WSEAS Transactions on Environment and Development
Subject Area and Category Energy Energy (miscellaneous) Environmental Science Ecological Modeling Environmental Chemistry Environmental Engineering Environmental Science (miscellaneous) Management, Monitoring, Policy and Law Waste Management and Disposal Social Sciences Development Geography, Planning and Development
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A CONTEMPORARY STANDARDS-BASED EVALUATION OF ARABIC LANGUAGE TEACHING METHODS IN GRADE EIGHT ARABIC SCHOOLS IN BRUNEI DARUSSALAM.
This field-based study aimed to evaluate the methods used in teaching Arabic to eighth-grade students in Arabic schools in Brunei Darussalam in light of contemporary standards in language education, through the analysis of quantitative data interpreted with qualitative support. The study adopted an evaluative-analytical approach to examine the extent to which actual classroom practices align with the principles of communicative competence, which emphasize that language learning is not confined to grammatical knowledge alone, but extends to the ability to use language effectively in authentic communicative contexts (Canale & Swain, 1980, pp. 1–47). The findings revealed that the current instructional reality is characterized by a hybrid structure that combines deeply rooted traditional practices with emerging indicators of communicative pedagogy. On the one hand, the heavy reliance on translating Arabic texts into Malay remained strikingly high, reaching 84.1%, which indicates the continued centrality of translation in classroom practice. On the other hand, the data also demonstrated positive tendencies toward the adoption of certain communicative principles, including methodological variety (81.0%), attention to communicative competence (76.6%), and relatively strong emphasis on training students in the four language skills. However, the findings also disclosed a clear gap between teachers’ declared pedagogical orientations and students’ actual communicative performance. While teachers reportedly encouraged the use of Arabic, the proportion of students speaking Arabic with their peers declined to only 40.1%, indicating the limited presence of Arabic interaction within the classroom community. This finding corroborates the contemporary literature, which argues that the success of communicative language teaching depends on an interaction-rich classroom environment, dense exposure to meaningful input, and authentic opportunities for linguistic production (Nation, 2007, pp. 2–13; Littlewood & Yu, 2011, pp. 64–77). The study concludes that Arabic language teaching in this context remains in a transitional phase between the traditional structural model and the modern communicative model. It therefore recommends strengthening the use of Arabic as the principal medium of instruction, expanding interactive classroom activities, and aligning assessment practices and instructional content with contemporary global standards in language education.
Arabic language teaching for non-native speakers; Arabic teaching methods; communicative competence; communicative language teaching; language curriculum evaluation.
Copyright (c) 2026 WSEAS Transactions on Environment and Development https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
EVALUATING THE PEDAGOGICAL EFFECTIVENESS OF INSTRUCTIONAL MEDIA IN ARABIC LANGUAGE EDUCATION: EVIDENCE FROM EIGHTH-GRADE ARABIC SCHOOLS IN BRUNEI DARUSSALAM
This study evaluates the availability and pedagogical utilization of instructional media in teaching Arabic in Grade Eight Arabic schools in Brunei Darussalam. Grounded in contemporary perspectives on communicative language teaching and technology-enhanced language learning, the research seeks to examine the extent to which instructional resources support the development of Arabic language skills among students. A mixed-methods research design was employed in order to obtain a comprehensive understanding of instructional practices. Quantitative data were collected through a structured questionnaire administered to 200 Grade Eight students using a five-point Likert scale, while qualitative insights were obtained through semi-structured interviews with fifteen Arabic language teachers, classroom observations, and document analysis. The findings reveal that instructional media are generally available at a moderate to high level across the examined schools, with weighted percentages exceeding seventy percent in most dimensions. Audio materials, multimedia resources, digital tools, and language laboratories appear to be relatively accessible and contribute significantly to enhancing listening and reading skills. However, the study also identifies notable disparities in the pedagogical integration of these resources. In particular, instructional media are less frequently employed in developing speaking and writing competencies. Qualitative evidence suggests that these limitations are associated with variations in technological infrastructure, limited teacher training in digital pedagogy, and institutional constraints. The study concludes that strengthening teachers’ technological and pedagogical competencies, alongside expanding multimedia learning resources, is essential for improving the effectiveness of Arabic language education and promoting balanced development of the four language skills.
Instructional Media; Arabic Language Teaching; Technology-Enhanced Language Learning; Communicative Language Education; Arabic Schools in Brunei Darussalam.
RECONCEPTUALIZING ARABIC LANGUAGE CURRICULUM QUALITY: A STANDARDS-BASED EVALUATION OF THE GRADE EIGHT CURRICULUM IN ARABIC SCHOOLS IN BRUNEI DARUSSALAM
This study evaluates the content of the Arabic language curriculum prescribed for Grade Eight students in Arabic schools in Brunei Darussalam in light of international standards for language education. It seeks to determine the extent to which the curriculum aligns with principles of communicative competence and contemporary curriculum design quality. The study employed a descriptive-analytical evaluative approach within a mixed-methods research design, integrating quantitative and qualitative data. Questionnaire responses were analyzed through weighted percentages and descriptive statistics, while findings were interpreted in the light of semi-structured interviews, document analysis, and classroom observations, following the principle of methodological triangulation to enhance credibility and interpretive depth (Cohen et al., 2018, pp. 287–314; Johnson & Onwuegbuzie, 2004, pp. 14–26). The study sample consisted of Arabic language teachers responsible for teaching Grade Eight in Arabic schools in Brunei Darussalam. The findings indicate that the curriculum demonstrates an acceptable to good level of pedagogical and linguistic adequacy. It is broadly appropriate to students’ linguistic and developmental levels and exhibits considerable strength in lexical and grammatical organization, particularly in supporting reading comprehension and sentence construction. However, the results also reveal a relative imbalance in the distribution of language skills, with reading and writing more strongly represented than listening and speaking, while the effective enactment of oral skills depends heavily on teacher initiative (Richards, 2013, pp. 5–33; Canale& Swain, 1980, pp. 1–47). The study further found that the curriculum privileges Islamic and Arab cultural content more than local Bruneian sociocultural realities, and that morphology and learner differentiation remain comparatively underdeveloped. Accordingly, the study recommends strengthening skill balance, redesigning morphological progression, and expanding the representation of local cultural context in accordance with contemporary principles of materials development (Tomlinson, 2012, pp. 143–179).
curriculum evaluation; Arabic language teaching; four language skills; language curriculum design; teaching Arabic to non-native speakers
A STANDARDS-BASED EVALUATIVE ANALYSIS OF THE EFFECTIVENESS OF THE ARABIC LANGUAGE LEARNING ASSESSMENT SYSTEM FOR EIGHTH-GRADE STUDENTS IN ARABIC SCHOOLS IN BRUNEI DARUSSALAM
This study aimed to analyze the effectiveness of the Arabic language learning assessment system for eighth-grade students in Arabic schools in Brunei Darussalam in light of global standards for language assessment, with particular emphasis on validity, comprehensiveness, alignment, and balance across the four language skills. The study adopted a mixed-methods approach using an explanatory sequential design. Quantitative data were collected from 201 students through a five-point Likert-scale questionnaire, and the findings were subsequently enriched by qualitative evidence derived from semi-structured interviews with 15 teachers, document analysis, and classroom observations. Quantitative data were analyzed using percentages and relative weights, whereas qualitative data were examined through thematic analysis. The findings revealed that the assessment system demonstrates a generally good level of overall effectiveness, albeit with noticeable variation across its components. Writing emerged as the most strongly assessed skill (80.2%), followed by reading (78.9%), speaking (76.2%), and listening (74.5%), indicating a relative preference for written over oral skills. The results further showed a good level of test validity (81.2%) and alignment with curricular content (77.7%), alongside the continued dominance of grammar-based questions (82.1%), a relative imbalance between theoretical and practical dimensions (67.8%), and a limited presence of diagnostic assessment (63%). The study underscores the need to develop the assessment system toward a more communicative and integrated model that strengthens performance-based and formative assessment and measures learners’ actual linguistic competence in a more comprehensive manner.
Arabic language learning assessment; language assessment; communicative competence; four language skills; communicative assessment; teaching Arabic to non-native speakers; Arabic schools in Brunei Darussalam.
OPTIMIZING THE SWELLING DEGREE OF RUBBER AND ENHANCING ITS OPERATIONAL PROPERTIES USING CELLULOSE FIBERS DERIVED FROM WILD BARLEY STRAW
This study investigates the optimization of the swelling degree of rubber compositions and the enhancement of their operational properties through the strategic incorporation of cellulose fibers derived from wild barley (Hordeumspontaneum) straw. In modern polymer science, replacing synthetic additives with environmentally sustainable fillers from local sources holds significant ecological and economic importance. This research evaluates the synergistic effect of cellulose obtained from wild barley when introduced into elastomer matrices along with technical-grade carboxymethylcellulose (CMC). The experimental methodology involved isolating cellulose through the chemical treatment of agricultural waste and systematically incorporating it into the rubber mixture at various concentrations. It has been conclusively demonstrated that these natural cellulose fibers function as both a reinforcing filler and a structural modifier. The primary focus of the research was on the material's performance in aggressive hydrocarbon environments. The results revealed a significant reduction in the degree of swelling when exposed to oil and gasoline, which in turn indicates a higher cross-link density between the fiber and the polymer matrix, as well as improved interfacial adhesion. Furthermore, mechanical tests demonstrated a considerable increase in tensile strength and hardness, resulting in a nearly twofold improvement in the operational durability of the resulting technical rubber products. The cellulose fibers reinforce the elastomer structure, reduce molecular mobility, and thereby prevent its premature degradation. This proposed technology not only paves the way for the creation of high-value-added industrial products but also promotes the principle of "green chemistry" by converting local plant waste into high-performance materials for the automotive and industrial sectors.
Wild barley straw, cellulose, carboxymethylcellulose, elastomer, rubber, degree of swelling, mechanical strength, modifier, service life, filler
Copyright (c) 2025 WSEAS Transactions on Environment and Development https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
A Systematic Review of Digital Learning Resources for Adolescent Writing Development and Pedagogical Integration
This systematic literature review synthesizes empirical evidence from 43 peer-reviewed studies (2020–2025) on digital learning resources (DLRs) for developing writing skills among secondary school students. Guided by PRISMA 2020 guidelines, the review addresses three research questions concerning the types of DLRs employed, their reported impacts on writing outcomes, and the pedagogical and contextual factors influencing their implementation. Findings reveal a diversification of tools, including automated writing evaluation (AWE) systems, collaborative platforms (e.g., Google Docs), AI prompt engineering, gamified applications, and communication tools like Zoom, increasingly aligned with specific writing genres and processes. DLRs consistently enhance higher-order writing skills (e.g., argumentation, creativity, organization) and affective dimensions (e.g., self-efficacy, reduced anxiety), yet show limited impact on grammatical accuracy and cohesion. Critically, effectiveness is mediated by intentional pedagogical integration, such as metacognitive flipped classrooms, goal-setting, and visualization-enhanced collaboration, and constrained by teacher preparedness, classroom management challenges, and institutional resistance to advanced analytics. The review identifies a a Pedagogy-Over-Platform (POP) framework divided in writing development and underscores that technology’s value lies not in novelty but in thoughtful, context-responsive design, Implications for educators, researchers, and policymakers emphasize the need for balanced skill instruction, sustained professional development, and equitable access to ensure DLRs fulfill their potential as inclusive and educationally meaningful resources
SYNTHESIS AND INVESTIGATION OF COORDINATION COMPOUNDS OF Co(II) ION WITH 2-HYDROXY-1-NAPHTHALDEHYDE AND 1,2-PHENYLENEDIAMINE
A new metal complex compound with the composition [Co(2-hnaph)2(1,2-phen)2]∙Cl-∙C2H5OH was synthesized by the interaction of 2-hnaph (2-hydroxy-1-naphthaldehyde), 1,2-phen (1,2-phenylenediamine), and CoCl2∙6H2O in ethyl alcohol solutions. The composition, molecular and crystal structures of this metal complex compound were investigated using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), IR spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD). DSC analysis revealed that the thermal decomposition of the organic component in the complex varies, beginning at 75°C and ending in the temperature range of 370°C. A reaction occurs between the oxygen of the carbonyl group in the aldehyde form of 2-hnaph and the amino (NH2) groups of 1,2-phen, resulting in the release of one water molecule (>C=O + -NH2 → >C=N- + H2O). Analysis of two-dimensional fingerprint region plots revealed that H...O/O...H, H...H, and H...C/C...H interactions make the greatest contribution to the Hirshfeld surface. In the complex compound, H...H interactions account for 47.2%, H...C/C...H for 34.4%, and H...Cl/Cl...H for 9.2%, which is the expected state for molecules dominated by oxygen atoms. The complex compound contains H...H (47.2%), H...C/C...H (34.4%), and H...Cl/Cl...H (9.2%), which is the expected state for molecules dominated by oxygen atoms.
2-hydroxy-1-naphthaldehyde, 1,2-phenylenediamine, cobalt (II) chloride hexahydrate, alcohol, complex, ligand, Hirshfeld.
THEORETICAL AND EXPERIMENTAL FOUNDATIONS FOR RESOURCE-EFFICIENT OPTIMIZATION OF SPRINKLER IRRIGATION USING A LOW-PRESSURE DEFLECTOR NOZZLE UNDER ARID CLIMATE CONDITIONS
This study presents the theoretical and experimental foundations for the resource-efficient optimization of sprinkler irrigation using a low-pressure deflector nozzle under arid climate conditions. Particular attention is given to water droplet motion, droplet formation mechanisms, and evaporation losses, considering aerodynamic drag and the influence of external environmental factors. Water droplet motion was described using differential equations based on Newton’s second law, while droplet diameter was evaluated as a function of outlet velocity, nozzle orifice diameter, surface tension, and fluid density. Evaporation and wind drift losses were analyzed as functions of air temperature, relative humidity, wind velocity, and droplet size, allowing assessment of their combined impact on irrigation efficiency. Theoretical predictions were validated through laboratory and laboratory–field experiments. The results confirmed stable water discharge within the low-pressure operating range and the formation of aerodynamically stable droplets with diameters of 1.0–1.4 mm. This droplet size range was identified as optimal for limiting evaporation and wind drift losses, with the relative reduction in evaporation exceeding 50% under optimal operating conditions. Irrigation uniformity was evaluated using the Christiansen coefficient, which reached high values, demonstrating compliance with agrotechnical requirements. Overall, the obtained results indicate that the proposed low-pressure deflector sprinkler nozzle provides an effective water- and energy-efficient solution for reducing evaporation losses and improving the performance of sprinkler irrigation systems operating in arid and semi-arid regions.
low-pressure sprinkler irrigation; deflector nozzle; water droplets; evaporation losses; wind drift; irrigation uniformity; Christiansen coefficient; arid climate; resource-efficient irrigation
DEVELOPING NEW VARIETIES OF GRAIN, OIL AND FODDER CROPS ADAPTED TO CLIMATE CHANGES FOR THE RAINFED AREAS OF UZBEKISTAN
Uzbekistan’s rainfed agricultural regions are increasingly affected by climate variability, including reduced rainfall, higher temperatures, and frequent droughts. To ensure food security and sustainable agricultural productivity, it is crucial to develop crop varieties that are resilient to these changing conditions. This research focuses on breeding and selecting new varieties of grain, oilseed, and fodder crops with enhanced drought tolerance, heat resistance, and stable yields under rainfed conditions. Utilizing advanced breeding techniques, field trials across diverse agro-climatic zones, and collaboration with local farmers, the project aims to introduce high-performing crop varieties that can maintain productivity despite climate stress. The outcomes will support the resilience of Uzbekistan’s rainfed agriculture, improve farmer livelihoods, and contribute to national food security. Climatic conditions of Central Asia are characterized by a large amount of sunlight and heat, suddenly changes in annual and daily air temperature, low annual atmospheric precipitation, dry relative air humidity. The rainfed lands of Uzbekistan receive less rainfall than other dryland regions of the Central Asian republic, and therefore more droughts are observed. Scientific researches are being carried out at the Scientific Research Institute of Rainfed Agriculture on the creation of new varieties of grain, oilseed and forage crops for cultivation in the rainfed conditions of Uzbekistan. The yield and productivity of agricultural crops in rainfed lands are strongly influenced by weather conditions during the crop's vegetation. The article presents the results of research on the effects of intense heat and drought during the growing season on the productivity indicators and productivity of varieties and samples of agricultural crops such as wheat, barley, safflower, flax and alfalfa under conditions of global climate change. Creation of high-yielding and high-quality new varieties of grain, oilseed and fodder crops that quickly and effectively use the natural soil fertility, organic and mineral fertilizers for planting in dry areas in Uzbekistan, and are resistant to unfavourable conditions of the external environment will ensure their productivity.
rainfed lands, rainfall, bread wheat, barley, oil crops, safflower, flax, fodder, alfalfa, selection, evaluation, selection, vegetation period, spike, heat and drought tolerant, unfavourable factor, valuable traits, yield, variety, samples, green mass, dry mass, hay
INFLUENCE OF OIL CROPS SOWN AFTER WINTER WHEAT ON SOIL FERTILITY AND THE YIELD OF THIN FIBERED COTTON
In the extreme climate and takyr-like low-humus soils of the Surkhandarya region, located in the southernmost desert zone of Uzbekistan, the study of the influence of winter wheat and repeatedly sown oilseeds on soil fertility, wilt of fine-fiber cotton, and cotton yield under short-rotation crop rotation is the most pressing problem of agriculture. As a result of the accumulation of organic substances in winter wheat and various oilseeds sown after it and their mineralization, an increase in soil humus and other nutrients, soil fertility, improvement of the agrophysical and agrochemical state of the soil, and a decrease in the damage caused by wilt, as a result of which the cotton yield of fine-fiber cotton increased by 4.5-5.5 t/ha-1 compared to the control, and the level of profitability of the farm increased by 20-25%.
Winter wheat, short-rotation crop rotation, repeated oilseeds, soybeans, sunflower, peanuts, safflower, sesame, soil moisture, density, water permeability, agrochemical properties, fine-fiber cotton, yield, wilt disease
SPECIES COMPOSITION AND BIOECOLOGICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF INSECTS BELONGING TO THE ORDER RECTHOPEDIA, SPREAD IN PASTURE AREAS
The article presents the results of scientific research conducted to study the species composition and bioecological characteristics of insects belonging to the order Orthoptera found in the pastures of southern and central regions of Uzbekistan. According to the research results, 5 species of true grasshoppers belonging to 4 genera (Tettigonia, Decticus, R1atycleis, Semenoviana.) of the (Tettigoniidae) family, 3 species from the superfamily of crickets (Grylloidea), 2 species from the calf heads (Gryllotalpidae) family, 27 species from the superfamily of grasshoppers (Acridoidea) Purgomorphidae, Pamphagidae, Acrididae families, a total of 37 species of insects belonging to the order Orthoptera were recorded. Of these, 25 species were found to be ephemeral and ephemeroid, 34 species were found to be semi-shrub-ephemeral, and 23 species were found to be distributed in shrub and grass pastures. The identified insect species are distributed in various associations of pasture plants, the distribution, reproduction, and development of species were studied, and it was noted that they have a serious impact on the growth, development, and reproduction of pasture plants.
INFLUENCE OF CROP ROTATION AND FERTILIZERS ON THE GROWTH, DEVELOPMENT, AND YIELD OF MEDIUM-FIBER COTTON IN SOUTHERN UZBEKISTAN
Crop rotation is a scientifically based crop rotation over the years. In crop rotation, crops are sown sequentially in all fields. The recurrence of the crop rotation period is called crop rotation. When sowing soybeans, fodder peas, triticale+fodder peas on fields freed from winter wheat, and sowing cotton on harvested fields, the proportion of vegetative and generative organs increases due to intensive growth and development. The best predecessors of cotton were winter wheat, repeated soybeans, fodder peas, triticale+fodder peas, which ensured an additional yield of 0.16-0.22 t/ha-1 of cotton. When sowing green manure crops (soybeans, fodder peas, triticale, triticale+fodder peas) after winter wheat, an additional yield of 0.40-0.56 t/ha-1 or 13.0-18.7% was obtained compared to the control. When sowing cotton after green manure crops, the green mass of intermediate crops was more effective compared to the harvested field, and an additional 0.41-0.56 t/ha-1 of raw cotton was obtained compared to the control variants.
INFLUENCE OF THE APPLICATION OF STIMULANTS TO SOYBEANS SOWN IN FIELDS FREED FROM WINTER WHEAT ON SEEDLING EMERGENCE AND GRAIN YIELD
In the context of global climate change, drought, and extreme weather conditions, the effectiveness of applying stimulants to soybean crops after winter wheat has been determined for the effective use of land, growing two harvests per year, meeting the population's demand for food products and livestock for feed, preserving and increasing soil fertility. The most favorable temperature for intensive growth and development of soybeans is around 20-25 0C, however, it can grow well even in the temperature range of 25-30 0C. In the experimental area, the average air temperature in July was 31.2-33.3 0C, the highest air temperature was 42.2-44.8 0C, at such a high temperature, the soybean plant is under stress and the possibilities of growing a high yield are limited. To ensure the intensive growth and development of soybeans and obtain high yields, the use of Uzgumi and Ma'suda stimulants in various doses before sowing seeds and during the growing season was studied. When treating soybean seeds sown repeatedly after winter wheat with the Uzgumi stimulant at a rate of 0.6 l/t-1 and the Ma'suda stimulant at a rate of 3.0 l/t-1, it accelerated by 4.9-6.8%, and germination was observed 1-2 days earlier. When Uzgumi was applied to soybean seeds at a rate of 0.6 l/t-1, at 3-5 leaves at a rate of 0.2 l/ha-1, at budding at a rate of 0.3 l/ha-1 and at flowering at a rate of 0.4 l/ha-1, the plant height increased by 2.5 sm, the number of pods increased by 2.5 pieces, when Ma'suda stimulant was applied to soybean seeds at a rate of 3.0 l/t-1, at 3-5 leaves at a rate of 6.0 l/ha-1 and at budding at a rate of 9.0 l/ha-1, the plant height increased by 1.5 sm, the number of pods increased by 2.2 pieces. When treating repeated soybean crops with Uzgumi and Ma'suda, the dry mass increased by 1.79-2.93 g and more biomass accumulated. When using the stimulants Uzgumi and Ma'suda, the grain yield of soybeans was 2.02-2.11 t/ha-1, and the grain yield increased by 0.31-0.40 t/ha-1.
Winter wheat, repeated crop, soybean, seedling, germination, stimulator, application rate, timing, growth, development, dry weight, pod, weight of 1000 grains, grain yield
Fertilizers as Explosives Simulants: Interaction with Low Frequency Electromagnetic Signals
The aim of this paper is to demonstrate how different substances, in this case fertilizers, behave when exposed to ultra-low frequency (ULF) waves using an active inertia sensor. Specifically, the goal of the experiment is to find the resonant frequencies of some fertilizers and, afterwards,toidentify the common frequencies at which fertilizers containing similar molecular components are detected. The frequency range used in the experiment is between 5 to 8 kHz.Through studies conducted using an active inertia sensor emitting ULF and VLF frequencies, and various substances, it has been observed that substances sharing common molecular components can be detected by common frequencies. In this experiment, it will be demonstrated that this also holds true for a group of inorganic materials, such as fertilizers. The future goal is to develop a database that includes multiple substances and the frequencies at which they can be detected. Additionally, the useof fertilizers as simulants for military applications, including training,research, technology development,airport scanners, robotic bomb disposal units, and other security technologies, is highlighted. Furthermore, the advantages of using fertilizers as simulants, compared to actual explosive materials, are emphasized.
electromagnetism, ultra-low frequencies (ULF), inertia sensor, fertilizers, explosives’ simulants, resonant frequency.
Risk Analysis in Vegetable Farms - Aggressivity Evaluation
Vegetable production can be considered one of the most vital activities of agriculture. This study focuses on open-field vegetable production farms in Albania. The study's objective is to identify risks according to five main categories: the production process, finding sources of financing, marketing products, compliance with laws, and human resources management. This study aims to use qualitative analysis of the risks that threaten vegetable farms. The risk factor for each event is measured as a combination of probability and impact.For this study,isused the risk matrix method. Based on the matrix analysis, we concluded that the highest risk factors are flood, diseases, and pests, sometimes also illness or death of farmers. In general risk factors are unlikely to occur, but if the event occurs, the damage is catastrophic (they have the aggressiveness of a shark).Meanwhile, out of 19 risk factors analyzed, 52% have the aggressiveness of the rabbit, which means great fear,but the damage is relatively small, and 26% have the aggressiveness of the mouse, which means they have little likelihood and have no impact on the farmer's objectives.
risk, production, matrix, perception, analysis, evaluation, aggressivity, Albania
Impact of Quality Change Management on Project Performance in Civil Engineering Projects in India
One of the primary objectives of quality management is to eliminate non-conformance, which can be achieved through effective project oversight and supervision. High standards of quality not only enhance productivity but also help reduce costs, ultimately strengthening an organization’s competitive advantage. This study aims to investigate the impact of quality management practices on the performance of construction projects within the Indian industry. Numerous researchers have sought to identify factors influencing construction project outcomes. In this study, a structured questionnaire was distributed to a diverse group of industry professionals, including architects, engineers, consultants, developers, and researchers. A total of 152valid responses were collected. Respondents were asked to rate various aspects of quality’s influence on project performance using a five-point Likert scale. To prioritize the factors, the Relative Importance Index (RII) was calculated for each element. Factor analysis revealed three main components that together explained 62% of the observed variance. The findings indicate that the most significant project aspects affected by quality management are the rate of rework, overall project performance, cost, safety, labor productivity, and profitability, with RII scores of 0.85, 0.82, 0.78, 0.76, 0.75, and 0.74, respectively.
Construction Management; Quality Assurance; Construction Sector; Factor Analysis; Construction Productivity; Relative Importance Indices.
Exploring Crucial Factors Affecting the Useof ERP and Their Effecton Employee Performance
This research identifies key factors that influence the use of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP)and its influence on employee performance at PT Cakra Jawara Iveco Indonesia. This quantitative research uses Structural Equation Modeling Partial Least Squares (SEM PLS 4) as a data analysis tool to determine the relationship between variables. We propose 9 (nine) hypotheses to examine the relationships between variables, such as technical, organizational, and individual factors that influence ERP adoption. We also offer two. Our respondents are employees from a questionnaire used to gather data on employees’ perceptions ofthe variables.The discovery from this research is that there are internal and external variables to the adoption of information system models that have negligible influence on the adoption and employees’ results in self-efficacy at PT Cakra Jawara Iveco Indonesia. Thus, our discovery will provide awarenessof what is most necessary for ERP adoption and how it will impact employees. Our findings will be a reference for planningandimprovement of strategies concerning the socialization, selection, and implementation ofERP applications, and effective performance of our human resources. Furthermore, we also have two untested hypotheses, and this will provide an opportunity for further inquiry to explore other aspects that might influence ERP adoption and employees’reusability at PT Cakra Jawara Iveco Indonesia.
ERP Adoption, Business Information System, Employee Performance, Business Organization, Organization Strategic, Human Resource Management.
Optimizing Alkaline Molarity for Enhanced Compressive Strength in Geopolymer Concrete Blended with Equal Proportions of GGBS and Fly Ash
This experimental study investigates the impact of alkaline molarity on the compressive strength of geopolymer concrete (GPC) designed to be M25 grade. The GPC mix contained 50% Ground Granulated Blast Furnace Slag (GGBS) and 50% Fly Ash as the binder. Alkaline activator solutions were formulated with molarities of 8M, 10M, 12M, 14M and 16M to produce the geopolymer matrix. Concrete specimens were tested for compressive strength and flexural strength under the standard curing times. The findings show that compressive strength increased with molarity to the optimum alkaline molarity level after which compressive strength plateaued, and slightly decreased. 12M ulated a compressive strength higher than all other variations therefore the most efficient molarity for structural grade geopolymer concrete strength. This investigation offers some valuable information on the optimized alkaline activator concentration for sustainable concrete applications.
Alkaline Molarity and M25 Grade Concrete
Sustainable Potato Production in Desert Agriculture: Water, Soil, and Climate Adaptation Approaches
The potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) is the fourth most important food crop globally and a key contributor to food and nutritional security. However, its cultivation in arid and desert regions is constrained by severe challenges, including high temperatures, water scarcity, soil salinity, and reduced microbial diversity. This review synthesizes recent advances in sustainable farming practices and their potential to enhance potato productivity under desert conditions. Key strategies include climate change adaptation through optimized planting schedules and stress-tolerant varieties, water management practices such as drip and deficit irrigation, and the use of treated wastewater. Soil health restoration via organic amendments, microbial inoculants, and biofertilizers plays a critical role in nutrient cycling and stress tolerance. Additionally, eco-friendly pest management and the exploitation of genetic diversity enhance crop resilience against biotic and abiotic stresses. Desert-grown potatoes often exhibit unique nutritional and biochemical profiles, shaped by environmental stresses that stimulate antioxidant production. Strengthening the potato value chain in desert agriculture—from input supply to processing and marketing—remains vital for food security and rural livelihoods. While promising advances are being made, further research is needed to close knowledge gaps on plant–microbe interactions, the long-term impact of biofertilizers, and socio-economic implications of adopting sustainable practices
Potato value chain, Arid and desert agriculture, Water management strategies, Soil health and microbial diversity, Biofertilizers, Sustainable farming practices
Therapeutic Potential of Bioconjugated Niosomes: Sonchus maritimus Extract Protects Against High-Fructose Diet-Induced Nephrotoxicity
This study evaluated the therapeutic potential of Sonchus maritimus extract-loaded niosomes (SmE-N) against high-fructose diet (HFD)-induced genito-urinary dysfunction in rats. The stability of SmE-N formulations was assessed through standard physicochemical protocols, while morphological features were characterized using scanning and optical microscopy. Male rats were randomly divided into four groups (n=6 each): Control, HFD, HFD+SmE-N, and HFD+metformin. Biochemical, histological, and oxidative stress markers were analyzed in kidney tissues. In vitro characterization revealed that SmE-N were stable, spherical vesicles with an average size of ~200 nm and an encapsulation efficiency of 61.4%, maintaining excellent stability for up to 60 days. In vivo, HFD significantly elevated urea and uric acid levels. Oxidative stress was evident through increased malondialdehyde (MDA) and decreased levels of glutathione (GSH), total thiols, and antioxidant enzymes (GPx, SOD) in renal homogenates compared to controls. Histological examination confirmed tissue alterations in kidneys. Treatment with SmE-N or metformin markedly improved biochemical, oxidative, and histopathological parameters relative to the HFD group. SmE-loaded niosomes bioconjugated with linoleic acid demonstrate strong nephron-protective effects and may serve as a promising therapeutic strategy for managing HFD-induced metabolic complications
Sonchus maritimus extract, Niosomes, Linoleic acid bioconjugation, HFD, Nephroprotection
Monodora Myristica Extract: A Sustainable Substitute to Zinc Phosphate for Epoxy Coatings.
This research explored the use of monodora myristica (African nutmeg) extract as a sustainable and biodegradable substitute for zinc phosphate in epoxy coatings. A market standard coating formulation was used, and the percentage of zinc phosphate in the coating was substituted with Monodora myristica extract (MME). The coatings were applied to the mild steel substrate and allowed to dry in the open air. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) confirmed the presence of functional groups and bioactive ingredients that assist in both coatings' anti-corrosion properties. Morphological properties were studied using Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). Thermal studies were carried out using a Differential Scanning Calorimeter (DSC), while the electrochemical test utilised the rapid electrochemical assessment of paints (REAP) test. Finally, Computational studies were performed using density functional theory (DFT) and molecular Dynamics simulations (MDS). The results of the AFM showed a surface roughness of 1.15nm and 0.97nm for epoxy coated with zinc phosphate and extract, respectively. The extract-based coating had a slightly higher hardness value (100.3 HRB) compared to the market standard, with a micro hardness of 99.2 HRB. The DSC results showed that both coatings exhibit minor low-temperature features (~50–80 °C). The zinc phosphate formulation maintains a gradual heat-flow profile, while Monodora extract coating shows an earlier and steadier increase in heat flow. The (REAP tests showed a very close coating solution resistance of 7.43 ohms and 8.99 ohms, and a very close Relative Time To Failure, TTF (hrs) of 1240.4. and 1090.23 hrs. for both the epoxy/zinc phosphate and epoxy/extract coatings, respectively. The study demonstrates that coatings formulated with MME exhibit comparable morphological, thermal, and electrochemical properties to zinc phosphate-based coatings, indicating that MME can effectively replace hazardous substances without compromising performance.
How Does Transformational Leadership Enhance Sustainability Practices in Energy and Industry? The Mediating Influence of Environmental Awareness
This paper explores the multidimensional interdependencies, namely, the links between the transformation of leadership, sustainable practices, and environmental awareness, generally, in the energy and industrial sector of Saudi Arabia. We aim to delineate transformational leadership as a tool that will help promote sustainable practices by mediating environmental awareness. Data was collected through a questionnaire distributed among 384 employees in four prominent Saudi companies: KSA (SAPCO) (SABIC) Company, Saudi Electric Company (SEC), and Petro Rabigh Company. Applying the Structural Equations Evaluation Model (SEM) to the data analysis, the results demonstrated the positive role of transformational leadership in sustainability practices with the role of environmental awareness to act as a mediator. Lastly, those transformational leadership dimensions we mentioned earlier – charismatic leadership, directional motivation, intellectual stimulation and individualized attention – are crucial for successful sustainability projects. The data revealed a need for the enterprise to think about the environment as the core of its values to link these values to the practice of sustainability. This assumes that the enterprise will seek to include sustainability practices in its main strategies.
Transformational Leadership, Sustainability Practices, Environmental Awareness, Energy Sector, Industrial Sector, Saudi Arabia.
Indirect estimation of flow and suspended­ sediment concentration and load in small mountain streams: An exploratory
The aim of this study was to assess the applicability of indirect techniques for streamflow and suspended sediment concentration estimation and their use in the calculation of suspended sediment transport rate in the small mountain watersheds of Madeira Island, Portugal. Emphasis was given to the application of salt dilution gauging to the indirect determination of the flow rate and the use of water turbidity data to estimate the concentration of suspended sediments. The field and laboratory work carried out are briefly described, and the main experimental results and the field data from the short measurement campaign performed in the Ribeira Seca stream in Faial, on the north side of the island, are presented and discussed. Whilst the measurement campaign carried out was temporally and spatially limited, it was pioneering for Madeira and allowed to verify the applicability of the indirect hydrometric and sedimentometric techniques used in this exploratory study.
Mountain streams, streamflow, dilution gauging, suspended sediments, water turbidity, Madeira
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