Doctoral

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Open Access
Analysis of gender equality opportunities and resource use in cereal value chain: Evidence from youth engagement in rice value chain in Sourth-East, Nigeria.
(Federal University of Technology,Owerri, 2023-09) Tim-Ashama, A. C.
The study analyzed gender equity opportunities and resource use in cereal value chain: evidence from youth engagement in rice value chains in Nigeria. it identify the actors and gender roles along rice value chain; examine by gender, the socioeconomic characteristics of actors along the rice value chain; determine the level of gender equity gap in opportunities along the rice value chain; determine the technical efficiency and sources of inefficiency among male and female actors along the rice value chain; determine the value added and the share of the value added by gender along the rice value chain; estimate the factors affecting value added by gender along rice value chain and, identify the constraints to youth engagement in the rice value chain, by gender. A multistage sampling technique was adopted for this study. The sample size consists of 476 youth rice value chain actors randomly selected from 48 villages across three states in South-East Nigeria. The data were collected using questionnaires and analyzed using Modified Gender Equity Index (MGEI), stochastic meta-frontier, value addition and multiple regression models. Descriptive statistics such as frequency, percentages, charts and mean were also used to realize some additional results. Results from MGEI show that the level of gender equity opportunities for youth rice producers, processors and marketers were-0.21,-0.21 and-0.04, respectively, indicating inequity against the female youth. The mean technical efficiency for male and female producers are 0.64 and 0.59, processors 0.70 and 0.69 and marketers 0.52 and 0.61. The determinant factors of technical inefficiency among male and female youth in the study area were level of education, membership of cooperative society, years of experience and access to credit. The overall value-added per tonne by the male youth actors was ₦52,281 and the female youth actor was ₦52,229. The share of the value-added by male youth producers, processors and marketers were 51.65%, 49.41% and 47.78% while the female youth were 48.38%, 50.59% and 52.22%, respectively. Some factors affecting value added by actors in rice value chain were level of education, years of experience, capital invested, information and distance to actor’s node. The major constraints to youth engagement in rice value chain include lack of capital to start up, lack of access to credit, drought, lack of access to better technology, high cost of hiring/operating machines, lack of technical knowhow/skills, and stressful nature of rice value chain. In addition, the female processors added marital challenges and responsibilities as a major challenge while recommends that Policies and interventions that ensure equal access to resources, opportunities, and decision-making power for both male and female youth actors should be implemented through targeted training programmes, awareness campaigns and capacity-building initiatives that promote gender equality. In addition, access to affordable credit and financial services for youth involved in rice value chain should be strengthened through establishment of financial institutions and mechanisms specially targeting youth in agricultural sectors.
Open Access
Analysis of scope and economic efficiency in poultry-fish enterprises in Imo State, Nigeria
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2022-02) Opara, Thaddeus C.
This study analysed the scope and economic efficiency of poultry-fish enterprises in Imo State, Nigeria. The specific objectives were to: examine the Socio economic and enterprise characteristics of fish and poultry farmers, estimate cost function from profit function to determine scope efficiency of poultry-fish enterprises, determine how scope and economic efficiency related to the use of specific inputs or the production of specific output, evaluate the determinants of scope efficiency and economic efficiency in poultryfish enterprises in the study area. A multi –stage sampling technique was used to select 210 respondents comprising of 60 fish farmers 60 poultry farmers and 90 joint poultryfish farmers. Structured questionnaire were used to elicit information from respondents while descriptive statistics, inferential statistics. Quadratic regression model, Tobit regression model and analysis of variance were used for data analysis. Findings from the study showed that most of the farmers in the three categories were males, 57.1% for fish, 62.3% for poultry and 66.7% for joint enterprises respectively. Most of the Respondents were between 41 and 60 years age bracket, 65.1% for fish 80.3% for poultry and 58.3 for joint enterprises. The distribution of respondents by marital status showed that most of the farmers were married 80.9% for fish, 75.4% for poultry and 81.9% for joint enterprises. Majority of the respondents had household sizes of 4 to 5 persons, 65.1% for fish, 55.7% for poultry and 63.9% for joint enterprises. 69.8% of fish farmers and 67.2% of poultry farmers had 6 to 10 years farming experience while majority of joint farmers (56.9% had 1-3 years of farming experience. Most sole farmers were small scale farmers 39.7% for fish and 42.6% for poultry while most joint farmers were large scale farmer (75%). The three categories of farmers had poor access to credit with only 19.4 % of joint farmer able to access above N300, 000 credits. In this research, cost functions were recovered from unrestricted profit functions and were used to calculate scope efficiency. The main scope efficiency was 0.025 indicating that the joint production of fish and poultry enterprises reduces total cost by 2.5%. The mean economic efficiencies were 0.72 for fish, 0.68 for poultry and 0.77 for joint enterprises. This indicated that farms could reduce cost by producing at the lowest possible cost. The correlation of scope and economic efficiency with output quantities was positive and significant at 1% level suggesting that the joint production of fish and poultry on the same farm resulted in cost advantage. Also the correlation of scope and economic efficiency with expense ratio were all significant at 1% level which revealed that larger farms tends to have more scope and economic efficiency scores. Again scope and economic efficiency are significantly determined by level of education, farming experience, pond size, and flock size as well as credit amount. It is recommended that educational packages and appropriate training could be necessary to teach farmers those farming practices that encourages cost complementarities and financial institutions should be encouraged to improve on the volumes and terms of loans extended to farmers.
Open Access
Analysis of the effects of maritime clusters on hindtherland operations in Nigeria
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2024-03) Nwosu, Emmanuel Nnadozie
The study was carried out to analyze the effects of the performance of selected port-based maritime clusters business components on hinterland operations in Nigeria. The specific objectives of the study were among other things, to determine the determinant maritime cluster business component that contributes significantly to maritime sector Development in Nigeria; to model the effects of maritime cluster development on the shipping export and import capacities in hinterland locations in the six geopolitical zones of Nigeria and the federal Capital Territory, Abuja; and the determine the significant factors influencing the decision of maritime and allied firms, to locate operational basis in port-based maritime clusters in Nigeria. The study used a mixed research design method in which both survey methods involving the use of primary data sourced through the use of questionnaire as survey instrument, and quantitative research methods which involved the use of time series quantitative data on the shipping export and import capacities of each of the hinterland zones in the six geopolitical zones of Nigeria were sourced from the Nigeria ports Authority Statistical reports, covering a time period of 19 years, were used. The statistical methods of principal component factor analysis (PCFA) and the log-linear multiple regression analysis were used to analyze the data obtained. The findings of the study indicate that the offshore oil and gas maritime-cluster business component has Eigen values greater than 1 (5.904>1) and constitute the determinant maritime-cluster business component that significantly contribute to the development of the maritime sector in Nigeria over the years. The findings of the study also indicate that there is significant relationship between maritime-cluster development and the shipping export and import capacities of hinterland regions in the six geopolitical zones of Nigeria. The result however indicate that, the North-East and Federal Capital territory hinterland regions each recorded zero shipping export operations over the period covered in the study. The findings of the study further reveal that the significant factors that contributes to the decision of firms to locate investments in maritime clusters in Nigeria include: Guaranteed security of investment, Favourable Government policy, The ease of administration and coordination of the business divisions of a firm from the cluster location, Reduced labour cost and access to professionals and Access to transport cum optimization of logistics and production cost, with each having Eigen values of 2.992, 2.244, 1p.241, 1.145, and 1.039. the policy implications of the findings were also discussed. It was recommended that, Government policies such as policies creating free trade zones in maritime regions and tax exemptions for new firms should be used to attract more maritime firms to locate in port-based maritime clusters in Nigeria. The significant relationship between maritime sector development, export and import capabilities of hinterlands in Nigeria, suggest that the hinterlands can guarantee the achievement of higher output in the maritime sector if necessary investment is made by Government to improve the shipping export and import trade potentials of the hinterlands.
Open Access
Assessment of Jatropha curcas L. as alternative nematicide in controlling root-knot nematode disease of Okra for improved yield
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2022-01) Ogwudire, Ezechukwu Vincent
The assessment of Jatropha curcas L. as alternative nematicide in controlling root-knot nematode (Meloidogyne incognita) disease on Okra for improved yield was conducted in ultisols of Owerri, Nigeria. These were in 2016 and 2017 cropping seasons at the teaching and research farms of Federal University of Technology Owerri. Jatropha curcas L. cultivars; Cv ‘Illorin’, Cv ‘Kwara’ and Cv ‘Ihiagwa’ were first screened in a potted experiment for susceptibility to Meloidogyne incognita naturally endemic in the area using scoring index. Results on root-knot assessment showed no root-knot infection in either of the cultivars tested. Phytochemical investigations carried out for a Plant Based Nematicide revealed the presence of Alkaloids, Saponins, Flavonoids and Tannins in the Seeds, Roots and Leaves respectively. Laboratory test for nematicidal properties against hatchability and mortality of M. incognita was conducted using a 3x4x4 factorial experiment fitted in Completely Randomized Design with three replications. Alkaloids, Saponins, Flavonoids and Tannins applied at 0, 5 and 10 mls per thirty Juveniles (J2) for mortality and twenty egg masses for hatchability were suspended in 10 mls of distilled water respectively. Petri dishes were kept at ambient temperature after 12, 24, 48, and 72 h incubation. Results show that at 10 mls, Seed Alkaloids recorded highest mortality (99.73 %) after 72 h treatment exposure while at 5 mls, Root Alkaloids recorded highest mortality (94.73 %) after 72 h treatment exposure. Most egg hatchability reduction (0.00 i.e 100%) was achieved with Seed Saponin after 12 h treatment exposure time at 10 mls, while at 5 mls (0.08) egg hatchability reduction was achieved with Seed Saponins after 12 h treatment exposure time. Individual Plant based nematicides were further evaluated for their effects on root-gall nematode susceptible Okra variety “NHAe47-4”. Four independent 3x6 factorial experiments arranged in Completely Randomized Design with five replications were conducted in the screen house. Each nematicidal extract was applied at 0,1,2,3,4, and 5 mls, and Jatropha parts with three levelsseed, root and leaves. Results showed that all plant based nematicides applied at 5 mls/pot significantly (p<0.05) reduced root-galls and increased the growth, yield, mucilaginous property, and nutritional composition of okra. This was particularly with Leaf Tannins application which increased pod weight by 67 % and 61 % over control at 4.88 g and 5.11 g in 2016 and 2017 respectively. This was followed by Root and Seed Alkaloids which increased pod weight to 4.02 g & 4.26 g indicating 71 % and 67 % increase over control in 2016 and 2017 respectively. Seed and leaf Saponins increased pod weight to 3.62 g & 3.84 g indicating 58 % & 51 % increase over control in 2016 and 2017 respectively. Seed and Leaf Flavonoids increased pod weight to 3.56 g & 3.80 g indicating 75 % & 71 % increase over control in 2016 and 2017 respectively. Correlation analysis showed that root-knot nematode correlated negatively with growth and yield parameters of Okra. Nematicidal extracts of Jatropha curcas and plant parts at the respective rates/levels-controlled root-knot nematode (Meloidogyne incognita) infection on okra, enhanced the pod weights, Mucilaginous property and nutritional composition of okra and are therefore recommended for use in Okra production.
Open Access
Assessment of quality of some community's water, sanitation, hygiene practicies and occurrence of water-borne infections among residents in Imo State
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2024-08) Nnoli, Matthew Chuks
A total of 920 residents participated in this study. Largest age grade used was 31-40 years (33.7%), followed by 41-50 which is 214 (23.3%), those less than twenty years were 102 (11.1%). About 600 (65.2%) attained tertiary education, 24% attained secondary education while 6.5% and 4.3% attained primary and non-formal education respectively. 408 (44.3%) were civil servants, 114 (12.4) were artisan, and ½ of the residents earned 21,000 (25.7%). Common sources of drinking water are Spring 38.1%, borehole36.1% and lake/stream 0.4%. 240 (26.1%) of residents had distance to source of water <_ 100 meters and 132 (14.3%) had their distance > 1km. Major water fetchers were children under 15 years; adult female was 202 (22%). 580 (63.1%) do not treat their water, but 326 (35.4%) do treat – 254 (77.9%) use boiling, 30 (9.2%) use alum and clot, 12 (3.7%) do chlorination. 812 (88.3%) store water – 420 (51.7%) stores in plastic bucket/drum, 180 (22.3%) use Geepee and 140 (17.2%) use earth pot. For awareness of WASH protocols, 862 (93.7%) stated Yes, while 32 (3.4%) stated No: 426 (53.4%) knew through schools, 196(24.6%) via radio, 100 (12.5%) via tv and 8 (1.0%) through posters. The aware (83.8%) suffered from WASH-related infections and the unaware (94.5%) suffered too but the difference between these two groups is significant at 5% level (p<0.001, x2 = 13.570). 492 (53.5%) use water cistern toilet, 216 (23.5%) use latrines while 126 (13.7%) use pour flush latrines. 392 (42.6%) use tissue paper to clean after toilet use, 97% use tissue paper and water, 158 (17.2%) use paper, 94 (10.2%) use tissue paper, water and soap. 874 (95%) wash hand after toilet use while 22 (2.4%) do not. 620 (71.6%) use water and soap to wash hand after toilet use, 246 (28.4%) use water only. 536 (58.3%) have functional toilet: 216 (23.5%) toilet is provided by the age grade, 150 (16/3%) by individuals, and 78 (8.5%) by the government. 812 (88.3%) said proper excreta disposal improves community health, 70 respondents said no. 356 (38.7%) clean toilets weekly, 316 (34.3%) on daily basis and 122 (13.3%) on monthly basis. 882 (95.9%) are aware of hygiene protocols, 38 (4.1%) not aware: 694 (75.4%) use water and soap for hand cleaning, 188 (20.4%) use water only, 16 (1.7%) use detergents while 8 (1%) use water, ash and others. 6 (0.7%) use all methods. 232 (25.2%) wash hands before cooking, 228 (24.8%) wash hands when dirty, 202 (22.0%) wash hands after eating, 8 (0.9%) wash hands after cleaning baby’s bottom. 714 (77.6%) bathes twice daily, 190 (20.7%) bathes once daily, 16 (1.7%) bathe twice weekly. Hygiene practice reduce water-borne infections – 876 (95.2%) said Yes while 38 (4.1%) said No, Bacteria found in the study area are Enterococcus faecalis 15%, Klebsiella pneumonia 9%, Staph. Aureus, Bacillus cereus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa 8% each. 80 (8.7%) defecate in stream and trenches, 40 (4.3%) defecate in bushes and polyethene bags. 818 (88.9%) were aware that open defecation leads to disease. Cholera, skin infection, diarrhea, typhoid and malaria were WASH- related infections found.
Open Access
Assessment of streamflow relationship models of selected rivers in southern Nigeria.
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2023-10) Uzoukwu, Regina Akudo
This study focused on Assessment of Streamflow Relationship Models of Selected Rivers in Southern Nigeria. The rivers include; Cross River, River Niger, Owena River, Owan River, Ikpoba River, Ossiomo River and Imo River. Statistical methods of least squares (regression analysis) were used to develop streamflow mathematical models (Power model, Polynomial model and Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) model for regression) of the selected rivers. Models performance in calibration and verification were evaluated by means of coefficients of determination, coefficients of correlation, NashSutcliffe model efficiency, mean absolute relative error, percentage bias, root mean square error or standard error of estimate andmean of residuesor mean absolute error. Verification results exhibited a similar pattern in model performance to the calibration results, indicating that the models have good curve fitting. Comparisons of the streamflow models were carried out using One-way ANOVA F-Test, Variance Ratio Test or Snedecor’s F-distribution (F-Test). Further comparisons using graphs and a final comparison using Student’s t-Test were done. The models developed will serve useful purposes in the design of dams, estimation of the sizes of reservoirs, public water supply, flood control and hydropower generation, pisciculture, recreation, irrigation, wild life protection, water sports and tourism thus ushering in an era of socio-economic and industrial development for the Southern Nigeria. This research will play an important role in ensuring that water resources management processes in the Southern Nigeria are scientifically based and efficiently used so as to satisfy the needs of both natural systems and humanity, as being demonstrated in the applications of the calibrated models
Open Access
Biochemical and carcinogenic effects of monosodium glutate and soya bean in wistar rats
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2021-07) Bob Chile-Agada, Adaeze
This study was carried out to investigate the biochemical effects of short, medium and long term administration of monosodium glutamate (MSG) and soya beans in both male and female Wistar rats, using standard methods. LD50 was carried out using rats which led to the choice of 1000, 2000 and 3000 mg/kg b.w for low, medium, and high doses of the samples. A total of 210 (105 males and 105 females) weanly Wistar rats weighing 70 – 78g were divided equally into three groups of 70 rats each representing the various experimental durations (2, 4, and 6 months). Each of these groups containing 70 rats was further divided equally into 14 subgroups, each containing 5 rats. Group 1 and 8 were controls for female and male rats fed normal raw chow and saline. Groups 2-7 (female rats) and 9-14 (male rats) were rats administered low dose (LD), medium dose (MD) and high dose (HD) MSG and soya beans respectively. 6-o-Malonylgenistin (98.47%) and Glycitin (98.11%) were the most abundant oestrogen-like compounds in the dehulled and oil of soya beans. The glucose and insulin levels of both male and female rats were significantly altered by HDs of both MSG and soya beans after 6 months while ALT, ALP and AST levels were significantly elevated after 4 and 6 months following administration of both MSG and soya beans and were more extensive in HD soya bean fed rats. No significant changes (P> 0.05) were observed in the urea levels after 2 and 4 months soya beans respective administration to female and male rats, while HD MSG significantly elevated the creatinine levels of male and female rats after 4 and 6 months administration. Administration of soya beans and MSG for 2 and 4 months had no significant effect (P > 0.05) on the bicarbonate and chloride levels. The HDL levels were significantly reduced while LDL, TC, and TG were significantly (P < 0.05) elevated after 6months HD administration of MSG and soya beans. Soya beans administration produced no significant change in the SOD levels for female rats and catalase levels in male rats after 2 months administration whereas the MD and HD administration of MSG significantly elevated MDA levels of both male and female rats after 4 and 6 months. Two and four months administration of soya beans and MSG produced no significant changes (P > 0.05) in the LH and FSH of female rats while MD and HD of MSG and soyabean significantly decreased the testosterone and LH of male rats. The colorectal, pancreatic, and ovarian cancer markers, and prostate specific antigen levels were significantly elevated after administration of MD and HD of MSG for 2, 4, and 6 months. This study has shown that the high dose administration of monosodium glutamate and soya bean produced delecterious effects on the biochemical parameters and cancer markers on rats after six months extensive administration.
Open Access
Characterization, free radical scavenging and antimicrobial properties of Hibiscus sabdariffa silver Nanoparticle
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2025-01) Okorondu, Monica Mmachukwu O.
Characterization, free radical scavenging and evaluation of antimicrobial properties of Hibiscus sabdariffa silver nanoparticle were carried out. Nanoparticles were synthesized using biological method and the synthesized nanoparticles were characterized for further confirmation using methods such as UV-Visible Spectroscopy, Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDX) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Phytochemical screening of the crude and nano extracts of Hibiscus sabdariffa were also carried out using Gas Chromatography Mass Spectroscopy (Gc/Ms) in order to ascertain the biocomponents in the two extracts. Antimicrobial properties of the crude and nano extracts were analyzed using Spectrophotometric assay while the in-vitro free radical scavenging properties of the crude and nano extracts were equally analyzed. The result of the UV-Visible spectroscopy of the nano extract showed maximum light absorption at a wavelength of 420 nm. The EDX revealed 79.52% Ag (silver) and 20.48% O (oxygen). The microscopic studies gave agglomerated spherical silver nanoparticle with average size of 65.9 nm. The XRD result showed that the silver nanoparticle exhibited a polycrystalline face centered cubic (FCC) structure with an average crystallite size of 65.9 nm. The GC/MS result of the crude extract showed a total of fifteen (15) bio-compounds with 4-amino-1,2 naphtoquinone (33.82%) being the highest and hexadecenoic acid, methyl ester (0.36%) being the least in abundance. The GC/MS result of the nano extract showed a total of fifteen (15) organic compounds with Cis-vaccenic acid (46.37%) being the highest and Carbomethoxy vinyl methylamine and 6-octadecanoic acid (0.93%) being the least. The result of the total antioxidant capacity showed a higher antioxidant capacity of the nano extract compared to the crude extract. The crude extract recorded an IC50 of 0.42 mg/ml for DPPH, 0.38 mg/ml for Nitric oxide, 0.33 mg/ml for hydroxyl radical and 0.67 mg/ml for superoxide radical. The nano extract recorded an IC50 of 6.6 mg/ml for 2,2-diphenyl-1- picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), 0.72 mg/ml for nitric oxide radical, 0.28 mg/ml for hydroxyl radical and 0.66 mg/ml for superoxide radical. The antimicrobial properties of the crude and nano extracts showed that the nano extract exhibited improved antimicrobial potency against Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Salmonella typhi compared to the crude extract. The nano extract exhibited enhanced total antioxidant capacity and hydroxyl radical scavenging activity but lower DPPH and nitric oxide radical scavenging activity with improved antimicrobial efficacy against E.coli and Salmonella typhi compared to the crude extract. Both nano and crude extract of Hibiscus sabdariffa could serve as potential antioxidant and antimicrobial agents.
Open Access
Design and modelling of smart home technologies for the aged persons
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2021-07) Okoroafor, Godfrey Nwaji
Smart home technology for the aged persons here is a wireless sensor-based home system that provide the aged persons a safe, sound and secure home environment, while enabling them to live independently in their own homes as long as possible. The aged persons here are that population within the ages of 65 years and above. Nowadays, the rapid increase in the number of aged persons, including those with disabilities, the decrease in the number of family care-givers as a result of youths` migration to cities in search of white-collar jobs, and inability of government to provide adequate infrastructural needs to these aged persons has resulted in a miss-match on the caring facilities in Nigeria. These have contributed to the problem of these aged persons, since neither families nor government are able to meet their needs, especially in Africa due to high level of mass poverty, illiteracy and corruption in governance. Therefore, the task of this proposed system here is to design and model a voice activated home control system that will utilize the natural voice of the aged home occupants, to provide a more convenient, easier to install and use, user friendly home technologies for the aged persons. This will enable them maneuver assistive wheelchair, and manage home appliances through voice commands. This assistive wheelchair developed is embedded with collision detection and avoidance. The tools used to realize this proposed system are; The Personal Computer (PC), HC-SR04 ultrasonic sensor, and Voice Recognition (VR) module in a PC used for voice processing and recognition, Microphone for voice signal acquisition, C-language with the help of C# for coding. Bluetooth and Radio Frequency (RF) transceivers wirelessly link the input module to the controller module (microcontroller) which selects the appliances/assistive device to be controlled according to the input voice command. Proteus Virtual System Modelling (VSM) was used for developing smart home technology system schematic model and carried out the animated simulation to validate the system`s performance within the home. The designed system was tested on Dead Home (a home with closed curtains, carpet, an air-conditioner, and other leaving home appliances switched off) and Live Home (a home with opened curtains, carpet, an air-conditioner, television, and other leaving home appliances, switched on, and with background music or noise from a stereo people) conditions, and the effective result was 92.93% for dead home and 75.85% for live home respectively. This showed that the realized system controlled the devices with voice, though, the level of this system response is higher in dead home than in a live home, hence, the level of the system performance is lower in a noisy environment.
Open Access
Determination of some algebraic properties of basarab loops
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2021-12) Effiong, Gideon Okon
Basarab loops are non-associative generalizations of groups and are classified as loops of non Bol-Moufang type. They are G-loops with deep algebraic and structural properties. Not much were known about the form of isotopes, holomorphs, associators, center, and subloops of Basarab loops. This work was to determine some algebraic properties of Basarab loops. The objectives of the study were to construct a Basarab loop, investigate the relationship between Basarab loop and other loops like conjugacy closed loop, abelian inner mapping loop, and Osborn loop, examine the isotopes of a Basarab loop, investigate the holomorphs and associators of a Basarab loop, and characterize some subloops of a Basarab loop. Basarab loop identities were considered and some algebraic properties of loops were investigated. Loop notions such as the use of parentheses, multiplication group, isotopy theory, and holomorphy theory, total multiplication group were examined on a Basarab loop through the governing laws of Basarab loop. Some constructions of Basarab loops were given and some algebraic properties of Basarab loops were determined. The results obtained have shown that the centrum of a Basarab loop is a subloop and it is equal to the center of a Basarab loop, and that a Basarab loop with the left (right) inverse property, or inverse property is an extra loop. Necessary and sufficient conditions for isotopes and principal isotopes of a Basarab loop were determined. It was proved that every principal isotope of a Basarab loop is a Basarab loop. It was proved that any Osborn loop is a Basarab loop if and only if it is a left (right) Basarab loop. Also, the holo morphs of a Basarab loop were investigated by considering a group A(Q) of automorphisms of a loop. Some necessary and sufficient conditions for an A(Q)-holomorph of a loop (Q, ·) to be left (right) Basarab loop, and Basarab loop were established. Some left (right) translation mapping of the holomorph of a left (right) Basarab loop was shown to be left (right) regular. It was shown that an A(Q)-holomorph of a loop (Q, ·) which satisfies the inverse property is a Basarab loop if and only if (Q, ·) is a Basarab loop and every automorphism of Q is nuclear.Some subloops of a Basarab loop which are characterized by permutations were obtained. It was proved that a Basarab loop is a centrum-abelian inner mapping loop. Relationship betweenassociators and inner mappings of a Basarab loop was defined. It was shown that the associator of any three elements of a Basarab loop is contained in the center and centrum of a Basarabloop. This study has presented additional properties of Basarab loops which are now available for applications. Therefore, it is recommended that researchers and cryptographers should usethe properties of Basarab loops determined by this study for further research and applications.
Open Access
Development of a blockchain-based anti-counterfeiting system with enhanced consensus algorithm
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2024-03) Wosu, Jeremiah Tashie
This thesis presents the development of a blockchain-based anti-counterfeiting system with enhanced consensus algorithm. Market surveys reveal that counterfeit trading activities are increasing rapidly, and the rise of counterfeit products has adverse effect on economic growth as well as public health and safety. Existing anti-counterfeiting solutions do not employ blockchain technology with enhanced consensus algorithm in combination with product inherent features, copy-sensitive Quick Response (QR) codes and location information technologies. Thus, fully functional and affordable product anti-counterfeiting solutions with traceability, immutability and transparency functionalities are widely and urgently demanded. In this research, object-oriented software analysis and design technique in combination with Rapid Application Development (RAD) methodology were adopted for the modelling of a prototype system used in demonstrating the work. Ganache, a private Ethereum blockchain network was setup to serve as the backend platform. Open-source software such as Truffe suite and Solidity compiler were utilized in setting up the Ganache network as well as in compiling and deploying smart contracts written in Solidity language. This work designed and applied an enhanced consensus algorithm named Proof of Product Contribution (PoPC) that is fully decentralized, and balances between efficiency and security. It also developed special QR code generator and scanner using Kotlin. The developed system is unique as it combines blockchain technology, product texture (which is an inherent feature), copy-sensitive QR Code, location information i.e. GPS coordinates as well as Track and Trace technologies in proffering reliable solution to counterfeit trading. Test results prove that PoPC is very fast with average execution time of 5 seconds as against 56 seconds for Proof of Stake (PoS) algorithm, 62 seconds for Practical Byzantine Fault Tolerance (PBFT) algorithm, 75 seconds for Delegated Proof of Stake (DPoS) algorithm, and 600 seconds for Proof of Work (PoW) algorithm.
Open Access
Development of an institutional-based community power pooling model for seamless renewable energy integration
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2023-10) Opara, O. R.
In recent times, educational institutions were provided with sources of power, that were able to cater for their needs, cognizance of the low demand for knowledge economy was not high. As a result, the available energy was able to suffice for the limited schools, departments, and units within the university system that was available as at that time. As technology continues to improve, the quest for knowledge increases thereby giving needs for expansion in the educational institutions, which cut across creating of more administrative sections, departments and courses. This expansion came with the need for more energy consumption, which calls for a more robust technology with enabling energy integration. The universities were not taking into consideration using energy resources within their operating environments for optimal utilization. And even when there is any consideration to the use of renewable energy resources, standalone energy systems were readily attracted without consideration to network, and integration model, with a fear of un-seamless nature of renewable energy resources. To mitigate the aforementioned shortcoming, this project proposes an institutional-based community power pooling model with seamless renewable energy integration. This involves the formulation and development of an institutionalized local distribution network forming a mini – grid. Then appropriate dc and ac Load Flow (LF) model were applied to determine an optimal balance between locally available distributed energy resources (DERs) and co – located load centers with the referenced institution – in this case, FUTO. The model simulations reveal,that the system is capable of synchronizing the renewable energy resources within the university in a single network bus, alongside with public power supply and diesel generators. This could guarantee efficient and optimal utilization of the energy potentials within the university community, with excess energy of 8,603,334 KWh/yr. available for sales to the neighbouring energy users from the formulated model. This model could be utilized in other universities across the nation with the view of tailoring its architecture to suit each institutions special peculiarities in terms of energy resources and load demand.
Open Access
Development of intelligent master controller for hybridized power pool system applications
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2022-11) Kufre, Esenowo Jack
The development of an intelligent master controller model for hybridized power pool system applications has become necessary in the contemporary society where much resources are allocated in a decentralized scenario which does not encourage high productivity. Many metropolitan cities are endowed with several scattered energy resources within its locality and when aggregated in a power pool, its energy resources aggregation for continuous energy supply in order to curtail energy wastage may likely be posed with the challenges associated with uncoordinated system. In view of this therefore, an Intelligent Master Controller (IMC) is proposed to oversee and regulate the unified energy potentials in some metropolitan cities in order to ensure efficiency, reliability, and optimal utilization. In the conceptual framework deployed in this study, Afikpo Metropolis was used as a case study to demonstrate a typical power pool architecture with the intelligent master controller. The network voltage level for the five experimented communities were used with respect to the available energy sources. Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) was adopted for the renewable energy synchronization and hybridization through virtual demonstration; the integration of their hybridized renewable energy sources with other available sources like the public power supply and the generating system were made possible through intelligent master controller. The intelligent master controller operation sequence was simulated with proteus software. The hardware was implemented with electronics components, whereas the remote monitoring and control was achieved with Hypertext Mark Language (HTML), Cascaded Style Sheet (CSS), JavaScript and Hypertext Preprocessor (PHP) design. The HTML, CSS and JavaScript provide an app for human and machine interactivity and MongoDB gives the data documentation platform, whereas the ThingSpeak gave the real time analytical scheme for the system. The result from the software simulation conformed with that of the hardware implementation which reveals that energy from metropolitans’ cities could be centrally monitored and controlled using intelligent master control model. This model was demonstrated remotely through the web/Android App, and the energy generated and consumed by the pooled communities were documented in the cloud. The system performance was validated within 6hours of operation, and the system reliability prediction was carried out to ascertain the model functionalities. The developed intelligent master controller model was stable, observable and controllable from the MATLAB simulation result.
Open Access
Ecological risk assessment and phytoremediation of spent engine oil contaminated soils of selected mechanic workshops in Imo State
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2023-05) Azorji, Johnpaul Nnawuike
Assessment of the ecotoxicological risk of indiscriminate disposal of spent engine oil on terrestrial ecosystem was investigated using physicochemical, biochemical, and bioterance assays. Soil samples were collected from a depth of 0-20cm and analyzed using standard analytical protocols. Acute toxicity tests were conducted based on germination and seedling establishment of higher plants (Zea mays, G. maxV. unguiculata), Earthworms (mortality rate) and microorganisms (inhibitory effects) which covered a wide range of short-term lethal and sub-lethal endpoints used for risk characterization and analyzed using Probit analysis. Results obtained showed that majority of the mechanics who are within 20-30 age bracket were found in Owerri (22.42%) while the least was found in Okigwe (12.98%); on weekly basis, 42 vehicles are serviced in Owerri; 27 inOrlu while 21 is been serviced in Okigwe respectively. Total annual volume of spent engine oil generated (in litres) was highest in Owerri zone (124,489.36L) while the least value was obtained in Orlu zone (18,434.52L). A significant volume 168 (49.56%) of the spent engine oil is been disposed into the immediate environment with others being sold off 41 (12.09%); given out for free 66 (19.47%); and taken by car owners 64 (18.88%). Axonopuss compressus, Aspillia africana, and Chromolaena odorata species were the dominant plant species identified in the order: Axonopuss compressus>Aspillia africana> Chromolaena odorata. Mean values of physical and chemical properties of soil indicated alteration of parameters analyzed relative to the control. The mean concentrations of heavy metals across the zones ranged from Pb(1.045 ± 0.1 to 1.534 ± 0.2), As (1.761 ± 0.3 to 1.805 ± 0.3), Cr (0.272 ± 0.01 to 0.273 ± 0.01), Cd (0.302 ± 0.02 to 0.606 ± 0.03), Ni (0.918 ± 0.03 to 0.932 ± 0.03), Co (1.278 ± 0.1 to 1.324 ± 0.2), Fe (63.927 ± 3.34 to 69.563 ± 3.53), Cu (12.446 ± 2.14 to 12.964 ± 2.42), Zn (156.121 ± 28.01 to 156.137 ± 28.12), and Al (1.353 ± 0.2 to 1.353 ± 0.12) mg/kg with a distribution pattern of Zn>Fe>Cu>As>Al>Co>Pb>Ni>Cd>Cr. Concentration of heavy metals were significantly (p<0.05) higher at the polluted sites than the control and above WHO permissible limits. Mean concentration of PAHs ranged between Owerri zone (0.03 ± 0.01 to 1.980 ± 0.36mg/kg) Orlu zone (0.004 ± 0.001 to 1.614 ± 0.10 mg/kg), and in Okigwe zone (0.01 ±0.001 to 1.418 ± 0.19mg/kg) with distribution pattern of Nap>Pyr>Mepl>Ind>Acpt>Flu>Bbf>B(ghi)p>B(g)p>Bkf>Da>An>Acph across the zones.Maximum Concentration of TPH was recorded in Owerriwhile the minimum value was gotten from the control site. Mean values of TPH were in the order: Owerri>Orlu>Okigwe>control. Result of acute toxicity assay showed that Zea mays exhibited more sensitivity than V. unguiculata and G. max. The microbial absorbance rate depended on the dose and type of organism in the order of: Acinetobacter>Enterobacter> Bacillus species >Pseudomonas. Mortality in earthworm was noted as concentration increased. Values of Risk Quotient for Zea mays, V. unguiculata, G. max and earthworm ranged from low risk to very high risk based on the estimated PNEC values. The microorganisms differed slightly in biotolerance to spent engine oil exposure based on estimated risk quotients. Exposure to spent engine oil posed minimal risk to Pseudomonas sp., Bacillus sp., and Acinetobacter sp., at the estimated PNECs with values less than unity (<1). Risk quotient values for Enterobacter sp. indicated a high risk with values above unity. Variable xxi concentrations of heavy metals were accumulated by the plants from soil and were stored in the root, shoot and leaf except for A. compressus that accumulated values less than one (<1) for Pb and As. Metal accumulation pattern were in the order C. odorat>A.africana>A.compressus. C. odorata and A. africana exhibited characteristics typical of a phytoextractor while A. compressus could be applied as a phytostabiliser of spent engine oil polluted soils. The sensitivities exhibited by the organisms exposed to spent engine oil indicate the possibility of using them as bioindicators and for assessing the efficacy of phytoremediation process. Spent engine oil adversely affected the organisms in each scenario in a dose dependent manner. Overall, these findings proved that spent engine oil greatly altered soil properties and also repressed the growth of organisms in the ecosystem thereby strengthening the need to curb indiscriminate disposal of spent oil on the environment by mechanics in the business of auto repairs to forestall possible pollution problems of other components of the food chain.
Open Access
Effect of allium cepa bulb and annona muricata pulp juices on testosterone and oestradiol-induced benign prostatic hyperplasia in albino rats
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2024-01) Ihejieto, Hope Amarachi
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is an age-related condition accompanied by lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). Management with conventional therapy is the only available solution, with its attendant side effects. This study investigated the effect of Annona muricata (soursop) pulp and Allium cepa (onion) bulb juices on testosterone and oestradiol-induced BPH in albino rats. The two plant samples were assessed for in vitro antioxidant properties, and acute toxicity studies. A total of 54 albino rats were used in the in vivo study, randomly distributed into 9 groups (A to I) of 6 rats each. Groups B to I were induced with 10 mg/kg b.w of 1:1 testosterone and oestradiol every two days. They were treated as follows: Groups A (normal control), B (disease control), C (standard control), D (10 ml/kg b.w soursop), E (10 ml/kg b.w onion), F (10 ml/kg b.w 1:1 soursop and onion), G (20 ml/kg b.w soursop), H (20 ml/kg b.w onion), and I (20 ml/kg b.w 1:1 soursop and onion), for 28 days. The animals were weighed weekly, and were sacrificed at the end of the treatment. Blood samples and prostates were collected for relevant assays. The results showed that soursop pulp and onion bulb juices possessed antioxidant properties, and LD50 above 5,000 mg/kg b.w. The test samples also ameliorated BPH development in varying degrees. This was evident in their ability to maintain body weight, reduce prostate weight, improve in vivo antioxidant status, hormonal and PSA levels, and elicited anti-inflammatory, antiproliferative and pro-apoptotic responses. Considering the values obtained from the test groups, it can be adduced that soursop juice had better potency, especially, at low dose. The results of histological evaluation of the prostates corroborates this finding. Soursop juice was then packaged. Preliminary sensory evaluation and microbial analysis showed that the soursop juice was acceptable and safe for consumption. Soursop therefore is a beneficial fruit and its consumption should be encouraged, especially by older men.
Open Access
Exploitation of potentials of micro-organisms with volatile fatty acid degrading genes in biogas production
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2024-10) Kemka, Ugochi Nneka
Anaerobic digestion of cow rumen waste and human fecal slurry was carried out to evaluate the cumulative bigas yield over a 60-day retention, to isolate and identify bacterial species with volatile fatty degrading genes with molecular characterization. Microbial analysis, biochemical tests, isolation, characterization and physicochemical analysis were carried out. The total aerobic and anaerobic bacterial counts were 3.5 x 107 cfu/ml and 1.6 x 107 cfu/ml respectively. Bacterial and fungal isolates were identified as Paenibacillus lautus, Moellerella wisconsensis, Providencia alcalifaciens, Shimwellia blattae, Micrococcus yunnanensis, Bacillus barbaricus, Proteus vulgaris, Paenibacillus septentrionalis, Paenibacillus curdlanolyticus, Budvicia aquatica, Azotobacter beijerinekii and Acinetobacter iwoffii. Fungal isolates were identified as Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus flavus and Trichophyton rubrum. Most of the organisms were facultative anaerobes. Temperature was maintained at mesophilic rate. pH and total viable count were recorded over the period. Biogas yield for cow rumen waste increased steadily from the 6th day (31.403ml) to the 42nd day (247.039ml) arriving its peak generation of 251.226ml at the 45th day. The biogas yield of the substrate began to decline steadily from the 48th day till the 60th day showing reduced volumes of 215.636ml to 167.016ml. Biogas yiel for human fecal slurry substrate increased steadily from the 6th day (27.216ml) to the 45th day (221.916ml) arriving its peak generation of 226.103ml at the 48thday. A decline occurred steadily on the 51st day till the 60th day showing reduced volumes of 200.981ml to 125.613ml. Analysis of response surface methodology for cow rumen waste showed a mean optimal biogas production of 162.245ml can be achieved at a pH of 6.36, retention time of 10.5 days and microbial count of 1.03 x 109 cfu/ml. A mean optimal biogas production of 145.711ml can occur using human fecal slurry at a pH of 7.45, retention time of 10.5 days and microbial count of 5.9 x 108cfu/ml. GC-MS analysis showed methane contents of 57.99% and 50.39% and carbon dioxide contents of 17.12% and 19.21% for human fecal slurry and cow rumen waste respectively. GC-FID results of VFA production at three intervals of 20 days each within the 60-day retention time showed the presence of acetic, isobutyric, valeric, isovaleric and caproic acids amongst others. The cumulative volumes of the VFAs reduced steadily for cow rumen waste in the ranking order of 745.797ppm >372.539ppm > 86.366ppm while that of human fecal slurry ranked 509.405ppm > 133.627ppm > 71.318ppm. GC-FID results of LCFA production showed presence of saturated fatty acids such as palmitic, stearic acids and unsaturated acids such as linoleic, cervonic acids amongst others. A reduction in LCFA content was also observed. At the 20th and 60th day, LCFA fell from 108.216 to 60.499 ppm, and from 113.195 to 44.94ppm for cow rumen waste and human fecal slurry respectively. Polymerase chain reaction results identified 4 potential VFA degrading bacteria. The reductions in VFA concentrations demonstrated the influence of VFA degrading bacteria on the VFA and LCFA content within the digesters. More so, presence of high volumes of unsaturated acids in cow rumen waste led the lower levels of methane in cow rumen waste since presence of unsaturated acids are toxic to methane generation. It is therefore concluded that these microbial isolates possess ample capacity to degrade VFA and LCFA in these substrates and could be excellent inoculum for bioaugmentation purposes in enhancing biogas production.
Open Access
Fungitoxity of selected bio-pesticides on the storage rot diseases and biochemical composition of yam varieties (Dioscorea spp) in Owerri
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2021-07) Mba, Paul Chikezie
The study was conducted at the laboratory of Crop Science and Technology, School of Agriculture and Agricultural Technology, Federal University of Technology Owerri between 2017 to 2019.This project evaluated the fungitoxicity of some bio-pesticides on the control of storage rot diseases of yam varieties (D. rotundata and D. alata) especially caused by Aspergillus spp, Fusarium spp, Rhizopus stolonifer, Yeast and B. theobromae. The fungitoxic activity of ethanol extracts of seven plant leaves (used as bio-pesticides); Chromolaena odorata, Carica papaya, Vernonia amygdalina, Ocimum gratissimum, Azadirachta indica, Psidium guajava and Cymbopogon citratus were tested in Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA) medium to determine their percentage inhibitions against the organisms isolated from the tubers. The layout for experiment was a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with seven (7) treatments and three (3) replications. Data was collected on some chemical constituents on both yam varieties of (D. rotundata and D. alata) and seven (7) leaf extracts used for the experiment. Result revealed that D. rotundata recorded higher chemical constituents than D. alata. The results of the study showed that Azadirachta indica extracted with ethanol as bio-pesticides for the experiment was the most fungitoxic as it possessed the best level (%) of inhibition on all the organisms isolated from yam varieties of D. rotundata and D. alata this could be because it contains phytochemicals such as Alkaloids, Flavonoids, Tannins, Phenols in reasonable percentage more than other plant extracts used in this work. It substantially suppressed the growth of A. niger. Furthermore, Azadirachta indica was most fungitoxic on rot diseases of A. niger (9.8%), Yeast (11.13%) and Rhizopus stolonifer (11.53%) isolated from D. alata and D. rotundata while Carica papaya (12.0%) was found to be most effective in the control of rot diseases of Fusarium oxysporium during the investigation. The application of Azadirachta indica was able to limit the growth of all the microorganisms identified during pathogenicity test. On point of attack the varieties of D. alata and D. rotundata showed that the most susceptible point of attack on the tubers was the basal part. The losses due to pathogenic attack was significantly reduced mostly by Azadirachta indica followed by Vernonia amygdalina then Carica papaya when Ocimum gratissimum was the lowest and are therefore recommended in that sequence.
Open Access
Geoenvironmental assessment of impacts of quarrying and quality of aggregates from various sources in parts of SouthEastern Nigeria
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2023-07) Agubom, John-Kennedy
The increasing demand for sand and crushed aggregates in parts of Southeastern Nigeria has necessitated the assessment of the impacts of aggregate quarrying such as air quality, dust (suspended particulate matter) and noise which constitute serious environmental problems, including health hazards of various types of cancers, silicosis and sometimes premature death amongst quarry workers and residents of immediate community in Lokpaukwu, Amasiri, Ishiagu, Uturu and Afikpo quarry sites, Southeastern Nigeria. Nine (9) sampling points were selected for the study and they include: primary crusher, generator house, secondary crusher, blasting pit, admin block, staff quarters, entrance gate, workshop and weighing bridge.Quarrying of sand in Njaba, Nwaorie and Otamiri rivers respectively has distorted their channel morphology both in depth and width thereby threatening the neighbouring bridges and river banks. However, the physico-mechanical properties of road stone aggregates from some intrusive rock quarries were determined and the results used to evaluate the quality of the aggregates as raodstone. Four aggregate samples were collected from the following intrusive rock quarries: Lokpaukwu (Ezeaku Formation, Diorite); Uturu (Ezeaku Formation, Andesite); Ishiagu (Asu River Group; Diorite); and Afikpo (Ezeaku Formation, Dolerite). The physico-mechanical tests performed on the samples include: Aggregate Crushing Value (ACV); Aggregate Impact Value (AIV); Los Angeles Abrasion Value (LAAV); Water Absorption (WA); and Specific Gravity (SG). Results of the tests (ACV, AIV, LAAV, WA and SG) for aggregate samples from the quarries (Lokpaukwu (Diorite), Uturu (Andesite, Ishiagu (Diorite) and Afikpo (Dolerite)), respectively, are: 15.60%, 13.70%, 26.30%, 0.54% and 2.75; 19.20%, 19.01%, 19.50%, 0.01% and 2.67; 15.50%, 17.40%, 23.50%, 1.2% and 2.75; and 13.80%, 14.40%, 33.70%, 0.50% and 2.81.According to Nigerian Federal Ministry of Works Standards, the values from all the quarries are within the acceptable limits for roadstone aggregates (<30%, < 30%, <40%, <3% and >2.6), respectively. They are therefore recommended to be used as aggregates in road construction. On the other hand sandstones from Elugwu/ Umuchienta (Ameka Formation) are better than Okigwe( Nsukka Formation ) sandstones as a result of tests performed on the following parameters(ACV, AIV, LAAV, WA, BD and CCT) for aggregate quality as good for concrete material are: 35.70%, 32.60%, 46.48%, 0.90%, 1.42mg/m3 , 18.90N/mm3 and 34.50%, 36.40%, 60.70%, 0.60%, 1.63mg/m3 , 16.65N/mm3 respectively.
Open Access
Gravity survey of parts of SouthWestern Nigeria
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2021-12) Adejuwon, Benjamin Bukola
Ground gravity survey was carried out in the southwestern part of Nigeria within the areas underlain mainly by the Basement Complex rocks. The study area is precisely bounded by Latitudes 70 00’N – 8000’N and Longitudes 40 30’E – 6 00’E. The work is aimed at producing a comprehensive interpreted structural and geological models and maps from the gravity data as an aid to mineral investigation, structural and crustal studies. One thousand and ninety-three (1,093) gravity data points were established in an area of 18,150km2 giving a density of 1/16.6km2 . This is a positive improvement on the existing 1/9,075km2 gravity density in the area. Seventy-five (75) evenly distributed gravity base stations were established in the study area. These were tied to IGSN 71 through the PGNN Base station at Oshogbo and Akure base stations. This gives a gravity station density of 1/242km2 as against the existing density of 1/9,075km2 . The database was also saved in GIS platform for proper management and archiving. One hundred and forty-eight (148) rock samples were collected and their densities determined using a standard density determination procedure. The density values ranged from 2.526 to 2.871g/cm3 . The amphibolites have the highest mean density of 2.765g/cm3 , followed by the charnockites with 2.755g/cm3 . The processed data were presented as 2D maps with both contour and colour shaded maps. The maps include absolute gravity value map, Free-air anomaly map, Bouguer anomaly map, Regional anomaly map, residual anomaly map and rock density anomaly map of the area. The Bouguer anomaly field values range from about -19.087 to 16.914mGal, the free-air anomaly values range from 16.026 to 68.274mGal/m while the residual Bouguer Anomaly values range from about -10.577 to 19.805mGal. There is mostly a general NE/SW and few N/S trends in all the anomaly fields. Four gravity profiles across the study area were chosen for modelling and interpretation. Six major bouguer anomalies with unique characteristic features were identified. These maybe related to the contrasting lithological and structural features. These include the Ifewara-Ilesha-Ilaorogun High, AkureIkere-Igbaraoke High, Ikare-Ogbagi-Ajowa High, Ute-Uzebba High, IjeshaIsu-Ikole-Ponyan Low and Ondo-Bagbe Low. The elongated NE/SW trending bouguer anomaly at the western part of the study area termed the Ifewara-Ilesha-Ilaorogun High coincide with the geologically established shear zone associated with Ifewara-Zungeru fault system in orientation and location. Hence, the gravity data have confirmed the existence of the mega fault system which is related to gold mineralization within the Ilesha Schist belt. In the same vein, the relatively high oval shaped bouguer anomaly “Ikare–Ogbagi-Ajowa high” at the NE part of the study area can be a new frontier for mineral exploration. Such anomaly needs further exploration using other geophysical and geochemical techniques to determine its mineral potential.
Open Access
Health effects of ionizing radiation on diagnostic professional radiation workers in some selected health institutions in Southern, Nigeria
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2023-10) Omita, Efe
This study was designed to evaluate the effects of regular low-level ionizing radiation on the hematological parameter of occupational radiation workers. This experimental study was carried out in southern Nigeria among 202 samples, which include 101 occupationally exposed workers and 101 non-occupational exposed workers (control).The exposed subjects were selected from Radiology Departments and Radio diagnostic centers with large number of referral cases who were chronically exposed to low doses of ionizing radiation. Selected controls workers in the same hospitals and center without being exposed to any kind of radiation doses. All exposed and control subjects match gender, age and occupational records (±3 years). They were categorized based on the duration of exposure as group 1 (<10 years) and group 2 (≥10 years). A Physical Dosimetry was carried out by measuring their occupational exposure to ionizing radiation is routinely monitored by personal exposure measurement devices (Thermoluminiscent dosimeter).This monitoring was carried out for at least two years and a Biological Dosimetry was also carried out using Full Blood Count to ascertain the biological effect of low ionizing radiation. Data such as gender, age, full blood count parameters as well as the radiation doses received by the radiation workers were collected using data capture sheet. All results were compared to the standard values. Out of 101 radiation workers, the majority 70.3% (n=71) were medical radiographers and the least 1.98% (n=2) were medical physicists. There is a statistically significant mean difference between the standard dose and radiation doses received by radiation workers with the mean cumulative dose of 1.67mSv which is below the recommended dose of 20mSv by the ICRP (t= -234.6, p= 0.00). There were statistically significant mean difference between blood parameters of radiation workers (BPRW) and standard full blood count limits(SFBCL) are WBC (BPRW = 5.19 and SFBCL mid-point = 7.00- 10 x 109), RBC (BPRW = 4.08 and SFBCL = 4.50-5.50 x 1012), Platelets (BPRW = 228.22 and SFBCL = 200 x 109) and MCV (BPRW = 80.51 and 80-100), with values of WBC ( t= 12.16, p = 0.00), RBC ( t= 4.09, p =0.00), Platelets ( t= 3.57, p = 0.001) and MCV (t= -8.76, p = 0.00). The analysis of variance (ANOVA) results revealed that there were statistically significant different in the radiation effects on the blood parameters such as WBC (F= 2.326, p = 0.025), RBC (F = 3.969, p= 0.000), Platelets (F=6.060, p = 0.000), MCH (F=4.898, p = 0.000), HCT (F=4.060, p = 0.000) and MCHC (F=5.377, p =0.000). There were no statistically significant different in the effect of radiations on Hb (F=1.690, p=0.111) and MCV (F=1.502, p = 0.167). The average annual effective radiation dose was below the limits advised by the International Commission on Padiological Protection, there was also some evidence that low ionizing radiation exposures affect some hematological parameters of radiation workers. Despite this, there is no established threshold for initiation of biologic alterations brought on by exposure to low doses of radiation.