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
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
Adsorption of dye-extract from peristophe roxburghiana onto cotton fabric: Kinetic, thermodynamic and isothermic evaluation
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2023-03) Oguzie, Chima Kenneth
Adsorption of dye-extract from Peristophe roxburghiana onto cotton fabric: Kinetic, thermodynamics and Isothermic evaluation was studied at different temperatures (50°C, 60°C, and 70°C) and concentration (2, 2.5, 3, 3.5, 4, 4.5, 5g/l). Peristophe roxburghiana (PR) plant leaf sample was extracted using aqueous extraction method for 40mins at 70°C. The plant extract was characterized using UV-VIS spectrophotometer and FTIR. The wavelength of maximum adsorption was at 580nm and the functional group identified at 1200.2 cm-1 , 1.323.3 cm- , and 3272.6 cm-1 in the plant extract showed that the dye is an Anthocyanin dye as it contains hydroxyl (OH+ ), ketone (CO- ), hydroxylated aromatic ring. The adsorption mechanism was affected by temperature and concentration while its kinetic pattern obeyed pseudo second order model and type 1 Langmuir isotherm model perfectly. Thermodynamic parameters values 3438.4J/Mol for (ΔH°) and -9.991 J/Mol/K(ΔS°) respectively revealed the reaction was endothermic in nature. This study also showed that the reaction of the dye is chemisorption with a definable adsorption mechanism. In conclusion, a design for colour control and colour optimization can be achieved with proper understands of the adsorption behavior of the dye extract from this plant leaf.
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 effects of rural road infrastructure on socioeconomic development in Imo State: A case study of Okigwe Local Government Area
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2024-02) Iroakazi, Malachy Onyejiuwaka
This research investigated the effects of rural road infrastructure on socioeconomic development in Imo State using Okigwe Local Government Area as a Case Study with a view to determining the existence of rural road constructions in Okigwe, Imo state, evaluating the effect of rural road constructions on economic diversification and determining the effect of rural road constructions on employment, labour supply and productivity in the study area. Hypothesis was generated to ascertain whether constructing new roads have significant effect on labour, productivity and employment rate in Okigwe, Imo State or not. The study is both descriptive and cross-sectional design with a sample size of eighty (80) respondents comprising of farmers, brick layers and quarry workers who were selected through random sampling. The data used in this study were collected through a well-structured questionnaire and yearly record of activities from the respondents and cooperative societies. The result showcased that all the diversified economic parameters mentioned above were all grossly affected by construction of new roads. But labour supply and level of productivity with mean scores of 4.3 (>3.0) each were greatly affected by construction of new roads. The findings also showed that only NE (0.001) is significant while other parameters quantity produced (QP) (0.674), quantity supplied (QS) (0.504) and labour (LB) (0.195) are insignificant. The result also showed that quantity produced (QP) (0.43), LB (1.33) and number of employee (NE) (4.32) all have positive effect on constructing new roads while only quantity supplied (QS) (-0.69) have negative effect on constructing new roads. This implies that constructing new roads will boost the number of gainful employments in the study area. The study concluded that constructing new roads in the study area led to diversification, increased productivity and boosts the number of gainful employments. This study, therefore recommended that the government and other non-governmental agencies should as a matter of urgency assist the workers with constructing new access road to their various working sites.
Open Access
Analysis of factors influencing effective safety programme implementation in pipeline construction projects in Port-Harcourt, River State
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2023-11) Mbachu, Nneamaka Chioma
This study examined the success factors influencing safety Programme implementation in pipeline construction project in Nigeria using Greenocean Pipeline Services Limited, Port Harcourt, Rivers State as a case study. A structured questionnaire was used to collect the data concerning success factors influencing safety Programme implementation, and data analysis was done using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 21. The target population of the study was 112 respondents. Tables and simple percentage were used to present the data collected. Kaiser-Mayer-Olkin (KMO) and Bartlett's Test was employed to test the research hypotheses. Relative importance index (RII) was used to rank the factors influencing accident causation. From the study, carelessness and negligence were ranked first with a RII value of 0.93. The estimation of the possible factors that affect safety Programme implementation on pipeline Construction is done using the Critical Factor Analysis technique (CFA), Motivation and Appropriate supervision are positively correlated to the principal component 1 (PC1), It was therefore concluded that each of the factors has indicated a high potential of improving Safety Programme implementation on pipeline Construction projects in Port Harcourt, River State. Successful safety programme implementation would need an effective enforcement plan, motivation of workers, appropriate supervision, safety training, and education.
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 metals and pesticide residues in selected beans samples in Port Harcourt
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2023-10) Kalu, Samuel Nnanna
Analysis of metals and pesticide residues were evaluated using four (4) beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) varieties. The varieties were Iron beans, Patisco beans, Brown beans and Local beans and they were grouped into raw and parboiled samples. Proximate analysis of the samples was done using standard method while metal analysis was done using Atomic Absorption Spectrometer and the analysis of pesticide residues was done using gas chromatography with mass spectrometric detector (GC - MS) after careful extraction and clean up. Results showed that all the beans samples contained metals, mercury which is a toxic metal was also detected and at a level above the maximum permissible limit of 0.0005mg/kg in all the samples. It was observed that parboiling of the beans, reduced the accumulated metals in the beans. The results of the study also showed the presence of 17 different pesticide residues in all samples of beans. 2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) and 2,2-dichlorovinyl dimethyl phosphate (DDVP) were detected in all samples of beans and at levels above European Union’s (EU's) MRL except in iron beans samples. Glyphosate was detected in all the samples at concentration above EU’s MRL. However, pesticides in Raw iron beans such as carbofuran (0.43±0.03 mg/kg), Endosulphan (0.18±0.01 mg/kg), HCB (0.62±0.10 mg/kg) Profenos (0.55±0.04 mg/kg) and t-nonachlor (0.32±0.00 mg/kg) decreased significantly to 0.23±0.10 mg/kg, 0.09±0.01 mg/kg, 0.31±0.01 mg/kg, 0.38±0.01 mg/kg, and 0.22±0.00 mg/kg respectively in Parboiled iron beans. These results indicate reduced Health Risk Index (HRI) to pesticides of parboiled beans samples. Similar results were also recorded in other raw and parboiled beans varieties studied. Of all the samples studied, parboiled local beans had the least pesticide residue concentration. Series of soaking and washing is generally advised in preparation of beans samples. Stringent monitoring of the use of pesticides in agriculture and food storage in Nigeria should continuously be encouraged to ensure pesticide residue level does not exceed FAO/WHO limits. Parboiling of beans samples before cooking should equally be encouraged.
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
Anticorrosion potentials of derived chitosan and polyaspartic acid modified with organic compounds on steel in acidizing environment
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2023-09) Obasi, Annuncieta Chukwudumebi
The anticorrosion potentials of derived chitosan and polyaspartic acid modified with organic compounds on steel in an acidizing environment were investigated using gravimetric and electrochemical methods. Chitosan (CTS) and polyaspartic acid (PAA) were synthesized from oyster shells and L-aspartic acid respectively. The oyster shell synthesized chitosan was modified using polyaspartic acid and nicotinic acid hydrazide (NAHD) respectively. The modified polymers (CTS-PAA) and (CTS-NAHD) obtained were used to investigate corrosion inhibition of mild steel in 1.0 M HCl solution.The synthesized chitosan, polyaspartic acid, and modified polymers were characterized using FT-IR and UV-vis respectively. Corrosion studies were performed using gravimetric (weight loss), electrochemical (electrochemical impedance spectroscope, EIS, and potentiodynamic polarization, PDP), and computational techniques respectively. Gravimetric results obtained revealed that inhibitor efficiency of the modified polymers increased with the rise in inhibitor concentration at room temperature (CTS-PAA and CTS-NAHD had an efficiency of 96.5% and 86.6% at a concentration of 200mg/L) at room whereas their response with time (24hrs, 72hrs, 120hrs & 168hrs) and temperature (40- 60oC) variations respectively showed reversed cases. The electrochemical test, EIS, and PDP showed that CTS-PAA gave the highest inhibition efficiency than CTS-NAHD at 86.3% and 89% respectively. The adsorption isotherms results confirmed that adsorption of CTS-PAA and CTS-NAHD on the mild steel surface followed Langmuir adsorption isotherm. Surface analysis carried out on the mild steel using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, XPS, and scanning electron microscope, SEM respectively probed the evidence of corrosion protection. The computational results obtained revealed that there existsa correlation between the electron molecular structures of modified inhibitors and their inhibition efficiency, and the theoretical results obtained are in agreement with experimental data. Therefore, the modification of chitosan has aided in solving the global problem of corrosion in engineering.
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 alternative sources of energy for marine transportation in Nigeria.
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2024-03) Ekeke, Chiarizolam
The study analyzed the alternative energy sources for marine transportation in Nigeria. The aim of the study was to assess the relative importance of identified economic sub-criteria that influence ship operators’ preference of alternative energy sources for marine use, and to compare the scalability potentials of available alternative energy options for marine transportation in Nigeria, using identified scalability factors. The study used a survey method in which expert opinion of sampled population of ship-owners and operators on the comparative importance of the identified economic sub-criteria and the scalability factors was obtained. Questionnaire was used as the survey instrument, augmented with interview. The primary data generated from the survey was analyzed using the Analytical Hierarchical Process (AHP) tool, implemented by the use of an open AHP excel solver to determine the relative importance of the economic sub criteria of alternative energy options for marine transportation in Nigeria. The Analysis of variance (ANOVA) method was also used to compare the scalability scores of the alternative energy options. It was found that; LNG alternative energy option has maintenance cost with relative importance score of 0.63 as the most important economic concern and consideration by ship-owners for its full implementation for marine transportation in Nigeria. Electric drive and advanced bio-fuel (HVO) alternative energy options, has capital cost with respective relative importance scores of 0.39 and 0.41 as the most important economic concerns of ship owners and operators rather than energy cost and maintenance cost. Ammonia, hydrogen gas and methanol alternative energy sources, have energy cost with respective relative importance scores of 0.34, 0.41 and 0.79 as the most important economic consideration by ship owners and operators in Nigeria. The result also indicates that based on the three scalability sub-criteria, LNG has a scalability ranking of 1 and highest mean scalability score. As a result, LNG is the alternative energy source with the most scalability potentials and maturity for implementation for marine use in Nigeria. This is seconded by electric drive with a maturity for scalability ranking of 2.
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 and modeling of air quality in quarry sites in Abia State
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2023-10) Arua, Okechukwu Nwankwo
This study focused on the assessment and modeling of air quality in selected quarry sites located in Lokpaukwu, Umunneochi Local Government Area of Abia State. Ambient air samples were taken in the major activities areas of the quarry site, such as the generator house, the weight bridge, the primary crusher, the secondary crusher, the administration block and the site main gate. The data obtained were subjected to statistical analysis. The study revealed a positive correlation between the observed and predicted pollutants concentration. It also shows the concentration of the pollutants between the model calculation and the actual monitoring are basically consistent. From the results the error of estimate gotten is within the specific range of statistical analysis. Eluama quarry site recorded 120.28𝑢𝑔/𝑚3 as the highest predicted concentration in the month of January, 2015 and 54.07𝑢𝑔/𝑚3 as the lowest predicted concentration in the month of May, 2015. Eziama quarry site recorded 104.22𝑢𝑔/𝑚3 as the highest predicted concentration in the month of March, 2015 and 59.05𝑢𝑔/𝑚3 as the lowest predicted concentration in the month of July, 2015. The result shows that the level of concentration of the particulates in air will be highest during the dry season and lowest during the rainy season or weather. It is therefore wise to say that the concentrations of the particulates will be severer during the dry season than the rainy seasons. Thus, suppression of dust must be effectively monitored during the dry season. From the predicted pollutants concentration, the two communities will be safe from the adverse effects of the pollutants, as the highest predicted concentration of the pollutants recorded is 120.28𝑢𝑔/𝑚3 which is below the permissible limits of NESREA and WHO (150𝑢𝑔/𝑚3𝑎𝑛𝑑 250𝑢𝑔/𝑚3 ). Also Concentrations decrease rapidly on moving away from the source, due to dispersion and dilution, which means there will be more reduction in concentration of the pollutants before it reaches the host communities. Overall, the model performance is satisfactory and this would provide reliable results in predicting or determining the air quality in Quarry Sites.