bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cloud optical and physical properties retrieval from EarthCARE multi-spectral imager: the M-COP products
Authors: Hünerbein Anja , Bley Sebastian , Deneke Hartwig , Meirink Jan Fokke , van Zadelhoff Gerd-Jan , Walther Andi
Published: March 2023

Abstract. ESA’s Cloud, Aerosol and Radiation Explorer EarthCARE is the first mission which will provide measurements from active profiling, passive imaging and a broad-band radiometer from a single satellite platform. The passive multi-spectral imager (MSI) features four solar and three thermal infrared channels, and has a swath of 150 km and a spatial pixel resolution of 500 m. The MSI observations will provide across-track information on clouds and aerosol to extend the active profiling information into the swath. In this paper, we present the algorithm used for retrieving the cloud optical and physical products (M-COP), specifically cloud optical thickness, effective radius and top height. The algorithm is based on the solar and terrestrial MSI channels within an optimal estimation framework. The advantage of optimal estimation is that it enables full error propagation given by the uncertainties in measurements and a-priori information. The MSI cloud algorithm has been successfully exercised on different imagers and on synthetically generated MSI observations.
Barium in seawater: Dissolved distribution, relationship to silicon, and barite saturation state determined using machine learning
Authors: Mete Öykü , Subhas Adam , Kim Heather , Dunlea Ann , Whitmore Laura , Shiller Alan , Gilbert Melissa , Leavitt William , Horner Tristan
Published: March 2023

Abstract. Barium is widely used as a proxy for dissolved nutrients and particulate organic carbon fluxes in seawater. However, these proxy applications are limited by insufficient knowledge of the dissolved distribution of Ba ([Ba]). For example, there is significant spatial variability in the Ba–Si relationship, and ocean chemistry may influence sedimentary Ba preservation. To help address these issues, we developed 4,095 models for predicting [Ba] using Gaussian Progress Regression Machine Learning. These models were trained to predict [Ba] from standard oceanographic observations using GEOTRACES data from the Arctic, Atlantic, Pacific, and Southern Oceans. Trained models were then validated by comparing predictions against withheld [Ba] data from the Indian Ocean. We find that a model using depth, T, S, [O2], [PO4], and [NO3] as predictors can accurately predict [Ba] in the Indian Ocean with a mean absolute percentage deviation of 6.3 %. We use this model to simulate [Ba] on a global basis using these same six predictors in the World Ocean Atlas. The resulting [Ba] distribution constrains the total Ba budget of the ocean to 122±8 × 1012 mol and clarifies the global relationship between dissolved Ba and Si. We also calculate the saturation state of seawater with respect to barite, revealing that the ocean below 1,000 m is, on average, at or near saturation. We describe a number of possible applications for our model output, ranging from use in biogeochemical models to paleoproxy calibration. Our approach could be extended to other trace elements with relatively minor adjustments and demonstrates the utility of machine learning to accurately simulate the distributions of tracers in the sea.
Sensitivity of NEMO4.0-SI3 model parameters on sea ice budgets in the Southern Ocean
Authors: Nie Yafei , Li Chengkun , Vancoppenolle Martin , Cheng Bin , Boeira Dias Fabio , Lv Xianqing , Uotila Petteri
Published: March 2023

Abstract. The seasonally dependent Antarctic sea ice concentration
(SIC) budget is well observed and synthesizes many important air–sea–ice
interaction processes. However, it is rarely well simulated in Earth system
models, and means to tune the former are not well understood. In this study,
we investigate the sensitivity of 18 key NEMO4.0-SI3 (Nucleus for
European Modelling of the Ocean coupled with the Sea Ice Modelling
Integrated Initiative) model parameters on modelled SIC and sea ice volume
(SIV) budgets in the Southern Ocean based on a total of 449 model runs and
two global sensitivity analysis methods. We found that the simulated SIC and SIV
budgets are sensitive to ice strength, the thermal conductivity of snow, the
number of ice categories, two parameters related to lateral melting,
ice–ocean drag coefficient and air–ice drag coefficient. An optimized
ice–ocean drag coefficient and air–ice drag coefficient can reduce the
root-mean-square error between simulated and observed SIC budgets by about
10 %. This implies that a more accurate calculation of ice velocity is the
key to optimizing the SIC budget simulation, which is unlikely to be
achieved perfectly by simply tuning the model parameters in the presence of
biased atmospheric forcing. Nevertheless, 10 combinations of
NEMO4.0-SI3 model parameters were recommended, as they could yield
better sea ice extent and SIC budgets than when using the standard values.
Empirical tsunami fragility modelling for hierarchical damage levels
Authors: Jalayer Fatemeh , Ebrahimian Hossein , Trevlopoulos Konstantinos , Bradley Brendon
Published: March 2023

Abstract. The present work proposes a simulation-based Bayesian method for parameter
estimation and fragility model selection for mutually exclusive and
collectively exhaustive (MECE) damage states. This method uses an adaptive
Markov chain Monte Carlo simulation (MCMC) based on likelihood estimation
using point-wise intensity values. It identifies the simplest model that
fits the data best, among the set of viable fragility models considered. The
proposed methodology is demonstrated for empirical fragility assessments for
two different tsunami events and different classes of buildings with varying
numbers of observed damage and flow depth data pairs. As case studies,
observed pairs of data for flow depth and the corresponding damage level from
the South Pacific tsunami on 29 September 2009 and the Sulawesi–Palu
tsunami on 28 September 2018 are used. Damage data related to a total of five
different building classes are analysed. It is shown that the proposed
methodology is stable and efficient for data sets with a very low number of
damage versus intensity data pairs and cases in which observed data are
missing for some of the damage levels.
IMPACTS OF OIL POLLUTION ON THE HEAVY METAL CONTENT OF THE MANGROVE ECOSYSTEM IN SOME STATES OF THE NIGER DELTA
Authors: EMUEDO O. A. , ANOLIEFO G. O. , EMUEDO G. O.
Published: March 2023

The Niger Delta is the hub of crude oil exploration and exploitation activities in Nigeria. Oil activities have given rise to numerous incidences of oil spills into the environment, especially the mangrove ecosystem. This study investigates the impacts of oil spills on the mangrove ecosystem. Sediment samples were obtained from the mangrove rhizosphere, in three areas, two in areas of high oil activities; (Nembe and Okrika) and the third (Okpare) devoid of oil activities. The sediments were analysed for their physiochemical parameters. The results showed the presence of some heavy metals (Zinc-3.18 – 3.6 mg/kg; Chromium-1.57 - 1.67 mg/kg; Lead-1.5 – 1.65 mg/kg; Copper-1.77 – 2.03 mg/kg and Cadmium-1.69 – 1.71mg/kg) in the sediments. There was no significant difference (p?0.05) in the concentration of heavy metals at the three sites. The pH of the sediments was acidic, ranging from 5.13 - 5.43. There was also presence of hydrocarbons and oil-grease in high concentrations. The study concludes that the mangrove ecosystem in the entire Niger Delta appears to have been impacted upon by oil activities.
ANURAN SPECIES DIVERSITY IN OGBA COMMUNITY, BENIN CITY, NIGERIA
Authors: OGOANAH O. S. , OKUNDAYE A. I.
Published: March 2023

Anuran diversity and abundance in Ogba community, Benin City, Nigeria was studied in five different sites between April and September 2011. Specimens were collected using the Visual Encounter and Acoustic survey methods. A total of 232 individuals belonging to four families, eight genera and twelve species were recorded. Species encountered included Afrixalus dorsalis, Amnirana albolabris, Arthroleptis poecilonatus, Bufo maculatus, Hoplobatrachus occipitalis, Hyperolius concolor, Leptopelis hyloides, Ptychadena bibroni, P. longirostris, P. mascareniensis, P. oxyrhynchus and P. pumilio. The most dominant species was Bufo maculatus (49.6 %) while Hyperolius concolor and Ptychadena longirostris were represented by one specimen each (0.43 %). Diversity was highest in the site with closed canopy (H=1.98) and least in the site with habitat alteration (H= 0.22) showing a positive correlation between amphibian diversity and forest cover. Conservation of our forests and amphibian habitats would help in conserving these little known amphibians which are on the verge of decline
HEALTH LITERACY AMONG WORKERS IN BENIN CITY, EDO STATE
Authors: USIFOH S. F. , OLAOYE O. I. , ODILI V. U.
Published: March 2023

Health literacy is the degree to which individuals can obtain, process and understand the basic health information and services they need to make appropriate health decisions.The objective of study was to determine health literacy level among workers, assess their ability to seek, understand and utilize health information and their capacity to retain and process health information. A cross sectional study of workers was done using a structured self administered one paged questionnaire which contained socio-demographics; health status indeces and functional Health literacy items. A total of 350 questionnaires were distributed but only 300 were returned and analyzed giving a return rate of 85.71%. In the previous 6 months, only 149 (49.7%) of respondents had conducted any form of medical examination. 231 (77%) understood instructions on how to use their drugs and hypertension: 11(3.7%) was the highest disease condition that respondents were aware that they had. 241 (80.3%) knew their blood group while 59(19.7%) did not know their blood group. 41(13.7%) and 145(48.3%) of the respondents also did not know their genotype and Rhesus factor respectively.144( 48%) of respondents had not gone for any medical screening. 149(49.7%) respondents obtained drug information from doctors while 76(25.3%) were from pharmacist. In addition, 43 (14.3%) of respondents could not understand instructions on how to take their medication. Knowledge of availability of vaccines was relatively poor. For HIV/AIDS, 47(15.7 %) of the respondents believe there is vaccine while 130(43.3%) were confident that a vaccine is available for malaria. In conclusion,this study reveals poor attitude to health by the civil servants and the level of health literacy is low thus it is pertinent to design an ideal training program for pharmacists and other health care providers so that they can improve the literacy level in order to achieve better healthcare outcomes of the society
SEXUAL BEHAVIOUR AND KNOWLEDGE OF HIV/AIDS AMONG SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS IN OKPEKPE COMMUNITY, EDO STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: ADAM V. Y. , IYOHA D. O. , ISAH E. C.
Published: March 2023

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are a major public health problem among adolescents and young adults in Nigeria and globally. The aim of the study was to determine the sexual behaviour and knowledge of HIV/AIDS among adolescents in a rural secondary school in Edo State, Nigeria. A total of 290 senior secondary school students enrolled in the only secondary school in Okpekpe, a rural community in Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State were recruited and interviewed for this study. All the participants gave informed consent and were interviewed with structured researcher administered questionnaire. The participants comprised of 154 (53.1%) males and 136 (46.1%) females, aged between 12-38 years (mean age of 17.9±2.9 years). Of the 290 students, 256 (88.3%) were aware of HIV/AIDS. Only, 102 (39.8%) of the participants had a good knowledge of HIV/AIDS and 164 (64.6%) had poor knowledge of risky sexual behaviour. One hundred and forty one (48.6%) reported having had sexual intercourse with the mean age of sexual debut being 15.9±2.6 years. Sixty (42.6%) of the sexually active students reportedly did not use condom during sexual intercourse. The study further revealed the need to promote sexual and reproductive health among young people especially of school age in both rural and urban areas through school and community based education and activities
LATERALITY IN EYE DOMINANCE, EYE ACUITY AND HANDEDNESS AMONG YOUNG UNDERGRADUATES IN BENIN CITY
Authors: EBEIGBE J. A. , KIO F. E.
Published: March 2023

Eye or ocular dominance is the superiority of one eye whose visual function predominates over the other. Acuity dominance is a situation where the visual acuity in one eye is better than the other eye without an underlying pathology. The aim of this study was to determine if any laterality exist among these variables. This was a cross sectional study. The study comprised of 100 subjects, 55 males and 45 females within the age range of 18-35 years (mean age 25 ±1.77). All subjects were from Ugbowo and Ekehuan campuses of the University of Benin City. Distant visual acuity was measured using the Snellen?s chart. The miles test was used to determine eye dominance, while handedness was recorded by observing subjects as they picked up a pen to write. Among the study population, 63% had the right eye as the better visual acuity (BVA) eye, of this 54% had laterality with the dominant eye. This was statistically significant, (X2 =10.240, p=0.01). Also, 66% of the study population had laterality of BVA eye with handedness. Of this, 57% showed right side laterality while 9% showed left side laterality. This was statistically significant, (X2=9.000, p=0.002). Right eye dominance was recorded in 78% of the study population, of this 70% showed laterality with right handedness. Of the 22% with left eye dominance, only 7% showed laterality with left handedness. This was also statistically significant, (X2 =32.511, p=0.000). There was also no statistical significance between the studied variables and gender
DUMPSTER DIVING FOR DISCARDED MATERIALS: A SECURITY CONCERN
Authors: EGWALI A. O. , AKWUKWUMA V. V. N.
Published: March 2023

As the notion of the paperless office gain popularity, increasingly data is being inputted, appraised and transferred to the required destination within split seconds. Sometimes this information are printed on documents or stored in electronic devices. When these materials are no longer needed they are dumped in trashcans which continue to attract dumpster divers and form hazards in the environment. The exposures of the contents of some trashcans debris are classified information on paper or disks. Sometimes dumpster divers dig through garbage cans in search of these classified materials. When such sensitive information is in the custody of an identity attacker, the resultant harm can be devastating. This paper discusses a form of computer attack known as dumpster diving. It analyzes dumpster divers‘ profile, motivation for divers and types of dumpster diving attacks. Recommendations are proffered that addresses vulnerable users‘ practices that reduces the success level of dumpsters
SEROPREVALENCE OF ACTIVE Chlamydia trachomatis INFECTION AMONG HIV PATIENTS IN BENIN CITY, NIGERIA
Authors: OGEFERE H. O. , OWHIN E.
Published: March 2023

Chlamydia trachomatis infection is the most common sexually transmitted infection world wide and if untreated, facilitates the acquisition or spread of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) amongst other consequences. This study is aimed at determining the seroprevalence of active Chlamydia trachomatis infection among asymptomatic HIV patients. A total of 143 subjects consisting of 112 HIV (85 on highly active antiretroviral therapy [HAART] and 27 HAART-naive) patients and 31 apparently healthy non – HIV subjects, were recruited for this study. Blood samples were collected from all subjects and plasma obtained, were used to detect IgG antibodies using an enzyme immunoassay kit. CD4+ T-lymphocyte count was determined for the HIV patients using standard technique. The seroprevalence of active Chlamydia trachomatis infection was higher among HIV patients (7.14%) compared with their non – HIV counter part (3.23%). However, the difference was not statistically significant (P = 0.7062). Active Chlamydia trachomatis infection was not detected among HAART – naive HIV patients, but was only observed among HIV patients on HARRT (9.41%). Seroprevalence of active Chlamydia trachomatis infection did not differ significantly among both gender of the study subjects (P > 0.05). Active Chlamydia trachomatis infection did not differ significantly, (P = 0.5784) between HIV patients with CD4 count < 200 cells/?L (4.35%) and those with CD4 count > 200cells/?L (11.29%). An overall seroprevalence of 6.29% of active Chlamydia trachomatis infection was observed in this study. Among HIV patients, active Chlamydia trachomatis infection was observed only among HIV patients on HAART. Further studies are needed to determine the effect of active Chlamydia trachomatis infection among HIV patients on HAART
INFLUENCE OF ANTHOCYANIN-FREE AQUEOUS EXTRACT OF Hibiscus sabdariffa L PETAL ON CADMIUM TOXICITY IN MALE RATS
Authors: OBI F. O. , FADAIRO E. A.
Published: March 2023

The effects of anthocyanin-free aqueous extract of Hibiscus sabdariffa petal on body weight gain, organ/body weight ratio and selected toxicological indices in cadmium intoxicated male rats were examined. When compared to cadmium-free and extract-free control ,cadmium caused significant (P < 0.05) decreases in prostate/body weight and testis/body weight ratios .Prostatic acid phosphatase activity (only in prostate) and catalase activities in the prostate and testis were also significantly ( P < 0.05 ) increased. It was also found to have increased malondialdehyde (MDA) concentrations significantly (P < 0.05) relative to the cadmium-free and extract- free control rats. Pretreatment of rats with anthocyanin-free aqueous extract of H. sabdariffa offered 51.8 and 32.7% protection to the prostate and testis respectively against cadmium-induced decreases in prostate/body weight and testis/body weight ratios relative to rats exposed to cadmium alone. The extract also caused 55.0% decrease in cadmium – mediated inhibition of prostatic acid phosphatase activity in the prostate and 81.8% decrease in its enhancement of superoxide dismutase activity in prostate relative to rats exposed to cadmium alone. Prior exposure of rats to the extract before cadmium significantly (p < 0.05) reduced superoxide dismutase activity in the prostate when compared to the rats exposed to cadmium only. Anthocyanin-free extract of the aqueous extract H. sabdariffa petal therefore offers partial, protection against cadmium – induced changes in prostate and testes
EFFECT OF Hoslundia opposita LEAFY VEGETABLE ON SOME ANTIOXIDANT ENZYMES IN SOME ORGANS OF NORMAL WISTAR RATS
Authors: OBOH H. A. , OLUMESE F. E. , AGUEBOR-OGIE N. B. , NUAGBE O. E.
Published: March 2023

Hoslundia opposita leaves were fed to wistar rats. Lipid peroxidation and the effects of antioxidant enzymes in the liver, heart and kidney were assessed. Thirty adult female rats (average weight of 110 ± 10gms) were used for the assay. The groups were five subgroups: consisting of control and four other groups fed with the rat chow mixed with varying concentrations of 200, 400, 600 and 800mg plant material/Kg body weight, respectively on a daily basis within a period of 12weeks. The level of peroxidation in the organs of the rat using Malondialdehyde (MDA) as a marker, showed fluctuations, in the MDA levels of the liver and kidney. However, the kidney showed significant increases at the end of the study while the liver and heart showed a decline. Catalase activities of the organs ( liver, kidney and heart ) decreased significantly (P<0.05) during the feeding of different concentration of the dried leaves respectively from (4.860 ± 0.330unit/min to 2.59 ± 0.40unit/min , 4.97 ± 0.230unit/min to 2.89 ± 0.56unit/min and 3.76 ± 0.840unit/min to 3.15 ± 0.35unit/min ). After six weeks of consuming400-800mg of the plant material/Kg body weight, a significant increase (P<0.05) in catalase was obtained in the kidney and heart which declined significantly thereafter. Superoxide diamutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidise (GPx) generally increased in all groups in the liver, heart and kidney when compared with the control.The results revealed that the the plant could modulate antioxidant enzymes which could be due to the bioactive constituents of the leaves.
PREVALENCE OF METALLO-?-LACTAMASE RESISTANT GRAM-NEGATIVE BACILLI IN BENIN CITY, NIGERIA
Authors: OGEFERE H. O. , AUDU E. O.
Published: March 2023

Detection of metallo-?-lactamase (MBL) is crucial in the management and control of difficult to treat infections. This study aims to determine the prevalence of MBL – producing Gram-negative bacilli among imipenem-resistant multi-drug resistant (MDR) clinical isolates. A total of 224 consecutive MDR Gram-negative bacilli consisting of Escherichia coli (78), Klebsiella species (64), Proteus species (40) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (40) were used for this study. Imipenem disc susceptibility test was performed on all isolates and MBL detection was performed on imipenem-resistant isolates using standard techniques. Of the 224 MDR isolates tested, 37 (16.52%) were imipenem resistant and the prevalence of this resistant isolates was significantly higher in Ps. aeruginosa (35.00%) compared to others (P = 0.005). Among, the imipenem-resistant isolates, the prevalence of MBL production was highest in Ps. aeruginosa (14.29%) followed by Escherichia coli (11.11%), Klebsiella species (10.00%) and Proteus species (0%). However, the difference in prevalence was not statistically significant (P = 0.8807). Conclusively, Ps. aeruginosa was the most prevalent microorganism that was resistant to imipenem. An overall prevalence of 10.81% of MBL producers was observed among imipenem-resistant microbial isolates. Measures to control and prevent the spread of MBL producing and imipenem-resistant microbial isolates are advocated.
PHYTOCHEMICAL SCREENING, PROXIMATE COMPOSITION AND MINERAL CONTENT OF FUMTUMIA ELASTICA (PREUSS) STAPF. LEAF EXTRACTS
Authors: OKUGBO O. T. , OMOREGIE E. S.
Published: March 2023

Funtumia elastica (Lagos silk rubber), a member of the Apocynaceae family, is popularly used in the Western region of Nigeria in the treatment of hemorrhoid and more recently malaria fever. In this study, we evaluated the proximate composition, mineral content and phytochemical screening of extracts of F.elastica (FE) leaves. Dried powdered plant leaves were extracted in ethanol to obtain the ethanolic extract and distilled water to obtain aqueous extract. The resulting extracts were used to analyze for the proximate content, mineral content and phytochemicals constituents. The proximate analysis results of the dried ground leaves of FE (%) showed high moisture (63.8 ± 0.45), crude fibre (16.77 ± 1.23) and crude carbohydrate (14.98 ± 2.47) content. There were moderate ash (4.0 ±0.06), very low crude protein (0.03 ± 0.001) and crude fat (0.42 ± 0.011) content. Analysis of some of the mineral constituents of FE (mg % of dried weight) showed that it contains sodium (0.24 ± 0.03), potassium (0.01 ± 0.0034), magnesium (0.9 ± 0.048), calcium (3.5 ± 0.27) and phosphorus (0.70 ± 0.015). Phytochemical screening of the ethanolic and aqueous extracts of FE revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, steroids, terpenoids, reducing sugars and anthraquinones. However, saponins, cardiac glycosides and tannins were detected in the ethanolic extract only. The nutritional and phytochemical constituents of Funtumia elastica leaves may support its ethno-botanical uses in folk medicine
STUDIES ON PHYSICO-CHEMICAL PARAMETERS OF A TROPICAL RIVER IN THE RAINY SEASON
Authors: OMOIGBERALE M. O. , AINERUA M. O. , EDIONSERE E.
Published: March 2023

The physico-chemical parameters of Okhuiahe River, Nigeria were investigated during the rainy season months (May to October, 2011) to assess the water quality of the river. Samples were collected from four stations and a total of eighteen physico-chemical parameters were determined using standard methods. The mean concentrations of these parameters in the river ranged from 24.0oC – 26.3oC for air temperature, 21.7oC -24.0oC (water temperature), 24.3 – 37.4 CTU (colour), 84.4 – 146.3cm (transparency), 5.50 – 7.40 NTU (turbidity), 1.0 – 2.17mgl-1 (TSS), 11.8 – 14.4 mgl-1 (TDS), 13.33 – 15.36 mgl-1 (TS), 3.95 – 4.18 mgl-1 (DO), 3.18 – 3.86 mgl-1 (BOD5), 15.8 – 19.1?s/cm (conductivity), 6.35 – 6.50 (pH), 26.5 – 31.4 mgl-1 (chloride), 5.83 – 11.0 mgHCO3-1 (total hardness), 15.9 – 19.3mgl-1 (alkalinity), 0.73 – 1.87 mgl-1 (calcium), 0.97 – 2.02 mgl-1 (magnesium), 2.72 – 3.47mgl-1 (sulphate), 0.18 – 0.25 mgl-1 (nitrate) and 0.08 – 0.12mgl-1 (phosphate). With the exception of water temperature and transparency which were significantly different (P<0.05), all other physico-chemical parameters were not significantly different (P>0.05) in the study stations. The impact of anthropogenic activities on the water was insignificant as all parameters were homogenous across the study stations, and were under the maximum permissible levels of WHO guidelines for domestic usage.
CURRENT STATUS OF PLANT DIVERSITY AND CONSERVATION IN NIGERIA
Authors: OSAWARU M. E. , OGWU M. C. , AHANA C. M.
Published: March 2023

A healthy ecosystem depends on plant diversity amongst other factors. Plant diversity is the variability of plant species and the ecological processes that support them within a specified geographical region.About 7,895 plant species have been recorded with 128 endemic species in Nigeria. Its relevance in any nation to human development is in the areas of agriculture, human health, business and industry, leisure, cultural and aesthetic values and ecological services. Nigeria is gifted with immense flora diversity due largely to its location. However, as the most populated country in Africa, large proportion of this natural resources are threatened by factors such as over-collecting, unsustainable agriculture and forestry practices, urbanization, pollution, land use changes, the spread of invasive alien species, climate change and lack of information about the present status of most habitats, species and other key data. Nigeria plant diversity needs to be sustainably utilized and conserved. In response, both the Government and a number of Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), donors, universities, and technical centers in Nigeria have devised and implemented many approaches to protect plant diversity although much work is yet undone. There is a network of protected areas in which encourage sustainable uses of plant and related natural resources so that future generations can benefit. This paper is an appraisal of existing system with the aim to support the improvement of this network and system
ONCHOCERCIASIS: KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE AND PRACTICE TO DISEASE INTERVENTION AMONG RESIDENTS IN AN ENDEMIC VILLAGE IN ONDO STATE, SOUTHWEST NIGERIA
Authors: AFOLABI O. J. , OKAKA C. E. , SIMON-OKE I. A. , ONIYA M. O.
Published: March 2023

The study of Onchocerciasis was undertaken in Imeri, an endemic community in Ondo State, Nigeria. The skin snip method was employed in the examination of the nodules that characterize the disease followed by application of structured questionnaires on knowledge attitude and practice (KAP) of the disease. Of the 194 respondents interviewed and screened for onchocerciasis, 62 (32%) respondents, were positive for microfilariae of Onchocerca volvulus. 150(77.3%) respondents claimed ignorance of the aetiology of the disease while 44(22.7%) showed appreciable knowledge of the disease. 184(94.8%) respondents received ivermectin but 156 (80.4%) actually took the drug during the study and 10(5.2%) showed apathy to the drug. 60 (30.9%) of the respondents complained of side effects but the side effects were more among the infected persons (25.8%) than the uninfected persons (5.1%). The study showed good attitude towards reception and use of ivermectin, however there was a dearth of knowledge about the aetiology and transmission of the disease in the community despite its endemicity. Routine enlightenment programmes in native tongue may be necessary for effective and lasting intervention
WATER STABILITY AND NUTRIENTS RETENTION OF FISH DIETS PRODUCED WITH DIFFERENT FLOATING AND BINDING AGENTS
Authors: FALAYI B. A. , SADIKU S. O. E.
Published: March 2023

In attempt to produce buoyant feed for Catfish and Tilapia fishes without extrusion, twenty eight (28) iso-proteic (30% Crude protein) multi-caloric (21.00-40.00 Kcal/g) diets were formulated and compounded with cooked and uncooked Maize, Cassava, Wheat starches and Aquatec-11 as binders. Duckweed Lemnna paucicostata, Baker‘s yeast Saccharamyces cerevisiae and Honey comb (animal exudates) were involved as floating agents. Investigation were carried out on diets stability and nutrients (Crude proteins and Crude lipids) retention in glass tanks measuring 60X30X30cm3 in 60 minutes at 10 minutes interval to substantiate diets efficacy in aquaculture input management. The results revealed significant (P<0.05) superiority in water stability, proteins and lipids retention in diets bond with Aquatec-11 over cooked starches and uncooked wheat flour starch from 20 minutes to end of immersion period. Cooked and uncooked wheat flour starch and cooked cassava tuber starch were significantly (p<0.05) superior to maize among the local binders. There were general trends in that proteins and lipids leached as time of immersion increases and that the rate at which proteins leached were faster than the lipids irrespective of binding or floating agents. Therefore their use as feeds is highly recommended.
COMPARATIVE ANTIOXIDANT STUDIES AND CYTOTOXIC ACTIVITIES OF THE METHANOL EXTRACT AND FRACTIONS OF JATROPHA TANJORENSIS LEAF, STEM AND ROOT
Authors: ABIODUN F. , OSAYEMWENRE E. , NADJA E. , ANTHONY A. , TAGHOGHO O.
Published: March 2023

Jatropha tanjorensis commonly called ?catholic vegetable? is a tropical plant of the Euphorbiaceae family. The present study is designed to investigate and compare the antioxidant, anti proliferative and apoptotic activities of the leaves, stem and root of the plant. Phytochemical constituents and quantitative parameters of the powdered plant samples were done according to standard methods. The methanol extracts of the plant parts were fractionated with petroleum ether, chloroform and ethyl acetate. The antioxidant activities of the extracts and fractions were evaluated using the 1, 1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical scavenging method. The effect of the extracts and fractions on cell viability was evaluated by the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-5-(3-carboxymethoxyphenyl)-2-(4-sulfophenyl)-2H-tetrazolium (MTS) assay. The anti proliferative and apoptotic effects of the extracts and fractions (50 ?g/mL) on human breast cancer cell line (MCF-7) were investigated by flow cytometry. Phytochemical screening showed the presence of carbohydrates, phenolics and flavonoids in the leaves, stem and root. The plant exhibited good radical scavenging activity with the chloroform fractions being the most effective with IC50 values of 111.72, 70.20 and 103.56 ?g/mL for leaves, stem and root respectively. The MTS assay and cell cycle analysis showed no significant difference in MCF-7 cell viability, proliferation and apoptosis in treated group compared to the control (P > 0.05). The present study therefore revealed that Jatropha tanjorensis especially the stem and root hold potential for use as natural plant antioxidant in protecting against free radical damage
LENGTH FREQUENCY DISTRIBUTION, ALLOMETRIC GROWTH AND MORPHOMETRIC CHARACTERISTICS OF Oreochromis niloticus FROM OVIA RIVER
Authors: OLELE N. F. , KEMIE L. A. , ADAKA G. S.
Published: March 2023

Oreochromis niloticus is one of the most widespread species in Africa. Its introduction around the world is of economic and social benefit especially in rural communities where they are caught from the wild or cultured in captivity. Length frequency distribution was used to estimate the age of this commercial fish species between May to October, 2012. A year old (1+) specimen had a total length in the size class of 100-121 mm. Other size classes whose total length measurements are (133-165 mm, 166-176 mm and 188-220 mm) corresponded to ages of (2+, 3+ and 4+) as stated. Significant relationships existed between total length and body weight measurements resulting in 'r' value of (0.88) for male and (0.813) for female. The regression coefficient ‘b’ for males was (1.903) while that for females was (1.887). Both values were less than three, indicating negative allometric growth. Characterization of lengths of body parts, otherwise known as morphometric measurement, revealed that there was a significant relationship between total length and lengths of other body part including: length of scales (0.599), right eye diameter (0.883), left eye diameter (0.571), otoliths (0.881) and body weight (0.594) for males. Likewise in female specimens, the opercula bone (0.666) and otoliths length (0.814) showed significant relationships with total length of the fish. This study has shown that it is possible to age Nile Tilapia using length frequency distribution. Therefore length frequency distribution, in conjunction with other methods could also be investigated in further studies for the aging of same fish species in other water bodies as well as their investigation in other fish species, for a better understanding and management of the lives of fishes and fish populations.
WATER QUALITY ASSESSMENT OF OSSE RIVER, EDO STATE, NIGERIA, USING SOME PHYSICO-CHEMICAL PARAMETERS
Authors: OSAGIE E. , FIDELIA A.
Published: March 2023

This paper reports a sixteen month investigation of the pattern of variation of the physico-chemical parameters of Osse River from January 2003 to April 2004.Water samples for physical and chemical analysis were collected into a 250ml container and analyzed at the chemistry division in Nigeria Institute for Oil Palm Research (NIFOR). The methods described by America Public Health Association (APHA, 1998) were used for physical and chemical analysis. Seasonal fluctuations were recorded among the limnological variables. The driving forces for these fluctuations were the rainy and dry seasons.Apart from pH which was not significantly different (P>0.05), all other parameters studied where significantly different among the stations investigated (P<0.05).
BACTERIOLOGICAL CHARACTERIZATION OF SOILS AND LEACHEATES FROM MUNICIPAL DUMPSITES IN BENIN CITY, NIGERIA
Authors: OVIASOGIE F. E. , EGHAFONA N. O. , ENABULELE O. I. , AGBONLAHOR D. E. , OVIASOGIE P. O.
Published: March 2023

Bacteriological and physiochemical analysis were carried out on soil and leacheates using standard scientific methods. A total of 80 samples (soil and leacheates) from waste dumpsites were obtained from 4 sites in Benin City; (University of Benin, Costain Road, University of Benin Teaching Hospital and Government Reservation Area dumpsites). Standard microbiological methods were adopted for bacteria isolation, characterization and identification. Bacillus cereus, Bacillus subtilis, Klebsiella aerogenes, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Proteus mirabilis were identified from the specimens. The most prevalent isolates from environmental waste were B. subtilis, K. pneumoniae and B. cereus (50% each) while the least were P. aeruginosa, E. coli, P. mirabilis and K. aerogenes (5% each). Bacterial viable count was highest in soil (1.92 X 106 cfu/g) from Costain dumpsites while from leachate samples, bacterial burden was highest in Uniben dumpsite (1.79 X 106 cfu/ml). Physico-chemical analysis of soil and leachate from the four dumpsites included test for pH, electrical conductivity, total dissolved solute, calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium oxide, nitrogen oxide, chloride, sulphates, carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, ammonium chloride, silt and clay. Soils from all dumpsites appeared generally sandy. Statistical analysis was performed using two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) to locate significant microbial load of micro organisms obtained from dumpsites. Results revealed that there was significant difference between microbial loads in dumpsites (P<0.001).
PRODUCTION OF BIOSURFACTANT BY ACTINOMYCETES ISOLATED FROM PLASTIC-ENRICHED COMPOSTING SOIL
Authors: ATUANYA E. I. , ANULUDE O. C. , DUNKWU-OKAFOR A.
Published: March 2023

This study examined the production of biosurfactant by plastic-enriched composting- soil actinomycetes. Starch casein medium was used for the isolation of the actinomycetes. The plastic-enriched composting soil samples were obtained from Edo State Waste Management Dumpsite located at Iyowa Community in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. From the physico-chemical parameters analysed, it was revealed that the presence of plastic compost in the soil resulted in increase in the mean value of chloride content (12.81± 0.33 mg/kg). The total hydrocarbon and carbon contents were 2.60±0.04 and 2.09±0.3 (mg/kg) respectively and were appreciably high owing to plastic debris and organic waste deposited in the site. The biosurfactant producing organism isolated in the study was confirmed to be Streptomyces sp. based on morphological and biochemical tests. The isolate was screened for their ability to produce biosurfactant. The biosurfactant produced was screened for its emulsification activity and surface tension reduction ability by subjecting them to varied temperatures, pH and salt contents. The biosurfactant was found to have a better surface tension of 101.00±0.00 dynes/cm at a lower temperature than at a higher temperature but was reverse for the emulsification activity as it was better at a higher temperature of 121oC (36.33±0.67) than a lower temperature. Furthermore, surface tension and emulsification activity were better at an alkaline pH of 10(118.00± 1.00) and (34.33± 0.33) respectively. There were little effects of salt concentration on biosurfactants surface tension and emulsification activity. The biosurfactant produced from Streptomyces sp was confirmed at be a glycolipid.
SOIL POLLUTION AS A FUNCTION OF DISTANCE FROM DUMPSITE
Authors: CHOKOR J. U. , AGBAI W. P.
Published: March 2023

The study examined the distribution of pollutants as a function of distances from dumpsites. The study was carried out around a dumpsite at Amassoma–a semi urban environment in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of Bayelsa State,Nigeria (latitude 4.97°N and longitude 6.11°E). Soils samples were collected using augers from depths of 0-15cm and 15 -30cm at interval of 20m (from 0-20-40-60-80-100m); soil samples at the 100m distance were used as the control. Physico-chemical properties of the soils collected were determined in the laboratory. The auger hole method was used to determine the hydraulic conductivity of the soil for indicating the ease of transmission of pollutants in the soil.The hydraulic conductivity value was 0.7m/day indicating high rate of leaching. Result indicated that most of the cations decreased with increasing distances from the dumpsite and with increasing soil depth. Nutrient levels were high, the total N values were high (1.48%), K (0.07%), P (8.55%) and Organic matter values were also high (4.89%). The base saturation was high at 69.8% and 67.49% at 0-15cm and 15-30cm depth respectively. The rate of soil pollution decreased as a function of the distances from the dumpsite. The concentration of heavy metals in the soil was found to be below the permissible level of W.H.O making it harmless and usable for agricultural purposes
HEAVY METAL CONCENTRATIONS IN FISH (Albula vulpes) OF BENIN RIVER IN RELATION TO HUMAN HEALTH
Authors: ENUNEKU A. A. , EZEMONYE L. I. , EYO P.
Published: March 2023

Health risk assessment of heavy metal contamination in humans through consumption of Albula vulpes from Benin River, in Koko Town (Southern Nigeria) was studied. Assessment of heavy metal concentrations was conducted in the liver, kidney and muscles of the fishes using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer. Mean heavy metal concentrations for Zn, Cd, Pb, Mn, As and Ni in A. vulpes were 0.69, 0.20, 0.04, 0.16, 0.13 and 0.23mg/kg for liver, 0.29, 0.08, 0.02, 0.06, 0.05 and 0.09mg/kg for muscle, 0.61, 0.18, 0.03, 0.14, 0.11 and 0.20mg/kg for kidney respectively. Target hazard quotients (THQs) for Cd, Pb, As, Ni, Mn and Zn were 0.0010, 0.0007, 0.0214, 0.0006, 0.0001 and 0.0001. The highest THQ value was for Arsenic (0.0214). The least THQ value was for Mn (0.0001). The total THQ (TTHQ) was 0.0239 and this was less than 1, suggesting that the consumption of A. vulpes is unlikely to cause any adverse health effects to consumers.
EFFECTS OF CADMIUM AND HIBISCUS SABDARIFFA LINN CALYX EXTRACT ON ORGAN GRAVIMETRY AND LIPID PROFILE OF THE AFRICAN CATFISH (CLARIAS GARIEPINUS)
Authors: OBI F. O. , OGUNBIYI J. O. , AKANDE S. A. , OSEJI J. U.
Published: March 2023

The effects of cadmium alone and that of cadmium plus aqueous extract of the calyx of Hibiscus sabdariffa Linn on organ gravimetry and lipid profile of the African catfish (Clarias gariepinus) have been examined. The treatments did not alter the brain-, gill- and liver- body weight ratios when compared to the cadmium and extract- free group, the control. Relative to the control group, brain and gill homogenates‘ total- and LDL-cholesterol concentrations were significantly (P < 0.05) decreased in the group of fish exposed to cadmium alone. Exposure to cadmium alone also caused significant (P < 0.05) increase in liver triacylglycerol relative to the control. When compared to the group exposed to cadmium only fish exposed to cadmium and 0.25% aqueous extract of Hibiscus sabdariffa Linn calyx had significantly (P < 0.05) higher, brain total – and LDL-cholesterol levels. The latter treatment, combination of cadmium and extract did not alter the levels of triacylglycerol in the three organs examined relative to the cadmium only group. The aqueous extract of Hibiscus sabdariffa calyx therefore offers protection against cadmium-induced decrease in brain total-and LDL-cholesterol of the catfish, Clarias gariepinus.
NEAR VISUAL ACUITY IN PRE-SCHOOL VISION SCREENING: A COMPARISON OF TWO CHILDREN CHARTS OPTOTYPES
Authors: OSAIYUWU A. B. , ATUANYA G. N. , IMOBIGHE P.
Published: March 2023

Visual acuity measurement is a crucial part in an oculovisual examination. The purpose of this study was to compare near visual acuity in pre-school Children using two children charts – the Lea symbols chart and the Sheridan Gardiner chart. One hundred and fifty three (153) pre- school Children (72 males and 81 females) between the ages of 3 to 5 years (mean age 4.23 ± 0.78 years) were recruited from five randomly selected nursery schools. Near visual acuity was measured monocularly and binocularly after a pre-testing had been done. An interval 5minutes was allowed in testing using both charts. Age and sex of each child were documented. Results showed no statistically significant difference in near visual acuities using both charts (p > 0.05). Age and gender had no significant difference in the results from each chart
PHYTOCHEMICAL CONSTITUENTS AND ANTIMICROBIAL INVESTIGATION OF THE AQUEOUS EXTRACTS OF THE GEL AND LEAF OF Aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis MILLER) ON SELECTED MICROORGANISMS
Authors: OSHOMOH E. O. , IDU M. , EMEKA-KATANDU I.. E.
Published: March 2023

Objectives: Phytochemical constitutents and antimicrobial property of the aqueous extract of the gel and leaf extract on some pathogenic microorganisms. The phytochemical determined include Tannins, Saponins, Flavonoids and Alkaloids. The gel of Aloe vera extract had its highest antibacterial activity on B. subtilis (23.33±0.88) and highest antifungal activity on C. albicans (16.00±2.31). While the leaf of Aloe vera extract had its highest antibacterial activity on B. substilis and S. aureus (21.33±0.88) and highest antifungal activity on C. albicans (21.00±3.22). Comparatively, the Aloe vera gel extracts showed better antimicrobial activity than the Aloe vera leaf extracts against the pathogenic microorganisms in the study. The antimicrobial activities of Aloe vera gel and leaf extracts were compared to those of orthodox antibiotics (Ciprofloxacin and Ketoconanzone). From the results, the Aloe vera plant (gel and leaf) extracts showed better antimicrobial activity than the orthodox antibiotics, therefore, Aloe vera plant extracts have shown to have the ability to overcome antibiotics resistances amongst microorganisms. Results of the study on the gel and leaf extracts of Aloe vera indicates its potential as a source of chemotherapuetic agent that may be useful in medicine.
OPTIMIZING DNA EXTRACTION WITHOUT LYOPHILIZATION OR LIQUID NITROGEN GRINDINGFROM AFRICAN YAM BEAN (SPHENOSTYLIS STENOCARPA HOCHST EX. A. RICH.) HARMS TISSUES
Authors: SHITTU H. O. , DUROJAYE A. P. , UZAMA O. M. , ODENORE V. D. , EKE C. R.
Published: March 2023

DNA extraction is the first committed step in every molecular biological endeavour. This biomolecule can be isolated from any biological material for subsequent downstream processes. Most available protocols for nucleic acid extraction entail the use of either lyophilized tissues or liquid nitrogen in tissue grinding. These procedures pose a major limitation in the use of such protocols, especially in parts of the world where liquid nitrogen and freeze-dryer are not only expensive, but also very difficult to procure. The current study was an attempt to optimize DNA extraction procedure from African yam bean ({Sphenostylis stenocarpa Hochst ex. A. Rich.}Harms) tissues, employing the sodium dodecyl sulphate (SDS)-phenol method,without the use of lyophilization or liquid nitrogen grinding.The effect of grinding leaf tissue with acid washed sand in the protocol, phenol extraction, precipitating temperatures, ammonium acetate washing on DNA purity and yield were investigated. Spectrophotometric analysis was used to determine purity and DNA yield of extracts. The results showed that grinding plant tissue with acid-washed sand and precipitation at -20 oC significantly improved DNA yield and a single phenol treatment was sufficient for obtaining a pure extract. Comparatively, leaf was preferred to root and stem tissues for DNA extraction. The findings from this study indicated that high quality DNA could be extracted from African yam bean tissues without the costly use of liquid nitrogen or lyophilization.
EFFECT OF REGULAR CONSUMPTION OF CHARCOAL-BROILED BEEF ON SERUM AND LIVER VITAMIN A AND ?-CAROTENE LEVELS IN RATS
Authors: AGBADUA O. G. , OBI F. O.
Published: March 2023

In this study, the effects of sun-dried and charcoal-broiled beef compounded diets and their vitamin A supplemented versions on vitamin A and ?-carotene levels in rat liver and serum were examined. The rats were in five experimental groups; the sun-dried beef compounded diet only, the charcoal-broiled beef compounded diet only, growers mash plus vitamin A, sun-dried beef compounded diet plus vitamin A supplements, and charcoal-broiled beef compounded diet plus vitamin A supplements. The rats were given 0.8 g feed/g average group body weight in terms of feed for 14 days. The vitamin A supplements were administered to the rats by gavage at a dose of 400 IU units daily for 14 days. After 14 days, relative to rats given sun-dried beef compounded diet only, the rats given charcoal-broiled beef compounded diet only had a statistically significant decrease in ?-carotene and vitamin A levels in the liver, although there was a significant increase in ?-carotene levels in the serum. Administering vitamin A supplements to the compounded diets led to a significant (P < 0.05) increase in ?-carotene in the rat liver and serum compared to the rats given just the corresponding compounded diets only. The results presented here show that regular consumption of broiled beef leads to the production of bioactive metabolites or compounds which reduces vitamin A and ?-carotene levels in the serum and liver