Sustainable Briquette Production from Hazelnut Shell Waste: The Significance of Particle Size in Quality Enhancement

/in /by

Interest in biomass briquettes as a fossil fuel substitute has increased due to the growing need for sustainable energy sources. The impact of hazelnut shell charcoal particle size on briquette quality is examined in this study, with particular attention paid to important variables such bulk density, compressive strength, moisture content, ash content, volatile matter, and fixed carbon content. Three different particle size treatments (20 mesh, 40 mesh, and 60 mesh) were analyzed using a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with five replications. The results indicated that finer particle sizes (60 mesh) significantly improved briquette quality, exhibiting higher bulk density (0.975 g/cm³), compressive strength (58.38 N/cm²), and fixed carbon content (68.25%), while reducing moisture content (7.13%), ash content (2.85%), and volatile matter (21.65%). These findings highlight the importance of optimizing particle size to enhance the physical and combustion properties of biomass briquettes. Briquette manufacture from hazelnut shell waste offers a viable sustainable bioenergy strategy that supports waste reduction and the growth of renewable energy sources.

The Correlation of Thumbprint Patterns with Blood Group and Gender Among Students at Saint James School of Medicine

/in /by

This study explores the relationship between thumbprint patterns, blood groups, and gender among students at Saint James School of Medicine. The primary aim is to examine whether specific thumbprint characteristics are associated with blood group types and whether these patterns differ between male and female students. A total of 60 participants (31 males and 29 females) were involved in this study. Thumbprint patterns were classified into loops, double loops, whorls, tentarchs, and arches using a standardized classification system. Blood groups were identified through serological testing. Statistical analyses, including chi-square tests, were used to examine potential associations between thumbprint patterns, blood groups, and gender. Preliminary results suggest notable variations in thumbprint patterns across different blood groups, with some patterns being more common in specific groups. Additionally, gender differences were identified, indicating that male and female students display distinct thumbprint characteristics. These findings contribute to the understanding of biometric traits and their potential connections to genetic factors, such as blood group and gender. Further research is recommended to investigate the genetic and environmental factors influencing thumbprint patterns.

The Rise of AI Chatbots: Balancing Customer Satisfaction and Operational Efficiency

/in /by

AI chatbots have transformed the customer service landscape by providing instant responses, 24/7 availability, and cost-efficient solutions for businesses. Industries such as retail, banking, and healthcare are increasingly adopting AIdriven conversational agents to manage customer inquiries. While these tools enhance operational efficiency, they also spark concerns about their ability to deliver customer satisfaction comparable to human representatives. A critical question arises: How can businesses effectively balance automation with the need for personalized customer interactions?

This paper examines the advantages and limitations of AI chatbots, assessing their impact on operational efficiency and customer satisfaction, and explores strategies for optimizing their use in customer service.

The Effect of Organizational Support and Work Stress on Employee Performance with Satisfaction as a Mediating Variable

/in /by

The hospitality industry in Bali has great potential in line with the growth of new tourist destinations and changes in global tourism trends. This study aims to examine the theoretical and practical implications related to organizational support and employee performance in 3-star hotels in Badung, Bali. Data collection was conducted by distributing questionnaires to 110 employees of 3-star hotels in Badung Regency, Bali. Data analysis used inferential analysis using SEM PLS. Based on the results of the study, it was found that organizational support had a positive and significant effect on employee job satisfaction and performance. Job stress had a significant negative effect on employee job satisfaction and performance. In addition, job satisfaction was able to partially mediate the relationship between organizational support and job stress on the resulting performance. The theoretical implications of this study contribute to equity theory and social exchange theory, which show that a reciprocal relationship between organizations and employees based on fair support will increase employee motivation and performance. Conversely, high job stress can decrease satisfaction and performance, due to an imbalance in the relationship.

Investigation of Nanoparticles Assisted Surfactant Flooding for Enhanced Oil Recovery Using Different Salinity Range

/in /by

Enhanced oil recovery (EOR) techniques are important for increasing oil production as to meet global energy demands. Surfactant flooding is a commonly used EOR method, but it has issues with surfactant molecules adhering on the surface of the reservoir rock more especially at higher salinity range. The study compares the effect of Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate (SDS) surfactant and Aluminum oxide (Al2O3) nanoparticle hybrid at different salinity concentration ratios, stand-alone Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate surfactant and Aluminum oxide nanoparticle on viscosity, salinity ranges of 30,000ppm and 60,000ppm, permeability change and oil recovery. The efficiency of the formulated fluids was tested through flooding experiment using different twelve core samples of Niger – Delta sand formation. The results showed that the surfactant-nanoparticle hybrid solution enhanced the viscosity of fluids, gave better permeability change and higher oil recovery for both 30,000ppm and 60,000ppm salinity change examined. Concentration ratio of 0.1 wt%Al2O3 and 0.3wt% SDS gave the highest cumulative oil recovery of 82.61% using 30,000 ppm and 78.26% for 60,000ppm brine concentration at the same fluid concentration ratio brine followed by 0.2 wt%Al2O3/0.3wt%SDS concentration ratio. The hybrid with 0.1 wt%Al2O3 and 0.3wt% SDS concentration ratio gave lower permeability change of 52.30md than every other concentration investigated. The combination of Aluminum oxide nanoparticle and Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate surfactant enhances surfactant properties as to improve displacement efficiency, reduce surfactant adsorption and permeability damage.

An Impact of Meditation and Health Awareness on Students’ Educational Performance Using Data Mining

/in /by

The influence of meditation and health awareness on students’ educational performance has been an area of growing interest. This study investigates how integrating mindfulness practices and health education enhances cognitive abilities, reduces stress, and improves academic outcomes. Utilizing data mining techniques, we analyze trends and correlations in student performance based on their involvement in meditation and health-conscious activities. The findings provide empirical evidence supporting holistic educational strategies for improved learning experiences.

Clinical Insights into Narrow Therapeutic Index Drugs

/in /by

Medications with a narrow therapeutic index (NTI), such as phenytoin, warfarin, and vancomycin, require precise dosing to avoid adverse effects and ensure they remain effective. This is particularly important for at-risk groups like elderly individuals or those with multiple health conditions. The therapeutic index (TI) is a key measurement that indicates the range between a drug’s therapeutic and toxic levels. NTI drugs need careful management because even small changes in their concentration can lead to significant risks and impact their therapeutic benefits. Factors unique to each patient, such as age, existing health conditions, and genetic differences, can affect how NTI drugs are metabolized and their overall effectiveness. As a result, therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) is crucial for tailoring dosing strategies and minimizing the risk of harm. Interactions between NTI drugs and other medications, especially those that involve cytochrome P450 enzymes, can influence drug concentrations, making treatment more complex. The growing field of personalized medicine, which includes pharmacogenomics, aims to improve outcomes by customizing drug therapies based on individual genetic characteristics. Proper management of NTI drugs requires teamwork among healthcare professionals, including doctors, pharmacists, and nurses. Continued research, along with advancements in drug delivery systems and artificial intelligence, holds potential to enhance the safety and effectiveness of NTI medications.

Research Trends in Islamic-Based Mathematics Education: Global Studies and Academic Collaboration Networks

/in /by

This study analyzes global trends and collaboration in mathematics education research during the 2014–2024 period using a bibliometric approach. The findings indicate a significant increase in the number of publications, peaking in 2020 before stabilizing in recent years. Indonesia and Malaysia have been the primary contributors, with increasing involvement from other countries such as Turkey, Iran, and Saudi Arabia. International collaboration has expanded, marked by a growing academic network and contributions from major institutions such as Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia (UPI) and Universitas Syiah Kuala. The study also identifies a thematic shift from traditional pedagogical approaches toward integration with STEM, technology, and international assessments such as PISA and TIMSS. Furthermore, the collaborative network among researchers reveals that certain academics, such as S. Huda and M. Broer, have had a significant influence on the research community. These findings underscore the importance of cross-national and interdisciplinary collaboration in driving innovation and enhancing the effectiveness of mathematics education globally. Thus, this research provides valuable insights for academics, policymakers, and education practitioners in developing more inclusive and sustainable strategies for mathematics education research and teaching.

Pupils’ Reading Proficiency Level using Scholastic Literacy Pro

/in /by

This study assessed the reading proficiency levels of Grade 1 students at St. Paul University Surigao using Scholastic Literacy Pro. The study employed a one-group pretest-posttest design to assess the impact of using Scholastic Literacy Pro, a program designed to support independent reading and provide teachers with data to personalize instruction. The researchers conducted pre-and post-tests to measure the student’s progress in reading proficiency, categorizing their scores into advanced, proficient, basic, and below basic levels. Results showed that proficiency levels were predominantly below basic, with only a small percentage reaching basic, proficient, or advanced levels. No significant differences were found when grouping by section, sex, previous school attended, or school type. However, a significant difference was found between pre-and post-test scores, indicating the instructional reading intervention had a positive impact. To further improve reading proficiency, the study recommends targeted instructional strategies addressing specific learning needs, ongoing teacher professional development on effective methodologies and progress monitoring, and enhancing teachers’ knowledge and skills to cater to diverse learner needs. By implementing these recommendations, the school can continue to raise reading proficiency levels among Grade 1 students.

Reading Proficiency Skills of Grade 10 Students

/in /by

Reading is essential in education, equipping students with the skills to become proficient readers and holistic communicators. It involves decoding transcriptive symbols and sounds to activate meaning and prior knowledge, as well as recognizing structures to make information comprehensible. Despite the Philippines’ below-average reading score of 347 points in the 2023 Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA), there has been a 6.9% increase since 2018. National education policies and collective efforts are mirrored in these results, as emphasized by the Department of Education.

St. Paul University Surigao’s Basic Education Department has long promoted reading, partnering with Scholastic Literacy Pro to provide diverse reading materials and personalized instruction. This study assesses the reading proficiency of Grade 10 learners using this program, aiming to inform future instructional practices.

Using a quasi-experimental pretest-posttest design, 216 Grade 10 students participated, with proficiency levels classified from Below Basic to Advanced. Results indicated minor improvements, with a slight decrease in students classified as Below Basic and an increase in those at the Advanced level. The study underscores the importance of continuous reading programs and strategic interventions in improving literacy.

Recommendations include enhancing reading programs, professional development for teachers, active parental involvement, regular progress monitoring, and further research into effective literacy strategies. These steps aim to address reading proficiency gaps and support students’ academic success and holistic development.