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Review on Research and Application of Basalt Fiber in Concrete Mix
No full textBasalt fiber (BF), as an environmentally friendly material, is widely used in civil engineering due to its low energy consumption, non-polluting nature, and excellent physical-chemical properties. This paper systematically reviews the research progress of BF in enhancing the mechanical properties, frost resistance, and crack resistance of concrete. In terms of mechanical performance, an appropriate BF dosage (0.1%–0.2%) significantly improves compressive strength, tensile strength, and flexural strength while reducing internal porosity. However, excessive fiber content leads to agglomeration and increased porosity. Studies indicate that 12mm-long BF exhibits optimal comprehensive reinforcement effects. For frost resistance, BF suppresses microcrack propagation induced by freeze-thaw cycles (FTCs), thereby delaying strength degradation and durability loss. Synergistic effects with nanomaterials (e.g., nano-SiO₂) further enhance performance; for instance, specimens with 2% BF and nano-SiO₂ showed 10%–18% lower residual strength loss after 180 FTCs. Regarding crack resistance, BF bridges cracks and promotes self-healing, achieving crack reduction coefficients of 8.2%–78.0% at 0.1%–1.5% dosage. Hybrid use with silica fume or cellulose ether optimizes both workability and mechanical properties. Despite its potential, challenges such as fiber dispersion, optimal dosage thresholds, and multi-factor synergy mechanisms require further exploration
Cloud-Based Solutions for Scalable Non-profit Project Management Systems
No full textObjective: This study explores the feasibility of applying cloud computing to develop scalable, low-cost project management systems for non-profit organizations. It explores cloud-based technology advantages, limitations, and probable uses in optimizing project coordination, resource allocation, and impact assessment.
Study Design: A comprehensive review of literature on cloud-based non-profit project management solutions, with specific focus on research work published between 2019 and 2024.
Methodology: The research is based on Google Scholar systematic literature review, as well as Scopus, IEEE Xplore, and ScienceDirect databases. The articles selected in the databases cover cloud computing within non-profit management, cost-effectiveness, security concerns, and digital transformation in enhancing operational effectiveness.
Results: The review identifies 14 studies that illustrate the application of cloud computing for managing non-profit projects. Results highlight that cloud systems improve collaboration, data security, cost-effectiveness, and accessibility. Conversely, risks to data privacy, dependency on internet access, and the lack of technical understanding are concerns to most non-profit organizations.
Conclusions: Cloud computing has emerged as a transformative solution for non-profits to accomplish efficient and scalable project management. Although the advantages of cloud systems are well recognized, future research needs to focus on creating measures to mitigate security concerns and enhance digital competence among non-profit staff to unlock the complete potential of these technologies
Effect of the Replacement of Sugar on Development of Muffins from Malted Ragi Flour
No full textAims: This study aimed to develop and evaluate muffins enriched with malted ragi flour, sapota powder, and wheat flour for enhanced nutritional content and sensory acceptability, targeting functional food applications.
Sample: Three muffin samples (S1, S2, S3) were prepared with varying sweeteners (sugar, jaggery, honey) to assess nutritional and sensory differences.
Study Design: Experimental design with comparative analysis of proximate composition and sensory evaluation.
Place and Duration of Study: Department of Food Technology, Parul Institute of Applied Sciences, Parul University, Vadodara, Gujarat, India, conducted between January and March 2024.
Methodology: Malted ragi flour was prepared in laboratory, wheat flour, sapota powder, and other ingredients were purchased locally. Muffins were baked at 180°C for 15-20 minutes, with formulations differing in sweeteners: S1 (sugar), S2 (jaggery), S3 (honey). Proximate analysis of muffins was estimated by measuring moisture, ash, protein, fat, carbohydrates, sugar, calcium, and energy. Sensory evaluation used a 9-point hedonic scale, with academic staff assessing colour, taste, texture, flavour, appearance, and overall acceptability. Data were analyzed using SPSS and Microsoft Excel.
Results: Sample S1 showed the highest nutritional values: moisture (23.31 %), ash (2.68 %), protein (5.63 %), fat (9.69 %), carbohydrates (58.69 %), calcium (7.10 %), and energy (344.31 kcal/100g). Sensory scores were highest for S1 (overall acceptability: 9, p<0.05 compared to S2: 7, S3: 8). S2 had the lowest carbohydrates (54.78 %) and calcium (6.90 %).
Conclusion: Muffins with malted ragi, sapota powder, and wheat flour, especially S1, offer superior nutritional and sensory quality, suitable for commercial functional food production. Further studies on shelf life and scalability are recommended to enhance market viability
A Study of Socio-personal and Socio-economic Traits of Rural Women
No full textRural women play a crucial role in societal and economic development, yet their lives are shaped by various socio-personal, socio-economic, communicational and psychological factors. Socio-personally, they exhibit resilience, adaptability and strong familial ties, often juggling multiple responsibilities within households and agricultural labor. Socio-economically, they face challenges such as financial dependence, wage disparities, and restricted access to education, land and credit, limiting their economic independence and entrepreneurial opportunities. In terms of communication, many rural women rely on oral traditions and community networks for information, with limited access to digital technology, though mobile and radio communication have begun bridging this gap. Psychologically, they demonstrate endurance and emotional strength despite economic and social hardships, yet issues such as stress, anxiety and lack of mental health awareness persist. Understanding these traits is essential for developing policies and interventions that enhance rural women\u27s empowerment, improve their socio-economic status, and promote gender equality in rural areas
On-Farm Economic Evaluation of Mechanized In-Situ Paddy Residue Management in Paddy-wheat Cropping System of Yamunanagar, Haryana, India
No full textThe economics of super seeder machine sown wheat (paddy residue incorporated into the soil and side by side machine sowing) over conventionally sown wheat (manual broadcasting of wheat after burning paddy residue followed by tillage) was evaluated at farmers’ field. The study was conducted in paddy-wheat cropping system of Yamunanagar, Haryana. The study was carried out by CCS Haryana Agricultural University- Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Yamunanagar at farmers’ fields during Rabi 2022-23. The demonstrations were funded under the project “Promotion of Agricultural Mechanization for In-Situ Management of Crop Residue in the States of Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and NCT of Delhi.” This project was sponsored by Indian Council of Agricultural Research, New Delhi through Agricultural Technology Application Research Institute, Jodhpur”. The study was conducted in selected villages of Yamunanagar district i.e. Bahadarpur, Khajuri and Laxibas. There were a total 250 demonstrations. These villages had predominant Paddy- wheat cropping system and considerable area under hybrid varieties with higher potential of residue generation. The maximum area under paddy was harvested through combine harvesters. The burning of paddy residue was a major challenge in the region. The super seeder sown wheat was found to be more economical and profitable. The average grain yield was found to be significantly higher (p < 0.0001) under super seeder (59.0 q/ha) compared to the conventional method (54.8 q/ha). To find the significant difference in the yield of both treatments, T-test was applied. Super seeded wheat produced a higher net return (Rs. 45960/ha) compared to conventional technique (Rs. 32084/ha). The Benefit cost ratio of super seeded wheat and conventional technique was 1.43 and 1.29 respectively. Apart from profitability to the farmers, the super seeder had an added environmental benefit of saving one irrigation along with avoiding of crop residue burning
Feminization of Farming: Availability and Use of Drudgery Reducing Tools
No full textIntroduction: The progressive feminization of agriculture, driven by male outmigration and gender-based labor divisions, has increased women’s participation in rural farming. Despite their critical role, women farmers face significant challenges, including limited access to mechanization and increased physical drudgery. This review aims to analyze the availability, adoption, and impact of drudgery-reducing tools on women’s agricultural labor, emphasizing their potential for economic empowerment and health improvements.
Methods: A qualitative literature review was conducted, synthesizing peer-reviewed studies, government reports, and institutional publications. Key themes such as tool awareness, adoption rates, ergonomic benefits, and socio-economic implications were identified. The Human Physical Drudgery Index (HPDI) was referenced to quantify biomechanical strain across various agricultural tasks.
Results: Findings reveal that transplanting, threshing, harvesting, and load carrying impose the greatest physical strain on women, with drudgery-reducing tools enhancing efficiency by 15–50% and reducing costs by up to 40%. Post-harvest tools yield the highest efficiency gains, critical for women’s predominant roles in these activities. However, adoption is hindered by limited awareness, socio-cultural norms, and inadequate policy support. Integrating ergonomic tool design with gender-sensitive policies, financial support, and capacity-building initiatives is imperative. Future research should prioritize context-specific mechanization, digital innovation, and participatory approaches to advance gender equity and sustainable agricultural development
Relationship between Breakfast and Student Learning Achievement in Cipicung Village, Sumedang Regency, West Java
No full textBackground: Breakfast is an important factor affecting the concentration and thinking ability of school-age children. Irregularity or the habit of not eating breakfast can hurt students\u27 academic performance.
Aims: This study aims to determine the relationship between breakfast habits and the educational achievement of 5th-grade students at Pamoyanan Elementary School, Cipicung Village, Sumedang Regency, West Java.
Methods: This study is an analytical observational study with a cross-sectional design. The sample consisted of all 35 5th-grade students, who were selected using the total sampling technique. Data were collected through a questionnaire regarding the frequency and habits of breakfast and documentation of report card grades as an indicator of academic achievement. Data analysis was carried out using the chi-square test with a significance level of 0.05.
Results: The results showed that the majority of students scored in the "Fair" category, with 80.0% of the total students in this category. As many as 20.0% of students were in the "Good" category, where most students who regularly eat breakfast have good academic achievement. Based on the results of the Spearman test, there is no significant relationship between morning habits and the academic achievement of 5th-grade students at Pamoyanan Elementary School. With a p-value of 0.9740 (p > 0.05), this result shows that breakfast habits do not have a significant effect on academic achievement in the data analyzed.
Conclusion: This study concluded that there was no significant relationship between breakfast habits and academic achievement of 5th grade elementary school students at SDN Pamoyanan, as indicated by the p-value of 0.9740. Although students who regularly eat breakfast tend to have better academic achievement descriptively, statistical analysis did not support a significant relationship. Therefore, although breakfast remains important for general health and well-being, it may not directly affect academic achievement in this particular sample
Effect of Sesame Seed Cake and Wheat Bran Supplementation on Growth Performance and Its Economic Analysis of Somali Goats in Danod Woreda of Dollo Zone, Somali Region, Ethiopia
No full textThe A cross-sectional study was carried out to the effect of sesame seed cake and wheat bran supplementation on the growth performance of Somali goats at Koreley kebele, Danod woreda of Dollo zone, Somali region. Twenty-four (24) PAPAREGs were selected for their interest and willingness to adopt technology. Training on small ruminant fattening and feeding practices was provided to beneficiaries, DAs, and livestock experts to enhance awareness and skills. The experimental selected animals were prepared for supplementary feeding technological option made of ration constituting of 100% natural grass hay, 50% WB: 50%SSC, 75% SSC: 25% WB and 25% SSC: 75% WB For T1, T2 T3 and T4 respectively. The proportions were offered to the experimental animals which have been already assigned randomly. Experimental feed was introduced to Somali goats’ yearlings at 0.3kg/head/day with gradual increment within 14 days period. Initial live body weights have been measured and recorded prior to the experiment and weight gains were monitored through fortnight live body weight measurement and recording for a period of 90 days. Data were analyzed using ANOVA and GLM procedure of SAS (2008). There was a significantly (P<0.05) different in mean live body weights after the experiment. The Average Daily Gains (ADG) of goats supplemented was higher than those not supplemented. ADG for goat supplemented with concentrate for treatment T2, T3 and T4 was 0.07, 0.1 and 0.06 kg/day, respectively. While goat in the control treatment yielded lowest daily gain 0.02 kg/ day. The highest weight gain per animal was received for the T3 fed with 25% WB and 75% SSC. Accordingly, the economic benefits model agro-pastoralists obtained after selling their finished goat was very high. Therefore, the 75% SSC with 25%WB feeding technological options is recommended for scale up at larger scale
Agronomic Nutrient Use Efficiency and Economic Efficiency of Alternative Crops and Cropping Systems for Sugarcane in Tropical India
No full textA field experiment was conducted at the Agricultural Research Station, Hukkeri, Belagavi, Karnataka, India, during the years of 2018-19 and 2019-20. The study aimed to evaluate the agronomic nutrient use efficiency and economic efficiency of alternative crops and cropping systems for sugarcane under tropical Indian conditions. Eleven treatments involving different cropping systems were tested, which were soybean - sorghum - ridge gourd (T1), pigeon pea + green gram (1:1) - beans (T2), pigeon pea + soybean (1:1) - cowpea (T3), soybean - wheat - groundnut (T4), groundnut - sorghum - sesame (T5), maize - cabbage - fallow (T6), soybean - wheat - green gram (T7), maize - wheat - sesame (T8), Bt cotton - groundnut (T9), sugarcane + onion (1:2) [T10] and sugarcane (sole) [T11] The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design with three replications. The results showed statistically significant variations among the cropping systems in terms of Sugarcane Equivalent Yield (SEY), agronomic nutrient use efficiency (ANUE) and economic efficiency. The maize-cabbage-fallow system outperformed other cropping systems in respect of SEY (179.08 t ha-1), ANUE (173.95 kg kg-1] and economic efficiency (Rs. 3343 ha-1 day-1). Sugarcane + onion intercropping also recorded the higher total ANUE (258.97 kg kg-1) but the lower economic efficiency (Rs. 381 ha-1 day-1) as compared to that of other cropping systems. Notably, alternative cropping systems involving only field crops, such as maize-wheat-sesame, soybean-wheat-groundnut, soybean-wheat-green gram, and Bt cotton-groundnut, demonstrated promising results. These cropping systems showed 10 times higher economic efficiency compared to sugarcane monocropping and sugarcane + onion (1:2) intercropping systems
Therapeutic Strategies Targeting the Endocrine-Metabolic-Immunological Response to Trauma: A Systematic Review
No full textBackground: The Endocrine-Metabolic-Immunological Response to Trauma (REMIT) encompasses a complex set of physiological adaptations triggered immediately after trauma events—such as injury, surgery, burns, or haemorrhage—with the aim of restoring homeostasis, maintaining tissue perfusion, and providing the energy needed for survival.
Objective: This systematic review aims to evaluate the clinical effectiveness, associated risks, and applicability of key therapeutic strategies designed to modulate the endocrine-metabolic-immunological response to trauma (REMIT). The analysis focuses on interventions targeting the endocrine, metabolic, and immunological axes in critically ill or polytraumatized adult patients.
Methodology: A systematic literature review was conducted. Searches were conducted in PubMed, SciELO, LILACS, BVS, and MEDLINE databases from January 2014 to April 2024. The review followed PRISMA guidelines. Included studies were original research (clinical trials, cohort studies, experimental models, and systematic reviews) involving adult patients with physical, surgical, or burn trauma. Filters were applied to include only full-text studies published in Portuguese, English, or Spanish, involving human adults (≥18 years). Duplicates were removed using Mendeley reference manager. Interventions analysed included glycemic control, nutrition, immunonutrition, beta-blockers, corticosteroids, antioxidants, and DAMP-targeting therapies. Selection, data extraction, and methodological quality assessment were independently conducted by two reviewers using appropriate tools (ROBIS, Cochrane, NOS).
Results: Out of 117 studies screened, 15 were included, covering diverse trauma types and interventions. Early enteral nutrition, immunonutrients, and beta-blockers demonstrated the most positive clinical impact, reducing infectious complications, organ dysfunction, and hospital stay. Experimental therapies like DAMP inhibition and mitochondrial modulation showed promise in animal models. Intensive glycemic control and corticosteroid use had limited benefits and posed risks such as hypoglycemia and immunosuppression. Treatment approaches varied widely depending on trauma type and severity.
Conclusion: Effective modulation of REMIT requires integrated, individualised interventions. Early enteral nutrition and immunonutrition are supported by the strongest clinical evidence. Further multicenter trials and biomarker development are needed to optimise therapeutic decision-making and improve outcomes in critical care