Theses and Desertations

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A NOVEL GLUCOSE BIOSENSOR BASED ON SILVER NANOPARTICLE (AgNP) STABILIZED WITH SODIUM TRIPOLYPHOSPHATE (NaTPP) CROSS-LINKED CHITOSAN: DIRECT ELECTRON TRANSFER AND ELECTROCATALYTIC ACTIVITY
(2024-09-15) BAMIGBADE, Akeem Adesina
Abstract The development of non-enzymatic glucose biosensor has been the concern of many researchers mainly because enzymes based sensor despite having excellent sensitivity and selectivity, has the limitations such as poor stability, complicated enzyme immobilization, critical operating conditions such as optimum temperature and reproducibility, which hinder the sensor properties. The prevalence of renal problem globally justifies the need for the development of non-enzymatic glucose biosensor that can effectively and accurately detect glucose in any medium which can be very effective to the detection and treatment of diabetes mellitus. This study has developed a biocompatible non-enzymatic glucose biosensor, Direct electron transfer and electro-catalytic activity of non-enzymatic glucose biosensor based on silver nanoparticle (AgNPs) stabilized with sodium tripolyphosphate (NaTPP) cross-linked chitosan was studied. Silver nanoparticle was prepared and characterized by Fourier transform Infra-red spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffractometry (XRD) and Scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The electro-catalytic activity of the synthesised AgNPs was investigated through potentiometric and amperometric techniques. The crystalline size of the AgNPs was revealed with XRD. The cubic face-centered structure of the synthesised silver nanoparticle was confirmed. This was supported by the observed sharp four diffraction peaks with peaks intense appearing at 2θ = 38.09°, 44.15°, 64.67°, and 77.54°. However, the SEM micrograph of the synthesised AgNPs revealed the spherical shape of AgNPs with a non-uniform granular shape attributed to bio-mediated ionic gelation process. The surface of the synthesised AgNPs has a spherical shape and slightly elongated with a big tendency to aggregate and form larger particle clusters. Whereas, FTIR spectra of AgNPs gave peaks at 1054 – 1645 cm-1 suggesting the presence of phosphonate linkages between ammonium, -NH3+ of chitosan and –PO32- moieties of NaTPP during cross linking process. The electro-catalytic oxidation of glucose at the electrode surface was examined and the mechanism involved in glucose oxidation was revealed. The silver nanoparticle modified glassy carbon electrode (AgNPGCE) showed a better electrochemical response towards glucose. This glucose sensor shows high sensitivity at +0.54 V. A low detection limit of 1.22 M taken the confident level to be 3, and wide linear range of 2 to 24 M with a correlation coefficient of 0.9987 were obtained. The calculated parameters revealed that AgNPs has shown better overall electrochemical performance with a response which is better than enzymatic biosensor. The fabricated AgNPs sensor shows comparable sensitivity (98%) of the initial value after it was kept in air for 8 days, demonstrating the very good sensitivity and durability of the glucose sensing. The good adhesion towards electrode and structural stability of AgNPs could be ascribed to long-term stability of AgNPs sensor. Based on these results, the AgNPGCE is a promising glucose biosensor candidate for excellent determination of glucose level in any medium.
AN OPTIMIZED SERVERS' CONTROL AND CONGESTION AVOIDANCE MODEL FOR QUEUE NETWORK
(2024-11-25) GBADEBO, ADEGBUYI DAVID
ABSTRACT Researches on optimal control of servers in queue networks are enormous in literature but none of these had considered congestion control and servers' optimality concurrently. Since congestion control is a major factor in queue network management, the need to maintain a balance between servers' optimality and congestion control had become necessary. This study proposed a Fuzzy-Treap Based Servers' Optimal Control System (FTBSOCS) which is a dual model comprising of a fuzzy-based system and a Treap-based system implemented to minimize cost of servers' usage and customers’ losses due to congestion. Fuzzy logic was adopted to ensure optimal usage of available servers by applying a fuzzy rule-based method. This method was used to derive a fuzzified decision index which determined servers' deployment pattern. The Treap-based system was used to prevent network congestion by ensuring that customers arriving the queue network when it is saturated are managed to avoid dropping or starvation by transmitting them to a tree manager, from where they are re-transmitted for service upon the availability of an idle server. The FTBSOCS was benchmarked with Adaptive-Network-Based Fuzzy Inference System (ANFIS), ANFIS-M/M/α and ANFIS-Treap. OMNeT++ was used as the simulation framework while dataset were randomly generated which served as input to the methods. With the inclusion of fuzzy logic in FTBSOCS, results indicated that average servers’ deployment was 21, 19, 15 and 16 for ANFIS, ANFIS-Treap, FTBSOCS and ANFIS-M/M/α respectively when there were 12K, 24K, 36K, 48K and 60K customers in the network. This implied that the inclusion of fuzzy logic in FTBSOCS had minimized servers’ deployment. The average of percentage utilization of available servers was 21.6%, 18.4%, 17.2% and 15.3% for FTBSOCS, ANFIS, ANFIS-M/M/α and ANFIS-Treap respectively with 12K, 24K, 36K, 48K and 60K customers in the network, indicating that FTBSOCS optimizes servers’ usage than the other methods. The average network throughput was 63.7Mbps, 63.4Mbps, 59.2 Mbps and 52.6 Mbps for ANFIS-M/M/α, FTBSOCS, ANFIS-Treap and ANFIS respectively with 12K, 24K, 36K, 48K and 60K customers in the network. This shows that ANFIS-M/M/α had a comparative performance of < 0.5% over FTBSOCS while a comparative performance of 2.9% and 4.2% existed for FTBSOCS over ANFIS-Treap and ANFIS respectively. The average number of customers dropped was approximately 204kb, 185kb, 165kb and 17kb for ANFIS, ANFIS-Treap, ANFIS-M/M/α and FTBSOCS respectively with 12K, 24K, 36K and 48K customers in the network indicating that FTBSOCS had < 2% of the overall number of customers’ dropped. The average propagation delay was 29.5, 26.3, 13.4 and 13.3 nanoseconds for ANFIS-M/M/α, ANFIS-Treap, FTBSOCS and ANFIS respectively with 12K, 24K, 36K, 48K and 60K customers in the network. This indicated that FTBSOCS had a slightly worse performance of < 0.3% to ANFIS while FTBSOCS had a comparative performance of about 10.8% and 13.4% over ANFISM/M/α and ANFIS-Treap respectively. With these results, it was concluded that FTBSOCS was more optimal in the control of servers and congestion in queue network.
ANALYSIS OF TECHNICAL AND NON-TECHNICAL LOSSES IN AN ELECTRICITY DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM
(2024-09-04) ERINOSHO, JEREMIAH OLUWAMAYOWA
ABSTRACT The quality of service delivery from electricity distribution networks (EDNs) despite the huge post-privatization intervention fund provided by the Federal Government of Nigeria is still far from being satisfactory due to aggregate technical, commercial and collection (ATC&C) losses. This study evaluated ATC&C losses in an EDN using FUNAAB 33kV and Obantoko 11kV distribution network feeders as case studies. The weekly data of injected power, energy consumed and energy billed on both feeders were collected from Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) for a period of six years (2018-2023). The power losses and voltage drops on the feeders were calculated using the formulated power equations comprising the parameters load factor, conductor length, conductor cross-sectional area, conductor resistivity,maximum feeder loading, line voltage and power factor. The billing data were analysed to determine the commercial and collection losses. Physical assessment of the feeders as built was also carried out. The obtained results revealed that the highest power losses of 11.74 and 6.682 MW, respectively, were observed on FUNAAB 33 kV and Obantoko 11 kV feeders. These losses which occurred in the year 2022 corresponded to 5.86 and 10.85% losses in power, of 200.4 and 61.56 MW, respectively, injected into both feeders. The voltage drop on FUNAAB 33 kV feeder over the study period ranged between 11.21 to 12.14% while it ranged between 17.96 to 18.45% on Obantoko 11 kV feeder. These values were found to exceed the permissible 10% limit of the operating voltage. The highest voltage drop of 12.14 and 18.45%, respectively observed on FUNAAB 33 kV and Obantoko 11 kV feeders occurred in the year 2022. Further observations revealed that 68% of the 20.26 km length of Obantoko 11 kV feeder involved the use of under-rated 70 mm2aluminium conductor (AlC), leading to high power loss and voltage drop unlike FUNAAB 33 kV feeder where 63% of the 57.4 km length of the line was constructed with the standard 150 mm2AlC. Analysis of commercial and collection losses on both feeders revealed a remarkable energy accountability challenges throughout the study period, a continual gap in energy received and billed was evident.The highest commercial loss of ₦3,683,071 on FUNAAB 33 kV feeder occurred in the year 2022 while the collection loss was highest in the year 2020 at a worth of ₦328,752,293. Similarly, the highest commercial loss of ₦4,202,467experienced on Obantoko 11 kV feeder occurred in the year 2023 while the highest collection loss of ₦149,056,487 was experienced in the year 2021.These results were indication that feeder characteristics, billing and consumer enumeration systems were key factors that appreciably influenced ATC&C losseson the case feeders. The aggregate technical, commercial and collection losses analysed in the study revealed the operational inefficiencies of the considered electricity distribution network feeders.
APPLICATION OF THYRISTOR CONTROLLED SERIES CAPACITOR FOR PERFORMANCE IMPROVEMENT OF NIGERIA POWER TRANSMISSION NETWORK
(2024-09-20) BASIRU WASIU OLALEKAN
ABSTRACT The population and industrial growths coupled with the limited capacity of the power transmission grid in Nigeria has created a wide margin between electricity supply and demand, with attendant high power loss and voltage instability. The desire for efficient power quality delivery to electricity customers has led to emergence of flexible alternating current transmission systems (FACTS). This study examined the effect of thyristor-controlled series capacitor (TCSC), a series FACTS compensator, on the performance of the Nigerian 330 kV, 30-bus electric power transmission grid. The static response of power system without and with TCSC compensation was modelled using Newton-Raphson based load flow equations. The NEPLAN software was employed for the simulation of the system response without and with compensation. The voltage magnitudes and line loadings of the system were determined and compared with appropriate operating limits to identify possible violations. The system active power loss was also evaluated. The obtained resultsrevealedthatbefore the compensation, six buses which are Gombe,Kano, Jos,NewHaven,CalabarandOnitsha withvoltagemagnitudesof0.6608,0.8138,0.8141,0.9002, 0.9319 and 0.9466 p.u., respectively, violated statutory voltage limit of 0.95 to 1.05 p.u. The system overallactive power loss was219.08MW. TwobranchesOkapi-CalabarandAlaoji-Calabar also exceededthe recommended voltage-ampere limit of 80% with 101.69and 84.19 % loadings, respectively. The installation of TCSC in the system mitigated all thevoltagemagnitudeviolations with constrained bus voltages improved to 0.9715,0.9777, 1.0022, 1.0247, 1.0043 and 1.0312 p.u., respectively; the values which are now within the statutory limit. The overall active power loss of the system decreased to 174.06 MW, giving an improvement of 20.55% in the active line flow. However, Alaoji-Calabar branch with a loading of 80.61% was still overloaded. The installation of TCSC and an additional line across the branch further improved the overall voltage profile of the system and eliminated the line loading violations. The overall active power loss further reduced to 161.54 MW, leading to an improvement in the active line flow by 26.26%. The results showed that the combined use of TCSC and line expansion produced a better impact on the system bus voltage and power profiles along the transmission network. The compensation provided by the thyristor controlled series capacitor together with the line expansion improved the performance of the Nigerian electric power grid and system bus voltages.
ASSESSING THE IMPACTS OF CLIMATE VARIABILITY ON DISEASE INCIDENCE ACROSS MAJOR METROPOLITAN AREAS IN OGUN STATE, NIGERIA
(2024-08-20) OLADELE, ABDULWASI OLASUNBO
ABSTRACT Weather parameters play a role in the phenomenon of disease pandemics all over the world. This research studied climate variability impacts on the incidence of diseases in the three main metropolitan areas (Egba, Yewa and Ijebu) of Ogun state, Nigeria. This study determines the climate variability impacts on the incidence of diseases in Ogun state. Hospital data such as uncomplicated malaria, severe malaria, typhoid, cholera, measles, meningitis, pneumonia, dengue, plague and climate data of maximum and minimum temperature, rainfall, relative humidity, sunshine and evaporation, over a period of ten years record between 2024 and 2023 were collected from the Ministry of Health Management Board, Ogun state and the Nigerian Meteorological Agency respectively. Regression analysis was used to assess the relationship between the selected independent variables and the selected dependent variables using SPSS window version 23 statistics. The trend of weather parameters in the state revealed that temperature, rainfall, relative humidity, sunshine and evaporation have a positive trend pattern from year to year particularly, in the years 2015, 2017 and 2019. The regression equations were: Y = 0.999x – 0.915 and Y = 0.999x – 0.915,Y = 0.998x – 0.1, Y = 0.998x – 0.45, Y = 0.999x – 0.216, Y = 0.999x –– 0.283. Hence, the regression model detected that Uncomplicated malaria was highly predictable with an accuracy of 99.9 % from the linear combination of the climatic parameters. Therefore, this showed a predictive error of 4.2 %. In Egba area of Ogun state, the variability impacts on the incidence of diseases was statistically localized. Meanwhile, the regression model for Yewa area detected Measles were highly predictable with an accuracy of 99.8 % from the linear combinatioin of the climatic parameters indicating an error of 3.3 %. In Yewa area of Ogun state, the variability impacts on the incidence of diseases were also statistically different. Furthermore, the regression model for Ijebu area revealed predictable accuracy (99.8 %) for Pneumonia and climatic parameters showing predictive error of 8.9 %. Furthermore, the Ijebu area of Ogun state showed the variability impacts on the incidence of diseases with statistical variation. The regression analysis in terms of sex and age vulnerability revealed that Ijebu, Egba and Yewa had high rates of the diseases; depicting more prevalence in male than female and more in children than adults. The regression analysis clearly proved that there were cases of incidence of diseases triggered by climate variability. The incidence of uncomplicated malaria was extremely high in Yewa. The implication of this implied that indigenes in Ogun state were susceptible to been vulnerable to climate variability. Although, the degree of impacts varied based on geographical locations. Conclusively, this study found that there were climate variability impacts on the incidence of diseases in the studied areas.
ASSESSMENT OF BACTEREMIA AND MYCOTOXIN EXPOSURE IN SEVERE ACUTE MALNOURISHED (SAM) INFANTS AND YOUNG CHILDREN POPULATION IN OGUN STATE, NIGERIA
(2025-08-22) OYENEKAN, OLUWATOSIN GANIYAT
ABSTRACT Malnutrition is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality among children, it suppresses the immune system, leading to increased susceptibility and severity of infections. Presence of Bacteria and Mycotoxins in Severe Acute Malnourished (SAM) children are a significant concern making these children highly vulnerable to the harmful effects of fungal toxins and bacteria due to their weakened immune system and often poor diet. Severe Acute Malnutrition in children is often attributed to food mycotoxin exposure, bacteremia, and liver enzyme derangement. The objectives of this study were to assess the level of mycotoxin exposure, bacteremia and functionality parameters among SAM children in Ogun State. A Socio-demographic survey was carried out on 40 voluntary participants (mothers/caregivers) to know their level of mycotoxin awareness, knowledge and attitude towards childhood infections and avoidable causes using semi-structured questionnaire. Blood samples were collected from twenty (20) confirmed SAM children enrolled after clinician’s assessment as recommended by the laboratory protocols. Using spectrophotometric methods, blood samples were screened forserum enzymes, Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT), Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) and Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP)which served as diagnostic indicators for some diseases. Urea, Electrolytes (sodium, potassium,chloride, bicarbonate) and creatinine were assessed using ABX Pentra 400 C Analyzer.Full blood countwas done using Medonic Automated blood Analyzer. Blood samples for bacteriological analysis were cultured on Brain Heart Infusion broth, and isolates were identified by morphological and biochemical tests. Antibiotics susceptibility test was carried out by Kirby-Bauer using disc diffusion method using 10 antibiotics belonging to 4 classes of antibiotics. Extraction and quantification of mycotoxins from blood was done using High Performance Liquid Chromatography. Student’s t-test and Chi-square were used for the statistical analyses (P < 0.05). The level of awareness of mycotoxins and childhood infection as well as avoidable causes was very low (14%) among caregivers (p < 0.05). The mean value for ALP and AST activities among the test group were normal while ALT (39.1 U/L) was higher than acceptable standard (25 U/L). Hyponatremia was found in 35% of the samples, 10% had hypokalaemia and hypochloremia (low chloride) while 55% had no electrolyte derangement. The mean value for packed cell volume, white blood cell, neutrophiles and lymphocyte counts were 39.9%, (5.9 x 109/L), 52.4% and 41.6% respectively. Two (10%) of the SAM children had bacteraemia (Escherichia coli) growth and the isolates were 100% resistant to Ampicillin, Cloxacillin and Cotrimoxazole.The prevalence of Ochratoxin was 55% while Aflatoxin was 45%. The highest mycotoxin concentration identified was Aflatoxin B1 (19.7844 µg/ml) while the lowest was Ochratoxin (0.0399 µg/ml). The ranges of the Aflatoxin and Ochratoxin were 0.1169ug/ml to 19.7844 u ug/ml and 0.0399 to 0.1171ug/ml, respectively. This study showed that attitudes of caregivers towards childhood infection and avoidable causes is very low, no association was found between bacteremia and level of mycotoxins and serum enzymes deranged in 10% of the children which contributed to mortality in SAM children.
ASSESSMENT OF BIODIVERSITY DISTRIBUTION AND CONSERVATION CAPACITY OF THE FUNAAB ZOOPARK USING REMOTE SENSING.
(2024-08-20) SUNDAY JAMES ABIOLA
ABSTRACT Conservation is essential to protect and sustainably manage biodiversity for economic, social, cultural, and environmental purposes. Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) and Land Surface Temperature (LST) are significant in studying habitat effects on free-range animals. This study examined the biodiversity distribution and conservation capacity of Zoo Park at Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta using remote sensing. Four existing transects (A, B, C and D) of the zoological park were selected for the direct technique count method. Each transect was traversed for the period of five months and observations were carried out twice a day. Sample plots of 50 m by 50 m were demarcated randomly in eight different locations. The Diameter at Breast Height (DBH) of each tree was measured in centimeter. Landsat 7 and 8 data satellite images of the study area for 2012 and 2022 were downloaded to assess the changes in the vegetation cover and temperature of the study area. Descriptive (mean and standard deviation) statistics were used to analyze the population encountered across months and transects. Simpson’s diversity index was used to measure animal species diversity while plant species diversity index was calculated using Shannon-Wiener’s diversity index. The results revealed that eight species of natural inhabitants identified were Chlorocebuspygerythrus, Philantombamaxwellii, Herpestesbrachyurus, Tragelaphusscriptus, Pseudohaienigraus, Xeruserythropus, Veranusniloticus and Opheodrysvernalis. Transects A and D recorded the highest number of animals. Transect B had the highest diversity index (0.8348), while transect C had the lowest (0.3517). A total number of 199 trees per hectare from 21 species and 12 families were recorded. Moraceae (5) accounted for the highest frequency of family while Antiaristoxicaria (23) accounted for the species with highest number of individual trees. Miliciaexcelsa (304.00 cm) accounted for the highest mean DBH while the tree diversity index was 2.78. The NDVI analysis of the Zoo Park showed five different land classes (barren land, built-up areas, shrubs/grasslands, sparse vegetation and dense vegetation). A notable change in the land cover categories was observed between 2012 and 2022. The change analysis showed that barren land, built-up areas, dense vegetation and shrubs/grasslands declined by 0.59%, 1.6%, 4.93%, and 17.52% respectively while sparse vegetation increased by 24.64% within the space of ten years. The ambient temperature of the study area ranged from 25.92 to 31.06⁰C in 2012 and 20.19 to 33.13⁰C in 2022. The minimum temperature experienced in 2022 was lower than that of 2012 which could be attributed to the exposed areas in 2012 that had been filled with vegetation. Also, the maximum temperature in 2022 was higher than that recorded for 2012 and this could be attributed to the reduction of dense vegetation. The study showed that resources availability of FUNAAB Zoo Park and its ambient temperature made it a suitable site for the free-range animals to thrive.
ASSESSMENT OF CONTAMINATION EFFECT OF LIVESTOCK WASTE ON SURFACE AND GROUNDWATER USING INTEGRATED GEOPHYSICAL AND GEOCHEMICAL METHODS
(2024-11-20) LASISI, RASAQ AKANJI
ABSTRACT Cattle confinement causes significant amount of animal wastes in the surface and subsoil, contributing an enormous amount of pollutant into the soil and nearby aquifer units. In order to evaluate the degree of pollution, the extent of migration of leachate formed from animal wastes and its impact on shallow aquifer unit should be appraised. In view of this, electrical resistivity survey (1D vertical electrical sounding (VES) and 2D electrical resistivity Tomography (ERT)) and geochemical methods were utilized on the study site and nearby water sources respectively. Apparent resistivity data were measured along sixteen profiles using Schlumberger and Wenner configuration while soil samples were collected from laid transverses at depths of 0-30 cm and 30-60cm respectively. Geochemical assessment of surface and groundwater samples were carried out according to standard laboratory practices while hydrochemical facies of the sampled water was evaluated using Piper Trilinear software. The VES, 2D and 3D resistivity data were processed and inverted using WINRESIST, RES2DINV and RES3DINV software respectively. The ranges of resistivity and thickness of the Topsoil, Silt Fine Sand layer and Clay layers according to VES are (3.2-54.80 Ωm, 0.4-3.4 m), (5 - 75Ωm, 0.2 -19.1 m), (4.6 -188.7 Ωm, 2.7 -12.7 m). The inverse resisting model section of the subsurface from 2D and 3D imaging revealed low resistivity value less than 10 Ωm suspected to be leachate infiltration while 3D inverse section allowed delineation of animal waste plume, weathered layer and seepage path. The extent of migration was up to a depth of about 9m and more pronounced in the south eastern part of the study site. Hence, possible contamination of shallow groundwater system as livestock market ages. All the collected soil sample along the traverse lines belong to sandy loam, moderately acidic with nitrate and moisture content value ranging from 9.87-135.39 mg/kg and 0.238 to 0.324 cm3/cm3, respectively, At selected soil depths. The result of the physicochemical analysis revealed that 77% of water samples to be within the permissible limits of WHO/NSDWQ for drinking purpose besides their suitability for irrigation use. Interpretation of the piper diagram showed NaHCo3 to be the dominant facies in the area while alkaline earth metal (Ca2+ x mg2+) and weak acid (HCo3-, Co3-) are dominant cation and anions in the area. Surface and groundwater in the study area are of fresh and alkaline water type.
ASSESSMENT OF MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF SOUTH-WEST NIGERIA INDIGENOUS WOVEN FABRICS ‘ASO-OKE’ PRODUCED ON TRADITIONAL AND MODIFIED FLOOR LOOMS
(2023-10-25) ADEBOYE, Adebiyi Oladipupo
ABSTRACT Weaving is interlacing of warp and weft yarns to produce fabrics on a loom. “Aso-Oke” is the most famous indigenous woven fabric in Southwest Nigeria. This study assessed the mechanical properties of Aso-Oke produced on traditional floor loom (TFL) and modified floor loom (MFL). The study employed an experimental design; fabricated and modified TFL by changing the heddles (thread to wire), shaft, and beater (wood to metal). Ten samples of 2/2 Matt woven fabric were produced using 91 ends per inch (EPI), varied (2, 3, 5, 7, and 8) numbers of filling yarns (NFY), and 100% textured polyester yarn on TFL (TFL1 to TFL5) and MFL (MFL1 to MFL5). Fabric weight (FW), Abrasion, Dimensional stability, Tensile and Elongation, Tearing strength, and Bending Length were mechanical properties tested. Data were analyzed using frequency counts, percentages, mean, standard deviation, independent t-test, PCA, and PLS-SEM analysis. Results showed that fabrics from both looms are close-set [cover factor (CF) of MFL (M=32) and TFL (M=28)] in warp way. Both looms produced lightweight fabrics (51-90 GSM) with TFL4 and MFL3 having 90 GSM. MFL fabrics GSM (M = 77) is greater than TFL (M = 71). After 1000 abrasion cycles, fabric TFL5 (0.1% weight loss) has highest wear resistance; TFL fabrics had higher mean abrasion % weight loss (APL) 0.07% than MFL fabrics (0.77%). TFL and MFL fabrics showed high dimensional stability (0% shrinkage) after 72 hours at 27oC ± 2oC and RH 65% ± 2%. Fabric MFL2 has highest warp way tensile strength (50.04kgf), TFL3 (54.86kgf) in weft, and MFL3 (44.46kgf) showed significantly high breaking elongation in warp and weft ways corresponding to 64 picks per inch. Tearing strength is highest in fabrics TFL5 (46.51kgf) and TFL4 (53.34kgf) in warp and weft ways respectively. MFL3 tearing resistance is higher in both the warp and weft ways. MFL3 and TFL4 had bending lengths above 12.00cm in weft way signifying higher flexural rigidity. Fabric MFL3 has highest bending modulus (30.90Nm-2) in weft way. T-test results revealed a significant (p<0.05) difference in Tearing Strength in weft way between MFL (29.34±8.56) and TFL (31.5±18.73; t = -0.23, p = 0.82) and significant difference in CF of MFL (12.67±3.08) and TFL (13.74±5.15; t =11.343, p = 0.000). The correlation matrix showed moderately positive relationships (r >.500), and PCA indicated that TFL had six strong mechanical properties as compared to MFL's eight (Flexural Rigidity .975 and Tensile .791 in weft way; Tearing Strength .962 in warp way; Bending Length (.968 and .804), Bending-Modulus (.924, -.836) in weft and warp ways, and FW.956) in component I (λ=6.33) accounting for TFL (45.19%) and MFL (55.12%) total variance explained. PLS-SEM showed a significant contribution of EPI, 2/2 matt weave structure, NFY, and CF on the mechanical properties of fabrics from TFL and MFL. The study concluded that the mechanical properties of lightweight Aso-Oke produced on TFL and MFL have excellent tensile, elongation, tearing strength, abrasion, shrinkage, and bending resistances influenced by yarn type, density, thickness, and weave structure, thus weaver skill is vital.
ASSESSMENT OF PARENTS WILLINGNESS TO SUPPORT ADOLESCENT SEXUAL REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH (ASRH) SERVICES IN IDO AND IBADAN NORTH LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREAS OF OYO STATE, NIGERIA
(2024-11-20) FATOKI, Ayomide Moyinoluwa
ABSTRACT The strength of a nation depends on parental involvement during the period of adolescence. Parental responsibilities in raising adolescents, including setting rules regarding appropriate behaviors, are crucial for healthy development and well-being. One of the main sources of reproductive health related-information in Nigeria is parent-child communication which involves both verbal and non-verbal interactions between parents and children within the family system. This study assessed parents’ willingness to support adolescent sexual reproductive health (ASRH) services in Ido and Ibadan North Local Government Areas of Oyo State. Multi-stage sampling procedure was used to select 270 respondents. In-depth interview, focus group discussions, and questionnaire was used to obtain primary data on socio-economic characteristics, knowledge on ASRH, types of ASRH services available, perceptions and willingness of parents to support ASRH services, Data were analysed using descriptive statistics such as frequency counts, percentages, mean, standard deviation, Logistic Regression Model and Spearman Rho correlation. Result revealed that 55.2% of the respondents were female, 79.3% were married, with a mean age of 42 years, and household size of 3 persons. Results also revealed that 99.6% of respondents had a high knowledge of ASRH services, 61.1% had favourable perception of ASRH services, and 96.3% are willing to support ASRH services. Logistic Regression Model revealed a significant (p≤0.05) relationship between age (β = 0.101); marital status of parents (β = 1.021) and their willingness to support ASRH services. Spearman Rho revealed a significant (p≤0.05) relationship between knowledge of parents on ASRH services (r = 0.329) and their willingness to support ASRH services. Furthermore, the findings revealed that there was a significant (p≤0.05) relationship between the perception of parents on ASRH services (r = 0.333) and their willingness to support ASRH services. The study concluded that the positive knowledge base among parents and the broad awareness and acceptance of essential components of ASRH services facilitated parents’ willingness to support the services. The study recommended that partnerships with media outlets should be strengthened to ensure accurate and positive portrayals of ASRH services. Also, community engagement and targeted educational programmes that address misconceptions about ASRH services, and concerns such as moral values and potential negative consequences raised by the community should be organized to promote awareness and willingness.
ASSESSMENT OF POULTRY FARMERS READINESS TO ADOPT CLIMATE SMART AGRICULTURAL PRACTICES IN OGUN STATE.
(2024-01-20) OLUYEMI, AYODELE MOSES
ABSTRACT Changing climate patterns makes the adoption of Climate Smart Agricultural (CSA) practices becomes imperative for poultry farmers to enhance resilience, mitigate environmental degradation, and sustain productivity. This study assessed poultry farmers’ readiness to adopt climate smart agricultural practices in Ogun State. Nigeria. Simple random sampling technique was used to select 243 small and medium scale poultry farmers from six Poultry Association of Nigeria Ogun State Chapter (PANOG) group zones. Primary data were obtained on climate change related risks experienced, awareness of CSA practices, knowledge of CSA practices, readiness to adopt climate-smart agriculture practices, factors influencing readiness to adopt CSA practices and sources of information on climate smart agriculture practices from small and medium poultry farmers with questionnaire. Secondary data were also obtained on annual rainfall, temperature and relative humidity in the study area in the last ten years from Nigeria Meteorological Agency. Data were analyzed using percentages, frequency counts, mean and standard deviation, Chi-Square statistic and Pearson Product Moment Correlation (PPMC). Result reveals that the mean age, poultry experience of the respondents were 43±11.36years, 9±6.76years respectively, 55.6% of the respondents had Higher National Diploma/ Bachelor of Science in Education. Findings show that the highest mean temperature, rainfall and relative humidity were 300C, 2200mm and 80.0% recorded at year 2024 respectively. Climate related risks experienced by the respondents were increase in heat stress in the poultry birds due to rise in temp (x ̅=2.29) and changing in egg production or hatch rate (x ̅=2.08). Some of CSA practices aware by the respondents were integration of agroforestry practices (86.8%), and adoption of precision feeding (84.4%). Results shows that majority (66.7%) of the respondents were highly knowledgeable on CSA practices. Also, findings reveal that majority (69.4%) of the respondents were ready to adopt CSA practices. Furthermore, result shows that factors influencing the respondent’s readiness to adopt CSA practices were financial resources (x ̅=1.77) and availability of modern infrastructure and tools for implementation (=1.67). Sources of information on CSA practices were Poultry Farmers Association (81.9%) and social media (68.7%). PPMC revealed significant relationships (p≤0.05) between age (r= 0.22); years of poultry experience (r=0.12); awareness (r =0.29 and readiness to adopt climate smart agricultural practices. Chi-square statistic revealed significant association (p≤0.05) between closure of poultry production due to extreme weather event (χ2=0.91); challenges in accessing veterinary services during extreme weather (χ2=0.45) and readiness to adopt CSA practices. The study concludes that poultry farmers in Ogun State demonstrate substantial awareness and readiness to adopt CSA practices. Therefore, the study recommends that State Ministry of Agriculture in collaboration with Ogun State Agricultural Development Program (OGADEP) and Poultry Association of Nigeria Ogun State Chapter (PANOG) should conduct regular training for poultry farmers on climate smart agricultural practices to equip them with practical skills to manage climate related risks affecting poultry production.
ASSESSMENT OF THE EFFECT OF SOME FACTORS AFFECTING SOIL RESISTIVITY FOR OPTIMAL PERFORMANCE OF A GROUNDING SYSTEM.
(2024-09-25) AKINYEMI, MOFOLORUNSHO
ABSTRACT The impedance of the discharge path of a fault current defines the quality of a grounding system. Thisstudy assessed the effect of depth (D), temperature (T), moisture content (MC) and soil texture (ST) onsoil resistivity () for optimal performance of a grounding system. The measurements for two differentseasons which are rainy season (July 2023) and dry season (January 2024) were carried out at 10locations in Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta as a case study. These locations wereCOLENG, Postgraduate (PG) School, COLPHYS, Health Centre (HC), Works and Services Unit(WSU), COLANIM, COLVET, COLPLANT, Student Union Building (SUB) and COLBIOS. The wasmeasured via Wenner method at D of 0.150, 0.450, 0.756, 1.110 and 1.490 m automatically selected bythe Herojat Rhomega-Smart Resistivity Meter deployed. The MC and ST were determined for the sameD values by laboratory analysis of five samples of 5 kg soil from each location. The ST class wasidentified using IEEE Standard 81-2012 and the soil T at different D values was measured using athermometer. The relationship between the dependent variable () and the independent variables (MC, Tand D) was modelled via the use of multiple linear regression (MLR) for each location for both seasons. The level of contribution of D, T and MC to was determined by the coefficient ofdetermination (R 2). The rainy season measured at COLENG, PG School, COLPHYS, HC, WSU,COLANIM, COLVET, COLPLANT, SUB and COLBIOS ranged between 31.6-262.0, 78.5-222.5,113.7-222.5, 48.4-167, 91.0-184.0, 61.6-124.7, 122.0-177.5, 190.0-341.5, 100.3-203.0 and 84.7-116.0Ωm, respectively while the dry season values ranged between 123.7-462.5, 106.5-448.5, 178.5-1128.5,271.1-493.0, 111.0-306.0, 70.1-257.5, 140.0-656.5, 320.5-853.0, 188.0-382.5 and 92.2-365.5 Ωm,respectively. These values were typical of three ST classes which included sandy loamy, sandy clayloam and loamy sand. The MC measured for both seasons at the locations ranged between 9.60-20.30,2.06-16.4, 2.39-12.40, 3.40-8.30, 3.80-23.90, 9.40-16.90, 12.20-17.60, 10.10-12.00, 8.40-18.10 and13.20-15.10 %, respectively. Similarly, the soil T measured during rainy season ranged between 28-31,27-30, 30-31, 30-31, 29-30, 29-30, 28-29, 29-30, 29-30 and 29-30oc , respectively whereas the valuesranged between 39-40, 35-36, 37-38, 37-38, 38-39, 37-38, 37-38, 38-39, 37-39 and 35-36oc ,respectively, for dry season. The lowest was measured at nearly all the locations for both seasons at D of 1.490 m where MC was highest and T was lowest. The only exception to this trend occurred at SUBand COLPLANT where was lowest at 0.150 m and HC where the value was least at 0.150 m and 0.450m, respectively, during rainy season. The 20 MLR models developed for the 10 locations for both rainyand dry seasons revealed that MC, T and D collectively contributed better to than the individual variables due to higher value of multiple R 2 recorded. This study showed that the soil resistivity of thetest locations was influenced by soil texture, moisture content, temperature and depth.
ASSESSMENT OF THE PROBIOTIC POTENTIAL OF Bacillus species ISOLATED FROM LOCALLY FERMENTED LOCUST BEAN ‘IRU’
(2023-10-30) FARONBI OLUTONI RUTH
ABSTRACT Bacillus species is gaining interest in human health related functional food research due to their probiotic property and survivability under hostile environment of the gastrointestinal tract. There is currently the need to shift focus to locally produced foods that are rich in probiotics as they can confer great health benefits on humans. This study assessed the probiotic potential of Bacillus species isolated from a locally fermented locust bean “Iru” Bacillus species were isolated from “Iru” using standard microbiological techniques. The isolates were characterized using morphological and biochemical methods, then were then subjected to preliminary acid test at varied pH rates (2.0, 4.0 and 7.0) and bile concentrations (0.3, 0.5 and 1.0) %. The isolates that survived the preliminary test were further subjected to varied pH values (2.0, 3.0, 4.0, 5.5 and 7.0) and bile concentrations (0.1, 0.3, 0.75 and 1.0) %. Antibiotic susceptibility test, antimicrobial activity against some bacterial pathogens and toxin production ability of the Bacillus isolates were carried out. The Bacillus isolates were further assayed for their hydrophobicity, auto-aggregation, co-aggregation ability and cholesterol reducing ability. Molecular characterization was carried out on the isolates and their clonal diversity with other probiotic Bacillus deposited in the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) databank was determined. Data obtained were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences Version 17.0. Values were separated using mean and standard deviation. Seven Bacillus species were identified and only three; Bacillus subtilis strain NCDO 1769, Bacillus thuringiensis strain HER1410 and Bacillus sp. RZ2MS9 had high survival rates (66.3% - 97.9%) at different pH values and (76.7% -97.9%) at different bile concentrations. The Bacillus isolates showed susceptibility to antibiotics used. Zones of inhibition against bacterial pathogens ranged from 6.0 - 19.0 mm and all the three Bacillus species tested negative to the toxins. The three Bacillus isolates had high survival rates (68 -870) % when assayed for hydrophobicity and auto-aggregation. Survival rates of co-aggregation was however low (18.6 - 20.0) %. The three isolates utilized cholesterol 200mg/dl at a reduction rate of (91.1, 86.1 and 95.4) % respectively. Result of molecular characterization confirmed the three Bacillus isolates as Bacillus subtilis strain NCDO 1769, Bacillus thuringiensis strain HER1410 and Bacillus sp. RZ2MS9. The three isolates showed diversity with other probiotic Bacillus species deposited in the NCBI data bank as the three of them clustered separately with other strains. In conclusion, this research study revealed that the Bacillus in “Iru” exhibited probiotic and hypocholesterolaemic properties.
ASSESSMENT OF THE STRENGTH AND DURABILITY OF GEO-POLYMER CONCRETE CURED IN LAGOON WATER
(2025-01-20) EWETADE Abayomi Olukayode
ABSTRACT Geopolymer Concrete (GPC) presents a suitable alternative to Portland Cement Concrete (PCC) in infrastructure projects due to its friendly production effect to the environmental. The production of Portland Cement (PC) contributes significantly to greenhouse gas emissions, and its poor performance in aggressive environment. This study investigated the strength and durability of GPC in Lagoon water. With the target strength of 50 Mpa.The GPC comprises of fine and coarse aggregates, metakaolin (MK) with ground granulated blast furnace slag acting x as the binders, sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and sodium silicate (Na₂SiO₃) which provided the alkaline medium. Reinforced GPC 100 × 100 × 600 mm beams, 100 × 100 x 100 mm cubes and 100 × 200 mm cylinders were prepared for flexural, compressive and split tensile testrespectively. Two specimens were prepared; the main specimen was cured in lagoon water (GPCW), while the control specimen was cured at ambient temperature (GPCD), for 28, 90, 180, 270 and 365 days. A finite Element program ANSYS was used to simulate the mechanical properties of both specimen. Scanning Electron Microscopy and Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy were used to determine the microstructural and elemental composition of the specimens, respectively.Results showed an increase (111.31 to 146.22 Mpa)in compressive, flexural and splitting tensile on an average of 38.8% from 28 to 180 days, with a decrease of (146.22 to 205.25 Mpa) 23.6% by the 365th day for the GPCD samples. The GPCW showed a reduced strength of (45.02 to 40.01 Mpa) 43% when compared with GPCD, and it experienced reduction in strength at an average of 11% from 28 to 365 days. Deflection of the reinforced beams indicated a steady increase from 28 to 365 days, mirroring the general deflection behaviour of conventional concrete's linear elasticity. SEM revealed differences in GPCD and GPCW with the latter displaying less dense structures with larger voids, consistent with the reduction in compressive strength over time. Conversely, GPCD samples had a denser microstructure, resulting in higher strength. Unreacted MK particles were visible in SEM images, indicating incomplete geopolymerisation in certain areas of the GPCW.XRD analysis highlighted a stable calcium-to-silicon (Ca:Si) ratio in GPCW, with variations in the silicon-to-aluminum (Si:Al) ratios between GPCW and GPCD specimens. Efflorescence substance was observed in the GPCD samples after 180 days. The analysis of the substance revealed a high level of calcium oxide (CaO) and iron oxide (Fe2O3). These oxides led to the reduction in strength after 180 days. The simulation of both GPC samples revealed the elastic strain, normal stress and the deformation generated within the concrete samples during the experiment. Statistical analysis showed the difference between the experimental and simulation strength results to have P ≤ 0.05 confidence interval. This confirmed that the stress-strain obtained in the ANSYS simulation is a true reflection of what happened in the experiment. The study found that Geo-polymer Concrete had weak durability and mechanical properties in an aggressive environment, but strong mechanical strengths in non-aggressive environment making it a promising alternative to PortlandCement.
ASSESSMENT OF WATER SANITATION AND HYGIENE (WASH) SERVICES AND HOUSEHOLD VULNERABILITY TO WATER INSECURITY IN SELECTED TOWNS WITHIN UPPER OGUN RIVER BASIN
(2025-09-22) AKANJI, OLUSOLA ENOCH
ABSTRACT Water insecurity is one of the most pressing challenges facing Sub-Saharan Africa, where there is inadequate access to safe drinking water and sanitation facilities. This study assessed Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) services, household vulnerability and coping strategies to water insecurity in selected towns in Upper Ogun River Basin (UORB), Nigeria. Iseyin, Saki East, and Saki West Local Government Areas (LGA) were purposively selected within the UORB. Multistage sampling method was used to identify one prominent town from each LGA – Iseyin (Iseyin), Saki (Saki West), and Sepeteri (Saki East). Each selected town was systematically separated into clusters, from which communities and households were randomly selected to ensure geographic representation for data collection. Primary and secondary data were collected during this study. Two hundred and fifty (250) copies of well structured questionnaire were administered in addition to Water Quality Assessment data. Water samples were analysed for physico-chemical parameter which included pH, electrical conductivity, total dissolved solids, lead, copper, iron, chloride, hardness, alkalinity, total solids and microbiological parameters (total coliform count, and Escherichia coli). Secondary data comprised 30-year remotely sensed rainfall data (1993-2023) sourced from Climate Engine portal, and Health records from Oyo State Ministry of Health. Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI) was employed to assess the meteorological drought patterns, while Joint Monitoring Programme's WASH Service Ladder provided standard criteria for WASH service classification. A novel household vulnerability assessment framework was developed using Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) Social Vulnerability Index approach. The results indicated issues with water availability and deterioration in water quality across all the three locations. SPI analysis showed an increasing trend toward dryness, with severe to extreme drought conditions from 2013-2023, and particularly intensified from 2021-2023 when SPI values reached exceptional dryness levels below -2.0. WASH services varied significantly across locations, with Sepeteri showing the most critical conditions where 64% of households practised open defecation and 82% lacked adequate basic hand washing facilities. Water quality analysis showed widespread contamination, with iron concentrations (3.01- 4.98 mg/L) exceeding WHO standards at all sampling locations and microbial contamination with E. coli present in 7, 20 and 19 samples collected at Iseyin, Saki and Sepeteri respectively. Most samples can be traced to the effect of open defecation in the area particularly at Sepeteri. The results also showed pattern between drought conditions and malaria prevalence, with negative SPI values consistently aligning with malaria outbreaks across all locations, thereby suggesting that drought monitoring could serve as an early warning system for vector-borne disease surveillance. Household vulnerability assessment revealed that while Iseyin (72%) and Saki (80%) maintained relatively high proportions of low-vulnerability households, Sepeteri faced severe challenges with only 28% classified as low vulnerability and 48% experiencing between high to very high vulnerability to water insecurity. The study concluded that water insecurity has an impact on public health and household coping mechanisms across the Upper Ogun River Basin with major impact at Sepeteri.
ASSESSMENT OF WATER, SANITATION AND HYGIENE IN SELECTED PUBLIC UNIVERSITIES, SOUTH WEST, NIGERIA.
(2024-11-20) OGUNKOYA, ITUNUOLUWA TOYOSI
ABSTRACT Adequate access to safe water, sanitation facilities, and proper hygiene (WASH) practices is fundamental to human health, dignity, and well-being. Despite the concerted global efforts to achieve "access to adequate and equitable sanitation and hygiene for all" by 2030, WASH practice challenges still persist across various household, health care centres, and schools. The accessibility and WASH practices within university campuses have not received sufficient research attention. This study investigated the accessibility to WASH facility and practices in student halls of residences in selected public Universities in six (6) Southwest Nigeria namely, Federal University of Agriculture Abeokuta (FUNAAB), University of Ibadan (UI). University of Lagos (UNILAG), Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Federal University of Technology Akure (FUTA), and Ekiti State University (EKSU). Stratified sampling method was employed to collect five water samples in triplicates from each University's halls of residence. The samples were analyzed for physicochemical and microbiological parameters. (pH, electrical conductivity(EC), total dissolved solids (TDS), chloride, hardness, nitrate, and Escherichia coli). Additionally, a multi-stage random sampling technique was used to select 1200 students (600 females, 600 males) for a semi-structured questionnaire and observational checklist. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests to determine associations between WASH variables and gender. The study reveals that 81.25% of drinking water sources met the criteria for basic service, as defined by the WASH service ladder. Sanitation facilities demonstrated marked heterogeneity, with safely managed sanitation ranging from 0% to 100% among institutions. Notably, hygiene facilities uniformly fell into the limited-service category across all surveyed universities. The results of the Water Quality Index (WQI assessment of the six Universities in Southwest Nigeria showed varying levels of water quality, with UI, OAU and FUTA having excellent WQI of 23.30, 49.90 and 49.00 respectively, FUNAAB and EKSU having good WQI of 55.70 and 57.50 respectively, and UNILAG having poor WQI of 131.90. Furthermore, the study found that 63% of students relied on packaged water as their primary drinking water source, while 34% depended on communal tap water. Although all students had access to flush toilets, the toilet- sharing ratios varied significantly, with 53% sharing facilities at a ratio greater than 10 students per toilet. All students had access to hand washing facilities, 60% lacked access to either water or soap for hand washing, and only 28% had access to both. The chi-square test results showed no significant (P > 0.05) associations between WASH variables and gender. Conclusively, the reliance on packaged water and high toilet-sharing ratios, coupled with the inadequacy of access to essential hand washing facilities highlights serious risks to personal hygiene, health and well-being of students. This study underscores the necessity for enhanced investments in WASH facilities and practices in Universities in Southwest Nigeria.
ASSOCIATION OF KRUPPEL-LIKE FACTOR-15 (KLF 15) GENE (EXON 2) POLYMORPHISM WITH BODY WEIGHT AND MORPHOMETRIC TRAITS IN IMPROVED NIGERIAN INDIGENOUS CHICKENS
(2024-07-25) BABALOLA, Diran Afolabi
ABSTRACT Kruppel-like factors (KLFs) are transcriptional regulators that are members of the zinc-finger family, crucial for the expression, development, and differentiation of several mammalian cell types. This study was carried out to determine the relationship between KLF 15 gene polymorphism, body weight and morphometric traits in Nigerian indigenous chickens (NIC). A total of 250-day-old chick of Nigerian indigenous chickens were procured; and over the course of eight weeks, data on the morphometric traits of the birds were collected including the live body weight of the birds. At 8 weeks of age, a total of sixty (60) chickens were selected at random having 20 birds selected for each genotype while blood samples were collected from the chickens. Preliminary analysis including main and interaction effects of sex, chicken genotype, and KLF 15 genotype on body weight and morphometric traits were done but the effects of interaction were not significant while the evolutionary analysis was also conducted using Molecular Evolution and Genetic Analysis (MEGA X) software. The effects of genotype on body weight of NIC indicated that at weeks 4, 6, 7 and 8, normal feather chicken had significantly highest body weight (386.66±18.93g, 772.48±30.96, 1034.37±52.03g, 1158.13±51.99g) compared to naked neck (380.18±16.9g, 753.56±34.74g, 940.92±42.31g, 1140.06±45.63g) and frizzle feather (322.54±17.84g, 627.64±35.48g, 857.78±44.53g, 943.35±53.15g), respectively. The effect of genotype showed that Normal feather chicken had significantly (P<0.05) highest body length (19.15±0.40cm; 20.71±0.46cm) at week 7 and 8, respectively, compared to Frizzle feather and Naked neck. For thigh length, Frizzle feather chicken genotype was significantly higher (12.81±0.54cm) compared to Naked neck chickens. The Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) patterns showed the genotypes of KLF 15 gene displayed the PCR products of size 1000bp DNA ladder with a single, specific and non-specific bands possessing two homozygous genotypes denoted as AA, BB, and one heterozygous genotype denoted as AB. Observed alleles and genotypic frequencies of KLF 15 gene locus in the chickens’ populations showed that AA was the only genotype to be the most common among the chickens. The highest genetic identity was observed between Naked neck and Frizzle feather chickens (0.995); and Normal feather and Frizzle feather chickens (0.995). The association of KLF 15 gene with body weight and morphometric traits of Nigerian indigenous chicken at various weeks showed that KLF 15 genotype AA, AB and BB with body weight and span length had significant (p<0.05) association at week 7, wing length at week 2 and week 8. It can be concluded that Normal feather chickens were superior to other genotypes in body weight and most body measurements and similar trend was observed for male chickens compared to female chickens while the evolutionary analysis showed that Normal feathers and Naked necks are closely related. Considering the superior body weight and measurements, Normal Feather chickens can be selectively bred to improve these traits across the population.
BG-IV GENE EXPRESSION AND ITS ASSOCIATION WITH IMMUNE RESPONSE TRAITS IN NIGERIAN LOCALLY-ADAPTED TURKEYS CHALLENGED WITH ATTENUATED ANTIGENS OF NEWCASTLE DISEASE VIRUS
(2024-09-20) EMMANUEL, HAPPINESS OSHIOGHIEME
BIOSYNTHESIS OF NANOPARTICLES FROM LOW-VALUE AGRO-WASTE AND THEIR POTENTIAL AS BIOCIDES IN PAINT INDUSTRY
(2024-07-20) MOYOSORE, WASIU ABAYOMI
ABSTRACT Paint contains organic materials which can serve as both carbon and energy sources for microorganisms, therefore susceptible to microbial attack during storage and after application on a surface. The resistance of paint spoilage microbes to conventional biocides necessitates the development of improved and more effective biocides. Nanomaterials have recorded broad-spectrum antimicrobial properties. This study investigated the biocidal efficacy of biogenic nanosilver (AgNPs) and nanotitania (TiNPs) as potential biocides for the paint industry. The nanosilver and nanotitania were synthesized by adding aqueous extract of banana peel to silver nitrate (AgNO3) and titanium iv oxide (TiO2), respectively. The biogenic nanoparticles were characterized using Ultraviolet-visible spectrophotometry, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) while Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) was used to profile metabolites present in the banana peel. Paint microbes were isolated from two samples of in-can paints and fifteen painted walls observed for visible discolorations in Abeokuta and characterized using morphological, biochemical, and molecular methods. The biocidal efficacy of the biogenic nanoparticles against the isolates was investigated. Bioactive compounds revealed by GC-MS were docked against biomarkers present in susceptible isolates using iGEMDOCK software. The results were analyzed using one-way Analysis of Variance while treatment means were separated by Duncan Multiple Range Test at 0.05 level of significance. Results showed that Ultraviolet-visible spectrophotometry recorded surface plasmon resonance at 475 and 260 nm for AgNPs and TiNPs, respectively. The SEM revealed polydispersed AgNPs and TiNPs having average sizes of 83.48 and 96.4nm, respectively. The EDX confirmed the presence of silver and titanium with carbon and oxygen showing that both nanoparticles are biogenic. The intensity of XRD peaks reflected that both nanoparticles are crystalline with AgNPs similar to that of face centered cubic structure of silver, while 2Ɵ at peak around 25° confirmed TiO2 anatase structure. The FT-IR analysis showed the presence of carboxylic acids and esters, confirming n-Hexadecanoic acid and methyl ester as revealed by GC-MS. The susceptible isolates identified by molecular method were Pseudomonas aeruginosa FUNAAB WAS01, Kosakonia cowanii FUNAAB WAS02, and Aspergillus aculeatus FUNAAB WAS03 with Kosakonia cowanii being a novel bacterium implicated in paint deterioration. At concentrations 4 - 125µg/ml, the nanoparticles exhibited biocidal efficacy against the three paint isolates. The TiNPs inhibited growth of Pseudomonas aeruginosa with zone of inhibition of 20 mm diameter while conventional biocide recorded no zone of inhibition. Docking analysis revealed that n – Hexadecanoic acid has a relatively high negative binding energy of 88, 80, and 73 kcal against Pseudomonas aeruginosa FUNAAB WAS01, Kosakonia cowanii FUNAAB WAS02, and Aspergillus aculeatus FUNAAB WAS03. The study suggested that biogenic nanosilver and nanotitania are effective biocides against microbes implicated in paint degradation.
CASSAVA PROCESSING ENVIRONMENTAL EXTERNALITIES AND WILLINGNESS TO PAY FOR IMPROVED WASTE MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS IN OGUN STATE, NIGERIA
(2025-01-20) EJIM-EZE, IFUNANYA MARTHA
ABSTRACT Processing of cassava roots into various products generates substantial cassava waste which has environmental implications, hence the need to encourage adoption of improved waste management systems among cassava processors. This study examined the cassava processing environmental externalities and willingness to pay (WTP) for improved waste management systems in Ogun State. A multi-stage sampling procedure was adopted to select two hundred (200) respondents for the study. The first stage was the purposive selection of two Agricultural Development Programme (ADP) zones (Abeokuta and Ikenne), due to their massive involvement in cassava production and processing, while the last stage involved a systematic random sampling of cassava processors in the study area. Using a well-structured questionnaire, primary data were obtained on cassava processors’ socioeconomic characteristics, cassava processing methods, types of cassava wastes, cassava processing environmental externalitiesperceived, willingness to pay for improved cassava waste management systems, and influence of socioeconomic characteristics on the adoption of improved cassava waste management systems. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics (frequency counts, percentages, mean), Logit regression model (LRM), and multivariate probit (MVP). Findings reveal that 83.0% of the cassava processors were female; with mean age, annual income, processing experience, mean bid price (WTP price) and household size of 43 years, ₦603,000.00, 15 years, ₦1,320.00 and 6 persons respectively. Findings also reveal that 43.5% of the processors had primary education, 46.5% had access to extension services, 68.5% were married, and 78.0% were into thrift savings while 9.0% belonged to processing associations. The major types of cassava wastes generated by the respondents were cassava wastewater (99.5%), cassava peels (81.0%), foul odor (75.5%), and smoke (70.0%). Furthermore, cassava processing environmental externalities were perceived as highfor organic matter ( = 4.20) and engine oil spillage ( = 3.94) respectively while it is moderatefor flies infestation ( = 2.76) and very low for cyanide generation ( = 1.00). LRM reveals that bid price (ꞵ = -0.032) significantly (p<0.05) influenced the WTP for improved cassava waste management systems. MVP results showed that gender (ꞵ =1.363, p<0.01), extension visit (ꞵ = 0.005, p<0.01), quantity of cassava processed (ꞵ =1.008, p<0.05) and annual income (ꞵ = 0.220, p<0.01) had positive influence, while access to financial credit (ꞵ = -0.330, p<0.01) negatively influenced the adoption of improved waste management systems. This study concluded that the cassava processors are willing to pay for improved waste management systems by reducing the bid prices and increasing extension services. This study recommended that there should be more extension services in the study area, to promote the use of improved cassava waste management. Processors should also be encouraged to join processing associations to enable them stay well-informed, innovative and have access to financial credit.

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