bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Community-based Investigation of the Risk Factors for Cardiovascular Diseases in Ibadan and suburbs (COMBAT-CVDs)- Design and Methods
Authors: Okekunle A.P , Asowata O.J , Akinpeloye O.J , Olahan R , Ayodele A.E , Olaleye B.J , Akanni O.O , Akpa O.M
Published: June 2024

Africa is gradually becoming the epicentre for the burden of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) worldwide, and community-based data alluding to the pattern and dynamics of escalating epidemiological thresholds of CVDs among indigenous Africans are limited. This manuscript focuses on the design and methods of Community-based Investigation of the Risk Factors for Cardiovascular Diseases in Ibadan and suburbs (COMBAT-CVDs), an ongoing community-based door-to-door study assessing the profile, burden and dynamics of CVDs risk factors among residents of Ibadan and suburbs. COMBAT-CVDs is a cohort of community-dwelling indigenous Africans, males and females, ≥18years from ten communities in Ibadan, Nigeria. The recruitment of participants for the first wave (W0) started in 2020, covering; questionnaire administration and physical examination. The World Health Organization’s STEPS Instrument for Chronic Disease Risk Factor Surveillance was used for data collection. Data were collected on sociodemographic, socioeconomic and lifestyle-related characteristics, history of CVDs, stress, depression and sleep quality. Also, anthropometric and blood pressure measures were conducted by trained personnel using standard operating procedures and instruments. Data collection for the second wave is underway, and the collection of blood and other biological samples for genetic epidemiology is planned, subject to availability of funds. For the W0 recruitment, a total of 3638 community-dwelling adults (males – 54.6% and females – 45.4%) participated with a ≥99.7% response rate. The COMBAT-CVDs will likely provide novel data, insightful characterization of CVDs risk factors and evidence for context-specific and culturally relevant interventions for the community-based prevention and management of CVDs among Africans in this setting
Genetic Diversity of Plasmodium falciparum Based on Merozoite Surface Proteins 1 and 2 Genes
Authors: Nyamngee A , Edogun H.A , Sulaiman M.K , Ikpe R.T , Njan A.A
Published: June 2024

Genetic diversity of Plasmodium falciparum is an important feature that makes the parasite a successful pathogen and is a risk factor for generating mutant variants involved in pathogenicity, drug resistance and immune evasion. A study was designed to determine the diversity of P. falciparum isolates based on merozoite surface protein 1 and 2, determine the predominant circulating allelic families and multiplicity of infection in Nigeria. The diagnosis was based on finding the characteristic asexual stage of the parasite in Giemsa-stained blood smears under a compound microscope. The Deoxyribonucleic acid was extracted from P. falciparum positive blood using Chelex extraction method followed by PCR-genotyping, targeting the merozoite surface proteins. Nested polymerase chain reaction and restriction fragment length polymorphisms were used to detect Plasmodium falciparum chloroquine resistance transport, P. falciparum multidrug resistance 1, P. falciparum dihydrofolate reductase and P. falciparum dihydropteroate synthase. Data were analysed using the Statistical Packages for Social Sciences Version 21.0 at a significance level of P<0.05. Overall, multiplicity of infection with MSP 1 and MSP 2 markers was 1.32 and 1.24 respectively.P. falciparum isolates demonstrated diverse nature in respect of MSP 1 (block 2) and MSP 2 (block 3). All the families of MSP 1 and MSP2 were detected. It was concluded that the genetic diversity of P. falciparum was comparatively high. Therefore, strategies that reduce multiple-strain infections should be implemented in order to improve antimalarial drug efficacy and reduce the rate of spread of drug resistance.
Serum Hepcidin levels and Iron indices in HIV Infected Patients in a Nigerian Community
Authors: Oluboyo A , Omoju J , Oluboyo B
Published: June 2024

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection is a pandemic disease that could affect and alter many cellular and systemic components of the host. Anemia has been shown to be a common complication of HIV infection. The study assessed the impact of HIV infection on serum levels of hepcidin and iron indices since hepcidin is an iron regulatory protein. A total of ninety subjects were investigated which consisted of fifty subjects living with HIV and forty apparently healthy subjects as control. Twenty-nine of the HIV subjects were on antiretroviral therapy (ART); emtricitabine, zidovudine, tenofovir and lamivudine in different combinations. Hepcidin was estimated using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) while serum iron, total iron-binding capacity (TIBC) and unsaturated iron-binding capacity (UIBC) were estimated using spectrophotometric method. The result showed a significant increase (p<0.05) in unsaturated iron-binding capacity (UIBC) of HIV subjects compared with control. Although there was no significant negative impact of HIV infection on hepcidin and the iron indices, the study concluded that the parameters should be measured to monitoring the progress of management in order to prevent anemia which may occur during HIV infection
An investigation on impacts of individual therapy on employees' performance at Kenya airports authority in Nairobi County, Kenya
Authors: Muingi Mwalili Roselyne , S. A. K’Okul Florence
Published: June 2024

The primary objective of workplace Individual counseling is to offer assistance and guidance to employees, to enable them address personal, emotional, and psychological issues that they may be facing. The article aims to investigate the impacts of individual therapy on employees’ performance at Kenya airports authority in Nairobi County, Kenya. This study employs both a cognitive behavioral theoretical approach and a descriptive research design. The researcher conducted the study at Kenya Airports Authority, in Nairobi County, Kenya on a target population of 350 employees from all the departments, in Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. The study used a sample size of 186 individuals. This study collected both secondary and primary data based on the specific objectives and research hypothesis of the study. The observation showed that individual therapy is able to give employee's performance in Kenya Airports Authority, Nairobi County in Kenya a positive and significant addition (β1=0.341, p-value 0.001). The p-value (0.001) was less than the significant level 0.05 hence proving that the relationship is significant, which implies that the alternate hypothesis is true. Based on the study findings, the researcher concluded that individual therapy had a moderately positive and significant influence on employees’ performance at the Kenya Airports Authority in Nairobi County, Kenya. The study established that individual therapy indicators—depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder—affect employees' performance outcomes. The study suggests implementing sensitization programs on mental well-being to raise awareness among employees and empower them to seek help for themselves or colleagues dealing with mental health issues.
Psychological influence of drug abuse on the physical wellbeing of teachers in primary schools in Hamisi Sub county, Vihiga County, Kenya
Authors: Afandi Efedha Mable , Kiberenge Saul , Wendi Risper
Published: June 2024

Drug and substance abuse is a global issue, affecting individuals across social and economic classes. In Kenya, the shift from the 8.4.4 education system to the Competence Based Curriculum (CBC) has increased pressure on teachers, impacting their psychological wellbeing. Consequently, many teachers have turned to substance abuse for psychological relief, despite its adverse effects. This study aims to identify the psychological impact of drug abuse on the physical well-being of primary school teachers in Hamisi Sub County, Vihiga County. Using a descriptive survey research design, the study targeted 1,231 teachers, 85 head teachers, 85 guidance and counseling teachers, six Curriculum Support Officers, and one Human Resource Officer. The researcher used 30% of the target population to establish the sample size of 318, while purposive sampling was used for the Curriculum Support Officers and Human Resource Officer. Data collection involved questionnaires, with qualitative data organized into themes and quantitative data analyzed using SPSS, presented in frequency tables, pie charts, and bar graphs. Results indicated that heavy workload influenced 15% of teachers significantly, 43.1% reported needing to alleviate anxiety, and 76.4% struggled with teaching demands. Stress led 56.3% to substance abuse, while 21.6% experienced suicidal thoughts. The study recommended educational interventions, professional psychological counseling, and the establishment of support systems and rehabilitation centers by the Teachers Service Commission TSC and government to address teachers' mental well-being. Further research on curbing substance abuse among teachers in Kenya is also suggested.
The history of robusta coffee cultivation in the Tshopo Province, Democratic Republic of The Congo
Authors: Bopoko Bamenga , Broeckhoven Ieben , Verbist Bruno , Stoffelen Piet , Trefon Theordore
Published: June 2024

The study aims to trace the history of robusta coffee cultivation (Coffea canephora Pierre ex A.Froehner) in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) with particular emphasis on the Tshopo province. Both the enabling and disabling factors influencing the production of Robusta from 1881 to the present day were examined. The objective is to increase our understanding of conditions related to the cultivation of the Robusta coffee in Tshopo, given its potential as a major producer and the global shift towards robusta, in light of the challenges of climate change faced by coffee farmers. A literature review was conducted, based on archives and scientific papers. Robusta production has experienced boom and bust cycles in these periods. The fluctuation in coffee production in the DR Congo is due to the orientation of agricultural economic policies, particularly investments in research and infrastructure, and to political  dynamics. Fluctuations in world coffee prices have accentuated, and sometimes created, these cycles. Thus, in order to enable the re-emergence of the DRC’s coffee sector, it is recommended that the primary focus should therefore be on creating of an enabling political and economic environment. Agronomic aspects and market integration should also be addressed.
Assessing the impacts of compliance of motor cycle public transport operators with road safety regulations in Gucha sub-county.
Authors: Onguso Haron Maosa , Onyango Standslause Odhiambo Elijah
Published: June 2024

The study examines the impacts of compliance of motor cycle public transport operators with road safety regulations. The study focused on Gucha sub-county within Kisii County in Kenya. The entire population of this sub-county is ninety-three thousand five hundred and thirty people. This was the target population with emphasis on four groups of people thus riders, passengers, traffic police and health professionals. The sample size of this study was 220 which was attained using simple random sampling method. The tools that were used to collect data include questionnaire with structured and unstructured questions and an interview guide. The pilot study was conducted in Nyaribari Chache sub-county within Kisii County. Quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive statistics by organizing it into frequency distribution tables and percentages. The study found that adherence to road safety regulations enhances personal safety, albeit at increased operational costs. Evidence shows reduced accidents, improved customer satisfaction, and enhanced operational efficiency, highlighting the benefits and challenges of compliance in enhancing overall safety and service quality. By doing so, they are not only able to improve the safety results but also optimize the efficacy regarding the motorcycle public transport in the region, which can lead to the sustainability of the particular companies and their ability to withstand theregulatory changes. There is an urgent need to strengthen the performance of measures relating to enforcement of the existing road safety legal requirements. Policy makers should encourage the operators to put more funds into safety by allowing any form of tax credit for capital expenditure to be deposited in new safety equipment and other improved infrastructure.
Impact of indoor air pollutant concentration levels on the health of press operators of printing facilities in Zaria Metropolis, Nigeria
Authors: Ayeni O. , Agada V.O. , Mahamat A.A. , Ibrahim E.C. , Stanley A.M. , Abdulsalam D.
Published: June 2024

Long-term exposure to air pollutants in printing facilities is detrimental to the health, well-being, and productivity of press users. This study investigated the concentrations of indoor air pollutants in 22 printing facilities in Zaria, Nigeria, as well as their interactions with press operators' perceptions of feeling Sick Building Syndrome (SBS) symptoms. The study employed quantitative methods. The concentrations of indoor air pollutants (CO2, CO, TVOC, HCHO, PM2.5, and PM10) were monitored with air quality multifunction devices in the different printing facilities. Questionnaires were also administered to assess press operators’ health and perceptions of feeling SBS symptoms in the printing facility. The results showed that indoor air pollutant concentrations vary in the different printing facilities, with pollutant concentration values in the range of 0.323–9.999 mg/m3, 0.030–0.078 mg/m3, 21.33–426.67 μg/m3, and 28.0–568 μg/m3 for TVOCs, HCHO, PM2.5 and PM10, respectively and same exceeding the NESREA standard values. Findings also show that press operators rarely felt 14 SBS symptoms in the printing facility. The questionnaire results suggest that health-related problems experienced by press operators may worsen if operators continue to have long-term exposure to these pollutants. From this study, press operators need to be cautious of the adverse health impacts associated with long-term exposure to indoor air pollutants. Indoor air quality (IAQ) monitoring equipment and indoor air pollutant capture systems should be installed in all printing environments to minimize the adverse impacts of indoor air pollutant concentrations. The findings of this study advance the knowledge of the health impacts of prolonged indoor air pollutant exposure in printing facilities and the connections between elevated concentrations and adverse effects on press operators. Implications include the need for enhanced occupational health practices, regulatory compliance, awareness training, and infrastructure investment to safeguard press workers' well-being and productivity in printing facilities.
Multi-criteria analysis to determine groundwater potential zone in part of Gongola Basin, Northeast Nigeria
Authors: Peter E. U. , Musa A. A. , Zemba A. A.
Published: June 2024

Successful water management serves as a key to achieving the Sustainable Development Goal number six as defined by the United Nations that is. ‘Ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all’. It is on this premise that the study wishes to carry out a Multi-Criteria Analysis (MCA) to determine groundwater potential zone in some part of Gongola basin, North East Nigeria. The research objectives focus on preparing thematic maps of various parameters for groundwater potential zone determination and performing multi-criteria analysis to determine groundwater potential zone. Alos Polsar Digital Elevation Model with a 12.5m resolution; Sentinel level 1C image of 10m resolution; soil and geology map of Nigeria; and rainfall data were used to determine selected twelve parameters namely Topographic Wetness Index (TWI), drainage, watershed, geomorphology, geology, slope, soil, rainfall, Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), lineament, elevation and Modified Normalized Difference Water index (MNDWI). The parameters were resampled and reclassified to a common scale. They were integrated using the ESRI ArcMap 10.4.1 coupled with the Analytical Hierarchical Process (AHP) as a veritable tool in Groundwater Potential Zone (GWPZ) determination. The GWPZ was classified into five classes with the very low potential zone covering 1275.23km2 (20.6%), while the Low Potential covers an area of 1319.62km2 (21.3%), moderate potential has an area of 1533.35km2 (24.8%), high potential has an area of 1336.65km2 (21.6%) and very high potential has an area of 724.83km2 (11.7%). The study shows that the Northwest, West and Southwest of the study area have very low potential of Groundwater (GW). Conversely, the Northeast, East and Southeast have very high potential. The study recommend that the groundwater potential zone map combine with other thematic maps can function as source of database that can be updated overtime by adding new information to serve as resource material for further research.
Soil analysis of a mined-out area at Afiesa, Ghana
Authors: Okoh P.A. , Zakpaa H.D.
Published: June 2024

This study investigated some physical and chemical properties of composite soil samples obtained from a mined-out area at Afiesa near, Kyebi-Apapam in the Eastern region of Ghana. Soil samples were collected and analysed for total Arsenic (As), Copper (Cu) and Lead (Pb) concentrations using an Agilent 4210 MP AE Spectrophotometer. Physical and chemical properties including porosity, pH, soil organic matter (SOM), total nitrogen, texture and particle size of soil samples were measured. Contamination factor (CF) and degree of contamination (Cdegree) were also determined. The mined-out soil sample had a loamy silt texture, was acidic (pH 6.00), with a relatively high porosity (40.50% ± 0.10) and particle size (2.00 mm) compared to the reference soil which had a loamy texture, (pH 6.53), with porosity of (35.3% ±0.10) and smaller particle size (0.42 mm). The SOM and total nitrogen of the mined-out soil were found to be quite low (4.71±0.11g/kg, 0.24±0.20g/kg) compared to the reference soil. The degree of contamination of the mined-out soil was found to be 5.839 showing that the mined-out soil was moderately contaminated. Levels of both As and Cu in the mined soil were below the WHO (2001) recommended values (20 ppm and 100 ppm respectively). However, the level of Pb in the mined-out soil was above the background value (11.33 ppm) but below the WHO (2001) recommended standard (50 ppm) making the mined-out soil less hazardous.
Exploring the perspective of lean construction techniques on the performance of construction projects in Nigeria
Authors: Yaro S.A. , Adamu A.D. , Saidu I. , Anifowose M.O.
Published: June 2024

The continuous poor performance of construction projects in Nigeria has given the Nigerian construction industry a source of concern, and the inability of the industry to promptly apply innovative strategies that will mitigate these concerns. Improving construction project performance, the concept of lean construction has emerged as a promising approach to addressing the industry's numerous challenges while also significantly increasing project efficiency. Lean construction, founded on the principle of maximising value while minimising waste, is closely aligned with today's global emphasis on sustainability and efficient resource utilisation. Hence, the purpose of this study is to investigate the perspective of lean construction techniques on project performance in some selected states in Nigeria. A quantitative approach was used to collect data from 294 participants. To analyse the collected data, the study used a descriptive-analytical method, specifically the Mean Item Score (MIS). The study also adopted the Kruskal-Walli’s test to determine the variation in the opinions of the respondents according to their location. The findings of this study revealed that root cause analysis ranked first with an MIS of 3.92. The study also revealed a shared perception among the respondents regarding the severity of the influence of lean construction techniques on the performance of construction projects in Nigeria. The findings of this study presented the perspectives of industry practitioners on the efficacy of lean construction techniques in improving project performance and also contributed to filling a significant gap in the current understanding of the lean approach.
Pollution Level of Heavy Metals and Risk Implications from the Lower Omo River: East African Fresh Water in the Semiarid Region of Southern Ethiopia
Authors: Abiy A. K. , Girma T. Y. , Solomon S. S. , Yohannes S. B.
Published: June 2024

The Omo River passes through Omorate town, where domestic, municipal, and industrial waste from the town and its vicinities, including agrochemicals, flows into the river.Hence, this research aims to assess heavy metal contamination levels and associated risks in the Lower Omo River, located in the semiarid region of Southern Africa. The mean concentrations of the detected heavy metals in the river water were 0.439mg/L for (Mn), 0.1 (Zn), 0.168 (Cu), 0.393 (Cr), 0.318 (Pb), 0.007 (Ni), 8.926 (Fe), and0.06 (Co).The order for the mean concentrations of the heavy metals in the water was Fe >Mn > Cr > Pb > Cu > Zn > Cu > Co > Ni. The mean levels of lead (Pb), manganese (Mn), and chromium (Cr) were above the acceptable limits for water set by WHO. The HPI value indicates that all water sample sites were heavily polluted. The HQs through oral ingestion and dermal for both children and adults were in the order of Cr >Pb> Mn > Fe >Cu > Co > Ni > Zn. The HQ value greater than 1 was examined for Cr, Pb, and Mn both in children and adults through ingestion and dermal route from the River water.The CRs for both children and adults via ingestion of the River water followed the order Cr > Pb. According to CRI value, the River water could be classified as very high environmental risk.
Comparative Analysis of Characteristics of Drought over Some West Africa Regions Based On Selected Drought Assessment Indices
Authors: Ogolo E. O. , Ojo O. S. , Akinwande D. D.
Published: June 2024

Prolonged absence of moisture exacerbates drought and assessment indices such as Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI) and Standardized Precipitation Evapotranspiration Index (SPEI) are critical tools. Therefore, the objective of this paper was to evaluate the comparative characteristics of drought over West Africa using SPI and SPEI. The data used in this work was established on four monthly time scales of 3, 6, 12, and 24 and covered a period between 1979 and 2021 (42 years) at five regions in Hyper-Arid region, Sahelian region, Sudano region, Dry-Sub-humid region, Moist-Sub-humid region. The data was further analyzed and the characteristics of the drought were assessed. Data obtained revealed that there were some differences between SPI and SPEI in regional drought characteristics. Most of the regions considered experienced extreme drought in 1982. The result also revealed that more droughts were experienced in the eighties than in the nineties. Likewise some regions experienced severe drought in 2021 due to increase in drought intensity in the year 2021 as recorded by SPI and SPEI. Therefore it is vital for frequent assessment of meteorological drought characteristics in West Africa using recent data in order to explore its impact because climate change prediction can cause places that are currently experiencing mild or moderate drought to become more severe in the future, and the total impact of drought in West Africa will increase.  This study could also assist water resource planners to better understand the drought events.
Spatial Model for Predicting the Cost of Constructing Hand-Dug Wells in Abeokuta City, Nigeria
Authors: Oyedepo J. A. , Oyedepo E. O.
Published: June 2024

The heavy reliance on groundwater sources, the high cost and difficulties in accessing groundwater from a basement complex in Abeokuta necessitate the development of a simple prediction model. Hence, the objective of this paper was to develop a spatial model for prediction of the cost of constructing hand-dug wells in Abeokuta city, Nigeria, using geographic information systems. The static water level (SWL) of wells was measured across the city, and the digital terrain model (DTM) of the city was created in the GIS. Map algebra was applied to determine the depth and predict the overall cost of well construction. The map of the overburden removed was derived as the algebraic difference between the DTM and SWL extended down by the height of four concrete rings (OVERBURDEN = DTM – SWL+ 4 rings below the SWL). The map of the total cost of well construction in any part of the metropolis was produced by multiplying the sum of the cost of one unit of concrete ring and excavation of the depth of one concrete ring with the map of overburden. The model was validated by an empirical investigation of eight randomly selected wells. The results revealed relatively good accuracy, with correlation coefficients of 0.94, R2 values of 0.76, RMSE values of 0.27 and mean absolute percentage errors of 9.24 and 3.23 for the SWL and construction cost, respectively. The paper concludes that such spatial decision support is good for municipal water planning.
Proximate, Minerals and Vitamin Composition of Synodontis ocellifer and Malapterurus electricus Freshwater Fish Species obtained from Ega Market in Idah Local Government Area of Kogi State, Nigeria
Authors: Ogbe K. U. , Olaniyi A. O. , Peace O. S. , Anayeokwu S. N.
Published: June 2024

The objective of this paper was to investigate the proximate, minerals and vitamin composition of Synodontis ocellifer and Malapterurus electricus freshwater fish species obtained from Ega Market in Idah Local Government Area of Kogi State, Nigeria using standard procedure. The highest protein content was recorded for Synodotis ocellifer at 24.76±0.000a and for Malapteruru selectricus at 20.625±0.019b, highest moisture was recorded for Malapterurus electricus at 71.07±0.042a and for Synodontis ocellifer at 68.30±0.141b.The highest ash content was recorded for Synodontis ocellifer at 3.075±0.035aand forMalapterurus electricus at 2.875±0.356b.The highest crude fibre was recorded for Malapterurus electricus at 1.030±0.014a, while the lowest crude fibre was recorded in Synodontis ocellifer 0.140±0.028b.The highest Fat content was recorded Synodontis ocellifer at 3.110±0.014aand forMalapterurus electricus at 3.025±0.007b. The highest carbohydrate content was recorded for Malapterurus electricus at 1.38±0.084a and for Synodontis ocellifer at 0.705±0.134b. There is a significant difference between all the proximate compositions for Synodontis ocellifer and Malapteruru selectricus at p-value< 0.05.Synodontisocellifer, the highest mineral content was recorded for K at 942.10±0.14a followed by Ca at 317.950±0.214a, while the lowest was observed in Fe at 2.35±0.70b. For Malapterurus electricus, the highest mineral content was recorded for K at 610.70±0.00b followed by Ca at 203.40±0.14b, while the lowest was observed in Zn at 2.30±0.14b.There was a significant difference between all the mineral compositions for Synodontis ocellifer and Malapterurus electricus except for P, at p-value< 0.05. The highest Vitamin C content was recorded for Synodontis ocellifer at 5.35±0.035a, while the lowest Vitamin C content was recorded for Malapterurus electricus at 4.77±0.035b. The highest Vitamin A content was recorded for Synodontis ocellifer at 144.33±1.689a, while lowest Vitamin A content was recorded at 130.02±0.000b. There is a significant difference between all the vitamin compositions for Synodontis ocellifer and Malapterurus electricus at p-value< 0.05.The nutrient profile of these fish species will provide information to dieticians, livestock farmers, marketing industries and other fisheries stakeholders. Synodotis ocellifer has the highest protein content and could be recommended as a possible effective way to solve protein malnutrition.
Modeling the Cost of Green Space Investment in Residential Areas in Dar es Salaam City, Tanzania
Authors: Mwageni N. F.
Published: June 2024

Understanding the costs of development, maintenance and replacement of green spaces may help in effective planning and development of green spaces. However, traditional methods to ascertain the costs of the same are complex and requires many data and expertise. The objective of study was to develop a mathematical model for estimating the cost of green space investment in residential areas of Dar es Salaam City, Tanzania using structured questionnaires for data collection. The study revealed that the investment cost of green spaces was influenced by income of the households, age of green space, area covered by green space, green space type and settlement where the household resides. The mean calculated from the model looked lower by 0.1% implying that the model can best predict the overall mean of investment cost by 99.9%. The model can be used to estimate the economic value of green spaces in data scarce situations for various purposes like compensation and property valuation.
Climate-Smart Agriculture for Sustainable Agricultural Development in Nigeria: An Empirical Review
Authors: Balogun O. S. , Nwahia O. C. , Nwebor E.
Published: June 2024

Feeding over 200 million people in Nigeria requires a radical transformation in agricultural sector. These therefore require growing more food and achieve food security. Meanwhile, the resources needed for sustainable food security in Nigeria are already stretched, coupled with a negative effect of climatic change on agricultural production and food storage in developing countries like Nigeria, where the capacity to adapt to changes in climate is weak. Therefore, the paper reviewed climate-smart agriculture for sustainable agricultural development and establish that climate-smart agriculture can increase agricultural productivity, increases farm incomes, food security and agricultural development in a sustainable manner while building resilience of agricultural products to climate change and reducing greenhouse gas emissions from agriculture. The noticeable climate-smart agriculture practice adopted by the farmers in Nigeria includes the use of improved crop varieties, laser land leveling, zero tillage, residue management, nutrient management, and crop diversification. Nigerian farmers should be adequately trained in climate-smart agriculture by government at all levels and motivated to adopt its practices for mitigation and adaptation measures to climate changes. Also, adequate information and communications channels should be established in order to pass weather forecast information to farmers in Nigeria. Likewise, Socio-economics characteristics of the farmers should be considered in making any agricultural policies in Nigeria.
Evaluation of In-vitro Response of Dennettia tripetala (Pepper Fruit) Bak. f. Seedlings as Shoot Explants to a Combination of Plant Growth Regulators
Authors: Igbinosa I. O. , Oboho E. G. , Ogedegbe S. A. , Osakue R. I.
Published: June 2024

Dennettia tripetala (Pepper fruit) an important tree crop deeply ingrained in the socio-cultural life of the people of Nigeria, faces the threat of extinction due to inconsistent fruiting, poor seed germination and slow seedling growth. Hence, the objective of this paper was to evaluate the in-vitro response of Dennettia tripetala (pepper fruit) seedlings as shoot explants to growth regulators using standard procedures by culturing 10 weeks old seedlings of the plant as shoot explant in three (3) levels of Naphthalene acetic acid (NAA) and six (6) levels of 6-Benzyl amino purine (BAP) or Kinetin supplemented in Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium. Data collected included the weight of callus, period of callogenensis, texture and colour of callus. From the results obtained, D. tripetala shoot explants cultured in Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium supplemented with various levels of NAA in combination with BAP/Kinetin at different levels effected callus formation at varying degrees. Generally, the nature of the callus observed was either friable or compact with the former occurring more. The colour of the callus was either white or brown. The highest callus intensity was observed in the media containing NAA at 0.5mg/l in combination with Kinetin at 1mg/l and also in the media containing 2.5 mg/l NAA in combination with 1 mg/l BAP. MS media supplemented with 1.5 mg/l NAA+0.1 mg/l BAP and 2.5 mg/l NAA + 1 mg/l BAP were optimum for early callogenesis in NAA+BAP combinations while 2.0 mg/l NAA + 1.0 mg/l Kinetin was optimum for early callogenesis in NAA + Kinetin combinations. The result shows that shoot explants of the plant are amenable to tissue culture when subjected to appropriate hormonal combination. Further work is needed in the area of embryogenensis, plantlet production and subsequent regeneration of the tree crop.
Epidemiology of Hepatitis-B Infection among Pregnant Women in Yola North Local Government Area Adamawa State, Nigeria
Authors: Pukuma M. S. , Enock N.
Published: June 2024

Hepatitis b virus infection presents major threat to public health throughout endemic countries of tropical and sub-Saharan Africa. There is a scarcity of data on HBV in Adamawa State, Nigeria. Hence, the objectives of this paper is to evaluate the epidemiology of hepatitis B infection among pregnant women in Yola North Local Government Area, Adamawa State Nigeria using Structured questionnaire to collect information from 1,254 pregnant women who come for antenatal clinic (ANC) for the first visit. Five (5) mL of blood samples were drown from each consented pregnant women for serological analysis by using rapid diagnostic test/ELISA. A pooled prevalence of 4.1% was recorded for HBV. Of all the sociodemographic characteristics studied, only occupation recorded a significant association with HBV (P=0.023) with highest prevalence among house wives (2.2%) and lowest among civil servants (0.6%). Also, considering the eight attitudes-related questions used to assess the participants, a good attitude of 73.9% toward HBV was reported. Three factors that recorded significant association with hepatitis b infection were; ever screened for HBV (AOR=0.349; 95% CI= 0.121-1.007; P=0.052), can be infected with HBV (AOR=0.107; 95% C.I =0.017-0.660; P=0.016) and people with HBV are discriminated in the society (AOR=3.071; 95% CI= 1.508-6.253; P=0.002). Therefore, awareness on modes of transmission, early detection and screening of HBV for all pregnant women attending ANC must be strengthened to minimize and control vertical transmission of the infections.
Effects of aqueous leaf extract of Telfairia occidentalis on acyclovir induced renal damage in adult Wistar rat
Authors: Ehimigbai A. R. O. , Jayeola D. T.
Published: June 2024

This study investigated the effects of aqueous leaf extract of Telfairia Occidentalis on acyclovir-induced renal damage in the kidneys of adult Wistar rats. A total of thirty adult Wistar rats weighing an average of 200g were used for this study. They were randomly grouped into six (A, B, C, D, E and F), with each group consisting of five rats each. Group A was given distilled water, group B was administered with 400mg/kg body weight of aqueous leaf extract of T. Occidentalis, group C was administered 1000mg/kg body weight of aqueous leaf extract of T. Occidentalis, group D was administered 28mg/kg body weight of  acyclovir, Group E was administered 400mg/kg body weight of aqueous leaf extract of T. Occidentalis and 28mg/kg body weight of  acyclovir and Group F was administered 1000mg/kg body weight of aqueous leaf extract of T. Occidentalis and 28mg/kg body weight of  acyclovir. Aqueous leaf extract of T. Occidentalis and acyclovir were given via orogastric method. Biochemically, group D showed elevation of urea, creatinine, SOD and CAT levels statistically, while other groups revealed reduction in the urea, creatinine, SOD and CAT values statistically. Histological results showed that there was inflammation, vascular distortion and tubular necrosis in the kidney of Group administered with only acyclovir while there was protection in the kidney of rat administered with aqueous leaf extract of T. Occidentalis and acyclovir,. In conclusion, aqueous leaf extract of T. Occidentalis has the potential to protect the kidney from acyclovir induced renal damage in adult Wistar rat.
Seasonal Variations of Selected Ornamental Plants as Biomonitors of Air Pollutants in Ondo State, Nigeria
Authors: Dada O. E. , Ajao M. O.
Published: June 2024

This objective of this paper was to evaluate the seasonal variations of fourteen (14) ornamental plants as biomonitors of air pollution in three urban areas of Ondo State, Nigeria. The study was carried out in three areas that were purposively selected in Ondo State which are Oduduwa Road, Oloko (traffic congested area), FUTA area (Less traffic congested area) and uncongested area in Elizade University as control. The ornamental plants namely Roystonea regai, Convallaria majalis, Polyalthia longifolia, Ficus benjamina, Dieffebachia amoena, Colocasia esculent, Caesalpinia pulcherrima, Codyline fructicosa, Viburnumt tinus variegatum, Variegatum punctatum, Hibiscus rosa-sinensis, Tradescantia pallida, Codiaeum variegatum, Acalypha wilkesiana were selected purposively and their ascorbic acid contents, pH, relative water contents, total chlorophyll contents and air pollution tolerance index were evaluated using standard methods.  The biochemical parameters and APTI values of the ornamentals showed that they have less (APTI<17) tolerance indices during the dry and the wet seasons. Thus, they are more susceptible to air pollutants as biomonitors. At congested areas ornamentals had lesser APTI values at the sampling site than the control site with Tradescantia pallida having the highest (8.86) mean value while Variegatum punctatum had the lowest value of 6.81 during the wet season while Codiaeum variegatum with value 7.08 and the lowest for Variegatum punctatum with value 4.71. Conclusively, this study recommends that in addition with the aesthetic values of the ornamental plants, they can be useful as model bioindicators of air pollution in urban settings.
Mineral Composition of Seed and Leaf of Terminalia cattappa (Almond Tree) Tree species Collected from a Forestry Arboretum in a Teaching and Research Farm, Rivers State, Nigeria
Authors: Nnadi P. C. , Dickson H. , Owono F.
Published: June 2024

The Objective of this Paper was to evaluate the Mineral Composition of Seed and Leaf of Terminalia catappa (Almond Tree) tree Species Collected from a Forestry arboretum in a teaching and research farm, Rivers State, Nigeria after using Standard methods after acid digestion. The result in Minerals Content showed that the seed had Zinc 2.57±0.01, Iron 8.76±0.01, Potassium 152.0±1.00, Sodium 109.4±17.8, Manganese 2.10±0.25 while the leaf had Zinc 2.57±0.01, Iron 8.89±0.01, Potassium 480.5±0.50, Sodium 114.1±40.2, Manganese 52.6±1.80.Also, the result in total mineral content shows that potassium had the highest both in seed and leaf 316.3± 189.7 followed by sodium .In conclusion, the leaf had the highest mineral content as compared to the seed. There is need to establish the plantation of Terminalia catappa for conservation and optimum utilization of this important socio-economic tree species.
Hematological, biochemical and histological evaluation of sub-chronic administration of ethanol leaf extract of Canscora decussate on kidney and stomach of Wistar rats
Authors: Tosin Joseph Opeyemi , Simeon Joseph Oyepata
Published: June 2024

Canscora decussate is traditionally believe to relieve renal and gastro intestinal tract disorder. Ethanol leaf extract of Canscora decussate was tested for chronic effect on Kidney and Stomach of wistar rats by evaluating the hematological, biochemical and histological parameters of these organs. The study was done by grouping the animals in to 4 groups with each group receiving different concentrations of the extract (100-400mg/kg) respectively for 28 days, physical observation of the rats was carried out every day of the study. Mean corpuscular volume, and red blood cell levels decreased significantly (P≤0.05) at 200 and 400 mg/kg doses, but not basophiles, neutrophils, eosinophils, or platelets. There was no significant change (p≤0.05) in serum sodium chloride, potassium creatinine and urea when compared to the control group at all doses delivered. Slight lymphocyte hyperplasia with normal kidney histology architecture observed at all doses and the control (10 ml/kg). Canscora decussateis relatively safe for use as it does not possess danger against traditional use.
Unveiling cyclic tetra amino acids-based peptides as insulin degrading enzyme inhibitors: insight from Insilico approach
Authors: Olujinmi Faith Eniola , Oyebamiji Abel K. , Aworinde Halleluyah O. , Oke David G. , Akintelu Sunday Aewale , Akintayo Emmanuel T. , Akintayo C.O. , Babalola Jonathan O.
Published: June 2024

Type II diabetes has become one of the ailment that poses a grave universal wellbeing trial and the desire to curtail its dangerous activities has drawn the attention of various researchers globally. Several resistances developed by type II diabetes to series of previous drug-like small molecules has trigger the desire of researchers to attempt the use of tetra-amino acid based peptides to combat this menace. Thus, inhibiting activity of tetra amino acid based-peptides against insulin degrading enzyme (pdb id: 4re9) resulted into series of binding affinities values and (3R,6S,9S)-9-((R)-1-(benzyloxy)ethyl)-3-(((4-chlorophenyl)thio)methyl)-6-methyl-1,4,7,10-tetraazacyclododecane-2,5,8,11-tetraone (compound F) with -8.16984558kcal/mol proved to have greatest strength to inhibit the studied target. The calculated binding energy generated from molecular dynamic simulation (MDS) supported the efficiency of compound F than referenced compound (Metformin). The report from ADMET investigations were presented and interpreted accordingly.
N'-(2,6-dimethoxybenzylidene)-3-(4-methoxyphenyl) acrylohydrazide abates oxidative stress and purinergic enzymes abnormality associated with iron-induced cardiotoxicity in Wistar rats: Experimental and computational perspectives
Authors: Ogunlakin Daniel Akingbolabo , Ojo Oluwafemi Adeleke , Ikponmwosa Evbuomwan , Olanrewaju Olaoluwadotun Dorcas , Ajiboye Adesewa Kehinde , Ayokunle Damilare Iyinkristi , Sonibare Mubo Adeola , Oyebamiji Abel Kolawole , Ajayi-Odoko Omolola Adenike , Ogunlakin Matthew Akin , Esievo Kevwe Benefit
Published: June 2024

The effects of N'-(2,6-dimethoxybenzylidene)-3-(4-methoxyphenyl) acrylohydrazide (KAD 9) on iron-induced cardiac injury was investigated. Evaluations of the iron chelating capability, ferric-reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), as well as DPPH free radical scavenging activity of KAD 9 were performed. The oxidative cardiac injury induced by 0.1 mM FeSO4 was treaed with varied doses of KAD 9 ex vivo. Comparing KAD 9 to conventional quercetin, the DPPH radical scavenging ability of KAD 9 significantly rises with concentration (p<0.05). The cardiac injury was generated, and this resulted in decreased malondialdehyde (MDA), catalase (CAT), ATPase, and ENTPDase activity (p<0.05). A notable increase in GSH level was seen in KAD 9 treated group. Furthermore, it was observed that KAD 9 had closer binding affinity with ATPase and ENTPDase. Due to its ability to regulate nucleotide hydrolysis and lessen oxidative stress, KAD 9 has the potential to both treat and protect against oxidative cardiac injury.
Antipsychotic property of methanol crude extract of Peperomia pellucida (L) Kunth. (Piperaceae) whole plant against ketamine induced psychosis in mice
Authors: Temitope Arowona Isimot , Tiamiyu Aishat Tosin , Sonibare Mubo Adeola
Published: June 2024

Medicinal plants have been discovered and used in traditional medicine practice since prehistoric times. Numerous plants contain diverse phytochemicals and possess pharmacological actions, many of which remain unassessed by rigorous scientific research of defined efficacy and safety. This study evaluated the antipsychotic activity of Peperomia pellucida methanol crude extract against ketamine induced psychosis in Swiss albino mice. The preliminary phytochemical analysis was carried out following standard procedures, while stereotypy test, Y-maze test, object recognition and forced swim test (FST), were the behavioral models used for the antipsychotic study. The Histopathology of the mice brain was also carried out. Statistical analysis was done using one-way ANOVA followed by Dunnett’s post hoc test and p < 0.05 was considered significant. Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of saponins, tannins, flavonoids and alkaloids in the pulverized plant. The crude extract at 125 mg\kg reduced stereotype behavior in Ketamine-induced mice. The extract enhanced cognition in the animals by producing a significant dose-dependent decrease in the number of alternate arm entries and increases the time spent in recognizing a novel object compared to the negative control. In the FST model, 500 mg\kg was more effective in decreasing immobility as compared to negative control. The histopathology of the mice brain showed that the extract at the dose of 500 mg/kg produced a similar effect to the standard drug and at 250 mg/kg produced a regenerative effect on brain of the mice.The results established that Peperomia pellucida possesses antipsychotic property against positive, negative and cognitive symptoms of psychosis.
Integrated approach for studying anti-angiotensin converting enzyme activity of triazole derivatives to down-regulate diabetes
Authors: Oyebamiji Abel K. , Akintelu Sunday A. , Akintayo Emmanuel T. , Akintayo Cecilia O , Ebenezer Oluwakemi , Ogunlakin Akingbolabo Daniel , Ojo Oluwafemi Adeleke , Babalola Jonathan O.
Published: June 2024

The effects of triazole and its derivatives as anti-angiotensin converting enzyme activity were investigated using combined computational approach. This work is directed at examining the anti-angiotensin converting enzyme activity of the studied triazole derivatives via density functional theory and molecular modeling studies using in silico approach. This work was executed using Spartan 14 for optimization. The downloaded receptor (human angiotensin-converting enzyme (PDB ID: 3NXQ)) from protein data bank by removing water molecules and other small molecules downloaded with the target before subjecting it to docking calculation and molecular dynamic simulation studies. In this work, we discovered that addition of methyl and 2-ethyl-1H-indole to triazole as parent compound enhanced the activity of compound 4 and this was revealed via the predicted highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO) (-4.53 eV) and energy gap (3.73 eV). More so, Compound 4 with -10.5 kcal/mol possess the highest strength to impede human angiotensin-converting enzyme (PDB ID: 3NXQ) than other investigated compound and the metformin. The developed quantitative structure activity relationship (QSAR) with squared correlation coefficient (R2) of 0.745234 and adjusted R2 of 0.617852 proved to be valid and predictable which was confirmed via the predicted percentage inhibiting concentration (%IC50). The molecular dynamic simulation and pharmacokinetic studies of the compound ((Compound 4) and the reference drug (metformin)) that possess the highest binding affinity were investigated and reported. These findings may give insight into developing library of drug-like triazole-based compounds as proficient anti-diabetic agents.