Journal of Applied Sciences and Environmental Management

Correlation Between Potential Strategies to Minimize Road Construction Delay in Tanzania

G. Gabriel — 2025-01-03

The construction sector, one of the fastest-growing and globally recognized sectors, significantly contributes to the development of other numerous sectors of the economy including in multiple nations including Tanzania. Despite its importance, the industry has repeatedly been tremendously overwhelmed with countless challenges, including the inability to finish construction projects within a given schedule. Hence, the objective of this paper was to evaluate the potential strategies and examine the correlation between strategies as a measure to reduce construction project delays in Tanzania using appropriate standard procedure. The study adopted the questionnaire tool and the survey interview to collect the respondent’s opinion from 208 respondents, including contractors (59.13%), clients (15.87%), suppliers (12.98%) and consultants (10.10%) obtained through stratified sampling. The relative importance index (RII) of the data was computed using a Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS 24) software tool to obtain the descriptive information and inferential statistics. The findings have revealed seven potential strategies for reducing construction project delays. However, the finding has determined and recognized a positively significant correlation between strategies towards minimizing the construction project delays. The strategies were categorized in six clusters, namely effective project management, procurement and supply; resource adequacy, monetary or financial, design or technical, information and communication, as well as external strategies.

Systematic Review of Agricultural Systems and Sustainability Challenges in Caraga Region (Region XIII) of Northeastern Mindanao, Philippines

A. N. Taer — 2025-01-03

The objective of this paper is to undertake a systematic review of agricultural systems and sustainability challenges in Caraga Region (Region XIII) of Northeastern Mindanao, Philippines using appropriate standard methods involving a comprehensive analysis of peer-reviewed literature, government reports, and statistical data, focusing on six key dimensions: geographical distribution of research, agricultural commodity assessment, farming practices evaluation, challenges analysis, policy intervention assessment, and sustainability framework development. The result shows a higher density of research in Agusan del Sur and Surigao del Sur, and comparatively little research is done in Dinagat Province. Rice is the most dominant agricultural commodity, and distinct farming practices, from conventional upland rice production to advanced techniques, such as rice-duck farming, have been identified, showing enhanced productivity and ecological efficiency. Critical challenges affecting agricultural sustainability include climate vulnerability, problems with market access, environmental degradation, especially in the Agusan Marsh, and gender relations in farming activities and access to agricultural resources. Analysis of policy interventions reveals that climate-resilient agriculture, improved market infrastructure, enhanced extension services, and gender-sensitive programs are essential for sustainable development. The study proposes an integrated framework emphasizing climate adaptation strategies, market development initiatives, environmental protections, and capacity-building programs. Future research directions should address geographical gaps, particularly in Dinagat Province, and focus on developing comprehensive solutions considering the interconnected nature of agricultural challenges in Caraga.

In-Vitro Anthelminthic Potential of Ethanolic and Methanolic Stem Bark Extract of Adansonia digitata Linn (Baobab Tree) on earthworms (Pheritima posthuma)

A. A. Biu — 2025-01-03

Medicinal plants have been used for decades by rural dwellers to alleviate suffering due to parasitic diseases and interest have grown in recent times on their application as alternatives for deworming of animals. Hence, this study was undertaken to investigated the in vitro anthelminthic potential of ethanolic and methanolic stem bark extracts of activity of Adansonia digitata Linn (Baobab Tree) on earthworms (Pheritima posthuma) using 12.5, 25.0, 50.0 and 100.0 mg/mL ethanolic and methanolic extract concentrations. Data obtained indicates that after 60-minute of exposure, the mortality pattern mirrored that observed at 30 minutes, with the mean number of live worms decreasing from 1.25±1.26 (at 12.5 mg/ml) to 0±0 (at 100 mg/ml) for the ethanol extract and 1.5±0.57 (at 12.5 mg/ml) to 0±0 (at 100 mg/ml) for the methanol extract. This reduction was statistically significant (p<0.05) and compared favourably with Albendazole (40 mg/ml), which is the positive control. A dose dependent inverse relationship was observed with increase in the number of dead worms and decrease in the number of earthworm alive. After 30 minutes of exposure, the number of dead earthworms rose to a 100% at 100mg/mL concentration for both extracts. Overall, the anthelmintic activity was significantly greater after 60 minutes compared to 30 minutes of exposure, indicating enhanced effectiveness over time across the treatment groups.

Effect of Periodic Exposure to Formaldehyde in the Anatomy Laboratory on some Plasma Protein Levels in Male Wistar Rats

F. O. Ebojele — 2025-01-03

The objective of this paper is to evaluate the effect of periodic exposure to formaldehyde in the anatomy laboratory on some plasma protein levels in male Wistar rats using appropriate standard procedures. Data obtained showed that formaldehyde air level were 0.06±0.00 ppm (parts per million) at the control site, 0.47±0.02 ppm in the dissection hall on non-dissection days, and 1.95±0.02 ppm in the dissection hall on dissection days. Plasma levels of albumin, globulin and fibrinogen were 4.76±0.13 g/l, 3.12±0.07 g/l and 1.04±0.16 g/l respectively on non-dissection days and 5.06±0.07 g/l, 3.24±0.06 g/l and 1.18±0.18 g/l respectively on dissection days. Results revealed significant increase in the atmospheric levels of formaldehyde in the dissection hall but the plasma protein levels showed no significant difference. In conclusion, exposure to formaldehyde in the Anatomy laboratory may not affect plasma protein levels in Wistar rats.

Evaluation of Growth and Yield of Sorghum Cultivars as Influenced by Intercropping of Soybean

A. I. Afe — 2025-01-03

The fast-growing world population and reduction in the land for agricultural purposes have threatened the demand for food thus making intercropping an indispensable farming practice. Hence, the objective of this paper is to evaluate the growth and yield of sorghum cultivars as influenced by intercropping of soybean at a Tertiary Institution Research Farm Ogbomoso, and the National Centre for Agricultural Mechanization (NCAM), Idofian during the 2021 cropping season using appropriate standard techniques. Data obtained show that sole sorghum out-yielded the intercropped and decreased as the population of component soybean decreased. A significantly lower number of pods 18.93 and 32.48 and seeds 79.2 and 68.9 per plant respectively for LAUTECH and NCAM were recorded at the treatment where full populations of both crops were intercropped. Irrespective of cultivar and location the lowest grain yield of sorghum at the intercropped was obtained at the population ratio 100SH:100SO but the least grain yields of soybean were recorded at the 100SH:25SO population ratio. Regardless of the sorghum cultivar, the highest intercropping advantage as measured by Land Equivalent Ratio (LER) and Land Equivalent Coefficient (LEC) indices was observed at 100SH:100SO with Samsorg 47 cultivar. This population ratio and sorghum cultivar is recommended for adoption.

Catalytic Chemical Recycling of Post-Consumer Plastics: A Review

L. M. Affiku — 2025-01-03

The objective of this paper is to provide a critical review of Catalytic Chemical Recycling of Post-Consumer Plastics using data from online and in-library resources. The adaptability of plastic has significantly contributed to numerous product innovations and everyday convenience and the waste poses a significant environmental challenge due to its durability and slow degradation rate. Catalytic chemical recycling seen as a promising approach by converting plastic waste into valuable products like fuels and monomers. This process involves breaking down plastic polymers into smaller molecules using catalysts, reducing the need for fossil fuel-based feedstocks. The study explored various catalytic methods, including microwave-assisted, plasma-assisted, supercritical water, and photocatalytic conversion, which can yield high-value products. By promoting catalytic chemical recycling, we can reduce plastic waste, conserve resources, and contribute to a more sustainable future.

Review on Regulatory Framework and Identification of Challenges and Opportunities in Accessing Insurance Products among Smallholder Farmers in Tanzania

T. Yarumba — 2025-01-03

Crop insurance is generally considered to be essential for managing agricultural risks and enhancing farmers' resilience to natural disasters,pests and climate change. This paper reviews the regulatory framework and identifies challenges and opportunities in accessing insurance products among smallholder farmers in Tanzania using appropriate techniques. Key findings include low premium penetration and adoption; limited uptake, low awareness, and limited demand. Despite the implementation of pilot projects, crop insurance has yet to achieve widespread adoption due to slow progression. Microinsurance initiatives struggle due to financial constraints, infrastructural deficiencies, and inadequate farmer education. However, significant constraints persist, including high minimum capital requirements and limited distribution channels, which disproportionately affect smallholder farmers. Traditional attitudes, economic constraints, and mistrust contribute to the limited effectiveness of crop insurance. Addressing these issues requires a re-evaluation of insurance frameworks to serve Tanzanian smallholder farmers better and facilitate affordable and accessible insurance products.

Application of Computer-Based Techniques for Monitoring Animal Health, Behavior and Welfare: A Review

A. S. Famuyiwa — 2025-01-03

This review explores the application of computer-based technologies for monitoring animal health, behavior, and welfare, focusing on innovative methods and their impact on modern animal management. Computerized monitoring systems, including sensors, wearables, and artificial intelligence, provide continuous, real-time data that enhances the accuracy and efficiency of tracking animal welfare indicators such as stress, disease, and environmental comfort. Advances in machine learning, IoT, and blockchain have further expanded capabilities, enabling predictive insights and ensuring data security and transparency. These technologies support early disease detection, facilitate better decision-making, and reduce human labor, addressing both productivity and welfare standards. However, challenges remain, such as high costs, ethical considerations, and potential stress from monitoring devices. Despite these limitations, emerging trends toward non-invasive and animal-friendly tools highlight a promising future for humane monitoring practices. This review concludes by discussing the broad implications for improved welfare and productivity in various settings and recommends continued innovation to overcome challenges and enhance technology adoption in animal welfare management.

Radiological Hazard Assessment and Human Exposure to Natural Radionuclides in Soils of Udege Mbeki Mining Area, Nasarawa State, Nigeria

O. S. Eghaghe — 2025-01-03

Mining involves excavating soil with radioactive materials, which may get deposited in large amounts in the atmosphere or enter the food chain and cause harm to humans when inhaled or ingested. This study evaluated the risks of exposure to ionizing radiation from the primordial and most abundant radionuclides in the soil – radium-226, potassium-40, and thorium-232 in Udege Mbeki mining area of Nasarawa State, Nigeria. Twenty-one (21) soil samples were randomly collected in the mining site and analyzed using gamma ray spectrometer. The standards used to check for the calibration are the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) gamma Spectrometric reference materials RGK-1 for K-40, RGU-1 for Ra-226 (Bi-214 peak) and RTG-1 for Th-232 (Ti-208). The activity concentrations of ²²⁶Ra, ²³²Th, and ⁴⁰K in the samples ranged from 12.7462 to 430.8147 Bq/kg, 38.4147 to 725.4748 Bq/kg, and 22.3092 to 395.5596 Bq/kg respectively. The estimated effective dose in the soil samples was averaged at 148.8091 mSvy^-1 in the dump, 67.1197 mSv/yr in the farmland, and 121.4909 mSv/yr in the surface soil. These values exceed ICRP's recommended reference level of 1 mSv/yr for public exposure and 20 mSv/yr for workers averaged over a period of five years. Also, with the mean external hazard index recorded at 1.314 and exceeding the recommended threshold limit of 1.0 we conclude that the mine is hazardous both for the public and for workers.

Quantification of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons in Wetlands in Aja-Pessu and Environs (Oil Bearing Communities) Warri South Delta, Nigeria

C. Ogwu — 2025-01-03

Oil production in Nigeria is synonymous with wetland degradation resulting in most times in youth’s restiveness and unrests in oil bearing Niger Delta. Hence, the objective of this paper is to evaluate the quantification of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in wetlands in Aja-Pessu and environs (oil bearing communities) Warri South Delta in Nigeria using appropriate standard methods. The mean results obtained were: pyrene 1.06±0.11 μg/l, chrysene 1.05±0.00 μg/l , BaP; 1.05±0.10 μg/l, BaA; 1.05±0.01 μg/l and BbF 1.06±0.11 μg/l. The results obtained were subjected to test of significance with ANOVA deploying SPSS IBM model 29 at 0.05 level of significance and the p value was 0.045, thus rejecting H₀. The study concluded that the wetlands in Aja-Pessu and environs are polluted with PAHs investigated higher than EU 1881/2014 MPC, thus the produce will neither be fit for human nor animal consumption and will equally not be fit for export. The study recommended that oil companies operating in the settlement should adopt world best practices in their operations, the monitoring agencies NESREA and NOSDRA should be made to carry out their assignment expeditiously and the impacted wetlands should be remediated and restored for adoption of pen aquaculture for job creation in Nigeria.

Assessment of Rice Processing and Packaging Methods in New-Bussa, Niger State Nigeria

O. P. Olaifa — 2025-01-03

The objective of this paper was to assess rice processing and packaging techniques amongst rice processors in New-Bussa and its environment, Niger State, Nigeria using appropriate standard procedures. Data obtained show that manual threshing method accounted for 62.0% while 71.0% use local parboiling method, 91.0% use mechanical milling. The drying method indicates that 82.0% uses sun drying method while 18.0% uses mechanical drier. The methods of Rice packaging indicates that majority (85.0%) of the respondents uses sack bag for packaging, 10.0% uses polythene bag while 3.0% uses bowl. The major constraints associated with Rice processing and packaging are poor access to institutional credits and inadequacy of modern storage and processing facilities with 29.0% and 22.0% each, followed by scarcity and high cost of inputs with 16.0% while the least constraints was uses of old milling machine (9.0%). The study concludes that rice processors were owned by an individual that could not afford modern machines for the production and processing of Rice in the study area. Therefore, the majority of these Rice processors were still using crude method of Rice processing and packaging.

Assessment of Health Consequences of Prolonged Ozone Pollution as a Disaster on Urban Communities in Central-Western Part of Kano State, Nigeria

Y. F. Musa — 2025-01-03

Prolonged ozone (O₃) pollution at high levels poses a significant threat to both human health and the sustainability of livelihoods. Hence, the objective of this paper is to assess the health consequences of prolonged ozone (O₃) pollution as a disaster on urban communities in the Central-Western part of Kano State, Nigeria. The concentrations of O₃ were monitored and analysed using various standard methods. Results revealed that O₃ levels were consistently high throughout all seasons, with the highest concentrations observed in the commercial and industrial areas. The concentrations of the pollutant are not significantly different and exceed the permissible standards (0.06 ppm) set by the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA). It is concluded that prolonged exposure to O₃threatens human health. It was recommended that there should be enforcement of minimum permissible emission of the pollutant by industries, motorist among others. Also, the public should be enlightened on the consequences of exposure to the pollutant.

Demographic Characteristics of Food Vendors, Training, Hygiene Practices, Environmental Conditions, Microbiological Quality and Safety of Fast Foods in Cape Coast, Ghana

D. S. Agyirifo — 2025-01-03

Fast foods, including street foods, are essential for tourists and have become increasingly popular in urban areas due to their convenience and affordability compared to home-cooked meals. Consequently, the objective of this paper was to investigate the demographic characteristics of food vendors, their training, hygiene practices, environmental conditions and microbiological quality and safety of fast foods in Cape Coast, Ghana using appropriate standard techniques by collecting food samples such as fried rice, fried chicken, coleslaw, and pepper sauce (Shito), from seven areas within the Cape Coast municipality and analyzed for microbial load and temperature. The study revealed a high prevalence of foodborne pathogens. Most of the food vendors obtained training either through a vocational institute (29.2 %) or apprenticeship (41.7%) and 75% of them had medical examination once a year. The highest temperature for a packed meal was 78.5 ^oC while the least was 23.3 ^oC. Coleslaw had the highest coliform count (49.5 x 10⁷ cfu/g) and Salmonella sp count (20.1 x10³ cfu/g). The fried chicken had the least count. Aspergillus sp was the most isolated from the packed meal. Despite 91.7% of vendors being licensed and most having some knowledge of food hygiene practices, the findings emphasize food safety and hygiene practices inadequacies among street food vendors. This study contributes to the broader understanding of food safety challenges in developing urban settings and the need for improved regulatory frameworks to safeguard local consumers and tourists.

Evaluation and Optimization of Yield and Antioxidant Activity of Moringa oleifera Flower Extract

R. A. Ukpe — 2025-01-03

The local population consumes ethanol extracts of Moringa oleifera as antioxidant but without scientific evidence. This work assessed the effect of concentration of ethanol, drying time, and time of harvest of the plant part on its antioxidant activity. The basic free radicals, 1, 1, diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazyl (DPPH) and the ferric reducing power (FRAP) assays assessed the antioxidant power of the extracts with the help of ascorbic acid as a standard antioxidant. The response surface design uses reiterated values of the dependent variables, one at a time to assess the dependent variables. Result from the experiments revealed that antioxidant power of the extracts associated positively with concentration of the extraction solvent. Optimization analysis on the experimental data indicated that 100% solvent showed 7.40% yield, 32.20 amino acid equivalent per gram (AAE/g) of antioxidant capacity, 6.46 mg/100g of total phenolic content, 2.80 mg/100g of total flavonoid content, and desirability of 55.60%. FRAP assay on 59.11% solvent concentration, 43 hours drying time, and a 10:00 a.m. harvest time showed 52.94 g/100g yield, 52.40% oxidation inhibition, 16.42 AAE/g of IC₅₀, 4.94 mg/100g phenolic acid content, and 3.02 mg/100g flavonoid content, at 90% desirability. The values were comparable to ascorbic acid, therefore the ethanol extract Moringa oleifera could serve as a natural antioxidant.

Effect of Cornstover Char and Indigeneous Bacteria on the Physiochemical Properties and Hydrocarbon Degradation of Crude Oil - Contaminated soil

O. Ovie — 2025-01-03

Bioremediation offers a sustainable approach to addressing crude oil contamination in soil, leveraging microbial activity and nutrient amendments to enhance hydrocarbon degradation. Hence, the objective of this paper is to evaluate the effects of Cornstover char and indigenous Bacteria on the physiochemical properties and hydrocarbon degradation in crude oil-contaminated soil using appropriate standard procedures. Results revealed significant increases in pH, notably from 9.3 to 11.85 in the SCCC setup, while setups like SCCS showed a transient spike to 12.15 by Week 4 before stabilizing at 11.3. Electrical conductivity decreased significantly across most setups, such as SC, which dropped from 470 to 109.5 µS/cm, indicative of hydrocarbon breakdown and nutrient utilization. The SCCC and SCCN setups achieved the highest TPH degradation rates, 93.99% and 94.60%, respectively, while natural attenuation in SC showed a limited reduction of 49.28%. PAH degradation followed a similar trend, with SCCC and SCCN setups achieving 74.71% and 91.47% degradation, respectively. This study underscores the synergistic effects of microbial augmentation and nutrient supplementation in optimizing hydrocarbon degradation. The findings provide valuable insights for developing scalable, site-specific bioremediation strategies. Further exploration of long-term soil health and microbial dynamics is recommended to enhance bioremediation practices.

Adoption and Integrating Industrialised Construction Technology to Small and Medium Construction Enterprises in Tanzania

R. S. Tekka — 2025-01-03

Industrialization has recently eased and cleared the path to mitigate numerous challenges within the construction industry as a consequence of adopting and integrating industrialized construction technologies. Hence, the objective of this paper was to develop a framework of critical strategies towards adoption and integration of industrial construction Technologies to Small and medium Construction Enterprises (SMCE) in Tanzania. Using a structured questionnaire, one-hundred-fifty-nine questionnaires well attended were administered through online media to experienced construction industry professionals. The findings acknowledged nine motivational factors and twelve critical factors including promoting the use of BIM to enhance collaboration and ease communication between project participants, developing educational and training initiatives pertaining to ICT for developers, contractors, and policy makers; Optimization of local building materials usage, and promoting Rand D that geared towards the application of ICT. This study provides fundamental insights for future research in this field aimed at informing the construction industry about the importance of adopting ICT in the construction projects.

Mineral Characteristics and Organoleptic Properties of Musa balbisiana (Wild Banana) Pseudostem collected from San Francisco, Mainit, Surigao del Norte, Philippines and Incorporated into Patty Formulations

G. Q. Diamola — 2025-01-03

A patty is a crushed, compacted and flattened small cake of ground meat (beef) or fish or legumes, grains, vegetables, or meat alternatives usually fried. The objective of this paper is to evaluate the mineral characteristics and organoleptic properties of Musa balbisiana (wild banana) pseudostem collected from San Francisco, Mainit, Surigao del Norte and Philippines incorporated into patty formulations using appropriate standard procedures. The study employed a completely randomized design with five treatments replicated three times, where patties were formulated with different proportions of M. balbisiana pseudostem core (MB): T1: Flour-based T2: MB 100% T3: MB 75% T5: MB 50% T5: MB 25%. The pseudostem core showed the following chemical contents in ppm: Potassium-106,451, phosphorus-3,682, calcium-3,817, and magnesium-2,977. Sensory evaluation by 50 semi-trained panelists showed that MB 75% achieved optimal results, performing comparably or superior to the control in several attributes, notably surpassing it in color (8.49 vs. 8.14, p<0.05) and texture (8.39 vs. 7.78, p<0.05) ratings while maintaining high acceptability in appearance (7.59), aroma (7.41), and taste (7.61). Correlation analysis revealed strong positive relationships between appearance and aroma (r = 0.988) and general acceptability (r = 0.942). At the same time, mineral content showed consistent moderate negative correlations with taste (r = -0.697) and general acceptability (r = -0.497). These findings demonstrate that M. balbisiana pseudostem core can effectively replace up to 75% of flour in patty formulations while maintaining or enhancing sensory qualities, significantly advancing sustainable ingredient utilization in food product development.

Toxicopathological Effects of the Venom of Echis ocellatus on Experimentally Envenomated Swiss Albino Rats

P. O. Yusuf — 2024-12-31

The World Health Organization classified snakebite envenomation as one of the Neglected Tropical Diseases in 2017. The significance of Echis ocellatus in causing envenomation in humans and animals in Northern Nigeria has been widely recognized, with experts identifying it as the most medically important snake in the region. Consequently, this study aimed to investigate the toxicopathological effects of Echis ocellatus venom on Swiss albino rats subjected to experimental envenomation. The vital organs were collected and examined histopathologically. The data revealed necrosis and congestion in the heart tissues of envenomated rats compared to the control group. Similarly, the kidney sections showed necrosis and congestion in the nephrotic tissues, while the liver sections exhibited necrosis, congestion, and perivascular cuffing. Data obtained show that the haematological parameters: PCV was 26 ± 0.7723% in the envenomated group compared to 44 ± 0.5213% in the control group. Hemoglobin levels were 8.67 ± 0.4217 g/dL versus 14.23 ± 0.3871 g/dL, erythrocyte counts were 1.0 ± 0.5617 ×10⁶/L compared to 9.0 ± 0.3938 ×10^⁶/L, and total protein was 3.2 ± 1.1623 g/dL compared to 8.6 ± 0.2928 g/dL in the controls. MCH was 21.675 pg compared to 15.556 pg in the controls. Table 2 provides leukocyte parameters: leukocyte counts were 12.0 ± 0.5429 ×10⁹/L for the envenomated group and 12.12 ± 0.2419 ×10⁹/L for controls. Monocyte levels were 0.0 ± 0.00% in the envenomated group versus 1.6 ± 0.2844% in the controls. These findings suggest the venom of Echis ocellatus induces significant hematotoxicity, with pathological involvement of the heart, liver, kidneys, and spleen.

Enhancing Palm Kernel Oil Refining: Synergistic Effects of Hydrogen Peroxide and Bentonite Clay on Bleaching Efficiency

O. U. Osazuwa — 2025-01-03

Optimizing the refining process of palm kernel oil, particularly its bleaching phase, is crucial for removing free fatty acids and impurities. This study investigates the synergistic effects of hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) and bentonite clay on palm kernel oil bleaching using a two-stage refining process. Key findings indicate that pre-treating with H₂O₂before clay application yields optimal results at 90 ℃ with a 2: 1.5 H₂O₂-to-bentonite ratio. Notably, H₂O₂ pre-treatment effectively removes free fatty acids, albeit with a slight increase in moisture content. Further optimization using Response Surface Methodology (RSM) with Box-Behnken Design revealed optimal reaction conditions of temperature: 98.7°C, H₂O₂volume: 19.763 mL, bentonite clay amount: 9.868 g, and contact time: 22.681 mins. These predicted optimal values demonstrate significant potential for industrial application and future research, enhancing the efficiency and quality of palm kernel oil refining.

Electron Transfer Reaction of Semicarbazide and Tetrakis (2, 2’- Bipyridine)-µ- Oxodiiron (III) Complex in Aqueous Acidic Media

I. B. Anweting — 2025-01-03

The objective of this paper is to evaluate the physicochemical properties of electron transfer reaction of semicarbazide and tetrakis (2, 2’-bipyridine)-μ-oxodiiron (III) complex [Fe₂O⁴⁺] in aqueous acidic media at [H⁺] = 0.001mol dm^-3, µ = 0.3 mol dm^-3(NaCl), T = 27 ± 0.5, at λ_max= 520 nm by spectrophotometric method. In the course of the reaction a mole of semicarbazide was consumed by a mole of [Fe₂O⁴⁺]. The order of reaction is unity dependent on [Fe₂O⁴⁺] and zero order dependent on semicabazide and is not H⁺ and µ dependent. Addition of cations and anions did not affect the reaction. There was no intermediate formation when a partially reacted reaction mixture and the solution of oxidant were respectively scanned within a wavelength of 400 -700nm. Absence of spectroscopic evidence of intermediate complex formation suggests that the reaction proceeds by the outer-sphere mechanistic pathway with ion pair character.

Factors Influencing Consumers' Willingness to Pay for Pure Honey in Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria

A. T. Kareem — 2025-01-03

The objective of this paper is to examine the factors influencing consumers' willingness to pay (WTP) for pure honey in Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria using appropriate standard methods of 266 consumers across ten marketplaces. Data collected show that the respondents are predominantly male consumers (60%), within the age group of 31–50 years (50%), with tertiary education attainment (50%) and earn monthly incomes between ₦50,000 and ₦100,000 (45%). Awareness of honey’s health benefits (4.5) was found to be a strong driver of WTP, while product purity (4.7), taste (4.5), and packaging (4.0) were critical attributes influencing purchasing decisions. Market dynamics, including price (4.5) and availability (4.2), played significant roles in shaping consumer preferences. The study concluded that improving consumer awareness through education, enhancing product certification, and optimizing packaging design are key strategies for increasing WTP. The findings contribute to forest economics by providing valuable insights into consumer behavior and offering actionable recommendations for producers, marketers, and policymakers to foster a sustainable honey market in urban settings. Future research could explore similar patterns in other forest-derived products and rural areas.

Evaluation of Previously Isolated and Characterized Phosphate Solubilizing Bacteria with Plant Growth-Promoting Potentials for Rice Grown Ferruginous Ultisol Soil in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria

S. I. Musa — 2025-01-03

The objective of this paper is to evaluate the potentials of previously isolated and characterized phosphate solubilizing bacteria (PSB) [Bacillus cereus strain GGBSU-1, Proteus mirabilis strain TL14-1, and Klebsiella variicola strain AUH-KAM-9] with plant growth-promoting (PGP) capabilities on growth properties of rice plants under ferruginous ultisol (FU) conditions through a rhizo-inoculation strategy. The rice seeds were sown in a composite FU soil sample and a humus soil (control) and then rhizo-inoculated along the root region of the growing rice seedling at 16 days after sowing. The rice plant was studied for differences in morphological, physiological, and biomass parameters for 16 weeks after rhizo-inoculation. Results showed that the FU soil used in the study had high pH, low bioavailable phosphorus and high iron levels which has led to low growth properties of rice seeds sown in FU soil without rhizo-inoculation. After rhizo-inoculation, a significant improvement was observed in the rice plant grown in the FU soil, as against the control and the rice plant in FU soil without inoculation except for terpenoid, which is usually known to signify biotic stress and as part of plant defense mechanism. This research suggests that PSB rhizoinoculation technique can be used in improving growth properties of rice plants even under FU conditions.

Assessment of Ocular Morbidity Associated With Indigenous Gastronomic Processing Methods Somewhere in Rivers State, Nigeria

O. N. Ilochi — 2025-01-03

Processing of cassava into various products comes with a lot of environmental as well as occupational health hazards to the environment, consumers and especially the processors. Hence, the objective of this paper is to investigate the ocular morbidity associated with indigenous gastronomic processing methods of garri in Ogbogoro, Obio Akpor local government area, Rivers State. One hundred (100) subjects within the age range of 15–69. Results showed that the common range of ocular hazards include lid burns from smoke (14%), eye itching (12%), corneal foreign bodies (12%), blurred vision (11%), eye dryness (10%), pinguecula (8%), pterygium (6%), and allergic conjunctivitis (6%), and other issues such as cataracts (3%) and corneal ulcers (2%). In terms of garri processing stages, frying appeared to pose the greatest risk, accounting for 26% of ocular hazards, followed by sieving (22%), compressing (16%), milling (13%), and harvesting (6%). In conclusion, this research underscores the importance of addressing occupational safety in traditional food processing practices, particularly within the context of ocular health.

Seasonal Exploration, Identification and Documentation of the Distribution and Abundance of Hydrophytic, marshy and amphibious flora found in Keonjhar district, Odisha, India

N. Badajena — 2025-01-03

Vegetation of an area plays an important role in controlling pollution level from the environment. Pollution due to mining is a major threat for open cast mining areas. Keonjhar district of Odisha is one of the polluted areas due to mining. Hence, the objective of this paper is to Seasonal Exploration, Identification and Documentation of the Distribution and Abundance of Hydrophytic, marshy and amphibious flora found in Keonjhar district, Odisha, India using appropriate standard techniques. Data obtained show that Out of which a total of 122 hydrophytic, marshy and amphibious plant species were identified which belong to 41 families. Amongst the genera, Cyperus is dominant having maximum number of species followed by Polygonum, Brachiaria, Fimbristylis and Commelina. So far as the hydrophytic types concerned 12 species are rooted floating, 7 free floating, 4 floating submerged, 2 rooted submerged and the rest 97 species are found to be amphibious. The results also revealed that Eichhornia crassipes (Mart.) Solms, Salvinia cucullata Roxb. ex Bory, Salvinia molesta D. Mitch., Pistia stratiotes L. and Spirodella polyrhiza (L.) Schleiden are the dominant floating species along with a wild grass namely Typha angustata Bory & Chaub. having a large population in the area under study.

Pozzolanic Reactivity of Pulverized Ceramic Waste as Partial Substitute for Cement and Supplementary Cementitious Materials in Concrete

M. O. Ajadi — 2025-01-03

The pozzolanic reactivity of the adhesive stabiliser enhances the performance of supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs) in mortar compositions, and alternative ways of reducing carbonic emission of cement (CO₂) have been a global concern. Hence, the objective of this paper is to investigate the pozzolanic reactivity of pulverised ceramic waste (CW) as partial substitution for cement and supplementary cementitious materials in concrete making using appropriate standard methods after water-cured for 7, 14, and 28 days. From resilient test, the compressive strength of bricks with sole cement has a higher resistance 1.55, 1.59 and 1.64MPa of 7, 14, and 28 water cured days, respectively. The study unveiled characterisation of CW’s properties as a potential recycling material for cementitious compositions with its partial replacement for cement at (CW01-05% to CM09-05% of 10%) and its equal substitution for SCMs at (CW30%/GD30%/RS30% of 90%). The results revealed strength of 1.18, 1.24, 1.34, 1.41 and 1.49MPa, respectively for the mixtures at water curing for 7 days, 1.24, 1.29, 1.36, 1.44, 1.52MPa at water curing for 14 days, and 28 days of water curing has the highest strength of 1.26, 1.32, 1.39, 1.52, 1.60Mpa. In conclusion, CW has a substantial influence on compressive strength of cementitious bricks and can serve as a partial substitute for cement compositions.