow and workspaces of the supply room. The 5S methodology was implemented to sort, clean, and organize supplies and furniture in the supply room. Information systems tools were used to develop an Excel-based inventory management system to improve inventory accuracy, timeliness, and traceability. The interventions and solutions implemented resulted in significant improvements in the supply room’s functionality, 5S practice, and inventory management system from “moderately satisfactory” in the pretest, to “excellent” and “very satisfactory” ratings in the post-test. The new facility layout also increased productivity and efficiency among the supply clerks, since it minimized the time needed to stack, locate and release supplies. The practice of 5S encouraged cleanliness and orderliness within the supply room. The computer-based inventory management system facilitated accurate and up-to-date inventory data management and timely replenishment of supplies.

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Effects of flipped classroom teaching strategy on pupils’ motivation and achievement in numeracy in nursery schools in Abuja, Nigeria

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Muraina Kamilu Olanrewaju, Ojonugwa D. Solomon, Oladele Omolara, Olayemi Zainab Oduola
Corresponding email: [email protected]

A B S T R A C T

The need for alternate teaching strategies in nursery schools in Nigerian federal capital territory triggered this study, the study investigated the effects of flipped classroom teaching strategy on Pupils’ motivation in numeracy and achievement in nursery schools in Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC) Abuja, Nigeria. Two research questions and two hypotheses guided the study. The quasi-experimental research design was used for the study. The population of the study consisted of nursery two (2) pupils of 2022/2023 academic session of AMAC numbering 6,498. The sample size for the study consisted of 127 (51 Males and 76 Females) drawn from six intact classes in the six area councils. Simple random sampling was used to draw six intact classes from the six area councils in the F.C.T. Situation Motivation Scale (SMS) and Mathematics Achievement Test (MAT) were the instruments used for data collection. Cronbach Alpha formula was used to measure the internal consistency of (SMS), which yielded a reliability estimate of 0 .72. Kuder-Richardson formula 20 (K-R 20) determined the reliability of (MAT), which yielded a reliability estimate of 0.73. Mean, standard deviations and Analysis of Covariance (ANCOVA) were used to analyze the pre-test and post-test data and the research questions and hypotheses raised for the study. The analysis revealed that flipped classroom teaching strategy increased pupils’ motivation and enhanced their achievement in numeracy more than the conventional method in FCT nursery schools in Nigeria. The study recommends that flipped classroom teaching strategy should be used in schools especially in nursery schools to enhance their motivation and achievement in numeracy.

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