bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
LANDSCAPING FOR PASSIVE SECURITY AND ADAPTATION TO CLIMATE IN CHURCH ENVIRONMENT, NIGER STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Adedayo OF , Ailoyafen D , Adebayo OA
Published: June 2021

Nigeria is faced with several risks ranging from problems of climate change to security challenges and this is not limited to a specific aspect of the built environment as all buildings and environment are affected. The places of worship are greatly affected in terms of security which affects the disposition of Christians during worship at churches. Many of the studied churches were seen to have made use of landscape elements but these were not placed with the aim of using them to deter intrusion as in the case of security but rather for beautifying the church. The challenge for architects and church administrator is how to cope with challenges of security and climate change. This paper examines landscaping as a catalyst for deterring intrusion of threats passively and enhancing climate adaptation in church environment in Nigeria. The research method adopted for this study is the descriptive survey method by collecting qualitative and quantitative data. The results were analyzed using descriptive tools in SPSS and are presented in tables and charts while the pictures are presented in plates. The study reveals that it is possible to achieve passive security and solve some climatic challenges in church environment using soft landscape elements. The paper is concluded by determining the aspects of the building where the architect can infuse the specific landscape elements to achieve the aim of the paper. It further states the type of landscape elements that could be used to achieve the aim of the study hence developing a responsive building design scheme.  http://dx.doi.org/10.4314/njt.v36i1.2
COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF THE PERFORMANCE OF RESOURCE ALLOCATION ALGORITHMS IN LONG TERM EVOLUTION NETWORKS
Authors: Nwawelu UN , Ani CI , Ahaneku MA
Published: June 2021

The growth in the good number of real-time and non-real-time applications has sparked a renewed interest in exploring resource allocation schemes that can be efficient and fair to all the applications in overloaded scenarios. In this paper, the performance of six scheduling algorithms for Long Term Evolution (LTE) downlink networks were analyzed and compared. These algorithms are Proportional Fair (PF), Exponential/Proportional Fair (EXP/PF), Maximum Largest Weighted Delay First (MLWDF), Frame Level Scheduler (FLS), Exponential (EXP) rule and Logarithmic (LOG) rule.  The performances of these algorithms were evaluated using an open source simulator (LTE simulator) and compared based on network parameters which include: throughput, delay, Packet Loss Ratio (PLR), and fairness. This work aims at giving insight on the gains made on radio resource scheduling for LTE network and to x-ray the issues that require improvement in order to provide better performance to the users. The results of this work show that FLS algorithm outperforms other algorithms in terms of delay, PLR, throughput, and fairness for VoIP and video flow. It was also observed that for Best Effort (BE) flows, FLS outperforms other algorithms in terms of delay and PLR but performed least in terms of throughput and fairness. http://dx.doi.org/10.4314/njt.v36i1.21
ANALYSIS OF THE TRANSIENT STABILITY LIMIT OF NIGERIA’S 330kV TRANSMISSION SUB-NETWORK
Authors: Oluseyi PO , Adelaja TS , Akinbulire TO
Published: June 2021

The poor investment in the network expansion programme has led to high level of grid fragility experienced in the power transmission system in Nigeria. Thus, any little disturbance often results in cascaded outage which is very hazardous to the power system equipment and operation. In order to overcome or ameliorate the influence of this challenge, the network engineers have to devise methodologies based on the dynamic stability analysis. This motivates the development of power system transient stability model presented herein. The developed model is thus applied to a specimen of the Nigeria’s transmission power system, i.e. the Ikeja-West Sub-network. This choice is influenced by the fact that the Ikeja-West sub-network is the hub of power transmission arteries in Nigeria. Thus the Electrical Transient and Analysis Program (ETAP) software is deployed to operate on the ensuing model. This then leads to generating a series of results that demonstrates the different scenarios in respect of the system stability studies. The method adopted is quite appealing and promising as a tool in sustaining system stability and security during slight disturbance to the network during operation.http://dx.doi.org/10.4314/njt.v36i1.26
A SURVEY OF RICE PRODUCTION AND PROCESSING IN SOUTH EAST NIGERIA
Authors: Okeke CG , Oluka SI
Published: June 2021

An assessment of rice production and processing in South-Eastern Nigeria was carried out by investigative survey approach.  The survey was basically to ascertain the extent of mechanization applicable in the area to enable the agricultural policy makers device the modalities for improving rice production and processing in the area.  According to the results obtained from the study, the planting period of rice in the area was mostly between May and August.  Virtually 77% of the farmers raise the rice seedlings in the nursery bed before transplanting to the permanent seed bed while 23% sow the seeds directly to the seed bed where they germinate and grow to maturity.  Results revealed that 75% of the farmers in the South-Eastern Nigeria use manual labour in the seed bed preparation while 25% use tractors. It was observable from the results that 15-15-15 NPK and urea fertilizers were predominantly used by the farmers in the area for rice production and the application method was mostly by manual broad casting over the planted area. Results also recorded that rice harvesting mostly took place from October – December; and about 69% of the farmers harvest their rice manually while 31% use mechanical means. More so, average of 49.6% of the farmers thresh their harvested rice manually while 50.4% of them use mechanized means. It was also observed that 93% of the farmers use both steam heating and total drenching method in parboiling the paddy rice while 3.4% and 3.6% use steam heating and total drenching respectively in parboiling the paddy rice. The milling method applicable in the area was mainly by mechanical means with 73.6% of the farmers who use the method while 10.4% of the farmers use manual method.  The farmers generally use sacks in bagging and/or storing both the paddy and milled rice. Finally results showed that mechanization of rice production and processing has not received much attention as most of the farmers still use manual labour and traditional approach in the production and processing of rice. http://dx.doi.org/10.4314/njt.v36i1.27
RELIABILITY ANALYSIS OF A TWO SPAN FLOOR DESIGNED ACCORDING TO EUROCODE 5
Authors: Ogork EN , Nakore AK
Published: June 2021

This paper presents the structural reliability assessment of a two span timber floor of strength class D40 designed in accordance with Eurocode 5 (2004).  The Structural analysis and design of the timber floor system was carried out using deterministic approach, considering both ultimate and serviceability limit states. Reliability analysis of the floor structural elements to ascertain its level of safety was carried out using first order reliability method (FORM) for the four modes of failure of bending shear, bearing and deflection. The reliability analysis involved investigation of the effects of variation of the applied dead to live load ratio and the cross sectional parameters of the floor. The results revealed that the deterministic design is satisfactory as limiting stresses and deflection were not exceeded. The primary floor joists had safety indices in shear and bending of 1.2 to 2.8 with decrease in dead to live load ratio and were below the recommended safety index of 3.8 specified in joint committee on structural safety (JCSS). The timber floor structural elements are more reliable in bearing, shear and deflection and critical in bending mode of failure. The section depth and span of floor elements are more sensitive in bending and deflection modes than shear and bearing modes. http://dx.doi.org/10.4314/njt.v36i1.3
CHEMICAL AND MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF VELVET TAMARIND FRUIT (DIALIUM GUINEENSE)
Authors: Asoiro FU , Ezeoha SL , Ezenne GI , Ugwu CB
Published: June 2021

Information on chemical properties of fruits is crucial in processing it into different foods. Mechanical properties of fruits determine their susceptibility to mechanical damages that occur during harvest, transportation, and storage; and which eventually lead to a pronounced reduction in commercial value. This study was conducted to investigate the chemical and mechanical properties of unshelled (black), shelled (yellow) and kernel of Dialium guineense fruit. The chemical properties investigated include some proximate and mineral elements. The mechanical properties were bio-yield force, rupture force, deformation at rupture point, deformation ratio at rupture point, compressive strength and total strain energy. The fruit pulp was found to be composed of protein (9.4%), carbohydrate (75%), crude fat (5.2%), crude fibre (4.6%), and ash content (2.4%) at 19% moisture content (wb). The mineral composition of the pulp were sodium (3.2 g/kg), magnesium (2.9 g/kg), phosphorus (0.5 g/kg), calcium (0.5 g/kg), iron (0.1 g/kg), and vitamin C (0.3 g/kg) at a pH  of 3.9. Less force is required to crack the fruit across the length, followed by across the thickness and then across the width. Velvet tamarind (Dialium guineense) fruit pulp is a promising source of food and essential minerals due to its nutritional values, hence facilitating its postharvest processing is inevitable.  http://dx.doi.org/10.4314/njt.v36i1.30
COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF ANTHROPOMETRIC DIMENSIONS OF MALE AND FEMALE AGRICULTURAL WORKERS IN SOUTH-EASTERN NIGERIA
Authors: Oduma O , Oluka SI
Published: June 2021

A comparative analysis of the anthropometric body dimensions of the male and female agricultural workers was conducted in South-Eastern Nigeria to ascertain the variations that exist among the body characteristics/dimensions of the male and female agricultural workers in the area. Thirty (30) anthropometric dimensions considered useful in the design of the agricultural equipment alongside with the heart rate of the workers were studied. Male and female agricultural workers within the age limit of 20-60 years were used for the study. Results obtained revealed that male agricultural workers had greater body dimensions than the females except in the waist circumferences and hip breadths in which the male measured average of 81.1cm and 34.4cm respectively and the female recorded 88.7cm and 42.1cm at waist and hip regions respectively. The comparison further showed that male agricultural workers had average stature and body weight of 168.3cm and 65.9kg respectively with the 5th and 95th percentiles of 162.75cm and 175.77cm respectively in stature; and 60.15kg and 71.73kg in body weight respectively. While the female recorded mean stature and body weight of 163.2cm and 64.8kg respectively with the corresponding 5th and 95th percentiles of 153.96cm and 172.17cm respectively in stature and 60.04kg and 69.35kg respectively in body weight. The males had average heart (pulse) rate of 73.8 beats/min while the females had 70.5 beats/min. The comparison generally did not show much variations, which implies that implements/machine designed for the male workers could suit the female workers or might be adjusted to suit the female workers.  http://dx.doi.org/10.4314/njt.v36i1.31
FEASIBILITY STUDY ON SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT IN PORT HARCOURT METROPOLIS: CAUSES, EFFECT AND POSSIBLE SOLUTIONS
Authors: Ikebude CF
Published: June 2021

The accumulation of refuse on any place or environment creates fertile breeding ground for rodents, flies, which are disease vectors and also affect the aesthetics of the place, this in turns poses health hazard to the public. In this study, solid waste management in Port Harcourt Metropolis, it causes, effect and possible solutions ranging from waste generation, storage, segregation, collection, treatment and disposal has been investigated. Primary and secondary sources of investigation were used to obtain the required data for the study. Dump sites within the Port Harcourt Metropolis were also visited for proper evaluation and on the spot assessment. It was observed that the conventional waste management system is still being used instead of the integrated solid waste management system (1SWMS) and that about 75% of the storage facilities in the city are sub-standard and insanitary with no color coded containers for different kinds of waste. Results shows that the composition of waste generated included garbage (41%), paper and plastic (35%), scrap metal (15%), construction waste (4%), sludge (3%), expired chemical waste and drugs (2%) and collection of solid waste at open space transfer station account for about 70%. These shows poor solid waste management approach and the consequences ranges from aesthetic degradation to pollution of the environment hence the use of solid waste management professionals and sanitarians is recommended.  http://dx.doi.org/10.4314/njt.v36i1.33
DEVELOPMENT OF AN AUTOMATED BATCH-PROCESS SOLAR WATER DISINFECTION SYSTEM
Authors: Nwoke OO , Mbajirogu CC , Owoh IP , Anoliefo EC
Published: June 2021

One of the shortcomings of solar disinfection of water (SODIS) is the absence of a feedback mechanism indicating treatment completion. This work presents the development of an automated batch-process water disinfection system aimed at solving this challenge. Locally sourced materials in addition to an Arduinomicro processor were used to control the algorithm of the water disinfection system. A comparison of solar radiation sensing accuracy of the system to the Campbell Stokes instrument using student’s t-test showed no significance difference between the two data sets at p=0.05. Test conducted with Escherichia Coli spiked water shows that a 6 log reduction in CFU/ml was achieved within 15 minutes for an average global solar irradiance of 400 W/m2. The system disinfected 11 litres of water in a day for solar radiation of 8.5 MJ/m2/day and Escherichia coli concentration not exceeding 106 CFU/ml.  http://dx.doi.org/10.4314/njt.v36i1.35
PRODUCTION OF BIOETHANOL FROM RICE STRAW USING YEAST EXTRACTS PEPTONE DEXTROSE
Authors: Tsunatu DY , Atiku KG , Samuel TT , Hamidu BI , Dahutu DI
Published: June 2021

The production of bio-ethanol from Rice Straw (Oryza sativa) was carried out using rice straw as a feedstock and a combination of Yeast Extracts Peptone Dextrose (YEPD)at 0.2%(w/v) 0.4%(w/v), 0.6%(w/v), 0.8%(w/v) and 1%(w/v) concentrations and Saccharomyces cerevisiae (yeast) at 0.5% (w/v), 1%(w/v), 1.5%(w/v), 2%(w/v) and 2.5%(w/v) concentrations as cells for fermentation. The study determined the most suitable pre-treatment method from the following pretreatment methods; 1M NaOH and heating. IM NaOH pre-treatment gave the highest cellulose and lowest lignin content. The effects of substrate concentration values of 1g/l, 2g/l, 4g/l, 6g/l and 8g/l; with particle size of 300μm and cell loading combination of YEPD at 0.2%(w/v) 0.4%(w/v), 0.6%(w/v), 0.8%(w/v), 1%(w/v) concentrations and Saccharomyces cerevisiae (yeast) at 0.5% (w/v), 1%(w/v), 1.5%(w/v), 2%(w/v), 2.5%(w/v) on the fermentation process were investigated to obtain optimum conditions of fermentation. The optimum conditions of fermentation were obtained at temperature of 330C, pH value of 4.0, substrate concentration of 4g/l, particle size 300μm and YEPD to yeast ratio of 0.8/1.5 after 72 hours of fermentation time. Also substrate concentration of 4g/l, gave highest bioethanol yield of 49.50%. http://dx.doi.org/10.4314/njt.v36i1.36
STUDY AND ANALYSIS OF ASA RIVER HYPOTHETICAL DAM BREAK USING HEC-RAS
Authors: Balogun OS , Ganiyu HO
Published: June 2021

Impounded reservoirs provide beneficial functions such as flood control, recreation, hydropower and water supply but they also carry potential risks. Spontaneous dam break phenomenon can occur and the resultant flooding may cause substantial loss of life and property damage downstream of the dam. A hypothetical dam break on Asa Dam located in Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria was analyzed using United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Hydrologic Engineering Center’s River Analysis System (HEC-RAS) computer model. Unsteady flow simulation was performed using geometric data obtained from Digital Terrain Model (DTM) with 100-year, 24 hr flow event. The HEC-RAS was used in concert with HEC-GeoRAS to assess the flood hazard along the Asa River channel starting from the dam axis and approximately 12 km towards the downstream as a result of the dam break. The highest discharge Q (1913.66 m3/s) and the highest peak stage (277.35 m) just below the dam were produced with breach width of 130.86 m and time of failure of 1.45 hours. The outcome of the analysis showed that in the event of such failure of Asa dam, some areas which include industrial and residential sections along the river channel are at very high risk of being inundated due to the significant difference in the value of the produced water surface elevation and existing ground elevation affecting thousands of people living along the channel immediate vicinity. http://dx.doi.org/10.4314/njt.v36i1.39
OPTIMISATION OF THICKNESS OF FIBRE REINFORCED POLYMER SHEETS FOR STRENGTHENING REINFORCED CONCRETE BEAMS WITH FLEXURAL DEFICIENCY
Authors: Kaura JM
Published: June 2021

The use of Fiber Reinforced Polymer (FRP) is becoming a widely accepted solution for repairing and strengthening of deteriorated reinforced concrete members, to restore their load carrying capacities. One of the major concerns in the use of FRP is its cost. This therefore calls for the use of efficient and cost effective design approach. Design efficiency in terms of cost can be achieved through optimisation. In the present paper, Generalized Reduced Gradient (GRG) optimisation technique was employed to optimize the strengthening cost of a simply supported reinforced concrete beam strengthened with Fibre Reinforced Polymer (FRP). Optimum design charts for the considered problem were presented. The results showed that considerable savings in thickness can be achieved using FRP of high modulus of elasticity. For example at very high capacity reduction say 70% (kc = 0.3), the required FRP thicknesses for FRP with elastic moduli of 25GPa, 50GPa, 75GPa, 100GPa, 125GPa and 150GPa are respectively equal to 2.5mm, 1.75mm, 0.75mm, 0.6mm, 0.5mm and 0.4mm.  http://dx.doi.org/10.4314/njt.v36i1.7
PROPERTIES OF CHITIN REINFORCES COMPOSITES: A REVIEW
Authors: Ofem MI , Anyandi AJ , Ene EB
Published: June 2021

This paper provides a review of chitin, sources, extraction, uses, applications, chitin whiskers and it preparations and the mechanical and thermal properties of chitin reinforced composites. Also reported here is the properties of CaCO3/chitin whiskers reinforced composites. Chitin can be extracted from shrimps, crabs cell walls, yeast and green algae or from Riftia tubes with a percentage varying between 20 to 40% depending on the source. Despite the denaturing of chitin, the most widely used method of extractiong chitin from seashells is the chemical method. Chitin whiskers known by different name in literature can only be prepared by using hydrochloric acid. The rod-like particles of chitin whiskers have an average lengths and widths of 200 ± 20 nm and 8 ± 1 nm respectively or more depending on the source of chitin. Chitin whiskers reinforced composites have greatly improved the mechanical and thermal properties of the composites especially at lower filler loading. The improved properties are attributed to effective stress transfer. http://dx.doi.org/10.4314/njt.v36i1.9
INVESTIGATION OF SHALLOW FOUNDATION SOIL BEARING CAPACITY AND SETTLEMENT CHARACTERISTICS OF MINNA CITY CENTRE DEVELOPMENT SITE USING PLAXIS 2D SOFTWARE AND EMPIRICAL FORMULATIONS
Authors: Salahudeen AB , Sadeeq JA
Published: June 2021

This study investigated the soilÂ bearing capacity and foundation settlement characteristics of Minna City Centre development site using standard penetration test (SPT) data obtained from10 SPT boreholes at 0.6, 2.1 and 3.6 m depths to correlate soil properties. Evaluation of foundation bearing capacity and settlement characteristics for geotechnical preliminary design of foundations was carried out using some conventional empirical/analytical models and numerical modelling. The aim was to investigate and determine the geotechnical parameters required for adequate design of Physical structures of the proposed Minna City Centre, at Minna the capital of Niger state. The SPT N-values were corrected to the standard average energy of 60% (N60) before the soil properties were evaluated. Using the corrected N-values, allowable bearing pressure and elastic settlement of shallow foundations were predicted at 50 kN/m2 applied foundation pressure. The numerical analysis results using Plaxis 2D, a finite element code, shows the analytical/empirical methods of estimating the allowable bearing pressure and settlements of shallow foundations that provided acceptable results. Results obtained show that an average bearing capacity value of 100 â€“ 250 kN/m2 can be used for shallow foundations with embedment of 0.6 to 3.6 m on the site. Â http://dx.doi.org/10.4314/njt.v36i3.1
INFLUENCE OF SUPERPLASTICIZER AND VARYING AGGREGATE SIZE ON THE DRYING SHRINKAGE AND COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH OF LATERISED CONCRETE
Authors: Falade F , Ukponu B , Ugbaja OJ
Published: June 2021

This paper presents the results of the study on the influence of superplasticizer and varying aggregate size on the drying shrinkage and compressive strength of laterised concrete. Four different samples of laterised concrete were made from prescribed mix ratio of 1:1:2 which include; two control specimens made with different coarse aggregate sizes (12.5mm and 19mm) and another two specimens that have the same composition as the control samples with addition of superplasticizer (Conplast 430). The compressive strength and drying shrinkage were determined at the curing periods (7, 14, 21 and 28 days). The results showed that specimens made with 12.5mm diameter coarse aggregate and superplasticizer developed a maximum compressive strength (44N/mm2) at 28th day. This maximum compressive strength was 29.6%, 31.8% and 4.6% greater than the compressive strength developed by the control specimens and specimens made with 19mm diameter coarse aggregate and superplasticizer. Specimens made with 19mm diameter coarse aggregate and superplasticizer developed the minimum shrinkage strain (1.48â¨¯0-3) at 90th day. This value was 17%, 13.5% and 8.1% less than shrinkage strain of the control specimens and specimen made with 12.5mm coarse aggregate size and superplasticizer. The addition of superplasticizer increased the compressive strength and reduced the shrinkage strain of all specimens; while increase in coarse aggregate size reduced both compressive strength and drying shrinkage. Â http://dx.doi.org/10.4314/njt.v36i3.11
STABILISATION OF NIGER DELTA FAT CLAY WITH BLEND OF BINDERS FOR SUBGRADE APPLICATION - PART 1
Authors: Alayaki FM , Al-Tabbaa A , Ayotamuno MJ
Published: June 2021

Construction of roads on fine-grained soils without any form of stabilisation is a major problem all over the world. In this study, a fat clay having poor subgrade rating (A-7-6) was mixed with blends of sand, drill cuttings ash (DCA), lateralite, and Portland Cement (PC) to improve its plasticity, California Bearing Ratio (CBR), and swell. The sand effected better particle grading of the clay and addition of PC increased its strength. Blends of DCA-PC and lateralite-PC effected friability, improved workability, and also increased the strength of the soil. Blends ratio: sand-PC (4:1); DCA-PC (1:1); and lateralite-PC (2:1) gave the best stabilising effect on the fat clay. The improvements noted were: plasticity index < 30, soaked CBRvalues > 20% after 24 hours and >10% after 96 hours, low swell (0.002 â€“ 0.008%). Thus, this study revealed that the fat clay could be optimised for subgrade application using these stabilising additives.Â http://dx.doi.org/10.4314/njt.v36i3.12
FIRST PRINCIPLES DERIVATION OF A STRESS FUNCTION FOR AXIALLY SYMMETRIC ELASTICITY PROBLEMS, AND APPLICATION TO BOUSSINESQ PROBLEM
Authors: Ike CC
Published: June 2021

In this work, a stress function is derived from first principles to describe the behaviour of three dimensional axially symmetric elasticity problems involving linear elastic, isotropic homogeneous materials. In the process, the fifteen governing partial differential equations of linear isotropic elasticity were reduced to the solution of the biharmonic problem involving the stress function. thus simplifying the solution process. The stress function derived was found to be identical with the Love stress function. The stress function was then applied to solve the axially symmetric problem of finding the stress fields, strain fields and displacement fields in the semi-infinite linear elastic, isotropic homogeneous medium subject to a point load P acting at the origin of coordinates also called the Boussinesq problem. The results obtained in this study for the stresses and displacements were exactly identical with those from literature, as obtained by Boussinesq.http://dx.doi.org/10.4314/njt.v36i3.15
EFFECT OF ALUMINUM DROSS AND RICE HUSK ASH ON THERMAL AND MOULDING PROPERTIES OF SILICA SAND
Authors: Ochulor EF , Amuda HOH , Adeosun SO , Balogun SA
Published: June 2021

Moulding properties of foundry sand should be controlled so as to minimize casting defects. Its thermal characteristics are vital in defining the solidification kinetics of a cast part,Â  evolving microstructure and mechanical properties. Modification of the thermal properties of the moulding sand mix is important in achieving desired structure and mechanical properties in the cast component. This study investigates the incorporation of 2-12 wt. % aluminium dross (AlDr) and 1-6 wt. % rice husk ash (RHA) in silica sand on moulding and thermal properties of the resulting sand mix. Results show that RHA significantly reduced thermal conductivity of the moulding sand from 1.631-1.141 W/m. K (a 30% reduction).However, AlDr increased its thermal conductivity from 1.631-1.787 W/m.K for 1-6 wt. % AlDr, which later dropped progressively from 1.753-1.540 W/m.K for 8-12 wt. %. The moisture content increased abruptly from 4.0-4.2 % for 6-8 wt. % AlDr addition but decreased from 4.0-2.8% for0-6 wt. % RHA addition in the moulding sand mix.Â http://dx.doi.org/10.4314/njt.v36i3.19
MODELING, OPTIMISATION AND ANALYSIS OF RE-ENTRANT FLOWSHOP JOB SCHEDULING WITH FUZZY PROCESSING TIMES
Authors: Ogunwolu L , Sosimi A , Obialo S
Published: June 2021

This paper presents a makespan minimization of -jobs -machines re-entrant flow shop scheduling problem (RFSP) under fuzzy uncertainties using Genetic Algorithm. The RFSP objective is formulated as a mathematical programme constrained by number of jobs and resources availability with traditional scheduling policies of First Come First Serve (FCFS) and the First Buffer First Serve (FBFS). Jobs processing times were specified by fuzzy numbers and modelled using triangular membership function representations. The modified centroid defuzzification technique was used at different alpha-cuts to obtain fuzzy processing times (FPT) of jobs to explore the importance of uncertainty. The traditional GA schemes and operators were used together with roulette wheel algorithm without elitism in the selection process based on job fuzzy completion times. A test problem of five jobs with specified Job Processing and Transit Times between service centres, Job Start Times and Job Due times was posed. Results obtained using the deterministic and fuzzy processing times were compared for the two different scheduling policies, FCFS and FBFS. The deterministic optimal makespan for FBFS schedule was 61.2% in excess of the FCFS policy schedule. Â The results also show that schedules with fuzzy uncertainty processing times provides shorter makespans than those for deterministic processing times and those under FCFS performing better than those under FBFS policy for early jobs while on the long run the FBFS policy performs better. The results underscore the need to take account of comprehensive fuzzy uncertainties in job processing times as a trade-off between time and costs influenced by production makespan.Â http://dx.doi.org/10.4314/njt.v36i3.21
DEVELOPMEMT OF PILOT SCALE DEALUMINATION UNIT OF 2.5 kg METAKAOLIN PER BATCH CAPACITY
Authors: Bawa SG , Ahmed AS , Okonkwo PC , Waziri SM
Published: June 2021

A pilot-size dealumination unit to handle 2.5kg of metakaolin per batch was designed and fabricated and test run. The metakaolin was prepared from Kankara kaolin. The metakaolin was completely split into silica and alumina. The silica component which was inert to the sulphuric acid used during the reaction and was obtained as a solid product. While the alumina which reacted with the sulphuric acid was obtained in liquid form as aluminum sulphate, known as alum. The dealumination unit comprises of the dealumination reactor, known as dealuminator, acid holding tank and metakaolin slurry mixing tank. The material of construction selected for the dealumination reactor was stainless steel type 304 lined internally with glass to withstand the corrosive environment of the concentrated sulphuric acid at the reaction temperature > 140Â°C. The capacity of the componentsare; acid holding tank 5 liters;metakaolin slurry mixing tank 20 liters, with 70 W capacity motor and the dealuminator 50 liters, which had pressure relief valve, pressure gauge (0-10 bars) and temperature gauge (0 - 300Â°C) on the cover. Woven glass fiber cloth was used as lagging material to minimize heat lossto the surrounding. The purity level of the silica obtained from the reaction was above 95%.The endothermic nature of the dealumination process was void of external heating.Â http://dx.doi.org/10.4314/njt.v36i3.24
AN INVESTIGATION INTO THE APPLICABILITY OF NATURAL LOAD VARIATION SCHEME TO THE MEASUREMENT OF ENERGY YIELD OF PHOTOVOLTIC MODULE
Authors: Anoliefo EA , Oparaku O
Published: June 2021

Currently, photvoltaic (PV) modules are characterized based on open circuit voltage, short circuit current as well as voltage and current at maximum power point under strictly specified laboratory conditions. Among manufacturers, regulators and experts, this approach appears reasonably adequate. Nevertheless, among end users and and low level technicians, it may be misleading. This is on account of the critical difference between the laboratory and in situ conditions. This often results to improper design which in turn is capable of accelerating a premature system failure. The present work explores the potentials of natural load variation scheme as a low cost option that is capable of estimating the actual yield of PV modules. Essentially, the scheme consists of a firmware controlling the switching of a number of resistors(loads) connected in parallel. By looping through the resistors in parallel, the firmware matches load impedance to the impedance of the module thus the module operates at its maximum power point. The research results indicate a similar response pattern for constant and variable loads. Nevertheless, the quantitative value of recorded voltage, current, power and energy tended to increase as the number of available resistors incresed. Though clear convergence was not achieved, natural load variation scheme more realistically captures the yield potentials of polycrystalline PV modules under low irradiance conditions.Â http://dx.doi.org/10.4314/njt.v36i3.28
SIMPBOARD â€“A MONGODB IMPLEMENTATION OF A SIMPLIFIED ONLINE BULLETIN BOARD SYSTEM FOR INFORMATION DISSEMINATION IN TERTIARY INSTITUTIONS
Authors: Ibor AE , Eyong KE , Edim EB
Published: June 2021

Information dissemination is a key concern for most tertiary institutions. While information is relevant for the day-to-day running of a tertiary institution, the rightful information, sometimes, is not available for the appropriate decisions to be taken.Â  The practice, in some institutions, is the use of wooden notice boards for making information available to the academic community.Â Â  In many cases, such means of information broadcasting has been found to be inefficient, and largely a component of physical presence.Â  However, electronic presence is becoming more and more acceptable for spreading information. To this effect, this paper will discuss the design and implementation of a simplified online bulletin board system called SIMPBOARD that can be accessed through the web browser of a computer or smart phone. Furthermore, the system will allow for anywhere access to bulletins, and possible archiving of same, for reference purposes, through the use of Mongo DB with Meteor JS Framework. Â http://dx.doi.org/10.4314/njt.v36i3.32
DEVELOPMENT OF MICROCONTROLLER BASED BINAURAL DIGITAL HEARING AIDS FOR HEARING-IMPAIRED PEOPLE
Authors: Nnadi DBN , Onu NC , Oti SE , Ogbuefi CU
Published: June 2021

This research paper expounds microcontroller based binaural digital hearing aids for hearing-impaired people by making use of ATmega328 microcontroller and other circuitries to process the audio signal input by either increasing or reducing the gain level of input audio signal, filter background noise, frequencies compression, save battery power and minimize circuit by making use of the internal ADC of the microcontroller and two PMW pins of the microcontroller as DAC. Hearing impairment among the youths and adults nowadays are in the increase, due wrong use of phones of which every minute of the day someoneâ€™s earphone is on listening to one type of music or the other. In other to solve the problem created so to say this research work was conceived and given birth to. The different stages of digital hearing aid are designed and then simulated first in Proteus software which then was implemented using PCB-board. The main components of this system were the audio input unit which consists of the microphone and its pre-amplifier, the microcontroller (ATmega328) which consists of the ADC, the DAC and the audio signal processing, the filter stage and control codes (frequencies compression codes, power saver codes, acoustic feedback control codes, signal level control and adaptive adjustment codes etc.), the power amplifier and volume control unit and then the earphones (output). The control codes were written in C language while Ardinuo Uno compiler was used to write the codes into ATmega328.Â  The prototype has an overall system gain of 27dB and the power output of 32.5mW. The prototype was tested with a patient that has a hearing impairment and the patient was satisfactory with the device.Â http://dx.doi.org/10.4314/njt.v36i3.34
SOME MOISTURE DEPENDENT THERMAL PROPERTIES AND BULK DENSITY OF Prosopis Africana SEEDS (OKPEYE)
Authors: Asoiro FU , Ohagwu CJ
Published: June 2021

The thermal heat conductivity, specific heat capacity, thermal heat diffusivity and bulk density of Prosopis africana seeds were determined as a function of moisture content. Specific heat capacity was measured by the method of mixture while the thermal heat conductivity was measured by the guarded hot plate method. Thermal heat diffusivity was calculated from the experimental results obtained from specific heat capacity, thermal heat conductivity and bulk density. The bulk density for Prosopis africana (PA) seeds decreased from 890kg m-3 to 590kg m-3 as moisture content increased from 4 to 20% wet basis (w.b). Specific heat capacity increased from 2760J kg-1 ÂºC-1 to 2960J kg-1 ÂºC-1with increasing moisture content. The thermal heat conductivity ranged between 0.70 and 0.90W m-1oC-1 when moisture content rose from 4% to 20% (w.b). Thermal heat diffusivity increased from 2.7 10-7 to 4.2 10-7m2 s-1 as moisture content increased from 4 to 20% (w.b). The values obtained for these thermal properties and bulk density could be useful for design of systems for heat treatment of Prosopis africana seeds.Â Â http://dx.doi.org/10.4314/njt.v36i3.38
DESIGN AND FABRICATION OF A DISCOMFORT INDEX METER FOR DETERMINATION OF STRESS IN LIVESTOCK
Authors: Falayi FR , Olanipekun MO
Published: June 2021

This research was aimed at designing and developing a discomfort index meter for evaluating transportation stress on broilers. The newly developed discomfort index meter is capable of recording and logging data every 5 seconds. The device was designed using LM35 electronic sensor to measure the dry bulb and wet bulb temperatures in degree Celsius (oC) and then use it to compute the discomfort level using the Thom model with the help of microcontroller. The newly developed equipment was successfully used to evaluate the effect of transport on the level of stress of four weeks old broilers over various distances and stocking densities using different means of transportation. The equipment was calibrated and compared with other available measuring instruments which showed that a high correlation exist between the values (r2 = 0.89).Also, a single factor (one-way) analysis of variance (ANOVA) was carried out and the results showed no significant difference between the two sets of values at 0.05 level of confidence which implies that the two readings are identical. The relative humidity readings of the device were compared with that of standard digital hygrometer reading using a regression analysis which also showed a high correlation coefficient (r2=0.98). A straight line regression equation y = 0.9497x + 5.1542 describes the relationship. The equipment is affordable and therefore recommended for determining stress on broilers and other livestock animals in transithttp://dx.doi.org/10.4314/njt.v36i3.40
EMPIRICAL STUDY OF THE CHARACTERISTICS OF AFZELIA AFRICANA SEED UNDER COMPRESSIVE LOADING
Authors: Nwanjika CO , Onuegbu CU , Amaefule DO
Published: June 2021

Afzelia Africana seeds were subjected to quasi-static parallel plate compression test, using Monsanto Tensometer. The loading orientations were horizontal, vertical and edge-to-edge loading positions at four different moisture content levels of 10.6%, 12.8%, 15.2% and 18.4% wet basis (wb). Slight variations were observed in the means of the physical characteristics at varying moisture content in the range of 10.6% to 18.4%. Loading position was shown to have significant effect on all the mechanical properties studied. The rupture force increased with increase in moisture content in horizontal and vertical loading but did not show consistent trend in variation when loaded on the edges. This value was 155.68N for vertical loading, 139.27 N for horizontal loading and 81.0 N for edge-to-edge loading. Hardness ranged from 6.97 to 6.92 N/mm for horizontal loading, 6.92 to 6.67N/mm for edge-loading and 6.99 to 6.93N/mm for vertical loading respectively in the moisture content range of 10.6 to 18.4% for all cases. Rupture energy varied from 104 to 416.33 N-mm on horizontal loading, 59.96to 241.82 on edge-loading and 190.125 to 419.171 Nmm on vertical loading respectively for the same range of moisture content. Toughness varied from 43.758 to 8.865 N-m/mm, 23.563 to 5.370 and 44.667 to 16.349 N-m/mmÂ for horizontal loading, edge-edge orientation, and vertical loading respectively,Â for moisture content range of 10.6 to 18.4%.Modulusof Elasticity dropped from 35.657 to 28.133 N/mm2 for horizontal loading, from 51.443 to 14.59 for edge-to-edge loading and 38.087 to 41.04 N/mm2for vertical loading in the range of moisture content of 10.6 to 18.4% respectively. The data generated in this study can be applied when estimating the energy and force needed for shelling the seeds and in making useful suggestions on the loading condition that will demand the least energy for the operation and shelling. The physical properties are also useful in process design and analysis.Â Â http://dx.doi.org/10.4314/njt.v36i3.42
PROXIMATE AND ULTIMATE ANALYSIS OF FUEL PELLETS FROM OIL PALM RESIDUES
Authors: Onochie UP , Obanor AI , Aliu SA , Igbodaro OO
Published: June 2021

This study carried out an investigation on the proximate and ultimate analysis of fuel pellets from oil palm residues such as palm kernel shell, PKS, palm fibre, PF and empty fruit bunch, EFB using the ASTM standards. The results obtained were compared. The percentage moisture content of the pellets, PKS, PF and EFB were 9.68%, 10.77%, 12.07% respectively. This is significantly lower than the percentage moisture content of the raw residues given as 10.23%, 11.10% and 15.01% respectively. High volatile matter content in the fuel pellets indicates that there would be ease of ignition during combustion. The results also show that the pellets have a lower ash content of 0.69%, 3.69% and 3.72% as against that of the raw residues, which is 3.24%, 7.90% and 4.48% respectively. There was really no significant reduction in emission of sulphur gases between the fuel pellets and the raw residues except for the Palm Fibre, PF, pellets and raw residues that varies. Essentially, from the general results obtained from the analysis, it can be deduced that pellets are more suitable for boilers in steam power plants. Â http://dx.doi.org/10.4314/njt.v36i3.44
Assessment of Groundwater Quality of Ilorin Metropolis using Water Quality Index Approach
Authors: Olatunji JA , Odediran OA , Obaro RI , Olasehinde PI
Published: June 2021

Groundwater as a source of potable water is becoming more important in Nigeria. Therefore, the need to ascertain the continuing potability of the sources cannot be over emphasised. This study is aimed at assessing the quality of selected groundwater samples from Ilorin metropolis, Nigeria, using the water quality index (WQI) method. Twenty two water samples were collected, 10 samples from boreholes and 12 samples from hand dug wells. All these were analysed for their physico – chemical properties. The parameters used for calculating the water quality index include the following: pH, total hardness, total dissolved solid, calcium, fluoride, iron, potassium, sulphate, nitrate and carbonate. The water quality index for the twenty two samples ranged from 0.66 to 756.02 with an average of 80.77. Two of the samples exceeded 100, which is the upper limit for safe drinking water. The high values of WQI from the sampling locations are observed to be due to higher values of iron and fluoride. This study reveals that the investigated groundwaters are mostly potable and can be consumed without treatment. Nonetheless, the sources identified to be unsafe should be treated before consumption.KEYWORDS: groundwater, water quality index, potability, physico - chemical, parameter
Application of the Hardy-Weinberg law in the theory of social management
Authors:   Tomsk State University, Sosnin Eduard A.
Published: June 2021

Introduction. Currently, the number of functions performed by humans is gradually decreasing. Anthropotechnosis is a system of relations, which is aimed at the production of objects of technology, and not at the reproduction of a person. Due to the unity of the laws of developing goal-oriented systems of activity, the laws that work in describing biological and social systems can be extended to anthropotechnocenoses. Materials and methods. A mathematical model of the Hardy-Weinberg law is used, which is implemented in biology to describe the crossing of individuals of two different species. Results. As the proportion of objects of technology increases (the formation of the anthropotechnocenosis), the proportion of social units decreases, and the frequency of interaction between them increases. The drop in the frequency of interaction is due to the fact that the number and role composition of the subjects of the relationship “human-object of technology” changes. There is a gradual transfer of functions to objects of technology that were previously performed by a person. In the “ideal case”, technology completely replaces a person. The model points to a very clear reason for the cyclical nature: the development of human ↔ operator relations. Discussion. The Hardy-Weinberg law, adapted to the description of anthropotechnocenoses, allows rethinking the dynamics of Kondratyev’s cycles through the interaction of people and objects of technology. The obtained results can be used to receive basic data for a new scientific discipline – anthropotechnosociology.
Geoscience Literacy Profile of Junior High School Students
Authors: Suryani Desy , Eko Hariyono
Published: May 2021

The purpose of this research is to find out the geoscience literacy profile of junior high school students in Surabaya. The method used in this research is quantitative method. The test is done online through google form. The problem used in the test instrument is an adaptation of the TIMSS (Trends in Mathematics and Science Study) question in the Earth Science sub-discussion. The question instrument contains 10 points of multiple choice questions, and 3 items of description questions that are the result of the development of indicator slices of TIMSS (Trends in Mathematics and Science Study) 2019 and basic competency indicators of curriculum 2013. The study subjects were 85 respondents who were grade VIII students of State and Private Junior High in Surabaya. The results showed that the geoscience literacy capability profile of junior high school students in Surabaya with an average score of 58.2% is included in the low criteria, there are two indicators that have low achievement criteria, namely identifying or describing changes in the earth's surface, and the impact of geological events; and describe the process of hydrological cycles and know the sun as a source of energy for the hydrology cycle, sufficient achievement criteria, contained in the domain of cognitive knowing and reasoning. While the criteria for achievement are low, it is found in the cognitive domain applying
The Effectiveness of Science Learning Tools Based on Education Sustainable Development (ESD) to Improve Problem-Solving Skills
Authors: Dwita Dana Pradipta  , Madlazim  , Eko Hariyono
Published: May 2021

This study aims to determine the effectiveness of practicing problem-solving skills from ESD-based science learning tools. This research is development research with the ADDIE development model and a one-group pre-test post-test design. Data collection methods using validation and tests. Learning tools in all aspects are stated to be very valid so that they can be implemented. The pre-test average score was 52.96 and the post-test score was 79.84 with an N-gain score of 0.67 in the moderate category. This shows that students can be improve in problem-solving skills with ESD-based learning. Students can improved problem-solving skills in the Lapindo mud phenomenon by integrating the liquid pressure material (Archimedes Law and Bernoulli's Law) with the ESD concept (social, ecological, and economic). In terms of ecology, Lapindo mudflow can be overcome by applying Bernoulli's Law. In the economic sector, the overflowing Lapindo mud can be used as a building material. This is studied in the material of Archimedes Law. In the social point, students can communicate the results of problem-solving with the concept of ESD to the surrounding community.