Masters

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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
A transient performance evaluation of a porous evaporative cooler for preservation of fruits and vegetables
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2023-11) Paul-Okore, Rosemary Oluchi
Post harvest loss is a major factor affecting commercial farming. Efforts to reduce it using the conventional cooling systems have not been successful to cost and unavailability of grid connected electricity. Evaporative cooling is a promising alternative but this work is required to improve on its overall performance. To do this, the transient performance under different climatic conditions is required for better understanding and possible system components optimization. This work therefore presents the transient performance evaluation of a porous evaporative cooler carried out using a mathematical model developed from first principle. The model is based on an energy balance and mass transfer analysis on different parts of the evaporative cooler. The developed model was solved using FlexPDE computational fluid dynamics analyser based on the finite element numerical approach. The numerical solution was validated using experimental data. Results obtained showed that the model very closely predicted the actual system performance with a Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) of 0.205. In general it was observed that the evaporative cooler maintained a significantly lower storage temperature (20.9 – 24 )OC compared to the ambient temperature (27 – 33)OC for all climatic seasons of the year with the best performance recorded during the late dry season (January). Temperature difference between ambient and storage space during the hot periods of the day was in the range of 3 – 9 OC. Thus, the evaporative cooler has good potentials for all year round reduction of post harvest losses and the developed model is a good tool for the evaporative cooler performance optimization.
Open Access
Accumulation of heavy metals in fish, water, and sediment samples from Oguta lake.
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2024-08) Shittu, Usman Akorede
This work was carried out to ascertain the accumulation of heavy metals in fish, water, and sediment samples from Oguta Lake. Triplicate batches of the samples were taken from three sampling points along the river coast, and the physicochemical parameters were analyzed in the laboratory using gravimetric, titrimetric, and spectrophotometric methods. The concentrations of heavy metals (Pb, Cd, As, Ni, Mn, Cu, and Hg) in water, sediment, and fish, insect, snail, and algal species from the lake were analyzed using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer. Carcinogenic risk models were used to estimate the potential risks through the ingestion of fish, insects, snails, and algal in Oguta Lake. Pearson correlation multivariate analyses of variance (MANOVA) were used to analyze the inter-relationship among heavy metals in water and sediments. Seasonal variation and the correlation matrix (ANOVA) of heavy metals were analyzed. The results obtained showed that the mean concentrations of physicochemical parameters ranged as follows: Temperature (26.04-29.35); pH (7.17-7.77); Free CO2 (9.78-10.34); BOD (10.14-10.42); TDS (22.23-28.04); EC (0.30-0.49); DO (5.69-5.86); Total Hardness (18.49-21.00); Turbidity (15.0317.76); Alkalinity (15.64-16.66); Sulfate (2.19-2.55); Ammonium (0.26-0.40). Comparison with WHO guidelines indicated that most parameters assayed were within permissible limits. The mean concentrations of heavy metals in water were: Pb (0.19±0.05); Cd (0.41±0.07); As (0.01±0.001); Ni (0.59 ±0.1); Mn (0.02±0.006); and Cu (2.24 ± 0.31). while the mean concentrations of heavy metals in sediment were: Pb (0.26±0.04); Cd (1.04±0.15); As (1.02±0.16); Ni (1.22± 0.24); Mn (1.98±1.68); and Cu (1.87 ± 0.58). Positive correlations were observed for the following pairs of metals in water and sediments: Pbw and Nis (r = 0.356), Cdw and Nis (r =0.237), Cuw and Mns (r = 0.325), Cdw and Pbs (r = 0.969*), and Asw and Ass (r = 0.967) at p< 0.05. Bioaccumulations of heavy metals were in the following order: fish > algal > snail > insect. The estimated daily intake of heavy metals from consuming fish, algae, and snails indicated that none of the heavy metals currently pose a health risk to consumers of these organisms in the study area, based on the dose. The results obtained from this study showed that heavy metal pollution is not yet a significant problem in Oguta Lake as of the time of this investigation.
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
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
Analysis of factors militating against successful building construction project delivery in South-East Nigeria
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2023-11) Ejiogu, Ejike F.
The study examined the factors militating against successful building construction project delivery in the Southeast, Nigeria with the objective of identifying and analyzing the militating factors for decision purposes. Six (6) militating factors were identified. Based on this, five-point Likert’s scale, questionnaire was designed and distributed to 226 respondents for assessment. The multiple regression analysis result show that the average performance achieved in building onstruction delivery is 27.017 which is statistically low. The model developed show that all the factors with the exception of government policies and level of skilled workmanship exhibited negative influence on building project delivery in the Southeast States. The hypotheses test show that non-adherence to standard building codes is most critical to building project delivery. In view of these findings, the study recommends strict adherence to professional building codes, the creation of enabling environment through policies and programmes that will encourage the proper planning and implementation of building construction projects, Government development policies should be strengthened in order to control inflation and avoid constant increase in the cost of materials for building construction projects. Also, skilled workers should be engaged and, the cost and process of obtaining government approval should be made more affordable and simple so as to encourage improved success in the building project delivery and enhancement of socioeconomic wellbeing of the citizens.
Open Access
Analysis of the contributing factors to construction schedule overrun in selected public sector projects in Imo State
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2023-10) Opara, Godswill Ngozi
This work seeks to analyze the Contributing Factors to Construction Schedule Overrun in Selected Public Sector Projects in Imo State. The objectives are to: determine and analyze the factors responsible for project schedule overrun in construction projects in Imo State; examine possible individual and collective significant effects of the factors on successful project delivery; examine the impact of schedule overrun on construction projects and; identify the causes of schedule overrun in construction projects and proffer workable solution to them. Questionnaire was developed using the 5-point Likert scale for the collection of primary data. Multiple regression analysis was adopted for the analysis of the collected data. The result obtained shows that government policies and project funding/finance, are significant factors that contribute to construction projects schedule overrun while project technology, force majeure and corruption are not significant. Funding/finance has the highest ranking, project technology ranks the least. Based on the above findings, it can be concluded that proper planning should be encouraged; government policies and programmes should be made in such a way that favours timely execution of projects. Adequate financial provisions should be made available to contractors by the government. The use of local raw materials should be encouraged in the execution of contracts. The selection of contractors and other major stakeholders should be based on competence and realistic tender quotations. All efforts should be made to reduce or eliminate the occurrence of design modifications during the project execution.
Open Access
Analysis of the influence of economic growth on trend of sea piracy and armed robbery attacks in Nigeria
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2021-07) Ogwo, Nwokeka Eme
The study analyzed the influence of economic growth on trend of sea piracy and armed robbery attacks against ships in the Nigeria territorial waters. The objective of the study was to assess the influence of the growth in Gross Domestic Product (GDP), revenue generated by the maritime transport sub-sector, and youth unemployment rate on trend of pirate attacks against ships trading in Nigeria waters. The expost facto research design was employed in which the historical data on GDP, revenue generated by the maritime transport sub-sector, youth unemployment rate and pirate attacks against ships were obtained from secondary sources. Log linear multiple regression analysis and trend analysis methods were employed to analyze the data obtained. It was found that the model showing the relationship depicting the influence of GDP growth, growth in revenue generated by the maritime transport sub-sector and unemployment rate on pirate attacks against ships in the waters of Nigeria is: InPIRATE attacks = 2.760 - 1.160InGDP - 0.05InMAREV + 0.258InUNRATE. The implication is that a unit annual increase in GDP (economic growth) causes the pirate attacks against ships to decrease by 3.81units while a unit increase in revenue generated by the maritime transport sub-sector induces a 0.007 unit decrease sea pirate attacks against ships in Nigeria. A unit increase in youth unemployment rate increases pirate attacks against ships in the Nigeria waters by 0.158units. The trend of pirate attacks against ships in Nigeria waters over the period relative to the trends of GDP, revenue generated by the maritime transport sector and youth unemployment is: PIRATE attacks = 23.386 - 0.105Xt + Ɛ. It was recommended that economic growth should be translated into opportunities for economic empowerment of youth in other to bring about a significant decrease in pirate attacks against ships in Nigeria.
Open Access
Antioxidant and antihyperlipidaemic potentials of ethanolic leaf extract of Diodia sarmentosa on wistar rats
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2022-10) Korie, Stephen Chinedumije
This study investigated the antioxidant and antihyperlipidaemic potentials of ethanolic leaf extract of Diodia sarmentosa on high fat diet-induced male wistar rats. The antioxidant potentials of the extract was ascertained by scavenging for hydroxyl and nitric oxide radicals. Thirty (30) male wistar rats (150g-200g) were divided into five (5) groups; Negative control (NC) group which was not induced nor treated, Positive control (PC) was induced but not treated, Low dose extract (LDE) was treated with 250mg/kg of the extract, High dose extract (HDE) was treated with 500mg/kg of the extract and Standard antihyperlipidaemic drug (SAD) group treated with 5mg/kg of Simvastatin. Hyperlipidaemia was induced by feeding the rats with high fat diet in form of Ghee and Coconut oil in the ratio of 3:1 for a period of six (6) weeks, and administration of the treatments started in the 4th week till the 6th week. Parameters like Superoxide dismutase (SOD), Catalase (CAT), Malondialdehyde (MDA), Glutathione peroxidase (GPx), Glutathione S-transferase (GST) and Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) were assessed in the serum and heart tissue. In the serum, Lipid profiles like Total cholesterol (TC), High density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL), Low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL), Very low density lipoprotein cholesterol (VLDL), Triglycerides (TG) and Atherogenic coefficient and indices were also assessed. Liver enzymes and other biomarkers like Aspartate aminotransferase (AST), Alkaline phosphatase (ALP), Alanine aminotransferase (ALT), Total Bilirubin (TB), Total Protein (TP), Albumin and Globulin were also assessed. Results obtained showed that extract inhibited nitric oxide and hydroxyl radicals in a concentration dependent manner, showing an inhibitory concentration at 50% (IC50) of 907.17µg/ml ± 45.36 and 2173.44 µg/ml ± 100.11 respectively. Both doses of the extract increased SOD, GPx and CAT activities in the serum and heart tissue, but increase in CAT activity in the heart by the low dose was not significant compared to the PC. GST activities was decreased in both heart tissue and serum, but only the decrease in the heart tissue by the high dose was significant, and MDA levels was significantly decreased by both dose in the heart tissue and serum. LDH activity in the heart tissue was not significantly different in the LDE and HDE groups, while in the serum, LDH activity was significantly different in the LDE and HDE groups when compared to the PC group. The concentration ranges of the lipid profiles of the various study groups are; TC (80.53–177.25 mg/dl), TG (45.64–159.74 mg/dl), HDL (35.18–57.80 mg/dl), LDL (18.09–36.77 mg/dl) and VLDL (9.12–31.59 mg/dl). TC, TG, LDL, VLDL and Atherogenic indices and coefficient were significantly decreased (p<0.05) in the LDE and HDE groups, while HDL was significantly increased when compared to the PC group. Percentage Protection of the extract were 61.76% and 79.17% for the low and high dose respectively. ALT (22.35–32.88 U/L) and AST (34.31–45.91 U/L) activities, Total Bilirubin (0.27–0.34 mg/dl) and serum Globulin (30.39–37.60 g/l) levels were not significantly different (p>0.05) in the LDE and HDE groups when compared to the PC group, while Total protein (54.05–67.78 g/l) levels were significantly different (p<0.05) in the LDE and HDE groups when compared to the PC groups. ALP (207.69–351.21 U/L) activity and Albumin (23.66–33.50 g/l) levels in the LDE group was not significantly different (p>0.05), while in the HDE groups they were significantly different (p<0.05) when compared to the PC group. The efficacy of the extract in balancing lipid profiles, enzymes levels and oxidative stress indices showed little or no difference to the Simvastatin used a the standard antihyperlipidaemic drug, which accounts for its antioxidant and antihyperlipidaemic potentials.
Open Access
Application of geographical information system (GIS) in selected soil mapping for crop production in selected local Government areas of Abia State, Nigeria
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2023-06) Essoribe, Nestor Ugochukwu
This study used Geographic Information System (GIS) as a mapping tool to evaluate the suitability of selected soils of different parent materials for crop production (Tomato, Cabbage, Cucumber and Watermelon) in Southeastern Nigeria. A free survey technique was used in situating soil profile pits. Five (5) Profile pits were dug on each of three (3) dissimilar lithologies, giving a total of fifteen (15) profile Pits. Pits were dug, described and sampled according to FAO (2006). Undisturbed soil samples were collected using core samplers for bulk density and moisture content determination. While soil colour and other morphological properties were determined in-situ. Routine analyses were carried out using standard methods. Ordinary kriging was used to interpolate the values at unsampled location, generating spatial distribution maps for each soil property using geographic information software ArcGIS 10.2. Land suitability evaluation was carried out using FAO(2006) land suitability evaluation method. Soils of Amuro were Sandy Clay , Isiobuzor were Loamy Sand and Umunneochi (Isuochi) were Sandy Loam. The percentage sand content was significantly higher in Umunneochi (856.50g/kg, P<0.01) followed by Isiobuzor(845.30g/kg, P<0.05). Clay content was significantly higher in Amuro (284.50g/kg, P<0.01) and lowest in Isiobuzor (55.910g/kg, P<0.05).While Bulk density was significantly higher in Amuro (1.444gcm, P<0.01) and low in Isiobuzor (1.33gcm, P<0.05). The soils of the areas were acidic irrespective of the parent materials and were ranked thus Isiobuzor>Umunneochi>Amuro. Organic carbon of all the selected soils was generally low and followed thus Umunneochi>Amuro>Isiobuzor. Percentage base saturation was ranked Isiobuzor > Amuro> Umunneochi. Percentage base saturation showed a significant positive correlation with sand (r=0.774, P<0.01) The soil of Umunneochi was highly suitable (S1) for cucumber and watermelon production. The soil of Isiobuzor was moderately suitable(S2) for cucumber and water melon production. the soil of Amuro was not suitable for cucumber and water melon production as a result of the soil texture (NI). All the soils of the study areas were marginally suitable (S3) for Cabbage and tomato production. The soils of Umunneochi and Isiobuzor were classified as Typic Hapludalf(Soil Taxonomy) while the soil of Amuro was classified as Typic Endoaquoll. The kriging map showed that sand was highest at Umunneochi and decreasd down to Amuro and Isiobuzor. Clay content increased from Umunneochi down to Amuro and decreased to Isiobuzor. The moisture content, Bulk density increased from Umunneochi down to Amuro and thereafter decreased to Isiobuzor. Total porosity decreased from Umunneochi down to Amuro thereafter increased at Isiobuzor. Calcium (Ca), Magnesium (Mg), Potassium (K), Sodium (Na), Effective cation exchange capacity (ECEC) and base saturation (Bs) increased from Umunneochi down to Amuro and lowest at Isiobuzor. Aluminium (Al), Bulk density (BD), Total nitrogen were highest at Umunneochi and dereased down to Amuro to Isiobuzor.
Open Access
Asseeement of anticorrosion and antifouling performance of epoxy-chitosan coating using computational simulation technique
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2023-07) Ikechukwu. Uzochukwu Nelson
Assessment of anticorrosion and antifouling performance of epoxy-chitosan coating in simulated marine water has been conducted using quantum chemical computations and molecular dynamic simulation technique. The objective was to gain insights into the molecular/atomistic level of the coating/metal interface to be able to design high performance anticorrosion and antifouling epoxy nanocomposite coatings for marine application. The coating formulation was based on diglydicyl ether of bisphenol A (DGEBA) epoxy cured with 1,3 benzenediamine (BDA). Chitosan biopolymer nanoclusters were used as filler. Two different silane additives; tetraethoxysilane (TEOS) and (3-Aminopropyl) trimethoxy silane (APTES) were used as hydrophobic modifiers. Mild steel and 3.5 wt.% NaCl solution were used as substrate and corrodent, respectively. LDOPA which is a major component of adhesive protein secreted by mussel was used as a foulant. Chitosan nanocluster was modified with each of the two different silane modifiers (TEOS, APTES), and then incorporated into the epoxy coating formulation. Computational results showed that the obtained quantum chemical parameters (EHOMO, ELUMO, energy gap, global softness, electronegativity, etc) are related to high corrosion protective capability. The adsorption energies (Eads) of the silane-modified chitosan/epoxy coatings were observed to be higher than the unsalinized chitosan/epoxy and plain epoxy coatings. It was also observed that the adsorption energy increased with the addition of silane modified chitosan nanocluster in the order: APTES>TEOS>chitosan. MD simulation was again used to probe antifouling potential of DGEBA-BDA/ chitosan and silane modified chitosan nanocluster by studying the interaction between the composite coating and L-DOPA which is a major component of adhesive protein secreted by mussel. Results showed that the adsorption energy reduced in the presence of silane modified chitosan nanocluster in the order: APTES
Open Access
Assesment of safety in Nigeria construction industries
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2021-07) Mmegha, Remigius Tochukwu
The study investigated the occupational health and safety of the Nigeria casual worker in the building construction sites for the purpose of establishing the critical issues affecting the overall welfare and safety of casual workers on building construction sites. The population of the study is 235 construction workers/staff in five selected construction sites in Anambra State. A sample of 174 was selected from a cluster junior and senior staff using the random sampling technique. A 48-item, 5-point Likert-type instrument was used to elicit responses that formed the data for the study. The descriptive statistics(frequencies, percentages) were used in answering the research questions and to describe the characteristics of the respondents, while the hypotheses were tested with Chisquare. The results showed that accidents occur in construction sites and the most common sources are trench collapse, faulty assemble of scaffolding and falls; the most common health/safety problems are dislocation of joints, eye problem, chest/heart problem, vibration of white finger, and deafening; among the factors responsible for health/safety problems of constructions workers are complacency, indulgence in unsafe acts, use of improper tools, unguarded open holes, non-use of personal protective equipment and safety gadgets, bad layout and organization, bad construction and design, faulty machines or tools/work techniques, taking things from machine while on motion, insensitivity and responsiveness. The findings further indicate that measures for mitigating health hazards in construction include training, competence, supervision and clear instructions, access to washing and toilet facilities, access to the right tools, equipment, plant and protective clothing, employees’ health surveillance, abstinence from alcohol/drugs and use of mechanism to report all work-related illness to the appropriate authorities. Finally, the results showed that observance of health and safety procedures significantly controls the rate and nature of accidents on construction sites. The study thus concludes that construction is a risky industry. Though, so many hazards are present at construction sites, observance of health and safety procedures significantly control the rate and nature of accidents on construction sites. Among the recommendations to control hazards in construction site is that the regulatory body should be set up to monitor the safety of construction workers and to sanction companies whose staff are adjudged highly prone to accidents at construction sites.
Open Access
Assessment of ground and surface water quality in some sub-urban area of Owerri, Imo state
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2023-10) Okwuchukwu, Kelechukwu Joy
This study was carried out to evaluate the water quality of the two major sources of water, for drinking and domestic use, in Owerri-north; a suburban area of Owerri metropolis. The two main water sources, the boreholes and Uramiriukwa river representing ground and surface water respectively, were sampled in this study. The water samples from the river were collected from three spatial points, upstream, middle and downstream, while three boreholes, point 1, point 2 and point 3, were sampled, at different spatial points of approximately 14 km apart, while FUTO borehole served as the control point. The pollution levels of the water sources were determined using their physiochemical and biological parameter including, temperature, turbidity, electrical conductivity (EC), total dissolved solid (TDS), while the chemical parameters include pH, chemical oxygen demand (COD), biological oxygen demand (BOD), dissolved oxygen (DO), (HCO3), total hardness (TH), Chloride (Cl), Nitrate (NO3), Phosphate (POS4), sulphate Acidity, Alkalinity, Total iron (Fe2+), and biological parameters of e. coli, klebsiella, total coliform count and total bacterial count for which mean and standard mean error (SEM) were determined using the IBM SPSS software. The T-test was used to determine the difference in the physiochemical and biological properties of the Uramiriukwa river and the borehole water samples. Water quality index (WQI) of the Uramiriukwa river and borehole water samples were also determined using the weighted arithmetic method. Results from this study shows that the physical properties of the river were poor considering the high turbidity, TSS, TDS, colour, and turbid appearance, while the borehole was heavily polluted with coliforms, and bacteria, including e.coli and klebsiella. Spatial variations have no significant difference (p>0.05) for the river water samples at upstream, middle stream and downstream, while there was significant difference in the three borehole water samples used in this study. Also, there was significant difference (p≤0.05) between the means physiochemical and biological parameters of the river and borehole water samples. Calculation for WQI showed that the borehole water was good for drinking, while the Uramiriukwa water samples were unfit for drinking with WQI score of 38.92 and 169.46 respectively. it was concluded that the river was polluted with solid and chemical wastes as a result of anthropogenic activities, including dredging, industrial activities, laundry, and indiscriminate municipal waste disposal, as observed during field study. The presence of high level of coliform in the borehole and river water samples is an indication of fecal contamination, which is an indication of possible health risk. Standard water treatment especially filtration and disinfection, are required for the surface and ground water in the study area, in order to improve their quality for drinking and domestic use. There is need to monitor and regulate human activities around the water sources, since they are major factor for the water qualities.
Open Access
Assessment of selected highway maintenace project performance in Imo State
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2023-02) Osuji, Uchechukwu Godwin
This study examined the circumstances and drivers that influence assessment of selected highway maintenance project performance with prior analysis on the causes of highways deterioration. Roads are the most important assets in any country, so keeping them in good condition is obviously critical for economic development. Afield survey research design was used on samples of three major highways and seventy-eight target respondents all in Imo State Nigeria. The instrument of questionnaire modeled in Likert five-point scale was used for data collection and measurement. A total of 18 causative factors of highways deteriorationand6success determinants for the maintenance were identified. The opinions and perceptions of experts who are conversant with highway maintenance projects performance were obtained based on the identified factors. The methods of data analysis were the relative Severity Index (RSI) for causes of deterioration sand multiple regression and correlation analysis for evaluation of determinants and drivers to assessment of selected highway maintenance project performance. The results and findings from RSI indicate that lack of drainage system and underground water, poor quality of; design, construction and maintenance materials are the severest factors for highway impairment. The results of the regression analysis indicate high correlation coefficient of 88.50%. The determinants and drivers to assessment of selected highway maintenance project performance in significant ranking order are: funding level and policy, degree of physical resources, capacity of construction technology etc. Based on the conclusion, sufficient annual budgetary provision should be captured for highway maintenance projects performance considering its economic importance. FERMA should explore more decisive technical capabilities for efficient utilization of resources for timely completion, improved condition of roads, solidity and reliability of highway maintenance project performance in Imo State.
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
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
Bank regulation and gross domestic credit in Nigeria
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2021-09) Ewelike, Queendeanne Nneka
This study empirically assessed the effect of bank regulation on the gross domestic credit in Nigeria, using time series data from 1990 to 2018. Adopting the co integration procedures and the multiple regression, the results revealed prominent among others, that a significant relationship exists between variables of bank regulation and the level of gross domestic credit in Nigeria, taken together. Again, cash reserve ratio, liquidity ratio, and loan-to-deposit ratio had significantly affected the way Nigerian banks offer credit to various sectors of the economy. On the basis of the findingd, the study therefore, concluded among others that the selected bank regulatory instruments are adequate to predict the level of gross domestic credit thus, meaning that they actually exert significant influence on lending activities in the economy. On this premise, the study recommended among others that financial regulators should continue with the policy reforms that consolidate the emerging confidence in the banking sector, and avoid policy somersaults. Similarly, well-articulated banking regulatory policies were recommended to ensure that banks performance is enhanced.
Open Access
Baseline backgroud radiation in offices within Federal University of Technology, Owerri
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2023-02) Abara, Chinaza Comfort
The background radiation of various offices in the various Departments in Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO) was assessed. The study area is located at N5°23.5615’ and E 6°59.175pp8’. The background radiation level was assessed using a well calibrated digital Geiger – Muller Counter GCA – 04W. The indoor background radiation of about five offices in each of the fifty Departments (also the center for energy and power systems research) in FUTO was measured. The average value of the measured background ionizing radiation (BIR) is 0.0052 µSv/h and standard deviation of 0.0035 µSv/h which is much lower than the world average of 0.274 µSv/h. The highest value obtained was observed in the Department of Food Science and Technology as 0.0873±0.0432µSv/h, while the lowest value was recorded in Mathematics Department as 0.0006±0.0001µSv/h. Radiological hazard indices from the BIR measurement was obtained and the highest value of the absorbed dose rate was recorded in the Department of Food Science and Technology as 75.934 nGy/h. The lowest value was recorded as 0.548 nGy/h in Mathematics Department. The highest value is significantly higher than the world average of 59 nGy/h. For the annual effective dose equivalent (AEDE), the average value for all the offices is 22.313±14.092 µSv/y, which is lower than the world average of 410 µSv/y. Also, the lowest value of excess life cancer risk(ELCR) is 0.007×10-3in Mathematics. The highest value is 1.024×10-3in Food Science and Technology Department, which is significantly higher than the world average of 0.29×10-3. In the Departments of Crop Science, Financial Management Technology, and Centre for Energy & Power Systems Research, values of 0.301×10-3, 0.351×10-3 and 0.393×10-3 respectively were recorded and found to be higher than the world average value of 0.29×10-3. The results showed that, of all the Departments, the Department of Food science and Technology might pose the highest radiological risk due to having the highest levels of BIR and resulting hazard indices. Generally, FUTO is relatively safe from the hazards of BIR.
Open Access
Benchmarking performances of airline management models among domestic airlines in Nigeria
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2024-07) Arauko, Jeremiah David
This study considers Benchmarking of Airline Management Models amongst Domestic Airlines in Nigeria. To guide the study, four research questions and four hypotheses were formulated. The population consisted of Station Managers of the airlines, and Airline personnel, Airport workers, regulatory representatives which consisted of NCAA, NAMA, FAAN from across four Airports in the South-South, Nigeria. A sample size of 180 respondents randomly selected from the four (4) airports in the study area. Airport management model questionnaire were developed. The instrument was validated and tested for reliability using the Split-half method. The instrument yielded a reliability coefficient 0f 0.85. Descriptive Statistics (Pearson Product Moment Correlation [PPMC] and nonlinear Regression Statistics) were used to test the hypothesis. Four (4) dependable variables which comprises of customer satisfaction, operational profitability, operational efficiency, and operational safety of the sampled Airlines were analyzed regarding each airlines management models. The result show that all four variables analyzed were above .05 level of significant, at the degrees of freedom of the respective numbers of observations therefore the null hypotheses for the objectives were not retained. The findings show that the overall performances of Domestic Airlines in Nigeria are largely dependent on management models’ compositions: significant improvement on customer Satisfaction, airline profitability, operational efficiencies, and operational safety will certainly make Airlines operations very profitable in Nigeria. It was therefore recommended among other things, efforts should be made upgrade their operational performances through Benchmarking for a more improved customer satisfaction, productivity, efficiency, and safety of the airlines.
Open Access
Bioavailability and genotoxicity of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons on two edible vegetables(Amaranthus hybridus and Telfiaria occidentalis)
(Federal University of Technology,Owerri, 2023-11) Ukachukwu, Chidinma Ogochukwu
Bioavailability and genotoxic effect of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) were investigated in two edible vegetables (Amaranthus hybridus and Telfairia occidentalis) using; physicochemical properties, biotolerence of the vegetables to PAH, molecular characterization, and health risk assessment of consumption of exposed vegetables. The study assessed PAH content in different tropical urban environment using soxhlet extraction flame ionization detection (SEGC-FID) method, physicochemical properties of soil, biotolerance of the two vegetables exposed to different concentrations of spent engine oil, benzo(a)pyrene (B[a]P), benzo(k)fluoranthene (B[k]F) and benzo(ghi)perylene (B[ghi]P) in plant species, and health risk associated with the consumption of contaminated vegetables. The health risk assessment was done using health assessment models such as screening value (SV), incremental lifetime cancer risk (ILCR) and margin of exposure (MOE). Molecular characterization of exposed plant species was carried out to determine the level of toxicity on the DNA, through DNA band breaks. This was carried out with three inter-simple sequence repeat (ISSR) primers (UBC 811, UBC 827, UBC 808). SE-GCFID method was used for the separation and identification of PAH. The results showed that a total of fourteen PAHs were detected in the different tropical urban environment which includes: acenaphthylene, phenanthrene, 1-2 benzanthene, acenaphthalene, benzo(k)fluoranthene, benzo(a)pyrene, benzo(b)fluoranthene, flourene, naphthalene, dibenzo(a,h)anthracene, anthracene, benzo(ghi)perylene, fluoranthrene and pyrene. The soil physical properties showed that the moisture content and bulk density where higher in the polluted soil, while porosity was higher in the unpolluted soil. However, the soil textural class remains sandy. In soil chemical properties; soil pH was low, effective cation exchange capacity, exchangeable base, exchangeable acidity and organic carbon were higher in the polluted soil samples. The biotolerance of the two vegetables exposed and unexposed to the pollutants showed low growth performance in the polluted plants as concentration increases. However, there was a significant difference (P<0.05) between the unexposed and the exposed plants using analysis of variance Dunnet multiple comparison. The result of the genomic effect of these pollutant revealed alteration at genetic level through DNA insertion deletion and changes in band intensity. The three primers showed polymorphism level of 65%, 58% and 18% . The health risk assessment from dietary consumption of PAH contaminated vegetables showed low health risk concern in SV, ILCR and MOE. However, prolong exposure to these pollutants can affect humans as it possesses a high potential to bioaccumulate through the food chain. The study was able to suggest the presence of PAH component in the different tropical urban environs of Owerri. Also the impact of PAH on growth performance of the two plants species showed that it is concentration dependent which was reflected in the DNA of plants species as polymorphism occurred showing variations in DNA.