Showing papers by "Cross River University of Technology published in 2019"

Probabilistic risk assessment and spatial distribution of potentially toxic elements in groundwater sources in Southwestern Nigeria.

Abstract: The study investigated the concentration of potentially toxic heavy metals (PTHM) in groundwater sources (hand-dug wells and boreholes), spatial distribution, source apportionment, and health risk impact on local inhabitants in Ogun state. One hundred and eight water samples from 36 locations were analysed for Cr, Ni, Pb, Fe, Mn, Mg, Ca and Al. Mean values of 0.013, 0.003, 0.010, 0.088, 0.004 and 3.906 mg/L were obtained for Pb, Cr, Ni, Fe, Mn, and Al respectively at Iju district. Meanwhile, the average values of Pb, Ni, Fe, Mn, and Al concentrations at Atan district were 0.008, 0.0023, 0.011, 0.003, and 1.319 mg/L respectively. Results also revealed that the 44.4% and 11.13% of the borehole and well-water samples surpassed the World Health Organization limits for Pb at Atan. In Iju, the concentration of Pb and Al were relatively high, exceeding the stipulated standard in 100% of the samples. The Multivariate statistical analysis employed produced principal factors that accounted for 78.674% and 86.753% of the variance at Atan and Iju region respectively. Based on this, PTHM were traced to geogenic sources (weathering, dissolution, leaching) and anthropogenic emissions from industrial activities. In addition, the hazard quotient values obtained from the health risk assessment identified potential non-carcinogenic risk due to Pb via ingestion route. Ni was found to have high carcinogenic risk on adult and children, having exceeded the threshold limit. The outcome of the carcinogenic risk assessment revealed that 88.67% (for adults) and 1.12% (for children) of the cancer risk values surpassed the specified limits at Iju, whereas the cancer risk values were considerably lesser at Atan. In conclusion, the report of this study should serve as a beacon that will spark up strategic planning, comprehensive water resource management, and extensive treatment schemes in order to address the health complications linked with environmental pollution.

Sand minimum transport conditions in gas–solid–liquid three-phase stratified flow in a horizontal pipe at low particle concentrations

Abstract: Sand production in the life of oil and gas reservoirs is inevitable, as it is co-produced from reservoirs. Its deposition in petroleum pipelines poses considerable risk to production and can lead to pipe corrosion and flow assurance challenges. Therefore, it is important that pipe flow conditions are maintained to ensure sand particles are not deposited but in continuous motion with the flow. The combination of minimum gas and liquid velocities that ensure continuous sand motion is known as the minimum transport condition (MTC). This study investigates the effect both of sand particle diameter and concentration on MTC in gas/liquid stratified flow in a horizontal pipeline. We used non-intrusive conductivity sensors for sand detection. These sensors, used for film thickness measurement in gas/liquid flows, were used for the first time here for sand detection. We found that MTC increases with increase in particle diameter for the same concentration and also increases as the concentration increases for the same particle diameter. A correlation is proposed for the prediction of sand transport at MTC in air–water flows in horizontal pipes, by including the effect of sand concentration in Thomas’s lower model. The correlation accounts for low sand concentrations and gave excellent predictions when compared with the experimental results at MTC.

Exergy analysis of a novel low-heat recovery organic Rankine cycle (ORC) for combined cooling and power generation

Abstract: A thermodynamic modification of an ORC integrated with turbine bleeding and regeneration (ORCTBR) is presented. The objective is to modify the ORCTBR for both cooling and power generation (ORCNOV)....

High viscous oil–water two–phase flow: experiments & numerical simulations

Abstract: An experimental study on highly viscous oil-water two-phase flow conducted in a 5.5 m long and 25.4 mm internal diameter (ID) pipeline is presented. Mineral oil with viscosity ranging from 3.5 Pa.s – 5.0 Pa.s and water were used as test fluid for this study. Experiments were conducted for superficial velocities of oil and water ranging from 0.06 to 0.55 m/s and 0.01 m/s to 1.0 m/s respectively. Axial pressure measurements were made from which the pressure gradients were calculated. Flow pattern determination was aided by high definition video recordings. Numerical simulation of experimental flow conditions is performed using a commercially available Computational Fluid Dynamics code. Results show that at high oil superficial velocities, Core Annular Flow (CAF) is the dominant flow pattern while Oil Plug in Water Flow (OPF) and Dispersed Oil in Water (DOW) flow patterns are dominant high water superficial velocities. Pressure Gradient results showed a general trend of reduction to a minimum as water superficial velocity increases before subsequently increasing on further increasing the superficial water velocity. The CFD results performed well in predicting the flow configurations observed in the experiments.

Effect of methanolic crude extract of Aframomum melegueta (A.m) seeds on selected lactogenic hormones of Albino rats.

Abstract: The search for alternative control of excessive milk secretion associated with exclusive breast feeding necessitated this study. This study was designed to investigate the effect of methanolic crude extract of Aframomum melegueta (A.m) seed by measuring serum concentrations of selected lactogenic (prolactin, estradiol and progesterone) hormones in lactating and non-lactating Albino rats. A total of 18 non-lactating and lactating rats each were assigned into three (3) treatments of 6 rats each. Treatment 1 and 2 (controls) received 0.11 mg/kg/day of reference drug (bromocriptine) and 100 mg/kg/day of Dimethylsulfoxide (Dmso) 1 ml:9 ml of normal saline which is referred to as normal control in this study. Treatment 3 received 100 mg/kg/day of A.m methanolic crude extract. Serum samples were collected and analyzed for prolactin, estradiol and progesterone by ELISA techniques. The result obtained showed a 21.13% and 25.12% significant (P 0.05) changes in serum levels of estradiol relative to reference control drugs in both rats. Serum levels of progesterone were not significantly altered in both groups relative to normal control rats. The above findings confer on the extract antilactogenic capability and hence a good alternative to bromocriptine.

The Effect of Relative Humidity and Temperature on Polycrystalline Solar Panels Installed Close to a River

Abstract: The effect of temperature and relative humidity on photovoltaics installed close to Calabar River was investigated to evaluate their performance. The data used in the research was obtained by in-situ measurement approach using a KT-908 precision digital hygrometer and thermometer, and a M890C + digital multimeter. The result obtained shows a strong negative correlation for current, efficiency and relative humidity which indicates that high relative humidity adversely affects the performance of the photovoltaic. The results also show that voltage remains fairly stable between 65% to 75% relative humidity humidity and 33°C to 43°C (panel temperature), while efficiency increases with temperature up to the maximum Original Research Article Njok and Ogbulezie; PSIJ, 20(4): 1-11, 2018; Article no.PSIJ.44760 2 operating temperature of the photovoltaic module before starting to decrease. Peak in efficiency was observed at a relative humidity value of 65% and module temperature of about 47°C at noon.

An Overview of Cholera Epidemiology: A Focus on Africa; with a Keen Interest on Nigeria

Abstract: Cholera is still a problem in the world today. A huge population of deaths due to cholera disease still occur in Sub-Saharan Africa (Nigeria most especially), Asia, the Americas and other developing countries, where approximately 1.7 billion inhabitants are still served by faecally polluted water sources. Approximately, 2.4 billion inhabitants of these areas of the world lack the majorly required sanitary conditions of living. Legros, asserts that, as of 2019, about forty-seven countries of the globe, are still affected by cholera. Raw or undercooked, contaminated seafood, serves as a vehicle for the transmission (especially to non-endemic areas). A Case Fatality Rate of 4.87% was recorded from 34 Local Government Areas of Bauchi, Borno, Kaduna, Kano and Zamfara state in Nigeria by the 34 th week, in 2018, while 298 confirmed cases and 38 deaths (CFR 1.5%) were recorded from three Local Government Areas in two States (Adamawa & Borno) by Epidemiological week 41 in 2019. Cholera in some cases is regarded as a “disease of the poor” because the populations most affected are those that cannot afford to provide the basic health facilities for themselves. For example, waste management systems, and good accommodation with toilet facilities (the living and health conditions of the people) are wanting. In 2017, A Global Roadmap to 2030 was launched by the Global Task Force on Cholera Control (GTFCC Ending Cholera) to decrease the death rate due to cholera by 90%. By so doing, the disease can be eradicated from at least half of the 47 cholera-affected countries. The objectives of this roadmap are: to fortify health Review Article Ebob; IJTDH, 40(3): 1-17, 2019; Article no.IJTDH.54222 2 systems, water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH), and to coordinate different ways by which cholera can be controlled in these countries by 2030 (ensuring early detection and prompt response to contain outbreaks). This review aimed to understand the epidemiology of cholera in Nigeria, Africa and the world at large, to access the level of spread, management and preventive measures so far implemented in the endemic regions.

Comprehensive view on the ductility of basalt fiber reinforced concrete focus on lightweight expanded clay

Abstract: Relevance. Ductility of basalt fiber reinforced concrete is an interesting property of basalt fiber reinforced concrete. However, very few experiments on this property is documented. The aim of the work. This paper provides a summarized analysis and review of existing publications on the ductility of lightweight basalt fiber reinforced concrete. Methods. This paper provides a comprehensive study on ductility of basalt reinforced concrete and lays the framework for proper laboratory experiment on the ductility of basalt fiber reinforced concrete. Results. From the findings of this review paper, ductility of dispersed basalt fiber reinforced concrete depends not only in the percentage of basalt fiber in the concrete but in the length and diameter of the basalt fiber. Increase in the percentage of basalt fiber in the concrete yielded an increase in the concrete ductility.

Influence of Leadership Style on the Effectiveness of Teachers in Public Post Primary Schools in Cross River State, Nigeria

Abstract: These present study aimed at determining the relationship between leadership style and the effectiveness of Teachers in Public Post Primary School in Cross River State, Nigeria. A sample of 160 teachers was randomly drawn for the study. A four point likert-type questionnaire was used to gather data which was analyzed with Pearson Product-moment Correlation Analysis at 0.05 significance level and 138 degree of freedom. The results show that leadership style employ in these schools is more uncaring and autocratic than democratic. It was also revealed that teacher’s participation in decision making and effective communication, which were herein considered as the cornerstone of effective leadership, were grossly unavailable. This however, led to the ineffectiveness of the teacher’s significant contributions to the growth of educational system in the state. Vital recommendations were examined.

Minimum Sand Transport Conditions in Gas-Solid-Liquid Three-Phase Stratified Flow in Horizontal Pipelines

Abstract: Producing sand during oil and gas production is unavoidable. Sand is produced along with oil and gas and its deposition in pipelines is a significant risk as it can cause pipe corrosion and flow assurance difficulties. It is therefore key that flow conditions are sustained to guarantee lack of deposition of sand particles. The minimum combination of mixture velocities that guarantee continuous sand motion is known as the minimum transport condition (MTC). Here, we investigate the effect both of sand concentration and particle diameter on MTC in a horizontal pipeline in the stratified flow regime. Non-intrusive conductivity probes were utilised for the detection of sand. These sensors are commonly used for the measurement of film thickness in gas and liquid flows, but we demonstrate their use here for sand detection after suitable calibration. It was observed that at the ultra-low sand concentrations of our experiments, MTC increases with both sand particle diameter and concentration. We developed a new correlation based on Thomas's lower model but included a sand concentration correction term that also applies at low particle concentrations. The correlation's predictions compared favourably with our measurements at MTC as well as data obtained from the open literature at medium concentrations.

Evaluation of Kidney Function Parameters in Diabetic Rats Following Virgin Coconut Oil Diet.

Abstract: BACKGROUND Diabetes mellitus (DM) leads to disruption of kidney function parameters (KFPs) which are markers of kidney diseases, especially nephropathy. Virgin coconut oil (VCO) has been implicated in playing a significant role in DM management. However, its role on KFPs in DM is scarce. AIM To evaluate the kidney function parameters following VCO diet in diabetic rats. MATERIALS AND METHODS Twenty-five (25) male rats of 150 - 200 g were divided into 5 groups (n=5): Non-diabetic control (Group 1), diabetes control (Group 2), diabetes + metformin (Group 3), diabetes + 10% VCO (Group 4) and diabetes + 20% VCO (Group 5). Apart from Group 1, other groups were given intraperitone-ally 50 mg/kg of streptozotocin to induce diabetes mellitus. After 72 hours, fasting hyperglycaemia was confirmed by glucose oxidase method. All the rats were fed normal rat chow for 8 weeks. At 8th week, serum and urine samples were analysed for biochemical analysis. After 8 weeks, Group 1 and Group 2 continued to be fed on normal rat chow while other groups were treated with diets (VCO) or drug (metformin) for 4 weeks. At 12th week, urine samples were collected for biochemical analysis, the rats were sacrificed, and blood samples were collected by cardiac puncture. RESULTS There were significant differences in some KFPs in diabetes control (Group 2) compared to other experimental groups. However, there was no significant difference in glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and serum sodium in all the groups. CONCLUSION VCO supplementary diet improved the altered KFPs and could be a therapy for kidney problems.

Evaluation of Impact of Some Selected Plants on Haematological Parameters of Testosterone and Estradiol Induced Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia Adult Male Rats

Abstract: Background: Benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH) is an age-related disease of unknown etiology, characterized by prostate enlargement. The effect of Prosopis africana (PA), Vernonia amydalina (VA) and Ocimum gratissmum (OG), plant extracts on haematological parameters of BPH animal model was investigated. Methods: BPH was induced in 45 male Wistar rats (250-350 g) by exogenous injection of testosterone and estradiol in staggered doses for 3 weeks. To confirm BPH induction, some animals Original Research Article Ugwu et al.; IBRR, 10(1): 1-15, 2019; Article no.IBRR.53052 2 were sacrificed; histological inspection of prostate gland and PSA was carried out. Forty BPH induced rats were divided into 8 groups. Group 1 and 2, 3 and 4, 5 and 6 were treated with 50 mg/kg bw and 100 mg/kg bw doses of PA, VA and OG extracts respectively. Group 7 received finasteride (0.1 mg/kg bw). Group 8 BPH control and five rats without induction constitute group 9, the normal control and both received distilled water. After 45 days, the rats were anaesthetised by a brief exposure to trichloromethane vapour and 5 ml of blood was collected from the rats through cardiac puncture and dispensed into well-labelled EDTA containers to avoid coagulation. All analyses were completed within 24 h of sample collection. Results: Results showed that induction of BPH caused a significant (P< 0.05) enlargement of prostate gland when compared to normal control. All extracts produced significant (P<0.05) reduction in the weight of the enlarged prostate when compared to the BPH control. There were significant (P ˂0.05) decline in RBC, PCV and Hb of BPH control when compared to the normal control and treated groups. In the treated groups the administration of the extracts and standard drug exhibited an increase in RBC, PCV and Hb concentration when compared with the BPH control. Also there was significant (P < 0.05) increase in the WBC, neutrophils, platelets, monocytes, lymphocytes and eosinophils levels in BPH control when compared to normal control and treated groups. In all treated groups there was significant decrease in WBC, neutrophils, platelets, monocytes, lymphocytes and eosinophils concentration levels when compared with the BPH control group. Conclusion: The result of this study indicates that the extracts have the potential to reverse the inflammation caused by BPH and also have the capacity to boost the numbers of red blood cells probably by inhibiting the hemolysis caused by inflammatory factors or by enhancing the production of red blood cell from the bone marrow.

Preliminary assessment of the suitability of commonly used antiseptics in the elimination of bacteria in bathing water.

Abstract: The use of antiseptics for the removal of bacteria in water has become pertinent given that most hand dug wells, boreholes, and surface waters are already contaminated in their in situ condition before being used. But, the efficacy of these skin disinfectants (antiseptics) is usually not well spelt out for the aforementioned purpose, and usage may yield no good report. This study assessed the suitability of use of two widely used antiseptics in Nigeria (Dettol and Izal) on Bacillus spp., Escherichia coli and Klebsiella spp., in eliminating bacteria in bathing water. The water which were tested at four different concentrations (0.4 ml, 0.8 ml, 1.2 ml, and 1.6 ml) and at six different contact times (0, 5, 10, 15, 30, and 60 min, respectively) within which bathing is meant to take place after antiseptics were applied. Overall, One hundred and Forty-four (144) samples were analyzed, and based on our null hypothesis of no bacteria should be found in bathing water after disinfection, results showed that both antiseptics were not efficient in bacteria removal. However, the multivariable logistic regression model conducted revealed that both antiseptics were more active in destroying Klebsiella spp. than any other bacteria investigated with Izal showing more dominance (OR = 31.21; p < 0.05). The study further revealed that Izal is 3.6 times more likely to destroy bacteria than Dettol (p < 0.05), with more of the elimination occurring at contact time greater than 5 min (OR = 1.504; p = 0.043). Therefore, it is suggested that disinfectants and antiseptics of high motility and sufficient potency in a wide range of bacteria spectrum should be produced to meet the needs of consumers resulting in a better bathing water quality.

Gender, Health and Socio-Political Issues in Tanure Ojaide’s The Activist

Abstract: For many years, gender issues have continued to dominate discourses locally and globally. It is therefore heart-warming to note that women are providing leadership not only at home but in other spheres of life, be it economic, social or political. The exploration and exploitation of oil in the Niger Delta region has resulted in untold hardship, eco-trauma, bio-terrorism and the general neglect of the area. The debacle associated with oil exploration has affected the people and denied them their traditional occupations. Women are not left out and are confronted with new challenges of violence, health and political issues metted on them by the federal government of Nigeria in collaboration with multi-national oil companies, the army, navy and the police. Lives and properties are lost to gas flares, blow out from oil spillage, environmental pollution etc. Meanwhile, the federal government and multi-nationals grow fat at the expense of the poor. Oil capitalism has brought sorrow and doom to the region, as the Niger Delta remains under-developed. Ojaide’s thematic preoccupation in The Activist is to throw more light on the plight of the Niger Delta people especially the women who face various forms of victimizations like rape, miscarriages, occupational disempowerment, pollution, lose of eyesight and other health hazards. This paper seeks to highlight the role of these women who refuse to be seen as docile and second class as well as their socio-political activism in reversing their predicament. Three theories inform the focus of the paper through it’s characters representation namely; eco-feminism, feminism and the Marxism theories as the women and the masses fought the oil workers and their cohorts to a halt to gain full control of the companies and become employers of labour in the once ravaged, impoverished environment by oil companies. The paper is based on library research.

Heavy Metals Concentration in Greens Sold in Umuahia-market Nigeria: Assessment of Risk to Human Health

Abstract: Background: The consumption of foods with a high concentration of heavy metals has increased the chances of incurring cancer and health disorders. In this study, the risks associated with ingestion and consumption of heavy metals in vegetables was evaluated. Methods: Ten different vegetables were purchased from the Ubani market, in Umuahia – Nigeria. The vegetables - Gnetum africanum, Vernonia amygdalina, Talinum triangulare, Solanum macrocarpon, Ocimum gratissimum, Gongronema latifolium, Pterocarpus mildbraedi, Telfairia occidentalis, Amaranthus hybridus, and Piper guineense, respectively were randomly selected and used to screen for heavy metals. The vegetable samples were air dried, ground and digested with acid, separately using standard methods. The heavy metal contents of the acid digests were analyzed using Atomic absorption spectrophotometer. Results: The risk assessment of human health was interpolated with standard models. Results of the heavy metal showed that the vegetables have a high level of heavy metals. Some of the heavy metals detected in the vegetables exceeded their respective safety levels. The concentrations of zinc, nickel, and cobalt were not detected in most vegetables. Copper, chromium, and cadmium were above the permissible limits. Iron concentration was (12.092±0.100ppm) in a. hybridus which was the highest. The daily intake of heavy metals in vegetables was below tolerable prescription. The hazard index of the vegetable - G. latifolium was greater than 1, which implied adverse health effect. The hazard index - A. africanum and T. triangulare were equal to 1 suggesting that adverse health effect may occur. P. schum had a high concentration of chromium which makes it unsafe for consumption due to the risk of cancer. Lead showed no cancer risk, while nickel, chromium, and cadmium in vegetables were within the acceptable risk (<10-6). The total cancer risks of all vegetables were less than (<10-6) suggesting no/low chance of developing cancer. Conclusion: Therefore prolong consumption of these vegetables may put the consumers at risk. This study reason that some vegetables used for this investigation are unsafe for human consumption. And strongly suggest that consumers should be informed about the possible health effects of prolonged consumption/ingestion of heavy metals in order to prevent the possibility of metal toxicity.

A Review on Laboratory Diagnosis of Mycobacterium tuberculosis

Abstract: Tuberculosis remains the major public health concern worldwide responsible for about 1.6 million deaths and 0.3 million co-infected with Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) annually. Mycobacterium is the causative agent of tuberculosis infection and is transmitted principally through air when an infected person coughs, talks, sneezes etc. This infection can be diagnosed using different Microbiological, Molecular and Immunological techniques including, sputum smear microscopy, sputum culture, nucleic-acid amplification test (NAAT), genotyping assay, tuberculin skin test (TST), interferon-gamma release assay (IGRAs) etc. These techniques vary in sensitivity and specificity as well as the ease with which they are carried out. World Health Organisation (WHO) encourages the use of techniques that are sensitive, patient-friendly, and those which produce accurate results in any clinical setting world-wide. Hence, this review highlights smear microscopy and incorporation of more rapid and sensitive diagnostic techniques such as Gene Xpert, IGRAs and urinary antigen analysis in clinical setting in the detection of Mycobacterium. These techniques show high sensitivity, are less time consuming do not require a repeat for a single result, some are able to differentiate latent and active TB infections, and have the capacity to be used to screen people unable to expectorate. This review encourages the incorporation of smear microscopy, GeneXpert, IGRAs, urinary antigen analysis into routine laboratory diagnosis especially in high TB burden countries. It is believed that high level of sensitivity and less time used in producing results display by these techniques will yield reduction in mortality rate, decline in static nature of TB status and possibly zero TB 2020 proposed by WHO.

Antifungal Effects of Combined Extracts of Euphorbia abyssinica and Coleus Species

Abstract: Although, different plant extracts have frequently been used singly and in combinations in folklore treatment of different ailments, the hidden truth behind their activity and efficacy is still to be fully scientifically established. Aim: To evaluate the effects of combined 50% methanol extracts of Euphorbia abyssinica (Desert Candle), and Coleus sp. on Candida albicans, Trichophyton mentagrophytes, Microsporum gypseum and Epidermophyton floccossum. Study Design: The completely randomised block design, two-way analysis of variance was used to analyse the data and Duncan’s New Multiple Range Test, for mean separation. Place and Duration of Study: The research was carried out in the Department of Microbiology, University of Nigeria Nsukka, Enugu State, Nigeria, between April 2011 and August 2012. Methodology: All the fungal strains used in the research were collected from the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital Enugu, Nigeria. Susceptibility testing was done using a pour-plate method, while the checkerboard and Time-kill assays were employed to evaluate the efficacy of the different combinations of the two plant extracts. Results: The individual plant extracts inhibited all the fungal strains tested at different concentrations; but Coleus sp. extracts were observed to be more active than Euphorbia abyssinica extracts. The extract combinations inhibited the test fungi for more than two weeks. In the Time Kill assay, the combinations showed synergy on E. Floccossum only. It showed additive or antagonistic activity on the rest of the fungi tested. The Checkerboard combinations showed synergy on T. mentagrophytes, M. gypseum, and E. foccossum. Epidermophyton foccosum was the most susceptible among the fungi tested while C. albicans was the least susceptible. The control drug voriconazole also inhibited all the fungi tested. Significant antifungal activity (P=0.05) was observed in the checkerboard assay more than in the Time Kill assay. Conclusion: These findings simply authenticate some of the folklore claims that these plants have a wide range of curative uses, suggesting that they can be used as alternative sources of agents for the treatment of resistant fungal infections.

Preliminary investigation on the use of Moringa oleifera for the purification of lead polluted wastewater

Abstract: The need for low-cost wastewater treatment alternatives especially in poor hinterlands, where synthetic coagulants or activated carbon may not be cheaply and readily available, necessitated this study. Moringa Oleifera (MO) kernel was investigated as coagulant in the purification of wastewater polluted with lead. The adsorption potential of MO was also investigated. MO with effective size of 0.14mm was used in the preparation of stock solutions with dosages of 500mg/l and 1000mg/l. Synthetic wastewater polluted with lead monoxide was prepared. The wastewater had an initial concentration of 0.216mg/l of lead. 2%, 4%, 6%, 8% and 10% of the stock solutions were added to the wastewater samples. The samples were subjected to jar test experiments. The research revealed that efficiency of lead removal increases with increase in the concentration of the MO coagulant. For one hour contact time, a maximum efficiency of 35.2% of lead removal was achieved when 10% of the stock solution (1000mg/l solution) was added. The fitting of the experimental data with the Langmuir and Freundlich adsorption isotherm models yielded R 2 values of 0.784 and 0.906, respectively for the 1000mg/l dosage stock solution. Freundlich model described the lead (Pb) adsorption better than the Langmuir model. Chemisorption was suggested to be involved in lead (Pb) adsorption (adsorption intensity n<1). The utilization of the extraction method presented in this research proposes the combination of the MO coagulants with the inorganic coagulants. Keywords: Investigation; Moringa Olifera ; lead; purification; wastewater

Factors Affecting Implementation and Compliance with Housing Standards for Sustainable Housing Delivery in Bayelsa State, Nigeria

Abstract: In the quest to find solutions to the ever increasing housing shortages in Nigerian cities, developers, especially the low-income groups, embark on housing construction which in the eye of the government housing agency circumvent compliance to housing standards and are therefore illegal. This research evaluates factors affecting the implementation and compliance with housing standards for sustainable housing delivery in Bayelsa State, Nigeria. The methodology employed was a qualitative research approach involving indepth interviews, physical observations and detailed, systematic and thorough review of literatures on the subject matter from published works of renowned authors. In addition, 20 housing units were selected using purposive sampling technique for detailed study; while respondents of 20 selected housing units used were also interviewed including housing professionals and personnel of housing agencies in the state using both random and expert sampling techniques. From these responses, other factors peculiar to Bayelsa State were outlined. Data collected were analyzed using content analysis. Findings listed factors such as administrative practices, uncertainty of standards, socioeconomic, demographic and socio-cultural factors. Recommendation is that these factors should be considered in developing housing standards for a given area and making the standards flexible in order to make compliance practicable and enforceable.

Evaluation of endocrine disruptors in the environment of Eket Metropolis in Nigeria: an insight into public health and risk assessment

Abstract: The adverse effect of some environmental contaminants on the endocrine system was investigated using the Risk Analysis Framework. The aim was to ascertain the level of EDCs in fish species and potable water. The research employed ecological examination approach. The samples from the environmental media with serious threat and links to humans and animals exposed to endocrine disruptors were water and fish. Twelve boreholes water samples were disproportionately and purposefully collected, while another twelve water samples were collected from Qua Iboe River one kilometer stretched forth. Also, six species of fresh fish including - Atlantic croaker ( Micropogonias undulates ), Catfish ( Clarias gariepinus ), African red snapper ( Lutjanus agennes ), Tilapia ( Oreochromis niloticus ), Yellowtail ( Seriola lalandi ), and Great barracuda ( Sphyraena barracuda ) were used. Both the water and fish samples were screened for endocrine disrupting substances with gas chromatography linking mass spectroscopy. The analysis (results) detected 8% phenol dichloro-4-nitro-, 1, 3, 5-Triazine, and 3% Triazine 2-chloro-4-, 6-bis-methylthio, octadecenamide in borehole water. Butyl ethyl, hexyl phthalate, indolizine 6%, 4-methyl phenyl, cyclohexane, 3-dione 27%, 2-allylamine methylene 5, 5-hydroxyphenyl 8%, and menazon 17% were discovered in all the species of fish. Phthalate, butyl undecyl esters, 2-ethyl hexyl was 4%, and 7% of isohexyl propyl in Qua Iboe River. The results call for the attention of the regulatory body to put in place measures that will stem the impending disaster this may create in the reproductive capacity of the exposed population.

Experimental Study on the Effect of Undulating Pipeline on Sand Transport in Multiphase Flow

Abstract: Previous research work has shown that sand production with hydrocarbons has helped to increase the productivity of oil wells. However, this poses difficulties during shut down and start-up operations due to sand deposition and are aggravated when the pipelines are undulating. The hilly-terrain geometry of pipelines strongly affects multiphase flow regimes hence the need to study sand transport characteristics as it is vital in efficient pipeline design. The aim of this research work is to experimentally investigate the flow hydrodynamics that exist during sand transport in multiphase flow at different sand concentration. A 2-inch dip facility which consists of a downhill pipeline section, a lower elbow (dip) and an uphill pipeline at inclination angles of 24° is used in the study. Extensive data were collected and analysed from continuous measurement of instantaneous liquid and sand hold up using conductivity rings and flow visualisation using a high speed camera. Results show that five different flow patterns were obtained from the sand-water test both via visual observation and from the conductivity rings data namely: full suspension, streak, saltation, sand dunes and sand bed. The knowledge of flow at minimum transport condition and full suspension establishes the erosion rate over the life span of the pipeline. In contrast, the sand holdup measurement and sand dune regime which was uniquely identified using the conductivity ring method would help overcome the limitation of sand measurement in pipeline. Also, the Sand-Air-Water experiment carried out shows the influence of the pipe geometry and multiphase flow regimes on sand transport in multiphase transport pipelines.

Calcium-rich diet and vitamin D supplementation improves lipid profiles and reduces atherogenic index in high salt fed male Wistar rat.

Abstract: To ascertain the effect of calcium rich diet and/ or vitamin D supplementation on atherogenic parameters in high salt loaded rats. Thirty male rats were randomly assigned into five groups of six rats each, namely; control; salt only; salt + Calcium; salt + Vit. D and salt + Vit. D + Calcium. High salt diet constituted 8% NaCl diet + 1% NaCl drinking water, while calcium diet was made from 2.5% CaCl2 diet. Serum lipids and atherogenic indices were estimated using standard laboratory procedures. The control rats took normal rodent chow, the feeding lasted 6 weeks. Rats fed high salt diet only had significantly (p<0.05) reduced high density lipoprotein cholesterol levels, however this was significantly (p<0.05) increased upon treatment with calcium rich diet and vitamin D supplementation. The high salt groups placed on Vit. D and/or calcium diet supplementation had a significant (p<0.05) decrease in low density lipoproteins, total cholesterol and atherogenic indices (cardiac risk ratio, atherogenic coefficient and atherogenic index of plasma) compared to the group fed on high salt only. These results suggest the ameliorative potentials of calcium rich diets and vitamin D supplementation against atherogenic tendencies and possibly cardiovascular diseases.

Determinants of Loan Repayment among Small-scale Cassava Farmers in Akpabuyo Local Government Area of Cross River State, Nigeria

Abstract: This study investigated the determinants of loan repayment among small-scale cassava farmers in Akpabuyo Local Government Area of Cross River State, Nigeria. Data were collected with structured questionnaire from 160 randomly selected farmers. Data were analyzed using simple descriptive statistics, multiple regression and likert scale. Results showed that males were dominant (56.6%) in cassava production and majority (37.5%) were between 41-50 years. About 50% had farm income of less than N100,000.00 while about 46.3% had less than N50,000.00 as their off-farm income. Also, the results found that majority (44.4%) obtained loans from informal sources. Factors that significantly affected loan repayment include off-farm income and interest rate (p ≤ 0.05) and farm income (p ≤ 0.05). The major causes of loan diversion were seasonal activities in the agricultural sector (66.9%) and inadequate sustainable income (65.6%) among others. The major constraints faced by the farmers in terms of loan repayment were high interest rate and short period of repayment among others. Government should encourage the formal loan sources to open branches in the rural areas for easy loan accessibility by farmers and to obtain loan with moderate interest rate.