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ADOPTION OF CIRCULAR DESIGN STRATEGIES BY BUILDING DESIGN FIRMS IN LAGOS, NIGERIA
Get PDFThe global prominence of the circular economy model is a notable sustainability trend. Within this model, the design stage plays a critical role as the foundation. The adoption of circular design strategies (CDS) has been gaining appreciable traction in the architecture, engineering, and construction industry in Europe and Asia. However, limited adoption has greeted these strategies in Sub-Saharan Africa, specifically, in the Nigerian built environment. This is due to the dearth of empirical studies on CDS adoption and implementation, especially at the building design firms’ level. Hence, this study evaluated the adoption of CDS by firms towards identifying pathways for their increased uptake in Nigeria. Providing empirical knowledge on the adoption of CDS can contribute towards reducing material extraction and consumption, and the global economy circularity index. Roger’s Diffusion of Innovation theory was used deployed as the study's conceptual framework. A pragmatic philosophical paradigm was adopted for the study. Convergent parallel mixed research method was deployed and concurrent triangulation approach facilitated the integration of results. Quantitative data were collected through a questionnaire survey from 216 firms which were analysed by applying descriptive and inferential statistical methods using Statistical Product and Service Solutions version 21. An interview guide and observation protocol were employed in collecting qualitative data from ten firms involved in the design of certified sustainable buildings (CSBs) and nine CSBs, respectively. The qualitative data were manually analysed through a content analysis involving In-vivo coding and themes’ identification. The findings indicated that the disposition of firms towards CDS adoption is dependent on improving value and expertise, effective stakeholder management, collaboration, policy, and the tendency for economic capacity. The firms exhibit a moderate level of CDS awareness. However, they have only adopted certain strategies related to slowing and narrowing resource loops to a high extent. The adoption of strategies related to closing-resource loop is very low. The study further revealed the factors that influence CDS adoption by firms to include awareness, benefits, firm’s disposition, barriers, firm’s profile, and communication channels. Internet-driven peer networking channels were found to be the most effective means of diffusing CDS knowledge. Finally, CSBs in the study area have adopted certain CDS associated with designing out waste and slowing-resource loops, while the CSBs are still deficient in adopting CDS associated with closing-resource loop. Firms need to look inwards into the alignment of their visions, culture, and process in ensuring they conform with new market demand and embrace changes where appropriate, especially, in environmental sustainability consciousness in their design processes. Additionally, the roles, responsibilities, and support of the government, academia, and the industry were identified in contributing towards achieving the set agenda. The findings indicated that the adoption of CDS in building developments directly contributes to the sustainable development goal 12 – responsible consumption and production. This study contributed to knowledge by identifying the key characteristics that dispose firms towards CDS adoption. Furthermore, the firms and CSBs have least adopted closing-resource loop strategies in design. Similarly, recommendations to practice, academia, and policies were suggested to enhance resource optimisation in the NBE through the uptake of the strategies by firms. Further studies can investigate appropriate circular business models and circular project management approaches applicable in Nigeria
Lead-cadmium accumulation in agricultural soils and health implications
Get PDFThe use of pesticides in farms has made agricultural soils often contaminated with heavy metals,
excess of which the soils could pollute the environment and potentially damage human health through
accumulation in the food chain. The geochemical compositions in agricultural soils from two commercial
farms were analysed using ICP-MS. Trace elements are needed in minute quantities in soils but can be toxic
to plants and humans with health implications at elevated rates. Soil samples from the study area were
analysed and the result revealed that lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd) concentrations in the study sites were
within the FAO/WHO standard limits. The implications of elevated rates on crops and humans alike are
highlighted in this paper
Fish Nanotagging and Barcoding
Get PDFFish nanotags and barcoding are advanced technologies and techniques used
in fisheries, aquaculture, and ecological research to enhance the
identification, tracking, and management of fish species. Fish nanotags are
tiny electronic devices or transponders that are used to tag and track
individual fish. These nanotags are embedded or attached to fish, allowing for
real-time or periodic monitoring of their movements and behaviours. Fish
nanotags provide a unique identification code for each tagged fish, allowing
researchers and fisheries managers to monitor individual fish within a
population. Nanotags are typically small and lightweight, making them suitable
for a wide range of fish species, from small minnows to large oceanic fish.
They can collect data on fish behaviour, migration patterns, temperature
preferences, and depth profiles. This information is crucial for understanding
the ecology of fish species and their response to environmental changes.
Nanotags equipped with environmental sensors can record data on water
temperature, salinity, and other parameters, providing insights into fish habitat
preferences. Nanotags are valuable for assessing fish stocks, tracking
movements, and optimizing management strategies. They help monitor the
behaviour and health of endangered or protected species. Nanotags are used
in scientific studies on fish behaviour, physiology, and ecology. Fish barcoding
is a molecular identification technique that uses standardized DNA
sequences, known as DNA barcodes, to identify fish species based on their
genetic profiles. Fish barcoding offers a highly accurate method for identifying
fish species, even when traditional morphological methods are challenging
due to factors like incomplete or processed specimens. Barcoding supports
the assessment and monitoring of the biodiversity of aquatic ecosystems,
aiding conservation efforts and fisheries management. It ensures traceability
in the seafood supply chain, helping verify the origin and species of fish
products and complying with legal regulations and international agreements.
Barcoding verifies the species, quality, and origin of fish and seafood
products, ensuring freshness and safety and detecting adulteration. Fish
barcoding helps monitor and manage stocks in aquaculture facilities, ensuring
the genetic integrity of farmed fish and detecting unintended hybridization. It
aids in studies on the evolutionary relationships and population genetics of
fish species, contributing to a better understanding of their genetic diversity
and origins. Barcoding facilitates international trade by providing a
standardized method for species identification and meeting import/export
requirements, enhancing consumer confidence. Barcoding is instrumental in
identifying and protecting endangered fish species, contributing to their
conservation and management. This chapter focuses on the novelty in the
application of nanotags and fish barcoding in comparison to conventional
aquacultural practices
Development of functional graphene oxide-urethane coating systems from Ricinus communis seed oil
Get PDFThe surface-modified graphene oxide (GO) nanoparticles and their blending with a fixed
percentage of trimethylopropane (TMP) in Ricinus communis seed oil were successfully
prepared in a one-pot urethane reaction using 4,4′-diisocyanato dicyclohexylmethane
(H12MDI) and methyl isobutyl ketone (MIBK) as the reaction solvent. The structural
elucidation and surface morphology of pristine and hybrid composites of the
polyurethane coating films were investigated with the aid of Fourier transform infrared
spectroscopy (FT-IR), Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), Proton nuclear
magnetic resonance (1H NMR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Scanning electron
microscope (SEM). The presence of FT-IR absorption peaks at 790 cm−1 to 870 cm−1,
990 cm−1, and 1017 cm−1 confirms the following functional groups phenyl -CH bend,
stretching phenolic -CO, and epoxyl -C-O-C, respectively in modified graphene oxide.
An evaluation of the thermal stability of the coating films that were synthesised was
carried out with the use of a thermogravimetric analyzer (TGA). It was seen that as the
amount of modified graphene oxide in the urethane films increased, so did the water
contact angle from 0% to 0.5%. Antimicrobial and anticorrosive properties of the
materials were also evaluated
Preparation of β-Cyclodextrin Conjugated, Gelatin Stabilized SBA 15-CuInS2/ZnS Quantum Dot Nanocomposites for Camptothecin Release
Get PDFCamptothecin (CPT) is a potential anticancer drug. However, it faces challenges due to its poor water solubility and the need
for an efficient drug release system. Herein, we developed a novel system composed of gelatin stabilized, mesoporous silica
SBA15 encapsulated CuInS2/
ZnS (CIS/ZnS) quantum dots (QDs) conjugated with β-cyclodextrin (β-CDs) for its potential
use in the release of CPT. In this multifunctional system, β-CDs served as the drug carrier, SBA15 encapsulated QDs is
capable of imaging and the gelatin was used to enhance the carrier-drug interaction. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR)
analysis confirmed the successful conjugation of β-CDs to the Gel-SBA15 CIS/ZnS QDs, while optical analyses revealed
excellent emission properties and high photostability. The β-CD-conjugated Gel-SBA15-CIS/ZnS QD nanocomposite was
used to obtain the soluble derivate of CPT which further demonstrated a drug release profile following the triphasic model.
Overall, the improved photostability and acceptable drug release profile of the β-CD conjugated Gel-SBA15-CIS/ZnS QD
nanocomposite hold great promise for both imaging and therapeutic applications
Radon Concentration Level in Selected offices at Bells University of Technology, Ota, Ogun State
Get PDFRadon, a radioactive gas that emanates naturally from the earth crust is accountable for about 50%
of the effective dose of ionizing radiation received by humans. Most radon susceptiveness occurs in homes
and work places, it comes from the natural disintegration of uranium in soil, rock and water and escalate to
the air that we breath, hence it is important to monitor the actual level of exposure in most buildings. This
work analysed the indoor radon concentration in air at twenty different offices of different building at Bells
University of Technology using Rad7 detector. The mean measured radon concentration ranges from 0-56.7
Bq/m3 for all the study locations. The mean absorbed dose, equivalent dose and effective dose were
calculated with the radon concentration which are 0.152 mGy/y, 3.045 mSv/y and 0.365 mSv/y respectively.
The results obtained are below the world set limit as recommended by International Commission on
radiological protection, except for office 7 which slightly exceed the recommended limit. Thus, the study
concluded that good ventilation is very important in the reduction of radon concentration level in our work
places
Solar-Powered Electric Vehicles: Enhancing Endurance and Sustainability through Photovoltaic Integration
Get PDFThe potential of solar photovoltaic (PV) technology as a transformative and sustainable
energy solution in the context of global energy challenges is explored in this work. The advancements in
solar PV technology, including innovative cell architectures like heterojunction and Passivated Emitter
Rear Contact (PERC) cells, the emergence of perovskite solar cells, and the influence of roll-to-roll
manufacturing processes are discussed in this paper. The paper also highlights the diversification of
energy portfolios, enhanced energy system reliability, resilient energy infrastructure, energy security, and
the profound environmental benefits associated with solar PV technology. The results of a performance
study involving a prototype electric vehicle, both with and without integrating a solar panel as an
alternative energy source are noted. The findings reveal a substantial increase in the vehicle's endurance
when the solar panel is incorporated, emphasizing the transformative potential of solar PV in reshaping
energy systems, mitigating environmental hazards, and promoting responsible land use. The work
underscores the ongoing journey towards a cleaner and more resilient energy future, empowered by the
harnessing of solar energy
Petrophysical analysis to determine the hydrocarbon prospectivity of sands in AA field, Niger Delta
Get PDFPetrophysical analysis is a crucial process in the oil and gas industry. It entails the analysis and
interpretation of well logs, fluid samples or core smaples to understand the behaviour of the embedded
reservoirs in the subsurface. Three well logs from AA field were provided for this study, but two well data
were finally loaded to the workstation due to absence of key well logs (such as gamma ray and density logs)
from the third well. The quality control check of the data was done prior to the uploading of data. Delineation
of lithologies and identification of hydrocarbon reservoirs were done; the identified reservoirs were
correlated across the two wells; and the petrophysical evaluation (such as estimations of shale volume,
porosity, permeability and water/hydrocarbon saturation) of the three pay zones (that is, Sand A, B and C) in
AA field were done. The porosity of Sands A, B and C varied from 0.27 to 0.28, 0.24 to 0.30 and 0.27. The
permeability of Sands A, B and C varied from 1012 to 1314 md, 884 to 1013 md and 692 to 892 md.
Meanwhile, the hydrocarbon saturation for Sands A, B and C varied from 1 to 89%, 45 to 80% and 79 to
80%, respectively. It can be concluded that the order of hydrocarbon prospectivity of the reservoir sands
correlated across Well AA-1 and Well AA-2 is Sand C > Sand B > Sand A
EVALUATION OF STONEWORK VARIANTS IN THE DESIGN OF AN AFROCENTRIC RESORT IN LAGOS STATE
Get PDFThis dissertation evaluated stonework variants in the design of an Afrocentric resort in Lagos State, Nigeria. Some Objectives of this study include to investigate the uses and characteristics of stonework variants in building construction, evaluate users’ preference in the use of stonework variants in the study area, investigate the economic sustainability of using stonework as a building material in a resort centre, and design an Afrocentric resort using stonework variants as building finishes in Lagos State, Nigeria. The research employed a mixed-method, using both qualitative and quantitative methods. Qualitative research approach was used to evaluate the use of stonework variants in the design of an Afrocentric resort and to investigate the extent to which selected resorts complied with the use of stonework variants as building finishes. Qualitative research approach was used to determine the users’ preference in the use of stonework variants in three selected resorts with the use of structured questionnaires to gather data on their preference of the usage of the stonework variants. The data that was retrieved from the questionnaires were analysed descriptively using IBM Statistical Package for the Social Sciences. The findings in this study revealed that resort users in Lagos, Nigeria, exhibit a preference for stonework variants that blends African theme with aesthetic appeal. From the tables in the section of results, it can be seen that the highest number of responses are highly satisfied with the use of stonework variants in the selected resorts which gives a good aesthetic appeal. Based on the results, considering the environmental sustainability of the stone work variants is crucial. Utilizing locally sourced and eco-friendly stone materials can reduce the resort's carbon footprint and contribute to sustainable development practices. Additionally, implementing innovative construction methods that optimize the use of stone work variants can enhance the durability and longevity of the buildings that make up the resort reducing maintenance costs in the long run. Also, considering guest experience, the selection of appropriate stone work variants should prioritize both aesthetic appeal and functionality therefore balancing the aesthetic appeal of the resort by incorporating stone work variants as finishes to integrate African culture in the resort
ASSESSMENT OF SELECTED PLASMA PROTEIN LEVELS IN NIGERIAN PROSTATE CANCER PATIENTS AND IN-SILICO THERAPEUTIC TARGETING OF AR SIGNALING
Get PDFProstate cancer (PCa) is one of the most common male cancers and one of the main cancer-related
causes of mortality in men. In 2020, there were more than 1.4 million fresh instances of PCa
worldwide. Therefore, more new and efficient therapeutic targets and biomarkers are needed
urgently for better PCa management. This study aimed to quantify SPOP, AR, and SRC-3 proteins
in PCa patients and non-cancer controls, and screen the potential inhibitors toward mutated SPOP
and Androgen Receptor Variant 7 (AR-V7) computationally. A case-control study design was
used, selecting 40 PCa patients with histologically confirmed cases and 40 healthy controls.
Plasma levels of SPOP, AR, and SRC-3 were estimated by ELISA. Moreover, computational
analysis, with the use of simulations, was conducted to predict the physiochemical properties of
some selected compounds from Caesalpinia bonduc, drug-likeness, and binding affinity toward
mutant SPOP and AR-V7.The mean SPOP, AR, and SRC-3 levels did not differ significantly
between PCa and controls (p > 0.05). Pearson correlation analysis revealed a very strong positive
correlation between AR and SRC-3 levels (r = 0.9, p < 0.0001), SPOP and AR levels was
moderately high (r = 0.7, p < 0.0001), while the correlation between SPOP and SRC-3 was more
moderate (r = 0.6, p < 0.0001). Computational analyses identified 4 C. bonduc compounds; 4,4'-
dihydroxy-2'-methoxy-chalcone (2'-methoxyisoliquiritigenin), 7,4'-dihydroxy-3,11-
dehydrohomoisoflavanone, 5,7,3',4'-tetrahydroxy-flavone (Luteolin), 7,3',4'-tetrahydroxy-3-
methoxyflavone (quercetin-3-methyl ether) designated as COMP1, COMP2, COMP3 and COMP4
respectively, with favorable physicochemical properties and drug-likeness. Molecular docking
showed that COMP2 and COMP3 exhibited stronger binding affinities to mutant SPOP than
Enzalutamide. COMP2, COMP3, and COMP4 also showed stronger binding to AR-V7 than
Apalutamide. While SPOP, AR, and SRC-3 levels did not differ between PCa and controls,
correlation results suggest a meaningful interplay between SPOP, AR, and SRC-3 in the context
of prostate cancer. Larger cohort proteomic profiling studies should be conducted to validate this
study's findings and establish the clinical relevance of protein profiling in prostate cancer
management. Computational analyses identified C. bonduc compounds: COMP2, COMP3, and
COMP4 with promising therapeutic potential targeting mutant SPOP and AR-V7. For their clinical
utility to be established, more validation is necessary