Showing papers by "Rivers State University of Science and Technology published in 2010"
TL;DR: The authors' results show that, of 17 snake populations from the UK, France, Italy, Nigeria and Australia, 11 have declined sharply over the same relatively short period of time with five remaining stable and one showing signs of a marginal increase.
Abstract: Long-term studies have revealed population declines in fishes, amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals. In birds, and particularly amphibians, these declines are a global phenomenon whose causes are often unclear. Among reptiles, snakes are top predators and therefore a decline in their numbers may have serious consequences for the functioning of many ecosystems. Our results show that, of 17 snake populations (eight species) from the UK, France, Italy, Nigeria and Australia, 11 have declined sharply over the same relatively short period of time with five remaining stable and one showing signs of a marginal increase. Although the causes of these declines are currently unknown, we suspect that they are multi-faceted (such as habitat quality deterioration, prey availability), and with a common cause, e.g. global climate change, at their root.
270 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the performance of DME and water-in-biodiesel emulsions as pilot fuels was assessed, and it was found that the water-insulated emulsion did not perform as well as expected, as increased HC and CO emissions coupled with a mild change in NO x levels was encountered.
161 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors reviewed oil spill incidents and pipeline vandalism in Nigeria between 1970 and 2006 and examined the potential danger posed by such activities to public health design/methodology/approach, the approach adopted to achieve this objective is questionnaire administration on health impacts Also secondary sources of information come from textbooks and journals However, data from natural resources exploitation and hazards are collated and analyzed.
Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to review oil spill incidents and pipeline vandalism in Nigeria between 1970 and 2006 and to examine the potential danger posed by such activities to public healthDesign/methodology/approach – The approach adopted to achieve this objective is questionnaire administration on health impacts Also secondary sources of information come from textbooks and journals However, data from natural resources exploitation and hazards are collated and analyzedFindings – It is evident that, out of the 1,000 reported oil spill incidents analyzed, some hundreds of thousands of barrels of oil are lost to the environment Graphic pictures of typical oil spill through acts of vandalism in Ishiagu, Ebonyi State, Nigeria are analyzed and reviewed The run‐off and sedimentation of this pollutant in fresh water systems severely degrade water quality, affect fish spawning and aquatic invertebrates' habitats, thus lowering food web productivity Incidentally the spill‐over effect on humans
48 citations
TL;DR: Investigation of the size-relative effectiveness of clove oil as an anaesthetic for rainbow trout and goldfish found it effective, producing minimum stress and zero mortalities, and can be recommended as an effective anaesthetic.
Abstract: The purpose of this work was to investigate the size-relative effectiveness of clove oil as an anaesthetic for rainbow trout and goldfish. In total, 128 rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) (two groups of 20-23 and 30-33 cm mean fork length) and 160 goldfish (Carassius auratus) (four size groups of 1.5-2.5, 5-7, 11-15 and 20-25 cm) were anaesthetized at different clove oil concentrations of 50, 100, 150 mg·l -1 for trouts and 75, 100, 150 mg·l -1 for goldfish. Rainbow trout exhibited total loss of balance and no response to external stimuli with shorter induction time as dosage increased (120.5 s, 64.4 s and 44.3 s, respectively). Goldfish exhibited total loss of balance and no response to external stimuli after induction time that varied with dosage used and body size of fish. The small fish (1.5-7 cm) exhibited shorter induction time which ranged from 84.28 s at 75 mg·l-1 clove oil to 41.14 s at 150 mg·l-1 clove oil. The larger fish had a longer induction time inversely related to the dosage. Recovery time was longer than induction time in both species. Both species recovered within 6 min after anaesthesia at 150 mg·l-1 clove oil. Clove oil did not produce marked changes (P 0.05). For both fish species, clove oil was effective, producing minimum stress and zero mortalities, and can be recommended as an effective anaesthetic. Syzygium aromaticum, fish anaesthesia, animal welfare Rapid expansion of the aquaculture industry that occurred in previous decades prompted scientific debates on the potential suffering of fish being handled during common aquaculture procedures or during slaughtering. Research aimed at lessening the suffering of cultured fish is vital to meet the concern for farmed fish welfare (Ashley 2007). Handling stress and various manipulations in aquaculture can have a negative impact on fish health and their growth (Hoskonen and Pirhonen 2006). Anaesthetics are therefore applied to reduce these negative effects to the minimum. The dosage required to induce general anaesthesia varies according to the anaesthetic used and other factors such as water temperature, hardness, salinity, oxygen concentration, length of exposure, body weight, the ratio of gill area/body surface area and the species of fish. In general, small fish are more sensitive to anaesthesia than larger fish (Ross and Ross 1999). An ideal anaesthetic for fish should induce anaesthesia in less than 3 to 5 min, with total loss of balance and muscle tone, allowing an uneventful and rapid (i.e. less than 10 min) recovery with low tissue residues after recovery, thus being safe to users and consumers. The anaesthetic should be inexpensive and easy to use (Gilderhus and Marking 1987;
37 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the potential of using elephant grass (Penninsetum purpureum) in the treatment of petroleum sludge was investigated in experiments aimed at investigating the potential for both composting and phytoremediation techniques.
Abstract: Composting and phytoremediation using elephant grass (Penninsetum purpureum) were compared in experiments aimed at investigating the potential of both techniques in the treatment of petroleum sludge. The compost consisted of poultry manure and sawdust. N-P-K fertilizer was used for biostimulation of indigenous microbes. It also served to enhance the growth of the elephant grass. The sludge was mixed with agricultural soil and both techniques were then utilized for treatment. The total hydrocarbon content (THC) of the sludge-soil mixture before treatment was 64,494 mg/kg. After an 84-day treatment period, the composting treatment recorded 47% reduction in THC, the phytoremediation treatment showed 69% THC reduction, while the combination of composting and phytoremediation had 29% THC reduction. Microbial numbers corroborated the THC reduction observed. The results of the study show considerable promise for the deployment of elephant grass in phytoremediation treatment of petroleum sludge.
25 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors examined the most generally applied definitions and other aspects of emotional intelligence, as well as its associated managerial leadership competencies in corporate governance and found that for effective corporate governance, organizations have to grow emotional capital to handle issues of low morale, organizational stress, high staff turnover and lack of work/...
Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to examine the most generally applied definitions and other aspects of emotional intelligence, as well as its associated managerial leadership competencies in corporate governance.Design/methodology/approach – The paper adopted a descriptive methodology in describing emotional intelligence leadership for effective corporate governance.Findings – The paper finds that the speed of change in the affairs of formal organizations worldwide tends to require the operations of those institutions to continually think and react to different situations. If people's emotions are pushed toward the range of enthusiasm performance can soar; if people are driven toward rancour and anxiety, they will be thrown of stride.Originality/value – The emotional intelligence leadership discussed in this paper requires that for effective corporate governance, organizations have to grow emotional capital to handle issues of low morale, organizational stress, high staff turnover and lack of work/...
24 citations
TL;DR: It is concluded that genetic improvement of the Nigerian indigenous breed of the domestic fowl can be carried out by increasing their body weight, hence, testicular weight through crossbreeding with the heavier barred Plymouth rock to achieve improved sperm production and reserve for year round artificial insemination.
Abstract: Breed and seasonal influence on testicular morphometry, Gonadal Sperm Reserves (GSR), Extragonadal Sperm Reserves (ESR) was investigated in the barred Plymouth rock and the Nigerian indigenous breeds of the domestic fowl. Twenty sexually matured birds per breed were studied in the four seasons of the year. Breed significantly (p 0.05) influenced the testicular morphometric parameters, GSR, ESR nor gonadal sperm reserve/gram testis (GSR/g). The higher numerical differences observed in morphometric parameters, GSR and ESR during the early and late dry seasons suggested that the dry season favors sperm production, hence sperm reserve potentials. The testicular weight was significantly (p<0.001) correlated not only to the body weight (r = 0.63) but to paired Tunica albuginea (= 0.98, p<0.001) and paired epididymal weight (r = 0.69, p<0.001). There was also a significant (p<0.001) and positive correlation between the testicular weight and GSR (r = 0.84, p<0.001). The GSR/g (r = 0.77; p<0.001) ESR (r = 0.86; p<0.001) and ESR/g (r = 0.50, p<0.001). Based on these observations it is concluded that genetic improvement of the Nigerian indigenous breed of the domestic fowl can be carried out by increasing their body weight, hence, testicular weight through crossbreeding with the heavier barred Plymouth rock to achieve improved sperm production and reserve for year round artificial insemination.
24 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the effects of drying parameters on heat transfer during drying of fermented ground cassava in a rotary dryer were studied, and the specific heat transfer coefficient and heat load were predicted as a function of inlet air temperature, air velocity, and feed rate.
Abstract: The effects of drying parameters on heat transfer during drying of fermented ground cassava in a rotary dryer were studied. The fermented ground cassava was dried in a bench-scale rotary dryer at different inlet air temperatures, inlet air velocities, relative humidities, feed rates, drum drive speeds, and feed drive speeds. It is shown that inlet air temperature, inlet air velocity, and feed rate have significant effects on the specific heat transfer coefficient and heat load in the material. Models that predict the specific heat transfer coefficient as a function of inlet air temperature and inlet air velocity and the heat load as a function of inlet air temperature, inlet air velocity, and feed rate are also presented. Predictions of the models are compared with experimental data and good agreement is obtained.
19 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the distribution of ionizing radiation in Rivers State in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria is studied on the premise that the state wide distribution of oil and gas operations leads to a homogeneous ionising radiation environment and the state is sub divided into three self- consistent sub environments of an upland college campus environment, a rural riverine environment and an industrial sub zone environment.
Abstract: The distribution of ionizing radiation in Rivers State in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria is studied on the premise that the state ‐ wide distribution of oil and gas operations leads to a homogeneous ionizing radiation environment The state is sub divided into three self‐ consistent sub environments of an upland college campus environment, a rural riverine environment and an industrial sub zone environment Available data give a mean dose equivalent of 0745+ 0085 mSv/yr (upland campus environment), 0690+0170 mSv/yr (rural riverine communities) and 1270+0087 mSv/yr (industrial zone) indicating an inhomogeneous radiation profile The differences may be due to variations in levels of industrial activities and local geological peculiarities Health implications are also examined
19 citations
TL;DR: Concerning amphibians, the various species used the available microhabitats in a way expectable from their main ecological traits, with toads differing from aquatic frogs, and these differing from arboreal frogs.
Abstract: Finima Nature Park, situated in Bonny Island (Niger Delta, Nigeria), is a protected forested area placed within one of the most industrially developed (and environmentally polluted) regions of the whole African continent. Amphibian and reptile community composition in relation to season and microhabitat characteristics was studied, by a combination of field techniques, during the wet and dry seasons of 2007 and 2008. Overall, a total of 21 species of reptiles from nine families (with 668 individuals caught) and eight amphibian species from five families (492 individuals caught) were recorded. Nearly 94% of the amphibian individuals and most of the species were recorded, especially during the wet season, whereas most of the reptiles were found with no inter-seasonal differences. However, Agama agama and Mabuya affinis were found especially during the dry season. As for microhabitat use, the reptile species showed a clear, aggregated preference for two microhabitat types (dry leaves and under logs), which are probably crucial when these animals need to lose body temperature to avoid overheating. Concerning amphibians, the various species used the available microhabitats in a way expectable from their main ecological traits, with toads differing from aquatic frogs, and these differing from arboreal frogs.
15 citations
TL;DR: It is confirmed that salmonellosis is endemic in Nigeria and that many of the authors' blood donors may be Salmonella carriers, and a positive association between blood groups and typhoid fever is revealed.
Abstract: antibodies to Salmonella in donated blood in Nigeria. Materials and methods. Blood specimens from blood donors presenting at six selected public blood collection centres in the south-western region of Nigeria were analysed for the presence of Salmonella antibodies. Results. Out of the 200 specimen analysed, 106 (53%) were found to be Widal-positive with a minimum titre of 160. Among the positive cases, reactivity was most common to S. typhi (D) antigens (48.6%). The most frequently recorded titre of reactive specimens (i.e., the modal titre) was 160, with 71 donors (35.5%) of the total sample population from the different centres reacting at this level. Thirty-one donors had elevated titres of = 320 and nine donors had a titre of 640. The percentages of Widal-positive cases among donors with A positive and O positive blood groups were 58.7% and 64.2%, respectively; the percentage of Widal-positive cases was lowest among B positive blood donors (26.7%). The p-value for these differences (p<0.05) shows that blood group has a statistically significant impact on Widal reaction in donors. Conclusion. This study confirms that salmonellosis is endemic in Nigeria and that many of our blood donors may be Salmonella carriers. This study also revealed a positive association between blood groups and typhoid fever.
TL;DR: Rabbit results indicated that rabbits, unlike other monogastrics such as pigs and poultry do not show growth depresslon to dietary raw soybean which can be incorporated in their ration up to 20% level for short periods under tropical conditions.
Abstract: Graded levets (0%, 5%, 10%, 15%, 20% and 25%) of raw soybean (RSB) were incorporated into six formulated isocaloric and isonitrogenous diets and fed ad libitum to 48 young rabbits of the New Zealand and Californian stra1ns Diet A (0% RSB) containing toasted soybean meal served as the control The rabbits were aged between 6-8 weeks The experiment lastad 56 days Feed intake and feed conversion showed no significant difference (P>005) between the treatment groups and the control However, average daily feed intake appeared to increase non signiflcantly as the level of raw soybean in the diets increased, from 5% to 25% There was atso no significant difference (P>005) in live weight gain between the treatment groups and the control Nevertheless, animals in the 15% RSB diet showed superior numerical value for average daity live weight gain (140g/day vs 11 7 for 5% RSB diet) The dietary incorporation of raw soybean had no significant effect (P>005) on weight of spteen, kidney, heart, testes and liver However, RSB inctusion at 25% level led to gross morphological alterations in soma organs, particutarly inflammat1on as watt as necrosis of hepatocytes with infiltration by tymphocytes, in the liver Toe results indicated that rabbits, unlike other monogastrics such as pigs and poultry do not show growth depresslon to dietary raw soybean which can be incorporated in their ration up to 20% level for short periods under tropical conditions
TL;DR: The chemical, pasting and sensory properties of tapioca grits produced from wet starches from 39 different cassava varieties (36 varieties resistant to cassava mosaic disease [CMD] and three checks TMS 30572, 4(2) 1425 and 82/00058) planted in June 2004/2005 at the experimental farm of the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture, high-rainfall Onne (Lat 4.4°N, Long 7.1°E, mean annual rainfall of 2,600mm), Rivers State, Nigeria as mentioned in this paper.
Abstract: The study investigated the chemical, pasting and sensory properties of tapioca grits produced from wet starches from 39 different cassava varieties (36 varieties resistant to cassava mosaic disease [CMD] and three checks TMS 30572, 4(2) 1425 and 82/00058) planted in June 2004/2005 at the experimental farm of the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture, high-rainfall Onne (Lat 4.4°N, Long 7.1°E, mean annual rainfall of 2,600 mm.), Rivers State, Nigeria. There were significant differences (P < 0.05) for chemical and functional properties of tapioca grits from different cassava varieties. Amylose content ranged from 18.30 to 22.95%, amylopectin content ranged from 77.05 to 81.70%, protein content ranged from 0.16 to 0.42%, sugar content ranged from 0.10 to 1.20%, starch damage ranged from 1.22 to 1.49%, pH values ranged from 4.25 to 6.15, moisture content ranged from 5.75% to 10.12%, ash content ranged from 0.19 to 0.67%, starch content ranged from 67.34 to 81.86%. There were significant differences (P < 0.05) in all the pasting properties of the tapioca grits from different CMD starches. The peak viscosity of pregelatinized tapioca ranged from 110.79 to 545.17 RVU, final viscosities for tapioca ranged from 87.00 to 281.38 RVU. Setback values and pasting time ranged from 29.65 to 89.80 RVU, and 3.2 to 4.2 min, respectively. There were significant differences (P < 0.05) in the panelist scores for the tapioca samples. In terms of overall acceptability, panelists rated tapioca samples produced from 92/0067 has the best followed by 98/0510, 97/4769, whereas the least was tapioca sample from 98/0226. Based on our findings, tapioca grits from TMS92/0067, TMS98/0510 and 4(2) 1425 cassava varieties based on the high scores for sensory, chemical and setback values.
PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS
The recent world food crises have given new hope to potential breakfast diets like tapioca grits. Tapioca, a roasted cassava starch, is usually soaked and cooked in water and sugar/milk added. To appreciate best cassava varieties for this ever demanding product, this project on chemical, pasting and sensory properties of tapioca grits from cassava mosaic disease-resistant cassava varieties has high practical applications to guide readers and processors on best traits to use for the production of tapioca. Consumers can make use of tapioca for different pudding production. Tapioca grits from TMS92/0067, TMS98/0510 and 4(2)1425 cassava varieties will rise early and consistent on cooling, which is very important for the consumer preference. With appropriate addition of additives such as eggs, milk and sugar, consumers are assured of best quality tapioca meal.
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TL;DR: In this article, the authors examined the transformational financing window of venture capital and its instrumentality in driving small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to the higher heights of greatness and largeness.
Abstract: The fact that a business started small is not an absolute transcendental sentence to perpetual littleness & ordinariness. This conviction set the stage for the conduct of this study. The prime task was to examine the transformational financing window of venture capital (VC) and its instrumentality in driving small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to the higher heights of greatness and largeness. The key perspectives of VC examined were equity finance, management support, and technical support. A total of 120 copies of questionnaire 120 were administered on SME focal officials (60 each for VC-backed and non-VC-backed) in various parts of the Nigerian nation. The ensuing inferential statistical results established that the VC-financed SMEs significantly out-performed their non-VC-financed counterparts in critical ways. Specifically, management support prevailed as the most critical driver of SME development and transformation. Essentially, it is imperative to provide robust incentives for VC investment in SMEs. Greater participation of private sector stakeholders will meaningfully help to actualize and optimize the recent industrialization and commercialization sensitization regime. The Nigerian nation and allied developing economies will ultimately be the best for it.
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors examined the changes in land use and economic activities between 1986 and 2005 in a residential development in Port Harcourt that was originally developed for senior civil servants and military personnel.
Abstract: This paper examines the changes in land use and economic activities between 1986 and 2005 in a residential development in Port Harcourt that was originally developed for senior civil servants and military personnel. It shows how land ownership has changed and also the rapid expansion of commercial activities within what was exclusively a residential development. With no enforcement of land use regulations, this has led to a decline in the quality of life for the residents.
Journal Article•
TL;DR: In this article, the authors reviewed the Nigerian Fundamental Rights (Enforcement) Procedure Rules 2009 to determine whether it is a suitable response to the numerous problems arising in the course of two decades of the enforcement of fundamental human rights in Nigeria.
Abstract: This article reviews the Nigerian Fundamental Rights (Enforcement) Procedure Rules 2009 to determine whether it is a suitable response to the numerous problems arising in the course of two decades of the enforcement of fundamental human rights in Nigeria. Such problems include the highly technical and formally procedural nature of the Fundamental Human Rights (Enforcement Procedure) Rules 1979; the requirement of standing to sue; and the distinction between principal and accessory claims. Through a review of the procedural changes made by the 2009 Rules and the overriding objectives in the application of the 2009 Rules the article demonstrates that the 2009 Rules may be regarded as a suitable response if the Nigerian judiciary recognises that utmost flexibility must be the fundamental ordering principle of human rights enforcement.
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TL;DR: In this article, the authors explored the protection of expressions of folklore within the right to culture in Africa by considering three issues: increased understanding of culture in national constitutions and the recognition that customary law is a manifestation of the right of culture; an expanded understanding of the substantive content of the article 15(1) of the International Covenant for Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights as part of the rights of indigenous peoples, marked significantly by the 2007 United Nations Declaration of the Rights of Indigenous People, and demonstrated how a human rights regime may assist in overcoming some of the deficiencies in the
Abstract: This paper explores the protection of expressions of folklore within the right to culture in Africa by considering three issues, which are the increased understanding of the right to culture in national constitutions and the recognition that customary law is a manifestation of the right to culture; an expanded understanding of the substantive content of the article 15(1) of the International Covenant for Economic, Social and Cultural Rights as part of the right to culture; and the recognition of the rights of indigenous peoples marked significantly by the 2007 United Nations Declaration of the Rights of Indigenous People. The paper demonstrates how a human rights regime may assist in overcoming some of the deficiencies in the national protection of expressions of folklore in Africa.
Journal Article•
TL;DR: It was concluded that the prevalence of morbidity following childbirth in the population sampled was high due mainly to obstetric factors and that reportage of morbidities had little to do with the demographic characteristics of respondents.
Abstract: The objective of the study was to determine the prevalence and correlates of maternal morbidity following childbirth in Enugu, South East Nigeria. A questionnaire-based cross-sectional study of women with recent deliveries in Enugu was done. Respondent were 8 times more likely to report a symptom than not (OR 8.14 95% C.I. 5.48, 12.68). Puerperal sepsis, perineal pain, dyspareunia, postpartum haemorrhage, gestational (postpartum) hypertension and utero-vaginal prolapse were the commonest obstetric/gynaecological morbidities. Multivariate analysis showed that the main predictors of specific morbidities were high parity category, abdominal delivery and delivery by unskilled birth attendant. It is concluded that the prevalence of morbidity following childbirth in the population sampled was high due mainly to obstetric factors and that reportage of morbidity had little to do with the demographic characteristics of respondents. A population based study is recommended to determine the actual prevalence and predictors of morbidity following childbirth in the population (Afr. J. Reprod. Health 2010; 14[3]: 121-129).
TL;DR: In this paper, the rotor blade profile distortions result in significant increases in the axial thrust on the compressor, which adversely affects the gas turbine's thermodynamic performance, reliability, and operational life.
Abstract: The axial thrust imposed on the shaft of a gas turbine depends upon its rotor blade inlet inclination to the turbine’s axial direction: this inclination can change due to the distortions resulting from fouling, aging, tip rubbing, erosion, thermal-fatigue cracks, and corrosion. Relevant influential parameters for an operational gas turbine were measured. Theoretical predictions for the behavior of the same turbine were obtained from computer simulations. The results of both measurements and theoretical predictions were compared and showed qualitative correspondence. The rotor blade profile distortions result in significant increases in the axial thrust on the compressor, which adversely affects the gas turbine’s thermodynamic performance, reliability, and operational life.
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TL;DR: In this article, the authors investigate whether the Shell oil company, through investment and crude oil exploration, benefits socio-economic growth in Nigeria in general and in the Niger Delta of Nigeria in particular.
Abstract: The aim of this paper is to investigate whether the She oil company, through investment and crude oil exploration, benefits socio-economic growth in Nigeria in general and in the Niger Delta of Nigeria in particular. In 1998, the United Nations Special Rapporteur's report on Nigeria accused Nigeria and Shell of violating human rights and failing to protect the environment, and called for an investigation into Shell activities in Nigeria. The report condemned Shell for arming the security forces which it regularly deploy to use lethal force civilians that protest against the oil firm.” The paper explores the matrix within which the socio-economic rights (human rights, development rights and environment rights) have been significantly marginalised and the implications of the lack corporate social responsibility and the lack of accountability of Shell to the inhabitants of the Niger Delta of Nigeria. With respect to environmental obligations, the paper discusses how environmental degradation in the Niger Delta has infringed on human rights thereby impeding growth and economic development. The paper suggests possible future directions and initiatives for civil society in making corporations more accountable to states, citizens and the planet.
TL;DR: Results from this study show that the herbicide cannot be described as having “low toxicity and being environmentally friendly” as suggested by the manufacturer, Monsanto.
Abstract: Acute static renewal bioassays were conducted on fingerling and adult of Clarias gariepinus (mean weight, 1.22 ± 0.6g; mean total length, 5.25 ± 1.25 cm) using the herbicide, Roundup (glyphosate). In the acute study, fingerlings were exposed in triplicate to 0.0, 14.0, 16.0, 18.0, 20.0 22.0, and 24.0 mg/l of the herbicide for 96 hours to determine general behavioural responses and specific responses (opercular beat frequency (OBF), tail beat frequency (TBF), lethal concentration (LC 50 ) and median lethal time (MLT 50 ). Exposed fish showed initial stress responses such as increased opercular ventilatory rate, dash and erratic swimming and gasping for air. The pattern of response of TBF to time and concentration of the herbicide was irregular, whereas that of OBF tended to decrease with increase in time, but increased with increase in concentration. Cumulative mortality values increased with exposure time. The effect of exposure time on the behavioural variables was: TBF (p > 0.05), OBF (p 0.05), OBF (p < 0.01) and cumulative mortality (p< 0.001). Interactions between time and concentration produced significant effect only in cumulative mortality (p < 0.01). The 96 hour LC 50 of Roundup on the fish was 19.58 mg/l. The MLT 50 decreased with exposure concentration with 24 mg/l killing half the exposed fish at 19.69 (17.41 - 21.94 CL) hours. Results from this study show that the herbicide cannot be described as having “low toxicity and being environmentally friendly” as suggested by the manufacturer, Monsanto.
10 Oct 2010
TL;DR: In this paper, a software code-named "THAPCOM" written in C++ programming language was used proactively monitor the engine based on multiple variable mathematical models (MVMMs).
Abstract: All over the globe, gas turbines (GTs) play tremendous role in energy and power generation. Condition monitoring is also being used to obtain early warning of impending equipment failure to prevent costly downtime and damage to process equipment. Several scheduled visits were thus made to AFAM IV, GT 18, TYPE 13D plant located near Port Harcourt, in Rivers State of Nigeria. Continuous and periodic monitoring of the thermodynamics/performance parameters such as temperature, pressure, air pumping capability and fuel flow were carried out. These activities lasted for over a period of one year on hourly basis to examine the state of health of the engine compared with the data taken. The diagnostic method of trend performance monitoring was jointly used with multiple variable mathematical models (MVMMs), because they relate deterioration to consequences. A software code-named “THAPCOM” written in C++ programming language was used proactively monitor the engine based on this MVMMs. The values observed on the third month revealed that ηO was 27.0% and AL was 48MW. A significant variation in the results obtained shows that there is a deviation between the monitored data taken from the console and the reference data in the manufacturer’s manual. These are indications of impending failure or health uncertainty of the engine. This allowed maintenance to be scheduled, or other actions taken to avoid catastrophy.Copyright © 2010 by ASME
Posted Content•
TL;DR: The authors examines the political question doctrine within the context of judicial review in Nigeria considering in particular the judicial review of the impeachment of certain officers of state and the substitution of political party electoral candidates.
Abstract: Even though the political question doctrine has been used in Nigeria over a long period, recent judicial decisions indicate that the doctrine is now in serious trouble. This article examines the political question doctrine within the context of judicial review in Nigeria considering in particular the judicial review of the impeachment of certain officers of state and the substitution of political party electoral candidates.
TL;DR: In this article, the functional properties of tapioca grits produced from wet starches from 39 different cassava varieties (36 cassava mosaic disease resistant varieties CMD clones and 3 checks TMS 30572, 4(2) 1425 and 82/00058) were investigated.
Abstract: This study investigated the functional properties of tapioca grits produced from wet starches from 39 different cassava varieties (36 cassava mosaic disease resistant varieties CMD clones and 3 checks TMS 30572, 4(2) 1425 and 82/00058). There were significant differences (p < 0.05) for functional properties of tapioca grits from different cassava varieties. Dispersibility of tapioca ranged from 6–29%, water absorption capacity (WAC) ranged from 415.13–595.26%, swelling power ranged from 20.76–26.92%, solubility index ranged from 4.04–20.42%, color intensity ranged from 87.79–92.09%. Granule size of pre-gelatinized tapioca ranged from 12.50–22.50 μm. Significant differences (p < 0.05) were obtained on the effect of cassava varieties, viscometer speeds and temperature of tapioca meal. The viscosity of the tapioca meal decreased (37.90–0.72 Pa.s) with increasing shear rates at both 30 and 40°C, but higher for lower temperature respectively. Tapioca meal produced from cassava variety M98/0028 had the highest ...
TL;DR: In this paper, an investigation was carried out to determine the compressive force, strain energy, elastic modulus and seed-coat adhesion as a function of blanching time for the kernels Adikpo (samnut19) and Lafia (lafia10) varieties of groundnut.
Abstract: An investigation was carried out to determine the compressive force, strain energy, elastic modulus and seed-coat adhesion as a function of blanching time for the kernels Adikpo (samnut19) and Lafia (samnut10) varieties of groundnut. Compression tests were performed at a loading rate of 2mm/min for blanching time intervals of 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 and 10 minutes. Further experiments were conducted to ascertain the effect of blanching time on testa-kernel adhesion using a mixer at a speed of 4rev/min for each time interval. Results show that compressive force, strain energy and elastic modulus of both varieties decreased as blanching time increased. Contrarily, deformation for both varieties increased linearly with increase in blanching time. Also, an optimum blanching duration of 7 and 5 minutes were achieved for the effective hulling of the adikpo (samnut19) and lafia (samnut10) varieties respectively.
01 Jan 2010
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors focused on the need for proper information management as a strategy for the development of rural areas of Rivers State, Nigeria, and identified seven profound effects of proper information dissemination for development of the study areas.
Abstract: KEYWORDS Effective. Dissemination. Rural People. Development. Educational Opportunities. Job ABSTRACT The study focused on the need for proper information management as a strategy for the development of rural areas of Rivers State, Nigeria. The areas of the study included Ogba/Egbema- Ndoni, Eleme and Ikwerre local districts in Rivers State, Nigeria. The stratified random sampling technique was used to select communities from the three local government areas. They were selected based on ward allocation. A total of fifty (50) questionnaires were distributed to respondents. Percentages, frequency and mean scores were utilized for data analysis. The study identified seven profound effects of proper information management for the development of the study areas. They were: increase in job and educational opportunities (3.20), modernization and development of the community (2.70), high level of education and literacy rate (3.6), low morbidity and infant/material rate (3.20), improved hygiene/sanitation condition (4.10), improved standard of living (3.40) and improved economic standard and capacity utilization (3.0). Furthermore, the study found that there was no office for the management of information dissemination in the study areas. Also, there was no monitoring and feedback mechanism in the local government councils. It was then recommended that appropriate information structure and the offices of information officer and community liaison officer be established for effective liaison in information management and dissemination to enhance rural development in Nigeria.
TL;DR: Hematological responses of broiler chicken exposed to simulated crude petroleum emissions at varying distances over a period of 16 h daily were evaluated and indicated that the treatment did not significantly affect the Hb, PCV, and WBC constituents.
Abstract: Hematological responses of broiler chicken exposed to simulated crude petroleum emissions at varying distances over a period of 16 h daily were evaluated for 56 days in a poultry house. The burning of crude petroleum was simulated with a specially designed burner. The measured distances were 4, 8, or 12 m from the flame point. Control birds were located in a separate poultry building without the flame treatment. Gaseous emissions from the burning crude oil were monitored. Proprietory broiler starter and finisher diets were fed ad libitum. Blood samples were taken at the fourth and eighth weeks for hematological assay from each treatment. The hematological parameters assayed were hemoglobin (Hb), packed cell volume (PCV), white blood cells (WBC), neutrophils, and lymphocytes. Results indicated that the treatment did not significantly affect the Hb, PCV, and WBC constituents. Neutrophils significantly decreased while lymphocytes increased. The age of birds significantly increased Hb, PCV, and WBC levels in ...
Journal Article•
TL;DR: In this article, the results of two maintenance strategies to combat the menace of fouling in order to increase shell and tube heat exchangers performance were provided. And the results proved that high pressure water jetting method is best in combating fouling for performance recovery.
Abstract: Engineers are often expected to improve the requirements of process plants to increase their efficiencies. Processes which use heat transfer equipment need to be frequently maintained for these reasons. With a view to optimize the performance of the equipment, this paper therefore provides the results of two maintenance strategies to combat the menace of fouling in order to increase shell and tube heat exchangers performance. The high-pressure water jetting and chemical cleaning techniques were used in this work for units A and B heat exchangers of a process plant. Periodic monitoring was also used to predict the performance of the equipment. This approach capitalized on the overall heat transfer, pressure drop and fouling factor to optimize the performance of marine heat exchangers. Performance data were taken for a period of ten weeks before and after cleaning from 15kW heat exchanger units A and B, which were under the same condition of deterioration recommended prior to maintenance. The results revealed that before the heat exchanger units were shut down for maintenance, the overall heat transfer was 9778.4kw, which was likeable to 65.19% of the design value, while that of unit B rose to 12255.90kw, which is 81.71% of the design value. Furthermore, after the maintenance the overall heat transfer effectiveness of unit A rose to 14563.46kw, which is 97.19% of the design value. The results proved that high pressure water jetting method is best in combating fouling for performance recovery.
Posted Content•
TL;DR: The authors examines a decision of the Nigerian Court of Appeal that a Nigerian child is not entitled to refuse a blood transfusion and notes that the decision was handed down at a time when the Child Rights Law was in operation and that, had this legislation been taken into consideration, the best interests of the child would have led to a more nuanced interpretation and guidance on conditions under which a Nigeria child, in furtherance of the right to freedom of religion, may refuse a transfusion.
Abstract: This comment examines a decision of the Nigerian Court of Appeal that a Nigerian child is not entitled to refuse a blood transfusion. The comment notes that the decision was handed down at a time when the Child Rights Law was in operation and that, had this legislation been taken into consideration, the best interests of the child would have led to a more nuanced interpretation and guidance on conditions under which a Nigerian child, in furtherance of the right to freedom of religion, may refuse a blood transfusion.