G.G. Ezeagu, U.R. Sanusi, U.M. Wali, S.S.D. Mohammed
A large number of microorganisms are capable of degrading cellulose but only a few of these microorganisms produce significant quantities of enzymes capable of completely hydrolyzing cellulose. Fungi are the main cellulase-producing microorganisms. This study was aimed to determine the cellulolytic potentials of Aspergillus species isolated from the central waste dump site of Nile University of Nigeria. In this study, fungal species were isolated from soil samples obtained from waste dump site using pour plate technique. The isolates were characterized using cultural and morphological features as well as microscopic examination. Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus niger, and Aspergillus terreus, which were isolated were further screened on carboxymethylcellulose agar for their ability to degrade cellulose. Screening of fungal isolates was performed by plate method. Cellulolytic fungi were evaluated after 5 days for the production of cellulolytic enzymes by staining with 1% Congo red. The diameter of clear zone on fungal plates, gave an approximate indication of cellulase activities. Aspergillus niger had a zone of clearing of 25.50 mm while Aspergillus flavus had 18.50 mm. Aspergillus terreus did not show any cellulolytic activity. Aspergillus niger had the highest occurrence rate of 50%. Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus terreus both had 25% occurrence rate.
{"title":"Determination of cellulolytic potentials of Aspergillus species isolated from central waste dump site of Nile University of Nigeria","authors":"G.G. Ezeagu, U.R. Sanusi, U.M. Wali, S.S.D. Mohammed","doi":"10.4314/swj.v18i4.13","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.4314/swj.v18i4.13","url":null,"abstract":"A large number of microorganisms are capable of degrading cellulose but only a few of these microorganisms produce significant quantities of enzymes capable of completely hydrolyzing cellulose. Fungi are the main cellulase-producing microorganisms. This study was aimed to determine the cellulolytic potentials of Aspergillus species isolated from the central waste dump site of Nile University of Nigeria. In this study, fungal species were isolated from soil samples obtained from waste dump site using pour plate technique. The isolates were characterized using cultural and morphological features as well as microscopic examination. Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus niger, and Aspergillus terreus, which were isolated were further screened on carboxymethylcellulose agar for their ability to degrade cellulose. Screening of fungal isolates was performed by plate method. Cellulolytic fungi were evaluated after 5 days for the production of cellulolytic enzymes by staining with 1% Congo red. The diameter of clear zone on fungal plates, gave an approximate indication of cellulase activities. Aspergillus niger had a zone of clearing of 25.50 mm while Aspergillus flavus had 18.50 mm. Aspergillus terreus did not show any cellulolytic activity. Aspergillus niger had the highest occurrence rate of 50%. Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus terreus both had 25% occurrence rate.","PeriodicalId":21583,"journal":{"name":"Science World Journal","volume":" 7","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-01-16","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"139618764","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
I.A. Joshua, Y. Yazid, R.D. Agbana, K. Sabitu, M. Sufiyan, S.B. Bature, J.M. Banda
Infectious diseases remain a major cause of morbidity and mortality especially in Africa, Nigeria inclusive. Antimicrobials are used to treat microbes; hence their rational use is very crucial. This study assessed knowledge, perception and practice of antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) among doctors in public secondary healthcare facilities in Kaduna State. A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted from March to May 2020 among doctors using a self-administered questionnaire. A total of sixty doctors were selected using a multi-stage sampling technique. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 23 and results were presented using tables and charts. Chi square and Fisher’s exact tests were used to test for association between categorical variables where appropriate. The level of statistical significance was set at p-value of <0.05. The median age of the participants was 33.5 years. Over half (52.6%) of the respondents were unaware of the term AMS; 29.8% had good knowledge of AMS and 87.7% had positive perception towards AMS. Three out of ten (30.0%) respondents had good practice of AMS. There were no statistically significant associations between age, sex, educational qualification and department of the respondents and the practice of AMS. The respondents’ knowledge of AMS was poor and majority had positive perception, but the practice among them was poor. There is need for training and retraining of doctors on AMS by the State Ministry of Health and their professional associations in order to enhance knowledge and practice on AMS.
{"title":"Knowledge, perception and practice of antimicrobial stewardship among doctors in public secondary healthcare facilities in Kaduna State, Nigeria: A pilot survey","authors":"I.A. Joshua, Y. Yazid, R.D. Agbana, K. Sabitu, M. Sufiyan, S.B. Bature, J.M. Banda","doi":"10.4314/swj.v18i4.5","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.4314/swj.v18i4.5","url":null,"abstract":"Infectious diseases remain a major cause of morbidity and mortality especially in Africa, Nigeria inclusive. Antimicrobials are used to treat microbes; hence their rational use is very crucial. This study assessed knowledge, perception and practice of antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) among doctors in public secondary healthcare facilities in Kaduna State. A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted from March to May 2020 among doctors using a self-administered questionnaire. A total of sixty doctors were selected using a multi-stage sampling technique. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 23 and results were presented using tables and charts. Chi square and Fisher’s exact tests were used to test for association between categorical variables where appropriate. The level of statistical significance was set at p-value of <0.05. The median age of the participants was 33.5 years. Over half (52.6%) of the respondents were unaware of the term AMS; 29.8% had good knowledge of AMS and 87.7% had positive perception towards AMS. Three out of ten (30.0%) respondents had good practice of AMS. There were no statistically significant associations between age, sex, educational qualification and department of the respondents and the practice of AMS. The respondents’ knowledge of AMS was poor and majority had positive perception, but the practice among them was poor. There is need for training and retraining of doctors on AMS by the State Ministry of Health and their professional associations in order to enhance knowledge and practice on AMS.","PeriodicalId":21583,"journal":{"name":"Science World Journal","volume":"39 29","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-01-16","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"139528086","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
The green synthesis of nanoparticles, utilizing aqueous plant extract as a capping and stabilizing agent, has attracted significant attention in various domains, particularly in pharmaceuticals and drug delivery. In this investigation, silver nitrate (AgNO3) salts were employed as precursors to fabricate silver nanoparticles using Calotropis procera (leaves/flower) extract, and the resulting nanoparticles were characterized. Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy revealed three primary functional groups at peaks of 2851.4 cm-1, 1543.1 cm-1, and 1323.2 cm-1, responsible for capping and stabilizing the synthesized C.p-AgNPs. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) demonstrated that the synthesized C.p-AgNPs exhibited spherical shapes with an average particle size ranging from 20 nm to 30 nm. Energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis of the synthesized C.p-AgNPs indicated the presence of pure silver (Ag) at 54.32% in the region of 2.7 to 3.1 keV. Furthermore, the antimicrobial activity of C.p-AgNPs was examined, with the best inhibition observed at 0.5 mg/mL on Gram-negative bacteria S. aureus (12.0 mm) and Streptococcus spp (13.0 mm), and on Gram-positive bacteria E. coli (16.0 mm) and Salmonella spp (14.0 mm). The antimicrobial efficacy was dose-dependent, suggesting the potential for eradicating resistant human pathogenic bacteria. The antibacterial potential of C.p-AgNPs could be enhanced by increasing their concentration, depending on the specific application. Based on the study's findings, C.p-AgNPs derived from Calotropis procera can be employed for various biomedical purposes, such as textile coating by incorporating C.p-AgNPs in fibers and food storage by nanocapsulation of food items to extend their shelf life.
{"title":"Green synthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using aqueous extract of Calotropis procera and its antimicrobial activity on clinical bacteria isolates","authors":"Abakeyah James Mamman, Bako Myek, Zakari Ladan","doi":"10.4314/swj.v18i4.19","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.4314/swj.v18i4.19","url":null,"abstract":"The green synthesis of nanoparticles, utilizing aqueous plant extract as a capping and stabilizing agent, has attracted significant attention in various domains, particularly in pharmaceuticals and drug delivery. In this investigation, silver nitrate (AgNO3) salts were employed as precursors to fabricate silver nanoparticles using Calotropis procera (leaves/flower) extract, and the resulting nanoparticles were characterized. Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy revealed three primary functional groups at peaks of 2851.4 cm-1, 1543.1 cm-1, and 1323.2 cm-1, responsible for capping and stabilizing the synthesized C.p-AgNPs. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) demonstrated that the synthesized C.p-AgNPs exhibited spherical shapes with an average particle size ranging from 20 nm to 30 nm. Energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis of the synthesized C.p-AgNPs indicated the presence of pure silver (Ag) at 54.32% in the region of 2.7 to 3.1 keV. Furthermore, the antimicrobial activity of C.p-AgNPs was examined, with the best inhibition observed at 0.5 mg/mL on Gram-negative bacteria S. aureus (12.0 mm) and Streptococcus spp (13.0 mm), and on Gram-positive bacteria E. coli (16.0 mm) and Salmonella spp (14.0 mm). The antimicrobial efficacy was dose-dependent, suggesting the potential for eradicating resistant human pathogenic bacteria. The antibacterial potential of C.p-AgNPs could be enhanced by increasing their concentration, depending on the specific application. Based on the study's findings, C.p-AgNPs derived from Calotropis procera can be employed for various biomedical purposes, such as textile coating by incorporating C.p-AgNPs in fibers and food storage by nanocapsulation of food items to extend their shelf life.","PeriodicalId":21583,"journal":{"name":"Science World Journal","volume":" 7","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-01-16","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"139618930","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Ibeabuchi E. Okwor, Chidi E. Akulor, Udoka M. Ukewuihe
We measured the terrestrial activity contents, radiation doses; hazard indices and excessive lifetime cancer risk (ELCR) from primordial radionuclides (226Ra, 232Th and 40K) in 50 soil samples collected from the five selected hospitals within Imo State, Nigeria. Radioactivity measurements were carried out by the method of gamma-ray spectrometry with thallium doped sodium iodide [NaI(Tl)] detector. The mean activity values obtained for the radionuclides 226Ra, 232Th and 40K (respectively) in Federal Medical Centre, Owerri (FMC); General Hospital, Umuguma, Owerri West, (GHW); Neuroscience Hospital, Ohaji Egbema (NHO); St. Joseph Hospital, Okigwe (SJH); Imo State University Teaching Hospital, Orlu (IMSUTH) are: 20.56±4.73, 14.96±3.42 and 105.65±31.40 Bqkg-1; 11.77±3.03, 17.45±4.20 and 63.67±18.44 Bqkg-1; 17.97±4.65,10.02±2.18 and 190.43±42.83 Bqkg-1; 11.36±3.71, 17.39±4.46 and 76.29±25.08 Bqkg-1; and 11.84±3.64, 4.89±2.25 and 165.18±58.41 Bqkg-1 respectively. These values were below the worldwide average values: 32 Bqkg-1 for 226Ra, 45 Bqkg-1 for 232Th, and 412 Bqkg-1 for 40K as documented by UNSCEAR (2000). 40K recorded the highest mean activity compared to 226Ra and 232Th in the studied soil samples. Radium equivalent activity (Raeq), absorbed gamma dose rate (Dr), annual effective dose equivalent (AEDE), external hazard index (Hex), gamma representative index (Ιϒr) and annual gonadal dose equivalent (AGDE), were calculated to quantify the radiation risk to the public from exposure to 226Ra, 232Th and 40K in the studied samples. In addition, excess lifetime cancer risk (ELCR) was also accessed. The mean computed values of the excess lifetime cancer risk for FMC, GHW, NHO, SJH and IMSUTH are 0.08±0.03, 0.09±0.15, 0.10±0.2, 0.10±0.03 and 0.07±0.02 respectively. The mean values of these hazard parameters were within the acceptable safety limits provided for human safety and environmental protection.
{"title":"Investigation of natural radioactivity in soil of selected hospitals in Imo State, Nigeria","authors":"Ibeabuchi E. Okwor, Chidi E. Akulor, Udoka M. Ukewuihe","doi":"10.4314/swj.v18i4.16","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.4314/swj.v18i4.16","url":null,"abstract":"We measured the terrestrial activity contents, radiation doses; hazard indices and excessive lifetime cancer risk (ELCR) from primordial radionuclides (226Ra, 232Th and 40K) in 50 soil samples collected from the five selected hospitals within Imo State, Nigeria. Radioactivity measurements were carried out by the method of gamma-ray spectrometry with thallium doped sodium iodide [NaI(Tl)] detector. The mean activity values obtained for the radionuclides 226Ra, 232Th and 40K (respectively) in Federal Medical Centre, Owerri (FMC); General Hospital, Umuguma, Owerri West, (GHW); Neuroscience Hospital, Ohaji Egbema (NHO); St. Joseph Hospital, Okigwe (SJH); Imo State University Teaching Hospital, Orlu (IMSUTH) are: 20.56±4.73, 14.96±3.42 and 105.65±31.40 Bqkg-1; 11.77±3.03, 17.45±4.20 and 63.67±18.44 Bqkg-1; 17.97±4.65,10.02±2.18 and 190.43±42.83 Bqkg-1; 11.36±3.71, 17.39±4.46 and 76.29±25.08 Bqkg-1; and 11.84±3.64, 4.89±2.25 and 165.18±58.41 Bqkg-1 respectively. These values were below the worldwide average values: 32 Bqkg-1 for 226Ra, 45 Bqkg-1 for 232Th, and 412 Bqkg-1 for 40K as documented by UNSCEAR (2000). 40K recorded the highest mean activity compared to 226Ra and 232Th in the studied soil samples. Radium equivalent activity (Raeq), absorbed gamma dose rate (Dr), annual effective dose equivalent (AEDE), external hazard index (Hex), gamma representative index (Ιϒr) and annual gonadal dose equivalent (AGDE), were calculated to quantify the radiation risk to the public from exposure to 226Ra, 232Th and 40K in the studied samples. In addition, excess lifetime cancer risk (ELCR) was also accessed. The mean computed values of the excess lifetime cancer risk for FMC, GHW, NHO, SJH and IMSUTH are 0.08±0.03, 0.09±0.15, 0.10±0.2, 0.10±0.03 and 0.07±0.02 respectively. The mean values of these hazard parameters were within the acceptable safety limits provided for human safety and environmental protection.","PeriodicalId":21583,"journal":{"name":"Science World Journal","volume":"53 26","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-01-16","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"139527660","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Gabriel Ogbeh, Ayodele O. Ogunlela, Nicholas O. Emaikwu
Efficient production of activated carbon (AC) depends on variables such as feedstock properties, preparation conditions, and activating agents. This study aimed to identify optimal conditions for AC production from African Oil Bean (Pentaclethra macrophylla) Pods (PMps) using potassium hydroxide (KOH) and phosphoric acid (H3PO4) as activating agents. Through a systematic iodine adsorption characterization approach and leveraging Response Surface Methodology as a chemometric tool, the study fine-tuned chemical activation and carbonization parameters (temperature, time, and impregnation ratio) for producing PMACs. The adjustments directly impacted the iodine number (In) and yields (Cy) of the PMACs (PMAC-KOHop and PMAC-H3PO4op). The predicted In and Cy values closely aligned with the observed values – (PMAC-KOHop: 918.58 mg/g predicted vs. 916.56 mg/g observed; PMAC-H3PO4op: 593.44 mg/g predicted vs. 592.88 mg/g observed) and (PMAC-KOHop: 39.60% predicted vs. 39.15% observed; PMAC-H3PO4op: 51.30% predicted vs. 51.10% observed), demonstrating precision of the production process. Key structural properties, including BET specific surface areas (SSA), total pore volumes (Vt), and average pore diameters, exhibited notable differences between the PMAC-KOHop and PMAC-H3PO4op, with the former demonstrating superiority. Particularly, FTIR spectra highlighted higher aromaticity in PMAC-KOHop, revealing the preference for KOH over H3PO4 in the chemical activation of PMps. The high In achieved with the PMAC-KOHop indicated its efficacy as a pollutant adsorbent, aligning with the established attributes of commercial granular activated carbons for pollutants removal from wastewater. This study establishes PMps as a dependable AC precursor, emphasizing the advantages of KOH over H3PO4 in chemical activation. Future research should be directed at investigating PMAC-KOHop adsorption capabilities for diverse pollutants and exploring PMps' potential contributions to metallic or nanocomposite formations with other adsorbents.
{"title":"Statistical optimization of iodine adsorption for Pentaclethra macrophylla pods activated carbon production","authors":"Gabriel Ogbeh, Ayodele O. Ogunlela, Nicholas O. Emaikwu","doi":"10.4314/swj.v18i4.22","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.4314/swj.v18i4.22","url":null,"abstract":"Efficient production of activated carbon (AC) depends on variables such as feedstock properties, preparation conditions, and activating agents. This study aimed to identify optimal conditions for AC production from African Oil Bean (Pentaclethra macrophylla) Pods (PMps) using potassium hydroxide (KOH) and phosphoric acid (H3PO4) as activating agents. Through a systematic iodine adsorption characterization approach and leveraging Response Surface Methodology as a chemometric tool, the study fine-tuned chemical activation and carbonization parameters (temperature, time, and impregnation ratio) for producing PMACs. The adjustments directly impacted the iodine number (In) and yields (Cy) of the PMACs (PMAC-KOHop and PMAC-H3PO4op). The predicted In and Cy values closely aligned with the observed values – (PMAC-KOHop: 918.58 mg/g predicted vs. 916.56 mg/g observed; PMAC-H3PO4op: 593.44 mg/g predicted vs. 592.88 mg/g observed) and (PMAC-KOHop: 39.60% predicted vs. 39.15% observed; PMAC-H3PO4op: 51.30% predicted vs. 51.10% observed), demonstrating precision of the production process. Key structural properties, including BET specific surface areas (SSA), total pore volumes (Vt), and average pore diameters, exhibited notable differences between the PMAC-KOHop and PMAC-H3PO4op, with the former demonstrating superiority. Particularly, FTIR spectra highlighted higher aromaticity in PMAC-KOHop, revealing the preference for KOH over H3PO4 in the chemical activation of PMps. The high In achieved with the PMAC-KOHop indicated its efficacy as a pollutant adsorbent, aligning with the established attributes of commercial granular activated carbons for pollutants removal from wastewater. This study establishes PMps as a dependable AC precursor, emphasizing the advantages of KOH over H3PO4 in chemical activation. Future research should be directed at investigating PMAC-KOHop adsorption capabilities for diverse pollutants and exploring PMps' potential contributions to metallic or nanocomposite formations with other adsorbents.","PeriodicalId":21583,"journal":{"name":"Science World Journal","volume":"31 5","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-01-16","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"139528530","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Environmental pollution and degradation caused by the processing and refining of crude oil has been on the increase since its discovery in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria. Its negative impacts are unquantifiable though its refined products are of immense benefits to the nation and the world at large. An assessment of the performance of Pistia stratiotes as affected by the water soluble fraction of Universal Energy Akwa Ibom crude oil was carried out in Abraka, Delta State, Nigeria in 2023. The five levels of WSF (0, 10, 25, 50, 75 and 100%) were used. Pistia stratiotes thalli were obtained from below the Bridge along River Ethiope and exposed to the different treatments. The results showed a significant reduction (p≤0.05) in all the plant parameters measured (leaf area, plant number, fresh weights, dry weight biomass, relative growth rate and survival percentage) in plants grown in the WSF media when compared to their counterparts exposed to the control plots. Against the normal healthy plants observed in the control, signs of dieback, yellowness of leaves, suppress growth and deaths were observed in plants subjected to the water soluble fraction of the crude oil and the effects were WSF dose dependent. There was gradual reduction in the shoot biomass of the plant with increasing level of WSF. There is a gradual increase in the root biomass although there was a total root growth. The study has established that the performance of Pistia stratiotes was significantly affected by the presence of water soluble fraction of crude oil. The study has great implication on water biology and food security. Continuous environmental monitoring and remediation exercises should be conducted in oil producing communities by the government.
{"title":"Performance of Pistia stratiotes (L.) as affected by water soluble fractions of Universal Energy Akwa Ibom crude oil in Abraka, Delta State, Nigeria","authors":"O. Agbogidi, C. O. Ogbemudia","doi":"10.4314/swj.v18i4.12","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.4314/swj.v18i4.12","url":null,"abstract":"Environmental pollution and degradation caused by the processing and refining of crude oil has been on the increase since its discovery in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria. Its negative impacts are unquantifiable though its refined products are of immense benefits to the nation and the world at large. An assessment of the performance of Pistia stratiotes as affected by the water soluble fraction of Universal Energy Akwa Ibom crude oil was carried out in Abraka, Delta State, Nigeria in 2023. The five levels of WSF (0, 10, 25, 50, 75 and 100%) were used. Pistia stratiotes thalli were obtained from below the Bridge along River Ethiope and exposed to the different treatments. The results showed a significant reduction (p≤0.05) in all the plant parameters measured (leaf area, plant number, fresh weights, dry weight biomass, relative growth rate and survival percentage) in plants grown in the WSF media when compared to their counterparts exposed to the control plots. Against the normal healthy plants observed in the control, signs of dieback, yellowness of leaves, suppress growth and deaths were observed in plants subjected to the water soluble fraction of the crude oil and the effects were WSF dose dependent. There was gradual reduction in the shoot biomass of the plant with increasing level of WSF. There is a gradual increase in the root biomass although there was a total root growth. The study has established that the performance of Pistia stratiotes was significantly affected by the presence of water soluble fraction of crude oil. The study has great implication on water biology and food security. Continuous environmental monitoring and remediation exercises should be conducted in oil producing communities by the government.","PeriodicalId":21583,"journal":{"name":"Science World Journal","volume":" 47","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-01-16","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"139619769","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
O. J. Akinjogunla, Ijato James Yeni, O. O. Adefiranye, E. S. Udofia, Uko Christopher Etok, Inyene Akan Akang
Several reports have shown that about 25% of harvested fruits globally are lost to spoilage by microorganisms. The study determined the quantitative metabolites and bioactivities of Aspilia africana extracts on fungi from spoiled Cucumis sativus and Carica papaya fruits. The fungi from spoiled C. sativus and C. papaya fruits were obtained using mycological techniques. The quantitative metabolites and bioactivities of the aqueous (ALEAA) and ethanol (ELEAA) extracts of A. africana were determined using the standard protocol and disc diffusion technique, respectively. The fungal genera obtained were Aspergillus, Penicillium, Mucor, Fusarium, and Rhizopus. There were variations in percentage yields, physical appearances, and pH of the extracts. The results of quantitative estimation of metabolites showed that ALEAA had mean protein, carbohydrate, and lipid contents of 15.36 ± 0.32%, 60.97 ± 1.14%, and 6.66 ± 0.04%, respectively. Alkaloids showed a positive correlation with protein (r = 0.2028) and carbohydrate (r = 0.421), and a negative correlation with lipid (r = -0.6556) at p < 0.05. The ELEAA exhibited more inhibitory effects on test fungal isolates, with mean zones of inhibition (IZs) ranging from 9.3 ± 0.1 to 18.8 ± 0.3 mm, than the ALEAA, with mean IZs ranging between 9.4 ± 0.4 and 16.0 ± 1.0 mm. The R coefficients of the extracts and IZs as exhibited by the fungi ranged from 0.5985 to 0.9936. The results have revealed quantitative metabolites and antifungal activities of the extract and also provided rationale for its utilization as a preservative for fruits against spoilage by fungi.
{"title":"Quantitative estimation of metabolites and antifungal efficacy of leaf extracts Aspilia africana on cucumber and pawpaw fruit spoilage fungi","authors":"O. J. Akinjogunla, Ijato James Yeni, O. O. Adefiranye, E. S. Udofia, Uko Christopher Etok, Inyene Akan Akang","doi":"10.4314/swj.v18i4.11","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.4314/swj.v18i4.11","url":null,"abstract":"Several reports have shown that about 25% of harvested fruits globally are lost to spoilage by microorganisms. The study determined the quantitative metabolites and bioactivities of Aspilia africana extracts on fungi from spoiled Cucumis sativus and Carica papaya fruits. The fungi from spoiled C. sativus and C. papaya fruits were obtained using mycological techniques. The quantitative metabolites and bioactivities of the aqueous (ALEAA) and ethanol (ELEAA) extracts of A. africana were determined using the standard protocol and disc diffusion technique, respectively. The fungal genera obtained were Aspergillus, Penicillium, Mucor, Fusarium, and Rhizopus. There were variations in percentage yields, physical appearances, and pH of the extracts. The results of quantitative estimation of metabolites showed that ALEAA had mean protein, carbohydrate, and lipid contents of 15.36 ± 0.32%, 60.97 ± 1.14%, and 6.66 ± 0.04%, respectively. Alkaloids showed a positive correlation with protein (r = 0.2028) and carbohydrate (r = 0.421), and a negative correlation with lipid (r = -0.6556) at p < 0.05. The ELEAA exhibited more inhibitory effects on test fungal isolates, with mean zones of inhibition (IZs) ranging from 9.3 ± 0.1 to 18.8 ± 0.3 mm, than the ALEAA, with mean IZs ranging between 9.4 ± 0.4 and 16.0 ± 1.0 mm. The R coefficients of the extracts and IZs as exhibited by the fungi ranged from 0.5985 to 0.9936. The results have revealed quantitative metabolites and antifungal activities of the extract and also provided rationale for its utilization as a preservative for fruits against spoilage by fungi.","PeriodicalId":21583,"journal":{"name":"Science World Journal","volume":" 2","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-01-16","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"139618327","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Usman Abdullahi, Muhammad Sani Abubakar, A. Shuaibu
The performance of a solar module is described by its Current-Voltage (I-V) and Power-Voltage (P-V) curves, it is therefore necessary to generate these curves in order to validate the parameters of the module namely Short Circuit Current, Open Circuit Voltage, Maximum Power, Current and Voltage at Maximum Power Points, Fill Factor, and Efficiency. This study highlights two methods of generating I-V and P-V curves from a 30W sunshine (AP-PM-30) module. The methods include a computer simulation using MATLAB/Simulink software and an experimental procedure at different values of Irradiance and cell temperature. Findings from this study show that an increase in irradiance at constant cell temperature of the solar module results to significant increase in the current produced but slight increase in voltage. Consequently, the power output of the solar module also increases, while increase in cell temperature at constant irradiance decreases the voltage but slightly increases the current produced by the module but power output decreases. Therefore, these explain the influence of irradiance and cell temperature on the performance of a photovoltaic module.
{"title":"Simulation and validation of the performance of a polycrystalline photovoltaic module","authors":"Usman Abdullahi, Muhammad Sani Abubakar, A. Shuaibu","doi":"10.4314/swj.v18i4.1","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.4314/swj.v18i4.1","url":null,"abstract":"The performance of a solar module is described by its Current-Voltage (I-V) and Power-Voltage (P-V) curves, it is therefore necessary to generate these curves in order to validate the parameters of the module namely Short Circuit Current, Open Circuit Voltage, Maximum Power, Current and Voltage at Maximum Power Points, Fill Factor, and Efficiency. This study highlights two methods of generating I-V and P-V curves from a 30W sunshine (AP-PM-30) module. The methods include a computer simulation using MATLAB/Simulink software and an experimental procedure at different values of Irradiance and cell temperature. Findings from this study show that an increase in irradiance at constant cell temperature of the solar module results to significant increase in the current produced but slight increase in voltage. Consequently, the power output of the solar module also increases, while increase in cell temperature at constant irradiance decreases the voltage but slightly increases the current produced by the module but power output decreases. Therefore, these explain the influence of irradiance and cell temperature on the performance of a photovoltaic module.","PeriodicalId":21583,"journal":{"name":"Science World Journal","volume":" 38","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-01-16","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"139619123","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
The deterioration of tomatoes poses significant risks to public health as it can lead to the growth of fungi that produce harmful mycotoxins. This study focused on investigating the mycoflora associated with deteriorating tomatoes sold in selected Lokoja markets, Kogi State, Nigeria. A total of eighteen (18) samples, each containing three deteriorating tomatoes were randomly collected from six vendors in three different markets. Standard microbiological methods were employed to analyze the samples. The results revealed the presence of Aspergillus niger, Microsphaeropsis arundinis, Penicillium sp. and Rhizopus arrhizus as the predominant fungi in the deteriorating tomato samples. Samples from Adankolo market yielded the highest mean fungal load (4.63 × 106 CFU/g) and was significantly different (p≤0.05) from those of Old market (2.78 × 106 CFU/g) and Lokongoma market (2.67 × 106 CFU/g). Notably, A. niger had the highest occurrence (48.9 %) while R. arrhizus had the lowest occurrence (2.2 %). The presence of these fungal contaminants highlights the lack of fungi-free deteriorating tomatoes in Lokoja markets. The high occurrence of Aspergillus niger and the overall fungal load levels highlight the potential health risks associated with consuming these tomatoes. Consequently, the consumption of deteriorating tomatoes should be discouraged due to the potential health risks associated with mycotoxin production by these fungi. Strategies to mitigate fungal growth and spoilage of tomato in the markets as well as further research on mycotoxin production and health implications are fundamental for ensuring food safety and protecting public health.
{"title":"Investigation of the mycoflora of deteriorating tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum Mill.) sold in Lokoja markets, Kogi State, Nigeria","authors":"Esther Okolo, Abdulsalam Abubakar","doi":"10.4314/swj.v18i4.9","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.4314/swj.v18i4.9","url":null,"abstract":"The deterioration of tomatoes poses significant risks to public health as it can lead to the growth of fungi that produce harmful mycotoxins. This study focused on investigating the mycoflora associated with deteriorating tomatoes sold in selected Lokoja markets, Kogi State, Nigeria. A total of eighteen (18) samples, each containing three deteriorating tomatoes were randomly collected from six vendors in three different markets. Standard microbiological methods were employed to analyze the samples. The results revealed the presence of Aspergillus niger, Microsphaeropsis arundinis, Penicillium sp. and Rhizopus arrhizus as the predominant fungi in the deteriorating tomato samples. Samples from Adankolo market yielded the highest mean fungal load (4.63 × 106 CFU/g) and was significantly different (p≤0.05) from those of Old market (2.78 × 106 CFU/g) and Lokongoma market (2.67 × 106 CFU/g). Notably, A. niger had the highest occurrence (48.9 %) while R. arrhizus had the lowest occurrence (2.2 %). The presence of these fungal contaminants highlights the lack of fungi-free deteriorating tomatoes in Lokoja markets. The high occurrence of Aspergillus niger and the overall fungal load levels highlight the potential health risks associated with consuming these tomatoes. Consequently, the consumption of deteriorating tomatoes should be discouraged due to the potential health risks associated with mycotoxin production by these fungi. Strategies to mitigate fungal growth and spoilage of tomato in the markets as well as further research on mycotoxin production and health implications are fundamental for ensuring food safety and protecting public health.","PeriodicalId":21583,"journal":{"name":"Science World Journal","volume":" 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-01-16","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"139619919","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Hydrocarbon pollution is one of the major environmental challenges facing the Niger Delta region of Nigeria, and over the years, various methods and strategies have been suggested to be used in tackling these problem. This research was aimed at restoring crude oil contaminated soil with locally formulated bioremediation agent (coded LOFBA). The local bioremediation agent (LOFBA) formulated consisted of cow dung, chicken droppings and periwinkle shells. Four soil treatments (unpolluted soil, polluted soil with crude oil, polluted soil remediated with LOFBA and polluted soil remediated with NPK) were setup using completely randomized blocked design (CRBD). The microbial isolates were identified on the basis of cultural, morphological and biochemical characteristics. Physicochemical properties of the soil (pH, total nitrogen, sulphate, phosphorus, total organic carbon, moisture, exchangeable cations, heavy metals) were estimated using standard procedures while total petroleum hydrocarbon (TPH) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) were determined using the gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy (GCMS). The LOFBA had pH 5.6, high calcium (47.325%), Nitrogen (1.49%), phosphorus (0.26%), electrical conductivity (194.81μmho/cm) and high counts of bacteria and fungi. The microbial isolates identified were Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus megaterium, Bacillus cereus, Acinetobacter aceti, Corynebacterium diphtheriae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Streptococcus pyogenes. Soil remediated with LOFBA showed a significantly (p < 0.05) higher bacterial counts total nitrogen and exchangeable ions (K, Mg, Na and Ca) than other treatments. Heptadecane, pristine, octadecane, eicosane, herieicosane and hentriacontane were more highly degraded in LOFBA remediated soil than NPK remediated soil. Naphthalene was the only PAH present in all soil samples after six months although LOFBA remediated soil had the lowest concentration. Besides, Acenaphylylene was detected in crude oil contaminated soil and soil remediated with NPK while none was detected in soil remediated with LOFBA. The results also revealed that total petroleum hydrocarbon (TPH) from unamended soil decreased from 21.33 mg/kg to 16.61 mg/kg (22.13% degradation), from 15.18 mg/kg to 3.03 mg/kg (80.04% degradation) in LOFBA remediated soil while that of NPK remediated soil decreased from 18.70 mg/kg to 7.97 mg/kg (57.38% degradation) after six months. The results indicate that the locally formulated bioremediation agent (LOFBA) enhanced the recovery of the oil contaminated soil better than NPK fertilizer. LOFBA is therefore, recommended for oil spill remediation in the tropic.
{"title":"Remediation of crude oil contaminated soil with locally formulated bioremediation agent","authors":"F.E. Ugoma, U.J.J. Ijah, O. Abioye, I.O. Musa","doi":"10.4314/swj.v18i4.6","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.4314/swj.v18i4.6","url":null,"abstract":"Hydrocarbon pollution is one of the major environmental challenges facing the Niger Delta region of Nigeria, and over the years, various methods and strategies have been suggested to be used in tackling these problem. This research was aimed at restoring crude oil contaminated soil with locally formulated bioremediation agent (coded LOFBA). The local bioremediation agent (LOFBA) formulated consisted of cow dung, chicken droppings and periwinkle shells. Four soil treatments (unpolluted soil, polluted soil with crude oil, polluted soil remediated with LOFBA and polluted soil remediated with NPK) were setup using completely randomized blocked design (CRBD). The microbial isolates were identified on the basis of cultural, morphological and biochemical characteristics. Physicochemical properties of the soil (pH, total nitrogen, sulphate, phosphorus, total organic carbon, moisture, exchangeable cations, heavy metals) were estimated using standard procedures while total petroleum hydrocarbon (TPH) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) were determined using the gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy (GCMS). The LOFBA had pH 5.6, high calcium (47.325%), Nitrogen (1.49%), phosphorus (0.26%), electrical conductivity (194.81μmho/cm) and high counts of bacteria and fungi. The microbial isolates identified were Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus megaterium, Bacillus cereus, Acinetobacter aceti, Corynebacterium diphtheriae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Streptococcus pyogenes. Soil remediated with LOFBA showed a significantly (p < 0.05) higher bacterial counts total nitrogen and exchangeable ions (K, Mg, Na and Ca) than other treatments. Heptadecane, pristine, octadecane, eicosane, herieicosane and hentriacontane were more highly degraded in LOFBA remediated soil than NPK remediated soil. Naphthalene was the only PAH present in all soil samples after six months although LOFBA remediated soil had the lowest concentration. Besides, Acenaphylylene was detected in crude oil contaminated soil and soil remediated with NPK while none was detected in soil remediated with LOFBA. The results also revealed that total petroleum hydrocarbon (TPH) from unamended soil decreased from 21.33 mg/kg to 16.61 mg/kg (22.13% degradation), from 15.18 mg/kg to 3.03 mg/kg (80.04% degradation) in LOFBA remediated soil while that of NPK remediated soil decreased from 18.70 mg/kg to 7.97 mg/kg (57.38% degradation) after six months. The results indicate that the locally formulated bioremediation agent (LOFBA) enhanced the recovery of the oil contaminated soil better than NPK fertilizer. LOFBA is therefore, recommended for oil spill remediation in the tropic.","PeriodicalId":21583,"journal":{"name":"Science World Journal","volume":"42 12","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-01-16","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"139528222","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
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