Changes in Serum Electrolytes, Urea, And Creatinine Levels in Diabetic Patients on Insulin Treatment in Enugu Metropolis, Nigeria

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: Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder associated with disturbances in carbohydrate, protein, and electrolyte metabolism, often complicated by renal dysfunction. Insulin therapy plays a central role in glycemic control; however, its influence on serum electrolytes, urea, and creatinine levels remains clinically relevant. This study evaluated changes in serum electrolytes, urea, and creatinine levels among diabetic patients receiving insulin therapy compared with diabetic patients who are not on insulin treatment in Enugu Metropolis. A total of 60 diabetic patients aged 18 years and above were recruited for the study, comprising 40 insulin-dependent diabetic patients and 20 non-insulin-dependent diabetic patients. Serum sodium, potassium, calcium, chloride, and bicarbonate were analyzed using the ion-selective electrode (ISE) method, while serum urea was determined using the urease Berthelot method, and creatinine was estimated by the Jaffe’s kinetic method. Data were expressed as mean ± standard deviation (SD) and standard error of mean (SEM). Comparison between the two groups was performed using Student’s t-test, with p < 0.05 considered statistically significant. The insulin-dependent group showed mean serum sodium of 140.20 ± 5.10 mmol/L, potassium 4.50 ± 0.45 mmol/L, calcium 2.45 ± 0.16 mmol/L, chloride 103.50 ± 5.10 mmol/L, bicarbonate 24.00 ± 2.30 mmol/L, urea 7.00 ± 1.80 mmol/L, and creatinine 95.00 ± 15.00 µmol/L. When compared with non-insulin-dependent patients, insulin-dependent patients had significantly higher levels of sodium, potassium, calcium, and chloride (P<0.05). Serum urea and creatinine levels were significantly lower in insulin-dependent patients (P<0.05). No statistically significant difference was observed in serum bicarbonate levels between the two groups (P>0.05). These findings indicate that insulin therapy is associated with significant alterations in serum electrolytes and improved renal function indices among diabetic patients. Monitoring of electrolytes and renal parameters is therefore essential in the management of diabetic patients on insulin therapy.

Association Between Personal Hygiene Practices and Scabies-Like Symptoms Among Students Living in a Sports School Dormitory in Kupang, Indonesia: A Cross-Sectional Study

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Background: Scabies is a contagious skin disease with a high prevalence in communal living environments such as dormitories. Although personal hygiene is commonly regarded as a key preventive factor, growing evidence suggests that environmental conditions, crowding, and close physical contact may play a more substantial role in scabies transmission. Students living in sports school dormitories represent a population at increased risk due to shared facilities and intensive daily interactions.

Objective: To determine the association between personal hygiene practices and scabies-like symptoms among students residing in the dormitory of a Sports Talent School in Kupang City, Indonesia.

Methods: This analytical observational study employed a cross-sectional design. A total of 59 students aged 14–17 years were selected using simple random sampling. Personal hygiene was assessed using a structured questionnaire, while scabies-like symptoms were identified based on three clinical cardinal signs: nocturnal pruritus, history of close contact with an affected individual, and the presence of lesions at predilection sites. Microscopic confirmation was not performed. Data were analyzed using the Chi-square test with a significance level of p < 0.05.

Results: Most respondents demonstrated good personal hygiene practices (80.8%). Scabies-like symptoms were identified in 25.4% of participants. Statistical analysis showed no significant association between personal hygiene status and scabies-like symptoms (p = 0.282). Descriptively, the proportion of scabies-like symptoms was higher among students with poor personal hygiene (41.7%) compared to those with good hygiene (21.3%); however, this difference was not statistically significant.

Conclusion: No significant association was found between personal hygiene practices and scabies-like symptoms among students living in the Sports Talent School dormitory in Kupang City. These findings suggest that factors beyond individual hygiene, such as dormitory crowding, shared facilities, and close interpersonal contact, may play a more prominent role in scabies transmission in communal living settings.

“NET-ZERO Supply Chains” with Green Technology in a Multi-Stakeholder Framework: A Systematic Literature Review

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This research addresses the global urgency of climate change, highlighting that supply chains contribute to 25% of $CO_2$ emissions. It emphasizes decarbonization and resilience strategies driven by disruptions that demand net-zero models to mitigate risks. This transition requires a multi-stakeholder approach, involving actors such as suppliers, governments, and consumers to overcome barriers like resistance to change and a lack of standards, while integrating economic, social, and environmental perspectives.

The literature reveals fragmentation regarding drivers, barriers, and practices. This systematic review, following PRISMA guidelines, analyzes recent sources from Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, identifying patterns and recommending automation and trust-building. The objective is to examine the role of green technologies (AI, IoT, renewables) in sustainable multi-stakeholder chains, detecting gaps and proposing agendas for circular economies.

The study includes a pilot conducted in three logistics companies in Mineral de la Reforma, Hidalgo, Mexico, using convenience sampling. It evaluates net-zero viability via IoT to optimize distribution, achieving emission reductions of 20-30% and overcoming digital limitations with state support. Results were validated using a two-way ANOVA ($p < 0.001$), confirming significant effects.

It concludes by reinforcing net-zero functionality and proposing expansions toward probabilistic sampling in Latin America, blockchain integration, post-2030 AI modeling, and the evaluation of regulations such as the Green Deal.

From Academic to Community: An Immersion of Grade 8 RS/VE Students

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 This study examined the impact of a community-based extension program on the values formation and real-life application of learning among Grade 8 Religious Studies and Values Education (RS/VE) students of Notre Dame University Junior High School. Anchored on the MATATAG Curriculum’s emphasis on holistic, experiential, and values-based learning, the study focused on a community immersion conducted at Bahay Maria, a shelter for abandoned, sick and elderly individuals in Cotabato City. Using a descriptive-evaluative research design, data were gathered from 68 purposively selected students through a researcher-made questionnaire administered before and after the immersion to assess their expectations and actual experiences. Descriptive statistics and a paired samples t-test were employed for data analysis. Results revealed that students entered the program with positive, value-oriented expectations, particularly in empathy, moral responsibility, and application of school-learned values. Their actual experiences likewise reflected meaningful engagement, strengthened empathy, and enhanced moral awareness. Statistical analysis showed no significant difference between students’ expected and actual experiences, indicating that the program effectively met learners’ anticipated outcomes. Furthermore, qualitative interpretation of the findings demonstrated that community immersion facilitated the translation of academic learning into concrete acts of service, while fostering social responsibility and awareness, especially toward the elderly. The study concludes that community-based extension programs are effective platforms for integrating values education with authentic community engagement.

Assessing SiGapLapor’s Effectiveness in Handling Alleged 2024 Election Violations: Evidence from South Sumatra Provincial Bawaslu (A Qualitative Study Using Etzioni’s Indicators)

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Elections increasingly rely on digital reporting and case-handling systems to enhance oversight, transparency, and accountability in the management of alleged violations. In Indonesia, Bawaslu has implemented SiGapLapor to support structured reporting and handling processes across institutional levels. However, the effectiveness of such platforms relies not only on system availability but also on organisational readiness, coordination, and sustained use during peak election workloads. Empirical evidence on how SiGapLapor performs in operational practice at the provincial level remains limited. This study assessed the effectiveness of SiGapLapor in addressing alleged 2024 election violations at the South Sumatra Provincial Bawaslu, employing a descriptive qualitative design. Data were collected through structured interviews, observation, and documentation, involving six key informants from relevant managerial and operational roles. The analysis employed Etzioni’s effectiveness indicators—adaptation, integration, member motivation, and production—operationalised through readiness, socialisation, implementer capacity, and an input–process–output framework. Findings were systematically mapped to each indicator to highlight strengths and constraints in implementation. Results indicate that adaptation and integration were deemed adequate, and production supported structured inputs, a transparent workflow, and traceable outputs. Member motivation was not yet practical due to workload surges and a shortage of trained personnel, resulting in manual intake and delayed system entry during peak periods. This study presents an organisational-effectiveness evaluation of a digital platform for handling election-related violations, using Etzioni’s framework in a real provincial oversight context. The findings provide practical insights into which effectiveness dimensions operate well and which operational constraints should be prioritised to improve implementation consistency.

Optimising the SIMKAH Policy to Accelerate Marriage Administration A CIPP Model Evaluation and Findings on Infrastructure Improvements at KUA Seberang Ulu II, Palembang City

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Public services are increasingly expected to deliver faster, more accurate, and traceable administrative processes, particularly for marriage registration, where data validity has long-term legal consequences. In Indonesia, SIMKAH is designed to digitise and integrate marriage administration to enhance service efficiency and data consistency at KUA offices. However, the presence of SIMKAH does not automatically guarantee faster service, as the quality of implementation relies on local readiness and operational stability. At KUA Seberang Ulu II, several practical constraints may hinder administration, especially those related to infrastructure and workflow execution. This study proposes policy optimisation by aligning SIMKAH objectives with daily operational procedures to ensure that acceleration goals are clearly reflected in real service workflows. It highlights the importance of strengthening input readiness through adequate human resources, needs-based budgeting, and notably improved supporting infrastructure such as dedicated hardware. The optimisation also focuses on process reinforcement by stabilising internet connectivity, preparing operational procedures to manage system interruptions, and reducing rework caused by identity data mismatches. Furthermore, user support and guidance are emphasised to improve document readiness and minimise delays during verification and data entry. The study evaluates SIMKAH implementation using the CIPP framework (Context–Input–Process–Product) through a qualitative descriptive approach based on interviews, observation, and documentation. Findings are mapped onto the CIPP dimensions to identify key gaps, with the most significant areas for improvement related to process and infrastructure. This research provides a structured, decision-oriented assessment of a digital public service policy, demonstrating how the CIPP framework can reveal implementation bottlenecks beyond system availability. Practically, it offers actionable recommendations for infrastructure development and workflow standardisation to support a more consistent acceleration of marriage administration at KUA Seberang Ulu II, Palembang City.

Solid Waste Management and Material Recovery Facility Planning in Leh-Ladakh, Western Himalaya

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Rapid urbanization, tourism growth, and changing consumption patterns have significantly increased solid waste generation in Leh Ladakh, a high-altitude cold desert region of India. This study examines the existing status of waste generation, segregation, and disposal practices in Leh, the largest town in Ladakh, and assesses the feasibility of establishing a Material Recovery Facility (MRF). Field-based inventory, secondary datasets, and the Solid Waste Management (SWM) Manual 2016 were used to estimate waste quantities and design MRF requirements. Results indicate that Leh generates approximately 13.02 tonnes per day (TPD) of solid waste, with 80% comprising dry waste and 20% wet waste. The dry fraction includes paper and cardboard (30%), tetra packs (20%), textiles (17%), PET (8%), and multilayer plastics (7%). Currently, segregation and limited recycling occur at a municipal facility powered by solar energy. However, the absence of a formal MRF, shortage of equipment, and lack of skilled manpower remain key challenges. The study proposes a manual MRF model suitable for <15 TPD, with an estimated operational cost of Rupees 3.06 lakh per annum. Establishing such a facility would improve recycling efficiency, reduce environmental risks, and promote sustainable waste management in this ecologically fragile Himalayan region.

Development of Differentiated Learning Planning in the Outdoor Learning Mathematics Project

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The process of developing differentiated learning plans for this outdoor learning mathematics project follows the 4D model, which includes four main stages: define, design, develop, and disseminate. Each stage has a specific set of steps. The need for differentiated learning plans integrated with the outdoor learning mathematics project can be used in the mathematics learning process for statistics. This learning plan can be used as a solution as a guide in the learning process and is tailored to the characteristics of students at the school. Differentiated learning in the outdoor learning mathematics project can improve pretest and posttest results in both control and experimental classes, especially in mathematics. The final stage, dissemination, was carried out both offline at SMP Islam Kunir and the Mathematics MGMP of public and private junior high schools in Lumajang Regency, as well as online. Online dissemination was carried out by uploading Google Sites links to various popular social media platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook, ensuring that this learning tool is widely accessible to other teachers who need it.

The Effectiveness of Lime Juice (Citrus aurantifolia) in Preventing Calcium Oxalate Crystal Formation: An In Vitro Model

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Background: Calcium oxalate (CaOx) stones are the most prevalent type of urolithiasis and are associated with high recurrence rates. Preventive approaches targeting early crystallization stages, particularly nucleation and aggregation, are therefore crucial. Citrate is a recognized inhibitor of CaOx crystallization; however, pharmacological citrate therapy may face limitations in long-term use. Lime juice (Citrus aurantifolia), a natural source of citrate, may serve as an alternative preventive agent.

Objective: To evaluate the inhibitory effect of lime juice (Citrus aurantifolia) on calcium oxalate crystal formation in vitro.

Methods: A true experimental study with a post-test only control group design was conducted using a synthetic urine model. Five groups were assessed: negative control, positive control (potassium citrate 0.6%), and lime juice at concentrations of 2.5%, 5%, and 10% (v/v). Crystallization was monitored turbidimetrically at 620 nm for 60 minutes. Nucleation slope (SN), aggregation slope (SA), time to maximum absorbance (Tmax), and inhibition percentages were analyzed using one-way ANOVA and Tukey’s HSD test.

Results: All lime juice concentrations significantly reduced aggregation and prolonged Tmax compared with the negative control. The 5% concentration showed the strongest nucleation inhibition among natural treatments, while 2.5% demonstrated the highest aggregation inhibition.

Conclusion: Lime juice effectively inhibits CaOx crystallization in vitro and shows potential as a natural, accessible preventive strategy.

Application of 18S rRNA Gene-Based and β-Giardin Molecular Markers for Early Detection of Giardia duodenalis Infection

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Giardiasis and other intestinal parasite infections are still prevalent and a public health concern, especially in areas with inadequate sanitation and hygiene. Giardia duodenalis infections can cause mild to severe symptoms, such as chronic diarrhea, malabsorption, and growth impairment in children, so early detection is essential. The commonly used fecal microscopy test has a low sensitivity, particularly for infections with low parasite loads or in the absence of symptoms. The development of molecular diagnostic methods based on the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) provides a more accurate and sensitive alternative by using specific genetic markers. This review of the literature looks at the roles of the 18S rRNA and β-giardin genes as molecular markers for the early detection of Giardia duodenalis infection. The review’s conclusions indicate that the 18S rRNA gene’s high sensitivity and robust sequence stability make it suitable for initial screening and epidemiological surveillance. In contrast, the β-giardin gene is useful for genotype analysis and diagnostic confirmation because of its higher specificity. The combination of these two genes may be the most effective diagnostic strategy to improve the accuracy of early Giardiasis detection in both clinical and epidemiological settings.