Innovative Technology and Management Journal
The INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGY AND MANAGEMENT JOURNAL (ITMJ) is a peer-reviewed publication of the Eastern Visayas State University (EVSU). It publishes research articles and review of research literatures (RRL) in the fields of technology innovation, engineering, sciences, educational management, curriculum development and innovations, food and fisheries technology, management and entrepreneurship. It is published annually.
Paternalistic Leadership for Optimal Administrative Performance: An Analysis of Approaches
Administrators are encouraged to give directions and support to their subordinates, especially in a wide range of cultural contexts. This study included recognition of the effect of hierarchical structures on decision-making and delegation, stressing a call for empirical inquiries into paternalistic leadership in the State Universities of Panay Island, Philippines, to address existing research gaps. This study used a descriptive-correlational research design and a quantitative approach in discerning the effects of paternalistic leadership on administrative performance among eighty (80) purposively selected administrators from seven (7) State Universities in the Island of Panay, Philippines. The instruments used were a self-administered survey questionnaire for paternalistic leadership approaches and an adapted questionnaire for administrative performance. The analyzed data included descriptive statistics, the Mann-Whitney U test, the Kruskal-Wallis test, Spearman's rank correlation coefficient, and multiple linear regression; all were considered statistically significant at α = 0.05. The study results found a common occurrence across administrators in selected State University of Panay Island on benevolent and moral paternalistic leadership practices that may influence good organizational culture. Administrators in these institutions were firmly committed to ethical leadership practices and the well-being of their staff which leads to a climate that is most conducive for encouraging administrative effectiveness. It is, therefore, suggested that state university leadership should employ a paternalistic leadership approach of a benevolent and moral nature to maintain an organizational climate conducive to work whose performance in the government field would be better.
Development of a Small Capacity Coconut Charcoal-Fired Peanut Roasting Machine and Performance Evaluation Using a Smartphone-Based Colorimeter Application
This study aimed to design and develop a compact coconut charcoal-fired peanut roasting machine with a 2-kg capacity, investigating the correlation between the roasting chamber temperature and peanut product output through linear regression analysis and correlation. The main components of the designed and developed peanut roasting machine include the frame, heating chamber, roasting chamber, furnace, and driving mechanism. The machine's dimensions are 480 mm x 330 mm x 380 mm, with a furnace capacity of at least 1 kilogram of coconut charcoal. A low-speed motor was employed to drive the roasting chamber. To assess the Maillard browning reaction resulting from the roasting process, a smartphone-based colorimeter application was utilized to measure the CIE L* ideal roasting color. The analysis indicated that as roasting time increased, the roasting chamber temperature also increased at a rate of 1.320, while the CIE L* decreased at a rate of 1.170. Pearson's correlation analysis demonstrated a strong negative correlation between chamber temperature and CIE L*, with an r-value of 94.71% and statistical significance at p = 0.0073. Additionally, when plotting the trends of chamber temperature and CIE L*, the intersection point was observed at 21.8 minutes, indicating that the optimal roasting chamber temperature for the highest rate of temperature increase and CIE L* decrease is 134°C. The developed peanut roaster can roast 2 kg of skinless peanut using 1 kg of coco-shell charcoal and achieve the best roasting color in 22 minutes at 134oC.
Job Level Position and Academic Competencies: A Tracer Study of Engineering Graduates in Biliran Province State University
This study answers the lack of research on the relevance of academic-acquired competencies and job level positions among the graduates of Biliran Province State University (BIPSU). To analyze the employability of BIPSU engineering graduates, a descriptive research method was used. Chi-square statistics was also utilized to assess the relationship between academic-acquired competencies and the graduates' first job occupations. A combination of convenience and purposive sampling methods were applied to collect the required responses. There are a total of 281 respondents who participated in the survey, from a population of 483 engineering graduates from academic years 2006 to 2021. Data collection was carried out by the respondents by answering the fielded Graduate Tracer Survey (GTS) instrument via Google Forms, adapted from the standard GTS instrument from the Commission of Higher Education (CHED). This study revealed that most BIPSU engineering graduates are now employed in regular or permanent positions. They are primarily in locally-based construction firms and majority of them hold positions which are under professional, technical, or supervisory levels. The chi-square test results indicated that graduates perceived critical thinking and communication skills as the most relevant academic-acquired skill to their initial job positions. A policy was proposed to better align the university’s curriculum with the local job market. It is also recommended that BIPSU develop programs, offer training, and organize activities to enhance its curriculum, with a focus on critical thinking and communication skills, which are crucial for acquiring employment.
Synthesis of Highly Pure and Hydrophilic Metal-Nitride Thin Films Using Reactive High-Frequency Magnetron Sputtering
The increasingly widespread innovation of nanotechnology significantly affects our society, especially its contribution to economies. Nanosized metal nitrides possess interesting properties (e.g., highly corrosive resistant, good electrical properties, great metallic conductivity, etc.) that are capitalized, resulting in numerous applications. The thin film preparation procedure is an important step that determines the film's characteristics, such as crystallographic orientation. Hence, this study pursues the synthesis of metal-nitride thin films and characterizes their properties for future possible applications. Vanadium nitride (VN) and aluminum nitride (AlN) were synthesized and deposited on silicon substrates via high-frequency magnetron sputtering. The crystalline structure of the thin films was characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), and the wettability was determined using static contact angle measurement. Accordingly, the (311) phase of vanadium nitride and the (100) and (004) phases of aluminum nitride were observed with no impurities. Meanwhile, the static water contact angle indicated a hydrophilic property in both thin-film samples, as the values were observed to be less than 90°.
Reflectance Properties of Silver Thin Film Synthesized via RF Magnetron Sputtering
Nano film materials have now become one of the most interesting areas for research explorations and technological applications due to its unique properties that varied significantly when deposited in different conditions. One of the leading materials with very interesting use in photovoltaic devices, electrochemical applications, optical coatings, and medical applications is silver (Ag). Thus, this study is carried out to investigate the reflectance property of silver nano film. The films are synthesized in a silicon (Si) wafer substrate using radio frequency magnetron sputtering device deposited under 300 °C and 500 °C substrate temperature. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) result revealed the existence of silver crystals in all samples. UV-vis spectrophotometer was used to analyze the optical properties of the silver nano film sample. Correspondingly, the grown silver nano film at 500 °C has a solar reflectance (Rsol) of 65.16%, which indicates the sample’s remarkable ability to reflect solar energy. Additionally, the sample’s reflectance in the ultraviolet (RUV), visible (Rlum), and infrared (RIR) spectra are 61.35%, 75.53%, and 49.48 %, respectively. These results indicate that the prepared sample has better reflectance properties compared to the Ag film synthesized 300 °C substrate temperature.
AN INQUIRY INTO THE IMPORTANCE OF THE LINK BETWEEN PHILIPPINE INDUSTRIAL POLICY AND THE HIGH SCHOOL STEM TRACK
This paper is an initial attempt to emphasize the imperative of the link between the country's industrial policy and the secondary education's Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics or STEM track as necessary for Philippine economic development. Such interconnection reveals why there is a job-skills mismatch between STEM track graduates and actual industry needs. This study utilized comparative content analysis of curricula by juxtaposing the country's high school STEM track with those of industrialized and economically developed countries (e.g. South Korea, India, Japan) secondary education curricula. Initial results show that the secondary education curricula in more developed countries embed actual theoretical and practical skills as required per sector (e.g. in South Korea's curriculum, there is a foundational course on Industrial Chemistry and a practical course on Chemical Materials Management, Maintenance and Operation of Chemical Processes, Plastic Products Manufacturing, etc. for those who want to specialize in Chemical Engineering) as compared with the Philippines' high school STEM curriculum which is relatively broad and not sector- or industry-specific. Also, industrialized countries' secondary education curricula are more advanced in terms of topical coverage and competencies (e.g. a stand-alone subject on artificial intelligence in the curriculum of India), making Filipino STEM track graduates below par. This comparative conceptual exploration will provide policy recommendations on how the Philippines' high school STEM curricula can be improved as well as other related policy insights that link education with economic development.
LAMBANOG ALTERNATIVE PRODUCTION FROM CATALYZED FERMENTATION AND DISTILLATION OF SWEET POTATO (Ipomoea batatas L.) WITH COCONUT (Cocos nucifera L.) SAP
Spirits are alcoholic beverages obtained from distilling fermented wines, usually made from grains, fruits, and other ingredients rich in carbohydrates. In the Philippines, obtaining these materials for local production, especially for the sought-after grape-based wines, are either difficult to grow or expensive to acquire. The country produces liquors known as lambanog and tuba, made from the sap of coconut (Cocos nucifera L.) trees. However, coconut is one of the major export products of the Philippines, and tapping the sap will prevent the tree from producing the fruits. Moreover, coconut trees provide various products; thus, lambanog production from the sap poses major competition in the agricultural sector. This study then aims to determine the suitability of sweet potato (Ipomea batatas L.) as alternative raw material for lambanog production through catalyzed fermentation and distillation. The experiment designed formulations A, B, and C using yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae)-coconut sap suspension ratio of 1:10 (grams, yeast: mL, coconut sap) to 350, 400, and 500 grams of sweet potato, respectively. Results showed a direct relationship between percent alcohol by volume (% ABV) and the mass of sweet potato. Formulation C (20.95%) has the highest average % ABV compared to A (19.28%) and B (20.49), but all three passed the typical minimum range (15-25% ABV) expected of the first distillation of fermented wines, making the sweet potato liquor suitable to proceed for 2nd distillation for alcohol optimization. For future commercialization, Formulation A is practical in producing a cost-effective but quality lambanog, but formulation C is the best alternative regarding % ABV.
POTENTIAL OF KOROT (Dioscorea hispida Dennst.) TUBERS AS A FEEDSTOCK FOR BIOETHANOL PRODUCTION
Dioscorea hispida Dennst., locally referred to as "Korot" in some parts of Eastern Visayas, Philippines, is a species of yam known for its intoxicating property due to its reportedly high dioscorine content. Since the present use for food of D. hispida is continuously hampered by the poisonous nature of the tubers, this work investigates the potential of Korot as an alternative bioethanol feedstock. The study followed a specified experimental design in converting Korot starch into bioethanol using three (3) different Korot concentrations (5, 10, 15 % w/w), in dry basis, performed in triplicate. The process consisted of three main phases: gelatinization, liquefaction, and simultaneous saccharification and fermentation (SSF). Samples were gelatinized for sixty (60) minutes, followed by forty (40) minutes of liquefaction with the enzyme α-amylase (1000U/g), and 144 h of SSF with enzyme glucoamylase (50,000U/g) and Saccharomyces cerevisiae, with no enzyme recovery. The bioethanol yield calculation was based on the estimated substrate consumption during SSF. After 144 hours of SSF, the highest ethanol productivity and bioethanol yield obtained are 0.293 g/Lh-1 and 19.35%, respectively, both observed in the processing of the sample with the highest initial Korot concentration (15% w/w). The ANOVA results showed that there exists a statistical significance (p ≤ 0.05) between the initial Korot concentration present in the sample and both the ethanol productivity and bioethanol yield. The results of this study confirmed that Korot is a suitable raw material in producing bioethanol through SSF, and thus has the potential to be an alternative bioethanol feedstock.
Simultaneous Saccharification and Fermentation
ETHANOL YIELD IN THE PROCESSING OF FERMENTED LEACHATE FROM BASEY AND ORMOC CITY LANDFILL: A COMPARATIVE STUDY
Production of bioethanol from leachate, a byproduct from landfills, has been seen to be a potential solution that minimizes dependence on non-renewable energy resources and the threatening issues associated with environmental pollution due to solid wastes. Municipal solid waste is partly composed of organic matter, which produces ethanol compounds through anaerobic fermentation based on the previous study. This research study, therefore, presents the idea of a comparative analysis of the ethanol yield of fermented leachate from the sampling sites of Basey and Ormoc City in the Philippines. The study used the experimental research design using three different amounts of Saccharomyces cerevisiae as formulation variants (150g, 200g, 250g) for both sampling sites. The production of the results showed that 7.045%, 9.39%, and 10.015%, then 6.88%, 7.615%, and 9.52% of average ethanol by volume from Ormoc City and Basey sampling sites, respectively. The result shows in the experiment that potential sugar content has a notable distinction for landfill sites but not the raw leachate. Results show that there is no interaction between the two factors. Moreover, there is a significant difference in the ethanol yield to the landfill sites and the concentration of Saccharomyces cerevisiae. In addition, results show that Ormoc sampling site has a better potential for bioethanol production than the Basey landfill. For further studies, the conduct of a comparative study on ethanol yield from leachate collected from different climates is highly encouraged, to further assess whether climate conditions, such as dry and wet seasons, directly affect potential ethanol yield.
The Business of Bitcoins’ Appreciated Allure, with the Glint of Regulation: A Review
This systematic review article analyzes that a feature missing in the common economic conditions for money is the “allureâ€ or “appreciationâ€ of it, with specific application to the history of money, the rise of bitcoins, their technological advancement, the potential of future regulation, and the overall future possibilities of money. Are bitcoins a commodity, an investment, a speculative asset, a fiat currency, or all of the above? A substantial literature review is first conducted, to scrutinize what is the general scholarly consensus, and whether bitcoins are better suited for such speculation or investment by managers and citizens. These conceptual questions are then thoroughly surveyed through additional research, using: descriptive statistics; bitcoins’ celebrity endorsements; and an analysis of bitcoins’ technological requirements, such as its energy usage, as well as its ability for record keeping, all while considering regulations and future currency development. The article generally finds, from consensus, and from its own analysis, that due to allure, but also due to traditional standards, that the future economy will use more technological forms and features of money, and that the definition of money itself will become even more complex.
Business Strategies of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises in Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic health protocols have adversely impacted the economic profit and business operations of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). This study aimed to evaluate the business strategies employed by MSMEs as they are facing the public health crisis in Bato, Leyte, Philippines. A random sample of 200 MSMEs were surveyed using a structured questionnaire. Some descriptive statistics and Chi-square test for independence were used to summarize and determine the relationship among variables, respectively. Results showed that dominantly more of the MSMEs are operated by owner-managers during the pandemic. On average, most (97.5%) of the enterprise operating are micro and operates for about 3 years. About 63.5% of the MSMEs during the pandemic has adopted a new strategies to cope with COVID-19’s negative impact and most of them are micro in nature. The major business strategies adopted to survive the adverse impact of the pandemic are as follows: following health protocols (50%), finding suppliers in nearby towns (33.8%), seeking alternative sources (26%), increasing prices of items sold (24.5%), and local outsourcing (22.5%), among others. It is concluded that age is a significant factor in implementing business strategies (p-value<0.019). This implies that owner-managers with higher age (average is 40 years old) are more likely to adopt business strategies. Moreover, as they are experiencing vulnerability to the pandemic such as economic profits being significantly reduced, then they are more likely to implement strategies (p-value<0.001). Short and long term plans are considered in order to survive and sustain its business operations. Hence, the study recommends that the government should help and enhance the capability of enterprises in managing risk as well as ensuring MSME’s continuity amidst the pandemic.
Improving Students' Conceptual Knowledge in Online Distance Learning through the Use of Micro-Lectures: A Photosynthesis Example
The shift to online distance learning due to the COVID-19 pandemic presented a challenge to develop instructional materials that could compensate for the limitations of the prevailing learning modality. Micro-lectures are short instructor-made videos that are meant to deliver lessons in ways that do not overwhelm the learners' working memory in understanding conceptually challenging topics such as photosynthesis. This action research used a Quasi-experimental mixed-method approach through micro-lectures in teaching photosynthesis to an intact group of 60 grade 12 STEM students. The instruments and methods used were pre-test and post-test, survey forms, journal entries, and focus group discussions. The results showed that watching micro-lectures positively affected students' test performance and knowledge gain in the different concepts in photosynthesis. Students view micro-lectures as an effective learning material appropriate for online learning due to their ability to declutter and segment the lessons, enhance engagement levels, provide a sense of teacher presence, and encourage flexible learning.
Another look at sensory attributes of broiler chickens fed with non-fermented and fermented diets
This study aimed to assess the sensory attributes and general acceptability of steamed meat of broiler chickens fed with non-fermented (control) and fermented diets. The study used water, water + coco vinegar, and water + RPL8+AKE probiotic as fermenting causal agents. A total of thirty (30) breast carcass (steamed at 100oC for 10-15 minutes) samples per treatment at five grams (5g) per sample were utilized for evaluation. A group of thirty trained taste panelists composed of Food Technology students assessed the sensory attributes using the quality score and Hedonic scale sheets. Descriptive statistics were used in the sensory evaluation, and analysis of variance (ANOVA), and multiple comparison test using Tukey’s honestly significant difference (HSD) test was used to compare the treatment means of the sensory attributes of the steamed meat samples in terms of skin color, flesh color, aroma, texture, taste, and general acceptability. The rating scores on skin colors (p-value=0.050), and texture (p-value=0.013) of steamed meat of broiler chickens fed with non-fermented and fermented diets were significantly different at a 5% level. Results revealed that the fermented diets have improved the broilers' skin colors (yellowish cream) and improved the texture quality of meat (moderately firm). Based on ANOVA, there is no significant difference observed in the descriptive scores in relation to flesh color (p-value=0.171), aroma (p-value=0.621), taste (p-value=0.723) and general acceptability (p-value=0.491). However, the steamed carcass of broiler-fed fermented diets (coco vinegar and probiotic) is slightly preferred based on ranks. Hence, fermented diets can modify the meat quality of broilers to meet consumers’ expectations.
Response of Mungbean (Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek) to the Combined Application of Carabao Manure and Inorganic Phosphorus in Calcareous Soil
Proper fertilization in calcareous soil is necessary to enhance higher crop productivity. This was evaluated through a study that aimed to determine the outcome of the blended application of carabao dung and synthetic phosphorus on the response of mungbean in calcareous soil. To evaluate the correct amount of the blended application of aforesaid materials for effective growth and high seed yield of mungbean grown in calcareous soil. The experiment adopted six treatments such as T0 = No fertilizer application (control), T1 = 30-30-30 kg ha-1 N, P2O5, K2O, T2 = 2.5 t ha-1 carabao manure, T3 = 2.5 t ha-1 carabao manure + 10 kg ha-1 P2O5, T4 = 2.5 t ha-1 carabao manure + 20 kg ha-1 P2O5, and T5 = 2.5 t ha-1 carabao manure + 30 kg ha-1 P2O5. This was laid out in a Complete Randomized Design (CRD) with three replications. Soil analysis revealed that phosphorus application with carabao dung promoted the accumulation of soil organic phosphorus. Statistical analysis showed significant effects (p ≥ 0.01 & p ≥ 0.05) was achieved in all parameters gathered except on the period from sowing to heading and maturity, the production of seeds pod-1, root: shoot ratio, and harvest index. The blended application of carabao dung (2.5 t ha-1) and inert phosphorus regardless of dosage produced a remarkably higher number of pods plant-1 (6.13 – 11.53 pods±0.0000) and higher seed yield (0.70 to 1.40 g plant-1±0.0001) than unfertilized control. The combined application of carabao dung (2.5 t ha-1) and synthetic phosphorus (30 kg ha-1) is an appropriate fertilization strategy for mungbean production in calcareous soil to affect higher productivity.
Problem-Solving Skills of Indigenous People Students Under Inclusive Classroom: A Sex Disparity
Drawing solutions to mathematics problems through converting abstract to fundamental and concrete concepts has also been a challenge for learners. Unquestionably true for Indigenous People (IP) students, especially those in mainstream education. The study focused on determining the problem-solving skill level of IP learners under an inclusive classroom setting. Specifically, it aimed to describe and compare the male and female Mangyan students’ non- routine problem-solving skill levels, focusing on strategic and mathematical knowledge and procedural understanding. This study utilized a quantitative research method employing descriptive design, specifically descriptive-comparative analysis. A total of 60 male and female indigenous students were the study respondents selected thru a stratified random sampling technique. The proponent utilized the adjusted scale of the Illinois Rubric for Mathematics (IRM) to gauge and describe the respondents’ skills in problem-solving. The results revealed that when solving non-routine problems, male IP students are better than females in analyzing and applying appropriate mathematical concepts and strategies but have the same procedural understanding. These indicate male IP students' higher exposure to real-life problems and active participation during class discussions and practice drills. Moreover, results showed those female IP students are timid and intimidated by their non -IP classmates, depriving them of enough exposure to practice problem-solving during practice drills. That is why, when teaching mathematics to IP students, especially problem-solving, teachers should give them relevant knowledge rooted from previous experiences so that they can effectively relate it when solving non-routine problems.
Effects of Vermicompost Amelioration on the Soil Properties, Yield, and Profitability of Mungbean (Vigna radiata L.)
Vermicompost amelioration is essential to the development of any crop. Mungbean does not need more nutrients, especially Nitrogen, because it can produce N through microbial nitrification. This study aimed to determine the effects on the soil properties, appropriate rates, and the profitability of vermicompost amelioration on mungbean production. The treatments were as follows; T1 - no vermicompost (control); T2 - 1 t ha-1 vermicompost; T3- 2 t ha-1 vermicompost; T4 - 3 t ha-1 vermicompost; T5 - 4 t ha-1 vermicompost and T6-30-30-30 kg ha-1 N, P205, K20 as the positive control. The study was laid in RCB Design with three (3) replications. The results revealed that the application of 4 tha-1 of vermicompost significantly increased the number of days from planting to flowering but high in LAI. Likewise, the weight (g) of 1,000 seeds and the total grain yield (tha-1) were also increased. The heaviest weight of 1,000 seeds was obtained with 4 t ha-1 of vermicompost and 30-30-30 kg ha-1 N, P205, K2O resulted in obtaining the highest grain yield. Application vermicompost 4 t ha-1 vermicompost obtained a higher gross margin of PhP28,300.00 among the vermicompost applied plants comparable to the positive inorganic control plants of PhP30,410.00. Therefore, it is recommended that the farmers use an organic fertilizer at 4 tha-1 of vermicompost for legume production to sustain the soil's fertility and productivity.
The Simulation of Water Level Using Delft3D Hydrodynamic Model to analyze the case of coastal Inundation in Pontianak
Several Indonesian coastal areas are prone to tidal flooding, one of which is Pontianak. High tides can trigger floods due to astronomical and meteorological factors. This study discusses the Delft3D hydrodynamics model’s performance in alluding to sea level and wave height in 4 cases of tidal flood events. Final Data (FNL) Global Operational Analysis from NOAA and tidal component data from oceananomatics are used to the Delft3D model. The model output consists of sea level is verified using tide gauge observation data from BIG. This is then used to analyze sea level to 4 flood events with the accumulated rainfall data from GSMaP, wind, pressure from ECMWF, and rainfall observations to describe the hydro-meteorological conditions. Based on four sea-level simulation cases, the Delft3D hydrodynamic model can perfectly reproduce the sea-level rise pattern. This can be seen from the correlation value of 0.93 - 0.96. Even though the simulated seawater level's value has a high error, it was significantly resolved after the datum correction (with a decrease in error of ±7-11 cm). Generally, the most dominant hydro-meteorological conditions affecting the level of flood events are waves and the direction (45°-90° towards the Pontianak Coast) and speed (4-16 knots) of the wind. In some cases, heavy rain can exacerbate tidal flooding conditions if it coincides with high sea-level conditions. It can obstruct the river's flow into the sea and cause water to overflow on land. This research can be used to consider making early warnings of tidal flooding in coastal areas, especially Pontianak. In addition, it is better to use forecast data (GFS) to make predictions and early warnings of tidal flooding.
Design of a Concentrated Solar Power System Using Computational Fluid Dynamics
Concentrated solar power (CSP) is an alternative approach to harnessing the sun's power to generate renewable energy. As the requirement for the generation of energy grows, the demand for concentrated solar power also increases. Recently, efforts in using CSP technology to generate renewable energy have been adopted globally, with a 6.45 GW capacity installed. With plans of the Philippines to further strengthen the country's energy production and enhance the production of renewable energy in Mindanao, this study proposes to design a CSP specifically for Davao City using a computational fluid dynamics approach. The parabolic dish and a receiver can accommodate a concentrator dish of 10 meters in aperture diameter for installation in Davao City. The design scale-up of the concentrator is then assessed with its efficiency using ANSYS Fluent. In addition, SolTrace and the fluent discrete ordinates radiation model can predict the potential thermal energy extracted from solar radiation. The results show the heat flux pattern in the CSP receiver entrance.
PERFORMANCE OF PROMISING PEANUT (Arachis hypogaea L.) GENOTYPES GROWN IN DRY AND WET SEASON CROPPING
The development of promising genotypes is a continuing activity by the breeders to give the farmers more choices of varieties to plant. This study aimed to evaluate, determine, and select promising peanut genotypes to be recommended to NSIC as new peanut varieties. There are 10 treatments, including the 3 check varieties, used in this study: T1-JONES, T2- ILOCOS RED, T3- LG Pn 06-36-2, T4- LG Pn 08-4a-2, T5-LG Pn 06-3-4-3a, T6-CVRC Pn 2011-002, T7- CVRC Pn 2011-001, T8-NSIC Pn19, T9- NSIC Pn14, T10- NSIC Pn18. The experiment was arranged in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) having the 10 treatments replicated 3 times. Results showed that genotypes LG Pn 06-3-4-3a (T5), CVRC Pn 2011- 002 (T6), and CVRC Pn 2011-001 (T7) matured the earliest at 82-90 days comparable to check variety NSIC Pn14. Moreover, LG Pn 06-36-2 (T3), LG Pn 08-4a-2 (T4), LG Pn 06-3-4-3a (T5), CVRC Pn 2011- 002 (T6) attained the shortest plant height at 84-94 cm, comparable to the 2 check varieties NSIC Pn14 and NSIC Pn18. Genotypes planted during dry season produced a significantly higher weight of pods at an average of 2,862 kgha-1 and average total seed yield of 1,796 kgha-1 than wet season cropping at 2,361 kgha-1 mean pod yield and 1,523 kg ha-1 seed yield. Moreover, all peanut genotypes are resistant to moderately resistant to insect pests and diseases. Hence, it is recommended to plant peanuts during dry season cropping as it provides a higher grain yield than wet season cropping under Leyte conditions.
Physicochemical Properties and Sensory Attributes of Sweetcorn (Zea Mays L. var. Macho F1) to Combined Application of Organic and Inorganic Fertilizers
Fertilizer application does not only influence the growth and yield of sweetcorn but also its physicochemical and sensory attributes. This study was conducted to determine the effects of the combined application of organic and inorganic fertilizers on the total soluble solids (TSS), titratable acidity (TA), pH and sugar contents of freshly harvested sweetcorn, and on the sensory qualities of newly cooked and five (5) day stored sweetcorn. The treatments were designated as follows: T0- Control (without fertilizer applied), T1 - Inorganic fertilizer at 90-60-60 kg ha-1 N, P2O5, K2O, T2- 5,000 kg ha-1 of vermicompost + 45-30-30 kg ha-1 N, P2O5, K2O, T3- 5,000 kg ha-1 of poultry manure + 45-30-30 kg ha-1 N, P2O5, K2O, T4- 5,000 kg ha-1 of cow manure + 45-30-30 kg ha-1 N, P2O5, K2O, T5- 5, 000 kg ha-1 of goat manure + 45-30-30 kg ha-1 N, P2O5, K2O, T6 – 5,000 kg ha-1 of mudpress + 45-30-30 kg ha-1 N, P2O5, K2O, T7 - Foliar spray (Fermented Golden Snail applied five times at 150ml/16liters of water) + 45-30-30 kg ha-1 N, P2O5, K2O. These were laid out in RCBD with three replications. Results showed that the highest pH values and sugar contents were detected from plants applied with 5,000 kg ha-1 regardless of organic fertilizer and half of the recommended rate of inorganic fertilizers. Likewise, sweetcorn stored for five days in an ambient condition maintains its color, taste, aroma, and texture when applied with organic and inorganic fertilizer regardless of the sources of organic materials. It is advisable not to dehusk the sweetcorn during harvest to preserve its marketing potential, especially when it is to be stored. Likewise, only the sweetness/taste of sweetcorn was reduced after five days of storage but still acceptable by the consumers` preference. These results suggested that fertilizer, either pure inorganic or in combination with organic, can significantly increase the yield and also influence its sweetness.
TEACHERS' LIVED EXPERIENCES OF USING DIGITAL AND REAL LABORATORY ACTIVITIES IN BIOCHEMISTRY
The main objective of the study is to describe and evaluate the use of digital and real laboratory activities on science teachers' conceptual understanding and laboratory performance skills. Digital laboratory activities involved the use of videos and online quizzes through Schoology, a learning management system. In contrast, real laboratory activities employed actual conduct of the laboratory activities, use of laboratory performance evaluation sheets, preparation of written laboratory reports, group outputs, reflective journals, and interviews. This study employed the Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) model utilizing a mixed-method approach. An intact class of in-service teachers (N=16) enrolled in the course Laboratory Teaching in Basic Science Course served as participants in this study. The impacts of the intervention on the teachers' performance skills were based on the teacher-researcher observations throughout the intervention, teachers' actual hands-on work, and the written reports, reflections, and narratives. Qualitative data showed that conceptual understanding and laboratory performance skills of the teachers were enhanced using digital and real laboratory activities. Specifically, comprehension and mastery of the content were enhanced with digital laboratory activities, additive skills, written communication skills, and critical thinking skills of the real lab. It also indicated that the teachers attitudes towards the activity were improved as they showed collaboration and active participation within the group. Overall findings indicate that the use of digital laboratory activities as part of the laboratory instructions provides learning and the real lab.
EXPLORING STUDENTS' PERCEPTIONS AND CONCEPTUAL UNDERSTANDING IN A NEXT GENERATION BLENDED LEARNING (NXGBL) PHYSICS CLASS
This study aimed to explore students' perceptions and conceptual understanding in studying energy and momentum concepts using the NxGBL approach. NxGBL involves merging mobile devices, multimedia, and face-to-face instruction to empower personalized and progressive learning processes for the students to be equipped to cultivate modernization competence. It is a digital ecosystem involving students, instructors, content, and tools to support effective and efficient learning processes directly. Hence, it is necessary to obtain a new learning environment that subsequently developed into pedagogical approaches known as blended learning, flipped learning, and personalized learning. The combination of these techniques was used to carry-out lessons and in designing assessments covering energy and momentum concepts for a period of 2-weeks in one class. One group pretest-posttest design was used and conducted on 30 Grade 12 students under the STEM strand. Students' conceptual understanding was measured using Energy and Momentum Conceptual Survey (EMCS), while perceptions and learning experiences were gathered through a survey-questionnaire, journal reflections, and post-individual interviews. Results suggested that employing the NxGBL approach has potentials in increasing students' achievement in Physics.
RISE OF ENERGY CONSUMPTION IN RESIDENTIAL SECTOR UNDER COVID-19 LOCKDOWN
The global outbreak of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) compelled various countries to implement societal lockdown to avoid further contagion. The mandatory lockdown forced numerous industries to adapt to a new operational norm, including the work from home (WFH) setup. As society embraces the WFH scheme, the energy consumption shifts from the industrial to the residential sector. This enabled a lesser and energy requirement from the transportation sector, thus, leading to a significant decrease in carbon dioxide emissions. However, the burden of shouldering the energy cost brought by the WFH scenario is now shifted to the employees rather than the employers. Hence, the impact of the rise of energy consumption in the residential sector needs to be quantified for decision-makers to develop appropriate policies to protect the employees from the surge of residential energy cost. The study presents the impact of implementing a lockdown on the rise of residential energy consumption using a machine learning energy consumption model.
CORONAVIRUSES AND DETECTION METHODS FOR SARS-CoV-2 VIRUS CAUSING COVID-19 INFECTION
COVID-19 infection caused by a newly discovered virus SARS-CoV-2 has already reached a pandemic state involving 190 countries seven months after it was first reported in Wuhan province, China, before the end of 2019. The first aim of this paper is to describe (a) the general characteristics of viruses, (b) the coronaviruses, and (c) SARS-CoV-2 virus. The second aim is to discuss the diagnostic tests used for the detection of SARS-CoV-2 and COVID-19. Since the virus is new, there is a need to disseminate information about viruses in general and SARS-CoV-2 in particular. The laboratory tests for the detection of the virus and the disease are likewise presented. Altogether, the pieces of information provided here can help various stakeholders make sound and prudent decisions to contain the disease and prevent further spread of the virus so that everybody will be able to live once again a normal life
A SYSTEM DYNAMICS APPROACH TO UNDERSTANDING THE COVID-19 (NOVEL CORONAVIRUS) PANDEMIC
The novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic has caused an overwhelming impact on lives around the world. Countries around the world have scrambled to implement various control measures such as social distancing, community lockdowns, quarantines in varying degrees of stringency and success. This paper proposed the application of the system dynamics (SD) modeling framework to capture the complex relationships, feedbacks, and delays present in a disease transmission system so that policies may be developed to effectively target the issue. In this study, three common policies, namely social distancing, quarantine, and vaccination, were integrated into the basic flu model to assess which would be the most effective in mitigating the infection and identify the portion of the system it would be best to leverage actions on. Results revealed that policies that remove the possibility of transmission through quarantine and vaccination performed best in reducing the spread and consequences of the pandemic. This model may help policymakers evaluate potential policy alternatives, especially when responding to high-risk issues such as a pandemic.
TRENDS IN ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN THE PHILIPPINES FOR BIOMEDICAL ENGINEERING AND PUBLIC HEALTH EMERGENCY APPLICATIONS: A REVIEW
Artificial Intelligence has been considered as one of the disruptive technologies for the past years, especially in the advent of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR). As researchers continue to unlock the potentials of AI, the limits of what can be done with this technology are yet to be seen. As AI increases the productivity of companies such as those in manufacturing and business process outsourcing, it may also result in the displacement of workers. This is addressed by new job opportunities such as those related to data sciences. The Philippine government, through the Department of Science and Technology, has laid the foundation of AI infrastructure and continues building the Filipino scientists capacity but a law must be passed to coordinate efforts nationwide and ensure that the AI infrastructure is maximized to address priority areas such as boosting economy, better healthcare, and responding to public health emergencies.
ASSESSING 3D PRINTING AS NEW NORMAL FOR MANUFACTURING: REVIEW ON TRENDS AND APPLICATIONS
With the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak, closure of factories and manufacturing hubs produced a drastic effect on the production and labor sector. Through the previously going industrial revolution, additive manufacturing (AM), which is considered to be one of the disruptive technologies, must be looked into consideration and be studied for its applications as the new normal to comply with the current demand for manufacturing. It disrupts how the manufacturing process is done and the underlying factors that can be substantially reduced, such as time spent and resource consumption in manufacturing. This paper provides a review of worldwide trends and current local government initiatives in 3D printing (3DP). Policy recommendations are discussed with respect to the governing factors that must be considered under a new normal.
PHYSICO-CHEMICAL AND SENSORY QUALITIES OF MAKOPA (Syzygium samarangense) WINE
This study determined the physico-chemical and sensory qualities of wine from makopa (Syzygium samarangense) in terms of pH, total soluble solids (TSS), titratable acidity (TA), specific gravity, alcohol content, clarity, aroma, flavor, taste, and overall acceptability. Evergreen makopa fruits were collected from Eastern Samar and were prepared following standard procedures and underwent anaerobic fermentation for 45 days and aging for four months. A digital pH meter was used to determine pH, titration for TA, refractometer for TSS, hydrometer for specific gravity, and dichromate oxidation and redox titration for alcohol content. Thirty tasters composed of 23 students, four teachers, and three security guards served as sensory evaluators. Results showed that makopa wine had the following mean values: pH, 4.40; TA, 3.11 g/L; TSS, 14.47 °Brix; specific gravity, 1.05; and alcohol content, 8.61%. For the sensory qualities, the mean scores are 3.70 for clarity, described as slightly clear; aroma, 3.93, described as distinct makopa odor; flavor, 4.03, described as distinct makopa flavor; taste, 4.30, having a very desirable. The overall acceptability is 8.60, interpreted as extremely acceptable. Makopa fruit of evergreen variety is suitable for the production of fruit wine considered as off-dry wine due to its lower alcohol. It is recommended that other varieties be tested in winemaking, lengthen the aging period, and other local fruits, especially the exotic ones, can also be studied.
EFFECTIVE APPLICATION OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY IN HUMAN MANAGEMENT PROMOTING VIETNAMESE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT IN THE INDUSTRIAL REVOLUTION 4.0
The growing digital technology has had an opposite impact on corporate governance and human resource leadership. What to do to apply technology in personnel innovation and reduce costs, thereby improving business efficiency, is a problem that many Vietnamese businesses are interested in. In Vietnam, the Industrial Revolution 4.0 is seen as an opportunity for economic and social development. The 4.0 technology revolution is an opportunity to realize the nation's prosperous aspirations. Taking advantage of opportunities from this revolution is a crucial factor in determining the success of the cause of industrialization and modernization of the country. The article discusses the Fourth Industrial Revolution 4.0 and its impact on economic development as well as on the application of science and technology in human resource management to promote economic development. The author analyzed and applied science and technology in human resource management to promote economic development in the industrial revolution of 4.0 in Vietnam. Finally, the article proposes some effective measures to apply science and technology in human resource management to promote the economy of Vietnam in the fourth industrial revolution.
A REVIEW OF DISASTER RISK REDUCTION EDUCATION IN JAPAN, THE PHILIPPINES, INDONESIA AND FIJI ISLANDS
Disaster risk reduction is among the emerging multidisciplinary fields that cut across different sectors of the society, including the education sector. This study aimed to review the implementation of disaster risk reduction education in Japan, the Philippines, Indonesia, and Fiji Islands with emphasis on teaching and learning. More specifically, the review covered curriculum and content, teaching strategies and instructional materials, student assessment, professional development for teachers and education leaders, as well as challenges and gaps. Results revealed that there exist similarities and differences in the selection and implementation of disaster risk reduction strategies in teaching and learning. This may be brought by the differential vulnerability, including differences in geographical locations, demographic distribution, level of socio-economic development, among others. This study adds to the growing body of knowledge on the need for a contextual approach to disaster risk reduction and disaster risk reduction education in particular.