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Electric arc welding is a widely used metal joining process that employs electrical energy to generate heat for melting and fusing metallic components. During welding, an electric arc is established between the electrode and the workpiece, producing sufficient heat to create a molten weld pool that solidifies upon cooling, forming a strong bond. To protect the molten metal from atmospheric contamination and undesirable chemical reactions, shielding materials such as slag are utilized. Arc welding processes may use either consumable or non-consumable electrodes and can operate with alternating current (AC) or direct current (DC) power sources. The electrode functions as a conductor, transmitting electrical current to the workpiece and generating the heat necessary for fusion. Power sources for arc welding are generally classified as constant current (CC) or constant voltage (CV) systems. Current primarily influences heat input, while voltage affects arc length. Manual welding processes, including Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) and Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW), commonly employ constant current power sources to maintain stable welding conditions despite fluctuations in voltage. Understanding the principles of arc welding and power source characteristics is essential for achieving high-quality welds and optimizing welding performance in industrial applications.

Elaeis Guineensis(Palm Kernel) oil, an ubiquitous ingredient in global cuisines, has long been recognized for its culinary and industrial applications. However, its nutritional profile remains understudied. This study investigates the chemical composition of Elaeis Guineensis oil, with a specific focus on its flavonoid and alkaloid content. Our rigorous qualitative and quantitative analysis revealed a rich flavonoid profile, with concentrations ranging from 15.20 to 17.10 mg/100g. Conversely, alkaloids were found to be absent in the oil. These findings have significant implications for the potential health benefits of Elaeis Guineensis oil, suggesting its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and overall health-promoting properties. Our research contributes meaningfully to the existing body of knowledge on Elaeis Guineensis oil, underscoring its value as a nutritious and versatile ingredient in a healthy diet. The outcomes of this study have far-reaching implications for the food industry, nutritionists, and consumers seeking to make informed choices about their dietary intake.

Air pollution in market environments poses significant public health risks, particularly in urban areas with high commercial activities. This study aims to determine the concentrations and health risks associated with ambient air pollutants in the Uwelu Spare Parts Market, Benin city, Nigeria. Air quality monitoring was carried out weekly from October to December 2024 at morning and evening intervals. Carbon monoxide (CO), PM2.5, and PM10 concentrations were measured via a Smart Sensor Model AS8700A, whereas temperature and relative humidity were recorded via an anemometer (BTMETER BT-100). A structured questionnaire was used to assess the respiratory health status of market users. The results revealed that CO concentrations ranged from 2.5–3.6 ppm in the morning and 2.3–3.2 ppm in the evening, remaining within the WHO (2021) limits. However, the PM2.5 and PM10 levels exceeded the WHO guidelines in the evening, indicating increased pollution due to commercial activities, generator use, and waste burning. Statistical analysis revealed significant variations (p<0.01) in the PM10 concentrations in the morning and in the PM2.5 and PM10 levels in the evening. Common respiratory symptoms reported among the respondents included cough (67%), phlegm (36%), and chest pain (20%). This study recommends improved waste management, regulated generator use, enhanced ventilation, and routine air quality monitoring to mitigate risks and protect public health. Implementing these measures can contribute to a safer market environment.

This Project undertakes the development and implementation deformation monitoring system for the Physics Department Building, with the primary objective of ensuring the safety and integrity of the structure, For buildings to remain structurally sound and safe, deformation monitoring is essential, especially for those that are subjected to changing loading bearing and climatic conditions over time. Using a multi-faceted approach, this study will employ a range of geodetic and geotechnical techniques, including Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS), Precise leveling and inclinometry, to monitor the buildings deformation patterns, including subsidence, settlement, and tilt. The project will investigate the effects of various factors such as soil conditions, foundation type and environmental changes on the buildings deformation behaviour, providing valuable insights into the structural health of the building. The deformation monitoring system will be designed to provide real-time data, enabling prompt identification of any anomalies or potential issues. This will facilitate informed decisions on maintenance, repair and potential retrofitting, ensuring the safety of occupants and the integrity of the structure. This study contributes to the development of effective deformation monitoring systems for buildings, which is critical for ensuring the safety and resilience of built infrastructure. The findings of this project will have the development of best practices in deformation monitoring and structural health assessment, and will inform the development of more effective strategies for managing and maintaining buildings in a variety of environments.

Climate change is part of the most pressing environmental challenges of the 21st century, with its adverse effects felt across the globe through increase in temperatures, altered rainfall patterns, and increasing incidences of extreme weather events. These changes pose serious threats to food security, livelihoods, and sustainable development. In regions like Benin City (Edo State, Nigeria), climate-induced flooding and other extreme events have undermined food availability and lead to food security. This study examines determinants of adopting climate change adaptation strategies for food security in Benin City. A structured Likert-scale questionnaire was distributed to one hundred and fifty (150) respondents using google form and the data collected was subjected to descriptive and correlation statistics using statistical package for social scientists (SPSS) . The results showed low awareness of climate change impacts on food security. Correlation analysis revealed moderate positive relationships between awareness to climate change and socio-demographic factors which is statistically significant (r = 0.373, p = 0.000<0.05) and between awareness to climate change and socio-cultural influences which is also statistically significant (r = 0.380, p = 0.000<0.05). However, the study also identified barriers such as inadequate institutional support, limited access to finance, and weak infrastructural capacity as key challenges limiting effective responses. It was concluded that although local communities in Benin City demonstrate resilience through livelihood diversification, their capacity to adapt remains constrained without coordinated government intervention and broader policy support. The study recommends the introduction of climate change awareness into educational and extension programmes, the promotion of renewable energy and sustainable agricultural practices, improved access to climate information, investment in sustainable agricultural practices, and stronger collaboration between government agencies, private actors, and civil society in order to enhance adaptive capacity and safeguard livelihoods.

Background: Research engagement during academic training helps develop essential attributes such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and evidence-based practice. These factors are fundamental for effective pharmaceutical care delivery. Objectives: The aim of this study was to assess the engagement and experience of pharmacy students in the University of Benin, Benin City in research during their academic curricular activities. Methods: The research was conducted among pharmacy students in the accredited faculty of pharmacy in the University of Benin. This study employed a cross-sectional descriptive design to investigate the extent of pharmacy students' engagement and experiences in research during their academic curricular activities. A stratified random sampling technique was employed to ensure that students from each academic level (100–600L) are proportionally represented. Data was collected using an online survey platform comprising institutional email lists, WhatsApp groups, and other social media platforms commonly used by students and was analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences software version 26 Results: In total, 250 participants were enrolled, revealing a nearly even gender distribution (50.8% male, 49.2% female), with majority aged 18-21 years (48.8%). Regarding research engagement, the majority anticipated engaging in data analysis (22.8%), data collection (14%), and presentations (12.8%), with a smaller proportion planning comprehensive involvement across literature review, data collection, analysis, writing, and presentation (9.6%). Most participants viewed research as beneficial for their future careers. Approximately 43.6% rated it as very beneficial and 25.2% extremely beneficial. However, academic workload was expected to interfere with research participation, as 42.4% agreed and 9.2% strongly agreed. The findings revealed varying levels of participation in research activities. Conclusion: The engagement and experience of pharmacy students at the University of Benin in research during their academic curricular activities were assessed in this study. The findings revealed varying levels of participation in research activities, with some students actively involved while others had limited exposure. Additionally, the perceived benefits of research were also highlighted, including enhanced academic performance and professional growth. However, several challenges, such as academic workload and time constraints, were identified as barriers to research engagement.

Background: Hypertension is a leading non-communicable disease and a major risk factor for cardiovascular morbidity and mortality globally. Despite proven evidence that regular exercise reduces blood pressure, the level of knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) of exercise among hypertensive patients remains suboptimal, particularly in Nigeria. Understanding these dimensions is essential for promoting effective non-pharmacological management of hypertension.
Aim: The study assessed the knowledge, attitude, and practice of exercise for blood pressure control among adults with hypertension attending the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH).

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study design was employed involving 150 adults with high blood pressure recruited from the cardiology clinic of UBTH. Data were collected using a structured, self-administered questionnaire divided into sections on socio-demographic data, knowledge, attitude, and practice of exercise for blood pressure control. Data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25. Descriptive statistics were expressed as frequencies and percentages, while associations between variables were tested using the Chi-square test at a significance level of p < 0.05.

Results: Findings revealed that 74% of participants had adequate knowledge of exercise for blood pressure control, 76% demonstrated a good attitude, and 60% had good exercise practice. There was a significant association between socio-economic status and knowledge of exercise (p = 0.021), while age, level of education, and socio-economic status showed no significant association with attitude and practice (p > 0.05). Most respondents (85.4%) reported improvement in blood pressure since initiating exercise.

Conclusion: The study concluded that hypertensive adults at UBTH generally possess good knowledge and attitude toward exercise for blood pressure control; however, practical engagement in exercise remains moderate. Continuous patient education, physiotherapy involvement, and community-based exercise programs are recommended to enhance adherence and improve hypertension outcomes.

This study investigated the influence of teachers’ characteristics on secondary school students’ learning of Biology in Egor Local Government Area of Edo State. To achieve the purpose of the study, four research questions were raised and answered. The descriptive survey research method was adopted for the study. The population of this study comprised all the 201 teachers in the 20 senior secondary schools in Egor Local Government Area of Edo State. The sample size for the study was made up of 100 teachers representing 50% of the population. The findings from the study include that there is a significant difference in the influence of teachers’ characteristics on secondary school students’ learning of Biology between large school and small school. It was concluded that teachers’ characteristics such as qualification, professionalism, experience and teachers’ sex significantly influence secondary school students’ learning of Biology in Egor Local Government Area of Edo State. The study recommended among others that the Ministry of Education and school authorities in Egor Local Government Area should prioritize continuous professional development and training programmes for Biology teachers.

This study investigates the relationship between corporate board diversity and the financial performance of quoted oil and gas companies in Nigeria. Conducted within the context of governance reforms and performance challenges in the sector, the research examines how national, ethnic, age, and gender diversity influence Earnings Per Share (EPS), which was adopted as the measure of financial performance. An ex-post facto research design was employed, using panel data extracted from the annual reports of twelve oil and gas companies listed on the Nigerian Exchange Group between 2014 and 2023. Descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) regression were applied to evaluate the hypothesized relationships. The findings reveal that ethnic and age diversity exert significant positive effects on EPS, while national and gender diversity show statistically insignificant influences. The results indicate that board heterogeneity in certain dimensions enhances shareholder value, though some forms of diversity remain underutilized in Nigeria’s corporate governance framework. The study concludes that meaningful representation across diversity dimensions can strengthen decision- making and improve financial outcomes, especially in a highly regulated and capital-intensive industry. The study recommends that regulators and policymakers enforce inclusive governance policies that encourage balanced board representation, while companies should adopt strategic diversity practices that integrate ethnicity, age, gender, and nationality to enhance performance and competitiveness.

This study examines the factors influencing environmental disclosure among oil and gas companies in Nigeria. It adopts an ex-post facto research design with a longitudinal approach, utilizing panel data spanning eleven (11) financial years (2014–2024) from oil companies listed on the Nigerian Exchange (NGX). The variables investigated include leverage, firm size, profitability, audit firm type, financial constraint, and firm age. The findings reveal that leverage, profitability, firm size, audit firm type, firm age, and financial constraint all have no significant effect on the level of environmental accounting disclosure by oil and gas companies in Nigeria. Based on these results, the study recommends that future research should consider a broader sample of companies and incorporate additional variables beyond those used in the current model, to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the determinants of environmental disclosure in the Nigerian oil and gas sector.