Applied Sciences Research Periodicals

Determine the Academic Transcript that is in line with the Outcome Based Curriculum Principle- ‘Culminating Outcome’ in Botswana

Moya Modise — Fri, 29 May 2026 00:00:00 +0100

This current study determines the Academic Transcript that is in line with the ‘Outcome Based Curriculum Principles- ‘Culminating Outcome’ in Botswana to solve existing challenges whereby average of all the modules is reported in a Transcript only as Foundations of Education e.g. 65%. It investigates whether Outcome Based Curriculum principles inform an Academic Transcript as follows: Front page: - All Learning Unit Specifications / Free Standing Blocks/ Modules with the Grade; % mark; GPA; Credits clearly put. Back page:-Details of Learning Unit Specification Tasks needed by the industry clearly put’. Ethnographic design participant in-depth immersion personal observations and experiences of the researcher & applied research

Analytical Characterization - Amplitude Equations

Um salama Ahmed Abd Alla Elemam, Ahmed Abd Alla, Elemam — Mon, 11 May 2026 00:00:00 +0100

Our main focus in this CHAPTER is analyzing the simple patterns. Simple patterns are when the number of unknowns is less than or equal to one. All of these simple patterns are in 3D however, the variation of these patterns can happen in only one direction, such as stripes, or along two directions, such as hexagons. Others can be along three directions, such as a simple cube, body-cent red cubic, and face-cent red cubic. Each pattern demonstrates the stability of the system at certain values of the dependent parameter. In this chapter, our initial focus is on analyzing the amplitude equations and determining their equilibrium solutions. Once we have obtained the solutions for each pattern, we proceed to assess their stability using the Jacobian matrix. This step is necessary because the stable equilibria of a pattern can become unstable along modes that are not accounted for in the ODEs. Consequently, it is essential to examine the solutions of patterns, such as z-stripes, along other possible directions, such as the z-direction and w-direction. Even if the pattern amplitude is zero along certain directions, we still need to evaluate stability along those directions because perturbations along new directions may amplify. For instance, a mode such as w, which is not considered in the simplified system for the z-stripes pattern, can destabilize a striped pattern associated with wavevectors k1 and k1. Thus, conducting stability analysis using the Jacobian matrix is of utmost importance.

Seasonal Variation on Incidence and Severity of Cassava Bacterial Blight Disease in Sierra Leone

Musa D. Saffa, Mr Edward Abdul Sankoh — Fri, 12 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0100

A diagnostic survey was conducted in the rainy and dry seasons of 2014 and 2015 to determine the incidence and severity of major diseases of cassava in Sierra Leone. Five villages were targeted from three chiefdoms per district covering the entire country. Samples were collected with a hand-held GPS using a pre-determined gridded base map on a 1:50,000 scale. On-the-spot assessment of the prevalence, severity and incidence of major diseases of cassava was undertaken and spatial variability of incidence and severity of major diseases was mapped using ArcGIS 10.1 software. The study revealed that the cassava bacterial blight disease is emerging diseases of importance in Sierra Leone. Prevalence of cassava bacterial blight disease was 100% and 92% in the rainy season and dry season respectively. The study provides information on seasonal prevalence incidence and severity of cassava bacterial blight disease as well as bases for the deployment of improved varieties that are resistant in areas most vulnerable to the diseases in Sierra Leone.

Systemic Weaknesses in Food and Packaged Drinking Water Safety: Evidence from Retrospective Sanitary Inspections in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso (2016–2020)

Konkobo, Mathurin P., Bernadette Pane Sourabié/Ouattara, Elie Kabré — Thu, 21 May 2026 00:00:00 +0100

Food security remains a major public health issue in Burkina Faso, where the rapid expansion of small and semi-industrial food businesses as well as drinking water units (sachet & bottle) far outpaces investments in hygiene and safety management (WHO, 2015; World Bank, 2019). We conducted a retrospective descriptive study of health inspections carried out in food production and processing units in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, between 2016 and 2020 (ANSSEAT, 2016–2020). All units inspected at least once during each period from January to December were included.Data were extracted from standardized, internally validated checklists and inspection reports used by the Health Inspection and Surveillance Service of the National Agency for Environmental, Food, Occupational Health and Health Products Safety (ANSSEAT), and analysed using descriptive statistics (ANSSEAT, 2016–2020). A total of 140 units were inspected at least once, including 118 packaged drinking water units, of which 84 (approximately 71%) underwent at least one sanitary inspection during the study period (ANSSEAT, 2016–2020). Only about one‑third of units complied with forward‑flow layout requirements and had acceptable environmental arrangements, while adequate wastewater evacuation systems were observed in just over half of establishments. Protection and hygiene of boreholes used as water sources were frequently inadequate (ANSSEAT, 2016–2020). Personal hygiene measures, periodic medical examinations and use of personal protective equipment among workers were inconsistently applied, and the hygiene of production circuits and equipment was often suboptimal. More than 95% of units lacked structured internal quality control systems, and 67.15% did not comply with basic storage rules, while many products failed to meet labelling requirements (ANSSEAT, 2016–2020). These findings indicate systemic weaknesses in food and packaged drinking water safety in Ouagadougou, in line with previous reports of frequent non‑compliance of sachet water with national and WHO standards (ANSSEAT, 2017; Zongo et al., 2022; Ouedraogo et al., 2024; WHO, 2015). Strengthening training on Good Hygienic Practices (GHP), Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and simplified Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) approaches, upgrading infrastructure and environmental management, and promoting the establishment of internal quality control systems are essential to improve the safety and quality of food and packaged water (Codex Alimentarius Commission, latest revision year; ISO, 2018; FAO & WHO, 2005). Sanitary inspection, combined with supportive measures and risk‑based regulatory enforcement, remains a key tool for guiding corrective and preventive actions in line with Codex Alimentarius and World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines (FAO & WHO, 2005; WHO, 2017–2023; World Bank, 2019).

Toward the Development of a Comprehensive Couple-Based Parenting Program: A Reanalysis Focusing on the Low-Parenting Group-

Yoshiko Shimizu — Wed, 13 May 2026 00:00:00 +0100

This study, scheduled to commence in fiscal year 2026 under the Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research (C) project entitled “Development of a Couple Parenting Program—Focusing on the Low-Performing Group,” aims to clarify the structural characteristics of couples classified within a low-performing parenting group. This objective will be achieved through a reanalysis of recent empirical data, with particular attention to changes observed before and after the intervention, as well as participants’ qualitative and quantitative feedback on the program. Based on these findings, the existing program will be redesigned to more effectively address individual needs, followed by the initiation of continuous, practice-based research. In the author’s previous research, which sought to promote awareness of “couple parenting,” defined as collaborative childrearing by both parents, an evaluation instrument (the Couple Parenting Awareness Scale) and accompanying program worksheets were developed to assess intervention effectiveness. However, the presence of a subgroup whose awareness scores remained low despite program participation became evident. The most recent survey was conducted between June and September 2025. Participants comprised 473 couples with preschool-aged children drawn from all 47 prefectures of Japan who provided informed consent. Assessments conducted before and after the intervention employed validated scales measuring “New Male Roles,” “Collaboration–Functionality,” and “Perception of Couple Parenting.” In addition, participants reported their impressions and emotional responses to the program using a dichotomous (yes/no) format, while open-ended responses were collected regarding the program worksheets. A total of 247 valid responses were obtained, yielding data from 494 individuals, including spouses. The mean age of husbands was 35.7 ± 4.1 years, and that of wives was 34.6 ± 3.8 years; the mean spousal age difference was 2.2 ± 2.8 years. The average duration of marriage was 8.1 ± 3.0 years, and the mean number of children per household was 1.7 ± 0.7. Regression analysis indicated that the factor most strongly associated with classification into the low-performing group was participants’ “approach to the initiative.” Specifically, the odds ratios were 3.086 for respondents who indicated that they were not able to tackle the program as a couple, and 8.900 for those who reported that they were not able to act while being mindful of the program content. The absence of these behavioral changes significantly increased the likelihood of belonging to the low-performing group. Furthermore, frequent experiences of negative emotions, such as irritation, anger, dissatisfaction, emptiness, and sadness, in relation to the program, along with high levels of domineering behavior (a negative dimension of collaboration functionality), were also identified as significant risk factors. Based on these results, a tailored intervention program specifically designed for individuals in the low-performing group will be developed, implemented, and systematically evaluated. Tip: Flow & Transition: To create an easy flow of ideas, transition words, such as, however, therefore, moreover, etc. can be used. This usage enhances coherence of ideas in the paragraph and the manuscript on the whole.

Rethinking Well-being in Residential Child Care: A Critical Synthesis of Risk, Protection, and Relational Ecologies

Elisa Viscuso, Colin Calleja, Ugo Pace — Fri, 12 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0100

Children and adolescents living in residential child care often experience heightened developmental vulnerability arising not only from pre-placement adversity, but also from the relational and institutional conditions that shape everyday care (Barone et al., 2016; Beinum, 2008; Engel de Abreu et al., 2023). Although a substantial body of literature has examined risk and protective factors associated with psychological well-being in residential settings, this evidence remains fragmented across individual, relational, and contextual domains, with limited attention to how these dimensions interact (Giraldi et al., 2022). This paper offers a critical synthesis of the literature on well-being in residential child care, with the aim of rethinking prevailing variable-based approaches and advancing a more relational and ecologically grounded understanding of children’s developmental trajectories. Adopting a systematised narrative review design, the paper draws on studies published between 2000 and 2025 that address the psychological well-being of children and adolescents in residential care. The review examines key intrapersonal factors, including resilience, self-esteem, self-efficacy, emotional intelligence, coping, and cognitive functioning (Luthar et al., 2000; Cha & Nock, 2009; Bandura, 1997; Goleman, 1995), alongside contextual and relational dimensions such as caregiver-child attachment, peer relationships, sibling co-placement, family contact, placement duration, and the organisational quality of care settings (Costa et al., 2020; Perry & Price, 2018; McWey et al., 2010). Rather than treating these as discrete predictors, the paper analyses how they operate dynamically within systems of care, support, and institutional constraint. The review argues that well-being in residential child care cannot be adequately understood through isolated risk/protection frameworks alone. Instead, developmental outcomes are shaped by the interaction between children’s internal resources and the quality of the relational and ecological environments in which they live (Bronfenbrenner, 1994). In particular, stable and emotionally attuned relationships with caregivers, positive peer climates, and care environments informed by trauma-sensitive and developmentally responsive practices emerge as central protective conditions (Bath & Seita, 2018; Brunzell et al., 2019). At the same time, the review highlights major limitations in the field, including conceptual inconsistency, methodological heterogeneity, weak longitudinal evidence, and insufficient cross-cultural analysis (Ainsworth & Thoburn, 2014). The paper contributes to the literature by advancing a relational-ecological framework for understanding well-being in residential child care and by identifying priorities for future research, policy, and practice. It argues for a shift from deficit-oriented and static models towards a more integrated understanding of care as a developmental, relational, and ethically significant environment.

3-D Finite-difference Simulation of Rayleigh-to-Love Wave Conversion

Mitsuru Yoshida, Hiroko Hagiwara — Tue, 19 May 2026 00:00:00 +0100

Rayleigh-to-Love wave conversion by a Tien Shan-like mountain structure (MRS) is simulated using a 3-D finite-difference method. Love waves are generated through the oblique incidence of Rayleigh waves on the irregular front of the MRS at an azimuthal angle of 60 The wavefields of the vertical (W) and radial (U) components show the propagation of transmitted and reflected Rayleigh waves along the great circle path and scattered P-SV waves leaking into the mantle, while the wavefield of the transverse (V) component clearly shows the generation process of converted Love waves. Spectral analysis of simulated waves in the MRS shows that the excitation of converted Love waves is dominant at periods near 20 s. At 20 s, the displacement and stress eigenfunctions of Rayleigh waves are similar to those of Love waves in the MRS model. The characteristics of converted Love waves for an Alpine-like crustal structure reported by Snieder (1986) are also discussed.

Challenges Faced by Grade 4 Learners and Teachers in Multilingual Classrooms

Nokuzola Hlaleleni-Geja — Sat, 30 May 2026 00:00:00 +0100

The purpose of this project targets the teaching and learning of Mathematics in multilingual classrooms in the Intermediate Phase (Grade 4) in the GET Band in South Africa. The aim is to investigate classroom practice, understanding the Language Of Learning and Teaching (LOLT) in the classroom, its impact in teaching and learning of mathematics and better conceptual understanding of Geometry and Algebra. Research shows that ‘Language can be seen as a problem, as a right and language can be seen as a resource in a multilingual classroom’. https://www.ru.ac.za>perspective>multilingualism. The study requires a teaching, learning and assessment programme (diagnostic test) to follow up the learner on how s/he is learning, learning gaps the learner has from previous grades; and how the teacher is teaching and assessing learners. At the end of the research teacher development programmes will be offered to teachers of these phases to supplement what they already know and developed by the department of education. While I conducted a master’s research project, I found out that Language hinders conceptual understanding and procedural fluency of learners (Kilpatrick et al, 2001). Limited resources and technology then and now hinder effective teaching and learning of Mathematics. I fully supportPanthi & Belbase (2017) when citing them as the following: Technological issues, Language issues, Cultural diversity between LOLT and other local languages, Cultural backgrounds to be acknowledged, having different levels of proficiency with proficiency in English (LOLT), Political issues, Social issues, Gender issues as a societal matter, Curricular issues, Instructional issues, Inclusivity, Resources, Class size and Teacher knowledge of the subject. These issues hinder effective teaching and learning in the classroom. The theory of constructivism will drive the research project throughout (Social and Radical) where students learn to build their own concepts of what they learn through active cognitive and adaptive process (Vygotsky 1978).

Behavioural and Mental Health Policies in UK Schools: Impact on Learning Outcomes and the Role of Adult Support

Fri, 12 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0100

This study assesses how behavioural policies, mental health interventions, dietary behaviours and adult support in UK schools influence pupils’ well‑being and learning outcomes. Using quantitative methods, study adopted Likert scale questionnaire to collect data from 100 conveniently sampled pupils in mainstream schools in the London Borough of Croydon. Conducted over seven months and completed in October 2025, the quantitative phase targeted children aged 7–15 across primary and secondary schools in all parts of Croydon. The analysis used STATA 17 and Smart PLS-SEM (Version 4), applying Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) regression and Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) to test hypotheses. Results show behavioural policies positively and significantly impact mental health and learning outcomes. Mental health itself is a strong predictor of academic achievement, while school diet independently contributes positively to results, though its moderating effect on mental health–learning outcomes relationship remains insignificant. Adult support did not significantly strengthen that link between mental health–learning outcomes. Subgroup analyses reveal stronger effects for girls, older pupils and primary‑aged children. The study concludes that schools should adopt restorative, holistic policies, promote healthy lifestyles and strengthen adult support systems to improve educational outcomes.

Hydrogen–Methane Blends as a Strategy for Decarbonizing Gaseous Fuels

Khalil, Y. F. — Fri, 12 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0100

This study examines the safety implications of blending hydrogen (H₂) with methane (CH₄) as a carbon-reduction strategy for hard-to-abate industries, the transportation sector, and domestic applications. The results highlighted significant safety risks due to hydrogen's lower ignition energy (IE) and broader flammability range, especially under high-pressure conditions. Using Aspen HYSYS chemical process simulation and the HSC Chemistry platform, the study quantified carbon emissions and combustion heat release of H₂-CH₄ mixtures at various H₂ contents, temperatures, and pressures. The results suggest that blending H₂ with CH₄ can be beneficial, provided H₂ content does not exceed safe thresholds and stays within a recommended Wobbe Index (WI) range of 45 - 55 MJ/m³. The WI increases with H₂ concentration exceeding 50 mole% due to density effects outweighing the high heating value (HHV) reductions. Hydrogen's high buoyancy and diffusivity reduce localized accumulation in open areas but pose risks in confined spaces due to its wide flammability range. H₂-CH₄ blends with ≤ 20 mole% H₂ are safer than higher concentrations or pure H₂. For blends with > 20 mole% H₂, engineered safety features (ESF) like leak detection, alarms, ventilation, and spark-free environments are essential. Managing concentrations to avoid the detonation range (pure H₂: 18 - 59 mole% & pure CH₄: 6.3 - 13.5 mole%) is critical. Adhering to H₂ safety codes limiting H₂ to ≤ 20 mole% in pipelines is recommended. Conservatively, < 18 mole% H₂ reduces detonation risk, and ≤ 10 mole% provides added safety margins. These findings can inform policymakers and industry stakeholders as they design and deploy safe, efficient hydrogen-enhanced energy systems, thereby advancing carbon-reduction goals.