Proper Implementation Research Articles

A new surge index with the incorporation of cyclone track approach angle information for the Bay of Bengal

A novel tropical cyclone surge potential index (TCSPI) for estimating tropical cyclone (TC) induced potential peak surge levels near the landfall locations for the entire coast of the Bay of Bengal (BoB) is presented. The proposed TCSPI incorporates parameters that are often readily available in real-time for BoB: maximum sustained wind speed (Vmax), the radius of given wind (R), translation speed (S), approach angle (θ), coastal geometry (a, b), and bathymetry information (L30). The inclusion of approach angle and associated coastal geometry information led to improvements of the TCSPI to other existing surge indices. A retrospective analysis of TCSPI using the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) and Joint Typhoon Warning Center (JTWC) tropical cyclone (TC) best track data from 1990 to 2021 for BoB suggests that the index captures historical events reasonably well. In particular, it explains up to ∼90% of observed surge variance and up to ∼92% of those peak surge values obtained from physics-based numerical simulation using the Advanced Circulation (ADCIRC) model. Further, we utilized renowned regression-based supervised machine learning (ML) models on small data samples. The Linear Regression (LR), Regression Tree (TR), Support Vector Machine (SVM), Ensembles of Trees (EnTR), and Gaussian Process Regression (GPR) models are incorporated that can rapidly predict peak surge height across an extensive coastal region of BoB, using the same input parameter information (i.e., Vmax, R, S,L30, and θ) that have been considered in the TCSPI at the landfall time frame. Finally, the observed peak surge values associated with historical TC events in the BoB are compared with those estimated by TCSPI, ADCIRC, and ML models. The errors associated with TCSPI are comparatively less. The consideration of approach angle information in the TCSPI has improved the accuracy of the overall prediction of peak surge height associated with historical TCs by up to 17% and 19% for observed and ADCIRC-simulated peak surges, respectively. The development of such a prediction methodology can reduce the numerical computation requirements to improve the surge hazard maps, and hence, proper implementation based on surge risk is possible.

Application of Embodied Learning in Middle School Mathematics Education

This paper explores the application of embodied learning as a pedagogical approach in mathematics education for middle school students. The main body of the paper is organized into three essential sections. Firstly, practical strategies for implementing embodied learning are discussed. These strategies encompass teaching through body movements, employing hands-on materials, and integrating technology such as virtual reality, augmented reality, and interactive manipulatives. Secondly, the challenges and limitations faced in the context of embodied learning are examined. These include the resistance of teachers lacking professional training, the scarcity of effective teaching resources, and limitations pertaining to interactivity and student participation. Lastly, the paper emphasizes the implementation of embodied learning in the middle school mathematics curriculum. Specifically, it highlights the integration of embodied learning into lesson plans and activities, considerations for effective classroom management and instruction, and the significance of providing professional development and support for teachers. Overall, this paper provides valuable insights into the potential benefits and considerations associated with the incorporation of embodied learning in middle school mathematics education. By presenting practical strategies, addressing challenges, and emphasizing the importance of proper implementation, the paper contributes to the existing body of knowledge on this innovative pedagogy.

Expectations of manufacturing companies for suppliers regarding the improvement of their processes

The article presents the results of conducted empirical research in which an attempt was made to identify the expectations of manufacturing companies towards suppliers in terms of process (logistics customer service, supervision over property customer, production monitoring, supplier supervision) improvement. The research was conducted using the Computer Assisted Telephone Interview (CATI) technique. The research covered 150 production medium and large size companies (employing over 50 people) who were suppliers for enterprises from the automotive, electromechanical and chemical sectors operating in the Polish industrial market. The expectations of production companies towards their suppliers regarding improvement of processes concept were assigned a rank on a scale from one (the least important criterion) to five (the most significant). The analysis of the results of the conducted research shows that the implementation of management tools such as international organizational standards (ISO), Kaizen or Lean Management by companies that are purchasers may affect the expectations towards suppliers in terms of improving their processes. The considerations undertaken in this article confirm that in order to compete on the modern market, close cooperation and cooperation within the supply chain are needed. Representatives of the surveyed manufacturing companies notice this fact and set high expectations for their suppliers in virtually all the surveyed aspects. Conducted research shows that suppliers must pay special attention to the implementation of processes related to ensuring and improving the technical quality of products by focusing on improving control and supervision processes and logistical aspects of customer service. Proper implementation and improvement of these processes requires a methodical approach. Based on the obtained research results, managers of organizations supplying manufacturing companies can obtain important information that will be used to improve processes that are important from the point of view of their recipients. On this basis, they can make an optimal allocation of resources and modify the management style to improve cooperation with manufacturing companies.

Report on the international scientific conference Relevance and listening: communicating the Christian message in the plurality of contemporary voices, organised by the Department of Institutional Social Communication of the Pontifical University of the Holy Cross, Rome, May 2-4, 2023

From 2 to 4 May 2023 an international scientific conference entitled “Relevance and listening: communicating the Christian message in the plurality of contemporary voices” was held in Rome. The meeting was organised by the Department of Institutional Social Communication of the Pontifical University of the Holy Cross in Rome. The aim of the conference was to analyse the challenges related to the proper understanding and implementation of institutional communication processes of ecclesiastical institutions in the perspective of the contemporary socio-political and cultural context. The conference’s main speakers were, among others, Prof. Jim Macnamara (University of Technology of Sydney), Prof. José María La Porte (Pontificia Università della Santa Croce), Prof. Benedetto Ippolito (Università Roma Tre) and Prof. Lorenzo Cantoni (Università della Svizzera Italiana).

Assessing The Performance Of Zakat And Samurdhi Scheme In Alleviating Poverty Among The Muslim Community In Sri Lanka

Poverty is one of the most hotly debated subjects in international development. It is also discussed in all economic development and governmental policymaking. Every country in the world adopts poverty alleviation strategies since poverty has been negatively impacting on economic growth. Despite this global trend, Sri Lanka has its own unique strategies that set it apart. The Samurdhi is one of the key schemes to reduce poverty in society regardless of faith or ethnicity in Sri Lanka. Notably, Muslims in Sri Lanka get benefits from Samurdhi and Zakāt programmes which play a major role in poverty reduction especially among Muslim community. on this background, this study aims to analyse the performance of both Zakāt and Samurdhi schemes in poverty alleviation among the Muslim community in the study area. This study is based on qualitative research paradigm and employs both primary and secondary data. Primary data were collected through the unstructured interviews, conducted with the coordinators, animators, and beneficiaries of both programs. All interview scripts were analysed using the Thematic Content Analysis (TCA) method. The study concluded with the argument that both schemes (Samurdhi and Zakāt) immensely contributed to poverty alleviation in the study area, especially among the Muslim community. However, Samurdhi scheme is more effective than the zakat programme during the study period (2019-2022) as Samurdhi scheme was implemented with the support of the government and annually government is allocating fund separately. Apart from this, no government funds were allocated for the proper implementation of the zakat programme via the Zakāt foundations. It is noteworthy that Zakāt system has been functioning by the donations from wealthy Muslims. Meanwhile, Zakāt scheme was effectively implemented in certain areas of Akkaraipattu. However, comparatively Zakāt scheme was not implemented effectively among beneficiaries in the whole study area.

A Comparison of Forest Biomass and Conventional Harvesting Effects on Estimated Erosion, Best Management Practice Implementation, Ground Cover, and Residual Woody Debris in Virginia

Expanding markets for renewable energy feedstocks have increased demand for woody biomass. Concerns associated with forest biomass harvesting include increased erosion, the applicability of conventional forestry Best Management Practices (BMPs) for protecting water quality, and reduced woody debris retention for soil nutrients and cover. We regionally compared the data and results from three prior independent studies that estimated erosion, BMP implementation, and residual woody debris following biomass and conventional forest harvests in the Mountains, Piedmont, and Coastal Plain of Virginia. Estimated erosion was higher in the Mountains due to steep slopes and operational challenges. Mountain skid trails were particularly concerning, comprising only 8.47% of the total area but from 37.9 to 81.1% of the total site-wide estimated erosion. BMP implementation varied by region and harvest type, with biomass sites having better implementation than conventional sites, and conventional Mountain sites having lower implementation than other regions. Sufficient woody debris remained for BMPs on both harvest types in all regions, with conventional Mountain sites retaining twice that of Coastal Plain sites. BMPs reduced the estimated erosion on both site types suggesting increased implementation could reduce potential erosion in problematic areas. Therefore, proper BMP implementation should be ensured, particularly in Mountainous terrain, regardless of harvest type.

Health technology assessments and their roles in public health policy

Purpose of review Health Technology Assessment (HTA) is a multidisciplinary practice that summarizes information about the medical, social, economic, and ethical issues related to the use of a health technology in a systematic, transparent, and balanced manner. Health technologies include drugs, medical devices, procedures, and systems used in healthcare. The aim of this review is to present a snapshot on its uses, methods and current challenges to inform future research. Recent findings HTA has been instrumental in identifying health priorities, monitor trends, resource allocation, policy development, program planning and evaluation, health disparities, emergency preparedness, advocacy and community engagement. It can also be used in research and health systems comparisons. Several countries have set up specific agencies for HTA to inform their decision making and adjusting the current tools to address their needs by developing specific methods suitable for their context. Summary The advantages and disadvantages of health assessment technology are interconnected, and many of the disadvantages can be mitigated with proper planning, training, and effective technology implementation. The use of health assessment technology should be guided by a commitment to patient safety, data security, and equitable healthcare access.

Do local authorities take human rights seriously? Lessons from the French case

ABSTRACT The central government has the primary responsibility for the protection of human rights. However, several factors such as decentralisation raise questions about the role of local authorities in this area. Our paper examines this issue through an interdisciplinary approach, combining international law and political sociology. Our focus lies on the case of France, the ‘homeland’ of human rights: do French local elected authorities always take human rights seriously? Our research design combines qualitative and quantitative methods. After providing a background of the international legal context, this paper will present the findings on human rights local perceptions and practices of elected representatives. Human rights’ perceptions of these subnational political actors strongly depend on their educational qualifications and personal commitments. The same applies to the hierarchy that they draw between fundamental freedoms, social rights, and environmental rights. By contrast, local practices in favour of human rights vary most importantly according to the local authorities’ status and demographic weight, rather than their political hue. When human and financial resources are scarce, the goodwill showcased by local elected representatives is not sufficient to foster the proper implementation of human rights.

ChatGPT API: Brief overview and integration in Software Development

Powerful natural language processing tools have been developed and since the end of 2022 and so far in 2023 ChatGPT has become the most successful, in this sense this paper provides an overview of the ChatGPT API, addresses how this API can be used effectively in the field of software development, highlighting its key applications and advantages. The results highlight the potential of the ChatGPT API as a valuable tool in software development, offering intelligent and efficient solutions for a variety of applications. It emphasizes the importance of understanding how to integrate and leverage this API effectively, and concludes that its proper implementation can significantly improve the quality and efficiency of software development projects.

A Value Engineering Approach for Structural System Selection of Prefabricated Buildings

The development and implementation of prefabricated buildings has been accelerating rapidly in recent years due to the ongoing revolution in the construction industry. Among different stages and aspects in completing a prefabricated building project, the selection of the prefabricated structural system is a crucial step because it has direct influence on both the cost and usage of the building. This paper proposed a structural system selection model for five commonly used prefabricated buildings structures based on value engineering’s value coefficient analysis ranking which took both life cycle cost coefficient and functional coefficient into consideration. The proposed model aims at providing an innovative approach assisting early decision making on the selection of structural systems for project stakeholders. The case study provided in this paper demonstrated the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed model. With proper implementation, the proposed approach can also promote the development of prefabricated buildings due to their cost and value advantages.

National and International Legal Guarantees of the Administrative Detention in Jordan

Administrative detention is one of the tools used by the administration to maintain public order and to protect community security as an extrajudicial detention. Administrative detention enables local authorities to detain anyone who threatens public order, but without prejudice to his civil and personal liberties. According to the Crime Prevention Law of 1954, governors can take action against persons who are about to commit crimes or assist in the commission of crimes, as well as persons who have a habit of stealing, or who have a habit of protecting or harbouring thieves or helping to conceal or dispose of stolen goods. In accordance with the aforementioned law, governors can also take measures against anyone who is in a situation that makes his presence at large without bail a danger to people. However, although these measures are taken in accordance with the law, there are several national and international legal guarantees that should be considered to protect the rights of those persons. In January 2023, the Constitutional Court of Jordan examined the constitutionality of a number of articles of the Crime Prevention Law. The Court ruled that the law ensures to everyone the basic guarantees for challenging the administrative detention decisions, and ensures that the decisions fall within the principle of legality and the proper implementation of the law in order to achieve its purpose. The Constitutional Court ruling makes an insight on the importance of the guarantees for administrative detainees in the face of the legality of their detention. Using the descriptive method and the analytical approach, this study examines the legal framework of the national and international legal guarantees of the administrative detention in Jordan. It discusses the legal guarantees of administrative detention and the judicial control over administrative decisions that include administrative detention. Finally, the study concludes with a number of important results and practical recommendations.

Challenges in Policy Developments for Automated Vehicles

Innovation is the driving factor in autonomous vehicles (AV). AVs are creating a buzz all around due to the reaction perception time required while driving the vehicles. AV technology will lead to the increased highway capacity and also the speed of the vehicles. The caution to utilize the benefits of the AVs lead to the proper planning and implementation. This calls for systematic policy developments. The policies governing various facets of AVs such as mobility, connectivity, social and environmental impact and adherence to the sustainability principles. This paper aims to discuss the guiding strategies governing AVs and the principles associated with them.
 The policies to be followed for AVs face various challenges and require effective planning. The challenges in context with the law, safety , security and economies will lead to various policy recommendations. The paper discusses the policy considerations in the state enabled legislation, cross sector partnerships and fiscal implications of AVs at different levels.

Gully erosion susceptibility mapping and prioritization of gully-dominant sub-watersheds using machine learning algorithms: Evidence from the Silabati River (tropical river, India)

Gully erosion is a severe environmental issue that poses threats to agriculture, human safety, habitats, infrastructure, and soil integrity. Selecting the right machine learning model is vital for accurate Gully Erosion Susceptibility Mapping (GESM) due to varying environmental hazard performance. This study employed a comparative analysis of two machine learning techniques, Random Forest (RF) and Extreme Gradient Boost (XGBoost), to develop a highly precise GESM for the Silabati watershed (India). The analysis incorporated 24 controlling factors and examined a dataset of 460 sample points, with equal representation of gullies and non-gullies. Variance Inflation Factors (VIF) and Information Gain Ratio (IGR) techniques were applied to assess multicollinearity test among the controlling factors. Lithology, elevation, distance from the road, LULC, geomorphology, rainfall, drainage density, and coarse fragments emerged as crucial factors in determining GESM. Statistical tests, including the Kappa index, Root Mean Square Error (RMSE), Accuracy (ACC), Mean Absolute Error (MAE), Coefficient of Determination (R2), and Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC), were employed to evaluate the RF and XGB models on training and testing data. Both models demonstrated strong performance, with the XGBoost and RF models achieving ROC values of 84.1% and 83.2%, respectively. The applied quantile classification method resulted in the creation of five distinct GESMs, categorized as very high (VH), high (H), moderate (M), low (L), and very low (VL). We found that the very high GESM areas of the watershed were 4.10% in the XGBoost model and 4.61%. in the RF model. Out of the 26 sub-watersheds, the results have identified five sub-watersheds as highly prioritized for sustainable management. Therefore, the present study provides an accurate gully erosion identification using advanced models, offering valuable insights for policymakers to proper management implementation.

Assessing the efficiency of microplastics extraction methods for tropical beach sediments and matrix preparation for experimental controls

IntroductionMicroplastic pollution has become a global issue, eliciting attention not just from the scientific community but also both from the public and governmental bodies. Drawing data-driven policies and interventions, however, remain difficult due to the severely lacking baseline information from different environments such as beaches. One of the challenges in doing baseline studies is the lack of harmonized methodologies that will allow for comparison of results, integration of data, and its effective translation to evidence-based policies. Emphasis on quality control measures among baselining efforts through the proper implementation of experimental controls is also lacking.MethodologyTo address these gaps, we compared methodologies for preparing the sediment matrix for experimental controls, as well as evaluated protocols for extracting microplastics from tropical beach sediments. Beach sediments were collected, dried, sieved, and spiked with known amounts of microplastics of different polymer types. The removal and extraction efficiencies of the protocols being compared were evaluated.Results and discussionOur results showed that subjecting beach sediments to a furnace at 550° C for 4 hours is the most efficient way to remove plastic contamination, implying its applicability for preparing experimental controls. Meanwhile, a modified version of Masura et al. (2015), one of the widely cited methodologies for microplastics extraction, exhibited the highest mean extraction efficiency (99.05 ± 0.82%) among the protocols being compared. Results of this work will be useful in identifying methods that can be adopted and utilized for research and baselining efforts not just in the Philippines but also in Southeast Asia. This will also be helpful in the harmonization of methods, data reporting, and even skills as implemented through the regional and national action plans to address marine plastic pollution.

Broadband Cross-Polarization to Half-Integer Quadrupolar Nuclei: Wideline Static NMR Spectroscopy.

Cross-polarization (CP) is a technique commonly used for the signal enhancement of NMR spectra; however, applications to quadrupolar nuclei have heretofore been limited due to a number of problems, including poor spin-locking efficiency, inconvenient relaxation times, and reduced CP efficiencies over broad spectral bandwidths─this is unfortunate, since they constitute 73% of NMR-active nuclei in the periodic table. The Broadband Adiabatic Inversion CP (BRAIN-CP) pulse sequence has proven useful for the signal enhancement of wideline and ultra-wideline (i.e., 250 kHz to several MHz in breadth) powder patterns arising from stationary samples; however, a comprehensive investigation of its application to half-integer quadrupolar nuclei (HIQN) is currently lacking. Herein, we present theoretical and experimental considerations for applying BRAIN-CP to acquire central-transition (CT, +1/2 ↔ -1/2) powder patterns of HIQN. Consideration is given to parameters crucial to the success of the experiment, such as the Hartmann-Hahn (HH) matching conditions and the phase modulation of the contact pulse. Modifications to the BRAIN-CP sequence such as flip-back (FB) pulses and ramped contact pulses applied to the 1H spins are used for the reduction of experimental times and increased CP bandwidth capabilities, respectively. Spectra for a series of quadrupolar nuclei with broad CT powder patterns, including 35Cl (S = 3/2), 55Mn (S = 5/2), 59Co (S = 7/2), and 93Nb (S = 9/2), are acquired via direct excitation (CPMG and WCPMG) and indirect excitation (CP/CPMG and BRAIN-CP) methods. We demonstrate that proper implementation of the sequence can enable 1H-S broadband CP over a bandwidth of 1 MHz, which to the best of our knowledge is the largest CP bandwidth reported to date. Finally, we establish the basic principles necessary for simplified optimization and execution of the BRAIN-CP pulse sequence for a wide range of HIQNs.

Effect of collagen denaturation degree on mechanical properties and biological activity of nanofibrous scaffolds.

Further progress in regenerative medicine and bioengineering highly depends on the development of 3D polymeric scaffolds with active biological properties. The most attention is paid to natural extracellular matrix components, primarily collagen. Herein, nonwoven nanofiber materials with various degrees of collagen denaturation and fiber diameters 250-500 nm were produced by electrospinning, stabilized by genipin, and characterized in detail. Collagen denaturation has been confirmed using DSC and FTIR analysis. The comparative study of collagen and gelatin nonwoven materials (NWM) revealed only minor differences in their biocompatibility with skin fibroblasts and keratinocytes in vitro. In long-term subcutaneous implantation study, the inflammation was less evident on collagen than on gelatin NWM. Remarkably, the pronounced calcification was revealed in the collagen NWM only. The results obtained can be useful in terms of improving the electrospinning technology of collagen from aqueous solutions, as well as emphasize the importance of long-term study to ensure proper implementation of the material, taking into account the ability of collagen to provoke calcification.

Nurses' perceived barriers and facilitators to the implementation of nurse prescribing: Delphi study and focus group.

To obtain consensus on barriers and facilitators to nurse prescribing following its recent introduction in Spain. A three round online Delphi survey and focus group. An exploratory method was used with three consecutive rounds of questionnaires based on anonymity and feedback, and a focus group. The study was carried out with primary care, specialized care, socio-health care and manager nurses. On the basis of the Delphi study that was conducted, a list of 15 barriers and 18 facilitators of nurse prescribing was obtained. However, no general consensus was found with respect to the prioritization of these barriers/facilitators. The analysis of the results of the focus group confirmed the information obtained from the Delphi study. The main barriers highlighted were dependence on the figure of the physician, insufficient training in pharmacology, a lack of institutional support and the limited list of products that could be prescribed. The key facilitators were academic knowledge and ongoing training and education, independence in the functions and responsibilities of the nursing profession, adaptation to new roles and autonomy in the case of chronic care processes. Nurses were generally positive about the introduction of nurse prescribing. The commitment of nurses to training and their accreditation as prescribers (internal forces) and health policy and nursing management (external forces) play a fundamental role in supporting the basis of nurse prescribing and ensuring that it is developed with the identified support resources, such as staff training and the provision of the materials necessary for its proper implementation, all with the aim of guaranteeing quality healthcare. Strong models of nurse prescribing are being considered globally to address population needs. The results can help the future implementation of non-medical independent prescribing and provide guidance to the government and society on the interventions that can be used to consolidate it. What problem did the study address? By 2027, the world's population will receive more than 4.5 trillion doses of medicine each year. However, the WHO estimates a projected shortfall of 10 million health workers by 2030. Inadequacies with traditional physician-led care systems mean that new approaches are imperative to maintain patient access to prescription medicines, with NP being a key element in this regard. In Catalonia (Spain), the accreditation process for nurses as prescribers was implemented in 2021. It is therefore of vital importance to question and consult the nurses themselves, the main promoters of the process, to find out their perceptions and thus be able to take them into consideration in the implementation process. What were the main findings? A total of 15 barriers and 17 facilitators were identified. The main perceived barriers are dependence on the figure of the physician, insufficient training in pharmacology during undergraduate studies and a lack of institutional support. The main perceived facilitators are academic knowledge and ongoing education and training, independence in nursing functions and responsibilities, and adaptation to new roles and tasks. Where and on whom will the research have an impact? These results can contribute to improving NP implementation in Spain and serve as a reference for other countries, especially where NP education and training have only recently been instigated or are in the planning process. Standards for reporting qualitative research: a synthesis of recommendations. SRQR. No patient or public contribution.

MICROBIOLOGICAL PROFILE OF HIGH TOUCH AREAS OF CRITICAL AND NON-CRITICAL UNITS IN TEACHING HOSPITAL OF MADHYA PRADESH, INDIA

In the current scenario, Nosocomial infections (NI) due to environmental contamination in shared settings of health care, are a serious public health issue affecting millions of people every year worldwide. Therefore, this study aims to create a microbiological profile of high touch areas of Critical and Non-Critical units in Teaching Hospital of Madhya Pradesh. This Cross-sectional Study deals with bacterial (aerobic and anaerobic) surveillance and its antimicrobial susceptibility testing which will aid in enlisting antimicrobial-resistant bacteria and guide us in the use of antimicrobials judiciously. A total of 128 samples were taken from Critical care units and non-Critical units from eight surface locations classified into categories of immediate patient environment and commonly used equipment. These samples were then processed for isolation and identification by standard methods. Out of 128 samples, 28 (21.8%) samples were culture positive for aerobic only and none for anaerobic bacteria. Among which more culture positive samples were isolated from non-Critical units 53.5%, topping the list of contamination were General Medicine ward and Gynecology ward (17.8 %). The majority of isolated microorganisms were Staphylococcus aureus of which 38.4% were MRSA. It showed maximum resistance for Ampicillin (AMP) and was most sensitive to Gentamicin (GEN). Present study highlights that control of Staphylococcus aureus infection (including MRSA) in hospitals is essential. It can be achieved by proper implementation of hospital infection control measures and regular surveillance activity.

Pengaruh Tinggi Tapak Timbun Terhadap Distribusi Akar Kelapa Sawit (Elaeis guineensis Jacq.) Umur 10 Tahun Pada Lahan Mineral

One of the reasons for the low productivity of oil palm is the lack of proper technical culture implementation. The implementation of technical culture practices that can be carried out includes stem mounding by creating mound platforms for the oil palm. This study aims to determine the effect of mound bed height on the growth and development of roots in 10-year-old oil palm plants. The research was conducted experimentally using a Non-Factorial Randomized Complete Block Design with 5 levels of mound bed height: 20 cm, 25 cm, 30 cm, 35 cm, and 40 cm. Each treatment was replicated five times, resulting in 25 experimental units. Each experimental unit consisted of three sample plants, making a total of 75 sample plants. The observed parameters included fresh root weight, dry root weight, the number of primary roots, the length of primary roots, the number of secondary roots, the length of secondary roots, and the number of tertiary roots. The results of the study indicated that the mound bed treatment on 10-year-old oil palm plants in mineral soil, particularly at a height of 40 cm, tended to increase the fresh root weight by 2.45 g, the dry root weight by 0.65 g, the number of tertiary roots by 5.26 strands, the number of primary roots by 2.80 strands, the length of primary roots by 10.0 cm, the number of secondary roots by 2.26 strands, and the length of secondary roots by 2.61 cm.

An ASSESSMENT of the DISASTER PREPAREDNESS of the BARANGAY (VILLAGE) DISASTER RISK REDUCTION AND MANAGEMENT COMMITTEES of the TAGOLOAN RIVER BASIN COMMUNITIES in SOUTHERN PHILIPPINES

Climate-related hazards pose significant threats to communities worldwide, necessitating all governments to be at all times on high alert. Local governments, as required by law, should implement measures that would mitigate risk exposure to their constituents. This study utilized three research-made data gathering tools. Results revealed that the tasks of the Barangay (Village) Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Committees (BDRRMCs) in the river basin communities on disaster preparedness were at the low level. As a whole, the performance of the BDRRMCs is poor (2.45). This is broken down into building of competencies (poor = 2.72) and acquisition of hardware and supply (poor = 2.18). The results indicate that the BDRRMC leadership of the Tagoloan River Basin (TRB) communities has very limited capability with respect to its level of BDRRM Committee performance in the context of Building of Competencies as a component of disaster preparedness. The data also imply that the tools/facilities/materials, as sub-indicators of BDRRMC according to disaster preparedness, are not fully in existence and not available to many of the TRB barangays. There is a cogent need for all government offices handling the DRRM functions to provide appropriate attention at the community level for the proper implementation of the DRRM Plan.