Doctoral

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Open Access
Development and performance evaluation of a tray dryer powered by generator exhaust gas waste heat
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2022-01) Ononogbo, Chibuike
Development and performance evaluation of a tray dryer powered by generator exhaust gas waste heat are presented. The test rig comprises a tray dryer, a turbine, a heat exchanger, an air blower, weight and temperature sensors and an Arduino driven control panel. The waste heat recovery equipment uses an axial flow turbine and a heat exchanger to extract the energy of the exhaust gas of a diesel engine generator for the purpose of drying. The system was assembled and subjected to no-load tests, and testing independently with indigenous variety of fresh maize grains of 1,500g batch size, and yam slices of 2200g batch size. Samples of the white yam slices of different thicknesses (1.0, 1.5 and 2.0cm) were prepared for the study using blanching water of 800 C and 30 minutes soaking time. The maize grains and yam slices were dried from initial moisture contents of 35.6% and 69.5% (wet basis) to final moisture contents of 10% and 12% (wet basis), respectively. The studies focused on the impacts of the drying air temperature and velocity on the drying energy indices (specific energy consumption, specific power demand, and thermal energy), drying rate, thermal efficiency of the crop dryer, moisture diffusion coefficient, and activation energy of the studied samples. The tests were run at varying drying air temperatures (50, 55, and 60℃ for the maize grains, and 55, 65 and 75℃ for the yam slices); and air velocities of 1.0, 1.5, and 2.0m/s for both sample products. The results of the no-load tests revealed that the higher the speed of the inlet ambient air through the waste heat recovery equipment, the faster the rate of heating of the drying chamber. It was also noticed that the drying chamber, initially at 31℃, was heated to a maximum temperature of 116.1 ℃ after only a period of 39 mins. Furthermore, the results obtained for the drying of the crop samples showed that the drying parameters had noticeable influences on the moisture diffusion of both the maize and yam samples. The drying air temperature and velocity had a direct relationship with the diffusion coefficient and drying rate of the crop samples, but showed an inverse relationship with the drying time of the crops. The thermal efficiency increased as the drying air temperature increased; whereas its values decreased as the drying air velocity increased. The drying air temperature had an inverse effect on the values of the specific power consumption of the dryer at constant air velocity, whereas its values increased as the drying air velocity increased at constant air temperature. The results of the optimization of the drying process parameters using Surface Response Methodology showed that the optimum drying conditions were 600C and 1 m/s for the maize grains; and 75 0C, 1.0 m/s and 1.0 cm thickness for the yam slices. For testing with existing thin-layer drying models in the literature, the Aghbashlo model was observed to be the most suitable drying model for describing the thin-layer drying behavior of the maize grains and 1cm yam slices; whereas the Demir et al model was the most suitable for the 1.5cm and 2cm yam slices. With visual inspection of the dried samples after a period of six months storage, it was observed that the dried products did not experience any form of deterioration like any bacterial growth. Hence, it is concluded that the application of waste exhaust heat gases of diesel standby generators to the drying of food products, would be helpful in preserving a considerable amount of primary fuel, thus providing a viable means of cost saving and amelioration of environmental degradation. Prospects for commercial applications as well as recommendations for additional studies were stated.
Open Access
Biochemical and histopathological studies of posible co-morbidity of cadmium, chromium and lead in albino rats
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2023-09) Osoh, Kennedy
Cadmium, chromium and lead are known environmental pollutants that induce toxicity in living organisms when exposed to them. The risk assessment of Cd, Cr and Pb is done individually while in reality living organisms are exposed to them jointly as they co-occur in the environment, food or water. This study was aimed at investigating their possible co-morbidity through biochemical and histopathological evaluations of albino rats exposed to them simultaneously. Seventy male albino rats were used in the study. Specified doses of 5, 10, and 20mg/kg body weight respectively, of these pollutants/metals were administered by gavage thrice weekly to 60 albino rats and 10 albino rats were used as control. There were four treatment groups Cd, Cr, Pb and Cd+Cr+Pb (i.e. Cd alone, Cr alone, Pb alone and Cd, Cr, Pb combined) per dose with five animals per treatment group. The treatments were for 90 days, and salt solutions of the metals (i.e. CdSO4, K2Cr2O7, and Pb(NO3)2) were used while the control received only distilled water. Body weights (BW) of the rats were measured and percentage BW gains of the rats were calculated. The animals were sacrificed after 90 days and blood samples were analyzed for alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), total bilirubin, urea, creatinine, potassium (K), chloride (Cl), inorganic phosphorus, malondialdehyde (MDA), reduced glutathione (GSH), ascorbic acid, superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), haemoglobin (Hb), packed cell volume (PCV), white blood cell (total) (WBC[T]), and red blood cell (RBC). Organ (liver, kidney, & heart) to BW ratio were measured. Histopathological evaluations of liver, kidney, and heart were done. Results of combined treatment showed hormetic response with regard to ALT, AST, total bilirubin, and urea as they were elevated in the low dose but decreased with high dose. This phenomenon was also observed in Cr individual treatment except in total bilirubin. The results showed that ALP, LDH, K, and inorganic phosphorus levels in the combined treatment group increased with increasing dose but was not significantly different (p>0.05) from that of the most hazardous metal in the individual treatments. Oxidative stress was observed in both the combined and individual treatments as MDA increased while GSH and ascorbic acid were reduced with increasing dose. SOD and CAT increased with increasing dose hence reducing the impact of the oxidative stress as observed. Less-than-additive interaction was observed in the 5mg/kg treatment group among the mixture components with regard to Hb and WBC. Combined treatment with the metals caused significant decrease in percentage BW gain but was not significantly different (p>0.05) from that of the most hazardous metal in the individual treatments. Histopathological evaluation showed tissue injury in liver and kidney in the 20mg/kg combined and individual treatment groups only probably due to high dose. Mortality was observed in the course of the study as two animals died due to the combined treatment (i.e. one at 10mg/kg group and one at 20mg/kg group) while three animals died due to the individual treatments (i.e. one at 10mg/kg Cd group, one at 20mg/kg Cr group and one at 20mg/kg Pb group). Conclusively, the results suggested that there was no significant health risk posed by simultaneous exposure to the metals beyond the risk already posed by the most hazardous individual metal for the endpoint of interest. Interactions where they occurred were predominantly less-than additive. Hormesis should be considered in their risk assessment. The concept of effect addition (independent action) over-estimated the risk due to the combined treatments.
Open Access
Molecular characterization and effects of nano-particle on resistant bacteria associated with livestock in Abia and Imo State
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2024-02) Nwosu, Ijeoma Linda
The unregulated practice of livestock production has endangered the public health sector through the multiplication and spread of bacteria pathogens. The study investigated the molecular characterization and compared the nano-particle and antibiotic assay of bacteria associated with livestock in Abia and Imo States. Air was sampled with passive sedimentation technique; water samples were collected randomly from the water sources in the farms while hand swabs from the farmers and feeds were collected with sterile swab sticks and container respectively. Total heterotrophic bacterial count (THBC) was performed with pour plate method; total coliform count (TCC) was determined with membrane filter technique while total potential pathogenic bacteria count (TPPBC) was examined by growing them in selective media. Rectal swabs and faecal samples; raw meat and intestine samples were obtained from cow and pigs. From poultry farm, faecal sample cloacal swab and drinking water of chickens were used for experiment. Pure isolates of E. coli and Klebsiellap neumoniae were isolated from MacConkey and eosin methylene blue (EMB) agar. Antibacterial susceptibility test was performed by adopting standard method. Extended spectrum beta lactamases (ESBLs) production was screened and confirmed phenotypically using double disc synergy assay. DNA of the ESBLs producers were extracted by boiling method and quantified using nanodrop spectrophotometer while genes sequencing were performed with polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Green synthesis of silver and zinc nanoparticles (AgNPs and ZnONPs) were done using aqueous extract of the leaves of Ocimum gratissimum plant (scent leaves), Vermonia amygadalina plant (bitter leaves), Newbouldia laevis plant (Ogirishi leaves) and Gongronema latifolium plant (utazi leaves). The biosynthesis was done by dissolving 50 mM, 100 mM, 500 mM and 1000 mM of AgNO3 and Zn-NO-.6H-O separately into 20 ml and 50 ml of each plant extract respectively. Thereafter, antibacterial activities of the nanoparticles were performed against livestock bacterial isolates using agar well diffusion assay. Among the four farms analyzed, THBC ranged from 6.13±0.6×105 to 28.43±0.3×105 CFU/ml; TPPBC ranged between 9.26±0.4×105 and 26.23±0.4×105 CFU/ml and TCC ranged from 9.03±0.3×105 to 24.06±0.4×105 CFU/ml. Of the four cities studied, Aba has the highest THBC (28.43±0.3×105 , 26.70±0.7×105 , 26.26±0.5×105 CFU/ml), TPPBC (17.47±0.5×105 and 20.02±0.5×105 CFU/ml) and TCC (24.06±0.4×105 , 17.93±0.6×105 and 22.36±0.4×105 CFU/ml) for pig, cow and poultry farms respectively while Mbaise has the least value. Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Salmonellaenterica, EnterobacteraerogenesVibrio spp and Shigella sp were commonly distributed in the four cities. Escherichiacoli (933) isolates were significantly higher followed by Klebsiellapneumoniae (505) while the lowest value was obtained from Shigella sp (3). In both pig and poultry farms, Staphylococcusaureus (14.6%) was quite prevalent but was isolated even more from the hands of poultry workers (53.7%). Salmonella spp, Enterobacter spp, Vibrio spp and Shigella sp were not isolated from the hands of poultry workers; Salmonella enterica and Shigella sp were not isolated cow farms. E. coli and Klebsiellapneumoniae were resistant to all the antibiotics between 70% to 88.6% except imipenem, meropenem and colistin where minimal effects were produced. However, colistin was the most active antibiotics amongst the three. ESBLs were produced by Klebsiella pneumoniae than E. coli in the four towns. AgNPs and ZnONPs produced significant zones of inhibition even more than control especially at highest concentrations of individual molarity. AgNPs exhibited higher antibacterial effects. This study indicated that Aba has the highest microbial load which could be attributed to the population and economic activities of the dwellers. The presence ESBLs producers in all the four towns are major concern as this could lead to spread of multidrug resistance (MDR). Appropriate personal and environmental cleanliness should be practiced by livestock farmers to reduce spread of pathogenic bacteria.
Open Access
Estimation of cost of delays on vessel operations in container terminals of Nigerian seaports
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2024-06) Nwoloziri, Chinyeaka Nwokodi
The study evaluated the cost of delays on vessel operations in container terminals of Nigerian seaports. The objectives of the study are to estimate the average delay in vessel operations in Nigerian ports container terminal, to estimate the economic cost implications of delay in vessel operations in Nigeria container terminals, determine the average service rate of vessel at berth in Nigerian ports container terminal, derive the container terminal utilization coefficient of Nigeria ports, model the relationship between delay in vessels operations and trend of shipping operations in Nigeria container terminals, determine the effect of cost of delays on trend of shipping operations in Nigerian container terminals and to measure the extent of port users satisfaction with port operations relative to the extent of delay in vessel operations in container terminals in Nigeria. The study used a mixed design method consisting of the use of both secondary data and primary data obtained from survey. The major container terminals in Onne, Rivers, Tin Can Island and Apapa ports were used to carry out the study. Secondary data on ship turnaround time of vessels at the terminals, vessel traffic calls to the terminals, TEU throughput trade handled at the terminals, berth occupancy rates of the terminals Gross Registered Tonnage (GRT) of vessels worked at the terminals, and tariff and charges for vessels operations in each port terminal were obtained from the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) statistical reports. Each dataset covered a period of 16 years from 2007 to 2022, representing the port concession era in the Nigerian port sector. Primary data on the level of port users’ satisfaction with the services of the terminals relative to the extent of delay in ship operations in the port terminals was obtained by the use of questionnaires as survey instrument. The study used the queuing model, customer satisfaction and loyalty index, Log-linear multiple regression analysis and descriptive cum inferential statistics to analyze the data. The findings of the study reveal that the ship operators experienced annual average of between 2.8 days and 14 days delay in vessel operations in the Nigerian port sector between 2007 and 2022. The Nigerian economy lost an average of USD 26935.33 per annum between 2007 and 2022 in the port sector with standard deviation of 11468.24, as result of delay in vessel operations in the container terminals in Tin Can Island port, Apapa port, Rivers port and Onne port. The container terminal utilization coefficient of the Onne, Tin Can Island, Apapa and Rivers are 99%, 99%, 99.5% and 96% respectively. The findings of the study also indicate an average port user’s satisfaction score of 54.38% with standard deviation of 31.623 relative to the extents of delay in vessel operations in Nigerian port sector. There is significant effect of cost of delays in Vessels Operations on Trend of Container Shipping Operations in Nigerian Container Terminals. The study recommended that terminal operators and port management should comply with the 2days ship turnaround benchmarks operational in global ports in order to reduce the economic cost of delay imposed by vessel operations delay in the Nigerian port sector.
Open Access
Fuel subsidy reforms and supply chain performance of maritime terminal operations in Nigeria
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2024-03) Ndubuisi, Kenneth Ezebunwa
The study investigated the fuel subsidy reforms and the supply chain performance of maritime terminal operations in Nigeria. The objectives of the study were among other things, to evaluate the effects of fuel subsidy reforms on the cargo throughput, bulk road vehicles calls, and ship calls handled at maritime terminals involved in the petroleum product import and distribution supply chain. The study also determined the coefficients of elasticity of cargo dues and ship dues payments of terminal operators as a result of variations in the pump price of petroleum products, daily swap import, number of approved supply vendors and annual subsidy payment occasioned by fuel subsidy reforms. Exploratory research design was used in which time series quantitative data on daily swap import, number of supply vendors approved, annual subsidy payment, pump price per liter, are sourced from secondary sources and used as proxies for fuel subsidy reforms while cargo throughput, ship call traffic, bulk road vehicles calls, cargo dues payments and ship dues payments of the terminal operators were obtained from the Nigeria port authority statistical reports and used as proxies for supply chain performance of the terminal operators in the handling of petroleum product transiting through it over the period. The methods of data envelopment analysis (DEA) and log linear multiple regression analysis were used to analyze the data obtained using statistical software. It was found that a 1% annual increase in pump price per liter will increase the throughput of petroleum product handled in the marine terminals by 0.12% while a 1% increase in daily swap import leads to a 0.653% decrease in cargo throughput handled in the terminals. In a similar manner, a percentage increase in number of supply vendors will lead to a 0.012% decrease in cargo throughput performance of the marine terminals while a percentage increase in annual subsidy payment will lead to a decline of 0.17% in cargo throughput performance of the terminal operators in the petroleum products supply chain. Furthermore, a 1% annual increase in pump price per liter will lead to a decline in ship dues paid by terminal operators by 1.196% per annum while a 1% increase in daily swap import leads to a 0.292% decrease in ship dues paid by marine terminal operators per annum. Similarly, a one percent increase in number of supply vendors will lead to a 0.453% decrease in ship dues paid by marine terminal operators involved in the distribution chain of petroleum products in Nigeria while a one percent increase in annual subsidy payment will lead to a decline of 0.232% in ship dues paid by terminal operators in the petroleum products supply chain. The equation depicting the effect of fuel subsidy reforms on cargo throughput handled at the terminals is: Log CARPUT = 30.817 + 0.12LogPUPRI - 0.653LogDSI – 0.012LogNSV - 0.17LogASP. Similarly, the equation depicting the effect of fuel subsidy reforms on ship dues payments of the terminal operators is: Log SHDUES = 25.67 – 1.196LogPUPRI - 0.292LogDSI + 0.453LogNSV - 0.232LogASP among many other empirical relationships. The policy implications of the results were discussed and recommendations proffered on the basis of the research findings.
Open Access
Toxicity of pesticides and heavy metals to bacterial isolates from aquatic ecosystem
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2024-02) Frank-Ogu, Ngozi
The research work was carried out to determine the effect of pesticides and heavy metals on bacterial isolates from an aquatic ecosystem using Otamiri River as a case study. Otamiri River is the major river in Owerri metropolis and its environs, thus most of the drainages empty into the River. A total of seventy-two (72) water and twelve (12) soil samples were collected from the River. The physiochemical and bacteria diversity of Otamiri River was analyzed using standard microbiological methods, equally the heavy metal and pesticides content of the River was analysed. Finally, the toxicity assay was carried out using the preponderant organisms. Among the physio-chemical parameters analyzed in the River water and soil samples, pH was between 5.3 and 6.11. The BOD was 3-5mg/L which was above the recommended standard by World Health Organization (WHO). From the heavy metals and pesticides content of the river, Cd and Pb recorded the highest value of 0.03mg/l and 0.1 mg/l respectively while Hg was absent in most sampling site, it has its highest deposit at Umezuruike hospital sample site (0.1mg/l). The pesticides content analyses reveals the presence of Athrazine, Butachlor, Glyphosate DDVPandAlachlor in the River, The results of the standard plate count showed that heterotrophic bacteriacount ranged from 1.0×106Cfu/ml to 9.7×10 6Cfu/ml, fecal coliform count 2.0×10 5Cfu/ml to9.0×10 6Cfu/ml, almonella/Shigella count 3.5×10 5Cfu/ml to 1.5×10 7Cfu/ml, Staphylococcuscount 2.0×10 5 Cfu/ml to 1.8×10 7 Cfu/ml, coliform count 3.5×10 5 Cfu/ml to 4.6×10 8 Cfu/ml, Vibrio count 1.5×10 5 Cfu/ml to 3.5×10 7 Cfu/ml. Anaerobic bacteria count ranged from2.0×10 5Cfu/ml to 2.9×10 6Cfu/ml. The percentage occurrence of the bacterial isolates in the water and soil samples showed that Alcaligens sp had the highest 68(94.44%), 24(100%), followed by Lysinibacillus 54(75%), 21(87.5%) while Lactobacillus sp had the least in water sample 6(8.33%), Klebsiellasphad the least in soil 6(25%). The five highest occurring isolates were subjected to molecular identification using 16SrRNA and were confirmed to be Lysinibacillus macrolides (OK298881), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (CP058331), Klebsiella pneumonia (MK641337), Alcaligenes faecalis(KX302624), Proteus mirabilis (MZ067158). Lysinibacillus macrolides and Alcaligenes faecaliswere futher subjected to toxicity assay using five heavy metal ions (Pb(II), Zn(II), Co(II), Ni(II) and Cd(II)) and two pesticides fomulations (Glyphosate and DDVP -(2,2- dichlorovinyldimethyl phosphate)). This analysis was done in singles, as well as mixtures (binary, ternary and septenary)using inhibition of dehydrogenase activity as a response. The EC50 equieffect concentrationratio(EECR-50) and fixed ratio ray design (Arbitrary concentration ratio- ABCR) were used to evaluate the toxicity of the mixtures to the bacterial isolates. The effects of the mixtures on the dehydrogenase activities of the preponderant organisms were assessed using toxic index (TI) and isobolographic analyses. The EC50s were compared statistically by two way ANOVAusingPOSTHOC= TURKEY ALPHA at P<0.05 level of significance. The results of the experimental toxicity thresholds of single metal ions to the total dehydrogenase activity of L. macrolides (OK298881) and A. faecalis (KX302624) showed that the EC50S of the toxicant on L. macroides(OK298881) ranged from 20.49 - 713.57mg/L while that of A. faecalis (KX302624) ranged from 58.87 – 624.41 mg/L. The order of increasing toxicity on L. macroides (OK298881) was Co(II) < Cd (II) < Ni(II) < Pb (II) < Zn(II) while that of A. faecalis(KX302624) was Ni (II) GLY. The toxic index of the mixture analyses showed that the toxic effect was increasing progressively as concentrations were increased.
Open Access
Development of a smart electronic system for maintenance of optimum water quality in warm water fish culture
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2023-11) Ezetoha, Franklin Chukwudorue
This dissertation presents the development of smart electronic system for maintenance of optimum water quality in warm water fish culture. The aim of the research work was to develop an efficient and reliable automation system for maintenance of optimum water quality required for optimal production and sustainable warm water fish culture. The optimum water quality maintenance system was divided into four subsystems; optimum water temperature maintenance system, optimum water dissolved oxygen maintenance system, optimum water pH maintenance system and preventive maintenance system. The four subsystems where developed separately and then integrated to form the desired optimum water quality maintenance system for warm water fish culture. Each of subsystems was developed via designing and simulation, calibration and validation of sensors, hardware implementation and software development. Top down design approach was adopted in designing the hardware and program while bottom up design approach was adopted in designing application for the system. Arduino Mega 2560 was used to control all the operations of the system. Other major components of the system include water quality monitoring sensors such as temperature, dissolved oxygen, pH and turbidity sensor, solenoid valves,ultrasonic sensor, water pump, servo motor, GPRS gateway, liquid crystal display and Smartphone. The subsystems were tested by subjecting each of them to various optimum limits of the water quality parameter it maintains in a 2m x 1.6m x 1.2m fish pond and observing the pond, liquid crystal display and Smartphone. The complete system was tested by installing its sensors in fish pond and switching it ON and allowing it to operate for two months. The results of the tests showed that the system maintained optimum water quality in warmwater fish culture by maintaining water temperature at a range of 20oC to 28oC, dissolved oxygen at 5mg/L to 7.5mg/L, pH at 6.8 to 8.5, turbidity at 10mg/L to 20mg/L and water level at 1.17m to 1.2m. The system was fully developed and performed its optimum water quality maintenance operation by using simple and low-power consuming components for exchanging portion of the water with appropriate water when any of the quad-essential water quality parameters reached optimum level and adequately prevented water quality problems with efficiency of 96%. The system also displayed the level of each pond water maintenance parameter on LCD and sent information about condition of the pond water and maintenance action taken to Smartphone via application and global packet radio service gateway.
Open Access
Evaluation of moringa oleifera/cassava/maize/sweet potato intercropping systems in Owerri humid rain forest zone of SouthEastern Nigeria
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2024-09) Essien, Bassey Archibong
Achieving food security for a rapidly growing population in the Southeastern zone in particular and in Nigeria in general requires not only the intensification of food crop production on the existing cropland but also and most importantly through the use of good and sustainable agronomic practices and cropping systems. In an attempt to achieve this, an experiment was conducted at the Federal University of Technology, Owerri, Teaching and Research farm of the Department of Crop Science and Technology during 2015 and 2016 cropping seasons on the performance of component crops, weed species suppression, soil nutrient status and economic returns. The experimental design used was randomized complete block design (RCBD), with eleven treatments replicated three times. The treatments were: sole moringa (SMo), sole cassava (SCa), sole maize (SMa), sole sweet potato (SSp), moringa + cassava (Mo + Ca), moringa + maize (Mo + Ma), moringa + sweet potato (Mo + Sp), moringa + cassava + maize (Mo + Ca + Ma), moringa + maize + sweet potato (Mo + Ma + Sp), moringa + cassava + sweet potato (Mo + Ca + Sp), and moringa + cassava + maize + sweet potato (Mo + Ca + Ma + Sp). Results obtained showed that in 2015 and 2016 seasons, organic matter and nitrogen were significantly improved with intercropping. However, other fertility indices decreased with intercropping intensification. Results indicated that annual weed species were predominant with 57.39% and perennial weed species accounting for 32.17% of the total weed species composition in the study site. There were observed significant weed flora suppression due to intercropping compared to sole cropping systems. The agronomic parameters including plant height and leaf area of maize were significantly influenced by intercropping and the sampling durations (2, 4, 6, 8, 10 and 12 weeks after planting (WAP)) for both seasons. Sole maize produced the tallest maize plant (129.20 and 123.10cm), and the largest leaf area (441.75 and 418.60cm2 ) in both cropping seasons. Similarly, maize grain yield was significantly (P≥0.05) influenced by intercropping and sampling periods and sole maize produced the highest grain yield (2.34 and 2.45t/ha) in 2015 and 2016 cropping seasons, respectively. Treatment and sampling period effects on cassava yield were statistically significant (P≥0.05). Sole cassava system produced the highest cassava storage roots (33.60 and 35.97t/ha) in 2015 and 2016 cropping seasons, respectively. As well as in dry matter accumulation (84.23%) in 2015. However, mo + ca system produced the highest dry matter accumulation of 89.07% in 2016. Both the growth performances and yield of sweet potato were significantly influenced by intercropping and the sampling periods. Sole cropping system consistently showed higher values of growth parameters and yield components for both seasons. However, in 2015, dry matter accumulation (DMC) was highest in mo + ma + sp combination. Also, the growth parameters and yield of moringa were significantly (P≥0.05) influenced by intercropping. The tallest plant (282.60cm and 324.80cm) and the highest number of branches for both seasons were produced by the sole moringa system at 10MAP. Also, the highest number of seeds (15.30 and 15.90), fresh leaf yield (18.67 and 16.05t/ha) and seed yield (1.04 and 1.08t/ha), respectively in 215 and 2016 seasons respectively were produced by sole moringa system but the highest number of seeds was produced in mo + ma + sp intercropping systems. However, the dry leaf yield was highest (3.33t/ha and 3.43t/ha) in mo + ma intercropping systems. The economic return to management, cost-benefit ratio and land equivalent ratio in the system (5.59, 2.95, 3.07, 2.78 and 4.99, 2.84, 2.10, 2.77) for 2015 and 2016 seasons indicated that intercropping had comparative advantage over sole cropping. Therefore, intercropping using better and appropriate crop combinations has proved profitable both in economic returns and land equivalent ratio to farmers in the study area and thus, farmers should adopt the moringa/cassava/maize/sweet potato intercropping system.
Open Access
Assessment of the bacteriological qualities of meat and contact surfaces in markets in Abia State, Nigeria
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2023-09) Iwuagwu, Uchechukwu Olive
Microbial contamination of meat comes from several sources including during cutting, handling and processing of the meat. This study was carried out to determine the sanitation and hygiene practices of meat handlers and assess the bacteriological qualities of meat and contact surfaces in markets in Abia State, Nigeria. This research involved the use of Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) checklist and Walk-through inspection to determine the sanitation and hygiene practices of meat handlers. Also, microbiological analyses of red and white meat; water and contact surfaces were used to determine the microbial qualities of the environmental media. A total of 425 meat samples were randomly collected from 425 meat handlers in Abia State. Furthermore, seventy eighty (78) samples comprising twenty (20) water samples and fifty eight (58) swabs from meat contact surfaces were used to establish the bacteriological quality of the water samples and meat contact surfaces. The multistage simple random sampling technique through balloting was employed to determine communities/markets for the study. Samples for the study were collected and analyzed using standard microbiological techniques such as culturing; and the bacteria were enumerated and identified using biochemical tests. Results showed that the total mean percentage score for the harmonized HACCP checklist was 24.66 ±n6.08% and falls far below the HACCP Good Hygiene Practices (SOPs) minimal pass mark of 40%. At critical control points, the mean percentage HACCP scores were 22.51 ± 4.70% for meat transportation; 20.99 ± 5.87% for meat storage; 27.97 ± 5.30% for personal hygiene; 26.30 ± 5.65% for cleaning and sanitation; 20.44 ± 4.81% for pest control; 26.13 ± 5.09% for waste disposal and 21.58 ± 4.89% for staff competency and training. 87.00% of the meat samples analysed using nutrient agar had bacterial growth. The mean bacterial loads of the red and white meat samples on nutrient agar plates were 2.33 x 106 , 1.99 x105 and 2.73 x105 cfu/g; and 1.81 x 105 , 1.73 x 105 and 2.20 x 106 cfu/g for Umuahia, Aba and Ohafia zones respectively. The prevalent bacterial isolates include Staphylococcus sp (78.80%), Bacillus sp (73.17%), Enterococcus sp (64.00%), Escherichia coli (62.11%), Salmonella sp (62.11%), Klebsiella sp (51.29%), Micrococcus sp (44.94%) and Campylobacter sp (43.52%). SPSS analysis using the one way ANOVA showed no significant difference (P>0.05) in bacteria isolated from markets in the three Senatorial Zones of the State. Staphylococcus sp was isolated in 61.11% of the tables, 50.00% of vehicles, 41.67% of knives and 46.32% of water; Salmonella sp was isolated in 47.22% of the tables, 36.11% of vehicles, 30.56% of knives and 43.85% of water; Bacillus sp was isolated in 41.67% of the tables, 44.44% of vehicles, 33.33% of knives and 23.70% of water; Campylobacter sp was isolated in 27.78% of the tables, 25.00% of vehicles, 30.56% of knives and none in water. There was no significant difference (P>0.05) in bacteria isolated from the contact surfaces and water from the markets in the three zones of the State. The poor HACCP compliance in meat handling (during transportation, storage, personal hygiene and sanitation practices etc) as observed in this study and indicated by the low mean percentage HACCP checklists score of 24.66 ± 6.08% could have contributed in the contamination of the meat carcasses resulting in the observed high mean bacterial loads from the meat samples. Thus, the bacteriological quality of meat in markets in Abia State could be said to be poor due to the recorded high mean bacterial load counts and the isolation of Indicator bacteria such as E, coli, Salmonella and Campylobacter from the studied meat samples. The presence of E. coli in the studied meat samples is an indicator of feacal contamination and a red alert for the Public health sector. It is recommended among others that meat should be properly cooked before consumption; and meat handlers should undergo proper training and regularly update their knowledge of meat safety.
Open Access
Mathematical model of the co-dynamics of diabetes and tuberculosis
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2023-10) Agwu, Chukwuemeka Obuji
In this work, a mathematical model for the co-dynamics of diabetes and tuberculosis coinfection was developed and analyzed. The positivity and boundedness of the solution of the developed model was also proved. Local stability of the model as well as global stability of the model were verified. Furthermore, bifurcation analysis of the model was carried out. The Pontryagin’s Maximum Principle was used to establish the necessary conditions for the existence of optimal control. Cost effectiveness analysis was carried out on the strategies and it was observed that the control strategy which combines applying prevention effort against development of diabetes by encouraging healthy lifestyle and prevention effort against development of TB by encouraging personal hygiene is the least expensive strategy as it significantly impacted the most in reducing the disease burden in the population with the best cost-effective result.
Open Access
Development of zeolite/bio-magnetite Nanocomposites for elimination of pharmaceutical pollutants in aqueous solution: Experimental and computational studies (Unpublished Doctoral Thesis). Federal University of Technology, Owerri, Nigeria
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2024-11) Kamgang Djioko, Fredy Harcel
Discharges of pharmaceutical micropollutants (antibiotics) are steadily increasing. These toxic, persistent pollutants are generally responsible for a number of adverse health effects. The main objective of this work was to synthesize biomagnetite/zeolite nanocomposites for the effective removal of ciprofloxacin in aqueous solution. Biomagnetite nanoparticles were synthesized by the co-precipitation method, zeolite 4A and nanocomposites by the hydrothermal method and characterized by FT-IR, XRD, XRF, MAS-NMR, TGA/DTG, SEM/EDS, BET and pHpzc analysis. Batch adsorption experiments were conducted to evaluate the adsorption capacity of zeolite 4A and nanocomposites, and then study the effect of loading of magnetite nanoparticles in nanocomposites for the removal of ciprofloxacin as pollutant model in aqueous solution. Thus, the zeolites 4A were synthesized from raw kaolin by the hydrothermal method, While, the bio magnetite nanoparticles were synthesized by co-precipitation method using Tabernaemontana penduliflora as stabilizing and reducing agents and the nanocomposites by coating method. It was noted that the synthesized nanocomposites had a paramagnetic mesoporous crystalline structure with a cubic morphology coated with magnetite nanoparticles and a high specific surface area (53.258 m2/g) compared to that of zeolites 4A (34.232m2/g 𝑎𝑛𝑑 38.443 m2/g). The adsorption of ciprofloxacin on different materials, revealed the maximum adsorption for zeolites 4A was also obtained at pH 8, a contact time 80 minutes, an initial concentration of the CIP 60 ppm and a dose of zeolite 4A of 20 mg at 25°C. The removal efficiency was 91.75% and 90.74% with a maximum adsorption capacity (𝑞max) 87.72 mg/g and 95.24 mg/g obtained from the Langmuir model for zeolite 4A derived fromKaolin picked up in the locality of Bong and Famgamg, respectively. For the MZ-6 nanocomposite, the maximum adsorption for zeolite 4A was obtained at pH 8, a contact time 60 minutes, an initial CIP concentration 90 ppm and an MZ-6 dose of 10 mg at 25°C. The removal efficiency was 98.78% with a maximum adsorption capacity (qmax) 175.44 mg/g. Isotherm studies suggested that the Langmuir isotherm was the most suitable. Which indicates that the adsorption process of CIP was monolayer adsorption on a homogeneous surface. The DFT results revealed that in the aqueous phase, the CIP molecule is stable, reactive in the form of zweitterion (CIP±) and that the oxygen, nitrogen atoms and the aromatic ring were responsible for this reactivity. The Monte Carlo simulation results showed that the adsorption of CIP molecules on the surface of zeolite 4A and MZ composite were favorable and spontaneous and the predominant interaction was chemisorption. In addition, CIP molecules showed high affinities with the surface of the MZ composite. The regeneration study showed that the synthesized adsorbents were chemically stable and recyclable. We can therefore affirm that abundant natural resources such as kaolin and certain plants can contribute to the preparation of low-cost but highly effective materials for combating water pollution.
Open Access
Finite deformation of internally pressured compressible synthetic rubber-like material
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2021-07) Egbuhuzor, Udechukwu Peter
The finite deformation of internally pressurized isotropic compressible synthetic rubber material governed by Levinson and Burgess strain energy function is analysed. The analysis led to a secondorder nonlinear ordinary differential equation for the determination of stresses and displacements. Analytic solution is found impossible for now, hence, the solution is sought numerically using two methods namely shooting method and collocation method on mathematica(ode45 solver). The simulation of the system is made for ρ = 14N/m2 , and the cylindrical symmetric deformation attained its maximum displacements and stresses at r(1) = 1.16638m and σrr = (−1.2973e − 05)kg/m/s2 while at ρ = 0.5N/m2 , the spherical symmetric deformation obtained its maximum displacements and stresses at r(1) = 0.01853m and σrr = (−0.00035)kg/m/s2 respectively. The results of the two schemes were statistically compared using t-test and results obtained showed, the two methods have no significant difference. Similarly, for the cylindrical deformation, the t-test showed that the two methods have no significant difference which validates the solutions.
Open Access
Exploitation of potentials of micro-organisms with volatile fatty acid degrading genes in biogas production
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2024-10) Kemka, Ugochi Nneka
Anaerobic digestion of cow rumen waste and human fecal slurry was carried out to evaluate the cumulative bigas yield over a 60-day retention, to isolate and identify bacterial species with volatile fatty degrading genes with molecular characterization. Microbial analysis, biochemical tests, isolation, characterization and physicochemical analysis were carried out. The total aerobic and anaerobic bacterial counts were 3.5 x 107 cfu/ml and 1.6 x 107 cfu/ml respectively. Bacterial and fungal isolates were identified as Paenibacillus lautus, Moellerella wisconsensis, Providencia alcalifaciens, Shimwellia blattae, Micrococcus yunnanensis, Bacillus barbaricus, Proteus vulgaris, Paenibacillus septentrionalis, Paenibacillus curdlanolyticus, Budvicia aquatica, Azotobacter beijerinekii and Acinetobacter iwoffii. Fungal isolates were identified as Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus flavus and Trichophyton rubrum. Most of the organisms were facultative anaerobes. Temperature was maintained at mesophilic rate. pH and total viable count were recorded over the period. Biogas yield for cow rumen waste increased steadily from the 6th day (31.403ml) to the 42nd day (247.039ml) arriving its peak generation of 251.226ml at the 45th day. The biogas yield of the substrate began to decline steadily from the 48th day till the 60th day showing reduced volumes of 215.636ml to 167.016ml. Biogas yiel for human fecal slurry substrate increased steadily from the 6th day (27.216ml) to the 45th day (221.916ml) arriving its peak generation of 226.103ml at the 48thday. A decline occurred steadily on the 51st day till the 60th day showing reduced volumes of 200.981ml to 125.613ml. Analysis of response surface methodology for cow rumen waste showed a mean optimal biogas production of 162.245ml can be achieved at a pH of 6.36, retention time of 10.5 days and microbial count of 1.03 x 109 cfu/ml. A mean optimal biogas production of 145.711ml can occur using human fecal slurry at a pH of 7.45, retention time of 10.5 days and microbial count of 5.9 x 108cfu/ml. GC-MS analysis showed methane contents of 57.99% and 50.39% and carbon dioxide contents of 17.12% and 19.21% for human fecal slurry and cow rumen waste respectively. GC-FID results of VFA production at three intervals of 20 days each within the 60-day retention time showed the presence of acetic, isobutyric, valeric, isovaleric and caproic acids amongst others. The cumulative volumes of the VFAs reduced steadily for cow rumen waste in the ranking order of 745.797ppm >372.539ppm > 86.366ppm while that of human fecal slurry ranked 509.405ppm > 133.627ppm > 71.318ppm. GC-FID results of LCFA production showed presence of saturated fatty acids such as palmitic, stearic acids and unsaturated acids such as linoleic, cervonic acids amongst others. A reduction in LCFA content was also observed. At the 20th and 60th day, LCFA fell from 108.216 to 60.499 ppm, and from 113.195 to 44.94ppm for cow rumen waste and human fecal slurry respectively. Polymerase chain reaction results identified 4 potential VFA degrading bacteria. The reductions in VFA concentrations demonstrated the influence of VFA degrading bacteria on the VFA and LCFA content within the digesters. More so, presence of high volumes of unsaturated acids in cow rumen waste led the lower levels of methane in cow rumen waste since presence of unsaturated acids are toxic to methane generation. It is therefore concluded that these microbial isolates possess ample capacity to degrade VFA and LCFA in these substrates and could be excellent inoculum for bioaugmentation purposes in enhancing biogas production.
Open Access
Assessment of quality of some community's water, sanitation, hygiene practicies and occurrence of water-borne infections among residents in Imo State
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2024-08) Nnoli, Matthew Chuks
A total of 920 residents participated in this study. Largest age grade used was 31-40 years (33.7%), followed by 41-50 which is 214 (23.3%), those less than twenty years were 102 (11.1%). About 600 (65.2%) attained tertiary education, 24% attained secondary education while 6.5% and 4.3% attained primary and non-formal education respectively. 408 (44.3%) were civil servants, 114 (12.4) were artisan, and ½ of the residents earned 21,000 (25.7%). Common sources of drinking water are Spring 38.1%, borehole36.1% and lake/stream 0.4%. 240 (26.1%) of residents had distance to source of water <_ 100 meters and 132 (14.3%) had their distance > 1km. Major water fetchers were children under 15 years; adult female was 202 (22%). 580 (63.1%) do not treat their water, but 326 (35.4%) do treat – 254 (77.9%) use boiling, 30 (9.2%) use alum and clot, 12 (3.7%) do chlorination. 812 (88.3%) store water – 420 (51.7%) stores in plastic bucket/drum, 180 (22.3%) use Geepee and 140 (17.2%) use earth pot. For awareness of WASH protocols, 862 (93.7%) stated Yes, while 32 (3.4%) stated No: 426 (53.4%) knew through schools, 196(24.6%) via radio, 100 (12.5%) via tv and 8 (1.0%) through posters. The aware (83.8%) suffered from WASH-related infections and the unaware (94.5%) suffered too but the difference between these two groups is significant at 5% level (p<0.001, x2 = 13.570). 492 (53.5%) use water cistern toilet, 216 (23.5%) use latrines while 126 (13.7%) use pour flush latrines. 392 (42.6%) use tissue paper to clean after toilet use, 97% use tissue paper and water, 158 (17.2%) use paper, 94 (10.2%) use tissue paper, water and soap. 874 (95%) wash hand after toilet use while 22 (2.4%) do not. 620 (71.6%) use water and soap to wash hand after toilet use, 246 (28.4%) use water only. 536 (58.3%) have functional toilet: 216 (23.5%) toilet is provided by the age grade, 150 (16/3%) by individuals, and 78 (8.5%) by the government. 812 (88.3%) said proper excreta disposal improves community health, 70 respondents said no. 356 (38.7%) clean toilets weekly, 316 (34.3%) on daily basis and 122 (13.3%) on monthly basis. 882 (95.9%) are aware of hygiene protocols, 38 (4.1%) not aware: 694 (75.4%) use water and soap for hand cleaning, 188 (20.4%) use water only, 16 (1.7%) use detergents while 8 (1%) use water, ash and others. 6 (0.7%) use all methods. 232 (25.2%) wash hands before cooking, 228 (24.8%) wash hands when dirty, 202 (22.0%) wash hands after eating, 8 (0.9%) wash hands after cleaning baby’s bottom. 714 (77.6%) bathes twice daily, 190 (20.7%) bathes once daily, 16 (1.7%) bathe twice weekly. Hygiene practice reduce water-borne infections – 876 (95.2%) said Yes while 38 (4.1%) said No, Bacteria found in the study area are Enterococcus faecalis 15%, Klebsiella pneumonia 9%, Staph. Aureus, Bacillus cereus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa 8% each. 80 (8.7%) defecate in stream and trenches, 40 (4.3%) defecate in bushes and polyethene bags. 818 (88.9%) were aware that open defecation leads to disease. Cholera, skin infection, diarrhea, typhoid and malaria were WASH- related infections found.
Open Access
Fungitoxity of selected bio-pesticides on the storage rot diseases and biochemical composition of yam varieties (Dioscorea spp) in Owerri
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2021-07) Mba, Paul Chikezie
The study was conducted at the laboratory of Crop Science and Technology, School of Agriculture and Agricultural Technology, Federal University of Technology Owerri between 2017 to 2019.This project evaluated the fungitoxicity of some bio-pesticides on the control of storage rot diseases of yam varieties (D. rotundata and D. alata) especially caused by Aspergillus spp, Fusarium spp, Rhizopus stolonifer, Yeast and B. theobromae. The fungitoxic activity of ethanol extracts of seven plant leaves (used as bio-pesticides); Chromolaena odorata, Carica papaya, Vernonia amygdalina, Ocimum gratissimum, Azadirachta indica, Psidium guajava and Cymbopogon citratus were tested in Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA) medium to determine their percentage inhibitions against the organisms isolated from the tubers. The layout for experiment was a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with seven (7) treatments and three (3) replications. Data was collected on some chemical constituents on both yam varieties of (D. rotundata and D. alata) and seven (7) leaf extracts used for the experiment. Result revealed that D. rotundata recorded higher chemical constituents than D. alata. The results of the study showed that Azadirachta indica extracted with ethanol as bio-pesticides for the experiment was the most fungitoxic as it possessed the best level (%) of inhibition on all the organisms isolated from yam varieties of D. rotundata and D. alata this could be because it contains phytochemicals such as Alkaloids, Flavonoids, Tannins, Phenols in reasonable percentage more than other plant extracts used in this work. It substantially suppressed the growth of A. niger. Furthermore, Azadirachta indica was most fungitoxic on rot diseases of A. niger (9.8%), Yeast (11.13%) and Rhizopus stolonifer (11.53%) isolated from D. alata and D. rotundata while Carica papaya (12.0%) was found to be most effective in the control of rot diseases of Fusarium oxysporium during the investigation. The application of Azadirachta indica was able to limit the growth of all the microorganisms identified during pathogenicity test. On point of attack the varieties of D. alata and D. rotundata showed that the most susceptible point of attack on the tubers was the basal part. The losses due to pathogenic attack was significantly reduced mostly by Azadirachta indica followed by Vernonia amygdalina then Carica papaya when Ocimum gratissimum was the lowest and are therefore recommended in that sequence.
Open Access
Prospectivity study of mineral and geothermal energy resources in parts of SouthEastern Nigerian Sedimentary Basin
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2021-09) Okiyi, Ijeoma Millicent
There has been an open search for clean/renewable energy and mineral resources for economic growth using airborne geophysical surveys. High resolution airborne magnetic and radiometric data, five scenes of Landsat 8 remote sensing, SP and VES Schlumberger data of parts of Southeastern Nigerian sedimentary basin were analysed and interpreted with a view to delineate regimented mineral colonies and anomalous zones of geothermal gradient. Reduction to Equator and Vertical Derivative filters were applied to the airborne magnetic data to centre anomaly peaks over causative bodies, define shapes and edges of magnetic sources and map magnetic lineaments. Fast Line-in-sight Atmospheric Analysis for Spectral Hypercube (FLAASH) and subsequent post FLAASH band maths were applied to the remote sensing data to generate the surface reflectance data from which ratio composite and lineament maps were generated. Results showed dominant NE-SW and E-W lineament trends from Landsat and Magnetic data with subordinate NW-SE trend. 50% overlapping data windows selected for spectral analysis were used to delineate anomalous geothermal gradients. The vertical, horizontal and NTilt derivative maps were used to reveal boundaries of mafic intrusives and inclusions which are most likely controlled by the trends of deep-seated magnetic lineaments. The derivative maps were also used to enhance edges of shallow structures. Alteration zones, lithologic/geologic boundaries were revealed by radioelement ratio, ternary and total count maps and Landsat ratio map composites 4/2, 6/5 and 6/7 and PCA plots. The Source Parameter Imaging, 3D Euler Deconvolution and Magnetic Vector Inversion modelling depth estimate filters established depths to, and geometry of, subsurface magnetic structures. Results revealed shallow to deep-seated structures in the depth range of 80 m asl to >7 km bsl which must have aided development of veins and hosted lodes of intrusives and ore bodies. Shallow Curie Point Depth (< 10km), geothermal gradient > 42°C/km and heat flow > 88mW/m2 from spectral analysis procedure have been earmarked for good geothermal reservoirs. VES geoelectric sections and 2D imaging results beneath two zones of anomalous geothermal gradient between 35 to 45 (°C/km), proposed approximate models of geothermal resources as Hot Dry Rock (HDR) for Alok and geo-pressured model for Amagunze. Cylindrical/lenticular sills, inclined dykes, sparse nodules and spheres were identified from probed windows of the RTE-TMI map as surface to deep-seated models. Ground-truthing these findings, field image and double dipole results indicated mineralization of the study area as true, hence, making it a viable mineral and geothermal prospect environment.
Open Access
Geoenvironmental assessment of impacts of quarrying and quality of aggregates from various sources in parts of SouthEastern Nigeria
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2023-07) Agubom, John-Kennedy
The increasing demand for sand and crushed aggregates in parts of Southeastern Nigeria has necessitated the assessment of the impacts of aggregate quarrying such as air quality, dust (suspended particulate matter) and noise which constitute serious environmental problems, including health hazards of various types of cancers, silicosis and sometimes premature death amongst quarry workers and residents of immediate community in Lokpaukwu, Amasiri, Ishiagu, Uturu and Afikpo quarry sites, Southeastern Nigeria. Nine (9) sampling points were selected for the study and they include: primary crusher, generator house, secondary crusher, blasting pit, admin block, staff quarters, entrance gate, workshop and weighing bridge.Quarrying of sand in Njaba, Nwaorie and Otamiri rivers respectively has distorted their channel morphology both in depth and width thereby threatening the neighbouring bridges and river banks. However, the physico-mechanical properties of road stone aggregates from some intrusive rock quarries were determined and the results used to evaluate the quality of the aggregates as raodstone. Four aggregate samples were collected from the following intrusive rock quarries: Lokpaukwu (Ezeaku Formation, Diorite); Uturu (Ezeaku Formation, Andesite); Ishiagu (Asu River Group; Diorite); and Afikpo (Ezeaku Formation, Dolerite). The physico-mechanical tests performed on the samples include: Aggregate Crushing Value (ACV); Aggregate Impact Value (AIV); Los Angeles Abrasion Value (LAAV); Water Absorption (WA); and Specific Gravity (SG). Results of the tests (ACV, AIV, LAAV, WA and SG) for aggregate samples from the quarries (Lokpaukwu (Diorite), Uturu (Andesite, Ishiagu (Diorite) and Afikpo (Dolerite)), respectively, are: 15.60%, 13.70%, 26.30%, 0.54% and 2.75; 19.20%, 19.01%, 19.50%, 0.01% and 2.67; 15.50%, 17.40%, 23.50%, 1.2% and 2.75; and 13.80%, 14.40%, 33.70%, 0.50% and 2.81.According to Nigerian Federal Ministry of Works Standards, the values from all the quarries are within the acceptable limits for roadstone aggregates (<30%, < 30%, <40%, <3% and >2.6), respectively. They are therefore recommended to be used as aggregates in road construction. On the other hand sandstones from Elugwu/ Umuchienta (Ameka Formation) are better than Okigwe( Nsukka Formation ) sandstones as a result of tests performed on the following parameters(ACV, AIV, LAAV, WA, BD and CCT) for aggregate quality as good for concrete material are: 35.70%, 32.60%, 46.48%, 0.90%, 1.42mg/m3 , 18.90N/mm3 and 34.50%, 36.40%, 60.70%, 0.60%, 1.63mg/m3 , 16.65N/mm3 respectively.
Open Access
Analysis of scope and economic efficiency in poultry-fish enterprises in Imo State, Nigeria
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2022-02) Opara, Thaddeus C.
This study analysed the scope and economic efficiency of poultry-fish enterprises in Imo State, Nigeria. The specific objectives were to: examine the Socio economic and enterprise characteristics of fish and poultry farmers, estimate cost function from profit function to determine scope efficiency of poultry-fish enterprises, determine how scope and economic efficiency related to the use of specific inputs or the production of specific output, evaluate the determinants of scope efficiency and economic efficiency in poultryfish enterprises in the study area. A multi –stage sampling technique was used to select 210 respondents comprising of 60 fish farmers 60 poultry farmers and 90 joint poultryfish farmers. Structured questionnaire were used to elicit information from respondents while descriptive statistics, inferential statistics. Quadratic regression model, Tobit regression model and analysis of variance were used for data analysis. Findings from the study showed that most of the farmers in the three categories were males, 57.1% for fish, 62.3% for poultry and 66.7% for joint enterprises respectively. Most of the Respondents were between 41 and 60 years age bracket, 65.1% for fish 80.3% for poultry and 58.3 for joint enterprises. The distribution of respondents by marital status showed that most of the farmers were married 80.9% for fish, 75.4% for poultry and 81.9% for joint enterprises. Majority of the respondents had household sizes of 4 to 5 persons, 65.1% for fish, 55.7% for poultry and 63.9% for joint enterprises. 69.8% of fish farmers and 67.2% of poultry farmers had 6 to 10 years farming experience while majority of joint farmers (56.9% had 1-3 years of farming experience. Most sole farmers were small scale farmers 39.7% for fish and 42.6% for poultry while most joint farmers were large scale farmer (75%). The three categories of farmers had poor access to credit with only 19.4 % of joint farmer able to access above N300, 000 credits. In this research, cost functions were recovered from unrestricted profit functions and were used to calculate scope efficiency. The main scope efficiency was 0.025 indicating that the joint production of fish and poultry enterprises reduces total cost by 2.5%. The mean economic efficiencies were 0.72 for fish, 0.68 for poultry and 0.77 for joint enterprises. This indicated that farms could reduce cost by producing at the lowest possible cost. The correlation of scope and economic efficiency with output quantities was positive and significant at 1% level suggesting that the joint production of fish and poultry on the same farm resulted in cost advantage. Also the correlation of scope and economic efficiency with expense ratio were all significant at 1% level which revealed that larger farms tends to have more scope and economic efficiency scores. Again scope and economic efficiency are significantly determined by level of education, farming experience, pond size, and flock size as well as credit amount. It is recommended that educational packages and appropriate training could be necessary to teach farmers those farming practices that encourages cost complementarities and financial institutions should be encouraged to improve on the volumes and terms of loans extended to farmers.
Open Access
Gravity survey of parts of SouthWestern Nigeria
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2021-12) Adejuwon, Benjamin Bukola
Ground gravity survey was carried out in the southwestern part of Nigeria within the areas underlain mainly by the Basement Complex rocks. The study area is precisely bounded by Latitudes 70 00’N – 8000’N and Longitudes 40 30’E – 6 00’E. The work is aimed at producing a comprehensive interpreted structural and geological models and maps from the gravity data as an aid to mineral investigation, structural and crustal studies. One thousand and ninety-three (1,093) gravity data points were established in an area of 18,150km2 giving a density of 1/16.6km2 . This is a positive improvement on the existing 1/9,075km2 gravity density in the area. Seventy-five (75) evenly distributed gravity base stations were established in the study area. These were tied to IGSN 71 through the PGNN Base station at Oshogbo and Akure base stations. This gives a gravity station density of 1/242km2 as against the existing density of 1/9,075km2 . The database was also saved in GIS platform for proper management and archiving. One hundred and forty-eight (148) rock samples were collected and their densities determined using a standard density determination procedure. The density values ranged from 2.526 to 2.871g/cm3 . The amphibolites have the highest mean density of 2.765g/cm3 , followed by the charnockites with 2.755g/cm3 . The processed data were presented as 2D maps with both contour and colour shaded maps. The maps include absolute gravity value map, Free-air anomaly map, Bouguer anomaly map, Regional anomaly map, residual anomaly map and rock density anomaly map of the area. The Bouguer anomaly field values range from about -19.087 to 16.914mGal, the free-air anomaly values range from 16.026 to 68.274mGal/m while the residual Bouguer Anomaly values range from about -10.577 to 19.805mGal. There is mostly a general NE/SW and few N/S trends in all the anomaly fields. Four gravity profiles across the study area were chosen for modelling and interpretation. Six major bouguer anomalies with unique characteristic features were identified. These maybe related to the contrasting lithological and structural features. These include the Ifewara-Ilesha-Ilaorogun High, AkureIkere-Igbaraoke High, Ikare-Ogbagi-Ajowa High, Ute-Uzebba High, IjeshaIsu-Ikole-Ponyan Low and Ondo-Bagbe Low. The elongated NE/SW trending bouguer anomaly at the western part of the study area termed the Ifewara-Ilesha-Ilaorogun High coincide with the geologically established shear zone associated with Ifewara-Zungeru fault system in orientation and location. Hence, the gravity data have confirmed the existence of the mega fault system which is related to gold mineralization within the Ilesha Schist belt. In the same vein, the relatively high oval shaped bouguer anomaly “Ikare–Ogbagi-Ajowa high” at the NE part of the study area can be a new frontier for mineral exploration. Such anomaly needs further exploration using other geophysical and geochemical techniques to determine its mineral potential.
Open Access
Development of a blockchain-based anti-counterfeiting system with enhanced consensus algorithm
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2024-03) Wosu, Jeremiah Tashie
This thesis presents the development of a blockchain-based anti-counterfeiting system with enhanced consensus algorithm. Market surveys reveal that counterfeit trading activities are increasing rapidly, and the rise of counterfeit products has adverse effect on economic growth as well as public health and safety. Existing anti-counterfeiting solutions do not employ blockchain technology with enhanced consensus algorithm in combination with product inherent features, copy-sensitive Quick Response (QR) codes and location information technologies. Thus, fully functional and affordable product anti-counterfeiting solutions with traceability, immutability and transparency functionalities are widely and urgently demanded. In this research, object-oriented software analysis and design technique in combination with Rapid Application Development (RAD) methodology were adopted for the modelling of a prototype system used in demonstrating the work. Ganache, a private Ethereum blockchain network was setup to serve as the backend platform. Open-source software such as Truffe suite and Solidity compiler were utilized in setting up the Ganache network as well as in compiling and deploying smart contracts written in Solidity language. This work designed and applied an enhanced consensus algorithm named Proof of Product Contribution (PoPC) that is fully decentralized, and balances between efficiency and security. It also developed special QR code generator and scanner using Kotlin. The developed system is unique as it combines blockchain technology, product texture (which is an inherent feature), copy-sensitive QR Code, location information i.e. GPS coordinates as well as Track and Trace technologies in proffering reliable solution to counterfeit trading. Test results prove that PoPC is very fast with average execution time of 5 seconds as against 56 seconds for Proof of Stake (PoS) algorithm, 62 seconds for Practical Byzantine Fault Tolerance (PBFT) algorithm, 75 seconds for Delegated Proof of Stake (DPoS) algorithm, and 600 seconds for Proof of Work (PoW) algorithm.