bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the Origin of Holocene Sea-Level Transgressions in Formerly Glaciated Regions
Authors: Chester Samuel , Austermann Jacqueline , D'Andrea William , Lloyd Andrew , Creel Roger
Published: May 2024

Over glacial cycles, the growing and shrinking of ice sheets has caused relative sea level (RSL) to differ from global mean sea level (GMSL) due to glacial isostatic adjustment (GIA), which depends on the viscoelastic properties of the solid Earth. During the last termination and through the Holocene, GIA-related isostatic uplift caused RSL to fall in regions formerly covered by ice sheets. Surrounding these uplifting regions is a narrow band of land where postglacial RSL fall was interrupted during the Holocene by a period of sea-level rise (i.e., a transgression) that culminated in a high stand before sea-level fall resumed. Holocene transgressions and high stands have been well documented in many locations including Norway, the Canadian Atlantic coast, the Canadian Pacific coast, Svalbard, the Baltic Sea, and the British Isles. A leading hypothesis poses that transgression occurred when GMSL rise outpaced isostatic rebound. We investigate the origins of these Holocene transgressions using GIA modeling and test the alternative hypothesis that they are predominantly the result of solid earth deformation. Our results highlight a unique pattern of solid earth deformation in which the region of subsidence (peripheral bulge) surrounding the ice sheet migrates first towards and then away from the melted ice mass. We show how this effect, which we term ‘reverse migration’, is the direct result of the contrast in viscosity between the upper and lower mantle. We compare our GIA model predictions of RSL change to two datasets: 1) RSL data from the last glacial maximum to present and 2) specific constraints on the transgression magnitude in Norway and Eastern Canada. Both datasets better fit RSL predicted by GIA models that include a mantle with a substantial (order of magnitude) increase in viscosity with depth over GIA predictions that don’t include a contrast in mantle viscosity. We argue that this is a useful constraint on the local viscosity structure. Further, this suggests that in contrast to the conventional view that Holocene transgressions record GMSL temporarily outpacing isostatic uplift, solid earth deformation and specifically reverse migration played an important role in generating near-field Holocene transgressions.
River Morphology Information System: A Web Cyberinfrastructure for Advancing River Morphology Research
Authors: Sermet Yusuf , Liang Chung-Yuan , Dey Sayan , Muste Marian , Merwade Venkatesh , Cox Amanda , Minear J. Toby , Demir Ibrahim
Published: May 2024

The study and management of river systems are increasingly challenged by the complexity and volume of data required to understand and predict river morphology changes. The River Morphology Information System (RIMORPHIS) is introduced as a transformative solution to these challenges, serving as an open-access web-based cyberinfrastructure designed to enable advanced research in river morphology dynamics and support integrated, multidisciplinary analysis of riverine environments. Built upon the robust framework of the National Hydrography Dataset Plus High Resolution, RIMORPHIS integrates publicly available bathymetry data and third-party resources, offering a comprehensive and cohesive database architecture for real-time use and analysis. This platform is structured around a PostgreSQL database with PostGIS extension, providing tools for Geospatial visualization using Deck.GL, data analytics with Python-based geospatial processing, and the integration of eHydro Cross Section Surveys via API. This paper presents the development and functionalities of RIMORPHIS, highlighting its unique contributions to the field of hydrological information systems, with a specific focus on river morphology. By providing on-demand access to relevant datasets, coupled with tools for data analytics and geospatial visualization, RIMORPHIS addresses critical gaps in data accessibility, interoperability, and the integration of disparate data sources. Our contribution extends beyond the technical implementation, aiming to foster a self-sustained community platform that encourages collaboration among researchers, educators, and practitioners. Through this initiative, RIMORPHIS not only enhances our understanding of river systems but also supports informed decision-making in river basin management.
Engaging Nonverbal Theory-of-Mind Boosts Novel Word Retention in Adults
Authors: Trice Katherine Marie , Cohen Emily , Qi Zhenghan
Published: May 2024

Previous research has argued that theory-of-mind (ToM) plays a critical role to motivate early language acquisition.Vocabulary learning is a lifelong journey from infancy to adulthood. As ToM and vocabulary grows in tandem through development, little is known whether ToM continues to be important for word learning in adults, and if so, whether there is a causal interplay between the ToM state and adults’ word learning outcomes. This study tests whether engaging nonverbal ToM assists novel word encoding and retention. We examined young adults (N = 51)’ word learning outcomes for meanings that were either introduced in a word-to-world direct mapping context or a pragmatically inferred context. Preceding each block of word learning for each context was a brief, nonverbal animation that either primed the ToM system or did not engage ToM. We found that initial meaning mapping via pragmatic inference was assisted specifically by priming ToM prior to word learning. Furthermore, word retention, tested 20 minutes after initial encoding, was strengthened for both pragmatically inferred and directly mapped words, when learning was preceded with a ToM video, as opposed to a non-ToM video. These results demonstrate that ToM causally interacts with word learning processes and facilitates both encoding and retention. Our findings strengthen previous arguments that ToM plays a critical role in language development and broaden this to encompass lifelong vocabulary learning.
Study of electronic and transport properties of melanin structure using Density Functional Theory
Authors:   Department of Physics, Federal University, Dutse, Nigeria., Suleiman A. B , Mansur Sa’id ,   Department of Physics, Yusuf Maitama Sule University Kano, Nigeria., Babaji G. ,   Department of Physics, Bayero University, Kano, Nigeria., Galadanci G. S. M. ,   Department of Physics, Bayero University, Kano, Nigeria., Taura L. S. ,   Departmrnt of Physics, Sule Lamido University, Kafin Hausa, Nigeria.
Published: May 2024

Organic semiconductors are a relatively new member of the semiconductor family and composed of molecules containing carbon, hydrogen, and another element. Melanin is a pigment that colours skin, eyes and hair and it could soon be facing a new generation of biologically friendly electronic devices in applications such as medical sensor and tissue stimulation treatment. The need to find the correct solvent for the melanin still remains challenged. In this work the electronic properties of eumelanin was studied under gas phase and solution, using Integral Equation Formalism Polarizable Continuum Model (IEFPCM) using different solvent. Total energy, Homo-Lumo energy gaps and density of states were reported. Gaussian09 code which uses density functional theory as the working principle was used to study the electronic and transport properties of melanin structure. Three exchange functional: HF (HF), GGA (PBE) and Hybrid (B3LYP) were used at different basis set of 3-21G, 6-31G, and 6-311G. It was found that at the 6-311G level for the three exchange functional, the total energy of -2981.03028, -2996.839821 and -3000.227297 eV respectively. However, HOMO-LUMO energy gap in gas phase was improved to be 2.65 eV and 2.79 eV, 2.65 eV in DMSO and Acetonitrile respectively. It was concluded that DMSO solvent is more efficient for melanin compound. However, it is recommended to increase the level of approximation.
Investigation of Young’s Modulus and thermal conductivity of epoxy based composite fiberglass material
Authors:   Department of Physics, Faculty of Science, Eastern University, Sri Lanka., Hamigah A. T. , Kumar P. Tines ,   Department of Physics, Faculty of Science, Eastern University, Sri Lanka., Nishanthan A. ,   Department of Physics, Faculty of Science, Eastern University, Sri Lanka., Gowthaman V. ,   Department of Physics, Faculty of Science, Eastern University, Sri Lanka., Gunasekara T. M. S. D. ,   Department of Physics, Faculty of Science, Eastern University, Sri Lanka., Fernando P.R. ,   Department of Physics, Faculty of Science, Eastern University, Sri Lanka.
Published: May 2024

In this research work, an investigation was made on the Young’s Modulus and thermal conductivity of fiberglass material reinforced with epoxy resin and hardener gum. Composites are made up with epoxy resin: hardener gum mixture of 10:1 ratio. Dog bone type specimen with end tab samples were prepared in different layers to find the Young’s modulus by center-loaded method and thermal conductivity by Lee’s apparatus method. Experimental results show that the Young’s Modulus increases when increasing the number of layers and amount of epoxy resin and hardener gum mixture apply on it. However, the thermal conductivity depends on the thickness of fiberglass mat reinforced with hardener gum and epoxy resin mixture.
The connection between the critical frequency and the total electron content of the ionosphere at low and high solar activity period
Authors:   Department of Physics, University of Port Harcourt, Port Harcourt, Nigeria, Otugo Vivian ,   Department of Physics, Rivers State University, Port Harcourt, Nigeria., Okujagu Charity ,   Department of Physics, Rivers State University, Port Harcourt, Nigeria., Onwuneme Sylvester ,   Department of Physics, Rivers State University, Port Harcourt, Nigeria.
Published: May 2024

Ionosonde-f0F2 measurements and corresponding GNSS TEC measurements have been analysed. Available f0F2 and TEC data respectively obtained from a pair of ionosonde and GNSS receiver stations of a mid-latitude station, named MO155, located in Moscow (55.8˚N, 37.2˚E), for 2010 and 2014 was used. Data for two years were respectively used in the study to represent years of low and high solar activity. A significant relation between the ionosonde-f0F2 measurements and the corresponding GNSS-VTEC measurements with correlation coefficients above 0.8 was observed for both periods. The f0F2/TEC ratios, for the MO155 station illustrated, are typically in the range of about 0.2 to 1.6 Mhz/TECU during the low solar activity period and 0.2 to 2.5 Mhz/TECU during the high solar activity period. The ratio is lower during the day-time, and higher during the nights and early mornings. The analysis of the four seasons for both periods (low solar activity and high solar activity) reveals a strong relationship between TEC and f0F2 in all the seasons. Significantly, summer season appear to have a different trend from all other seasons with a relatively low correlation. The relationship between TEC and f0F2 seem to be stronger during period of high solar activity than period of low solar activity. Results from the work indicate that the relationship between f0F2 and TEC is mostly dependent on the seasons, followed by the level of solar activity, and then the local time. It was shown that the relationship between f0F2 and TEC is not purely monotonic as suggested earlier; but that this relationship depends on factors like the season, level of solar activity, and local time. Considering the strong relationship between f0F2 and TEC, the study affirms the method of using TEC as a proxy for f0F2 estimation.
An evaluation of African eggplant fruits engineering properties in relation to robotic harvesting
Authors:   Department of Computer Engineering, Delta State University of Science and Technology, Ozoro, Nigeria., Idama O. , Azodo A. P. ,   Department of Mechanical Engineering, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Nigeria.
Published: May 2024

The construction and application of eggplant harvesting robot required some basic physical characteristics and mechanical properties of the eggplant fruit. The physical characteristics (geometric mean diameter, surface area, volume, sphericity, and weight), and mechanical properties (failure energy, failure force, deformation, shear resistance, and shear force) of the Africa beauty eggplant fruits, were evaluated at three different maturity stages in this study. The maturity stages adopted in this study were 21 days after peak anthesis (DAPA), 28 DAPA, and 35 DAPA. The results obtained showed that the maturity stage resulted in a significant effect (p<0.05) on the mechanical properties of the eggplant fruits. The geometric mean diameter, surface area, volume, sphericity, and weight of the fruits significantly increased as the fruits matured from 21 DAPA to 35 DAPA (p<0.05). The failure energy, failure force, shear resistance, and shear force of the fruits were fluctuating during maturity; fruits harvested at 21 DAPA recorded the lowest values, while those harvested at 28 DAPA recorded the highest values. In addition, the study revealed that the loading position had a significant effect on the mechanical properties of the fruits (p<0.05). The best eggplant harvesting robot properties obtained in this study was at 28 days after peak anthesis (DAPA). The physical characteristics and mechanical properties results of eggplant fruit, obtained in this study will be useful information for the application in the design and construction of eggplant fruits robot harvesting.
Convexity properties and inequalities regarding the q-Gamma function
Authors:   Department of mathematics/ICT, St Vincent College of Education, Yendi, Ghana., Mohammed Hashimu , Abdulai Abdul Razak Yaabia ,   Department of Applied Statistics, C.K Tedam University of Technology and Applied Sciences, Navrongo, Ghana., Edo Hatsu ,   Department of mathematics/ICT, St Vincent College of Education, Yendi, Ghana.
Published: May 2024

This paper is motivated by the work of K. Nantomah in 2017. In the paper, some convexity properties and some inequalities for the (p, k)-analogue of the Gamma function,〖 Γ〗_(p,k) (x) were given. The method engaged in displaying the result makes use of the (p, k)-analogue of the Gamma function. In addition, H(ol) ̈der’s integral inequality, Young’s inequality and some basic definitions of a convex function were used. As a result, the (p, k)-generalization of some known outcomes concerning the classical gamma function was specified. The fundamental objective of this paper is to ascertain some convexity properties and some inequalities regarding the q-analogue of the Gamma function, Γ_q (x). First, utilizing similar techniques as K. Nantomah, the convexity property of the q-Gamma function was demonstrated. Next, exploiting Young’s inequality, some inequalities regarding the q-Gamma function were substantiated. At the end, the q-analogue of some accepted results concerning the classical Gamma function was proven.
Convolutional Neural Network (CNN): The architecture and applications
Authors:   Department of Computer Sciences, Ajayi Crowther University, Oyo, Nigeria., AYENI Joshua Ayobami
Published: May 2024

The human brain is made up of several hundreds of billions of interconnected neurons that process information in parallel. Researchers in the field of artificial intelligence have successfully demonstrated a considerable level of intelligence on chips and this has been termed Neural Networks (NNs). Neural networks, also known as artificial neural networks (ANNs) or simulated neural networks (SNNs), are a subset of machine learning (ML) and they are at the heart of deep learning algorithms. These subsets of ML have their names and structures derived from the human brain and the way that biological neurons signal to one another. A class of NNs that are often used in processing digital data images is the Convolutional Neural Network (CNN or ConvNet). The human brain processes a huge amount of information with each neuron having its own receptive field connected to other neurons in a way that they cover the entire visual field. Mimicking the biological technique, where the neurons only respond to stimuli in the restricted region of the visual field referred to as the receptive field, each neuron in the CNN processes data only in its receptive field. In this review paper, the architecture and application of CNN are presented. Its evolution, concepts, and approaches to solving problems related to digital images, computer vision and are also examined.
Monthly and annual variation of some atmospheric parameters over Aliero, Kebbi State, Nigeria
Authors:   Department of Physics, Kebbi State University of Science and Technology, Aliero. Kebbi State, Nigeria., Bonde D. S. , Joshua B. W. ,   Department of Physics, Kebbi State University of Science and Technology, Aliero. Kebbi State, Nigeria., Mudassir N. ,   Department of Physics, Kebbi State University of Science and Technology, Aliero. Kebbi State, Nigeria., Bolarinwa Y. ,   Department of Physics, Kebbi State University of Science and Technology, Aliero. Kebbi State, Nigeria., Mukhtar M. ,   Department of Physics, Kebbi State University of Science and Technology, Aliero. Kebbi State, Nigeria; Science Department, College of Agriculture Zuru, Kebbi State, Nigeria., Kaoje M. B. ,   Department of Physics, Kebbi State University of Science and Technology, Aliero. Kebbi State, Nigeria.
Published: May 2024

Temperature changes, relative humidity and changes in annual rainfall can exert a negative effect on the agricultural productivity and radio refractivity in the atmosphere. In this study, the variation of some atmospheric parameters over Aliero town (Latitude 12.306 0N, Longitude 4.492 0E) was examined. The measured data concerns averages of maximum air temperature, relative humidity and amount of rainfall for Aliero. The Data used was obtained from the Meteorological Station of the Kebbi State University of Science and Technology Aliero, for the period of 3 years (2014 – 2016). The analysis was done based on the monthly and annual variations of all the parameters for each year. The results from this study, reveals that the monthly observations of maximum rainfall in Aliero ranges from ~ 17 to 22 mm and the peak occurs in the month of July, and that of relative humidity (~98 to 99%) the peak occurs in the month of August. Atmospheric temperatures in Aliero were observed to be relatively high, with peak values of about 40 to 41°C recorded in the month of April in all the three years considered. While the variation in rainfall and relative humidity were observed to be simultaneous; Air temperature reduces with increase in the amount of rainfall and relative humidity. Averagely, higher amount of rainfall and temperature were recorded in 2016 and that of relative humidity occurred in 2015. These results are of great significance in; understanding the atmospheric condition of Aliero, which has direct impact in agricultural production, tropospheric radio wave propagation and relevant research purposes.
Assessing the extent of heavy metal contamination in crude oil-impacted soils in the Niger Delta, Nigeria using geochemical indicators
Authors:   Department of Geology, Niger Delta University Bayelsa State, Nigeria., Egai Ayibawari O. , Douglas Reward K. ,   Department of Chemical Engineering, Niger Delta University, Bayelsa State, Nigeria., Fou Ayebatin ,   Centre for Occupational Health and Safety, University of Port Harcourt, Port Harcourt, Nigeria.
Published: May 2024

The study presents heavy metal (HM) [copper-Cu, chromium-Cr, nickel-Ni, vanadium-V, lead-Pb, zinc-Zn and iron-Fe] contamination in genuine crude oil-impacted soils and pristine (control) soils. HM concentrations were measured using inductively coupled plasma (ICP). Using soil Contamination factor, Enrichment factor, Pollution load index and Geo-accumulation index, the extent of heavy metal contamination in soils were determined and compared. Results of contaminated factor (CF) of Cu, Cr, Ni, and V were very high in the impacted soils whereas CF of Pb indicated considerable level of contamination. Pollution load index was greater than 1 which implies severe pollution in all the impacted soils while; the control soils indicated a pollution load index of less than 1 showing no pollution. Enrichment factor values of the impacted soils were between 0 and 1, which reveals background enrichment showing the presence of the metals above the threshold values. This may be attributed to anthropogenic sources especially oil spill contamination. The results of geo-accumulation index of Zn, Pb, and V showed considerable accumulation whereas, Fe, Cu, Cr and Ni indicated unpolluted to moderately pollution. Results of V, Ni, Pb, and Cr may be attributed to anthropogenic origin, which are in agreement with the calculated values of the enrichment factor. Results suggest the need for environmental risk assessment and/or remediation of the numerous oil spill sites for soil health and wellbeing of humans.
The impacts of poor solid waste management practices on Ala river water quality in Akure, Nigeria
Authors:   Department of Geography, Nigerian Army University Biu, Borno State, Nigeria., Butu A. W. , Emeribe C. N. ,   National Centre for Energy and Environment, Energy Commission of Nigeria, University of Benin, Benin City, Nigeria., Ogungbade O. M. ,   Department of Geography, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, Nigerian Defense Academy, Kaduna, Nigeria., Ananya B. J. ,   Department of Geography, Nigerian Army University Biu, Borno State, Nigeria.
Published: May 2024

The present study assessed solid waste management practices and impact on Ala River water quality in Akure, Ondo state, Nigeria. The primary data were obtained through field observation, interviews and questionnaire while secondary data were obtained from desk review of use of journals, articles, seminar papers, internet sources, government official publications. Simple random sampling technique was used to obtain required information for the study. Results showed that 37.8% of the solid waste generated is of vegetable and food remains origin, polythene and plastics wastes are 28.3 and 19.1% respectively. The result shows that 66% of the respondents do not segregate their waste before disposal and knowledge on waste recycling was low. The major limitations at household and community levels are inadequacies of collection and storage facilities. Similarly, perception towards municipal solid waste management was generally low. The major effects of poor waste management in the study area were land pollution, flooding and water pollution of River Ala in Oke-Aro district of the study area. This is evident in the high levels of turbidity, biochemical oxygen demand, dissolved oxygen and fecal coliform bacteria of the water quality of River Ala, all of which suggests the presence of microbial organisms which may have been introduced to the water body via diffuse pollution aided by urban storm water runoff and leachate. It is therefore recommended that government should provide more waste receptacles in at both residential and commercial areas across the study area. Finally, government should consider waste-to-wealth initiatives. The first step in realizing this would involve encouraging the residents on the need to sort their waste before disposal and, secondly, waste characterization to determine the energy potentials of waste streams in the study area.
Assessment of disaster management strategies employed by oil companies and government agencies towards oil pipeline vandalism in selected states in Niger Delta Region
Authors:   Department of Geography and Environmental Management, University of Port Harcourt, River State, Nigeria., Evans U. I. , Mmom P. C. ,   Department of Geography and Environmental Management, University of Port Harcourt, River State, Nigeria., Weli V. E. ,   Department of Geography and Environmental Management, University of Port Harcourt, River State, Nigeria.
Published: May 2024

The study was carried out to assess disaster management strategies employed by oil companies and government agencies towards oil pipeline vandalism in selected states in the Niger Delta region. The study made use of cross sectional research design, the simple random sampling method was used in selecting the sample for the study. Using this technique, the three states was selected for the study. From among the selected states (3), three LGAs and two communities each was also selected. For this study, eighteen (18) communities representing nine (9) local government areas from three (3) states of the study Area was used for the study. Questionnaire was used as the instrument for data collection. A total of 400 respondents were used for the study, this was achieved from using the Taro Yamane formula for sample size determination, hence 400 copies of questionnaire which is the major source of data collection were administered to the respondents using the proportionate sampling technique. The study found amongst others that there have been cases of pipeline vandalism on oil companies’ infrastructure; however, they are unaware of prevent/mitigation means used by the oil corporations to prevent/mitigate the occurrence of pipeline vandalism, on the prevention/mitigation and preparedness activities engaged by government agencies, security engagement was perceived as the most adopted strategies. Activation of emergency spill response team is the response strategy adopted by government and its agencies followed by arrest of vandals/victim and medical treatment of victims. Among various strategies adopted by government and its agencies for recovery/rehabilitation, community arrest of vandals was perceived as the most adopted strategy. The study recommended that oil multinationals should synergize with credible formal community-based platforms to work out a grassroots approach to pipelines surveillance and protection.
The key challenges of the residents of Obiagu Shanty area in Enugu Metropolitan City, Nigeria
Authors:   Department of Geography and Meteorology, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State, Nigeria., Udeogu A. C. , Onwuadiochi I. C. ,   Department of Geography and Meteorology, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State, Nigeria.
Published: May 2024

Due to the increase in urban population and exorbitant rent in urban areas, so many people tend to live in shanty dwellings. As a result of this, shanty residents are faced with many challenges. The study analysed the challenges faced by the residents of Obiagu Shanty Area in Enugu Metropolitan City, Nigeria, and aims to provide better retrofitting options. The data was obtained using a questionnaire survey. The statistical techniques employed to analyse the data are descriptive statistics (such as simple percentages, standard deviation and mean) and inferential statistics (Principal Component Analysis). The study indicates that the key challenges of the residents of Obiagu Shanty Area are: High rate of criminality/criminal activities, poor building structures and overcrowding/over-population. Therefore, the study recommends some retrofitting measures, such as the construction of modern houses with modern facilities and good sewage systems, the government partnering with private organisations to help in the retrofitting of facilities in the area, and regular public enlightenment programs to reduce the level of criminality and the number of badly behaved individuals, harlots, and drug traffickers in the area, amongst others.
Perception of students regarding the role of teachers and parents on career choice preparedness: A case of secondary schools in Meru District, Tanzania
Authors:   Depatment of Curriculum and Teaching, School of Education, University of Arusha, Tanzania., Ngussa Baraka Manjale , Charles Rehema Kilumile ,   Depatment of Educational Administration, School of Education, University of Arusha, Tanzania.
Published: May 2024

The study investigated the role of teachers and parents on students’ career choice preparedness as perceived by secondary schools’ students in Meru District, Tanzania, using survey research design. Through systematic and purposive sampling, the sample of 406 students from 10 schools filled the questionnaire. Validity was established through expert judgment and the questionnaire was subjected to pilot testing whereby Cronbach’s Alpha of above 0.700 was established prior to data collection. Data was analyzed through descriptive statistics, t-test and Pearson correlation. The study concluded that students are well prepared for career choice. Parents and teachers are perceived by students to have played their role very well for desired career choice. There is no significant difference in career choice preparedness by students characterized according to sex and location. Yet there is a significant positive relationship between parents and teachers’ involvement in career choice guidance and students’ career choice preparedness. Lastly, there is a positive relationship between teachers and parents’ involvement in students’ career choice preparedness. It was recommended that since students are focused with career choices of their interest, there is need for schools under investigation to provide a wide range of academic programs for students to choose appropriate subjects. Parents should continue to give career guidance, as the practice yields positive results toward students’ career choice preparedness. Since students’ future careers are positively influenced by teachers, teachers should guide students toward appropriate choice of career.
Female students’ perceived self-esteem based on availability of sanitary facilities among public secondary schools in Monduli District, Tanzania
Authors:   Student, Master of Arts in Educational Management, University of Arusha, Tanzania., Singolyo Mesha Pius , Ngussa Baraka Manjale ,   Associate Professor of Curriculum and Teaching, University of Arusha, Tanzania.
Published: May 2024

This study sought to describe and establish correlation between female students’ perceived self-esteem and availability of sanitary facilities among public secondary schools in Monduli District through descriptive statistics and Pearson correlation. Using survey design, data were collected through questionnaire whereby purposive and simple random sampling determined 320 female students from 8 schools to participate. Validity and reliability of above 0.7 Cronbach’s alpha were established through expert judgment and statistical analysis respectively. The study concluded that amount of water supply is adequate and constant in schools although water taps for hand washing were nonexistent. School toilets did not have doors and locks for privacy. They were not clean and neat and there were no disposal bins for menstrual pads in the toilets. Further, there is limited access to soaps and sanitation facilities for hand washing. However, students perceived existence of good sanitation and hygienic condition in their schools and considered themselves to be self-esteemed. There is a significant positive relationship between self-esteem and sanitation and hygiene and between quality of toilets and availability of water. Therefore, there is need for schools to fix water taps for hand washing in order to enhance sanitation and hygiene condition and improve health of female students. There is also need for schools to fix doors and locks in school toilets for privacy and safety, disposal bins for used menstrual pads and soaps and sanitation facilities for effective hand washing.
Impact of remuneration and work environment on librarian’s job performance in public libraries in Akwa Ibom and Cross River States
Authors:   University Library, Federal University Otuoke, Bayelsa State, Nigeria., Atanda Luqman Ayanlola , Udoedouok Etido Sunday ,   Akwa Ibom State Library Board, Akwa Ibom State Nigeria.
Published: May 2024

This study was to determine the impact of remuneration and work environment on librarian’s job performance in public libraries in Akwa Ibom and Cross River States. Two purposes of the study, and two research questions were formulated. The correlational research design was used for the study. The population of the study consisted of 98 librarians drawn from public libraries in Akwa Ibom and Cross River States. Fifty-nine (59) librarians constituted the sample size using Pearson Product Moment Correlation (PPMC). Questionnaire was used to collect data for the study. Data collected were analysed using Pearson Product Moment Correlation to answer the research questions. The findings from the data analysis showed that the remuneration and work environment have significant influence on librarians’ job performances in public libraries in Akwa Ibom and Cross River States. Based on the findings, it was showed that remuneration and work environment determine librarian’s job performance in public libraries in Akwa Ibom and Cross River States. The study recommended that Governments and management of public libraries should provide good salary packages and additional incentives in order to encourage librarians to be committed and dedicated to their required duties. Also, Government should provide librarians with conducive work environment so that they will be committed and dedicated to their duties effectively and efficiently, and this would facilitate higher productivity.
Entrepreneurial skill training needs of Business Education graduates of colleges of education for self-employment in Nasarawa State, Nigeria
Authors:   Department of Business Education, College of Education, Akwanga, Nasarawa State, Nigeria., Mamman B. , Ugwoke E. O. ,   Department of Business Education, Faculty of Vocational and Technical Education, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria., Ezhim I. A. ,   Department of Agricultural Education, Faculty of Vocational and technical Education, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria.
Published: May 2024

This study was carried out to determine the entrepreneurial skill training needs of Business Education graduates of colleges of education for self-employment in Nasarawa State. Survey research design was adopted. Two research questions and two hypotheses guided the study. The population for the study was 112 respondents made up of 49 graduates and 63 entrepreneurs. The instrument for data collection was questionnaire. Three experts did face validation of the questionnaire. Cronbach Alpha method was adopted to determine the internal consistency of the instrument which yielded reliability coefficients of 0.87 and 0.89 for expressed importance and level of performance mean and training need index (TNI) were used to answer the research questions, while t-test statistic was used to test the null hypotheses at 0.05 level of significance. Findings revealed no significant difference between mean responses of entrepreneurs and graduates in all the entrepreneurial skill training needs except in five out of ten items on managerial skills training needs. It was concluded among others, that Business Education graduates need creativity and managerial skills training. It was recommended among others that government should set up special grants for regular training and retraining of Business Education graduates to prepare them for self–employment opportunities.
Effect of soybean meal extract and Lactobacillus plantarum on fat digestibility, fatty meat and carcass weight in broiler
Authors:   Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Animal and Agricultural Sciences, Universitas Diponegoro,  Semarang, Indonesia., Krismiyanto Lilik , Widiawati Vania Carissa ,   Bachelor Study Program of Animal Science, Faculty of Animal and Agricultural Sciences, Universitas Diponegoro, Semarang, Indonesia., Yunianto Vitus Dwi ,   Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Animal and Agricultural Sciences, Universitas Diponegoro,  Semarang, Indonesia., Mulyono Mulyono ,   Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Animal and Agricultural Sciences, Universitas Diponegoro,  Semarang, Indonesia.
Published: May 2024

The study aimed to evaluate the addition of soybean meal extract and Lactobacillus plantarum on fat digestibility, relative weight of abdominal fat, meat fat mass and carcass weight of broiler chickens. The experimental animals used were 8-day-old unsexed Cobb strain broilers as many as 192 birds with a body weight of 177.89±3.73 g. Soybean meal extract (SME) as prebiotic and Lactobacillus plantarum as probiotic. The research ration was prepared based on metabolizable energy of 3,034.58 kcal/kg and crude protein of 21.73%. The study was arranged using a completely randomized design (CRD) with 6 treatments and 4 replicates, each experimental unit was filled with 8 animals. The treatments applied include T0 (basal ration); T1 (basal ration + Lactobacillus plantarum 1.2%); T2 (basal ration + SME 0.15%); T3 (basal ration + SME 0.30%); T4 (basal ration + SME 0.15% + Lactobacillus plantarum 1.2%); T5 (basal ration + SME 0.30% + Lactobacillus plantarum 1.2%). Parameters measured included fat digestibility, relative weight of abdominal fat, meat fat mass and carcass weight. Data were processed using analysis of variance and Duncan's test in the SPSS version 16 program. The results showed that the addition of treatments to the ration had a significant effect (p<0.05) on fat digestibility, relative weight of abdominal fat, and carcass weight, but had no significant effect (p>0.05) on broiler meat fat mass. The conclusion is that the addition of 0.3% soybean meal extract and 1.2% Lactobacillus plantarum to the diet can reduce fat digestibility, relative weight of abdominal fat and increase carcass weight and produce the same meat fat mass.
Quality assessment of local and imported Honey sold in Katsina State, Nigeria
Authors:   Department of Pure and Industrial Chemistry, Umaru Musa Yaradua University, Katsina, Nigeria., Batagarawa Samaila Muazu , Malumfashi Amina Ibrahim ,   Department of Pure and Industrial Chemistry, Umaru Musa Yaradua University, Katsina, Nigeria.
Published: May 2024

The quality of different brands of honey sold in Katsina state was investigated. The samples were obtained from supermarkets, local shops and local homes, as part of local and imported brands. Several physico-chemical parameters such as water content, sugar content, pH, ash content, hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF), acidity and refractive index were evaluated. Similarly, other tests for adulteration were also carried out among the different brands studied. Analyses were carried out in triplicates and data was analysed using averages. The results for the physicochemical properties showed the following range of values for pH (3.95 to 5.1), moisture content (8.23 to 15.23%), ash content (0.06 to 0.36%), acidity (4 to 32 meqkg-1). While the adulteration tests for hydroxymethylfurfural ranged from 74.7 to 119.1 mg/kg, sugar content from 75.607 to 77.427 g/100g. The adulteration test indicated the presence of added commercial invert sugar and absence of added glucose. Some traces of molasses were also detected in samples obtained from supermarkets and local shops, however, none from local villages were observed. It was concluded that most samples obtained from local villages showed better quality than samples collected from supermarket and Islamic stores.
Assessment of the toxicity of Carica papaya plant powders against Sitophilus zeamais (Mots) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) on maize seeds during storage
Authors:   Department of Biological Sciences, Southwestern University, Nigeria, Ijebu-Ode, P. M. B. 2088, Ogun State, Nigeria., Adenekan M. O. , Onasanya R. O. ,   Deparment of Agriculture, Federal College of Agriculture, Moor Plantation, P. M. B. 5029, Ibadan, Nigeria., Owolade E. O. ,   Department of Agricultural Extension, Federal College of Animal Health and Production Technology, Moor Plantation, P. M. B. 5029, Ibadan, Nigeria.
Published: May 2024

The toxicity of Carica papaya plant parts powder (leaf, stem bark, root and flower) at different dosages (0.5, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0 and 2.5 g) against Sitophilus zeamais infesting stored maize grains were assessed at the Biology Laboratory of the Federal College of Agriculture, Ibadan. Treatments were admixed with 30 g of maize grains, infested with 10 teneral adults of S. zeamais and stored in 3.0 mm petri dishes. The experiment was laid out in completely randomized design (CRD) and replicated four times each. Data were collected on adult mortality, oviposition and percentage weight loss of the grain in each of the replicate. Data collected were analyzed using analysis of variance, while sample means were separated with the aid of least significant difference (LSD) at 5%. There were significant differences in adult mortality of S. zeamais treated with different dosages of the plant parts powder. The flower powder of the plant recorded the highest mean adult mortality (10) compared to the lowest adult mortality of 0.1 obtained at the control experiment. The flower part powder also revealed the lowest mean eggs laid (oviposition) (7.1) and the lowest grain damage loss (1.4%) when compared with the values of 18.7 and 40.0 obtained for mean eggs laid and percentage weight loss obtained with stem bark and control treatments respectively. This clearly showed that the powder of the flower of C. papaya showed good potential as bio-insecticide for protecting stored maize grains.
A preliminary study on the effect of storage temperatures on the population of Bacillus cereus in dry ginger powder
Authors:   Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science, University of Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria., Ahaotu Ihuoma , Wondikom Marvis ,   Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science, University of Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria., Maduka Ndukwe ,   Department of Biological Sciences, College of Natural and Applied Sciences, Wellspring University, Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria.
Published: May 2024

The formation of spores and increase in population of vegetative cells of Bacillus cereus associated with foodborne diseases is dependent on favourable temperature. In this study, B. cereus in a slant obtained from Microbiology Laboratory, University of Port Harcourt was confirmed based on morphological and biochemical tests and inoculated into dry ginger powder using a sterile pipette. The samples were stored at ambient temperature (25°C), refrigeration temperature (4°C) and freezer temperature (-18°C) for 21 days and the microbial counts of B. cereus was monitored at 7 days interval using Bacillus cereus agar base and standard microbiological methods. The result obtained showed that B. cereus steadily increased in population under the storage conditions. The highest microbial count recorded for B. cereus in dry ginger powder stored at 25°C, 4°C and -18°C was 7.15×101 ±0.036, 1.07×102 ± 0.061 and 2.91×102 ± 0.070 CFU/g, respectively. Although the values did not exceed 105 cells/g required to manifest foodborne illness in humans, it remains a risk to public health due to increasing population of B. cereus in dry ginger powder under the storage conditions.
Ameliorating effect of Calotropis procera methanol leaf extract against oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation induced by fipronil in Wister albino rats
Authors:   Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Life Sciences, Kebbi State University of Science and Technology, Aliero, PMB 1144, Kebbi State, Nigeria., Nwaogu Jude , Abdulhamid Abubakar ,   Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Life Sciences, Kebbi State University of Science and Technology, Aliero, PMB 1144, Kebbi State, Nigeria., Essien Arikpo Ikpi ,   Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Life Sciences, Kebbi State University of Science and Technology, Aliero, PMB 1144, Kebbi State, Nigeria.
Published: May 2024

The exposure of humans to oxidative stress inducing chemicals is on the increase due to global industrialization. It has become vital to source for solution by searching for medicinal plants with antioxidant potential. This study was carried out to evaluate the toxicological effect and the antioxidant potential of Calotropis procera in fipronil induced Wister Albino rats. Qualitative and quantitative phytochemical and antioxidant screenings of the leaf extract were conducted using standard laboratory protocols. Acute oral toxicity was conducted using Lorke's method to determine the LD50 of the plant extract. The sub-chronic toxicity was evaluated using the Organisation for Economic and Cultural Development method. The in vivo antioxidant potential of the plant extracts was determined using standard methods. Qualitative phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of saponins, flavonoids, phenols, cardiac glycosides, steroids, terpenoids and coumarines. Quantitative analysis revealed the amounts of saponins (32.67%), cardiac glycosides (7.6 mg/g), phenols (28 mg GAE/g), flavonoids (7.37 mg/g) and steroids (21.53 μg/mg) that were found. The LD50 was calculated to be 2154 mg/kg. Sub-chronic toxicity studies revealed insignificant (p>0.05) increases in body weight. Insignificant (p>0.05) changes in haematological parameters were also observed across treated groups compared to normal control. Liver and kidney function parameters were significantly (p<0.05) altered at higher (dose) of extract compared to normal control. In vivo antioxidant activity of the extract revealed strong antioxidant potentials due to significant (p<0.05) alteration of enzymatic (SOD, CAT, GSH and MDA) and non-enzymatic (vit C and E) antioxidants in the extract treated groups when compared to fipronil treated and normal control groups. Histological screening revealed that the liver and kidney tissues were significantly (p<0.05) altered at higher (dose) of extract administration. In conclusion, the present study validates the antioxidant potential and hence ameliorating effect of C. procera methanol leaf extract from toxic effects of phenyl pyrazole insecticides.
An overview of the therapeutic functions of ginger
Authors:   Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria., Kayode Azeez Abideen Abolanle , Kayode Omowumi Titilola ,   Department of Biochemistry, Landmark University, Omu Aran, Kwara State, Nigeria.
Published: May 2024

Ginger (Zinger officinale Roscoe, Zingiberaceae) is mainly consumed as food condiments globally. It is one of the most widely used natural products. Ginger has long been used as an important ingredient in cooking and traditional herbal Medicine. It contains many bioactive constituents, which have notable pharmacological and physiological properties. Ginger is employed in the treatment of several diseases. This review gives an overview of the chemical composition of ginger and its many dietary and therapeutic uses.