Showing papers by "Ladoke Akintola University of Technology published in 2016"

Cocoa pod husk extract-mediated biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles: its antimicrobial, antioxidant and larvicidal activities

Abstract: The present investigation reports utility of cocoa pod husk extract (CPHE), an agro-waste in the biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) under ambient condition. The synthesized CPHE-AgNPs were characterized by UV–visible spectroscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, Energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy. The feasibility of the CPHE-AgNPs as antimicrobial agent against some multidrug-resistant clinical isolates, paint additive, and their antioxidant and larvicidal activities were evaluated. CPHE-AgNPs were predominantly spherical (size range of 4–32 nm) with face-centered cubic phase and crystalline conformation pattern revealed by selected area electron diffraction, while EDX analysis showed the presence of silver as a prominent metal. The synthesized nanoparticles effectively inhibited multidrug-resistant isolates of Klebsiella pneumonia and Escherichia coli at a concentration of 40 µg/ml, and enhanced the activities of cefuroxime and ampicillin in synergistic manner at 42.9–100 % concentration, while it completely inhibited the growth of E. coli, K. pneumoniae, Streptococcus pyogenes, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus fumigatus and Aspergillus niger as additive in emulsion paint. The antioxidant activities of the CPHE-AgNPs were found to be excellent, while highly potent larvicidal activities against the larvae of Anopheles mosquito at 10–100 µg/ml concentration were observed. Our study demonstrated for the first time the utility of CPHE in the biosynthesis of CPHE-AgNPs with potential applications as antimicrobial and larvicidal agents, and paint additives for coating material surfaces to protect them against microbial growth while improving their shelf life.

Biomedical and Catalytic Applications of Gold and Silver-Gold Alloy Nanoparticles Biosynthesized Using Cell-Free Extract of Bacillus Safensis LAU 13: Antifungal, Dye Degradation, Anti-Coagulant and Thrombolytic Activities

Abstract: This study investigated the green biosynthesis of gold (Au) and silver-gold alloy (Ag-Au) nanoparticles using cell-free extract of Bacillus safensis LAU 13 strain (GenBank accession No: KJ461434). The biosynthesized AuNPs and Ag-AuNPs were characterized using UV-Vis spectroscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, and transmission electron microscopy. Evaluation of the antifungal activities, degradation of malachite green, anti-coagulation of blood, and thrombolysis of human blood clot by the biosynthesized nanoparticles were investigated. The AuNPs and Ag-AuNPs had maximum absorbance at 561 and 545 nm, respectively. The FTIR peaks at 3318, 2378, 2114, 1998, 1636, 1287, 446, $421~\mathrm {cm}^{-1}$ for AuNPs; and 3310, 2345, 2203, 2033, 1636, 1273, 502, 453, 424 $\mathrm {cm}^{-1}$ for Ag-AuNPs indicated that proteins were the capping and stabilization molecules in the biosynthesized nanoparticles. The particles were fairly spherical in shape with size of 10–45 nm for AuNPs and 13–80 nm for Ag-AuNPs. Moreover, energy dispersive X-ray analysis of AuNPs revealed gold as the most prominent metal in the AuNPs solution, while silver and gold were the most prominent in the case of Ag-AuNPs. Selected area electron diffraction showed the biosynthesized nanoparticles as crystal structures with ring shape pattern. AuNPs and Ag-AuNPs displayed growth inhibitions of 66.67–90.78% against strains of Aspergillus fumigatus and A. niger at concentration of 200 $\mu \mathrm {g}/\mathrm {ml}$ , and remarkable degradation (> 90%) of malachite green after 48 h. Furthermore, the nanoparticles prevented coagulation of blood, and also completely dissolved blood clots, indicating the biomedical potential of AuNPs and Ag-AuNPs in the management of blood coagulation disorders. This is the first report of the synthesis of AuNPs and Ag-AuNPs using a strain of B. safensis for biomedical and catalytic applications.

Paper wasp nest-mediated biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles for antimicrobial, catalytic, anticoagulant, and thrombolytic applications

Abstract: Biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using nest extract of paper wasp (Polistes sp) was investigated in this work. The AgNPs were characterized by UV–Vis spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and evaluated for antibacterial, antifungal, dye degradation, blood anticoagulation, and blood clot dissolution (thrombolytic) activities. The crystalline polydispersed AgNPs with size range of 12.5–95.55 nm absorbed maximally at 428 nm and showed anisotropic structures of sphere, triangle, hexagon, rod, and rhombus. The FTIR data showed prominent peaks at 3426 and 1641 cm−1, which indicate the involvement of phenolics compounds and proteins in the synthesis of AgNPs. The prominence of Ag in the EDX spectra showed that indeed, AgNPs were formed. The AgNPs showed potent antibacterial activities (12–35 mm) against three multi-drug strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Klebsiella granulomatis. While the growth of Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus niger was completely suppressed, the AgNPs produced growth inhibition of 75.61 % against Aspergillus fumigatus at 100 µg/ml. Furthermore, the AgNPs degraded malachite green to the tune of 93.1 %. The AgNPs also prevented coagulation of blood, while it completely dissolved preformed blood clots within 5 min showing the potent anticoagulation and thrombolytic activities. This study, which is the first of its kind to use nest extract of paper wasp for the synthesis of nanoparticles, has shown that the biosynthesized AgNPs could be deployed for biomedical and catalytic applications.

Cobweb as novel biomaterial for the green and eco-friendly synthesis of silver nanoparticles

Abstract: In this study, spider cobweb as a novel biomaterial was used for the green synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). The synthesized AgNPs were characterized using UV–Vis spectroscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and transmission electron microscopy. The efficacy of biosynthesized particles as antibacterial agents was evaluated using multi-drug resistant clinical bacterial isolates through sensitivity testing with AgNPs and combination of AgNPs with some selected antibiotics. In addition, the potential application of the particles as additives in paints was demonstrated using some bacterial and fungal isolates. The synthesized AgNPs which were dark brown in color displayed maximum absorbance at the wavelength of 436 nm. It was observed that the reaction mixture of 1:40 (extract:AgNO3 solution) at pH of 8.5 produced particles with maximum absorbance at 436 nm. The FTIR spectrum showed peaks at 3298, 2359, 2089, and 1635 cm−1, indicating that proteins were the capping and stabilization molecules in the synthesis of AgNPs. The particles were spherical in shape with size ranging about 3–50 nm. The energy-dispersive X-ray analysis showed the presence of silver as the most prominent metal, while the selected area electron diffraction pattern conformed to the face-centered cubic phase and crystalline nature of AgNPs. The AgNPs inhibited the growth of several bacterial isolates including S. aureus, E. coli, Klebsiella granulomatis and P. aeruginosa in the range of 10–17 mm at concentration of 100 µg/ml. It was also demonstrated that AgNPs potentiated the activities of augmentin, ofloxacin and cefixime in the AgNP–antibiotic synergy studies. Similarly, the inclusion of AgNPs as additive in white emulsion paint led to the total inhibition of growth of E. coli, P. aeruginosa, Aspergillus niger and A. fumigatus. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of the use of cobweb for the green synthesis of AgNPs. The immense antimicrobial activities of the particles can be explored in the creation of novel products, where it can be used as additive to protect materials against microbial attack.

Impact of wastewater irrigation on soil physico-chemical properties, growth and water use pattern of two indigenous vegetables in southwest Nigeria

Abstract: The indiscriminate use of wastewater for irrigation as a result of freshwater shortage could impair soil functions and cause environmental pollution. The objective of this study was to evaluate soil physico-chemical properties, growth parameters and water use pattern of two indigenous vegetables irrigated with three kinds of wastewater in southwest Nigeria. The study was a 2 × 4 factorial (wastewater versus vegetable) pot experiment, laid out in randomized complete block design (RBCD) with three replications in a screen house. The tested vegetables were SM — Eggplant (Solanum macrocarpon) and CA — Spinach (Celosia angentea) while the wastewater treatments were abattoir wastewater (AW), bathroom, laundry wastewater (BW) cassava effluent (CE) and rainwater (RW) as control. The wastewaters were analyzed for physical, chemical and biological properties while the soil samples collected from the field at 0–20 cm soil layer and pots at 0–10 and 10–20 cm layer were analyzed for physico-chemical properties before and after the experiment, respectively. Soil hydrophobicity was determined using the water-droplet penetration time (WDPT) method, plant growth parameters were monitored every 5 days while leaf area was determined shortly before harvest. Consumptive water use was determined using the soil water balance technique. The wastewaters had moderate to very high degree of restriction for use in relation to salinity and sodicity. Except for CE treatment, wastewater irrigation increased the soil pH, Mg, K, Ca, TOC, TN and CEC at harvest. SAR surpassed the threshold value of 6 in the surface layer of CA soil irrigated with BW wastewater. Wastewater irrigation caused the occurrence of soil hydrophobicity, with the highest hydrophobic degree from CE treatment. The plant growth indices showed that the SM vegetable performed better under AW treatment while the CA vegetable performed better under BW treatment compared with RW treatment. The vegetables differed in relation to water use and there was no discernible trend among the different wastewater treatments as regards the temporal distribution of the consumptive water use. The CE wastewater had the most negative impact on both soil function and plant growth. The study showed that wastewater resources are valuable because of improvement of soil fertility and enhanced crop growth compared with rainwater, however they need to be managed with caution, preferably treatment, before reused in relation to soil functions and crop quality.

Kolanut ( Cola nitida ) Mediated Synthesis of Silver–Gold Alloy Nanoparticles: Antifungal, Catalytic, Larvicidal and Thrombolytic Applications

Abstract: This study investigated use of leaf, seed, seed shell and pod extracts of Cola nitida for the green synthesis of silver-alloy nanoparticles (Ag–AuNPs). The Ag–AuNPs formed were dark brown with maxima absorbance in the range of 497–531 nm. FTIR peaks at 3290–3396 and 1635–1647 cm−1 showed that proteins were the capping and stabilization molecules for the synthesis of Ag–AuNPs. While leaf, seed and seed shell extract-mediated Ag–AuNPs had near spherical morphology, anisotropic structures of sphere, rod, hexagon and triangle were formed by pod extract. The polydispersed particles were 17–91 nm in size, with crystalline characteristics and prominent presence of Ag and Au in the EDX spectra. Ag–AuNPs inhibited growth of Aspergillus flavus, A. fumigatus and A. niger by 69.51–100 %. Exposure of Anopheles mosquito larvae to Ag–AuNPs resulted in 80–100 % mortality in 24 h. Catalytic degradation of >90 and >60 % were obtained for malachite green and methylene blue respectively after 24 h. The particles displayed potent blood anticoagulant and thrombolytic activities, indicative of their potentials in the management blood coagulation disorders. This study showed that C. nitida can be used for green synthesis of Ag–AuNPs, which is the first report of its kind.

Adsorption of cyanide from aqueous solution using calcinated eggshells: Equilibrium and optimisation studies

Abstract: Eggshells were calcined and used to adsorb cyanide from its aqueous solution. X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray fluorescence (XRF), Fourier Transform Infra-red (FTIR) and Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) were used to characterize both raw and calcined eggshell (CE) while UV spectrophotometer was used to monitor the cyanide concentration. The XRD and FTIR showed the conversion of CaCO3 to CaO. Batch adsorption experiments were carried out using 10 ml each of 0.01 mol/L to 0.05 mol/L cyanide solutions at different contact times, and adsorbent dosages. To establish optimum adsorption conditions, Central Composite Design (CCD) in Response Surface Methodology (RSM) was employed using the time, concentration and adsorbent dosages as variables at a fixed pH of 7. Adsorption efficiency of 84.53% was obtained with 0.01 mol/L, 8.98 g of calcined eggshell at 26.58 min contact time using RSM. Pseudo second order kinetic model best fitted the experiment. The coefficients of determination of Langmuir and Freundlich isotherms were 0.988 and 0.650 respectively, with Langmuir isotherm giving a better fit for the adsorption. The maximum monolayer adsorption capacity from Langmuir isotherm was 3.27 mg/g at pH 7 and a temperature of 30 °C

Evaluation of dyslipidemia, lipid ratios, and atherogenic index as cardiovascular risk factors among semi-urban dwellers in Nigeria.

Abstract: Background and Objectives: The increasing frequency of cardiovascular disease (CVD) rests on the presence of major cardiovascular risk factors including dyslipidemia. This dyslipidemia is also a target for the prevention and treatment of many cardiovascular diseases. Hence, identification of individuals at risk of CVD is needed for early identification and prevention. The study was carried out to evaluate dyslipidemia using the lipid ratios and indices instead of just the conventional lipid profile. Methodology: It was a cross-sectional study with 699 participants recruited from semi-urban communities in Nigeria. Anthropometric indices, blood pressure, and fasting lipid profiles were determined. Abnormalities in lipid indices and lipid ratios with atherogenic index were also determined. SPSS software version 17.0 were used for analysis, P Results: There were 699 participants with a mean age of 64.45 ± 15.53 years. Elevated total cholesterol, high low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol, elevated triglyceride, and low high-density lipoprotein were seen in 5.3%, 19.3%, 4.4%, and 76.3% of the participants, respectively. The Castelli's risk index-I (CRI-I) predicted the highest prevalence of predisposition to cardiovascular risk (47.8%) with females being at significantly higher risk (55.2% vs. 29.3%, P Conclusions: Serum lipid ratios and AIP may be used in addition to lipid parameters in clinical practice to assess cardiovascular risks even when lipid profiles are apparently normal. AIP was more gender specific amidst the lipid ratios.

Source Evaluation and Trace Metal Contamination in Benthic Sediments from Equatorial Ecosystems Using Multivariate Statistical Techniques.

Abstract: Trace metals (Cd, Cr, Cu, Ni and Pb) concentrations in benthic sediments were analyzed through multi-step fractionation scheme to assess the levels and sources of contamination in estuarine, riverine and freshwater ecosystems in Niger Delta (Nigeria). The degree of contamination was assessed using the individual contamination factors (ICF) and global contamination factor (GCF). Multivariate statistical approaches including principal component analysis (PCA), cluster analysis and correlation test were employed to evaluate the interrelationships and associated sources of contamination. The spatial distribution of metal concentrations followed the pattern Pb>Cu>Cr>Cd>Ni. Ecological risk index by ICF showed significant potential mobility and bioavailability for Cu, Cu and Ni. The ICF contamination trend in the benthic sediments at all studied sites was Cu>Cr>Ni>Cd>Pb. The principal component and agglomerative clustering analyses indicate that trace metals contamination in the ecosystems was influenced by multiple pollution sources.

A review of nutritional and toxicological implications of castor bean (Ricinus communis L.) meal in animal feeding systems

Abstract: Summary The nutrient-rich defatted castor meal has been tested as a potential source of protein in diets of many livestock species but has limitation due to challenges of toxins. This review was conducted to compile the relevant research information on advances in the use of raw and differently processed castor seed meal in animal feed. In this article, distribution and uses of castor and its products were identified. Research findings on the nutrients profile, principal toxins, various detoxification strategies, nutritional value and toxicity on common livestock species were compiled and reviewed. The defatted seed meal had crude protein range of 32–48%, gross energy of about 3200 kcal/kg. Ricin content was 9.3 mg/g seed, and the average RCA content was 9.9 mg/g. The meal had high activity of lectin, which produced agglutination at about 4.70 mg/ml minimum assays. Reports of detoxification strategies showed varying degrees of success but high pH, moist heating and microbial techniques appeared to exert greater effect on deactivating ricin. Detoxification strategy for the allergen component is inconclusive. Tannins and the phenolic contents were present at trace level and did not constitute notable threat. It was concluded that castor seed holds great potential as feedstuff when upgraded but such upgrading must be safe, cost-effective and labour efficient for commercial acceptability.

Association Studies and Direct DNA Sequencing Implicate Genetic Susceptibility Loci in the Etiology of Nonsyndromic Orofacial Clefts in Sub-Saharan African Populations:

Abstract: Orofacial clefts (OFCs) are congenital dysmorphologies of the human face and oral cavity, with a global incidence of 1 per 700 live births. These anomalies exhibit a multifactorial pattern of inheritance, with genetic and environmental factors both playing crucial roles. Many loci have been implicated in the etiology of nonsyndromic cleft lip with or without cleft palate (NSCL/P) in populations of Asian and European ancestries, through genome-wide association studies and candidate gene studies. However, few populations of African descent have been studied to date. Here, the authors show evidence of an association of some loci with NSCL/P and nonsyndromic cleft palate only (NSCPO) in cohorts from Africa (Ghana, Ethiopia, and Nigeria). The authors genotyped 48 single-nucleotide polymorphisms that were selected from previous genome-wide association studies and candidate gene studies. These markers were successfully genotyped on 701 NSCL/P and 163 NSCPO cases, 1,070 unaffected relatives, and 1,078 unrelated controls. The authors also directly sequenced 7 genes in 184 nonsyndromic OFC (NSOFC) cases and 96 controls from Ghana. Population-specific associations were observed in the case-control analyses of the subpopulations, with West African subpopulations (Ghana and Nigeria) showing a similar pattern of associations. In meta-analyses of the case-control cohort, PAX7 (rs742071, P = 5.10 × 10(-3)), 8q24 (rs987525, P = 1.22 × 10(-3)), and VAX1 (rs7078160, P = 0.04) were nominally associated with NSCL/P, and MSX1 (rs115200552, P = 0.01), TULP4 (rs651333, P = 0.04), CRISPLD2 (rs4783099, P = 0.02), and NOG1 (rs17760296, P = 0.04) were nominally associated with NSCPO. Moreover, 7 loci exhibited evidence of threshold overtransmission in NSOFC cases through the transmission disequilibrium test and through analyses of the family-based association for disease traits. Through DNA sequencing, the authors also identified 2 novel, rare, potentially pathogenic variants (p.Asn323Asp and p.Lys426IlefsTer6) in ARHGAP29 In conclusion, the authors have shown evidence for the association of many loci with NSCL/P and NSCPO. To the best of this knowledge, this study is the first to demonstrate any of these association signals in any African population.

Optimization and batch studies on adsorption of malachite green dye using rambutan seed activated carbon

Abstract: Rambutan seeds (Nephelium lappaceum L.)-based activated carbon (RSAC) was prepared using potassium hydroxide (KOH) activation and carbon dioxide (CO2) gasification methods. The adsorbent prepared was characterized using Fourier transform infrared, SEM, proximate analysis, and BET techniques, respectively. The effects of three variable parameters; activation temperature, activation time, and chemical impregnation ratio (IR) (KOH: char by weight) on the preparation of RSAC used for the removal of MG dye was investigated. Based on the central composite design, quadratic and two factor interaction (2FI) models were, respectively, employed to correlate the effect of variable parameters on the preparation of RSAC used for the percentage MG dye removal and activated carbon yield. From the analysis of variance, the most influential factor on each experimental design response was identified. The optimum conditions of MG dye removal by RSAC are: activation temperature (802°C), activation time (1.0 h), and I...

Awareness, knowledge and perception of chronic kidney disease in a rural community of South-West Nigeria.

Abstract: Background: Awareness and education on kidney disease impact on its effective management and will reduce the significant economic and public health burden. Knowledge of CKD and risk factors increases the perception of being at high risk and increasing health seeking behavior. We conducted a cross-sectional descriptive study to assess the level of awareness, knowledge and conventional risk factors of CKD in the community to strategize on preventive modalities using the information gathered from this population. Methods: We used a pretested structured questionnaire to draw information on sociodemography, knowledge and risk factors of CKD from 563 residents aged >18 years. Results: A total of 454 residents completed this study, mainly farmers, with a mean age of 45.8 ± 19.0 years and male: female ratio of 0.8:1. Only 33.7% had heard of kidney disease with 59.3% from the media and 35.3% from health workers; the level of knowledge of CKD was good in 27.1%. The majority (67.0%) do not know the correct location of the kidneys. Only 10.6% could mention at least one function of the kidneys with only 24.5% agreeing that NSAIDs can cause kidney disease. A laboratory test for kidney function was known by 4.4%; 45.9% and 47.8% believe that CKD can be cured by spiritual means and herbal concoctions respectively. Only 11.1% agreed that CKD can be hereditary. Abdominal obesity and cigarette smoking were seen in 14.6% and 16.6% respectively. Hypertension was seen in 26.5% while 17.8% actually knew they were hypertensive. Diabetes mellitus was found in 3.4%. None of the patients with CKD who had diabetes or hypertension was aware of kidney disease. Conclusion: There are a misconception and low level of awareness and knowledge of CKD, including those with risk factors, in the community. Efforts should be made to create awareness and educate people on CKD and prevention of its risk factors.

Contraceptive prevalence and determinants among women of reproductive age group in Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Nigeria.

Abstract: Background: The fertility rate in Nigeria is 5.7 children per woman. The contraceptive prevalence rate has been found to be low at 15% in 2013 compared to other countries such as the US and Pakistan.Objective: The study aimed to assess the contraceptive prevalence among women of reproductive age in Ogbomoso town and determinants of use with a view to make appropriate recommendations that will enhance the uptake of family planning services. Materials and methods: This is a descriptive cross-sectional study conducted with 560 respondents using a multistage sampling technique. Data were retrieved using a semi-structured pretested questionnaire.Results: All the respondents were aware of contraception; however only 49.7% (271) had ever used any method while 25.4% (69) of the number who had ever used contraception were currently using a method. The methods being used were the traditional type (four [5.9%]) natural type (two [3.0%]) and modern type (63 [91.1%]). The predictors of contraception use included the age group of 40-49 years (odds ratio [OR] 14.1; confidence interval [CI] 3.06-73.24; P=0.0001); the married women were approximately four times more likely to use contraception than the single women (OR 4.5; CI 3.03-6.72; P<0.0001). The women with tertiary level of education were three times more likely to use contraception than those without formal education (OR 3.1; CI 1.13-9.95; P=0.0268) and the odds ratio of respondents with a positive attitude to using contraception more than those with negative attitude was 2 (OR 2; CI 1.41-2.91; P<0.0001). Conclusion: In light of the advantages associated with contraception use there needs to be a conscious effort especially among health care workers to educate women about contraception and encourage its use.

Prevalence of erectile dysfunction and possible risk factors among men of South-Western Nigeria: a population based study.

Abstract: INTRODUCTION: erectile dysfunction (ED) is currently one of the most common sexual dysfunctions worldwide but it is usually underestimated because it is not a life threatening condition. The associated stigma makes men who have it to suffer in silence. This study was conducted to determine the prevalence of erectile dysfunction and the possible associated risk factors among Nigerian men. METHODS: the study was a descriptive cross-sectional population based survey among men aged 30-80 years in Ogbomoso, South-west, Nigeria. A multistage random sample method was used. The instrument used was the International Index of Erectile Function Questionnaire-5 (IIEF-5). Unadjusted odds ratios of possible risk factors were calculated by univariate analyses. Binary logistic regression analysis was used to eliminate the effect of possible confounders on the risk factors to get the adjusted odds ratios. RESULTS: the general prevalence of ED in this study was 58.9%. Sixty-seven (47.2%), 16 (11.3%) and 59(41.5%) respondents had mild, moderate and severe ED respectively. Age, hypertension, use of anti-hypertensive drugs, diabetes mellitus and heart disease all had significant unadjusted associations with ED, but their adjusted associations were not statistically significant. Diabetes mellitus maintained a positive statistically significant relationship with ED after adjustment for potential confounders [OR= 8.31(95% CI 1.02 - 67.65), P= 0.048]. CONCLUSION: the prevalence of ED is high among south-western Nigeria male adults. Physicians, especially primary care ones, need to pay more attention to the sexual history of their patients in order to diagnose and manage ED more frequently.

Chemical speciation of some heavy metals and human health risk assessment in soil around two municipal dumpsites in Sagamu, Ogun state, Nigeria

Abstract: Environmental and health risk posed by heavy metals from municipal landfill cannot be over emphasized. However, the toxicity and fate of metal in the soil is dependent on its chemical form and therefore quantification of the different forms of metal is more meaningful than the estimation of its total concentration. This study investigated the chemical form and potential hazards of heavy metal pollution at two municipal landfills in Sagamu, Ogun state, Nigeria. Soil samples were collected around the landfills and chemical form of Cu, Zn, Cd, Pb, and Fe were studied, using the Tessier Five-step sequential chemical extraction procedure. The results showed that Cu and Fe were speciated into residual fractions with averages of 23.9 and 31.3% respectively, while Cd and Zn were associated with Carbonate fractions with respective averages of 20.3 and 20.6%. The order of mobility and bioavailability of these metals are: Cd > Pb > Cu > Zn > Fe. A comparison of the result of total extractible metals with sta...

Molecular epidemiology of hepatitis D virus circulating in Southwestern Nigeria

Abstract: Hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis D virus (HDV) infections are major public health problems in sub-Saharan Africa. Whereas it is known that HBV infection is endemic in Nigeria, there is only little data about HDV prevalence available. Here, we assessed the HDV seroprevalence and determined the HDV and HBV genotypes distribution among HBsAg positive individuals in Southwestern Nigeria. This cross-sectional study involved 188 serum samples from HBsAg positive outpatients recruited at four tertiary hospitals in Southwestern Nigeria. Anti-HDV antibodies were detected by ELISA while HDV-RNA was detected by RT-PCR. Sequencing followed by phylogenetic analyses and HBV genotype-specific PCR were used to characterize HDV and HBV genotypes, respectively. Out of 188 HBsAg positive serum samples, 17 (9 %) showed detectable HDV-RNA. Anti-HDV antibodies test was possible from 103 samples and were observed in 4.9 % (5/103) patients. There was no significant difference in HDV prevalence between four main cities across the country. 64.7 % of HDV-RNA positive samples were from males and 35.3 % from females (P < 0.05). No significant associations were observed with regard to HDV seroprevalence and available demographic factors. Phylogenetic analyses demonstrated a predominance of HDV genotype 1 and HBV genotype E among the HDV-RNA/HBsAg positive patients. In conclusion, our study showed a high prevalence of HDV infection in HBsAg carriers and the predominance of HDV genotype 1 infection in Nigerian HBV endemic region. The findings contribute to a better understanding of the relevance of HDV/HBV co-infection and circulating genotypes.

Review on Natural Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells (DSSCs)

Abstract: In a conversion system of pure and non-convectional solar energy to electricity, dye sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) encourage the fabrication of photovoltaic devices providing high conversion efficiency at low cost. The dye as a sensitizer plays a vital role in performance evaluation of DSSCs. Natural dyes (organic dyes) has come to be a worth-while substitute to the rare and expensive inorganic sensitizers because of its cost effective, extreme availability and biodegradable. Different parts of a plant like fruits, leaves, flowers petals and bark have been tested over the years as sensitizers. The properties, together with some other parameters of these pigments give rise to improve in the operation standard of DSSCs. This review hash-out the history of DSSC with a focus on the recent developments of the natural dyes applications in this specific area with their overall appearance, the various components and the working principle of DSSCs as well as the work done over the years on natural dye based DSSCs.

Knowledge Regarding Organ Donation and Willingness to Donate among Health Workers in South-West Nigeria.

Abstract: Background: Organ transplantation program in developing countries is still significantly dwarfed. Health workers are undeniably important in the success of transplantation. Objective: To assess the knowledge and attitude of health workers toward organ donation in South-West Nigeria with a view to explaining reasons for these shortcomings. Methods: In a cross-sectional study conducted on 850 health care workers, self-administered questionnaires were used to obtain information from participants. Results: Of 850 participants, 766 (90.1%) returned their completed questionnaires. The mean±SD age of participants was 36.7±9.2 years. Majority (93.3%) of participants had heard of organ donation; 82.5% had desirable knowledge. Only 29.5% and 39.4% would be willing to donate and counsel potential organ donors, respectively; 36.5% would consider signing organ donation cards. Only 19.4% believed that organ transplantation is often effective and 63.4% believed they were permitted by their religion to donate. Permission by religion (OR 3.5; 95% CI 2.3 to 5.3), good knowledge (OR 2.9; 95% CI 1.4 to 5.7), readiness to sign donation cards (OR 2.6; 95% CI 1.7 to 3.8), discuss organ donation (OR 2.7; 95%CI 8.0 to 63.8), and knowing somebody who had donated (OR 2.9) independently influenced willingness to donate organ. Conclusion: There is disparity in knowledge of organ donation and willingness to donate among health care workers. Efforts should be intensified to give comprehensive and appropriate education to health care workers about organ donation to bridge this gap.

Inhibition of In Vivo Growth of Plasmodium berghei by Launaea taraxacifolia and Amaranthus viridis in Mice.

Abstract: Launaea taraxacifolia and Amaranthus viridis used by people of Western Africa in the treatment of malaria and related symptoms were assessed for their antiplasmodial value against the chloroquine sensitive strain of Plasmodium berghei. Crude extracts (200 mg/kg) and chloroquine (5 mg/kg) were administered to different groups of Swiss mice. The percentage of parasitemia, survival time, and haematological parameters were determined. Both extracts significantly ( ) inhibited parasitemia and improved survival time in infected mice. The crude extracts prevented loss of some haematological parameters. A. viridis had a distinct effect on the packed cell volume. The extract was able to protect the liver from some of the damage. This study however showed that the methanolic extracts of A. viridis and L. taraxacifolia possess antiplasmodial activity. The results of this study can be used as a basis for further phytochemical investigations in the search for new and locally affordable antimalarial agents.

Plasma Malondialdehyde (MDA): An Indication of Liver Damage in Women with Pre-Eclamsia.

Abstract: Background: One of the features associated with pre-eclampsia is elevated liver transaminases. The reason this happens has not been fully described. However, the hepatocytes are not known to be spared by free radical injury. This study was conducted to examine the relationship between product of free radical injury (malondialdehyde) and transaminases in pre-eclamptic women. Patients and methods: A total of 98 and 115 pre-eclamptic and apparently normal pregnant women were selected from the booking clinic of Ladoke Akintola University of Technology Teaching Hospital, Osogbo. Non-pregnant women were selected from volunteered members of staff. Malondialdehyde (MDA), aspartate transaminase (AST) and alanine transaminase (ALT) analyses were determined on collected venous blood sample. Statistical analyses of variables were done using SPSS 17 taking level of significance to be p<0.05. Results: Subjects with plasma AST between 10 and 20U/L had mean plasma MDA of 0.92μmol/l whereas those with plasma levels greater than 41U/L had mean plasma MDA of 4.72μmol/l. Similarly, Subjects with plasma ALT between 10 and 20U/L had mean plasma MDA of 0.86μmol/l, and subjects with plasma ALT greater than 51 U/L had mean plasma MDA of 4.71μmol/l. Positive correlation was observed between AST and ALT(r=0.79;p=0.047), between AST and MDA(r=0.690; p=0.061) as well as between ALT and MDA(r=0.571;p=0.049). Conclusion: The elevated liver enzymes seen in women with pre-eclampsia may be due to free radical injury to the liver. Pre-eclamptic women without free radical injury did not have elevated transaminases Keywords: Pre-eclempsia, free radical, malondialdehyde, alanine and aspartate aminotransaminases

Use of Essential Oils in Food Preservation

Abstract: Various secondary metabolites such as essential oils (EOs) are produced by plants which, when extracted and concentrated, find their application in pharmaceutical, sanitary, cosmetic, agricultural, and food industries. There is an increasing interest in natural products, intended not only to delay/prevent the onset of chronic degenerative diseases, but also to prevent the deterioration of fats and other constituents of foodstuffs. EOs have been identified as natural food additives which can find useful application in food preservation. The objective of this chapter is to briefly describe the potential usage of EO in food preservation.

Seroprevalence of HIV, HBV, HCV, and HTLV among Pregnant Women in Southwestern Nigeria.

Abstract: Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are major public health challenge especially in developing countries. This study was designed to determine the prevalence of Hepatitis B virus (HBV), Hepatitis C Virus (HCV), Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and Human T-cell lymphotropic Virus type I (HTLV-I) among pregnant women attending antenatal clinic, in Ladoke Akintola University Teaching Hospital, Osogbo, and South-Western Nigeria. One hundred and eighty two randomly selected pregnant women were screened for HBsAg, anti-HCV, anti-HIV and HTLV-1 IgM antibodies using commercially available ELISA kit. Of the 182 blood samples of pregnant women screened whose age ranged from 15-49 years, 13 (7.1%), 5 (2.7%), 9 (4.9%), and 44 (24.2%) were positive for HBsAg, anti-HCV, anti-HIV, and HTLV-1 IgM antibodies, respectively. The co-infection rate of 0.5% was obtained for HBV/HCV, HBV/HIV, HIV/HTLV-1, and HCV/HTLV-1 while 1.1% and 0% was recorded for HBV/HTLV-1 and HCV/HIV co-infections, respectively. Expected risk factors such as history of surgery, circumcision, tattooing and incision showed no significant association with any of the viral STIs (P > 0.05). This study shows that there is the need for a comprehensive screening of all pregnant women for HBsAg, anti-HCV, anti-HIV and HTLV-1 to prevent mother to child transmission of these viral infections and its attending consequences.

Public health issues in the processing of cassava (Manihot esculenta) for the production of lafun and the application of hazard analysis control measures

Abstract: Eight hundred samples of water, fermenting broths and dried lafun obtained from processors from two villages in Ogbomoso, Nigeria were analysed within a period of five months for microbiological attributes through the enumeration and isolation of mould/yeast, mesophilic aerobic bacteria, coliform, staphylococci, Salmonella and lactobacilli. In addition, the public health implications of the incidence of bacteria and fungi were investigated through antibiotic sensitivity testing and determination of aflatoxigenic potential of fungal isolates. The raw materials and environments in which lafun processing was carried out was observed to identify sources of hazards associated with the production process, to construct a workable hazard analysis and critical control points plan for lafun production, which was implemented in the production of laboratory-prepared lafun. The cumulative microbial counts of the water and fermenting broths ranged from 1.35×104 to 1.04×105 cfu/ml, while that of lafun samples ranged fro...