bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SEROEPIDEMIOLOGICAL INVESTIGATION OF MYCOPLASMA BOVIS IN CALVES
Authors: Vidić Branka , Savić Sara , Grgić Živoslav , Suvajdžić Ljiljana , Prica Nadežda
Published: June 2020

Within the multifactorial etiology of respiratory infections in cattle, Mycoplasmae play an important role. Most of the Mycoplasma microorganisms play a minor role in the development of the infections in cattle, contrary to Mycoplasma bovis (M. bovis) that is commonly the primary agent of the disease. Respiratory tract mucosa is the primary colonization site of M. bovis in cattle. Colonization of the upper respiratory tract of calves with M.bovis oft en occurs within the fi rst few weeks of life. Animals with chronic infection and without clinical symptoms occasionally shed M.bovis and they are highly important for the epidemiology of the infection. Stress factors such as transportation, entrance into the feeding object, coldness, etc. are associated with the secretion of M. bovis from a nose. Diagnostic procedure relies on clinical symptoms and detection of causative agent, regardless of whether the infection is found in individual animals or in the entire herd. Serological detection of M.bovis antibodies is often a reliable diagnostic method. The most used indirect method is ELISA test. During a two-year period, blood serum samples from calves (beef cattle) were examined and analyzed. Calves originated from cattle farms (big and small) of Holstein- Friesian and Simmental breed. The total number of 3777 samples was examined applying ELISA (Biovet Inc. Mycoplasma bovis Antibody Test Kit Bovichek® M.bovis). Positive fi ndings were obtained in 182 animals, i.e. 4.81%. Th e obtained results confi rmed the presence of M.bovis in cattle herds. Further research from epizootical aspect and the role of M.bovis in the occurrence of health problems in cattle population is necessary.
EXAMINATION OF THE MOST COMMON ALLERGENS OF CANINE ATOPIC DERMATITIS - A RETROSPECTIVE STUDY
Authors: Šubarević Nemanja , Stevanović Oliver , Miličić Matić Natalija , Popović Nikola
Published: June 2020

Canine atopic dermatitis (CAD) is one of the most common skin diseases of dogs. It is estimated that 10-15% of the dogs are showing clinical symptoms of this disease. Canine atopic dermatitis is defi ned as genetically predisposed inflammatory and pruritic allergic skin disease with characteristic clinical symptoms. It is related to the production of IgE antibodies, mostly directed against external allergens. Allergens that can cause canine atopic dermatitis are quite numerous and depend on the geographical characteristics of research location. Th e aim of the study is to determine the most common allergens that can cause canine atopic dermatitis. The research was conducted according to medical records of 100 dogs during a period from the beginning of 2008 to the end of 2012 from the Department for skin diseases of small animals of the Clinic of equine, small animal, poultry and wild animal diseases at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Belgrade. According to the clinical documentation, all of the tested dogs had clinically manifested symptoms of CAD. In order to confi rm the diagnosis and detect the causative allergens, intradermal testing has been done. This testing has been performed with a standard set of 24 allergens specifi c to the geographical area of the research, produced in the Institute of Virology, Vaccines and Sera “Torlak”. According to the results, the highest percentage of positive responses was established for the following allergens: house dust mites (Dermatophagoides sp.) 67%, ragweed (Ambrosia artemisiifolia) 61%, household dust 60%, cocks foot (Dactylis sp.) 59%, mix of weed pollen 57%.
IMMUNITY TO RHODOCOCUS EQUI INFECTION IN HORSES
Authors: Suvajdžić Ljiljana , Potkonjak Aleksandar , Milanov Dubravka , Bekut Maja , Trudić Anika , Lazić Milenko , Suvajdžić Zoran
Published: June 2020

Rhodococcus equi is an opportunistic bacterium that commonly infects foals and immunocompromised patients. Due to the large economic lossesthat it can cause in the fi eld of horse breeding, the microorganism has been studied in details, including its immunological aspect. Within the humoral immunity, the most important immunoglobulins are those of the class G (IgG), produced as a response to the surface antigen associated with virulence (virulence associated protein A, VapA). IgG antibodies provide resistance to pneumonia in foals and have a dose dependent protective effect. In addition to them, the protective role of plasma is achieved through various cytokines. Cellular mechanisms are important for killing bacteria within the macrophage. Virulent strains which carry a plasmid with the gene for VapA stimulate the production of interferon gamma (IFN-γ), a key cytokine to kill these bacteria. Th e presence of IFN-γ is crucial for the removal of microorganisms from the lungs and prevention of formation of pulmonary granulomas. For the complete removal of bacteria cooperation of the humoral and cellular immunity is necessary. Particularly signifi cant is opsonization, which increases phagolysosomal fusion. Vaccination and application of hyperimmune plasma play a vital role in the treatment of disease. Only alive and virulent bacterium is capable of producing protective immunity in horses. Th e use of hyperimmune plasma in foals results in a lower percentage of sick animals and less severe clinical progression of the disease. Further research is needed in order to create a safe and effective vaccine.
COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF DIFFERENT STRATEGIES FOR THE CONTROL OF CLASSICAL SWINE FEVER IN THE REPUBLIC OF SERBIA USING MONTE CARLO SIMULATION
Authors: Stanojević Slavoljub , Valčić Miroslav , Radojičić Sonja , Stanojević Slobodan , Avramov Stevan , Lazić Sava , Mišić Dušan
Published: June 2020

Several diff erent strategies for control and eradication of Classical Swine Fever (CSF) were compared using a Monte Carlo method-based simulationmodel. Th e control strategy analyzed in this paper, in addition to other CSF control measures, includes application of biosecurity measures on pigfarms and rural backyard holdings. Elements of the control strategy are based on applicable regulations and include the simulation of detection ofthe disease, setting up the protected and surveillance zones, standstill of pig movements and restricted movement of animals, vehicles, equipment, and people with strong control measures in protection and surveillance zones, euthanasia of susceptible pigs, protective vaccination of pigs, compensation etc. During the simulation, diff erent output parameters were compared such as: duration of epizootic of a disease, number of aff ected holdings and animals, direct costs such as those for dead or culled animals, costs of surveillance, disposal of infectious materials, cleaning and disinfection.Depopulation of aff ected animals with early diagnostics and vaccination in protection and surveillance zone proved to be the most eff ective measures to stop spreading and eradication of the disease. However, during the simulation, systematic implementation of biosecurity measures in all pig production clusters demonstrated to be appropriate strategy for sustainable control of CSF and setting up a stable epizootiological situation.
MALIGNANT TUMOURS IN LABRADOR RETRIEVERS USED FOR NARCOTIC DETECTION
Authors: Pelić Miloš , Božić Biljana , Pajić Marko , Vučićević Ivana , Samojlović Milena , Polaček Vladimir
Published: June 2020

The two corpses of police dogs, of Labrador retriever breed used for fi nding narcotics, were sent to the Scientifi c Veterinary Institute “Novi Sad”, and examined post-mortem, in order to determine the cause of death. Post-mortem examination revealed the presence of neoplastic changes inthe mandibular region, pulmonary parenchyma and axillary region. The samples of neoplastic changes were sent to the Laboratory of Patohistologywithin the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Belgrade, in order to specify the diagnosis. Histopathology examination revealed an adenocarcinoma in lungs and haemangioendothelioma in axillary region. Is there any role of drug sniffi ng on the occurrence of neoplasia in Labrador retriever breed is still unknown, but it could be an important factor in the development of neoplasia in these dogs.
INFLUENCE OF Saccharomyces cerevisiae (Actisaf SC 47®) AS FEED ADITIVE IN GESTATION OR LACTATION DIETS ON SOWS AND NURSING PIGLETS HEALTH AND PERFORMANCE
Authors: Apić Igor , Stančić Ivan , Kučević Denis , Apić Jelena , D'Inca Roman , Zekić Dušan
Published: June 2020

The aim of this study was to investigate the eff ect of sows gestating or lactating diets supplemented with a commercial probiotic preparation (liveyeast culture - Saccharomyces cerevisiae, “Actisaf Sc47®”) on their health status, as well as the health status and productivity of their piglets during lactation. A total of 120 sows were divided into three groups: fi rst (G, n=40) and second (L, n=40) group was fed diets with probiotic during pregnancy (G) or lactation (L), respectively. Th e third group (C, n = 40) was the control, which was fed without probiotic. Uterus and/or the udder diseases were manifested in the smaller (p<0.01) proportion in treated group (G=7.5%, L=12.5%) compared to control group (22.5%). Th e incidence of piglets diarrhea was lower (p<0.05) in the treated litters (12.5%) compared to the control litters (27.5 %). The average weaned piglets per litter (p/l) and weaning litter weight (lw) (G=11.6 p/l and 103.6 kg/lw; L=11.1 p/l and 102.8 kg/lw, C=10 p/l and 79 kg/lw) were higher (p<0.01 and p<0.05, respectively) in treated, compared to the control sows. Th ese results show that the use of probiotic signifi cantly improves the health status of lactating sows and piglets, as well as the piglets productivity within lactation.
DIROFILARIOSIS AND ANGIOSTRONGILOSIS IN PET AND HUNTING DOGS IN NOVI SAD, VOJVODINA, SERBIA
Authors: Spasojević Kosić Ljubica , Lalošević Vesna , Simin Stanislav , Kuruca Ljiljana
Published: June 2020

The aim of this study is to update the data on the prevalence of Dirofilaria immitis (D. immitis) and Dirofi laria repens (D. repens) infections inpet dogs, to report a preliminary result of the prevalence of Angiostrongylus vasorum (A. vasorum) in hunting dogs, and to assess the presence ofconcurrent infection with D. immitis and A. vasorum in hunting and pet dogs in Novi Sad. Th e methods used to estimate the prevalence of dirofilaria infections were modifi ed Knott test and detection of antigen of D.immitis. Th e prevalence of A. vasorum was determined using Baermannfecal technique and detection of A. vasorum antigen. Concurrent infection with D. immitis and A. vasorum was assessed only by detection of antigens of each parasite. Overall prevalence values for D. immitis and D. repens were 18.95% (24/143) and 16.32% (27/143), respectively. Th e prevalence of A.vasorum in hunting dogs was 1.96% (1/51). Concurrent infection with D.immitis and A. vasorum did not exist in examined hunting and pet dogs. Further studies with larger number of examined dogs and samples from other region of the country are needed to determine the prevalence of these parasites.
Variable Structure Controller for Surface Ship Steering
Authors: Rimbe Ringo , Danwe Raidandi , Mustapha Babagana M
Published: June 2020

A Lyapunov approach to constructing switching surfaces for variable structure systems is investigated in this paper. The method guarantees sliding mode for any initial condition of the state vector and asymptotic stability is always achieved during sliding motion. An application for  the design of  a variable structure ship steering controller is carried out and  simulation results are presented. The designed controller exhibits robustness as applied to a linear time-invariant ship model and a time varying non-linear  ship model operating in  an uncertain and  time-varying environment.
Development of a Manually Operated Hydraulic Press and Pull
Authors: Nwankwojike Bethrand N , Nwogu Chukwunonso N , Kalu Godswill
Published: June 2020

A hydraulic press and pull machine comprising of a frame, cylinder and piston, two threaded studs, hydraulic pump and hose, pulling clamp and a workpiece support was designed, fabricated and evaluated. The machine is manually operated. The maximum shear force, maximum bending moment and maximum displacement of the machine workpiece support were determined as 74.9491N, 16.6335N-m and 4.367e3mm for a simulated load of 1000N. Maximum axial, bending and torsional stresses were also determined as 0.00359, 701998 and 0.00653N/m2 respectively. performance of the developed machine was determined using seven bearings of bore diameters 24, 30, 40, 50, 65, 80 and 100mm respectively, fitted into seven corresponding shafts with shaft deviation of ±0.001mm and dismantled afterwards using three different methods: traditional hammering, the developed manual hydraulic press and pull machine and already existing electrically powered hydraulic press. The results of the experiments showed that traditional hammering is the most time consuming method of mounting and dismounting force fits, followed by the use of the developed press-pull machine while electrically powered hydraulic presses are the fastest.The machine which was fabricated with local materials will reduce the time and stress associated with installation and removal of bearings, and other forms of force fits in machine assemblies. Hence, leading to an overall improvement in the standard of machines/equipment fabricated in Nigeria
Effect of Thermal Conductivity on Magnetohydrodynamic Heat and Mass Transfer in Porous Medium Saturated with Kuvshinshiki Fluid
Authors: Idowu Amos S , Jimoh Abdulwaheed
Published: June 2020

The effects of Kuvshinshiki fluid on Magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) heat and mass transfer flow over a vertical porous plate with chemical reaction of nth order and thermal conductivity was carried out. The governing partial differential equations were solved numerically using implicit Crank-Nicolson method. A parametric study was performed to illustrate the impact of visco-elastic parameter, radiation parameter, thermal conductivity parameter, magnetic parameter, Prandtl number on the velocity,temperature and concentration profiles.The results were presented graphically with tabular presentations of the skin-friction,rate of heat and mass transfer which were all computed and discussed for different values of parameters of the problem. The numerical results revealed that the visco- elastic of Kuvshinshiki fluid type is growing as concentration profile increases, while the velocity and temperature profile falls ,then the radiation and thermal conductivity were growing as velocity and temperature increases. Also Sherwood number decreases as radiation increases but Sherwood number remains unchanged as thermal conductivity growing.
Kinetics of Gelatinized White Yam (Dioscorea Rotundata, Poir) During Convective Drying
Authors: Satimehin Adesola A
Published: June 2020

Gelatinized white yam cubes, having a moisture content of 196% dry basis were dried in a convective dryer under different conditions of air temperature (40, 50, 60 and 70°C) and relative humidity (20 - 50%). There was no constant rate period throughout the entire drying period as drying took place entirely during a falling rate period. The effect of temperature was more pronounced than that of relative humidity. The drying data were fitted to five thin-layer drying models. The goodness of fit of the models were evaluated by comparing the percent mean relative deviation modulus (E%), RMSE, χ2 and R2 between their observed and predicted moisture ratio. The Binomial approximation of Fick's diffusion equation gave the best fit to the drying data as the highest values of R2 and the lowest values of χ2 and RMSE were consistently obtained with the Binomial model equation.
Effects of Magnesium Variation and Heat Treatment on Mechanical and Micro-Structural Properties of Ductile Cast Iron
Authors: Adebayo Abdullahi O , Taiwo Gabriel L , Oyetunji Akinlabi
Published: June 2020

The effects of magnesium variation and austempering heat treatment on mechanical and microstructural properties of ductile iron produced using the rotary furnace were investigated. Varied quantity of magnesium-ferrosilicon in the range of 0.03 % to 0.06 % were used as nodulirizer to treat 4 kg mass of molten metal per ladle by sandwich process and poured into sand mould.  Mechanical test (tensile, hardness, fatigue, impact and wear) and micro-structural examinations were carried out on the four samples produced. Samples C and D of 0.056% and 0.061% magnesium showed an improvement in their micro-structural properties due to the presence of more graphite nodules. Hence, they were observed to have exhibited better tensile strength of 598.07MPa and 609.03MPa. The fatigue strength also increased to 501.91MPa and 509.27MPa respectively. These two samples were further subjected to austempering heat treatment by heating to 850ºC for austenitization and soaked for homogenization for one hour at the temperature before quickly transferred into a salt bath of 50 % NaNO3 : 50 % NaCl maintained at 3600C and quenched for transformation for 1 hour before finally air cooled. Mechanical tests and micro-structural examinations were thereafter carried out. Sample C had an outstanding increase in tensile strength, from 598.07MPa to 891.22MPa, while specimen D increased from 609.03MPa to 898.76MPa. The results of abrasion test indicated that samples C and D had abrasion resistance increase from 2.20×10¹¹m² and 2.39×10¹¹m² to 2.35×10¹¹m² and 2.68×10¹¹ m² respectively after austempering. There were also relative increase in fatigue resistance and impact toughness for the two samples but with relative reduction in hardness from 47.7 to 44.2 and 50.3 to 47.4.
Investigation of Sub Soil Corrosion Using Electrical Resistivity Method: Federal University Oye Ekiti Phase II Campus as a case study
Authors: Hammed Olaide S , Igboama Wilfred N , Awoyemi M O , Fatoba Julius O , Aroyehun Morufu , Olurin O T , Badmus G O , Wahab I B
Published: June 2020

Electrical Resistivity survey was carried out with the aim of identifying the degree of soil corrosion associated with the sub soil of the Federal University Oye Ekiti phase II. The sub soil resistivity of the area was surveyed and evaluated using Ohmega resistivity meter. The sub soil resistivity parameters were used to delineate the degree of the sub soil corrosion. Four electrodes were inserted into the soil/rock using the Wenner profiling, vertical electrical sounding and Dipole- Dipole array along the traverses with a spacing of 5m and n =1 to 5.In this method, artificially generated electric current(I) was injected into the ground via two current electrodes while the resulting potential difference (V) is measured by another pair of electrodes. The survey revealed that the Southwest and Northwest regions of the study area were associated with high resistivity (200-500 Ω-m).This implies that the soil structure of the region is not corrosive, while the southeast region was associated with low resistivity (20-80 Ω-m) value which implies that the sub soil structure is corrosive. The degree of corrosion increases from the western to eastern part of the study area which may be due to bedrock topography. Of all the layers investigated, the topsoil layer is highly corrosive compare to other layers.
Assessment of Catfish Effluents Management in Lagos State, Nigeria
Authors: Omofunmi Olorunwa E , Adisa Alex F , Alegbeleye Olusegun A , Ilesanmi Oluwaseun A
Published: June 2020

Catfish is one of the major sources of dietary protein in Nigeria. Lagos State is one of culturing areas with abundant fresh water and marine environments. The aim of this study was to evaluate the catfish rearing industry and its effluents management and make appropriate recommendations. Forty fish farms were randomly selected in Lagos State for the study. Questionnaire and in-depth interview were used for data collection on water sources, equipment operations, and waste management. Data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results indicated that over 80% of water for fish rearing was from shallow wells and 95% of the waste water generated was not treated before disposal into the environment. Effluents disposals employed were open pit (12.5%), drainage canal (32.5%), bare-land (20.0%), stream (22.5%) and re-used on farm (12.5%) and these methods of disposal were not significantly different (p ≤ 0.05). Only a few farmers carried out simple treatment before disposal namely; infiltration (2.5%) and sedimentation (2.5%). If the effluent management conditions were not improved, it could pose a threat to the environment in the study areas. Pond effluent must be treated before being disposed into the environment and waste water from fish pond effluent should be reused as irrigation water.
Modification and Performance Evaluation of Cleaning System for IAR Sorghum Thresher
Authors: Sale Nura A , Muhammed U S , Gwarzo M A , Idris S I
Published: June 2020

Sorghum is a major source of food for most families and as raw material to many industries in Nigeria. Cleaning is among the most important post-harvest operation after threshing. However, manual cleaning of crop is quite tedious, time and labour intensive. A prototype thresher has already been developed at Institute of Agricultural Research (IAR) but yet it has been associated with many difficulties during operation. Among the problems of IAR prototype sorghum thresher are low operating performance such as higher scatter loss and low cleaning efficiency thus the need for modification to improve the above mentioned parameters. This study was undertaken to modify the cleaning system of the IAR sorghum thresher with the aim of minimizing the drudgery involved in its operation and to improve its performance. The major modifications were on shaking mechanism and sieves. The number of sieves was increased from one to three while the connecting rode for shaking mechanism was changed from horizontal to vertical orientation. The sizes of the pulleys were also changed. Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) experimental design was used for determining the effect of moisture content, speed and feed rate on the cleaning performance of the machine. The maximum performance achieved were 99.95 %, 5.45 %, and 250 kg/h for cleaning efficiency, scatter loss and throughput capacity respectively.
Cloud-based Simulation Tools for Cloud Testing: A Review
Authors: Ngharamike Ericmoore T , Ijemaru Gerald K , Akinsanmi Olaitan , Folorunsho Olaiya
Published: June 2020

Cloud computing has maintained popularity and attraction in the ICT industry. Many business organizations have embraced the benefits that it offers and many more are still working towards cloud computing. One of the many concerns many organizations and individuals have about cloud computing from its inception is how to test the services and opportunities offered by cloud computing. This concern is as a result of the cost of running experiments on real cloud system and the fact that real infrastructure limits experiments within the size of the infrastructure, thereby making it really difficult to reproduce test. The alternative solution to this concern is the use of cloud simulation tools which offer a cloud environment to test cloud services in a repeated and controlled manner at no cost. Many cloud simulation tools have been developed since the inception of cloud computing. These tools have their strengths and weakness in modelling and simulating cloud system. This paper reviews some simulation tools and compares them in terms of their underlying framework, programming language, GUI, availability, cost modelling, energy modelling, simulation time, federation policy and communication model
Irrigation Practice and its Management Programme in Benin-Owena River Basin Development Authority, Nigeria
Authors: Omofunmi Olorunwa E , Ilesanmi Oluwaseun , Alli Adekunle A
Published: June 2020

The present level of irrigation system and poor output level of agricultural and horticultural products have triggered the need to look for a better management strategy under the current irrigation system. In order to suggest a feasible option, this study examines the present irrigation management structure in Benin-Owena River Basin Development Authority in Nigeria. Questionnaire and in-depth interviews were used for data collection. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results indicated that majority, (86 %), of the farmers were educated, 77 % were practising commercial farming, 50 % of the farmers have been practicing irrigation for over 20 years and 60 % adopted sprinkler methods, followed by drip (27%) and the most rarely used was basin with 3 %. The sources of water used were 30 % of stream, 29 % of well and 7 % lake. Findings indicated that (30 %) of the farmers were trained and visited by the workers of Benin-Owena River Basin Development Authority, (20 %) of the farmers were helped in their irrigation development, and only a few of the workers of Benin-Owena River Basin Development Authority (10 and 15 %) that assisted the farmers one way or the other were the professional expert in irrigation and related fields. Majority, (70 %), of the farmers were not fully integrated into the activities of the river-basin irrigation management structure. Hence, Benin-Owena River Basin Development Authority should be restructured to incorporate the irrigation stakeholders into the river-basin irrigation management structure
An Investigation of the Impacts of Phase Noise on Symbol Error Rate in Quadrature Amplitude Modulation Systems
Authors: Ezea Hilary U , Adebusuyi Kehinde , Ofusori Temidayo , Ezea Rita U
Published: June 2020

The existence of phase noise in virtually every digital communications system poses a serious challenge to system designers especially as system complexity increases. Communication system complexity could be attributed to the modulation techniques adopted and the circuitry employed in achieving such modulations. This work investigates the impact of phase noise on the Symbol Error Rate (SER) of the different Quadrature Amplitude Modulation (QAM) schemes.  MATLAB simulation technique is adopted for the work and the results of the simulations show that as the phase noise is increased negatively, all the QAM schemes investigated show a reduction in SER and at a point, records a zero error. The value at which the schemes record this zero symbol error rate increases as the complexity of the scheme increases. So, higher order QAM schemes accommodate more symbol errors than the lower orders. The results also show that hard decision decoding has the worst performance index, irrespective of the QAM scheme, when compared with soft decision decoding.
Adaptation of Water Pump as a Micro Hydro-Turbine for Electricity Generation
Authors: Ajao Kajogbola , Agaja Michael O , Ajimotokan Habeeb , Makar Asor
Published: June 2020

The concern on the global environment has imposed restraints on the production of electricity. The emphasis recently is on the development of environmental friendly methods to promote sustainable power production as it is in micro hydro power generation. The running cost of such plants is low but initial capital cost can be relatively high. By reducing the equipment cost in micro hydropower system, micro hydro turbines can become more useful and easily affordable. Reducing the equipment cost by the use of centrifugal pump in reverse mode can be an alternative to conventional hydraulic turbine. This paper discussed the adaptation of a water pump to function as a small hydro-turbine to be utilized in small stream in rural areas. Annual rainfall data was obtained from a 14 year data from National Centre of Agricultural Mechanization (NCAM) to obtain the discharge from river Odurun. By using the codrier graph method, a pump with a diameter of 245 mm was chosen from three pump obtained from a manufacturer catalogue. The speed at which the turbine will run was evaluated to be 1437 rpm with a head of 29 m, discharge of 0.044 m3/s and a power output of 10.1 kW with a model number of NW 10D. It was based on the site boundary conditions the pump selection was made and the performance evaluated using ratios of the head and discharge coefficients.
Inhibitive Action of Water Extract of Spondias Mombin on Corrosion of Low Carbon Steel in 0.5 M Sulphuric Acid
Authors: Kuye Sidikat I , Abudu Abiodun I , Adetunji Olayide R , Adekunle Nurudeen O , Adisa Alex F , Adeyemi Hezekiah O
Published: June 2020

Corrosion inhibition of water extract of Spondias mombin on low carbon steel in 0.5 M sulphuric acid was investigated in this paper. Fresh leaves, fruits and bark of this plant, washed properly, ground separately using small amount of distilled water to extract the juice at a ratio of 500 ml (distilled water) to 1 kilogram of plant were used for this experiment. Corrosion inhibitors of 0.4 g/ml, 1 g/ml and 2 g/ml were made from the filterate. Low carbon steel coupons suspended with twine inside 250 ml container of 0.5 M sulphuric acid in the presence of different concentrations of the extracts at room temperature for 35 days. The coupons were retrieved at 7 days interval, and the initial and final weights were recorded.  Inhibition efficiency for the leaves extract increased with concentration and got to its peak on the 7th day, that of the fruits extract initially increased with concentration until 1 g/ml after which there was a decline, its highest value was also recorded on the 7th day. The best inhibition efficiencies (in the range of 76.32% to 83.21%) for Spondias mombin water extract were observed in 0.4 g/ml bark extract throughout the days of the experiment, the highest being recorded on the14th day. It can be concluded that Spondias mombin water extract is a good corrosion inhibitor of low carbon steel in 0.5 M sulphuric acid at room temperature, with the best being the bark extract which inhibited for up to 35 days.
Processing of Hyperspectral Data using Wavelet Transform
Authors: Anigbogu Okwudili , Olanloye Odunayo D
Published: June 2020

Remote sensor technology has encouraged series of research work in the area of signal and image processing. This is because the application of remote sensor has made it possible to obtain different types of signals and images from different places all over the world. In most cases, data obtained from hyperspectral images are found to be too voluminous and noisy. This, to a certain extent affects the accuracy of the result obtained when such signals or images are further processed for some applications. Previous research works have not sufficiently addressed this fundamental problem. Therefore, this research work is out to make use of Wavelet Transform for  processing signals obtained from hyperspectral images with a view to denoise and reduce the data dimensionality without losing part of its content. Having undergone the process of denoising, the quality of the image or signal is drastically improved in terms of its clarity and size. This produces a better result when such signal is used for some applications. The system was implemented using MatLab wavelet tool. Hence, the result obtained is found to be better than the previous ones. The result also produced an hyperspectral spectrum/signal that has been thoroughly denoised and dimensionally reduced to an acceptable size within a very short computational time.
Characteristics of Blended Cements Produced from Selected Hardwood Ashes
Authors: Raheem Akeem A , Orogbade Blessing O
Published: June 2020

In an attempt to find an alternative binding material for construction industry, this study considered the use of wood ash from three different hardwoods namely: Tectonagrandis, Cassia siamea and Vitellariaparadoxa as a pozzolan in cement production. The study investigates the chemical composition (silica (SiO2), aluminum oxide (Al2O3), ferric oxide (Fe2O3), calcium oxide (CaO), magnesium oxide (MgO), sulphur trioxide (SO3), sodium oxide (Na2O) and potassium Oxide (K2O)) of the ashes and the clinker. The production of blended cements were carried out in the factory by replacing 5- 50% by weight of Ordinary Portland Cement Clinker with the ashes during the manufacturing process. The cement without wood ash serves as the control. The physical characteristic (fineness, initial and final setting times, heat of hydration and residue on 45µm sieve), and the chemical composition of the blended cements were also investigated. The results showed that all the wood ashes (Tectonagrandis ash (TGA), Cassia siamea ash (CSA) and Vitellariaparadoxa ash (VPA)) were suitable material for use as pozzolan since they satisfied the requirement for such a material by having a combined SiO2, Fe2O3 and Al2O3 of more than 70%. The TGA, CSA and VPA blended cements satisfied standard requirements for up to 20% replacement level. It was concluded that all the wood ashes were suitable for use in the production of blended cements.
Cost and Calorie Analysis of Food Consumption in Artisanal Fishery Households in North-Western and North-Central Nigeria
Authors: Oladimeji Yusuf U , Yusuf Haneefat O , Yusuf Suleiman , Abdulsalam Zakari
Published: June 2020

A study was conducted to assess- the food calorie intake and factors that determine food security status of fisherfolks in North-Central and North-Western Nigeria. Data were collected from 267 rural fishery households using a multi-stage random sampling procedure. The main tools of analysis include descriptive statistics, Cost of calorie intake and Tobit models. The study revealed that the fishery household heads were male dominated (94%); average age of 49 years with mean adjusted household size of 8. The estimated mean years of schooling of sampled fisherfolks were 3.5 years, largely skewed towards the informal education and below 2015 UNDP mean education index of 5 years for Nigeria. The calorie intake for the secured fisherfolks households recorded higher values for the entire food intake than the insecured households. The result showed that only 35.58% of the sampled fisheries households were food secured while majority (64.42%) of the sampled households were food insecured. The determinants of food insecurity status were socio-economic variables and those factors that influenced the food secured fisherfolks showed slight variation from those influenced households that were food insecured and where it did, it was not by the same magnitude and direction.  There is need for an appropriate policy mix that will promote the increased production of legumes and animal protein foods in the study area to raise and meet the minimum average protein required per caput per day. Food insecure households should be educate by extension agents through their cooperative societies to increase production of maize, sorghum, millet, rice and cowpea to enhance their food security status.
Development and Performance Evaluation of a Manually-Operated Multipurpose Fruit Juice Extractor
Authors: Odewole Michael M , Falua Kehinde J , Adebisi Semiu O , Abdullahi Kabir O
Published: June 2020

A simply and manually-operated multipurpose fruit juice extractor was designed, constructed and its performance was evaluated in terms of juice yield, extraction efficiency, juice content, extraction loss and extraction capacity. The machine has two major parts which are: the extraction chamber and the structural frame. The extraction chamber is made of stainless steel and consists of a turning handle (f24.5 x 400mm), screw rod (f32 x 620 mm), compression plate (f100 mm), perforated inner cylinder (f115 x 180 mm), non-perforated outer cylinder (f120 x 180 mm) and discharge pipe. The structural frame (350 mm x 415 mm x 60 mm) is made of mild steel of U-channel section. The machine basically works on the principle of transmission of compressive force to rupture the juice cells of the fruit for the liberation of juice. Sweet orange, watermelon, red apple, green apple, pineapple, lime, lemon and grape were used for the performance evaluation process. Results obtained showed that pineapple had the highest values of juice yield (68.74%),juice content (66.40%), extraction capacity (92.85 g/min) and extraction efficiency (82.99%) while sweet orange and lime had the lowest extraction loss and extraction capacity of 1.67% and  29.81 (g/min) respectively.
Effects of Fermentation Duration on Bio-Ethanol Yield from Cell Sap of Selected Palm Species in Nigeria
Authors: Omotosho Olayinka , Amori Anthony
Published: June 2020

It is believed that feedstock for biofuel production should not constitute any form of competition in terms of food security, therefore the study considered the bioethanol potential comparison of a particular breed of palm commonly referred to as nypa palm (Nypa fruticana) which is usually of environmental concern in mangrove vegetation zones with two other species namely the raphia palm (Raphia hookeria) and oil palm (Ealasis guinesis) which are considered as having economic value. A catalysed fermentation process was carried out using Saccharomyces cerevisiae over a periods of 24, 48, 72, 96, 120, 144 and 168 hrs at room temperature. At peak production the bioethanol from Nypa palm specie had 38.6 and 37.9% more ethanol concentration than the oil and raffia palms respectively. The biomas concentration in the nypa palm sap sample after the fermentation period were about 26.7 and 29.5%  higher than what was obtainable in the oil and raffia palms.  The fermentation efficiency for the three samples was observed to be 90.2, 84.5 and 87.3% for nypa, oil and raffia palms respectively. It can be concluded from results obtained that nypa palm offered the highest bioethanol production potential, thus could offer a good source of non-competitive feedstock for renewable energy production in Nigeria where the plant is usually viewed as an environmental nuisance and in some extreme cases maritime hazard.Keywords— Alcoholmeter, Bioethanol, Fermentation Efficiency, Feed Stock, Nypa Palm
Software Defect Prediction Using Ensemble Learning: An ANP Based Evaluation Method
Authors: Balogun Abdullateef O , Bajeh Amos O , Orie Victor A , Yusuf-Asaju Ayisat W
Published: June 2020

Software defect prediction (SDP) is the process of predicting defects in software modules, it identifies the modules that are defective and require extensive testing. Classification algorithms that help to predict software defects play a major role in software engineering process. Some studies have depicted that the use of ensembles is often more accurate than using single classifiers. However, variations exist from studies, which posited that the efficiency of learning algorithms might vary using different performance measures. This is because most studies on SDP consider the accuracy of the model or classifier above other performance metrics. This paper evaluated the performance of single classifiers (SMO, MLP, kNN and Decision Tree) and ensembles (Bagging, Boosting, Stacking and Voting) in SDP considering major performance metrics using Analytic Network Process (ANP) multi-criteria decision method. The experiment was based on 11 performance metrics over 11 software defect datasets. Boosted SMO, Voting and Stacking Ensemble methods ranked highest with a priority level of 0.0493, 0.0493 and 0.0445 respectively. Decision tree ranked highest in single classifiers with 0.0410. These clearly show that ensemble methods can give better classification results in SDP and Boosting method gave the best result. In essence, it is valid to say that before deciding which model or classifier is better for software defect prediction, all performance metrics should be considered.Keywords— Data mining, Machine Learning,  Multi Criteria Decision Making, Software Defect Prediction
Investigating Discharge Behaviour of a Sharp-Edged Circular Orifice Flow under Low Head from Unsteady Experimental Procedure and Computational Fluid Dynamics
Authors: Ewemoje Temitayo A. , Alabi Habeeb A.
Published: June 2020

A circular sharp-edged orifice is a hydraulic flow device used to measure and control the outflow from channels, detention ponds, reservoirs and tanks. In this study experimentation was carried out at the Soil and Water Conservation Laboratory, University of Ibadan to investigate the discharge coefficient Cd of circular sharp-edged orifice at low head. The experiment was conducted using four different orifice diameters (4.5, 6.0, 7.5, 9.0cm). Flow characteristics in Cd for each orifice diameter were observed. A relationship between Cd and likely independent variables that could affect Cd was determined from dimensional analysis. Simple and multiple regression models of these variables were established. The simulation experimentation of the flow was carried out using COMSOL Multiphysics with Navier-Stokes equation as the governing equation. Data were analysed using ANOVA at α0.05.It was found that the Cd increased as head reduced, and higher increase was observed at lower head. Coefficient of determination (R2) showed that 99.3% variability in Cd is due to Reynolds number-Re and Froude’s number-Fr but only significant at 4.5cm orifice diameter (P < 0.05). Simulation results were similar in trend to experimental results; however, 4.5cm orifice diameter had the highest Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) of 1.9877 for Cd and 0.029 for Fr and minimal errors observed as the diameter increased. This study demonstrated that Cd cannot be taken as a constant value when dealing with low head; however, the simulation was able to forecast the trend but could not predict the exact values.Keywords: Orifice, Computational Fluid Dynamics, Navier-Stokes equations, Discharge Coefficient, Open Channel flow.
Design and Construction of a Motorized Citrus Juice Extractor
Authors: Martins Oluwaseun O , Bolaji Bukola O , Adeyemi Oluwole H , Sanusi Olawale M
Published: June 2020

This paper presents the design, construction and performance evaluation of a locally fabricated motorized citrus juice extractor for small and medium scale industry. The fabrication materials for the machine comprises of stainless steel aluminum alloy which is used for the construction of the hopper, compression chamber and collector or receiver. The presser and perforated cylindrical sieve was formed using stainless steel sheet. The power shaft was machined from stainless steel solid shaft; mild steel angle bar was used for the main frame while the transmission pulleys were machined from mild steel material. In selection of materials for the machine critical properties such as toxicity, corrosion and pitting resistance were considered. For power transmission, 4 HP electric motor, V-belt and cast iron ball bearings were used. The performance evaluation of the machine shows that the machine extraction capacity and extraction efficiency are significantly affected by the prime mover speed in revolution per minutes (rpm). The machine efficiency is found to be 84.54 %, average juice extraction capacity is 10.92 cm3/sec or 39.312 lit/h at 600 rpm and the machine capacity is 38.89 kg/h. The production cost of the machine is about N117,800.00  (326 USD) this cost compared with the imported GG-0.5 model of similar capacity which cost about 3150 USD makes the machine considerably acquirable for use by both small and medium scale citrus juice processing plants in Nigeria.  Keywords— Design, Extraction efficiency, Fabrication, Juice extractor, Performance evaluation.
Comparative Study of Evapotranspiration Variation and its Relationship with other Climatic Parameters in Asaba and Uyo
Authors: Umego Okwunna M , Ewemoje Temitayo A , Ilesanmi Oluwaseun A
Published: June 2020

This study was carried out to assess the variations of Reference Evapotranspiration (ETO also denoted with RET) calculated using FAO-56 Penman Monteith model of two locations Asaba and Uyo and evaluate its relationships with the variations of other climatic parameters. Meteorological data of forty one years (1975-2015) and thirty five years (1981-2015) period for Asaba and Uyo, respectively gotten from Nigeria Meteorological Agency, Abuja were used. It was observed that the variations of Evapotranspiration (ET) in both locations were in line with two seasons (rainy and dry) normally experienced in Nigeria having its highest value in March (4.8 mm/day) for Asaba and for Uyo in February (4.5 mm/day); and its lowest value in August (3.1 mm/day) for Asaba and in July (2.9 mm/day) for Uyo. ET variation when compared with other climatic variables in both locations was observed to have the same trend with maximum temperature, solar radiation and sunshine hours. It also has the same variation with minimum temperature though with slight deviation. It was observed that ET variation is inversely proportional to the variation relative humidity. Wind speed displayed relatively small variation in its trend over the study period and is not in line with the variations of ET.Keywords— Evapotranspiration, Climatic Variables, FAO Penman-Monteith Model, Variations
Geophysical Site Investigation for Groundwater Prospecting in the Permanent Site of Federal University, Dutsin-Ma, Nigeria
Authors: Salahudeen Anigilaje B , Sadeeq Ja’afar A
Published: June 2020

Geophysical investigation of the permanent site of Federal University, Dutsin-Ma located in Katsina State site was carried out with the objective of investigating the subsoil conditions based on geophysical site exploration methodology in order to take precise engineering decisions on the best locations for different utilities and ground water profile establishment. The major instruments used in carrying out the fieldwork include: SAS 300, Reels of cables, sets of electrode, hammer, tapes and sealed battery. Six survey profiles were used with 200m length each. Dedicated geophysical software was used for the data processing. Results show that the thickness of the overburden which ranges between 2 m to 35 m is more in the southern part of the survey area than the northern part that has thin overburden thickness. This suggests that the thickness of the underground water aquifer will be more in the southern part of the survey area. Best locations of boreholes were recommended and alternative source of water was suggested based on observation.Keywords: Fresh basement, Geophysics, Resistivity imaging, Site investigation, Subsoil exploration, Aquifer
Comparison of the Effect of Moringa Extract and Powder on Coliform and BOD Variation with Time
Authors: Aho Mathew I , Agunwamba Jonah C
Published: June 2020

The study investigated the use of moringa extract and powder on coliform and BOD variation with time. Jar test analysis revealed optimum dosages that were used in the experimentation. Raw and waste water samples were treated separately with the extract and powder at detention periods of 1, 24, 48 and 72 hours respectively. Coliform and BOD values of the water samples which were either flocculated or not were measured. The results revealed that, raw water coliform in excess of 1700cfu/ml and BOD of 78mg/L were reduced to 540cfu/ml and 60mg/L after 72 hours of using moringa extract in the treatment. But the same treatment using particle sizes of the powder indicated poor performance, especially in waste water treatment. The study reveals that moringa oleifera extract is comparatively better than powder in raw and waste water treatment.                                                         Key words - Comparison, moringa extract, powder treatment