Volume 14 | Issue 1

 Abstract

Patrick White's The Tree of Man (1955) examines the lives of ordinary individuals and the quiet, persistent cycles of life. Taking place in the Australian countryside, the narrative traces the experiences of Stanley and Amy Parker, a simple couple who establish a home bordering wilderness. Their homestead Patrick White's The Tree of Man (1955) examines the lives of ordinary individuals and the quiet, persistent cycles of life. Taking place in the Australian countryside, the narrative traces the experiences of Stanley and Amy Parker, a simple couple who establish a home bordering wilderness. Their homestead forms the focal point of a story spanning generations, illustrating how human life flourishes, declines, and regenerates in parallel with the surrounding natural environment. The focal point of a story spanning generations, illustrating how human life flourishes, declines, and regenerates in parallel with the surrounding natural environment. 1955 novel, The Tree of Man, examines the lives of common individuals and the quiet, persistent cycles of life. Set in rural Australia, the narrative traces the experiences of Stanley and Amy Parker, an unassuming couple who establish a homestead on the fringes of the wilderness. Their farm serves as the focal point of a story spanning generations, illustrating how human existence evolves, declines, and regenerates in parallel with the natural environment.

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Absurdity, Authenticity, Isolation, ,Transcendence ,Meaninglessness

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At present, the centralized AI development method that relies on the centralization of massive, sensitive data is now confronted with technological and ethical issues brought on by the unmanageable explosion in edge data and global regulatory mandates such as GDPR and HIPAA. This paper provides a comprehensive assessment of Federated Learning (FL) as the primordial architectural approach, a distributed machine learning paradigm in which model learning is decentralized, and raw data remains compliant with the data sovereignty principle--never leaving its physical location.

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Distributed Machine Learning, Federated Learning, Data Sovereignty, Privacy Preserving AI, Edge Computing

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This study examines gender-based differences in risk tolerance among equity investors in Surat City. Using a quantitative survey of 383 respondents, risk tolerance was assessed through scenario-based behavioural questions and analysed using SPSS. Results from independent samples t-tests revealed significantly higher mean risk tolerance scores for males compared to females (p < 0.001), indicating that gender plays a statistically meaningful role in shaping investment risk behaviour. Chi-square analysis further confirmed associations between gender and specific risk-taking decisions. Findings suggest that while financial literacy levels did not vary substantially across genders, sociocultural and psychological factors influenced women's lower inclination towards risky investment choices. The study highlights implications for financial advisors, policymakers, and investor education programs, especially in promoting gender-sensitive financial inclusion and advisory strategies.

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Gender Differences, Risk Tolerance & Equity Investors.

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Heritage tourism has emerged as a critical segment within cultural tourism, emphasizing the preservation, interpretation, and consumption of tangible and intangible heritage assets. Kerala, endowed with rich historical architecture, cultural traditions, and living heritage practices, has increasingly positioned heritage tourism as a strategic tourism product. Despite growing visitation, sustaining repeat visitation remains a central challenge for heritage destinations. Revisit intention is widely regarded as a key indicator of destination loyalty and long-term tourism sustainability. This theoretical article explores revisit intentions in the context of heritage tourism in Kerala by synthesizing existing literature on heritage experience, destination image, place attachment, perceived authenticity, and satisfaction. Anchored in experiential tourism theory and destination loyalty frameworks, the study conceptualizes revisit intention as an outcome of cognitive, affective, and relational processes. Through a structured narrative review, the paper identifies critical antecedents influencing tourists' intention to revisit heritage destinations and proposes a conceptual framework tailored to the Kerala context. The article contributes to heritage tourism literature by providing a theoretically grounded understanding of revisit behavior and offering directions for future empirical research and policy-oriented heritage tourism development.

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Heritage tourism, Revisit intention, Destination loyalty, Place attachment, Kerala

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The ISO 9001 Quality Management System (QMS) is the most widely adopted international quality standard, implemented by more than one million organisations worldwide. Despite its popularity, the impact of ISO 9001 on organisational performance remains debated, with scholars reporting both positive and mixed results. This study empirically investigates the critical factors influencing the relationship between ISO 9001 QMS implementation and organisational performance in Sri Lanka, where limited research has been conducted. Using a structured questionnaire distributed across 83 ISO 9001-certified organisations, the study examined five independent variables leadership, resource availability, operational efficiency, performance evaluation, and improvement and their effect on organisational performance. Data analysis using regression and decision tree models revealed that performance evaluation was the strongest predictor of organisational performance, followed by improvement, operational efficiency, and resource availability. Leadership showed only a weak relationship in the Sri Lankan context. While respondents acknowledged improved product and service quality and customer satisfaction after certification, issues such as excessive documentation and rigid formats were noted as challenges. The findings contribute to the ongoing debate on ISO 9001 effectiveness and provide practical implications for managers to focus on robust evaluation systems and continuous improvement mechanisms rather than mere compliance.

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ISO 9001, Quality Management System, organizational performance, quality management, operational efficiency, Sri Lanka, continuous improvement, leadership, Organisational performance, Business Performance.

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This paper presents a wearable assistive communication system for real-time bidirectional translation between sign language and speech using embedded hardware and machine learning. A sensor-based smart glove incorporating flex sensors and an inertial measurement unit (IMU) captures hand gestures and finger movements. The acquired data is processed by an Arduino Nano and transmitted to a Raspberry Pi Zero 2 W, where a lightweight machine learning model performs gesture recognition. Recognized gestures are translated into text and synthesized speech, enabling communication for speech-impaired users. In the reverse direction, spoken input is converted to text and mapped to sign language visual outputs on a mobile interface. The system is designed to be portable, low-cost, and efficient, supporting real-time operation for daily use.

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Sign Language Recognition, Assistive Communication System, Smart Glove, Embedded Systems, Machine Learning, Arduino Nano, Raspberry Pi Zero 2 W, Speech-to-Text, Text-to-Speech, Wearable Technology.

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Teachings of Tibetan Buddhism can be classified into Sutric and Tantric. Within the Tantric form of Teaching lies the importance of the Terma Tradition. A form of teaching passed down through transmission with the specific purpose of retaing the purity of the original teaching. This paper seeks to understand the origination of the Terma Tradition and the essence of the concept of transmission teaching as it exists in Tibetan Buddhism, particularly in Vajrayana or Mantrayana

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Buddhism. Terma. Transmission. Vjrayana. Mantrayana

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Nanotechnology is an expanding scientific domain which deals with the manipulation and application of materials at a level of precision smaller than 100 nanometers (nm). The versatility in characteristics and functions has driven profound developments in various fields such as electronics, medicine, and energy pro-duction. More significantly within dentistry, particularly within periodontics, nanotechnology has become promising. Its integration has revolutionized the landscape of how periodontal diseases are managed, ultimately enhancing treatment effectiveness and patients' satisfaction. This review elucidates this rising trend in current application for periodontics; encompassing its roles in diagnosis, therapeutic interventions as well as regenerative.

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Nanotechnology, periodontics, diagnosis, therapeutic, regenerative

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Indoor environments, such as libraries, are susceptible to fungal contamination, which can endanger human health and compromise the integrity of valuable materials in these environments. This study focused on identifying the presence, variety, and distribution of airborne fungi in the Sangameshwar College library located in Solapur, India, to evaluate potential health threats and recommend preventive strategies for them. Samples were gathered using the settle plate method from three key areas: the surfaces of books, bookshelves, and the librarian's desk. Fungal isolates were grown on Potato Dextrose Agar and identified through both macroscopic and microscopic examination. The investigation identified 16 fungal species across ten genera, with Aspergillus and Penicillium being the most prevalent. Bookshelves showed the greatest fungal load and diversity, likely due to dust buildup and inadequate air circulation. The detection of allergenic and pathogenic species, such as Aspergillus fumigatus and Alternaria alternata, underscores the potential health risks to library patrons and staff, including allergic reactions and respiratory issues. These results highlight the importance of regular monitoring of fungal contamination and the adoption of preventive measures, such as enhanced ventilation, humidity regulation, and cleaning, to ensure a healthy library environment. Future research should explore seasonal changes in fungal diversity to refine environmental management practices in libraries.

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Key Words - Airborne fungi, fungal contamination, indoor environments, libraries, health risks, allergenic species, pathogenic species, Aspergillus, Penicillium, biodeterioration, cellulose, lignin and Environmental management.

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This paper explores the dynamic evolution of governance in India, tracing its trajectory from traditional administrative frameworks to contemporary models shaped by globalization, democratization, and technological advancement. It highlights transformative policy innovations across sectors such as economic liberalization, digital governance, social welfare, and institutional reforms, while critically evaluating their design, implementation, and measurable outcomes. The study underscores achievements in areas like poverty alleviation, financial inclusion, infrastructure development, and citizen-centric service delivery, alongside persistent challenges including bureaucratic inertia, regional disparities, and issues of accountability. By analyzing key reforms introduced in recent decades--ranging from the Right to Information Act and Aadhaar-based digital identity systems to decentralized governance initiatives--the paper assesses their impact on socio-economic indicators such as literacy, health, employment, and equity. Furthermore, it situates India's governance experience within a comparative global framework, drawing parallels and contrasts with other emerging and established governance models. The discussion not only identifies lessons learned and best practices but also emphasizes the need for adaptive, inclusive, and transparent governance mechanisms to sustain India's developmental momentum in the face of evolving domestic and international challenges.

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governance, transparency, digital, innovation, schemes and programmes

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Irrigational investment has remained a debatable issue despite irrigation's massive impact upon civilization since ancient days. After the Industrial revolution, if we observe the structural change of the world towards industrialization (Kuznets, 1966,1971), mainly because of the terms of trade tilt towards the finished goods, out of given land area, debate emerged whether to use land optimally for industrialization or towards irrigation to promote agricultural development. Obvious debate raised regarding land use and that created the debate: whether to retain self-sufficiency in food - the leftist agenda or to attain specialization in finished good and import food from the peripheral countries at the least cost to attain highest benefit from gain in terms of trade - the rightist agenda in a developed country's parliament (Mydral, 1956; Singer, 1998; Prebisch-Singer). Definitely historical development process has assimilated the two extreme goals. Draught days felt needs for irrigation and loss in competition felt need for specialization in finished goods. So, a Democratic Capitalist Welfare Economy kept both the routs open towards food self sufficiency as well as specialization in manufacturing finished goods. Examples are the historical development process of 13 Developed Countries like USA, UK, Germany and 4 Developing Countries like Argentina, Egypt etc. (Kuznets, 1971). Here we are in a discourse corresponding to the Indian Economy that agricultural growth without structural change/transformation leads us to 'Hindu rate of Growth' whereas structural transformation leads us to high rate of growth about which, agricultural growth is just a bi-product. From this angle we are going to focus upon the importance of irrigation and structural change on agricultural development of India.

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Irrigation, Rural Development, Agricultural Growth, Gross Fixed Capital Formation, Structural decomposition, Cointegration.

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Modern travel platforms often rely on static interfaces and manual filtering, which limits efficient interaction and decision support. This paper presents TravEase, an Agentic AI-based conversational travel management system that allows users to access and manage structured travel data through natural language queries. Built using Google's Gemini 2.0 Flash model, the system follows a tool-driven Agentic AI approach where the agent interprets user intent and dynamically invokes backend functions for data retrieval, analytics, and auditing. TravEase integrates a FastAPI backend, SQLite database, and real-time response streaming to ensure accurate, data-backed outputs. The system demonstrates improved usability, reduced manual effort, and reliable conversational decision support.

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onversational AI, Agentic Systems, Travel Management, ReAct Framework, Decision Support.

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The chronic gastrointestinal condition known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is brought on by the reflux of stomach contents into the esophagus, which can create bothersome symptoms and problems. It is one of the most common digestive problems in the world, greatly impairing quality of life and raising the cost of healthcare. Changes in nutrition, lifestyle, obesity, stress, and the widespread use of several drugs are all linked to the increasing prevalence of GERD. Heartburn and acid regurgitation are the most prevalent clinical manifestations of GERD, although extra-esophageal symptoms like laryngitis, asthma, chest pain, and persistent cough are becoming more well acknowledged. Transient relaxations of the lower esophageal sphincter, poor esophageal clearance, delayed stomach emptying, and elevated intra-abdominal pressure are all part of the complex pathophysiology of GERD. In certain situations, endoscopy, esophageal pH monitoring, and manometry are used to support the diagnosis, which is frequently based on clinical symptoms. Surgical procedures, medication therapy, and lifestyle changes are all part of the management of GERD. The cornerstone of treatment is still proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), although worries about their long-term safety have spurred research into alternate treatments and step-down treatment approaches. With a focus on rational pharmacology and patient-centered care, this review attempts to give a current overview of GERD by examining its epidemiology, etiology, clinical aspects, diagnostic methods, and current treatment modalities.

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Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), proton pump inhibitors, acid reflux, heartburn, pharmacological management

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Fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) strengthening systems are highly vulnerable to elevated temperatures and fire exposure, which can lead to rapid degradation of their mechanical and bonding performance. Consequently, effective fire-protective solutions are essential to ensure the safety of FRP-strengthened reinforced concrete structures. This review critically examines geopolymer-based and rubberized cementitious materials as protective systems for FRP applications under elevated temperatures. The paper synthesizes recent studies addressing thermal behaviour, damage mechanisms, residual mechanical performance, and mitigation strategies. Geopolymer materials demonstrate superior fire resistance, reduced spalling tendency, and higher post-fire strength retention compared to conventional OPC-based systems, attributed to their stable aluminosilicate network. Rubberized mortars and concrete, in contrast, provide enhanced thermal insulation, deformation capacity, and resistance to explosive spalling due to controlled rubber degradation; however, with reduced mechanical strength at high temperatures. Hybrid systems incorporating fibers or surface-modified rubber show promising potential by balancing thermal protection and mechanical integrity. The review highlights the complementary roles of geopolymer and rubberized cementitious materials as effective fire-protective layers for FRP-strengthened concrete members

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Geopolymer, Crumb Rubber, Fire Protection, Elevated Temperature, FRP Strengthening

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Modern lifestyles, driven by technology and consumption, have distanced us from the rhythms of the natural world. This disconnection leads to unsustainable habits that degrade ecosystems and weaken our physical and emotional well-being. Studies show that time spent in nature reduces stress, improves cognition, and forest empathy - qualities crucial for human growth and societal progress.

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Human Evolution, prerequisite

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In the present study around ten soil samples were collected various agricultural fields of Karur district, Tamil Nadu. The soil samples were collected as per standard procedure. Isolation of fungal species were done by serial dilution and plating on PDA agar followed by microscopic identification by LPCB mount. Totally 30 fungal flora belongs to eight family isolated and profiled. Percentage occurrence includes Aspergillus sp. (23%), Penicillium sp. (17%), Mucor sp. (14%), Rhizopus sp. (14%), Fusarium sp. (7%), Curvularia sp. (17%) and others species (each 3%). The overall finding on soil fungal flora of this research could help the researchers and farmers for a choosing crop growth promoting fungi such as mineral solubilizing fungi in and around the study sites.

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Crop cultivated soil, PDA, LPCB mount, Soil fungi

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Upper extremity function plays a vital role in performing daily activities such as reaching, lifting, writing, and handling objects. These tasks require not only strength but also adequate upper extremity endurance, which allows muscles to sustain activity over time. Muscular endurance is also a core component of physical fitness among university students and contributes significantly to cardiovascular performance, body composition, and overall physical health. Evidence shows that students engaged in endurance-based activities demonstrate better physical fitness and wellness, highlighting the importance of structured endurance training in academic settings

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TO EVALUATE UPPER EXTREMITY ENDURANCE IN PHYSIOTHERAPY STUDENTS USING UNSUPPORTED UPPER LIMB EXERCISE TEST A CROSS - SECTIONAL STUDY

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The aim of this study was to conduct a comparative study of health-related physical fitness components in young weightlifting and powerlifting athletes. In this research, weightlifting and powerlifting athletes from various districts of Maharashtra state were selected for the study. A total of 40 athletes were selected, comprising 20 weightlifters and 20 powerlifters, all within the age group of 18 to 23 years. To measure the health-related physical fitness of the selected subjects, certain components were chosen, including cardiovascular endurance, flexibility, and muscular endurance. These components were then tested using the Cooper 12-minute run/walk test, sit-and-reach test, and sit-up test, respectively. A Student's t-test and Average was used to analyze the scores obtained from the tests and to compare the health-related physical fitness of weightlifting and powerlifting athletes. The significance level for this study was set at 0.05. It was concluded that there are significant differences in health-related physical fitness and its components--flexibility, cardiovascular endurance, and muscular endurance--between weightlifting and powerlifting athletes. Weightlifters exhibited higher levels of health-related physical fitness and its components (flexibility, cardiovascular endurance, and muscular endurance) compared to powerlifters.

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Health-Related Physical Capacity, Weightlifting and Powerlifting Athletes

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Teaching English in multilingual classrooms presents complex pedagogical, linguistic, and socio-cultural challenges for educators. In contexts such as India, where students come from diverse linguistic backgrounds, English language teachers often face difficulties related to language interference, varied proficiency levels, learner anxiety, and limited exposure to English outside the classroom. This paper explores the major challenges encountered in teaching English in multilingual classrooms and examines their impact on teaching-learning processes. It also highlights practical strategies and pedagogical approaches that can help teachers address these challenges effectively. The study adopts a descriptive and analytical approach based on existing literature, classroom observations, and pedagogical practices. The findings suggest that while multilingualism poses significant challenges, it can also be leveraged as a valuable resource for inclusive and effective English language teaching.

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Multilingual classrooms, English Language Teaching (ELT), ESL learners, language interference, linguistic diversity

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Clearly, India has the potential to be a global power. Does India have the vision and the will to be a global power? At the time of independence in 1947, the leaders of the Independence movement had targeted the year 2000 as the date for realizing their vision to be a great global power. This vision guided India's Five year Plans under the Mahalanobis model, when economic development followed socialistic pattern with a centralized public sector at the commanding heights of the economy. It is with the advent of the nineties that economic liberalization started taking roots. But for the vision of the political leadership, the domestic opposition to economic reforms would have ensured that the process collapses even before it could kick-start. There is now, a broad political consensus among the mainstream political parties that the process of economic reforms is irreversible. India's rise towards the great power status shall be based on the edifice of the economic reforms, which have been pursued elentlessly over the last decade.

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Opportunities and challenges for Indian foreign policy in its emergence as a great global power

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