Evaluation of Thermal Comfort in the Design of Student Hostel at Federal University of Technology Minna,Nigeria

Buildings are designed to offer protection to the occupants against harsh outdoor environment thereby enhancing optimal indoor comfort.Over the years,there have been a rise in population of students applying for admission into tertiary institution,which has led to an increase in the number of students that resides at the university hostel.These rise in the number of students,has brought about overcrowding and stretching of facilities,with spaces which were originally intended for four students are now been habited by six to eight students thereby causing imbalance in the general indoor climatic condition.The study is aimed at investigating thermal comfort in student’s accommodation in tertiary institutions towards achieving a better thermal condition in the hostel environment.The objective is to evaluate the thermal performance in the student hostel accommodation,and also to identify passive ways of controlling thermal performance in student dwelling buildings at Federal University of Technology Minna main campus,Gidan Kwano.For the purpose of this research work,primary data were collected through the use questionnaire,case studies and observation.Secondary data were collected from available literature,internet,and studying of similar existing facilities.The study revealed that most student hostel possessed few elements of passive cooling technique which in turn deprives students a quality conducive environment.The research recommends that soft landscaping elements should be adopted and deciduous trees planted in the environment for cooling effect during hot and humid period,provision of two openings in each room if possible.This can be achieved through proper building orientation,use of high thermal mass to reduce heat absorption,use of high thermal mass with night cooling,roof,ceiling and attic insulation.Designing in a hot climate area requires lots of consideration,which is mentioned above so as to incorporate a general conducive indoor thermal comfort for the users.

A Stochastic Model to Assess the Epidemiological Impact of Vaccine Booster Doses on COVID-19 and Viral Hepatitis B Co-Dynamics with Real Data

A patient co-infected with COVID-19 and viral hepatitis B can be atmore risk of severe complications than the one infected with a single infection.This study develops a comprehensive stochastic model to assess the epidemiological impact of vaccine booster doses on the co-dynamics of viral hepatitis B and COVID-19.The model is fitted to real COVID-19 data from Pakistan.The proposed model incorporates logistic growth and saturated incidence functions.Rigorous analyses using the tools of stochastic calculus,are performed to study appropriate conditions for the existence of unique global solutions,stationary distribution in the sense of ergodicity and disease extinction.The stochastic threshold estimated from the data fitting is given by:R_(0)^(S)=3.0651.Numerical assessments are implemented to illustrate the impact of double-dose vaccination and saturated incidence functions on the dynamics of both diseases.The effects of stochastic white noise intensities are also highlighted.

Impact of the carbon market on investment benefits of power-grid enterprises in China: a system dynamics analysis

The power grid,as the hub connecting the power supply and consumption sides,plays an important role in achieving carbon neutrality in China.In emerging carbon markets,assessing the investment benefits of power-grid enterprises is essential.Thus,studying the impact of the carbon market on the investment and operation of powergrid enterprises is key to ensuring their efficient operation.Notably,few studies have examined the interaction between the carbon and electricity markets using system dynamics models,highlighting a research gap in this area.This study investigates the impact of the carbon market on the investment of power-grid enterprises using a novel evaluation system based on a system dynamics model that considers carbon-emissions from an established carbon-emission accounting model.First,an index system for benefit evaluation was constructed from six aspects:financing ability,economic benefit,reliability,social responsibility,user satisfaction,and carbon-emissions.A system dynamics model was then developed to reflect the causal feedback relationship between the impact of the carbon market on the investment and operation of power-grid enterprises.The simulation results of a provincial power-grid enterprise analyze comprehensive investment evaluation benefits over a 10-year period and the impact of carbon emissions on the investment and operation of power-grid enterprises.This study provides guidelines for the benign development of power-grid enterprises within the context of the carbon market.

Classification, Tectonic Setting, and Mineralization Potential of Ayetoro and Sasaro Syenitic Plutons in Igarra Schist Belt, Southwestern Nigeria

Petrographic and geochemical studies of syenite-looking Ayetoro and Sasaro plutons within Igarra Schist Belt were carried out in order to classify them and determine their tectonic setting and mineralization potential. Petrographic study and geochemical classification revealed that while Ayetoro boss is microgranite constituting an aggregate of medium grained muscovite, quartz and biotite minerals, Sasaro stock is micromonzonite made up of medium grained albite, orthoclase, biotite, hornblende and pyroxene. Geotectonic setting showed the boss and stock are orogenic, probably derived from the same upper mantle magma as Igarra batholith that got contaminated by crustal materials responsible for their difference in lithology. Their mineralization potential showed that the massive Ayetoro microgranite with no appreciable trace-element contents cannot serve as host of any metallic deposit, and should be suitable for industrial applications. Whereas, the silicified, highly sheared Sasaro monzonite, with elevated level of some trace elements contents as Ag, Au and Cu, could harbor Ag-Au-Cu deposit.

Mapping of Flood Risk Zones Using Multi-Criteria Approach and Radar a Case Study of Ala and Akure-Ofosu Communities, Ondo State, Nigeria

Floods are among the worst natural catastrophes, devastating homes, businesses, public buildings, farms, and crops. Studies show that it’s not the flood itself that’s deadly but people’s vulnerability. This study investigates the Ala and Akure-Ofosu flood-prone zones;identifies elements that cause flooding in the study area;classifies each criterion by its effect;develops a flood risk map;estimates flood damage using Sentinel-1A SAR data;compares AHP results. Literature study and GIS-computer database georeferenced fieldwork data. Photos from the 2020 Sentinel 2A satellite have been organized. Built-up area, cropland, rock, the body of water, and forest Land use and cover, slope, rainfall, soil, Euclidean River Distance, and flow accumulation were mapped. These variables were integrated into a Multi-Criteria Analysis (MCA) using GIS tools, resulting in the creation of a flood risk map that categorizes the region into five risk zones: 5% of the area is identified as high-risk, 21% as low-risk, and 74% as moderate-risk. Copernicus SAR data from before and after the flood were processed on Google Earth Engine to map flood extent and ensured that the MCA map accurately reflected flood-prone areas. Periodic review, real-time flood susceptibility monitoring, early warning, and quick damage assessment are suggested to avoid flood danger and other environmental problems.

Analysis of the Digital Skill Gap of Agricultural Extension Personnel in South-East, Nigeria

The study analysed the digital skill gap of agricultural extension personnel on the use of digital technologies for extension services delivery in South-East, Nigeria. The specific objectives were to describe the socioeconomic characteristics of agricultural extension personnel in South-East Nigeria and identify the digital skill gaps among agricultural extension personnel in the area of study. Purposive sampling technique was used to select 364 Agricultural Extension personnel for the study. Data were collected through the use of structured questionnaire and were analysed using simple descriptive statistical tools such as percentages, mean score, and standard deviation. Findings indicated that most of the personnel were male (57.8%), within the age bracket of 38 - 47 years (62.9%), had B.Sc./HND as their highest educational qualification (74.7%), married (86.3%), and had a household size of 6 - 10 Persons (57.7%). It was further revealed that the majority (70.1%) were members of professional organization, earned a monthly income of N50,001.00 - N100,000.00 (65.7%), had a work experience of 11 - 15 years (51.1%), and owned a smartphone/ iPad/laptop (91.5%). Findings further indicated that they had moderate skill gap in Basic Computer skills (Mean = 4.32), and digital communication and collaboration skills (Mean = 4.26). Findings also showed that they had a high skill gap in digital technical skills (Mean = 2.46), digital data analysis skills (Mean = 2.09), digital content creation skills (Mean = 2.43), digital ethical skills (Mean = 2.79), multimedia production skills (Mean = 2.81), and video library management skills (Mean = 2.39). The study concluded that though there exists a high digital skill gap among agricultural extension personnel in South-East, Nigeria, their socioeconomic characteristics are capable of supporting the implementation of digital extension services in the area. The study recommended that the management of Agricultural Development Programs in South-East, Nigeria, should provide digital training for extension personnel to close the digital skill gap that currently exists among the personnel.

Comparative Study of the Socioeconomic Characteristics and Digital Literacy Level of Agricultural Extension Personnel in Imo and Ebonyi States, South-East, Nigeria

The study comparatively analysed the socioeconomic characteristics and digital literacy level of Agricultural Extension personnel (AEP) in Ebonyi and Imo States, South-East, Nigeria. The specific objectives were to describe the socioeconomic characteristics of agricultural extension personnel in Ebonyi and Imo States, and to ascertain the digital literacy level of AEP in the studied states. Purposive sampling technique was used to select 312 Agricultural Extension personnel (132 from Ebonyi State Agricultural Development Program and 180 from Imo State Agricultural Development Program) for the study. Data were collected through the use of validated and structured questionnaire, and administered through the help of well-trained enumerators. Data were analysed using simple descriptive statistical tools such as percentages mean score, standard deviation and weighted mean. Findings indicated that they were more male in the both States (55.3% and 57.8%) for Ebonyi and Imo State respectively and that the average age of AEP in Ebonyi and Imo States were 44.7 years and 49.2 years respectively. It was further revealed that the majority (77.3% and 82.8%) had B.Sc./HND as their highest academic qualifications, belonged to professional organisations (62.1% and 75%), and were earning an average monthly income of N58,798 and N62,648 for Ebonyi and Imo State respectively. Also, it was revealed that their mean years of service were 12.4 years and 13.4 years for Ebonyi and Imo State respectively. Almost all of them (87.9% and 95.0%) own a smartphone, had access to the internet (80.3% and 90.0%), but do not own a laptop/ipad (82.6% and 72.8%) for Ebon-yi and Imo State respectively. Results further revealed that Agricultural extension personnel in both Ebonyi and Imo State respectively had low digital literacy level ( = 2.41 and 2.32). The study concluded that AEP in Ebonyi and Imo State respectively had similar socioeconomic characteristics and low level of digital literacy. The study recommended that the management of ADPs in both Ebonyi and Imo State should ensure the training of AEP in digital skills to enhance their digital literacy level to enable them use digital technologies in their work.

Effect of Some Physical Factors on Interrill Erosion of Soils in Gidan-Kwanu Area, Nigeria

Savanna regions in Nigeria face environmental degradation and barren land, negatively impacting food and agricultural productivity. Inter-rill erosion occurs due to raindrop impact and transport, particularly on hill slopes. A study was conducted using a sprinkler rainfall simulator and plot experiment to study soil erosion processes. Soil samples were collected from four farms in Gidan Kwanu, with varying moisture content. Sand content ranged from 46.0% to 76.20%, silt from 11.30% to 23.50%, and clay from 11.0% to 30.0%. Uncultivated and bare land had a higher average porosity (15.47% and 14.99%), while cultivated land had lower porosity (14.4%). The study found that most people in Gidan-Kwanu primarily practice farming, which is season-dependent and rain-fed. Soil type and texture significantly contribute to inter-rill erosion, with cultivated and uncultivated soil being more resistant to erosion than bare land soil. The study concluded that farming practices in Gidan-Kwanu are primarily season-dependent and rain-fed. Soil type and texture significantly contribute to inter-rill erosion, with cultivated and uncultivated soil being more resistant to erosion than bare land soil.

Comparative Study of the Efficacy of Metal Removal from Contaminated Aqueous Solutions by Solid Bidentate Ligands&Liquid Plant Materials

Heavy metal contaminated water sources pose serious health risks for humans,animals,and plants.Exposure to and ingestion of heavy metals have been associated to liver,kidney,and brain function.Objective:The aim of this research is to comparatively examine the metal removal efficacy of three solid bidentate chemicals and four plant materials.Study Design&Methods:Standard solutions of zinc(II)and lead(II)ions with concentrations of 1,000 ppm were respectively treated with OA(Oxalic Acid),dibasic bidentate ligands(sodium hydrogen phosphate and sodium carbonate).Then,the solutions were placed on a shaker for 15 h,centrifuged,and the supernatant was analyzed using ICP-AES(Inductively Coupled Plasma-Atomic Emission Spectrometry).Results:All the solid bidentate adsorbents were very effective in removing zinc and lead(>90%).However,more lead than zinc was removed across all adsorbents except for lemon where equal percent of zinc and lead(49%)were removed.OA and Na2HPO4 removed about equal amount of lead(>99%).The plant materials(SP(Spinach),bell pepper and GBP(Green Bell Pepper)),respectively and preferentially removed more lead(98.9%,98.3%,81.5%)than zinc(91.7%,46%,46%).Conclusion:Although plant materials have gained attraction for the remediation of heavy metal,however,some bidentate chemical ligands such as OA,sodium carbonate and sodium hydrogen phosphates are even more effective in removing these metals from contaminated water.Furthermore,heavier metals are preferentially removed than lighter metals.

Effect of Water Application Rate on Growth Parameters of Farro 44 Rice Grown in a Selected Irrigation Scheme in Niger State, Nigeria

Water and land are the necessary agricultural inputs, and both are scarce these days. This study aims to determine the effect of water application rate on selected planting and crop parameters of Farro 44 rice during dry season farming and its growth response. The randomised complete block design was employed for the Farro 44 rice variety, with each plot size 4 m2 (2 m × 2 m) for ease of monitoring. A 0.3 m bound space separated each plot. The crop spacing was 0.2 m × 0.3 m, 0.3 m × 0.3 m, and 0.3 m × 0.4 m, respectively, for the row-to-row and plant-to-plant distance. The data collected were statistically analysed. The height of the faro 44 variety of rice ranged between 35.50 cm to 44.00 cm for plots with 2 tillers per hill, while that of 4 and 6 tillers per hill ranged between 35.50 cm to 41.40 cm and 35.50 cm to 39.30 cm, respectively. Minimum damage of 2.32% was seen for plant hills of 2 tillers, while 9.21% and 11.89% were observed for tillers of 4 and 6, respectively. It was seen that plots with the highest spacing of 30 × 40 cm and tillers of 2 per hill were observed to perform better than those of the other plots within the experimental pots. Such plots had a maximum plant tiller of 37 when counted, with the height of the plants reaching 44 cm after 70 days of planting. In conclusion, farmers within the study area of the Kanko community in Niger State. Nigeria appears not to have any known knowledge of the soil they are cultivating and the water they use as a source of irrigation within the farming areas. It was further concluded that the rice crops would be produced maximally with minimal water application to the rice field.

Effect of Tillage Practices on Hydro-Physical Properties of Soils in a Rice-Grown Environment in North Central Nigeria

This study details soil’s physical and chemical properties in a rice-grown environment in Minna environs Niger State, Nigeria, under different soil and water conservation practices. Soil samples were collected at 0 - 10 cm, 10 - 20 cm and 20 - 30 cm, respectively, using a soil auger to determine their physical and chemical properties such as moisture content, particle size, bulk density, particle density, porosity and organic matter. The textural classification determined the percentage dominance of the soil types in each study site location. The moisture content of site 1 ranged between 14.3% to 13.7%, site 2 ranged between 13.2% to 10.2%, site 3 ranged between 15.4% to 13.2%, site 4 ranged between 15.6% to 13.6% and site 5 ranged between 16.1% to 10.9%. The clay content of sites 3, 4 and 5 is higher than that of sites 1 and 2, while the silt contents of sites 1, 2 and 3 are higher than that of sites 4 and 5. The mean value of soil organic carbon from each study location was 2.37%, 2.03%, 2.43%, 2.07% and 2.17% for sites 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5, respectively. Therefore, site 1 is susceptible to erosion because of poor infiltration rate and well-ploughed or cultivated land by the tractor (harrowed). The particle sizes analysis indicated that the soil type in Site 1 and Site 2 is mainly sandy loam, while Site 3 and Site 5 are mainly loamy and predominantly clay loam in Site 4.

Utilization of Artificial Intelligence-Enabled Technologies by Agripreneurs in Ondo State, Nigeria

The research investigated the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) technol-ogies among agricultural entrepreneurs in Ondo state, Nigeria. A purposive sample of 120 participants involved in agriculture was selected for the study. Socioeconomic characteristics analysis revealed that the mean age of the re-spondents was 48.3 years. A majority (77%) of the respondents were male, and approximately 68% were married. Regarding education, 32.5% had completed secondary education, while 32.5% had tertiary education. The av-erage annual income was 1,166,800 naira, with a significant proportion (71.7%) identifying as Christians. The study found a significant association between respondents’ awareness levels and their adoption of AI-enabled technologies (χ2 = 7.714, p = 0.005). Based on these findings, it is recom-mended that extension officers receive training in the latest agricultural technologies, including those enabled by AI. Furthermore, the study suggests the introduction of easily accessible and user-friendly AI technologies to farmers to enhance their productivity and income with minimal or no cost implications.

Evaluation of aquifer hydraulic properties from resistivity and pumping test data in parts of Gwagwalada,Northcentral Nigeria

Population upsurge in Gwagwalada increased water demand in the area,thereby stressing water resources in the area.Aquifer properties in parts of Gwagwalada in North-Central Nigeria were therefore investigated using resistivity and hydrogeological approaches.Static water level measurements of hand dug wells were used to determine the groundwater flow direction for the area which coincides with the North East-South West joint direction.Constant rate pumping test was adopted for the research and 10 boreholes were pumped.The weathered/fractured basement range from 7.5 m to 56.7 m.The transmissivity values in the area ranged from 0.35 m^(2)/d to 3.63 m^(2)/d while the hydraulic conductivity range from 0.045 m/d to 0.18 m/d.The Vertical Electrical Soundings(VES)were carried out on the area.The geoelectric sections revealed four to five layers and the longitudinal conductance varied from 0.11Ω^(-1)to 0.37Ω^(-1).The results of the investigation characterized the groundwater potential in the study area into low and moderate while the aquifer protective capacity into weak and moderate zones.The efficacy of resistivity and pumping test data in quantifying aquifer properties has been established in this study.The findings of this study shed light on the properties of ground water and aquifer protective capacity in the area,hence assist in the effective future groundwater resources exploitation.

Effect of Different Mulching Materials on Growth Parameters and Yield of Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) Production in Minna, Nigeria

During the 2022 growing season (August to November) at the Federal University of Technology, Minna School farm, Niger State, an experiment was conducted to investigate the influence of mulching on Okras growth, yield, and moisture content was examined across four distinct growth stages (initial, development, mid, and late) and at varying soil depths (0 - 30 cm and 30 - 60 cm). The study employed a randomised complete block design with four replications, encompassing control (T0), groundnut shells mulch (T1), black polythene mulch (T2), and white polythene mulch (T3) as treatments. The highest average Okra fresh pod yield, amounting to 23.4 t/ha, was achieved by implementing white plastic mulch, contrasting with the control treatment, which yielded the lowest at 22 t/ha. Notably, the control plots exhibited yield reductions of up to 32% compared to the plots employing white plastic mulching. The utilisation of mulch had a notable impact on the overall crop yield, with the superior quality evident in the treatment employing white plastic mulch (26 t/ha). The control treatment exhibited the lowest quality at 24.3 t/ha. Groundnut shell mulch influenced moisture conservation, but no significant variance was observed compared to the control plots. Therefore, the study suggests that polythene mulch may be the most suitable type to enhance the quality of okra production by conserving soil moisture. Among the biodegradable and non-biodegradable mulches used in this study, white polythene mulch was the most effective.

Influence of Non-Natural Ageing Temperature on the Microstructural Characteristics and Mechanical Properties of Cast Aluminum 6063 Alloy

This research considered the effect of non-natural aging on the microstructural characteristics and mechanical properties of as-cast aluminum 6063 alloys. The samples were developed through a sand casting process and machined into tensile and impact test samples before carrying out solution heat treatment at 550?C (0.83 Tm) on two parts of the samples while retaining one part as the control. The two parts were further divided into sets denoted A and B and were aged at 180?C (0.27 Tm) and 160?C (0.24 Tm), respectively, for 12 hours. The results showed that sample A has the optimal yield strength and ultimate tensile strength of 192 and 206 MPa, respectively. Likewise, the sample gave the highest impact strength value of about 9.63 J/mm2. The observed results were supported by the optical micrograph, which revealed that the sample has evenly dispersed precipitates in its microstructure. This is deemed responsible for the observed increase in strength of the sample.

The Use of Microbial Biotechnology in Value Addition to Cassava Wastes as Feed for Pigs: Prospects and Challenges

Cassava peels were fermented through a combination of two lactic acid bacteria (Lactobacillus coryneformis and Lactobacillus delbrueckii) and a fungus (Aspergillus fumigatus) using solid substrate fermentation (SSF) technique for five consecutive days. The enhanced product designated as microbially fermented cassava peel (MFCP) was used at graded levels in the feed formulation for growing pigs. Four iso-nitrogenous and iso-caloric diets were formulated with MFCP at 0% (T1), 20% (T2), 40% (T3) and 60% (T4) inclusion levels. Twenty-four boarlings of an average initial weight of 37.15 kg were used in a fourteen-week trial to test the effect of these graded levels of MFCP on growth performance, digestive and reproductive physiology of the experimental animals. The result showed significant differences (P < 0.05) in mean daily feed consumption. Pigs in T3 had the highest feed intake (2.24 ± 0.05 kg), while pigs in T4 had the lowest (1.78 ± 0.04 kg). The final highest live weight was in T3 (72.00 kg) and the least in T4 (58.17 kg). The feed conversion ratios also showed significant differences (P < 0.05) among treatment means. The result obtained from gut morphometry showed that animals in T1 had the highest stomach weight (full and empty), while animals in T3 had the least rate of gastric emptying (81.50%). Animals in T3 and T4 had the longest small intestine (16.21 m and 15.35 m, respectively), while those in T4 had the longest colon (4.24 m). Animals in T1 and T2 had more numbers of gastric glands, while animals in T3 and T4 had more parietal cells. The reproductive indices revealed that animals in T1 were better in terms of the weight and relative weight of vesicular and Cowper’s gland, while animals in T4 had the highest value of the weight and relative weight of prostate gland. Proximate analyses of the ileal digesta revealed that the rate of nutrient absorption was highest in T3 and T1 and lowest in T4. Histological examination of the testes revealed normal testicular architecture in the control diet. The testes of animals fed 0%, 20% and 40% MFCP diets exhibited normal and intact lumen, Sertoli cells, and germ cells. However, animal fed 60% MFCP diet revealed massive disruption and degeneration of germinal epithelium, and complete erosion of the seminiferous tubules. It could be concluded that feeding pigs at 40% MFCP would enhance feed consumption, nutrient absorption and improve the growth rate of pigs. Using MFCP beyond 40% level on swine diet could compromise gut health through diarrhoeagenic disposition of the digesta in the distal colon and modification of the parietal and chief cells of the gastric glands. The hypertrophy of the prostate gland and vacuolization of the seminiferous tubules of pigs fed the 60% MFCP diet indicated a probable reduced reproductive performance.

Assessment of ERA5 and ERA-Interim in Reproducing Mean and Extreme Climates over West Africa

In situ data in West Africa are scarce,and reanalysis datasets could be an alternative source to alleviate the problem of data availability.Nevertheless,because of uncertainties in numerical prediction models and assimilation methods,among other things,existing reanalysis datasets can perform with various degrees of quality and accuracy.Therefore,a proper assessment of their shortcomings and strengths should be performed prior to their usage.In this study,we examine the performance of ERA5 and ERA-interim(ERAI)products in representing the mean and extreme climates over West Africa for the period 1981-2018 using observations from CRU and CHIRPS.The major conclusion is that ERA5 showed a considerable decrease in precipitation and temperature biases and an improved representation of inter-annual variability in much of western Africa.Also,the annual cycle is better captured by ERA5 in three of the region’s climatic zones;specifically,precipitation is well-reproduced in the Savannah and Guinea Coast,and temperature in the Sahel.In terms of extremes,the ERA5 performance is superior.Still,both reanalyses underestimate the intensity and frequency of heavy precipitations and overestimate the number of wet days,as the numerical models used in reanalyses tend to produce drizzle more often.While ERA5 performs better than ERAI,both datasets are less successful in capturing the observed long-term trends.Although ERA5 has achieved considerable progress compared to its predecessor,improved datasets with better resolution and accuracy continue to be needed in sectors like agriculture and water resources to enable climate impact assessment.

Impact of Association between Functional Training and Respiratory Muscle Training in Elderly: A Randomized Controlled Trial

The elderly population in Brazil has been growing exponentially according to data presented by the IBGE. It is estimated that by 2025 the population will have reached 32 million, placing the country sixth in the world in the population of elderly people. To assess the results of respiratory training associated with functional training on respiratory muscle strength, lung function, and functionality of the elderly. The sample was composed of 40 elderlies, divided into four groups, the experimental group with functional training, one experimental group with functional training associated with respiratory training, one experimental group with respiratory training, and the fourth group, the control group. After the initial and final evaluations, the variables measured were: The Breathing Test, Sit to Stand Test, the SF-36 Quality of Life Questionnaire, and Spirometry. Twenty appointments were conducted twice a week. There were significant differences for variables maximum inspiratory and expiratory pressure;more accentuated in the associated group when compared to the respiratory group;forced vital capacity and forced expiratory volume in the first second/forced vital capacity were meaningful in the associated group;peak expiratory flow means values increased after the intervention;in the six-minute walk test, we noticed a trend to increase values after the intervention. Functional training as well as associated respiratory muscle training provide the most beneficial changes compared only to functional and respiratory training. Therefore, this may be an effective clinical training method for patients’ elderly.

Examination of Common Occupational Hazards among Healthcare Workers in a University Healthcare Center in Southeastern Nigeria

Background: Healthcare workers are challenged by an imposing group of occupational hazards. These hazards include exposure to biological and non-biological hazards like ionizing radiation, stress, injury, infectious agents, and chemicals. The aim of this study was to assess common occupational hazards among health workers at the Department of Health Services (DHS), Federal University of Technology, Owerri. Methods: A hospital-based cross-sectional study design was employed for the study, and a self-administered questionnaire was used for data collection. The SPSS Version 22.0 software was used for the analysis of the descriptive statistics obtained from the study. This study included both clinical and non-clinical health workers. A purposive sampling technique was used in recruiting a total of 94 respondents who participated in the study from September 2020 to April 2021. Results: A total of 94 respondents who participated in the study and among the participants, 33.3% (31) of the respondents were aged 31 - 40 years, and the majority of the health workers, 43.6% (41) had stayed between 1 - 5 years. Also, 92.6% (87) of the health workers have heard of occupational hazards. The study showed that 84.0% (79) of health workers had good knowledge of common occupational hazards. Biological hazards among health workers are 47.9% (45) cuts and wounds, 29.8% (28) direct contact with contaminated specimens/hazardous materials, and 26.6% (26) sharp related injuries, while for non-biological hazards, 44.7% (42) have slipped, tripped or fallen, and 35.1% (33) have been stressed. Common safety measures include 86.2% (81) washing their hands regularly;78.7% (74) using hand gloves;and 85.1% (80) agreeing they use face masks. Conclusion: Despite good knowledge of occupational hazards, participants at DHS were faced with certain hazards. It is recommended that the university, government, and policymakers revise and implement actions to provide health workers at DHS with equipment to encourage safety in work activity.

Analysis of Incremental Load Damaging Effects of Overloaded Trucks on Federal Highway Pavement Structures in Nigeria

The study is to assess the present serviceability rating of Nigerian highways and the load damage effects of overloaded trucks. The researchers used the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) methods. In this study, the highway section of Lokoja-Abuja, Ilorin-Jebba and Abakiliki-Ogoja via Mbok roads were selected, and data were collected through an axle-load survey, automatic traffic count and from secondary sources. The rate of gross vehicle weight violation was found, ranging from 20% to 94% of the axle load distribution across the studied network. Comparing the overloaded vehicle damage factor (V.D.F.) and standard V.D.F., the range was from 1.2 to 41.34 times across the road networks studied, and this explained why the pavement structures of Nigerian roads tend to deteriorate during its service life rapidly. Present serviceability rating was estimated at 3.45, 4.41 and 3.35 for Lokoja-Abuja, Ilorin-Jebba and Abakiliki-Ogoja roads respectively, showing depletion from their initial conditions. The damaging effects of the HGV are less severe at Lokoja-Abuja Road (with g = 0.30), followed by Ilorin-Jebba Road (with g = 0.35) and more in Abakiliki-Ogoja Road (with g = 0.43). The heaviest overload of 94% of the 6-axle vehicles plying at the Lokoja-Abuja road could explain this intense damaging effect on the road pavement