Volume 12, Issue 5, May 2024 Edition - GSJ Journal Publication

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INSTRUCTOR’S GRADE VIEWER SYSTEM: MOBILE ANDROID APPLICATION []


In the modern educational setting, efficient grade management and communication are essential for academic success and effective interaction among educators, students, and parents. Traditional grade reporting methods, often reliant on physical documents or cumbersome web systems, are increasingly seen as inadequate due to their time-consuming nature and potential security vulnerabilities. The "Instructor's Grade Viewer System: Mobile Android Application" addresses these challenges by providing a secure, user-friendly mobile platform for grade reporting. This study details the development and implementation of this mobile application, specifically designed for Android devices, which facilitates the secure uploading and viewing of student grades. Utilizing Optical Character Recognition (OCR) technology, the application ensures the confidentiality of student data, granting access exclusively to authorized users. The system's design aims to enhance the efficiency of grade management, improve transparency and accountability, and increase student and parent engagement through easy access to academic progress information. The research focuses on the system's application within the Osmeña Colleges Computer Science Department, involving 143 fourth-year students. Key features include secure grade sheet uploads by instructors and intuitive access for students and parents. Evaluation of the system revealed high user satisfaction in terms of usability, security, and efficiency, with average ratings reflecting these strengths. By integrating advanced technology into the educational process, the Instructor's Grade Viewer System exemplifies how mobile applications can streamline operations and improve educational outcomes. This study contributes to the discourse on educational technology, offering insights into the effective design and implementation of mobile solutions for academic institutions. Key Words: Aemilianum College Inc., Educational Technology, Grade Management, Mobile Application, Optical Character Recognition (OCR).

Gestion des déchets solides ménagers dans la Commune rurale de Kalaban-coro : cas du village de Kalaban-coro []


Cet article est une étude permettant de connaître la caractérisation et les insuffisances de la gestion des déchets solides ménagers du village de Kalaban-coro dans la Commune rurale de Kalaban-coro. À Kalaban-coro, comme dans la plupart des villes et villages du Mali, les déchets menacent la qualité de vie, la santé humaine et l’environnement et constituent une réelle préoccupation pour les ménages et les autorités de la commune. C’est dans ce contexte que la présente étude a été coordonnée pour étudier la gestion des déchets solides ménagers (DSM) du village de Kalaban-coro dans la commune rurale de Kalaban-coro. Elle a consisté essentiellement à mener des enquêtes auprès de deux cent soixante (260) ménages, huit (08) Groupements d’Intérêt Économiques (GIE) et des autorités communales en charge de l’assainissement de la mairie de Kalaban-coro. L’étude a permis de déterminer que 62,69% des ménages utilisent des poubelles, mais la plupart de ces poubelles sont inadéquates pour bien gérer les déchets. Aucun ménage enquêté ne fait le tri des déchets solides. La collecte des déchets solides ménagers du village de Kalaban-coro est assurée par huit (08) GIE fonctionnels. Cependant, 57,31% des ménages enquêtés sont abonnés aux GIE pour enlever leurs déchets solides et les 42,69% non abonnés se justifient par la cherté des frais d’enlèvement, les irrégularités dans le travail ou l’inexistence de GIE dans le secteur/quartier. À Kalaban-coro, la moyenne des frais d’enlèvement des déchets solides par ménage est de 2 475 FCFA par mois. En outre, la quantité de déchets solides ménagers générés par les enquêtés est de 536,50 kg/jour environ soit 2,06 kg/ménage/jour et 0,19 kg/personne/jour. En effet, bien que tous les efforts soient déployés pour mener à bien la gestion des déchets solides, la question qui se pose est de savoir si les pouvoirs publics et les autres acteurs qui sont parties prenantes du processus accomplissent réellement leurs tâches dans la gestion. Mots clés : Gestion, déchets solides ménagers, Kalaban-coro (Mali).

Analysis of the Relationship Between Ecological and Biological Conditions in the Waters of Kaimana on Whale Shark (Rhincodon typus) Conservation and Ecotourism []


The advancement of world marine tourism, particularly in Indonesia, has seen rapid growth over the past decade. One of the marine ecotourism in Indonesia is whale shark tourism, particularly in central and east Indonesia. Kaimana is identified as one of the potential sites for whale shark conservation and ecotourism in Indonesia. However, research focusing on whale shark ecotourism in Kaimana is limited. This study aims to comprehend the biological and ecological impact on the water quality of Kaimana to aid in management and decision-making for ecotourism and whale shark conservation in the future. The study utilizes whale shark sighting data from 2018-2019 and leverages satellite data on sea surface temperature and chlorophyll-a in Kaimana waters, along with the bagan locations around Kaimana. The data is analyzed to examine the correlation between whale shark sightings and sea surface temperature and chlorophyll-a levels. Additionally, the study investigates the influence of bagan operations, which typically attract whale sharks due to the presence of puri fish (Stolephorus sp.). Statistical analysis using a t-test is conducted to validate the hypothesis. The results indicate that the sea surface temperature and chlorophyll-a significantly impact whale shark sightings in Kaimana. Furthermore, the study identifies March to April as the peak season for whale shark sightings in Kaimana, attributed to the rise in sea surface temperature and chlorophyll-a levels in the waters.

TCAS []


These days the irreplaceable role of TCAS (Traffic Collision Avoidance System) is no secret to anyone. Studies have been focusing on this as the disadvantages of the system are immense.Analysing these cases, the problem associated with using Mode S with a certain frequency spectrum leads us to losses which are considered the most common issue in the propagation of waves.What could be improved for the communication channel? Research gives us an answer to deal with data range and distance among transmitter and receiver.

Impact of Lifestyle Behaviors on Cancer Risk and Prevention []


Cancer rates are increasing worldwide. To effectively prevent and treat cancer, it is crucial to have a deep understanding of cancer pathology. One key aspect of this is the way tumors alter their metabolic processes to meet their specific energy, bio-synthesis, and redox control requirements. This metabolic reprogramming is considered a defining characteristic of cancer and helps differentiate normal cells from cancer cells in terms of nutrient utilization. Notably, changes in the metabolism of nutrients like glucose, amino acids, and fatty acids have been linked to cancer risk. Fortunately, lifestyle modifications can play a significant role in controlling these metabolic alterations and reducing the risk of cancer. Adopting a healthy diet, practicing calorie restriction, and engaging in regular physical activity are all lifestyle behaviors that can help improve overall well-being and lower the chances of developing cancer. In this review, we will explore the concept of metabolic reprogramming in cancer and its implications. Additionally, we will examine the evidence linking lifestyle factors to altered nutrient metabolism, highlighting the potential of lifestyle interventions in reducing the risk of cancer.

Effect of employee relation strategies on employee performance in the energy sector in Rwanda . A case of Rwanda Energy Group []


Abstract: This paper explored the effect of employee relation strategies on employee performance in the energy sector in Rwanda. A case of Rwanda Energy Group. Specifically, this study attempted to assess the effect of grievance resolution on employee performance in Rwanda Energy Group. This study adopted a descriptive research design and consisted of both qualitative and quantitative research of 246 employees. The study sample 153 respondents taken as sample size and it used stratified and random sampling techniques because it was easy to select from large number of respondents. Data were collected by using of questionnaires and interview. The study used Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 21 to analyze data and the findings of the study was presented through the use of descriptive statistics to enable easily interpret the findings. The key findings of the research revealed that grievance resolution as component of employee relations strategies significantly affect an organizational performance at REG therefore various strategies to strengthen these components of employee relations strategies should be explored and put in place. The multiple regression analysis results indicated that variations in employee relations strategies discussed that is grievance resolution explains by R Square representing determinant coefficient was given by 0.702 meaning that 70.2% of variation in performance is determined by employee welfare, communication, employee participation and grievance resolution mechanism but 29.8 % is explained by other factors. The study recommended that the management of REG should ensure that grievance resolution mechanism strategies are those that ensure that grievance raised by employees are resolved promptly, fairly and consistently to all employees Keywords: Employee relation strategies, employee performance and grievance resolution

PREVALENCE AND RISK FACTORS OF HYPERTENSION: THE CASE OF THE GHANAIAN MARKET TRADER []


Hypertension is one of the leading Non-Communicable Diseases worldwide and an essential global health problem. The purpose of the study was to ascertain the prevalence and some selected risk factors of hypertension among traders in two markets in Ghana. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted using a semi-structured questionnaire. A systematic random sampling was employed in selecting 345 traders for the study. Anthropometric measurements were conducted using the Bioelectrical Impedance Analyzer (BIA) to assess body shape and size and blood pressure readings were taken using a digital sphygmomanometer (OMRON BP monitor). Dietary patterns were established by the use of a food frequency questionnaire. The WHO global physical activity questionnaire was used to assess the physical activity level. Data were analyzed by use of SPSS version 23.0. Pearson’s Chi-square test was used to determine the association between hypertension and hydration status of respondents whilst binary logistic regression model was used to ascertain the association between anthropometric measurements and hypertension. A p-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant. The overall prevalence of hypertension was 23.5% whilst 31.3% were pre-hypertensive. No significant association existed between physical activity and hypertension. But there was a statistical significance (p=0.000) between the overall anthropometric measurements and hypertension. Hydration status was also statistically significant (p=0.010). Animal foods were eaten occasionally by the participants as evidenced by the low levels of consumption of red meat and processed meat. With regards to the consumption of snacks, fruits were the most consumed. Based on these findings, lifestyle management and appropriate dietary changes are needed to control hypertension as well as interrupt and prevent the progression of pre-hypertension. Keywords: Hypertension, Traders, Prevalence, Risk factors, Ghana

Improved RSA cryptosystem Using Sequence of Reduced Residue System []


Abstract Cryptography plays a huge role in our technological daily life, and we are highly depending on the science of hiding information in plain sight. There are numerous ways to achieve this, where mathematics plays an important role in cryptography to ensure that information cannot be easily recovered for unauthorized person. One of the most reliable and secure encryption algorithms available today is the RSA algorithm, which provides great encryption and performance using asymmetric cryptography, yet intruders and fraudsters are still having their way. This paper provides a unique RSA cryptosystem which comprises the use of Sequence of Reduced Residue System. The result showed that the improved RSA algorithm is more secured and very difficult to attack than the normal RSA algorithm.

THE EFFECT OF MULTINATIONAL INVESTMENT ON LOCAL BUSINESS COMPETITIVENESS IN ETHIOPIA, THE CASE OF DANGOTE GROUP []


Multinational corporations, or MNCs, are businesses that operate in an investment climate that differs from that of their home countries. There has long been disagreement over how MNCs affect local economies. The largest cement conglomerate in Africa, Dangote Cement, is used as an example of an MNC and how it affects four significant market participants. A mixed study technique and explanatory research design are used to thoroughly analyze the impact of MNCs on local company competitiveness. Structured questionnaires and in-depth interviews were used as key sources of data, and a thorough desktop review was used as a secondary source. This cross-sectional study was done on major industry participants, such as National Cements, Mugher, Derba Messobo, and Dangote. As a data source, a thorough desktop study, in-depth interviews with the management of the businesses, and Grade 1 contractors are conducted. Regression and correlation analyses were performed in order to provide a good understanding of the potential impact of multinational corporations on company competitiveness. Because of their higher capacity and efficiency, multinationals are a danger to the market. Dangote's impact on the other major rivals, which forces them to lose markets, is similar. Despite only being in the market for three years, Dangote Cement today holds a 30% share of the total market demand because to its ability to afford lower prices, superior product quality, and contemporary machinery with the necessary modern technology and foreign manpower. The necessity to increase efficiency, promote customer backward integration, and adopt a customer-focused strategy at the corporate level are among the lessons that have been learned. On the other hand, businesses should collaborate to provide better answers to the shared issues of developing skilled labor and alternative energy sources. Profit margins in the industry are still high. Keywords: Multinational, Globalization, Conglomerate, Cement, Competitiveness, Economic growth

polices for making science, technology and mathematics (STM) accessible to all people []


Science Technology and Mathematics (STM) Education is geared towards producing Nigerians who are creative, analytical and rational. It will lead to empowerment in general sense of citizens for decision making. It is made accessible to all. This research tries to bring out all the strategies for making STM accessible to all sundry. The method used includes enabling policy, provision of resources and adequate curriculum delivery were discussed. In order to make STM readily available to all people, the mentioned curriculum was established, use of inquiry method of scientific context based, the use of adequate resources to support STM teaching and learning, effective deployment of ICT and social media for disseminating STM information to all irrespective of time and place, space and distance. Those resource needed among others are, adequate material resources for teaching and learning STM and recruitment of adequate number of qualified STM teachers.

The Role of Bride Price in Sustaining Gender Inequality in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Critical Analysis []


In sub-Saharan societies, the payment of bride prices has long been an entrenched traditional practice that shapes and perpetuates gender inequality. These customs, deeply rooted in cultural and social norms, assign value and authority based on gender and reinforce patriarchal structures and power dynamics within families and communities. This study examines the concept of bride prices within the African context and concludes that it contributes significantly to gender inequality. While there is growing recognition of the imperative to challenge these entrenched gender norms and practices in African societies, the discourse surrounding this issue remains multifaceted and ongoing, with limited definitive recommendations for actionable change. This research employed a meta-analysis method to provide substantive recommendations for the study of tradition and gender.

ENHANCING STUDENT ENROLLMENT PROCESSES THROUGH ONLINE SYSTEMS []


Education played a pivotal role in economic development, and as Information Technology advanced, the demand for school accountability increased. School websites became essential platforms for centralizing information, promoting general details such as the school’s history, mission, vision, awards, accomplishments, organizational directory, and office hours. They also disseminated school policies, calendars of events, and extracurricular activities, providing students, teachers, and parents with a means to keep track of schedules and activities. This study aimed to address the challenges posed by manual enrollment systems, particularly in the context of the pandemic, by developing an Online Students Registration System. This system streamlined the enrollment process and enhanced the dissemination of important information, ultimately benefiting the institution and its stakeholders. The proposed system's specific objectives included developing a comprehensive content management system (CMS) that allowed administrators to easily update and manage website content. This CMS supported functionalities for content creation, editing, organization, and publishing, ensuring efficient and user-friendly management. Additionally, the study aimed to incorporate interactive features such as forums, live chats, and feedback forms to enhance visitor engagement and interaction. These features were designed to foster a dynamic and engaging user experience, promoting community interaction and satisfaction. Another critical objective was to develop a robust online membership and registration system that enabled users to sign up, log in, and manage their accounts seamlessly. This system included features such as user authentication, profile management, and account recovery processes, providing a secure and intuitive platform for user interaction. The study also involved thorough testing and evaluation of the system to ensure it met all specified requirements and standards before deployment. Using the ISO 25010 standard, the system's quality attributes—functionality, performance efficiency, usability, reliability, and security—were rigorously assessed to ensure robustness and effectiveness. The study's delimitation outlined its boundaries and limitations. Geographically, the research was focused on a specific institution. Technically, it was constrained by available hardware and software infrastructure. The initial user base for implementation and testing included selected administrators, staff, and users, with testing conducted in a controlled environment. The study focused exclusively on web-based solutions, excluding mobile applications or other platform-specific developments at this stage. By defining these boundaries, the study aimed to maintain a focused and manageable framework for achieving its research objectives, providing a well-organized system for handling information on new and incoming students and assisting the school with inquiries and information dissemination. Key Words: Aemilianum College Inc., Automated Enrollment, Digital Transformation in Education, Educational Technology, Enrollment System, Interactive Website Features, Online Student Registration, School Website Management, Secure Online Systems

ECONOMIC CRIMES IN SOUTH-EAST NIGERIA: ITS IMPLICATIONS ON SECURITY OF BUSINESS AND SURVIVAL []


New dimensions of economic crimes have emerged in south-east Nigeria, in violent mode as; kidnap, violent protest and demonstrations, unknown gunmen and sit-at-home. In the face of these, businesses that hold options for job creation and self-employed are seriously put to risk and extinction. Expositive method was adopted for the study. In meeting with the study objectives, it was discovered that, business crimes impact negatively on the region. Businesses have failed to effectively and efficiently contribute to national development in the face of insecurity. Other ethnic and foreign nationals have migrated to other parts of the country. The application of technology in crime operations (drones, GPS,) is recommended, as necessitated by the trending crime patterns of the time. Solutions to be facilitated by time, accurate efficiency and enduring. Provision of adequate police stations in rural communities to monitor socio-economic infrastructures. Government to develop the rural communities. Keywords: Economic crimes, Business, Security, Business

Maintaining delicate balance between profitability and environmental responsibilities []


Today's corporate landscape demands a harmonious integration of profitability and environmental responsibility for sustainable success. This seminar paper delves into the nuanced strategies and challenges in balancing these imperatives, with a focus on selected companies in Gombe state, Nigeria. It investigates the relationship between environmental responsibility and profitability, examines its effects on companies' financial performance, and explores potential sector-specific differences. The findings underscore a significant link between profitability and environmental responsibility, emphasizing the latter's impact on firm success. In conclusion, proactive engagement in environmental initiatives is crucial for companies aiming to satisfy stakeholders and foster growth. Recommendations include voluntary corporate social responsibility (CSR) commitments and further research to explore correlations through financial ratios.

User satisfaction with library services []


Abstract This study is aimed at reviewing previous literature on student’s user satisfaction with academic library services for sustainable educational growth and development in Nigeria. The study has employed the traditional narrative literature review approach to examine the existing literature concerning the user satisfaction with library services in academic environment of universities. Data for the study was gathered from published journal articles. The data analysis process involved a systematic aanalysis of the selected literature to identify key areas associated with user’ satisfaction with academic library services. The data collected was analyzed using descriptive statistics such as frequencies and percentages. Among the 30 studies reviewed, two of the universities (Bayero University Kano and Redeemers University Ede) have two studies each while all other universities have one study each. A greater number of the studies were carried out in federal universities. Findings indicate that South-South zone have the highest number of studies while the North-East, North-Central and South-East have the least. Furthermore, more than 90% of the reviewed studies does not include design parameter. The study recommends collaboration among users, students, scholars and institutions be promoted with a view to bridging the gap between user requirement for sustainable educational growth in Nigeria.

Effects of Oil-Based Drilling Mud on Physico-chemical Properties and Water Quality of Tunu Creek, Bayelsa State, Nigeria []


The study examined the effects of oil-based drilling mud (OBM) on physico-chemical properties and water quality of Tunu Creek, Bayelsa State, Nigeria. Surface water samples were collected from an operational drilling rig in the Tunu swamp area of Bayelsa state, where OBM was discharged and analyzed them in the laboratory for the physico-chemical properties of the water samples using standard laboratory methods. The results were compared with the World Health Organization (WHO) and other relevant standards for water quality. Findings showed that pH values of the surface water samples ranged from 5.65 to 6.96, conductivity ranged from 62.5 to 1020.0 µS/cm, salinity ranged from 0.03 – 0.5%, TDS, which ranged 37.5 to 725mg/l, turbidity, which ranged 63.6 to 917 NTU, calcium values ranged from 8.1 to 166.93 mg/l, and the total hydrocarbon content (THC) recorded ranged from 2.70 to 120.02ppm. The water samples also showed high concentrations of heavy metals (chromium – 5.191mg/l, nickel – 0.364mg/l, iron – 4.108mg/l) and PAHs (15.656 – 15.915mg/kg), which pose significant risks to human health and the environment. The study can be concluded that water quality index of Tunu Creek showed that major contaminant of the water samples emanated from the drilling point as the indices was elevated at the drilling point for some of the parameters such as turbidity, conductivity, TDS, alkalinity, chloride, phosphate, calcium, magnesium, potassium, THC, bicarbonate, carbonate, heavy metals except Pb and Mn. Also, the water quality at closer distance to the OBM was of less quality both at the upstream and downstream of the drilling site. Thus, the water quality is not suitable for human consumption and may pose various health risks. The study recommended that more studies on pollution monitoring should be carried out to regularly determine the physico-chemical status of the surface water to ensure their domestic value. Furthermore, the study should be extended to other creeks of similar value to ensure the level of contaminants present in them.

TEACHING MODALITIES, STUDENTS’ ATTITUDES AND MATHEMATICS PERFORMANCE OF FIRST YEAR STUDENTS: A PATH ANALYSIS []


This study determined the teaching modalities, students’ attitudes, and the Mathematics performance of the first year students of ISPSC-Main Campus for the school year 2022-2023 using the Path Analysis. The respondents were the 250 selected first year students of ISPSC-Main Campus who are officially enrolled for the S.Y. 2022-2023. This study utilized the quantitative research design, specifically the descriptive-correlational research design to determine the relationship that exists between the teaching modalities, students’ attitudes, and Mathematics performance of the ISPSC-Main Campus first year students. The research instrument which was used in this study was the survey questionnaire. Finding shows that Both face-to-face and modular teaching modalities are perceived positively by students. In addition, students exhibit a low level of confidence, negative perception, lack of enjoyment, and lack of motivation in Mathematics. Furthermore, the performance suggests varying levels of achievement among students. Moreover, there is a moderately strong positive correlation between students' attitudes towards mathematics and their perception of teaching modalities. Additionally, the correlation between teaching modalities and students' mathematics performance is relatively weak. Also, There is a very weak inverse relationship between students' attitudes towards mathematics and their performance.

Impact of Lease Financing and Capital Structure on Financial Performance of Listed Oil and Gas Companies in Nigeria []


This study examines the impact of lease financing and capital structure on financial performance of listed Nigerian oil and Gas companies for the period of 10 years 2011-2020. The study focus on the 5 sampled oil and gas companies out of 10 listed as at 2020 where the data of the study is collected from the published accounts and reports the companies. Data were analyzed using pooled ordinary least square and fixed effect regression analysis to determine the variation in financial performance due to variation in lease financing and capital structure. Estimated panel result indicated a lease financing has negative significant impact on ROA while equity has positive significant impact on ROA and debt is found to have no significant impact on ROA. The result also show that equity and debt financing have positive and negative significant impact on ROE while lease financing is found to have insignificant impact on ROE of oil and gas companies in Nigeria. The study recommends that firms should embraces equity financing as method of financing their operation as evidence suggested a positive relationship between equity financing and ROA which suggest that increase in levels of equity could lead to increase in financial performance.

Climate Change in Association to Dengue Fever Literature Review []


This literature review critically examines the intricate relationship between climate change and the incidence of Dengue fever, a rapidly emerging global public health threat. With climate change driving shifts in temperature, precipitation patterns, and humidity levels, this review synthesizes a wealth of empirical studies to elucidate the multifaceted impacts on Dengue transmission dynamics. The review elucidates the influence of rising temperatures on the geographical expansion of Dengue vectors, particularly the Aedes aegypti mosquito. As temperature thresholds for vector breeding and Dengue virus replication are surpassed, previously unaffected regions become susceptible to Dengue outbreaks. Additionally, altered precipitation patterns and increased humidity, characteristic of climate change, create ideal breeding conditions for Aedes mosquitoes, amplifying transmission risk. Taking a closer look on its effects on a developing island like Fiji whereby the effects of Dengue Fever can be crippling in both the health and economic sector. By synthesizing these findings, this review underscores the urgent need for adaptive public health strategies. Proactive surveillance, vector control, and community engagement are identified as crucial components of a comprehensive response to mitigate the escalating threat of Dengue fever in the face of a changing climate. This review serves as a foundational resource for policymakers, researchers, and practitioners alike, guiding evidence-based interventions to safeguard global health

Relationship between Plant Diversity and Similarity Index between Uyo and Yenagoa Cities of South South Region, Nigeria []


The study examined the relationship between species diversity and similarity index between uyo and Yenagoa Cities of South south Region, Nigeria. The study established quadrats of 30mx200m along road (transects) in GRAs of Uyo City, Akwa Ibom State and Yenagoa City, Bayelsa State labelled as sampled sites and a quadrat of 100mx100m were established as control sites (secondary forest) at a minimum of 300m from the sampled sites. Descriptive statistics were employed to analyse the data. Findings showed that the species diversity of plants is higher in Uyo (0.895) that Yenagoa (0.658). Furthermore, the similarity index between Sites 1 and 2 in Uyo was 23.8% and in Yenagoa was 35.7%. The similarity Index between Sites 1 and 3 in Uyo was 20% while in Yenagoa was 29.4%. The similarity index between Sites 2 and 3 in Uyo was 4% and 40% in Yenagoa. The study is concluded that the species diversity in Uyo is higher than that of Yenagoa while the similarity index is lower in Uyo than that of Yenagoa. It is thus recommended that the protection of plants especially in the urban settings should be highly established to reduce the level of similarity in the plant species and increase the level of species diversity.

Examining and Developing a Model of Soil Degradation Pattern for Total Petroleum Hydrocarbons (TPH) in Biocell in Ogoniland, Rivers State, Nigeria []


The study examined and developed a model for soil degradation pattern of total petroleum hydrocarbons in biocell in Ogoniland, Rivers State, Nigeria. The study involved collating soil sample baseline data in line with the total petroleum hydrocarbon (TPH) contamination level at different depths of the soil lithography. The baseline data was obtained through initial sampling of the soil contaminant level at various depths of the site. The site was sectioned according to the level of contamination to be excavated for treatment. The key performance indicator for the study was TPH value, therefore analysis was done only on TPH value. The soil in the biocell was segmented into 4 sections for sampling. TPH is the total concentration of all hydrocarbons eluting from n-nonane to n-hexatriacontane, excluding target PAH Analytes. TPH is the total of the aliphatic hydrocarbons (C9–C18), the aromatic hydrocarbons (C11–C22), and the aliphatic hydrocarbons (C19–C36). The samples were documented in a chain of custody and sent to the laboratory for further analysis. Descriptive statistics in Matlab were used for data analysis. Findings showed that the TPH degradation within the biocell from day 0-21, was in proportion to the number of days after treatment was applied in the biocell and the level of contaminant was significantly reduced to below target value of 50mg/kg after each treatment cycle. A treatment cycle starts when the contaminated soil is spread in the biocell to when the results show that the target value is achieved. The study concluded that the effectiveness of the pollution management system as processed within the biocell was assessed in terms of TPH reduction in the contaminated soil. It was observed that there was a significant reduction in all treatment sites as seen in the degradation curves. It is recommended that any best practice will require a good plan before actual execution; this can be achieved with a prediction tool that gives knowledge and direction of flow with a predictive tool.

Impact of Varying Percentage of Natural Depletion Rate Coefficient of Atmospheric Methane Gas in Port Harcourt Metropolis, Rivers State, Nigeria []


The study examined the impact of varying percentage of natural depletion rate coefficient of methane gas on methane gas emitted due to abundance of livestock cumulative density in Port Harcourt Metropolis, Rivers State, Nigeria. The study employed the mathematical formulation for the emission of methane gas due to livestock cumulative density. The descriptive statistics were used to analyse the data. Findings showed thata monotonic increasing pattern in the relative abundance in the coordinates of N1, N2 and N22 of which the value of the coordinates of N1 was recorded as 906 in abundance on the four hundredth and twentieth (420th) day to a saturating value of 992 in abundance on the seven hundredth and twentieth (720th) day. Due to the impact of 90% variation, from the numerical result obtained, we observed that on the three hundredth and ninetieth (390th) day of our experimental time, the relative abundance of N1 was recorded as 881 in abundance whereas N2 and N22 records 863 and 959 in abundance with eleven (11) percentages expected effect in quantification. Furthermore, from the four hundredth and twentieth (420th) day up to the seven hundredth and twentieth (720th) days, the data base result shows a monotonic increasing pattern in the relative abundance in the coordinates of N1, N2 and N22 of which the value of the coordinates of N1 was recorded as 906 in abundance on the four hundredth and twentieth (420th) day to a saturating value of 992 in abundance on the seven hundredth and twentieth (720th) day. the impact of 150% variation of the natural depletion rate coefficient of atmospheric methane gas on methane Gas Emission for a time interval of 0(30)360 in days, three different scenarios are considered, denoted as N1, N2 and N22 which are the livestock cumulative density relative abundance, methane gas emission due to fixed parameter values and methane gas emission due to variation. The study concluded that a monotonic increasing pattern in the relative abundance at both 90% and 150% variation of methane gas emissions. The study recommended among others that periodic monitoring of methane gas emission should be carefully looked at at different ecological locations and at both rural and urban locations.

Internal Quality Assurance Strategies in Assessment as Correlates to Students’ Academic Performance in the University of Yaounde 1 []


ABSTRACT The thrust of this study was to examine the effects of the internal quality assurance strategies in assessment practices on students’ academic performance in the University of Yaounde 1. The key internal quality assurance strategies under consideration were categorized under three broad categories: university test construction practices, university test administration strategies and university test scoring strategies. The study was influenced by the realization that the University of Yaounde 1 has not defined clear strategies to ensure fair, valid and reliable assessment practices and the seeming consequences on students’ academic performance. Three research questions and hypotheses were postulated. The research design used for this study was the descriptive survey and correlational research design. The researcher used stratified random sampling to draw a sample of 20 out of 483 lecturers and administrators of the University of Yaoundé 1 and the simple random sampling to draw a sample of 381 students from the three faculties of the university from a population of 49590. Two self made questionnaires were used to collect data from the university lecturers and students of the university. Data collected were entered using the Statistical Package of Social Sciences (SPSS) version 21.0 to determine correlation and regression results. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics including frequencies, percentages, means and standard deviation and Spearman correlation coefficient was used to test whether there was relationship between the two variables. Based on the analysis, the following results were obtained. The university test construction strategies were found to have a significant effect on students’ academic performance of students. Secondly, the university test administration strategies also showed a significant relation with students’ academic performance. Thirdly, it revealed that the University test scoring strategies had a strong significant effect on students’ academic performance. The study proffers far reaching recommendations to the lecturers and the administration of the University of Yaoundé 1 and to the Ministry of Higher Education, to in each capacity consider internal quality assurance strategies in assessment as the only gateway to the attainment of quality education because, so much quality teaching can be destroyed by poor assessment. Key Words: test construction, test administration, test scoring, quality assurance, assessment