A Journal of the Faculty of Science, Southern Delta University, Ozoro
This Journal of the Faculty of Science, Southern Delta University, Ozoro is a multidisciplinary journal that accepts empirical research and review articles in Sciences, Environmental Studies and Technological Advancements.
Variations in Morphological and Nutritional Characteristics of Two Varieties of Fluted Pumpkin (Telfairia occidentalis Hook F.)
Fluted Pumpkin (Telfairia occidentalis Hook F.) is a crop that is both nutritious and economically valuable in West Africa. However, there is limited research on the crop in terms of morphological and nutritional variations between varieties. The purpose of this study was to compare morphological characteristics proximate, minerals and vitamin contents, comparing two local varieties of fluted pumpkin. We conducted two controlled field trials under similar conditions. Quantitative details were collected on leaf length, leaf width, stem diameter, stomatal and trichome density, raw protein, fats, fibre, carbohydrates, mineral content (Ca, Mg, K, Na, Fe, and Zn), and vitamin levels (A, C, E, B1, B2, and B3). The results indicated that the width of the leaf (8.4 cm, p = 0.042), trichome density (95 per mm, p = 0.038), raw protein (28.5, p = 0.045), and potassium (450.6 /100 g, p = 0.041) were significant in ABA Local Variety, while the Enugu Local Variety had high carbohydrate content (42.9%, p = 0.049). Finally, the ABA Local Variety demonstrated better morphological characteristics and nutritional composition, making it a better genotype for breeding and farming for better agriculture and nutritional results.
Copyright (c) 2025 A Journal of the Faculty of Science, Southern Delta University, Ozoro
Improved Mass Media Accessibility as a Tool for Enhancing Farmers' Productivity andLivelihood in Delta State, Nigeria
This study evaluated mass media accessibility as a tool for enhancing farmers' productivity and livelihood activities in Delta State, Nigeria. The research analyzed the effectiveness of mass media, farmers' perceptions, access levels, and factors influencing agricultural information access through these platforms. A multistage sampling method selected 268 farmers from four Local Government Areas across Delta North and South agricultural zones. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical methods, including binomial tests and chi-square analysis. Results revealed that 42.54% of farmers found mass media moderately effective in delivering agricultural information, while 45.90% had positive perceptions of its role. A majority (52.99%) reported high access to mass media platforms. Key factors significantly influencing access included farmers' income levels (78.73%) and educational background (71.64%). The study identified critical strategies for enhanced media usage, including reliable electricity supply (97.39%) and improved rural infrastructure (95.15%). Statistical analysis showed that 85.07% of farmers had strong perceptions of mass media usefulness in receiving agricultural information, with 80.97% experiencing livelihood improvements due to information access. The binomial test confirmed significant differences between farmers with high versus low perceptions of mass media's role (p<0.001). Chi-square analysis demonstrated significant improvements in livelihood activities after gaining mass media access (p<0.001). The study recommends government prioritization of electricity supply and rural infrastructure development to support effective mass media utilization in agricultural development, ultimately enhancing productivity and rural livelihoods in similar agro-ecological zones
Ameliorative Effects of Vernonia amygdalina and Celosia argentea Leaf Extracts on Potassium Bromate-Induced Biochemical Alterations in Male Wistar Rats
This study investigated the effects of potassium bromate (PB), a widely used food preservative, on kidney and liver function in Wistar rats, as well as the potential ameliorative properties of bitter leaf (Vernonia amygdalina) and Lagos spinach leaf (Celosia argentea) extracts. Adult male Wistar rats were divided into four groups: control, PB-treated, PB + bitter leaf extract-treated, and PB + Lagos spinach leaf extract-treated. Kidney and liver function parameters were evaluated to assess the toxic effects of PB and the therapeutic efficacy of the extracts. PB-treated rats showed non-significant decreases in kidney function parameters such as urea (35.19 ± 0.79 mg/dL), creatinine (1.12 ± 0.09 mg/dL), and sodium (65.14 ± 1.82 mEq/L), alongside an increase in potassium (2.63 ± 0.07 mEq/L) and chloride (51.73 ± 3.41 mEq/L). Similarly, liver function parameters showed minor reductions, except for lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), which significantly decreased to 10.32 ± 2.06 U/L. Bitter leaf extract treatment caused further reductions in most parameters, with no significant change in alanine aminotransferase (ALT) (4.00 ± 0.00 UI). Conversely, Lagos spinach leaf extract treatment improved kidney and liver function, with elevated urea (40.10 ± 0.91 mg/dL), creatinine (1.14 ± 0.02 mg/dL), and LDH (15.60 ± 1.92 U/L). These results highlight the toxic impact of PB on kidney and liver function and demonstrate the protective roles of bitter leaf and Lagos spinach leaf extracts. Lagos spinach leaf extract showed superior restorative effects, making it a promising natural therapy for PB-induced organ damage
Copyright (c) 2025 A Journal of the Faculty of Science Delta State University of Science and Technology Ozoro
MODELING TELECOMMUNICATION SUBSCRIBER FRAUD HEALING DYNAMICS USING FRACTIONAL CALCULUS
Telecommunication subscriber fraud significantly threatens the financial health and operational integrity of telecom providers. Common forms—such as subscription fraud, bypass fraud, and identity manipulation—exploit system vulnerabilities for unauthorized gains, leading to substantial financial losses, reduced customer trust, and service disruptions. While fraud detection has been widely studied, limited attention is paid to fraud healing dynamics, the process by which networks recover from such incidents. Classical integer-order differential models fail to capture the non-local, memory-dependent nature of fraud recovery. To address this gap, we propose a modeling framework based on fractional calculus, which extends traditional calculus to non-integer orders and effectively models long-memory and hereditary behaviors. We introduce a fractional differential equation (FDE) model specific to fraud recovery in telecom systems, showing its superiority over classical models. Parametric analysis and simulations highlight how detection delays and recovery efforts influence healing. This model supports intelligent, resilient fraud management strategies
MEASUREMENT OF BARBEL, HEAD LENGTH, STANDARD LENGTH AND WEIGHT OF CATFISH (Clarias gariepinus) FROM EKPAN RIVER, DELTA STATE
This study was carried out to determine the meristic characteristics of African catfish Clarias gariepinus in Ekpan River and also to examine the relationship between the length and weight of the fish. A total of eight (18) fishes were bought from fishermen, measurement was done using weighing scale and meter rule. The total length nasal barbel length, maxillary barbel length and standard weight were also measured using a meter rule and the body weight of Clarias gariepinus was measured using a weighing scale. The length weight relationship was calculated using W = aLb and the condition factor was calculated using. Simple percentage was used to get the result of the mean of each fish species. Result shows that the total length (TL) of Clarias gariepinus was 43.7 ± 3.42, the body weight was 1862.5 ± 114.15, the standard length (SL) was 40.9 ± 0.05, head length was 8 ± 0.52 nasal barbel length was 6.2 ± 0.26 maxillary barbell length was 13.2 ± 0.24 also some other body parameters were also evaluated. There was a negative allometric growth for all the fishes, when the growth co-efficient was calculated for Clarias gariepinus (2.734). The condition factor (k) has a value of 0.10 which indicates that the fish are not totally in a good condition. This could be due to unfavourable weather, water quality or feeding rate. The intercept (a) has the value of 5.64 and the coefficient relationship (r) of length-weight is given as 0.52. Therefore, the results obtained from this study suggest that there are no significant similarities in the morphological composition and co-efficient relationship of the Clarias gariepinus. There is a need to determine some factors favourable for the growth and development in subsequent studies in Ekpan River. Also, examination of fish wellbeing or condition factor needs to be studied to increase its spawning rate
Challenges and Innovative Strategies Adopted by Nigerian Poultry Farmers in Post-COVID-19 Pandemic Era: A Delphi Approach
Despite its vital role in Nigeria's economic growth and food production, the poultry industry continues to struggle, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. This study provides a consensus expert opinion on the challenges faced by Poultry farmers in Ovia North East Local Government Area of Edo State, Nigeria in the aftermath of the COVID-19 Pandemic and used exploratory techniques to determine the innovative strategies adopted. The population of the study comprised 25 Poultry farmers, out of which 20 were accepted to constitute the expert panel for the study. At the end of round one, a total of 28 items were identified by the panel as challenges they faced in post COVID-19 Pandemic Era. At round two only 25 items met the cut-off mark of 2.50 and at the end of round three, only 18 items reached consensus at 60% criterion. The study showed that high cost of drugs and vaccines, scarcity of feed, increase in the cost of feed, high mortality rate, high cost of transportation among others were identified as the challenges faced by Poultry farmers. The study further found that innovative strategies such as formation of farmer clusters and cooperative society, encouraging partnership among one another, utilizing biosecurity measures, among others were adopted by the respondents to stay in business. It was therefore recommended that Poultry farmers should be motivated to form cluster groups and the Federal Government of Nigeria should be responsive to supporting farmers in input, value addition, and reduction of energy.
Determination of Alcohol Permeability on Synthesized Polyisoprene/Polystyrene Blend Electrolyte Membrane for Direct Methanol Fuel Cell
The serious issue of methanol permeation associated with Direct Methanol Fuel Cell (DMFC) has militated against its large scale commercialization. Effort in getting polymer electrolyte membranes of high-methanol-permeation resistivity has been on. This has thus necessitated this study, where methanol permeation was determined on synthesized polymer electrolyte membrane derived from the blend of polyisoprene and polystyrene. The synthesized membrane exhibited ideal ionic conductivity of 10-2 S/cm order with moderate water uptake. The concentration change of methanol in aqueous solution at varying degrees of sulphonation (DS) showed that the blended membrane with lower DS manifested higher methanol crossover (1.23 mol/L), while the methanol crossover decreased as DS increased. Hence, the membrane of higher DS (49.37 %) only allowed methanol crossover of 0.79 mol/L, and of course the preceding DS (39.69 %) only allowed 0.92 mol/L. However, methanol crossover was noticed to be highest with the unblended membrane (1.28 mol/L). The overall diffusion coefficient of the synthesized membranes achieved an order of 10-7 cm2/s as against the current state-of-the-art membrane (nafion) (10-6 cm2/s). The study thus showed that the blended membrane manifested a lower methanol permeation by exhibiting high-methanol-permeation resistivity compared to the commercial nafion, suitable for DMFC application.
Advancements in Optimization: A 20-Year Review of Trends, Innovations, and Applications
Optimization, a foundational discipline in mathematics, computer science, and engineering, is dedicated to identifying the most effective solutions to complex problems by minimizing or maximizing objective functions subject to defined constraints. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the prevailing research trends in optimization during the past two decades, examining the evolution, interconnections, and strategic implications of Multi-Objective Optimization, Evolutionary Algorithms, Machine Learning Optimization, and general Algorithm Development. We explore the broad spectrum of contemporary applications and delineate promising future directions, including optimization under uncertainty, explainable optimization, and the nascent field of quantum optimization
Hydrochemical Assessment of Borehole Water Quality in Eku, Delta State, Nigeria
The quality of potable water in a society is of great relevance to the health of its inhabitants. Thus, prior to its utilization for drinking, domestic, agricultural, or industrial purposes, water quality must be evaluated. The aim of the research was to investigate the quality of some selected borehole water samples in Eku, Delta State, Nigeria. Twelve borehole water samples were collected in both wet and dry seasons and examined for physicochemical properties using standard analytical techniques. The results obtained showed that physicochemical properties such as pH, S.G, EC, total hardness, TDS, TSS, BOD and heavy metals were within the accepted maximum allowable limits of WHO for drinking water whereas S.G, total hardness and TSS were higher in concentration during raining season as compared to dry season due to increase in water level. Therefore, the results indicate that the groundwater quality in Eku is suitable for both domestic use and drinking, according to its physiochemical characteristics.
FERTILITY AND POPULATION GROWTH IN NIGERIA:A STATISTICAL ANALYSIS
This study examines the relationship between fertility and population growth in Nigeria. Using secondary data from the United Nations website, we analyzed birth and death rates from 2012 to 2022. Our results show a strong positive correlation between fertility rates and population growth, with a correlation coefficient of 0.97. A linear regression model of y = 0.35x – 0.08 reveals that 1% increase in fertility rates leads to a 0.35% increase in population growth. These findings highlight the significant impact of fertility rates on population growth in Nigeria
Correlation Coefficient and Regression Model
Geospartial Quantification of the Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (Pahs) in the Wetlands of Koko and Environs (Oil Bearing Communities) For Cage Aquaculture Adoption for Sustainable Economic Development in Nigeria
The study investigated the concentration of PAHs in the wetlands of Koko, Agbegbrodo, Ajamogha, Arunologbo and Bresibi oil producing communities in Warri North LGA for their suitability for adoption of cage aquaculture for sustainable economic development in Nigeria. The study answered 5 research questions and tested a hypothesis. In accomplishing these, each wetland was mapped out into 5 research grids, and water samples were collected from 5 spots in each grid adopting grab hydrology sampling technique using 125mL plastic sampling bottle at 10cm depth. The samples collected in each grid were bulked and composites drawn, fixed with HNO4 and stored in ice cooled boxes. The analytical standard adopted was EU code 1881/2014 and the instrument for determination deployed was Agilent GC/MS Triple Quadrupole model 7000. The mean results obtained were; pyrene 1.23±0.11 μg/l, chrysene; 1.26±0.01 μg/l, BaP; 1.25±0.01 μg/l, BaA; 1.25±0.02, and BbF; 1.25±0.11 μg/l. The mean results were further subjected to test of significance using SPSS model 29 IBM at 0.05 level of significance and the p. value was 0.43 thus rejecting H0. The study concluded that the wetlands in Koko and environ are contaminated with PAHs above EU 1881/2014 MPC thus not suitable for cage aquaculture adoption. Thus the produce will neither be fit for human or animal consumption and will equally not be suitable for export. The study recommended that oil companies operating in Koko and environs should be compelled to adopt the world best practices in their operations, monitoring agencies; NESREA and NOSDRA should be more studious in their supervisions and the impacted wetlands should be remediated to return them to hitherto pristine statuses for improved ecosystem services for the adoption case aquaculture for sustainable economic development in Nigeria.
Copyright (c) 2025 Journal of Science, Technology and Environmental Studies
The Adequate Feeding Model for a Farmed Clarias-Gyriepinus (CatFish) using Yate’s Algorithm and the D-OPTIMAL Designs.
The adequate feeding models for Clarias-Gyriepinus (Cat-Fish) were studied using the Yate algorithm and D-optimal design. A time frame of one month was used for the experimentation. Four feed types were employed, which serve as the factors for the experiment, namely Vital-Feed (V-Feed), AquaMax (A-feed), BlueCrown (B-feed), and Top-Feed (T-Feed). Analysis of the experiment using the Yate algorithm shows a great variation in the growth of Clarias-Gyriepinus using a combination of a high level of V- Feed, high level of A-feed, high level of B-feed, and low level of T-feed. Also, a full quadratic model that contains all the parameters was considered. The Box-Behnken and the central composite designs were studied for the full quadratic model using the D-optimality criterion. The results show that the D-optimum design for central composite design with the largest determinant produced a better feeding model for the farmed Clarias-Gyriepinus when compared to the Box-Behnsken
Fermi liquids represent an intriguing state of matter that exhibits unique properties at low temperatures, making them relevant for diverse scientific fields ranging from condensed matter physics to quantum computing. The Fermi liquid theory emanated from the first phenomenological approach proposed by L.D. Landau in explaining the properties of liquid 3He. These many-body systems consist of interacting fermions displaying collective behavior while retaining individual particle characteristics. The Fermi liquid theory explains various properties of fermionic systems, such as specific heat, magnetic susceptibility, and dynamical response to external fields using the fundamental aspects , including quasiparticles, Landau parameters, and transport phenomena. Furthermore, practical applications leveraging the exceptional features of Fermi liquids have emerged across several industries. For instance, Fermi liquid behaviors play a critical role in understanding unconventional superconductivity, spintronics, and heavy fermion materials. Moreover, they offer insights into designing novel electronic devices, developing highly efficient cooling methods, and building scalable quantum computers. Given promising outlook for both basic science and technological breakthroughs, this paper aims to summarize the essential concepts of Fermi liquids and discuss emerging applications driving innovation and progress in this captivating area of research
The Characterization of Nickel-Doped TiO2-Based Dye Sensitized Solar Cells Using Natural Dyes Extracted from Persea Americana L, Murraya koenigii, Citrus sinesis L and Talium fruticosum Leaves
This study concentrates on the third generation photovoltaic cell, which is the conventional dye-sensitized solar cell. This type of solar cell is generally made up from various components such as photo anode support, photo sensitizer (dye), electrolyte and counter electrode. In this research, Nickel was used to doped TiO2 with Avocado leaf (Persea Americana L), Currry leaf (Murraya koenigii), Orange leaf (Citrus sinesis L) and Ceylon spinach (Talium fruticosum) for DSSCs fabrication. The sensitized TiO2/silver with dye recorded an efficiency of 0.47%, 0.47%, 0.05%, and 0.04% for Avocado leaf (Persea Americana L), Curry leaf (Murraya koenigii), Orange leaf (Citrus sinesis L) and Ceylon spinach leaves (Talium fruticosum) respectively. The optical energy bandgap was observed to be 2.32 eV for TiO2 and 3.50 eV, 3.51 eV, 3.51 eV, and 3.52 eV. The structure of the cells is polycrystalline, with several noticeable peaks at 24.891°, 27.509o, 30.375o ,32.915o, 27.509o, 35.296o, 38.814o, 43.152o, 47.579o, 53.231o and 59.130o for TiO2 and 21.689°, 26.363o, 28.162o, 30.464o, 30.083o, 33.083o, 35.780o, 40.612o, 45.207o, 49.387o and 54.466o for TiO2/Ni0.1/avocado leaf, TiO2/Ni0.1/curry leaf and TiO2/Ni0.1/orange leaf corresponding to (101), (004), (200), (105), (211), (204), (116), (220), (215) and (303) planes, respectively. The structure of cells is polycrystalline and exhibit the highest peak (200) at 30.375, (211) at 33.083, (200) at 28.162 and (105) at 30.622 for the bare TiO2 andTiO2/Ni0.1/avocado leaf, TiO2/Ni0.1/curry leaf and TiO2/Ni0.1/orange leaf, respectively
Design and excitation of a plasmonic metasurface V-nanogroove based localized surface plasmon for nanoplasmonics sensing
The extreme sensitivity of plasmonic-based sensors is well known in optics and photonics community. We design a metasurface V-nanogroove that is capable to excite a localized surface plasmon (LSP) for nanosplamonics sensing. Localised surface plasmon is the collective oscillation when light is coupled within conductive nanoparticles smaller than the incidence wavelength due to the interactions between the incident light and the surface electrons in a conduction band. The LSPs are excited when a coherent monochromatic light is sent through the nanogroove, and the excitation is monitored. Different metasurface plasmonic V-nanogrooves of various sizes (thickness) ranges from 50 to 150 nm were designed. The excited LSPs are used for sensing applications such as biosensing and detecting chemical contaminants in the environment
Academic staff flow modeling in a manpower planning system integrated with sustainability practices
Manpower is the human skills, expertise and intelligence in business organization which is responsible for the production of goods and services. Assigning employees to different jobs at the right time, into right positions and in right quantity involves using correct data in planning. Unfortunately, this has remained a huge challenge to human resource personnel in many of our educational institutions. The method of Markov’s transition matrix probabilities is used to model manpower-flow in this article. This research explores the intersection of academic staff flow modeling and sustainable environmental management practices within a manpower planning system. Although, some researchers have made some attempts in modeling manpower planning with data applicable to higher institutions, much has not been said about academic staff-flow in Colleges of Education. In this study, an expansion of the concept of manpower-flow in some existing models is derived by formulating a Markov Model of Academic Staff-flow in Colleges of Education. From the results obtained in the numerical illustration, it is observed that the transient-state is a better parameter than the steady-state in determining the efficiency of the manpower planning system in the first few periods. In the first few periods, the total number of staff decreases with few departments in operation but as time goes on, more academic staffs are being recruited and many departments are usually approved by regulatory bodies such as National Commission for Colleges of Education (NCCE) and National University Commission (NUC) respectively. This gives rise to slow convergence; another phenomenon observed in the probability matrix is the fact that is an upper triangle matrix such that the eigen values form the diagonal elements. The highest eigenvalue is 0.90 which is approximately 1. The model offers practical utility for human resource personnel and policymakers in higher institutions to forecast and optimize staffing structures while supporting sustainability initiatives
Behind an Iterative Scheme: Is the Iterative Scheme a tool for Sustainable Development?
Contrary to the thought that Mathematics and Sustainable Development are unconnected, Mathematical tools are veritable means of solving complex nonlinear models that arises from the field of science, environment, economics and engineering. Obtaining the solution of nonlinear models is key and necessary to evaluate sustainability in quantitative terms. But, some of these nonlinear models are unsolvable via analytic means, hence numerical iterative procedures are utilised. However, the efficiency of an iterative procedure for solving mathematical models is a function of time and cost, which are key factors that cannot be undermined in achieving Sustainable Development. One golden rule in the development of new iterative schemes for solving nonlinear models, is that it should be of low computation cost. The presence of functions derivatives evaluations in an iterative scheme no doubt, increases its implementation cost. More so, obtaining derivative of some complex functions can be big challenge. In this regard, three class of fourth, seventh and eight-order derivative free iterative structures are developed and put forward in this work. The convergence test on the developed iterative scheme were established using some designed computer programs that are executed in MATHEMATICA software environment. To verify the schemes as tools for sustainable economic development, some recently modelled physical phenomena were solved using the developed iterative schemes and their results were placed in juxtaposition with that of some existing contemporary schemes.
Antimicrobial resistant pattern of streptococcus pneumoniae isolated from clinical samples of children aged 1-12 years in selected hospitals from Sapele Delta State, Nigeria
The efficiency of treatment for pneumonia infections has been hampered by Streptococcus pneumoniae resistance to antimicrobial agents and the spread of resistant strains is also significantly influenced by the underuse of antibiotics. The current study reveals the antimicrobial resistant pattern of Streptococcus pneumoniae isolated from clinical samples of children in selected hospitals of Sapele, Delta state Nigeria. One hundred blood and nasal swab samples of children showing different symptoms of pneumonia like chest pain, cough, fever, chills, difficulty in breathing were collected at different intervals from five hospitals in Sapele, Delta state Nigeria for isolation of S. pneumoniae. The children were separated into four age brackets. The age brackets included patients within the ages of 1-3years, 4-6 years, 7-9years and finally 10-12 years. Samples were aseptically plated on nutrient agar and blood agar and the isolates identified macroscopically and microscopically using standard microbiological methods. The age group 4-6years had highest percentage positive of S. pneumoniae 32%, followed by 1-3 years the percentage of S.pneumoniae isolated was 27%, 7-9 years had 22% S. pneumoniae, while 10-12 years had 19% S. pneumoniae. Antibiotics susceptibility was performed using disc diffusion technique on Mueller Hinton agar for all the bacterial isolates. Thirteen different antibiotics were used against identified Streptococcus pneumoniae. The antibiotic study revealed that the isolated organism, Streptococcus pneumoniae was sensitive to six antibiotics, Neomycin, Streptomycin, Erythromycin, Amikacin, Azithromycin, Bacitracin with the following zones of inhibition 18mm, 22mm, 18mm, 20mm, 15mm and 18mm respectively and resistant to Ampicillin, Methicillin, Penicillin, Clindamycin, Ciprofloxacin, Vancomycin, followed by Cefixime. Data obtained were analyzed using SPSS version 21 and a p-value less than 0.05 was statistically considered significant. Hence children below the 12years should be vaccinated against bacterial pneumonia to decrease the death rate of this age group.
Biochemical effects of aqueous extract of Azadirachta indicaon Clarias gariepinus
The study investigates the impact of sublethal toxicity in Clarias gariepinus following the administration of aqueous extracts of Azadirachta indica leaves via intramuscular injection, with a specific focus on biochemical factors like protein and glucose. For the experiment, juvenile C. gariepinus raised in tanks were used. They were placed in a large 140L plastic container containing clean borehole water for a 14-day acclimatization period and were fed commercial fish feed pellets twice daily until they were full. The research utilized various test concentrations (0.5, 1.0, 2.0, 4.0, and 0.00g/l) over a 7-day period. Following the experimental period, the fish were euthanized to analyze biochemical parameters such as total protein and glucose levels in the fish. The levels of total protein in the serum with percentage change of 60.18%, 63.55%, 65.38% and 75,97%, muscles with percentage change of 3.92%, 9.80%, 69.28% and 116.01%, and kidney with percentage change of 44.18%, 26.55%, 45.38% and 42.97% increased with higher concentrations of the plant, while there was a significant decrease (p<0.05) in glucose levels in the muscles with percentage change of 15.95%, 44.87%, 51.71 and 51.14% and a significant increase (p<0.05) in the serum with percentage change of 3.56%, 70.56%, 73.78% and 76.67% and kidney with percentage change of 9.15%, 23.56%, 26.78% and 34.75%. Based on the study results, it can be inferred that exposing A. indica to C. gariepinus may pose a threat to the survival of the fish species. The observed variations suggest that the toxicity of A. indica to C. gariepinus primarily impacts the fish's biochemical parameters, which in turn negatively affects their physiological well-being. These alterations can be used as indicators of the stress experienced by the fish when they are exposed to A. indica
Integration of electrical resistivity and lithologic log for aquifer delineation and predition of fluid loss circulation zone in Ogwashi -Asaba formation
Hydro geophysical and borehole drilling survey were carried out at two different closed locations to unravel hydrogeology of the area and delineate lithology causing loss in fluid circulation phenomenon during drilling of borehole. The geophysical survey was carried out at Ibusa town, while borehole drilling was at Ogwashi-Uku in Aniocha South Local Government Area of Delta State. The Four (4) vertical electrical sounding (VES) stations were occupied during surface hydro-geophysical investigation to achieve a relatively good coverage of the area. The processed vertical electrical sounding result was used to determine of depth and nature of the aquifer systems and correlated with the mudlogging result from Ogwashi-Uku. The geo-electric sections for the four sites shows six to seven distinct lithologic layers to depth of penetration. The correlation of the geo-electrical profile depicted from the interpretation of the VES investigation reveals a dry sandy unit of relative thickness (1.8-2.3m) underlying a loamy sandy topsoil. Below the dry sandy unit is mainly clayey sand of about (1.8 -5.2m) thick. Water from most of the boreholes and abandoned water Board borehole in the town show a brown-reddish colouration. This possibly is the effect of the leachates from the overlying ferruginized dry sandy unit. Below this clayey sand unit is a wet sandy unit which could serve as a source of groundwater and perhaps the horizon (at excess depths of 210m) most boreholes in the Ibusa area should be sited for groundwater sustainability
Unveiling the roles of microbes in environmental management and sustainable economic development
In spite of the environment producing everything it needs to ensure the survival and growth of its residents, man still continue to strive in ensuring that the natural environment becomes more suitable towards meeting up with his needs for survival. This has led to his engagement with series of manipulative activities such as agriculture, exploitation, exploration, innovations and urbanization that had left the environment with negative impacts. Attempts toward the mitigation of these impacts had led to the concept of Environmental Management and Economic Sustainability, whose principal aim is to ensure the needs of man are met but not at the expense of environmental damage. The ubiquitous and diverse nature of Microbes make them significant assets toward achieving sustainable development when used and exploited wisely. The scope of this paper is to explain the roles of microbes in agriculture, waste management, bioremediation, renewable energy production and climate change mitigation. In spite of these, more researches need to be done to have a better understanding on the interactions of microbes with the environment. Also, beneficial microbial processes should be built in industrial scale in order to fully achieve the benefits of microbial roles towards the actualization of environmental and economic sustainable development.
Assessment of the Impact of Vehicular Pollution on Humans and the Environment (A Case Study of Ughelli North LGA Delta State Nigeria)
Numerous harmful health effects, ranging from acute to chronic illnesses, have been linked to exposure to air pollution associated with vehicles. In Delta State, Nigeria's Ughelli North Local Government area, researchers looked into the effects of vehicle pollution on people, animals, and agriculture productivity as well as potential solutions. One thousand five hundred (1500) people make up the sample size population. Two hypotheses were developed and tested at the 0.05 level of significant degrees of freedom in order to conduct the inquiry. Data for the study was gathered via a questionnaire. Furthermore, the data was analyzed using weighted mean and simple percentage statistics, and the hypotheses were tested using chi-square. The results showed that vehicle pollution has had a significant detrimental impact on both the environment and human health, resulting in environmental deterioration and human illnesses. The findings also shown how vehicle pollution has significantly decreased agriculture and animal productivity. Thus, the results of this study demonstrated how crucial it is for the government to uphold current environmental protection legislation. The results also showed that car owners should maintain their vehicles on a regular basis and follow current environmental protection laws and regulations. This is to safeguard the ecosystem's health and stop impending airborne illnesses. In order to mitigate the impact of vehicle pollution, recommendations were made
Authentication of some flora species using basic phytochemical protocol and the need for conservation around Dennis Osadebay University Anwai, Asaba Delta State-Nigeria
Plant species are the most useful biotic elements of the universe appearing in diverse life forms. These species are responsible for food, medicine, oxygen supply, ecosystem moderation and balancing in most cases. Plant species are constantly being destroyed for reasons best known to man. In addition to high rate of speciation in the tropics, habitat destruction, and overexploitation making the need for conservation all the more compelling. Whereas, the paucity of plant taxonomist with its inherent drawbacks constitutes key challenges to these species’ conservation, as lack of proper species information can propel destruction. The species under study includes: Myrianthus arboreus P.Beauv, Spondias mombin Linn, Tridax procumbens Linn., Newbouldia laevis (L) , Azadirachta indica A. Juss and Ixora coccinea Linn.. The aim of the study was to establish authentication protocol for these species using basic phytochemical fingerprints, in the phase of inorganic reagents and to produce a taxonomic key to be used in authenticating species in situ and ex situ. These species information was obtained and documented, while the leaves were harvested, washed under running water, air dried and blended to powder for the purpose of their phytochemistry. Ten (10) grams of samples each were soaked in absolute ethanol for 24 hours, filtered, subjected to three routine phytochemical test methods. The changes observed in extracts were used in species authentication and construction of taxonomic key. The economic benefits derived from these species predispose them to overexploitation. Accordingly, sensitization campaign, seed banking, and habitat conservation is encouraged to enhance the conservation of these species in the Niger Delta region.
Changes in litter production in a secondary rain forest 29 years after fire induced succession
This study investigated dynamics in litter production after a fire induced succession, with a view to assessing the changes in litter fall deposition in the forest as it recovered from fire disturbance. Litter traps were randomly positioned for litter fall collection for a period of one year in 25×25 m sample plot in the burnt area of the forest. The collected litter was sorted into leaf, wood, reproductive parts and trash and oven dried at 80 °C, weighed. The results from this study were compared with those of previous studies on the litter production in the forest in 1990, 1997 and 2008. The results showed that the annual litter fall production (t·ha-¹·yr-¹) was 77.36 (total), 57.31 (73.7 %) (leaf); 14.79 (19.4 %) (wood); 2.02 (2.7 %) (reproductive parts) and 3.24 (4.3 %) (trash). There was significant (p < 0.05) differences in litter fall between the litter components. Litter fall has increased from 4.60 t·ha-1·yr-1 in 1990 to 77.36 t·ha-¹·yr-¹ in 2013. It was concluded that there had been changes in litter production in the forest 29 years after fire
Diel variation in fish species composition in agbura river, a tributary of the lower nun river, Niger-Delta, Nigeria
The diel variation in the composition of fish species in Agbura River, a tributary of the lower Nun River was investigated. Fish samples were collected between April 2012 and March 2013 during day and night. Fish sampling was conducted monthly in three different stations of the river. Out of the 1,137 fish samples, a total of 677 (59.54%) and 460 (40.46%) individuals were caught during the day and night respectively. Of the 29 species, 9 were restricted to daytime catch only, while only 3 species were restricted to night catch. The remaining 17 species occurred during both day and night. The dominant daytime catch was Synodontis budgetti and Synodontis batensoda, while the dominant night catch included Bagrus bayad macropterus. The results of the study showed that the diel variations in fish species composition in Agbura River were related to the activity pattern of the fish during different times, as more fish were caught when active. This was discussed and compared with the findings of earlier studies conducted in different water bodies in the Niger Delta and elsewhere
Biodegradation of treated refinery wastewater using mutant strains of selected microbial species.
Due to high cost of treatment technologies, petroleum industries discharge their wastewater (effluent) without effective treatment, thereby causing pollution. This research was done to determine the microbial and physicochemical parameters of treated effluent of Warri petrochemical company and the petroleum degradability of modified Bacillus and Pseudomonas species on the effluent. Isolates from refinery effluent were determined using standard bacteriological methods and modified using x-ray mutagen. Microbial degradation of total petroleum hydrocarbon (TPH) in the refinery effluent revealed that Pseudomonas sp had a higher degradation potential than Bacillus sp. Greater reduction in biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) values was observed in the modified strain of isolates than their parents. TPH values for Bacillus + Effluent reduced from 0.98 to 0.26 and 0.98 to 0.18 for Bacillus + Effluent +fertilizer. Mutant Bacillus+ Effluent and MutantBacillus+Effluent+fertilizer reduced from 0.98 to 0.25 and 0.22 respectively. Similarly, TPH values for Pseudomonas + Effluent and Pseudomonas +Effluent +fertilizer reduced from 0.98 to 0.11 and 0.04 respectively. Mutant Pseudomonas + Effluent and Mutant Pseudomonas +Effluent +fertilizer reduced from 0.98 to 0.12 and 0.22 while the consortium of organisms +Effluent +fertilizer and control reduced from 0.98 to 0.20 and 0.67 respectively. The highest TPH degradation of 95.9% was observed for Pseudomonas +Effluent +fertilizer while the least (73.5%) was observed for Bacillus + Effluent. Statistical analysis of variance at 95% confidence level indicates that there was significant difference between the bioremediation potentials of both parents and their mutants. Therefore, Pseudomonas species and their mutants should be employed in bioremediation of petroleum hydrocarbon wastewater
Protective outcomes of spices against cassava meal containing vacuum gas oil induced toxicity in Wistar rats
Spices with medicinal properties are gift from nature to humanity; considerably improving general well-being and consumption of vacuum gas oil (VGO) may have toxic effect. This study aimed to determine the protective outcomes of spices (Monodora myristica and Glycyrrhiza glabra) in rats given cassava flour meal comprising vacuum gas oil (CFM-VGO). A total of fifty four (54) male Wistar rats weighing 200–250 g were randomly divided into nine (9) groups. Group 1: normal control. Group 2 were fed CFM-VGO only. Groups 3, 4, and 5, were given normal diet and then treated with M. myristica, G. glabra, and M. myristica + G. glabra extracts. Group 6, 7, 8 and 9 were given CFM-VGO and then treated with M. myristica, G. glabra, M. myristica + G. glabra extracts and 2-methyl cellulose respectively. The rats were euthanized using carbon dioxide after experimental period of 28 days. Significant (p < 0.05) increases were observed in alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), malondialdehyde (MDA) levels and decrease in albumin, total protein (TP) and antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase) in the serum and liver of rats fed with CFM-VGO when compared with normal control. However, treatment with M. myristica and G. glabra extracts significantly restored altered ALT, AST, ALP, MDA and antioxidant enzymes activities. In conclusion, the data obtained confirm the protective effect of spices against vacuum gas oil tainted cassava meal induced toxicity in rats. Therefore, sustainable medicinal spices production could be necessary in securing future sourcing and improvement of good health which may boost economic development
Sustainable Development through Iterative Scheme: A Computational Perspective
Contrary to the notion that mathematics and sustainable development are unrelated, mathematical tools, particularly numerical iterative procedures, play a vital role in solving complex nonlinear models that arise from various fields, including science, environment, economics, and engineering. These models are crucial for quantitatively assessing sustainability, but some cannot be solved analytically. Therefore, efficient iterative procedures are essential, as they significantly impact time and cost, two critical factors in achieving sustainable development. Minimizing computational cost is a fundamental principle in developing new iterative schemes. Since derivative evaluations increase implementation costs and can be challenging for complex functions, this study presents three classes of derivative-free iterative structures with fourth, seventh, and eighth-order convergence. Using custom-designed computer programs in the MATHEMATICA software environment, we verified the convergence of these schemes. Furthermore, we applied these schemes to recently modeled physical phenomena and compared them to existing contemporary schemes, demonstrating their effectiveness as tools for sustainable economic development.