bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
GROWTH INHIBITORY EFFECTS OF AQUEOUS, METHANOL AND BUTANOL EXTRACTS OF LEAVES OF Acalypha wilkesiana AGAINST CLINICAL BACTERIAL AND FUNGAL ISOLATES
Authors: CHING F. P. , CHIMECHEFULAM J. G. , OLATUNDE K. M.
Published: March 2023

Acalypha wilkesiana is an ornamental plant cultivated as foliage in gardens and greenhouses. The boiled decoction of its leaves is used locally in most parts of Nigeria and some parts of West Africa for the treatment of malaria while various preparations of the leaves are also used for treatment of topical and systemic microbial infections. This study evaluated the in vitro growth inhibitory effects of the aqueous, methanol and butanol extracts of its leaves against pathogenic bacteria and fungi. The minimum inhibition concentration (MIC) and zones of inhibition assays were employed using the aqueous, methanol and butanol extracts against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Alcaligenes faecalis, Serratia marcescens, Enterobacter aerogenes, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Proteus vulgaris, Candida albicans, Scopulariopsis and Microsporum audouini. The MICs of the aqueous and methanol extracts against the pathogenic bacteria were 7.5mg/ml and 30mg/ml respectively while the MIC of the butanol extract against Candida albicans and Microspurum was 20mg/ml. The methanol and aqueous extracts in the zones of inhibition assays produced zones of inhibition that were comparable to those produced by ciprofloxacin (20?g). The findings in this study indicate that the leaves extracts possess potent growth inhibitory potentials which validates the use of leaves in the treatment of topical and systemic microbial infections in ethnomedicine.
ASYMPTOMATIC BACTERIURIA AMONG BOTTLING COMPANY WORKERS IN BENIN CITY, NIGERIA
Authors: OGEFERE H. O. , LAWAL K. A.
Published: March 2023

Asymptomatic bacteriuria is a precursor for urinary tract infection (UTI). Against the background that certain jobs predispose people to UTI, the prevalence of asymptomatic bacteriuria among soft drink bottling company workers was investigated. Urine samples were collected from bottling company workers and processed to diagnose UTI, using standard techniques. Prevalence of UTI was higher among staff that had no fluid intake water (p=0.028) and soft drinks (p=0.001), and those who did not void urine (p<0.0001) during their work shift. Staphylococcus aureus was the most common uropathogen (66.67 %). An overall prevalence of 6.16% of asymptomatic UTI was observed and measures to reduce the prevalence of UTI among bottling company workers is advocated.
GROWTH OF Albizia lebbeck (L.) BENTHAM IN HIGHLY POLLUTED SOIL ENVIRONMENT
Authors: VWIOKO E. D. , OSAZUWA K. O.
Published: March 2023

The potential of Albizia lebbeck (woman‘s tongue) to reduce total petroleum hydrocarbon (TPH) content of a highly polluted soil was investigated. Unpolluted and highly polluted soils were obtained from the Oredo oil field location (Ologbo near Benin City) belonging to Nigerian Petroleum Development Company (NPDC), Benin City. Different weights of highly polluted and unpolluted soils were mixed thoroughly to obtain samples of treatments designated as 0%, 40%, 50%, 70%, 80%, and 100% polluted soil. Each soil sample weighed 2 kg. Pods of Albizia lebbeck were obtained from trees in the Senior Staff Quarters, University of Benin Campus. Plant data measured were percentage germination, plant height, number of branches, number of leaflets, fresh and dry weights. Other experimental data recorded before planting and after plant harvest were pH and EC (electrical conductivity) of soil, dominant soil microflora, TPH of soil, and aliphatic and aromatic constituents of soil samples using GC-FID. Twenty one days after planting (DAP), Albizia lebbeck seeds germinated in all treatments considered in this study. Other plant parameters evaluated showed that plants grown in 0% treatments gave the higher mean values than those grown in other treatments (40%, 50%, 70%, 80% and 100%). Generally, these values obtained for plants grown in treatments other than 0% were less than 50% of that obtained for 0% treatment. These observations showed depressive effects of crude oil pollution on plant growth. Higher values were obtained for pH and EC of soil samples after plant harvest. EC values particularly indicated improved ionic strength of soil media following plant growth and this has implication for soil-borne organisms. Dominant microflora were Pseudomonas sp. and Penicillium sp. after plant harvest. There were significant reductions in total petroleum hydrocarbon (TPH) content after plant harvest. For example, TPH values for 0% and 100% treatments before planting were 695.33 and 7073.33 mg/Kg respectively; while after plant harvest were 386.67 and 5233.33 mg/Kg. The GC-FID chromatograms showed presence of aliphatic and aromatic hydrocarbons at high concentration in polluted soil obtained from the field. These petroleum hydrocarbon compounds were degraded in soil following plant growth. The chromatograms showed the absence of some crude oil components after plant growth, and where present but at very insignificant concentrations detected. Both aliphatic and aromatic compounds were degraded in the polluted soils. Some other studies have reported selective degradation of hydrocarbons in contaminated soil. In this study, GC-FID chromatograms showed that aliphatic hydrocarbons were degraded more than aromatics. The plant, Albizia lebbeck, has shown good ability to tolerate and sustained growth in highly polluted soil.
COMPARATIVE STUDY OF THE QUALITY OF LABLAB (Lablab purpureus L. Sweet) SILAGE AND HAY MADE BY UNCONVENTIONAL METHODS
Authors: OGEDEGBE S. A. , ODION E. C. , OGUNLELA V. B. , OLUFAJO O. O.
Published: March 2023

Lablab purpureus which may yield over 60 and 15 tonnes ha-1 of fresh and dry herbage respectively can be conserved as silage during the rainy season for feeding ruminants in the dry season. A two-year study evaluated the effect of four forage conservation methods (3-silage and 1-hay) on the proximate parameters of conserved lablab. Minimal spoilage losses due to termites was observed in silage produced on bare ground surface. The proximate parameters were more favourable in the case of lablab silage than hay with crude protein concentration (14.7%) being 80% higher in the silage than in hay (8.1%). Among the different silage production methods bag ensiling was superior because of the ease of handling and the higher crude protein concentration(23.4%) which is more than adequate for ruminant lactation (12%) and growth (11.3%). Protein concentrate supplementation may be unnecessary when bag ensiled lablab silage is used for dry season feeding of livestock. Cutting lablab at 12 weeks after sowing for silage production is advantageous and may reduce crude protein wastages by over 20% while ensuring up to 37% of the expected seed yield of lablab at maturity.
EVALUATION OF THE ANTIDIABETIC AND ANTIOXIDANT EFFECT OF AQUEOUS EXTRACT OF GRAPE SEED (Vitis vinifera) ON ALLOXAN INDUCED DIABETES IN RAT
Authors: OMOROWA E. F. , EDOSA R. O. , ANIONYE J. C. , ANOLIEFO O. N. , ORIAKHI K. , ONYENEKE E. C. , ADIMAH C. O.
Published: March 2023

Grape seed is used traditionally for medicinal purposes for the treatment of several ailments. It is widely accepted as one of the medicinal herb with a very high antioxidant activity. However, the present study was designed to investigate the anti-diabetic activity of grape seed aqueous extract in alloxan induced diabetic rats and superoxide dismutase. Three experimental groups were compared: a control group receiving the normal diet, a diabetic control group being induced with alloxan and a treatment group receiving the aqueous extract of grape seed. Rats among the treatment group, showed a significant increase (P<0.05) in SOD activity in the blood, liver, kidney and heart with a concomitant decrease in the fasting blood glucose level. The experimental findings demonstrated that V. vinifera exhibited promising hypoglycaemic activity in alloxan-induced diabetic rats. Its hypoglycaemic effect and high antioxidant activity could represent a protective mechanism against the development of hyperglycaemia, characteristic of diabetes mellitus
CYTOTAXONOMIC STUDIES ON EBEEBUBULE (Crassocephalum sp) OF THE BENIN SPEAKING PEOPLE OF EDO STATE- SOUTHERN NIGERIA
Authors: OMOIGUI I. D. , OGBE F. M. , AROMOSE O. S. A.
Published: March 2023

Ebeebubule of the Benin speaking people of Edo State and other plants with the same morphological features were collected from different parts of Southern Nigeria. They were identified using International Standard of Nomenclature to belong to the genus Crassocephalum. of the tribe Senecioneae and family Asteraceae. Cytological and morphological studies were carried out on 19 taxa belonging to 4 genera and 12 species. Meiosis was normal and the plants were stable. Chromosome counts of Crassocephalum bauolense (n = 10) and C. bougheyanum (n = 12), C. sarcobasis (n = 16), and Crassocephalum sp (n = 16), were new reports for these species, while those of Emilia praetermissa, (n = 12), (C. rubens white and pink varieties n = 12) and C. montuosum (n = 24) differed from earlier reports. The report of 2 cytomorphovariants C. rubens (n = 10, 12) and Emilia praetermissa (n = 10, 12) is reported for the first time for the tribe from Nigeria. New base numbers of 6 and 8 have been suggested for the genus Crassocephalum, thus the genus is polybasic. Achene morphology of all the species studied has been drawn and described for the first time. The report of Gaillardia pulchella an introduced plant is reported in Nigeria for the first time.
CYTOTAXONOMIC STUDIES ON SOME SOUTHERN NIGERIA ASTERACEAE - TRIBE SENECIONEAE
Authors: OMOIGUI I. D. , OGBE F. M. , AROMOSE O. S. A.
Published: March 2023

Cytological and morphological studies were carried out on 19 taxa belonging to 4 genera and 12 species of the southern Nigerian Asteraceae Meiosis was normal and the plants were stable. Chromosome counts of Crassocephalum bauolense (n = 10), C. bougheyanum (n = 12), C. sarcobasis (n = 16) and Crassocephalum sp (n = 16), were new reports for these species, while those of Emilia praetermissa, (n = 12), C. rubens white and pink varieties (n = 12) and C. montuosum (n = 24) differed from earlier reports. The report of 2 cytomorphovariants C. rubens (n = 10, 12) and Emilia praetermissa (n = 10, 12) is reported for the first time for the tribe from Nigeria. New base numbers of 6 and 8 have been suggested for the genus Crassocephalum, thus the genus is polybasic. Achene morphology of all the species studied has been drawn and described for the first time. Gaillardia pulchella an introduced plant is reported in Nigeria for the first time.
RESPONSE OF LETTUCE (Lactuca Sativa L.) TO DIFFERENT ORGANIC MANURES AT VOM, PLATEAU STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: OGEDEGBE S. A. , OGUNLELA V. B. , DOGO G. I.
Published: March 2023

A two-year study was conducted to test the effect of various organic fertilizers on the growth and yield of lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.). The treatments which were laid out in a randomized block design and replicated three times consisted of a zero manure control, cow dung, poultry and rabbit manures applied at 30 tonnes ha-1. Poultry manure consistently and significantly produced the tallest plants (by 24 % and 49 %) and more leaves (by 45 % and 101 %) at 2- and 10 weeks after transplanting respectively compared to the control. The study showed that lettuce leaves can be harvested as from 6 weeks of age (with about 16 leaves) and fed to rabbits. Lettuce grown with organic manure did not contain parasitic pathogens and can therefore not become a direct source of infection to animals fed on the produce. In the absence of poultry manure, rabbit manure is a satisfactory substitute for leaf lettuce production. Organic vegetable producers should be mindful of the possibility that pathogenic parasites in their growing media may contaminate the greengrocery
DIETARY CONSTITUENTS OF Ptychadena SPECIES FROM A MONOCULTURE PLANTATION AND A RAINFOREST HABITAT IN SOUTHERN NIGERIA
Authors: IMASUEN A. A. , ENABULELE E. E.
Published: March 2023

The dietary constituents of 72 specimens of Ptychadena spp. (P. mascareniensis, P. longirostris, P. bibroni, P. pumilio and P. oxyrhynchus), collected from a monoculture plantation (Oil Palm) and a natural rainforest environment were investigated. A total of 87 prey items comprising of 12 taxa were recorded from the stomachs of the frogs examined. More prey item taxa were recorded in the forest frogs than from the altered environment of the monoculture plantation. Lepidoptera (10.34%), Mollusca (5.75%), Diptera (2.30%), Isopoda (3.45%), Blatteria (2.30%), Annelida (1.15%), Myriapoda (2.30%) and Anura (1.15%) were only recorded in frogs from the rainforest while Hymenoptera (26.44%) was recorded only in anurans collected at the Oil Palm plantation. Orthoptera (16.09%), Coleoptera (19.54%) and Araneae (9.20%) were common to both habitats. There was significant difference in the rate of feeding activity of frogs collected from both study locations (p<0.05). The prey item diversity recorded in the stomachs of the Ptychdena species examined suffices their classification as generalist feeders, with an active foraging behaviour. The finding of a juvenile frog in the stomach of P. mascareniensis is an indication of cannibalism, which hitherto was unknown among the Ptychadenidae in Nigeria
ANTIMICROBIAL EFFECT OF COCONUT EXTRACT ON SELECTED MICROBIAL ISOLATES
Authors: OVIASOGIE F. E. , OGBEIDE C. A.
Published: March 2023

Antimicrobial activity of twenty (20) samples of oil and milk extracts from four varieties of Cocos nucifera (Green dwarf, Yellow dwarf, Orange dwarf and Tall) was studied. The oil extracts were obtained using solvent extraction method with hexane. Antimicrobial susceptibility test on both coconut extracts were tested against the following bacterial and fungal isolates: Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, Candida albicans and Aspergillus niger, using the agar-well diffusion method to determine the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of both extracts. After 24 hours of incubation, the oil extracts demonstrated higher levels of antimicrobial properties than the milk. The mean values of zone of inhibition for orange dwarf oil coconut extract for Escherichia coli 10.80mm, Candida albicans for green dwarf oil was 10.80mm, tall oil (08.20mm) and yellow darf oil (11.00mm) respectively. However, Aspergillus niger showed the least inhibition response to all the extract value. There was no statistical difference in the values of the minimal inhibitory concentration of the different extracts used (P > 0.05). Therefore, the use of coconut extract as an ointment in body creams and inclusion of coconut oil and milk would perhaps reduce the microbial content of our everyday diet.
COMPARISON OF ERYTHROCYTE AND PLASMA LIPID PROFILE OF PREGNANT NIGERIAN WOMEN IN EDO STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: ONYENEKE E. C. , OIKEH A. O. , OIKEH E. I.
Published: March 2023

The erythrocyte and plasma lipid profile of pregnant Nigerian women attending ante natal clinic was investigated. The study group consisted of pregnant women receiving ante natal care in the Central Hospital, Benin-City, Edo State, Nigeria. Blood samples were obtained from 240 pregnant women of varying ages (21 - 40 years), gestation ages, parity and social status as well as 10 control non-pregnant women. Plasma and erythrocyte levels of total cholesterol (TC) were determined using the CHOD-PAP method. High density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDLC), low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDLC) and very low density lipoprotein (VLDLC) were estimated with the Friedwald equation and triacylglycerides (TG) were determined using GPO-POD enzymatic colorimetric method. The results showed significant (P<0.05) increase in the plasma cholesterol (194.00±7.03 mg/dl) and triglycerides (168.67±6.95 mg/dl) when compared to control (154.00±11.95 mg/dl for cholesterol and 64.83±4.47 mg/dl for triglycerides). Plasma lipid profile increased with increasing maternal age with no general trend observed for erythrocyte lipid profile. Gestational age and parity did not seem to correlate significantly with lipid profile. Hyperlipidaemia was observed to be more associated with lower social status however plasma HDLC was found to increase with increasing social status. Erythrocyte total cholesterol was elevated in pregnant women (151.76±9.25 mg/dl) with significant reduction in its triglyceride level (110.36±9.01) when compared to control (140.00±20.00 for total cholesterol and 188.52±18.74 for triglycerides). We conclude that plasma lipid levels are elevated during pregnancy with no well-defined pattern in the erythrocytes
DETERMINATION OF AGE AND GROWTH OF Macrobrachium vollenhovenii CAUGHT IN WARRI RIVER, DELTA STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: OLELE N. F.
Published: March 2023

Data on length weight relationships are useful management characteristics for estimating age and growth, population structure and some aspects of prawns population dynamics. Samples of Macrobrachium vollenhovenii were obtained from artisanal fishers at their collection site (station C) between March and August 2010. Monthly abundance and size distributions of specimens were conducted. Age and growth of specimens were determined through carapace length frequency data. This was interpreted by Pauly?s integrated modal frequency distribution, where six modal classes, representing six age groups were plotted. Each peak (06, 40, 51, 56, 59 and 60 mm) represents different age derived from the carapace-frequency polygon. This observation suggests a reliable means of deriving the age of prawns. The sex ratio of (1:1.4) was observed in male and female specimens respectively. The growth pattern of specimens showed a negative allometric growth represented by a ‘b? value =2.638. Body weight and total length relationships were significant (P < 0.05) with value of Y = 2.638x-1.348 and value of r2 =0.812. Mean condition factor for fresh body weight was 3.24 for males and 3.11 for females. Both values were dependable and reliable management indices for prawns
NUTRITIVE COMPOSITION OF BOILED, FRIED AND SMOKED SAMPLES OF Synodontis membraneceus CAUGHT FROM ONAH LAKE, ASABA, NIGERIA
Authors: OLELE N. F.
Published: March 2023

Fish is an important source of minerals and easily digestible protein of high quality, used for growth and maintenance of a healthy human body. Studies on the proximate composition of boiled, fried and smoked samples of Synodontis membraneceus was carried out at the Delta State University, Department of Fisheries Laboratory, of Asaba Campus. Out of fifty-four specimens used for the study, nine specimens were each cut into three portions, thoroughly shuffled and re-grouped into three parts. The parts were eventually subjected to different processing methods namely boiling: sample 'A', frying: sample 'B' and smoking: sample 'C'. Dry weights of each processed sample (2.0 g) was analyzed for nutrient composition. The difference in nutrient composition for boiled, fried and smoked samples were significant (p < 0.05). Mean composition of processed samples revealed that sample 'A' (boiled) had the highest moisture content (49.66±4.51), followed by sample 'C' recording a value of (34.54±0.16) while sample 'B' took the least position, recording a value of (32.25±0.24). Again sample 'C' had the highest ash content (33.43±0.57), followed by sample 'B' (26.92±0.21) while sample 'A' recorded the lowest value thus (15.41±0.12). The lipid content for samples A, B and C were 39.84±2.09, 26.59±0.37 and 52.34±0.31 respectively. Crude protein content was highest in sample 'A' (5.55±0.92), followed by values in sample 'C'. The least value was recorded in sample 'B' (3.73±0.70). Following the highest composition of available crude protein, sample 'A' (boiled) was richer than sample 'C' (smoked) which was richer than sample 'B' (fried). It is therefore recommended that humans consume Synodontis membraneceus in its boiled state in preference to its smoked or fried state, in order to derive the maximum benefit, associated with its consumption
BIODEGRADATION POTENTIALS OF FUNGI AND ACTINOMYCETES ISOLATED FROM PLASTIC ENRICHED COMPOSTING SOIL ON POLYETHYLENE
Authors: ATUANYA E. I. , IGBOELINA I. A. , AJUZIE C. E.
Published: March 2023

Plastic litters constitute a serious environmental hazards and polyethylene is a synthetic polyolefin used as a packaging material globally. This study examined the biodegradation potentials of fungi and actinomycetes isolated from plastic enriched composting soil on polyethylene. Screening tests were carried out by growing the isolated test organisms obtained from plastic enriched composting local landfill soil in a medium containing only polyethylene powder as carbon sources. Polyethylene films were pretreated using ultra-violet (uv) irradiation for four weeks. The effect of co-metabolism on the process was investigated by incorporating glucose in the mineral salt medium used. Four organisms were investigated for their biodegradation potentials. They were Streptomyces sp, Penicillnum chrysogenum, Aspergillus flavus and Fusarium sp. They were also tested in consortia with each other. The extent of polyethylene degradation was determined by visual observation, weight loss of samples and chemical changes which were measured with Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. A maximum weight loss of 16.561% was obtained in the polyethylene strips degraded by Streptomyces- Pencillium consortium. Fourier Transform Infra-red analysis, showed oxidative biodegradation had taken place and that treatment of the polyethylene by ultra-violet irradiation along with glucose addition gave best results. These results indicated that biodegradation of polyethylene is a real possibility that should be more vigorously pursued as a means of plastic waste disposal
BENTHIC MACROINVERTEBRATE COMMUNITY OF A TROPICAL RAIN FOREST RIVER IN SOUTH-WESTERN NIGERIA
Authors: OMOIGBERALE M. O. , DIRISU A. R. , OLORUNFEMI M. G.
Published: March 2023

The composition and distribution of the benthic macroinvertebrate fauna across a section of Osse River in Ondo State, Nigeria was investigated between February and July 2009. Among the physical and chemical parameters studied, flow rate was significantly higher (P < 0.001) in station 2 than other stations which were not significantly different (P > 0.05) from each other. The twenty-six taxa recorded were encountered in the four stations. Diptera accounted for 66.81%, Ephemeroptera (17.85%), Oligochaeta (5.95%), Odonata (5.03%), Decapoda (1.59%), Hemiptera (1.26%), Mollusca (0.17%), Trichoptera (0.64%), and Plecoptera (0.09%) were the major groups collected from the study stations. The familes Chironomidae (Diptera), Baetidae (Ephemeroptera), Lumbriculidae (Oligochaeta) and Libellulidae (Odonata) were the most dominant and widespread. The abundance and community structure showed significant variations (p < 0.05) between the study stations. A posteriori Duncan Multiple range (DMR) test showed that the abundance was significantly higher (P < 0.05) in stations 2 and 4 than the other stations (1 and 3). The Diversity indices revealed that taxa richness (d), Shannon-Wiener (H„) and Evenness (E) were highest in station 2 and 3. Taxa richness (d), and Shannon-Wiener (H„) were lowest in station 1. The impact of cultural eutrophication on the abundance and diversity of macrobenthic invertebrate fauna is reported
OXIDATIVE STRESS AND CHANGES IN THE LEVELS OF ANTIOXIDANT ENZYMES OF TWO VARIETIES OF Carica papaya L. DURING RIPENING
Authors: AGOREYO B. O. , BRUME–ERUAGBERE O. , OLOWU O.
Published: March 2023

Oxidative stress and changes in the levels of antioxidant enzymes were determined in two varieties of Carica papaya fruits (?Agric pawpaw‘: oblong shaped variety and ?Local pawpaw‘: pear shaped variety) during ripening. An increase in lipid peroxidation product, malondialdehyde (MDA); which is an index of oxidative stress, was observed in both varieties. The activity of the antioxidant enzyme, superoxide dismutase (SOD) also decreased in both varieties of Carica papaya fruits during ripening and its reduction was observed to be the major contributor to oxidative stress in Carica papaya fruits. Changes in catalase (CAT) and ascorbate peroxidase (APX) activities during ripening in Carica papaya fruits in this study were found to be dependent on the type of variety. Increase in catalase activity was observed throughout the ripening period in ?Local pawpaw‘ (pear shaped variety) (from 0.000212 ± 0.000001 to 0.000917 ± 000025 ?mole/min/g fresh weight), while in ?Agric pawpaw‘ (oblong shaped variety), the catalase activity increased from the unripe to the ripe stage (from 0.000071 ± 0.000024 to 0.000155 ± 0.000026 ?mole/min/g fresh weight) and later decreased in the overripe stage (from 0.000155 ± 0.000026 to 0.000099 ± 0.000029 ?mole/min/g fresh weight). The only changes that were observed in the activity of ascorbate peroxidase in the two varieties of Carica papaya fruits were an increase in the overripe stage of ?Local pawpaw‘ (pear shaped variety) (from 0.001427± 0.000618 to 0.002497 ± 0. 000619 ?mole/min/g fresh weight) and a decrease in the overripe stage of ?Agric pawpaw‘ (oblong shaped variety) (from 0.002497± 0.000618 to 0.0014267 ± 0.000617 ?mole/min/g fresh weight). This study revealed that reduction in superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity was a major contributor to oxidative stress in Carica papaya fruits during ripening. It also showed that the increase in oxidative stress in Carica papaya fruit during ripening contributes to its high perishability.
CO-INFECTIONS OF HIV AND PARASITES IN RELATION TO ANAEMIA AMONG TUBERCULOSIS PATIENTS
Authors: AKINBO F. O. , EKARIKA S. , ARUOMAREN A. I. , OMOREGIE R.
Published: March 2023

Tuberculosis is among the leading infectious diseases causing death among adults and youths. This study was conducted to determine the prevalence of parasitic infections in relation to anaemia among tuberculosis (TB) patients in Benin City, Nigeria. A total of 151(82 males and 69 females) TB patients attending the Central Hospital, Benin City were enrolled in this study. Stool and blood specimens were collected from each participant. The parasites recovered from this study were Plasmodiumfalciparum, Ascaris lumbricoides, Strongyloides stercoralisand Schistosoma japonicum. An overall prevalence of 18.5% and 57% of parasitic and HIV infections among TB patients was observed in this study. HIV status was a significant risk factor for anaemia among TB patients (P=0.017). Co-infection of HIV and parasitic infections was 22.1% among TB patients. Prompt diagnosis of parasitic and HIV infections in TB patients is advocated in order to improve their management and quality of life
VARIATION, HERITABILITY AND SELECTION RESPONSE OF SEVERAL CHARACTERS IN WHITE YAM (dioscorea rotundata poir)
Authors: Emede T. O. , Ikpen M. E.
Published: March 2023

Phenotypic and genotypic coefficients of variation, heritability, expected genetic gain and selection response were estimated for several agronomic characters among 40 selected clones of white yam. Three hybrid varieties (89-02565, H-2665, 89-2677) were included in the study as checks. Significant mean squares were observed in days to emergence, vine length, spininess, number of vines, and number of tubers, tuber length, tuber girth, tuber yield per hill, fresh tuber yield, and dry tuber yield among the selected 40 clones. Among the selected clones, fresh tuber yield varied from a minimum of 1.5 t/ha to a maximum of 25.5 t/ha. On the contrary, the fresh tuber yield of hybrid checks varied from a minimum of 6.0 t/ha to a maximum of 13.5 t/ha. The magnitude of phenotypic variance and phenotypic coefficient of variation were higher than genetic variance and genotypic coefficient of variation for all characters respectively. High heritability along with high genetic gain and high response to selection were observed for days to emergence, vine length, number of leaves, leaf area, number of vines, number of tubers, tuber per vine, tuber yield per hill, fresh tuber yield, and dry tuber yield. The study revealed that under more suitable environment, single plant selections followed by vegetative propagation should improve selection progress for higher tuber yield.
HISTOPATHOLOGICAL EFFECTS AND BIOLOGICAL ACCUMULATION OF COPPER IN THE PERIWINKLE (Tympanotonus fuscatus var. radula).
Authors: ENUNEKU A. A. , EZEMONYE L. I. , AGBURE P.
Published: March 2023

Histopathological effects and bioaccumulation of copper in the periwinkle, Tympanotonus fuscatus var. radula was assessed in the laboratory for 30 days. Periwinkles were exposed to sub lethal concentrations (0.5, 1, 2, and 4 mg/l) of copper. The test was conducted using the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) protocol #218 in a sediment medium. There were three replicate plastic tanks per treatment and 6 periwinkles per tank. Control groups without copper were also prepared. T. fuscatus var. radula bioaccumulated copper. It was observed that bioaccumulation of copper in the periwinkle increased (p<0.05) with increase in concentration of the heavy metal. Histopathological changes were studied in the kidney and muscular foot of the T. fuscatus var. radula. In the kidney, periwinkle showed fatty change in all concentrations except control groups. Necrosis occurred in the 1 and 2 mg/l concentration. Hyperchromatic nuclei were observed in the lowest (0.5mg/l) and highest (4.0mg/l) concentrations. In the muscular foot, hyperinflation occurred only in the 0.5 mg/l exposure. Fatty change occurred in all concentrations. Hyperchromatic nuclei was manifested in the 1, 2 and 4.0mg/l concentrations with increasing severity as concentration increased. This study shows that copper could inflict histopathological alterations on T. fuscatus var. radula thereby affecting the health of the organism.
HISTOPATHOLOGICAL STUDIES OF EARTHWORM (Aporrectodea longa) EXPOSED TO CADMIUM
Authors: ENUNEKU A. A. , EZEMONYE L. I. , MADU J.
Published: March 2023

The histopathological studies of earthworm (Aporrectodea longa) exposed to cadmium was investigated. The earthworm was exposed to 0.25, 0.5, 1, 2 and 4 mg/kg of cadmium for 30 days in the laboratory. The procedure for the exposure was according to the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) #207 recommended method for testing of chemicals. There were three replicates per treatment and 5 earthworms per jar of soil spiked with cadmium. Control groups were also prepared. Bioaccumulation of cadmium increased (p<0.05) with increase in cadmium concentration. The histopathological alterations were carried out in the clitellum and gizzard of earthworms. Mild to severe necrosis and distortion of muscles were observed in the cadmium concentrations of 0.25, 0.5, 1, 2, and 4 mg/kg and the effects increased with increase in concentration of the metal in the clitellum and gizzard. Vacuolisation and clearing of epithelial cells were observed in the clitellum. The results of this study revealed the effect of cadmium on the histological composition of Aporrectodea longa. The discharge of cadmium into terrestrial ecosystems should be discouraged as this could affect the health of earthworms whose ecological roles as ecosystem engineers could be impaired.
EVALUATION OF KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE AND PRACTICES OF SENIOR SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS ON HIV/AIDS IN NJIKOKA L.G.A OF ANAMBRA STATE
Authors: OKONKWO V. O. , OKAKA C. E. , EZENDUKA C. U.
Published: March 2023

HIV/AIDS is a major pandemic public health problem in Njikoka local government area of Anambra state south east Nigeria. Knowledge Attitude and Practice (KAP) of senior secondary school students on HIV/AIDS were critically evaluated in the area between September and December 2012.Semi-structured questionnaire were used for data collection. The results were presented in percentages, mean, standard deviation, and chi square. KAP on causes, transmission, prevention and compliance to advocacy on safe practices on HIV/AIDS showed that all the respondents have knowledge of the disease.242 (24.2%) agreed that is transmitted through casual sex.200 (20%) of respondents does not believe that HIV/AIDS kills;while2/3(606) respondents would not want to go for voluntary and counseling test except under compulsion. Only 190(19%) would want to know their HIV status voluntarily. Positive impact of HIV/AIDS advocacy and public orientation outcry produced 348(34.8%), 308(30.8%), 206(20.6%) and 138(13.8%), abstinence, prevent reckless transmission by use of condom, reduction of sex partner to one (1) and control premarital sex respectively. Much effort is needed by all concern to ensure that compliance to positive (KAP) is entrench in the area and other secondary schools in Nigeria
EFFECT OF CHITOSAN AND SODIUM CHLORIDE APPLICATION ON THE STORAGE STABILITY OF COOKED WALNUT SEEDS
Authors: OMOGBAI B. A. , UKWAMDINMA J. I.
Published: March 2023

Samples of cooked walnut (Tetracarpidium conophorum) seeds were subjected to proximate and microbiological analysis. The nuts were divided into eight groups and subjected to various preservative hurdles for 20 days. Proximate analysis showed that the nut had moisture, lipid, protein, ash, carbohydrate and crude fibre content of 46.70±1.50, 6.00±0.05, 53.53±2.31, 2.96±0.06, 32.79±1.50 and 4.72±0.15 respectively. Microbiological analysis showed the presence of bacteria such as Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus, Leuconostoc spp, Pseudomonas spp and Escherichia coli. Fungi isolates include Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Candida spp, Aspergillus niger and Aspergillus flavus. Among the bacteria, Staphylococcus aureus, and Leuconostoc spp had the highest percentage (100%) occurrence. Saccharomyces cerevisiae was predominant (80%) among the fungi. Sample preserved with sodium chloride and stored at 4±10C had the least microbial count (3.00log10cfu/g) compared to others. The best preservative hurdle in the study was the application of 1000?g/g of chitosan for 2 weeks. Chitosan preserved walnut not only remained fresh but had chemical composition like the freshly cooked sample. The results show that Tetracarpidium conophorum is a good source of protein for man and animals as it contains nutrients that are necessary for maintenance of body cells and tissues. Successful shelf-life extension can be achieved using crab chitosan
ANTIOXIDANT EFFECTS OF URIC ACID ON PATIENTS WITH TYPE-2 DIABETES MELLITUS IN NIGERIA
Authors: OSADOLOR B. H. , IGHARO O. G. , OLUMESE N. , IDEMUDIA J. O.
Published: March 2023

There is paucity of information on the antioxidant role of uric acid in the management of diabetic stress. This study seeks to elucidate the antioxidant usefulness of uric acid in type-2 diabetes mellitus patients visiting the Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital, Irrua and Ekpoma environs of Edo state, Nigeria. Serum uric acid concentration was estimated in one hundred (100) subjects comprising of sixty (60) type 2 diabetic patients (30 males and 30 females) and forty (40) non-diabetic subjects (20 males and 20 females) using the enzymatic method (uricase). The non-diabetic individuals were apparently healthy subjects and served as controls. The mean ± standard deviation of the serum uric acid concentration in type 2 diabetic individuals was 159 ± 21.55?mol/l while, in non-diabetic subjects, (controls) 295.7 ± 53.76?mol/l. The results established a statistical difference in the serum uric acid concentration in type 2 diabetic individuals and the non-diabetic subjects (p< 0.05).The work also revealed a decrease in serum uric acid concentration in type 2 diabetic patients due to oxidative stress that decreases the antioxidant capacity of the body involving uric acid
MICROBIOLOGICAL QUALITY, CHEMICAL AND SENSORY ASSESSMENT OF LOCALLY PACKAGED CASHEW NUTS SOLD IN BENIN CITY, NIGERIA
Authors: OMOGBAI B. A. , ISICHEI-UKAH O. B.
Published: March 2023

Chemical, microbial and sensory analyses of processed cashew nuts (Anacardium occidentale) samples commonly marketed in Benin City was evaluated using standard methods. The pH and moisture content ranged from 4.9±0.05 -5.6±0.06 and 3.42±0.05 - 5.35±0.3% respectively. Proximate analysis showed the cashew nut samples contained protein (32.55 ± 0.00- 35.73 ± 0.10 %), carbohydrate (17.70 ± 0.40-19.39 ± 0.00 %), lipid (9.18 ± 0.30-10.37 ± 0.20 %), ash ( 8.76 ± 0.50-9.65 ± 0.13%) and fibre (7.57 ± 0.30-8.14 ± 0.10 % ) in the range indicated respectively. The minerals with the highest concentration include potassium, phosphorus and magnesium in the range 662±5.50-665±3.20, 588±1.86-593±2.10 and 293±2.41-297±3.10mg/100g in that order. Of all the minerals manganese had the least concentration of 1.67±0.35-1.70±0.60mg/100g. Microorganisms isolated from stored processed cashew nut samples include: Staphylococcus aureus, S. epidermidis, Bacillus spp, Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus fumigatus, Saccharomyces spp, Penicillium digitatum, Penicillium spp, Rhizopus nigricans and Mucor pusillus. No Escherichia coli and Salmonella spp were isolated from the samples. The fungal count after 28 days storage in various packaging material revealed less than 103 cfu/g for two of the samples. Sensory evaluation showed that storage in glass bottle is the best as it rated closest to the fresh product after 28 days storage at 28±20C.
CHARACTERIZATION OF Escherichia coli STRAINS ISOLATED FROM SOME LOCALLY BREWED BEERS IN JOS METROPOLIS
Authors: ALADESE M. A. , PONDEI J. O. , GOBAT S. K.
Published: March 2023

This study investigated the microbiological quality of some traditionally brewed and sold beers in Jos, Nigeria. A total of 72 samples, 24 each of mash, wort and beer were collected from six localities namely: Angwan-Rukuba, Gada-Biyu, Tudun-Wada, Ojukwu Street, Kugiya-Bukuru and Jenta Adamu. The different kinds of local beer brands collected from the areas where Moskas, Redcorn, Pito and 9inches. The physico-chemical properties of tap and well waters from the six areas were analysed. The pH and the total titratable acidity of the samples of mash, wort and beer were determined. Samples of raw materials and final products were cultured on various selected media to determine the total bacterial, fungal and faecal coliform. Isolated faecal coliforms were plated on Eosin-Methylene Blue Agar for E.coli identification. Isolates of Escherichia coli were further subjected to rabbit ileal loop assay for enterotoxin production. The result of the physico-chemical parameters of the tap and well waters from these six localities showed only turbidity to exceed acceptable limits, with the highest average value from Jenta Adamu with 10.76 ± 0.21. The pH value of the samples was lowest in the beer samples from Moskas with 4.18 ± 0.15, while the total acidity was highest in Moskas with 0.078 ± 0.0098 mg/L. The average values of bacterial plate counts in all the locations and brands recorded the highest in the mash of the Redcorn with 9.5 x 107. Cfu/ml of Fungi was highest in all beers brands when compared to their mash and wort samples with the highest fungi plate count in the final product of 9inches with 23.3 x 107 cfu/ml. Out of the 36 Escherichia coli assayed for enterotoxin producing attributes only 13 (36.11 %) exhibited fluid inducible capability in animal model. Effective education of food production safety and hygienic handling methods should be encouraged among the local brewers.
THE IMPLEMENTATION OF SOFTWARE ENGINEERING BASED MODEL FOR MITIGATING REPETITIVE STRAIN INJURY (RSI) AMONG COMPUTER USERS
Authors: AKWUKWUMA V. V. N. , OBI J. C. , ATAMEWAN F.
Published: March 2023

Repetitive Stress Injury (RSI) is a fall-out from continuous and persistent computer usage over an extended period of time.Several research works on RSI were geared toward detective approaches in identifying factors relating to or inducing RSI within the work-place and other work related areas. Studies have also shown that short breaks have a protective effect over the development of RSI. It has been shown that ergonomic break/exercise promoted by inbuilt computer software very significantly reduces the incidence of repetitive strain injury. The limitation associated with previous research work includes prompting the computer user to take a break after a threshold time period has been exceeded but does not enforce this break. Also previous research never took into consideration idle time when initiating their threshold time frame.In an earlier work we designed and proposed RSI model capable of enacting involuntarily force break after a pre-determined time frame of 60 minutes. Implementation of the proposed Software Engineering RSI Model base on Java Version 6.0 that forces the computer users to take a break after 60 minutes of active system activities taking into consideration idle time by initiating involuntarily force–shutdown is the objective of this research paper. Forty computer users were allowed to use the system for a period for two months. A post implementation survey carried out shows a significant reduction in the RSI symptoms among computer users.
BIOTREATABILITY OF PETROLEUM REFINERY SLUDGE USING LAND - FARMING AND ANAEROBIC DEGRADATION TECHNIQUES
Authors: ATUANYA E. I. , TUDARARO–AHEROBO L. E.
Published: March 2023

One of the major problems faced by oil industries and the environment, is the safe disposal of oily sludge generated during the processing of crude oil. Biotreatability of petroleum refinery sludge using bioremediation and anaerobic degradation techniques was studied. Analysis of the Nigerian Petroleum Refinery sludge used for this research indicated that the sludge is slightly acid with high total petroleum hydrocarbon (TPH) content of 340,000mg/kg and polyaromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) content of 0.075mg/kg. The heterotrophic bacterial and fungal counts were 5.86 x 105 and 4.72 x 105cfu/g respectively while the hydrocarbon degrading bacterial and fungal count were 2.85 x 102 and 2.75 x 102 cfu/g respectively. Results from biotreatability studies revealed that the sludge contamination at lower concentration 10,000 (1%) mg/kg, recorded high percentage degradation than the treatment with higher sludge concentration, 50,000 (5%) mg/kg. Biostimulation treatments enhanced the sludge degradation better than the natural attenuated treatment. Volume of biogas produced in the anaerobic microcosm was highest in the treatment with compost in both 1% (10.73 l/kg) and 5% (9.27 l/kg) sludge treatments. Though the NPK treated soil enhanced the biodegradation of sludge most, degradation started declining by the 9th week while that of compost continued to rise steadily till the 12th week. Anaerobic process was quite slow and did not degrade the sludge as much as the aerobic land – farming method.
ANTIMICROBIAL ACTIVITY OF Dichrostachys glomerata ON BACTERIAL ISOLATES FROM WOUNDS IN PATIENTS ATTENDING UNIVERSITY OF BENIN TEACHING HOSPITAL(UBTH),BENIN CITY, NIGERIA
Authors: OSADOLOR A. , AJIBOLA O. E. , IKPO P. E.
Published: March 2023

The increasing emergence of multidrug resistant(MDR) phenotypes poses a major health problem in the treatment of bacterial infections worldwide .The phytochemical and antibacterial properties of Dichrostachys glomerata extract against wound infection isolates of Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, Pseudomonas aeroginosa, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Proteus mirabilis and Candida albicans were studied. Fresh plant leaves were collected from the orchard of the College of Medical Sciences, University of Benin, Nigeria and identified in the Department of Plant Biology and Biotechnology in University of Benin. The phytochemical analysis of the dried leaves was carried out using standard tests. The antibiotic susceptibility test was done by the disc diffusion method on Mueller-Hiinton agar using commercially available antibiotics disc .The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was determined with graded concentrations of oxacillin in Mueller-Hinton agar .Results showed the presence alkaloids, carbohydrate, saponin, flavonoids, phenols and anthraquinone derivatives in the leaves. The susceptibility of Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, Pseudomonas aeroginosa, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Proteus mirabilis to the various extract (99 % methanol, chloroform and ethyl acetate ) showed mean zone of inhibition of 22.2 ±0.1 mm for methanol, 14.3± 0.01 mm for Chloroform and 14.6 ± -1.5mm for ethyl acetate. No antimicrobial activity was observed for petroleum ether extract. The MIC ranged from 24 -40 mg/ml. The overall results provide information for the possible use of the extract of Dichrostachys glomerata in the control of bacterial infections,especially those involving multiple drug resistance.
DEVELOPMENT OF IMMATURE STAGES OF THE HOUSEFLY, Musca domestica (DIPTERAL: MUSCIDAE) ON DIFFERENT MANURES IN BENIN CITY, NIGERIA
Authors: OGEDEGBE A. B. O. , APOIY C.
Published: March 2023

This study was carried out in the University of Benin, Benin City, Nigeria, from June to August, 2013. Three organic manures (poultry manure collected from a poultry farm in the University of Benin; pig manure collected from a pig farm in Ugbighokho, Upper Ekehuan road and cow manure collected from a dairy farm located at Technical College road, all in Benin City, Nigeria), were used for the study. Exposure was done the day after collection and evaluation was made daily to ascertain the day each of the various developmental stages appeared. Egg to larva development took an average of 14 hours on the three manures. It took an average of 169 hours (7 days) and 187 hours (8 days) for the larvae to develop to pupae on poultry and pig manures respectively. No larva pupated in the cow manure. Adult eclosion took 261 hours (11 days) and 381 hours (16 days) on poultry and pig manure respectively. There was a high significant difference (P<0.01) in the time taken for each immature stage to develop to the next among the different manures. The mean size of the larvae of pig manure was 12mm while those of poultry and cow were 10mm and 9mm respectively. The mean length of the pupae was 4mm and 5mm on poultry and pig manures respectively. There were no pupae in the cow manure. There was a high significant difference (P<0.01) in the length of the lavae and pupae on the different manures. Poultry and pig manures recorded mean adult sizes of 4mm and 5mm respectively while no adult was recorded in cow manure. There was a high significant difference (P<0.01) in the sizes of M. Domestica bred on different manures with those in pig manure significantly longer than those in poultry manure. The average populations of immature stages of M. domestica in the different manures were: LARVAE = Poultry (228); pig (54), cow (06); PUPAE = Poultry (144); pig (42), cow (00); ADULT = Poultry (140); pig (40), cow (00). There was a high significant difference (P<0.01) in the population of immature stages of the housefly among the different substrates.