2025

NIL

This study investigated the effect of scarification pre-treatments on the germination of Omphalocarpum elatum, Khaya anthotheca, and Albizia coriacea seeds. These tropical species are ecologically and economically significant but face regeneration challenges due to seed dormancy and hard seed coats that prevent water absorption and gas exchange. The research aimed to evaluate whether scarification pre-treatments could enhance their germination and overcome dormancy. The experiment was conducted at the Screen-House of the Department of Plant Biology and Biotechnology, University of Benin. Four seeds were planted per pot, and each species had fifteen pots, making a total of forty-five pots for the entire study. The parameters recorded were the number of seeds planted and the percentage of germination, and observations were made daily for thirty days. The results showed that no germination occurred in any of the species throughout the observation period, as the number of germinated seeds for all species was zero, resulting in a 0% germination rate. This complete lack of germination may have been caused by several factors such as delay in seed planting after procurement, harsh scarification procedures like acid treatment, the potency or viability of the seeds (dead or alive), unfavorable environmental conditions, and the nature of seed collection whether from trees or fallen fruits. The study concludes that proper seed handling, immediate planting after harvest, the use of mild scarification methods, and seed viability testing are essential for improving germination outcomes. Although no germination was recorded, the findings provide valuable baseline information for future research aimed at enhancing propagation techniques and promoting the conservation and restoration of tropical forest sp

This study examined the impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) usage on the learning engagement of Chemistry Education undergraduate students at the University of Benin. The study adopted a descriptive survey design and involved a sample of 100 students randomly selected from different levels of the Chemistry Education program during the 2024/2025 academic session. A structured questionnaire titled Artificial Intelligence Tools and Learning Engagement Questionnaire (AITLEQ) was used for data collection. The instrument was validated by experts, and its reliability was established using the Cronbach Alpha method, yielding a coefficient value above 0.7. Data collected were analyzed using mean and standard deviation to answer the research questions. Findings revealed that Chemistry Education students make frequent use of AI tools such as ChatGPT, Google Gemini, and adaptive learning platforms for academic purposes. The results showed a positive relationship between AI usage and students’ learning engagement across behavioral, emotional, and cognitive dimensions. Specifically, AI tools enhanced students’ motivation, confidence, and participation in learning activities, while helping them understand complex chemistry concepts and manage study routines effectively. However, the study also identified several challenges hindering optimal AI use, including poor internet connectivity, high data costs, and limited institutional support. Based on these findings, the study concluded that the use of Artificial Intelligence significantly improves students’ engagement, learning efficiency, and academic productivity. It recommended that universities strengthen internet infrastructure, integrate AI literacy into teacher education curricula, and provide adequate institutional support to foster effective AI adoption. The study also suggested that further research should explore AI’s long-term effects on academic achievement, cross-disciplinary comparisons, and lecturer readiness for AI integration in Nigerian higher education.

The Study Examined “The Influence Of Information And Communication Technology For Enhancing Effective Teaching And Learning Of Business Education Programme In Universities In Edo State” Four research questions were used to guide the study. The research model was administered with the aid of a Questionnaire which was used to guide the study; To what extent does the use of computers influence the teaching and learning of the Business Education program in universities in Edo State? To what extent does telecommunication systems influence the teaching and learning of the Business Education program in universities in Edo State? To what extent does internet influence the teaching and learning of the Business Education program in universities in Edo State? To what extent does video conferencing tool influence the teaching and learning of the Business Education program in universities in Edo State? The population for this study consists of one hundred and eighteen (118) Business Education students in the Department of Vocational and Technical Education in the university of Benin, Benin City, Edo state. As a result of the manageable size, the entire population was used as the sample, hence, a census. In order to determine the reliability of the instrument, copies of the instrument were administered to the twenty (20) business education undergraduate students from Ambrose All University, who were not part of the study population. Thereafter Cronbach statistical tool was used to ascertain consistency. It yielded an alpha value of 0.79, hence the instrument was considered reliable. Findings from this study revealed that: The use of computers influences the teaching and learning of the Business Education program in universities in Edo State to a high extent. Telecommunication systems influence the teaching and learning of the Business Education program in universities in Edo State to a high extent. Internet influence the teaching and learning of the Business Education program in universities in Edo State to a high extent. The following recommendations were made; Government should provide adequate funding for Information and Communication Technology infrastructure, training, and resources, government should establish policies that support information and communication technology adoption and integration in business education program and offer grants for research and projects that promote information and communication based teaching and learning, students should be able to acquire skills in using digital tools, software, and platforms to enhance learning and productivity and engage in online discussions and forums to enhance understanding, share knowledge, and collaborate with peers.

In recent years, the widespread use of digital media has significantly transformed how university students communicate, learn, and express ideas. While digital platforms such as WhatsApp, Instagram, and Facebook have enhanced information sharing and connectivity, concerns have emerged about their influence on students' wvriting culture and academic performance. This study examined the impact of digital media on the writing culture of undergraduate students in public universities in Delta State, Nigeria. The study adopted a descriptive survey research design and was conducted in selected universities, including Delta State University, Abraka, and the Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data from a sample of 398 respondents, selected through a multi-stage sampling technique. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics such as frequencies, percentages, means, and standard deviations with the aid of the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). Findings revealed that WhatsApp, Instagram, and Facebook are the most frequently used platforms, with most students spending between one and six hours daily online. While digital media facilitates learning, vocabulary development, and collaboration, it also promotes informal writing styles, spelling errors, and reduced originality. The study concludes that digitalmedia exerts both constructive and disruptive effects on students' writing practices. It recommends integrating digital literacy and academic writing training into university curricula, organizing workshops on formal writing, promoting plagiarism detection tools, and improving access to scholarly digital resources to enhance responsible digital engagement. Keywords: Digital media, writing culture, undergraduates, public universities, Delta State.

Malaria is an acute, life-threatening parasitic infection caused by protozoan parasites of the genus Plasmodium, posing a significant global health threat. The most virulent form that infects humans is Plasmodium falciparum. Current first-line treatments involve Artemisinin-based combination therapies (ACTs), but the increasing prevalence of antimalarial drug resistance constitutes a major impediment to global malaria control initiatives. Historically, traditional knowledge of indigenous plants has guided the discovery of effective antimalarials, such as quinine and artemisinin, underscoring the urgent need to explore plant-based medicines for alternative therapeutic strategies. Persea americana (avocado), a commercially valuable fruit tree, is used traditionally for malaria treatment. This study aimed to evaluate the methanolic extract of Persea americana seed for its antimalarial activity and acute toxicity level. The overall objective was to scientifically validate the plant’s use for anti-malarial therapy and suggest it as a promising source for new antimalarial compounds. Acute toxicity was assessed in six male Wistar strain mice (6–8 weeks old) using the limit test dose up and down procedure of the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) guideline 423. Antimalarial activity was tested using the Peter’s 4-day Suppressive test in 20 male Wistar strain mice inoculated intraperitoneally with Chloroquine Sensitive Plasmodium berghei NK65 infected red blood cells. Extract doses of 100, 250, and 500 mg/kg b.wt. were administered orally and daily for four days. Control groups received normal saline vehicle, chloroquine (25 mg/kg b.wt.), or lithium chloride (10 mg/kg b.wt.). In the acute toxicity study (OECD guideline 423), following the administration of 2000 mg/kg b.wt. of the Persea americana seed methanol extract, no mice death was recorded, and no other signs of toxicity were observed during the 14-day period. Therefore, the extract was deemed safe for administration at 2000 mg/kg b.wt.. The findings suggest that the Persea americana seed methanol extract has a low acute toxicity profile, as demonstrated by the safety of administering 2000 mg/kg b.wt. in mice. The antimalarial activity of Persea americana recorded decrease in % Parasitemia in mice and the most significant decrease in the highest dose administered. This validates the traditional use of the plant sample and highlight the Persea americana seed as a promising resource for discovering new antimalarial compounds

The study titled “Comparative Analysis of the Challenges in Managing Commercial and Residential Properties in Benin City” examined the complex issues confronting estate surveyors, valuers, and property managers in ensuring effective and sustainable property management practices within Nigeria’s evolving real estate landscape. The research aimed to provide a detailed comparative evaluation of the management constraints peculiar to both commercial and residential property sectors in Benin City, with emphasis on identifying the underlying causes, management implications, and potential strategies for improvement. Property management has increasingly become a critical component of real estate practice, particularly in urban centers such as Benin City, where population growth, urbanization, and socio-economic changes have heightened the demand for efficient property utilization. Despite the professional efforts of estate surveyors and valuers, persistent management challenges ranging from financial constraints, tenant default, poor maintenance culture, legal bottlenecks, and environmental degradation continue to undermine performance outcomes. This study therefore explores the similarities and differences between the management of commercial and residential properties, analyzing how economic, technical, administrative, and behavioral factors influence property performance and value retention. Methodologically, the research adopted a comparative and descriptive design, supported by both primary and secondary data. Questionnaires were administered to registered estate firms, landlords, and tenants within 4 key locations in Benin City, and are Ugbowo, New Benin, Siluko Road, and Mission Road. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical tools to identify patterns and relationships between property types and management challenges. Findings revealed that while residential properties are predominantly affected by tenant-related issues such as rent default, overcrowding, and maintenance neglect, commercial properties face institutional and infrastructural constraints, including high operating costs, power supply irregularities, and legal enforcement challenges. The comparative analysis further demonstrates that professional property management by certified estate surveyors significantly enhances tenant satisfaction, rent stability, and property value appreciation in both sectors. The study concludes that effective property management in Benin City requires a multi- dimensional approach that integrates financial planning, preventive maintenance, digital record management, and stronger legal enforcement mechanisms. It recommends the adoption of technology-driven management systems, continuous professional training for estate managers, and the implementation of policy reforms that support transparent and sustainable property management practices. By highlighting the divergent yet interrelated challenges facing commercial and residential properties, the research contributes to the growing body of knowledge in Nigerian real estate management and provides a framework for improving management efficiency, client satisfaction, and property value preservation in Benin City and similar urban contexts.

The availability and use of instructional materials are essential for improving the teaching and learning of Biology in secondary schools. This study investigated the availability and use of instructional materials in teaching Biology in public secondary schools in Oredo Local Government Area of Edo State. The research examined the extent to which instructional materials are available, the types of instructional materials that are available, the challenges affecting their effective use and how it affects students' academic performance. A descriptive survey design was adopted, and data were collected from forty (40) Biology teachers using a structured questionnaire. The data obtained were analyzed using frequency counts and percentages. The results revealed that although some instructional materials such as charts, models, and specimens were available, many vital materials including laboratory equipment and audiovisual aids were inadequate. Findings also showed that teachers use available instructional materials moderately due to factors such as lack of funds, poor maintenance, lack of trained teachers and overcrowded classrooms. The study concludes that instructional materials greatly enhance effective teaching and learning of Biology, but their inadequate availability and inconsistent use limit students’ understanding of biological concepts. It recommends that the government and school administrators should provide adequate instructional materials, train teachers on their effective use, and ensure regular supervision to promote improved Biology teaching and learning outcomes

This project title is written to help hospitals especially in the areas they encounter problems in keeping their attendance scheme for patient and the solution given to tackle problem such as transforming the existing manual attendance scheme for patients system in which the existing problems involved at the time was laziness of the Doctors to work, misplacement of files, excessive loitering around of patient for their files and loitering of paper in the office. This software reports on our pilot evaluation of AN ELECTRONIC PATIENT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM and their Doctors. The aim is to improve the quality of care to patient and the information about them, as indicated by an improvement in the effectiveness and efficiency of care and in an increase in patient’s satisfaction. This study makes clear that a thorough exploration of users needs before building the system, using qualitative research methods may be crucial because it can prevent data mismatch and maximize the chance that the eventual management system meets its most important aim: to enhance patient’s empowerment and improve the quality of care services. In order to handle this, I decided to introduce a new Electronic Patient Management System for patients. The project dwells more on Computer duty schedule. This is implemented with Visual Basic programming 6.0 language and Microsoft Access for effective information keeping.

Reproductive health disorders are increasingly prevalent globally, necessitating investigation into natural therapeutic alternatives with fewer adverse effects. This research aimed to examine the histomorphological effects of Chrysophyllum albidum fruit extract on the reproductive organs of albino rats. Twenty-four healthy albino rats weighing 180-200g were used for the experimental study. The animals were procured from the Animal House of the Department of Anatomy, University of Benin, and maintained under standard laboratory conditions with unrestricted access to pelleted feed and water ad libitum. The rats were divided into four groups: Group A served as the control (n=2), receiving only pelleted feed and distilled water for 30 consecutive days. Group B (n=4) was administered 250mg/kg body weight of Chrysophyllum albidum fruit extract orally via gavage along with standard feed and water for 30 days. Group C (n=4) received 500mg/kg body weight of the extract under similar conditions. Group D (n=4) was administered 1000mg/kg body weight of the extract following the same protocol. On the final day, blood samples were collected for hormonal analysis, and reproductive organs (testes, ovaries) were harvested, weighed, and fixed in 10% formal saline. Hematoxylin and eosin staining techniques were employed for histopathological examination under light microscopy. Hormonal levels (testosterone and progesterone) were determined using ELISA techniques. Results revealed significant changes in hematological parameters including decreased lymphocyte percentages (78.4±2.3% to 63.5±3.1%), increased neutrophil counts, and altered red blood cell indices across treatment groups. Body weight increased significantly in all treated groups compared to controls. Testicular weight showed significant increase in the highest dose group (Group D) compared to controls and Group B, while ovarian weights remained unchanged. Remarkably, testosterone and progesterone levels showed no significant alterations across all groups. Histopathological examination revealed preserved normal cellular architecture in both testicular and ovarian tissues across all treatment groups. Seminiferous tubules maintained normal morphology with healthy Sertoli cells and spermatogenic cells at various maturation stages, while ovarian follicles demonstrated normal development. The findings provide compelling evidence that Chrysophyllum albidum fruit extract preserves reproductive tissue integrity and hormonal homeostasis while producing systemic hematological changes. The maintenance of normal histoarchitecture in reproductive organs, coupled with stable hormonal profiles, suggests potential safety for reproductive health applications, supporting traditional medicinal claims. However, the observed hematological alterations warrant careful consideration for dosage optimization and monitoring protocols in clinical applications. Chrysophyllum albidum fruit extract may offer a promising natural approach to reproductive health management with preserved organ function and minimal hormonal disruption.