bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Peer pressure, home and school factors predisposing secondary school student to indiscipline in Bwari Area Council Abuja, Nigeria
Authors:   Department of Educational Management, Faculty of Education University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria., Adeleke Taiwo Ebenezer , Emunemu B. O. ,   Department of Educational Management, Faculty of Education University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria.
Published: May 2024

This study investigated peer pressure, home, and school factors predisposing secondary school students to indiscipline in the Bwari area of Abuja. A descriptive survey research design of the correlation type was adopted for the study. The total population consisted of all secondary school students in the study area. Two hundred and fifty (250) students were sampled for the study, using a simple random sampling technique. Five research questions were raised and answered. Two self-constructed research instruments were used for the study, the first is titled predisposing factors to indiscipline questionnaire (PFIQ) and student indiscipline questionnaire (SIQ), and the two instruments yielded 0.84 and 0.81 reliability coefficients respectively. The result revealed that stealing and smuggling mobile phones to school are common indiscipline acts among secondary school students. Home factor, peer influence, and school factor was jointly contributed to indiscipline in senior secondary school in the Bwari area council Abuja. The researcher recommended that stakeholders should make sure that both home and school factors surrounding students are highly positive to influence their lives and raise disciplined students in our society.
The use of plant extracts as indicators in teaching acid-base titrations: Case of Hibiscus sabdariffa (Zobo), Beta vulgaris (Beet root), Hibiscus rosa sinensis and Acalypha wilkesiana
Authors:   Department of Chemical Sciences, Oduduwa University Ipetumodu, Ile-Ife, Osun-state, Nigeria., Ayodele Olufunmilayo D , Olabode Hawa O. ,   Department of Chemical Sciences, Oduduwa University Ipetumodu, Ile-Ife, Osun-state, Nigeria., Bolarinwa Tawakalitu ,   Department of Chemical Sciences, Oduduwa University Ipetumodu, Ile-Ife, Osun-state, Nigeria.
Published: May 2024

Acid-base titrations are the main part of volumetric analysis in the secondary school chemistry practical syllabus in Nigeria. Synthetic indicators are generally used in teaching students the procedure and skills required in acid-base titrations. However, some of these synthetic indicators are not readily available, some are toxic and there is a special procedure to be followed in preparing them for use as indicators. Hence there is need to consider the suitability of natural indicators which are more readily available, easy to prepare and ecofriendly compared. Therefore, this study aimed at investigating the suitability of Hibiscuss rosa sinensis, Acalipha wilkesiana, Hibiscus sabdariffa and Beta vulgaris L. extract as indicators in acid-base titration. The results showed that in strong-acid strong-base titration, all the plant extracts under study are suitable. All the plant extracts are fairly suitable for strong-acid and weak-base, except Beta vulgaris L. which is unsuitable for this titration. H. rosa sinensis is most suitable for weak-acid weak-base titrations similar to phenolphthalein, Acalipha wilkesiana is fairly suitable while H. sabdariffa and Beta vulgaris L. are unsuitable. For weak-acid strong-base titrations, all the plant extracts are fairly suitable especially H. sabdariffa. It was recommended that the use of these flower extracts as acid-base indicators should be incorporated in the teaching of acid-base titration especially in the secondary schools.
Command secondary school teachers’ perceived usefulness of electronic media for teaching-learning in Lagos State
Authors:   Department of Educational Technology, Faculty of Education, University of Ilorin, Ilorin, Nigeria., OLUMORIN Charles Olubode , ONOJAH Amos Ochayi ,   Department of Educational Technology, Faculty of Education, University of Ilorin, Ilorin, Nigeria., BELLO Ibrahim Shaibu ,   Department of Educational Technology, Faculty of Education, University of Ilorin, Ilorin, Nigeria., ONOJAH Adenike Aderogba ,   Department of Educational Technology, Faculty of Education, University of Ilorin, Ilorin, Nigeria., EKUNOLA Gbadebo Temitope ,   Department of Educational Technology, Faculty of Education, University of Ilorin, Ilorin, Nigeria.
Published: May 2024

The general objective of this study was to investigate the perceived usefulness of command secondary school teachers towards utilization of electronic media for teaching in Lagos State. The study was a descriptive type using quantitative approach of the survey method. Three hundred (300) teachers were randomly selected from the teachers in command secondary school (CSS) in Lagos. At the end of the survey, 280 teachers adequately responded to the questionnaire and were used for the study. A research question was raised and three hypotheses were tested for this study. Mean scores were used to answer the research question, while t-test was used to test all the 3 hypotheses. The study revealed that: (1) teachers had positive perception on the usefulness of electronic media with a grand mean value of 3.37, (2) there was no significant difference between male and female teachers’ perception on the usefulness of electronic media for teaching; (3) no significant difference between qualified and less qualified teachers in the perception on the usefulness of electronic media for teaching; and (4) no significant difference between experienced and less-experienced teachers in the perception on the usefulness of electronic media for teaching. The study concluded that teachers in CSS have the same perception about the usefulness of ICT in education. The study thus recommended that there is a need for in-house training and periodic orientation on the use of available electronic devices for the teaching and learning in the schools. Learners are to be exposed to available media in other relevant departments to complement the process.
Influence of academic control and academic stress on online test anxiety: A structural equation modelling study
Authors:   Federal Government Girls’ Collage Onitsha, Nigeria., Erutujiro Goodluck
Published: May 2024

This study focuses on the influence of academic control and academic stress on online test anxiety using structural equation modelling approach. Two hypotheses guided the study. The data for the study was collected from one thousand secondary school students (540 females and 460 males) using purposive sampling techniques in Ughelli North Local Government Area of Delta State, Nigeria. CFA revealed that the three factors conformed well to the structure of the model and fitted to the data, with indices of CFI = 0.952, AGFI = 0.878, RMSEA = 0.051; and a statistically significant chi-square χ2/df = 1.758. In the structural model, the three factors conformed well to the structure of the model and fitted to the data, with indices of CFI = 0.932, AGFI = 0.888, RMSEA = 0.059; and a statistically significant chi-square χ2/df = 1.838. The results of the study also indicated that academic self-control and academic stress have significant influence on online testing anxiety. The researcher recommended that the school principals should organize workshops and seminars for students on how to control online test anxiety.
Utilization of digital instructional technologies in teaching business education students for improved office skill acquisition in tertiary institutions in Ebonyi State, Nigeria
Authors:   Department of Business Education, Faculty of Education, Ebonyi State University, Abakaliki, Nigeria., Igwe Kingsley Ogazi , Chima-Uduma Comfort Elemchi ,   Department of Business Education, School of Vocational Education, Ebonyi State College of Education,  Ikwo, Ebonyi State, Nigeria.
Published: May 2024

This study examined utilization of digital technologies in teaching business education students for improved office skill acquisition in tertiary institutions in Ebonyi State, Nigeria. Three research questions and one hypothesis guided the study. Descriptive survey research design was adopted. The population of the study is 229 which comprises of 31 business education lecturers and 198 final year students of business education from tertiary institutions in Ebonyi State. There was no sample since the populations was manageable. The instrument for data collection was questionnaire. The instrument was validated by two experts in Business Education Department. The instrument had a reliability coefficient of 0.74 using Pearson product moment correlation coefficient method. Mean and standard deviation statistics was used to analyze the data collected while t-test was used to test the hypothesis. The results showed that multimedia projectors and interactive whiteboard were utilized in very low extent teaching business education students in tertiary institutions in Ebonyi State. business educator’s often utilize web based technology in teaching business education students for improved office skill acquisition in tertiary institutions. The results also showed that there was no significant difference in the mean responses that business education lecturer and students do not differ significantly in their mean responses on the extent of utilizing digital technologies in teaching Business Education students for improved office skill acquisition in tertiary institutions in Ebonyi State. Based on the findings, the study recommended among others that: administrator of business education should sensitized business education lecturers on the importance of utilizing digital instructional technology in order to improved students skills acquisition of office skills.
Emotional intelligence, self-esteem and gender as correlate of secondary school students’ academic achievement in Anambra State, Nigeria
Authors:   Department of Educational Foundation, Faculty of Education, Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Uli. Anambra State, Nigeria., Ezebube Nkechi Chinwe , Emeka Ifeanyi David ,   Department of Educational Foundation, Faculty of Education, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka.  Anambra State, Nigeria.
Published: May 2024

This study investigated emotional intelligence, self-esteem and gender as correlate of secondary school students’ academic achievement in Anambra State. Three research questions and two null hypotheses tested at 0.05 level of significance guided the study. The study was carried out in Onitsha, and Awka education zones of Anambra State, Nigeria. The design adopted for this study was correlational research designs. The population of the study comprised all the year two senior secondary school (SSS2) students in the 263 public secondary schools in Anambra state. The sample for the study consists of 1,028 students obtained through non-proportionate stratified random sampling technique from 18 secondary schools in Onitsha, and Awka education zones. The instruments for data collection include a structured questionnaire that was used to collect data on the student’s emotional intelligence called Emotional Intelligence Questionnaire (EIQ), a Self-Esteem Inventory (SEI) and Mathematics and English Language Achievement Test (MEAT). The instrument was face and content validated by two experts. The research questions were analysed using Pearson Product Moment Correlation Coefficient (Pearson r) while hypothesis was tested using multiple regression. Results of the research showed that there was a significant relationship between emotional intelligence, self-esteem and gender with academic achievement of secondary school students in mathematics and English language. Based on the findings of this study, recommendations were made. One of the recommendations is that government should organize seminar and workshop for teachers to enable them to understand the concepts of emotional intelligence and self-esteem in order to build their own emotions and that oftheir students.
Determinants of factors affecting farmer’s participation in exchange labour in Olamaboro Local Government Area of Kogi State, Nigeria
Authors:   Department of Agricultural Economics, Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University, Makurdi, Nigeria., Ogah O. M. , Benjamin B. ,   Department of Agricultural Technology, Samaru Kataf Campus, Nuhu Bamalli Polytechnic, Zaria, Nigeria., Josiah O. D. ,   Department of Agricultural Economics, Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University, Makurdi, Nigeria.
Published: May 2024

The study examined the determinants of exchange labour participation in Olamaboro Local Government Area of Kogi State, Nigeria. A purposive and simple random sampling of the respondents was used with descriptive statistics such as frequency distribution, tables, percentages, mean and probit models as tools of analysis. Data for the study was collected from primary sources through the use of a well-structured questionnaire to elicit information from the respondents. The results on socio-economic characteristics revealed that the mean age of participants in exchange labour was 34 years and mostly males (60.83%). Most were of active age, married and mean household size of 4 persons, they had one form of education or the other (89.17%). They were small-scale farmers with a mean farm size of 2 hectares and mean exchange labour farming experience of 6 years. Access to extension contact is low and the farmers have an annual farm income of N137,837.5. The results of the probit model analysis revealed that access to credit and marital status were the significant variables that influence the probability of participation in exchange labour. These have coefficients that were significant at 5 and 10% level of probability respectively. The study concludes that exchange labour could be a means of increasing the probability of labour through adequate credit. It was recommended that exchange labour group members should create awareness to rural farmers for more membership, government support in the form of credit to boost production and farm income is important.
Semen and haematological characteristics of cocks drenched varying levels of Turmeric Powder (TP)
Authors:   Department of Animal Production and Technology, The Oke-Ogun Polytechnic, P.M.B 021 Saki (TOPS),  Oyo State, Nigeria., Amao E. A. , Amao O. D. ,   National Biotechnology Development Agency, Bioresources Development Centre, Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria., Busari Z. O. ,   Department of Animal Production and Technology, The Oke-Ogun Polytechnic, P.M.B 021 Saki (TOPS),  Oyo State, Nigeria., Adelegan T. M. ,   Department of Animal Production and Technology, The Oke-Ogun Polytechnic, P.M.B 021 Saki (TOPS),  Oyo State, Nigeria., Tiamiyu W. A. ,   Department of Animal Production and Technology, The Oke-Ogun Polytechnic, P.M.B 021 Saki (TOPS),  Oyo State, Nigeria., Yunus M. O. ,   Department of Animal Production and Technology, The Oke-Ogun Polytechnic, P.M.B 021 Saki (TOPS),  Oyo State, Nigeria.
Published: May 2024

Emerging evidence from in vivo as well as in vitro studies indicates that botanicals play noteworthy roles in the treatment, prevention and management of livestock diseases. Use of natural compounds in botanicals has been proposed as potential alternative to conventional therapeutic options. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the effect of varying levels of turmeric powder (Curcuma longa) on semen characteristics and haematological indices of cocks. Turmeric (C. longa) rhizomes were obtained from a local market in Saki in Oyo State, Nigeria, in March 2023. They were washed, skin scraped and air-dried at room temperature for 10 hours, and then oven-dried at 40°C for 12 hours. Afterwards, the dried turmeric rhizomes were ground into powder using a blender. The product was kept in an air-tight container until use. The experimental material was drenched at 0.00 g (T1), 0.50 g (T2), 1.00 g (T3) and 1.50 g (T4) after 2 weeks of acclimatization. Semen volume, sperm cell progressive motility, sperm cell liveability, acrosome integrity, sperm cell concentration and normal sperm cell were evaluated for semen characteristics. Haematological parameters measured were: PCV, RBC, WBC Hb, MCV, MCH, MCHC and white blood cell differentials. Data obtained were subjected to one-way analysis of variance. Semen volume (0.34 – 0.37 ml), sperm cell progressive motility (68.33 – 80%), sperm cell liveability (46.66 – 85.00%), acrosome integrity (50.00 – 85%) and normal sperm cell (66.66 – 90%) showed significant difference (p<0.05) in favour of cocks on highest level (1.50 g) of turmeric powder, while sperm cell concentration (28.33 - 40.00 X109/ml) showed no significant difference (p>0.05). Also PCV (36.00 – 40.33%), RBC (3.55 – 3.74 X106/ml), WBC (19.01 – 19.71 X109/ml), Hb (11.66 – 13.00 dl), MCV (100.53 – 109.53 ⴄ), MCH (32.57 – 35.31pg) and MCHC (32.00 – 32.37%) showed no significant differences (p>0.05) between treatments. In conclusion turmeric powder up to 1.50 g showed an improvement in all the semen characteristics measured without negative effect on haematological characteristics of cocks.
Effect of feeding durian fruit peel in kacang goats on production performance and physiological parameters
Authors:   Faculty of Animal and Fishery, Tadulako University, Jl. Soekarno Hatta, Kota Palu, Sulawesi Tengah 94148, Indonesia., Abdullah Sirajuddin
Published: May 2024

The durian fruit (Durio zibethinus Murr.) peels can be used as animal feed. This study aimed to determine the effect of feeding durian fruit peel on body weight, feed conversion ratio and physiological parameters and reproduction performance of female kacang goats. The research method uses the 3 x 3 factorial randomized block design (RBD). The main components were dose D1 = ASP dose of 100 g/liter of water; D2 = ASP dose of 200 g/liter of water, and D3 = ASP dose of 300 g/liter of water, and the next variable is the soaking time, namely: P1 = Soaking durian rind for 24 hours; P2 = Soaking durian rind for 48 hours; and P3 = Soaking durian rind for 72 hours and each repeated four times as a group. The analysis of variance showed that giving durian fruit peels soaked in rice husk ash filtrate solution at different doses did not give a significant difference (p>0.05) in body weight gain, use of dry matter and the effectiveness of using proportions, breath waves and heartbeat waves of female kacang goats, but had a significant effect (p<0.05) on the edible carcass weight and very significant (p<0.01) on the non-edible carcass level of female kacang goat giving durian fruit peels by immersing rice husk ash filtrate solution with different soaking time variations had a significant effect (p<0.05) on body weight gain and productivity using the proportion of female kacang goats, did not have a large effect (p>0.05) on physiological parameters. Durian skin waste has the potential to be used as animal feed, has nutritional content, and can increase the body weight of kacang goats, but requires further processing such as soaking in a solution of rice husk ash filtrate.
African black velvet tamarind (Dialium guineense) as a green adsorbent for groundwater remediation
Authors:   Department of Industrial Chemistry, Enugu State University of Science and Technology, Enugu, Nigeria., Onyia S. O. , Uchechukwu T. O. ,   Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Alexander Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu Alike, Ikwo, Abakaliki, Nigeria., Ogbobe O. ,   Department of Industrial Chemistry, Enugu State University of Science and Technology, Enugu, Nigeria.
Published: May 2024

Process shells of black velvet tamarind fruits was investigated as an adsorbent for the potential removal of the pollutant heavy metal ions of Fe, Cr, Pb, Mn and Zn in well water samples collected from six different locations in Enugu Metropolis, Eastern Nigeria. Fourier Transform Infra-Red Spectroscopy absorption bands characteristic of stretching, scissoring and bending vibrations of - O-H groups of alcohols (R-OH) and phenols (Ph-OH), Sp3 (–C-H) of an oxygen bonded carbon atom, –C-O-C- bond and Sp2 (---C==C—H) carbons in a ring structure were seen between 3400 to 3200 cm-1, 1438 to 1371 cm-1, 2922/2851 cm-1 and 1155/1028 cm-1 as well as the 1509 cm-1 in the infra-red region of the electromagnetic spectrum in the infra-red absorption spectrum of processed black velvet tamarind fruit shells. Metal ion analysis was carried out by Flame Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy. The results showed that the adsorbent removed 40.50 to 63.30, 33.33 to 52.63, 26.23 to 48.05 and 15.00 to 37.84% respectively of Fe, Zn, Cr and Mn in the well water samples but was ineffective in removing Pb. This demonstrates the usefulness of black velvet tamarind fruit shells in decontaminating heavy metal burdened water and suggests that the technique has potential to reclaim polluted water of such nature, ameliorate the problems of insufficient potable water and waste disposal as well as protect the environment from heavy metal pollution.
Study on prevalence of ovine Paramphistomiasis in Kutaber Woreda, South Wollo, Amhara Region, Ethiopia
Authors:   Kutaber Woreda, South Wollo Zone, Amhara region, Ethiopia., Wondmnew Kindu , Temesgen Wossen ,   Kutaber Woreda, South Wollo Zone, Amhara region, Ethiopia., Hussien Mohammed ,   Kutaber Woreda, South Wollo Zone, Amhara region, Ethiopia., Arega Yeshiwork ,   Kutaber Woreda, South Wollo Zone, Amhara region, Ethiopia.
Published: May 2024

A study was conducted to identify the current status of Paramphisthomum infections in small ruminants in Kutaber. A total of 384 fecal samples from small ruminants were collected and subjected to sedimentation technique. Out of 384 fecal samples inspected, 150 (39.1%) were positive for Paramphisthomum. The prevalence rates of 36.5 and 30.8% were observed in good and medium body condition, respectively. In adult and young sheep, the prevalence rates of 40.9 and 33.3 were identified from fecal samples inspected, respectively. The highest prevalence of Paramphistomiasis was observed in Lewcho (50.0%) followed by Beshilo (44.5%) and Elsa (42.1%) The lowest incidence of Paramphistomiasis was observed in Alansha (19.0%). Based on age groups, the highest prevalence rate was 40.9% observed in age category of adult and the lowest prevalence rate 33.3% was observed in young. When body condition was considered as a risk factor for the prevalence of Paramphistomiasis, 49.5, 30.8 and 36.5% was observed in poor, medium and good body condition respectively. The prevalence of Paramphistomiasis in male (33.9%) and female (41.3%) was recorded. This parasitic disease is distributed in every district and considered as one of the major setbacks to sheep product utilization causing direct and indirect losses.
Untapped potentials of Agricultural Biotechnology in Nigeria
Authors:   Department of Biological Sciences, Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State, Nigeria., Adeyinka Olawale Samuel , Akpor Oghenerobor Benjamin ,   Department of Biological Sciences, Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State, Nigeria., Okiki Abimbola Pius ,   Department of Biological Sciences, Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State, Nigeria.
Published: May 2024

The field of biotechnology has witnessed a significant achievement over the past decades. Although biotechnology always sparked a great deal of ethical criticism, the advancement has continued to offer an opportunity to address several social and economic challenges. The potentials of biotechnology remain underexploited in several fields in Nigeria. This review highlighted some untapped biotechnologies that represent an ample scope of biotechnology application used for the genetic improvement of plant and animal populations, conservation of genetic resources, and diagnosis of plant and animal diseases. Factors such as insufficient of funds to procure facilities, inadequate power supply, lack of sufficient trained manpower, lack of political will to support biotechnology has been limiting biotechnology's potentials in Nigeria. Therefore, it was recommended that attention should be given to biotechnology research and development to complement existing expertise in the national biotechnology sector towards maximizing its potentials.
Determination of some heavy metal concentrations in water and sediment of River Gidin Dorowa, at Gidin Dorowa, Taraba, North Eastern Nigeria
Authors:   Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture Federal University Wukari, Taraba, Nigeria., Ikponmwen E. G. , Igbani F. ,   Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture Federal University Wukari, Taraba, Nigeria.
Published: May 2024

This study examined some heavy metal concentrations in water and sediment of River Gidin Dorowa, Taraba, North Eastern, Nigeria. It was examined with atomic absorption spectrophometer (AAS) buck scientific model 210 VGP. Mean concentrations of metals in water and sediment showed significant (p< 0.05) during the study period between September, 2022 to February, 2023. Samples were collected upstream and downstream at River Gidin Dorowa. Higher mean value (0.3087 mg/l) was reported for lead (Pb) in October compare to other metals with lower value (0.1647 mg/l) recorded in November. Zinc (Zn) recorded higher value (0.1334 mg/l) in September. Cadmium (Cd) recorded higher value (0.0170 mg/l) in September and lower value (0.0027 mg/l) in February. Heavy metals in sediment showed variation (p<0.05) between metal during the study. Cadmium recorded higher value (0.0154 mg/kg) in December and lower value (0.0087 mg/kg) in January. Lead (Pb) value (0.6380 mg/kg) was higher in January while lower value (0.3707 mg/kg) were observed in October and November. Zinc (Zn) recorded a higher mean value (1.6667 mg/kg) in October. Copper value showed higher variation (0.4000 mg/kg) in October and lower value (0.2667 mg/kg) in February. Monthly variation between water and sediment during the study period showed higher variation (0.3910 mg/kg) for Lead (Pb) in the sediment and water value (0.2880 mg/l) in September. Copper (Cu) value (0.1000 mg/l) in water was lower than values in the sediment. Mean Cadmium value for water (0.0027 mg/l) and value (0.0100mg/kg) in sediment showed variations (p<0.05) in February from other metals considered. The levels of Zn, Cu, and Cd in water and sediment at Gidin Dorowa for this study were generally low compared to safe limits recommended by WHO and USEPA except values of Lead (Pb) in water. Therefore, routine monitoring of the heavy metals’ concentrations in water and sediments of River Gidin Dorowa should be sustained.
Mycoflora, mycotoxin, proximate and mineral composition of selected sachet tomato paste
Authors:   Department of Science Laboratory Technology, The Polytechnic Ibadan, Nigeria, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria., Ajoke Onifade Deborah , Omolola Durojaye Oluwatoyin ,   Department of Biological Sciences, Dominican University Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria., Olubisi Bolarinwa Oluwatoyin ,   Department of Biology, The Polytechnic Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria.
Published: May 2024

Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) is highly popular fruit crop grown and consumed by people across the globe. The worldwide production of tomato is very high. Tomato is a wonder fruit fortified with health promoting phyto-chemicals that are beneficial in preventing important chronic degeneration disorder. Tomato are good source of vitamins and minerals also. Tomato can make people healthier and decrease the risk of condition such as cancer osteoporosis and cardiovascular diseases. Unfortunately, these important staple vegetables (tomato) are highly perishable and deteriorate few days after harvest, losing almost all their required qualities and in some cases, resulting into total wastage of the harvest tomatoes. Hence the need to preserve it in forms of concenterates such as tomato paste. This work therefore aims at assessing the probable mycoflora, mycotoxin, proximate and mineral composition of sachet tomato paste. In this study, twenty samples (20) of different brands of sachet tomato paste were purchased within Ibadan. Isolation, identification of fungi, proximate and mineral composition of the paste were done using standard methods while aflatoxin content of the samples was done using enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELIZA). The result revealed the occurrence of fungi in the genus Aspergillus, Fuasrium, Penicillium and Neurospora. The moisture content ranged from 68-755, ash 1.1-3.60, crude fiber 0.47-2.45, crude protein 1.98-4.52, fat 0.04-0.80 and carbohydrate ranged from 16.9-20.87. sodium ranged from 78-107 mg/100, potassium ranged from 123-169, calcium ranged from 35-38 mg/100, magnesium ranged from 0.57-1.21 and iron ranged from 3.88-6.9. Aflatoxin content ranged from 3 -29 ppb. Hence, a strong check and monitoring needs to be put in place by food regulatory agency such as to reduce or totally eliminate the aflatoxins contamination.
Physicochemical parameters and plankton diversity from Lower River Benue, Makurdi
Authors:   Department of Biological Science, Benue State University Makurdi, Nigeria., Shima N. Judith , Odo Joel Inya ,   Depertment of Fisheries and Aquaculture, University of Agriculture Makurdi, Nigeria., Ode Omenka Samuel ,   Depertment of Physics, Benue State University Makurdi, Nigeria., Lois Igba Ali ,   Department of Biological Science, Benue State University Makurdi, Nigeria.
Published: May 2024

This study was conducted to investigate the abundance and diversity of plankton as well as the physicochemical properties of the Lower Benue River. The survey was carried out at different sites along the river both at Wadata and BSU Water Board. Samples were collected using plankton net into bottles preserved in 5% formalin and then transported to the laboratory for identification, counting and further analysis. A total of 39 plankton were observed out of which 28 (71.79%) were obtained at Wadata and 11 (28.21%) at BSU Water Board. The most abundant of all the species was Arthrospira plantensis which was observed 16 times. The least occurring plankton was the Paramecium species which was observed only once. The species richness at the Wadata location was 7 with a Shannon-Weinner Diversity Index of 1.383 and Evenness of 0.711. The species richness at the BSU Water Board on the other hand was 3 species with the Shannon-Weinner Diversity Index (H) of 0.935 and an Evenness of 0.851. A significant relationship between plankton abundance and sampling location was overserved (χ2 = 19.360; df = 1; p = 0.000). The Physicochemical properties of the Lower Benue River at the respective sampling locations revealed that air, water temperature and dissolved oxygen, had no significant difference observed between them (p>0.05). While pH of the water, electrical conductivity, turbidity and total dissolved solid had significant differences observed between them (p>0.05). A fairly strong non-significant positive relationship was observed between plankton abundance and the pH (r = 0.502; p = 0.389). Electrical conductivity (r = 0.629; p = 0.069) and total dissolved solid (r = 0.461; p = 0.298). On the other hand, a very strong non-significant negative relationship between plankton abundance and air temperature was observed (r = 0.819; p = 0.090). The relationship with turbidity was also negative and strong but they were significantly associated (r = 0.720; p = 0.029). Pearson’s correlation coefficient (r) further revealed a very weak non-significant relationship between plankton abundance and dissolved oxygen (r = 0.137; p = 0.747), while it showed no significant relationship with temperature (r = 0.047; p = 0.904).
Urinary schistosomiasis and associated microbial infections among pre-school aged and school-aged children in Ipogun, Nigeria
Authors:   Parasitology and Public Health Unit, Department of Biology, Federal University of Technology, PMB 704, Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria., ONIYA Mobolanle Oladipo , ADEWOLE Toluwalase Tejumade ,   Parasitology and Public Health Unit, Department of Biology, Federal University of Technology, PMB 704, Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria., AFOLABI Olajide Joseph ,   Parasitology and Public Health Unit, Department of Biology, Federal University of Technology, PMB 704, Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria.
Published: May 2024

Urinary schistosomiasis is a parasitic infection caused by digenean trematode. In Nigeria, Schistosoma haematobium has been incriminated as the cause of urinary schistosomiasis infection and has been reported from different parts of the country with high prevalence especially in Ondo State. Endemicity in Ipogun village is over two decades due to cultural beliefs and behavioural attitude of the community dwellers to the disease. The study assessed the prevalence of urinary schistosomiasis and associated microbial infections among Pre-School Aged and School-Aged Children (SAC) in Ipogun, Ondo State. Urine samples were collected from 492 children in the village and analysed using the centrifugation method. Similarly, urine samples were cultured using standard microbial methods and examined for the presence of bacteriuria and fungi. The results showed that out of the 492 urine samples examined for parasitology, 306 (62.2%) were positive for urinary schistosomiasis with mean intensity of 22.3 in the sampled population. Haematuria was more prevalent among the male pupils (n =190; 12.2%) than the female (n =116; 6.5%). The prevalence peaked within the age group 16-20 at 82.2%. Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Proteus mirabilis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Klebsiella sp were isolated as bacteria and Aspergillus sp and Candida sp as fungi solely from the schistosomiasis positive urine samples. This study revealed the prevalence of urinary schistosomiasis in the study area and the predisposition of the infected children to microbial infections. Results suggest routine uninterrupted chemotherapeutic control and the consideration of antibiotics in the treatment regime to control opportunistic microbial infections.
Availability and capacity of nutrition units in primary health centers in Sokoto State, North Western Nigeria
Authors:   Department of Community Health  Faculty of Clinical Sciences, Usmanu Danfodiyo University Sokoto, Nigeria., Isah1* Balarabe Adamu , Inoh2 Elizabeth Enene ,   Department of Community Medicine, University of Uyo Teaching Hospital, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria.
Published: May 2024

A cross sectional descriptive study was carried out in Primary Health Centers (PHCs) in Sokoto State to assess the availability of nutritional units in primary health care facilities in the state and their capacities. The target for the study were the in-charge of the sampled PHCs and nutrition units of the PHCs. The study PHCs were selected using the cluster sampling method. Data were collected using an interviewer-administered questionnaire and observer checklist. The study shows a lack of adequate demonstration kitchens and utensils in many PHCs, inappropriate, multitasking and poorly trained personnel. It is recommended that demonstration kitchens in the PHCs be revitalized and adequate staffing and training be provided for nutrition staff across the state.
Influence of store image on customer satisfaction among supermarkets in Uyo metropolis, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria
Authors:   Department of Marketing, University of Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria., Joseph Uduak Emmanuel , Okonofua Fatima ,   Department of Marketing, University of Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria., Udoh Ini Smart ,   Department of Marketing, University of Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria.
Published: May 2024

The objective of this study is to investigate the influence of store image on customer satisfaction among supermarkets in Uyo metropolis of Akwa Ibom state. The survey method was adopted. Data were collected through the questionnaire which was administered to 244 respondents who patronized supermarkets within the metropolis. Regression analysis was carried out to test the hypothesis in order to ascertain the influence of store image on customer satisfaction. The Cronbach Alpha was used to measure the reliability of the questionnaire which showed 0.866 level of reliability. The result showed that Store Image has a strong positive relationship with customer satisfaction. It was recommended that while retailers should consistently improve on their store attributes through product assortment, store layout, convenience and ease of payment, they could consider other attributes such as the quality of the products being offered, the shelf life of the products, the environmental attributes of the store and the general atmospherics.
Financial misappropriations, internal control, and Pentecostal Churches in Nigeria
Authors:   Department of Business Administration, Faculty of Social and Management Sciences, KolaDaisi University, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria., FABOYEDE O. Samuel , OGUNNIYI Olajumoke R. ,   Department of Business Administration, Faculty of Social and Management Sciences, KolaDaisi University, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria., ATANDA Olabamiji ,   Department of Business Administration, Faculty of Social and Management Sciences, KolaDaisi University, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria., ADESINA Kehinde ,   Department of Accounting, College of Business and Social Sciences, Covenant University, Ota, Ogun State, Nigeria., BEN-CALEB Egbide ,   Department of Accounting and Finance, College of Business and Social Sciences, Landmark University, Omuaran, Kwara State, Nigeria.
Published: May 2024

The spate of financial misappropriations and reckless spending of funds belonging to religious organizations in Nigeria has attained worrisome heights. Fraud can occur in any organization, but Churches are extremely susceptible due to their trusting nature. This research seeks to find out the existence or otherwise of internal controls in sacred organizations. The research employs survey and literature review methodologies in evaluating the soundness or inadequacy of the internal control systems of Pentecostal Churches in Nigeria and at the global level. The research finds out that strong internal control systems were not in existence in these Churches. There was also no positive correlation between the trust reposed in Church officers and lower operating costs as officers could leverage on their trusted positions to exploit. The paper, therefore, suggests that good corporate governance should be extended to non-profit making organizations for more accountability, probity, and transparency.
Board diversity and intellectual capital disclosure in listed firms in Nigeria: The moderating role of ownership concentration
Authors:   Professor of Accounting, Department of Accounting, Bayero University Kano, Nigeria., Isa Muhammad Aminu , Lawal Tajudeen ,   PhD Scholar, Bayero University Kano and Lecturer, Department of Accounting and Finance, Kwara State University Malete, Kwara State, Nigeria., Lawal Lukman Ojedele ,   Senior Lecturer, Department of Accounting, Gombe State University Gombe. Gombe State, Nigeria.
Published: May 2024

This study examines the moderating role of ownership concentration on the relationship between board diversity and intellectual capital of forty-four listed non-financial services firms in Nigeria during the period of ten years from 2011-2020. The descriptive statistics tool was used to obtain summary statistics for the variables in the study. Similarly, ordinary least square regresion was employed to examine the study's hypotheses using STATA 12 software. The finding of the study revealed that board education has a significant positive impact on intellectual capital disclosure. However, board nationality was discovered to have a significant negative impact on intellectual capital disclosure. The study also revealedthat board ownership has no effect on intellectual capital disclosure. The findings from the moderated model revealed that ownership concentration increased the negative impact of board education and board ownership on intellectual capital disclosure. The study recommends that in constituting the boards of these firms, board education background should be given top priority in order to ensure quality decision concerning intellectual capital. Likewise, in order to ensure quality decision making, non-financial services firms in Nigeria should ensure that there is increase in number of foreign members on the board and attend board meeting regularly. Also, there should be regulation as to the percentage of shares held by directors. Finally, management should consider the multiple roles of the concentrated ownership and board diversity when constituting the board. This will enable the management to carefully select, nominate, and appoint members of the board with great diversity which will ultimately lead to disclosure of intellectual capital.
Wheat-plantain flour blends enriched with velvet beans flours: Vitamins and mineral composition
Authors:   Department of Food Technology, School of Applied Sciences, Federal Polytechnic, Offa, Kwara State, Nigeria., Adebayo T. K. , Akande E. A. ,   Department of Food science and Engineering, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso,  Oyo State, Nigeria., Daramola A. S. ,   Department of Food Technology, School of Applied Sciences, Federal Polytechnic, Offa, Kwara State, Nigeria., Azeez L. A. ,   Department of Food Science and Technology, The Oke Ogun polytechnic Saki, Oyo State, Nigeria., Abdulraheem I. A. ,   Department of Food Technology, School of Applied Sciences, Federal Polytechnic, Offa, Kwara State, Nigeria.
Published: May 2024

Wheat (Triticum aestivum) has been the major ingredient in the production of different kind of foods but relatively low in total protein especially in lysine and other amino acids, which could be supplemented by other nutrient dense flours to produce composite flours. This would reduce the over dependence on the importation of wheat. Hence, the need for strategic development in the use of inexpensive local and underutilized fruits and legumes in the production of functional foods. The vitamins and mineral composition of the flour blends processed from wheat, plantain and velvet bean were investigated for their end uses. Wheat, plantain and velvet composite flours were prepared in the ratio 240:37.5:22.5, 210:60:30 and 150:105:45 respectively and 100% wheat flour was used as the control. Vitamins and mineral composition of the flour blends were investigated using standard methods. Vitamins and mineral revealed that vitamin A, B1, B2, B6, B12 and C ranged from 0.46 – 0.56 µg/100 g, 0.59 – 0.68 mg/g, 0.67 – 0.79 mg/g, 0.71 – 0.89 mg/g, 0.09 – 0.39 µg/100 g and 30.86 – 38.48 mg/g ; calcium, iron and zinc ranged from 48.97 – 105.97, 3.62 to 4.03 and 1.65 – 2.27 mg/100 g respectively. This study, therefore, shows that fortification of wheat-plantain flour blends with velvet beans flour significantly (p < 0.05) enhanced the vitamins and mineral composition of the flour blends. Hence, the fortification of wheat-plantain flour with velvet beans flour should be encouraged to be used as nutritional ingredient in the production of functional foods. Hence, their food applications are highly recommended.
Measurement of Earning Power of Some Public Enterprizes in Nepal
Authors: Shrestha Manohar K
Published: May 2024

Not Available.
The Cobb Douglas Function and Its Extension
Authors: Monga G.S.
Published: May 2024

Not Available.
Variables Affecting Tourist Satisfaction at Tapeshwari Buffer Zone Community Homestay in Belaka Municipality
Authors: Bastola Animesh
Published: May 2024

Tourist satisfaction is very important for local community to operate the homestay. This research paper focuses on investigating factors influencing tourist satisfaction in homestays. Its objective is to analyze these variables, understand the types of tourists choosing homestays, and assess the local community's commitment to ensuring tourist satisfaction. This article focuses on Belha village of Belaka Municipality, Udayapur. The research design incorporates both qualitative and quantitative methods, aiming for a comprehensive understanding of the phenomenon through various theories and data collection approaches: preliminary interviews, telephonic interviews, structural interviews, Google surveys etc. have been used. The data collected from 82 participants indicates that Tangibles, Environment, Nutriments and Commitment are the significantly strong predictor of tourist satisfaction and this study further shows that commitment of the homestay operator is much stronger predictor of tourist satisfaction. This study explored the TENC Tangibles, Environment, Nutriments and Commitment) model with 25 measurement items to gauge the satisfaction of tourists staying in the homestay. This shows that Tangibles, Environment, Nutriments and Commitment (TENC) in a homestay lead towards the tourist satisfaction. The homestay should focus on exploring their culture and traditions, updating the tangible facilities and providing trainings to the homestay operators for the better service.
ईश्वरलाई चिठी कवितामा विचार र कलाको संयोजन
Authors: पौड्याल Poudyal टीकादेवी Tikadevi
Published: May 2024

ईश्वरलाई चिठी कवितामा विचार र कलाको संयोजन कुन रूपमा भएको छ भन्ने कुरामा केन्द्रित रही यो लेख तयार गरिएको छ । विचार र कलाका विविध पक्षहरूको सैद्धान्तिक अध्ययनका लागि विभिन्न सामग्रीहरूलाई द्वितीयक स्रोतका रूपमा सङ्कलन र अध्ययन गरिएको छ । त्यही सैद्धान्तिक आधारमा प्राथमिक स्रोतका रूपमा रहेको ईश्वरलाई चिठी कविताको विचार र कलाको संयोजनको विश्लेषण गरिएको छ । कविताको विचार र कलाको संयोजनका अध्ययनका लागि विचारतर्फ शीर्षक, भाव वा विषयवस्तुलाई आधार मानेर र कलातर्फ भाषाशैली, छन्द र लय विधान, बिम्बविधान, रसविधान तथा अलङ्कारका आधारमा विश्लेषण गरिएको छ । ईश्वरलाई चिठी कविता विचारका दृष्टिबाट हेर्दा ईश्वरीय चेत वा अध्यात्मवादी चेत भरिएको कविता देखिन्छ । ईश्वर जताततै भएर पनि आफूले देख्न नसकेको पुकारा नै ईश्वरलाई चिठी हो । प्रस्तुत कविताको शीर्षक आफैँमा कलापूर्ण पाइन्छ र कवितामा विचारप्रवाह गर्ने भाषाशैली सरल र सुन्दर रहेको छ । प्रस्तुत कविताको विचारअनुसारको छन्दको छनौटमा उपयुक्तता पाइन्छ । त्यस्तै गरी छन्द र विचारअनुसारका सुन्दर बिम्बहरूको छनौटले कवितालाई सुन्दर र आकर्षक बनाएको पाइन्छ । प्रस्तुत कवितामा शान्त रसको प्रयोग भएको छ जुन ईश्वरीय चेत वा अध्यात्मजस्ता विचारमा प्रयुक्त रस हो । कविता विश्लेषणको अर्को पक्ष अलङ्कारका दृष्टिबाट हेर्दा प्रस्तुत कवितामा स्वभावोक्ति, संशय, उपमा, अन्त्यानुप्रास, अतिशयोक्ति, रूपक जस्ता अलङ्कारहरू प्रयोग भएका छन् जुन अलङ्कारहरूले कवितालाई पठनीय र श्रुतिमधुर बनाएका छन् । कवितालाई छन्दअनुसार सुन्दर बनाउने गति र यति हुन् । प्रस्तुत कवितामा गति र यतिको नियम सम्पूर्ण रूपमा पालन गरिएको पाइन्छ । यी माथि प्रस्तुत गरिएका सबै पक्षहरूलाई विश्लेषण गर्दा ईश्वरलाई चिठी कवितामा विचार र कलाको संयोजन रहेको निष्कर्ष निकालिएको छ ।
एक्लो उपन्यासका पात्रहरुको शैलीवैज्ञानिक आधारमा चरित्रचित्रण
Authors: भट्टराई Bhattarai रामचन्द्र Ramchandra
Published: May 2024

एक्लो उपन्यासका पात्रहरूको शैलीवैज्ञानिक आधारमा चरित्रचित्रण शीर्षकको प्रस्तुत लेखमा उपन्यासकार बुद्धिसागररचित एक्लो उपन्यासमा प्रयुक्त पात्रहरूको शैलीवैज्ञानिक मान्यताका आधारमा चरित्रचित्रण गरिएको छ । पात्रहरूको चरित्रचित्रण÷विश्लेषण गर्ने क्रममा शैलीवैज्ञानिक पद्धति अवलम्बन गरिएको छ । प्रस्तुत उपन्यासमा प्रयुक्त प्रमुख तथा सहायक पात्रहरूको चरित्रचित्रण गर्नु यस अनुसन्धानमूलक लेखको मुख्य उद्देश्य रहेको हुनाले अनुसन्धानलाई सोही दिशातर्फ केन्द्रित गरिएको छ । सामग्री सङ्कलनका क्रममा यस लेखलाई आवश्यक पर्ने प्राथमिक सामग्रीका रूपमा एक्लो उपन्यासलाई लिइएको छ भने अनुसन्धानको सैद्धान्तिक आधार निर्माणका लागि अन्य द्वितीयक प्रकारका सामग्रीहरू जस्तै( विभिन्न लेखकका प्रकाशित कृति, अप्रकाशित शोधग्रन्थ, अनुसन्धानमूलक जर्नल तथा पत्रपत्रिकामा प्रकाशित लेखरचनाहरू पुस्तकालयीय स्रोतबाट लिइएको छ । यस लेखको प्रस्तुतीकरणमा वर्णनात्मक विधिको प्रयोग गरिएको छ । प्रस्तुत लेखमा पात्रहरूको वर्गीकरण लैङ्गिक, कार्य वा भूमिका, प्रवृत्ति, स्वभाव, जीवनचेतना, आसन्नता तथा आबद्धताका आधारमा गरी विश्लेषणसहित चरित्रचित्रणलाई तार्किक पुष्टि गरिएको छ । एक्लो उपन्यास श्रीको कथा हो । ऊ विसङ्गतिवादी पात्र हो । बहुपात्रीय उपन्यासका रूपमा रहेको प्रस्तुत कृतिको प्रमुख पात्र श्री (सिरी) का माध्यमबाट सहरको लाखौंको भीडमा पनि मानिस अस्तित्वविहीन र एक्लो हुन्छ भन्ने देखाइएको छ । विवेच्य उपन्यासमा गौण, मञ्चीय, अनुकूल, वर्गीय र मुक्त पात्रहरूको बाहुल्य रहेको पाइन्छ । यहाँ विश्लेषण गरिएका पात्रहरूमध्ये प्रमुख, सहायक, बद्ध, प्रतिकूल र नेपथ्य पात्रको सङ्ख्या कम छ । शैलीवैज्ञानिक वर्गीकरणका आधारमा एक्लो उपन्यासका पात्रहरू केकस्ता छन् भन्ने कुरा यस अध्ययनको मूल अनुसन्धान प्रश्न हो भने यो उपन्यासका पात्रहरूको शैलीवैज्ञानिक आधारमा चरित्रचित्रण गर्नु यसको उद्देश्य हो । निष्कर्षतः पात्र प्रयोगका दृष्टिले प्रस्तुत उपन्यास उत्कृष्ट ठहरिएको छ ।