bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neuroprotective Strategies Using Vegetal Compounds in the Treatment of Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Sandu Loredana , Ciobica Alin , Lefter Radu , Timofte Daniel , Anton Emil
Published: October 2022

Lately, different therapy strategies for treating or slowing the progression of Alzheimer's disease are being analyzed. Moreover, the last two decades have seen a considerable research effort directed towards discovering the causes of Alzheimer's disease with the ultimate hope of developing safe and effective pharmacological treatments. In addition to the therapeutic strategies based on targeted drugs, the regimens will require the simultaneous application of neuroprotective drugs. Therefore, although there is currently no "cure" for Alzheimer's disease, a large number of potential therapeutic strategies emerged lately. In this small mini-review we will selectively describe some of the compounds derived from plants that could have a great potential in the treatment of various diseases, including Alzheimer's disease. In this way, there are many plant species that have been traditionally used for memory disorders. The differentiated results and powerful activity of these extracts are making these neuroprotective strategies to be somehow plausible for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease. In addition, these plants can be examined in order to isolate and identify their active ingredients and this can serve as a starting point to find safer and more effective agents for therapeutic use. On thing is certain: as the effective treatment options are limited, there is a demand for new drugs. Thus, plant extracts or vegetal compounds could represent an important part in this equation.
Studies on Induced Physical and Chemical Mutagenesis in Groundnut (Arachis hypogia)
Authors: Gunasekaran A. , Pavadai P.
Published: October 2022

Mutation breeding has been widely used for the improvement of plant characters in various crops. It is a powerful and effective tool in the hands of plant breeders. In any mutation breeding program, selection of an effective and efficient mutagen is very essential to produce high frequency of desirable mutation. Groundnut (Arachis hypogia) var. VRI-2. was treated with different concentration of physical and chemical mutagen namely gamma rays 10, 20, 30, 40, 50 and 60 KR and Ethyl methane sulphonate (EMS). For inducing mutation various concentration of EMS such as 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5 and 0.6 % for six hours were applied to 200 seed sample of each concentration and one respective control. The LD50 value was observed in 50% of gamma rays and 0.5 % of EMS. The morphological and yield characters were significantly reduced seed germination, seedling survival, days to first flower, plant height, number of leaves per plant, number of grains per plant, grain length and breath, 100 grains weight, grain yield per plant, fresh and dry weight per plant. The increasing doses/concentration of gamma rays and EMS decreased in phenotypic and yield characters in M1generation. The mutagenized populations showed significantly higher variability in the M2 generation. Mutant lines showing higher yield per plant than the respective parents and checks were isolated in M2 and subsequent generation were significantly more pod yield and yield components than the untreated plants.
Effects of Rice Blast Fungus (Pyricularia grisea) on Phenolics, Flavonoids, Antioxidant Capacity in Rice (Oryza sativa L.)
Authors: Toan Nguyen Phu , Thu Ha Pham Thi , Xuan Tran Dang
Published: October 2022

Rice blast fungus (Pyricularia grisea) is one of the most problematic pathogen to significantly reduce rice production worldwide. In this study, after being inoculated with P. grisea, changes in phenolic components and antioxidant capacity and correlation with the resistant level against rice blast fungus were investigated. Among screened rice cultivars, AV-3 was the strongest resistant, whereas BII-3 was the most susceptible. It was found that although total contents of phenolics and flavonoids, and antioxidant capacities varied among studied varieties, no significant coefficient with the resistance against P. grisea was observed. After rice was affected by rice blast fungus, total phenolics and flavonoids were markedly reduced, but in contrast, the DPPH scavenging activities of only the susceptible rice cultivars was reduced. Among the 11 phenolic acids detected, catechol was found only in the tolerant cultivar AV-3, whereas the amount of cinnamic acid was increased after infection. Quantity of vanillin was also promoted, except in the susceptible cultivar BII-3 that was significantly reduced. Findings of this study showed that the resistant level against P. grisea was proportionally correlated to the antioxidant capacity. Catechol, cinnamic acid, and vanillin may play a role but it needs further elaboration. Observations of this study suggested that the infection of blast disease by reducing amount of phenolics and flavonoids that may weaken the resistance of rice against this detrimental fungus.
Physiochemical Properties of Cocoyam Starch Extracted in Two Media
Authors: Ishiwu Charles , Onoh Ikechukwu Maxwell , Nwanya Peace Ogechi , Agulanna Albert Chibuzo
Published: October 2022

Starch was extracted (isolated) from cocoyam with the aid of water solution of oxalic acid and ammonium oxalate in 8 samples of ratios, 1:3, 1:1, 3:1, 2:3, 2:1, 1:2 and 0:0 respectively. The physiochemical properties were investigated in order to unveil its characteristics and unravel the potentials for industrial applications of the cocoyam starch. The physiochemical properties investigated includes; Amylose and Amylopectin contents, water binding capacity, particle size distribution, swelling power and solubility. The results obtained showed that swelling power and solubility of the starch were temperature dependent. The solubility was found to increase with temperature increase as the cocoyam starch showed highest solubility within the 70-90°C temperature range. The swelling power was found fluctuating between the temperatures of 25-90°C. The swelling power starch sample isolated with blending ratios of 2:1 and 1:2 were temperature dependent. The Amylose content ranges from 3.06 to 31.21%.
Pest Control in Green Gram Seeds (Vigna radiata) by Using Plant Extracts
Authors: Poornasundari B. , Thilagavathy Daniel
Published: October 2022

A experiment was conducted to investigate the efficacy of different plant derivatives against the development of the green gram pest Callosobruchus chinensis (L). fed on green gram seeds Vigna radiate for one month period. The leaf extracts of lemon (Citrus lemon), mint (Mentha arvensis) and black pepper seed (Piper nigram) powders were evaluated for their growth, adult mortality and oviposition inhibition of Callosobruhus chinensis. The results revealed that the extracts of all the three plant products caused a considerable reduction in the number of bruchids. Among the treatments Piper nigram were found to be effective in destroying the pest.
Effects of Intra-Row Spacing of Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) and Frequency of Weeding on Yields of Maize-Sesame Intercrop in Makurdi, Nigeria
Authors: Ijoyah Michael Ojore , Idoko J.A. , Iorlamen T.
Published: October 2022

Field experiments were conducted from July to October, during 2012 and 2013 cropping seasons, at the Research Farm, University of Agriculture, Makurdi, Nigeria, to evaluate the effects of intra-row spacing of sesame and frequency of weeding on yields of maize-sesame intercrop. The trial was a 3 x 3 factorial experiment fitted in a randomized complete block design with four replications. Nine of the treatments consisted of intercropped maize with sesame sown at the intra-row spacing of 10 cm, 15 cm and 20 cm, and at the varied weeding frequencies: maize-sesame intercrop sown on plots weeded once (1x) at 3 weeks after planting (WAP); maize-sesame intercrop sown on plots weeded twice (2x) at 3 and 6 WAP; maize-sesame intercrop sown on plots not weeded (NW). Sole sesame and sole maize respectively sown at their recommended intra-row spacing of 10 cm and 30 cm and at their recommended frequency of weeding (2x at 3 and 6 WAP) constituted the tenth and eleventh treatments, which also served as control plots. The results obtained showed that in a maize-sesame intercrop, increasing intra-row spacing of sesame up to 20 cm, on plots weeded 2x at 3 and 6 WAP, significantly (P≤0.05) produced the highest intercrop yields of maize and sesame. This level of treatment not only recorded the lowest competitive pressure, but gave the highest total intercrop yields, highest land equivalent coefficient values (1.01 and 1.13 respectively, in years 2012 and 2013), indicating the highest yield advantage, and highest land equivalent ratio (LER) values of 2.11 and 2.25 respectively recorded for years 2012 and 2013. With these LER values, 52.6 % and 55.6 % of land were respectively saved in years 2012 and 2013, which could be used for other agricultural purposes. The implication of study showed that, to maximize intercrop yields of maize and sesame in a maize-sesame intercrop, the appropriate intra-row spacing for sesame is 20 cm, while the optimal frequency of weeding is 2x at 3 and 6 WAP. This should therefore, be recommended for Makurdi location, Nigeria.
Characterization and Biosynthesis of Silver Nanoparticles Using a Fungus Aspergillus niger
Authors: Ninganagouda Shivaraj , Rathod Vandana , Singh Dattu
Published: October 2022

An attractive possibility of green nanotechnology is to use microorganisms in the synthesis of silver nanoparticles. Recently, the biosynthesis especially from fungi has emerged as a novel method for the synthesis of silver nanoparticles. Nanoparticles are considered as building blocks of Nanotechnology. In the present work we have screened fungi for the extracellular production of silver nanoparticles. Aspergillus sps, Rhizopus sps, Fusarium sp. and Penicillium sp. were the isolates screened and subjected to silver nanoparticles production. Of the tested isolates, the fungus Aspergillus sp. showed maximum absorbance at 416 nm which is an indication of Silver nanoparticles production. Further characterization was made by TEM which revealed the shape to be spherical and size ranged between 20-55 nm, EDS showed the presence of elemental silver at 3kev, FTIR spectrum showed the different functional groups, XRD spectrum showed the crystalline nature of the particles and AFM revealed three dimensional structures of the nanoparticles. Of all kinds of nanoparticles silver nanoparticles show great promise in terms of biomedical applications as they exhibit different biomedical activities
Gender Differential in the Incidence of Diabetes Mellitus among the Patients in Udi Local Government Area of Enugu State, Nigeria
Authors: Chukwu Bernice N. , Ezebuiro Veronica O. , Samuel E.S. , Nwachukwu Keyna C.
Published: October 2022

Diabetes Mellitus is a chronic metabolic disease characterized by hyperglycemia and disturbances of carbohydrate, fat and protein metabolism. It is a major public health problem and disease burden worldwide, and especially in Nigeria. This study determined the gender differential in the incidence of Diabetes mellitus among the patients in Udi L.G.A of Enugu State. Three research questions and one hypothesis were formulated to guide the study. Descriptive survey design was employed. A sample of 343 diabetes mellitus patients were randomly selected and used for the study. Researchers design data documentary profoma was used to collect the data from selected health facilities in respect to the patients’ gender and their fasting sugar level as contained in their folder or hospital record/register. Frequency and percentages was used to answer research question while the null hypothesis was tested using Chi- square at 0.05 level of significance. The finding of the result revealed a high incidence of Diabetes Mellitus in 2012, females recorded a high incidence of DM from 2008-2012 and high percentage of fasting blood sugar level than male. The finding also revealed no difference in the fasting blood sugar based on gender. It is recommended among others that diagnostic investigation on human placental lactose is advocated to reduce or stop its opposition to insulin secretion during pregnancy.
Palynology, Palynofacies and Palaeoenvironments of Sedimentary Organic Matter from Bonyere - 1 Well, Tano Basin, Western Ghana
Authors: Atta-Peters D. , Agama C.I. , Asiedu D.K. , Apesegah E.
Published: October 2022

Palynofacies analyses from Bonyere Well No. 1 in the Tano basin, western Ghana has revealed five palynofacies associations (I – V) based on the percentage relative abundances of the sedimentary organic matter (SOM). The palynofacies associations reflect deposition in a fluvio-deltaic (oxic) environment, a distal dysoxic-anoxic shelf environment, a proximal dysoxic-suboxic environment, nearshore (oxic) and a fluvio-deltaic/nearshore environment with high oxygen levels and low preservation rates respectively. Based on marker palynomorphs, Campanian – Maastrichtian age has been assigned to sediments within the interval (1800-10 ft) – (90-100 ft), Turonian – Lower Senonian (Santonian) age between (3160-70 ft) – (1980-90 ft) and Aptian age between the interval (8140-50 ft) – (3340-50 ft). The absence of the elater-bearing pollen which are typical Africa-South America (ASA) elements for the Albian – Cenomanian age is indicative of an unconformity between the Aptian and Turonian sediments.
Heavy Metals in Organs and Tissues of Silver X Bigheads Carp Hybrid as Indices of Anthropogenic Pressure in Areas with a High Level of Urbanization
Authors: Makarenko Alina A. , Shevchenko Petr G. , Kononenko Iryna S. , Kondratyk Vadym M. , Khrystenko Dmytro S. , Grubinko Vasyl V.
Published: October 2022

The growth of man-caused load on natural objects, including surface waters, gave impetus to the studying for issue of water pollution in Ukraine by various pollutants. Especially relevant for us are the studies of fishery reservoirs as a direct environment for growing quality aquaculture products. Among the toxic compounds contained in reservoirs, one of the first places is occupied by heavy metals. On the one hand, heavy metals, as pollutants in natural waters, pose a great danger because even in relatively small concentrations they can adversely affect aquatic organisms. On the other hand, in microquantities most heavy metals (except mercury, cadmium and lead) are a natural and even essential component of living cells of aquatic organisms, including fish [17,19].Zn, Mn, Fe, Cu, Pb, Co, Ni, Cd in the organs and tissues of the bighead carphybrid form, which was cultivated in ponds from highly urbanized territory, are distributed heterogeneously and their level of content depends not only on the physical and chemical characteristics of the aquatic environment or this heavy metals biochemical activities force in fish organisms, but also on functional features of concrete organs and tissues of the latter. Results of our investigations showed that above mentioned heavy metals were characterised by high levels of content in the organs and tissues of hybrid silver x bigheadcarp. Highest content in organism of hybrid are lead, cobalt, and cadmium. Highest concentration of heavy metals in our investigations was recorded in gills, because it is the first defence line of fish organism from environmental pollutants.
Management of Sugar Industrial Wastes through Vermitechnology
Authors: Bhat Sartaj Ahmad , Singh Jaswinder , Vig Adarsh Pal
Published: October 2022

The present paper discusses the role of earthworms in recycling of sugar industrial wastes. The wastes generated from sugar industry are pressmud, bagasse, bagasse fly ash, sugar cane trash, sugar beet mud, sugar beet pulp, molasses etc. These wastes when mixed with other organic substrates become ideal mixtures for growth of earthworms. These wastes if stored in open field’s causes contamination in the environment and may cause several diseases in public health. But the governments have been unable to tackle the menace of solid waste pollution due to dearth of appropriate technologies, finance and space. Therefore, environment friendly and cost effective technologies for nutrient recycling or remediation of wastes are being advocated as an alternative means for conserving and replenishing natural resources of the ecosystems. Vermicomposting is one such technology that synergises microbial degradation with earthworm’s activity for reducing, reusing and recycling waste materials in a shorter span of time. Earthworm technology can convert sugar industrial wastes into valuable fertilizing material. The final product (vermicompost) produced during the process of vermicomposting is nutrient rich organic fertilizer with plant available nutrients such as nitrogen, potassium, calcium and phosphorus. In the present study an attempt has been made to document the role of earthworms in reuse of sugar industry waste.
Soil Detoxication by the Means of Activated Carbon in Breeding Process
Authors: Spiridonov Jury J. , Mukhin Viktor M. , Karpachev Vladimir V. , Gorshkov Vladimir I. , Gorshkova Emma K. , Voropaeva Nadezda Leonidovna , Shachnev Nikolai V. , Figovsky O.L.
Published: October 2022

The paper describes results of vegetative tests of active coal as a detoxiсant of herbicide remains in soil on eight varieties of summer rapeseed. The tests were performed with the purpose to align soil fertility on different breeding and test sites. The research is based on attempts to apply coal absorbent as a means of soil detoxication to neutralize herbicides remains in the process of oilseed brassica crops breeding. Several summer rapeseed varieties originated by All-Russian Rapeseed Institute were used as research objects [2,3,5-11]. Similar approaches have not been encountered in literature references available.
Impact of Low-Molecule Acidic Peptides on Growth and Histological Structure of Inner Organs of Marbled Crayfish Procambarus fallax (Hagen, 1870) F. virginalis
Authors: Marenkov Oleh , Fedonenko Оlena , Naboka Alexandra
Published: October 2022

The results of studies on the effects of low molecular weight acidic solution peptides on the growth and development of the marbled crayfish artificial cultivation.An increasing weights of juvenile freshwater crayfish under the influence of dietary supplement "Albuvir" drug. With the use of histological methods of research, found the impact of 0.01% solution of the drug on the state of the marbled crayfish lobules of hepatopancreas and fat cells. Developed a method for growing juvenile freshwater crayfish with "Albuvir", which allows to increase the weight gain of crustaceans on 24.3–27.2% and reduce the level of cannibalism at 20%.
Dynamics of Micro Algae in Relation to Water Quality Parameters of Pasupatheswarar Temple Pond, Annamalai Nagar, Tamil Nadu
Authors: Elayaraj B. , Selvaraju M.
Published: October 2022

The current study deals with water quality variations and micro algal community structure in the highly eutrophic pond. Several water quality parameters were evaluated during the period from July 2014 to June 2015 from sampling station sited from Annamalai Nagar viz., Pasupatheswarar temple pond. The water quality parameters like Air and water temperature, turbidity, electrical conductivity, total dissolved solids, total alkalinity, pH, free carbon-dioxide, dissolved oxygen, biological oxygen demand (BOD), chemical oxygen demand (COD), calcium, magnesium, phosphate and nitrate were analysed. A total 29 species were observed during the study period of which 11 species from the class Cynophyceae, 9 species from the class Chlorophyceae, 6 species from the class Bacillariophyceae and 3 species from the class Euglenophyceae. Maximum species of the class Cyanophyceae were observed during study period. The Microcystisaeruginosa species observed in the pond indicates the signs of eutrophication of pond. The water quality parameters such as temperature, alkalinity, phosphate and nitrates are favourable for the growth of phytoplankton.
Abundance Frequency of Plant Species as Animal Feeds to Determine Ideal Cattle Grazing
Authors: Yulianto Roni , Xuan Tran Dang , Kawamura Kensuke , Lim Ji Hyun , Yoshitoshi Rena , Fan Xin Yan , Gong Zhe
Published: October 2022

The objectives of this study were to determine the dominant frequency of plant species, and provide useful information toward the conservation management of animal feed in grazing areas, Hiroshima, Japan. The numbers of plant species were 32 and 21 in spring and summer, respectively. The appearance frequency of plant species more than 50% in the spring, consist of Veronica arvensis (75.57%), Trifolium repens (73.86%), Paspalum dilatatum (69.32%), Lamium purpureum (68.75%), Trifolium dubium (65.34%), Cerastium glomeratum (63.64%), whereas in summer, it consists of Paspalum notatum (98.30%), Trifolium repens (81.25%), Paspalum dilatatum (78.98%), and Kyllinga brevifolia (74.43%). It was observed that the frequencies of plant species were 16.64 and 21.55 cm; vegetation cover rates were 77.18 and 81.36%; chlorophyll content were 41.72 and 36.28 mg/g Fw, and species numbers were 17.91 and 10.18, in spring and summer, respectively. Findings of this research propose that Trifolium repens (clover), Rumex japonicus (weed), and Paspalum dilatatum (grass) are dominant species in the studied areas that can be utilized as animal feeds.
Evaluation of Different Onchocerciass Manifestation by Age and Gender among Residents in Selected Endemic Villages in Okigwe Local Government Area of Imo State, Nigeria
Authors: Kamalu Nkiru A. , Uwakwe Felicia E.
Published: October 2022

Aspects of human infection with Onchocerca volvulus was investigated in 9 villages in Okigwe LGA of Imo State, Nigeria between January 2010 and December 2011. The objectives were to compare the prevalence of different manifestations of Onchocerciasis according to gender and age, with view to determine if there had been a change in prevalence of Onchocerciasis among residents of some communities in Okigwe Local Government Area of Imo State. A cross sectional survey method was adopted for the study, blood free skin snips were collected from randomly selected consenting adults aged 5-62 years. Palpation for mobile subcutaneous lumps and clinical manifestation were observed among 960 persons comprising 511 males and 449 females. The commonest lesions observed were poor vision 17 %, nodules 15 %, leopard skin 20 %, lizard skin 15 %, and hanging groin 3 %. Musculo-skeletal pain (MSP) was recorded as one of the major complaints by 30 % of the subjects. The result showed that Onchocerciasis clinical manifestations are still prevalent, however nodules prevalence reduced among the sampled population (69.8 %).
Documentation of Traditional Knowledge of Herbal Plant in Kalvarayan Hills, Vallupuram District, Tamil Nadu
Authors: Nithyadevi J. , Sivakumar R.
Published: October 2022

The study was carried out to assess the traditional knowledge of herbal plants in a Kalvarayan Hills, Villupuram District, Tamil Nadu. It was carried out through face to face interview with respondent, collection and identification of herbal plants in the hills. A total number of 60 species of herbal plants were recorded during a series of folk botanical surveys at a hill at Villupuram District, Tamil Nadu. A majority of these species are herbaceous angiosperms, followed by trees and shrubs. The most common part of the plant used in preparing for herbal medicine is the bark, leaves, roots, stem, flowers, and fruits. Mostly the plants are used for general health, to treat dermatological complaints, reproductive system, abdominal problems and fever compared to other ailments. The most common method of herbal preparation is poultice, followed by decoction and infusion. Thus, more medicinal plants are used topically than orally.
Re-Inventing the Production of Adhesive from Cassava Starch as a Career Opportunity in Chemistry Education
Authors: Aliyu Buba A. , Aliyu Kabiru Baraya
Published: October 2022

The present study is aimed at investigating the properties of Cassava starch for the production of adhesives as a career opportunity in chemistry education. Method of starch extraction, characterization and adhesive production for quality assessment was performed. The results showed that adhesives produced with sodium hydroxide as a gelatinization enhancer has a maximum drying time of 8.60 minutes and had a stronger bond. The work concludes that the adhesive produced is of good quality and can lead to re-inventing chemistry education as a career opportunity. However, the Cassava adhesive met the basic requirement for adhesive use and application. At the end recommendations were made, among others increase employment opportunities, also diversify the economic base of farmers and there is need for reorientation and attitudinal change towards entrepreneurial job.
Cytological Investigation of Brazilian Nightshade (Solanum seaforthianam Andr.)
Authors: Jagatheeswari D.
Published: October 2022

Solanum genus namely Solanum seaforthianum Andr. belongs to the Solanaceae family, and comprises only dioeciously species. These plants are distributed between 29º and 40º south. All species of this genus are diploid with chromosome numbers of 2n = 24, 28 and 30. According to literature, the basic chromosome number in this genus is x = 12, 14 and 15. Solanum genus with a chromosome complement of 2n = 30 has a symmetric karyotype with a median and sub median centromere position. Because ancestral species have a symmetric karyotype, it seems that x = 12 is the initial basic chromosome number in this genus and the x = 14 and x = 15 derived from x = 12. So it seems that diploid phenomena played an important role in evolution and speciation
Evaluation of Genetic Diversity and Identification of Huperzia Species Collected in Some Different Areas in Vietnam by Molecular Markers
Authors: Thu Ha Tran Thi , Khanh Tran Dang , Trung Khuat Huu
Published: October 2022

The objective of this study was to evaluate genetic diversity of 35 Huperzia samples collected from the different ecological areas in Vietnam by using rbcL markers. The results revealed that the samples were genetically diverse in high genetic similarity which ranged from 98.0 to 99.0%, respectively. Based on the Genbank data in comparison, it was ascertained that only one sample (BK3) is a member of H.phlegmarioides group, and others belonged H. squarrosa group as divided into two main groups by phylogenetic tree analyses. It suggests that some Huperzia samples may plausibly descend from the same origin, evolution and arising relations. This study has provided useful information for further identifying the high-quality genetic plant sources for propagation, development and conservation of the high-valued medicinal materials of Huperzia plants in this country.
Radiological Assessment of Atmospheric Release from Tehran Research Reactor during Normal Operation by Using Pc-Cream Code
Authors: Sadeghi Nahid , Ahangari Rohollah
Published: October 2022

In this work, radiological assessment of atmospheric release from Tehran’s Research Reactor (TRR) stack and assessment of public exposures under normal operation has been studied. To perform tasks mentioned above, Pc-Cream computer code which simulates Gaussian Dispersion air transport plume model as well as laboratory analysis of the soil and leaves samples and TLD (Thermo Luminescent Dosimeter) monitoring around the TRR site was used. Results of the Pc-Cream code showed that the annual committed and external dose received by the individual in the vicinity of the reactor is below the regulatory limit. Also, the results of laboratory analysis of available radionuclides in the soil and leaves samples showed that the concentrations are close to the background (K40=635, Th232=28, Cs137=0.29 up to 28.82, Ra226=25 (Bq[1]/Kg) in soil and K40=457, Be7≈70 (Bq/Kg) in leaves) and confirm the code results. The monitored dose values of the TLD detectors were positioned around the reactor within 500 m radius shows that the background dose in vicinity of TRR (113 μSv up to 150 μSv) is consistent with the background dose in Tehran province (125 μSv).
Appraisal of Process Mapping in Heavy Engineering Projects: A Case of Nigeria East-West Coastal Highway
Authors: Ekung Samuel B. , Adeniran Lashinde , Adu Emmanuel
Published: October 2022

The need to improve project delivery process is one of the leading advocacies of relevant construction industry reports. Improved process is sine qua non for improve performance. Critical to the improvement process, is the need to assess construction process’ capability to meet design and production requirements. The present study examined process mapping of a cable-stayed bridge in the Nigeria’s east-west coastal highway project. Qualitative data was collected through a three phase process mapping protocol using mainly self-generate, one-on-one interview and focus group. Twenty non-related sub-processes were identified from four pre-construction stages: investigation; feasibility; design; and tender. Integrative definition (IDEFO) and Unified Language Modelling (UML) are used to map the feasibility, design and the design sub-processes. The mapping indicates the design sequence is iterative and factually flexible until such a point where functional design satisfies appropriate forcing test. The study provides medium for communicating complex construction functions thereby facilitating common understanding in the way projects are delivered with appropriate information about inputs, output and resources.
Profitability Analysis of Pigean Pea (Cajanus cajan) Production in Riyom LGA of Plateau State
Authors: Emefiene M.E. , Joshua V.I. , Nwadike C. , Yaroson A.Y. , Zwalnan N.D.E.
Published: October 2022

The study focused on the profitability of pigeon pea production in Riyom LGA of Plateau State. Data for the study were obtained from both primary and secondary sources. Questionnaires were administered to 80 targeted farmers to get information on their socio-economic characteristics, years of experience in pigeon pea production and the reason for growing pigeon pea. The analytical tool used includes descriptive statistics to analyze the socio-economic characteristics of the farmers and farm budgeting technique (gross margin analysis) for assessing the profitability of pigeon pea production. The study also identified the constraints encountered by farmers such as high cost of labour, inadequate processing / storage facilities, problems of access to credit/loans and weed/pest infestation. The results shows that pigeon pea production is profitable with a total variable cost (TVC) at N22620.68 per ha, while gross revenue (GR) was N50185.25 per ha, the profit margin (GM) at N32564.59 and the net return per Naira invested was N0.69. It was recommended that farm inputs and improved seed varieties should be made available to farmers at affordable rates so as to enable them operate at a commercial and profitable level of pigeon pea production. These farmers should be encouraged to form a cooperative society so as to alleviate the problem of credit/ loan acquisition and procurement of genuine products as well as avoid exploitation
Effects of NaCl, CaCl2 and their Combination of Salt on Seed Germination and Seedling Growth of Lycopersicum esculentum L.
Authors: Sivasankaramoorthy S.
Published: October 2022

To compare the effect of NaCl, CaCl2 and their combinations on germination and early seedling growth stages of Lycopersicum esculentum L., were studied under pot experiments 2008. Results indicated that significant increases were recorded in percentage of germination, seedling fresh and dry weights, seedling length, water content, catalase activity and photosynthetic pigments (chlorophyll a, b and total chlorophylls as well as carotenoids) under the low level concentration (20 mM) of NaCl or CaCl and their combination (1:1). On other hand increasing salt concentration in nutrient solution caused significant decrease in all of these parameters. The great reduction occurred under high salinity level of NaCl (50 mM). Meanwhile, peroxidase activity increased significantly with increasing salinity levels from 20 mM to 50 mM of both applied salinity types. Besides, peroxidase activity under NaCl salinity showed a marked increase followed by NaCl + CaCl2 (1:1) and CaCl2 at 50 mM.
Morphology and Phenotype of Peripheral Erythrocytes of Fish: A Rapid Screening of Images by Using Software
Authors: Talapatra Soumendra Nath , Mitra Priyadarshini , Swarnakar Snehasikta
Published: October 2022

Many information of biological study as stained cells analysis under microscope cannot be obtained rich information like detail morphology, shape, size, proper intensity etc. but image analysis software can easily be detected all these parameters within short duration. The cells types can be yeast cells to mammalian cells. An attempt has been made to detect cellular abnormalities from an image of metronidazole (MTZ) treated compared to control images of peripheral erythrocytes of fish by using non-commercial, open-source, CellProfiler (CP) image analysis software (Ver. 2.1.0). The comparative results were obtained after analysis the software. In conclusion, this image based screening of Giemsa stained fish erythrocytes can be a suitable tool in biological research for primary toxicity prediction at DNA level alongwith cellular phenotypes. Moreover, still suggestions are needed in relation to accuracy of present analysis for Giemsa stained fish erythrocytes because previous works have been carried out images of cells with fluorescence dye.
Bio-Interface Polymerisation: Synthesis of Polyaniline on the Marine Algae Surface
Authors: Kudo Yuki , Goto Hiromasa
Published: October 2022

Marine algae Gelidium, Grateloupia elliptica Holmes, and Codium fragile are employed for preparation of PANI/seaweed composites. Infrared absorption (IR), electron spin resonance (ESR) spectroscopy measurements are carried out to confirm the resultant structure. The direct use of natural biological materials for polymerisation reaction allows us to production of polymers with characteristic surface. This can be referred to as bio-interface polymerisation.
Assessment of Heavy Metals Associated with Bottom Sediment of Asejire Reservoir, Southwest Nigeria
Authors: Godwin Asibor
Published: October 2022

A study on the characteristic of sediment quality of Asejire Reservoir was conducted to evaluate the heavy metal content of the reservoir. Twenty stations were selected, samples and analyzed using standard methods. The result showed that the sediment was slightly acidic across the study stations, with low conductivity and organic matter content. The heavy metals order of dominance was: Fe>Pb>Cu>Zn>Mn>Al>Ba>Ni>Cr. The mean concentration levels of all the heavy metals were lower than mean background value except Fe, Cu and Pb. However, calculated Enrichment Factor (EF) values for all the heavy metals investigated showed that they were less than 1.5 (<1.5), suggesting that the heavy metals were all derived mainly from natural sources such as bedrock materials and weathering processes.
The Use of Soil Parameters in Predicting Weed Infestation in Maize (Zea mays L.)
Authors: Adesina Gabriel Olulakin , Oyeyiola Yetunde Bunmi , Adelasoye Kasali Amofe , Akin Akinpelu Festus
Published: October 2022

A field work was carried out to investigate the extent to which selected soil chemical properties can influence weed species distribution. There were sixteen treatments of two factors (Fertilizer type and weeding regimes) laid out in RCBD. The treatments included four fertilizer types; no fertilizer (F1), inorganic fertilizer – NPK 15:15:15 applied at 100 kg NPK/ha (F2), organic fertilizer – phosphocompost applied at 2.5 t/ha and organomineral – 50% NPK 15:15:15 plus 50% phosphocompost. Four weeding regimes: weedy treatment (W1), weeding once (W2), weeding twice (W3) and weed free (W4). Weed free and weed once significantly improved maize growth and yield parameter under inorganic and organomineral fertilizer types. Increasing soil pH, organic carbon and available phosphorus significantly reduced total weed biomass with plot that received no fertilizer been responsible for highest weed population. In organic fertilizer treatment significantly reduced soil pH from the initial 6.5 to 6.0 though, it combination with weed once or weed twice gave highest grain yield. Better nutrition (in terms of improved soil nutrient especially macro nutrient and organic carbon) when combined with weeding once can ascertain proper weed management and sustainable maize production.
A Comparative Study on the Cleaner Production Options for Fishery Wastes around Lake Tana
Authors: Getahun Eshetu , Wagaw Kefale , Sahu Omprakash
Published: October 2022

Around Lake Tana, there are different types of fish processing cooperatives. These cooperatives simply dump the fish wastes (offal) to the Lake Tana which results environmental pollution for the marine ecosystems. In this study three cleaner production options such as biodiesel, biogas and animal feeding were investigated experimentally for the utilization of fishery wastes around Lake Tana. The study showed that fish species (labeobarbus, tilapia and catfish) wastes have oil yield of 28.65%, 16.35% and 5.63 % and free fatty acid content of 10.5%, 7.5% and 6.03% respectively. In the treatment of the oil, only 3.5% of sulfuric acid was consumed to lower the FFA to the required level (2.5%). In the biodiesel experiment, 6:1 ration of methanol to oil and 1hr of reaction retention time were found to be the optimum operating parameters. The yield of biogas was 0.016ml /gram of fish waste. Nutritional composition of fish wastes were 33.4% protein, 0.007% fiber, 1.26% ash, 44% moisture and 21.367% carbohydrate. The study concluded that biodiesel is the possible cleaner production option among the other for the utilization of fishery wastes around Lake Tana.
The Effect of Ethyl Methane Sulphonate and Diethyl Sulphate on Chilli (Capsicum annuum L.) in M1 Generation
Authors: Gandhi E. Sanjai , Devi A. Sri , Mullainathan L.
Published: October 2022

In recent years, the demand of chilli has tremendously increased due to its attractive market price and multifarious used in cooked and processed forms. At present people are much concerned about the fruit quality and yield. Therefore, attention is being paid for development of genotypes having high yield potential with desirable fruit quality characters in a short period of time. For this purpose, seeds of chilli were mutagenised with ethyl methane sulphonate (EMS) and diethyl sulphate (DES) to determine their mutagenic sensitivity in M1 generation. The increasing concentration of EMS and DES decreased in morphological and yield characters. The spectrum of mutation and induced variability for various quantitative traits were observed in M1 generation such as germination (%), plant height, primary and secondary branches per plant, days to first flowering, fruit length (cm), fruit girth (cm), total number of fruits per plant, number of seeds per fruit, seed weight per fruit (g), 100 seed weight (g) and pericarp: seed ratio showed variability in chilli with the effect of EMS and DES. The percentage of chromosomal abnormalities in different mitotic stages was significantly higher than that of the control in all the treatment concentrations.
Dosage and Temporal Dependent Arsenic-Induced Mortality in Ceriodaphnia dubia: an Effective Biomarker for Arsenic Pollution
Authors: Talapatra Soumendra Nath , Bhattacharya Sayan , Guha Gunjan , Dutta Subhayan , Chattopadhyay Dhrubajyoti , Mukhopadhyay Aniruddha
Published: October 2022

Arsenic (As) is a metalloid that causes severe water pollution due to its extravagant toxicity. Ceriodaphnia dubia, a freshwater crustacean, was selected as a model system to evaluate the degree of time and dosage dependent acute toxicity caused by pentavalent As [As(V)]. C. dubia were collected from a natural pond and treated with different concentrations of As(V) for 24 hours and 48 hours. For both 24 hours and 48 hours treatment periods, the mortality rates were increased significantly ( P< 0.05) with increase in As(V) concentrations. Simultaneously, it was also observed that As(V) - induced mortality in C. dubia also depended on the time of exposure to the metalloid. We propose this model as a low-cost technique towards rapid screening of water quality in relation to As contamination.
The Impact of Industrial Pollution on the Stem Anatomical Characteristics of Woody Plant Undergrowth in the City of Dnipro, Ukraine
Authors: Iusypiva Tetiana , Miasoid Galyna
Published: October 2022

The paper examines the influence of industrial emissions of sulphur (IV) and nitrogen (IV) oxides on the percentage of stem anatomical characteristics of the autochthonous woody plant species undergrowth of Acer platanoides L. and Fraxinus excelsior L. in the southern industrial zone of the city of Dnipro (Ukraine). It is ascertained, that the ratio of the primary cortex share to the central cylinder share does not change in the stems of annual shoots of the both studied woody plant species when they are exposed to the influence of the toxic gases. However, there are significant changes in the ratio of shares of histological elements in the undergrowth stems of F. excelsior. The use of both absolute and relevant values of anatomic parameters of the plant vegetative organs is needed to analyse the woody plants resistance to technogenic pollution of the environment.
Walking Behaviour and Spatial Use of Broiler Chickens
Authors: Aydin Arda
Published: October 2022

Modern broiler chickens are genetically selected for reaching higher weights in shorter life spans. In addition to this, they are raised in crowded housing conditions with less opportunity for movement. Understanding movement patterns, migration and use of space is essential in determining welfare of the birds in commercial farms. In this study, migration behaviour of broiler chickens in semi-commercial farms of 1800 chickens was studied. Observations were repeated in six growth periods each on 12 chickens once a day during their growth period of 42 days. It was seen that the activity of broilers was not decreasing during the growth period. Travelled distances of the chickens in total were not reduced in the last 3 weeks of their growth period (p > 0.05 in 89% of the observed birds, Mann-Whitney U test). Chickens preferred to be in the zones next to the wall farthest to the entrance of the house. The observed birds did not restrict themselves only around the feeders and the drinkers but used the whole surface area available during the whole growth period. The results of the study seem to be encouraging in achieving welfare of broiler chickens even in commercialised houses with high stocking density. Reported mobility of chickens is important for their survival and has therefore considerable impact on efficient production on farms.
Physico-Chemical Characterization and Microbial Studies of Muscle Lipid of Liner Silver Grunter (Pomadasys hasta) of the Bay of Bengal
Authors: Jahan Farjana , Uddin Mohammad Helal , Bhattacharjee Sreebash C.
Published: October 2022

Lipid was extracted from the lipid containing muscle of Liner silver grunter (Pomadasys hasta) by solvent extraction and then purified by standard method. The physico-chemical properties of lipid sample were determined and compared with those of other standard fats and oils. Fatty acid composition of the lipid sample was investigated by Thin Layer Chromatographic (TLC) examination. Gas Liquid Chromatographic (GLC) examination was performed by the methyl esters mixture prepared from the lipid sample. The de-oiled muscle of the fish was studied for the determination of ash content, fiber content, moisture content and protein content. The lipid containing selected muscle was analyzed quantitatively for the determination of percentages of protein, cholesterol and minerals (N, P, K, Ca, and Na). The lipid containing muscle was also analyzed for the determination of the amount of eleven metals by using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometric method. The lipid sample was evaluated by microbial activity (bacterial activity against nine bacteria and fungal activity against seven fungi).
Determination of Organochlorine Pesticide Residues in Dried Cocoa
Authors: Olaniran Oladele Abiodun , Ajiboye Ebenezer Oyerinde , Adebayo Timothy Abiodun , Babarinde Samuel Adelani , Adedosu Haleema Omolola , Adesina Gabriel Olulakin
Published: October 2022

Organochlorine pesticide residues in dried cocoa beans from selected towns from Ondo and Osun States, Nigeria were determined. Four towns Ondo and Idanre (Ondo State) and Ife and Ilesa (Osun State) were selected to represent cocoa producing areas in the states. Samples were extracted and cleaned-up on silica gel adsorbent. Pesticide residues were detected using Gas Chromatography – Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). Five organochlorine pesticides were detected in the samples from Ondo state which includes alpha-HCH, beta-HCH, delta-HCH, endrin and p p’ DDT. The levels of p p’ DDT (0.108 mg/kg and 0.107 mg/kg) detected in samples from Ondo and Idanre towns were lower than the EU MRL (0.5 mg/kg), while other detected organochlorine pesticide residues from the State were higher than the EU MRL. In Osun State, alpha-HCH, lindane, dieldrin, endrin, heptachlor-epoxide, endosulfan I and p p’ DDT were organochlorine pesticide residues detected, with lindane (0.074 mg/kg), endosulfan I (0.099 mg/kg) and p p’ DDT (0.235 mg/kg) being lower than EU MRLs. Higher levels of organochlorine pesticide residues than the EU MRLs suggest that the produce were not safe for human consumption because of the tendency of the pestsides to persist for a long period of time and as well bioaccumulate within the environment. The produce can also face trade threat in international market. Measures were suggested to ameliorate this situation.
Assessment of Morphological Damages of Leaves of Selected Plant Species due to Vehicular Air Pollution, Kolkata, India
Authors: Nandy Abantika , Talapatra Soumendra Nath , Bhattacharjee Pritha , Chaudhuri Punarbasu , Mukhopadhyay Aniruddha
Published: October 2022

The present study deals to know morphological damages of leaves of four selected plant species near roadside due to vehicular air pollution in Kolkata, India. The selected plant species are Ficus bengalensis, Ficus religiosa, Alstonia scholaris and Neolamarckia cadamba as these are very common as avenue trees. The study area was selected as per Low vehicular load (LVL) as control area, moderate vehicular load (MVL) area, high vehicular load (HVL) area and heavy vehicular load (HeVL) These three sampling stations were selected on the basis of moderate, high and heavy traffic density and continuous vehicular movement as per visualization. The control area was considered as time dependent vehicular movement due to less traffic density. The morphological damages with special reference to length (L), breadth (B) and L/B ratio and visible injuries in leaves. The visible injuries such as pigmentation, chlorosis, necrosis and burning of leaves of four selected species is documented. There was an increasing and decreasing tends in all four plant species at all three vehicular emission exposed sites (MVL, HVL and HeVL) compared to control site (LVL). In all experimental sites such as MVL, HVL and HeVL, the extra growth and reduction pattern significantly (P < 0.001, 0.01 or 0.05) observed when compared to control site (LVL) for L, B and L/B ratio. The visible injuries (in %) of leaves were also observed in increasing trends. This study is a preliminary assessment of tolerant species that already have been used in greenbelt development to protect air pollutants as well as biological monitoring to know exact load of automobile air pollution but further researches are needed in relation to biochemical and genetic damage study. It was observed that out of four selected species Ficus bengalensis, Alstonia scholaris and Neolamarckia cadamba are more tolerant species and Ficus religiosa is a less tolerant species because of these may have fighting abilities by waxy coatings, accumulation and degradation abilities to vehicular air pollution at all exposed area when compared to control area.