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Item Open Access Molecular identification and safety assessment of microorganisms in okpeye sold in Owerri and Onitsha markets in South-eastern Nigeria(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2004-10) Agunwah, Ijeoma MaureenOkpeye an indigenous fermented condiment produced from Prosopis africana seeds was assessed to evaluate the microbilogical quality of the condiment. Eighteen (18) commercial samples of okpeye were purchased from six markets in two cities in South Eastern Nigeria. Fifty-nine (59) bacteria colonies were isolated and identified at the species level by phenotyping and sequencing of the 16S rRNA, gyrB and rpoB genes. Bacillus (47.4%) and Staphylococcus (42.3%) were the predominant bacterial species in okpeye. Overall, B. amyloliquefaciens and S. simulans were the most frequently occurring bacteria and were present in all samples. In addition, B. cereus was isolated in samples obtained from all markets. Other bacterial species included B. velezensis, Oceanobacillus caeni, S. cohnii, Escherichia fergusonni and Vagacoccus lutrae. The B. cereus isolates (10) were screened for the presence of 8 enterotoxin genes (hblA, hblC, hblD, nheA, nheB, nheC, cytK, entFM) and one emetic gene (cesB). The non-haemolytic enterotoxin (nhe ABC) and haemolytic enterotoxin (hbl ABD) complexes were present in 70% and 50% of B. cereus respectively. The positive rate of cytK and entFM genes was 70%, while the cesB gene was 30%. The haemolysis test revealed twenty- three isolates out of the twenty-eight isolates tested showing full haemolytic activity on blood agar. Two isolates (O22 and A22) showed partial haemolysis while three (O11, O15 and A12) showed no haemolysis.Antibiotic susceptibility assessment showed that most of the isolates were susceptible to gentamicin, tetracycline, streptomycin, and erythromycin but resistant to ciprofloxacin and vancomycin. These findings highlight the need for further controls to reduce contamination with potential pathogenic bacteria in indigenous fermented condiments such as okpeye. Two isolates that gave the best safety assessment results were used as starter cultures for the fermentation of Prosopis africana seeds. The bacterial load of seeds fermented with the starter cultures was slightly higher than the spontaneously fermented seeds with a value range of (7.7- 9.4 log10 Cfu/g). The seeds fermented with mixed cultures of B. licheniformis and B. amyloliquefaciens had the highest pH (9.14), temperature (39.96oC) and titratable acidity (TTA) (1.03%) after 168 hours of fermentation. The protein, fat, ash and carbohydrate content were higher in okpeye fermented with starter cultures (B, C and D) than that of the commercial samples (E). The spontaneously fermented sample (A) had the highest protein content (27.80%) than all the other samples. The phytochemical composition showed that okpeye fermented with mixed cultures of B. licheniformis and B. amyloliquefaciens had the highest oxalates (11.52%), saponins (0.05%), phytates (549.75 mg/100g), alkaloids (13.03%) and flavonoids (14.20%) than the commercial and spontaneously fermented samples. The spontaneously fermented samples had the highest tannin (13.29 mg/100g) and total phenol (330.36 mg/g) than all the other samples. The commercial sample had the least phytochemical nutrients except for phytate (58.53 mg/100g) and cyanide (1.60 mg/g). The sensory analysis showed that soup cooked with okpeye fermented with mixed cultures of B. licheniformis and B. amyloliquefaciens had the best results in aroma (7.27), flavour(7.40), appearance (7.30), after taste (7.17) and overall acceptability (7.31). The sensory results showed that okpeye fermented with mixed cultures of B. licheniformis and B. amyloliquefaciens was well accepted by consumers. Based on this acceptability as well as the nutritional composition and phytochemical composition, mixed cultures of B. licheniformis and B. amyloliquefaciens c be recommended in the fermentation of P. africana seeds to produce safe and good quality okpeye.Item 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, OwetteThis 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.Item 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 CyriacusA 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 timeItem 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 EmeldaA 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.Item 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 JohnThis 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.Item Open Access Impact of oil spillage on physicochemical quality parameters of Abonema creek water(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2014-11) Onwuagba, Chinwe GraceThe 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.Item Open Access A Review of economic potentials of the river port of Onitsha(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2015-02) Okonkwo, ChukwukaInland 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.Item 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 OnyedikachiTen 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.Item Open Access Sequestration and dynamic of carbon and nitrogen in soils of dissimilar lithologies under different land use types in Southeastern Nigeria(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2015-06) Ahukaemere, Chioma Mildred.The study was conducted to determine carbon and nitrogen sequestration and dynamics in soils developed on different parent materials (Coastal Plain Sand, Falsebedded Sandstones and Shale) under different land use types (forest, fallow and cultivated lands) in South-eastern Nigeria. Geology maps were used to guide the location of sampling sites. Three parent materials and three different land use types in each of the parent materials were randomly selected. The study was a three factor experiment laid in a randomized complete block design (RCBD). A total of 27 profile pits were studied. Soil samples were collected from each of the profiles according to their horizons. Undisturbed soil samples for determination of bulk density were collected in core samplers. Small portions of the samples were air dried, crushed and sieved using a 2-mm sieve in preparation for laboratory analyses. Carbon and Nitrogen forms and sequestration, morphological and physico-chemical properties of soils were determined. Data were subjected to ANOVA , multiple regression, coefficient of variation and correlation analyses. From the results, carbon sequestration ranged from 3229 gCm2in Falsebedded sandstone-derived soils to 3648 gCm2 in Shale-derived soils, and did not differ significantly across the soils. Nitrogen sequestration differed significantly (p < 0.001) with soils derived from Coastal plain sands having higher quantity (248.00 gNm-2) while the least was recorded in soils formed from Shale (91 gNm2). The C sequestration capacity of the soils of the different land use types varied significantly (p < 0.05) with fallow soils derived from Falsebedded Sandstone and Coastal plain sand containing the highest quantities (4753 gCm-2 , 4222 gCm-2). Carbon and nitrogen sequestration increased with horizon thickness in all the profiles across the soils studied. The mean total carbon contents ranged from 39.20 to 82.80 gkg-1across the soils and did not follow uniform pattern of distribution down the profiles, except in fallow soils of the Falsebedded Sandstone where it increased with depth. Soils derived from Shale had the least quantity of total carbon while those of Falsebedded Sandstone had the highest value. Forest soils had higher quantity of total carbon (109.20, 42.40 gkg-1) compared to those of fallow and cultivated soils of the Falsebedded sandstone and Shale . Organic carbon constituted about 58% of total carbon in Shale-derived soils, 20.81% in Coastal plain sand and 27.66 % in Falsebedded sandstone –derived soils. In soils of the different land use types, forest soils contained significantly higher proportion of organic carbon, followed by fallow and lastly by those of the cultivated lands. Organic carbon correlated significantly with clay (r = 0.513, 0.578) (p < 0.001), WSA (r = 0.506, 0.626, 0.646) (p < 0.001) and BD (r = - 0.537, - 0.900, -0.736 ) (p < 0.001) respectively. The mean total nitrogen contents of the soils varied from 5.49 - 8.24 mg/kg in soils of dissimilar parent materials, 3.60 - 14.33 mgkg-1, 7.33 – 8.87 mgkg-1, 2.01 – 10.49 mg/kg in soils of the different land use types. Soils formed from Coastal plain sand and Falsebedded sandstone contained significantly higher (p < 0.01) quantity of total nitrogen than those of Shale. In soils of the different land use types, forest soils contained significantly higher (p < 0.001) proportion of total nitrogen (14.33, 10.49 mgkg-1) than fallow and cultivated soils. Soils formed from Falsebedded sandstone and Shale had significantly higher (p < 0.001) proportions of available N compared to those of Coastal plain sand. In soils of the different land use types, forest soils had significantly higher proportion of available N compared to fallow and cultivated soils. Soils developed on different parent materials under different land use types had varying colour matrix ranges. Soil texture ranged from sand, loamy sand to sandy loam in soils derived from Coastal plain sand and Falsebedded Sandstone, loam, sandy clay loam, silt clay loam to clay in Shalexiiderived soils with soils formed from Shale containing significantly (p < 0.001) higher proportion of clay (263 gkg-1) than those of Falsebedded sandstone (77 gkg-1) and Coastal plain sand (90 gkg-1). The mean bulk density (BD) values ranged from 1.06 to 1.22 gcm-3in soils derived from the three parent materials. Forest soils had the least bulk density values (0.98, 1.09, 1.08 gcm-3) compared to other land uses. In soils of different parent materials, Shale derived soils had highest percentage moisture content (12.49%) while those derived from Falsebedded sandstone had the least amount (9.09%). In soils under the three land use types, forest and fallow soils had significantly higher (p < 0.001) quantity of soil moisture than the cultivated soils. Shale-derived soils had significantly higher (p < 0.001) stable aggregates (29.23%, 1.35 mm) than those derived from Coastal plain sand and Falsebedded sandstone. In soils of the varying land uses, soils of the forest had significantly higher (p < 0.001) stable aggregates compared to those of fallow and cultivated lands. Soils were slightly acidic across the parent materials and land use types. Significantly (p < 0.01) least proportion of Calcium (Ca) (2.76 cmolkg-1) was recorded in soils of the Falsebedded sandstones while those developed on Shale had the highest quantity (4.28 cmolkg-1). Significantly higher percentage base saturation was obtained in soils derived from Shale (91.4%) while the least value was obtained in Falsebedded sandstone-derived soils (68.71%). Taxonomic classification was done to the Subgroup level. The soil classes derived from soil taxonomic classification of the USDA was correlated with the World Reference Base. Soils were classified as Grossarenic Kandiudults (USDA), Chromic Acrisols (WRB), Typic Kandiudults (USDA), Rhodic Acrisols (WRB), Lithic Kanhapludults (USDA), Rhodic Acrisols (WRB), Arenic Kandiudults (USDA), Chromic Acrisols (WRB), Vertic Paleudults (USDA), Haplic Acrisols (WRB), Entic Paleudults (USDA), Haplic Acrisols (WRB), Psammentic Hapludults (USDA), Arenic Acrisols (WRB)Item Open Access Comparative economic analysis of compressed natural gas and automotive gas oil as automobile fuels(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2015-06) Ubani, Uzodinma ByronComparative economic analysis of the use of compressed natural gas (CNG) and the use of AGO for power generation was presented. The data for costs of constructing and running CNG-powered vehicles were obtained for the study. Separate economic analyses of running the CNG-powered vehicles and running AGO vehicles were performed. The initial capital cost for CNG project amounted to N4.31 million and that for diesel was N3.60 million while the annual operating cost for CNG is N1.47 million and that for diesel is N2.98 million. This difference in the capital costs is basically due to the addition of the extra parts and connections to convert the AGOl powered vehicle to a bi-fuel-powered vehicle which would be able to use CNG as fuel. The difference in the operating costs is due to the fact that the costs of the two fuels are not the same. The net revenue for CNG is N2.85 million while that for diesel is N1.34 million. This difference in net revenues is resultant from the difference in their gross revenues resultant from the difference in operating costs. Figures in the text were used to determine the pay-out of the projects which is 1.45 years for CNG and 2.7 years for diesel respectively. The NPV and other parameters that make up the project economics were estimated for CNG and diesel. The NPV for CNG at an expected rate of return of 10% is N17.56 million while for AGO, the NPV is N5.86 million. The summary of the result of the calculations of all the parameters examined for both CNG and diesel was also presented. From the whole analysis done it is easily seen that using CNG for powering vehicles is more profitable than using AGOl.Item Open Access An efficient predictive model for choosing mobile cellular service provider in Nigeria(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2015-07) Ohuabunwa, Augustine EbereFree 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).Item 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.Item Open Access Assessment of water quality of the Ogu Creek impacted by seaport activities in Onne, near Port Harcourt, Rivers State(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2015-12) Agbonikhena, Asuenime NasiruThe physicochemical parameters of the Ogu Creek serving the Onne Port of the Nigerian Ports Authority in Port Harcourt, which is impacted by Port transport activities were investigated in September 2011 at 6 sampling points. In situ measurements were made for water temperature, pH, salinity, dissolved oxygen (DO), turbidity, and conductivity using HORIBA U-10 Water Quality Checker and for total dissolved solids (TDS) with HACH conductivity/TDS meter. Other parameters were determined using standard methods of APHA. Water samples were collected in replicates with 2 litres plastic containers and transferred to the laboratory in iced-coolers for analysis. The test of homogeneity in mean variance was used to determine spatial variation in the physicochemical variables, and the Pearson correlation coefficient (r) used to explore the interrelationship existing between the parameters. Mean parameters were observed as follows: temperature 28.25 ± 0.12 °C, pH 6.02 ± 0.20, salinity 36.32 ± 0.12 ‰, DO 3.38 ± 0.14 mg/L, BOD 1.74 ± 0.21 mg/L, TSS 25.05 ± 2.45 mg/L, TDS 53.60 ± 5.75 mg/L, turbidity 81.23 ± 5.22 NTU, alkalinity 17.92 ± 1.61 mg/L, conductivity 1815.00 ± 238.24 µS/cm, total petroleum hydrocarbons 2.10 ± 0.15 mg/L, NO3-3.62 ± 0.36 mg/L, PO42-2.59 ± 0.38 mg/L, SO4 2-78.07 ±8.70 mg/L, Cl95.55 ± 16.66 mg/L, Al 0.95 ± 0.08 mg/L, Cd 0.022 ± 0.011 mg/L, Cr 0.05 ± 0.01mg/L, Cu 0.08 ± 0.01 mg/L, Fe 2.67 ± 0.38 mg/L and Pb 0.030 ± 0.009 mg/L. The lower ranges of pH, the upper ranges of Al and Fe, and Cd and Cu levels were outside permissible limits of the Federal Ministry of Environment for aquatic life. The control sampling location recorded highest concentrations in several of the variables, even as there was marked spatial heterogeneity [F(8.41)Item Open Access Application of deterministic and stoichastic analysis of fault seal integrity in Baka Field, Niger Delta(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2015-12) Njoku, Ikechukwu OnyemaFault seal analysis in fault dependent reservoirs were carried out at different reservoir levels in the Baka Field, Niger Delta. These involved stratigraphic correlation, 3-D seismic interpretation of faults and horizons, time-depth conversion of all interpreted faults and structural maps using both check-shot and synthetic seismogram. Also, static models of all interpreted reservoir levels, and 3-D deterministic and stochastic fault seal integrity models were carried out. The deterministic approach applied in this study is sensitive to uncertainties associated with mapping of horizons in the proximity of faults and the inherent uncertainties in the static fault interpretation in both position and fault zone properties complexity. However, the integration of stochastic approach captured the uncertainties in the position of the reservoirs at all interpreted faults by allowing multiple realizations of stacking geometries relative to their lateral reservoir distribution. All hydrocarbon bearing reservoir levels and faults were interpreted in detail on seismic and a structural framework model was built for juxtaposition analysis and fault shale gouge ratio calculation. The interpreted hydrocarbon columns of the reservoirs in the field are mostly controlled by structural spill points, implying that the faults affecting the accumulation must be effectively sealed which is evident from calculated high SGR values. Some reservoirs are under filled, indicating that the faults are leaking. It was shown that these fault intervals have relatively low SGR. There is high degree of conformity between field hydrocarbon column heights and the stochastic column heights predicted from the shale gouge ratio. The calculated shale gouge ratio quite matched with the shale gouge ratio related column height distribution used in exploration. Top shale thickness played a role (impede up dip fluid conduit), but not a major factor in the Baka reservoirs as regards to column controls. Also, faults in the Baka Field leaks at <20% shale gouge ratio with varying weak points, mainly 20 – 35% shale gouge ratio and more. Good fault seal capacity exists in the Baka Field at >40% shale gouge ratio. Shale gouge ratios are higher at the boundary fault.Item 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 AlohThe 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.Item Open Access Effect of dietary inclusion of ginger meal (Zingiber Officinale) on broiler performance, serum lipid profile and carcass quality(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2016-03) Agu, Ekene CletusThis study was conducted to evaluate the effect of dietary inclusion of ginger meal (Zingiber officinale) on broiler performance, serum lipid profile and carcass quality. One hundred and eighty (180) day old broiler chicks (Cobb strain) were used, and divided randomly into 4 treatment groups, comprising 45 birds each and further subdivided into 3 replicates (15 birds/replicate). Each group was fed one of 4 formulated diets containing ginger meal at levels of 0%, 0.2%, 0.4% and 0.6%, at starter and finisher stages, for 8 weeks in a completely randomized design. At the termination of the experiment, 20 birds (5 birds per treatment) were selected, sacrificed and used for analyses of serum lipid profile, haematological constitution and post mortem microbial load on the meat. Results showed no significant (P > 0.05) effects of dietary ginger meal inclusion on live-weight, daily weight gain, daily feed intake and feed conversion ratio. Cholesterol, triglycerides and low density lipoprotein (LDL) were not significantly affected (P > 0.05) while high density lipoprotein (HDL) was significantly higher (P < 0.05) in the 0.4% ginger meal dietary treatment group. No significant effect (P > 0.05) was found on the ether extract of broiler meat associated with ginger meal inclusion in the diet. The haemoglobin, packed cell volume, mean cell haemoglobin, total white blood cell and neutrophil were significantly increased (P < 0.05), but the lymphocyte was significantly reduced. Where the red blood cell, mean cell volume, mean cell haemoglobin concentration and platelet were not significantly affected (P > 0.05) by the dietary ginger meal inclusion. Heavy bacteria growth of Salmonella species were observed in the broiler meat left after 10 hours of slaughter in all groups, including the control. Significant difference on organ proportion was observed only in the neck at 0.4% ginger meal level (P < 0.05). The 0.4% ginger meal treated group was significantly higher in dressing percentage (P < 0.05). Meat juiciness, flavour and hedonic score were not affected by ginger meal dietary treatment; however, meat tenderness was significantly higher at 0.4% and 0.6% ginger meal levels (P < 0.05) when compared to the control. Dietary inclusion of ginger meal in broiler diets within the levels reported in this study had positive effects on lipoprotein level and organoleptic quality of meat. It is therefore concluded and recommended that the dietary inclusion of ginger meal at 0.4% or 0.6% levels in broiler diets should be encouraged and adopted by poultry producers since it significantly increased broilers‘ serum high density lipoprotein (HDL) level, dressing percentage, carcass weight and meat tenderness.Item Open Access Effects of garlic and ginger grates on microbial profile and physico-chemical properties of fermented cassava products(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2016-05) Emekoma, Ezinne AbigailThe effects of ginger and garlic grate on the microbial succession, sensory, cyanide and physicochemical properties of fermented cassava products prepared in different methods were investigated. The results showed that species of Bacillus, Lactobacillus, E.coli,Rhizopus, Aspergillus, Geotrichum and Trichoderma were implicated in the fermentation process. Microbial successions monitored every 48hours for 10days showed that among the species already prevalent, Proteus spp were isolated on the 6 th to 10th day of fermenting unpeeled cassava with ginger and cassava only. The microbial counts increased following days of fermentation with decline from the 8 th and 10th day. The results for the sensory evaluation, showed an overall acceptability of the products for aroma, colour and texture. The fermented cassava products were analysed for nutritional, anti-nutritional and mineral properties using standard methods. The mean cassava preparations averaged over rates and treatment types revealed that the percentage Moisture contents of 19.702, 16.987 and 16.723% has unpeeled, peeled and mashed cassava preparations, Ash; 1.022, 0.796 and 1.373%, Fat; 3.305, 2.66 and 3.059%, Protein; 4.341, 4.66 and 4.955%, Carbohydrate; 67.671, 69.219 and 70.845% and Fibre; 3.953, 5.67 and 3.042% respectively. The investigation also revealed that Calcium contents were 0.258, 0.152 and 0.102mg/100g, Magnesium; 0.2099, 0.1639 and 0.1598mg/100g, Sodium; 0.0623, 0.0517 and 0.05mg/100g, Phosphorus; 40.548, 56.994 and 44.678mg/100g and Potassium; 0.125, 0.143 and 0.086mg/100g for unpeeled, mashed and peeled cassava preparations respectively. The contents of cyanogenic glucosides were 18.017, 16.348 and 15.075mg/100g, Flavonoid; 1.78, 2.03 and 1.83mg/100g, Alkaloid; 2.47, 2.83 and 2.58mg/100g and Tannin; 0.108, 0.244 and 0.128mg/100g for unpeeled, peeled and mashed cassava preparations averaged over treatment types and rates respectively. In conclusion, the results obtained in this work, revealed that cassava prepared in different preparation of cassava in different methods with the addition of varying quantities of garlic and ginger grates significantly affected the microbial, sensory and physicochemical properties of the fermented cassava products.Item Open Access Influence of chelating agents and nickel on phenol utilization by pseudomonas species(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2016-08) Ahumibe, Nkenna ChinonyeremThe effects of nickel and four chelating agents, trisodium citrate, ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid, tannic acid and potassium ferricyanide, at different concentrations in nutrient broth and a mineral salts medium supplemented with phenol, on the dehydrogenase activity of a Pseudomonas species, as well as the effects of nickel and trisodium citrate on phenol biodegradation were investigated. The results showed that the bacterium was sensitive to nickel with an observed half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) of 0.613 mM and 0.0017 mM in nutrient broth and mineral salts medium, respectively. Trisodium citrate and ethylene diaminetetraacetic acid were most efficient in reducing the inhibitory effect of nickel mwhile the effects of tannic acid and potassium ferricyanide were not very pronounced. Nickel inhibited phenol degradation by Pseudomonas sp. The addition of trisodium citrate stimulated 84 the growth rate of the bacterium but had no significant effect on phenol degradation rate. The progress of growth was described by the integrated Haldane model with kinetic constants of µm 0.0967 h-1, Ks 78.289 mg/l, and Ki 346.687 mg/l at 500 mg/l initial phenol concentration. Maximum specific growth rate (µm) decreased in the presence of nickel, and increased with trisodium citrate addition. The results of the study showed that chelating agents could mitigate nickel toxicity. Also, they suggest that trisodium citrate could be used as a possible carbon source in biodegradation studies.Item Open Access Isolation and characterization of active principle in leaves of abelmoschus esculentus (Okra) and carica papaya (Paw-Paw)(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2016-09) Ukachukwu, Veronica IfeomaThis study was aimed at the isolation, purification and characterization of the bioactive compound present in the neutral metabolites of Abelmoschus esculentus (Okro) and Carica papaya (Paw paw) leaves. The study has adopted both chemical analysis and biological assay to achieve this objective. Samples of Abelmoschus esculentus and Carica papaya leaves were dried at room temperature, pulverized and separately extracted with 250ml of ethanol using the Soxhlet extractor. Each crude extract was analyzed for its photochemical composition and then fractionated into acidic, basic and neutral metabolites. Antimicrobial analysis carried out on the crude extract and various metabolites clearly indicated that both plants possessed pharmacological properties. The neutral metabolites of both plants were found to be the most active of all and were purified by column chromatography using silica gel. The different fractions obtained from Abelmoschus esculentus leaf extract were labeled FA1, FA2, FA3 and FA4 whereas the fractions from Carica papaya leaf were labeled FC1, FC2, FC3 and FC4. A second antimicrobial evaluation was carried out on the purified fractions and the fractions which possessed the best antimicrobial potential (Fraction FA2 from neutral metabolite of Okro leaf and FC3 from neutral metabolite of paw-paw leaf) were selected for spectroscopic identification and structural elucidation using IR and GC/MS spectroscopic methods of analysis. Data analysis revealed that the bioactive compound in neutral metabolite of Okro leaf was Methyl oleate while that found in the neutral metabolite of pawpaw leaf was bis heptenoyl phythalate.Item Open Access Performance, carcass and meat quality characteristics of broilers and pigs fed diets containing fermented palm kernel(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, Nigeria, 2016-09) Ikpamezie, Linda ChidinmaTwo experiments were carried out to evaluate the growth performance, carcass and meat quality of broilers and pigs fed diets containing fermented palm kernel cake (PKC). PKC weighing about 50kg was divided into 3 parts (Samples A, B and C). Sample A was kept in a plastic container to serve as control, B was weighed and mixed thoroughly with equivalent weight of water while sample C was mixed with equivalent weight of 2% sugar (sucrose) solution. The three samples were spread out on a mat under shade at room temperature. The following morning, sample A was transferred to its original container while samples B and C were packed and compressed into a polyethene bag and tied. Samples B and C were left to ferment for 6 days under room temperature. Each differently processed PKC was used to formulate one of three broiler finisher and pig grower diets at 30% and 40% levels of inclusion, respectively. Broiler feeding trial was from 5th - 8th weeks of age where as the pig grower trial was from 12th – 20th weeks of age. Feed intake, live weight gain, carcass traits, haematological profile and organoleptic quality were determined. Results from the two studies showed that fermentation significantly reduced crude fibre and ether extract content of PKC but did not lead to improvements in performance, carcass and meat quality characteristics of broiler finisher and pigs. However, percentage loin content was higher and connective tissue content in the meat lower in pigs fed 2% sugar fermented PKC diet compared to pigs fed unfermented PKC diet (p< 0.05). Broilers fed 2% sugar fermented diets were higher in cooking loss and juiciness compared to counterparts fed unfermented PKC (p< 0.05). There were no significant differences in haematological profile of broilers (p>0.05). In pigs, sex-related differences were observed in live weight, dressing percentage and percentages of ham, shoulder and belly contents (p<0.05). The similarity in feed intake and live weight gain across the three dietary treatments in broilers and pigs suggested that the fermentation technique adopted in this study significantly reduced crude fibre and ether extract but did not improve the nutritive value of PKC.