Nnamdi Azikiwe University Journals
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An enhanced fuzzy based Mobile Number Portability (MNP) migration platform in Nigeria
No full textThe paper presents an enhanced fuzzy based MNP migration platform in Nigeria. The parameters that could determine why customers would switch their operators are practically tariff plans, call quality factor, customer care services and network coverage parameters. In this research, these four parameters were used for MNP decision using fuzzy logic. On the basis of these four parameters, the decision whether MNP is to be done or not is considered. The tariff plan, call quality factor, customer care services and network coverage are input parameter and MNP is output parameter. Input parameter tariff plan gives the information of call rate per naira. Tariff plan was taking from minimum of 5 available tariff plans to a maximum of 15 available tariff plans. The whole range were distributed in three levels: small, medium and large. Based on the rule base decision rules, a fuzzy logic 3D surface diagrams were used for the result analysis. The results showed that a cheap tariff plan indicates a high MNP decision allowing the user to port to the test network. When the tariff plan is expensive and the MNP decision is low, the user decides not to port to the test network. When a user considers network coverage and cost of tariff plan, MNP decisions are usually difficult to make. This is because strength of network coverage does not determine the cost of the tariff plan to be used, that is in the case of WLAN networks in Nigeria. Therefore, from the research concludes that a cheap Tariff leads to a high MNP value, while an expensive tariff makes a low MNP decision. This approach demonstrates the replaceability of the existing GSM architecture with an adequate trusted computing model for all mobile network operators in the mobile communication value chain
Effect of Dopants Particulates on the Structure and Mechanical Properties of Copper- 12wt% Aluminium Alloy
No full textThis research focuses on the development of copper-12wt% aluminum alloys reinforced with 0.5wt% to 5.0wt% weight percentages of titanium, chromium, and nickel particulates. The mechanical (tensile strength, hardness, and percentage elongation) and structural properties of the copper-12wt% aluminum alloy was studied. The samples were tested according to ASTM standards. Metallographic analysis was conducted by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) equipped with energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) to complement observations from the implemented characterization techniques. The results showed that the addition of reinforcing particulates to copper-12wt% aluminum alloy modified the structure of the alloy, resulting in improvements in the ultimate tensile strength and hardness of the experimental alloy by 34.2%, and 31.5% respectively, at 2.5wt%. Furthermore, samples reinforced with nickel exhibit higher tensile strength (297MPa) and hardness (412BHN) than those reinforced with titanium and chromium. The percentage elongation of the alloy decreased as the quantity of reinforcing components increased. The metallographic analysis revealed an equitable distribution of reinforcing particles, precipitations of smaller kappa-phases, and the presence of large globular intermetallic compounds in the microstructure, all of which contributed to the alloy\u27s improved mechanical propertie
Investigating the corrosion inhibition potentials of a pyrrolidinium-based ionic liquid on aluminium in acidic medium
No full textThe green ionic liquid 1-butyl-1-methylpyrrolidinium bromide [BMPyr]Br has been investigated for its anti-corrosion properties for aluminium in 1MHCl utilizing weight loss, electrochemical and computational techniques. The molecular structure of the obtained [BMPyr]Br was verified and characterized by FTIR spectroscopy. The Langmuir adsorption isotherm accurately described the adsorption behavior of the inhibitor. The corrosion test results from weight loss (WL), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and potentiodynamic polarization (PDP) reveal an impressive corrosion inhibition performance with efficiencies of 91.75%, 80.2% and 89.99% respectively with 45x 10-4M at 313K. The PDP curve suggests that [BMPyr]Br operated as a mixed-type inhibitor. The experimental and theoretical findings (from DFT and MD) are in perfect accord, providing robust evidence that [BMPyr]Br is a highly effective corrosion inhibitor, with all approaches converging to a consistent conclusion
Geotechnical Properties of Some Earth Materials Used for Road Pavement Construction in Anambra State
No full textThis research project was carried out to investigate the geotechnical properties of some earth materials used in road pavement construction in Anambra State of Nigeria. Laboratory tests including particle size distribution analysis, specific gravity, Atterberg limits, compaction using the British Standard Light (BSL) and the British Standard Heavy (BSH) compactive efforts, and California Bearing Ratio (CBR) tests were conducted on the soil samples gotten from Agu-Awka, Nawfia and Ugwuoba designated LAT 1, LAT 2 and LAT 3 respectively. From the results obtained from the tests and using the liquid limit, plastic limit and plasticity index the soil samples fall into A-2-4 of the AASHTO classification and SC (Clayey Sand) using the USCS classification. The compaction characteristics of the samples were found to be 21.21KN/m³, 21.77KN/m³ and 21.23KN/m³ for maximum dry unit weight and 12.5%, 13.5% and 11% for optimum moisture content for LAT 1, LAT 2 and LAT 3 respectively. The California Bearing Ratio (CBR) results after 48 hours soaking is 23.5%, 25.7% and 24.2% for LAT 1, LAT 2 and LAT 3 respectively. These results obtained indicate that the samples meet requirements for sub-base since the Federal Ministry of Works and Housing specifies CBR values greater than 20% for subbase type 2 with low traffic loads.  
Modelling and Simulation of an Enhanced Finite Element Method for Loss Computation in Power Transformers
No full textThe problem of evaluating the various performance characteristics of power transformer such as temperature distribution, flux distribution, and losses, is an age long issue in electrical engineering, and an attempt to manually or analytically evaluate them is very difficult and subject to errors. Hence the development and application of Finite Element Method to complex engineering analysis of this nature. This research presented enhanced finite element model application to Power Transformer loss computation. The method applied is modelling and simulation. The Finite Element Analysis of a 1.25MVA Power Transformer Model was created using the TrafoSolve unit of the Simcenter MAGNET Multi-physics Analysis Software. The input, output voltage, and frequency of operation of the power transformer was defined and inputted into the design parameter section from where the phase current was computed. Other parameters of the Power Transformer were selected as appropriate in the design stage before the mesh generation was carried out by process of double discretization as well as normal adaptive discretization process. The Solution of the Model, covered Finite Element Force Calculation, Thermal Analysis, Short Circuit Analysis, and Harmonic Analysis. In summary, the double discretization result for winding loss 48431.63W, and that of normal adaptive FEM which was 48969.4W, produced a percentage absolute error of 1.11%. For individual coil lose computation, the result showed 1.54% absolute error for the low voltage winding section during the short circuit test, translating to 14320.29W for the double discretization algorithm and 14541.18W for the normal adaptive FEM. This validates the double discretization algorithm developed in this research
Resistance and Regeneration in Ngozi Chuma-Udeh’s The Presidential Handshake
No full textThis research work focused on resistance and regeneration in Ngozi Chuma-Udeh’sThe Presidential Handshake. The Presidential Handshake by Ngozi Chuma-Udeh is shown as an effective means of re-orienting the people. It further demonstrates with adequate examples from the novel, how the author has done this, and to what extent she has succeeded. This study employs the content analysis approach to qualitative research. Marxism and Sociological Approach to Literature form the theoretical framework for exploring this novel. The main aim for using Marxism and sociological approach to literature is because of the author’s belief in literature serving the needs of society and the people. The Presidential handshake connotes the negative notion of the people for politics. This study reveals that NgoziChuma-Udeh raised social issues in her novel which are relevant to the contemporary Nigerian society. These include socio-political issues like greed, exploitation, looting, and unemployment. This study will definitely contribute to the evolving corpus of critical literary discourse on the literary works of the author and African literature
Existentialism, Ughwu-Death and Resilience in Urhobo Folkore
No full textUghwu, death is an inevitable occurrence that cuts across all cultures and societies. It is an existential concern that triggers emotional disorders such as anxieties and phobias in society. This paper examines Ughwu-death and resilience in Urhobo folklore with a view to establishing the coping mechanisms adopted for emotionally disturbed individuals in traditional society. The study adopted ethnographic design, investigating cultural materials collected from natural environment. The oral data were carefully selected based on their thematic thrust. They were collected from audio recordings, in-depth interviews and observations. The song-poetry were transcribed and translated from Urhobo language to English andsubjected to literary analysis. The study found that in Urhobo society death is portrayed in funeral song-poetry, folktales, proverbs, and proverbial using metaphors, similes, euphemisms and imagery to provide coping skills to audience
Impoliteness Strategies in Lecturer-Student Classroom Discourse
No full textThis study delves into the dynamics of lecturer-student classroom discourse in Delta State University Abraka, with a specific focus on the manifestation of impoliteness strategies and their impact on learning environments. This study is motivated by the need to understand and effect politeness strategies that can mitigate constant quarrel and misunderstanding in lecturer-student communication. Drawing on Jonathan Culpeper\u27s theory of impoliteness model, this study employs a purposive sampling technique to generate 5 different natural occurring speech situations of lecturer-speech encounter. Data 1 reveals overt impoliteness strategies employed by a lecturer, leading to a hostile learning environment and potential long-term consequences for student attitudes and academic performance. In contrast, Data 2 illustrates a positive and respectful discourse, emphasizing that impoliteness is not universally present in educational settings. However, Data 3 paints a contrasting picture, highlighting the disruptive force of impoliteness and its potential to hinder effective communication and student engagement. Data 4 reveals that the lecturer utilizes bald on record and negative impoliteness, employing sarcasm and dismissive responses that may hinder student engagement and create a tense classroom atmosphere. Data 5 reveals a contrasting scenario where the lecturer refrains from bald on record and negative impoliteness, fostering a positive learning environment through the encouragement of student participation and supportive communication. These findings underscore the need for educators to adopt communication styles that prioritise respect and inclusivity to foster positive learning environments
EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES AND THEIR IMPLICATIONS ON THE FUTURE OF BUSINESS EDUCATION
No full textThe aim of this study was to examine emerging technologies and their implications on the future of Business education. Business Education has to follow the current trend in order to be relevant and grow with the competitive world of business. Emerging technologies have changed and reshaped the trajectory of teaching and learning which must be aligned with the current curriculum in Business education programme. The study x-rayed emerging technologies, Business education and the challenge of emerging technologies, emerging technologies and its implications on Business education curriculum and importance of emerging technologies to business education. The researcher drew conclusion on the fact that emerging technologies in the educational sector have really improved teaching and learning in schools. This can only be achieved when the use of these technologies are positively utilized in the right direction and if not properly used, it could be dangerous and enslave the users. It recommended among others that training and retraining of business educators should be a priority so as to update them with the new technologies available, and that Business educators should pick up the challenge, develop their skills in order to impact their students with current or emerging skills, Knowledge and altitudes to live and work in technologically dynamic society
Influence of fuel subsidy removal on the prices of major food commodities in southeastern Nigeria
No full textRecently there has been an astronomical increase in food prices with resultant indication in food insecurity. This is positively correlated with the total removal of fuel subsidy. Therefore, this study examined the influence of subsidy removal on prices of food items in Southeastern Nigeria. Data for this study was obtained from National Bureau of Statistics. Data was analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics (t- test) and presented in histogram and bar charts. The result showed that the prices of Rice, Beans, Yam, Garri and Tomato were significantly different after the subsidy removal at 10% level of significance and only Palm Oil was significant at 5% level of significance. There is a speedy rise in food price and other commodities within this short period of subsidy removal. This has resulted to different categories of hardships to the populace, affecting the economy of the country and leading to an unprecedented rise in exchange rate.
The consequences continued to affect importation of valued materials into the country. Agricultural production is affected due to high cost of farming inputs and food security is compromised. Therefore, improvement in the transportation system, provision of palliative measures and reduction of corruption will in no small measure increase food production, food security and sustainable livelihood