Caritas University Journals
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Fuzzy-Based Irrigation Improvement System for Nigerian Agricultural Fields
Full text linkEfficient water management in agriculture is crucial for ensuring sustainable crop production and addressing the global water crisis. Traditional irrigation systems often suffer from inefficiencies, leading to water wastage, uneven crop yields, and increased costs. This paper proposes a fuzzy-based irrigation improvement system that leverages advanced machine learning algorithms, Internet of Things (IoT) devices, and real-time environmental data to optimize water usage in agricultural fields. The system integrates sensors to monitor key parameters such as soil moisture, temperature, humidity, and weather forecasts. Fuzzy logic algorithms analyze this data to determine precise irrigation schedules and water requirements, minimizing wastage and ensuring optimal hydration for crops. The system also employs predictive analytics to adapt to changing environmental conditions and crop growth stages. Key benefits include significant water savings, increased crop yield, reduced operational costs, and enhanced sustainability. Additionally, the system can be scaled and customized to suit different types of crops, soil conditions, and geographical locations. This approach demonstrates the potential of fuzzy logic in transforming traditional farming practices into a data-driven, resource-efficient paradigm. Future developments will focus on integrating renewable energy sources and blockchain for enhanced transparency and efficiency. This fuzzy-driven solution promises a sustainable future for agriculture by addressing the dual challenges of water scarcity and food security
Maintenance And Characterisation Of Rock Well Hardness Testing Machine
Full text linkRockwell hardness testing machines are crucial in determining material hardness. However, their accuracy and reliability can be compromised if not properly maintained. This project focuses on the rehabilitation and maintenance of the Rockwell hardness testing machine in the Mechanical Engineering Department Caritas University, Amorji Nike, Enugu. The machine’s accuracy and reliability were restored through diagnostic tests, replacement of worn-out parts, calibration, and development of a maintenance schedule.The reliability and functionality of the Rockwell Hardness Testing Machine are critical for material testing and mechanical engineering applications. However, frequent power fluctuations, component wear, and inadequate maintenance practices often compromise the performance of this essential equipment, particularly in educational institutions like Caritas University Amorji Nike Enugu. This study investigates the application of a Fuzzy Logic-Based Static Var Compensator (SVC) to improve the rehabilitation and maintenance of the Rockwell Hardness Testing Machine. The fuzzy-based SVC system is designed to enhance voltage stability, mitigate harmonic distortions, and ensure a consistent power supply to the machine. By integrating intelligent control algorithms, the system can predict and adapt to varying operational conditions, enabling proactive maintenance and reducing the likelihood of system failures. This approach not only safeguards sensitive components from power-related damages but also extends the machine’s operational lifespan and minimizes downtime. The study employs a combination of experimental analysis and simulation to evaluate the performance of the fuzzy-based SVC system. Results demonstrate significant improvements in power quality, reduced maintenance costs, and enhanced operational reliability of the Rockwell Hardness Testing Machine. The findings underscore the potential of intelligent power systems in modernizing equipment maintenance practices and ensuring sustainable engineering education
Performance Characteristics of Palm Kernel Shell-based Biomass Fuel
Full text linkThe transition toward sustainable and renewable energy sources has become imperative in addressing climate change and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Biomass, particularly in the form of agricultural waste, presents a viable alternative to traditional fossil fuels. This study investigates the potential of palm kernel shells (PKS), an abundant yet underutilized by-product of palm oil processing in Nigeria as a clean and efficient biofuel through the process of briquetting. Two PKS samples, sourced from local and improved palm varieties, were subjected to pyrolysis to enhance their fuel characteristics. The charred PKS was then combined with varying proportions of cassava starch (25%, 30%, and 35%) as a binder and compressed into cylindrical briquettes. Proximate and ultimate analyses, along with calorific value determination and combustion performance tests, were conducted to assess the energy efficiency and environmental suitability of the briquettes. Results indicate that a 25% starch binder ratio produced the most efficient briquettes, characterized by high fixed carbon content, lower ash and moisture levels, and superior calorific value. Additionally, combustion tests revealed favorable ignition times, burning rates, and fuel consumption efficiency. The findings demonstrate the viability of PKS briquettes as a sustainable alternative to fuelwood and charcoal, offering both environmental and economic benefits. This study contributes to the development of renewable energy solutions in developing regions and underscores the value of waste-to-energy innovations in enhancing energy security and reducing ecological degradation. 
Comparative Study on Adsorption Kinetics of Heavy Metals in Produced Water Using Banana Peel and Luffa Cylindrica Derived Activated Carbon
Full text linkThis paper investigates the potentials of activated carbon (AC) derived from Banana peel and Luffa cylindrica biowaste for the removal of heavy metals such as zinc, copper, nickel, and iron from produced water. Activated carbon was obtained by carbonizing adsorbents (Banana peel and Luffa cylindrica), using an impregnation ratio of 1:3 of H3PO4 for 24 hrs. The experimental runs were conducted using the batch adsorption method, where produced water was treated using a 2 g adsorbent dosage for 2, 4, and 6 hours of contact time. Adsorption kinetics were analysed using both the pseudo-first-order and pseudo-second-order model equations. The results show that Luffa cylindrica-derived AC achieved up to 85.7, 88.3, 54.7, and 52.2 % removal in Zn, Cu, Ni, and Fe, respectively, while banana peel AC led to 85.4, 70.7, and 35.2% removal in Zn, Cu, Ni, and Fe., respectively. Kinetic data indicated that pseudo-first-order best described Zn, Cu, and Fe adsorption (R² > 0.76) on both adsorbents, while only Fe adsorption on banana peel AC fitted well with pseudo-second-order (R² = 0.9998). These findings suggest the potential of these low-cost, sustainable biosorbents for effective treatment of produced water
Experimental Evaluation on Suitability of African Oil Bean Husk as a Fluid-Loss Control Agent in Water-Based Drilling Mud
Full text linkFiltrate loss determines the efficiency of drilling mud. Research on the suitability of African oil bean husk (AOBH) as a fluid loss control additive for water-based drilling mud (WBM) is presented in this article. AOBH was crushed into particle sizes of 63 µm, 125 µm, and 250 µm. The morphology and chemical properties of AOBH were studied with a Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrophotometer (FTIR) and a Phenom Prox model of the Scanning Electron Microscope energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDS). WBM samples containing the various sizes of AOBH as fluid-loss control additives were prepared. Samples containing industrial-grade additives (Grel Alphatex) were prepared. Basic mud tests were carried out on samples. Comparisons of results from the various samples were made. Rheology of mud samples was modeled with the Power Law Model and Herschel-Bulkley Models. Results show that AOBH contains mainly carbon and asphaltic compounds. Mud tests show that the performances of AOBH and industrial grade are comparable. Filter cake thickness was 2.3 mm–2.9 mm for AOBH-additives mud but 2.3 mm for industrial-additives mud. Filtrate loss was 2.3 ml–3.3 ml for AOBH-additives mud but 2.3 ml for industrial-additives mud. The apparent viscosity for AOBH-additives mud was 28-29.5 cp, but 29 cp for industrial-additives mud. Plastic viscosity for AOBH-additives mud was 22-23 cp, but 22 cp for industrial-additives mud. The yield point for AOBH-additives mud was 12-15, but 14 for industrial-additives mud. Use of AOBH did not affect the final gel strength. Both models show that the efficiency of the mud containing AOBH in cleaning the hole increased as the grain size of AOBH reduced. The chemistry of AOBH shows that it is biodegradable and eco-friendly
Influence of Personality Traits on Internet Addiction among University Undergraduates
Full text linkThis study investigated personality traits and loneliness as predictors of interest addiction among university undergraduates. A total of 360 university undergraduates selected across departments and faculties at Caritas University Enugu were used as sample for the study. The participants who were between the ages of 18-23 years comprise of 201 females and 159 males. Three instruments were used for data collection i.e. internet addiction test (IAT) young (1998), Big Five Personality Inventories (BFI) John and Srivastava (1990), . Survey research design was adopted while Linear regression was used for data analysis. Findings revealed that Personality trait extroversion, shows a negative predictor of internet addiction among undergraduates (β= -.313, P< .001), Agreeableness also showed a significant negative predictor of internet addiction among undergraduates (β= -.499, P< .001). Conscientiousness did not show a significant prediction on internet addiction among undergraduates (β= .155, P> .05). Neuroticism showed a significant positive predictor of internet addiction among adolescents (β= .506, P< .001). Openness to experience showed a significant positive predictor of internet addiction among undergraduates (β= .522, P< .001). Findings were discussed in relation with literature reviewed and recommendations were also made
Influence of Workplace Happiness on Organizational Commitment among Healthcare Workers in Ibadan Metropolis, Oyo State, Nigeria
Full text linkA cross-sectional research design investigated factors influencing organizational commitment among healthcare professionals. Respondents comprised 397 healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, technicians, and administrative staff in public hospitals in Ibadan. Respondents were selected using a multi-stage sampling technique. Data was collected using questionnaires. Participants’ ages ranged from 25 to 64 years, with a mean age of 41.58 (SD = 9.90). Results showed that workplace happiness significantly influenced affective organizational commitment (��� (395) = − 2.993, ��� < 0.01, ��� = −.30). Similarly, workplace happiness significantly influenced normative commitment (��� (395) = − 2.603, ��� < 0.01, ��� = −.26). However, there was no significant influence of workplace happiness on the continuance dimension of organizational commitment (��� (395) = − 1.898, ��� =.058). Findings suggest workplace happiness is crucial for fostering affective and normative commitment. Healthcare organizations should enhance workplace happiness through supportive environments, recognition, and open communication to strengthen affective and normative commitment. 
Family Relationship, Self-Esteem, And Gender As Factors In Social Maladjustment Of Imo State University Students
Full text linkThe study investigated the influence of family relationship, self-esteem, and gender on social maladjustment of Imo State University students. Three hypotheses were postulated to guide the study. Three hundred students were selected through a convenience sampling technique from Imo State University, Owerri. Their ages ranged from 16-25 years with a mean age of 18 years. The participants were administered the Index of Family Relations developed by Hudson (1982), and the Index of Self-Esteem developed by Hudson (1982). and the Social Maladjustment Scale developed by Wiggins (1966). A cross-sectional survey design was adopted, and chi-square statistics were used for data analysis. Results revealed that family relations are a significant determinant of social maladjustment among undergraduates of Imo State University. Self-esteem is a significant determinant of social maladjustment among undergraduates of Imo State University. Also, gender is not a significant determinant of social maladjustment among undergraduates of Imo State University. Recommendations’ and suggestions were made based on the implications of the findings.  
Role of Public Relations Practitioners in the Management of Federal Government Agencies in Nigeria (A Study of Southeast)
Full text linkThe focus of this study was to examine the role of public relations practitioners in the management of Nigeria Federal Agencies with particular reference to South-East. Major aim was to ascertain whether federal agencies have functional, and qualified public relations staff that contribute positively in the management of such agencies businesses. To achieve the desired aim of the study, the researchers opted for survey research method in order to drive the study. Study area was from South-East where population and sample size of 1,500 respondents were raised. Investigation showed that with over sixty federal agencies in Nigeria, effective operations of public relations practitioners are not noticed as chief executives of such agencies sideline PR units in the discharge of the agencies mandate. The study concludes that some Nigerian federal agencies are operating without functional public relations departments or units. Therefore, it recommends the intervention of the NIPR to make government at all levels to recognize the vital roles public relations plays in governance and fully incorporate qualified public relations staff in government business especially federal agencies in south-east
Dynamics Of Employee Job Satisfaction And Public Sector Performance In Nigeria: The Way Forward
Full text linkThe study examined the dynamics of employee job satisfaction and public sector performance in Nigeria. The objectives of study include - to critically examine the dynamics of employee job satisfaction within Nigeria’s public sector, in order to identify the root causes; to evaluate the impact on organizational performance; to and recommend sustainable strategies for improving motivation, retention, and productivity. The study adopted the Herzberg’s Two-Factor Theory of Motivation; relied heavily on secondary data, and used the content method of data analysis to analyze the collected data. Based on the reviewed literature, the findings of the study revealed that the root causes of employee job satisfaction are from economic, organizational, and socio-political perspectives; that the root causes of employee job satisfaction have immense impact on public sector performance in Nigeria; and that these root causes requires adopting sustainable strategies that not only enhance motivation and retention but also improve overall productivity and institutional performance. The study, therefore, recommended among others the involvement of workers in policy formulation and operational planning can strengthen ownership, satisfaction, and performance outcomes