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Item Open Access Health effects of ionizing radiation on diagnostic professional radiation workers in some selected health institutions in Southern, Nigeria(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2023-10) Omita, EfeThis study was designed to evaluate the effects of regular low-level ionizing radiation on the hematological parameter of occupational radiation workers. This experimental study was carried out in southern Nigeria among 202 samples, which include 101 occupationally exposed workers and 101 non-occupational exposed workers (control).The exposed subjects were selected from Radiology Departments and Radio diagnostic centers with large number of referral cases who were chronically exposed to low doses of ionizing radiation. Selected controls workers in the same hospitals and center without being exposed to any kind of radiation doses. All exposed and control subjects match gender, age and occupational records (±3 years). They were categorized based on the duration of exposure as group 1 (<10 years) and group 2 (≥10 years). A Physical Dosimetry was carried out by measuring their occupational exposure to ionizing radiation is routinely monitored by personal exposure measurement devices (Thermoluminiscent dosimeter).This monitoring was carried out for at least two years and a Biological Dosimetry was also carried out using Full Blood Count to ascertain the biological effect of low ionizing radiation. Data such as gender, age, full blood count parameters as well as the radiation doses received by the radiation workers were collected using data capture sheet. All results were compared to the standard values. Out of 101 radiation workers, the majority 70.3% (n=71) were medical radiographers and the least 1.98% (n=2) were medical physicists. There is a statistically significant mean difference between the standard dose and radiation doses received by radiation workers with the mean cumulative dose of 1.67mSv which is below the recommended dose of 20mSv by the ICRP (t= -234.6, p= 0.00). There were statistically significant mean difference between blood parameters of radiation workers (BPRW) and standard full blood count limits(SFBCL) are WBC (BPRW = 5.19 and SFBCL mid-point = 7.00- 10 x 109), RBC (BPRW = 4.08 and SFBCL = 4.50-5.50 x 1012), Platelets (BPRW = 228.22 and SFBCL = 200 x 109) and MCV (BPRW = 80.51 and 80-100), with values of WBC ( t= 12.16, p = 0.00), RBC ( t= 4.09, p =0.00), Platelets ( t= 3.57, p = 0.001) and MCV (t= -8.76, p = 0.00). The analysis of variance (ANOVA) results revealed that there were statistically significant different in the radiation effects on the blood parameters such as WBC (F= 2.326, p = 0.025), RBC (F = 3.969, p= 0.000), Platelets (F=6.060, p = 0.000), MCH (F=4.898, p = 0.000), HCT (F=4.060, p = 0.000) and MCHC (F=5.377, p =0.000). There were no statistically significant different in the effect of radiations on Hb (F=1.690, p=0.111) and MCV (F=1.502, p = 0.167). The average annual effective radiation dose was below the limits advised by the International Commission on Padiological Protection, there was also some evidence that low ionizing radiation exposures affect some hematological parameters of radiation workers. Despite this, there is no established threshold for initiation of biologic alterations brought on by exposure to low doses of radiation.Item Open Access Analysis of the effects of maritime clusters on hindtherland operations in Nigeria(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2024-03) Nwosu, Emmanuel NnadozieThe study was carried out to analyze the effects of the performance of selected port-based maritime clusters business components on hinterland operations in Nigeria. The specific objectives of the study were among other things, to determine the determinant maritime cluster business component that contributes significantly to maritime sector Development in Nigeria; to model the effects of maritime cluster development on the shipping export and import capacities in hinterland locations in the six geopolitical zones of Nigeria and the federal Capital Territory, Abuja; and the determine the significant factors influencing the decision of maritime and allied firms, to locate operational basis in port-based maritime clusters in Nigeria. The study used a mixed research design method in which both survey methods involving the use of primary data sourced through the use of questionnaire as survey instrument, and quantitative research methods which involved the use of time series quantitative data on the shipping export and import capacities of each of the hinterland zones in the six geopolitical zones of Nigeria were sourced from the Nigeria ports Authority Statistical reports, covering a time period of 19 years, were used. The statistical methods of principal component factor analysis (PCFA) and the log-linear multiple regression analysis were used to analyze the data obtained. The findings of the study indicate that the offshore oil and gas maritime-cluster business component has Eigen values greater than 1 (5.904>1) and constitute the determinant maritime-cluster business component that significantly contribute to the development of the maritime sector in Nigeria over the years. The findings of the study also indicate that there is significant relationship between maritime-cluster development and the shipping export and import capacities of hinterland regions in the six geopolitical zones of Nigeria. The result however indicate that, the North-East and Federal Capital territory hinterland regions each recorded zero shipping export operations over the period covered in the study. The findings of the study further reveal that the significant factors that contributes to the decision of firms to locate investments in maritime clusters in Nigeria include: Guaranteed security of investment, Favourable Government policy, The ease of administration and coordination of the business divisions of a firm from the cluster location, Reduced labour cost and access to professionals and Access to transport cum optimization of logistics and production cost, with each having Eigen values of 2.992, 2.244, 1p.241, 1.145, and 1.039. the policy implications of the findings were also discussed. It was recommended that, Government policies such as policies creating free trade zones in maritime regions and tax exemptions for new firms should be used to attract more maritime firms to locate in port-based maritime clusters in Nigeria. The significant relationship between maritime sector development, export and import capabilities of hinterlands in Nigeria, suggest that the hinterlands can guarantee the achievement of higher output in the maritime sector if necessary investment is made by Government to improve the shipping export and import trade potentials of the hinterlands.Item Open Access Remediation of crude oil polluted soil with cow dung and Pennisetum purpureum zinc oxide nanoparticles(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2025-02) Enemugwem, Rachel ItongnteThis study investigated the remediation of crude oil polluted soil with cow dung and Pennisetum purpureum zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles. Zinc oxide nanoparticles were synthesized using an aqueous leaf extract of Pennisetum purpureum and cow dung. The ZnO nanoparticles were characterized by ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy (UV–Vis), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-Ray diffraction (XRD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The phytochemical properties of Pennisetum purpureum, cow dung and ZnO nanoparticles were assessed using gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC-MS). One kilogram soil was polluted invitro with 100 mL Bonny light crude oil. This study was carried out for 42 days. The concentrations of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), heavy metals, Benzene, Toluene, Ethylbenzene and Xylene (BTEX), total organic carbon (TOC), total petroleum hydrocarbon (TPH), nitrogen, phosphorous, pH, total heterotrophic bacteria (THB) and total hydrocarbon utilizing bacteria (THUB) count were determined in unpolluted, polluted and remediated soil using standard analytical methods. The major bioactive compounds in Pennisetum purpureum were linoleic acid (18.89%), cis-13-octadecenoic acid (15.74%), 1,2-benzisothiazole (6.69%), 11-octadecenoic acid (5.53%), oleic acid (5.01%), the major bioactive compounds in cow dung were trans-13-octadecenoic acid (12.03%), 8, 11 – octadecadienoic acid (8.29%), 9octadecanoic acid (8.11%), cycloeisane (7.43%). UV–vis spectra showed absorption peaks at 367nm (3.38 eV) for cow dung ZnO nanoparticles and 370nm (3.35 eV) for Pennisetum purpureum ZnO nanoparticles. FTIR analyses identified functional groups (C-O, O-H, CH, C≡C, C=C, N-O) and chemical bond formations in Pennisetum purpureum and cow dung ZnO nanoparticles. XRD results revealed ZnO nanoparticle’s crystalline structure, phase composition and average particle size of 23.37nm (Pennisetum purpureum ZnO nanoparticles) and 18.17nm (cow dung ZnO nanoparticles). The TEM images showed that the biosynthesised ZnO nanoparticles were spherical in shape with an average mean particle size of 3.47nm for cow dung ZnO and 15.21nm for Pennisetum purpureum ZnO nanoparticles at 100nm magnification. The remediation of crude oil polluted soil with cow dung and Pennisetum purpureum ZnO nanoparticles was dose dependent (20g and 40g). The pH of the polluted soil was acidic and alkaline in treated soil. There was a significant reduction (p<0.05) in the concentrations of heavy metal (As, Cr, Hg, Zn, Ni), nitrogen, zinc, phosphorous, PAH, BTEX, TOC, TPH on the crude oil polluted soil treated with cow dung and Pennisetum purpureum ZnO nanoparticles because of the photocatalytic activity of the ZnO nanoparticles on the pollutants. Total heterotrophic bacterial and total hydrocarbon utilizing bacteria count increased progressively during the 42 days study period. The higher concentrations (40g) of the nanoparticles were more efficient for soil remediation than lower concentrations (20g). The results from this study showed that cow dung and Pennisetum purpureum ZnO nanoparticles are photocatalysts and has the potential to degrade pollutants and reduce the clean - up time.Item Open Access Characterization, free radical scavenging and antimicrobial properties of Hibiscus sabdariffa silver Nanoparticle(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2025-01) Okorondu, Monica Mmachukwu O.Characterization, free radical scavenging and evaluation of antimicrobial properties of Hibiscus sabdariffa silver nanoparticle were carried out. Nanoparticles were synthesized using biological method and the synthesized nanoparticles were characterized for further confirmation using methods such as UV-Visible Spectroscopy, Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDX) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Phytochemical screening of the crude and nano extracts of Hibiscus sabdariffa were also carried out using Gas Chromatography Mass Spectroscopy (Gc/Ms) in order to ascertain the biocomponents in the two extracts. Antimicrobial properties of the crude and nano extracts were analyzed using Spectrophotometric assay while the in-vitro free radical scavenging properties of the crude and nano extracts were equally analyzed. The result of the UV-Visible spectroscopy of the nano extract showed maximum light absorption at a wavelength of 420 nm. The EDX revealed 79.52% Ag (silver) and 20.48% O (oxygen). The microscopic studies gave agglomerated spherical silver nanoparticle with average size of 65.9 nm. The XRD result showed that the silver nanoparticle exhibited a polycrystalline face centered cubic (FCC) structure with an average crystallite size of 65.9 nm. The GC/MS result of the crude extract showed a total of fifteen (15) bio-compounds with 4-amino-1,2 naphtoquinone (33.82%) being the highest and hexadecenoic acid, methyl ester (0.36%) being the least in abundance. The GC/MS result of the nano extract showed a total of fifteen (15) organic compounds with Cis-vaccenic acid (46.37%) being the highest and Carbomethoxy vinyl methylamine and 6-octadecanoic acid (0.93%) being the least. The result of the total antioxidant capacity showed a higher antioxidant capacity of the nano extract compared to the crude extract. The crude extract recorded an IC50 of 0.42 mg/ml for DPPH, 0.38 mg/ml for Nitric oxide, 0.33 mg/ml for hydroxyl radical and 0.67 mg/ml for superoxide radical. The nano extract recorded an IC50 of 6.6 mg/ml for 2,2-diphenyl-1- picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), 0.72 mg/ml for nitric oxide radical, 0.28 mg/ml for hydroxyl radical and 0.66 mg/ml for superoxide radical. The antimicrobial properties of the crude and nano extracts showed that the nano extract exhibited improved antimicrobial potency against Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Salmonella typhi compared to the crude extract. The nano extract exhibited enhanced total antioxidant capacity and hydroxyl radical scavenging activity but lower DPPH and nitric oxide radical scavenging activity with improved antimicrobial efficacy against E.coli and Salmonella typhi compared to the crude extract. Both nano and crude extract of Hibiscus sabdariffa could serve as potential antioxidant and antimicrobial agents.Item Open Access Morpho-Physiological responses and performance of chicken fed activated charcoal-aged palm sap (acaps) supplemented diets(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2022-11) Ohanaka, Albert Uzochukwu ChinenyeThe aim of this study is to utilize a feed additive supplement developed from a combination of activated charcoal and aged palm sap (ACAPS) for the improvement of the performance of laying hens and broilers. Pig dung, palm kernel shell (PKS), and bamboo chips blended respectively in a 4:3:3 ratio was carbonized to produce activated charcoal (AC) as a potential poultry feed additive. Thereafter, the AC was blended with raffia palm sap that was aged for 3 days in a ratio of 7:3 to produce an activated charcoal-aged palm sap (ACAPS) product as a second potential poultry feed additive. The efficacies of the AC, and ACAPS as feed grade additives were tested on laying hens, and broiler chicken. In the layer experiment, one hundred and fifty (150) Isa brown laying hens aged fifty (50) weeks were randomly assigned to five (5) groups (L1-L5) of 3 replicates with 10 birds each in a completely randomized design (CRD) experiment that lasted for 12 weeks. Five experimental diets containing either 0.00, 0.50, and 1.00% AC or ACAPS were formulated with zero AC as the control. Similar dietary supplementation of AC, and ACAPS (0.00, 0.50, and 1.00%) were used to produce the broiler starter, and finisher diets. Again, 150 Abor acre day - old broiler chicken was randomly assigned to five groups (B1 – B5) of 3 replicates with 10 birds each in a completely randomized design (CRD) experiment that lasted for 8 weeks. Data collected from the layer experiment included laying performance, egg quality, haematological, serum biochemical, and reproductive organ characteristics, while for the broilers, data on the growth performance, carcass characteristics, and economics of production were also collected. Results from the physico-chemical evaluation indicate that AC was mildly alkaline (8.49), high in carbon content (75.35%) and low in ash content (13.13%). The inclusion of the AC in the layer and broiler diets made the diets more water absorbent, increased carbohydrate, and metabolizable energy values, but decreased the BD, crude protein (CP), and other proximate values of the diets. The mineral ratios of the diets such as Ca/P, Na/K, and the dietary electrolyte balance (dEB) increased with increasing AC inclusion in the layer diets. The 1.00% AC and ACAPS supplementation resulted in 8.28, and 12.84% increase in hen-day production over the control value, and reduced loss in weight of the laying hen. All haematological, serum protein, and electrolyte values were significantly (p<0.05) decreased with increased inclusion of AC, and ACAPS supplementation, while the ovarian, and large yellow follicles (LYF) weights were increased. Litter odour and fly infestations were reduced in the pens housing the charcoal treated birds. The performance results of the broiler study showed that the birds fed the 0.5% AC (B2) recorded significantly higher (p<0.05) final weight, and weight gain, followed by the control, and B4 (0.5% ACAPS) groups after 7 days of feeding. After 28 days of feeding, the birds fed the B4 (0.50% ACAPS) diet recorded significantly higher final body weight, and weight gains (p<0.05) than the birds fed the B3, and B5 (1% AC and ACAPS) diets. Similar growth pattern was observed on the 42, and 49 days of age. However, on the 56th day, the B2 (0.50% AC) had averaged similar (P>0.05) performance with the B4 and both had superior performance indices than the rest of the group. No significant differences were observed in the carcass characteristics of the birds. The blood parameters improved progressively with charcoal addition in the broiler diets. The optimal supplementation levels or AC and ACAPS in layer diets were at 1.00% levels because of improved egg laying, growth performance, and eco-friendly poultry production environment. The optimal levels of AC and ACAPS supplementation in broiler diets stood at 0.50% levels beyond which it comes less tolerable and impacts on broiler performance. Therefore, the supplementation of ACAPS at 0.50 and 1.00% in broiler and layer diets respectively is recommended as feed grade additives for optimal performance in poultry production.Item Open Access Molecular characterization of mycotoxin producing moulds from grains and legumes and their susceptibility to plant extracts(Federal University of Technology, Owerri., 2021-11) Ohabughiro, Ndidi BlessingMolecular characterization of mycotoxin producing moulds from grains and legumes and their susceptibility to plant extracts was studied. Grains and legumes were stored for a period of two and four months. They were analysed for the presence of moulds and mycotoxin producing moulds. They were also analysed for the production of different mycotoxins. Sabouraud dextrose agar, Sabouraud dextrose broth, potato dextrose agar and malt extract agar were used in this study. The methods of isolation used were direct physical examination and direct plate count method. Moulds were identified based on their colony morphology, cultural characteristics and molecular characterization. Mycotoxin analysis was done using Liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry. Antifungal susceptibility test was done using the Clinical Laboratory and Standards Institute approved methods for testing of moulds using disk diffusion method. The following four oxoid antifungal agents were used: Amphotericin B, fluconazole, ketoconazole and voriconazole. The following medicinal plants: Ocimum gratissimum (scent leaves), Vemonia amygdalina (bitter leaves), Gongronema latifolium (utazi leaves) and Piper guineense (uziza leaves) were assessed for their phytochemical properties and antifungal susceptibility profile against various moulds. The organic solvents used for antifungal susceptibility profile were methanol and hot water. One way analysis of variance, Duncan tests and descriptive statistics were used for statistical analysis. The moulds isolated and identified culturally were Aspergillus sp. Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus ochraceus, Penicillium chrysogenum, Fusarium sp, Rhizopus stolonifer, Rhizopus nigricans and Mucor sp. while those identified molecularly were Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus tamarii, Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus brunneoviolaceus, and Penicillium chrysogenum. The genus Aspergillus was the most prevalent mould. Groundnut had the highest number of isolates followed by maize, beans, rice while wheat had the least number of isolates. The numbers of colony forming units were more in Potato dextrose agar, Sabouraud dextrose agar and least on malt extract agar. Potato dextrose agar recovered the highest number of isolates from both unstored and stored samples followed by sabouraud dextrose agar then malt extract agar. The following mycotoxins were detected Aflatoxin B1, Aflatoxin B2, Aflatoxin G1, Aflatoxin G2, Ochratoxin A, Citrinin, Dihydrocitrinone, Fumonisin B1, Fumonisin B2, Fumonisin B3, Fumonisin B4, Zearalenone, Deoxynivalenol and Nivalenol. Aflatoxin was the most frequent mycotoxin detected. Rice (1286.3 ± 29.689 µg/kg) had the highest rate of recovery of mycotoxins followed by wheat (1166.8 ± 0.901 µg/kg) and groundnuts (1142.9 ± 10.488 µg/kg) while maize (1111.6 ± 9.810 µg/kg) had the least concentration of mycotoxins. Ketoconazole (39 ±1.000 mm) had the highest minimum inhibitory concentration among different anti-fungal agents, followed by voriconazole (36 ± 2.000 mm), Amphotericin B (30 ±2.000 mm) and then Fluconazole (21 ± 12.124 mm). Susceptibility profile using only tetrazolium gave no zone of inhibition. Antifungal agents alone gave a better zone of inhibition than the combination of antifungal agents with tetrazolium. The medicinal plants such as scent leaves, bitter leaves, uziza leaves and utazi leaves analysed contained the following phytochemicals tannin, alkaloid, steroid, saponin and flavonoid. Percentage growth inhibition of moulds by methanol and hot water xiiiextract of scent leaf gave the highest inhibition followed by bitter leaf, utazi and uziza gave the least growth inhibition. Methanol extract gave a better inhibition than hot water extract at 100 mg/ml and 50 mg/ml. One-way analysis of variance and Duncan tests showed that there was a significant difference (P < 0.05) between the isolates found in stored and unstored grains and legume. There was also a significant difference (P < 0.05) between the antifungal agents and media used. Potato dextrose agar should be used frequently since it gave the highest rate of mould recovery. Ketoconazole remains the best drug of choice among other antifungal agents against moulds. Medicinal plants like scent leaves, bitter leaves, utazi leaves and uziza leaves gave varying levels of growth inhibition against various isolates and should be used both at home and clinical settings. The grains and legumes studied were contaminated with various species of moulds and contained many mycotoxins of public health importance.Item Open Access Molecular characterization of mycotoxin producing moulds from grains and legumes and their susceptibility to plant extracts(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2021-11) Ohabughiro, Ndidi BlessingMolecular characterization of mycotoxin producing moulds from grains and legumes and their susceptibility to plant extracts was studied. Grains and legumes were stored for a period of two and four months. They were analysed for the presence of moulds and mycotoxin producing moulds. They were also analysed for the production of different mycotoxins. Sabouraud dextrose agar, Sabouraud dextrose broth, potato dextrose agar and malt extract agar were used in this study. The methods of isolation used were direct physical examination and direct plate count method. Moulds were identified based on their colony morphology, cultural characteristics and molecular characterization. Mycotoxin analysis was done using Liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry. Antifungal susceptibility test was done using the Clinical Laboratory and Standards Institute approved methods for testing of moulds using disk diffusion method. The following four oxoid antifungal agents were used: Amphotericin B, fluconazole, ketoconazole and voriconazole. The following medicinal plants: Ocimum gratissimum (scent leaves), Vemonia amygdalina (bitter leaves), Gongronema latifolium (utazi leaves) and Piper guineense (uziza leaves) were assessed for their phytochemical properties and antifungal susceptibility profile against various moulds. The organic solvents used for antifungal susceptibility profile were methanol and hot water. One way analysis of variance, Duncan tests and descriptive statistics were used for statistical analysis. The moulds isolated and identified culturally were Aspergillus sp. Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus ochraceus, Penicillium chrysogenum, Fusarium sp, Rhizopus stolonifer, Rhizopus nigricans and Mucor sp. while those identified molecularly were Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus tamarii, Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus brunneoviolaceus, and Penicillium chrysogenum. The genus Aspergillus was the most prevalent mould. Groundnut had the highest number of isolates followed by maize, beans, rice while wheat had the least number of isolates. The numbers of colony forming units were more in Potato dextrose agar, Sabouraud dextrose agar and least on malt extract agar. Potato dextrose agar recovered the highest number of isolates from both unstored and stored samples followed by sabouraud dextrose agar then malt extract agar. The following mycotoxins were detected Aflatoxin B1, Aflatoxin B2, Aflatoxin G1, Aflatoxin G2, Ochratoxin A, Citrinin, Dihydrocitrinone, Fumonisin B1, Fumonisin B2, Fumonisin B3, Fumonisin B4, Zearalenone, Deoxynivalenol and Nivalenol. Aflatoxin was the most frequent mycotoxin detected. Rice (1286.3 ± 29.689 µg/kg) had the highest rate of recovery of mycotoxins followed by wheat (1166.8 ± 0.901 µg/kg) and groundnuts (1142.9 ± 10.488 µg/kg) while maize (1111.6 ± 9.810 µg/kg) had the least concentration of mycotoxins. Ketoconazole (39 ±1.000 mm) had the highest minimum inhibitory concentration among different anti-fungal agents, followed by voriconazole (36 ± 2.000 mm), Amphotericin B (30 ±2.000 mm) and then Fluconazole (21 ± 12.124 mm). Susceptibility profile using only tetrazolium gave no zone of inhibition. Antifungal agents alone gave a better zone of inhibition than the combination of antifungal agents with tetrazolium. The medicinal plants such as scent leaves, bitter leaves, uziza leaves and utazi leaves analysed contained the following phytochemicals tannin, alkaloid, steroid, saponin and flavonoid. Percentage growth inhibition of moulds by methanol and hot water xiii extract of scent leaf gave the highest inhibition followed by bitter leaf, utazi and uziza gave the least growth inhibition. Methanol extract gave a better inhibition than hot water extract at 100 mg/ml and 50 mg/ml. One-way analysis of variance and Duncan tests showed that there was a significant difference (P < 0.05) between the isolates found in stored and unstored grains and legume. There was also a significant difference (P < 0.05) between the antifungal agents and media used. Potato dextrose agar should be used frequently since it gave the highest rate of mould recovery. Ketoconazole remains the best drug of choice among other antifungal agents against moulds. Medicinal plants like scent leaves, bitter leaves, utazi leaves and uziza leaves gave varying levels of growth inhibition against various isolates and should be used both at home and clinical settings. The grains and legumes studied were contaminated with various species of moulds and contained many mycotoxins of public health importance.Item Open Access Assessment of Jatropha curcas L. as alternative nematicide in controlling root-knot nematode disease of Okra for improved yield(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2022-01) Ogwudire, Ezechukwu VincentThe assessment of Jatropha curcas L. as alternative nematicide in controlling root-knot nematode (Meloidogyne incognita) disease on Okra for improved yield was conducted in ultisols of Owerri, Nigeria. These were in 2016 and 2017 cropping seasons at the teaching and research farms of Federal University of Technology Owerri. Jatropha curcas L. cultivars; Cv ‘Illorin’, Cv ‘Kwara’ and Cv ‘Ihiagwa’ were first screened in a potted experiment for susceptibility to Meloidogyne incognita naturally endemic in the area using scoring index. Results on root-knot assessment showed no root-knot infection in either of the cultivars tested. Phytochemical investigations carried out for a Plant Based Nematicide revealed the presence of Alkaloids, Saponins, Flavonoids and Tannins in the Seeds, Roots and Leaves respectively. Laboratory test for nematicidal properties against hatchability and mortality of M. incognita was conducted using a 3x4x4 factorial experiment fitted in Completely Randomized Design with three replications. Alkaloids, Saponins, Flavonoids and Tannins applied at 0, 5 and 10 mls per thirty Juveniles (J2) for mortality and twenty egg masses for hatchability were suspended in 10 mls of distilled water respectively. Petri dishes were kept at ambient temperature after 12, 24, 48, and 72 h incubation. Results show that at 10 mls, Seed Alkaloids recorded highest mortality (99.73 %) after 72 h treatment exposure while at 5 mls, Root Alkaloids recorded highest mortality (94.73 %) after 72 h treatment exposure. Most egg hatchability reduction (0.00 i.e 100%) was achieved with Seed Saponin after 12 h treatment exposure time at 10 mls, while at 5 mls (0.08) egg hatchability reduction was achieved with Seed Saponins after 12 h treatment exposure time. Individual Plant based nematicides were further evaluated for their effects on root-gall nematode susceptible Okra variety “NHAe47-4”. Four independent 3x6 factorial experiments arranged in Completely Randomized Design with five replications were conducted in the screen house. Each nematicidal extract was applied at 0,1,2,3,4, and 5 mls, and Jatropha parts with three levelsseed, root and leaves. Results showed that all plant based nematicides applied at 5 mls/pot significantly (p<0.05) reduced root-galls and increased the growth, yield, mucilaginous property, and nutritional composition of okra. This was particularly with Leaf Tannins application which increased pod weight by 67 % and 61 % over control at 4.88 g and 5.11 g in 2016 and 2017 respectively. This was followed by Root and Seed Alkaloids which increased pod weight to 4.02 g & 4.26 g indicating 71 % and 67 % increase over control in 2016 and 2017 respectively. Seed and leaf Saponins increased pod weight to 3.62 g & 3.84 g indicating 58 % & 51 % increase over control in 2016 and 2017 respectively. Seed and Leaf Flavonoids increased pod weight to 3.56 g & 3.80 g indicating 75 % & 71 % increase over control in 2016 and 2017 respectively. Correlation analysis showed that root-knot nematode correlated negatively with growth and yield parameters of Okra. Nematicidal extracts of Jatropha curcas and plant parts at the respective rates/levels-controlled root-knot nematode (Meloidogyne incognita) infection on okra, enhanced the pod weights, Mucilaginous property and nutritional composition of okra and are therefore recommended for use in Okra production.Item Open Access Development of intelligent master controller for hybridized power pool system applications(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2022-11) Kufre, Esenowo JackThe development of an intelligent master controller model for hybridized power pool system applications has become necessary in the contemporary society where much resources are allocated in a decentralized scenario which does not encourage high productivity. Many metropolitan cities are endowed with several scattered energy resources within its locality and when aggregated in a power pool, its energy resources aggregation for continuous energy supply in order to curtail energy wastage may likely be posed with the challenges associated with uncoordinated system. In view of this therefore, an Intelligent Master Controller (IMC) is proposed to oversee and regulate the unified energy potentials in some metropolitan cities in order to ensure efficiency, reliability, and optimal utilization. In the conceptual framework deployed in this study, Afikpo Metropolis was used as a case study to demonstrate a typical power pool architecture with the intelligent master controller. The network voltage level for the five experimented communities were used with respect to the available energy sources. Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) was adopted for the renewable energy synchronization and hybridization through virtual demonstration; the integration of their hybridized renewable energy sources with other available sources like the public power supply and the generating system were made possible through intelligent master controller. The intelligent master controller operation sequence was simulated with proteus software. The hardware was implemented with electronics components, whereas the remote monitoring and control was achieved with Hypertext Mark Language (HTML), Cascaded Style Sheet (CSS), JavaScript and Hypertext Preprocessor (PHP) design. The HTML, CSS and JavaScript provide an app for human and machine interactivity and MongoDB gives the data documentation platform, whereas the ThingSpeak gave the real time analytical scheme for the system. The result from the software simulation conformed with that of the hardware implementation which reveals that energy from metropolitans’ cities could be centrally monitored and controlled using intelligent master control model. This model was demonstrated remotely through the web/Android App, and the energy generated and consumed by the pooled communities were documented in the cloud. The system performance was validated within 6hours of operation, and the system reliability prediction was carried out to ascertain the model functionalities. The developed intelligent master controller model was stable, observable and controllable from the MATLAB simulation result.Item Open Access Management of building collapse risks in Nigeria: A post mortem investigation(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2021-12) Obodoh, Dominic AnosikeThe study focused on the management of building collapse risks (BCR) in Nigeria: A post mortem investigation. Management of building collapse risks has been saddled with a lot of challenges which had led to continuous rise in the risks associated with building collapse. The main objective of this research is to investigate the management of building collapse risks in Nigeria with a view to developing a framework for effective management and reduction of losses associated with building collapse in Nigeria. To achieve the main objective of the study, five specific objectives were pursued and four hypotheses were formulated to guide the study. A survey research design was adopted for data collection. The population of study was made up of key professionals in the building industry, Staff of emergency management agencies, as well as the neighbourhood of the collapsed building in the study areas and the total population is 24,229. A sample size of 1997 was determined using Taro Yamane formula for finite population, while the samples were selected using stratified random sampling technique. A total of 1860 correctly filled and returned copies of the questionnaire, representing 93% of the distributed copies of the questionnaire was used for data analysis. Data were presented using tables, bar charts and pie charts, while analysis was done using percentages, mean and relative important index (RII). The hypotheses were tested using analysis of variance (ANOVA) and principal component analysis (PCA) via SPSS, version 23 and Minitab 18. The following findings were made from the analysis: (i) The existing system of managing building collapse risks in Nigeria is poor, ineffective and cannot adequately be used to address the risks associated with building collapse. (ii) The building collapse risks that mostly impact on the building development and Nigerian economy are economic/financial risks and human related risks. (iii) The prominent challenges faced by emergency management agencies are: lack of adequate funding, coordination and collaboration, poor urban planning, etc. (iv). The study developed and validated a framework for effective management of risks associated with building collapse in Nigeria, which is the major contribution to knowledge. The study therefore recommends adequate funding and monitoring of emergency management agencies, coordination and collaboration network among all stakeholders involved in disaster management, among others.Item Open Access Modelling marine accidents economic loss and the compensation in Nigeria(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2021-12) Nwokedi, Theophilus C.The aim of the study was to develop models of empirical relationships and elasticity coefficients that will serve as strategic tools for ensuring that, marine underwriters reserve adequate funds to maintain financial solvency for ensuring timely, adequate and sustainable compensation of marine accidents economic loss, for all kinds of insured marine risks, in Nigeria. The study used triangulation design method and obtained time series data on annual marine damage accidents economic costs, compensation funds reserved for insured marine risks, death and injury marine accidents, values of seaborne trade exposed to perils of the sea and per capita output, from the Nigerian Insurers Association (NIA), Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Statistical Reports, and Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR) offshore oil and gas incidents Reports. Questionnaire was used as survey instrument to obtain primary data on externalities costs to third party operators affected by marine oil spill accidents impacts on the marine ecosystem. The multiple regression method was used to model the relationships between the dependent and independent variables while the Log-Log constant elasticity model was used to establish the respective coefficients of elasticity. The Gross Output Model (GOM) was used to quantify the output losses occasioned by death cum injury marine accidents, for compensation purposes, while the Willingness to Accept (WTA) method of the Contingent Valuation Method (CVM) was used to evaluate the externalities costs and output losses to third party operators affected by marine accidents ecosystem damages, for purposes of providing adequate levels of compensation funds for indemnification of insured marine risks. It was found that, there exists significant relationships between shipping accidents economic loss and value of seaborne trade. The elasticity of shipping accidents economic loss to growth in value of seaborne trade over the period covered in the study shows that it was inelastic (E<1). The coefficient of elasticity of offshore O&G damage accidents economic loss to growth in maritime trade is 2.376. The mean economic costs of death and injury marine accidents to be compensated by underwriters per annum over the period is 4797662.92USD and 279181.17USD respectively with respective average rates of change of 1399708.27USD and -29587.88USD. The result also shows that, the Mean Willingness to Accept Amount (MWTA) which indicates the externalities cost of marine accidents damages to each third party operator affected by oil spill accidents and which underwriters are to provide adequate compensation is: N1,629,610 per annum per capita. The study developed the following models of relationship as contribution to knowledge: SHALt = 2430145.277 + 0.34IMPSTRADEt + 0.051EXPSTRADEt + e; and OFFALt = 123404.891 + 0.321IMPSTRADEt + 0.121EXPSTRADEt + e. InMAPREt = 11.021 + 0.364InSHALt + e; and InOGREt = 16.879 + 0.037InOFFALt + e. COMPENpercapital≥N1629610[1+ r] n ; and MPENaggegate≥N1629610[Xn][1 + r n. Also: ∆MAPREdeath≥1399708.265USD. It was recommended that compensation funds reserved by underwriters for indemnification of insured unexpired marine risks must increase proportionately in line with growth in value of seaborne trade exposed to sea perils and maritime accidents economic loss, indicated by the elasticity and rate of change coefficients.Item Open Access Development of an institutional-based community power pooling model for seamless renewable energy integration(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2023-10) Opara, O. R.In recent times, educational institutions were provided with sources of power, that were able to cater for their needs, cognizance of the low demand for knowledge economy was not high. As a result, the available energy was able to suffice for the limited schools, departments, and units within the university system that was available as at that time. As technology continues to improve, the quest for knowledge increases thereby giving needs for expansion in the educational institutions, which cut across creating of more administrative sections, departments and courses. This expansion came with the need for more energy consumption, which calls for a more robust technology with enabling energy integration. The universities were not taking into consideration using energy resources within their operating environments for optimal utilization. And even when there is any consideration to the use of renewable energy resources, standalone energy systems were readily attracted without consideration to network, and integration model, with a fear of un-seamless nature of renewable energy resources. To mitigate the aforementioned shortcoming, this project proposes an institutional-based community power pooling model with seamless renewable energy integration. This involves the formulation and development of an institutionalized local distribution network forming a mini – grid. Then appropriate dc and ac Load Flow (LF) model were applied to determine an optimal balance between locally available distributed energy resources (DERs) and co – located load centers with the referenced institution – in this case, FUTO. The model simulations reveal,that the system is capable of synchronizing the renewable energy resources within the university in a single network bus, alongside with public power supply and diesel generators. This could guarantee efficient and optimal utilization of the energy potentials within the university community, with excess energy of 8,603,334 KWh/yr. available for sales to the neighbouring energy users from the formulated model. This model could be utilized in other universities across the nation with the view of tailoring its architecture to suit each institutions special peculiarities in terms of energy resources and load demand.Item Open Access Assessment of streamflow relationship models of selected rivers in southern Nigeria.(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2023-10) Uzoukwu, Regina AkudoThis study focused on Assessment of Streamflow Relationship Models of Selected Rivers in Southern Nigeria. The rivers include; Cross River, River Niger, Owena River, Owan River, Ikpoba River, Ossiomo River and Imo River. Statistical methods of least squares (regression analysis) were used to develop streamflow mathematical models (Power model, Polynomial model and Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) model for regression) of the selected rivers. Models performance in calibration and verification were evaluated by means of coefficients of determination, coefficients of correlation, NashSutcliffe model efficiency, mean absolute relative error, percentage bias, root mean square error or standard error of estimate andmean of residuesor mean absolute error. Verification results exhibited a similar pattern in model performance to the calibration results, indicating that the models have good curve fitting. Comparisons of the streamflow models were carried out using One-way ANOVA F-Test, Variance Ratio Test or Snedecor’s F-distribution (F-Test). Further comparisons using graphs and a final comparison using Student’s t-Test were done. The models developed will serve useful purposes in the design of dams, estimation of the sizes of reservoirs, public water supply, flood control and hydropower generation, pisciculture, recreation, irrigation, wild life protection, water sports and tourism thus ushering in an era of socio-economic and industrial development for the Southern Nigeria. This research will play an important role in ensuring that water resources management processes in the Southern Nigeria are scientifically based and efficiently used so as to satisfy the needs of both natural systems and humanity, as being demonstrated in the applications of the calibrated modelsItem Open Access Molecular characterization of methicillin resistant staphylococcus aureus from clinical specimens and antimicrobial activity of plant extracts against the isolates(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2021-09) Ifediora, Afoma ChinweStaphylococcus aureus is a major bacterial pathogen that causes different community and hospital-acquired infections. S. aureus resistant to methicillin has become a big and expanding problem of concern in many developing countries. This study examined the molecular characterization and the effect of plant extracts on methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) from clinical specimens in Abia State, Nigeria using standard recommended procedures. Conventional cultural, morphological and biochemical methods were used to identify the isolates, while the antimicrobial susceptibility testing was performed by the disc diffusion method. Methicillin resistance was detected phenotypically using cefoxitin 30µg disc and oxacillin 1µg disc. Inducible clindamycin resistance was evaluated by the D-test. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used to amplify genes for methicillin resistance (mecA), clindamycin resistance (ermB), beta-lactamase production (blaZ), Panton Valentine leukocidin (pvl) with 16SrRNA gene being the internal control. Sequencing was carried out on the amplified isolates. The Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA (RAPD) was implemented on the mecA strains isolated using three randomly selected oligonucleotide primers. Plant antimicrobial assay was done using the agar well technique and phytochemicals detected in the two plants tested. A total of 750 clinical specimens of blood, urine samples, wound, ear, nasal, high vaginal, urethral and ear swabs were collected from three major health facilities located in the three senatorial zones of Abia State, Nigeria. A total of 265 (35.3%) S. aureus isolates were recovered, out of which 126(47.5%) were from males and 139(52.5%) were from females, however there was no association between the prevalence and gender (p-value = 0.05) and also prevalence and age (p-value = 0.52). Phenotypic detection of MRSA using cefoxitin disc diffusion gave an MRSA prevalence of 164(61.9%) with 65(39.6%) being from urine, 3(23.1%) from wound, 31(18.9%) from high vaginal swab, 22(13.4%) from urethral swab, 4(2.4%) from ear swab, 3(1.8%) from nasal swab and 1(0.6%) from blood samples. All (100%) of the MRSA were susceptible to vancomycin, 120(73.2%) to clindamycin, 92 (56.1%) to gentamycin. All were resistant to ceftazidine, 157(95.7%) to cloxacillin, 146(89.0%) to augmentin, 136(82.9%) to ceftriaxone and 103(61.6%) to erythromycin. The MRSA strains showed much higher resistance rate than their methicillin susceptible Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA) counterparts to all tested antibiotic except clindamycin. Exactly 64(39.0%) of the MRSA were resistant to 4 classes of antibiotics indicating multi drug resistance (MDR). The overall prevalence of inducible clindamycin resistance among methicillin resistant isolates was 29(17.7%) while 66.5% xix produced beta-lactamase. Out of 40 cefoxitin positive isolates, 12 (30%) possessed mecA gene, 17.5% harboured the β-lactamase (blaZ) gene, 20% and 10% possessed the pvl gene. Dendogram analysis of RAPD-PCR amplification of mecA positive strains showed three different clones in circulation in the state. The plant extracts showed varied levels of antimicrobial activity against the MRSA isolates. The growth of the microorganisms used for the test was inhibited by the ethanolic extracts of the leaves of Alchornea cordifolia and Acalypha wilkesiana at concentrations of 50mg/ml to 200mg/ml. The inhibition zones ranged from 9.0mm to 21.0mm whereas the water extracts showed moderate activity against the isolates. The Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) and Minimum Bactericidal Concentration (MBC) of Alchornea cordifolia ranged from 12.5-50mg/ml and 25-100mg/ml for Acalypha wilkesiana. The results of the rates of kill revealed a gradual reduction in the total viable count of bacteria from 1hr to 24hrs in all the test isolates. The phytochemical screening of the ethanol extract revealed the presence of tannins, flavonoids, glycosides, resins and carbohydrates but in variable degrees. The percentage yields of phytochemical content of the leaves of the Alchornea cordifolia plants were as follows: alkaloids (1.85%), flavonoids (1.08%), Glycosides (1.05%), saponins (4.13%), and tannins (0.70%). The use of phenotypic and molecular methods in this study provided useful information on antibiotic resistance and genetic diversity of S. aureus isolates from clinical specimens in Abia State of Nigeria. The information provided could help in monitoring the evolution of S. aureus strains in Nigeria over time.Item Open Access Analysis of gender equality opportunities and resource use in cereal value chain: Evidence from youth engagement in rice value chain in Sourth-East, Nigeria.(Federal University of Technology,Owerri, 2023-09) Tim-Ashama, A. C.The study analyzed gender equity opportunities and resource use in cereal value chain: evidence from youth engagement in rice value chains in Nigeria. it identify the actors and gender roles along rice value chain; examine by gender, the socioeconomic characteristics of actors along the rice value chain; determine the level of gender equity gap in opportunities along the rice value chain; determine the technical efficiency and sources of inefficiency among male and female actors along the rice value chain; determine the value added and the share of the value added by gender along the rice value chain; estimate the factors affecting value added by gender along rice value chain and, identify the constraints to youth engagement in the rice value chain, by gender. A multistage sampling technique was adopted for this study. The sample size consists of 476 youth rice value chain actors randomly selected from 48 villages across three states in South-East Nigeria. The data were collected using questionnaires and analyzed using Modified Gender Equity Index (MGEI), stochastic meta-frontier, value addition and multiple regression models. Descriptive statistics such as frequency, percentages, charts and mean were also used to realize some additional results. Results from MGEI show that the level of gender equity opportunities for youth rice producers, processors and marketers were-0.21,-0.21 and-0.04, respectively, indicating inequity against the female youth. The mean technical efficiency for male and female producers are 0.64 and 0.59, processors 0.70 and 0.69 and marketers 0.52 and 0.61. The determinant factors of technical inefficiency among male and female youth in the study area were level of education, membership of cooperative society, years of experience and access to credit. The overall value-added per tonne by the male youth actors was ₦52,281 and the female youth actor was ₦52,229. The share of the value-added by male youth producers, processors and marketers were 51.65%, 49.41% and 47.78% while the female youth were 48.38%, 50.59% and 52.22%, respectively. Some factors affecting value added by actors in rice value chain were level of education, years of experience, capital invested, information and distance to actor’s node. The major constraints to youth engagement in rice value chain include lack of capital to start up, lack of access to credit, drought, lack of access to better technology, high cost of hiring/operating machines, lack of technical knowhow/skills, and stressful nature of rice value chain. In addition, the female processors added marital challenges and responsibilities as a major challenge while recommends that Policies and interventions that ensure equal access to resources, opportunities, and decision-making power for both male and female youth actors should be implemented through targeted training programmes, awareness campaigns and capacity-building initiatives that promote gender equality. In addition, access to affordable credit and financial services for youth involved in rice value chain should be strengthened through establishment of financial institutions and mechanisms specially targeting youth in agricultural sectors.Item Open Access Ecological risk assessment and phytoremediation of spent engine oil contaminated soils of selected mechanic workshops in Imo State(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2023-05) Azorji, Johnpaul NnawuikeAssessment of the ecotoxicological risk of indiscriminate disposal of spent engine oil on terrestrial ecosystem was investigated using physicochemical, biochemical, and bioterance assays. Soil samples were collected from a depth of 0-20cm and analyzed using standard analytical protocols. Acute toxicity tests were conducted based on germination and seedling establishment of higher plants (Zea mays, G. maxV. unguiculata), Earthworms (mortality rate) and microorganisms (inhibitory effects) which covered a wide range of short-term lethal and sub-lethal endpoints used for risk characterization and analyzed using Probit analysis. Results obtained showed that majority of the mechanics who are within 20-30 age bracket were found in Owerri (22.42%) while the least was found in Okigwe (12.98%); on weekly basis, 42 vehicles are serviced in Owerri; 27 inOrlu while 21 is been serviced in Okigwe respectively. Total annual volume of spent engine oil generated (in litres) was highest in Owerri zone (124,489.36L) while the least value was obtained in Orlu zone (18,434.52L). A significant volume 168 (49.56%) of the spent engine oil is been disposed into the immediate environment with others being sold off 41 (12.09%); given out for free 66 (19.47%); and taken by car owners 64 (18.88%). Axonopuss compressus, Aspillia africana, and Chromolaena odorata species were the dominant plant species identified in the order: Axonopuss compressus>Aspillia africana> Chromolaena odorata. Mean values of physical and chemical properties of soil indicated alteration of parameters analyzed relative to the control. The mean concentrations of heavy metals across the zones ranged from Pb(1.045 ± 0.1 to 1.534 ± 0.2), As (1.761 ± 0.3 to 1.805 ± 0.3), Cr (0.272 ± 0.01 to 0.273 ± 0.01), Cd (0.302 ± 0.02 to 0.606 ± 0.03), Ni (0.918 ± 0.03 to 0.932 ± 0.03), Co (1.278 ± 0.1 to 1.324 ± 0.2), Fe (63.927 ± 3.34 to 69.563 ± 3.53), Cu (12.446 ± 2.14 to 12.964 ± 2.42), Zn (156.121 ± 28.01 to 156.137 ± 28.12), and Al (1.353 ± 0.2 to 1.353 ± 0.12) mg/kg with a distribution pattern of Zn>Fe>Cu>As>Al>Co>Pb>Ni>Cd>Cr. Concentration of heavy metals were significantly (p<0.05) higher at the polluted sites than the control and above WHO permissible limits. Mean concentration of PAHs ranged between Owerri zone (0.03 ± 0.01 to 1.980 ± 0.36mg/kg) Orlu zone (0.004 ± 0.001 to 1.614 ± 0.10 mg/kg), and in Okigwe zone (0.01 ±0.001 to 1.418 ± 0.19mg/kg) with distribution pattern of Nap>Pyr>Mepl>Ind>Acpt>Flu>Bbf>B(ghi)p>B(g)p>Bkf>Da>An>Acph across the zones.Maximum Concentration of TPH was recorded in Owerriwhile the minimum value was gotten from the control site. Mean values of TPH were in the order: Owerri>Orlu>Okigwe>control. Result of acute toxicity assay showed that Zea mays exhibited more sensitivity than V. unguiculata and G. max. The microbial absorbance rate depended on the dose and type of organism in the order of: Acinetobacter>Enterobacter> Bacillus species >Pseudomonas. Mortality in earthworm was noted as concentration increased. Values of Risk Quotient for Zea mays, V. unguiculata, G. max and earthworm ranged from low risk to very high risk based on the estimated PNEC values. The microorganisms differed slightly in biotolerance to spent engine oil exposure based on estimated risk quotients. Exposure to spent engine oil posed minimal risk to Pseudomonas sp., Bacillus sp., and Acinetobacter sp., at the estimated PNECs with values less than unity (<1). Risk quotient values for Enterobacter sp. indicated a high risk with values above unity. Variable xxi concentrations of heavy metals were accumulated by the plants from soil and were stored in the root, shoot and leaf except for A. compressus that accumulated values less than one (<1) for Pb and As. Metal accumulation pattern were in the order C. odorat>A.africana>A.compressus. C. odorata and A. africana exhibited characteristics typical of a phytoextractor while A. compressus could be applied as a phytostabiliser of spent engine oil polluted soils. The sensitivities exhibited by the organisms exposed to spent engine oil indicate the possibility of using them as bioindicators and for assessing the efficacy of phytoremediation process. Spent engine oil adversely affected the organisms in each scenario in a dose dependent manner. Overall, these findings proved that spent engine oil greatly altered soil properties and also repressed the growth of organisms in the ecosystem thereby strengthening the need to curb indiscriminate disposal of spent oil on the environment by mechanics in the business of auto repairs to forestall possible pollution problems of other components of the food chain.Item Open Access Design and modelling of smart home technologies for the aged persons(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2021-07) Okoroafor, Godfrey NwajiSmart home technology for the aged persons here is a wireless sensor-based home system that provide the aged persons a safe, sound and secure home environment, while enabling them to live independently in their own homes as long as possible. The aged persons here are that population within the ages of 65 years and above. Nowadays, the rapid increase in the number of aged persons, including those with disabilities, the decrease in the number of family care-givers as a result of youths` migration to cities in search of white-collar jobs, and inability of government to provide adequate infrastructural needs to these aged persons has resulted in a miss-match on the caring facilities in Nigeria. These have contributed to the problem of these aged persons, since neither families nor government are able to meet their needs, especially in Africa due to high level of mass poverty, illiteracy and corruption in governance. Therefore, the task of this proposed system here is to design and model a voice activated home control system that will utilize the natural voice of the aged home occupants, to provide a more convenient, easier to install and use, user friendly home technologies for the aged persons. This will enable them maneuver assistive wheelchair, and manage home appliances through voice commands. This assistive wheelchair developed is embedded with collision detection and avoidance. The tools used to realize this proposed system are; The Personal Computer (PC), HC-SR04 ultrasonic sensor, and Voice Recognition (VR) module in a PC used for voice processing and recognition, Microphone for voice signal acquisition, C-language with the help of C# for coding. Bluetooth and Radio Frequency (RF) transceivers wirelessly link the input module to the controller module (microcontroller) which selects the appliances/assistive device to be controlled according to the input voice command. Proteus Virtual System Modelling (VSM) was used for developing smart home technology system schematic model and carried out the animated simulation to validate the system`s performance within the home. The designed system was tested on Dead Home (a home with closed curtains, carpet, an air-conditioner, and other leaving home appliances switched off) and Live Home (a home with opened curtains, carpet, an air-conditioner, television, and other leaving home appliances, switched on, and with background music or noise from a stereo people) conditions, and the effective result was 92.93% for dead home and 75.85% for live home respectively. This showed that the realized system controlled the devices with voice, though, the level of this system response is higher in dead home than in a live home, hence, the level of the system performance is lower in a noisy environment.Item Open Access Biochemical and carcinogenic effects of monosodium glutate and soya bean in wistar rats(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2021-07) Bob Chile-Agada, AdaezeThis study was carried out to investigate the biochemical effects of short, medium and long term administration of monosodium glutamate (MSG) and soya beans in both male and female Wistar rats, using standard methods. LD50 was carried out using rats which led to the choice of 1000, 2000 and 3000 mg/kg b.w for low, medium, and high doses of the samples. A total of 210 (105 males and 105 females) weanly Wistar rats weighing 70 – 78g were divided equally into three groups of 70 rats each representing the various experimental durations (2, 4, and 6 months). Each of these groups containing 70 rats was further divided equally into 14 subgroups, each containing 5 rats. Group 1 and 8 were controls for female and male rats fed normal raw chow and saline. Groups 2-7 (female rats) and 9-14 (male rats) were rats administered low dose (LD), medium dose (MD) and high dose (HD) MSG and soya beans respectively. 6-o-Malonylgenistin (98.47%) and Glycitin (98.11%) were the most abundant oestrogen-like compounds in the dehulled and oil of soya beans. The glucose and insulin levels of both male and female rats were significantly altered by HDs of both MSG and soya beans after 6 months while ALT, ALP and AST levels were significantly elevated after 4 and 6 months following administration of both MSG and soya beans and were more extensive in HD soya bean fed rats. No significant changes (P> 0.05) were observed in the urea levels after 2 and 4 months soya beans respective administration to female and male rats, while HD MSG significantly elevated the creatinine levels of male and female rats after 4 and 6 months administration. Administration of soya beans and MSG for 2 and 4 months had no significant effect (P > 0.05) on the bicarbonate and chloride levels. The HDL levels were significantly reduced while LDL, TC, and TG were significantly (P < 0.05) elevated after 6months HD administration of MSG and soya beans. Soya beans administration produced no significant change in the SOD levels for female rats and catalase levels in male rats after 2 months administration whereas the MD and HD administration of MSG significantly elevated MDA levels of both male and female rats after 4 and 6 months. Two and four months administration of soya beans and MSG produced no significant changes (P > 0.05) in the LH and FSH of female rats while MD and HD of MSG and soyabean significantly decreased the testosterone and LH of male rats. The colorectal, pancreatic, and ovarian cancer markers, and prostate specific antigen levels were significantly elevated after administration of MD and HD of MSG for 2, 4, and 6 months. This study has shown that the high dose administration of monosodium glutamate and soya bean produced delecterious effects on the biochemical parameters and cancer markers on rats after six months extensive administration.Item Open Access Determination of some algebraic properties of basarab loops(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2021-12) Effiong, Gideon OkonBasarab loops are non-associative generalizations of groups and are classified as loops of non Bol-Moufang type. They are G-loops with deep algebraic and structural properties. Not much were known about the form of isotopes, holomorphs, associators, center, and subloops of Basarab loops. This work was to determine some algebraic properties of Basarab loops. The objectives of the study were to construct a Basarab loop, investigate the relationship between Basarab loop and other loops like conjugacy closed loop, abelian inner mapping loop, and Osborn loop, examine the isotopes of a Basarab loop, investigate the holomorphs and associators of a Basarab loop, and characterize some subloops of a Basarab loop. Basarab loop identities were considered and some algebraic properties of loops were investigated. Loop notions such as the use of parentheses, multiplication group, isotopy theory, and holomorphy theory, total multiplication group were examined on a Basarab loop through the governing laws of Basarab loop. Some constructions of Basarab loops were given and some algebraic properties of Basarab loops were determined. The results obtained have shown that the centrum of a Basarab loop is a subloop and it is equal to the center of a Basarab loop, and that a Basarab loop with the left (right) inverse property, or inverse property is an extra loop. Necessary and sufficient conditions for isotopes and principal isotopes of a Basarab loop were determined. It was proved that every principal isotope of a Basarab loop is a Basarab loop. It was proved that any Osborn loop is a Basarab loop if and only if it is a left (right) Basarab loop. Also, the holo morphs of a Basarab loop were investigated by considering a group A(Q) of automorphisms of a loop. Some necessary and sufficient conditions for an A(Q)-holomorph of a loop (Q, ·) to be left (right) Basarab loop, and Basarab loop were established. Some left (right) translation mapping of the holomorph of a left (right) Basarab loop was shown to be left (right) regular. It was shown that an A(Q)-holomorph of a loop (Q, ·) which satisfies the inverse property is a Basarab loop if and only if (Q, ·) is a Basarab loop and every automorphism of Q is nuclear.Some subloops of a Basarab loop which are characterized by permutations were obtained. It was proved that a Basarab loop is a centrum-abelian inner mapping loop. Relationship betweenassociators and inner mappings of a Basarab loop was defined. It was shown that the associator of any three elements of a Basarab loop is contained in the center and centrum of a Basarabloop. This study has presented additional properties of Basarab loops which are now available for applications. Therefore, it is recommended that researchers and cryptographers should usethe properties of Basarab loops determined by this study for further research and applications.Item Open Access Hybrid deep learning-based model for covid-19 prediction and interpretation using multiple data modalities(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2024-05) Dokun, OyewoleThis research addresses the critical need for accurate and timely COVID-19 diagnosis and prognosis by developing a hybrid deep learning model that integrates multiple data modalities, including chest X-rays, Computed Tomography (CT) scans, blood smears, and clinical data. The model employs specialized architectures such as Residual Network with 50 Layers (ResNet50) for Chest X-ray, InceptionV3 for CT scans, Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) for blood smears, and a Random Forest classifier for clinical data analysis. The results demonstrate high accuracy rates: 96.7% for ResNet50, 97.58% for InceptionV3, 96.12% for CNN, and 98.30% for the Random Forest classifier. Grad-CAM enhances transparency by visualizing critical regions in the images, aiding healthcare professionals in understanding the model's decisions. This hybrid model offers improved accuracy and reliability for COVID-19 diagnosis and prognosis, making it a valuable tool for clinical settings and resource allocation. The research underscores the potential of multi-modal data integration in medical AI and suggests further exploration and refinement of such models for broader healthcare applications.