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Research Article
Willow Bark Extracts Ameliorate the Vegetative and Flowering Attributes of Tuberose CV. Single AT Calcareous Soil of High pH
Solevo Martin*,
Masood Ahmad
,
Abdul Mateen Khattak
Issue:
Volume 1, Issue 1, December 2025
Pages:
1-9
Received:
23 January 2025
Accepted:
18 June 2025
Published:
3 December 2025
Abstract: The study's goals are to assess different weeping willow bark extract concentrations, ideal application times, and how these factors combine to improve tuberose growth and flower quality. The growth and quality production of plants is negatively affected by several biotic and abiotic stresses including high potential of hydrogen (pH). Plants biostimulants are environmentally and eco-friendly which may involve in promoting sustainable production. Willow is not only a source of salicylic acid (SA) but also known as a natural and local source of bioactive, inexpensive and self-achieved plant biostimulants. An experiment on the effect of weeping willow bark extracts and their time of application on the growth and flower production of tuberose was carried out at the Ornamental Horticulture Nursery, Department of Horticulture, The University of Agriculture Peshawar, Pakistan in 2022. The Soil texture of the experimental site was silt loam with high pH (8.1). The experimental design was a Complete Block Design, arranged in a split plot. There were two factors: Factor A (main-plot) application time i.e. 20, 30, 40 days after plant emergence and Factor B (sub-plot) willow bark extracts i.e. 0, 2, 4, 6 and 8%. The experimental findings revealed that WBE and their application time significantly improved all the studied parameters in tuberose. Interaction between Willow Bark Extracts (WBE) and time of application was found significant for leaf area and floret fresh weight. Maximum number of leaves, days to last floret opening, plant height, chlorophyll content, floret spike, days of vase life and least days to spike emergence were observed with application of 8% of WBE, it was statistically similar with application of WBE at 6 and 4%. Maximum leave plant-1, chlorophyll content; extended vase life and early spike emergence were noticed in plants sprayed 40 days after emergence. Maximum days to last floret opening, florets spike-1; tallest plants and least days to first floret opening were recorded in plants of tuberose treated 40 days after emergence that were statistically similar to the findings observed when plants were sprayed 30 days after emergence. It is concluded that foliar application of WBE at 4% proved best and economical for better growth and flower production with superior quality in tuberose. While, application of WBE, 40 days after plant emergence was found most effective for most of the studied attributes in Tuberose.
Abstract: The study's goals are to assess different weeping willow bark extract concentrations, ideal application times, and how these factors combine to improve tuberose growth and flower quality. The growth and quality production of plants is negatively affected by several biotic and abiotic stresses including high potential of hydrogen (pH). Plants biosti...
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Review Article
How to Devise Effective Teaching Strategies for Engaging Level Four Undergraduate Students and Enhancing Knowledge Retention
Paul Chidoka Chikezie*
Issue:
Volume 1, Issue 1, December 2025
Pages:
10-14
Received:
1 October 2025
Accepted:
11 October 2025
Published:
3 December 2025
Abstract: The life sciences cover subject areas such as biochemistry, anatomy, physiology, biology, and genetics. In their first year of study, undergraduate students undertake a comprehensive study of these areas of specialisation, imbibing the basic concepts of life processes. In broad terms, level 4 of the study curriculum in the life sciences is a mix of theoretical and practical laboratory skill development, which is a preparatory ground for higher academic exercise in research and future career pursuits in healthcare, biotechnology, or research in the life sciences. Most of the student participants in this class setting are populated by young adult international students who are in their first year of study in the life sciences. They are sociable and exuberant, as well as enthusiastic about learning. Because the class is mostly populated by students from diverse social-cultural backgrounds, it suggests that they will exhibit a broad worldwide view and traits for the multidisciplinary nature of the life sciences. They have prior knowledge of basic science subjects, and therefore, the students are expected to integrate and apply their prior knowledge of the basic science subjects in solving problems related to more complex and specific topics in life sciences at the undergraduate level of study. By their nature, the categories of students at this level of study are sociable and enthusiastic. Therefore, the students are expected to thrive in their academic activities through group discussions and collaborative learning where they are encouraged to share their diverse perspectives on working through the module topics and problem-solving skills. By incorporating interactive teaching methods, scaffolding instruction, and retrieval practices, educators can create a supportive learning environment and enhance student engagement and knowledge retention.
Abstract: The life sciences cover subject areas such as biochemistry, anatomy, physiology, biology, and genetics. In their first year of study, undergraduate students undertake a comprehensive study of these areas of specialisation, imbibing the basic concepts of life processes. In broad terms, level 4 of the study curriculum in the life sciences is a mix of...
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Commentary
Critical Evaluation of Effectiveness of Assessment and Feedback Practice Using the 4009BIO Module as a Case Study
Paul Chidoka Chikezie*
Issue:
Volume 1, Issue 1, December 2025
Pages:
15-19
Received:
1 October 2025
Accepted:
13 October 2025
Published:
3 December 2025
Abstract: The 4009BIO is a Year-1 second/third-semester module that covers cellular structure and communication. The assessment tasks are four mandatory case study scenarios, each with background information and questions related to numerical/data analyses and brief essays. The students receive feedback in the form of formative feedback, which is usually provided through face-to-face/virtual classroom setting, as well as written summative feedback. The students are encouraged to seek additional feedback through one-on-one meetings with the teaching team or virtually using the Teams platform. The students enrolled in the module are predominantly international students who contribute diverse perspectives and experiences to the learning environment. An overview of this student cohort shows that they are sociable and enthusiastic to learn and are likely to engage in group discussions and collaborative learning. My assessment and feedback practice are designed to provide a targeted support to guide students through a step-by-step process of understanding the assessment tasks, to improve their comprehension and foster higher levels of engagement, as well as enable the students to complete the assessment tasks with confidence and effectiveness. The assessment design aligns with the module's learning outcomes, and low-stake practice opportunities are incorporated. Feedback practice involves prompt, non-judgmental feedback, and regular review of feedback templates.
Abstract: The 4009BIO is a Year-1 second/third-semester module that covers cellular structure and communication. The assessment tasks are four mandatory case study scenarios, each with background information and questions related to numerical/data analyses and brief essays. The students receive feedback in the form of formative feedback, which is usually pro...
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Research Article
An Assessment of the Factors Influencing Institutional Failure, and the Strategies for Enhancing Performance and Sustainability
Gaspard Ntabakirabose*,
RithaTumukunde,
Felicien Ndaruhutse,
David Mwehia Mburu,
Mbabazi Mbabazize
Issue:
Volume 1, Issue 1, December 2025
Pages:
20-27
Received:
28 August 2025
Accepted:
8 September 2025
Published:
9 December 2025
Abstract: In the face of increasing governance complexity, shifting economic contexts, and rising public expectations, institutional performance and sustainability have emerged as critical indicators of organizational success and societal trust. This study investigates the dual dimensions of institutional failure and sustainability by analyzing both the internal and external factors that contribute to poor performance and the strategies that foster long-term viability. Using a mixed-methods approach, data were collected from 80 employees across various institutional levels through structured questionnaires and semi-structured interviews. Quantitative analysis revealed that poor strategic planning, erosion of public trust, financial mismanagement, low staff morale, and weak governance structures are the strongest predictors of institutional failure, collectively accounting for 72% of the variance (R2 = 0.72). Conversely, qualitative and quantitative findings identified leadership practices, regular staff feedback, growth opportunities, competitive compensation, and improved work conditions as key strategies enhancing institutional sustainability, with an explanatory power of 74% (R2 = 0.74). The results emphasize the importance of an integrated, employee-centered approach that combines strategic leadership, transparent governance, and human resource development. The study concludes with practical recommendations for institutional reform, including strategic planning, merit-based recruitment, staff development, and enhanced accountability mechanisms to foster resilient and high-performing institutions.
Abstract: In the face of increasing governance complexity, shifting economic contexts, and rising public expectations, institutional performance and sustainability have emerged as critical indicators of organizational success and societal trust. This study investigates the dual dimensions of institutional failure and sustainability by analyzing both the inte...
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Research Article
A Compendium on Indian Slums: Theory and Evidence from Asansol City
Tania Ghosh*,
Sribas Goswami
Issue:
Volume 1, Issue 1, December 2025
Pages:
37-44
Received:
19 August 2025
Accepted:
1 September 2025
Published:
9 December 2025
Abstract: A slum is defined as a small, densely populated neighbourhood with poorly constructed, packed housing, an unsanitary environment, typically with poor infrastructure, and inadequate drinking water and sanitary amenities. Slum living conditions directly affect people's health. The spread of slums in urban areas and the variety of health risks they bring with them are two of the biggest problems facing urban planners worldwide. The widespread emergence of slums has become a significant issue in cities around the globe. Ultimately, the prevalence and growth of slums in India allow us to understand that they are neither unusual nor abnormal features of urban environments, but rather a reflection of the persistent urban poverty that exists within the city economies. This research seeks to reveal the fundamental challenges associated with the development of slums. This study gives a quick overview of the primary issues that Asansol city's slum inhabitants and urban poor face.
Abstract: A slum is defined as a small, densely populated neighbourhood with poorly constructed, packed housing, an unsanitary environment, typically with poor infrastructure, and inadequate drinking water and sanitary amenities. Slum living conditions directly affect people's health. The spread of slums in urban areas and the variety of health risks they br...
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Research Article
Analysis of External Debt and Economic Growth in Ethiopia Economy
Olamo Oltisha,
Abdi Alemayehu*
Issue:
Volume 1, Issue 1, December 2025
Pages:
45-55
Received:
26 October 2025
Accepted:
8 November 2025
Published:
17 December 2025
Abstract: Economic growth speculations suggest that reasonable levels of borrowing by countries are likely to enhance its economic growth. Hence, countries at early stages of development have small stocks of capital and are unlikely to have investment opportunities with rates of return higher than those in advanced economies. This paper intended to analyse external debt and economic growth nexus in Ethiopia by using annual time series data over the period of 1990-2022. To meet it objective the study employed Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL). The empirical result revealed that there is the existence of long run relationship between external debt and Economic Growth in Ethiopia and reveals that external debts stock contribute negatively to the economic growth of Ethiopia. Thus, the evidence in this study also revealed that in the long run external debt and human capital have negative and significant effect on economic growth, wile, external debt service and gross fixed capital formations has significant positive and effects on growth (real GDP) in Ethiopia. In addition, the Granger (1969) procedure of causality test result reveled that there is unidirectional causality between external debt and growth, with the causality from economic growth to external debt. In addition, in the short run effect, there is 67 percentage adjustment taking place at each year towards the long run periods. The study recommends that government of Ethiopia should create conducive environment that helps to mobilize domestic resource for developmental projects rather than to rely on borrowing of external finance only for productive and value adding projects. One of the major concern, in order to improve Ethiopia’s economic growth, is to adopt policies which will permit favorable internal productive projects includes the lowering corruption, respect rule of law, government effectiveness, legal voice and accountability, regulatory quality and political stability should be encouraged.
Abstract: Economic growth speculations suggest that reasonable levels of borrowing by countries are likely to enhance its economic growth. Hence, countries at early stages of development have small stocks of capital and are unlikely to have investment opportunities with rates of return higher than those in advanced economies. This paper intended to analyse e...
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Research Article
Presentation of a Brand Development Model:
A Meta-analysis in the Online Clothing Industry
Issue:
Volume 1, Issue 1, December 2025
Pages:
56-70
Received:
28 October 2025
Accepted:
7 November 2025
Published:
17 December 2025
Abstract: Given the importance and necessity of branding in the clothing industry, this research was conducted with the aim of developing clothing brands in online businesses. This research is applied in terms of purpose and descriptive-survey in terms of method, and it has adopted a mixed (qualitative-quantitative) approach. In the first step of qualitative research, the method used was meta-analysis, and the statistical population included studies, books, and articles from 2014 to 2024 in the field of clothing brand development in online businesses, including works published in reputable scientific and promotional journals in this period. In the second step, the quantitative research method was used using confirmatory factor analysis and the statistical population included 238 senior and middle managers of clothing manufacturing companies in Mazandaran, of which a sample of 147 was determined using the Cochran formula. In the qualitative stage, meta-analysis was used, and in the quantitative stage, PLS structural equation modeling was used. The findings identify five main dimensions: brand strategy, design and visual variables, competitive advantage, content production and feedback, and communication, each of which includes specific components. The relationships between dimensions and components were verified through path analysis, validating the proposed model. The overall fit of the model, calculated using the GOF formula, indicates a strong fit. This study provides practical insights into the strategic development of apparel brands in online markets, enhancing brand competitiveness, and customer engagement.
Abstract: Given the importance and necessity of branding in the clothing industry, this research was conducted with the aim of developing clothing brands in online businesses. This research is applied in terms of purpose and descriptive-survey in terms of method, and it has adopted a mixed (qualitative-quantitative) approach. In the first step of qualitative...
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Review Article
Fire Behavior of Timber-Encased Steel Composite Structures: A Meta-Analytic Review of Experimental Findings and Design Implications
Girmay Mengesha Aznaw*
Issue:
Volume 1, Issue 1, December 2025
Pages:
71-76
Received:
29 October 2025
Accepted:
7 November 2025
Published:
19 December 2025
DOI:
10.11648/j.ri.20250101.19
Downloads:
Views:
Abstract: Timber-encased steel composite (TESC) systems have emerged as a promising structural solution combining strength, sustainability, and enhanced fire performance. This meta-analytic review synthesizes experimental and numerical findings reported between 2020 and 2025 to assess the influence of timber encasement on the fire resistance of steel members. Data from full-scale and small-scale fire tests were statistically aggregated using random-effects models to determine pooled fire resistance and to quantify the effects of parameters such as timber thickness and moisture content. Results show that full timber encasement markedly delays steel heating and improves fire endurance. On average, each additional millimeter of timber cover contributes approximately 1.9 minutes of fire resistance (p < 0.01), with 50 mm encasement achieving roughly one hour of protection under ISO 834 conditions. Moisture within the timber further reduces the rate of temperature rise by absorbing latent heat during evaporation. The study confirms that the insulating and charring behavior of timber functions as an effective passive fire-protection layer, offering an alternative to conventional coatings or boards. Design implications are significant: empirical correlations between cover thickness and fire resistance can inform future fire-design models and code calibrations. Remaining research needs include long-term performance of composite joints and validation under realistic fire scenarios. Overall, the review provides quantitative evidence supporting timber encasement as a viable, sustainable, and code-integral approach for improving the fire safety of composite steel structures.
Abstract: Timber-encased steel composite (TESC) systems have emerged as a promising structural solution combining strength, sustainability, and enhanced fire performance. This meta-analytic review synthesizes experimental and numerical findings reported between 2020 and 2025 to assess the influence of timber encasement on the fire resistance of steel members...
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0
Development of an HPLC Analytical Method for β-Sitosterol Used as a Treatment of Burns and Skin Ulcers
Mouath Heal Abdullaha Qasem,
Mofeed Al-Nowihi*,
Yasser AL-ansi,
Mohammed Najeeb Alrobassi,
Ahmed Ahmed Kadari,
Tolbi Al-sandarous,
Assem Al-Thobhani
Issue:
Volume 1, Issue 1, December 2025
Pages:
77-82
Received:
28 September 2025
Accepted:
29 October 2025
Published:
19 December 2025
Abstract: This study focuses on developing a highly accurate and reproducible High-Performance Liquid Chromatography technique of β-sitosterol for the quantification. Widely, a compound used as a treatment of burns and skin ulcers. This developed method ensures reliable separation, identification, and quantification of β-sitosterol in pharmaceutical formulations. Accuracy was assessed through recovery studies at three levels (80%, 100%, and 120%). The acceptance criterion was a recovery rate between 98% and 102%, which was successfully met. The detection limit (LOD) is defined as the lowest concentration of an analyte that can be detected, though not necessarily quantified. Typically, a signal-to-noise (S/N) ratio of 3: 1 is considered acceptable for estimating the LOD. The quantification limit (LOQ) refers to the lowest concentration that can be quantitatively measured with acceptable precision and accuracy, usually determined at a signal-to-noise ratio of 10: 1. The LOD is calculated using the formula 3.3 × (Sy/x / b), while the LOQ is calculated as 10 × (Sy/x / b). In this method, the LOD was found to be 2 µg/mL, and the LOQ was 6 µg/mL. The LOD and LOQ were determined based on the standard deviation of the response (σ) and the slope (S) of the calibration curve. The calculated LOD was 1.52 µg/mL.
Abstract: This study focuses on developing a highly accurate and reproducible High-Performance Liquid Chromatography technique of β-sitosterol for the quantification. Widely, a compound used as a treatment of burns and skin ulcers. This developed method ensures reliable separation, identification, and quantification of β-sitosterol in pharmaceutical formulat...
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Research Article
Dam Breach Flood Prediction and Mapping: A Case Study of Gomit Small Dam, Amhara Region
Sentayehu Mekonnen Beyene*,
Hailgebriel Ayele Fikire
Issue:
Volume 1, Issue 1, December 2025
Pages:
83-99
Received:
18 October 2025
Accepted:
30 October 2025
Published:
19 December 2025
DOI:
10.11648/j.ri.20250101.21
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Views:
Abstract: The Gomit Earth Dam, constructed for irrigation, is currently in a critical state due to structural damage and exposure of the clay core, posing a significant risk of catastrophic failure. This study simulates the potential breach flood under probable maximum flood (PMF) conditions and delineates flood inundation extents to assess impacts on downstream areas and inform mitigation strategies. The research employs five key software tools: Global Mapper, ArcGIS, HEC-RAS, HEC-GeoRAS, and RAS Mapper to model dam breach hydraulics and map flood inundation. Field-surveyed topographic data with 20-m interval cross-sections were used to create accurate terrain representations. Simulations were conducted for two scenarios: sunny day failure and PMF failure, with detailed flood hazard analysis focusing on the PMF scenario. Results indicate a peak breach outflow of 1914.26 m3/s, 1.28 times greater than sunny day failure and 18.65 times the PMF inflow, with flood depths ranging from 7.06 m near the dam to 0.72–1.58 m across overbanks downstream. Flow velocities reached up to 12.32 m/s, and the flood wave arrival time varied from 0.077 to 0.386 hours after breach initiation. The inundated area totals approximately 38.92 hectares, representing 32.44% of the irrigated command area, with significant implications for agriculture, infrastructure, and community safety. Approximately 26 households, totaling over 100 people, are at high risk of life-threatening impacts, food insecurity, and property damage. This study underscores the urgent need for structural maintenance, early warning systems, and community-based flood risk management. Limitations include a lack of observed flood data for model calibration and consideration of a single flood scenario. Future research should incorporate multiple breach scenarios, long-term monitoring, and the impacts of climate variability to enhance the preparedness and resilience of irrigation infrastructure.
Abstract: The Gomit Earth Dam, constructed for irrigation, is currently in a critical state due to structural damage and exposure of the clay core, posing a significant risk of catastrophic failure. This study simulates the potential breach flood under probable maximum flood (PMF) conditions and delineates flood inundation extents to assess impacts on downst...
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Review Article
Meta-analysis of Emerging Trends in Sustainable Structural Engineering: Integrating High-performance Materials, Digital Design, and Resilient Infrastructure
Girmay Mengesha Aznaw*
Issue:
Volume 1, Issue 1, December 2025
Pages:
100-109
Received:
30 October 2025
Accepted:
10 November 2025
Published:
19 December 2025
DOI:
10.11648/j.ri.20250101.22
Downloads:
Views:
Abstract: This meta-analytic review discusses the disruptive changes in structural engineering practice to include advanced materials, digital design technology and a resilience-based life-cycle performance framework. The review synthesizes many recent studies, wherein authors are increasingly moving away from deterministic design towards performance-based, data-driven and sustainability-focused design practices. Novel engineered material systems, such as hybrid timber–steel and FRP–concrete composites, demonstrate they have improved mechanical performance with lower environmental impacts, compared to conventional reinforced concrete. Digital innovations such as Building Information Modelling (BIM), Digital Twins and Artificial Intelligence based finite element modelling, have further advanced structural performance optimization and real-time performance monitoring. The role of resilience and life-cycle assessment (LCA) frameworks for making design decisions for long-lasting, adaptable and carbon neutral structures continues to remain central to design discourse as well. Despite rapid advancements, research identified challenges exist in the form of data interoperability, condensate material behaviour on probabilistic principles and quantifying resilience measures. Addressing these research gaps calls for an interdisciplinary approach and the development of standardized frameworks and methodologies that link material innovations, computational models and sustainable design objectives. In summary, the results endorse that the future of structural engineering practice will be defined by the convergence of intelligent materials, digital technologies, and resilience-based design philosophies, establishing a foundation for adaptive and environmentally responsible infrastructure systems.
Abstract: This meta-analytic review discusses the disruptive changes in structural engineering practice to include advanced materials, digital design technology and a resilience-based life-cycle performance framework. The review synthesizes many recent studies, wherein authors are increasingly moving away from deterministic design towards performance-based, ...
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