bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Mediating Role of Working Conditions on the Relationship between Social Compliance and Employee Retention
Authors: Rajendra D. , Sapukotanage S.
Published: November 2021

Organizations operating in the global market are faced with the challenge of satisfying the requirements of buyers for social compliance. Existence of a working environment safer and comfortable for the workforce provides evidence of social compliance. Sri Lanka is regarded as a country which maintains a very high standard in relation to employing workers, in comparison with other countries in the Asia Pacific region. However, the wellbeing of employees in the apparel sector of Sri Lanka is questionable where their intention to leave is high even in the presence of social compliance. Mediating role of working conditions in the context of social compliance in retaining employees has not been the focus of many studies conducted in the apparel sector of Sri Lanka. This study aimed at identifying whether working conditions could improve the relationship between social compliance and employee retention. A pre designed questionnaire was used to collect data. The responses of a sample of 143 blue collar employees in the apparel sector of Sri Lanka revealed that working conditions mediate the relationship between social compliance and employee retention. The implication of this result is that by improving the working conditions employees can be motivated to stay in the job.
Determinants towards Doctors’ Prescribing Intention of Branded Medicines: A Case of Antibiotics in the Sri Lankan Pharmaceutical Industry
Authors: Jayasooriya T.D. , Samarasinghe G.D.
Published: November 2021

Restrictions on Promoting, Advertising and Sales along with differences in perception on branded and generic medicines have made pharmaceutical market a unique marketplace. In Sri Lanka, the situation is more complicated as most of the Allopathic Medicines are considered ‘Prescription only’. Hence, there is a concern whether there could be a competitive advantage in branding of pharmaceuticals in Sri Lanka. However, the world Pharmaceutical Market has increasingly come to understand the importance of Pharmaceutical Branding. Doctors have been identified as the most influential group for customers’ purchase decision of a particular brand of medicine. In Sri Lanka, only few studies have been specifically dedicated to pharmaceutical marketing and to the authors’ knowledge, little research has explored doctors’ prescribing intention of branded medicines. The overall objective of this study was therefore to examine the determinants towards doctors’ prescribing intention of branded medicines (Antibiotics) in Sri Lanka. Quantitative data was collected by means of a survey questionnaire administered to a representative sample of 120 MBBS qualified doctors in District of Colombo, Sri Lanka. Inferential statistics revealed that Brand Loyalty and Quality of the Medicine are the factors having a strong effect on Doctors’ Prescribing Intention of Branded Medicines in Sri Lanka. Demographic profile of doctors’ shows significant impact on prescribing intention. Affordability to the Patient and Customer Relationship Management (CRM) of the Pharmaceutical Company are not significant in Sri Lankan context. These insights will help pharmaceutical marketers to develop better pharmaceutical marketing strategies and policy makers to develop measures to achieve better clinical effectiveness with economic efficiency in prescribing medicines in Sri Lanka.
Capital Stucture, Industry Influence, and Financial Performance: Evidence from Sri Lanka
Authors: Peiris Miyuki Shehara
Published: November 2021

This study examines the impact of capital structure together with their industry influence on financial performance of the companies listed in the Land and Property, Plantation, Beverage Food and Tobacco sectors of the Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE) for a period of five years from 2011 to 2016. Data for the study was collected from published annual reports and the sample consists of 51 companies in these sectors. Regression based capital structure models were employed to investigate the phenomenon. The results reveal that the return on assets ratio is significantly correlated with all the capital structure proxies and the net profit margin has significant correlations with the long term debt to funds ratio and total debt to funds and short term debt ratio. The long term debt to funds ratio and the total debt to funds ratio are significant in determining the return on assets ratio. The long term debt to funds ratio has a significant relationship with the return on equity ratio. Moreover, industry in which a company operates has a significant impact on the level of financial performance. The findings of the study are important for managers, existing and potential investors and future researchers. Managers should focus on the results of the study on the impact of capital structure on financial performance when determining the sources of financing to minimise the cost of capital and to enhance profitability. The investors should focus on the same when making investment decisions and identifying the impact of the capital structure on return enables them to make informed decisions.
Social Entrepreneurship: Concepts and Research Areas
Authors: Abeysekera Ruwan
Published: November 2021

Social entrepreneurship is an emerging phenomenon that provides innovative solutions to persisting social problems such as poverty, lack of access to education, clean drinking water and human rights which were previously overlooked by businesses, governments and non-governmental organizations. The concept of social entrepreneurship has not been defined properly, and hence, is a contested concept. Further, given that it consists of many sub-concepts, it is defined as a cluster concept. Social enterprises engage in social entrepreneurship and they try to achieve sustainability by using business models. Being a new discipline, social entrepreneurship presents many opportunities in research. This paper discusses the important concepts in social entrepreneurship and potential research areas for prospective researchers.
Influence of Human Factors on the Adaptation of a Security Culture: Evidence from a leading IT company operating in Sri Lanka
Authors: Gammampila S.V. , Sajeevanie T.L.
Published: November 2021

Despite the immense research on information security, the human factor has been neglected in most of the research communities with majority of the security research leaning towards the technological aspects of information technology system. With the rapid development and introduction of new technological solutions to combat the growing threat on information security, the human factor is still subject to continuous attacks. The human factor plays a significant role in security aspects. Behavior of an individual is greatly influenced by the user’s perceptions on security risks and understanding, whereas, these are directly linked to organizational culture and its environment. This research evaluates the potential human factors influencing a security culture in an organization through the creation of a hypothesis. The research was conducted in a leading software organization to understand the level of established security culture also to identify area that have shown improvements. The study focused on employees to validate two main concepts of human factors and adaptation of a security culture. Data was collected through a structured questionnaire where 90 participants responded and the data was evaluated using the Likert scale. The results have shown that human factors have a significant role in adapting a security culture for an organization and that relationship between the depicted human factors and adaptation of a security culture is moderately strong and positive in context.
Why adoption of some Technologies is faster? An Explanation through Sequential Coherence
Authors: Yapa Shanta R. , Senathiraja R. , Poesche Jurgen , Kauranen Ilkka
Published: November 2021

Technology adoption is a concern of business practitioners, policy makers and academics. Slow or low adoption can deprive stakeholders from intended benefits. Existing theories concerning technology adoption mostly focus on factors within a single organization. In this concept paper, we argue that sequential coherence which addresses knowledge flows that cross borders between organizations can provide enhanced insights in understanding technology adoption. Sequential coherence takes into consideration factors of both the transferor organization and the recipient organization. We propose a novel conceptual model of technology adoption based on sequential coherence. It takes into consideration the perceived usefulness and perceived ease of using technology. We have coined the model CUE (Coherence, Usefulness and Ease of use) of technology adoption. The CUE model can be used by practitioners, policy makers and academics.
Notes from Editor-in-Chief Vol.2(1)
Authors: Abeysekera Nalin
Published: November 2021

No abstract available.
Impact of Supply Chain Uncertainty and Risk on Perceived Organizational Performance in Fast Food Industry with Special Reference to Anuradhapura District
Authors: Gunasinghe M.D.S. , Cooray N.H.K.
Published: November 2021

Supply chain uncertainty and risk is a rising area in today’s business world. With the development of globalization, fast food industry has gained a higher customer demand. Due to that reason fast food industry has to face various types of supply chain uncertainties and risk than ever before. The supply chain uncertainty and risk have significant impacts on organizational performance in the fast food industry because most of the procedures are associated with the human interactions and mostly it depends on the forecasted data. Even though the supply chain uncertainty and risk have an impact on the organizational performance, as people they perceive it differently according to their perception. The workers who work in the fast food outlets may have a different perception on the impact of supply chain uncertainty and risk on their organizational performance. This is called Perceived Organizational Performance. The purpose of this paper is to present how workers who work in the fast food outlets perceive the impact of supply chain uncertainty and risk on the organizational performance in their outlets. The research study was done specifically to Anuradhapura district. The empirical data was collected from the fast food outlets’ workers within the Anuradhapura District. The main focus in here is to identify the impact that each source of supply chain uncertainty and risk have on the Perceived Organizational Performance. They are (1) Logistic uncertainty and risk, (2) Information uncertainty and risk, and (3) Customer related uncertainty and risk and (4) Environmental uncertainty and risk. These results contribute to the supply chain uncertainty and risk literature. In addition, it provides an insight into future researches relating to the fast food industry and Perceived Organizational Performance.
Corporate Reporting Practices of Commercial Banks in Sri Lanka
Authors: Gamini L.P.S. , Silva W.A.P.U.
Published: November 2021

Effective corporate disclosure practices are essential in achieving and maintaining public trust and confidence in the banking system, and these practices are critical to the proper functioning of the banking sector in particular and the economy in general. However, little attention has been given to the corporate governance of the banking sector especially in developing economies. The study examines corporate governance practices of commercial banks by measuring the level of corporate disclosures in the annual reports in relation to the corporate governance guidelines for Banks. This study used a descriptive research design based on secondary data obtained from published statements of accounts of commercial banks in Sri Lanka. The sample covers the annual reports of five listed and two public commercial banks whose annual reports were available for the eight-year period from 2011 to 2018. An “Index of Disclosure” consisting of items of information that should appear in an annual report, was constructed. By examining the annual reports of 2011 to 2018, the findings show a gradual increase in the level of disclosure and its categories over the observed period. The results also reveal that firm characteristics; turnover and profitability have a significant positive association with disclosure score, except assets in place.
The Mediating Effect of Brand Equity on the Relationship Between Perceived Quality of Care and Loyalty of Customers Towards the Lady Ridgeway Hospital for Children, Colombo
Authors: Wickremasinghe W.K. , Gamini L.P.S.
Published: November 2021

As it is known in the competitive health care Industry, the impact of Perceived quality of care on the attitudes and behavior of visit and re-visit intention of the customers towards hospitals is becoming an important issue. The aim of this study is to examine the relationship between Perceived Quality of Care and Customer Loyalty and how Brand Equity affects the association of perceived quality with Patients Loyalty. For this purpose, data was collected from 196 respondents who sought inward care from the Lady Ridgeway Hospital for Children, Colombo. The study revealed that customers from all social layers seek care at the Lady Ridgeway Hospital. In addition, the findings reflected that Perceived Quality of Care has a positive effect on the Patients Loyalty towards the hospital, the hospital has a good Brand image, and it plays mediating role in this relationship. Patients Loyalty mainly depends on the qualitative aspects of the services provided and not on the socio-economic factors of the patients. Results imply that the Perceived Quality of Care received by the patients lead to build up Brand Equity towards the hospital which in turn leads to Patients Loyalty towards Lady Ridgeway Hospital for Children, Colombo.
Impact of Organizational Culture on Job Satisfaction; The Case of Sri Lankan Local Government Sector
Authors: Kankanamge S.K.S. , Sirisena A.B.
Published: November 2021

Organizational culture is one of the most important factors in obtaining competitive advantage and sustainable performance for an organization. The organizational culture comprises a set of behaviors and attitudes of employees in the organization and it is the glue that keeps the organization together. This affects well-being, and functioning of the organization. Public sector organizations of Sri Lanka have long been criticized for their deep-rooted practices, which makes them inefficient and ineffective. Further research has revealed that employee dissatisfaction prevailing among these state sector organizations is one of the main reasons behind organizations not performing to their full potential. Thus, the focus of this study was to identify the impact of organizational culture on employee job satisfaction in state sector enterprises/ organizations in Sri Lanka. The conceptual model developed in the present study was based on Denison Organizational Cultural Survey (DOCS) which identifies four organizational cultural traits namely, involvement, consistency, adaptability, and mission as independent variables. While the dependent variable, employee job satisfaction was based on the Minnesota Job Satisfaction Questionnaire. Based on these two models, a structured questionnaire was developed and self-administered to a sample of 150, secondary level employees in the local government sector. The results show that the three traits measuring organizational culture, namely; involvement, adaptability, and mission were positively related to employee job satisfaction. While the consistency trait didn’t show any significant impact on employee job satisfaction.Based on the findings, it was concluded that organizational culture is important in determining and improving the level of employee job satisfaction, which is asserted by the positive contribution of involvement, mission, and adaptability towards employee job satisfaction.
Ethical Marketing for Internationalization: A Study Based on An Entrepreneurial Organization
Authors: Ekanayake E.M.T.D. , Eranda B.A. Nuresh
Published: November 2021

This paper explores the adoption of ethical marketing practice in internationalizing a local entrepreneurial organization. Ethical marketing is practiced by the selected organization, operating in the traditional handicraft industry from its inception in the international market. The paper is based on theoretical triangulation where the trait theory and new institutional sociology perspective are considered in explaining the reasons for internationalization through ethical marketing. By using the qualitative methodology a case study design is adopted and primary data was gathered using in-depth semi-structured interviews. The findings suggest that both the entrepreneurial traits and institutional reasons led this organization to enter into the international market utilizing ethical marketing practices. This has reflected the theoretical merits of the study by depicting how the convergence of trait theory and new institutional perspective provides a better understanding of entrepreneurial internationalization. Ethical marketing has been adopted as a sustainable unique business approach by creating value for rural suppliers of the organization. Ethical marketing has also contributed to the organization to develop sustainable networking with multiple stakeholders. Moreover, the organization captured new customers using advocacy through ethical marketing. Therefore, these findings raise interesting themes regarding entrepreneurial internationalization through ethical marketing for future scholarly work.
Best Practices in Library Management During Covid-19 Pandemic: Case of The Library, The Open University of Sri Lanka (OUSL)
Authors: Abeysekera K.H.T. , Balasooriya A.H.K. , Marasinghe M.M.I.K.
Published: November 2021

Libraries all over the world has been compelled to impose certain restrictions limiting their services to the users and introducing alternative approaches for the delivery of library services and resources as a response to the situation created by pandemic. This paper explains how the library of the Open University has dealt with the situation and continued to provide services to its stakeholders. The case study method was used in the study, and data collection was done through observations, from the library website and various other documents available at the library. The study identified the ways that could transmit the virus in the library namely; books with the virus, infected patrons and staff, accordingly the Virus transmission triangle was introduced, with a view of taking measures to control the virus transmission Major measures taken by the OUSL library were reducing the number of users visiting the library, enhancing online inquiry service to provides a better service, introducing strict sanitary measures, keeping records of library users, changing book circulation process, a self-check-in kiosk, rearranging furniture to ensure social distancing, developing e-library editions etc. In addition, the staff of the library has been encouraged to work from home, enabling them to provide their respective services even at a time when the university is closed. The library was able to develop an Open Education Resources (OER) collection because of the adoption of the Work from home concept. This pandemic situation emphasized the importance of identifying and implementing new approaches by all institutions of the world to make sure continuous service for their stakeholders to ensure the sustainability of the institution.
Neuropathic pain: targeting the melatonin MT2 receptor
Authors: Smith N. , Ismail H. , Schellack N.
Published: November 2021

Neuropathic pain affects a large proportion of the population and reduces a person’s ability to perform optimally. In South Africa, there are a host of factors that hinder the correct diagnosis and treatment of neuropathic pain. Patients suffering from neuropathic pain are treated suboptimally with NSAIDS and opioids as first-line therapy. In 2012, a South African guideline on neuropathic pain was released, which stated that opioid therapy should be reserved for last-line treatment only. More recently, melatonin, commonly known as the neurohormone that regulates the circadian rhythm, has come to light as a therapeutic treatment option in the neuropathic pain setting. Early clinical trials showed a link between melatonin and chronic pain, which includes neuropathic pain. The MT2 receptor has also been specifically linked to the control of neuropathic pain and inflammation.
Investigation of the coexistence of CKD and non-communicable chronic diseases in a PBM company in South Africa
Authors: Meuwesen W. P. , Du Plessis J. M. , Burger J. R. , Lubbe M. S. , Cockeran M.
Published: November 2021

Background: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a public health problem, with increasing global prevalence. Several factors could influence the prognosis of CKD, including comorbid chronic conditions. This study investigated the coexistence of CKD and noncommunicable chronic diseases in the private health sector of South Africa.Methods: Retrospective medicine claims data from a pharmaceutical benefit management (PBM) company was used to perform this descriptive, quantitative study. The study population consisted of all patients identified with an ICD-10 code for CKD (N18) during the study period of January 1, 2009 to December 31, 2013.Results: CKD patients represented 0.10% to 0.14% of the total patients on the database from 2009 to 2013. The mean age of the CKD patients over the study period varied between 58 and 61 years. Prevalence was higher in males (male-to-female ratio 1:0.8) and in patients aged 35–64 years (p = 0.014; Cramer’s V = 0.039). The occurrence of chronic conditions in the CKD population was prevalent, with hypertension occurring in more than half the CKD patients.Conclusion: Several chronic conditions, especially those regarding atherosclerotic risk factors, frequently co-occurred with CKD. Lifestyle management and frequent screening tests of these patients are of the utmost importance to improve the outcome of CKD.
Treating Deep Endometriosis in Infertile Patients before Assisted Reproductive Technology
Authors: Khan Shazia , Lee Chyi-Long
Published: November 2021

Deep endometriosis (DE) causes infertility and pelvic pain. Surgical management of DE has become a topic of increasing interest in gynecological surgery. In women desirous of pregnancy, optimal management such as surgery versus first-line assisted reproductive technology (ART) for patients with severe endometriosis is strongly debated. Current guidelines and literature including retrospective and prospective studies in English available on DE surgery, infertility, and pregnancy outcomes following surgery were searched in Cochrane Library with DE, DIE, Infertility, “DE surgery and pregnancy outcomes,” and “Deep infiltrating endometriosis and assisted reproduction” as keywords. The purpose was to find evidence to answer the following clinical questions: How does DE affect fertility and pregnancy? What are the possible benefits of primary surgery for DIE before in vitro fertilization (IVF)? Several studies have recently concluded that surgical removal of DE nodules might actually have a favorable impact on IVF outcomes. This is in contradiction to European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology statement which stated that there was no evidence supporting surgical management of DE prior to ART to improve pregnancy rate; several studies have suggested that the surgical removal of DE nodules might actually have a favorable impact on IVF outcomes. Treatment of DE affecting the rectovaginal septum or bowel requires complex surgery with considerable risk of complications. This review article tries to analyze the rationale of surgical treatment of DE before ART. A balance must be struck between exposing the patient to surgical risk and improvement in pain and fertility potential. Decisions should be tailored according to the individual needs of each woman and most importantly on the ability of the surgeons.
Calcified Ovarian Fibromas Complicated with Basal Cell Nevus Syndrome
Authors: Osaku Daiken , Taniguchi Fuminori , Komatsu Hiroaki , Wibisono Hermawan , Azuma Yukihiro , Harada Tasuku
Published: November 2021

Basal cell nevus syndrome (BCNS) is a rare neurocutaneous syndrome characterized by tumorigeneses such as basal cell carcinomas, jaw cysts, ovarian fibromas, and cardiac fibromas. We present a 24-year-old female with calcified ovarian fibromas associated with BCNS. She had a surgical history of the maxillary cyst and was diagnosed with BCNS due to the cutaneous pits. Magnetic resonance imaging indicated an 8-cm mass and a 4-cm mass, which had been suspected to be a subserosal myoma and a fibroma, respectively. GnRH agonist was preoperatively administered; however, the size of the masses did not change. In laparoscopy, a tumor consisting of 8- and 5-cm masses in the right ovary was identified, and tumorectomy was performed. Because both tumors were extraordinarily rigid and could not be morcellated with scalpels or scissors, we removed them by the Luer Bone Rongeurs with minilaparotomy. The histopathological diagnosis was the ovarian fibromas with marked calcification.
Laparoscopic “Shaving” for Infiltrative External Adenomyosis of Bowel Muscularis and Concomitant Deep Infiltrating Endometriosis
Authors: Wu Kuan-Lin , Chua Peng Teng , Lee Chyi-Long
Published: November 2021

Deep infiltrating endometriosis (DIE) is a common finding in patients diagnosed with adenomyosis. Women commonly present with severe, incapacitating dysmenorrhea. We report a case of severe dysmenorrhea and lower abdominal tightness for 4 years, diagnosed with posterior adenomyosis. The patient underwent surgery and DIE involving the rectosigmoid and coexisting uterocervical adenomyosis infiltrating bowel muscularis successfully diagnosed and treated using laparoscopic “shaving” technique. Dysmenorrhea significantly resolved after surgery. Laparoscopic surgical “shaving” technique for external adenomyosis infiltrating Rectosigmoid muscularis is feasible, where uterine preservation is desired.
Homocysteine and C-reactive Protein Levels in Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Authors: Gözüküçük Murat , Gürsoy Aslı Yarcı , Destegül Emre , Taşkın Salih , Şatıroğlu Hakan
Published: November 2021

Objectives:

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrinopathy in infertile women characterized by both reproductive and metabolic dysfunctions of different degrees. Furthermore, it has been associated with increased cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk and related long-term health sequela. The aim of this study is to evaluate serum homocysteine (Hcy) and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels in women with PCOS and to evaluate their relationship with clinical and laboratory parameters in women with PCOS.

Materials and Methods:

The prospective single-center study included 45 women with PCOS (study group) and 41 control subjects. Demographic variables and Hcy, CRP, fasting blood glucose, insulin, follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, estradiol, total and free testosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate, thyroid-stimulating hormone levels, and lipid profiles of the subjects were recorded. homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) indexes were calculated.

Results:

Fasting plasma glucose, insulin, HOMA-IR, free and total testosterone levels, and clinical hirsutism were significantly higher in the study group. There was no statistically significant difference in lipid profile between groups. Hcy and CRP levels were higher in the study group, which was not statistically significantly different (P > 0.05).

Conclusion:

Some of the parameters that are correlated with CVD risk were found to be higher in women with PCOS, although the difference for Hcy and CRP did not reach statistical significance. However, the current study reveals that the CVD risk associated with PCOS deserves more comprehensive prospective studies with long-term outcomes.
Prognostic factors of pediatric hematopoietic stem cell transplantation recipients admitted to the pediatric intensive care unit
Authors: Kim Da Hyun , Ha Eun Ju , Park Seong Jong , Koh Kyung-Nam , Kim Hyery , Im Ho Joon , Jhang Won Kyoung
Published: November 2021

Background: Pediatric patients who received hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) tend to have high morbidity and mortality. While, the prognostic factors of adult patients received bone marrow transplantation were already known, there is little known in pediatric pateints. This study aimed to identify the prognostic factor for pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) mortality of critically ill pediatric patients with HSCT. Method: Retrospectively reviewed that the medical records of patients who received HSCT and admitted to PICU between January 2010 and December 2019. Mortality was defined a patient who expired within 28 days. Results: A total of 131 patients were included. There were 63 boys (48.1%) and median age was 11 years (interquartile range, 0–20 years). The most common HSCT type was haploidentical (38.9%) and respiratory failure (44.3%) was the most common reason for PICU admission. Twenty-eight–day mortality was 22.1% (29/131). In comparison between survivors and non-survivors, the number of HSCT received, sepsis, oncological pediatric risk of mortality-III (OPRISM-III), PRISM-III, pediatric sequential organ failure assessment (pSOFA), serum lactate, B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) and use of mechanical ventilator (MV) and vasoactive inotropics were significant predictors (p<0.05 for all variables). In multivariate logistic regression, number of HSCT received, use of MV, OPRISM-III, PRISM-III and pSOFA were independent risk factors of PICU mortality. Moreover, three scoring systems were significant prognostic factors of 28-day mortality. Conclusions: The number of HSCT received and use of MV were more accurate predictors in pediatric patients received HSCT.
Socio-Economic Contributions and Marketing of Garcinia Kola (Bitter Kola) in Ijebuode, Ogun State, Nigeria
Authors: Adedokun O.M. , Adegbenjo A.E. , Oyelakin V.F.
Published: November 2021

This study examined the socio-economic contribution and marketing of Garcinia kola to human livelihoods in Ijebu-ode Ogun State. Simple random sampling was used to select 100 respondents from the study area and questionnaires were distributed to the selected respondents. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the socio-economic characteristics of the respondents while Gini coefficient and cost and return analysis were used to analyze the market structure and profitability. The result showed that 95% of the respondents were females, 35-45 age category have the highest percentage (48%). The finding revealed that the Islamic religion pre-dominate the study area. Acquisition of occupational skill by majority (64%) was through apprenticeship i.e. learning. Price fluctuation was the major challenge (78%) faced by the respondents. The valuation and utilization of the bark of Garcinia kola for treatment of malaria has highest (84%) percentage while the seed was used by majority (60%) to cure cough. The study showed the average profitability of all the markets, New market has the highest gross profit (N8,500) while Oke-aje market has the lowest gross profit (N3,293.75). Computation of Gini-coefficient (G) helped to reveal the structure of the market. The result, G= 0.4708 indicates the oligopolistic nature of the market, which means the study areas were characterized by few sellers. Majority (90%) of the respondents revealed that trading in bitter kola is profitable than trading in other non-timber forest products. Based on this findings, it was recommended that bitter kola marketers in the study areas should endeavor to form a co-operative and also, banking industry in Ogun State Nigeria should be made to consider in giving out loans to the bitter kola traders to enable them to go on mass trading of the products since price fluctuation was the most severe constraint to bitter kola marketing in the study area.
Geochemical Maturity and Paleo-Weathering Indices of Sedimentary Succession in JV Field Greater Ughelli Depo-Belt Niger Delta Basin
Authors: Lucas F.A. , Fregene T.J.
Published: November 2021

This study evaluates the geochemical maturity and paleo weathering indices of X well JV-Field, Greater UghelliDepo belt Niger Delta Basin, using reflected light microscope and geochemical proxies. The data obtained identified three lithofacies units as Sand, Shale, and Shaly sand facies .The application of source area weathering using Chemical index of alteration (CIA) and Chemical index of weathering (CIW) values for the sampled intervals ranges from (48.6-94.9%) and (60.6-96.7%), and have median values of (83.2 and 90.3) % respectively which is an indication of high weathering at the source. The values are variable and it may be as a result of multiple provenances of the sediments which have variable proportions of source area weathering and related processes or may be due to low concentrations of the alkalis and alkaline earth elements. However, all the samples excluding one with depth (12430ft) show CIA and CIW values greater than 70% indicating high (intensive) weathering either at the source or during transportation before deposition .From the high alteration indices value recorded from the sampled intervals, it can be inferred that the sediments are geochemically and texturally mature.
Identification of Fungi Associated with Irvingia gabonensis (Ogbono) Seeds Spoilage in Benin City, Nigeria
Authors: Okobiebi B.O. , Ezennia J.N.
Published: November 2021

Irvingia gabonensis (Ogbono) is one of the forest tree species of great domestic importance and its postharvest shelve life is affected by various species of fungi. This study is to investigate the effect of various species of fungi that attack Irvingia gabonensis seeds in post-harvest. Ready to use cotyledons of Ogbono were obtained from six (6) markets in Benin City (New Benin market, Aduwawa market, Uselu market, Oba market, Ikpoba Hill market, Santana market) Edo State, in sterile transparent polyethylene bags and transported to the laboratory for analyses. The proximate composition of the Ogbono seeds was determined using standard protocols. The pour plate method was used for isolation using a potato Dextrose Agar which was supplemented with streptomycin. The fungi were isolated based on their cultural and microscopic characteristics. The result of the highest and lowest fungal counts were too numerous to count and 3.3 × 103 cfu/g respectively. A total of seven species of fungi were isolated and identified in this study which included Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus fumigatus, Aspergillus niger, Mucor sp., Neurospora sp., Penicillium sp., and Rhizopus sp. Aspergillus flavus was the most prevalent fungi with prevalence rate of 48 (90.6%), while Neurospora sp. was the least prevalent fungi with prevalent rate of 04 (18.2%). The presence of these fungi especially Aspergillus species portrays a serious public health implication as regard food poisoning, mycotocosis and food security. Proper handling methods of Ogbono seeds, coupled with good orientation are necessary to ensure the safety of ogbono seeds.
Mechanical Properties of Hot Rolled Ribbed and Plain Steel Rods
Authors: Shuaib M.A. , Ajao K.R. , Oladosu K.O.
Published: November 2021

This study focuses on microstructure and mechanical behaviour of 3PS (Semi-killed mild steel) hot rolled ribbed and plain carbon steel. 3PS billet steel samples and hot rolled ribbed and plain steel rods of different heat numbers and profiles were characterized for its chemical composition, microstructure, and tensile behaviour. The composition analysis of 5 (five) 3PS billet samples shows that there was no appreciable variation in chemical composition of the hot-rolled plain and ribbed steel rods. The microstructures of as-received steel billet (3PS) examination revealed large grains of ferrite and pearlite while those of hot-rolled 3 PS mild steel samples of different heat numbers contain smaller grains of ferrite and some amount of pearlite. The results also indicated that yield and ultimate tensile strength reach maximum values (492 and 361 N/mm2) at 0.31% elongation for heat number 43 while maximum values for heat number 56 (478 and 362 N/mm2) at 0.33 % respectively. The ribbed steel rod of the same diameter as plain steel exhibit slightly better mechanical properties with higher values of yield and ultimate tensile strength. There is consistency in the chemical composition of the as-received billet and the hot rolled products.
Antibiogram Screening of Edible oils Sold in two Geopolitical Zones of Nigeria
Authors: Akomah-Abadaike O.N. , Iwuji O.B.
Published: November 2021

Edible oil is of the most important and widely used processed foods. The study was carried out to assess the microbiological quality of edible oil (Shea butter, Coconut oil and Palm Kernel oil) from two geopolitical zones of the country. A total of thirty (30) samples were gotten from four (4) different markets in the two geopolitical zones. Bacteria and Fungi were isolated and identified base on cultural, microscopic, biochemical characteristics and antibiotic sensitivity test were carried out. The total heterotrophic bacteria count (THBC) of the sample ranged from 3.1 x 103 – 3.6 x 104cfu/ml. The total heterotrophic fungi count ranged from 1.0 x 102 – 6.4 x 103cfu/ml. The bacteria isolated and identified were Bacillus sp., Escherichia sp., Pseudomonas sp., Micrococcus sp., Staphyloccus sp., Enterobacterium sp., and Klebsiella sp while the fungi were Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus fumigatus, Rhizopus, Fusarium, Candida sp and Penicillium sp. The antibiogram of the Gram positive bacteria showed that all the organisms were sensitive to Erythromycin (100%) while Gram negative organisms were sensitive to Ofloxacin (100%) and Ciprofloxacin (100%). The bacterial load of all the samples fell within the minimum acceptable range according to CODEX standard. It is important that improve aseptic techniques be employed in the production, handling and marketing of edible oil.
Characterization of Organic Matter from Bituminous Coals of Lafia-Obi, Middle Benue Trough, Nigeria
Authors: Uzoegbu M.U. , Ugwueze C.U. , Nwosu J.I.
Published: November 2021

The present work deals with a study based on the geochemical techniques such as biomarkers, Rock-Eval pyrolysis, and detailed petrographic study to evaluate hydrocarbon generation potential of coal by collecting nine coal and carbonaceous shale samples from boreholes in Awgu Formation of Middle Benue Trough, Nigeria. The values vitrinite reflectance (0.94–1.15%VR) and Tmax (446–469°C) confirmed that samples are matured enough to generate liquid and gaseous hydrocarbon in coal. The coal samples also contain sufficient quantity of vitrinite and liptinite macerals varying from 70.28% to 74.10 wt%, which confirm the production of liquid hydrocarbon. The cross-plot between H/C and O/C atomic ratio indicates that samples were predominant in the bituminous rank and having kerogen Type III makes it suitable for hydrocarbon generation. Similar results were found in Rock-Eval pyrolysis analysis (Types II-III and Type III kerogen). The homohopane index (C35/C31 - C35) and homohopane ratio (C35αβS/C34αβS) range from 0.02 to 0.12 and 0.15 to 0.92 indicates oxic condition during organic matter deposition from Lafia-Obi samples. The Moretane/Hopane, Hopane/Hopane + Moretane, Ts/Ts + Tm, 22S/22S + 22RC32homohopane ratios range from 0.06 to 0.14; 0.88 to 0.94; 0.34 to 0.66; and 0.53 to 0.62 and 20S/20S+20R and αββ/αββ+ααα C29 ratios range from 0.43 to 0.58 and 0.42 to 0.55 indicate samples ar e within the late oil window/gas phase. Plots of 22S/22S+22R C32hopanes against C29αββ/αββ+ααα steranes show that Lafia-Obisamples are thermally mature.
Phytoremediation of Spent Oil and Palm Kernel Sludge Contaminated Soil Using Sunflower (Helianthus annuus) L
Authors: Odebode A.J. , Njoku K.L. , Adesuyi A.A. , Akinola M.O.
Published: November 2021

This study was carried out to investigate the phytotoxicity of spent engine oil and palm kernel sludge on seed germination, seedling early growth and survival of sunflower (Helianthus annuus L) and its phytoremediating potential. 8.0 kg topsoil mixed with 2, 4, 6, 8 and 10% (w/v) of spent engine oil and palm kernel sludge, while the control was not mixed with spent oil and sludge (0%). The seeds were sown on these soils and monitored daily. Parameters taken were; plant height, leaf number and stem girth. The result showed that spent engine oil treated plants adversely affected growth compared to palm kernel sludge plants and control which performed better. For plant height, the mean stem girth for control at 2nd week was 0.40±0.05 mm, spent engine oil was 5.96±0.97 palm kernel oil effluent was 14.73±1.16 and at 12th week, control was 1.30±0.05 while for SEO the plant had withered and 124.6±9.02 for POE. Number of leaves at the 12th week was 26.00±2.08 in the control, 8.66±0.66, for spent engine oil at 4%, while for palm oil effluent it was 27.66±0.66, at 4%, concentration respectively. Stem girth at 2 weeks for spent engine oil was 0.19±0.05 at 2%, 0.43±0.03 for palm kernel oil effluent and at the 12th week of planting at 10% concentration was 1.63±0.08 for palm kernel oil effluent, and all plants had withered off for spent engine oil at same concentration at the 12th week. Also, spent engine oil at all concentrations delayed the germination of Helianthus annuus by 2days compared to control. Comparison analysis test showed that growth in untreated plants were significantly higher (p>0.05) than spent oil and palm kernel sludge treated plants. Similar result was observed for leaf number and stem girth which had higher mean value in palm kernel sludge and control compared to spent oil. Sunflower grown in 8% and 10% palm kernel sludge contaminated soil also flowered eight days earlier than control plants, while spent oil treated plant did not. The result shows that sunflower cannot tolerate high (4%, 6%, 8% and 10%) concentrations of spent engine oil in soil compared to palm oil effluent. Therefore, spent engine oil should be properly disposed because of its adverse effect on the growth and yield of sunflower.
Effects of Speed on Draft for Selected Tractor-Driven Tillage Implements in Samaru Soil, Zaria, Nigeria
Authors: Saleh A. , Sani M.T. , Suleiman M.L.
Published: November 2021

The objective of this study was to determine the effects of speed on drafts of some selected tractor-driven tillage implements in Samaru soil in order to address the problem of inadequacy of local design data, inappropriateness and inadaptability of such imported implements. Three tillage implements were used at three tractor speeds on the field at three tillage depths using two Eicher tractors (5660). The draft forces replicated, three times, were measured using dynamometer. Soil samples collected from different points in the field were analyzed for moisture content (MC), humus content and bulk density (BD). The results showed that draft of the three implements were related to the speed of the tractor. Result obtained also showed MC varies from 8.40-15.11%, BD varies from 1.62-1.77g/cm3 and humus content from 4.207-0.625% down the soil profile. At the lowest MC of 8.40%, drafts of 3.07, 5.13 and 9.33kN at speed 2.5 m/s were obtained for the selected implements. Drafts of 2.00, 2.80 and 4.03kN were obtained at the highest MC of 15.11% at 2.5m/s speed. It is clear from the experiment that draft increases with increase in speed for disc plough, disc harrow, tillage depths and BD, while draft decreases with increase in MC and speed of mouldboard ridger. The best speed for tillage is 2.5 m/s obtained at optimum MC 10.67–15.11% for soil under consideration. Disc plough requires highest draft 2.8-9.33kN followed by mouldboard ridger 4.03-5.83kN and disc harrow requires least draft 2.0-3.57kN at each of the three speeds considered.
Mathematical Modelling of Dynamics of HIV Transmission Depicting the Importance of Counseling and Treatment
Authors: Ibrahim I.A. , Daniel E.E. , Danhausa A.A. , Adamu M.U. , Shawalu C.J. , Yusuf A.
Published: November 2021

Human immunodeficiency virus is an incurable disease which attacks and destroys the human immunesystem thereby making the body susceptible to all kinds of illnesses. If left unattended to, it can lead to the damaging ofbody organs such as the brain, kidney and the heart which can result to death. Unfortunately this disease has no knowncure till date but through counseling and administering of antiretroviral drugs, the likelihood of dying from it becomesminimal. This study presents the deterministic HIV transmission model. The model has a unique endemic equilibrium point which is locally asymptotically stable if R0  > 1 , DFE of the model was obtained and is shown to be Localasymptotically stable when the associated basic reproduction number was R > 1. We established the numerical simulation of the model which shows that the effective use of condom, counseling or the use of anti-retrovirus drug can lead to effective reduction on HIV transmission. Finally, we discussed that the ART treatment rate will reduce the basic reproduction number R0 hence, leading to the extinction of HIV/AIDS.
Batch Adsorption Investigation of the Use of Cordia Milleni Carbon for Wastewater Treatment
Authors: Fatokun V.O. , Owodadeju F.K. , Ewemoje O.E. , Ewemoje T.A.
Published: November 2021

Applicability of low-cost adsorbent from Cordia millenii wood via carbonisation and chemical activation with zinc chloride was examined in this study for the removal of contaminants in textile effluent. The structural pattern of the carbon was examined using SEM equipment (TESCAN VEGA3 (LAB 6)). Batch sorption tests were conducted in wastewater treatment by varying adsorbent contact time with the sorbate from 30 to 120 minutes (at 30minutes intervals) in 200ml ofwastewater sample and agitated intermittently at room temperature to facilitate attainment of equilibrium condition. The pore structures of the adsorbent were interconnected with mean diameter size of 9.28±1.22 μm. Maximum removal efficiencies of 63.52, 64.94, 66.78 and 79.86% at 120 minutes contact time for iron, zinc, chromium and cadmium respectively were observed. Conductivity, TDS and TS increase with increasing contact time up to 90 minutes before reducing slightly. The removal percentage was more than 50% at the first 30 minutes of the sorption process for nitrate, turbidity and TSS. The treated wastewater with Activated Cordia millenii Carbon cannot be used for irrigation purpose because of the high value of electrical conductivity in the wastewater which can impede plant growth. It was indicated in the results that abundant, available and renewable adsorbent of Cordia millenii can be used for the removal of contaminants in textile effluents.
Growth Performance of Tetrapleura Tetraptera (Schum and Thonn) Seedlings to Green Manure and Inorganic Fertilizer
Authors: Akintola O.O. , Bode R.T. , Olajiire-Ajayi B.L. , Okeleke S.O. , Ademigbuji A.T. , Tunde-Francis A.A.
Published: November 2021

The use, types and method of fertilizers for agricultural and forest plants should be sustainable, ecofriendly and natural to the environment. Application of green manure is being used nowadays for soil nutrient management, growth and plant yields because of their natural effects. This study investigated the use of green manure andinorganicfertilizer on the growth performance of Tetrapleura tetraptera. Topsoil, leucaenana leucoephala (leave powder) and inorganic fertilizer (NPK 15: 15:15) were used. The fertilizer were weighed and applied to the 5kg of soils at 0g, 10g and 20g each and were replicated six times. Growth parameters such as seedling heights, number of leaf and stem diameter were assessed weekly for aperiod of three months. The application leucaenana leucoephala’s leave powder as green manure showed significantly high effects on the growth parametersof Tetrapleura tetraptera seedlings at p ≤ 0.05. This study has shown the efficacy of leucaenana leucoephala’s leave powder as green manure for optimum growth of Tetrapleura tetraptera seedlings.