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Item Open Access Comparative analysis of rice husk ash and saw dust ash on tensile strengths of concrete(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2015-12) Ezenkwa, Chidiebere SampsonThis study focuses on the comparative analysis of rice husk ash (RHA) and saw dust ash (SDA) on tensile strengths of concrete. RHA and SDA were obtained from open burning. The physical properties and chemical composition of the ashes were investigated. Ordinary Portland cement (OPC) was replaced with RHA, SDA, and RHA-SDA at 5%, 10%, and 15%. Concrete mix design was done using SCALE149 (Structural Calculations Ensemble) Software. Nine concrete cylinders of dimension 150×300mm with 100% OPC or 0% replacement with pozzolan were produced. Eighty one concrete cylinders were also produced for each of the percentage replacement of OPC with RHA, SDA, RHA-SDA, making a total of 252 concrete cylinders. The concrete cylinders were cured by immersion and tested for split tensile strength at 28, 90, and 150 days. The results showed that RHA is a better pozzolana with combined (SiO2 + Al2O3 + Fe203) of 87.67% compared to SDA which was 50.03% . The Split tensile strength decreased with increasing RHA, SDA, and RHA-SDA OPC percentage replacement. Laboratory values of 0.86N/mm2 and 0.78N/mm2 were obtained at 5% and 10% RHA-OPC replacement, 0.77N/mm2 and 0.58N/mm2 were obtained at 5% and 10% SDA-OPC replacement. Similarly, 0.82N/mm2 and 0.64N/mm2 were obtained at 5% and 10% RHA-SDA-OPC replacement. Split tensile strength of concrete with RHA, SDA, and RHA-SDA were lower at early age of curing but improved at later ages of curing. For example, at 5% RHA-OPC replacement, 1.42N/mm2 and 1.85N/mm2 were obtained at 90 and 150 days of curing. At 5% SDA-OPC replacement, 1.28N/mm2 and 1.65N/mm2 were obtained at 90 and 150 days of curing. Similarly, at 5% RHA-SDA-OPC replacement, 1.35N/mm2 and 1.66N/mm2 were obtained at 90 and 150 days of curing, as against 1.34N/mm2 and1.61N/mm2 attained by the control at 90 and 150 days of curing. Models were developed to predict the tensile strengths of concrete containing RHA and SDA as binary and ternary blend with OPC at varying percentage replacements and curing ages. The models were tested and found to be adequate.Item Open Access Online book sales application(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2018-09) Jibiri, Janefrances EbereAn online book store is an electronic medium in which books can be bought by customers at their own comfort. The online business transaction can be business to business, business to consumer, consumer to consumer or consumer to business. It also pertains to any form of business transaction in which the parties interact electronically rather than by physical exchanges or direct physical contact. The application provides the user with a catalog of different books available for purchase. The primary goal of this study buys and sells goods and services online. The problem of the study is that customers are not satisfied with the mode of payments, customers do not know the preferable web site to purchase book and they are not safe because of faceless sellers. This work aim at developing an application for Online Book Sales, which will solve the problems by getting the aggregate percentage of customers who preferred online stores and the best book site to buy books, to know the most preferred product purchase and also provide a satisfied mode of payment for customers. The research methodology used is explorative study which includes primary data and secondary data. The sample size chosen are 50 customers of Powell’s Books, Ebay, Abe Books, Amazon, Book Scouter and Cash4Books. The survey is based on questionnaire method. A Comparative Analysis on customer’s Preferences towards online book sales such as Powell’s Books, Ebay, Abe Books, Amazon, Book Scouter, and Cash4Books. In order to develop an application for online book sale, using a backend database, a middle tier of Microsoft Internet Information Services (IIS), a web browser as the front end client, Cascading Style Sheet (CSS), Active Server Pages (ASP).NET, Visual Basic (VB).NET as the programming language, Structural Query Language (SQL) Server Database and WAMP (Windows/Apache/MySQL/PHP) as the local server. The development of this work results are most of the customers are satisfied with the mode of payment, easy return facilities are enjoyed by most of the customers, due to privacy policies provided, almost all the customers feel safe while shopping online, customers feel that products are delivered to them on time and customers most frequently purchase academy books than other categories of books. The benefit of this work if implemented will improve cost control, improve high rate of success, security and quick delivery.Item Open Access Analysis of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons metals and heavy metals concentrations in cassva tubers within Okigwe Mechanic Village, Imo State(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2016-09) Udoh, Utip-Mfon ChristopherSoils and cassava tubers in Okigwe auto-mechanic village of Imo state were investigated for presence of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) and heavy metals. Six soil samples of 0 - 15 cm and 15 - 30 cm in depth were collected each, at 3 sites, in close proximity to selected automobile workshops. A distant location was used as the control site. Physicochemical properties of soils from this study area were investigated using standard methods, PAHs in the soil and cassava tubers were determined using Gas chromatography (GC) system equipped with flame ionization detector (GC/FID), Agilent Technologies 7890B, while heavy metals were analysed by Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS). The results showed that, of the sixteen USEPA target PAHs (EPA-16) examined, PAHs showed in varying concentrations in mg kg ̵ ˡ except naphthalene that was not detected in all the soil samples. There were significant variations in the concentration of the eight (8) heavy metals (Fe, Ni, Pb, Cu, Cr, Cd, Mn and Zn) and PAHs between the experimental and control sites at 0.05 confidence level. Correlation analysis was done on physiochemical parameters with heavy metals and PAHs to establish the relationship of the data with one another. Fe had the highest mean concentration of 5278.74 mg kg ̵ ˡ and the least concentration was Cr and Cd with the mean concentration of 0.01. The concentration of total PAH components detected in the samples ranged from 122.2 mg kg ̵ ˡ to 17.1 mg kg ̵ ˡ. Implications of PAHs on health were discussed. It is recommended that mechanic villages should be sited far from residential areas, and such places should not be used as farmlands for the cultivation of edible crops. Also continuous education and trainings should be provided for automobile workers, emphasizing on the environmental implications of poor occupational waste management.Item Open Access Assesment of heavy metal contamination and hydrocarbon content in selected aquatic resources in great Qua River, Calabar Nigeria(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2016-04) Etinosa-Okankan, Osarenaye PeterAssessment of heavy metal contamination and hydrocarbon content in selected aquatic organism in the Great Qua River was studied. The Great Qua River receives effluents from industries, human settlement, nearby farms and runoff from towns. Water, sediment and aquatic biota (Typanotonous fuscatus, Macrobrachium macrobrachion and Notropis atherinoides) obtain from the Great Qua River was analyzed for heavy metals and total hydrocarbon content (THC). The mean heavy metal concentration values in water across stations were in the range: (Cd), 0.012±0.06 – 0.087±0.06 mg/l; (Cr), 0.017±0.06 – 0.316±0.06 mg/l; (Mn), 0.067±0.02 – 0.071±0.06 mg/l; (Ni), 0.013±0.06 – 0.083±0.01 mg/l; (Cu), 0.092±0.06 – 0.113±0.06 mg/l; (Pb), 0.064±0.12 – 0.081±0.06 mg/l; (Zn), 0.022±0.06 – 0.098±0.06 mg/l; (Fe) 0.048±0.029 – 0.082±0.06 mg/l. The mean heavy metal concentration in sediment were in the range: (Cr), 0.053±0.06 - 0.193±0.06 mg/kg; (Cd), 0.152±0.06 – 0.188±0.06 mg/kg; (Mn), 0.096±0.06 - 0.185±0.06 mg/kg; (Ni), 0.112±0.06 – 0.782±0.06 mg/kg; (Cu) 0.145±0.06 – 0.167±0.06 mg/kg; (Pb), 0.075±0.06 – 0.098±0.06 mg/kg; (Zn), 0.164±0.06 – 0.179±0.06 mg/kg; (Fe), 0.150±0.06 – 0.377±0.06 mg/kg. The mean heavy metal concentration in Macrobrachium macrobrachion were in the range: (Cr), 0.012±0.06 – 0.019±0.06 mg/kg; (Cd) 0.043±0.06 – 0.681±0.06 mg/kg; (Mn), 0.015±0.06 – 0.314±0.06 mg/kg; (Ni), 0.044±0.06 – 0.073±0.06 mg/kg; (Cu), 0.113±0.06 – 0.275±0.06 mg/kg; (Pb), 0.042±0.06 – 0.108±0.06 mg/kg; (Zn), 0.201±0.06 – 0.369±0.06 mg/kg. The mean heavy metal concentration in Typanotonus fuscatus were in the range: (Cr), 0.057±0.06 – 0.120±0.06 mg/kg; (Cd), 0.049±0.06 – 0.169±0.06 mg/kg; (Mn) 0.163±0.01 – 0.241±0.06 mg/kg; (Ni), 0.183±0.06 – 0.215±0.06 mg/kg;(Cu) 0.155±0.06 – 0.179±0.06 mg/kg; (Pb), 0.144±0.06 – 0.147±0.06 mg/kg; (Zn), 0.106±0.06 –0.217±0.06 mg/kg; (Fe), 0.163±0.06 – 0.247±0.06 mg/kg. The mean heavy metal concentration in Notropis atherinoides were in the range: (Cr), 0.011±0.06 – 0.137±0.06 mg/kg; (Cd), 0.133±0.06 – 0.86±0.06 mg/kg; (Mn), 0.082±0.06 – 0.195±0.06 mg/kg; (Ni), 0.029±0.06 – 0.267±0.06 mg/kg; (Cu), 0.106±0.06 – 0.129±0.06 mg/kg; (Pb), 0.138±0.06 – 0.203±0.06 mg/kg; (Zn), 0.123±0.06 –0.207±0.06 mg/kg; (Fe), 0.111±0.06 – 0.337±0.06 mg/kg. The results showed that the mean heavy metal concentration statistically differ significantly across stations in all samples analysed when compared to control (P<0.05) except in the case of cadmium (Cd) in water and Iron (Fe) insediment and T. fuscatus where there was no statistical significance when compared to control (P>0.05). The profile of heavy metal bioaccumulated was in the order Typanotonous fuscatus>Macrobrachium macrobrachion>sediment>Notropis atherinoides>water. The mean THC value in water were in the range: 0.215±0.06 – 0.395±0.06 mg/l; sediment, 0.379±0.06 - 0.481±0.06 mg/kg; Macrobrachium macrobrachion, 0.106±0.06 – 0.167±0.06 mg/kg; Notropis atherinoides, 0.0063±0.06 – 0.288±0.06 mg/kg and Typanotonus fuscatus, 0.142±0.06 –0.157±0.06 mg/kg.The total hydrocarbon content statistically differ significantly in all samples analysed across stations (P<0.05) and the order of THC bioaccumulation was in the order sediment>water>N. atherinoides>T.fuscatus>M. macrobrachion. The result from the correlation analysis between heavy metals, THC and physicochemical properties revealed that there was a perfect relationship between the uptake of these heavy metals / hydrocarbons by these aquatic organisms and the physicochemical properties of the water. Apart from Mn, Zn and Fe that were below the WHO acceptable limit, all other metals analysed were slightly above the WHO acceptable limit. The THC values in all samples analysed were above the WHO acceptable limit. These suggest that the river has been polluted by anthropogenic activities around its environs. Close monitoring of pollution stress, public enlightenment and appropriate laws should be put in place to avert possible metal and hydrocarbon compound induced health hazards from the consumption of the aquatic biota from the river.Item Open Access Influence of chelating agents and nickel on phenol utilization by pseudomonas species(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2016-08) Ahumibe, Nkenna ChinonyeremThe effects of nickel and four chelating agents, trisodium citrate, ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid, tannic acid and potassium ferricyanide, at different concentrations in nutrient broth and a mineral salts medium supplemented with phenol, on the dehydrogenase activity of a Pseudomonas species, as well as the effects of nickel and trisodium citrate on phenol biodegradation were investigated. The results showed that the bacterium was sensitive to nickel with an observed half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) of 0.613 mM and 0.0017 mM in nutrient broth and mineral salts medium, respectively. Trisodium citrate and ethylene diaminetetraacetic acid were most efficient in reducing the inhibitory effect of nickel mwhile the effects of tannic acid and potassium ferricyanide were not very pronounced. Nickel inhibited phenol degradation by Pseudomonas sp. The addition of trisodium citrate stimulated 84 the growth rate of the bacterium but had no significant effect on phenol degradation rate. The progress of growth was described by the integrated Haldane model with kinetic constants of µm 0.0967 h-1, Ks 78.289 mg/l, and Ki 346.687 mg/l at 500 mg/l initial phenol concentration. Maximum specific growth rate (µm) decreased in the presence of nickel, and increased with trisodium citrate addition. The results of the study showed that chelating agents could mitigate nickel toxicity. Also, they suggest that trisodium citrate could be used as a possible carbon source in biodegradation studies.Item Open Access Corrosion of high carbon steel by bacteria under aerobic and anerobic conditions(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2018-02) Nwokorie, Romanus ChukwudiThe role of bacteria in the corrosion of high carbon steel under aerobic and anaerobic conditions was investigated using sulphate reducing bacteria and other aerobes. The microbes isolated from the soil included; aerobes (Bacillus species, Pseudomonas species) and anaerobes (Desulfovibriospecies, Thiobacillusspecies). The role of bacteria in the corrosion of high carbon steel was estimated using the weight loss technique and the electrochemical potential measurement technique. Eighteen samples of a high carbon steel of known compositions were exposed to sulphate reducing bacteria under different environments (aerobic, anaerobic and control). The physical and chemical changes were examined and monitored on weekly basis for six weeks. It was observed that the coupons immersed in the media with sulphate reducing bacterium underwent fast activation and numerous corrosion sites were formed on the surfaces. The average corrosion rate for six weeks (42 days) period of time as determined by the weight loss method and electrochemical testing were found to be 0.0004595mm/year, -0.712mV in aerobic environment, 0.0005646mm/year, -0728mV in anaerobic environment and 0.0004458mm/year, -0702mV in the control or reference environment (distilled water environment). High carbon steel was found to corrode more only in the anaerobic environment. In view of this, high carbon steels were found to be relatively more corrosion resistant than mild and medium carbon steels and may be suitable for application in industries such as the petrochemical industry.Item Open Access Effects of garlic and ginger grates on microbial profile and physico-chemical properties of fermented cassava products(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2016-05) Emekoma, Ezinne AbigailThe effects of ginger and garlic grate on the microbial succession, sensory, cyanide and physicochemical properties of fermented cassava products prepared in different methods were investigated. The results showed that species of Bacillus, Lactobacillus, E.coli,Rhizopus, Aspergillus, Geotrichum and Trichoderma were implicated in the fermentation process. Microbial successions monitored every 48hours for 10days showed that among the species already prevalent, Proteus spp were isolated on the 6 th to 10th day of fermenting unpeeled cassava with ginger and cassava only. The microbial counts increased following days of fermentation with decline from the 8 th and 10th day. The results for the sensory evaluation, showed an overall acceptability of the products for aroma, colour and texture. The fermented cassava products were analysed for nutritional, anti-nutritional and mineral properties using standard methods. The mean cassava preparations averaged over rates and treatment types revealed that the percentage Moisture contents of 19.702, 16.987 and 16.723% has unpeeled, peeled and mashed cassava preparations, Ash; 1.022, 0.796 and 1.373%, Fat; 3.305, 2.66 and 3.059%, Protein; 4.341, 4.66 and 4.955%, Carbohydrate; 67.671, 69.219 and 70.845% and Fibre; 3.953, 5.67 and 3.042% respectively. The investigation also revealed that Calcium contents were 0.258, 0.152 and 0.102mg/100g, Magnesium; 0.2099, 0.1639 and 0.1598mg/100g, Sodium; 0.0623, 0.0517 and 0.05mg/100g, Phosphorus; 40.548, 56.994 and 44.678mg/100g and Potassium; 0.125, 0.143 and 0.086mg/100g for unpeeled, mashed and peeled cassava preparations respectively. The contents of cyanogenic glucosides were 18.017, 16.348 and 15.075mg/100g, Flavonoid; 1.78, 2.03 and 1.83mg/100g, Alkaloid; 2.47, 2.83 and 2.58mg/100g and Tannin; 0.108, 0.244 and 0.128mg/100g for unpeeled, peeled and mashed cassava preparations averaged over treatment types and rates respectively. In conclusion, the results obtained in this work, revealed that cassava prepared in different preparation of cassava in different methods with the addition of varying quantities of garlic and ginger grates significantly affected the microbial, sensory and physicochemical properties of the fermented cassava products.Item Open Access Comparative economic analysis of compressed natural gas and automotive gas oil as automobile fuels(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2015-06) Ubani, Uzodinma ByronComparative economic analysis of the use of compressed natural gas (CNG) and the use of AGO for power generation was presented. The data for costs of constructing and running CNG-powered vehicles were obtained for the study. Separate economic analyses of running the CNG-powered vehicles and running AGO vehicles were performed. The initial capital cost for CNG project amounted to N4.31 million and that for diesel was N3.60 million while the annual operating cost for CNG is N1.47 million and that for diesel is N2.98 million. This difference in the capital costs is basically due to the addition of the extra parts and connections to convert the AGOl powered vehicle to a bi-fuel-powered vehicle which would be able to use CNG as fuel. The difference in the operating costs is due to the fact that the costs of the two fuels are not the same. The net revenue for CNG is N2.85 million while that for diesel is N1.34 million. This difference in net revenues is resultant from the difference in their gross revenues resultant from the difference in operating costs. Figures in the text were used to determine the pay-out of the projects which is 1.45 years for CNG and 2.7 years for diesel respectively. The NPV and other parameters that make up the project economics were estimated for CNG and diesel. The NPV for CNG at an expected rate of return of 10% is N17.56 million while for AGO, the NPV is N5.86 million. The summary of the result of the calculations of all the parameters examined for both CNG and diesel was also presented. From the whole analysis done it is easily seen that using CNG for powering vehicles is more profitable than using AGOl.Item Open Access Effects of agroforestry on household food security as perceived by rural women farmers in Imo State, Nigeria(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2019-12) Nwozuzu, Sunday ObiohaThe study was designed to analyze the effects of agroforestry on household food security status as perceived by rural women farmers in Imo state Nigeria. The specific objectives of the study were to: describe the socioeconomic characteristics in the study area, identify agroforestry practices women farmers are involved in the study area, identify products which women farmers obtain from their agroforestry farms, determine reasons for practicing agroforestry as perceived by women farmers, determine the food security status of rural woman farmers in the study area, ascertain rural women farmers perceived effects of agroforestry on household food security status in the area, identify constraints to agroforestry practices in the study area as perceived by women farmers. Agroforestry farmers in Imo State formed the population for the study, and a sample of 270 rural women farmers were selected through Multi stage sampling techniques. Data for the study were collected using structured and validated questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical tools such as mean, frequency, score, percentage, Ordinary least square (OLS) and analysis of variance (Anova) were used to analyze the data. The study revealed that rural women had a mean age of 51years. About 77 % were married, with a mean household size of 6 persons. Average farm size and mean monthly income were 1.8 ha and ₦34,426 respectively. About 63.3 % were not members of social organizations and 34.4 % had farming as their major occupation. Majority (79.6%) were particularly involved in the practice of leaving few fruit bearing trees on farm land when clearing. The women were found to have positive food security status. The result also showed that the effect of agroforestry on household food security status of rural women farmers was high with a grand mean of 2.95; rural women farmers considered the following factors, viz: land security, lack of processing machineries, lack of control overland, high cost of farm inputs, unfavorable agricultural policies, lack of incentives, incidence of pest attack, high mortality of tree seedlings and high incidence of bush fire as the major constraints that affect agroforestry practice among rural women farmers. The hypothetical analysis showed that there was a significant relationship between the socio-economic characteristics of the rural women farmers and the perception of rural women farmers about the effect of agroforestry on food security in Imo state; rural women farmers do not differ significantly in their perceived effect of agroforestry on food security status in the three agricultural zones in Imo state. The study recommended that land being used for agroforestry practice should be secured through measures like perimeter fencing, local fencing with woods and bamboos and mobilizing youths to keep constant watch along the boundary lines so as to prevent encroachment as revealed from the study.Item Open Access Performance, carcass and meat quality characteristics of broilers and pigs fed diets containing fermented palm kernel(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, Nigeria, 2016-09) Ikpamezie, Linda ChidinmaTwo experiments were carried out to evaluate the growth performance, carcass and meat quality of broilers and pigs fed diets containing fermented palm kernel cake (PKC). PKC weighing about 50kg was divided into 3 parts (Samples A, B and C). Sample A was kept in a plastic container to serve as control, B was weighed and mixed thoroughly with equivalent weight of water while sample C was mixed with equivalent weight of 2% sugar (sucrose) solution. The three samples were spread out on a mat under shade at room temperature. The following morning, sample A was transferred to its original container while samples B and C were packed and compressed into a polyethene bag and tied. Samples B and C were left to ferment for 6 days under room temperature. Each differently processed PKC was used to formulate one of three broiler finisher and pig grower diets at 30% and 40% levels of inclusion, respectively. Broiler feeding trial was from 5th - 8th weeks of age where as the pig grower trial was from 12th – 20th weeks of age. Feed intake, live weight gain, carcass traits, haematological profile and organoleptic quality were determined. Results from the two studies showed that fermentation significantly reduced crude fibre and ether extract content of PKC but did not lead to improvements in performance, carcass and meat quality characteristics of broiler finisher and pigs. However, percentage loin content was higher and connective tissue content in the meat lower in pigs fed 2% sugar fermented PKC diet compared to pigs fed unfermented PKC diet (p< 0.05). Broilers fed 2% sugar fermented diets were higher in cooking loss and juiciness compared to counterparts fed unfermented PKC (p< 0.05). There were no significant differences in haematological profile of broilers (p>0.05). In pigs, sex-related differences were observed in live weight, dressing percentage and percentages of ham, shoulder and belly contents (p<0.05). The similarity in feed intake and live weight gain across the three dietary treatments in broilers and pigs suggested that the fermentation technique adopted in this study significantly reduced crude fibre and ether extract but did not improve the nutritive value of PKC.Item Open Access Effect of dietary inclusion of ginger meal (Zingiber Officinale) on broiler performance, serum lipid profile and carcass quality(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2016-03) Agu, Ekene CletusThis study was conducted to evaluate the effect of dietary inclusion of ginger meal (Zingiber officinale) on broiler performance, serum lipid profile and carcass quality. One hundred and eighty (180) day old broiler chicks (Cobb strain) were used, and divided randomly into 4 treatment groups, comprising 45 birds each and further subdivided into 3 replicates (15 birds/replicate). Each group was fed one of 4 formulated diets containing ginger meal at levels of 0%, 0.2%, 0.4% and 0.6%, at starter and finisher stages, for 8 weeks in a completely randomized design. At the termination of the experiment, 20 birds (5 birds per treatment) were selected, sacrificed and used for analyses of serum lipid profile, haematological constitution and post mortem microbial load on the meat. Results showed no significant (P > 0.05) effects of dietary ginger meal inclusion on live-weight, daily weight gain, daily feed intake and feed conversion ratio. Cholesterol, triglycerides and low density lipoprotein (LDL) were not significantly affected (P > 0.05) while high density lipoprotein (HDL) was significantly higher (P < 0.05) in the 0.4% ginger meal dietary treatment group. No significant effect (P > 0.05) was found on the ether extract of broiler meat associated with ginger meal inclusion in the diet. The haemoglobin, packed cell volume, mean cell haemoglobin, total white blood cell and neutrophil were significantly increased (P < 0.05), but the lymphocyte was significantly reduced. Where the red blood cell, mean cell volume, mean cell haemoglobin concentration and platelet were not significantly affected (P > 0.05) by the dietary ginger meal inclusion. Heavy bacteria growth of Salmonella species were observed in the broiler meat left after 10 hours of slaughter in all groups, including the control. Significant difference on organ proportion was observed only in the neck at 0.4% ginger meal level (P < 0.05). The 0.4% ginger meal treated group was significantly higher in dressing percentage (P < 0.05). Meat juiciness, flavour and hedonic score were not affected by ginger meal dietary treatment; however, meat tenderness was significantly higher at 0.4% and 0.6% ginger meal levels (P < 0.05) when compared to the control. Dietary inclusion of ginger meal in broiler diets within the levels reported in this study had positive effects on lipoprotein level and organoleptic quality of meat. It is therefore concluded and recommended that the dietary inclusion of ginger meal at 0.4% or 0.6% levels in broiler diets should be encouraged and adopted by poultry producers since it significantly increased broilers‘ serum high density lipoprotein (HDL) level, dressing percentage, carcass weight and meat tenderness.Item Open Access Isolation and characterization of active principle in leaves of abelmoschus esculentus (Okra) and carica papaya (Paw-Paw)(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2016-09) Ukachukwu, Veronica IfeomaThis study was aimed at the isolation, purification and characterization of the bioactive compound present in the neutral metabolites of Abelmoschus esculentus (Okro) and Carica papaya (Paw paw) leaves. The study has adopted both chemical analysis and biological assay to achieve this objective. Samples of Abelmoschus esculentus and Carica papaya leaves were dried at room temperature, pulverized and separately extracted with 250ml of ethanol using the Soxhlet extractor. Each crude extract was analyzed for its photochemical composition and then fractionated into acidic, basic and neutral metabolites. Antimicrobial analysis carried out on the crude extract and various metabolites clearly indicated that both plants possessed pharmacological properties. The neutral metabolites of both plants were found to be the most active of all and were purified by column chromatography using silica gel. The different fractions obtained from Abelmoschus esculentus leaf extract were labeled FA1, FA2, FA3 and FA4 whereas the fractions from Carica papaya leaf were labeled FC1, FC2, FC3 and FC4. A second antimicrobial evaluation was carried out on the purified fractions and the fractions which possessed the best antimicrobial potential (Fraction FA2 from neutral metabolite of Okro leaf and FC3 from neutral metabolite of paw-paw leaf) were selected for spectroscopic identification and structural elucidation using IR and GC/MS spectroscopic methods of analysis. Data analysis revealed that the bioactive compound in neutral metabolite of Okro leaf was Methyl oleate while that found in the neutral metabolite of pawpaw leaf was bis heptenoyl phythalate.Item Open Access Assessment of water quality of the Ogu Creek impacted by seaport activities in Onne, near Port Harcourt, Rivers State(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2015-12) Agbonikhena, Asuenime NasiruThe physicochemical parameters of the Ogu Creek serving the Onne Port of the Nigerian Ports Authority in Port Harcourt, which is impacted by Port transport activities were investigated in September 2011 at 6 sampling points. In situ measurements were made for water temperature, pH, salinity, dissolved oxygen (DO), turbidity, and conductivity using HORIBA U-10 Water Quality Checker and for total dissolved solids (TDS) with HACH conductivity/TDS meter. Other parameters were determined using standard methods of APHA. Water samples were collected in replicates with 2 litres plastic containers and transferred to the laboratory in iced-coolers for analysis. The test of homogeneity in mean variance was used to determine spatial variation in the physicochemical variables, and the Pearson correlation coefficient (r) used to explore the interrelationship existing between the parameters. Mean parameters were observed as follows: temperature 28.25 ± 0.12 °C, pH 6.02 ± 0.20, salinity 36.32 ± 0.12 ‰, DO 3.38 ± 0.14 mg/L, BOD 1.74 ± 0.21 mg/L, TSS 25.05 ± 2.45 mg/L, TDS 53.60 ± 5.75 mg/L, turbidity 81.23 ± 5.22 NTU, alkalinity 17.92 ± 1.61 mg/L, conductivity 1815.00 ± 238.24 µS/cm, total petroleum hydrocarbons 2.10 ± 0.15 mg/L, NO3-3.62 ± 0.36 mg/L, PO42-2.59 ± 0.38 mg/L, SO4 2-78.07 ±8.70 mg/L, Cl95.55 ± 16.66 mg/L, Al 0.95 ± 0.08 mg/L, Cd 0.022 ± 0.011 mg/L, Cr 0.05 ± 0.01mg/L, Cu 0.08 ± 0.01 mg/L, Fe 2.67 ± 0.38 mg/L and Pb 0.030 ± 0.009 mg/L. The lower ranges of pH, the upper ranges of Al and Fe, and Cd and Cu levels were outside permissible limits of the Federal Ministry of Environment for aquatic life. The control sampling location recorded highest concentrations in several of the variables, even as there was marked spatial heterogeneity [F(8.41)Item Open Access Heavy metal concentration in fluted pumpkin (Telfaira occidentals) and health risk assessment in Obio/Okpor, Rivers State, Nigeria(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2021-06) Udofia, Helen SundayHeavy metals are non biodegradables and are inimical to human health. This research work was therefore carried out to establish heavy metal concentration in fluted pumpkin (Telfairia occidentalis) in Obio/Akpor, Rivers state Southern Nigeria. Vegetable and soil samples were collected from ten different locations, taken to the laboratory and analyzed using standard methods. Six heavy metals (Pb, Cr, Cd, Zn, Cu and Fe) discovered in the vegetables were analyzed using an Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS). Consequently, human health risk levels associated with the consumption of these metals were also determined. The mean heavy metals concentration in the vegetable ranged as follows: Zn(7.56-36.77mg/kg), Fe(261.42-416.06mg/kg), Pb(1.00-2.01mg/kg), Cd(0.35- 0.55mg/kg), Cu(4.62mg/kg) and Cr(1.49mg/kg), The concentrations of all metals were generally below the permissible limits of WHO/FAO in vegetables except for Pb, Cd and Cr in some locations. However, statistical analysis of levels of the studied metals in T. occidentalis showed significant differences (p>0.05). The heavy metal concentration was in the order: Fe>Zn>Pb>Cu>Cr>Cd. In terms of location, Iriebe showed the highest heavy metal concentration; followed by Oginigba and Rumuodara, which was the control showed the least. To assess the health risk of the inhabitants of Obio/Akpor due to heavy metal intake from T. occidentalis consumption, the target hazard quotient (THQ), daily intake of metals (DIM), health risk index (HRI) and hazard index (HI) were calculated. The daily intake of Cu (0.393) and Zn (1.978) were lower than the recommended daily intake level of metals and the tolerable upper intake level (UL). But the DIM of Pb (0.128), Cd (0.038) and Fe (27.488) exceeded the recommended daily intake level however, fall within the tolerable upper intake level. Cr (0.127) was lower than the recommended oral reference dose (RfD) of 1.5mg/kg. The THQ of all heavy metals in this study was less than 1; therefore, it does not pose health risk concern. However, The HRI and HI values show that the population may be at risk of heavy metal contamination. Since T. occidentalis consumption is only one out of the many popular vegetables planted in this area, if other vegetable consumption as well as other routes of heavy metals exposure is considered, the potential health risks for the inhabitants might be higher than in this study. Therefore, there is need for continuous monitoring of heavy metals contamination because of its toxicity effect.Item Open Access Corrosion inhibition of mild steel using extracts of velvet bean (Mucuna pruriens) and kava leaves (Piper methysticum)(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2018-10) Ufondu, Pearl ChienyeThis work investigated two plant leaves extract Velvet Bean and Kava, for inhibition properties and measured their efficiencies with change in time, extract concentration, and media. The metal used was mild steel, and the media HCl and NaCl. It also determined their optimum extract concentration among the tested range. Statistical analysis were also carried out on experimental results. Velvet bean leaf extract was obtained using ethanol in a hot extraction process through reflux. Kava leaf was juiced fresh because of its high moisture content. Extract concentrations - 1000, 2000, 3000, 4000, and 5000mg/L were prepared for both leaves. The different concentrations for both leaves were tested in 1M HCl medium first, for five days respectively. The different concentrations for Velvet bean leaf were also used in NaCl medium for twenty-five days. In both HCl and NaCl media, the optimum concentration for Velvet bean leaf extract was 4000mg/L, after five days (91.77% efficiency) and twenty-five days (65.44% efficiency) respectively. For Kava leaf, the optimum extract concentration in 1M HCl media was 5000mg/L also after five days (94.16% efficiency). The efficiencies of both inhibitors were seen to increase as their concentrations were increased, and reduce as time increased. Velvet bean leaf extract was also seen to be fairly stable in both acid and base media over time. In NaCl solution, its efficiency was 65.44% after twenty-five days immersion, and 93.14%, after a delayed immersion of two weeks in 1M HCl solution. Statistical analysis showed VBL extract obeyed a quadratic model in both media, and KVL a pure quadratic model. Their high R2 values close to unity showed the adequacy of the models respectively and validated the experimental data. Extract concentration and time had a high effect on inhibition efficiency and were statistically significant. It would be of an advantage to quickly apply the use of these two plant leaves extracts in inhibiting corrosion on mild steel in 1M HCl and NaCl media, in actual industrial environments. Research should be done to check the extracts behaviour and corrosion inhibition efficiency at elevated temperatures, and other media. Even though these two plants could grow all year round, and are not yet popular as food in Nigeria, it would be beneficial for more research to be done on synthesising inhibitor components of the plants in the laboratory so as not shorten food supply by other plant use.Item Open Access An evaluation of the effect of the Nigerian capital market on industrial development of Nigeria (1986 - 2017)(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2019-03) Ihezue, Ogochukwu PerpetuaThe study assesses the Effect of the Nigerian Capital market on Industrial development (1986-2017).The Industrial development by data manufacturing sector and the capital market variables considered includes: Market Capitalization (MCAP), Volume of Shares (VOS) and All Shares Index (ASI). Applying Ordinary Least Square (OLS), Unit root test and Johansen co-integration, the model was estimated using Eview software. The estimated model revealed that there is a significant relationship between the explanatory variables (All share Index, Market Capitalization, Volume of shares) and Industrial development. This implies that there is a long run relationship between the capital market and Industrial development. The result further showed that only market capitalization is positively significant while Volume of Shares and All Share index were positive but insignificant. This helps us to adduce that market capitalization exerts more influence on industrial development than any variable from the capital market. Therefore it was concluded that the capital market contributes in no small measure to the development of Nigeria, hence it would be worthy that the government should among other restore confidence, formulate policies that would attract both Local and Foreign direct investment.Item Open Access Genetic differentiation of six improved tropically adapted chicken breeds in Imo State Nigeria using mitichondrial DNA(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2020-09) Okani-Onyejiaka, Mirian ChikodiThis study investigated the genetic differentiation (degree of divergence) of six Improved Tropically Adapted Chicken Breeds (iTABs), raised under semi-intensive management system in Imo State. Blood samples were collected from 77 chickens belonging to these six populations of iTABs in the ratio (12:12:14:13:13:13), for Noiler, FUNAAB-Alpha, Shika Brown, Kuroiler, Sasso and Fulani chickens, respectively. Genomic DNA was extracted from the blood samples in the same ratio for the same populations, respectively. A 592-bp of mtDNA D-loop region was amplified followed by partial sequencing of the mtDNA D-loop region. A 315 bp long sequence fragment was subsequently realized and used for the various analysis using different softwares. Results showed that 14 haplotypes were identified from 62 polymorphic sites. The highest (H=10) and the lowest (H=5) number of haplotypes were found within FUNAAB-Alpha, and Shika Brown/Noiler, respectively. The haplotype diversity (Hd) and nucleotide diversity (Pi) within population ranged from 0.731 (Sasso) - 0.970 (FUNAAB Alpha), and 0.383 (Sasso) – 0.471 (FUNAAB Alpha), respectively while the Hd and Pi among population were 0.796±0.025 and 0.386±0.013, respectively. The phylogenetic analysis grouped the iTABs into three main clades out of the seven clades identified in Asian domestic chicken with 97.39 % of the total maternal genetic variations occurring within population. Sasso and Shika Brown had the least (0.385) genetic distance. The analysis of mutation type associated with SNP revealed a total of 157 SNPs in the six breeds. There was an abundance of non-synonymous transition mutations within and across the breeds‟ except in Shika brown that have higher abundance of synonymous transition mutations. There was a moderate to high genetic differentiation between the six populations of iTABs as revealed by Arlequin 3.5.1.3 software, but significant value was observed only between Sasso and FUNAAB-Alpha (0.517). Tajima‟s D and Fu‟s F statistics were positive both within and among populations but was only statistically significant among the populations. Significant Fu‟s F was observed within the population of Noiler, Shika Brown, Kuroiler, and Fulani. Diversity indices of this study revealed that mtDNA polymorphism was high within populations and low among populations. All the breeds shared a common ancestry with Sasso while Shika Brown was more closely related. The iTABs originated from three distinct maternal lineages from Southeast Asia, Indian subcontinent and Southwest China. Results of the mutation analysis gives an indication that there is a conservation substitution in which case the alteration of the observed SNPs are less likely to have any severe effect on the protein structure and function. Therefore, it is recommended that the findings of this study could be utilized for the long term genetic improvement and stabilization of the breeds.Item Open Access Assessment of pollution potential of gaseous emission from a waste dumpsite in Ubakala, Umuahia Southeastern Nigeria(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2020-02) Chikezie, Precious OnyinyechiGaseous emission from Ubakala waste dumpsite in Umuahia area of Abia State was analyzed and evaluated in order to determine the pollution potential. This research was aimed at understanding the pollution dispersion patterns and impact from source to adjoining communities. Air Tester Model CH-HAT 200 and Aeroqual series 200 gas analyzers with VOCs sensor were used to measure particulate matters and VOC whereas GA-21 plus flue gas monitor as a multifunctional flue gas analyzer with electronic- chemical sensors, was used for the detection and measurement of gas concentrations of individual pollutant gases such as Methane (CH4), oxides of Sulphur (SOx) and (CO) directly in the field in different communities within the study area. The mean relative humidity value ranged from 58.65 % to 77.6 % in the wet season; whereas in the dry season, it ranged from (57.80 % to 64.00 %). The mean relative humidity was generally low during the dry season, while during the wet season, it was generally high within the dumpsite. The wet season show temperature range from 24.40 to 30.70 o C. The dry season also show temperature range from (29.50 % to 40.20 %) The mean ambient temperature was generally high during the dry season while, during the wet season, it was generally low within the dumpsite. The wind speed ranged from (0.6 ms-1 ) in the northwest direction to (2.25 ms-1 ) in the southeast direction. The mean wind speed was generally high during the dry season. During the wet season it was generally low within the dumpsite and also at the control site. In the dry season, the mean concentrations of particulate matters, H2S, VOCs, CO, NH3 CH4 and SO2 measured at 0 km and 3.6 km ranged from 22.60 - 74.93 µg/m3 , 0 - 4 ppm, 0.3 - 2 ppm, 0.32 -2.8 ppm, 0.4 - 4.2 ppm, 0.01 - 0.11 ppm and 0.10 - 1.6 ppm respectively.. Similarly, in wet season, the mean concentrations of particulate matters, H2S, VOCs, CO, NH3 CH4 and SO2 measured at 0 km and 3.6 km ranged from 63.50 - 20 µg/m3 , 0.2 -3.4 ppm, 0.5 - 2.9 ppm, 0 - 2.3 ppm, 0.9 - 8 ppm, 0.01 - 0.07 ppm and 0.09 – 1.05 ppm respectively. Dumpsites are associated with hazards which are caused by the breakdown of organic materials producing methane (CH4), (CO), hydrogen sulphide (H2S) and other gases. This research work provided base line information on the level of pollutant emission of the dumpsites and impact of the activities of the dumpsites on the host environment as well as measures aimed at minimizing the impact of disposal of solid waste.Item Open Access Theoretical studies of transport and surface properties of liquid Fe-Mn and Fe-Co alloys(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2020-02) Ogundeji, Samuel OlugbadeTransport and surface properties of liquid Fe−Mn and Fe−Co alloys were computed using the self-association model in conjunction with a model based on the hard sphere theory, the model of Moelwyn-Hughes and a statistical mechanical approach. Using the self-association model, the model parameters were determined from the experimental thermodynamic data at 1863 K. These model parameters were then used to compute the concentration-concentration fluctuations at the long wavelength limit (𝑆𝑐𝑐(0)), short range order parameter (𝛼1), mutual diffusivity, viscosity, surface concentration, surface tension and surface 𝑆𝑐𝑐(0) for the two alloys at 1863 K. Results obtained show that Fe−Mn alloy with low tendency of homocoordination exhibits ideal mixing below 0.25 and above 0.88 atomic fractions of iron. On the other hand, Fe−Co alloy shows ideal mixing property below 0.20 and above 0.88 atomic fractions of iron, homocoordination between 0.20 and 0.70 atomic fractions of iron (Fe) and weak ordering between 0.70 and 0.90 atomic fractions of iron (Fe). Throughout the entire concentration range, diffusion-related activities as reflected by mutual diffusivities are higher in Fe−Mn alloy than in Fe−Co alloy. The viscosities of the two liquid alloys exhibit negative deviations from Arrhenius’ law, with the negative deviation being more pronounced in the Fe−Co alloy. Calculations also indicate that more Mn-atoms segregate at the surface of Fe−Mn alloy whereas nearly equal concentrations of Fe-atoms and Co-atoms are at the surface of Fe−Co alloy. These observations possibly suggest that more Fe-atoms are present at the surface of Fe−Co alloy than that of Fe−Mn alloy. The surface tension of Fe−Mn alloy increases throughout the entire concentration range while for Fe−Co alloy, it initially decreases to around 0.59 atomic fraction of iron (Fe) before it rises rapidly. The results from the computation of surface concentration-concentration fluctuations at the long wavelength limit corroborate the results from bulk properties calculations.Item Open Access Factors associated with the occurance of post partum obesity: A survey of women in Yenagoa Local Government Area of Bayelsa State(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2025-04) Timidi, Iniebi TimidiThe aim of this study is to ascertain the relationship between age parity, breastfeeding practices, mode of delivery, occupation of mother and postpartum obesity. This study was carried out in three (3) Primary Health Centers, a Federal Medical Centre (FMC), and Niger Delta University Teaching Hospital (NDUTH) all in Yenagoa, Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, Nigeria. A total of 400 postpartum mothers of 18-49years were randomly selected and questionnaires were administered. IBM Statistical package for Social sciences (SPSS) version 20.0 was used to analyze the data. The average weight before pregnancy was 76.83+/-13.69kg. Mean post pregnancy weight was 74.54+/-13.53kg and mean height of 1.60+/-0.28 meters. Majority of the respondent 116(29.0%) have BMI of 25.0-29.9kg/m2 , meaning that majority were overweight with only (6.3%) underweight with BMI of less than 18.5kg/m2.'sAbout 182(45.5%) of them were obsessed with BMI≥30.0kg/m2 . Based on these the result shows , the result has no significant relationship between parity, occupation of mother and the Body Mass Index of postpartum mothers; but there is a significant relationship (p ) between age of mother(p=0.00),practice of breastfeeding (p=0.02) and method of delivery of baby (p=0.00) with Body Mass Index of mother. Pregnancy has been cited as a contributor to overweight in women. This is as a result of excessive weight that is gained during pregnancy. It shows that indeed breastfeeding exclusively for 6-months and continuous breastfeeding till 2 years, age of mother and having normal baby delivery, helps to maintain a normal Body Mass Index of the mother.