Head Teachers’ Project Assessment and Learner Mathematics Achievement in Public Primary Schools in Kisumu County, Kenya

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The study investigated the influence of head teachers’ project assessment on learner achievement in Mathematics in public primary schools in Kisumu County, Kenya. The study was guided by the following hypothesis H01: There is no significant relationship between head teacher project assessment and learner Mathematics achievement in public primary schools in Kisumu County, Kenya. The literature review focused on the appropriate objectives, theoretical framework, and conceptual framework. The theoretical framework was based on Constructivist Learning Theory developed by Jean Piaget in 1936 and further expanded by Lev Vygotsky in 1978, which posits that learners actively construct their knowledge through interaction with their environment and engagement in meaningful tasks. A cross-sectional survey design was used. The target population for the study was 127 public primary Schools in Kisumu County, 675 head teachers, and 760 teachers of grades three and four in public primary schools in Kisumu County, 1 Sub County QASO, and 7 CSOs. Proportionate sampling was applied to 103 schools, stratified sampling to 103 principals, census sampling to 1QASO and 7 CSOs, and simple random sampling to 78 teachers. Interview schedules for Principals, QASO, and CSO, as well as questionnaires for teachers, were used as instruments for data collection. After data cleaning, the data were coded and entered into the computer for analysis using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 22. The quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, including frequencies, percentages, means, and standard deviations. Inferential statistics were analyzed using the Chi-square test for all objectives. Qualitative data were processed by transcribing and categorizing from interviews and open-ended questions, using content analysis and reported as narratives, verbatim, or converted to frequency tables.  The findings showed that the hypothesis was rejected. On the head teacher project assessment and learner Mathematics Achievement Chi square (df=6, Pearson Chi square(χ2) =62.747 and p=0.000 at 0.05 level of significance. This showed that there was a significant relationship between the head teacher’s project assessment and learner Mathematics Achievement. The study concluded that the head teacher’s project assessment influenced learner Mathematics Achievement. It is then recommended that: Head teachers should engage and involve parents and community members in supporting mathematics projects, such as providing real-world contexts or resources for learners’ projects.

Pesticides Residues In, Vegetables and Fruits: A Review

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To feed the growing global population, it is essential to increase agricultural production. Due to health consciousness and prosperity, the consumption of fruits and vegetables, particularly in developing countries, has increased manifold in the last 50 years. To achieve these, the use of pesticides is one of the tools. Pesticides are also used for public health protection (to protect from vector-borne diseases). About 1000 compounds (organic and inorganic) are used as active ingredients of pesticides. Organochlorine and organophosphate pesticides are not only highly toxic but persist for decades. Those organochlorine pesticides which were banned 40 years ago are still found in vegetables and fruits. The pesticides from soil and water are accumulated in fruits and vegetables, and some of the vegetables are often consumed raw. Consumption of pesticide-contaminated fruits and vegetables by humans causes adverse health effects to humans. The short-term adverse effects on humans are asthma, sore throat, eye and skin irritation, and diarrhea, while long-term effects are cancer, neurological disorders, reproductive problems, diabetes, etc. This review aims to report the concentration of the commonly used pesticides in fruits and vegetables and their impact on humans. The present study will provide data for policymakers to formulate guidelines for the reduction of health risks to humans caused by the consumption of pesticide-contaminated fruits and vegetables.

Determinants of Tax Revenues and Their Impact for The Public Welfare in Five Asean Countries

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This study was conducted to determining factors of  tax revenues and the impact on people’s well-being in five ASEAN countries, namely Indonesia, the Philippines, Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam. In this study, the variables interest rates, number of companies, inflation and gross domestic product, tax revenues, and public welfare were used. This research uses secondary data and is analyzed using the Eviews app. The results of this study show that there is a significant negative impact of interest and inflation on tax revenues. At the same time, the number of companies and gross domestic brutto have a positive and significant impact on tax revenues. And tax revenues have a positive and significant impact on the well-being of the community.

Exploring Educational Needs for Developing a Mior Dadin Oriented IPAS Learning Model in Primary Schools of Sikka District

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This study aims to describe the need for developing an IPAS Learning Model Based on Mior Dadin Local Wisdom to Improve the Character of Elementary School Students. This type of research is Descriptive Qualitative Research with a Needs Assessment Approach, with data collection techniques through interviews, questionnaires, and observations which are then analyzed using qualitative and quantitative statistics. The results of the study indicate that there is an urgent need to develop an IPAS learning model that is integrated with Mior Dadin local wisdom. Teachers and students feel that the current material is less relevant to the local cultural context. Mior Dadin values such as mutual cooperation, responsibility, and love for the environment are considered capable of strengthening students’ character. In addition, the absence of local-based learning guidelines is a major challenge in the teaching and learning process. These findings are an important basis for designing a contextual and meaningful IPAS learning model for students in Sikka Regency.

Role of Cholesterol in Formation of Amyloid Plaques in Alzheimer’s Disease

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Amyloid plaques are one of the key reasons in progression of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) being one of the leading causes of dementia. Recent studies have shown evidence to the levels of cholesterol playing an important role in the formation of amyloid plaque. This work aims to analyse the effect of cholesterol levels in increasing amyloid plaques accumulation in the brain, how it can influence breakdown of amyloid precursor protein (APP) and how specific foods and diet can affect it formation of amyloid plaques. The research findings indicate that high levels cholesterol directly influences enzyme activity and clearance mechanisms in the brain. Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL), commonly known as ‘bad’ cholesterol, transports cholesterol to various tissues and has been found to influence the risk of Alzheimer’s disease across different age groups. Managing cholesterol levels before the age of sixty-five may help reduce the likelihood of developing Alzheimer’s.

Fetal Cystic Hygroma in Pregnancy

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Cystic hygroma is a congenital disorder characterized by benign cysts that form due to malformation of the lymphatic system, accounting for about 6% of all benign lesions of infancy or early childhood. This case report presents a 24-year-old G3A1E1 woman with a history of induced abortion and ectopic pregnancy, who was diagnosed with fetal cystic hygroma at 12 weeks and 4 days of gestation. Obstetric ultrasound revealed a single, live, intrauterine fetus with a well-defined thin-walled cystic lesion with multiple internal septations at the level of the occipital region extending up to the thorax, and a nuchal translucency measurement of 9mm. The patient was counseled for medical termination of pregnancy and underwent induced abortion. Cystic hygroma, especially when detected in the first trimester, is often associated with chromosomal abnormalities and poor outcomes. Studies have shown that the overall survival rate for fetal cystic hygroma is 10%, and the prognosis is unclear until the fetus attains 26 weeks of gestation. Early detection of cystic hygroma through prenatal ultrasound allows for timely intervention and informed decision-making. This case highlights the importance of early prenatal screening and diagnosis of fetal anomalies, and the need for a multidisciplinary approach in managing complex obstetric cases. Further genetic counseling and testing may be beneficial for the patient in planning future pregnancies.

Crispr Chronicles: Pioneering Gene Editing in Cardiovascular Therapy

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CRISPR-Cas systems have revolutionized gene editing, offering precise and efficient genome modifications with vast applications in biomedical research and therapeutic interventions. This technology has surpassed traditional methods such as zinc-finger nucleases (ZFNs) and transcription activator-like effector nucleases (TALENs) due to its simplicity, cost-effectiveness, and high accuracy. In cardiovascular disease (CVD) research, CRISPR has been instrumental in generating precise disease models, identifying genetic risk factors, and developing potential therapeutic strategies. Genome editing has enabled the correction of monogenic mutations linked to inherited cardiomyopathies and arrhythmias while also targeting metabolic risk factors such as PCSK9 to reduce atherosclerosis.

Advancements such as base editing, prime editing, and RNA editing have further enhanced CRISPR’s precision, minimizing off-target effects and improving therapeutic applicability. Delivery methods, including adeno-associated viral (AAV) vectors and nanoparticle-based strategies, have been optimized to enhance efficiency and safety. Despite these breakthroughs, challenges such as unintended genetic modifications, immune responses, and ethical concerns regarding germline editing persist. The successful clinical translation of CRISPR therapies will require further refinement, rigorous validation, and regulatory oversight to ensure safety and efficacy.

As research continues to advance, CRISPR-based genome editing holds immense promise for transforming cardiovascular medicine. Future developments in delivery technologies, improved gene-editing accuracy, and ethical considerations will play a crucial role in integrating CRISPR into clinical practice. With continued innovation, CRISPR has the potential to become a groundbreaking therapeutic tool, offering precise and long-lasting solutions for cardiovascular diseases and other genetic disorders.

Teachers’ Digital Literacy Skills and Implementation of Competency Based Curriculum in Junior Schools in Westlands Sub County, Kenya

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The study explored the impact of teachers’ digital literacy skills on the implementation of the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) in Junior Schools in Westlands Sub-County, Nairobi, Kenya. The hypothesis tested was H01: There is no significant relationship between teachers’ digital literacy skills and CBC implementation. The study was based on the Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge (TPACK) framework, which integrates technology with teaching. A descriptive survey research design was used to describe the characteristics of teachers and schools. The target population included 127 public Junior Schools, 304 teachers, and 4 educational officers. Stratified sampling was applied to select 25 schools and 25 principals, while census sampling was used for the officers. Simple random sampling selected 61 teachers. Data was collected using interviews and questionnaires. Interview schedule were applied on Head teachers and CSOs and questionnaires for teachers were used as instruments for data collection. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, while qualitative data were processed through content analysis. The findings revealed a significant relationship between teachers’ digital literacy skills and CBC implementation, with a Chi-square result of χ2 = 32.050 and p = 0.000 at the 0.05 significance level. The study concluded that teachers’ digital literacy skills positively influence CBC implementation in public schools. The study recommended Teachers Service Commission to prioritize professional development programs to enhance digital literacy skills on using digital resources and platforms that align with the objectives of the CBC. Moreover, school heads be trained to foster environments that support the use of digital tools in CBC.

Effect of Chemotherapy on Protein Level of Under Treatment Cancer Sufferers

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Introduction: Cancer staging is an important aspect of cancer management and directly affects the treatment plan of the patient.  There are several protein tumour markers that helps in the diagnosis as well as prognosis of cancer patients.

Aim:  The current study aims to evaluate the total protein value from the serum samples of selected cancer patients and see any pattern with different stages of patients.

Materials & Method:  Total proteins were measured by IR-VS spectroscopy method and compared in different patients.

Result:  The spectrophotometric analysis of the collected serum samples showed that chemotherapy induced total protein loss is associated with dysregulation in serum proteins and electrolytes. Total protein is a significant marker that can help determine the tumour staging in cancer patients and thus can act as a prognostic marker also.  It is a simple, non-invasive and cost effective method of analysis.

Leading for a Greener Future: How Green Vertical Leadership Shapes Innovation and Project Success

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Sustainability is a strategic priority for businesses. This study examines how green vertical leadership influences green project performance, with green proactive and reactive innovation as mediators. Green vertical leadership, marked by centralized decision-making and strategic oversight, enhances compliance-driven sustainability and structured innovation. Results show that green vertical leadership fosters both proactive and reactive innovation, improving environmental efficiency and project outcomes. Green proactive innovation drives long-term sustainability, while green reactive innovation ensures regulatory adherence. Both innovation types link leadership to green project success. This study extends stewardship and organizational learning theories, highlighting leadership’s role in sustainability-driven innovation. It offers insights for business leaders and policymakers, emphasizing the need to balance strategic control with innovation for effective sustainability management.