Showing papers by "Rivers State University of Science and Technology published in 2004"

Influence of sex, source, health status and acclimation on the haematology of Clarias gariepinus (Burch,1822)

Abstract: The influence of sex, source (pond and wild) acclimation and health status on some blood parameters of C. gariepinus was studied. There were no significant differences between the blood parameters (haemoglobin (Ht), packed cell volume (PCV), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), red blood cells (RBC), RBC indices ( MCHC;, MCH: and MCV), white blood cells (WBC) and differential counts (neutrophils, lymphocytes, basophils and eosinophils) of the males and females among the apparently healthy and sick group of fish under sex, source and acclimation. Differences in blood parameters in fish before and after acclimation were noted in the WBC (p<0.001), neutrophils (p<0.001) and lymphocytes (p<0.001). Interactions between sex, acclimation and health status did not significantly influence all the parameters studied; however, various degrees of significant differences were produced by the interactions of health status and source of fish in the WBC (p<0.05), neutrophils (p<0.001), lymphocytes (p<0.001) and monocytes (p<0.05). Pooled data for males and females, apparently healthy and sick fish, respectively, showed there were significant differences between the WBC, neutrophils and lymphocytes of males and females under acclimation as well as monocytes of apparently healthy and sick fish under source and neutrophils of the same under acclimation. Results from this study suggest that sex, source of fish, and period of acclimation have some degrees of influence on the blood parameters of C. gariepinus and hence the need to reckon with them when reporting haematological parameters of this fish species.

Evidence that subsistence farmers have domesticated indigenous fruits (Dacryodes edulis and Irvingia gabonensis) in Cameroon and Nigeria

Abstract: Ten fruit and kernel traits were measured in 152 Irvingia gabonensis and 293 Dacryodes edulis trees from 6 villages in Cameroon and Nigeria. Frequency distribution curves were used to examine the range of variation of each trait of each species in each village and aggregated into national and regional populations. There were differences between the village sub-populations, with regard to the normality (e.g., mean kernel mass of D. edulis) or skewness (e.g., mean flesh depth of D. edulis) of the distribution curves and in the degree of separation between the individual village populations along the x axis, resulting in the development of a bimodal distribution in the regional population. For all traits, populations of both species differed significantly between countries, but only in D. edulis were there significant differences between the Cameroon populations. On the basis of the results of this study, D. edulis can be said to be virtually wild in Nigeria but semi-domesticated in Cameroon, while I. gabonensis is wild in Cameroon and semi-domesticated in Nigeria. These results are discussed with regard to a hypothesis that the range and frequency of variation in the different populations can be used to identify five stages of domestication. From a comparison of the frequency distribution curves of desirable versus undesirable traits, and statistically identifyable changes in skewness and kurtosis, it is concluded that as a result of the farmers’ own efforts by truncated selection, D. edulis is between Stages 2 and 3 of domestication (with a 67% relative gain in flesh depth) in Cameroon, while I. gabonensis in Nigeria is at Stage 2 (with a 44% relative gain in flesh depth). In this study, genetic diversity seems to have been increased, and not reduced, by domestication.

Municipal solid waste management in Port Harcourt, Nigeria

Abstract: Until recently, Port Harcourt was known as the “garden city of Nigeria” because of its neatness and the overwhelming presence of vegetation and flowers all over the metropolis. But today, the presence of piles of refuse dotting the entire city may have turned Port Harcourt rather to a “garbage city”. Indiscriminate dumping of wastes – industrial, commercial and household – such as food waste, paper, polyethene, textiles, scrap metals, glasses, wood, plastic, etc. at street corners and gutters, is still very common. The situation is so bad that traffic flow is obstructed, while there is likelihood that leachates from such dumps, after mixing with rain water, have the potential to contaminate drinking water. The basic solid waste management processes of collection, transport, segregation and final disposal appear to be very inefficient. This research carefully assessed the present system of solid waste management in Port Harcourt, with the aim of identifying the main bottlenecks to its efficiency and the way forward. The subject matter of solid waste management is the main object of discussion throughout this article.

Haematological changes associated with crude oil ingestion in experimental rabbits

Abstract: Blood cell profile among experimental rabbits associated with crude oil ingestion were evaluated and was significantly (P<0.05) altered. Erythrocytes decreased linearly (P<0.05) indicating an anemic condition. The decrease also affected dependable factors such as packed cell volume (PVC) and haemoglobin (Hb). Leukocyctes, the main defense cells of the animal decreased linearly (P<0.05) further indicating susceptibility of the animal to stress and infection. Granulolytic leukocytes, which include neutrophils and eosinophils increased linearly (P<0.05). This increase is a physiological response to stress. Lymphocytes, antibody forming leukocytes decreased linearly, indicating a response to stress and susceptibility of the animal to infection. Crude oil fraction present in the diet has serious consequences on hematological parameters in animals.

Utilization of protein concentrates from ungerminated and germinated fluted pumpkin (Telfairia occidentalis Hook) seeds in cookie formulations

Abstract: Cookies (soft type biscuits) were produced from blends of wheat flour containing graded levels (0–25%) of protein concentrates prepared from ungerminated and germinated fluted pumpkin (Telfairia occidentalis Hook) seeds and evaluated for nutritional, baking and sensory properties. Protein quality was investigated using weanling albino rats fed diets that were formulated to supply 10% protein using cookie samples, with casein as a control. Cookies produced from blends containing protein concentrates from germinated seeds had higher contents of crude protein and lower levels of polyphenol and phytic acid, compared with cookies supplemented with concentrates from ungerminated seeds. The use of up to 15% concentrate from ungerminated seeds in the blends produced cookies with spread ratio, hardness, colour and flavour similar to the 100% wheat flour (control) cookies. Cookies supplemented with concentrates from germinated seeds at 15–25% levels were nutritionally comparable to diets based on casein, but at the expense of acceptability. Copyright © 2004 Society of Chemical Industry

External-Internal Standards in Corporate Governance in Nigeria

Abstract: The paper examines the corporate governance climate in Nigeria and critically inquires into external and internal standards that guide companies in the way they are governed. The external standards considered include the statutory standards found in the relevant provisions of the Companies and Allied Matters Act, the Banks and Other Financial Institutions Act and the Insurance Act; as well as the voluntary standards set out by the Code of Best Practices on Corporate Governance in Nigeria in terms of the institutional oversight and control. The paper examined four multinational companies to identify aspects of internal standards in their governance. In this regard we found that corporate social responsibility manifesting in corporate community investments is significant. The paper is enriched by the result of a survey of companies in Nigeria on general and specific attitudes on corporate governance. In conclusion the paper identifies the voluntary nature of the Code of Best Practices and inadequate enforcement of the external standards recently adopted as the principal problem and concludes that requiring companies to demonstrate how they have complied with the Code of Best Practices will aid a positive corporate governance climate. In addition the paper posits that provision for civil actions and criminal prosecution against erring corporations for violation of statutory standards will go a long way in ensuring effective corporate governance in Nigeria.

Biochemical blood parameters in semi-adult rabbits experimentally fed crude oil contaminated diets

Abstract: Biochemical parameters in blood specimens obtained from semi-adult rabbits of both sexes fed crude oil contaminated diets were examined. The diets had crude oil inclusions of 0, 0.05, 0.10, 0.15 and 0.20%. Blood samples were obtained from the marginal ear vein of representatives in each treatment group and assayed for urea, creatinine, total bilirubin, conjugated bilirubin and cholesterol. There were significant differences (P Key Words: Biochemical parameters, rabbits, crude oil contaminated diets. African Journal of Biotechnology Vol.3(6) 2004: 343-345

Response of periphyton community to salinity gradient in tropical estuary, Niger Delta

Abstract: Studies on periphyton of Crinium plants were conducted in the estuary (New Calabar River) of the Niger Delta at 4 different locations during the two major seasons (rainy and dry season). Periphyton samples were collected from an area (of 2 cm by 2 cm) in 3 sets of 3 replicates for biomasses (AFDW-ash free dry weight and chlorophyll a) and for numerical abundance. Physicochemical parameters such as temperature, pH, conductivity, hardness and salinity were also collected from the respective stations. Temperature was considerably uniform but conductivity, hardness and salinity showed increasing graduation in concentration down stream. A total of 110 periphyton species were recorded with diatoms constituting 54% of the occurring species followed by Euglenophyta (21%), Chlorophyta (17%), Cyanophyceae (6%) and Rhodophyta (1.8%). There were strong similarities in the values obtained for species richness, periphyton abundance, and chlorophyll a, AFDW (ash free dry weight) for wet and dry season indicating no seasonal influence. However, the periphyton abundance, chlorophyll a and ash free dry weight distribution suggested strongly influence by the salinity gradient. The values for periphyton abundance ranged from 2621 (±168.5) to 3452.8 (±715.9) indiv. cm–2. In addition, the combined mean values for chlorophyll a, and ash free dry weight in the system were 8.443 ± 2.51 mg cm–2 and 0.32 ± 0.07 g cm–2, respectively.

Microbiology of naturally fermented fish (Sardinella sp.).

Abstract: Microorganisms involved in the natural fermentation of Sardinella sp. were enumerated and characterized. Total heterotrophic bacterial counts obtained after six days of fermentation were 6.23 × 105 cfu/g and 5.65 × 105 cfu/g for fish treated with 10 and 15% (w/v) sodium chloride, respectively. Counts on MacConkey agar increased steadily as fermentation progressed and reached a peak at the sixth day. Staphylococcus and Bacillus species were the predominant organisms isolated from the fermenting fish. The pH of the fermenting fish decreased from 7.3 to 5.4 with a corresponding increase in titratable acidity during the incubation period. Fermented Sardinella sp. could be a suitable protein supplement for seasoning foods and for baby foods.

Shallow resistivity measurement for cathodic protection of pipelines in the Niger Delta

Abstract: The variation in the geo-electric resistivity of the superficial soils across the Niger Delta was investigated by running profiles spanning over 350 km and covering all the geomorphic zones of the Niger Delta, using a Schlumberger electrode configuration. The results indicate characteristic resistivity ranges. The spatial variation in resistivity was explained by differences in topographic elevation, depth to water table, soil type, and water quality. Based on the soil resistivities in the various geomorphic zones, the corrosivity of the soils were determined and methods of cathodic protection prescribed. A north–south traverse will generally experience a decreasing soil resistivity that is truncated at the beach ridges.

Aspects of the population and reproductive ecology of sympatric hinge‐back tortoises (Kinixys homeana and K. erosa) in southern Nigeria, on the basis of specimens traded in bush‐meat markets

Abstract: The ecology and population structure of hinge‐back tortoises (genus Kinixys) was studied in the Niger Delta region of southern Nigeria (West Africa), where these species are actively hunted by local people for subsistence. The work is based not only on capture, mark and recapture study of free‐ranging specimens, but also on dissection of specimens offered for food, already dead, in the bush‐meat markets of the study region. The frequency of observation of the two most common species, i.e. K. homeana and K. erosa, was significantly higher in three areas subjected to ‘tradition conservation’ (because tortoises are worshipped by natives due to animistic taboos) than in three other areas where they are harvested. In particular, the juvenile class was much depleted in the three harvest areas. Analyses of market specimens demonstrated that, in both K. homeana and K. erosa, most of the females with oviductal eggs are found during the peak of the dry season, and that there was a positive relationship bet...

Effect of african oil bean seed ( pentaclethra macrophylla ) on blood cholesterol level in rats

Abstract: The effects of fermented and unfermented African oil been seed on plasma cholesterol levels were studied in rats. The sample was treated as unfermented (Fu), fermented for one day (F1), two days (F2), three days (F3) and four days (F4). The lipid, crude protein and carbohydrate contents of these samples were analysed. The carbohydrate content decreased significantly P KEYWORDS. Cholesterol, African bean seed, Pentaclethra macrophyllia, Protein, carbohydrate, fat. Global Jnl Pure & Applied Sciences Vol.10(1) 2004: 165-168

Case histories of sand search in the Niger Delta

Abstract: This paper discusses the imperatives of sand search and describes two case histories of sand search in the Niger Delta. These case histories highlight the project cycle of sand search operations and circumstances in which environmental peculiarities can influence procedures and strategies. Field and laboratory procedures emphasise the applications of particle-size distribution and compaction tests to field construction control. The need to integrate mitigative measures of potential impacts into the planning and execution of projects has been emphasised. Some environmental consequences of sand dredging have also been highlighted.

Research Microbiological and Oxidative Stability of High Temperature Processed Coconut Milk at Refrigerated Storage

Abstract: The microbiological and oxidative stabilities of heat processed coconut milk, in refrigerated and ambient temperaturestorage, were investigated. Coconut milk was extracted from slurries of blanched coconut meat obtained at ratios 1:3 (w/v) ground coconut meat to water. Extracts were formulated with 3% (w/v) sucrose, stabilized with antioxidants andheated at 65 0C for 15 minutes, 72 0C for 10 mis and 80 0C for 5 mins. Heat treated samples were held in refrigerated (5 +10C) and ambient (31 + 10C, RH 80.5%) temperature storage. Bulked raw coconut milk and blanched coconut meat containedvarious types of bacteria, moulds, yeasts as well as coliforms. Among the bacteria genera isolated from raw coconut milkwere Bacillus, Alcaligenes, Micrococcus, Lactobacillus, Streptococcus, Staphylococcus and Coliforms. The predominant mouldsand yeasts genera isolated included Aspergillus, Penicillium, Rhizopus, Mucor and Saccharomyces. Bacillus sp. survived inmilk preparations heated at 72 oC for 10mins and an insignificant growth ( T5 > T4 > T3 >T2> T6 > T1.Samples T5 and T7 had similar and lowest PV and TBA values during the storage periods. Panelists rated T5 significantly(p KEY WORDS: heat treatment, ascorbyl palmitate and propyl gallate, ambient and refrigerated temparature storage Resume Les stabilites microbiologiques et oxydatives du lait de noix de coco traite a la chaleur et conserve sous une temperature refrigeree ouambiante ont ete etudiees. Le lait de noix de coco a ete extrait des purins de la chair des noix de coco emondees, obtenus dans lerapport des noix de coco tombees par terre - eau de 1:3 (p/v). Les extraits ont ete formules avec 3% (p/v) de saccharose et stabilisesavec des antioxydants. Les echantillons stabilises de lait ont ete chauffes a 65 0C pendant 15 minutes, a 72 0C pendant 10 min et a 800C pendant 5 min, puis conserves a une temperature refrigeree (5±1 0C) ou ambiante (30 ±1 0C, et 80,5 % H R). Le lait cru et non traitede noix de coco et la chair de noix de coco emondees contenaient des bacteries de types varies, des moisissures, des levures, aussi bienque des coliformes. Parmi les genres de bacteries isolees du lait de noix de coco non traite, on a eu: des Bacilles, des Alcaligenes, desMicrocoques, des Lactobacilles, des Streptocoques et des Coliformes. Les genres predominants de moisissures et de levures isoleescomprenaient les Aspergillus, les Penicillium, les Rhizopus, les Mucor et les Saccharomyces. Les Bacilles sp. ont survecu dans lespreparations de lait chauffees a 72 0C pour 10 min et une croissance significative ( T5>T4>T3>T2 T1. Les echantillons T5 et T7 ont presente des valeurs similaires et des plus basses enperoxyde et en acide thiobarbiturique (ATB) pendant la periode de conservation. Les equipes d'arbitres experts ont classe l'echantillonT5 comme etant relativement le plus stable (p Mots cles: chauffage, produit lactique, purins, palmitate ascorbyl, gallate de propyl, conservation a la temperature ambienteet refrigeree Discovery and Innovation Volume 15 Number1/2 June (2003) pp. 45-56

Toxicological effects of garlic ( Allium sativum ) on some haematological and biochemical parameters in rat

Abstract: The toxicological effect of garlic (Allium sativum) on some haematological and biochemical parameters in albino rats was studied. High doses of garlic infusion were found to cause a significant decrease (p Keywords:Haemoglobin (Hb), packed cell volume (PCV), lymphocyte, aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT). [Global Jnl Environ Sci Vol.2(1) 2003: 11-16]

Oviposition of Rhynchophorus phoenicis (F.) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) in palms of the Niger Delta

Abstract: Laboratory studies was carried out between the months of May and July 2001 on the oviposition of R. phoenids. Results showed that the adults (males and females) used the rosbum to make holes (l-7 mm deep and 1–14 mm diameter), but only the females deposited an egg into a hole. The relationship between the diameter depth of these holes showed good negative correlation (r = -0.81 - 0.99). The incubation period of the eggs was 3–4 days at temperature (26–30°C) and relative humidity (76–88%). The daily oviposition rate ranged between 3–50 eggs during the oviposition period of 5–20 days; least oviposition (0.9±0.61) occurred during the first week after pre-oviposition period of 1–5 days. Maximum oviposition (44.9±10.4) occurred on the 9-13th days of the second week followed by (l6.63±5.06) on the third and (10.5±1.07) on the fourth weeks respectively. The oviposition pattern was generally irregular, while the percentage egg-hatchability was 60.46.

The Nature and Success of Emerging High Potential Entrepreneurships in Nigeria

Abstract: This study examined the nature and success factors of the Emerging High Potential Entrepreneurships (EHPEs) in Nigeria through the study of thirty randomly selected companies in three Eastern States of Nigeria. The findings show that (a) this new set of firms cover a wide range of the panoply of autonomous consumption of the people of Nigeria, (b) the basic production inputs are reasonably locally sourced, (c) entrepreneurs have the necessary educational and job experience backgrounds, and (d) the chosen lines of business have high market growth rates. These features underscore the fact that Nigeria is set on the path of industrial growth.

Field evaluation of four sweet potato cultivars for yield and sweet potato weevil (Cylas puncticollis Boh.) damage during the early cropping season in South Eastern Nigeria

Abstract: Four sweet potato cultivars (TIS 87/0087, TIS 8441, TIS 2532 OP. 1. 13 and Ex Igbariam) were evaluated for yield and damage of C. puncticollis during the period June to October in 1999 and 2000, respectively. The trials were conducted in a randomized complete block design and replicated three times. Plants were sampled forthnightly for tuber yield and C. puncticollis incidence and damage. Marketable tubers were recorded at 8 weeks after planting (WAP) and this increased with the age of the plant. TIS 87/0087 consistently gave higher marketable tuber numbers at all the different times of harvesting than other cultivars. There was no incidence of C. puncticollis on tubers between 8 to 14 WAP. However, C. puncticollis damage was higher in 1999 than the year 2000 at 16 WAP. Although the percentage tubers infested and severity of damage did not significantly differ among the cultivars. TIS 2532. OP. 1. 13 showed consistent high incidence and severity of damage. [Niger Agric. J. 34 (2003): 81-86]

Antidiabetic effect of emilia sonchifora in dithizone diabetic rats

Abstract: The antidiabetic effect of a crude extract of Emilia sanchifora leaves was studied in rats with dithizone induced diabetes in rat. Three different concentrations of the crude chloroform – methanol extract were given orally to both normal and diabetic rats. The percentage blood glucose reduction for ES1 was 33.3, 14.2, 45.9, 49.7, 32.9, 31.1 and 17.3% after 0, 6, 12, 18, 24, 30 and 36 hours of oral administration. Significant difference of (P The CO group showed raised levels of blood glucose throughout the work and showed significant difference P KEY WORDS: Dithizone diabetes, Emilia sanchifora, Chlorpropamide and Diabetes mellitus Global Jnl Pure & Applied Science Vol.10(1) 2004: 183-187

Determination of the constant-rate mass-transfer coefficient for drying during tape casting

Abstract: Ceramic suspensions for tape casting are known to dry in two stages; the first stage is called the constant-rate period, and the second stage is the falling-rate period. During the constant-rate period, the drying rate of a material is constant. During the falling-rate period, the drying rate gradually decreases as the moisture content of the material falls. A mass-transfer coefficient is estimated for the constant–rate period of drying of water-based alumina suspensions for tape casting. A model based on the mass-transfer coefficient is also presented for the drying rate in the constant-rate period. The model is compared with experimental data and good agreement is obtained if the mass-transfer coefficient is taken to be 7.55 x 10 -9 kg/m 2 s Pa. JMDMES Vol.2(1) 2003: 83-88

Larval development of Chilo partellus swinhoe in artificial diet incorporating different sorghum genotypes

Abstract: A study was carried out to investigate the presence of antibiosis in some sorghum genotypes. First instar Chilo partellus Swinhoe (Lepidoptera; Pyralidae) larvae were reared in artificial diets incorporating the different genotypes. HYD I and IS 1044 (check) slowed down 1arvaI development and caused larval mortality. Furtherrilore, significantly fewer eggs were laid by emerging female moths raised on these genotypes.

Spatial and temporal patterns of coastal erosion in the niger delta

Abstract: The coastline of the Niger Delta, which stretches some 395 km, consists largely of erodible barrier islands comprising sediments at different levels of densification and consolidation. Both long-term and short-term forces are exerted on the coastline leading to substantial temporal and spatial shifts in its configuration. By overlaying satellite imageries from Landsat TM, of two epochs (1963 and 1989/90), it was shown that large sections, up to 75% of the coastline are either eroding or accreting, with only about 25% of the entire length in relatively stable conditions. Anthropogenic activities which have influenced discharge and sediment transport, such as canals, river bed dredging, harbour protection works and impoundment in upstream dams and reservoirs are implicated as major causes of accelerated coastal erosion. KEY WORDS: Coastline, Erosion, Sedimentation, Niger Delta Global Jnl Geological Sciences . Vol.2(1) 2004: 79-90