GNARW (Global Network for Advanced Research Works) (original) (raw)

Papers by GNARW (Global Network for Advanced Research Works)

Research paper thumbnail of Ranking Approach to M.Sc. Programs at Mechanical Department, Pulchowk Campus, Nepal using Analytic Hierarchy Process

International Journal of Biological Sciences and Research | IJBSR, 2018

This study aims to present an analytic hierarchy decision making approach to evaluate the perform... more This study aims to present an analytic hierarchy decision making approach to evaluate the performance of master’s program of Mechanical Department at Pulchowk Campus, Institute of Engineering, Tribhuvan University, Lalitpur, Nepal. This research emphasizes multi criteria decision making approach and establishes the priorities for performance indicators. For the purpose of performance evaluation of the programs indicators are divided into 5 major criteria which are academic, faculty resources, student selectivity, program admission and faculty accomplishment. These criteria are further classified into 15 hierarchal sub-criteria. The performance evaluation was done for three M.Sc. Programs of mechanical department from year 2012 to 2014.This was achieved by using deriving the priority and weightage sum by Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) techniques. This weightage method helped to get scoring for all criteria and sub-criteria to get the total priority of alternatives. Analytic Hierarchy Process enables decision makers to examine the strength and weaknesses of the three programs by comparing them with selected criteria. This research has developed a framework and purposed the use of multi-criteria method in the academic sector, which has emphasized the academic performance measurement problem in multi-criteria approach. The result of this study shows that AHP can be used as multi-criteria decision support tool to measure the performance in higher educational sector.

Research paper thumbnail of Metal Water Contamination Sources And Drilling Artesian In Common And Zagnanado And Zogbodomey Center Of Benin

In natural aquatic ecosystems, the metals are found in low concentrations, usually in the nanogra... more In natural aquatic ecosystems, the metals are found in low concentrations, usually in the nanogram or microgram per liter. The decision to review the data on water sources and artesian wells comes from the need to adopt a holistic approach that can draw future strategies of struggle. To analyze the determinants of this metal pollution three heavy metals were analyzed in overburden drilling artesian springs and then in cotton fields in areas where the water points are located. The levels of three heavy metals found in the lands of sources and boreholes blankets are above the values obtained in the cotton fields. The objective of this study was to evaluate metal contamination of water sources and artesian wells in the Commons Zagnanado Zogbodomey and related craft activities, agricultural and domestic developed in the region. Three heavy metals Cd, Hg, and Pb - were assayed in the waters (07) and artesian springs (05) artesian wells. Only the mercury levels among the three heavy metals is high in the rainy season in the waters (02) holes. The presence of heavy metal contaminants at concentrations above natural fillers, has become an issue of increasing concern. It must attribute the rapid population growth, increased urbanization, the expansion of industrial activities, exploration and exploitation of natural resources, expansion of irrigation and the spread of other modern farming practices and that the absence of environmental regulations. The openings created by the tectonic and mechanical stresses (fractures, cracks and faults) are specifically conducive to the charging process, particularly when it comes flush structures. While highlighting lineaments in the study area by fracturing card, allows us to interpret the presence of mercury in the rainy season in the waters of these wells by infiltration of stormwater.

Research paper thumbnail of 4G Network and its impact on Wireless Communication

With an increase in the number of end users using internet services, the average data rate of 30 ... more With an increase in the number of end users using internet services, the average data rate of 30 Mbps will not be in a position to accommodate the future mobile technology. So radio and mobile communication specialists started an R&D work on 4G mobile communication systems before even completing IMT-2000 system [2]. 4G is the fourth generation standard for cellular wireless communication. It can offer speed up to 100 Mbps for high mobility communication where else it can deliver up to 1 GB for low mobility communication. The main focus on 4G communication system is to integrate the existing wireless technologies like WCDMA, Wireless LAN, Bluetooth, HSUPA/HSDPA, 1xEVDO [1] . Stability of a system and quality of service will be ensured in 4G communication systems.

Migrating from an existing system to new systems like 4G has a greater impact on lot of political and technical issues and it has huge challenges to overcome. This project work intends to deal with various factors like fundamental issues within a network technology, effective use of a spectrum, standards, and also about various services of 4G and its impact on future communication system. This project work will also exhibits the development, transition, and the future work with respect to deploying 4G.

Research paper thumbnail of Design and Implementation of Computerized Career Information System for Secondary Schools

The presence of counselors in school is not just for the sake of it, they are there to direct stu... more The presence of counselors in school is not just for the sake of it, they are there to direct student on area they psychologically find them fit. The job of counseling towards a future career of students is not an easy task, the student has to be followed regularly within attitude and academic performance so that he/she will be directed towards his/her life career. This thesis work researched into the procedure involved in guiding and counseling students in the Junior secondary school with a view to come up with the computerized system that would help in carrying out the activities selecting the best class type (science, Commercial and Arts) effectively. The problems associated with the existing system were detected and possible solutions to the problems were provided in the new system. The new system is a computerized one, which works automatically; it is very easy to use and also cost affective .The new system is timely and accurate in report generation.

Research paper thumbnail of The Impact of Aquatic Insect As A Biomarker of Environmental Pollution

The frequent discharge of effluent mainly from industrial and agricultural site has been one of t... more The frequent discharge of effluent mainly from industrial and agricultural site has been one of the major factors causing water pollution nowadays. For that reason, benthic macro invertebrate were studied as a target factor for assessing water quality level of polluted water channel. This might proved to be cheaper and eco-friendly means to strengthen ecological integrity of water body than the other forms of assessment. The sample of macro invertebrate was collected from water channel of Zoological garden Gombe State University (GSU) using five minute kicking techniques preserved and identified. Three sampling station were pointed out in the study and a total of 105 aquatic invertebrate were recorded of which most species belong to Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera and Trichoptera (EPT) taxa. Six physicochemical parameters were studied and their variation changes the composition and distribution of aquatic insect in the station. This study shows that the water channel of GSU is fairly good harboring different species of aquatic insect. Pollution tolerant insect such as Odotana were also found in the sampling station.

Research paper thumbnail of Germination Trial, Proximate And Elemental Analysis Of Vitex Doniana (Linn) Fruits.

The main objectives of this research work is to access the responses of pre-sowing treatment on g... more The main objectives of this research work is to access the responses of pre-sowing treatment on germination of Vitex doniana seeds (dormancy breakage), however, proximate and minerals analysis of its fruits pulp were also preliminary evaluated. 1800 fruits from 15 trees were collected from various location between FCT and Niger state of central part of Nigeria. The seeds were subjected into chemicals and hot water treatments at various degree. The result shows that scarification with H2SO4, hot water depulped at 600c and hot water undepulped at 1000c proved to be the best treatment method of germination (dormancy breakage) of Vitex doniana. The analysis of dried black pulp powder reveals that, the total ash content and total carbohydrate content proved promising (15.91 and 55.86%) respectively, the pulp powder divulge low protein content (7.39%). The minerals analysis of the pulp powder reveals that the pulp contain minerals within safety limit such as, Calcium (Ca, 22.00mg/g), Magnesium (Mg, 7.00mg/g), Sodium (Na, 15.00mg/g), Potassium (K, 12mg/g) and others elements such as Manganese (Mn, 0.03mg/g), Zinc (Zn, 0.004mg/g), Chromium (Cr, 0.023mg/g) Copper (Cu, 0.10mg/g) and Iron (Fe,0.01mg/g) are also present at very low proportions while Lead (Pd) was completely absent which qualified the pulp to be safe and good candidate for consumption. The statistical chi-square (X2) contingency test was adopted to analyzed the significance differences between the treatments using various chi-square values.

Research paper thumbnail of Influence of Soil Type on the Growth and the Matters Production of Typha Australis (Schum. and Thonn) In Experimental Conditions

The Niayes area is characterized by a series of dunes and inter-dune depressions. At the Dakar Te... more The Niayes area is characterized by a series of dunes and inter-dune depressions. At the Dakar Technopole Typha australis, an invasive plant having negative impacts on the ecosystem, colonizes the two environments where soil types are different. This study aims at assessing the influence of soil on growth, the production of matters of aerial and underground parts of Typha australis. The test was conducted under experimental conditions in containers filled with soil from the dunes and soil from well drained depressions of the "Niayes" area, whose characteristics are defined. The plant of Typha harvested in the area were transplanted into containers. They are subject to two treatments applied on 5 terms of 3 repetitions Growth parameters such as the height and diameter of the stems are higher on the soil of dunes than on the dune depressions with significant differences (p <0.001 and p <0.05). The fresh and dry matter of the aerial parts as well as those of the dry matter of the underground parts are also more increased in the soil of the dunes with significant differences. The presence of salt in the soil of the depressions is likely to have a negative effect on the growth of Typha australis. Aerial Parts / Underground Parts ratio, rather similar in both soils, have decreased during the experiment from 0.3 to 0.2 in the soil depressions and even to 0.14 in the soil of the dunes.

Research paper thumbnail of Wood Defects Recognition Based on Fuzzy BP Neural Network

Firstly, we applied the X-ray non-destructive testing technology to detect wood defects for getti... more Firstly, we applied the X-ray non-destructive testing technology to detect wood defects for getting the images. After graying the images, we calculated their GLCMS(Gray Level Co-occurrence Matrixes), then we normalized GLCMS to obtain the joint probabilities of GLCMS. The feature vectors of images, which included 13 eigenvalues of images were calculated and extracted by the joint probability of GLCMS. The fuzzy BP neural network(abbreviated as FBP) was designed by combining fuzzy mathematics and BP neural network . And the FBP neural network was regarded as the membership function of feature vectors, the outputs of the network was regarded as the degree of membership to the feature vectors in each category. We use the maximum degree of membership method for the pattern recognition of feature vectors, so the automatic identification and classification for feature vectors were achieved , and then the automatic identification of wood defects was realized.
By simulated study and training many times, the results shown that the average recognition success rate of the network was more than 90%, and some FBP networks had an extremely high recognition success rate to training samples and test samples.

Research paper thumbnail of Assessment of Physico-chemical parameters from Pond Water of Bilaspur District, C.G.

In present work an attempt has been made on Physico-chemical parameters of different ponds i.e. M... more In present work an attempt has been made on Physico-chemical parameters of different ponds i.e. Muda pond of Masturi, Kot-sagar pond of Kota and Manwa pond of Bilha, Bilaspur district C.G. The study was carried out for a period of one year from July 2013 to June 2014; monthly details were collected and represented seasonally. Different physico-chemical parameters were taken in the study were temperature, pH, Conductivity, Total dissolved solids, Dissolved oxygen (DO), Biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), Total alkalinity, Total hardness, Chemical oxygen demand (COD). The results indicated the various ranges with Temperature 20- 45°C (July-June), pH (5.3-8.3), Turbidity (11-45.4 mg/l), Total solids 100.3 mg/l (Aug.) in Kot-sagar of Kota and 132.49 mg/l (Sep.) in Muda pond of Masturi, Total dissolve solids (90-1820 mg/l) in Kot-sagar of Kota, Total suspended solids (80.5 mg/l-180.22 mg/l), Dissolve Oxygen (6.47-12.7 mg/l), BOD (10.27-19.42 mg/l), COD (122.7-200.6 mg/l), Total alkalinity (99.6-148.9 mg/l), and Total hardness (70.0-106 mg/l). Present assessment on physico-chemical parameter was done to find out the level of eutrophication and pollution in pond water.

Research paper thumbnail of Effect of Salinity Stress on Germination Properties in Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum L. var Chef fallat).

The response of tomato genotype Chef fallat against five salinity levels (distilled water as cont... more The response of tomato genotype Chef fallat against five salinity levels (distilled water as control, 25, 50, 75 and 100 mM) were studied at germination and early seedling stages. An experiment with conducted by using a completely randomized design (CRD) with three replications. Shoot and root length, shoot and root fresh weight, seed vigor, mean germination time, germination percentage and rate measured 14 days after germination. Results of data analysis showed that, there were significant differences between salinity stress levels for all investigated traits except mean germination time. Results of data analysis showed that, indicate that the maximum germination percentage during the test was related to the observer 25 mM and control (Distilled water) treatment. the maximum germination percentage at day 14, with an average of 98.76 and 97.66%, were related to the Distilled water and 25 mM treatments. The maximum root length, at day 14 of the test, was from the 25 mM treatment, which did not show a significant statistical difference with the control (Distilled water) treatment. In the entire measured traits, we achieved better results from the control (Distilled water) treatment and 25 mM treatments, in comparison to the 50 mM density, which indicates that the Chef fallat tomato genotype could grow properly in low-saline conditions, but this growth faces an extremely significant decrease with the increased salt densities.

Research paper thumbnail of Entomocidal Activity of Selected Plant Essential Oils against the Adzuki Bean Beetle, Callosobruchus chinensis (Coleoptera: Bruchidae)

Presence of secondary plant metabolites yields the entomocidal potential of plant essential oils ... more Presence of secondary plant metabolites yields the entomocidal potential of plant essential oils against a variety of pathogens and insect pests. Due to the safer potential of these biocides, the efficacy of Trachyspermum ammi, Glycyrrhiza glabra, Terminalia chebula and Cichorium intybus was evaluated against the adzuki bean beetle, Callosobruchus chinensis (Coleoptera: Bruchidae). Results depicted a significant control of this insect pest attacking the stored legumes. It was found that T. ammi was most effective causing 76.38% mortality of test insect followed by T. chebula (56.93%), C. intybus (52.36%) and G. glabra (34.50%). Toxicological bioassays proved a definite impact of plant extracts against the adult stage of C. chinensis. Plant oils proved to be potent to induce knockdown against stored insect pests and reflected their potential to be used as substitute of the synthetic insecticides.

Research paper thumbnail of Agricultural Development in Korea as Inspiration for Optimizing Food Security in Pakistan: A Review

Agriculture plays a vital role in food security mainly through facilitating food demands. Develop... more Agriculture plays a vital role in food security mainly through facilitating food demands. Developing countries are lacking modern infrastructure to enhance agricultural production and consequently the food security comes at risk. South Korea has improved the agricultural experience over the past decades and a consistent development has been noted in major agricultural sectors. Progressive achievement has been seen over the years in many sectors. Food sector came up with the advancements right from the manufacture until the final consumption or storage. Reforestation has also been considered as one of major advancements indirectly supplementing the food security in South Korea. Development in horticultural and grain crops was also driven by the aim of self-sufficiency. Advanced level post-harvest technologies ensured the better insurance of these crops. Livestock sector also diversified over the past few decades, resulted into an increased availability of red meat, eggs, milk and associated products. Increased demand of white meat and sea weeds were compensated by promotion of aquaculture to the grass root level. Management of all these sectors became possible by conservation of resources especially water conservation and, most crucially, via development of renewable sources of energy that facilitated all the agricultural sectors. All of these advances were controlled and managed by a well-crafted, consistent and practical agricultural policy that led towards expansion and progress of Agriculture in Korea. On the other hand, Pakistan, being a pure agricultural country, is lagging behind in all the sectors. Agricultural development in South Korea, in selected sectors, presents a model for developing countries, especially Pakistan, to increase productivity and foreign exchange. Per capita availability and food security can be boosted by implementing major policies as devised by South Korea.

Research paper thumbnail of The Role of Methanol In Promoting Sugar Beet (Beta Vulgaris L.) Yield And Some Quality Characteristic

Three field experiments were carried out at Research Station of Islamic Azad University of Karaj,... more Three field experiments were carried out at Research Station of Islamic Azad University of Karaj, Iran, during 2011/2012, 2012/2013 and 2013/2014 seasons to study the effect of methanol on sugar beet quality and yield Aqueous methanol solutions with 0 (control), 7%, 14%, 21% and 28% (v/v) concentrations were sprayed on foliage parts of sugar beet three times during growth season with two week intervals. Parameters such as root yield, leaf yield, sugar content, white sugar yields, the relative content of molasses and white sugar content, were measured. Results indicated that there was a significant difference between control plants and plants with methanol treatment in the white sugar yield, leaf yield, white sugar content and molasses. Results indicated that Foliar application of 21%(v/v) methanol solution increased root yield, leaf yield, molasses and white sugar yield. The plants with 21% (v/v) methanol application had the maximum white sugar yield and root yield with 7.1 t/ha and 72.35 t/ha, respectively. The most white sugar content was obtained by 7% t/ha.

Research paper thumbnail of Effects of Water Deficit On The Biochemical Content of Selected African Nightshades Solanum Scabrum Mill. And Solanum Villosum Mill.

Environmental stresses, such as water stress have a major impact on plant growth and survival. La... more Environmental stresses, such as water stress have a major impact on plant growth and survival. Lack of water causes reductions in growth rate and physiological processes affecting bioproductivity, which in turn lower agricultural production thereby contributing to food insecurity. This research was designed to investigate the effects of soil water deficit on the biochemical content of two African nightshades, which are widely consumed due to their high biochemical and nutritional value. The aim of the study was to determine the effects of water deficit on chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, total chlorophyll and foliar chlorophyll content. The experiment was carried out at Maseno University, Botanic Garden glasshouse at Maseno University. The experiment was laid out as a completely randomized design (CRD) two factorial, consisting of four treatments and three replications. The treatments were: T1-watering daily (control), T2-watering after every three days (the 3rd and 6th day), T3-watering the 9th day and T4-watering the 12th day. African nightshades (S. scabrum Mill. and S. villosum Mill. subsp. miniatum, seeds were grown in 20 litre plastic pots in loam moist soils having a pH of around 4.6 to 5.4. Soil moisture content was determined gravimetrically. Chlorophyll content was determined through extraction and absorbance of chlorophyll solution read spectrophotometrically. Foliar chlorophyll content was determined using a chlorophyll meter. Statistical analysis involved analysis of variance (ANOVA) using MSTAT-C statistical computer package to determine the differences between the two species and the four treatments on the parameters using the Least Significant Difference test at 5% level. Results showed that the two species of African nightshades were significantly affected by water deficit. Chlorophyll and foliar chlorophyll content increased with increasing water deficit. Chlorophylls a, b and total chlorophyll showed a steady general increase with increasing water deficit. From the results obtained, it can be concluded that among the two species S. scabrum Mill. was more tolerant to water deficit and therefore it is recommended to be grown in water deficient regions as compared to S. villosum Mill.

Research paper thumbnail of Growth of Selected African Nightshades (Solanum Scabrum Mill. And Solanum Villosum Mill.) Under Water Limitations.

Water limitation has a major impact on plant growth and survival. Lack of water causes reductions... more Water limitation has a major impact on plant growth and survival. Lack of water causes reductions in growth rate processes thereby affecting bio-productivity, which in turn lower agricultural production thus contributing to food insecurity. This research was designed to investigate the effects of soil water deficit on growth of two African nightshades, which are widely consumed due to their high nutritional value. The aim of the study was to determine the effects of water deficit on their growth. The experiment was carried out at Maseno University, Botanic Garden glasshouse at Maseno University. The experiment was laid out as a completely randomized design (CRD) two factorial, consisting of four treatments and three replications. The treatments were: T1-watering daily (control), T2-watering after every three days (the 3rd and 6th day), T3-watering the 9th day and T4-watering the 12th day. African nightshades (S. scabrum Mill. and S. villosum Mill. subsp. miniatum, seeds were grown in 20 litre plastic pots in loam moist soils. Growth parameters measured included; plant height and the stem diameter using a meter rule and a veneer caliper respectively, and by counting the number of leaves. The root to shoot ratio was determined at the end of the experiment. Soil moisture content was determined gravimetrically. Results showed that the two species of African nightshades were significantly affected by water deficit. Growth parameters slightly increased with increase in water deficit and reduced significantly with further increase in water deficit. The root to shoot ratio, increased with increasing water deficit. From the results obtained, it can be concluded that among the two species S. scabrum Mill. was more tolerant to water deficit and therefore it is recommended to be grown in water deficient regions as compared to S. villosum Mill.

Research paper thumbnail of Morphological and Phytochemical Study of Indigenous Plantago Ovata of Golestan Province in Iran

Isabgol (Plantago ovata) belonging to Plantaginaceae family is a medicinal plant useful as a laxa... more Isabgol (Plantago ovata) belonging to Plantaginaceae family is a medicinal plant useful as a laxative, and blood cholesterol, fat and sugar reducer. Lots of these plants grow wildly in some parts of Golestan province. An appropriate method for specifying the plant’s selection criteria is gathering its indigenous species and evaluating the morphological characteristics that determine its yield. The present study was conducted to investigate the morphological and phytochemical characteristics of different Isabgol plants under Azadshahr weather conditions. To this end, plant seeds from four different habitats (Incheboron, Duzavlom, Gharamakher and Aramgah) were gathered and cultivated in the form of completely randomized blocks with 4 replications during March, 2011. The traits under evaluation were spike number and length, grain number per spike, plant height, grain weight, mucilage rate and percentage, inflation factor and inflation rate per gram of mucilage. The obtained data were analyzed applying SPSS software. Analysis of variance indicated no significant differences among the investigated plants in terms of plant height, spike number per plant and inflation factor. However, spike length, grain numbers per spike and 1000 seeds weight were significantly different among the plants at.05 level of significance. Moreover, plant seeds were significantly different in terms of mucilage rate, mucilage percentage, and inflation rate per gram of mucilage at.01 level of significance. The minimum means of spike lengths (9.16 mm) in Incheboron mass and the other three Plantago species were not significantly different. Comparison of the average grain numbers per spike also showed the highest grain numbers in Gharamakher (19.25 number) and the lowest spike numbers in Incheboron (15.61 number) and Duzavlom (15.95 number) plants. Besides, the highest and the lowest mucilage rates were related to Gharamakher (0.259 gr) and Incheboron (0.168 gr) species.

Research paper thumbnail of Using Principal Component Analysis in Assessing Water Quality of The Calabar River

In this paper, principal component analysis (PCA) was employed to identify possible sources of po... more In this paper, principal component analysis (PCA) was employed to identify possible sources of pollution of the Calabar River. Surface water samples were collected bi-monthly for the wet and dry seasons for ten months across five stations and analyzed for physical, chemical and bacteriological parameters using standard methods. PCA extracted eight (dry season) and seven (wet season) latent components responsible for the pollution of the Calabar River. The latent components explained 94 – 98% of the variance in surface water quality of the Calabar River. PCA results further showed that in the dry season, the Calabar River received pollutants from residential and industrial sectors, whereas in the wet season, its pollution sources originated from non-point sources such as surface runoff from agriculture, industrial and residential areas.

Research paper thumbnail of Seasonal Variation In Muscle Glycogen Content of Garra Mullya

The indigenous fish species Garra mullya from Kanher dam was studied in relation to the seasonal ... more The indigenous fish species Garra mullya from Kanher dam was studied in relation to the seasonal variation in Muscle Glycogen content. The variation observed was related to the season, habitat, sex and maturation cycle of the fish. The percentage of glycogen obtained in both male and female species are more or less identical.

Research paper thumbnail of Soil Fertility Dynamics In Bambara Groundnuts (Vigna Subterranea) And Nerica Rice (Oryza Sativa) Intercrop System In Small Holder Farms In Western Kenya.

Agricultural production in Kenya has stagnated since 1980s resulting in malnutrition in over 89% ... more Agricultural production in Kenya has stagnated since 1980s resulting in malnutrition in over 89% of Kenya’s population. Food insecurity has been identified as the prime cause of malnutrition. Low agricultural productivity due to declining soil fertility resulting from poor cropping systems and use of non adapted exotic crop species has worsened this situation. Intercropping offers advantages if well planned including improved soil fertility and yields. Bambara groundnuts have shown high yield in low fertility soils and have been described as a complete food. NERICA rice has been reported to offer higher yields and shorter growing seasons. Cropping systems that combine both these crops in production systems will help alleviate malnutrition and food insecurity as well as enhance soil fertility. The objective of this study was to assess the soil fertility variation in bambara groundnut and NERICA rice intercrop system in small holder farms in Western Kenya. Five treatments including T1: Sole crop of bambara groundnuts, T2: Rice NERICA 4 without intercropping with bambara groundnuts, T3: Rice NERICA 4 intercropped with bambara groundnuts, T4: Rice NERICA 11 without intercropping with bambara groundnuts and T5: Rice NERICA 11 intercropped with bambara groundnuts were used. Soil analyses including nitrogen, phosphorous, pH and soil moisture were done to evaluate soil fertility variations in the course of the intercrop system. Data obtained was subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) to determine if the treatment effects were significant at 5% level. Separation of means was done by Least Significant Difference (LSD) at 5% level. Soil fertility under intercropping system was significantly higher in the subsequent seasons as compared to the initial season with bambara groundnuts replenishing the soil N through its association with N fixing bacteria. This study provides an understanding of the effect of NERICA rice and bambara groundnuts intercrop system on soil fertility. This allows us to understand the response mechanisms both below and above ground of the two crops to resources.

Research paper thumbnail of Effect of Industrial Effluents on the Population Dynamics and Distribution of Benthic macro-invertebrates of New Calabar River, Southern Nigeria

This study was conducted to ascertain the level of pollution caused by industrial wastes in the N... more This study was conducted to ascertain the level of pollution caused by industrial wastes in the New Calabar River, Rivers state and their effects on the benthic fauna of the river. Two stations were selected within the study area. Sediment samples were collected using hand trowel twice a month for the period of 3 months white water samples were aseptically taken from the two stations using sterile crew capped bottles, once a month for the 3 months in the early hours of morning at low tides. These samples were carefully analyzed in the laboratory. Fourteen (14) taxa of benthic macro-invertebrates were identified from the New Calabar River. Gastropoda and Crustacea were the most dominant classes. Station 1 recorded a high number of these species (Tubifex species, Limnodrilus species, Hirudo medicinalis, Limnobella australis, Lymnea natalensis, Afrogyrus species, Bulinus foskali, Pila ovata) while station 2 had none but one of these species (Afrogyrus species.). There was an abundance of these species (Chironomus species, Anephine species, Renetra species, Desmocaris trispinosa, Baetis species, Ophigomphus species) in station 2 compared to station 1 that had very limited number of these species. Those species abundant in station 2 (control) are pollution intolerant while those abundant in station 1 are pollution tolerant and can be used as indicators of biological stress in aquatic environment. Absence of some of the benthic organisms like Baetis sp. from station 1 could be as a result of some environmental stress (physical, chemical and biological) or high level of pollution. In this case, the pollution could be caused by industrial wastes discharged into that station which probably resulted in an unfavorable increase in Oxygen Demand as other organic compounds are discharged into the water body. The presence of these pollution intolerant species in station 2 is highlighting a station free from pollution. Hirudo medicinalis, Limnodrilus sp. and Tubifex sp. appeared to be the most abundant species in the polluted site (station 1); this is because these species have the ability to withstand high level of pollution. Analysis of the environmental variables revealed that temperature values recorded were within the range 24⁰C - 27⁰C. The DO ranged from 0.8 to 1.2mg/l having a mean value of 1.0, these values are quite low but not abnormal considering the relative increase in temperature observed. The level of DO should not be overlooked however as this influences the health of aquatic ecosystem. BOD in station 1 was high, ranging from 12.8 to 15.6 mg/l while COD ranged from 15.6 to 19.0 with 17.3 as mean value. The deterioration of this water body has caused adverse effect on the ecosystem; a constant supervision to companies within the study area is necessary to ensure their effective treatment of effluents and wastes before disposal.

Research paper thumbnail of Ranking Approach to M.Sc. Programs at Mechanical Department, Pulchowk Campus, Nepal using Analytic Hierarchy Process

International Journal of Biological Sciences and Research | IJBSR, 2018

This study aims to present an analytic hierarchy decision making approach to evaluate the perform... more This study aims to present an analytic hierarchy decision making approach to evaluate the performance of master’s program of Mechanical Department at Pulchowk Campus, Institute of Engineering, Tribhuvan University, Lalitpur, Nepal. This research emphasizes multi criteria decision making approach and establishes the priorities for performance indicators. For the purpose of performance evaluation of the programs indicators are divided into 5 major criteria which are academic, faculty resources, student selectivity, program admission and faculty accomplishment. These criteria are further classified into 15 hierarchal sub-criteria. The performance evaluation was done for three M.Sc. Programs of mechanical department from year 2012 to 2014.This was achieved by using deriving the priority and weightage sum by Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) techniques. This weightage method helped to get scoring for all criteria and sub-criteria to get the total priority of alternatives. Analytic Hierarchy Process enables decision makers to examine the strength and weaknesses of the three programs by comparing them with selected criteria. This research has developed a framework and purposed the use of multi-criteria method in the academic sector, which has emphasized the academic performance measurement problem in multi-criteria approach. The result of this study shows that AHP can be used as multi-criteria decision support tool to measure the performance in higher educational sector.

Research paper thumbnail of Metal Water Contamination Sources And Drilling Artesian In Common And Zagnanado And Zogbodomey Center Of Benin

In natural aquatic ecosystems, the metals are found in low concentrations, usually in the nanogra... more In natural aquatic ecosystems, the metals are found in low concentrations, usually in the nanogram or microgram per liter. The decision to review the data on water sources and artesian wells comes from the need to adopt a holistic approach that can draw future strategies of struggle. To analyze the determinants of this metal pollution three heavy metals were analyzed in overburden drilling artesian springs and then in cotton fields in areas where the water points are located. The levels of three heavy metals found in the lands of sources and boreholes blankets are above the values obtained in the cotton fields. The objective of this study was to evaluate metal contamination of water sources and artesian wells in the Commons Zagnanado Zogbodomey and related craft activities, agricultural and domestic developed in the region. Three heavy metals Cd, Hg, and Pb - were assayed in the waters (07) and artesian springs (05) artesian wells. Only the mercury levels among the three heavy metals is high in the rainy season in the waters (02) holes. The presence of heavy metal contaminants at concentrations above natural fillers, has become an issue of increasing concern. It must attribute the rapid population growth, increased urbanization, the expansion of industrial activities, exploration and exploitation of natural resources, expansion of irrigation and the spread of other modern farming practices and that the absence of environmental regulations. The openings created by the tectonic and mechanical stresses (fractures, cracks and faults) are specifically conducive to the charging process, particularly when it comes flush structures. While highlighting lineaments in the study area by fracturing card, allows us to interpret the presence of mercury in the rainy season in the waters of these wells by infiltration of stormwater.

Research paper thumbnail of 4G Network and its impact on Wireless Communication

With an increase in the number of end users using internet services, the average data rate of 30 ... more With an increase in the number of end users using internet services, the average data rate of 30 Mbps will not be in a position to accommodate the future mobile technology. So radio and mobile communication specialists started an R&D work on 4G mobile communication systems before even completing IMT-2000 system [2]. 4G is the fourth generation standard for cellular wireless communication. It can offer speed up to 100 Mbps for high mobility communication where else it can deliver up to 1 GB for low mobility communication. The main focus on 4G communication system is to integrate the existing wireless technologies like WCDMA, Wireless LAN, Bluetooth, HSUPA/HSDPA, 1xEVDO [1] . Stability of a system and quality of service will be ensured in 4G communication systems.

Migrating from an existing system to new systems like 4G has a greater impact on lot of political and technical issues and it has huge challenges to overcome. This project work intends to deal with various factors like fundamental issues within a network technology, effective use of a spectrum, standards, and also about various services of 4G and its impact on future communication system. This project work will also exhibits the development, transition, and the future work with respect to deploying 4G.

Research paper thumbnail of Design and Implementation of Computerized Career Information System for Secondary Schools

The presence of counselors in school is not just for the sake of it, they are there to direct stu... more The presence of counselors in school is not just for the sake of it, they are there to direct student on area they psychologically find them fit. The job of counseling towards a future career of students is not an easy task, the student has to be followed regularly within attitude and academic performance so that he/she will be directed towards his/her life career. This thesis work researched into the procedure involved in guiding and counseling students in the Junior secondary school with a view to come up with the computerized system that would help in carrying out the activities selecting the best class type (science, Commercial and Arts) effectively. The problems associated with the existing system were detected and possible solutions to the problems were provided in the new system. The new system is a computerized one, which works automatically; it is very easy to use and also cost affective .The new system is timely and accurate in report generation.

Research paper thumbnail of The Impact of Aquatic Insect As A Biomarker of Environmental Pollution

The frequent discharge of effluent mainly from industrial and agricultural site has been one of t... more The frequent discharge of effluent mainly from industrial and agricultural site has been one of the major factors causing water pollution nowadays. For that reason, benthic macro invertebrate were studied as a target factor for assessing water quality level of polluted water channel. This might proved to be cheaper and eco-friendly means to strengthen ecological integrity of water body than the other forms of assessment. The sample of macro invertebrate was collected from water channel of Zoological garden Gombe State University (GSU) using five minute kicking techniques preserved and identified. Three sampling station were pointed out in the study and a total of 105 aquatic invertebrate were recorded of which most species belong to Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera and Trichoptera (EPT) taxa. Six physicochemical parameters were studied and their variation changes the composition and distribution of aquatic insect in the station. This study shows that the water channel of GSU is fairly good harboring different species of aquatic insect. Pollution tolerant insect such as Odotana were also found in the sampling station.

Research paper thumbnail of Germination Trial, Proximate And Elemental Analysis Of Vitex Doniana (Linn) Fruits.

The main objectives of this research work is to access the responses of pre-sowing treatment on g... more The main objectives of this research work is to access the responses of pre-sowing treatment on germination of Vitex doniana seeds (dormancy breakage), however, proximate and minerals analysis of its fruits pulp were also preliminary evaluated. 1800 fruits from 15 trees were collected from various location between FCT and Niger state of central part of Nigeria. The seeds were subjected into chemicals and hot water treatments at various degree. The result shows that scarification with H2SO4, hot water depulped at 600c and hot water undepulped at 1000c proved to be the best treatment method of germination (dormancy breakage) of Vitex doniana. The analysis of dried black pulp powder reveals that, the total ash content and total carbohydrate content proved promising (15.91 and 55.86%) respectively, the pulp powder divulge low protein content (7.39%). The minerals analysis of the pulp powder reveals that the pulp contain minerals within safety limit such as, Calcium (Ca, 22.00mg/g), Magnesium (Mg, 7.00mg/g), Sodium (Na, 15.00mg/g), Potassium (K, 12mg/g) and others elements such as Manganese (Mn, 0.03mg/g), Zinc (Zn, 0.004mg/g), Chromium (Cr, 0.023mg/g) Copper (Cu, 0.10mg/g) and Iron (Fe,0.01mg/g) are also present at very low proportions while Lead (Pd) was completely absent which qualified the pulp to be safe and good candidate for consumption. The statistical chi-square (X2) contingency test was adopted to analyzed the significance differences between the treatments using various chi-square values.

Research paper thumbnail of Influence of Soil Type on the Growth and the Matters Production of Typha Australis (Schum. and Thonn) In Experimental Conditions

The Niayes area is characterized by a series of dunes and inter-dune depressions. At the Dakar Te... more The Niayes area is characterized by a series of dunes and inter-dune depressions. At the Dakar Technopole Typha australis, an invasive plant having negative impacts on the ecosystem, colonizes the two environments where soil types are different. This study aims at assessing the influence of soil on growth, the production of matters of aerial and underground parts of Typha australis. The test was conducted under experimental conditions in containers filled with soil from the dunes and soil from well drained depressions of the "Niayes" area, whose characteristics are defined. The plant of Typha harvested in the area were transplanted into containers. They are subject to two treatments applied on 5 terms of 3 repetitions Growth parameters such as the height and diameter of the stems are higher on the soil of dunes than on the dune depressions with significant differences (p <0.001 and p <0.05). The fresh and dry matter of the aerial parts as well as those of the dry matter of the underground parts are also more increased in the soil of the dunes with significant differences. The presence of salt in the soil of the depressions is likely to have a negative effect on the growth of Typha australis. Aerial Parts / Underground Parts ratio, rather similar in both soils, have decreased during the experiment from 0.3 to 0.2 in the soil depressions and even to 0.14 in the soil of the dunes.

Research paper thumbnail of Wood Defects Recognition Based on Fuzzy BP Neural Network

Firstly, we applied the X-ray non-destructive testing technology to detect wood defects for getti... more Firstly, we applied the X-ray non-destructive testing technology to detect wood defects for getting the images. After graying the images, we calculated their GLCMS(Gray Level Co-occurrence Matrixes), then we normalized GLCMS to obtain the joint probabilities of GLCMS. The feature vectors of images, which included 13 eigenvalues of images were calculated and extracted by the joint probability of GLCMS. The fuzzy BP neural network(abbreviated as FBP) was designed by combining fuzzy mathematics and BP neural network . And the FBP neural network was regarded as the membership function of feature vectors, the outputs of the network was regarded as the degree of membership to the feature vectors in each category. We use the maximum degree of membership method for the pattern recognition of feature vectors, so the automatic identification and classification for feature vectors were achieved , and then the automatic identification of wood defects was realized.
By simulated study and training many times, the results shown that the average recognition success rate of the network was more than 90%, and some FBP networks had an extremely high recognition success rate to training samples and test samples.

Research paper thumbnail of Assessment of Physico-chemical parameters from Pond Water of Bilaspur District, C.G.

In present work an attempt has been made on Physico-chemical parameters of different ponds i.e. M... more In present work an attempt has been made on Physico-chemical parameters of different ponds i.e. Muda pond of Masturi, Kot-sagar pond of Kota and Manwa pond of Bilha, Bilaspur district C.G. The study was carried out for a period of one year from July 2013 to June 2014; monthly details were collected and represented seasonally. Different physico-chemical parameters were taken in the study were temperature, pH, Conductivity, Total dissolved solids, Dissolved oxygen (DO), Biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), Total alkalinity, Total hardness, Chemical oxygen demand (COD). The results indicated the various ranges with Temperature 20- 45°C (July-June), pH (5.3-8.3), Turbidity (11-45.4 mg/l), Total solids 100.3 mg/l (Aug.) in Kot-sagar of Kota and 132.49 mg/l (Sep.) in Muda pond of Masturi, Total dissolve solids (90-1820 mg/l) in Kot-sagar of Kota, Total suspended solids (80.5 mg/l-180.22 mg/l), Dissolve Oxygen (6.47-12.7 mg/l), BOD (10.27-19.42 mg/l), COD (122.7-200.6 mg/l), Total alkalinity (99.6-148.9 mg/l), and Total hardness (70.0-106 mg/l). Present assessment on physico-chemical parameter was done to find out the level of eutrophication and pollution in pond water.

Research paper thumbnail of Effect of Salinity Stress on Germination Properties in Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum L. var Chef fallat).

The response of tomato genotype Chef fallat against five salinity levels (distilled water as cont... more The response of tomato genotype Chef fallat against five salinity levels (distilled water as control, 25, 50, 75 and 100 mM) were studied at germination and early seedling stages. An experiment with conducted by using a completely randomized design (CRD) with three replications. Shoot and root length, shoot and root fresh weight, seed vigor, mean germination time, germination percentage and rate measured 14 days after germination. Results of data analysis showed that, there were significant differences between salinity stress levels for all investigated traits except mean germination time. Results of data analysis showed that, indicate that the maximum germination percentage during the test was related to the observer 25 mM and control (Distilled water) treatment. the maximum germination percentage at day 14, with an average of 98.76 and 97.66%, were related to the Distilled water and 25 mM treatments. The maximum root length, at day 14 of the test, was from the 25 mM treatment, which did not show a significant statistical difference with the control (Distilled water) treatment. In the entire measured traits, we achieved better results from the control (Distilled water) treatment and 25 mM treatments, in comparison to the 50 mM density, which indicates that the Chef fallat tomato genotype could grow properly in low-saline conditions, but this growth faces an extremely significant decrease with the increased salt densities.

Research paper thumbnail of Entomocidal Activity of Selected Plant Essential Oils against the Adzuki Bean Beetle, Callosobruchus chinensis (Coleoptera: Bruchidae)

Presence of secondary plant metabolites yields the entomocidal potential of plant essential oils ... more Presence of secondary plant metabolites yields the entomocidal potential of plant essential oils against a variety of pathogens and insect pests. Due to the safer potential of these biocides, the efficacy of Trachyspermum ammi, Glycyrrhiza glabra, Terminalia chebula and Cichorium intybus was evaluated against the adzuki bean beetle, Callosobruchus chinensis (Coleoptera: Bruchidae). Results depicted a significant control of this insect pest attacking the stored legumes. It was found that T. ammi was most effective causing 76.38% mortality of test insect followed by T. chebula (56.93%), C. intybus (52.36%) and G. glabra (34.50%). Toxicological bioassays proved a definite impact of plant extracts against the adult stage of C. chinensis. Plant oils proved to be potent to induce knockdown against stored insect pests and reflected their potential to be used as substitute of the synthetic insecticides.

Research paper thumbnail of Agricultural Development in Korea as Inspiration for Optimizing Food Security in Pakistan: A Review

Agriculture plays a vital role in food security mainly through facilitating food demands. Develop... more Agriculture plays a vital role in food security mainly through facilitating food demands. Developing countries are lacking modern infrastructure to enhance agricultural production and consequently the food security comes at risk. South Korea has improved the agricultural experience over the past decades and a consistent development has been noted in major agricultural sectors. Progressive achievement has been seen over the years in many sectors. Food sector came up with the advancements right from the manufacture until the final consumption or storage. Reforestation has also been considered as one of major advancements indirectly supplementing the food security in South Korea. Development in horticultural and grain crops was also driven by the aim of self-sufficiency. Advanced level post-harvest technologies ensured the better insurance of these crops. Livestock sector also diversified over the past few decades, resulted into an increased availability of red meat, eggs, milk and associated products. Increased demand of white meat and sea weeds were compensated by promotion of aquaculture to the grass root level. Management of all these sectors became possible by conservation of resources especially water conservation and, most crucially, via development of renewable sources of energy that facilitated all the agricultural sectors. All of these advances were controlled and managed by a well-crafted, consistent and practical agricultural policy that led towards expansion and progress of Agriculture in Korea. On the other hand, Pakistan, being a pure agricultural country, is lagging behind in all the sectors. Agricultural development in South Korea, in selected sectors, presents a model for developing countries, especially Pakistan, to increase productivity and foreign exchange. Per capita availability and food security can be boosted by implementing major policies as devised by South Korea.

Research paper thumbnail of The Role of Methanol In Promoting Sugar Beet (Beta Vulgaris L.) Yield And Some Quality Characteristic

Three field experiments were carried out at Research Station of Islamic Azad University of Karaj,... more Three field experiments were carried out at Research Station of Islamic Azad University of Karaj, Iran, during 2011/2012, 2012/2013 and 2013/2014 seasons to study the effect of methanol on sugar beet quality and yield Aqueous methanol solutions with 0 (control), 7%, 14%, 21% and 28% (v/v) concentrations were sprayed on foliage parts of sugar beet three times during growth season with two week intervals. Parameters such as root yield, leaf yield, sugar content, white sugar yields, the relative content of molasses and white sugar content, were measured. Results indicated that there was a significant difference between control plants and plants with methanol treatment in the white sugar yield, leaf yield, white sugar content and molasses. Results indicated that Foliar application of 21%(v/v) methanol solution increased root yield, leaf yield, molasses and white sugar yield. The plants with 21% (v/v) methanol application had the maximum white sugar yield and root yield with 7.1 t/ha and 72.35 t/ha, respectively. The most white sugar content was obtained by 7% t/ha.

Research paper thumbnail of Effects of Water Deficit On The Biochemical Content of Selected African Nightshades Solanum Scabrum Mill. And Solanum Villosum Mill.

Environmental stresses, such as water stress have a major impact on plant growth and survival. La... more Environmental stresses, such as water stress have a major impact on plant growth and survival. Lack of water causes reductions in growth rate and physiological processes affecting bioproductivity, which in turn lower agricultural production thereby contributing to food insecurity. This research was designed to investigate the effects of soil water deficit on the biochemical content of two African nightshades, which are widely consumed due to their high biochemical and nutritional value. The aim of the study was to determine the effects of water deficit on chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, total chlorophyll and foliar chlorophyll content. The experiment was carried out at Maseno University, Botanic Garden glasshouse at Maseno University. The experiment was laid out as a completely randomized design (CRD) two factorial, consisting of four treatments and three replications. The treatments were: T1-watering daily (control), T2-watering after every three days (the 3rd and 6th day), T3-watering the 9th day and T4-watering the 12th day. African nightshades (S. scabrum Mill. and S. villosum Mill. subsp. miniatum, seeds were grown in 20 litre plastic pots in loam moist soils having a pH of around 4.6 to 5.4. Soil moisture content was determined gravimetrically. Chlorophyll content was determined through extraction and absorbance of chlorophyll solution read spectrophotometrically. Foliar chlorophyll content was determined using a chlorophyll meter. Statistical analysis involved analysis of variance (ANOVA) using MSTAT-C statistical computer package to determine the differences between the two species and the four treatments on the parameters using the Least Significant Difference test at 5% level. Results showed that the two species of African nightshades were significantly affected by water deficit. Chlorophyll and foliar chlorophyll content increased with increasing water deficit. Chlorophylls a, b and total chlorophyll showed a steady general increase with increasing water deficit. From the results obtained, it can be concluded that among the two species S. scabrum Mill. was more tolerant to water deficit and therefore it is recommended to be grown in water deficient regions as compared to S. villosum Mill.

Research paper thumbnail of Growth of Selected African Nightshades (Solanum Scabrum Mill. And Solanum Villosum Mill.) Under Water Limitations.

Water limitation has a major impact on plant growth and survival. Lack of water causes reductions... more Water limitation has a major impact on plant growth and survival. Lack of water causes reductions in growth rate processes thereby affecting bio-productivity, which in turn lower agricultural production thus contributing to food insecurity. This research was designed to investigate the effects of soil water deficit on growth of two African nightshades, which are widely consumed due to their high nutritional value. The aim of the study was to determine the effects of water deficit on their growth. The experiment was carried out at Maseno University, Botanic Garden glasshouse at Maseno University. The experiment was laid out as a completely randomized design (CRD) two factorial, consisting of four treatments and three replications. The treatments were: T1-watering daily (control), T2-watering after every three days (the 3rd and 6th day), T3-watering the 9th day and T4-watering the 12th day. African nightshades (S. scabrum Mill. and S. villosum Mill. subsp. miniatum, seeds were grown in 20 litre plastic pots in loam moist soils. Growth parameters measured included; plant height and the stem diameter using a meter rule and a veneer caliper respectively, and by counting the number of leaves. The root to shoot ratio was determined at the end of the experiment. Soil moisture content was determined gravimetrically. Results showed that the two species of African nightshades were significantly affected by water deficit. Growth parameters slightly increased with increase in water deficit and reduced significantly with further increase in water deficit. The root to shoot ratio, increased with increasing water deficit. From the results obtained, it can be concluded that among the two species S. scabrum Mill. was more tolerant to water deficit and therefore it is recommended to be grown in water deficient regions as compared to S. villosum Mill.

Research paper thumbnail of Morphological and Phytochemical Study of Indigenous Plantago Ovata of Golestan Province in Iran

Isabgol (Plantago ovata) belonging to Plantaginaceae family is a medicinal plant useful as a laxa... more Isabgol (Plantago ovata) belonging to Plantaginaceae family is a medicinal plant useful as a laxative, and blood cholesterol, fat and sugar reducer. Lots of these plants grow wildly in some parts of Golestan province. An appropriate method for specifying the plant’s selection criteria is gathering its indigenous species and evaluating the morphological characteristics that determine its yield. The present study was conducted to investigate the morphological and phytochemical characteristics of different Isabgol plants under Azadshahr weather conditions. To this end, plant seeds from four different habitats (Incheboron, Duzavlom, Gharamakher and Aramgah) were gathered and cultivated in the form of completely randomized blocks with 4 replications during March, 2011. The traits under evaluation were spike number and length, grain number per spike, plant height, grain weight, mucilage rate and percentage, inflation factor and inflation rate per gram of mucilage. The obtained data were analyzed applying SPSS software. Analysis of variance indicated no significant differences among the investigated plants in terms of plant height, spike number per plant and inflation factor. However, spike length, grain numbers per spike and 1000 seeds weight were significantly different among the plants at.05 level of significance. Moreover, plant seeds were significantly different in terms of mucilage rate, mucilage percentage, and inflation rate per gram of mucilage at.01 level of significance. The minimum means of spike lengths (9.16 mm) in Incheboron mass and the other three Plantago species were not significantly different. Comparison of the average grain numbers per spike also showed the highest grain numbers in Gharamakher (19.25 number) and the lowest spike numbers in Incheboron (15.61 number) and Duzavlom (15.95 number) plants. Besides, the highest and the lowest mucilage rates were related to Gharamakher (0.259 gr) and Incheboron (0.168 gr) species.

Research paper thumbnail of Using Principal Component Analysis in Assessing Water Quality of The Calabar River

In this paper, principal component analysis (PCA) was employed to identify possible sources of po... more In this paper, principal component analysis (PCA) was employed to identify possible sources of pollution of the Calabar River. Surface water samples were collected bi-monthly for the wet and dry seasons for ten months across five stations and analyzed for physical, chemical and bacteriological parameters using standard methods. PCA extracted eight (dry season) and seven (wet season) latent components responsible for the pollution of the Calabar River. The latent components explained 94 – 98% of the variance in surface water quality of the Calabar River. PCA results further showed that in the dry season, the Calabar River received pollutants from residential and industrial sectors, whereas in the wet season, its pollution sources originated from non-point sources such as surface runoff from agriculture, industrial and residential areas.

Research paper thumbnail of Seasonal Variation In Muscle Glycogen Content of Garra Mullya

The indigenous fish species Garra mullya from Kanher dam was studied in relation to the seasonal ... more The indigenous fish species Garra mullya from Kanher dam was studied in relation to the seasonal variation in Muscle Glycogen content. The variation observed was related to the season, habitat, sex and maturation cycle of the fish. The percentage of glycogen obtained in both male and female species are more or less identical.

Research paper thumbnail of Soil Fertility Dynamics In Bambara Groundnuts (Vigna Subterranea) And Nerica Rice (Oryza Sativa) Intercrop System In Small Holder Farms In Western Kenya.

Agricultural production in Kenya has stagnated since 1980s resulting in malnutrition in over 89% ... more Agricultural production in Kenya has stagnated since 1980s resulting in malnutrition in over 89% of Kenya’s population. Food insecurity has been identified as the prime cause of malnutrition. Low agricultural productivity due to declining soil fertility resulting from poor cropping systems and use of non adapted exotic crop species has worsened this situation. Intercropping offers advantages if well planned including improved soil fertility and yields. Bambara groundnuts have shown high yield in low fertility soils and have been described as a complete food. NERICA rice has been reported to offer higher yields and shorter growing seasons. Cropping systems that combine both these crops in production systems will help alleviate malnutrition and food insecurity as well as enhance soil fertility. The objective of this study was to assess the soil fertility variation in bambara groundnut and NERICA rice intercrop system in small holder farms in Western Kenya. Five treatments including T1: Sole crop of bambara groundnuts, T2: Rice NERICA 4 without intercropping with bambara groundnuts, T3: Rice NERICA 4 intercropped with bambara groundnuts, T4: Rice NERICA 11 without intercropping with bambara groundnuts and T5: Rice NERICA 11 intercropped with bambara groundnuts were used. Soil analyses including nitrogen, phosphorous, pH and soil moisture were done to evaluate soil fertility variations in the course of the intercrop system. Data obtained was subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) to determine if the treatment effects were significant at 5% level. Separation of means was done by Least Significant Difference (LSD) at 5% level. Soil fertility under intercropping system was significantly higher in the subsequent seasons as compared to the initial season with bambara groundnuts replenishing the soil N through its association with N fixing bacteria. This study provides an understanding of the effect of NERICA rice and bambara groundnuts intercrop system on soil fertility. This allows us to understand the response mechanisms both below and above ground of the two crops to resources.

Research paper thumbnail of Effect of Industrial Effluents on the Population Dynamics and Distribution of Benthic macro-invertebrates of New Calabar River, Southern Nigeria

This study was conducted to ascertain the level of pollution caused by industrial wastes in the N... more This study was conducted to ascertain the level of pollution caused by industrial wastes in the New Calabar River, Rivers state and their effects on the benthic fauna of the river. Two stations were selected within the study area. Sediment samples were collected using hand trowel twice a month for the period of 3 months white water samples were aseptically taken from the two stations using sterile crew capped bottles, once a month for the 3 months in the early hours of morning at low tides. These samples were carefully analyzed in the laboratory. Fourteen (14) taxa of benthic macro-invertebrates were identified from the New Calabar River. Gastropoda and Crustacea were the most dominant classes. Station 1 recorded a high number of these species (Tubifex species, Limnodrilus species, Hirudo medicinalis, Limnobella australis, Lymnea natalensis, Afrogyrus species, Bulinus foskali, Pila ovata) while station 2 had none but one of these species (Afrogyrus species.). There was an abundance of these species (Chironomus species, Anephine species, Renetra species, Desmocaris trispinosa, Baetis species, Ophigomphus species) in station 2 compared to station 1 that had very limited number of these species. Those species abundant in station 2 (control) are pollution intolerant while those abundant in station 1 are pollution tolerant and can be used as indicators of biological stress in aquatic environment. Absence of some of the benthic organisms like Baetis sp. from station 1 could be as a result of some environmental stress (physical, chemical and biological) or high level of pollution. In this case, the pollution could be caused by industrial wastes discharged into that station which probably resulted in an unfavorable increase in Oxygen Demand as other organic compounds are discharged into the water body. The presence of these pollution intolerant species in station 2 is highlighting a station free from pollution. Hirudo medicinalis, Limnodrilus sp. and Tubifex sp. appeared to be the most abundant species in the polluted site (station 1); this is because these species have the ability to withstand high level of pollution. Analysis of the environmental variables revealed that temperature values recorded were within the range 24⁰C - 27⁰C. The DO ranged from 0.8 to 1.2mg/l having a mean value of 1.0, these values are quite low but not abnormal considering the relative increase in temperature observed. The level of DO should not be overlooked however as this influences the health of aquatic ecosystem. BOD in station 1 was high, ranging from 12.8 to 15.6 mg/l while COD ranged from 15.6 to 19.0 with 17.3 as mean value. The deterioration of this water body has caused adverse effect on the ecosystem; a constant supervision to companies within the study area is necessary to ensure their effective treatment of effluents and wastes before disposal.