bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
'Guess Who? The SRB as the Accountable Actor in Legal Review Procedures'
Authors: Timmermans Jolien
Published: November 2019

The SRM is an institutionally complex system in which it is unclear which actor is to be held legally accountable. The reason for this complexity flows from the fact that the exercise of powers is spread over a multitude of actors at different levels. Within the SRM's framework, we
find both vertical and horizontal cooperative links. In relation to the vertical links, EU actors take the main decisions, while the implementation is left to national actors. Horizontal cooperative links at the EU level are also present as EU institutions and an EU agency have to act together
in composite administrative procedures. This institutional set-up results in unclarity as to where responsibility lies. If legal protection is to be provided against decisions resolving significant banks, it has to be clear who should be held responsible in legal review procedures. The article's
aim is to examine what issues of legal review exist and to analyse where the de facto decision-making, and thus legal responsibility, lies within the SRM's framework.
Comprensión lectora, estilos atribucionales, estrategias cognitivas y de autorregulación e inteligencia lógica: Predictores del rendimiento académico general y en lenguaje de estudiantes de establecimientos educativos de alta vulnerabilidad social
Authors:   Universidad de Concepción (Chile), Cerda Etchepare Gamal , Cerda-Oñate Karina ,   Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Salazar Provoste Omar ,   Universidad de Concepción (Chile), Riffo Bernardo ,   Universidad de Concepción (Chile)
Published: November 2019

Esta investigación explora la relación entre un conjunto de variables, tales como comprensión lectora e inteligencia lógica, así como también otras variables de tipo cognitivo y de aprendizaje, en relación con el rendimiento académico general y en la asignatura de Lenguaje de estudiantes de educación media en contextos de alta vulnerabilidad social (N=688). El objetivo principal de la investigación es establecer diferencias y cuantificar el efecto de la incorporación de las variables referidas en el promedio de calificaciones en un modelo explicativo. Para ello, se realizaron análisis comparativos, correlaciones bivariadas y modelos de regresión múltiple, mediante el método de pasos sucesivos. Los resultados obtenidos muestran que 34,9% de la varianza del promedio de calificaciones que obtienen los estudiantes en la asignatura de Lenguaje puede ser explicado por las variables incorporadas al modelo. En dicho modelo, destacan el impacto positivo de la comprensión textual y de las atribuciones de éxito basadas en el esfuerzo y la estrategia autorregulatoria de revisión. A su vez, se observa el rol negativo de una mayor edad y las atribuciones de éxito debido a causas externas. Además, el modelo aplicado presenta un mayor poder predictivo para el grupo femenino, en el cual emerge también el rol positivo de la comprensión crítica. Finalmente, se analizan y discuten las principales implicaciones educativas de estos hallazgos en el artículo
La correction phonétique de la prononciation du français dans un contexte universitaire Jordanien
Authors:   Yarmouk University (Jordania), Hasan Kandeel Rana , Marcy Virginie ,   Alliance Française de Minneapolis-Saint Paul (Estados Unidos)
Published: November 2019

Cet article a pour objectif de présenter les approches adoptées dans l’enseignement de la prononciation en français langue étrangère (FLE). L’identification des difficultés de prononciation, le travail sur sa correction dans les phases de remédiation et de post-remédiation constituent les étapes essentielles de la méthodologie de l’enseignement. Pour mettre en oeuvre cette méthodologie, nous avons procédé à analyse contrastive des systèmes vocaliques et consonantiques de la langue cible (le français) et de la langue maternelle (l’arabe standard), ainsi qu’à la mise en place d’exercices et d’activités ciblées et des tests d’évaluation à la fin du parcours d’apprentissage. L’étude que nous présentons se concentre sur la consonne occlusive sourde /p/ et sur les voyelles nasales /ӑ/, /ɛ̃/, /ɔ̃/, que les étudiants jordaniens ont tendance à confondre. Les résultats de cette expérimentation montrent que l’amélioration de la prononciation est possible. Il faut donc que les enseignants fassent de la correction phonétique en classe avec les apprenants, surtout débutants, après avoir relevé soigneusement leurs besoins dans ce domaine
Modality effects in the cultural evolution of language: An experimental iterated learning approach
Authors:   Universidad del Desarrollo (Chile), Weinstein Perelman Fernanda
Published: November 2019

Cultural evolution has been proposed as the mechanism by which human languages’ distinct features emerge. One of such features is structure, which is regarded as an optimal solution to the competing pressures for simplicity and expressivity in language learning and use. A recent experimental iterated learning study (Kirby et al., 2015) shows that structure can emerge from an unstructured language under these competing pressures, by implementing both a learning and a communication task in a transmission chain setup. However, as most iterated learning experiments, it was run on a written modality, which might be problematic if the aim is to drive conclusions about language in general—writing is not language’s default modality and was not present in early stages of language evolution. The present study carried out a partial replication of the aforementioned experiment, contrasting a written condition (analogous to the original) with a spoken condition, in order to test for possible modality effects. Results for the written condition did not replicate those in Kirby et al. (2015) in any of the measures, suggesting that motivational factors could have played a crucial role in the previous findings. This hinders the interpretations of modality effects and suggests the need of further work.
Parallels and contrasts between the ASD-STE Dictionary and the Ontology in FunGramKB
Authors:   Universidad de Granada (España), Felices Lago Ángel
Published: November 2019

In this article we intend to offer the results of comparing and matching basic and terminal concepts (and their corresponding lexical units) in FunGramKB with Words (and their corresponding synonyms) in the ASD-STE dictionary and determine whether the way in which this controlled language has been designed draws similarities with the way in which the conceptual information of that knowledge base is built. To provide evidence based on authentic material, we have selected the list of 190 approved verbs in the ASD-STE dictionary: a collection of units complying with the ASD-STE lexical and syntactic restrictions. These verbs are used as a representative sample to be compared with 547 verbal concepts stored in the FunGramKB #EVENT subontology (as basic or terminal concepts). The level of compatibility between both repositories offers four possibilities of conceptual and/or lexical matching at varying degrees: i) direct matching, ii) indirect matching, iii) no matching, or iv) missing. The quantitative results of this analysis may prove that a significant percentage of verbal Words in the ASD-STE dictionary (more than 50%) are directly or indirectly represented in FunGramKB, either as concepts or as lexical units associated with other concepts.
Consumer Perception and Satisfaction of Hotel Services in Lafia, Nasarawa State, Nigeria
Authors: E. Amfani-Joe C. , Abdullahi Bahagu, , Osagede, Esther A.
Published: November 2019

Customer satisfaction with hotels is largely based upon the anticipated quality of services and perceived expectation from the hotel ratings. Customer's perception of hotel is, therefore, a derivative of value expectation for prices offered by the hotel for their services.  This study assessed the customer's perception and satisfaction of hotel services with a view to ascertaining the service quality. The research design adopted was the descriptive research design. A structured questionnaire was face validated and tested the reliability of 0.812 chronbach alpha was established through a pilot test. The questionnaire was administered to patrons of some selected hotels in Lafia, Nasarawa State, Nigeria using qualitative and quantitative approaches. Data, one hundred and three (103), were analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) IBM version 23. Frequencies and percentages were used to identify standard rating of the hostel. The principal component analysis was used to identify key variables of linear combinations which allowed for most of the variability in guests' expressed perception and satisfaction with hotel services. Findings revealed that hotel management over exaggerated the standard and quality of their hotels in the town. Customers' perception was guided by security measures available, promotional strategies and protection of guest's privacy among others. Satisfaction with determined by timelines of meals served, safety and security of guests' and properties, laundry services staff efficiency and availability of ICT devices among others. It can be recommended that hotel managers should be engaged in consistent research studies in order to improve their hotel business which may invariably have implications for prices, quality and patronage.
Geotechnical Competence Assessment and Groundwater Prospect Deductions from Geoelectrical Sounding around Idanre Local Government Area of Ondo State, Southwestern Nigeria
Authors: O. Falowo O.
Published: November 2019

Sixty vertical electrical soundings with maximum electrode spacing of 100 m; and seventy static water level measurements were undertaken in Idanre Local Government Area of Ondo State, Nigeria with the aim of assessing the engineering competence of the soil material to host civil engineering structures; and also establish notable point/location with groundwater prospect for borehole drilling and development. Typical sounding curves from the area include H, A, HA, KH, QH, and AA reflecting diverse lithological variations. The H, A, and HA curve types are the most preponderant constituting 30%, 15% and 25% respectively. The A (15%) and AA (7%) curve types suggest subsurface geoelectric configurations apparently favourable for foundation construction, as they showed an increase in resistivity (competence) with a corresponding increase in depth. The QH, KH, HA and H curve types constituting about 78% are favourable for groundwater accumulation and development. The topsoil is generally composed of sandy clay which is moderately competent soil material to harbour civil structures such as road, buildings. Although some degree of settlement is expected especially along traverses where the weathered layer is clayey. The study shows that 70% of the area in the upper 10 m is moderately suitable for civil engineering shallow foundation construction. The weathered layer is generally clay/sandy clay with resistivity less than 200 Ω-m, therefore can serve as earth medium for electrical material. The major aquifer units in the area are combined weathered layer and fractured basement (common in Aponmu and Jimgbe); a weathered layer (prominent in Imolumu, Ayefemi, Onipanu and Ajegunle) and fractured basement aquifer (found in Ajegunle and Odode). The maximum probable drilling depth to these aquifers varies between 15 m to 30 m. Areas with high static water level are characterized by thin overburden thickness (shallow depth to basement rocks). Also, areas with low static water level have corresponding thick overburden thickness (deep depth to basement rock/high depth of weathering). However substantial settlement may occur in areas with high static water level which could exceed the tolerable limit and threatens the integrity of structures during the raining season, coupled with the clayey nature of the weathered layer in many places.
Assessment of Solid Waste Disposal in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, Nigeria
Authors: O. Stanley H. , S. Orakwuemma C. , O. Onumajuru B. , S. Opukeme A. , O. Onaghise L.
Published: November 2019

The problem of municipal waste is a challenge of global proportion occasioned by exponentially increasing population, rapid urbanization, industrialization, inefficient utilization of natural resources, lack of citizen awareness regarding the environmentally adequate disposal of waste, consumption, socioeconomic status (lifestyle), and others. This study aimed to assess solid waste disposal practices in Yenagoa metropolis, Bayelsa State, Nigeria. The study adopted a descriptive and cross-sectional approach where multi-stage sampling was applied to select the sample communities by a simple random sampling method and the cluster areas for data collection by a cluster sampling method. The study revealed that the residents had a good awareness of 229 (95.4%) of waste management practices. About 86.7% of respondents keep their wastes in the bin while 6.3%, 5.0% and 2.1% practiced burning, throwing into the river or along the roads and keeping in the backyard respectively. Waste collection by the sanitation authority was relatively high (70.4%) in some locations in comparison to areas where wastes were never removed (22.1%). The residents’ attitude towards solid waste disposal was generally good. However, the sanitation level was strongly constrained by limitations on the part of the sanitation authority. The sanitation authority does not cover all areas in the city because of manpower and equipment shortage. Yenagoa is a small city with most areas unplanned and having so many shanties. All wastes in the city are collected without sorting or recycling. The sanitation can be improved if the government would provide at subsidized cost, waste disposal materials such as polythene bags and plastic bins for the residents. More waste collection points should be sited to ease disposal and must be evacuated on a timely basis.
Evaluation of Health, Safety & Environment Culture Perception by Construction Workers in Owerri Metropolis, Nigeria
Authors: C. Emetumah Faisal
Published: November 2019

The relevance of the construction industry to Nigeria's economy is premised on its potential to bridge the wide gap in infrastructural deficit in Nigeria and also provide numerous jobs for the teeming young population. However, Health, Safety and Environmental anomalies can significantly militate against human and environmental wellbeing if they are not adequately managed. On that note, the study aims at evaluating  Health, Safety and Environment (HSE) culture perception by construction workers in Owerri metropolis, in order to understand how the individual facets (health, safety and environment), as well as HSE policy, is perceived by the construction workers. Relevant literature was reviewed on organizational culture, international perspective on HSE, European as well as Nigerian viewpoints on HSE. In order to achieve the study aim, a survey design was adopted for data collection through which 122 questionnaires were retrieved from construction workers randomly selected in the study area. Analysis of the study results shows that while most respondents understand what HSE means, they are unaware of government regulations on HSE policy. Furthermore, Pearson Chi-Square test statistic shows that awareness about government regulations on HSE does not have a significant association with an understanding of what HSE culture means (X2 > = 0.747, P = .387). In addition, the study posits that there is a weak correlation between missed work days and length of time working in the construction sector (Spearman's correlation coefficient (rho) = .019 and P = .83). The study recommends instituting a comprehensive HSE regulatory framework in Nigeria which will go a long way in enshrining a positive HSE culture in the study area.
Antimicrobial Resistance Profile of Escherichia coli Isolated from Urine of Patients in Selected General Hospitals in Abuja Municipal, Nigeria
Authors: Eghieye M. O. , Jodi S. M. , Bassey B. E. , Nkene I. H. , Abimiku R. H. , Ngwai Y. B.
Published: November 2019

This study investigated the antimicrobial resistance profile of Escherichia coli from urine of patients with suspected urinary tract infections (UTIs) in selected general hospitals in Abuja Municipal, Nigeria. Four Hundred and Thirty urine samples were collected between September 2017 and May 2018 from patients attending Asokoro General Hospital (AGH), Garki Hospital Abuja (GHA) and Wuse General Hospital (WGH); and E. coli was isolated and identified by culture, microscopy and biochemical tests. The overall occurrence of E. coli was 52 (12.1%). The occurrences in relation to the hospitals were of the order: GHA (14.7%) > WGH (12.6%) > AGH (9.0%). The highest (50%) occurrence was at age 41-50 years in WGH, and the lowest (4.3%) was at age 31-40 years in AGH. More females than males harboured the bacteria in all the hospitals. Isolates from AGH showed highest (100.0%) resistance to Sulphamethoxazole/Trimethoprim but least (0.0%) resistance to Ciprofloxacin. Isolates from GHA showed the highest resistance to Cefotaxime and Streptomycin (95.2%) but least (23.8%) to Gentamicin and Imipenem. Isolates from WGH showed highest (88.8%) resistance to Amoxicillin/Clavulanic Acid but least (16.7%) to Sulphamethoxazole/Trimethoprim. The commonest antibiotic resistance phenotype in AGH was Amoxicillin/Clavulanic Acid-Streptomycin-Cefotaxime-Ceftazidime-Imipenem-Ampicillin (3.9%); in GHA was Amoxicillin/Clavulanic Acid-Streptomycin-Sulphamethoxazole/Trimethoprim-Cefotaxime-Ceftazidime-Ampicillin (7.7%); and in WGH was Amoxicillin/Clavulanic Acid-Streptomycin-Cefotaxime-Cefotaxime-Ceftazidime-Imipenem-Ampicillin (3.9%). All the isolates had MAR indices above 0.2; the most common index in AGH was 0.4 (at 30.8%), GHA was 0.7 (at 33.3%) and WGH was 0.7 (at 27.8%). The commonest class of antibiotic resistance was MDR with the order of occurrence as: GHA (92.2%) > WGH (77.7%) > AGH (76.6%). Ciprofloxacin, gentamicin and imipenem were the most effective antibiotics in the study location. However, MAR indices in this study have shown that the isolates originated from an environment where antibiotics are freely available and misused/abused. Hence, there is a need for greater monitoring of antibiotic supplies and use.
Potable Water and Sanitation Practices among Pupils in Some Selected Primary Schools in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, Nigeria
Authors: Stanley H. O. , Ugboma C. J. , Okeke V. C. , Olodiama E. , Odubo E. G. , Oboro T. E.
Published: November 2019

Nearly half of all children in developing countries have infections or disease associated with inadequate water supply and sanitation. This study aimed at assessing sanitation practices and available sources of water supply in selected primary schools in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, Nigeria. A descriptive cross sectional survey was used in this study. The primary schools and pupils were selected by random sampling. Results revealed that sanitation facilities in the schools were grossly insufficient. Where available, the facilities were overused and poorly maintained. The study also showed that potable water supply in the schools was inadequate. Sachet water was the main source of water supply in the study area. Sanitation facilities in the study area were inadequate and impacted on the sanitation practices of the pupils. The level of awareness towards sanitation education among the pupils was quite high and encouraging. The sanitation practices and potable water supply were generally not satisfactory, putting the pupils at risk of infectious diseases associated with inadequate water supply and sanitation.
Comparison for the Effectiveness of Column Purified Fractions of Allium cepa Bulbs and Allium sativum Cloves against Bulinus globosus (Intermediate Host of Urinary Schistosomiasis) in Sokoto, Nigeria
Authors: Suleiman J. , Singh Kiran , Bala A. Y. , Muhammad M. T. , Abdullahi A. , Yakubu M. S.
Published: November 2019

Synthetic molluscicides widely used for the control of urinary schistosomiasis are expensive, toxic to non-target organisms, not available and may have deleterious long-term effects in the environment. The aim of this research is to compare the efficacy of column purified fractions of Allium cepa and Allium sativum against Bulinus globosus specimens (intermediate host of urinary schistosomiasis) under laboratory conditions as an increment for the cheaper, non-toxic, available way of controlling urinary schistosomiasis. Extracts were obtained using cold maceration method with methanol as a polar solvent; column purification was achieved using silica gel (stationary phase) while ethyl acetate and n-hexane (mobile phase); thirteen fractions were collected from each plant and each fraction contained 10ml of the eluent; the fractions were left open for 48 hours for evaporation of the solvents. Experiments were performed according to the methodology described by the World Health Organization for molluscicidal activity tests; each treatment was replicated three times; mortality was recorded after each 24 hours up to 96 hours. The results showed that; A. sativum was more effective against B. globosus as compared with A. cepa with statistical significant difference (P<0.05) and LC50 were 15.60mg/l and 19.37mg/l for the efficacy of A. cepa and A. sativum respectively. It was concluded that, although, A. cepa purified fractions are more effective than A. sativum against B. globosus, both of the plants species may be helpful in snail control at acceptable doses since the plant extracts caused mortality of the snail.
Assessment of Heavy Metals Concentration in Swampy Agricultural Soil of Nasarawa West, Nigeria
Authors: Auta Abbas Abdullahi , Ibrahim Umar , Mundi Abdullahi Abubakar , Mustapha Idris Mohammed , Sarki Musa Usman
Published: November 2019

Aim: This research was carried out to investigate the concentration of heavy metals in swampy agricultural soil of Nasarawa west, Nigeria.

Study Design: To compare the swampy soil heavy metal concentrations with regulatory standard or allowable values by the World Health Organization (WHO) and other National and International standards. 

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Physics, Nasarawa State University Keffi between January, 2018 and October, 2018.

Methodology: Ten soil samples from each of thefive sampling locations (Karu, Keffi, Kokona, Nasarawa, and Toto) were randomly collected. A total of fifty (50) soil sampleswere collected within the period of one week.  The collected samples were stored in polyethylene bag and labeled properly and taken to the Center for Energy Research and Development (CERD) at Obafemi Awolowo University Ile- ife Osun State, Nigeria. At CERD, elemental analysis was carried out for the fifty sample using X- ray fluorescent spectrometry analyzer.

Results: The range of mean concentration of Zn, As, Cd, Pb, Fe, Ni, and Cu (in KR, KF, KK, NS, and TT locations) are 243.60- 502.80 mg/kg, 7.40- 37.00mg/kg, 260.90- 524.50 mg/kg, 167.80- 336.60 mg/kg, 20222.90- 58170.50 mg/kg, 342.20- 555.10 mg/kg, and 266.60- 515.90 mg/kg respectively. The average mean of all the sample locations are found to be higher than the WHO allowable concentration limits of As (20 mg/kg), Pb (100 mg/kg), Cd (3 mg/kg), Zn (300 mg/kg), Fe (n.a), Ni (50 mg/kg), and Cu (100 mg/kg)respectively. There is high concentration Zn, As, Cd, Pb, Fe, Ni, and Cu in the swampy soil.

Conclusion: The results indicates that the swampy agricultural soils of Nasarawa west (Karu, Keffi, Kokona, Nasarawa, and Toto) are contaminated with toxic metals (Zn, As, Cd, Pb, Fe, Ni, and Cu).
Review of Fuel Consumption, Draft Force and Ground Speed Measurements of the Agricultural Tractor during Tillage Operations
Authors: Mamkagh Amer M.
Published: November 2019

Estimating the amount of fuel consumption of an agricultural tractor during various tillage operations will help the selection of the best conservation practices for farm equipment. Draft requirements often dictate the size of the power unit required on a particular farm and, therefore, will also be required for energy management decisions. They will also be considered a prominent factor during the selection of a tractor’s machinery and power source. In addition, ground speed measurement is not only necessary for many agricultural machinery applications but also to monitor and map crop yield and properly change the application rate of agricultural inputs. There are several methods and techniques to measure a tractor’s fuel consumption, draft force, and ground speed. All these methods have many advantages and disadvantages depending on the tractor, the implement used, and the operating conditions. This article reviews some of these methods, providing scope for further research to focus on the potential development and improvement of the measurement methods, and this could positively affect the accuracy of the data and final results of the research.
Contamination and Pollution Risk Assessment of Heavy Metals in Rice Samples (Oryza sativa) from Nasarawa West, Nigeria
Authors: Mundi Abdullahi Abubakar , Ibrahim Umar , Mustapha Idris Mohammed
Published: November 2019

Aim: This study was undertaken to assess the heavy metals contamination level in rice grains (Oryza sativa) from Nasarawa West, Nigeria.

Study Design: To estimate the contamination factor, degree of Contamination and Pollution load index of rice samples from Nasarawa west using the world health organization/food and agricultural organization acceptable limits of some toxic Heavy Metals in Food as reference heavy metals concentration.

Place and Duration of Study: The research was carried out in the Department of physics, Nasarawa State University, Keffi, from September 2017 to April 2018.

Methodology: Fifteen (15) samples each were taken from various locations from the rice fields in Keffi, Kokona, Karu, Nasarawa, and Toto respectively. Rice grain samples were dried in an open air at an ambient temperature to constant weight. Husks were removed. Then, the grain rice samples were pulverized and were passed through a 2.00 mm sieve and stored in closed polyethylene bags for irradiation using ECLIPSE Ш Energy Dispersive X – Ray Fluorescence (EDXRF) XR–100 CR spectrometer supplied by AMTEK INC. MA; USA.

Results: The values of contamination factor of rice samples from the study area were in the order of Zn < Cu < Ni < Cr < Pb and are all less than 1, indicating a ‘low risk’ of contamination with the value of Cd >> 6 presenting a very high contamination risk of Cadmium. The Pollution Load Index value observed in Nasarawa West were in the order of Nasarawa (0.0683) < Keffi (0.0773) < Toto (0.0972) < Kokona (0.0988) < Karu (0.1389) and are all less than unity (1), indicating that the rice samples were not polluted by Cd, Cu, Cr, Ni, Pb and Zn.

Conclusion: Findings from this study will help in making policies and preferring solution to public health related issues and further studies may be important.
Corporate Governance and Corporate Fraud: An Examination of Interaction Effects in Nigeria
Authors: Moses Temple
Published: November 2019

This research paper examined the relationship between corporate governance and the commission of corporate fraud among quoted companies in Nigeria. The research utilized a sample of eighteen (18) companies whose data were collected through content analyses on the basis of the availability of information from annual reports and other media reports. Data for the study were analyzed using a binary logit multiple regression analysis method. The findings of the study showed that there is a negative relationship between the independence of the board of directors and corporate fraud. The findings further show that there is a negative relationship between the commitment of the audit committee to their roles and corporate fraud. Finally, the findings show that there is a positive relationship between ownership structure and the phenomenon of corporate fraud in organizations. From the findings of the study, it is concluded that increasing the number of independent members in the board of directors will increase the ability of the board of directors to checkmate fraud commission. However, the ability of independence of board members to forestall corporate fraud is below the optimal level. It is also concluded that the commitment of the audit committee is an important deterrent of corporate fraud. Finally, increased concentration of ownership with only a few individuals will lead to increased fraud. Thus, it is recommended that the number of independent members in the board of directors be statutorily increased. Finally, it is recommended that the concentration of ownership in a few hands be discouraged.
Ethnocentrism and Global Identity as Predictors of Attitude towards Herdsmen-farmers Conflict in South-East Nigeria
Authors: Nwafor Chidozie Edwin , Ezeh Leonard Nnaemeka , Ugwu Paschal Chukwuma , Etodike Chukwuemeka Nelson
Published: November 2019

The study examined if ethnocentrism and global identity were predictors of attitude (Positive or Negative) towards herdsmen among secondary school students of Nimbo community, Uzo-Uwani Local government Area Enugu state and Awka metropolis, Anambra state Nigeria. Two hundred and thirty-two (232) participants (male 111, 47.8%) and (female 121, 52.2%) were randomly selected from four secondary schools. Their ages ranged from 14-18 (M= 15.99, SD=1.10). Three instruments were used for data collection (Ethnocentrism Scale by Neulip & McCroskey, 2013; Global Identity Scale by Turken & Rudmin 2013 and Attitude towards Herdsmen Scale, 2018 developed in the course of this study. The study was a cross-sectional survey and Pearson correlation design was adopted while and regression statistics were used for analysis. The results showed that ethnocentrism and locality were positively and negatively related to attitude towards herdsmen respectively while global identity did not predict attitude towards herdsmen. Based on the findings, the study implicated attitudinal bias and ethnic sentiments which may be localized as a result of experiences and interactions of the group. It is therefore recommended that desensitization programs along ethnic and religious line be encouraged in areas with herdsmen attack experiences and vulnerable areas under perpetual fear of attack in order to reduce ethnic bigotry and hatred capable of inflaming reprisal attack from the community in order to promote peace and cohabitation.
Product Innovation as a Panacea to Manufacturing Organization Performance: Evidence from Nigerian Breweries Plc
Authors: Ladokun I. O.
Published: November 2019

Innovation is widely regarded as one of the most important sources of sustainable competitive advantage in an increasingly changing environment. However, many Nigerian manufacturing industries do not invest so many resources on the utilization of modern technologies, as this makes for the decline in the designing and development of new products.  This study examined the effect of product innovation on the performance of manufacturing sector with particular reference to Nigerian Breweries Plc. Purposive sampling technique was used to select 70 respondents from various departments. Structured questionnaire was employed to collect the data, while weighted mean score, chi-square and analysis of variance were used to analyze the data. Result revealed that product innovation has significant effect on sales volume. Findings also indicated that positive relationship exist between product innovations, customer satisfaction, changes in consumer taste and preference. The study therefore concluded that product innovation is an alternative paradigm to organizational performance in a global competitive environment. Subsequently, the study recommended that management of manufacturing organizations should leverage on product innovation, as this type of innovation is found to be important instrument for achieving sustainable competitive power.
Effect of Charcoal and NPK Fertilizer on the Yield of Two Peppers (Capsicum annuum L.) Varieties: Jalapeno and Local
Authors: Gaydaybu James Flomo , Fatty Lamin K. M. , Gbelee Francis , Ndaloma Philips G. S. , Argba J. Gayflor B.
Published: November 2019

This research was conducted to analyze the effects of charcoal + NPK (charcoal combines with NPK) fertilizer on the yield of two pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) varieties: Jalapeno and Local. This research considered four treatment levels: control = no treatment, charcoal = 450 g plot-1, NPK = 112.5 g plot-1 and charcoal + NPK combination. The experimental plot size was 1.5 square meter. Treatments were replicated 8 times. Data collected on yield parameters were: Number of pods, pod weight, pod length and pod diameter. Data collections were done for three consecutive months. Data analyzed indicated that Local pepper performed better than Jalapeno for all treatments. The charcoal + NPK treated plots performed best than other treatments. For the Local pepper number of pods, charcoal + NPK applied plots had a mean of 16.79 million pods ha-1, NPK applied plots had a mean of 12.69 million pods ha-1, charcoal applied plots also had a mean of 7.20 million pods ha-1 while the control plots had a mean of 6.76 million pods ha-1 as an average means of pods harvested for the 3 months. For the Jalapeno pod weight, charcoal + NPK had a mean of 1.85 ton ha-1, NPK had 1.58 ton ha-1 as a mean, charcoal also had a mean of 1.05 ton ha-1 while the Control plots had 0.85 ton ha-1 as a mean for total pod weight.
The Effect of Charcoal and NPK Fertilizer on the Growth of Two Peppers Varieties on the Sandy Loamy Soil in Sinyea, Liberia
Authors: Gaydaybu James Flomo , Waiwaiku Moses Mulbah , Ndaloma Philip G. S. , Gbelee Francis , Fatty Lamin K. M.
Published: November 2019

This research shows the effect of charcoal and NPK fertilizer on the growth of two pepper (Capsicum annum L) Varieties. The treatment levels were: control (no treatment), charcoal (2 tons ha-1), NPK 15:15:15(150 kg ha-1) and charcoal and NPK combination. The experimental plots were 32 in total with 1.5 squares meter each and treatments were replicated 2 times in each block with 4 blocks in total. The Factorial Design was conducted and fitted with Complete Randomized Block Design Method to assigned plots with treatments and pepper varieties. The growth parameters considered were: plant height, number of leaves, number of branches, leaves length, leaves width and plant diameter. The data analyzed indicated that Local pepper performed better than Jalapeno pepper for all treatments. For plant height charcoal plots performed better than control with these means 28 cm, 64 cm and 72 cm for date 1, 2, and 3 respectively (Date 1, 2 and 3 as 30, 60 and 90 days after transplanting respectively). The Local pepper performed better than Jalapeno in growth with these plant height means 31 cm, 86 cm, and 96 cm for date 1, 2, and 3 respectively. Bigger stem diameters were recorded for the Local pepper and even wider leaf. The Local pepper performed better than the Jalapeno pepper at all levels of growth. The combination of charcoal and NPK had the best growth results over all the treatments.
Epidemiological Investigation, Monitoring and Surveillance; Strategies in Public Health Sustenance
Authors: Ikechukwu Ekwem , Ogadinma Ilochi , Chuemere Arthur Nwafor
Published: November 2019

Monitoring, surveillance and investigation of health threats are vital capabilities for an effective health system. The International Health Regulations require countries to maintain an integrated, national system for public health surveillance and response and set out the core capabilities that countries are required to achieve. Public health laws typically establish a list of “notifiable diseases” and other conditions that health care providers, hospitals and/or laboratories are required to report to the relevant local or national public health authority. Notifiable diseases generally include infectious diseases that can quickly spread throughout communities and regions via water, food, contact with animals, mosquitoes, airborne droplets or through sexual contact and other forms of human interaction. Rare and new events may not be included in regular, clinical and laboratory-based surveillance systems. Also, outbreaks of serious or contagious diseases require immediate investigation so that appropriate public health measures including isolation and contact tracing can be implemented. A significant degree of stigma may be attached to some diseases. Notifiable disease legislation should require the protection of personal information, and clearly define any exceptions. Concerns about discrimination and breach of privacy may be addressed by requiring certain diseases to be reported on an anonymous or de-identified basis.
Investigating Pricing Strategies of Hotel Rooms in City Centre: A Case Study
Authors: Min Ng Yiu , Sien Linda Chin Yee , Aqil Mohammad , Misiran Masnita , Yusof Zahayu Md
Published: November 2019

In this article, the pricing strategies among hotel rooms dwelling in the city centre are investigated. A sample of 25 hotels with star ratings from 2 to 4 are selected, all situated in the heart of Georgetown, Penang. The primary data is collected, in which hotel room prices were observed for December 2018 through online travel operator, agoda.com platform. A comparative study of four forecasting methods, i.e. simple moving average, adaptive response rate exponential smoothing and multiplicative decomposition method were used to investigate the patterns of pricing strategies for these hotel rooms, with their accuracies being measured. The findings revealed that the average pricing of the room is at its peak before the public holiday, with the seasonal pattern being present, in which the prices are higher on Fridays weekly. Room prices for a hotel with higher star rating were also observed to be more sensitive to holiday effects as opposed to the hotel with a lower star rating.
Genetic Analysis of Milk and Health Traits in Divergently Classified Holstein Friesian Cows
Authors: Obioma Okeke Rufina , Olufemi Olaoluwa Tosin , Akinsola Oludayo Michael , Onotu Suleiman Ibrahim , Godday Allen Olufemi , Nuhu Makka , Atang Ishaya Bawa , Ogundeji Amos
Published: November 2019

Genetic parameters for milk and health related traits in low and high milk producing Holstein Friesian cows were estimated using farm collected information on the Jos, Plateau, Nigeria. Milk yield and health related records were extracted from database of the West Africa Milk Company Integrated Dairies Limited. An innovative statistical modeling in this study was the application of repeatability animal models to estimate the genetic parameters. The resulting dataset consisted of 5043 lactations from 608 dams and 39 sires. Genetic correlations were obtained by bivariate analyses of all pair-wise combinations between two traits. In high milk yield Holstein, heritabilities estimate recorded for milk yield (0.43), mastitis (0.26) and lameness (0.33) was high while NIS (0.56), PR (0.22), RR (0.67) and PR (0.22) recorded high estimate in low milk yield Holstein cows. Highest genetic correlation was observed between rectal temperature and vaginal temperature (0.91). Lameness had significant (p<0.05), positive and highest environmental correlation with mastitis (0.95). The heritability estimates of health related traits were low to high; therefore, genetic gain through direct selection alone would be slow, yet still positive and cumulative in the divergently classified Holstein Friesian cows on the Plateau.
Knowledge, Risk Perception of Occupational Hazards and Safety Practices amongst Carpenters in Southern Nigeria: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Inah Simon Alain , Eko Jimmy Ebi , Nwachukwu Eze James , Otu Fidelis Takim , Obot Nkese , Archibong Bassey
Published: November 2019

Background: Occupational Hazards has been identified as one of the primary cause of disability and mortality among the working population globally. Estimates also show that 8% of unintentional injuries and more than 10 million disability-adjusted life years or healthy years of life lost either to disability or premature death is primarily caused by occupational injuries.

Objective: The study was aimed at determining the knowledge level, risk perception of occupational hazards and safety practices amongst carpenters in Southern Nigeria.

Methods: The study adopted a descriptive cross-sectional study design. Snowball sampling technique was used to select 200 carpenters to participate in the study. A pre-tested semi-structured questionnaire was used to generate data from the selected respondents at their workplace (workshops). The questionnaire was subjected to face validation and test of reliability using the test-retest method before it was used. Data generated was synthesized and analyzed using Statistical Packages for Social Sciences Software (SPSS version, 2010). Results were calculated in percentage and presented in tables and charts.

Results: The results showed that 195 (97.5%) were males, 73 (36.5%) were aged between 26-35 years, 88 (44.0%) had secondary education, 83 (41.5%) were single and 133 (66.5%) learnt their trade through apprenticeship. Most respondents 142 (71.0%) recorded good knowledge of occupational hazards and exhibited low risk perception towards occupational hazards. Of the 63 (44.4%) respondents who have heard of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and 61 (43.0%) confirmed to have used PPE at workplace.  Types of PPE used were mostly disposable nose mask 61 (43.0%), face mask/eye Google 58 (40.8%) and ear plug 47 (33.1%). Barriers to PPE use highlighted by the respondents were mostly lack of knowledge on how to use PPE 43 (53.1%), inconveniences 38 (46.9%), non-availability of PPE 42 (51.9%) and lack of money to buy PPE 33 (40.7%).

Conclusion: Institutionalizing appropriate regulatory authorities in Nigeria is imperative to ensure adequate availability and use of PPE for workers at workplace to minimize their exposure to workplace hazards and punishment should be accorded to defaulters. Public health experts and health educators should take up the responsibility to educate carpenters about the adverse health effects of occupational hazards, control measures and the operationalization of PPE available for them.
Factors Affecting E-commerce Adoption of Small and Medium Enterprises in Sri Lanka: Evidence from Retail Sector
Authors: Govinnage D. Y. , Sachitra K. M. V.
Published: November 2019

Purpose: There is a resistance in the adoption of e-commerce in certain parts of the world even though most successful businesses in the world has successfully adopted e-commerce to their businesses gained an increasing success. The study aims to find the crucial factors affecting to the adoption of e-commerce by using the evidence of retail sector in Sri Lanka as a developing nation.

Methods: The targeted population for the study was the retail sector registered as Small and Medium Enterprises in Colombo District. Adopting stratified simple random sampling technique, the study selected 200 SMEs in Colombo District who are engaged in retail sector. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data. Five dimensions namely adoption of e-commerce, perceived benefits, computer literacy, government support and technology infrastructure were measured by using a Likert scale measurement items, acknowledging the prior studies.

Findings: The results revealed that computer literacy, government support and technology infrastructure had significance influence on e-commerce adoption of SMEs in Sri Lanka even though perceived benefits had less impact on e-commerce adoption.

Implication: It has been realized that Sri Lankan government support and intervention is necessary to build speedy technology infrastructure in order to encourage the usage of e-commerce as government support and technology infrastructure share a significant correlation with e-commerce adoption.
Customer Satisfaction towards Online Shopping in Sri Lanka: Moderating Effect of Income Level
Authors: Perera G. A. B. S. , Sachitra K. M. V.
Published: November 2019

Aim: Online shopping is the most popular feature around the world as well as in Sri Lanka. People are tending to do online shopping by using those social media and also by using online shopping websites. As well as most of the business organizations try to use online shopping to sell their product and to increase their market. The objective of this research is to assess the factors influencing customer satisfaction while doing online shopping. Further, the study tested the moderating effect of income level on the relationship between factors influencing customer satisfaction on online shopping.

Design: This study used the deductive approach and research design was based on quantitative and cross sectional. The targeted population for this study is customers living around the Colombo area, those who have internet facility in their living place or working place. The sample size was 380. The survey method is employed to collect data through a standardizes questionnaire. The selected dimensions (customer satisfaction, convenience, security, website functionality and customer service) were measured by using a Likert scale measurement items, acknowledging the prior studies.

Findings: According to the survey findings of this study, Convenience, Web site functionality, Customer service have significant influence on customer satisfaction on online shopping. The results also indicated that the income level has a significant moderating effect on the relationship between Convenience, Web site Functionality, Security and Customer service and Customer satisfaction on online shopping.

Implications: According to the findings of this study online retailers can identified that their consumers are more concern about the website functionality, customer service, and convenience of the online shopping. Therefore, online retailers can develop their website by adding more functions which will be helpful and easy for the customers and they can further improve their customer service at the prior purchase level as well as at the post purchase level in order to attract more customers and retain the existing customers with their business.
Analysis of Military and Public Participation in Disaster Rescue Operations in Ahoada East Local Government Area of Rivers State, Nigeria
Authors: Chukwu-Okeah G. O. , Ebubechukwu J. J. , Okemini E. B.
Published: November 2019

The study was carried out basically to examine military and public participation in disaster rescue operations in Ahoada East L.G.A of Rivers State, Nigeria. Four objectives alongside one hypothesis were set out for the study. A total of 400 respondents were sampled for the study with the use of the Taro Yamane formula, but on distribution of copies of the questionnaire, only 370 copies were returned completely filled for the study. This was thereafter used in the analysis of the study alongside the Chi-Square analytical tool, which was used for hypothesis testing. The findings of the study revealed that the people partnered with the military in different segments of the study area towards disaster rescue, mostly on security and intelligence gathering. Military and public participation concentrated on disaster rescue operations. These rescue operations seem to have an impact on the people of the area. It is also revealed that the attitude of the Government to disaster rescue operations in the area has been positive and effective. The study has also revealed that statistically there is a significant impact of Military and public participation in disaster rescue operations. The study therefore recommended that there is a need for community participation in decision making for disaster management, as this will easily facilitate better communication leading to overall acceptability of the locals with the rescue operations. This positive outcome propagates the need for encouraging a close interaction and partnership between the public and the military. Based on the study outcome a partnership is being built. Such a development would ensure effective disaster rescue operations, monitoring, response recovery and preparedness.