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Open Access
Geotechnical assessment of Akpulu gully erosion site in Ideato North Local Government Area of Imo State, Nigeria
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2013-02) Ikechukwu, Owette
This study was carried out to assess the surface processes and subsurface characteristics that contribute to the formation and expansion of gully erosion in Akpulu - Ideato North County, Imo State Nigeria. Part of Akpulu community especially Okwu village that is very close to the gully head may submerge in the next few years if control measures are not intensified. A gully measured 15-18 m deep, 9-12 m wide to 6.5 km long is advancing aggressively, threatening life, property, food production, and security of ecosystem in Akpulu and its environs. Analysis of soil samples collected from accessible portion of the gully depths of 3 m show peculiar geotechnical characteristics ranging from Liquid limits 27.5 – 30.4%, Plastic limits 17.35 – 22.75%, and Plasticity index 7.65-13.70%. The soil has highclay/silt content, with ranges of maximum dry density (2.01- 2.06g/m3), Optimum moisture content (12.1-13.4%), and average shear strength of 106.9KN/m2 It is easily erodible, as the silt gets dissolved by high velocity flood on 0.02 flow gradient. Expansion and maintenance of the main drainage channel from Umuchu to Akpakporo River in Apkulu is recommended. Secondary drainage channels to join the main channel, and increased trees planting from the gully head are also recommended.
Open Access
Assessment of x-ray radiation on x-ray workers and associated potential health problems in Owerri
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2013-06) Onyekaokwu, Okeke Cyriacus
A study on assessment of X-ray radiation among X-ray workers and associated potential health problems in Owerri was carried out with the thermolumolunescent dosimeter between 12th April to 30th December 2011. A total of 50 workers were used for the study. Comprising 24 male X-ray workers and 26 female X-ray workers. The mean X-ray dose below permissible doses is 9.4.7 the T-test is -4.29; the P-value is 0.000. The mean exposure factor is <100 is 88.52 and the standard deviation is 15.88, the standard error mean is 2.25, T-test is -5.11, P-value is 10.000 There is high doses above >20msv upto six test which involve 3 male x-ray workers and 3 female x-ray workers. The result of the study show high rate of hair loss, cancer, cataract, erthyma and sterility, each provide evidence of excess exposure of X-rays. Therefore it is recommended that workers should wear protective device e.g lead aprons, gonads cover during exposure to X-ray and also limit their exposure time
Open Access
Sequence stratigraphic interpretation of wells 1,2,3 & 4 in the "GERA" field, Greater Ughelli Depobelt, Niger Delta Basin, Nigeria
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2014-02) Onwualu, Nneka Emelda
A sequence stratigraphic approach was employed to understand sediments penetrated in Gera Field situated in the Greater Ughelli Depobelt, Central Niger Delta Basin. The technique incorporates biostratigraphic and well log data in constructing a high resolution sequence stratigraphic framework for the field. The analysis of the above data sets enabled the subdivision of the transverse part of the stratigraphic column within the field into sequences and system tracts. Four 3rd order Maximum Flooding Surfaces (MFS) and their intervening sequence boundaries (SB) were interpreted in the area. Three depositional sequences were interpreted within the field and were subdivided into transgressive systems tract and highstand systems tract. Four maximum flooding surfaces correlate with the 28.1Ma, 31.3Ma, 33.0Ma and 34.0Ma of the transgressive marker shales of the Niger Delta Chronostratigraphic Chart. The 28.1 million years (Ma) MFS (G. Opima Opima) with its distinct log signature, constitutes the regional seal rock while the different sequence boundaries act as excellent reservoirs of the field. Of the four sequence boundaries, only one was found to be truly Type-1 sequence boundary, while the other three could not be convincingly attributed to a Type-1 sequence boundary, since a lowstand systems tract does not overlie them. The age of sediments penetrated in Gera field is found to range from Early – Late Oligocene as deduced from the foram zonations of wells in the field.
Open Access
Patterns of diarrhoeal diseases in under-five children in Emekuku: A hospital-based study
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2014-04) Njoku, Chinonyerem John
This study was undertaken to determine the patterns of diarrhoeal diseases in under-5 children and the associated risk factors in Emekuku, Imo State, Nigeria. A matched pair case control study design with strict inclusion and exclusion criteria was adopted. Cases were children with loose watery feces, pathologically diagnosed with diarrhoea by the physician. Each case was captured immediately after diagnosis by the physician and administered with the questionnaire. Controls were children diagnosed of any other disease other than diarrhoea. Both cases and controls were appropriately matched in terms of age, sex, and other determinants and enrolled from the outpatient and children’s wards of the Hospital. A total of 176 under-5 children were enrolled with 88 cases and 88 controls. The results showed that most cases of diarrhoea observed were acute (93.2%), while persistent diarrhoea accounted for 6.8%. Ninety five percent (95%) of diarrhoeal cases were watery, with mean number of stools/child/day being 4.3 times (SD 1.92). Of the 17 exposure variables analyzed, only age (6-11 month); breast feeding (complementary feeding) (P<0.001); birth weight, maternal employment (unemployed women); toilet type (pit toilet); hand washing with water only (P<0.001); use of rain water and crowding index were significantly associated with diarrhoeal disease occurrence observed in this studied. The study shows that diarrhoeal diseases are still prevalent in this area. Interventions on exclusive breast feeding, provision of improved toilet type, and education on appropriate hand washing methods and improved sanitation should be intensified.
Open Access
Impact of oil spillage on physicochemical quality parameters of Abonema creek water
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2014-11) Onwuagba, Chinwe Grace
The current study investigated the impact of oil spillage on Physicochemical Quality parameters of Abonema creek water. Water sample was collected with a container from 3 different locations which included the control site. The samples were subjected to standard physicochemical analysis. Among other parameters analysed, conductivity(µs/cm2) (22000 – 29600),TDS (mg/L) (15400 – 20720), total petroleum hydrocarbon (mg/L) (0.001-1246.6) SO4-2(mg/L) (350 –510),Cl-(mg/L) (6900-8900), Pb2+(0.014 – 0.266 ), and alkalinity (mg/L) (65 – 75), where all above recommended WHO standard. This implies that the river is polluted by the discharge of effluent from petroleum exploration activities. Water sample from the affected site was more higher than that of the control. Companies should not wait until a spill is out of hand before a cleanup intervention; timely cleanup exercise should be encouraged.
Open Access
A Review of economic potentials of the river port of Onitsha
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2015-02) Okonkwo, Chukwuka
Inland waterways are one sector of transportation that has been grossly underutilized the world over, despite being one of the earliest form of transportation and facilitator of trade between people. This study aims to review the economic potentials of the Onitsha inland river port. The study adopted a mixed method research design as data were sourced from the secondary source (NIWA, NPA statistical bulletins & journals) and primary source using a well-structured likert modelled questionnaires administered to about 50 respondents. The data gathered were subjected to analysis using tools such as Analytical hierarchy process (AHP), Time series modeller and Trend analysis with the aid of AHP calculator and IBM Statistics Package for Social Scientists (SPSS V21) computer software. The findings depicts that the volume of import cargos from seaports destined for the southeast states which forms the hinterland for the river port shows a significant positive trend estimated by the linear regression line Y = 14075X – 18057. The time series modeller used to analyze the cargo trend series shows an acceptable value of R-squared and stationary R-squared of 72.3% and a mean average percentage error of 50.066%, indicating that the present are approximately 50% short of predicted volume by trend. The AHP results indicate that inland waterways (0.5276), road (trucking) (0.2527) and air (0.2197) in that order are the preferred mode of freight movement for logistics operators in the south east if presented with alternatives. The following factors in descending order forms the basis of their choice of freight means; safety (0.6026), timeliness (0.1822), costs (0.1174), efficiency (0.0691) and carrying capacity (0.0286). In conclusion, the southeast bound import cargoes from the seaports can well serve the Onitsha river port and are even short of their projected volume for the time period under study. It was recommended that the government should ensure continuous dredging of inland waterways and river banks to ensure all round navigability of the waterways. Government or future concessionaires of Onitsha river port should ensure installation of handling and storage facilities for bulk agricultural products like grain storage silos, pumps and tanks for vegetable oil, etc. to ensure the river port is capable of handling shipments of bulk agricultural products.
Open Access
Organic petrology of campano-maastrichtian sediments in the Agbogugu-Leru axis, Anambra Basin, South Eastern Nigeria
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2015-02) Obiukwu, Emenike Onyedikachi
Ten rock (n=10) samples were subjected to various geochemical analyses to determine organic petrology and paleoenvironment of early Cretaceous sediments in parts of the southern Anambra Basin. The procedure for the determination of the Total Organic Matter content and Rock Eval pyrolysis were achieved using LECO 600 analyzer with a TOC module. Extractible Organic Matter was determined by the use of Soxhlet Extractor while the biomarker distribution was ascertained with the Gas Chromatography. The results reveal that the Total Organic Content (TOC) of shale samples recovered from the Enugu Shale ranged from 0.72 to 4.94 wt % with an average of 2.64 wt %. Samples recovered from the Mamu Formation have TOC values ranging between 0.76 to 2.11 wt % with an average value of 1.49 wt %. These values essentially exceeded the threshold value of TOC ≥ 0.5 wt % requirements for shale rocks to qualify as petroleum source rocks. The values are therefore, suggestive of good to very good sources rocks. The Hydrogen Index (HI) values of sediments from Enugu Shale ranged between 43 to 547 mgHC/gTOC with an average value of 185.65 mgHC/gTOC, while those recovered from sections of the Mamu Formation have HI value of 27 to 54 mgHC/gTOC with an average value of 39.45 mgHC/gTOC. The corresponding Oxygen Index (OI) values ranging between 15 to 106 mgCO2/gTOC was recorded for Enugu Shale sediments with an average value of 59.2 mgCO2/gTOC. The analyzed sediments of the Mamu Formation on the other hand, revealed values of the range of 26 to 86 mgCO2/gTOC, with average of 49.4 mgCO2/gTOC. These results showed that the Enugu and Mamu Formation sediments are dominated by type III kerogen and mixed type II/III kerogens. The maximum Temperature (Tmax) ranged from 424 to 4390C with an average of 4320C and 417 to 4410C with an average of 4310C for sediments from the Enugu and Mamu Formations, respectively. These temperature values are indicative of immature to transitionally early mature source rocks. The dominant vitrinite maceral group in the analyzed shale samples ranged between 39 to 59 %; Inertnites, between 11 to 18 % while the liptinites ranged between 9 to 21 %. These bio facies in the shale samples from the Enugu and Mamu Formations were derived from the structural parts of plants that are deficient in hydrogen. The sediments are thus deposited in a suboxic but low PH paleo-depositional environment containing moderately to fairly rich organic matter. This source rock has the potential to generate gas rather than oil given sufficient maturity.
Open Access
An efficient predictive model for choosing mobile cellular service provider in Nigeria
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2015-07) Ohuabunwa, Augustine Ebere
Free competition and new network technology have increased competition and widened the range of network service available throughout the world. However, for cellular network service providers, loyalty is a rare trait among customers when it comes to choosing a particular mobile cellular system provider. Despite the huge financial commitment by companies into their respective communication technologies, users ultimately make decisions based on their perceived quality of service (QoS). This thesis attempts to identify the factors affecting the Quality of Service of cellular mobile network providers in Nigeria and put their effect in quantifiable terms using four leading telecommunication firms viz. MTN-Nigeria, Globacom, Etisalat and Airtel. With a clear choice of information sources, regressional analysis and SPSS was utilized. It was discovered that six factors affect the quality of service of cellular mobile network: Network coverage/ Availability of service(X5), Call quality(X3), Price of service (X4) , Customer care(X2), Diversity of bundle option of service (X1) and Promotion/Offering of Incentive(X6). A predictive model was derived as : Y = 3.731+0.565X5 + 0.440X3 + 0.221X2+ 0.189X4 + 0.165X1 + 0.097X6.The significance of the factors X4, X1 , X2 and X6 depend on X5 and X3, hence Y = 3.731(1+0.1514 X5+0.1179 X3).
Open Access
Forced vibration analysis of rectangular clamped plate subjected to hydrostatic loads
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri., 2015-07) Adeduntan, Kolawole Sunday.
This study presents forced vibration analysis of rectangular clamped plate subjected to hydrostatic load. Galerkin’s equilibrium equation of plate under forced vibration was used. Orthogonal polynomial deflection equation of a plate under hydrostatic load was also used. The deflection equation was substituted into the Galerkin equation and integrated within the closed domain. After integration, the natural frequency of the plate was determined for free vibration. The coefficient of the deflection for the various cases of forced vibration was also determined. Different percentages (0%, 20%, 40%, 60%, 80% and 100%) of the fundamental natural frequency were used as various forcing frequencies. With these frequencies, this study obtained deflection, bending moment and shear force of the plate for different values of aspect ratios (p=a/b), where a and b are the plate dimensions along x and y-axes. The values of fundamental natural frequency obtained were compared with those from Ventsel and Krauthemmer, Galin and Janich. For a square plate, the fundamental natural frequency obtained is 35.9982Hz and those of Ventsel and Krauthemmer, Galin and Janich are 36.3485Hz, 36.000Hz and 37.2500Hz respectively. For the same square plate, the mid span deflection using 0%, 20%, 40%, 60%, 80% and 100% of fundamental natural frequency are 0.00131m, 0.00164m, 0.00218m, 0.00327m and 0.00655m respectively. The edge bending moments of the square plate for same forcing frequencies are 0.0503KNm, 0.0621KNm, 0.0828KNm, 0.1257KNm and 0.2513KNm respectively. It was observed that deflection, bending moment and shear force increase as the forcing frequency increases.
Open Access
Relating plant morphological traits to uprooting resistance in erosion control: A case study in Nguzu-Edda, Ebonyi State
(Federal University of Technology,Owerri., 2016-01) Nwite, Stanley Aloh
The strength with which a plant resists uprooting in form of erosion is influenced by a number of morphological traits such as root form, the proportion of fine lateral roots, the stem basal diameter and the root biomass. However, it is unknown exactly what characteristics best promote plant stability. Few works have been done in this regard. This study relates plant morphological traits with resistance to uprooting by erosion. The case study selected for this research is the eroded land of Nguzu Edda in Ebonyi State, South Eastern-Nigeria where soils are subjected to harsh water erosion resulting in concentrated flows uprooting small plants. Several lateral uprooting tests were carried out to determine the uprooting forces for twelve plant species. In addition, measurements of above ground / underground traits of juvenile plants growing in the case study area were also carried out. Statistical analytical methods such as Analysis of Variance, Discriminant Analysis, Multiple range tests, multiple regressions were employed in the investigation. From results of analysis, plant maximum uprooting force ,FMAX, was found to have a linear positive relationship with stem basal diameter, D, for all the species. The twelve (12) species studied were classified into two resistance groups based on their resistance to uprooting. The resistance group consisting of plant species such as Oxytenthera abyssinica(bamboo), Vernonia amygdalina (bitter leaf), Milicia excelsa(African Teak) associated with high values of root slenderness ratio (21.43, 71.5,72.0), relative root volume {0.62,0.5,0.22}cm3 /cm, relative root dry weight {0.36,0.28,0.11} g/cm, percentage tap root dry weight{0.15,0.50,0.88}, root density{0.58,0.56,0.50}g/cm3 ;low values of specific root length {3.38, 3.59 ,3.04}cm/g and low values of percentage fine root{45.5,36.0,42.0}% were most suitable as they yielded high resistance to uprooting. The relationship between plant resistance to uprooting and morphological traits were found to be non linear in nature for both resistance groups irrespective of growth form. Hence, it is recommended that those plant species with high resistance to uprooting are suitable for use in erosion mitigation, flood control and land reclamation. Also hybrids and clones of plants with desirable traits of high values of root slenderness ratio, relative root dry weight, percentage tap root dry weight, root density and low values of specific root length and percentage fine roots are suitable for breeding as vegetation to mitigate erosion, control flood and reclaim land. The findings of this research will be beneficial to those using vegetation to mitigate erosion and control flood.
Open Access
The application of lean-six-sigma methodology in the manufacturing sector
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2018-06) Olanrewaju, Folorunso Sulaimon
This research on application of lean six sigma methodology in the manufacturing company was carried out in the Nigerian Breweries at Enugu. Nigerian Breweries was selected for the study because it has many production lines, operating systems and management strategies which were not properly developed. The main objective of this study was to determine how application of lean six sigma can be used to minimize product and time wastes. Three production lines (line A, B and C) were considered and data were collected from each production line. The data obtained were analyzed using statistical tools. The result obtained from the analysis showed that the two (2) defects on the labelling in line A occurred at the beginning of the batch production. In line B the corking machine produced some bottles without cork. The extraction forces in Line A and B were well centered between the limits 20 and 40N while line C shifted to the left with more samples under lower specification limit of 20N. The result obtained showed the relationship between the oxygen and vacuum with respect to the pressure exerted on the cork. Capability analysis result showed that the corking machine in line B was working in a capable process with number of defects less than 0.13% which was much better than the one in line A. Line A had 0.17% of bottles rejected in the filling machine which showed that 0.028% were mistakes of the normal variability of the process. VSM analysis result showed that 32mins from the lead time were not value added activities, thus only 28.2% was value added time. Though the greater time was in the inventory before the washing machines. A reduction of 37.7% in value added time was achieved. The cause-effect diagram provided the main priorities to control and solve the problem of number of defects in each production line. The study recommended the adoption of the output of this work to other similar company.
Open Access
Effects of fly ash and rice-husk ash on lime stabilization of expansive soils from Lokpaukwu and Awgu, Nigeria
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2018-10) Nnabuihe, kingsley Ikechukwu
Soil stabilization refers to the technique of altering the properties of a soil so as to improve its engineering performance. It aims at using chemical additives such as lime as a lone stabilizer or in combination with industrial residues (fly ash, rice husk ash, etc) to achieve this fit. This work investigates the effects of lime alone, lime fly ash (LFA) and lime-rice husk ash (LRHA) blends in varying percentage mixtures on the engineering properties of expansive soils from Lokpaukwu (Ezeaku Formation) and Awgu (Awgu Formation) in Lower Benue Trough. The soils were stabilized with different percentages of lime (i.e. 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10%) and varying percentage ratio for lime-fly ash and lime-rice husk ash blends (i.e. 2 : 6, 2 : 8, 2.5:7.5, 2.5 : 10, 3 : 9, 3 : 12, 4 : 12, 4 : 16, 5 : 15 and 5:20).Liquid limit, plastic limit, linear shrinkage, compaction characteristics and California Bearing Ratio (CBR) tests were performed on the natural and lime-treated Lokpaukwu and Awgu soil samples while consistency limits and linear shrinkage tests only were performed on the lime-residue treated soil samples. Results of the study indicate that optimum reduction percentage of 24.14% and 30.56% (liquid limits), 72.22% and 74.42% (plasticity indices), 56.14% and 60.12% (linear shrinkages) and maximum percentage increase of 25.60 and 33.70 (Optimum Moisture Content (OMC)), 193.3 and 250 (unsoaked CBR), and 766 and 700 (soaked CBR) for Lokpaukwu and Awgu samples respectively were obtained on stabilizing the soils with 6% lime content. The results from lime-fly ash (LFA) and lime-rice husk ash (LRHA) blends indicate that liquid limits, plasticity indices and Linear Shrinkages decreased from 58 and 72 to 46 and 51, 36 and 43 to 11 and 12, 11.4 and 14.3 to 6.4 and 7.1, and from 58 and 72 to 45 and 51, 36 and 43 to 10 and 11, 11.4 and 14.3 to 6.4 and 7.1 for Lokpaukwu and Awgu samples respectively when treated with Lime-fly ash blend of 3 – 12% and lime-rice husk ash blend of 3 – 9%. It could be concluded that improving the characteristics of expansive soils by lime-fly ash blend or lime-rice husk ash blend is successful and provides immense environmental and economic benefits
Open Access
Classification of soils on slopes of varying orientations in Umuahia area of Abia State, South Eastern Nigeria
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2018-10) Aliba, Vero O.
Slope aspect affects soil properties. The study characterized and classified soils on slopes of varying orientations in Umudike (East-lying Topo sequence) and Itu (West-lying Topo sequence), both in Olokoro Umuahia, southeastern Nigeria. Transect soil sampling technique was employed in locating three distinct positions, namely summit, midslope and foot slope along each of the topo sequences at the East and West-lying orientations. A profile pit was dug at the most representative points of the topo sequences in each of the two locations and the soil profiles were described in situ, following the FAO guidelines. Soil samples were collected from each pedon based on the horizon differentiations and subjected to routine laboratory analyses. The soils were classified using the USDA Soil Taxonomy and correlated with the FAO World Reference Base. Data obtained were subjected to statistical analysis (coefficient of variability and correlation) using the Genstat computer package. Results showed that soils of the East-lying slope were edominantly sandy-clay loam at the summit but sandy clay at the mid and foot slopes, while in the West-lying slope, the texture was dominantly sandy-clay loam at both the summit and mid slope but prominently sandy loam at the foot slope. Soils of East-lying slope had very dark grayish brown (10YR3/2) moist to strong brown (7.5YR5/8)moist, dark brown (7.5R3/2) to strong brown (7.5YR5/8) moist, dark gray (5YR4/1) to reddish yellow(7.5R6/8) moist colours at the summit, mid slope and foot slope respectively, while that of the West-lying topo sequence varied from brown (7.5YR4/2) moist to yellowish colour (5YR5/6), very dark grey (7.5YR3/1) moist to yellowish red (5YR5/8),very dark grayish brown (10YR3/2) moist to reddish yellow (5YR6/6) moist colours at the summit, midslope and foot slope, respectively. The weathering intensity of the soils varied from moderate to high with silt-clay ratios ranging from 0.04-0.93, 0.04-1.26 and 0.04-0.66 at the summit, mid slope and foot slope respectively, in the East-lying topo sequence and from 0.04-070, 0.27-1.59 and 0.14-1.08 at the summit, mid slope and foot slope respectively, i n the West-lying topo sequence. Bulk densities of soils increased with depth with mean values of 1.36 gcm-3, 1.32 g cm-3, and 1.34 g cm-3 recorded at the summit, slope and foot slope respectively, in the East-lying topo sequence and 1.37 g cm-3 , 1.33 g cm 3 and 1.32 g cm-3 at the summit, mid slope and foot slope respectively, in the West lying topo sequence. High variation (CV>35%) was noted in Ksat in the profiles of the top sequence, with values of Ksat ranging from 0.3-1.11 cm hr-1, 0.19-1.96 cm hr-1and 0.15-1.47 cm hr-1 at the summit, midslope and foot slope, respectively in the West-lying topo sequence whereas in the xiast-lying topo sequence, the values ranged from 0.18-2 cm hr-1 , 0.11-1.97 cm hr-1and 0.12-1.48 hr-1 at the summit, mid slope and foot slope, respectively. Soil pH was very strongly acidic (4.58-4.78) in the East-lying topo sequence but varied from very strongly acidic to strongly acidic (4.52-5.30), in the west lying topo sequence. Organic matter concentration was generally higher at the epipedons and ranged from (26.44to 23.36) gkg-1 and (30.64to 18.9) gkg-1 in soils of the East-lying and West-lying slopes, respectively. Effective cation exchange capacity varied from (8.63- 13.79) cmolkg-1 in the East-lying topo sequence and (10.42- 16.31) cmolkg-1 in the West –lying topo sequence. Soils of East-lying topo sequence were classified as Grossarenic Paleudalfs, Typic Paleudalfs and Arenic Hapludalfs Typic (USDA) at the summit, midslope and footslope, respectively and correlated with Mollic Luvisols of the World Reference Base (WRB) whereas the soils of West-lying slope were classified as Arenic Glossudalfs, Typic Paleudalfs and Typic Ferrudalfs (USDA) at the summit, midslope and footslope, respectively which correlate to Haplic Albeluvisols of the WRB (FAO) legend
Open Access
Detection of virulence and resistance genes in bacterial isolates from seafood obtained from Nembe and Ox-Bow Lake, Bayelsa State, Nigeria
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2019-09) Justice-Alucho, Chinwe Happiness
Microorganisms have developed different mechanisms of evading the actions of antimicrobial agents, consequently, reducing the effectiveness of these antimicrobial agents. Antibiotics abuse and their use in animal husbandry have increased the acquisition and transfer of antibiotic resistant genes from and within the environment. This study is aimed at detecting resistance and virulence genes in bacterial isolates from seafood. A total of 200 fresh seafood samples (crab, shrimp, oyster and periwinkle) were collected randomly from Nembe River and Ox-bow Lake. Isolates were obtained using the conventional microbiological methods after an initial enrichment treatment in peptone for six (6) hours. The pure cultures were screened by gram staining and biochemical test for preliminary identification and representative isolates were characterized for 16SrRNA using Polymerase Chain Reaction and Sequencing. The isolates were further subjected to pathogenicity test to identify the presence of hemolysin and coagulase as well as antimicrobial susceptibility testing using standard oxoid commercial antibiotics. The 16srRNA sequence of the isolates produced an exact match during the mega blast search to Staphylococcus gallinarum, Vibrio rotiferianus, Vibrio parahaemolyticus, Klebsiella aerogenes and Klebsiella quasipneumoniae. All isolates showed resistance to ceftriazone, ceftazidime, ampicillin and penicillin. The multi-drug resistant isolates were analyzed for the presence of the resistance genes ctx-M, shv, mec A and acrAB as well as virulence genes; tdh and sxt. acrAB genes were detected in Klebsiella aerogenes and Klebsiella quasipneumoniae, the ctx-M was detected only in Klebsiella quasipneumoniae, the shv was detected in Klebsiella quasipneumoniae, Klebsiella aerogenes and Vibrio rotiferianus. The tdh genes were detected in Vibrio parahaemolyticus only. Staphylococcus gallinarum was positive for mecA genes. The presence of these Extended Spectrum β-Lactamases and other resistance genes explains why the isolates were resistant to the third generation cephalosporins as well as the β-lactam antibiotics. The presence of virulence gene, tdh in Vibrio sp codes for the virulence in these organisms therefore rendering the food unsafe for consumption. Adequate handling as well as proper cooking of seafood before consumption should be highly recommended so as to reduce the incidence of food-borne infections as well as antibiotic resistance.
Open Access
Assessment of surface water quality of Onuiyieke River in Imo State , Nigeria
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2019-12) Eze, Chinwe Catherine
The surface water quality of Onuiyieke River was assessed for a period of six months (September, 2017 - February, 2018) at seven sampling locations (SLs) to ascertain its quality status. Measurements were made on samples collected with 500ml sample bottles according to standard methods. Samples for heavy metals were collected in 250ml bottle and fixed with concentrated HN03. Descriptive analysis, variation plots, ANOVA, Duncan Multiple Range tests, Principal Components Analysis (PCA), Pearson Correlation (r) and Water Quality Index (WQI) were used to analyze data. Mean values of the parameters obtained were: Total Suspended Solids (TSS) 198.19 ±80.93mg/L; Electrical Conductivity (EC) 331.81 ±59.78µ; Turbidity 18.84 ± 2.22 NTU; Nitrate ions 14.77 ±0.92mg/L; Dissolved Oxygen (DO) 6.58 ±O.22mg/L and Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD) 1.77±0.10mg/L. Mean values of the Trace Metals obtained were: Iron (Fe) 1.93 ±0.23mg/L; Magnesium (Mg) 0.22±0.02mg/L and Calcium (Ca) 15.15±1.87mg/L while the mean value of Faecal Coliform was 1.91±O.10MPN/100. pH, EC, TSS, BOD5, turbidity, N03-, Ammonia, Fe and faecal coliforms exceeded the NESREA and WHO maximum permissible limits. There were significant spatial differences in levels of TDS, EC, NO3, NH3, DO and Faecal coliforms (Sig F=0.000 to 0.039) and significant temporal differences in levels of PO43- (Sig F= 0.078 to 1000) between the control and other locations.at p<0.05. Four Principal Components (PCs) formed the extraction solution with a cumulative percentage variability of about 77.67 %. PCs 1, 2, 3, and 4 were most highly correlated with Mg2+ (0.925), NH4 (0.903), TSS (0.930) and temperature (0.840) respectively. The Water Quality Index revealed that the rating for the water quality across the sampling locations was between excellent and unsuitable with SL 3 having the least water quality. Appropriate monitoring procedures for the sustainable development of the river should also be put in place.
Open Access
Spatiotemporal assessment of air quality in selected LGA in Rivers State
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2019-12) Ukaegbu, Kingsley Ogochukwu Emmanuel
The pollution of ambient air has long been revealed as the most fatal form of environmental pollution. The levels of air pollution vary from one location to another and from time to time. The aim of the study is to assess the spatiotemporal distribution of air pollutants in selected LGAs in Rivers State. Nine points in the study area were sampled within two peak-periods (8.00 am and 4.00 pm), based on high industrial clusters, high vehicular traffic, and rising human population density. The concentrations of PM2.5, PM10, CO, SO2, and NO2 were measured using a handheld gas analyzer. A handheld Germin-300 GPS device was used to record the GPS coordinates of the sampling points which aided the data processing, to develop spatial interpolation maps in ArcMap. The results of air quality parameters were above the WHO and FMEnv air quality standards. PM 2.5 and PM10 have a maximum value of 159.23 and 378.39 respectively which is higher than the WHO and FMEnv Standard limits for 24 hours exposure. The recorded exceedance is 68.5ppb, 28.7ppb and 113.7ppb for SO2, NO2, and CO respectively, in the wet season. 71.1ppb, 15.31ppb and 58.9 ppb for SO2, NO2, and CO respectively in the dry season, are higher than WHO and FMEnv limited. Based on these, it is recommended that the populace of Port Harcourt city should limit their exposure especially in the dry season.
Open Access
An improved direction finding system antenna using method of moment approach
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2019-12) Anaebo, Ogonna Frances
This study focuses on the Performance Improvement of a Direction Finding System Antenna Using Method of Moment (MoM) Approach. The work was developed to provide an approximate current distribution for a direction finding system antenna by employing the use of Method of Moment on an array of Yagi-uda antenna. The parameters of the experimental antenna were derived and analyzed using Magnetic Vector Potential (MVP) operator. The accurate current flowing through the radiating elements of the direction finding system was analyzed using combination of Method of Moment technique and Magnetic Vector Potential (MVP) operator. The antenna parameters were simulated using MatLab R2010a software tools. From the results obtained, the Average Poynting vector of the designed yagi antenna is 3.73 watt per square metre, and Radiation Intensity value of about 9.400 columns per kilogram. The simulation results also indicated an appreciable increase in directivity of 9.03dBi and enhanced directive gain compared to that of the equivalent log-periodic antenna of 6.5dBi, signifying 2.53dBi enhancement.
Open Access
Effects of glyphosate and 2,4- dichlorophenoxyacetic acid on the hatchability and larval development of african catfish (Clarias gariepinus)
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri., 2019-12) Alozie, Stephen Nnadozie
The effects of the exposure of glyphosate and 2, 4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid, on the egg hatchability and larvae development ofCatfish (Clarias gariepinus)were evaluated using standard methods. Acute toxicity,hatchability of eggs, survivability of larvae, biochemical and histological parameters of reproductive organs and skin were evaluated. The acute lethal study of glyphosate and 2, 4-D on catfish fingerlings showed that no fish died within 24 hrs. However, for the mixture of glyphosate and 2, 4-D, at higher concentrations death occurred, and the LD50was less than 2500mg/kg (2154.07mg/kg). There was a change inwater quality resulting from application of the toxicants compared to the control. There wasalso decrease in the hatchability of the eggsand reproductive success for the mixture of glyphosate and 2, 4-D treatments. The highest percentage mortalityand least percentage survivability(after fourteen days) were recorded in the mixture of glyphosate and 2, 4-D-treated eggs (72±60 and 20±16.67 respectively). The mean weight gain value and the instantaneous growth rate, expressed as Specific Growth Rate (SGR), werelow in the mixture of glyphosate and 2, 4-D (0.75 ± 0.08g and 0.71 respectively) compared with control (2.24±0.22). Physical examination showed the larvae of the mixture of glyphosate and 2, 4-D to be smaller and lighter (tail region appeared transparent) relative to those from other treatments and control. Biochemical parameterson the liver revealed elevation in the activities of stimulating liver enzymes (GSH and GST)in all experimental groups (1.06/6.88E-06, 1.67/5.72E-06, 1.73/5.88E-06) compared with control (1.53/4.28E-06). There werealso elevation in the activities of the antioxidant enzymes such as Catalase (CAT), Superoxide dismutase (SOD), Glutathione Peroxidase (GPx), and lipid peroxidation compared with control. There was reduction in the total protein level for the glyphosate treatment (15.46g/l) compared to control (25.60g/l). The histological changes observed in this experiment revealed that glyphosate, 2, 4-D and their mixtures caused negative effects on the skin, testes and ova of Clarias gariepinus brood stocks. The fish organs examined showed varying degrees of pathological alterations/degenerations to the skin, testes and ova in all the treatments compared to the control. These results show that the herbicides, glyphosate and 2, 4-D, have toxic effects on the hatchability and survivability of Clarias gariepinus. These toxic effects were more deleterious when the two herbicides were mixed, as the synergistic effects greatly impeded fish reproduction
Open Access
Levels of aflatoxin M1 and selected heavy metals in the breast milk of lactating mothers in Owerri, Nigeria
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri., 2020-02) Ekeanyanwu, Chidinma Lynda
Mother's breast milk which is the basic diet for infants is loaded with proteins, fats, carbohydrates and essential minerals which are necessary for proper nutrition of the infant. Regrettably, breast milk is also a likely source of aflatoxins and toxic metals which are unsafe for the breastfeeding child. In Nigeria, there is a paucity of information on aflatoxin and toxic heavy metals exposure, especially in the southeast region. In the present study, we assessed the level and frequency of breast milk AfM1 and some heavy metals as biomarkers of maternal exposure. Breast milk samples were collected from a selected group of 40 lactating mothers of infants attending the Federal Medical Centre Owerri, Imo State, between June and August 2019. Some heavy metals (Pb, Cd, Cr, Cu, Zn, Fe, As, and Hg) were analyzed using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry while AfM1 levels were assessed by HPLC with fluorescence detection after aflatoxin extraction. The mean (±standard deviation) concentration of AfM1 in the breast milk samples was 4.02±1.12 ng/L and 100% of all the samples contained AfM1 at 2.33 – 7.08 ng/L. AfM1 concentration was positively and significantly (p<0.01) associated with the daily consumption of cassava-based foods, groundnut oil, maize, tomatoes and dry fruit (p<0.05). No significant association (p>0.05) was observed between AfM1 concentration in breast milk with employment status and educational level in nursing mothers. The mean (±standard deviation) values of these heavy metals were Cd: 0.029±0.013 mg/L, Cr: 0.019±0.011 mg/L, Cu: 0.035±0.013 mg/L, Fe: 0.049±0.039 mg/L, Pb: 0.038±0.013 mg/L and Zn: 0.009±0.008 mg/L. The result of the estimated daily intake of breast milk by the breastfed infants shows that heavy metals such as Pb, Fe, and Cd are ingested more daily than other metals analyzed. There was a weak positive but non-significant correlation between heavy metal content and daily intake of maternal diet except for beans where a significant correlation (p<0.01) was found with Cr, Cu and Zn. A weak positive but non-significant correlation was also observed between exposure to heavy metals such as Cu, Fe and Pb and maternal diets. None of the samples exceeded the national and international legal regulatory limit for AfM1 and the selected heavy metals in breast milk except for chromium. Generally, their presence still poses a health risk.
Open Access
Intelligent agent service for detecting impersonators in online examination environment using K-nearest neighbor alorithm
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2020-10) Izu-Okpara, Ijeoma Onyinye
Intelligent Agent Service for Detecting Impersonators in Online Examination Environment was developed for managing major challenges such as security and cheating (impersonation) that is now a critical issue associated with online examination system or computer-based testing (CBT). The key informant interview technique, observations, and critical review of articles related to CBT methodologies (design and development) were used to gather facts regarding the study area. The agile software methodology was adopted as the software development life cycle based on its strengths in team work and efficient product delivery haven examined six different software methodologies. A multi-level security service was developed to handle various security threats at the different operational levels of the proposed system using 256-bit SSH algorithm, Merssene Twister Algorithm, 128-bit Advanced Encryption Standard (AES), and Message Digest (MD) 5 algorithm. The K-Nearest Neighbor (KNN) machine learning algorithm was implemented as an intelligent agent service to give the proposed system some intelligence in detecting and classifying a likely suspected case of impersonation and its severity level during an online examination. JavaScript, Hypertext preprocessor (PHP), MySQL, Hypertext Markup Language (HTML), Cascading Style Sheet (CSS) and Python programming language were used to develop the software prototype. Unified Modeling Language (UML) such as sequence diagram and usecase diagram were used to model the system behavior and interactivity. The developed system accuracy in terms of the algorithm used for detecting impersonators was evaluated using confusion matrix. Results revealed 98% accuracy with the K-NN algorithm implemented. Finally, the results based on the acceptance testing done also revealed that 86% of the users strongly agreed with the performance level of the developed platform; hence, recommendations is made for the proposed system to be adopted by Nigerian Universities and companies based on its effectiveness in impersonation detection.