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Open Access
Coping strategies of mothers of school aged children with sickle cell disease in Enugu metropolis, Enugu State, Nigeria
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2021-09) Obi, Ifeyinwa Nneamaka
The study on coping strategies of mothers of school aged children with sickle cell disease (SCD) in Enugu metropolis, Enugu state, Nigeria was carried out between June and August 2017. The overall objective was to determine the coping strategies of mothers of school age children with SCD accessing treatment in health facilities in Enugu metropolis. To achieve the overall objectives, four specific objectives were set. This study was designed as across sectional study and a sample size of 292 mothers were selected using the systematic sampling method from a total population of 460 mothers whose children were accessing treatment for SCD from both UNTH and ESUTH. One hundred and fifty-four (154) were chosen from UNTH while one hundred and thirty-eight (138) were from ESUTH. A structured questionnaire (0.88) was used as instrument for data collection. Data analysis was done using chi-square test and significance was tested at P<0.05. The marital status of mothers showed that, 200 (68.5%) mothers were married and 92(31.5%) were single. Regarding the number of school age children suffering SCD per mother, the result showed that, 248(84.9%) mothers had one child suffering SCDand44(15.1%) mothers had more than one child suffering sickle cell disease. The result on stressors confronting the mothers shows six factors which were; hospital factors, child factors, financial factors, psychological factors, disease factors and family factors. The association between these factors and marital status of these mothers were significant (P<0.05), aside from disease factors which had no significant association with the marital status of the mothers.(X2=0.000, P =1.000, df =2). Hospital factors were coped through confronting the impediments 180(61.6%), financial factors were coped throughcomplaints202(69.1%), child factors were coped through confronting the stressors, psychological factors were coped through complaints 140(47.9%), disease actors were coped through complaints 292(100.0%) and family factors were mainly coped through confronting the stressors. There were significant associations between coping mechanisms adopted by mothers and mothers marital status (P<0.05), aside from coping mechanisms on disease factors which had no significant association with marital status of the mothers. This study has shown that both married and single mothers of children with SCD experience significant stress which they adopt various ways of coping with. It is important for policy makers to provide necessary psychological care and support for these women in other to alleviate their stress.
Open Access
Comparative analysis of IPR models for oil & gas well optimization using production performance software (PERFORM) for steady state horizontal wells
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2021-04) Nwude, Afam Anthony
In this work an investigation of the formulations and solution methods for the following optimization problem was done. Determination of the optimal production rates, lift gas rates, and well connections to maximize daily operational objectives subject to multiple flow rates and pressure constraints.The main materials used in this research are presented as software platforms. IHS PERFORM Ver 500 simulator was used to generate PI, determine Inflow and Vertical Lift Performance of the case study well at varying well pressure and flow rates (first on natural flow without artificial lift installed). Microsoft Excel package was used for Economic Analysis to determine the profitability of PERFORM when compared with other software tool such as Petex-Prosper, or with no software tool used. All of the optimization problems are solved using derivative-free optimization based on a constrained well Performance Analysis, PERFORM. General descriptions of the software simulations were provided in the work. Results of the sensitivity analysis on the hypothetical case using the IPR Models for horizontal gas wells provided the effect on pressure and liquid drop out.This method is very efficient. However, it may lead to bad solutions when the flow interactions among wells are significant.
Open Access
Development of suitable failure criteria for designing sufficient mud weights for Niger Delta well
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2022-02) Nwanro, Chidindu Peace
Drilling the well to the target depth comes with it a lot of challenges; part of the issues related to drilling both vertical and deviated wellbores is related to the type of formation failures and well problems observed during drilling. Wellbore direction and deviation changes during drilling while the formation is the same, the effect of transformed stresses around the wellbore wall will be different. This is obvious that neither rock properties nor in-situ stresses can be changed to mitigate the failures of the wellbore. However, the density of the drilling mud can significantly control the situation. Large wellbore pressure due to using high mud density could enforce the formation to open in tensile mode, which in due course may result in mud loss or ultimately fracturing the formation. Also, using a low density mud, corresponding to low wellbore pressure may result in rock failure in shear mode and consequently breakouts. Most drilling engineers do not incorporate thorough wellbore stability analysis as part of well planning due to the complexity of wellbore stability models and thus employs the traditional practice which is identifying the pore pressure and adding extra pressure typically 100-200psi in mud equivalent as safety margin. Predicted mud weights in this manner end up in failed states resulting in several types of problems such as stuck pipe, lost circulation, formation damage and well control problems simply because either the mud weights designed are not sufficiently screened or those operating them lack the basic understanding of such mud systems. Five case studies were considered in this work to analyze the well and mud data from previously drilled wells with typical wellbore stability issues in the Niger Delta Region. A problem diagnostic was conducted to determine the main cause of the instability issues in these wells. Based on our findings, an excel based spreadsheet was developed for all the data and to perform all calculations. A coupled Mogi-Coulomb criterion further developed predicts the safe mud weight window in an iterative manner and describes the rock failure more accurately than does the traditional Mohr-Coulomb criterion which is independent of the intermediate principal stress, and presents a very slim mud weight window. Results of this study can help well trajectory optimization, proper mud weight determination, hydraulic fracturing job, sanding analysis and reduce non-productive time (NPT) while drilling.
Open Access
Effect of manure sources and propagule node number on the productivity of orange-fleshed sweet potato (ipomoea batatas l) in Owerri, Nigeria
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2021-05) Nwankwo, Uchenna MaryJane
The effects of Manure sources and propagule node number on the productivity of orange fleshed sweet potato (king-J) was investigated at the Teaching and Research Farm of Federal University of Technology, Owerri Nigeria in 2016 and 2017 planting seasons respectively. Three (3) vine nodes: 2, 4 and 6 as well as three (3) sources of manure: 0 (control), poultry manure 10 t ha-1and NPK 15:15:15 400 kg ha-1 respectively were combined in a 3 x 3 factorial experiment fitted into Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) giving a total of 9 treatment combinations replicated 3 times and it gave 27 treatment plots. Data on soil at the beginning and at the end of each of the experiments were collected and analyzed. Data on the growth and yield parameters of sweet potato were also collected and statistically analyzed using Genstart software. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) at 5% level of probability was used to test treatment effect. The result showed that the study site was slightly acidic (PH 4.99 and 5.19) and low in nitrogen (0.13 and 0.12) in 2016 and 2017. At the end of the experiment the acidity was raised from 4.99 to 5.72, and 5.19 to 6.22 in 2016 and 2017 respectively. Result of the investigation revealed that manure sources were statistically significant on sweet potato vine length, branch formation, leaf production, leafspot and bacterial blight disease severity as well as yield in kg ha-1 at 5% probability level in 2016 and 2017 planting seasons respectively. Propagule with 4 nodes applied with 400kg ha-1 NPK had the longest vines 100.40cm and 109.40cm, the highest number of leaves 104,30, 134.90, number of branches 9.00, 12.00, as well as lowest leaf spot and bacteria blight disease severity 1.15, 1.48; 1.19, 1.49 in 2016 and 2017 planting season respectively. However interaction of propagule with 4 nodes and 10 t ha-1 poultry manure produced the highest total fresh tuber yield 29.79 t ha-1 and 38.79 t ha-1 in 2016 and 2017 respectively. Sweet potato production is a good and profitable enterprise. For successful sweet potato production in Owerri Nigeria, the following recommended practices are made; Farmers can adopt the use of propagule with 4 nodes for high growth and yield of sweet potato. However further studies is recommended.
Open Access
Critical success factors of liquified natural gas projects
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2023-06) Mbata, Nnamdi
While success has eluded most LNG projects planned in countries like Bolivia, Venezuela, Iran, Canada, Alaska, Indonesia, Russia, and Australia, a commendable success has been recorded in the construction of Nigeria LNG Train Six project in Bonny Island. The objective of this project work is to find out the various success factors that have made the Train 6 project successful and how these can be of advantage for several other LNG projects planned in several locations in Nigeria would also succeed. By this review conclusions would be drawn and recommendations made for references in future work in the chosen locations. The basic research questionnaires of 5- point scale response were analyzed using tables. Two Hypotheses were formulated in the study and were tested using correlation analysis techniques. The two null hypotheses were not true and therefore not acceptable; There were significant project management system that existed that led to the significant success of the T6 NLNG project. Also, significant management of the risk factors, led to the commendable success of the project. Finally, the study concludes that the effective Project management of T6 NLNG project produced the recorded success and any other projects planned; Train 7 project, Olokolo and Brass LNG projects would require a higher level of Project management of both risks and resources to achieve the desired high project performance. Thesis will in turn ensure timely delivery of the projects at the approved budget cost.
Open Access
Geotechnical assessment of Akpulu gully erosion site in Ideato North Local Government Area of Imo State, Nigeria
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2013-02) Ikechukwu, Owette
This study was carried out to assess the surface processes and subsurface characteristics that contribute to the formation and expansion of gully erosion in Akpulu - Ideato North County, Imo State Nigeria. Part of Akpulu community especially Okwu village that is very close to the gully head may submerge in the next few years if control measures are not intensified. A gully measured 15-18 m deep, 9-12 m wide to 6.5 km long is advancing aggressively, threatening life, property, food production, and security of ecosystem in Akpulu and its environs. Analysis of soil samples collected from accessible portion of the gully depths of 3 m show peculiar geotechnical characteristics ranging from Liquid limits 27.5 – 30.4%, Plastic limits 17.35 – 22.75%, and Plasticity index 7.65-13.70%. The soil has highclay/silt content, with ranges of maximum dry density (2.01- 2.06g/m3), Optimum moisture content (12.1-13.4%), and average shear strength of 106.9KN/m2 It is easily erodible, as the silt gets dissolved by high velocity flood on 0.02 flow gradient. Expansion and maintenance of the main drainage channel from Umuchu to Akpakporo River in Apkulu is recommended. Secondary drainage channels to join the main channel, and increased trees planting from the gully head are also recommended.
Open Access
Detection of virulence and resistance genes in bacterial isolates from seafood obtained from Nembe and Ox-Bow Lake, Bayelsa State, Nigeria
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2019-09) Justice-Alucho, Chinwe Happiness
Microorganisms have developed different mechanisms of evading the actions of antimicrobial agents, consequently, reducing the effectiveness of these antimicrobial agents. Antibiotics abuse and their use in animal husbandry have increased the acquisition and transfer of antibiotic resistant genes from and within the environment. This study is aimed at detecting resistance and virulence genes in bacterial isolates from seafood. A total of 200 fresh seafood samples (crab, shrimp, oyster and periwinkle) were collected randomly from Nembe River and Ox-bow Lake. Isolates were obtained using the conventional microbiological methods after an initial enrichment treatment in peptone for six (6) hours. The pure cultures were screened by gram staining and biochemical test for preliminary identification and representative isolates were characterized for 16SrRNA using Polymerase Chain Reaction and Sequencing. The isolates were further subjected to pathogenicity test to identify the presence of hemolysin and coagulase as well as antimicrobial susceptibility testing using standard oxoid commercial antibiotics. The 16srRNA sequence of the isolates produced an exact match during the mega blast search to Staphylococcus gallinarum, Vibrio rotiferianus, Vibrio parahaemolyticus, Klebsiella aerogenes and Klebsiella quasipneumoniae. All isolates showed resistance to ceftriazone, ceftazidime, ampicillin and penicillin. The multi-drug resistant isolates were analyzed for the presence of the resistance genes ctx-M, shv, mec A and acrAB as well as virulence genes; tdh and sxt. acrAB genes were detected in Klebsiella aerogenes and Klebsiella quasipneumoniae, the ctx-M was detected only in Klebsiella quasipneumoniae, the shv was detected in Klebsiella quasipneumoniae, Klebsiella aerogenes and Vibrio rotiferianus. The tdh genes were detected in Vibrio parahaemolyticus only. Staphylococcus gallinarum was positive for mecA genes. The presence of these Extended Spectrum β-Lactamases and other resistance genes explains why the isolates were resistant to the third generation cephalosporins as well as the β-lactam antibiotics. The presence of virulence gene, tdh in Vibrio sp codes for the virulence in these organisms therefore rendering the food unsafe for consumption. Adequate handling as well as proper cooking of seafood before consumption should be highly recommended so as to reduce the incidence of food-borne infections as well as antibiotic resistance.
Open Access
Modeling monthly relative humidity for evapotranspiration in Ohaji- Egbema, Imo State and Aninri, Enugu State
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2021-05) Iwuchukwu, Emmanuel Ikechukwu
Monthly Relative humidity (RH) models for Enugu and Imo States were developed using statistical analysis (SPSS) based on stepwise method. In this study, the independent variables: sunshine hours, minimum temperature, maximum temperature, rainfall and vapour pressure and the dependent variable (monthly relative humidity) were obtained from Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NIMET) for the years 1991 to 2010. The data for 1991 – 2007 were used to develop the models. High coefficients of determination R2 = 0.845 and 0.753 for estimating monthly relative humidity for Enugu and Imo respectively were obtained during model building. The developed models were used to predict a monthly relative humidity value for the remaining three years using data obtained from NIMET from 2008-2010 that was not used in building the model. It was observed that the Imo model predicted fairly accurate, judging from the low percentage error in year 2008 got from the monthly RH that was not used in building the model; (ranging from 0.46 to 45.94) but for 2009 and 2010, the percentage errors were fairly higher than that predicted for year 2008 whereas that of the Enugu model predicted fairly accurate, judging from the low percentage error in year 2008 got from the monthly RH not used in building the model;(ranging from 0.59 to 32.42) and also for 2009 and 2010, the percentage errors were fairly accurate as that predicted for year 2008. Thus the smaller the percentage error values between measured and predicted results, the better the model developed. Blaney-Morin Nigeria(BMN) model was used as a test case because it dealt with Evapotranspiration estimation in Nigeria. By applying the two models into equation 1.1, The error margin for RH model for Enugu state used in Blaney Morin-Nigeria(BMN) gave 0.0295 – 0.1864 whereas the error margin for RH model for Imo state used in BMN gave 0.0312 – 0.1322. By applying the developed monthly relative humidity in BMN model to estimate the monthly evapotranspiration from 1991 to 2010 gave a high significant difference. These results are clear evidence of the test of goodness of fit of the models between predicted and measured parameters for monthly relative humidity for Imo and Enugu states using BMN.
Open Access
Modeling the effects of brewery effluents on surface water: A case study of Ajalliowa River in Enugu State
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2021-05) Imo, Chimezie Iwunna
This study modelled the effect of brewery effluents on surface water taking Ajalliowa River in Enugu state as a case study. This predictive model, obtained using least square method, was combined with laboratory analysis to determine the changes in the physico-chemical characteristics of the river before and after the pollution, the distribution effects in time and space were also put into consideration. Water samples were collected in duplicate, using 1 litres kegs as sampling bottles and small plastic bottles of 50ml, from several points along the river body, namely: 50m upstream, effluent discharge from the brewery, the discharge point, 50m downstream, 100m downstream and 150m downstream. Prior to sample collection, all the sampling bottles were washed thoroughly, sun-dried and rinsed with the same water to be collected. The sampling bottles were labelled with dates and collection site. Grab samples werecollected repeatedly. Until analysis, the collected water samples were kept in a cool container and was preserved for various analysis by addition of 1.0 ml of concentrated nitric acid. The predictive model showed a very high correlation coefficient for some of the important parameters while some are not adequately predicted. The pH model gave the highest correlation coefficient with a very low standard of estimate. Also, for each of the sampling points, high correlation coefficients were observed. With the model showing high correlation coefficient between the experimental and simulated results, this thus indicate clearly that this model is suitable for the prediction and estimation of the major physico-chemical characteristics of the river. There is however room for improvement, which can be achieved by adopting pactorial modelling methodology.
Open Access
Knowledge, attitude and practice of infant and young child feeding among mothers with child (0-24 months) in Umuahia South L.G.A.
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2021-04) Kalu, Mary Okereke
Malnutrition is the commonest cause of death of children under 2years of age in the rural areas, this study determined the knowledge, attitude and practice of infant and young child feeding among mothers with child 0-24months in Umuahia South Local Government Area of Abia State which is located in Abia Central Senatorial Zone, bounded in the North by Umuahia North Local Government Area, in the South by Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area, in the East by Ikputu in Isiala Ngwa North Local Government Area, and in the West by Mbaise in Imo State. Descriptive study design was used for the study, the sample size of 372 was drawn from the target population of 5325 nursing mothers attending postnatal clinics in the study area. The respondents were selected using the random sampling technique. Structured questionnaire was the instrument used for data collection, the data collected were analyzed using statistical package for social science (SPSS). The result showed that 332 (89-2%) had good knowledge of infant and young child feeding, more respondents 330(88.7%) knew the correct meaning of exclusive breastfeeding, more respondents 229(77.7%) knew when to commence complimentary feeding which is at 6months, while only 167(44.9%) had good knowledge of the consistency of the child's food. Also more respondents 239(64.2%) strongly agreed that the baby should be exclusively breastfed for the first 6months of life, more respondents 199(53.9%) strongly agreed that colostrums should not be thrown away while majority 310(83.3%) strongly agreed that there is no difficulty in exclusive breastfeeding. More respondents 250(67.2%) were of the opinion that water should not be given to the baby for the first months of life. From the findings, there was overall high level knowledge score of exclusive breastfeeding 330(88.7%) moderate knowledge on complimentary feeding 120(46%) and low knowledge on weaning, also there was positive attitude towards exclusive breastfeeding 310(83.3%) as compared the negative attitude of 10(2.7%) on responses of difficulties in exclusive breastfeeding, more respondents 272(73.1%) practice rooming in which is the mother sleeping with the baby in the same bed while only 100(26.6%) does not practice rooming in.There is still poor knowledge on complimentary feeding, negative attitude towards intake of colustrum as many respondents believed that colustrum should be thrown away and poor practice because most of the respondents still give water to a child less than 6months. There is need for further awareness creation among mothers in the rural community in other to embrace adequate infant and young child feeding practice in Umuahia South Local Government Area and Abia State in general to improve the nutritional status of children under 2years of age. There is also need to increase the knowledge, attitude and practice(KAP) of mothers in the rural areas of the State through health information ,education and communication (IEC) and follow-up activities in the communities will be of great importance to sustain the effort of the health facilities and recruitment of more health workers in rural areas to educate mothers on the need for proper practice of infant and young child feeding, there is also need for further studies in the LGAs and the State at large.
Open Access
Accumulation of heavy metals in fish, water, and sediment samples from Oguta lake.
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2024-08) Shittu, Usman Akorede
This work was carried out to ascertain the accumulation of heavy metals in fish, water, and sediment samples from Oguta Lake. Triplicate batches of the samples were taken from three sampling points along the river coast, and the physicochemical parameters were analyzed in the laboratory using gravimetric, titrimetric, and spectrophotometric methods. The concentrations of heavy metals (Pb, Cd, As, Ni, Mn, Cu, and Hg) in water, sediment, and fish, insect, snail, and algal species from the lake were analyzed using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer. Carcinogenic risk models were used to estimate the potential risks through the ingestion of fish, insects, snails, and algal in Oguta Lake. Pearson correlation multivariate analyses of variance (MANOVA) were used to analyze the inter-relationship among heavy metals in water and sediments. Seasonal variation and the correlation matrix (ANOVA) of heavy metals were analyzed. The results obtained showed that the mean concentrations of physicochemical parameters ranged as follows: Temperature (26.04-29.35); pH (7.17-7.77); Free CO2 (9.78-10.34); BOD (10.14-10.42); TDS (22.23-28.04); EC (0.30-0.49); DO (5.69-5.86); Total Hardness (18.49-21.00); Turbidity (15.0317.76); Alkalinity (15.64-16.66); Sulfate (2.19-2.55); Ammonium (0.26-0.40). Comparison with WHO guidelines indicated that most parameters assayed were within permissible limits. The mean concentrations of heavy metals in water were: Pb (0.19±0.05); Cd (0.41±0.07); As (0.01±0.001); Ni (0.59 ±0.1); Mn (0.02±0.006); and Cu (2.24 ± 0.31). while the mean concentrations of heavy metals in sediment were: Pb (0.26±0.04); Cd (1.04±0.15); As (1.02±0.16); Ni (1.22± 0.24); Mn (1.98±1.68); and Cu (1.87 ± 0.58). Positive correlations were observed for the following pairs of metals in water and sediments: Pbw and Nis (r = 0.356), Cdw and Nis (r =0.237), Cuw and Mns (r = 0.325), Cdw and Pbs (r = 0.969*), and Asw and Ass (r = 0.967) at p< 0.05. Bioaccumulations of heavy metals were in the following order: fish > algal > snail > insect. The estimated daily intake of heavy metals from consuming fish, algae, and snails indicated that none of the heavy metals currently pose a health risk to consumers of these organisms in the study area, based on the dose. The results obtained from this study showed that heavy metal pollution is not yet a significant problem in Oguta Lake as of the time of this investigation.
Open Access
Evaluation of process variables on the quality of egusi (Citrullus vulgaris) soup ball using response surface methodology.
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2024-07) Onyejiaka, Ifeoma Philomena
This project was carried out to evaluate the effect of process variables on the quality of Egusi (Citrillus vugaris) soup balls from blends of defatted melon and “usu” Pleurotus tuber) flour. Egusi seeds were processed into flour and defatted while „Usu‟ was processed into flour. The two flour samples were blended at different ratios of (90:10, 80:20, 70:30) egusi / usu. A three factor, three levels Response Surface Methodology (Box Behnken Design) was used to design the experiment. Seventeen (17) runs were designed for feed composition X1(90:10, 80:20, 70:30) %, Cooking timeX2 (60, 90, 120) min and ball sizes X3 (5, 10, 15) g. The runs were used to produce soup balls. Sensory attributes andproximate composition of the soup balls were determined. Shelf – life study on the soup balls for a period of four weeks were also carried out. Regression models describing the effect of variables on the product responses were obtained. Proximate composition showed that there were significant (P<0.05) differences among the samples in terms of moisture content, crude protein, crude fibre, ash, fat, and carbohydrate samples. Responses were mostly affected to a large extent by feed composition, cooking time and to a lesser extent ball size. The moisture content of the soup ball samples was low, ranging from (5.75 -8.05%) which indicated that the samples would have longer shelf- life. The regression analysis results revealed that there were significant (P<0.05) differences in the interactions between feed composition and ball size and between ball size and cooking time. The coefficient of determination R2 was 0.87, which signified that the model adequately represented the real relationship between the variables under consideration. All the R2 were higher than 0.75. The lack of fits was not significant. The protein contents of the samples were high, ranging from (33.02 - 37.5%),which could be attributed to the protein content of the egusi. Fat content ranged from (7.67 – 10.23%). The fat content revealed that there was residual oil in the egusi flour after defatting. Screw oil expeller machine was used to defat the egusi which must have left residual oil in the flour. The response surface plot, fig. 4.5, revealed that increase in the percentage of egusi in the samples, resulted to increase in fat content of the samples. Increase of usu in the feed increased the crude fiber (2.95 – 6.63%) and ash content (4.01– 5.64%). Sensory scores showed that there were significant (P< 0.5) differences among the samples with respect to all the attributes. The scores were above 7.5 in a nine point hedonic scale. The highest total viable count after one month storage was 2.8x104cfu/ml from MSB13.The highest fungal count was 2.0 x104 cfu/ml from MSB1. No coliform count was detected. Though the counts were within acceptable levels, the following microorganisms were isolated: Bacillus subtilis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa (disease–causing); Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus flavus which were spoilage organisms.
Open Access
Improved image steganography system using convolutional neural networks.
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2024-11) Ofoegbu, Christopher Ifeanyi
This study presents an innovative image steganography method that combines convolutional autoencoders with the Residual Network (ResNet) architecture to address the limitations of traditional techniques. The method aims to securely embed data within images while maintaining high imperceptibility and efficiency. Existing methods struggle with balancing image quality, embedding capacity, and computational complexity, highlighting the need for advanced solutions. This approach enables the concealment of color images within others, ensuring secure data transmission and reducing computational complexities. The method utilizes ResNet-based preprocessing for feature extraction and embedding operations, evaluated using the CIFAR dataset (60,000 images). Experiments were conducted using Python programming, TensorFlow, and NVIDIA GPUs for training and testing. The model achieves PSNR values exceeding 30 dB and SSIM values above 0.98, ensuring superior imperceptibility, reduced complexity, and effective image quality retention. This deep-learning-based approach offers a significant improvement in security, embedding capacity, imperceptibility, and computational efficiency, advancing the field of image steganography.
Open Access
Design and simulation of a controller scheme to mitigate process flow errors in oil and gas industry.
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2024-12) Nwele, Emmanuel Onyekachi
Flow in a process industry is characterized with issue of frictional force in the medium in which the fluid is being transported thereby creating pressure loss which leads to loss of time and output product. In this research, Direct Synthesis(DS) method is used, while the tools used include: Proteus version 7.6, MATLAB/Simulink software, LabVIEW Control Design and Simulation Module. A Proportional Integral Derivative (PID) and Distributed Control System (DCS) controllers are utilized in order to control the flow rate of the process fluids by controlling the loss in pressure due to frictional forces in the transport medium to ensure that the flow remains in laminar condition. Firstly, the PID was modeled, and the PID controller was designed and configured into the flow system, then it was simulated using MATLAB/Simulink and the result of the performance showed that when the PID was independently controlling the flow system, there was over shoot which was over come after some wasteful time before achieving steady or stability. Secondly, DCS was also used independently in the flow loop and it was simulated using Proteus software. The performance was observed in the software environment and it showed that when DCS was used independently, it had a good control efficiency but some percentage of transient and overshoot was noticed from the output result. Thirdly, the DCS and the PID were installed together and simulated using LabVIEW and the results obtained showed that the cascading of the two controllers cut down the time of attaining stability and the problems of drag and pressure loss were eliminated in a very short time. The research work achieved 99 percent of the results anticipated as all the specific objectives were achieved. The research was validated using Routh- Hurwitz stability criterion.
Open Access
Inhibition of mild steel corrosion using carica papaya and bitter-leaf extracts in 1.5M H2SO4 environment.
(Federal University of Technology,Owerri, 2024-07) Nwadike, Chikezie Obioma Magnus
This work concerns the corrosion inhibition of mild steel in 1.5M H2SO4 solution with and without the addition of plant-leaf extracts of Vernonia amygdalina (VA) and Carica papaya (CP). The inhibitor was obtained by filtering the juice from the ground fresh leaves of VA and CP. Weight loss technique was employed in the corrosion study while phytochemical analyses were conducted on the examined plant leaves to unravel the bioactive constituents. The duration of exposure time of specimens in the study environment spanned for 24, 48, 72, 96, and 120 hours. The concentrations of the inhibitors were added at 5ml, 10ml, 15ml, and 20ml respectively. On the other hand, the inhibitor concentrations of the synergetic admixture (SA) were added such that CP or VA had the constant concentration (2ml) and remaining concentrations were augmented by the other at 5mL (2ml + 3ml), 10mL (2ml + 8ml), 15mL (2ml + 13ml), and 20mL (2ml + 18ml) respectively. Results revealed that the corrosion of mild steel in a 1.5 M H2SO4 solution was inhibited by the addition of both Vernonia amygdalina and papaya leaf extracts. As the VA leaf extract concentration was raised, the corrosion rate reduced, with the maximum inhibition efficacy of 64.8% being attained with 20 mL of VA after 24 hours. However, from 24 to 120 hours, a gradual decline in the inhibitor's potency was observed, which suggests that 20 mL concentration of VA does not offer a tenacious covering of the mild steel in 1.5 M H2SO4 for a longer period. The inclusion of Carica papaya leaf extract prevented mild steel from corroding in 1.5M H2SO4. After 48 hours, 20 mL of CP leaf extract produced the maximum inhibitory efficacy of about 86.89%. When Vernonia amygdalina and Carica papaya leaf extracts were combined, they demonstrated superior corrosion inhibition when compared to VA alone. The mixture of 18 mL of VA and 2 mL of CP showed the greatest degree of inhibitory effectiveness. Comparing Vernonia amygdalina to Carica papaya leaf extract, the latter appeared to be more successful in preventing corrosion in 1.5 M H2SO4 due to better inhibitory efficiency. The phytochemical analyses of the examined leaves revealed the presence of tannin, phytate, phenol, hydrogen cyanide, and alkaloid. To predict the observed corrosion rates, multiple regression (MR) and artificial neural network (ANN) models were applied. In general, ANN predictions had less errors than MR predictions, indicating that ANN is better at predicting nonlinear corrosion inhibition relationships.
Open Access
Bioavailability and genotoxicity of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons on two edible vegetables(Amaranthus hybridus and Telfiaria occidentalis)
(Federal University of Technology,Owerri, 2023-11) Ukachukwu, Chidinma Ogochukwu
Bioavailability and genotoxic effect of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) were investigated in two edible vegetables (Amaranthus hybridus and Telfairia occidentalis) using; physicochemical properties, biotolerence of the vegetables to PAH, molecular characterization, and health risk assessment of consumption of exposed vegetables. The study assessed PAH content in different tropical urban environment using soxhlet extraction flame ionization detection (SEGC-FID) method, physicochemical properties of soil, biotolerance of the two vegetables exposed to different concentrations of spent engine oil, benzo(a)pyrene (B[a]P), benzo(k)fluoranthene (B[k]F) and benzo(ghi)perylene (B[ghi]P) in plant species, and health risk associated with the consumption of contaminated vegetables. The health risk assessment was done using health assessment models such as screening value (SV), incremental lifetime cancer risk (ILCR) and margin of exposure (MOE). Molecular characterization of exposed plant species was carried out to determine the level of toxicity on the DNA, through DNA band breaks. This was carried out with three inter-simple sequence repeat (ISSR) primers (UBC 811, UBC 827, UBC 808). SE-GCFID method was used for the separation and identification of PAH. The results showed that a total of fourteen PAHs were detected in the different tropical urban environment which includes: acenaphthylene, phenanthrene, 1-2 benzanthene, acenaphthalene, benzo(k)fluoranthene, benzo(a)pyrene, benzo(b)fluoranthene, flourene, naphthalene, dibenzo(a,h)anthracene, anthracene, benzo(ghi)perylene, fluoranthrene and pyrene. The soil physical properties showed that the moisture content and bulk density where higher in the polluted soil, while porosity was higher in the unpolluted soil. However, the soil textural class remains sandy. In soil chemical properties; soil pH was low, effective cation exchange capacity, exchangeable base, exchangeable acidity and organic carbon were higher in the polluted soil samples. The biotolerance of the two vegetables exposed and unexposed to the pollutants showed low growth performance in the polluted plants as concentration increases. However, there was a significant difference (P<0.05) between the unexposed and the exposed plants using analysis of variance Dunnet multiple comparison. The result of the genomic effect of these pollutant revealed alteration at genetic level through DNA insertion deletion and changes in band intensity. The three primers showed polymorphism level of 65%, 58% and 18% . The health risk assessment from dietary consumption of PAH contaminated vegetables showed low health risk concern in SV, ILCR and MOE. However, prolong exposure to these pollutants can affect humans as it possesses a high potential to bioaccumulate through the food chain. The study was able to suggest the presence of PAH component in the different tropical urban environs of Owerri. Also the impact of PAH on growth performance of the two plants species showed that it is concentration dependent which was reflected in the DNA of plants species as polymorphism occurred showing variations in DNA.
Open Access
Electrochemical and microbial treatment of bromophenol blue (BB) and malachite green (MG) dye contaminated water for electricity generation
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2023-09) Anyanwu, John Ojinere
Pollutants present in textile waste water are recalcitrant and difficult to treat with simple processes. In this study, an energy-sustainable method for treating dye-contaminated water was devised by combining an electrochemical process and a microbial fuel cell. An electrochemical oxidation procedure using copper cathode and graphite anode electrodes was employed for decolorizing Malachite green (MG) and Bromophenol Blue (BB) dye in an aqueous solution. Bio-electricity was generated using BB and MG dye-contaminated water in a dual chamber MFC. Micro organisms isolated and cultured from MG and BB dye-contaminated soil were also employed to determine their efficiency in degrading dye-contaminated water. The isolated micro-organisms were identified as Eubacterium sp (M2), Streptobacillus sp (M3), Aspergillus niger (B6),Trichophyton terrestre (M4) Serratia marcescens (B2), Acinetobacter baumanni (B1), Bacillus subtilis (B3), Bacillus megaterium (B5), Aspergillus Flavus (B7), Rhizopus stolonifer (B8) respectively. Decolorizing ability of dyes was observed by dye decolorization assay. Streptobacillus sp achieved the highest degradation efficiency of 95.6 % for MG while Serratia marcescens achieved the highest degradation efficiency of 45.3% for BB. The impacts of a number of variables, including the supporting electrolyte, temperature, current density, and pH on the electrochemical dye removal process were investigated. While decolorization effectiveness exhibited a nonlinear pattern with pH and temperature, it increased gradually with current density and electrolyte content. With 100% maximum effectiveness, obtained at pH 3 for BB and 98.5% obtained at pH 5 for MG, while maximum efficiency of 98.3% was obtained at 380C for both MG and BB. The maximum OCV and power density achieved by MG based MFC is 0.7 2V and 8.33 mW/m2 while the maximum OCV and power density for BB based MFC is 1.28 V and 167.45 mW/m2. Density functional theory-based quantum chemical computations indicate oxidative attack to be initiated at the Bromine atom of the hydro-phenyl group for BB and at Carbon atom of the methylene group for MG.
Open Access
Investigation of local barites in drilling mugs formulation at HTHP conditions
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2021-04) Omeokwe, Ifeanyi Kenechukwu
In order to counter-balance the formation pressure, the drilling mud is weighted up using a chemical additive, usually Barite. The usability of locally sourced Nigerian Barites on the major types of drilling fluids in conventional and High-Pressure-High-Temperature conditions is presented. Water-Based mud, Oil-Based mud and Synthetic oil-Based mud formulations with locally sourced Barite were tested according to the ‘API RP 13B’. Hole cleaning capabilities of the formulations by the use of Cutting Carrying Index and Cutting Concentration as indicators show that Osina, Gabu and Obubra Nigerian Barites with SG’s ranging from 4.0 to 4.6 are suitable for use as drilling fluid additives; with Cutting Carrying Index in the range of 23.27 to 120.54 for Water-Based mud, 0.89 to 3.98 for Oil-Based mud and 0.45 to 1.13 for Synthetic-Based mud, and Cutting Concentration of average of 4.15 vol. % at 355gpm and 300ft/hr ROP for Water-Based mud, Oil-Based mud and Synthetic-Based mud, with MAXROP of 364ft/hr under the same conditions. Moreso, laminar flow regime in the annulus is predicted for all the mud types under the same conditions and temperatures specified. CCI for water based mud decreased from ambient, 120oF, 180oF to 240oF, compared with API mud used as control sample. Oil extracted from Irvingia Gabonensis used to formulate the Synthetic-Based mud exhibited understandable physical properties such as SG of 0.836 at 60oC and a flash point of >300oC, and could serve as replacement for diesel used as base fluid in Oil-Based muds since it is also biodegradable, though the Synthetic-Based mud exhibited unfavourable characteristics in terms of low CCI value(s) and higher filter cake thickness. All the muds displayed flat or non-progressive gel; gel strengths that break with minimal initiation pressure. Locally sourced Nigerian barites have been shown to exhibit favourable properties in the mud formulations both in conventional and High-Pressure-High-Temperature drilling conditions.
Open Access
Hydrogeophysical and aquifer protective capacity studies of Enugu and environs Southeastern Nigeria.
(Federal University of Technology,Owerri, 2022-08) Udeh, Moses Harry
Hydrogeophysical Studies of Enugu and environs were carried out using geophysical and hydrogeological method. This study was designed to evaluate the aquifer system of the study area as well its protective capacity and vulnerability by applying the models (Lc and IEC, GOD and DRASTIC), and also to evaluate soil corrosivity of the area by utilizing the topsoil (first layer) resistivity values obtained from the interpreted VES results. A total of eighty-five (85) vertical electrical sounding points were made in the study area that has three to nine geo-electric layers using the digital ABEM SAS 4000 model Terrameter with its accessories. The Schlumberger electrode configuration was adopted for data acquisition with half current electrode separation (AB/2) of 500m and half potential electrode separation (MN/2) of 55m. Nineteen (19) parametric soundings were carried out near existing boreholes where pumping data was available for correlative purposes and to constrain model predicting parameters. The aquifer resistivity of the area ranged from a value of 2.8 Ωm to 88745.0 Ωm, with a mean value of 5434.6 Ωm. The estimation of the characteristics of the aquifer hydraulic using the new set of model equations showed that hydraulic conductivity values varied between 1.05m/day and 34.06m/day with a mean value of 5.59m/day, while transmissivity values varied between 25.70 m2/day and 2767.81 m2/day with a mean value of 500.05 m2/day. Generally, the groundwater potentials of the area are classified into three categories: moderate, high, and very high potential zones. The multiple geophysical models were used together to develop maps of hydraulic parameters. The obtained GOD, and DRASTIC models were together used for the production of the vulnerability map. Results based on the GOD model clearly show that about 60% of the study area is within the class of extremely low groundwater vulnerability zones, 33% is within the class of low vulnerability zones, and 7% of the area is within the class of moderate vulnerability zone. Also, results based on the DRASTIC model revealed that about 31% of the study area is within the low class of vulnerability zones, 67% is within the class of moderate zones, while 2% is within the high class of vulnerability zones. The evaluated soil corrossivity of the area showed that 78% of the area is practically non-corrosive (PNC) and can be rated as moderately competent to highly competent strata; 13% of the area is said to be slightly corrosive, which is rated as moderately competent to incompent strata; and the remaining 9% is moderately and very strongly corrosive, which is rated as an incompenet material to construct on. The aquifer protective capacity of the study area were determined using longitudinal conductance technique. The protective capacity of the area classified into zone ofexcellent, very good, good, moderate, weak and poor protective capacity rating. Similarly, IntegratedElectrical Conductivity technique was also used to determine the protective capacity of the area, the result indicates that the aquifer system in the study area has low protective capacity and the areas are susceptible to contamination based on the IEC technique.
Open Access
Levels of aflatoxin M1 and selected heavy metals in the breast milk of lactating mothers in Owerri, Nigeria
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri., 2020-02) Ekeanyanwu, Chidinma Lynda
Mother's breast milk which is the basic diet for infants is loaded with proteins, fats, carbohydrates and essential minerals which are necessary for proper nutrition of the infant. Regrettably, breast milk is also a likely source of aflatoxins and toxic metals which are unsafe for the breastfeeding child. In Nigeria, there is a paucity of information on aflatoxin and toxic heavy metals exposure, especially in the southeast region. In the present study, we assessed the level and frequency of breast milk AfM1 and some heavy metals as biomarkers of maternal exposure. Breast milk samples were collected from a selected group of 40 lactating mothers of infants attending the Federal Medical Centre Owerri, Imo State, between June and August 2019. Some heavy metals (Pb, Cd, Cr, Cu, Zn, Fe, As, and Hg) were analyzed using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry while AfM1 levels were assessed by HPLC with fluorescence detection after aflatoxin extraction. The mean (±standard deviation) concentration of AfM1 in the breast milk samples was 4.02±1.12 ng/L and 100% of all the samples contained AfM1 at 2.33 – 7.08 ng/L. AfM1 concentration was positively and significantly (p<0.01) associated with the daily consumption of cassava-based foods, groundnut oil, maize, tomatoes and dry fruit (p<0.05). No significant association (p>0.05) was observed between AfM1 concentration in breast milk with employment status and educational level in nursing mothers. The mean (±standard deviation) values of these heavy metals were Cd: 0.029±0.013 mg/L, Cr: 0.019±0.011 mg/L, Cu: 0.035±0.013 mg/L, Fe: 0.049±0.039 mg/L, Pb: 0.038±0.013 mg/L and Zn: 0.009±0.008 mg/L. The result of the estimated daily intake of breast milk by the breastfed infants shows that heavy metals such as Pb, Fe, and Cd are ingested more daily than other metals analyzed. There was a weak positive but non-significant correlation between heavy metal content and daily intake of maternal diet except for beans where a significant correlation (p<0.01) was found with Cr, Cu and Zn. A weak positive but non-significant correlation was also observed between exposure to heavy metals such as Cu, Fe and Pb and maternal diets. None of the samples exceeded the national and international legal regulatory limit for AfM1 and the selected heavy metals in breast milk except for chromium. Generally, their presence still poses a health risk.