bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Fungal Infection on Defence Proteins of Musca domestica L. and Variation of Virulence with Temperature
Authors: Soyelu O.J. , Oyerinde R.M. , Odu B.O. , Okonji R.E.
Published: June 2020

With the current global drive for alternative control measures that are safer in comparison to synthetic insecticides, it was considered necessary to assess some fungal entomopathogens for efficacy against the house fly, Musca domestica. The effect of fungal infection on activity of two detoxification enzymes (esterase [EST] and glutathione-S-transferase [GST]) was determined in the laboratory. Effect of temperature on progression of mycosis was also investigated between 15 and 35℃ to determine the optimum temperature necessary for successful fungal infection. Two Beauveria bassiana strains (ARSEF 1564 and ARSEF 8891), Metarhizium robertsii (ARSEF 1057) and M. anisopliae s.s. (ARSEF 5471) were evaluated in this study as potential sources of mycoinsecticide formulations. The fungal strains infected larval and adult house flies successfully by inhibiting activity of EST and GST with a concomitant insect mortality of > 90%. A significantly higher number of dead specimens (80-100%) had fungal growth between 20 and 25℃ with a noticeable level of mycosis also at 30℃. The evaluated fungal strains showed good insecticidal efficacy and could,  therefore, serve as good sources of mycoinsecticide formulations against house fly. If this area of biological control is well explored it would reduce reliance on synthetic insecticide formulations.

Keywords: Defence proteins, house fly mortality, mycosis, optimum temperature
Biodegradation Potentials of Waste Engine Oil by Three Bacterial Isolates
Authors: Enerijiofi K.E. , Ahonsi C.O. , Ajao E.K.
Published: June 2020

Environmental contamination by waste engine oil in cities all over the world constitute serious public health concern because its effects are unwholesome and unquantifiable. This study was carried out to biodegrade waste engine oil using bacterial isolates. Three bacteria were isolated from soil samples that have been contaminated with waste engine oil for over seven years in automechanic workshops at Ebelle. They were analysed using standard methods. The bacterial count was 89.4 ± 0.02cfu/g while the control was 3.6 ± 0.14cfu/g. The bacterial diversity identified in descending order were Bacillus sp. (25.41%), Pseudomonas sp. (22.13%), Corynebacterium sp. (18.44%), Acetobacter sp. (18.03%) and Aeromonas sp. (15.98%). The biodegradation efficiencies of three bacterial isolates; Bacillus, Pseudomonas and Corynebacterium species were observed taking records of change in physicochemical parameters (pH, electrical conductivity and total hydrocarbon content) for 40 days at 10 days interval with waste engine oil sample at concentrations of 10%, 20%, 30% and 40%. Corynebacterium sp. gave the highest percentage reduction in pH values of 52.92% at 10% contamination level while Pseudomonas sp. gave the highest percentage reduction of 53.04%, 52.99% and 53.01% at 20%, 30% and 40% crude oil contamination levels respectively. The pH values of the control was almost the same all through the period of incubation. Bacillus sp. gave the highest percentage increase in electrical conductivity value of 74.17%, 69.93% and 69.91% at 10%, 20% and 40% contamination level  respectively while Pseudomonas sp. gave the highest increase of 70.45% at 30% contamination level. Also, the values at day 0 and the control were not so different from each other. Corynebacterium sp. gave the highest percentage reduction in total hydrocarbon content of 95.49%, 95.48%,  96.50% and 96.50% at 10%, 20%, 30% and 40% contamination level respectively. The result revealed a reduction in pH and total hydrocarbon content while there was an increase in electrical conductivity values. This indicated that biodegradation occurred. This study revealed that the bacterial isolates particularly Corynebacterium sp. possess the ability to biodegrade waste engine oil thereby guaranteeing environmental quality and sustained public health for all and sundry. 

Keywords: biodegradation, Corynebacterium sp., environmental sustainability, total hydrocarbon content
Adoption of Agro-Forestry among Farmers in Onigambari area of Oyo State, Nigeria
Authors: Kolade R.I. , Akanni O.F. , Ugege B.H. , Ojedokun C.A. , Asunlegan O.A. , Adisa A.S. , Adetola O.O.
Published: June 2020

This study was carried out in the Onigambari area of Oyo state to determine the choice of farmers to practice Ago-forestry in the area. The χ2 test result revealed that the educational level of the respondents correlated highly with the respondents major occupation (p<0.01). χ2 test shows that there was significant relationship (p<0.01) between the respondents’ level of education and awareness of agroforestry systems. This shows that farmers with a better educational background can accept agro forestry easily than those will lower education. Farmers’ awareness of Agroforestry systems, willingness to plant trees, purpose of planting trees and desired tree species were evaluated. It was observed that 74% of the respondents are not willing to practice agroforestry while 24% shows interest. 64% confirmed they are aware of the practice while 32% had never heard of such practice. The t-test result shows a significant difference with respect to the willingness of the respondents to practice agroforestry. Of those that areaware, 38% practice agroforestry for the purpose of fuel wood, 36% as source of income while only 2% practice for the purpose of wind breaking. Eucalyptus calmuldulensis, Magnifera indica, Gmelina aboreal are some of the tress used for this practice in the study area. Lack of seed and scarcity of land were identified as limiting factors that prevent farmers from practicing agroforestry. In summary it was observed that the respondent’s level of education correlated significantly to the level of education, also the level of education determines respondent’s willingness to practice  agroforestry. It is recommended that Seeds, Seedlings and land be made available to encourage the practice among farmers. Extension workers are encouraged to engage farmers more on the benefits of agroforestry.

Keyword: Farmers, Agroforestry, Climate change, Land degradation, Natural Fallow
Physicochemical Analysis of Surface and Ground Water in Ugbomro and Iteregbi, Delta State, Nigeria
Authors: Ovonramwen O.B.
Published: June 2020

Physicochemical analyses of surface and groundwater samples from eleven different locations in Ugbomro and Iteregbi, Delta State, Nigeria were sampled and analyzed for physicochemical parameters according to standard methods for the examination of water and wastewater. The following  mean and standard deviation were obtained from the groundwater of the communities: temp (oC) 22.46 ± 0.50 and 23.23 ± 0.99, pH 6.63 ± 0.68 and6.69 ± 0.24, dissolved oxygen (DO) (mg/L) 5.91 ± 0.46 and 5.73 ± 0.46, chemical oxygen demand (COD) (mg/L) 4.24 ± 0.01 and 4.43 ± 0.10, biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) (mg/L) 3.51 ± 0.38 and 3.84 ± 0.21, Turbidity (NTU) 1.22 ± 1.07 and 3.56 ± 0.77, electrical conductivity (EC) (μs/cm) 748.9 ± 215.79 and 786.67 ± 226.77, color (TCU) 1.22 ± 2.12 and 6.11 ± 2.11, total alkalinity (TA) (mg/L) 6.22 ± 7.38 and 14.11 ± 11.19, HCO3- (mg/L) 6.22 ± 7.38 and 14.11 ± 11.19, NO3 - (mg/L) 1.13 ± 0.62 and 2.89 ± 1.25, total solids (TS) (mg/L) 489.09 ± 180.17 and 664.95 ± 373.37, total suspended solids (TSS) (mg/L) 32.25 ± 24.29 and 123.86 ± 82.79, total dissolved solids (TDS) (mg/L) 456.78 ± 163.73 and 542.20 ± 450.66, Cl- (mg/L) 21.20 ± 3.20 and 20.10 ± 3.89, total hardness (TH) (mg/L) 26.67 ± 22.83 and 46.78 ± 36.17, Na (mg/L) 1.26 ± 0.06 and 1.16 ± 0.04, K (mg/L) 0.04 ± 0.01 and 0.06 ± 0.03, Mg (mg/L) 4.32 ± 3.23 and 6.96 ± 5.49, Ca (mg/L) 8.68 ± 9.35 and 18.12 ± 13.71 respectively. The results obtained were subjected to statistical analysis and compared with the standard set by the Standards Organization of Nigeria (SON) and the World Health Organization (WHO) for water samples. Some of the parameters did not meet the standards, hence the need for treatment. The present physio-chemical analyses of surface and groundwater quality of the two neighboring university areas, Ugbomro and Iteregbi, were done to assess the environmental status of  the environment before socio-economic impacts.

Keywords: physicochemical, surface water, groundwater, water quality
Microbiological Properties of Stored Freeze Dried Cow Milk Cheese and Soy Cheese
Authors: Paul T. , Adejumo B.A. , Okosa I. , Chidinma-Edeh C.E.
Published: June 2020

The microbiological properties of stored freeze dried cow milk cheese and soy cheese were investigated. Cow milk cheese and soy milk cheese were prepared using appropriate standard procedures. The microbial qualities of the stored freeze dried samples were determined using standard  methods as prescribed by Compendium of Methods for the Microbiological Examination of Foods and Bacteriological Analytical Manual. Data obtained were analyzed statistically to determine the effect of the packaging materials and storage duration on the microbial qualities of freeze dried cheese samples. Result of the microbial composition for the fresh cow milk and soy cheese for bacterial and fungi count are 3.00x103±0.01, 2.54x106±0.05 and 2.76x103±0.02, 2.60x106±0.10 while the result for the freeze dried cow milk and soy cheese before storage are 2.72x103±0.02, 2.35x106±0.30 and 2.54x103±0.03, 2.38x106±0.50. This indicates that all the packaging material types used have the ability to minimize the microbial growth of stored freeze dried cheese. Polythene film is recommended to be more suitable in terms of cost, availability, compactibility and weight.

Keywords: cheese, freeze drying, microbial qualities, packaging materials.
Comparative Assessment of Air Quality in Igwuruta and Aluu, Rivers State, Nigeria
Authors: Akhionbare S.M.O. , Okweri-Eric O.G. , Ihejirika C.E.
Published: June 2020

This study investigated the air quality of Aluu and Igwuruta communities both in Obio-Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State, using carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), Sulphur dioxide (SO2), suspended particulate matter (SPM), Methare (CH4), ammonia (NH3) Ozone (03) and Volatile Organic Compound (VOCs) as indices. Sampling was done at eighteen (18) locations within Aluu and Igwuruta at graded distances from the two (2) flare points located within the study area. Ambient air temperature, relative humility and windspeed were also measured for the location. Results showed the following levels for Aluu: CO; 934.2 ± 6.5 μg/m3, NO2; 1451.4 ± 14.28 μg/m3, SO2; 243.3 ± 9.085 μg/m3, NH3; 2167.3 ± 8.916 μg/m3, CH4; 34734.5 ± 9.55 μg/m3, SPM; 23.55 ± 6.05 μg/m3, O3; 14.795 ± 6.33 μg/m3 and VOC; 4.04 ± 1.842 μg/m3 while for Igwuruta, results are given as: CO; 460 ± 6.81 μg/m3, SPM; 95.7 ± 3.588 μg/m3, NO2; 1300.75 ± 4.681 μg/m3, SO2; 1191.72 ± 13.127 μg/m3, SO2; 1191.72 ± 13.127 μg/m3, NH3; 554.05 ± 9.241 μg/m3, CH4; 15078.8 ± 10.74 μg/m3, O3; 17.464 ± 1.696 and VOC; 4.659 ± 1.059 μg/m3. The dominant pollutants were NO2, SO2, NH3 and CH4. These results raises concern on possible health risk on community dwellers while Igwuruta had higher levels than Aluu in NO2 and SO2 levels. It is therefore recommended among others, that gas to energy conversion approach is a readily available technology that can be used to curb the menance of environmental pollution due to gas flaring at the same time harnessing the commodity value of the associated gases currently being flared.

Key words: criteria pollutants, reinforcement, Igwuruta, Aluu, health effects
Analysis of Class 1 Integrons and Antibiotic Resistance Genes in Pseudomonas aeruginosa Strains from Benin City, Nigeria
Authors: Isichei-Ukah B.O. , Enabulele O.I.
Published: June 2020

The presence of integrons and antibiotic resistance genes in the genome of Pseudomonas aeruginosa pose a serious problem in the treatment and control of infections caused by this pathogen in hospitals. This study was carried to analyse the presence of class 1 integrons and some antibiotic resistance genes on selected clinical and environmental strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. A total of 120 strains were employed for this study.The strains were confirmed using molecular method and species-specific primers targeting the 16S ribosomal ribonucleic acid (rRNA). Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used to detect the presence of class 1 integrons and resistance genes using appropriate primers and conditions. The strains were analysed for the presence of the following antibiotic resistance genes - aadA, blaPSE, blaAMPC, blaIMP and tetC encoding  aminoglycosides, betalactamases, metallo-beta-lactamases (MBL) and tetracylines resistance respectively. On screening the isolates for the presence of class 1 integrons, 50/60 (83.3 %) clinical isolates and 46/60 (76.7 %) environmental isolates showed positive results (P > 0.05). In both clinical and environmental isolates, the highest occurring resistance genes were blaAMPC and tetC (encoding beta-lactamases and tetracylines respectively), while the least was observed in blaIMP (encoding metallo-beta-lactamases). In comparison, there was high significance difference (at P<0.01 significance level) in the resistance gene blaPSE between the clinical and environmental strains. The high prevalence of these resistance genes is a great threat in the treatment of Pseudomonas infections.

Keywords: Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Resistance genes, Integrons, Beta-lactamases.
Profitability of Non Timber Forest Products Collected in Arakanga Forest Reserve, Abeokuta Ogun State, Nigeria
Authors: Babatunde T.O. , Babatunde O.O. , Babatunde K.O. , Oluwalana T. , Aduloju A.R.
Published: June 2020

The study investigated evaluation of economic impact of non-timber forest products collections in Arakanga forest reserve in Ogun State. Purposive sampling was used to select four villages around the reserve, representing 10% sampling intensity in the study area. A total of 98 questionnaires were administered. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and budgetary analysis. Majority of respondents were within the age group of40-49 years (35.7%) and mostly were female(51%),40.8% had no formal education while 33.7% had primary education and were mostly married(57.1%). Identified NTFPs includes fuelwood, mushroom, charcoal and honey. The result on profitability showed that fuel-wood had the highest net profit (₦10,916.85) among the NTFPs found in the study area. Constraints faced NTFPs were price fluctuation (58.2%), low demand (14.3%) and inadequate credit facilities (11.2%) and host of others. It was recommended that NTFPs should be introduced to youth in orderto reduce the level of unemployment and government should repaired the road network to the forest for easy accessibility for NTFPs operation.

Keywords: profitability, Arakanga, constraint, collections, forest reserve
Profitability, Marketing Efficiency and Value Addition of Timber Industry in Ife East Local Government of Osun State, Nigeria
Authors: Babatunde T.O. , Babatunde O.O. , Babatunde K.O. , Aduloju A.R. , Oluwalana T. , Inyang V.
Published: June 2020

The study focused on marketing and value of additions of timber in Ife East Local Government, Osun state Nigeria. Specifically, the study examined the market efficiency, determined the profitability of the timber business, examine the level of value addition and the constraints facing the timber industry. Data were collected with the use of primary and secondary data. Primary data needed for the study were generated from structured questionnaire. Fifteen sawmills were randomly selected and one hundred and fifty questionnaires were distributed to the timber marketer and furniture m firm. One hundred and forty eight were retrieved. The data collected were analyzed using descriptive and budgetary analyses. The result showed that males had the highest percentage (89.2%). Majority of the respondents were within the age range of 40 -50 years (83.8%) and most were married (81.8%) it was further revealed that (67.6%) had regular supply of their product and the means of transportation was lorry (44.6%). The study also revealed that benches with 42% added more value addition to the industry. It showed that the year 2013 had the highest efficiency with 2.6. The budgetary analysis showed that the average revenue for the industry for the year 2012-2018 ranged between N2, 285,108.45, 889,107.12. It also revealed that the total profit for the timber ranged between 7, 340, 54.59 and 2,304,897.47.government policy, inadequate facilities in the market, inadequate facilities in the market, inadequate credit facilities, inadequate power supply and high cost of transportation were some of the constraint faced by the timber industry in Ife East Local Government.

Keywords; profitability, marketing efficiency, timber, value addition, industry
Comparative Assessment of Crude Oil Degradation by Monocillium sp. and Aspergillus niger
Authors: Odili U.C. , Ibrahim F.B. , Shaibu-Imodagbe E.M. , Atta H.I.
Published: June 2020

Fungi dwelling in soils contaminated by petroleum products can survive on these hydrocarbons due to the highly effective extracellular enzymes. Species belonging to the genus, Aspergillus are known to be efficient degraders of various classes of hydrocarbons as well as other organic contaminants. In this study, the biodegradation of crude oil by Aspergillus niger and Monocillium sp. were compared using laboratory microcosms.The moulds were isolated from a site receiving effluent from a petroleum refinery. They were identified using their macroscopic and microscopic characteristics and subsequently screened for their ability to utilize hydrocarbons for their metabolic requirements. Following the biodegradation studies, Aspergillus niger and Monocillium sp. recorded an increase in hydrocarbon utilizing fungal counts of 8.5 x 107 spores/ml and 6.1 x 107 spores/ml and crude oil weight loss of 80 % and 70 %. Both fungi were tested singly and in a consortium for their ability to degrade crude oil, itwas observed that Monocillium sp. and A.niger performed better when tested individually (94.2 %; 92.8 %) than in consortium (76.3 %). This may suggest that their combined metabolism may have created some antagonistic effect on the degradation process as opposed to their enzymatic capabilities which appeared to be more favourable to the process. The biodegradation experiment analysis showed that contact time plays a  significant role in biodegradation of crude oil (p<0.05), and Monocillium sp. and Aspergillus niger are excellent crude oil degraders and can be usedin the bioremediation of petroleum-contaminated soil and water.

Keywords: Biodegradation, Aspergillus niger, Monocillium sp., soil, Crude oil
Augmentative Modelling: A Template for Populus spp. Stand Biomass in Eurasia Region
Authors: Vladimir Andreevich Usoltsev , Seyed Omid Reza Shobairi , Ivan Stepanovich Tsepordey , Viktor Petrovich Chasovskikh
Published: June 2020

Today, estimating of biological productivity or carbon-depositing ability of forests is going on the global level, and its increase is one of the major factors of climate stabilization. In recent years, two trends in the harmonization of allometric models of tree biomass have been developing. The  first of them is related to ensuring the additivity of the biomass component composition, and the second one – to the search for the so-called generic model applicable to a wide range of environmental conditions. However, all "generic" models give significant biases in their application in local conditions. In our modeling, we adhere to the principle of biomass additivity, split "generic" model into regional variants by introducing dummy variables, and build the model at the transcontinental level for the first time. When using the unique in terms of the volume of database on the level of stand of the genus Populus spp. in a number of 212 sample plots, the trans-Eurasian additive allometric models of biomass of standsfor Eurasian Populus forests are developed, and thereby the combined problem of model additivity and generality is solved. The additive model of forest biomass of Populus is harmonized in two ways: it eliminated the internal contradictions of the component and the total biomass equations, and in addition, it takes into account regional differences of forest stands not only on total, aboveground and underground biomass, but also on its component structure, i.e. it reflects the regional peculiarities of the component structure of biomass.

Keywords: genus Populus spp., biomass of forests, allometric models, sample plots, biological productivity
Soil Properties and Fertility Management within Ruiru Peri-Urban Area in Kiambu County, Kenya
Authors: Waswa F. , Mwamburi M. , Wakindiki I.I.C. , Chemutai R.
Published: June 2020

Peri-urban agriculture is a common practice around many towns and cities in Africa because of the ready urban market for farm commodities. However, it is constrained by a myriad of factors like lack of land tenure and poor soil fertility management strategies. This study focussed on soil physicochemical properties and fertility management in Ruiru Sub County, which is a peri-urban area, in Kiambu County of Kenya. Data was obtained from soil samples that were collected from ten small contact farms identified by the Sub-County Ministry of Agriculture and analysed for selected physicochemical parameters critical in soil fertility management. The results from this study indicated that most farmers were tenants growing leafy vegetables on small farms ~0.1 ha. Soil fertility was mainly maintained using organic manures, while tillage was done by hand. Both practices signal the limitations imposed by the small farm size and lack of land ownership. The soil pH was 6.3 ±0.87, which was ideal for protontransfer reactions in the soil and availability of nutrients for plant uptake. Soil fertility was mostly limited by the interaction of soil pH, K and Ca (30%), total N, OC and Zn (27%) and Cu (15%), Mg (10%) and P (9%). Therefore, the management of Ca fertilisation in this area is key because it is the Ca concentration of the soil solution that influences K and pH through ion exchange and K release.

Key words: Organic manures, Inorganic fertilizers, Crop farming, Principle component analysis
Nutritional Composition and Growth Performance of Fish Meal Supplemented with Sesame indicum (Beni Seed) in the Diets of Clarias gariepinus
Authors: Yakubu N. , Isah M.C. , Musa A.I.
Published: June 2020

This study analyzed the chemical compositions, growth performance and nutrient efficiency of fish meal supplemented with varying percentage of S. indicum). A total of 150 of C. gariepinus fingerlings were grouped into 6 tanks with 20 C. gariepinus per tank. Each tank of fish was served with prepared fish meals supplemented with various levels of beniseed (S. indicum), namely, DT1 (commercial diet), stand as the control group, DT2 (0% beniseed with 100% soya bean meal, DT3 (25% beniseed with 75% soya bean meal, DT4 (50% beniseed with 50% soya bean, DT5 (75% beniseed with 25% soya bean and DT6 (100% beniseed with 0% soya bean, individually. Chemical compositions of each experimental diet and fish carcass were determined and the feed utilization by fishes was equally monitored and calculated. Higher levels of moisture content (7.42%), crude fiber (4.24%), total ash (3.16%), crude protein and fat (29.21 and 30.01%) and carbohydrate (27.21%) were established for the dietary group (DT6) as compared to other dietary groups. In contrast, the fish carcass moisture, crude fiber, and total ash contents were high in fish fed DT4 and DT2 compared to others. Elevated calcium (760.7 and 763.6 mg/100g), phosphorus (683.4 and 685.1 mg/100g), sodium (302.4 and 303.4 mg/100g), potassium (820.6 and 825 mg/100g) and iron (32.67 and 37.31 mg/100g) contents were noted in DT5 and DT6 than the other diets. The fish carcass fed DT6 were richer in calcium (803 mg/100g), phosphorus (5023 mg/100g), sodium (492 mg/100g), potassium (6313 mg/100g) and iron (5.12 mg/100g) than the others. C. gariepinus fed DT6 recorded high weight gains (45.64 mg) while fish DT4 had a value of length gain (1.80 cm). Higher significant values were observed for SGR (54.33%), PER (2.47%), FI (2.85%) and SR (80.23%) as feed utilization in fish fed DT6. However, experimental diets (DT5 and DT6) with 75 and 100% S. indicum inclusion look promising and would enhance adequate growth performance and nutrient utilization of C. gariepinus, which may be used for the development of the product in various food industries.

Keywords: C. gariepinus, fish meal, feed efficiency, growth performance, S. indicum.
Bioprocessing procedure of Waste Management using Liquid State Fermentation of Coffee Residues
Authors: Obayuwana I. , Eigbike O.C.
Published: June 2020

This study is aimed at utilizing the abundant coffee residue in Manchester using bioprocessing techniques to convert the raw materials into economically viable components. High amounts of carbohydrate were obtained in coffee residues, making up about 35-41% of the total solids on a dry basis; an increase of about 89.5% for total reducing sugars concentrations was observed to occur; indicating that indigenous bacterium was capable of breaking down and hydrolyzing complex polysaccharides and proteins in coffee residues. An increase of over 100% in free amino nitrogen (FAN) concentration were obtained over time, further indicating the significant synthesis of hydrolytic enzymes by the indigenous bacteria during Liquid state fermentation processes of bioprocessing. This study therefore, concludes that bioprocessing of coffee residues is feasible in obtaining optimum yield of valueadded products.

Keywords: bioprocessing, valorization, liquid state fermentation
Evaluation of Demographic Variables on the Knowledge and Prevention of Cholera: A Case Study of Durumi, Abuja, Nigeria
Authors: Anetor G.O.
Published: June 2020

Cholera remains a disease of public health importance globally and particularly in the developing countries including Nigeria. This study evaluated demographic characteristics (age, gender, educational level, religion) in Durumi community in relation to the knowledge and prevention of cholera so as to adequately report them and proffer solutions to reduce the disease occurrence by selecting 360 participants. Data obtained were analyzed using descriptive statistics of percentages (%), frequency counts and mean. Inferential statistics of T-test, ANOVA and regression used to analyze the variables at 0.05 significant levels. Age had significant influence on knowledge (p = v 0.02) and prevention (p < 0.021) of cholera. The younger people appeared to have more knowledge and prevention of cholera than the older people. Gender was significant to knowledge (p = 0.020) and prevention (p = 0.044) of cholera. The educational level was also significant to knowledge (p = 0.000) and prevention (p = 0.000). Religion was significant to knowledge (p = 0.03 and prevention (p =0.004) of cholera. Demographic variables have significant effect on knowledge and preventive measures of cholera P value < 0.05 in all variables tested. However, younger age group (< 50 years), females contributed higher mean score, people with formal education, Christian and Muslims all appeared more knowledgeable and more in tuned with preventive measures of cholera. Therefore,  there is the need to use targeted health education for advocacy for people with no formal education, above 50 years, and others on cholera knowledge and prevention.

Keywords: Demographic variables, cholera, Abuja, Health education.
Physico-mechanical Characteristics of High Density Briquettes produced from Composite Sawdust
Authors: Bello R.S. , Onilude M.A.
Published: June 2020

Physico-mechanical characteristics of briquettes produced from composite sawdust admixture using a screw press briquetting machine was investigated. Sample feedstock materials collected has particle sizes varying between 6-8mm with 10-20% powdery components (< 4 mesh). Briquette’s physical characteristics investigated using standard test apparatus and procedures include dimensional stability immediately, 1 hour and 30 days after production, effects of particle moisture and particle size on briquette compressed and relaxed densities. Mechanical characteristics include resistance to gravity and impact, effects of densities on impact resistance index (IRI) and effects of briquette durability in water. Statistical models were used to establish empirical relationships between the feedstock materials (independent variables) and briquette characteristics (independent variables). The physical characteristics of briquettes produced at 12% are loose and brittle with poor dimensional stability, at 10% they are bonded but weak in strength with good dimensional stability while briquettes produced at 8% are wellformed, good colouration with char carbonation, excellent dimensional stability. The compressed density of the briquettes ranges of 490-820 kg/m3. The lower moisture briquettes have high resistance to water dispersion, high impact resistance and excellent storability.

Keywords: Characterization, extrusion, briquette, sawmill, sawdust
Seroprevalence and molecular detection of Newcastle disease virus in backyard chickens in Tripoli, Libya
Authors: Gedara Emhemed A. , Alseed Hesham A. , Kammon Abdulwahab M. , Dayhum Abdunaser S. , Benothman Mohamed A. , Al-Garib Soleman O. , Eldaghayes Ibrahim M.
Published: June 2020

Background: Newcastle disease (ND) is a viral disease that affecting many avian species all over the world.Aim: ND has been successfully controlled by the vaccination of commercial poultry in Libya. However, there was a lack of information about the situation of ND in backyard chickens. Therefore, this study determined the prevalence of ND in backyard chickens in different locations of Tripoli.Methods: A total number of 280 cloacal swabs (190 in summer and 90 in winter) and 412 sera were collected from non-vaccinated backyard chicken flocks in different geographical locations within the area of Tripoli namely Qasr Ben Ghashier, Al-Sawani, Souq Al-Gomaa, Tajourah, Ein Zara, and Janzour. Cloacal swabs and sera were tested by real time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and ELISA, respectively.Results: The prevalence of ND virus (NDV) infection in backyard chickens in different locations of Tripoli during summer and winter was 45% using real-time reverse transcription-PCR. Except in Qasr Ben Ghashier, the prevalence in summer season was significantly higher than in winter (X2 = 46.13, p ≥ 0.00001). ELISA test revealed 218 positive out of 412 tested samples with total prevalence of 53% across the city of Tripoli in all regions. Obviously, Qasr Ben Ghashier had significantly (X2 = 74.09, p ≥ 0.00001) the highest prevalence (82%) of NDV specific antibodies followedby Tajourah (68%).Conclusion: This study demonstrated the situation of ND in backyard chicken highlighting the necessity of a comprehensive vaccination plan for backyard chickens.

Keywords: Backyard chickens, ELISA, Newcastle disease, Prevalence, Real time PCR.
First molecular detection of Plasmodium relictum in Anopheles sinensis and Armigeres subalbatus
Authors: Zhang Jilei , Lu Guangwu , Kelly Patrick , Li Jing , Li Min , Wang Jiawei , Huang Ke , Qiu Haixiang , You Jinfeng , Zhang Rong , Wang Yaoyao , Zhang Yuanyuan , Wang Chengming
Published: June 2020

Background: Plasmodium relictum is one of the most important avian malaria species, which is mainly seen in wild birds, with infections reported in more than 70 different species and at high prevalence.Aim: The aim of this study was to determine the molecular prevalence of Plasmodium spp. in mosquitoes collected in China.Method: A Plasmodium -specific fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was established in this study to analyze five species of mosquitoes (1,620 Culex pipiens pallens, 806 Aedes albopictus, 377 Armigeres subalbatus, 168 Anopheles sinensis, and 80 Culex tritaeniorhynchus) collected in hand nets from homes in 25 provinces of China.Results: Only females originated from six provinces were determined to be positive (0.6%, 10/1,809). Plasmodium species were detected in three mosquito species, such as C. pipiens pallens (0.5%, 8/1,620), A. sinensis (0.6%, 1/168), and A. subalbatus (0.3%, 1/377). Of the three mosquito species positive for P. relictum, only C. pipiens pallens is known to feed on birds and is recognized as the natural vector of P. relictum.Conclusion: This is the first time that P. relictum has been detected in A. sinensis and A. subalbatus. P. relictum, the agent of avian malaria, was present in mosquitoes in China, including mosquito species not previously thought to be the vectors.

Keywords: Anopheles sinensis, Armigeres subalbatus, China, Mosquito, Plasmodium relictum.
Genital abnormalities associated to lack of uterine adenogenesis or endometrial gland dysgenesis of female dromedary camels (Camelus dromedarius)
Authors: Gherissi Djallel Eddine , Lamraoui Ramzi , Chacha Faycel , Bouzebda Zoubir , Bouzebda Zoubir , Bouzebda Farida Afri , Hanzen Christian
Published: June 2020

Background: The developmental disruption of the müllerian duct and the endometrial dynamic can generate genital lesions that could contribute to infertility.Aim: This paper discusses two cases of genital conditions associated to endometrial gland pathologies in nulliparous female camels.Methods: Macroscopic examinations and histopathological description were performed on congenital and acquired genital abnormalities with endometrial gland anomalies.Results: The first case is endometrial gland agenesis associated to unilateral uterine aplasia, and the second case is endometrial gland dysgenesis associated to metritis. The prevalence of each case is estimated to be 0.6%. The most specific microscopic features associated to the endometrial gland agenesis were the presence of endometrial stromal proliferation and homogenous hyalinization of the myometrium. The acute metritis was associated to endometrial-activated stroma with focal infiltration with inflammatory cells on the endometrium and myometrium and the spontaneous endometrial gland dysgenesis.Conclusion: This study reveals the importance of congenital abnormalities during the routine reproductive examination of peripubertal animals, as well as the association of histopathological complementary examination for the research functional and inflammatory anomalies of the uterus. Genetic screening of breeders would be very important in the search for genetic risk factors associated with these congenital pathologies, which can be disseminated by reproductive biotechnologies.

Keywords: Adenogenesis, Camel, Metritis, Uterine aplasia, Uterine glands.
Exploiting non-self-governing territory status: Western Sahara and the new EU/Morocco Sustainable Fisheries Partnership Agreement
Authors: Allen Stephen
Published: June 2020

The 2018 European Union (EU)/Morocco Sustainable Fisheries Partnership Agreement (SFPA) was negotiated in the aftermath of the Court of Justice of the European Union's (CJEU) 2018 Western Sahara Campaign judgment, which concerned a challenge to the 2006 EU/Morocco Fisheries Partnership Agreement (and its 2013 Protocol). This article first sets out the way in which the CJEU harnessed Western Sahara's status as a non-self-governing territory (NSGT) for the purpose of its finding that the EU/Morocco fisheries agreements were inapplicable to Western Sahara's coastal waters in the absence of third-party consent. However, the Court's approach left open the possibility that such agreements could be revised and extended to this marine area. Against this background, the article considers how the EU Commission and Council have responded to the CJEU's judgment in this case and, specifically, the way they have sought to justify the SFPA's de jure application to the waters off Western Sahara. In so doing, it shows the extent to which the SFPA's terms, and the circumstances surrounding its development, are deeply problematic as far as the exploitation of the territory's marine living resources is concerned. In this regard, it is hard to avoid the conclusion that the renewed EU/Morocco fisheries partnership undermines the EU's proclaimed commitment to the duty of non-recognition and the operation of the right to self-determination in this fraught context.
THE USE OF TEXT ALOUD SOFTWARE IN TEACHING STUDENTS' PRONUNCIATION
Authors: Roslaini Roslaini , Komara Cahya
Published: June 2020

Pronunciation is often viewed as difficult English sub-skill for EFL students in Indonesia. Many of students did not know how to respond the problem of pronunciation they have in class. Moreover, many teachers or lecturers also did not support the students’ pronunciation teaching and learning with a proper media. This situation happened in second semester students of English Department, FKIP UHAMKA Jakarta 2018/2019 Academic Year. In fact, there are plenty of technology applications that can support or assist them to practice pronunciation by their own. One of it is Text aloud Software. Thus, in this small-scale study, the researchers aim to reveal the use of Text Aloud Software as one of technology application that can help English as Foreign Language (EFL) students to mastery English pronunciation in the classroom. This study applies quantitative method with the use of quasi-experimental design and also added by close-ended questioners. The question of this research is; does Text Aloud Software help EFL students to master English pronunciation? To be able to answer the research question, this study involved 20 respondents who were selected purposively. The results showed that both data of pre-test and post-test in control class and experiment class was normally distributed and homogeny. The statistical test or t-test also showed that t observed (to = 1.68) was smaller than t table (tt = 2.02) which was 1.68 < 2.02. It can be concluded that Ho is rejected and Hi is accepted. Therefore, Text-Aloud Software is effective in helping students to master pronunciation.
ANALISIS KECEPATAN RENANG GAYA BEBAS PADA ATLET SEKOLAH OLAHRAGA NEGERI SRIWIJAYA (SONS)
Authors: Farizal Imansyah  , Akbar Tanjung
Published: June 2020

Masalah dalam penelitian ini adalah. Bagaimana kecepatan renang gaya bebas pada atlet Sekolah Olahrga Negeri Sriwijaya (SONS). Teknik pengumpulan data menggunakan teknik observasi, dokumentasi, wawancara. Sampel dari penelitian ini yaitu Pelatih dan 20 Atlet. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode deskriptif kualitatif. Hasil penelitian menunjukan bahwa kecepatang renang gaya bebas pada atlet Sekolah Olahraga Negeri Sriwijaya (SONS) yaitu : 1) Kecepatan Renang Gaya Bebas Pada Atlet Sekolah Olahraga Negeri Sriwijaya (SONS),5 atlet yang mendapatkan (25%) yang di kategorikan baik sekali, 2)Kecepatan Renang Gaya Bebas Pada Atlet Sekolah Olahraga Negeri Sriwijaya (SONS), 10 atlet yang mendapatkan (50%) yang di kategorikan baik, 3)Kecepatan Renang Gaya Bebas Pada Atlet Sekolah Olahraga Negeri Sriwijaya (SONS), 2 atlet yang mendapatkan (10%) yang di kategorikan cukup, 4) Kecepatan Renang Gaya Bebas Pada Atlet Sekolah Olahraga Negeri Sriwijaya(SONS), 3 atlet yang mendapatkan (15%) yang di kategorikan kurang.     Kesimpulan hasil penelitian berdasarkan pada kesesuaian setiap gerakan sampel terdapat indikator yang terdapat pada lembar pengamatan mengenai Analisis kecepatan Renang Gaya Bebas Pada Atlet Sekolah Olahraga Negeri Sriwijaya (SONS).
Does a Modified Math Emporium Work for All Students?
Authors: Guerrero Shannon , Atherton Amanda , Rushall Amy , Daugherty Robert
Published: June 2020

Mathematics Emporia, or dedicated technology-supported learning environments designed to support large numbers of students in predominantly developmental mathematics courses, are a relatively recent phenomenon at community colleges and universities across the nation. While the size and number of these emporia has grown, empirical research into the impact of an emporium model on student learning and affect is only now emerging. This is especially true when looking at the impact of an emporium approach on students from diverse backgrounds. This study attempts to fill in the gaps in existing research related to how well emporium models address the needs of students based on gender, race/ethnicity, international status, and first- versus continuing-generation. Findings indicate that not all populations are served equally well by a modified mathematics emporium approach. The need for action to address inequities in student performance and implications for future research are discussed.
A Study on the Factors Influencing Students’ Acceptance of Learning Management Systems (LMS): A Brunei Case Study
Authors: Abdul Hamid Muliadi , Salleh Sallimah , Laxman Kumar
Published: June 2020

The present study sought to explore and explain the factors influencing students’ acceptance of the Learning Management Systems (LMS) as well as to explain the effectiveness of using LMS in teaching and learning in the School of Business. The research model employed the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) as the theoretical framework and extends it by adding System Design, System Accessibility, Technical Support and Subjective Norm as external variables. The model was tested using responses from 98 students (n=98) taking Business Information Systems module through the data gathered by means of survey questionnaire. The analysis of the collected data supported all of the generated hypotheses and was found consistent with the TAM original findings on behavioral intention. The study also revealed that the Subjective Norm and System Design have significant influence on the students’ LMS acceptance. Findings indicate that content delivery over the web portal helped to engage students and established viable interaction which allowed them to better understand and gain knowledge on each concept. Besides this, there are several key factors to consider when conducting educational process or activity over the technology such as originality of students’ ideas, specificity of content, comments and feedback as well as class size. Theoretical and applied implications of the obtained results are discussed at the end of this report within the context of education.
Undergraduates’ Attitude towards the Utilization of Open Educational Resources for Learning
Authors: Issa Ahmed Idris , Ibrahim Mukhtar Adeola , Onojah Amos Ochayi , Onojah Adenike Aderogba
Published: June 2020

This study investigated Undergraduates’ Attitude towards the utilization of OER among Undergraduates and the influence of gender and area of specialization on their attitude towards the use. The study adopted a descriptive method of the quantitative research. 3 research questions were developed and answered. 398 respondents were randomly sampled from 3 purposively selected area of specializations. Frequency counts, percentage, rank order and mean were used to answer research questions 1 to 3. The findings of the study were: Undergraduates have a positive attitude towards utilization of OER for learning; There was difference between male and female undergraduates’ attitude towards the utilization of OER for learning in favor of male undergraduates; and There were no significance differences among undergraduates based on Area of Specialization. The study concluded that students have a positive attitude towards use of OER for learning. The research recommends that institutions should endeavor to create their own OERs where students can access anytime and anywhere.
Smartphone Addiction in Undergraduate Athletes: Reasons and Effects of Using Instagram Intensively
Authors: Gezgin Deniz Mertkan , Mihci Can
Published: June 2020

Instagram has become a popular social network software based primarily on the concept of sharing visual content. As the most popular mobile application among university students, it is thought to be a major component of excessive smartphone use cases due to the need of its users for frequently checking updates. As a result, heavy Instagram-use for both sharing personally generated content and checking on others’ updates is thought to be a contributor to smartphone addiction. The purpose of this study is to examine the effects of Instagram social network usage characteristics upon smartphone addiction levels of university students, specifically those enrolled in the Athletics Departments, in order to examine the particular case of young athletes that use Instagram extensively. Therefore, the study group consists of 97 undergraduate students enrolled in the Athletics Department of a state university located in the Thrace regions of Turkey during the 2017-2018 academic year, who were also taking up a pedagogical formation certification course for becoming prospective K12 physical education teachers. Adopting a mixed method research model, the study has shown that, as far as young athletes who report Instagram as their favorite smartphone application is concerned, heavy Instagram use statistically predicts smartphone addiction. Moreover, according to qualitative data, the Occam’s Razor rule applies with these young athletes’ interaction with Instagram. Problematic use patterns are more easily explained by passive-observant behavior associated with a certain Fear of Missing Out, rather than a strong desire to exhibit their body image and sports success.
Investigation of the Relationship between Smartphone Addiction and Leisure Satisfaction of University Students
Authors: Tükel Yalçın
Published: June 2020

The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between smartphone addiction and leisure satisfaction of university students in terms of some variables. In the study, correlational survey research model was used and smartphone addiction and leisure satisfaction of university students were examined with a comparative approach. The population of this study consists of 855 university students studying at two large universities. Smartphone Addiction and Leisure Satisfaction Scales were used to collect research data. Research findings show that leisure satisfaction and smartphone addiction among university students are high. Another finding of the research is that students who participate in active sports, social, artistic and cultural activities have low smartphone addiction. Finally, smartphone addiction among students significantly reduces their leisure satisfaction.
Improving the quality of human resources in Ciburuy village staff to improve the quality of public services
Authors: Ardiansyah Deden
Published: June 2020

Utilization of computer technology to improve the quality of public services in Ciburuy village cannot be carried out optimally if it is not supported by the readiness of human resources as the parties who use it. readiness of human resources in using computer technology is one of the important factors in terms of public services.Therefore we need a computer technology transfer process that is adequate, right on target and appropriate for Ciburuy village staff, as the main actor in this activity, namely service to the community.Methods of implementing human resource improvement through computer skills training activities through the Microsoft Word Application Program, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Power Point, databases and networks are carried out through several stages. resulting in an average value of being satisfied and quite satisfied so that public services in Ciburuy village must improve service quality. but the unique thing is seen in the ability of village staff in the service. so that respondents have started to feel satisfied with the services carried out by Ciburuy village staff.