THE CHOICE OF CONFOUNDING IN A 3K FACTORIAL DESIGN

When the numbers of treatments are greater than the available blocks in 3k factorial experiments, confounding becomes very necessary. Confounding is necessary to reduce the block size as well as reduce the experimental errors. 32, 33 and 3k>3 factorial experiments were considered. In 32 experiments, the AB and AB2 were recommended for confounding. Similarly, confounding ABC and ABC2 are recommended since two main effects are found in a block which can be used for experimentation. Confounding ABC and AB2C is also recommended since two main effects are found in a block which can be used for experimentation. On the contrary confounding ABC2 and AB2C2 are not recommended since only one main effect is found in a block. Furthermore, in 33 factorial experiment in 32 blocks using ABC, ABC2, AB2C and AB2C2 as defining contrast, ABC and AB2C2 as well as ABC2 and AB2C should not be confounded since they aliased with the main effects when used during fractional replication. However, in 34 factorial experiments no main effect is aliased with (1) the lowest treatment. In generalized interactions, ABCD and ABCD2 as well as ABCD and ABC2D are recommended for confounding since three main effects are seen in a block. In contrast, the following pairs of interactions are not recommended for confounding because only two main effects are found in a block: ABCD2 and ABC2D; ABCD2 and AB2CD; ABC2D and AB2CD

The Role of Cryptocurrency in Terrorism Financing: The Nigerian Context

The intersection of terrorism and its financing mechanisms has evolved dramatically with the advent ofdigital currencies, particularly cryptocurrency. This paper explores the role of cryptocurrency infacilitating terrorism financing within the Nigerian context, an issue of increasing concern for nationalsecurity. Structured into five parts, this study begins with an introduction that sets the stage forunderstanding the complexity of terrorism financing in Nigeria and the emergence of cryptocurrency asa disruptive financial technology. The second part delves into the historical evolution of terrorism inNigeria, charting its growth and the diverse methods employed to sustain these illegal activitiesfinancially. This section provides a comprehensive overview of the socio-political factors that haveenabled terrorism to flourish and examines the traditional and contemporary avenues of funding theseactivities. This part also provides an in-depth exposition on the role of cryptocurrency in terrorismfinancing within Nigeria. This section critically analyses the attributes of cryptocurrency that make itan attractive tool for terrorists, including anonymity, decentralisation, and the challenges it poses totraditional financial oversight. Case studies and examples specific to Nigeria will be discussed tohighlight how digital currencies are being exploited for nefarious purposes. In the third part, the focusshifts to the response of Nigerian regulatory agencies, particularly the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN),in combating terrorism financing. This section assesses the effectiveness of current regulations andenforcement strategies, highlighting both successes and areas needing improvement. It also considersthe broader implications of Nigeria\u27s approach in the context of global efforts to combat terrorismfinancing. Finally, the fourth part offers a set of recommendations aimed at enhancing Nigeria\u27scapacity to mitigate the risks associated with cryptocurrency-enabled terrorism financing. Theserecommendations are designed to strengthen regulatory frameworks, improve inter-agencycoordination, and promote international collaboration. The paper concludes with a fifth part bysummarising the key issues discussed and reinforcing the need for robust, adaptive measures to addressthe evolving threat of terrorism financing in the digital age

A Critical Examination of the Legal and Institutional Framework for Protection of E-Consumers Rights in Nigeria

The rapid growth of e-commerce and digital entrepreneurship in Nigeria has revolutionized how peoplebuy, sell, and create content online. Platforms like Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok have becomeessential tools for trade, services, and creative expression. However, this digital shift has also broughtsignificant challenges for online consumers and content creators. Issues such as fraud, data breaches,unfair contract terms, sudden demonetization, and poor dispute resolution mechanisms are becomingincreasingly common. This paper takes a closer look at how well Nigeria’s legal and institutionalframeworks protect the rights of digital consumers

‘Between Rules and Representations:’ Phonological Processes in Bini Based Englishy

This paper examined some phonological processes in Bini based English, a sub-variety of Nigerian English, and compared these processes with Received Pronunciation (RP) to assess conformity levels. Purposive samples of twenty (20) Bini speakers of English were recorded, and their pronunciations were compared to the RP model using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) for accuracy. Specifically, the study identified and analysed dominant phonological processes in the pronunciation of the subjects, using the framework of Generative Phonology. The processes include consonant deletions (e.g., the omission of final consonants), vowel substitution (e.g., the schwa being replaced by stronger vowels), consonant insertion, stopping, depalatalization, vocalization, and metathesis. Notably, these Bini-English bilinguals demonstrated a high level of deviation from RP norms, with specific challenges in consonant insertion and vowel reduction. Findings in the study revealed that Bini speakers of English have fairly internalized English phonological rules as only 47.98% (approximately 48%) could appropriately pronounce the words while a remarkable proportion of approximately 52% were unable to pronounce the words correctly. This is apparently because of the influence of mother tongue on the speech production of the subjects, and also because English phonological and orthographical systems are different from those of their indigenous language. It is based on these findings that the study affirms that nativisation, which is a product of language contact, is inevitable in the Nigerian situation

The Impact of Digital Technology and Information Communication Technology on English Language in Nigeria

The proliferation of digital technology and Information Communication Technology (ICT) has significantly influenced the use and teaching of the English language in Nigeria. This transformation is evident in various spheres including education, media, and everyday communication. In educational settings, digital tools and ICT have revolutionized English language instruction, providing innovative platforms for interactive learning, access to a vast array of online resources, and the integration of multimedia content that enhances comprehension and engagement. Furthermore, social media and digital communication platforms have altered the dynamics of language use, introducing new forms of expression, slang, and abbreviations that reflect a hybrid linguistic culture. While these technologies have democratized access to information and fostered global communication, they have also presented challenges such as the erosion of formal writing skills and the potential for the proliferation of non-standard English. Additionally, the digital divide remains a critical issue, as unequal access to technology exacerbates educational and linguistic disparities. This study adopts a qualitative research methodology, utilizing a comprehensive literature review and thematic analysis to explore these phenomena. The theoretical framework is grounded in the Theory of Blended Learning Instructional Approach (BLIA), which provides insights into the integration of traditional and digital learning methods. This abstract encapsulates the dual-edged impact of digital technology and ICT on English in Nigeria, highlighting both the advancements in linguistic proficiency and the emerging challenges that need to be addressed to ensure equitable and effective language education in the digital age

PROSOCIAL BEHAVIOUR AND ACADEMIC INTEREST AS PREDICTORS OF ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT IN CHEMISTRY AMONG SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS IN AWKA SOUTH LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA

This study investigated prosocial behaviour and academic interest as predictors of academic achievement in Chemistry among secondary school students in Awka South Local Government Area. The study is guided by three research questions and three postulated research hypotheses. Participants were drawn from 10 randomly selected secondary schools in Awka South LGA. 260 Participants were selected through a simple random sampling technique consisting of 130 boys and 130 girls. The study adopted a cross-sectional survey design. Two research instruments were used in the present study, they are Prosocialness Scale (PS) and Academic Interest Scale for Adolescents (AISA). Analysis of data was conducted using the multiple regression statistic. Results indicate that prosocial behaviour and academic interest account for 24.4%% of variance in academic achievement (R = .494, R² = .244, F (2, 257) = 41.47, p < .001) indicating a strong joint prediction. Independently, prosocial behaviour significantly and positively predicts academic achievement in chemistry (β = .239, P < .05). Similarly, academic interest significantly and positively predicted academic achievement in Chemistry (β = .417, P < .05). Relative to research findings, it is recommended that teachers should receive professional development since they have a significant influence on students\u27 prosocial behavior and academic interest.  Schools should thus fund professional development initiatives that give educators the tools they need to inspire students, foster inclusive learning environments, and encourage group projects.  Training sessions could concentrate on employing student-centered teaching methods, controlling group dynamics, and encouraging intrinsic drive

Prediction of tensile strain in mild steel tig weld using artificial neural networks

Tensile strain is the relative length of deformation exhibited by a specimen subjected to a tensile force. An artificial neural network (ANN) was employed to predict the tensile strain of the weldment. One hundred welded specimens of mild steel, measuring 60mm x 40mm x10mm, were prepared and calculated using the VWACgauge. The results were employed to train ANN. The research produced an R2 of 86% in comparison to the experimental result on a fitted line plot using regression analysis, while correlation analysis obtained in the training and validation exercise from ANN was over 90%. Results of the study have shown that ANN is a robust predictive tool in welding, which could help reduce trial and error in welding processes

Heamatological and Serum Biochemical Estimates of Weaner Pigs Fed Enzyme Supplemented Tigernut (Cyperus esculentus) Chaff Based Diets

This study was carried out at the piggery unit of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike Ikwo, Abakaliki, Ebonyi State to evaluate the haematological and serum biochemical estimates of weaner pigs fed graded levels of tigernut chaff enzyme based diets. Sundried tigernut chaff (waste from tigernut processing) was collected from reputable tiger nut milk processors at Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, sun-dried for 5-7 days for the determination of proximate composition. Four experimental diets were formulated such that tigernut (Cyperus esculentus) chaff treated with multi-enzyme notably Growin ACT was included at 0%, 5%, 10% and 15% dietary levels coded (T1), (T2), (T3) and (T4) respectively. Data obtained from the study was subjected to the one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) using general linear model of SPSS version. Results of the study showed that pigs fed enzyme supplemented tigernut chaff based diets showed significant (P<0.05) improvement in haematological parameters notably Hb, RBC, WBC, and PCV, with increasing dietary level of TNC while serum biochemical values such as albumin, serum glutamic oxaloacetic transferase (SGOT), Serum glutamic pyruvic transferase (SGPT) and creatinine reduced, as the dietary levels of TNC increased in the diets. In view of the above results, enzyme-supplemented tigernut chaff should be included in the ration of weaner pigs as a partial replacement for maize at 15% level for optimum haematological and serum biochemical profile, increased productivity and maximum economic benefits so as to make animal protein available at a reduced cost

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI) SKILLS AND JOB PERFORMANCE OF OFFICE MANAGERS IN PUBLIC ORGANIZATIONS

The study examined Artificial Intelligence (AI) skills required by office managers for effective job performance in public organizations. Two research questions and two hypotheses were raised. The study approach used was a descriptive survey. The target population comprised all the office managers (Secretaries) from the Ministries of Education, Commerce, Finance, Agriculture, and Community Development in Oke-Mosan, Ogun State. A sample size of 50 office managers was chosen using the purposive sampling approach. Self-developed questionnaire with 0.87 as reliability coefficient was adopted for data collection. The mean and standard deviation were used to answered research question 1. PPMC was used for research question 2. The t-test was used for testing hypotheses. The findings of the study revealed that machine learning skills, critical thinking skills, communication skills, problem solving skills, analytical judgement skills, programming skills, creativity skills, computing skills, data analysis skills and domain knowledge skills were among Artificial Intelligence (AI) skills required by office managers in public organizations. There was positive significant relationship between the independent variables (Artificial Intelligence (AI) skills) and the dependent variable (office managers job performance) in the order of (r = 0.460, P<.05).  It was recommended that government ministries should make an effort to set up programs for training and development that would help office managers work more effectively by acquiring new skills

Assessment of Women Role in Agroforestry Practice in Jos North Local Government Area of Plateau State, Nigeria

This study was carried out to assess role of women in agroforestry practice in Jos-North Local Government Area of Plateau State using two study area Mazah and Naraguta. Simple random sampling was used to administered 75 copies of questionnaire in each of the two study areas thereby having a total of 150 selected respondents, out of which 139 was retrieved (Mazah; 75 and Naraguta; 64). Data collected were analyzed using simple descriptive statistics. The results from the study  showed that agroforestry practices carried out in both study areas range from Taungya (55.4%), agri-silviculture (16.5%), shifting cultivation (16.5%), silvo-pastoral (7.2%) and horti-silviculture (4.3%). The specific roles played in agroforestry by respondents range from harvesting of tree products (41.7%), tree planting and maintenance (37.4%), seedling production (8.6%) and processing (3.6%) respectively. The study also showed that agroforestry serves as source of income (44.6%), source of food (24.5%), timber production (16.5%) and medicinal purposes (12.9%). The study was able to establish that agroforestry practices have significant improvement on their crop production, and resultant increase in their incomes. It is therefore recommended that women involvement in agroforestry should be encourage in the study areas through advocacy and availability of inputs that will promote their performance for better output