Showing papers in "Bayero Journal of Pure and Applied Sciences in 2014"
TL;DR: Amaranth consists of 60-70 species, 40 of which are considered native to the Americas, and is grown in the temperate and tropical climates, and are used as grain or vegetable, highly nutritious, contain vitamins and minerals.
Abstract: Amaranth consists of 60-70 species, 40 of which are considered native to the Americas. They are grown in the temperate and tropical climates, and are used as grain or vegetable. They are highly nutritious, contain vitamins and minerals. The leaves, shoots, tender stems and grains are eaten as pot herb in sauces or soups, cooked with other vegetables, with a main dish or by itself. The plants are used as forage for livestock. Traditionally, the boiled leaves and roots are used as: laxative, diuretic, anti-diabetic, antipyretic, anti-snake venom, antileprotic, anti-gonorrheal, expectorant, to relieve breathing in acute bronchitis. It also has anti-inflammatory properties, immunomodulatory activity, anti-androgenic activity and anthelmintic properties. Keywords : Amaranth, species, nutritional value, anti- nutritional factors, nitrates
80 citations
TL;DR: Tigernut contributes to the reduction of cholesterol, it reduces the risk of coronary heart disease, arteriosclerosis and is recommended for those who have heavy digestion, flatulence and dysentery.
Abstract: This paper is a review on little history and the composition of Tigernut ranging from proximate, mineral and amino acid content. The paper further explains the kind of phytochemicals and antinutrients that can be found in tigernut .The kind of microorganisms which could be found on tigernut was also explained based on the previous works of researchers. Tigernut can also be eaten raw, processed in to flour and be used for different purposes such as bread and substitute in animal feed manufacture. Oil can also be obtained from tigernut, which is highly unsaturated and good for the health of humans. Tigernut can be used to produce drink/milk, which can serve as substitute of traditional cow milk, different types of tigernut milk are also produced, it can also be used to produce a local snack “Dakuwa”. Tigernut also contributes to the reduction of cholesterol, it reduces the risk of coronary heart disease, arteriosclerosis and is recommended for those who have heavy digestion, flatulence and dysentery. Keywords: Tigernut, Composition, Milk, Flour, Oil
60 citations
TL;DR: It was observed that bovine fasciolosis is an obstacle to livestock production and development in Adamawa state and Nigeria and there was strong association between season, sex, and breeds, of cattle and the disease.
Abstract: Cross sectional epidemiologic studies of bovine Fasciolosis was conducted in some selected abattoirs of Adamawa state (Yola, Mubi and Numan) using postmortem examination from liver of slaughtered animals.A total of 3,015 slaughtered cattled were examined at post mortem and 657 (21.8%) liver fluke cases were recorded. The prevalence rate at Yola, Mubi and Numan were 22.08%, 22.34% and 19.92% respectively. The overall sex-specific prevalence rate was significantly higher (P<0.05) in females (23.6%) than in males (18.2%). Age specific prevalence rate was higher (23.3%) in the group that were 49-72 months . Statistical analysis showed no significant difference in prevalence rate among the age groups: there is no association between infection rate and age. The breed specific prevalence was lowest (12.32%) in sokoto gudali and highest (31.2%) in red bororo. Chi-square analysis indicated that there was strong asssociation between infection and breeds. A significant difference (P<0.05) was observed between the prevalence of fasciolosis that occurred in the dry season (25.98%) and that of the rainy season (18.14%). The result shows strong association (P<0.05) between season, sex, and breeds, of cattle and the disease. It was also observed that bovine fasciolosis is an obstacle to livestock production and development in Adamawa state and Nigeria. Keywords : Prevalence, Bovine, Fasciolosis, Abattoirs, Adamawa state.
23 citations
TL;DR: Findings of this study suggest a high prevalence of HPV types 16 and 18 among women attending gynaecology clinic in Kano and thus called for more elaborate community based study in order to establish the magnitude of the problem from wider perspective.
Abstract: Cervical cancer is the most common female cancer in northern Nigeria, yet the pattern of infection with human papillomavirus, the principal aetiologic agent is unknown. This was a preliminary study conducted in two referral hospitals in order to establish base-line data on the prevalence and risk factors for the infection in Kano state, Nigeria. Fifty (50) randomly selected women aged 18 years and above were recruited from gynaecology clinics in Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital and Aminu Kano teaching Hospital. Relevant sexual and socio-demographic information were obtained from each subject using a questionnaire. Exfoliated cervical cells were harvested and processed using Polymerase Chain Reaction to identify the DNAs of high-risk HPV types 16 and 18. The prevalence rate of HPV infection was 76% [(38/50) at 95% CI=61.8-86.9] with 60.5% (23/38) having co-infections with both HPV type 16 and 18. Risk factors of the infection include low literacy level; living in rural settlements; low parity; early menarche (<15 years of age); early onset of first sexual intercourse (≤16 years of age) and multiple sexual partners. There was however, no statistically significant association between oral contraceptive usage and acquisition of the infections. Findings of this study suggest a high prevalence of HPV types 16 and 18 among women attending gynaecology clinic in Kano and thus called for more elaborate community based study in order to establish the magnitude of the problem from wider perspective. Keywords : Human Papillomavirus; Prevalence; Risk Factors, Northern Nigeria
17 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors studied four ironstone plateau near kalalawa, Adarawa, Bissalam and Tureta in Sokoto State with the aim of ascertaining their genesis, weathering status and soil mineral content.
Abstract: Soils on four ironstone plateau near kalalawa, Adarawa, Bissalam and Tureta in Sokoto State were studied with the aim of a ascertaining their genesis, weathering status and soil mineral content. Morphological studies, total elemental analysis and X-ray diffraction were conducted for this purpose. The soils were found to have formed on weathered geological materials overlain by indurated ironstone crust. The geological weathered materials are Gwandu/kalambaina, Gwandu, Dange/Wurno and Gundumi formation on kalambaina, Adarawa, Bissalam and Tureta ironstone plateau respectively. The soils have good structural development and pronounced textural differentiation. The soils are well developed in terms of pedogenic processes (humification, mineralization, lessivation, homogenization and leaching) that have operated and are still operating to form the soils. Result of the silt/clay ratio, sesquioxide ratio and total Potassium, revealed a low weathering potential of the soils making them moderately weathered soils. The dominant mineral identified in the soils is quartz with kaolinite, feldspar and chlorite in trace amounts.
15 citations
TL;DR: The plant is reported to contain alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, tannins, steroids, triterpenoids and phytosterols and other important aspects of the plant.
Abstract: Therapeutic plants, and the drugs derived from them, are the most important and readily available source of health-care medicines to rural people in Africa In Africa, many natural resources are used for obtaining pharmaceuticals that have a high national and international economic value Various parts of Annonacomosus have been used as anti-inflammatory, proteolytic and antihelmithic agent, also as treatment to: diarrhea, indigestion, pneumonia, bronchitis, arthritis, pain, heart disease, diuretic, to expedite labour, arbortion, intestinal worms, venereal diseases, edema, hemoorrhoids, purgative, emmenogogue and vermifugeThe plant is reported to contain alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, tannins, steroids, triterpenoids and phytosterols This review was aimed at describing the medicinal uses, pharmacological and phytochemical components and other important aspects of the plant Keywords : Antimicrobial, Antioxidant, Anti-inflammatory, immune support, Annonacomosus
13 citations
TL;DR: Both the aqueous and methanol extract of garlic were observed to be more potent against E. coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which justify the traditional medicinal use of garlic.
Abstract: The antibacterial potency of aqueous and methanol extracts of garlic was determined invitro against three bacterial isolates ( Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa ) by agar well diffusion method. Preliminary phytochemical screening revealed the presence of tannin, flavonoid, carbohydrate, protein, saponin, alkaloid and glycoside in the plants while anthraquinone was absent. Both the aqueous and methanol extract of garlic were observed to be more potent against E. coli with maximum zone of growth inhibition of 21.5mm at 200mg/ml and 24.0mm at 200mg/ml respectively. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of the aqueous and methanol extracts of garlic against E. coli was 100mg/ml and 50mg/ml respectively, and for S. aureus it was 200mg/ml and 100mg/ml respectively. Similarly, The MIC against Pseudomonas aeruginosa for the aqueous and methanol extracts was 200mg/ml and 200mg/ml respectively. Higher minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) of 300mg/ml was observed against P. aeruginosa with aqueous extract and 250mg/ml with the methanol extract. The MBC for both the aqueous and methanol extract was 200mg/ml respectively against E. coli while MBC of 300mg/ml was observed against S. aureus for the aqueous extract and 200mg/ml for the methanol extract. These findings therefore justify the traditional medicinal use of garlic. Keywords ; Phytochemical, Antibacterial, Efficacy, Garlic, Isolates.
13 citations
TL;DR: Findings from this study showed that all the isolates have potential for citric acid production.
Abstract: The study involved the screening of fourteen isolates of Aspergillus niger for citric acid production from glucose. The study was aimed at screening and improving local strains of Aspergillus niger with potential for citric acid production. All the isolates screened produced varying amounts of citric acid, the highest was by the isolate designated CP3 which produced 12.81g/l and the least was B11 and O12 which produced 3.42g/l all after 6 days of submerged fermentation. The isolate CP3 was chosen for further studies. Strain improvement studies which was based on exposure of CP3 to ultraviolet irradiation for 10, 30 and 45 minutes increased citric acid yield to 22.20g/l (48.89% increase) by mutant M45 followed by a citric acid yield of 16.22g/l by the 30 minutes mutant (M30) and the least being M10 which produced 13.66g/l in all cases after 6 days of fermentation. The mutant (M45) also yielded higher amount of citric acid (19.64g/l) without methanol as additive compared to the parent strain (CP3) which gave a citric acid of 14.94g/l with the addition of methanol after six days (144h) of fermentation in both cases. Finding from this study showed that all the isolates have potential for citric acid production. Keywords : Isolation, Screening, Improvement, Aspergillus niger , Citric acid
12 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the results obtained from the FTIR studies showed that the uncrosslinked chitosan-starch bead showed O-H stretching band at 3424 cm -1 and N-H band at 1640cm -1.
Abstract: In this work, chitosan and blends of chitosan-starch beads were prepared and crosslinked with glutaraldehyde (pentane-1,5-dial). The blends were prepared with 1:1, 2:1 and 3:1 chitosan-starch ratios. Metformin hydrochloride (N,N-dimethylimidodicarbonimidic diamide hydrochloride), a type 2 diabetis drug, was incorporated into them. The materials were subjected to swellability tests and the effects of time and pH were established. Fourier Transformed Infrared Spectrophotometeric (FTIR) analysis was also carried out on the materials and their potentials as drug release systems studied. The results obtained from the FTIR studies showed that the uncrosslinked chitosan-starch bead showed O-H stretching band at 3424cm -1 and N-H band at 1640cm -1 . The chitosan-starch bead also showed a band at 597cm -1 corresponding to C-Cl band, due to the presence of metformin hydrochloride in the bead and its O-H stretching band was very strong and broad due to the numerous –OH groups in starch and chitosan. The results of swelling studies showed that the percent swellability of the polymer matrices increased in both the crosslinked and uncrosslinked beads as the amount of starch in them increased. The uncrosslinked chitosan beads had maximum swelling of 83.74%, while its crosslinked analogue had 47.93% in acidic medium (pH 2.06) within the range of test period of 60 minutes. The amount of drug released by the 1:1, 2:1 and 3:1 crosslinked chitosan-starch beads (13.90, 13.60, and 12.30mg/L, respectively) was much lower than that of their uncrosslinked analogues (22.50, 20.90, and 16.60mg/L, respectively) after 120 minutes, suggesting that the release of drug is delayed by crosslinking. This suggests that the crosslinked chitosan-starch beads can be used for regulating release of drugs in solid dosages such as beads or tablets. Keywords: chitosan, chitosan-starch beads, drug release, metformin hydrochloride, swelling
12 citations
TL;DR: Stocking density had a significant (P>0.05) effect on growth and survival rates of Clarias gariepinus and fish held at the highest stocking density exhibited the lowest growth and Survival rate.
Abstract: The African Catfish ( Clarias gariepinus , Teugels) were reared at three different stocking densities in bamboo-net cages to evaluate the effects of stocking density on growth, survival rate and food conversion ratio. Three hundred (300) fish with a total weight of 1.8Kg were stocked at 25, 50 and 75 fish/ m 3 cage with a mean weight of 5.6±0.23g, 5.9±0.23g and 6.3±0.23 g/m 3 respectively. The growth trial lasted for 150 days (May 2009 to October 2009). Twenty percent (20%) of the total biomass of the fish in each cage was weighed monthly and the bulk weights were calculated. Mortalities were recorded monthly. The final mean weights (±S.E) of the fish stocked at densities of 25, 50 and 75 fish/m 3 cage were 828.0±1.83g, 774.0±20.18g and 693.0±34.20g. The corresponding mean values of Specific Growth Rate were 3.33, 3.25 and 3.43. Temperatures ranged between 24.5 0 C - 32.6 0 C while salinity ranged between 24 - 95ppm. The Feed Conversion Ratio (FCR) was 4.99, 4.73, and 3.43, and cumulative survival rates were calculated as 99.84, 99.66 and 99.50% respectively. The results revealed that stocking density had a significant (P>0.05) effect on growth and survival rates of Clarias gariepinus . Fish held at the highest stocking density exhibited the lowest growth and survival rate. Cages with 50fish/m 3 stocking density had the best production with total final weight (38.67Kg) and profit index (3.27) compared to other treatments (P>0.05). Keywords : Stocking density, bamboo-net cages, profit index, survival, growth, Clarias gariepinus
11 citations
TL;DR: The aim of this write up is to review the major application of biotechnology to the control of plant diseases.
Abstract: Despite substantial advances in plant disease management strategies, our global food supply is still threatened by a multitude of pathogens and pests. This changed scenario warrants us to respond more efficiently and effectively to this problem. The situation demands judicious blending of conventional, unconventional and frontier technologies. Biotechnological procedures can be used to determine the type and sources of host resistance. Biotechnology is the genetic manipulation and multiplication of any living organism through novel techniques and technologies such as tissue culture and genetic engineering in order to produce new organisms and or products that can be used in variety of ways. It is theoretically possible to express virtually any genetic trait of an organism in plants. The development of recombinant DNA technology makes it possible to isolate individual genes and incorporate resistance genes into otherwise agronomically acceptable cultivars. Genes pyramiding was made easier with molecular markers. ELISA and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) techniques are used in the identification of viral and bacterial disease and also new formats using antibody based detection for very rapid presumptive on-site diagnosis have become available. These do not require specialized equipment or knowledge. Most of them use a membrane based lateral flow assay in which capillary forces generate a migration of the sample extract over specific antibodies.The aim of this write up is to review the major application of biotechnology to the control of plant diseases. Keywords ; Biotechnology, tissue culture and genetic engineering, plant disease management strategies,
TL;DR: It was observed that damage caused was very severe on a heavily infested young Moringa tree at the study location and it was revealed that U. phaeothoracica is a leaf feeding pest of M. oleifera and that its activity could be of serious concern especially on young trees of Moreda, kept under poor management conditions.
Abstract: The work was carried out at a location (11 0 58`N and 8 0 26`E) in Ungogo Local Government area of Kano State, Nigeria with objective of identifying an unfamiliar larva feeding on Moringa leaves and to describe its nature of damage. The leaf feeding larvae were sampled and reared through to pupation and to adulthood in the Entomology laboratory, Crop Protection Department, Faculty of Agriculture, Bayero University, Kano, Kano State. The adults that emerged were identified to be Ulopeza phaeothoracica Hampson. On the larval feeding, it was observed that damage caused was very severe on a heavily infested young Moringa tree at the study location. In conclusion, the study revealed that U. phaeothoracica is a leaf feeding pest of M. oleifera and that its activity could be of serious concern especially on young trees of Moringa, kept under poor management conditions. Keywords: Damage, Moringa, Ungogo, Kano
TL;DR: Findings are suggestive of the analgesic and anti-inflammatory potentials of the methanol root bark extract of the plant and provide a scientific rationale for the use of the root of Cissus polyantha in traditional medicine.
Abstract: Cissus polyantha is used in traditional medicine for the treatment of conjunctivitis and inflammation. In this study, the methanolic root extract of Cissus polyantha was subjected to preliminary phytochemical screening, analgesic and anti-inflammatory studies. Phytochemical studies was carried out using standard phytochemical protocol while the analgesic studies was carried out using acetic acid-induced writhing tests in mice. Carrageenan-induced hind paw oedema in rats was used to evaluate the anti-inflammatory potential of the extract. Phytochemical studies of the methanolic crude root extract of the plant revealed the presence of carbohydrates, flavonoids, saponins, tannins steroids and triterpenes. The extract at doses of 20, 40 and 80 mg/kg, i.p significantly (P < 0.05) decreased the acetic-acid induced writhing. The extract also produced significant (P < 0.05) and dose-independent anti-inflammatory activity comparable to that of reference drug, ketoprofen. The intraperitoneal lethal dose (LD 50 ) toxicity studies on the methanol crude root extract of the plant was found to be 288.53 mg/kg body weight. These findings are suggestive of the analgesic and anti-inflammatory potentials of the methanol root bark extract of the plant and provide a scientific rationale for the use of the root of Cissus polyantha in traditional medicine. Keywords: Cissus polyantha, Phytochemical screening Analgesic, Anti-inflammatory, traditional
TL;DR: The present study suggests that more research should be done on the work with focus on managerial practice for effective suppression of its incidence, as age of birds, availability of birds per space and frequency of litter change were contributing parameters to the prevalence of Menacanthus cornutus.
Abstract: Study on the prevalence of bird lice in four selected farms in Kano metropolis was conducted to determine the lice species richness, lice abundance and percent prevalence in the four poultry farms. Two hundred and forty (240) birds were examined from four poultry farms within Kano in Tofa, Fagge, Brigade and Gwarzo area respectively, during the month of February-March, 2013. The average temperature of the study sites ranged from 26 o C to 33 o C with 60-70% relative humidity. Birds were randomly picked and viewed under day light with the aid of hand lens and dissecting forceps to facilitate collections. The louse prevalence and mean abundance varied significantly (P<0.001) among the four Poultry farms examined with Menacanthus cornutus having 85.5% was more prevalent than Goniodes gigas (14.5%). All the farms examined harbored lice with Brigade poultry farm having the highest prevalence of lice with 95% incidence. Age of birds, availability of birds per space and frequency of litter change were contributing parameters to the prevalence of Menacanthus cornutus. The present study suggests that more research should be done on the work with focus on managerial practice for effective suppression of its incidence. Keywords: Bird Louse, Kano Sub-urb areas, Menacanthus cornutus, Poultry, Prevalence
TL;DR: A trial was conducted at the Screen House of the Department of Crop Science, University of Benin, Benin City, Nigeria to evaluate the efficacy of using organic fertilizer as bioremediant for spent engine oil polluted soils as discussed by the authors.
Abstract: A trial was conducted at the Screen House of the Department of Crop Science, University of Benin, Benin City, Nigeria to evaluate the efficacy of using organic fertilizer as bioremediant for spent engine oil polluted soils. Three concentrations of spent engine oil (0, 5 and 10 % w/w, spent engine oil in soil) and three application rates of organic fertilize (0, 5 and 10 t ha -1 ) were utilized in a 3 x 3 factorial arrangement and laid out as a completely randomized design with three replication. Soil pH, available P and exchangeable cations were significantly reduced by spent engine oil except organic C compared to control. Heavy metals (Va and Pb) concentration increased with increasing concentration of spent engine oil. Amendment of spent engine oil polluted soil with organic fertilizer significantly remediated the degraded soil and decreases the heavy metal concentration. In addition, 10 t ha -1 organic fertilizer showed superiority over 5tha -1 organic fertilizer in amending spent engine oil degraded soil for pH, total N, available P, exchangeable Ca 2+ and reduced heavy metal concentration. Soil pollution adversely affected number of leaves, dry vine weight, dry leaf weight and herbage yield. Growth and herbage yield were much higher in organic fertilizer amended spent engine oil polluted soil. the highest herbage yield (9.23 t ha -1 ) was obtained from unpolluted soil treated with 10 t ha -1 organic fertilizer which was statistically comparable with soil polluted with 5 % spent engine oil and amended with 10 t ha -1 organic fertilizer (7.10 t ha -1 ). Soils polluted with 5 % spent engine oil had higher bacteria population compared to control, while organic fertilizer had depressing effect on soil without spent oil pollution. However, unpolluted soiltreated with 10 t ha -1 organic fertilizer had the fungi (0.77 x 10 6 cfu g -1 ) population which was statistically compared to 5 t ha -1 organically treated soil without spent engine oil pollution (0.76 x 10 6 cfu g -1 ). Soil polluted with spent engine oil has been bioremediated with organic fertilizer and hence put into productive use. Keyword : Growth, herbage yield, micro-flora, organic fertilizer, spent engine oil, Telfairia occidentalis .
TL;DR: In this paper, the level of some metals (Cd,Cr,Mn,Pb,Zn,Na and K) was seasonally determined in the water and sediments of Challawa Gorge dam.
Abstract: Level of some Metals (Cd,Cr,Mn,Pb,Zn,Na and K) was seasonally determined in the water and sediments of Challawa Gorge dam.The result obtained showed that the values of the metal contents were generally higher in the dry season than the wet season. The metal contents of the water and sediment were obtained using the nitric acid digestion method. All the metals analyzed except Na and K were determined using Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (flame emission spectroscopic method). Variations in concentrations were found for the heavy metals ranging between (0.01and1.41mg/l) in water and (1.0 and 1.64 mg/kg) in the sediments. Sodium and potassium were found in concentrations ranging between 7.65±0.28 and 11.32±8.62mg/l in water and between 50.32±18.08mg/l and 144.19±12.09mg/kg in the sediments respectively. The statistical comparison of the values between the wet and dry season in water as well as those in sediment shows no significant difference at P>0.05. All the metals were found to be within the permissible limits as recommended by WHO/NOAA for quality water and sediments except for the levels of iron (Fe) in water which was found to be above the acceptable limit. The sediments contained higher concentration of heavy metals than the water. This may be attributed to the fact that sediments usually serves as repositories in an aqueous environment. Keywords: Heavy metals, sediment, wet season, dry season, water.
TL;DR: The result from this preliminary study suggests that the plant contains active compounds that could be used for the development of drug for the treatment of ailments associated with the test organisms.
Abstract: This investigation was conducted to determine the in-vitro effect of aqueous, ethanol and methanol crude extracts of Euphorbia hirta at concentrations ranging from 10mg/ml – 100mg/ml against three pathogenic bacteria (S treptococcus pneumoniae, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Proteus vulgaris ) using cup plate method. The extracts showed appreciable inhibitory effect (6-11mm and 2-20mm) on Streptococcus pneumoniae and Proteus vulgaris when compared to the positive control (penicillin). Klebsiella pneumoniae was resistant to all the extracts. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was between 60mg/ml – 80mg/ml on Streptococcus pneumoniae and 60mg/ml-100mg/ml on Proteus vulgaris . The minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) was between 90-100mg/ml on Streptococcus pneumoniae and 100mg/ml on Proteus vulgaris . Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of tannins, flavonoids, cardiac glycosides and volatile oils. The result from this preliminary study suggests that the plant contains active compounds that could be used for the development of drug for the treatment of ailments associated with the test organisms. More work needs to be done on the separation and purification of active compounds in the plant extract in order to determine the role of each compound in the crude extracts. Keywords : Antibacterial activity, Euphorbia hirta, Crude extracts, Bacterial isolates.
TL;DR: In this article, the diversity of microorganisms on the leaves of wild okra was analyzed using the dilution technique and the results showed that the fungal diversity and frequency of occurrence were higher in the first sampling (61.50% and 62.07% respectively) than those of the second sampling (38.30% and 37.93%).
Abstract: Indigenous people especially in southern Nigeria use Corchorus olitorius L . (Jute) as a staple vegetable. Population dynamics, richness and frequency of occurrence of microflora isolates on healthy green leaves of wild okra were estimated within two weeks at weekly intervals using the dilution technique. This study was conducted in the University of Benin intend to show the diversity of microorganisms on the leaves of wild okra. The leaves were categorized based on their period of harvest into old, new and middle with a week interval between each harvest. After serial dilution in distilled water, isolation was done using nutrient agar for bacteria and potato dextrose agar for fungi. After incubation colony forming units per millimeter were counted, isolated, identified and characterized using standard microbiological techniques. The fungal diversity and frequency of occurrence were higher in the first sampling (61.50% and 62.07% respectively) than those of the second sampling (38.50% and 37.93%). Total viable microbial population in the second sampling after two weeks was higher (11.23 X 102cfu/ml) than in the first sampling after one week (10.00 X 102cfu/ml). The total cumulative bacterial count was higher (15.69X 102cfu/ml) than those of fungi (55.40 X 102 cfu/ml) during the studies. Bacterial genera isolated included; Staphylococcus, Bacillus, Micrococcus, Serratia and Proteus . Rhodotorula, Mucor, Trichoderma, Aspergillus, Penicillium, and Helminthosporium were the genera of fungi isolated. Further studies could help to elucidate major players in wild okra phylloplane ecology. Keywords : Wild Okra ( Corchorus olitorius ), Phylloplane, Microflora population, Bacteria, Fungi
TL;DR: In this article, the authors performed approximate analysis and some heavy metals determination in selected poultry feed samples used as starter, grower, layer and finisher which were obtained from Kano Metropolis, Nigeria.
Abstract: Proximate analysis and some heavy metals determination were carried out in selected poultry feed samples used as starter, grower, layer and finisher which were obtained from Kano Metropolis, Nigeria. The heavy metals contents were determined using Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy and expressed in mg/kg while the proximate composition were expressed in %. Mean to standard deviation of the proximate composition of the feeds analyzed shows moisture content ranged from 11.33±4.48% - 04.98±01.58%, ash content 20.47±12.67% - 09.59±2.95%, lipid ranged between 06.91±01.92% to 4.14±1.90%, crude protein from 24.26±04.16% - 16.44±11.29%, crude fibre 15.90±16.46% - 03.41±00.17%, carbohydrate 50.70±21.63% - 39.67±10.68%. The mean results of the heavy metals concentration ranged from (2.26±0.67 to 1.20±0.51)mg/kg, (1.63±0.43 to 1.37±0.28)mg/kg and (0.56±0.26 to 0.47±0.13)mg/kg for cadmium, nickel and lead respectively. Ni and Pb levels in the feeds were within the permissible limits while Cd level in all the samples exceeded the permissible limit by regulatory bodies. These results were subjected to one way analysis of variance (ANOVA) (p<0.05). Keywords: Proximate composition; Heavy metals; Poultry feed; AAS,
TL;DR: It was revealed that daylength had significant effect on phenology in all the genotypes, while four genotypes were found to be photoperiod sensitive and four were observed to bePhotoperiod insensitive.
Abstract: Experiments were conducted in 2008 at International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) Kano Station. The varieties were planted in March which coincided with the dry season and in July for the rainy season planting. Data were collected on number of days taken from sowing to flower bud initiation, first opened flower and first pod maturity. This was aimed at evaluating the effects of daylenths on phenology. The results revealed that daylength had significant effect on phenology in all the genotypes. Four genotypes including IT99K241-2, IT97K 568-19, IT99K 213-11-1, IT98K 131-2 and IT99K 216-48-1 were found to be photoperiod sensitive while four genotypes which include IT99K 1092-2, IT97K 454-3, IT97K 409-4 and IT93K 452-1 were observed to be photoperiod insensitive. Based on the results, the cowpea genotypes were characterized into early (IT98K 131-2, IT99K 1092-2, IT93K 452-1, IT97K 409-4 and IT97K 454-3), medium (IT97K 568-19, IT99K 216-48-1 and IT99K 213 – 11 – 11), and late (IT99K 241-2) maturing varieties. Keywords : Cowpea genotype, Phenology, Daylength, Photosensitivity
TL;DR: The results showed Significant effect of all organic manures with highest yield values obtained from poultry droppings, then cow dung and farmyard manure respectively, and the use of 7.5-10 tons/ha of poultry dropping could be recommended for optimum yield of garlic at Kadawa.
Abstract: Effects of different types and levels of organic manures on the yield and yield components of garlic (ex- Kofa var) was investigated. Two experiments were conducted under irrigation at the Institute for Agriculture Research (I.A.R) Kadawa in the Sudan Savanna zone of Nigeria during 2007/2008 and 2008/2009 (Nov- Mar) dry seasons. The treatments consisted of five levels (0, 2.5, 5.0, 7.5 and 10.0 tons/ha) of three types of organic manures (poultry droppings (P.D), farm yard manure (FYM) and cow dung (CD) laid out in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with four replications. Yield parameters studied included cured bulb weight , average bulb diameter, average number of cloves/bulb, average weight of cloves and cured bulb yield (kg/ha). The results showed Significant (P=0.5) effect of all organic manures with highest yield values obtained from poultry droppings, then cow dung and farmyard manure respectively. Increasing levels of all applied manures from 0- 10 tons/ha significantly increased all yield parameters assessed. Thus for optimum yield of garlic at Kadawa, the use of 7.5-10 tons/ha of poultry dropping could be recommended. Keywords: Poultry droppings (PD), Farm yard manure (FYM), Cow dung (CD), Kadawa, Sudan Savanna, Garlic, Irrigation, yield and yield components.
TL;DR: Due to the antimicrobial activity of Ocimum gratisssimum, it is therefore conceivable that it should be used to treat cases of diarrhea caused by the test organisms.
Abstract: The antibacterial potential of cold water, hot water (100 o C), ethanol and chloroform extracts of Ocimum gratisssimum leaves were tested against some pathogenic bacteria known to cause diaorrhoea; Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Shigella sp. and Salmonella sp . Cold water and chloroform extracts did not show any effect on the test organisms. Only ethanol extract and hot water (100 o C) extracts had inhibitory effects on the test organisms. All the test organisms were susceptible to ethanol extract with zones of inhibition which ranged from 6mm - 11mm and minimum inhibitory concentration ranging from 30 - 60mg/ml. The test organisms were also susceptible to hot water extract with zones of inhibition ranging from 5mm - 10mm and minimum inhibitory concentration of range 25 - 70mg/ml. Due to the antimicrobial activity of Ocimum gratisssimum , it is therefore conceivable that it should be used to treat cases of diarrhea caused by the test organisms. Keywords : Staphylococcus aureus , Antimicrobial activity, extracts, Diarrhoea, Bacteria
TL;DR: The prevalence of microalbuminuria (mal) among diabetic patients in Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital (UDUTH) Sokoto was determined and poor glycaemic control was the only modifiable predictor for the development of mal.
Abstract: Diabetic nephropathy is a common phenomenon in patients with diabetes. Its prevalence risk factors have not been fully described in black African patients. This study determined the prevalence of microalbuminuria (mal) among diabetic patients in Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital (UDUTH) Sokoto. It involved 100 diabetics and 50 healthy controls. Mal was estimated by BCG-dye binding method, while fasting blood glucose (FBG) by glucose oxidation method. The prevalence of mal varied between males (24.3%) and females (16.6%). The duration of the disease ranged from 5 years with (31%) having abnormal mal, (30%) 30 years having (24%) with abnormal mal. The prevalence of mal was 22% (17% males and 5% females). FBG differed significantly (p 5years group respectively). Poor glycaemic control was the only modifiable predictor for the development of mal. Other non-modifiable risk factors related to progression of mal are sex and duration of disease. Early diagnosis of mal and aggressive glycaemic control is hereby recommended. Keywords: Microalbuminuria, Diabetic nephropathy, Fasting blood glucose
TL;DR: In this article, the proximate composition and antioxidant vitamins analysis of two varieties of honey (dark amber and light amber) were carried out using standard methods, and the results suggest that both honeys are nutritionally good source of energy and possess some antioxidant vitamins.
Abstract: The proximate composition and antioxidant vitamins analysis of two varieties of honey (dark amber and light amber) were carried out using standard methods. The values for moisture, ash, crude lipid, crude protein and crude carbohydrate contents of the two honeys, (light amber and dark amber) are 9.39 ± 0.15, 0.55± 0.05, 1.51± 0.11,1.64± 0.06and 86.89± 0.93 % (for light amber) and 13.03± 0.47, 0.68± 0.11,3.44± 042,1.87± 0.11and 81.57± 0.47% (for dark amber) respectively, while fibre was not detected in both samples. Both samples showed high amount of carbohydrate, that of light amber being higher. The antioxidant vitamins (vitamins A, C and E) content of the two honeys are 4.08± 0.21, 2.22± 0.10and 0.28± 0.03(mg/dl), (for light amber), and 4.42± 0.06, 2.61± 0.11,and 0.26± 0.02 (mg/dl), (for dark amber) respectively. Both samples showed high content of Vitamin A, with that of dark amber being higher. The results suggest that both honeys are nutritionally good source of energy and possess some antioxidant vitamins. Keywords : Comparative, proximate composition, antioxidant vitamins, honey
TL;DR: In Nigerian traditional medicine, the combination of A. comosus and C. senensis peels has antibacterial effect against typhoid fever and diarrhoea due to Aeromonas hydrophila, and the synergistic effects of the two plant extracts against some clinical isolates were verified.
Abstract: In Nigerian traditional medicine, the combination of A. comosus and C. senensis peels has antibacterial effect against typhoid fever and diarrhoea due to Aeromonas hydrophila. A. comosus and C. senensis peels were extracted using percolation method and ethanol solvent. The antibacterial potential of ethanolic extract of A. comosus and C. senensis peels were investigated by disc diffusion and broth dilution techniques. The extracts were subjected to phytochemical screening using standard procedures. This study was aimed at verifying the synergistic effects of the two plant extracts against some clinical isolates: six Salmonella paratyphi B, one S. typhi and three A. hydrophila. The antibacterial activity of the combined extracts was 7-12mm and from 15- 42mm for the standard antibiotic disc. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of the combined extracts was 0.25-12.50mg/ml while the minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) was 0.50-50.00mg/ml. Phytochemical investigation of the extracts revealed the presence secondary metabolites like alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, tannins, steroids, triterpenoids and phytosterols in C. senensis peels while alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, tannins, triterpenoids and phytosterols were found in A. comosus peels. In-vitro antibacterial potential was confirmed and no synergism was demonstrated at a combination ratio of 1:1 of the extracts tested (P = 0.05). Keywords : - Anti-bacterial, Annona comosus , Citrus senensis , synergism, Extracts
TL;DR: In this paper, the relationship between zooplankton fauna and physico-chemical water parameters of Tiga Lake, Kano, Nigeria from March 2009 to March 2011 was investigated.
Abstract: This study investigated the relationships between zooplankton fauna and physico-chemical water parameters of Tiga Lake, Kano, Nigeria from March 2009 to March 2011. Water transparency, pH, Cl - , SO 4 2- and dissolved oxygen (DO) showed significant positive correlations (p<0.05) with species occurrence, while total solids (TS), total suspended solids (TSS), turbidity, NO 3 - and PO 4 3- showed significant negative correlations (p<0.05) with species occurrence. There were significant positive correlations (p<0.05) between zooplankton abundance and conductivity, total alkalinity, total dissolved solids (TDS), Ca 2+ , Na + and K + . The general chemical characteristics (pH, total alkalinity, conductivity and TDS) and major ions (Ca 2+ , Na + and K + ) were all within the permissible limits for aquatic life, and they showed direct relationships with the zooplankton fauna of the lake. Physical parameters (water transparency, turbidity, TS and TSS) and nutrient content (NO 3 - and PO 4 3- ) were considered to be limiting on the occurrence and distribution of zooplankton in Tiga Lake. The ecological relationship between zooplankton and physico-chemical parameters of the lake is an indication of its suitability for aquatic life. Keywords : Tiga Lake; relationship; water parameters; zooplankton fauna
TL;DR: A preliminary pot trial was conducted in a greenhouse to determine the effects of rubber effluent on some soil chemical properties as well as early growth and nutrient uptake by maize plant as discussed by the authors.
Abstract: A preliminary pot trial was conducted in a greenhouse to determine the effects of rubber effluent on some soil chemical properties as well as early growth and nutrient uptake by maize plant. The levels of rubber effluent used were 0, 50, 100, 150, 200, 250 ml per 2 kg soil. The trial was arranged in a completely randomized design and replicated three times. Results showed that the soil pH, organic carbon, N, P, K, Mg, Ca Na, ECEC, Fe, Mn and Zn were significantly higher (P<0.05) in rubber effluent treated soils than the control, while the control was significantly higher in exchangeable acidity. Except Zn, the N, P, K, Mg, Ca, Na, Fe, Mn content and their uptake by the plant were significantly higher (P<0.05) in rubber effluent treated plant than the control. The plant height, leaf area and number of leaves were also significantly higher in effluent treated plants than the control. The N, P, K, Mg, Ca, Na content and their uptake and the growth parameters however declined at 200 ml treatment while in Fe, Mn and Zn content and their uptake, there was no definite pattern of increase with increasing effluent levels. Conclusively, rubber effluent contained vital plant nutrients which may be favorable to soil fertility improvement and maize growth at the application rates. Keywords : Rubber effluent, maize, nutrient uptake, soil, greenhouse
TL;DR: Cattle rearers in Muri district, Taraba State had high knowledge of tsetse fly and the economic significance attributed to cattle and the use of pour- on in the control of t setse fly in the districts should bee raised among cattle rearers.
Abstract: A study using a structural questionnaire was conducted in Muri district, Taraba State to evaluate knowledge, attitude and practices of cattle rearers about Tsetse fly (Glossina). Most cattle rearers (94.8%) had adequate knowledge of Tsetse fly, (69.0%) gave a local name to it and (100%) know the effect of Tsetse fly to their cattle. Cattle rearers (52.3%) reported Tsetse flies transmit disease to cattle, (85.7%) know where their cattle make contact with the tsetse flies and (67.0%) know season and period of the day when tsetse flies bite their cattle. 48.1% recognized tsetse fly as an important threat to their cattle, (90.0%) reported their herd had contact with tsetse flies in the preceding 12 months, (90.9%) practices preventive measures against tsetse flies, and only (9.1%) do not. Respondents had high knowledge of tsetse fly and the economic significance attributed to cattle and the use of pour- on in the control of tsetse fly in the districts should bee raised among cattle rearers. Results obtained from this study could be used in the formulation of extension material in trypanosomosis prevention. Keywords: Knowledge, attitude, practice, tsetse fly (Glossina) trypanotolerant, Taraba, Muri.
TL;DR: The principles and applications of molecular biology techniques in the identification of the causative agents of infectious diseases either in a routine setting or as research tools are examined.
Abstract: Diagnosis is concerned with identifying the cause of a disease or precise and consistent outcomes that are results of direct or indirect actions, reactions and interactions between the cause of a disease and the host. That outcome, if accurate, would help the clinician in disease management, or the epidemiologist in identifying trends of diseases or the administrator in policy and decision making. Traditionally, infectious disease diagnosis involves identifying the causative agents of infectious diseases through the direct examination, culture and often immunological tests on clinical specimens. The traditional diagnostic techniques have varied sensitivities and specificities which influence their choice and applicability in a particular setting for the diagnosis of infectious diseases. However, the limitations of many traditional techniques particularly low specificity and long turnaround time often necessitate initiation of treatment before results are made available. Molecular diagnostic techniques involve a variety of techniques that explore the use of nucleic acid molecules for the identification of a particular pathogenic organism. These techniques include nucleic acid-based typing system, nucleic acid analysis without amplification, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and other nucleic acid amplification techniques. Applications of molecular detection methods for infectious diseases have resolved many of the problems of the traditional diagnostic techniques, due to their exquisite sensitivity and specificity that allow the accurate and timely detection of very small numbers of organisms. This paper examines the principles and applications of molecular biology techniques in the identification of the causative agents of infectious diseases either in a routine setting or as research tools. Keywords: Infectious diseases, Molecular diagnosis, Polymerase Chain Reaction
TL;DR: Species composition and homegarden structures as well as plant uses are discussed, with taxa such as Musa species, Vernonia amygdalina, Citrus species, Psidium guajava and Terminalia catappa found to be the common food/medicinal plants.
Abstract: Studies on correlation between species composition and homegarden size in thirty (30) house gardens in Odeda Local Government Area of Ogun State, Southwestern Nigeria was conducted. Plants grown and maintained by household members and the diversity of vegetal species and their uses were assessed using semi-structured questionnaire and structured interview. A total of 120 different plant species belonging to 50 Families were documented. From the data, Euphorbiaceae, Solanaceae, Rutaceae, Malvaceae, Caesalpiniaceae, Poaceae and Apocynaceae (in order of decreasing number of species) were the most frequent Families. Taxa such as Musa species, Vernonia amygdalina, Citrus species, Psidium guajava and Terminalia catappa were found to be the common food/medicinal plants as evidenced by their densities in the study sites. The household members cited most of the plants as food; others as medicinal and ornamentals. Miscellaneous uses include cosmetics, ceremonial and scouring. Homegarden products serve alimentary purposes and represent promising base materials for poverty alleviation and may also help to augment “fresh” food nutrient intake. Pearson Correlation analyses indicated no statistically significant association between species composition and homegarden size (Simple correlation=0.289, P=0.122). Species composition and homegarden structures as well as plant uses are discussed. Key words : Homegarden, Odeda, Southwestern Nigeria, Species composition