Ife Journal of Science

Harnessing deep learning algorithms for early plant disease detection: A comparative study and evaluation between SSD (Mobilenet_v2 and Mobilenet_v3) and CNN model

2025-01-22T08:01:20+00:00

Recognizing the important need for efficient plant disease detection in agriculture, this research evaluates and compares the performance of three distinct deep learning models: Mobilenet_V2, Mobilenet_V3, and a custombuilt CNN model. As traditional methods fall short in addressing the evolving challenges of crop health management, the study aims to discover the most effective model for accurate disease identification. Leveraging a dataset encompassing 20,639 images across 15 directories representing various plant diseases, the models undergo rigorous training and evaluation. Results reveal the CNN_model as the superior performer with a remarkable test accuracy of 94.48%, outshining Mobilenet_V2 and Mobilenet_V3. The comparative analysis sheds light on the strengths and weaknesses of each model, providing valuable insights for the agricultural community. This research not only advances the understanding of deep learning applications in precision agriculture but also lays the foundation for future innovations in sustainable crop management.

GC-MS characterization and bioactivity studies of aerial part of Hilleria latifolia (lam) extract and fractions: Antioxidant and antibacterial potentials

2025-01-22T08:28:14+00:00

This study sets out on identifying active compounds within Hilleria latifolia (Lam) extracts and fractions, with a specific emphasis on their potential antibacterial and antioxidant activities. GC-MS analysis was employed to characterize the chemical constituents in the n-hexane (n-Hex) and dichloromethane (DCM) fractions. The nHex and DCM fractions of the aerial part of Hilleria latifolia (Lam) revealed the presence of 45 compounds (27 in n-Hex and 18 in DCM), many of which are known for their antioxidant, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties. Antioxidant activity was evaluated through iron-reducing power (FRAP), nitric oxide (NO) inhibition, metal chelating ability (MC), total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and 2,2-diphenyl-1- picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assays. The EtOAc fraction showed the best activities in DPPH (IC 0.70±0.026 50 mg/mL), FRAP (478.503±8.607 mg AAE/g), MCA (0.199±0.085 mg/mL) and TAC (227.37±60.949 mg AAE/g). The sensitivity testing of the crude methanolic extract and fractions were carried out using the agarwell diffusion method against three gram-positive (Bacillus stearothermophillus, Staphylococcus aureus, and Micrococcus luteus) and five gram-negative (Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, Proteus vulgaris, and Serratia marcescens) bacterial strains. The crude methanol extract and aqueous fraction did not show activity towards all the bacterial strains. However, the n-Hex fraction exhibited moderate antibacterial activity particularly against K. pneumoniae (12 mm), M. luteus (9 mm), P. aeruginosa (12 mm), B. stearothermophillus (10 mm), and S. aureus (12 mm), the DCM fraction also showed effective antibacterial activity against K. pneumoniae (16 mm), M. luteus (12 mm), P. vulgaris (11 mm), B. stearothermophillus (12 mm), E. coli (12 mm) and S. aureus (11 mm). The ethyl acetate (EtOAc) fractions have shown considerable antibacterial activity against K. pneumoniae (12 mm), M. luteus (12 mm), P. vulgaris (11 mm), B. stearothermophillus (12 mm) and S. aureus (8 mm). The present findings demonstrate the antioxidant and antibacterial properties of Hilleria latofolia fractions, underscoring the need for further research to confirm their medicinal potential and explore its pharmaceutical applications.

Biosurfactant production and concomitant degradation of spent engine oil by Alcaligens faecalis ULAG3AF isolated from Lagos Lagoon

2025-01-22T09:03:27+00:00

Alcaligens faecalis strain ULAG3AF was isolated from the Lagos Lagoon, an estuarine environment. The aim of the study was to investigate the biosurfactant production potentials of this organism and explore the antimicrobial potential of the biosurfactant. The bacterial isolate was screened for its biosurfactants production potentials using the drop collapse, oil displacement tests and emulsification index. The strain was cultivated in an enrichment medium, Bushnell Haas Medium, supplemented with 1%, 2%, 3% and 4% spent engine oil and grown at different temperatures including 15^oC, 25^oC, 30^oC, 35^oC and 40^oC and salinity (10 mg/l, 20 mg/l, 30 mg/l and 40 mg/l of NaCl). The optimisation process involved analysing the effect of substrate concentration, temperature, and salinity on biosurfactant production by the bacterium using the onevariable-at-a-time (OVAT) approach. Gas Chromatography and Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) and emulsification index were used to determine the rate of hydrocarbon degradation and the concentration of biosurfactant produced by the organism respectively. The bacterium demonstrated the ability to biodegrade different polyaromatic hydrocarbon components of spent engine oil and produced biosurfactants with an emulsifying index of 80.9% when cultivated in a medium containing 2% of spent engine oil, 2% salinity (20^o mg/l of NaCl) and a temperature of 40^oC after 7 days. The biosurfactant produced was a glycolipid with antimicrobial activities against Klebsiella pneumonia, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Bacillus subtilis and Staphylococcus aureus.

Evaluation of Cryptolepis sanguinolenta stem ethanol extract in animal models

2025-01-22T09:47:56+00:00

Although herbal medicines are less potent compared to synthetic drugs in some cases, but are still considered less toxic less side effects. Cryptolepis sanguinolenta stem ethanol extract (CSSE) is a reportedly potent antimalarial plant with dearth of data on the safety and efficacy on the brain and heart of animals. This study evaluated the safety and efficacy of CSSE in animal models. Thirty albino rats were randomly distributed into five groups (n=6). Group A=distilled water (control), Groups B-E=250, 500, 1000, and 2000 mg/kg body weight extract, respectively, for 21 days. Phytochemicals and biochemical analyses were performed using standard method. Total protein (TP), direct bilirubin (DB), total bilirubin (TB), alanine transaminase (ALT), and aspartate + transaminase (AST) were evaluated in liver. Na⁺ -K⁺ -ATPase, Ca²⁺ -Mg²⁺ -ATPase, and AST were evaluated in heart. Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) and nitric oxide (NO) were evaluated in brain. Lipid profiles, malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione Stransferase (GST) were evaluated in serum as well. The results revealed that CSSE contained alkaloids, glycosides, steroids, terpenoids and proteins at 35.11, 9.80, 52.35, 22.61 and 30.32 mg/100g, respectively. CSSE significantly increased (p<0.05) liver TB and AST, heart AST, and MDA and GST, while total cholesterol and AChE was reduced. However, no significant difference (p>0.05) was observed in triglycerides, high density lipoprotein cholesterol, TP, DB, liver ALT, Na⁺ -K⁺ -ATPase, Ca²⁺ -Mg²⁺ -ATPase, BChE, NO, SOD and CAT in the subjects. CSSE also kept histo-architecture of the subjects intact. Hence, CSSE induced mild alterations in biochemical parameters and tissues of the subjects without an observable damage, hence relatively safe for consumption.

Modification of bitter yam (Dioscorea dumetorum) starch by octenyl succinic anhydride and microwave irradiation treatment: Preparation, morphology, structure, and functionality

2025-01-22T10:38:50+00:00

Starch was extracted from bitter yam (Dioscorea dumetorum) and subsequently modified through esterification (succinylation) and microwave treatment. The functional properties of the starches were then examined. Proximate composition analysis showed that, after modification, the succinylated (OSABS) and microwavetreated (MTBS) starches exhibited lower moisture content but higher levels of protein, ash, crude fiber, and fat compared to the untreated bitter yam starch (UBS). Both modifications substantially improved the swelling power and solubility profile of OSABS and MTBS at 80 °C. SEM micrographs revealed no surface damage for the OSABS sample, but showed major granule damage for the MTBS, with the granules appearing shriveled and collapsed. The starches were further characterized using FTIR, TGA, XRD, and light spectroscopy. Gelation studies indicated that the UBS sample is a superior gelling agent compared to the modified derivatives. All forms of modification raised the pasting temperature but reduced the peak, trough, breakdown, setback, and final viscosities. Additionally, the modified starches demonstrated excellent paste clarity and pasting properties, making them suitable for specific applications in the industries. Overall, modifying bitter yam starch resulted in changes to its properties, thus, using octenyl succinic anhydride and microwave treatment may be a superior alternative to conventional modification methods.

Comparative analysis of methane emission from dumpsites and rice plantations using a bespoke low-cost unit in Ile-Ife and Okemesi-Ekiti, Southwestern Nigeria

2025-01-22T11:03:12+00:00

Compared to carbon dioxide (CO₂), methane (CH₂ ) is a more potent greenhouse gas, trapping more heat than CO₂ on a per molecule basis. With increasing levels of activities in prominent sources of methane such as 2 livestock farming, rice farming and waste management, especially in developing economies like Nigeria, the need for a comprehensive and reliable CH₄ inventory cannot be over- emphasized. Using a bespoke low-cost 4 measuring unit, this study investigated the vertical profile and variability of methane around rice farms and waste dumpsites. Findings show that ambient levels of methane around the rice farms ranged between 26 ppm and 698 ppm and were highest at temperatures >30°C while lower concentrations were measured at lower temperatures. High methane concentrations were observed at a height of around 15 m and gradually decreased with increasing altitude. For waste dumpsites, methane levels measured ranged between 45 ppm and 1220 ppm aligning with variation in the amount of waste. These higher concentrations are, however, often found at low altitudes below 20 m over both dump sites. At temperatures above 30 °C, methane concentrations are found at its highest across both dumpsites. Also, while waste dumpsites seem to emit more methane than rice farms, all study sites emitted appreciable amounts of methane which could accumulate and contribute significantly to regional climatic variations and enhance levels of tropospheric ozone. This study concluded that the bespoke measuring unit performed relatively well, and air temperature has a positive influence on methane concentration at all study sites.

Planting density effect on growth, dry matter accumulation and weed control efficiency of Indigofera hirsuta Linn. in Ibadan Nigeria

2025-01-22T11:24:00+00:00

A field experiment was conducted at the Crop Garden, Department of Crop Protection and Environmental Biology, University of Ibadan, Nigeria to investigate the effect of planting density on the performance of Indigofera hirsuta and its ability to suppress weeds. Seeds sown at 1 cm soil depth were spaced at 20 cm inter-row 2 and varying intra-row spacings: 10, 20, 40, 80 and 160 cm to have densities 50, 25, 12.5, 6.25 and 3.13 plants/m² , which are equivalent to 500,000, 250,000, 125,000, 62,500 and 31,250 plants/ha, respectively. Plots where I. hirsuta were not planted served as control. The experiment was conducted in two trials in a randomised complete block design replicated three times with the five densities and control randomly allocated to plots in each block. The plant height (PH) in cm, stem diameter (SD) in cm, shoot dry weight (SDW) in kg and weed dry weight in kg were measured at 14 weeks after planting and the treatments compared using one-way ANOVA. The PH of I. hirsuta at density 50 plants/m (105.0 – first trial and 107.0 – second trial) were significantly higher than the 2 heights recorded in other test densities. The SD and SDW at density 3.13 plants/m (0.97 cm and 0.38 kg – first trial; 0.93 cm and 0.38 kg – second trial) were significantly higher than the SD and SDW recorded in other test 2 densities. The weed dry weight on 50 plants/m plot (0.55 kg and 0.59 kg in the first and second trial, respectively) was significantly lower than those on the other plots. Indigofera hirsuta proved effective in 2 suppressing other weeds, which increased with increasing density (WCE = 23.37 and 22.51% at 3.13 plants/m ; 2 70.11 and 69.11 at 50 plants/m in the first and second trial, respectively). The weed suppressive ability of Indigofera hirsuta is attributed to competition for light due to its rapid growth and spreading habit.

Parasitic contamination of circulating Nigerian currency in Ile-Ife, Osun State, Nigeria

2025-01-22T11:57:29+00:00

This study was conducted to determine the prevalence and level of contamination of Naira notes in circulation in Ile Ife, Osun State, Nigeria. Nine hundred and sixty (960) Naira notes comprising all denominations were collected randomly from commercial bus drivers, point of sales (POS) operators, bread sellers and open market traders between October 2023 and March 2024. The parasite egg/cysts were recovered using a standard parasitological procedure. Two hundred and thirty-seven (237) Naira notes harboured one or more parasites giving an overall prevalence of 24.7%. Ten parasites were recovered which include Ascaris lumbricoides (14.1%) Taenia spp (7.8%), Enterobius vermicularis (5.9%), Entamoeba histolytica (3.4%), Trichuris trichiura (0.6%), Ancylostoma duodenale (5.0%), Giardia lamblia (1.3%), Fasciola hepatica (1.6%), Entamoeba coli (4.7%) and Balantidium coli (0.6%). The highest prevalence of contamination was recorded in N100 notes (60.0%) followed by N200 Naira notes (26.7%) while the joint lowest contamination rate of 10% was recorded in N10 Naira and N20 Naira notes respectively. Old notes were more contaminated (29.8%) than the newly redesigned notes (4.6%) and higher parasitic contamination was recorded among paper notes (27.7%) than the polymers (18%). Mutilated Naira notes were more contaminated (85.7%) than very dirty ones (50%). Based on the source of currency, Naira notes collected from commercial drivers had the highest contamination (38.8%). Statistical associations were recorded between parasitic contamination of currency and currency denomination, currency type, source of currency note, and physical condition of Naira note (P˂0.05) except among currency materials where a nonsignificant association was recorded (P˃0.05). This study has revealed that currency notes in circulation in IleIfe, are contaminated with a variety of parasites that pose a significant risk to public health and it is essential to promote good personal hygiene practices, such as washing hands regularly, especially after using the toilet and handling currency notes.

Simultaneous detection of multiple counterfeit banknotes using Raman spectroscopy: A case study of ₦500 and ₦1000 notes

2025-01-22T12:22:08+00:00

A bundle of ₦500 and ₦1000 notes were analyzed using Raman spectroscopy to simultaneously detect and localize multiple counterfeit notes mixed with genuine ones in the bundle. The research applied machine learning techniques, specifically Multiview non-negative matrix factorization (Mv-NMF) and 2D correlation analysis, to detect and assess the spectral similarity between the bundle contents and a reference genuine note, identifying individual spectra as either genuine or counterfeit. Furthermore, an approach was provided for the spatial localization of each sample bank note within a bundle, offering a detailed visualization of all banknotes in the bundle simultaneously. This research showcases the potential of Raman spectroscopy in molecular forensic analysis of a bundle for detecting and identifying the spectral signatures of multiple bank notes with a single banknote's security features, offering a viable alternative to existing individual banknote analysis and detection methods. The research may also be applicable to any security documents with a unique substrate paper that can be bundled together. Our findings offer significant benefits to financial authorities, legal institutions, and intelligence organizations around the world for the smart identification of multiple counterfeited notes.

Proximate, mineral composition, and physicochemical properties of two flavoured ice creams within Benin City Metropolis, Nigeria

2025-01-22T12:35:26+00:00

This research work covers the purchase of strawberry and vanilla-flavoured ice cream sourced locally from two different ice creamery outlets within the Benin Metropolis, Edo State, Nigeria. This involves the determination of the proximate composition (crude protein, crude fat, ash content, crude fibre, moisture, and carbohydrates obtained by difference) and the mineral composition (potassium, magnesium, calcium, molybdenum, iron, zinc, sodium, and copper) using the standard method. The physiochemical properties of both ice cream samples (temperature, pH, total solids, and sugar content) were carried out using the standard method. The (66.90 and 57.80%), (12.10 and 11.80%), (4.07 and 3.99%), (2.50 and 2.20%), (1.01 and 1.10%), and (13.41 and 23.11%) as in moisture contents, crude lipid, crude protein, crude fibre, ash content, and carbohydrate, respectively, were obtained for strawberry and vanilla flavour ice cream. Copper, zinc, iron, magnesium, calcium, sodium, and potassium were (0.23 and 0.24 mg/L), (1.27 and 1.28 mg/L), (2.20 and 2.22 mg/L), (0.49 and 0.50 mg/L), (2.90 and 2.90 mg/L), (3.66 and 3.67 mg/L), and (3.37 and 3.36 mg/L), respectively. The calorie contribution from carbohydrate and protein was lower, while it was higher in fat. The micronutrient ratio was within the expected range except for K/Na, Ca/Mg, and Ca/protein. The trace elements Zn, Cu, and Fe contributed the highest percentage of micronutrients needed to meet the daily requirement for proper functioning and development of a healthy body. Hence, it is recommended to be safe for consumption if taken cautiously and in moderation.

Radiometric assessment of the sewage treatment site at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria

2025-01-22T13:05:10+00:00

The radiometric assessment of Ahmadu Bello University's sewage treatment site in Zaria was conducted in three profiles along two ponds in the research region. The goal is to estimate the concentration and dose rate of naturally occurring radioactive elements, as well as to assess the risk to workers in the area. Gamma-ray spectrometer alongside with GPS (global positioning system) were used. The concentration of ²³⁸U, ²³²Th and ⁴⁰K were contour to show the areas of high concentration of the radionuclide. The data were taken at 5 m interval in each profile along the sewage ponds. The data collected were interpreted using the golden software surfer 16. The concentration of the radionuclide ²³⁸U, ²³²Th and ⁴⁰K in the study area were found to be between the range of 2 ppm - 21 ppm which is equivalent to the activity levels of 22.2 Bq/kg - 233.1 Bq/kg for ²³⁸U, 14.5 232 ppm - 29.5 ppm which is equivalent to the activity levels of 58.87 Bq/kg - 119.77 Bq/kg for ²³²Th and 2.5% - 40 10.5% which is equivalent to the activity levels of 782.5 Bq/kg - 3286.5 Bq/kg for ⁴⁰K respectively. The dose rate of the radionuclide U, ²³²Th and ⁴⁰K in the study area were 11.35 nGy/h - 119.18 nGy/h for ²³⁸U, 36.16 nGy/h - 73.57nGy/h for ²³²Th and 32.69 nGy/h - 137.29 nGy/h for K respectively. The total count and absorb dose spanned within the range of 330 - 395 cps and 115 - 200 nGy/h respectively. The result show that the absorbed dose rate of the radionuclide ( ²³⁸U, ²³²Th and ⁴⁰K) and total absorbed dose rate are above world average.

Assessment of soil transmitted helminths in soil ready for primary school farming activity in Omelema

2025-01-22T13:21:45+00:00

Approximately every rural inhabitant in Nigeria is at risk of diseases transmissible by helminthes worms also known as soil transmitted helminthes. This study evaluates the level soil transmitted helminths contamination level of soil prepared for school farming activity in Omelema. A total of 50 soil samples were collected and analyzed for soil transmitted helminths contamination using the formalin ether sedimentation technique and saturated salt floatation methods. Thirty one samples representing 62.0% were contaminated with soil transmitted helminths. The soil transmitted helminths implicated in this study are Strongyloies (45.6 %), Ascaris (36.9 %) and hook worm species (17.5 %). The presence of soil transmitted helminths in this study called for serious concern in the public health sector and demand that the rural inhabitants be adequately oriented on preventive strategies to avert prospect infection threat. The scenario in this survey suggests that prohibition of open defecation alongside personal cleanliness in private and public places if taken seriously can mitigate infections of soil transmitted helminths in every locality.

Prevalence and antibiogram of Escherichia coli species isolated from hospital wastewater and the receiving stream in Owo, Ondo State

2025-01-22T13:52:17+00:00

Wastewater effluent from tertiary hospital is a significant reservoir of pathogenic organisms and can contribute immensely to the toxicity of receiving water bodies if not adequately treated before discharge. This current study was conducted to evaluate the prevalence and antibiogram profile of pathogenic Escherichia coli isolates recovered from wastewater samples collected from different wards of a tertiary hospital in Owo and the receiving stream. A total of 76 presumptive E. coli isolates was confirmed biochemically, of which 60 were randomly selected and screened by molecular technique. Thirty-eight (38) of the isolates were confirmed using polymerase chain reaction (PCR). High resistance was recorded against meropenem, amikacin, ceftazidime followed by ceftriaxone, ciprofloxacin and gentamicin. However, 100% susceptibility to tetracyclines, cotrimoxazole and vancomycin was likewise recorded. Three predominant antimicrobial resistance patterns detected were comprised ; GEN-CRX-CHL-CTR-CTX-CIP-CPZ-AMK-MEM with multiple antibiotic resistance (MAR) index of 0.75, CPX-CTR-CTX-CIP-CPZ-AMK-MEM with MAR index of 0.60 and GENCTX-CIP-CPZ-AMK-MEM with MAR index of 0.50. The study concludes that effluents discharged from the tertiary hospital serves as a reservoir for antibiotic-resistant E. coli. The MAR index values are of great public health significance, hence the need to regularly monitor and evaluate hospital effluent discharges and ensure proper treatment before being discharged into the environment

Bioremediation and growth promoting effects of identified bacteria from different soil locations in Nigeria

2025-01-23T06:21:33+00:00

Soil contains diverse bacteria that are vital for maintaining soil health and fertility. While many soil bacteria are known for their plant growth-promoting (PGP) abilities, combining this role with bioremediation is less common. The ability of the bacteria isolates to solubilize phosphate, fix nitrogen and bioremediate environmental pollutants were investigated in this study. Isolated organisms were further tested to know their ability to sequester toxicants such as heavy metals, pesticides and hydrocarbons while their capability to produce growth hormones were also confirmed. The bacteria were molecularly identified using the 16S rDNA sequencing. The identified isolates were: Bacillus species, Enterobacter species and Vagococcus fluvialis. Production of halo zones on the Pikovskaya's agar showed the proficiency of the organisms to solubilize phosphate, change of Salkowiski's reagent to pink displayed their ability to produce Indole acetic acid while their capability to produce siderophore was indicated by the change in the dark blue CAS indicator to orange. The heavy metal tolerance test conducted showed that the organisms could resist metals at maximum concentration of: chromium (1.0mM), lead (16.0mM), cadmium (1.6mM) and nickel (4.0mM). All the bacteria isolated and identified were found to have great biofertilizer potential. At the same time, they also serve as bioremediators of polluted environment as well as biofertilizers.

Hydrogeophysical exploration and groundwater quality assessment of Obada Oko, Ogun State, Nigeria

2025-01-23T06:41:16+00:00

Water is one of the prime necessities of life for the survival of man and a host of other living things. Access to potable water supply over the years has been difficult in developing countries leading to high rates of water borne diseases, hence the need to assess the hydrogeological potential of Obada-Oko in Ewekoro Local Government Area of Ogun State. The study investigated aquifer distribution and locations of possible sites where boreholes and hand-dug wells could be drilled for potable and uncontaminated groundwater supply. The study area falls within a transition zone between sedimentary and basement complex rocks of southwestern Nigeria. Vertical Electrical Sounding (VES) and 2-Dimensional Electrical Resistivity Tomography (2D ERT) surveys were carried out using Schlumberger and Wenner arrays respectively. Resistivity data were acquired using Campus Tigre resistivity meter at twelve VES points and six 2D traverses of lengths varying from 100 to 150 m. The resistivity data obtained from 2D ERT were inverted using RES2DINV software while IPI2WIN and WinResist software were used for VES data interpretation. A maximum of five geoelectric layers namely: topsoil, clayey soil, clayey sand, sandy soil, weathered/fractured and fresh basement were delineated beneath the traverses. The weathered and fractured layers had resistivity varying from 20 to 690 Ωm and thickness varying from 12 to 27 m. The 2D ERT models showed three layers: top layer, weathered layer and fresh basement. The topsoil thickness varies from 1 to 10 m while fractured/fresh basement layer thickness vary between 6 and 13 m. The maximum depth of penetration of 2D ERT and VES were 13 m and 31 m respectively. Productive hand-dug wells/boreholes could be sited on traverses 2, 3 and 6; VES points 6 and 12 were suspected to have high groundwater potential. Though the longitudinal conductance values revealed protective capacity rating to be mostly within poor category, which made the aquifer system highly vulnerable to contamination. Physical and chemical results of analyzed water samples fell within permissible limit of World Health Organization (WHO) and Nigerian Standard for Drinking Water Quality (NSDWQ) limit for drinking purposes. Piper trilinear diagram interpretation showed calcium and chloride to be the dominant cation and anion respectively. Groundwater potential tends to be high in five locations in the study area with suitable aquiferous media for groundwater extraction.

Effect of growth media on heavy metal tolerant bacteria isolated from Owode-Onirin iron scrap market in Nigeria

2025-01-23T07:13:21+00:00

Heavy metals often form complexes with the organic components of most growth media resulting in decrease metal availability to bacteria cells. Hence, this study assessed different growth media used in studying heavy metal tolerance in bacteria vis elucidating the impact of heavy metals on the biochemical traits of heavy-metal tolerant bacteria. Standard cultural techniques were used to recover heavy metals (cadmium, lead and nickel) tolerant bacteria from Owode-Onirin metal-laden soil. The isolates were presumptively identified using their biochemical characteristics and further authenticated using 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis. Three different heavy metals supplemented media (nutrient broth, low-phosphate broth and Luria-Bertani broth) were used to determine the growth and physiological effect of the metals on the selected isolates. The nine isolates obtained from the soil samples tolerated 3 mM of cadmium, lead and nickel. The isolates recorded least growth in the low phosphate broth compared to the other two media because it prevented complexation of the metals in the medium. The order of bacterial growth in the media is low phosphate broth < nutrient broth < Luria-Bertani broth. Also, an increase in metal concentration resulted in loss of oxidase, catalase and pigmentation ability in some of the isolates. This study therefore recommends the use of a minimal nutrient medium such as low phosphate broth in evaluating heavy metal tolerance in bacteria

Effect of different storage conditions on aflatoxin production in oven-dried tilapia fish (Oreochromis niloticus)

2025-01-23T07:28:13+00:00

Aflatoxin produced by Aspergillus species are carcinogenic and pose significant health risks to consumers of contaminated food products.The storage conditions of oven-dried fish play a crucial role in controlling aflatoxin production. This study examined aflatoxin production in oven-dried tilapia fish under different storage conditions. A total of 36 fishes were bought fresh, oven-dried and stored in bamboo baskets and plastic containers. The isolation and Identification of fungi were carried out weekly for 4 weeks and and aflatoxin was detected by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method. The highest moisure content (%MC) of the oven-dried Tilapia fish were subjected to temperature ranges 80 °C - 130 °C was 76.7% at 130 °C. The total fungal count ranges from 2.65±0.01 to 3.31±0.02 log cfu/g with the highest count recorded in covered bamboo basket while the lowest was from tightly covered storage plastic. Six fungal isolates namely Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus fumigatus, Aspergillus niger, mucor, yeast, and Penicillium chrysogenum were associated with the stored ovendried tilapia fish samples. The oven-dried tilapia fish stored in bamboo baskets (opened and closed); and opened plastic container were contaminated with three (3) Aspergillus sp. and a Penicillium sp. with aflatoxin B1 levels ranging from 0.62 to 0.90 ppb. Remarkably, no fungi or aflatoxin were detected in the tightly covered storage plastics (TCSPs) containing fish that were oven-dried at 130 °C (designated as A) in sharp contrast to bamboo basket-stored fish which exhibited elevated fungal counts. The results obtained from this study highlights the critical function of storage conditions in controlling aflatoxin production in oven-dried tilapia fish. The application of best storage practices can decrease contamination, ensuring safer consumption and reduced health risks.

Diversity of foliar trichomes, trichomes basal insertion cells and cells surrounding the basal insertion cells in family asteraceae

2025-01-23T08:08:09+00:00

Foliar trichome morphology, trichome basal insertion cells (TBIC) and cells surrounding trichome insertion basal cells (CSTIBC) on the leaves of fourteen species of family Asteraceae were investigated by light microscopy. TBIC and CSTIBC are the two novel characters investigated in this work, in search of unique character states that could improve the taxonomy of the family. Epidermal peels were made following standard procedure. Data obtained showed that both non-glandular and glandular trichomes were present, the glandular was observed in the genus Vernonia only. The non-glandular trichomes were unicellular, bicellular, tricellular and multicellular uniseriate. Shriveled cells within the multicellular uniseriate cells were common in Emilia sonchifolia and Emilia praertermissa and occurred sparsely in Ageratum conyzoides. Uniquely pigmented multicellular uniseriate trichomes with apical cells shriveled or transparent delimits Bidens pilosa from the other species studied. Amoeboid shaped multicellular uniseriate trichomes delimit Chromolaena odorata from the other species, while Tshaped trichomes (regular and irregular) delimit the genus Vernonia from the other genera studied. Shape and width of apical cells of the trichomes differentiate Vernonia cinerea from Vernonia amygdalina. Surface of trichomes in Aspilia africana, Synedrella nodiflora and Eclipta alba are uniquely papillate and diagnostic for the three species. TIBC have varying shapes with different combinations of 1-4 shapes per species. It is noteworthy that the two species of Emilia can be delimited from each other based on the shapes of the TIBC on the abaxial epidermis. The number of CSTIBC was observed to be the same on the adaxial epidermis of the two species of genus Emilia. Shapes of CSTIBC in the species studied are diverse. Coefficient of Variation for all the characters studied showed species with more variation within each character. Novel characters, TIBC and CSTIBC, were found to be useful as additional tools in the taxonomy of family Asteraceae.

Conductive zones characterization using VLF-EM technique around a landfill on basement complex formation of Southwestern Nigeria

2025-01-23T08:26:34+00:00

The conductive zones in the vicinities of the Saje dumpsite in Abeokuta metropolis, Ogun State, Southwestern Nigeria, were characterized employing the Very Low Frequency-Electromagnetic (VLF-EM) geophysical technique. The subsurface spatial distributions were mapped, and the migration and accumulation of leachate plumes in the fault lines or fractures were indicated. The survey traverses ranging from 140-200 m were laid from the dumpsite to the residential area with station intervals between 5 and 15 m using the ABEM WADI VLF meter. Nine traverses were created in the North of the dumpsite in the W-E direction, while five traverses were laid in the western region of the dumpsite in the N-S direction. The VLF meter's in-built filtering program and Fraser and Karous-Hjelt program filtered the real signatures obtained. The results were shown as 2D KarousHjelt pseudo-sections and Fraser anomaly curves, which depicted features with varying degrees of conductive and resistive regions in different directions. The anomaly curves showed prominent conductive signatures, which indicated massive accumulations of contaminants from the dumpsite. Also, the orientations of the conductive dwarf peaks of the signatures suggested appreciable massive contaminant regions. Furthermore, several cavities of both conductive and resistive responses were observed across the 2D Karous-Hjelt models to a depth of about 30 m. The results generally revealed conductive zones to distances of 35 and 75 m on the western and northern regions of the dumpsite, respectively. The regular patterns of conductive responses indicated fault lines as significant leachate plume trackways in the dumpsite subsurface.

Effects of leaf blight caused by Colletotrichum and Lasiodiplodia species on the growth and yield parameters of melons (Citrulus and Leganaria species)

2025-01-23T08:41:57+00:00

Melons (Citrullus lanatus (Thumb) Mansf. and Leganaria siceraria (Mol.) Standley) are vital vegetable crops in West Africa, valued for their edible nutrient-rich seeds and oil. However, their production is impacted by leaf blight, while the economic yield loss caused by this disease is not well documented. This study examined the effects of three blight-causing pathogens: Colletotrichum truncatum (Ct), Colletotrichum gloeosporioides (Cg), and Lasiodiplodia theobromae (Lt) on the growth and yield traits of melon. Three melon cultivars (Bara, Serewe, and Bojuri) were artificially inoculated with these pathogens in two field trials using a randomized complete block design with four replicates. Data on growth and yield parameters (GYPs) were analyzed using analysis of variance (p<0.05). The pathogens significantly affected GYPs depending on the cultivar. In Serewe cultivar, Lt significantly reduced vine length (from 82.9 to 28.2 cm) and the number of leaves (from 74.3 to 39.2). In Bara, the three pathogens reduced the number of leaves and number of vines, while a significant reduction of vine length was caused by Ct (from 98.2±9.9 to 42.4±7.7cm) and Lt (98.2±9.9 to 41.5±13.6cm). However, the GYPs of Bojuri was unaffected by the three blight pathogens. The pathogens also reduced the number of fruits per/plant of Serewe cultivar (from 7.8±2.6 to 3.1±0.6) and weight of fruits/per plant (from 8.0±5.0 to 1.6±0.9 kg) and all the evaluated yield parameters in Bara except weight of fruits/plant which was only reduced by Ct (from 3.1±0.8 to 1.2±0.8 kg). Lasiodiplodia theobromae (95.7%) and Ct (92.9%) caused the highest reduction observed in the weight of seeds/plant of Serewe and Bara, respectively. This study highlights significant yield losses due to Colletotrichum and Lasiodiplodia species in Serewe and Bara melon cultivars, emphasizing the need for effective disease management strategies.

Impact of land-use types on the distribution and accumulation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in soil from Sagamu Town, Southwestern Nigeria

2025-01-23T09:06:18+00:00

Man-made activities such as urbanization and expansion of agricultural activities are increasingly changing our landscapes. An evaluation of the effects of land use on soil standards is critical for the sustainable management of human health and its surroundings. This study examines the impact of land use types on the abundance and distribution of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) in soil as affected by three different land environments; Petrol Stations (NNPC), FarmLand, and Auto–Mechanic Villages. A focus on the concentrations and spatial distribution of PAHs in soil samples collected from each land-use type in Sagamu Township and its surroundings, was subject to a generalized assessment while identifying important contaminating factors in the soil. Soil analysis confirmed that Auto-Mechanic Village constitutes the highest contributor of PAH and increased concentrations are detected from this land-use type. Significantly, the Petrol Station (NNPC) also showed a high PAH distribution but was lower than the Auto mechanic village. The levels of PAHs (∑7PAHs) obtained in NNPC, Mechanic Village, and FarmLand are 0.054 mg/kg 0.073 mg/kg, and 0.0328 mg/kg respectively. The highest values of PAHs concentration were returned from Mechanic Village soil samples and the lowest value was obtained from the FarmLand samples. This trend of PAH prevalence was consistent with the number of rings inside the structure, apparent at each sampling site and across the whole study area. The Σ5- 6 ring PAHs dominate at a concentration of 0.0481 mg/kg (50% of total PAHs). Σ2–3ring PAHs show 0.0257 mg/kg, percent abundance 27%. In contrast, there are scarce occurrences of Σ4 ring PAHs, of which the lowest values reach up to 0.0223 mg/kg (23%). The findings highlight the relevance of accounting for co-exposure to different land-use-type when assessing the risk of soil contamination for human health and offer useful insights to policymakers, environmental regulators, and land-use planners.

Evaluation of rodenticidal potential of yellow oleander (Thevetia neriifolia tuss.) seed powder in wild female African giant rat (Cricetomys gambianus W.)

2025-01-23T09:20:01+00:00

Cricetomys gambianus is a wild rodent species attacking crops. Conventional rodent control is via the use of synthetic rodenticides with health and environmental concerns. Thevetia neriifolia seed reportedly has rodenticidal potential in the laboratory rodents. However, rodenticidal activity of T. neriifolia seed has not been evaluated in wild rodent species. Therefore, this study attempted to evaluate the rodenticidal potential of yellow oleander seed powder in wild C. gambianus. Twenty wild-caught female C. gambianus were acclimatized for 4 weeks in Animal house and randomly allocated into 4 groups including control. The T. neriifolia seed was dried under the shade, blended, and mixed with a commercial feed with 4 different concentrations of the seed powder (0%, 20%, 40%, and 80%) and then turned to pellet. The acclimatized animals were fed with appropriate concentrations of the formulated feed for 8 weeks. Body-Weight and Feed- Intake of the animals were taken. Their behavior before and after introduction of the feed was also recorded. At termination, tissue samples (Kidney, Liver, and Heart) were collected for histopathology analysis. Data were analyzed in SPSS using ANOVA and means separated using DMRT at α . The results showed no significant effect on the animals' mean Body-Weight and Feed- 0.05 Intake (p˃0.05). No mortality and behavioral changes were observed in the animals at all the concentrations. No visible lesions in the kidney, liver, and heart across the treatment groups compared to control. In conclusion, T. neriifolia seed powder did not have rodenticidal effect on the wild female C. gambianus. Therefore, it could not be used as a rodenticide in the management of wild rodent species population.

Effect of colchicine induction on the phenotypic, mineral and phytochemical compositions of Amarantus cruentus L.

2025-01-23T09:35:27+00:00

The development of genetically improved crops by breeders to meet the needs of farmers and populace requires the induction of genetic variability in crops to produce unique variants. Colchicine-induced mutagenesis has emerged as a promising technique for generating genetic variations and improving plant characteristics. The study investigated the impact of varying concentrations of colchicine on the phenotypic traits, mineral, and phytochemical compositions of Amaranthus cruentus. The research was conducted at the screen house of the Department of Plant Science and Biotechnology, Federal University Oye-Ekiti, Ekiti State, Nigeria. The seeds of Amaranthus cruentus were planted in plastic bowls with varying concentrations of colchicine (0.1 g/ml, 0.2 g/ml, and 0.3 g/ml) of colchicine, while 0.0 serves as the control and the experiment was set up in triplicates. The subsequent effects on the phenotypic traits, phytochemical and mineral compositions were evaluated at maturity. Phenotypic traits including plant height, leaf size, leaf shape, and inflorescence characteristics were assessed. Phytochemical and mineral compositions of the matured plants were also determined. The results reveal significant variations at p ≤ 0.05 in phenotypic traits among the mutant lines compared to the control group. Changes in growth patterns, and leaf morphology were observed, indicating successful induction of genetic variations through colchicine treatment. The mineral profiles including iron, zinc, calcium, sodium, potassium, manganese and phytochemical compositions such as flavonoids, phenols and tannins of the mutant lines exhibited notable differences compared to the control, suggesting that colchicine-induced mutagenesis influenced mineral accumulation in Amaranthus cruentus. The results suggest that colchicine has a dose-dependent effect on the morphological characteristics, mineral and phytochemical compositions of the plant.