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Livelihood Diversification and Adaptation Strategies among Internally Displaced Persons in Urban Bamenda, Cameroon
No full textIn the extensive literature on migration and displacements, the source and spatio-temporal evolution of internally displaced persons (IDPs) are well documented. While much has been written, about the causes and patterns of IDPs in several parts of the world, context specific studies on livelihood strategies of displaced persons particularly in urban settings remains insufficient. This forestalls policy interventions aimed at addressing the plight of the IDPs. Using Bamenda as a Cameroonian case, this study (a) analyses the origins of the IDPs and their displacement drivers (b) assesses the livelihood diversification strategies of the IDPs, and (c) evaluates the level of satisfaction of the IDPs with the livelihood diversification activities. A structured questionnaire was developed and administered using convenient and snowball non probability sampling techniques to 150 households(n=150) in Bamenda I, II and III municipalities. Data from structured interviews(n=5) and focus group discussions(n=2) was used to complement information from questionnaire. The quantitative data set was analysed descriptively with the aid of the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS Version 25.0). Frequencies and percentages were calculated and the results presented using tables and bar charts. The finding of the study revealed the following conclusions: Firstly, IDPs originate from six divisions of the northwest region. The highest number of IDPs (26%) come from Boyo Division and the least (8%) from Menchum Division. Amongst other reasons, 85% of the respondents indicated that the main reason for their displacement is the ongoing conflict between the separatist fighters and government forces. Secondly, the IDPs are involved in diverse on farm (46.7%), off farm (35.3%) and non-farm activities (58.7%). Thirdly, over 90% of the IDPs are not satisfied with the livelihood diversification activities. This study contributes to the theoretical debate on forced migration and livelihood diversification in the context of an urban setting. These findings provide a framework for the development of a policy instrument that can guide assistance to IDPs as a means of improving their livelihood and living standards. Further studies could focus on a comparative analysis of the livelihood adaptation strategies of IDPs in some selected neighborhoods in Bamenda
Hybrid Approach for Fault Detection and Classification in Power Distribution Systems Using DWT and PSO Based-SVM with Real-Time Simulation
No full textThis study aims to develop a real-time model for detecting and classifying various fault types in power distribution networks to enhance reliability and operational efficiency. A hybrid DWT–SVM approach is essential for accurately detecting and classifying faults in modern power distribution systems, especially under non-stationary and dynamic conditions. The proposed method addresses a range of fault scenarios, including single-phase-to-ground, line-to-line, double-line-to-ground, and three-phase faults, within a 33 kV distribution network. A hybrid approach combining Discrete Wavelet Transform (DWT) and Support Vector Machine (SVM) is introduced. Using the Debauchies-4 (Db4) wavelet, DWT effectively decomposes transient fault currents at the source terminal, capturing critical time-frequency domain features. Fault classification is performed using an SVM optimized with a Radial Basis Function (RBF) kernel and Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO), enabling precise mapping of data into higher-dimensional spaces for optimal separation. Validation conducted with MATLAB R2023b demonstrates a detection accuracy of 100% and a classification accuracy of 99%. Comparative analyses against models such as PSO-based Support Vector Machine (PSO-SVM), DWT-DNN and wavelet transform with artificial neural networks (WT-ANN) on the IEEE 13-bus system highlight the proposed method\u27s superior performance. This innovative approach proves to be robust, adaptable, and highly effective across diverse fault scenarios, offering significant improvements in accuracy and reliability for fault detection and classification in power distribution networks. The method supports real-time operation by using high-speed simulation platforms MATLAB/Simulink to process signals and classify faults within milliseconds using a pre-trained SVM model
Contamination of Surface Water around Coal Mining Sites in Ankpa Local Government Area, Kogi State, Nigeria
No full textAims: This study was conducted to evaluate the impact of coal mining activities on surface water quality around coal mining sites in Ankpa Local Government Area (LGA), Kogi State, Nigeria in June, 2024.
Methodology: A total of 36 water samples (12 samples each from upstream, midstream and downstream) were collected using 1-liter plastic container, preserved in ice-chest and transported to the laboratory for analysis. Heavy metals (Aluminum – Al, Iron - Fe, Chromium - Cr, and Zinc - Zn) and microbial analysis were performed using standard laboratory procedures. Data collected was analyzed for descriptive statistics using GENSTAT Discovery Software.
Results: Among the heavy metals analyzed, Al concentrations were within the lowest range (0.83 to 0.86 mg/L) but higher than secondary maximum contaminant level (SMCL). Conversely, the concentration of Fe across all sites were highest (6.55 to 6.61 mg/L). The chromium levels were within 1.85 to 1.95 mg/L which is higher than the WHO provisional guideline value of total chromium. Zinc levels across the sites were relatively stable (3.93 to 3.96 mg/L). Higher deposition of coliform were at the downstream while bacteria growth was only observed in the midstream. Salmonella spp, Shigella spp, and Enterobacter spp were recorded in all the sampling sites. At the upstream, the coliform count was 6.0 x 10⁵ CFU/ml, which was the lowest. At midstream, the coliform count was 4.0 x 10⁶ CFU/ml while downstream had values of 5.6 x 10⁶ CFU/ml. There was no bacterial growth at the upstream and downstream using nutrient agar and MacConkey agar.
Conclusion: The findings underscore the need for regular water quality monitoring, environmental remediation efforts, and enhanced community engagement to mitigate the environmental and public health risks posed by coal mining activities in coal mining sites in Ankpa LGA, Kogi State, Nigeria
Evaluating and Assessing Scientific Trends and Impact of Diabetic Nephropathy Research: A Scientometric Analysis
No full textDiabetic nephropathy (DN), a leading microvascular complication of diabetes mellitus, continues to impose a growing global health burden. This study aims to examine the research output, global contributions, impact indicators, collaboration networks, and evolving research trends in DN literature published between 2020 and 2024. A refined dataset of 4,255 Scopus-indexed documents was analysed using Microsoft Excel, VOSviewer, and Biblioshiny for bibliometric mapping, co-authorship visualization, keyword clustering, and trend detection. DN research exhibited an annual growth rate of 11.07%, with dominant output from China and rising international collaboration. However, citation metrics revealed a decline in Average Citations per Publication, reflecting a widening gap between volume and impact. Highly cited studies emphasized molecular therapies and precision diagnostics. Thematic maps revealed dominant clusters on oxidative stress, inflammation, and diabetic kidney disease, alongside emerging topics like bioinformatics and gut microbiota. This study presents a comprehensive visualization of DN’s knowledge landscape, identifying key contributors, global partnerships, and thematic trajectories
Enhancing Asphalt Performance with Waste Cooking Oil and Rubber Powder Composite: A Sustainable Approach for High-Temperature Conditions
No full textIn order to investigate the effect of rubber powder on the performance of waste cooking oil modified asphalt, this paper carries out the conventional performance tests such as penetration, softening point, ductility and other tests, as well as dynamic shear rheological (Dynamic Shear Rheological (DSR)) test and high temperature mechanical properties of the matrix asphalt, modified asphalt with waste cooking oil, and modified asphalt composite with waste cooking oil/rubber powder. The test results show that the addition of rubber powder significantly improves the softening point and ductility properties of waste cooking oil-modified asphalt while increasing the degree of penetration, and the DSR test results show that the rutting factor of the waste cooking oil/rubber powder composite modified asphalt is significantly higher than that of the base asphalt and waste cooking oil-modified asphalt under the same temperature conditions, indicating that it has a better performance of high-temperature deformation resistance. Practically, this composite modification approach holds substantial potential for application in high-temperature regions, where it can improve pavement durability and reduce maintenance costs. Environmentally, the utilization of waste cooking oil and rubber powder contributes to resource recycling, mitigating the environmental burdens associated with their disposal and aligning with sustainable development goals.Therefore, improving the high-temperature performance of waste cooking oil-modified asphalt by adding rubber powder has good application prospects and practical feasibility
An Agribusiness Perspective on the Honey Market in India: Production, Practices, and Market Dynamics
No full textHoney production and apiculture have rapidly gained prominence as a vital agribusiness activity in India. It contributes to rural livelihoods, crop pollination, nutritional security, and export earnings. This paper examines the honey sector from an agribusiness perspective, analyzing production trends, regional patterns, beekeeping practices, biodiversity linkages, and market dynamics. The paper draws on government statistics, industry reports, and academic literature. The study highlights the significant growth of honey output—rising from 64,000 MT in 2011–12 to 133,000 MT in 2020–21—and the concentration of production in states such as Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Punjab, and Bihar. The review underscores the heterogeneity of apiculture across India’s agro-climatic zones, covering floral calendars, migratory beekeeping, and the interplay between traditional honey gathering and modern hive technologies. The value-chain analysis reveals persistent structural challenges, including quality control, adulteration, traceability gaps, and limited access to premium markets, which constrain both domestic and export competitiveness despite rising global demand. Special attention is given to honey as a non-timber forest product (NTFP) with the potential to enhance tribal and rural incomes through niche and specialty honey markets. The paper concludes that realizing India’s “sweet revolution” requires integrated policy support, scientific beekeeping practices, robust quality assurance, and strengthened value-chain linkages to translate production growth into equitable and sustainable agribusiness opportunities
Review of Comprehensive Assessment on Mechanical Properties of Water Conveyance Tunnel Linings
No full textTo investigate the mechanical behavior of lining structures in water conveyance tunnels under complex working conditions, this study systematically examines the influence of key factors including buffer layer properties, drainage board layout, rheological characteristics of surrounding rock, segment assembly methods, and high internal water pressure on structural performance. Using typical project cases from various regions and combining theoretical analysis, numerical simulations, and field tests, the research demonstrates that under normal load conditions, the outer segments act as the main load-bearing component in double-layer linings, whereas the inner lining\u27s load-bearing proportion increases to 30%-45% under sudden loads. Local installation of drainage boards causes cracks in self-compacting concrete to concentrate within the installation area. Rheological effects in the surrounding rock lead to a gradual increase in axial force in the segments during operation. The longitudinal stiffness of segments with staggered-joint assembly exceeds that of continuous-joint assembly, resulting in reduced stress on circumferential bolts. Under high internal water pressure, the load-sharing ratio of the surrounding rock increases with its elastic modulus. The findings of this review provide theoretical support for the optimized design and long-term safety assessment of lining structures in water conveyance tunnels
Experimental Study on the Effect of Varying Cement Additive Percentages on the Mechanical Properties and Durability of Cement-Improved Loess
No full textIn order to study the influence of cement on the mechanical properties of remolded loess. Incorporating 3%, 4%, 5%, 6 %, and 7% cement into the remolded loess, the consolidation and direct shear tests were performed on the remolded soil samples to analyze the relationship between different amounts of cement and the mechanical indexes of the remolded loess. The test results show that the incorporation of cement improves the deformation resistance and shear strength of remolded loess. The compression modulus of remolded loess increases with the increase of loess content, but the compression coefficient decreases gradually. The cohesion and internal friction angle of remolded loess increase with the increase of cement content, but the cohesion increases more obviously, while the internal friction angle is not obvious. The incorporation of cement can greatly improve the anti-disintegration ability of loess. With the increase of cement content, the anti-disintegration effect is more obvious. When the cement content is 3%, the cumulative disintegration component is almost 0. Finally, the research shows that the anti-deformation performance, shear strength and anti-disintegration ability are greatly improved when the cement ratio is 3 %, which is the optimal ratio economically. The research results can provide theoretical support and reference for the future foundation engineering construction in loess area
N-Hexane Fraction of Cashew Nut Shell Extract as a Potential Anticoccidial Agent in Broiler Chickens
No full textAvian coccidiosis has long been been been a disease of major economic importance in the poultry industry worldwide. The anti-coccidial effect of n-hexane fraction of cashew nut shell (CNS) extract on Eimeria tenella infection in broiler chickens was studied. Median lethal dose (LD50) was used to determine the toxicity of the extract and to establish the dose for the in vivo studies. The chicks (2 weeks old) were grouped into five experimental groups A-E) of five chicks each; A: Normal control group (uninfected and untreated, only feed and water), B: Infected with 5000 sporulaed E. tenella oocysts and untreated, C: Infected and treated with 1.5% Amprolium®, D: Infected and treated with n-hexane fraction (750mg/kg), E: Infected and treated with n-hexane fraction (1500mg/kg). Preparative Tin Layer Chromatography, Gas Chromatography – Mass Spectrometry, and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy TLC, GC-MS and FTIR were used to further purify and determine the active ingredient in the fraction. The median lethal dose (LD50) was found to be >5000mg/kg body weight. There was a significant (p<0.05) increase in body weight of the chicks in group A (368.2±54.2g), C (417.00±42.8g), D (387.4±35.8g) and E (427.4±35.8g) at 7 days post infection with E. tenella oocysts when compared with group B (222.8±48.0g). The oocyst per gram (OPG) in the caecum of group B was significantly (p<0.05) higher (394120.0±115414) than what was found in group A (23.0±07.2), C (101±66.1), D (10149±6656.1) and E (2249.3±232.1). The gross lesion scores of +3 and +1 were recorded for groups B and C respectively. Further fractionation revealed four sub-fractions (A1, A2, A3 and A4) in which sub-fraction A2 showed the highest inhibitory activity against sporulated E. tenella oocysts based on the percentage oocysts lysis of 91.5% and the remaining unlysed oocysts (8.5%) which were found to be unviable. Based on GC-MS and FTIR spectroscopy, the active compound in sub-fraction A2 of the CNS n-hexane fraction maybe 2-(5-bromopentyl)- 7,9-Diethyl-2,4-bis (dimethylamino) -10-imino-8-thio-1,7,9-triazaspiro [4.5]-1,3-decadiene-6,8-dione. This finding suggested that, the compounds present in the active fraction A of CNS extract possess anticoccidial effects against E. tenella infection in broiler chicks
Research on Translator Role Migration in Digital Business Discourse Ecology
No full textAgainst the background of the rapid development of digital technology, the business discourse ecology has undergone profound transformations, with artificial intelligence (AI) technologies driving systematic migration and reconstruction of the translator’s role. This study focuses on the dynamic evolution of the translator’s role within digital business discourse ecology, and meanwhile, analyses the impact of reconstructed digital translation production mode on translator functions—addressing existing research gaps such as the unclear migration mechanism of translators’ roles under the "technology-culture-business" triple discourse and the mismatch between traditional translation training and industry demands. Employing a mixed-methods design including literature analysis (of 87 core works, 32 international and 55 domestic, 2010–2025), case studies (56 cases across 3 scenarios: cross-border e-commerce, legal contracts, metaverse commerce) and empirical research (300 professional translators, 42% from cross-border e-commerce), it examines characteristics of technological empowerment, modal integration and scenario dynamicity, revealing how intelligent translation production processes, multidimensional standards and collaborative ecology reshape translator’s role. The findings indicate that the translator’s role has expanded from the traditional "language converter" to "technology co-manager," "cross-modal meaning integrator," and "network hub." The core competencies now manifest as a trinity of "technical tool mastery," “cross-dimensional quality judgement" and "network collaborative creativity." These results provide theoretical and practical support for the reform of translation education and the cultivation of interdisciplinary translators