Showing papers in "Journal of Natural Sciences Research in 2015"

Environmental Effects of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons

Abstract: Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PASHs) are a class of unique compound that consist of fused conjugated aromatic rings and do not contain heteroatoms or substituents carrier. These compounds can be point source (e g, oil spill) or non-point source ( e.g; atmosphere deposition) and are one of the most widespread organic pollutants. Some of them are known or suspected carcinogens and are linked to other health problems. They are primarily formed by incomplete combustion of carbon-containing fuels such as words, coal; diesel; fat, tobacco or incense etc. PAHs exert there toxicity following biotransformation to toxic metabolites, which can be bound covalently to cellular macromolecules such as protein, DNA and RNA, which causes cell damage, mutagenesis and carcinogenesis. However, during biological and chemical degradation of PAHs other toxic compound may be formed. If these transformation products are sufficiently persistent they could potentially accumulate during remedial processes. This will provide the background information and rationale for the derivation of distribution behaviour, environment contaminations, sources, types, the effect of PAHs on the environment and the recommendations. Keywords : Environment, deoxyribonucleic acid, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, ribonucleic acids and toxicity.

A review on Traditional Fermented Beverages of Ethiopian

Abstract: Ethiopia is one of the countries where a wide variety of traditional fermented beverages are prepared and consumed. The various traditional fermented beverages consumed in Ethiopia consist of both high alcoholic and low alcoholic beers. This paper reviews the available literature on the Microbiology of Traditional beverages and the diversity of fermented beverages from Ethiopia. The traditional beverages deals with popular products such as ‘ Kribo’, ‘Borde’, ‘Areki’ and ‘ Tella’. Here, the nutrional, difference in p H values and other chemical properties of the products are also presented. In conclusion, the review discusses the nature of beverage preparation in Ethiopia, traditional household processing, the extent and limitation of scientific work done so far and suggests some recommendation to curb the problem. Keywords : Borde , Kribo, Areki, Tella , fermentation,

Antifungal Activity of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles on Aspergillus Fumigatus Fungus &Candida Albicans Yeast

Abstract: The aim of this study was investigated the antifungal activity of ZnONPs on opportunistic fungi ( A.fumigatus ,C.albicans )ZnONPs with size ?50nm and concentrations ofs (0,3,6 and 12mmll -1 ) were used .Radial growth and dry weight ,were used to estimate the inhibitory effects .Also ,production of two enzymes that specialized of yeast were also investigated .Results ,showed nano-ZnO exerted activity on the radial growth and dry weight in addition of production of two enzymes in yeast. Thus , this study indicates nano-ZnO have considerable antifungal activity. Keywords: A.fumigatus, C.albicans,nano-ZnO, nanoparticles , antifungal

A Comprehensive Review of Biomass Pyrolysis as a Process of Renewable Energy Generation

Abstract: Energy is considered the basis for the progress and prosperity of nations and societies. It is also the cornerstone of economic and social development. The limited availability of fossil fuels and the growing awareness of the detrimental environmental consequences resulting from greenhouse gas emissions have reinforced the importance of biomass as an energy resource in developed and developing countries. This review presents the summary of biomass for energy generation, the fundamental principles and application of biomass pyrolysis as well as some of the factors that can affect pyrolysis of biomass to produce bio-fuel. Some of the factors examined were biomass type, types of pyrolysis as well as pyrolysis conditions such as temperature and particle size. Other factors examined were retention time, biomass moisture content and the use of catalyst. Also included in the clusters were heating rate and the pyrolysis environment. The study concluded that most biomass residues lend themselves easily to process of pyrolysis and all the factors and variables examined in one way or the other had effects on biomass pyrolysis and there exists optimum or threshold value for each feedstock depending on the operating conditions Keywords: Biomass, bio-fuel, char, chemical composition, energy, factor, pyrolysis

Effect of Moringa (Moringa oleifera Lam) Seeds on the Performance and Carcass Characteristics of Broiler Chickens

Abstract: A 6-week study was conducted to evaluate the effects of Moringa oleifera seeds powder (MOSP) on the performance and carcass characteristics of broilers (Ross 308). A total of one hundred sixty day old unsexed broiler chicks were assigned into 16 pens of ten chicks each in a completely randomized design. Four experimental iso-caloric and iso-nitrogenous diets were supplied ad-libitum . Three experimental diets containing 0.5, 1.0 and 2.0 % MOSP and a control MOSP-free diet were used. Feed consumption, weight gain, feed conversion ratio and carcass quality characteristics were recorded for the individual replicate of each dietary treatment. Addition of MOSP up to 1.5% to broiler chicks diet significantly (P 0.05) on weight gain, feed efficiency, final live body weight, dressing percentage, liver weight and heart weight. Reduction in weight gain, feed efficiency and body weight due to addition of 2.0% MOSP to broilers’ diet during starter period may be due to the presence of phytate which acts as an anti-nutritional factor. The use of MOSP in the broiler diets has enhanced the performance during finisher and the whole period. Key words: Broiler chickens s, Moringa oleifera , Seeds, Performance and Carcass Characteristics

Green synthesis of Magnetite Iron Oxide Nanoparticles by Using Al-Abbas's (A.S.) Hund Fruit (Citrus medica) var. Sarcodactylis Swingle Extract and Used in Al-'alqami River Water Treatment

Abstract: In this study, magnetite iron oxide nanoparticles were synthesized from aqueous ferrous chloride, ferric chlorideand sodium hydroxide through a simple and eco-friendly route using Al- Abbas's (A.S.) Hund Fruit extracts,which acted as a reductant and stabilizer simultaneously. Characterizations of nanoparticles were done by usingUV-visible, FT-IR, XRD, and SEM methods. The ultraviolet-visible spectrum of the aqueous solution containingmagnetite iron oxide nanoparticle showed an absorption peak at round 340 nm. FT-IR graph showed peaks at519 cm -1 confirm the presence of Magnetite iron oxide nanoparticles in the synthesized samples. It is clear thatthe bioactive molecules present in the Abbas's (A.S.) Hund Fruit extract interacted with the synthesizedMagnetite iron oxide nanoparticles. The diffractogram exhibits six distinct diffraction peaks at 2θ values, as the(220), (311), (400), (422), (511) and (440) crystallographic planes of the inverse spherical magnetite crystal. Theaverage crystallite size was evaluated by diffraction line broadening (d 311) using the Debye-Scherrer equation.The average size of Fe3O4 crystallites obtained from nanocomposite was about 45nm. The magnetite iron oxidenanoparticles synthesized by the help of Abbas's (A.S.) Hund Fruit extracts were scanned using SEM. It revealsthat an iron oxide nanoparticle seems to be spherical in morphology.The Al-'alqami River water treatment by magnetic iron oxide nanoparticles synthesize by Abbas's (A.S.) HundFruit extracts led to the reduction of the number of bacteria to 80% after twelve hours of treatment whereas watertreatment by magnetic iron oxide nanoparticles for 24 hours led to kill all the bacteria in water.Keywords: Green synthesis, Magnetite Iron Oxide Nanoparticles, Al- Abbas's (A.S.) Hund Fruit, Watertreatment, Al-'alqami River.

Tomato Management Practices and Diseases Occurrence in Mwea West Sub County

Abstract: Tomato is an important crop in Mwea West Sub County, Kirinyaga County, Kenya. A survey was carried out in the area to investigate tomato management practices, diseases and pests that hinder tomato production. The study endeavoured to establish farmers’ knowledge on fusarium wilt disease and root-knot nematodes and the methods used to control them. Data was collected from two hundred and eighteen randomly selected small holder producers who were equally distributed in the study area. Data collected included tomato management practices, diseases and pests that hinder production. Majority (85.3%) of the respondents were males while a few (14.7%) were female. The respondents (71.6%) indicated that tomato was the most important crop grown for income generation in the area. Most important varieties grown were cultivars, Safari, Kilele F1, Prosta F1 and Rio- Grande. Most important diseases affecting tomato crop were; early blight ( Alternaria solani ) and late blight ( Phytophthora infestans ), fungal wilts ( Fusarium sp. Verticillium sp. Rhizoctonia sp.) and bacterial wilt ( Ralstonia s olanacearum ). Plant parasitic nematodes and pests (thrips, aphids, spider mites) were also reported in the study area. There was a significant(P<0.05) association between the following variables; type of land owner and major use of land, type of land owner and cropping system, source of agricultural information and whether or not to apply pesticides into the soil. Farmers were quite knowledgeable about tomato farming as they had access to information from various sources; however there are still major gaps in knowledge especially on diseases and pests. Keywords : Tomato, diseases, pests, nematodes, management

One Dimensional Spectral Analysis and Curie Depth Isotherm of Eastern Chad Basin, Nigeria

Abstract: One dimensional spectral analysis was applied to aeromagnetic data in order to determine the sedimentary thickness variations, depths to the Curie-temperature isotherm and heat flow measurements within the eastern part of the Nigerian Chad Basin. Two depths sources were interpreted in the area namely; the shallower sources have a mean value of 2.21 km while the deeper ones have an average value of 14.07 km. The result of the analysis shows that depths to the centriod and magnetic bodies (sedimentary thicknesses) range from 11.55 to 18.32 km and 1.65 to 5.12 km respectively. The depth to the Curie temperature isotherm in the area varies between 21.45 km at Mafa-Bama area and 31.52 km at Maiduguri-Gwoza area below sea level. The result also shows that the Curie temperature isotherm within the basin is not a horizontal level surface, but is undulating, and the geothermal gradients associated with it range between 17.45 and 25.64 o C/km while the corresponding mantle heat flow is about 46.00 mWm -2 and 67.60 mWm -2 . It is good to note that areas of high heat flow correspond to high geothermal gradient within the study area. An inverse relationship exists between calculated Curie depths and heat flow within the study area such that high-heat-flow regions correspond to low Curie depths regions. These results correspond to the depths inferred by extrapolating geothermal gradient and heat-flow values, suggesting that the Curie point depth analysis is a useful tool in estimating regional thermal structure. Based on the computed sedimentary thicknesses and the high geothermal gradient, some parts of the study area have been demarcated for detail hydrocarbon exploration. Keywords: Chad Basin, aeromagnetic data, spectral analysis, Curie point depth, geothermal gradient and Hydrocarbon

Phytochemical, Proximate and Mineral Analyses of the Leaves of Gossypium hirsutum L. and Momordica charantia L.

Abstract: The leaves of Gossypium hirsutum L. and Momordica charantia L. were analysed for phytochemical, proximate and mineral compositions. The qualitative phytochemical screening from the two plants revealed the presence of alkaloids, saponins, flavonoids, tannins and cardiac glycosides whereas terpenoids and steroids were absent. Subsequent quantification analysis revealed that G. hirsutum contained 12.20± 0.28% alkaloids, 2.63±0.04 % saponins, 11.90±0.4 % flavonoids, 2.73 mg/100g tannins and 1.62±0.00 mg/100g total phenol. Momordica charantia contained 13.60±0.00 % alkaloids, 2.30±0.00 % saponins, 7.20±0.00 % flavonoids, 1.37±0.00 mg/100g tannins and 0.74 ±0.00mg/100g total phenol. Proximate analysis revealed that carbohydrate had the highest percentage in G. hirsutum and M. charantia (46.66±0.31% and 57.92± 0.04 % respectively). Crude protein had the lowest percentages of 2.70±0.01% and 2.46 ± 0.03% in G. hirsutum and M. charantia . Mineral analysis revealed that potassium had the highest concentration of 38.61 mg/100g in G. hirsutum and 32.84mg/100g in M. charantia . The least concentration of minerals in G. hirsutum was sodium (3.37mg/100g) while magnesium (5.88mg/100g) recorded the least concentration in M. charantia . The high carbohydrate contents in both plants might justify the potentials of the plants as good source of energy. Keywords : Phytochemical, Gossypium hirsutum , Momordica charantia , Proximate, Mineral analyses.

Haematological and Serum Biochemical Characteristics of Rabbit Bucks Fed Diets Containing Garcinia Kola Seed Meal

Abstract: The effect of diets containing Garcinia kola seed meal on blood characteristics of 36 growing rabbit bucks of about 3 months old were investigated in an experiment that lasted for 3 months. The animals were randomly assigned to 3 treatments of 3 replicates each. Three experimental diets, T 1 , (control; containing 0 % G. kola seed meal), T 2 (2.5 % G. kola seed meal) and T 3 (5 % G. kola seed meal) were administered ad libitum to the animals. The haematological parameters evaluated were; packed cell volume (PCV), haemoglobin (Hb), white blood cell (WBC) and differentials. There were significant (P 0.05). Serum biochemical analysis of total protein, albumin, globulin, aspartate amino transaminase (AST), alanine amino transaminase (ALT) and alanine phosphate (ALP), recorded significantly (P 0.05). Alanine amino transaminase (ALT) were similar (P>0.05) in T 2 (59.0 + 2.65 IU/L) and T 3 (54.0 + 1.0 IU/L) but significantly (P<0.05) higher than T 1 (42.33 + 4.63 IU/L). The results of this study indicate that G. kola seed meal increases lymphocyte count in rabbit bucks which also gives rise to a corresponding total white blood cell count. Serum biochemical characteristics showed a possible mild organ degenerations as evident in the significant (P<0.05) increase in aspartate amino transaminase (AST) and alanine amino transaminase (ALT) of animals consuming diets containing Garcinia kola seed meal. Keywords: Garcinia kola , haematological, biochemical, rabbits.

Immunomodulatory of Cordia myxa (L.) Aqueous Extract Fruit in Immunized Mice with Hydatid Cyst Fluid

Abstract: Human cystic echinococcosis caused by Echinococcus granulosus is one of most important and widespread parasitic zoonoses in the world. The present study was aimed to identify the immunomodulatory activity of aqueous extract of Cordia myxa fruit since this plant considers one of medically important plants, which is widely used for treatment of numerous diseases, that correlate with the effectiveness of immunized by hydatid cyst fluid antigen HCFAg. Forty Balb/c mice were divided into equal groups, first group was immunized with HCFAg, the second group was treated with aqueous extract of C. muxa fruit, the third group was immunized and treated, the fourth group was as a control. Delayed type hypersensitivity (DTH), Mitotic index (MI) and histopathological change in spleen in all groups were studied. A higher increase of thickness was showed in immunized mice and treated after 10 days of treatment with aqueous extract of C.myxa fruit after 10 days(3 rd group), that reached 1.23± after 3 hrs.The MI of bone marrow and spleen cells was significantly increased as a post immunized and treatment mice (88.57±1.40), (94.7±0.76) respectively in comparison with the other groups. Histopathological examination of spleen showed marked hyperplasia of lymphoid corpuscles, confused some times to form large follicle. The successive aqueous extract was found to stimulate cell mediated and immune responses in mice/ Keywords: HCF, C. myxa , DTH, MI

Practice of patient’s rights among physicians and nurses in two egyptian hospitals from patients’perspective

Abstract: Background: The Universal Declaration of Human Rights clarifies the meaning of human dignity in the law. This is achieved by providing a legal and an ethical basis to improve the standards of care for the patients and giving important guidance on various critical, social, legal, and ethical issues. Aim: The aim of the study is to assess various practices of patient’s rights among physicians and nurses in two Egyptian hospitals from patients’ perspective . Material and Methods : A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted on 200 in-patients at the medical and surgical wards of the Alexandria Main University Hospital (AMUH) and the Matrouh General Hospital (MGH). Close ended questionnaire was used to identify the practice of patient’s rights among physicians and nurses from patients’ perspective or views Results: Almost 27 % of patients in the Alexandria Main University Hospital and 53 % of patients in Matrouh General Hospital did not have any awareness about their rights. 5.0% of physicians and nurses had good practice and 42 % of them had moderate practice in Alexandria Main University Hospital, while 29 % of physicians and nurses in Matrouh General Hospital had moderate practice. The highest mean practice scores of patient’ rights aspects in Alexandria Main University Hospital and Matrouh General Hospital was health care and respect as human being. Thus, this was followed by adequate information, a given written consent, and health education and environment. Conclusion: The practice of patient’s rights among physician and nurses are in a poor level. Poor practice without doubt, is related to deficiency of awareness and attitude, lack of training, inadequate supervision and guidance, inadequate policy and procedure, limited budget and facilities, and unsupported management. Keywords: Practice, Patient’s Rights, Physicians, Nurses

Levels of Potentially Toxic Metals In Selected Herbal Medicines In Lagos, Nigeria

Abstract: The increasing popularity and widespread use of herbs as alternative medicine has sparked an interest in understanding their safety. Potential toxic metals (PTM) have been identified as a risk to human health through the usage of herbal medicines. This study aimed to assess the level and pH of PTM (Fe, Cu, Pb, Cd, Ni and Zn) in selected herbal medicines sold in Lagos, Nigeria. Eight commonly consumed herbal medicines: E-5000, MT-CAPS, B-CAPS, DD-TEA, YC-BITTER, JHD-POWD, KA-POWD, and H-CAPS were analysed for PTM using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer after wet digestion of the medicines. The highest concentration (mg/kg) of Fe (257±0.1), Pb (33.8±0.01) and Zn (38.9±0.01) were found in KA-POWD. The result also showed that JHD-POWD had the highest concentration amount of Ni (54.0±0.01 mg/kg), while B-CAPS had the highest concentration of Cu (4.14 ±0.02 mg/Kg). All the herbal medicines analysed are high in Fe content with range between 6.2 to 257 mg/kg. The pH values ranged between slightly acidic of 5.6 - 5.7 to slightly alkaline of 8.0 -8.65. Twenty five percent of herbal medicines analysed had concentrations of Pb above the the WHO limits of 10 mg/kg, while all the samples had Cd above the permissible limits of 0.3 mg/kg. KA-POWD had the highest concentrations of Pb, Zn, Fe, and Cd determined. All other PTMs in the other samples analysed are below the recommended permissible limits. Keyword: Capsules; Herbal medicine; Lagos; Potentially toxic metals content; Powdered.

Effect of Magnetic Water on Physical Properties of Different Kind of Water, and Studying Its Ability to Dissolving Kidney Stone

Abstract: In this work for measuring pH, TDS, and conductivity of water there are two regions, first at time less than 15min increases rapidly with increase magnetic field intensity, the second region at time more than 15min approximate saturation result. Same result was achieved on CaC 2 O 4 solutions at the same conditions, which indicate that the best result we can gate at minimum exposure time, the best result of TDS can get at time less than 2min Keywords: magnetic water, total dissolved salts

Life Cycle and Abundance of Rice Leaf Folder, Cnaphalocrocis medinalis (Guenee) - A Review

Abstract: The Rice leaf folder, (RLF) Cnaphalocrocis medinalis (Guenee) is widely distributed in rice growing areas in all over the world. The leaf folder has been considered a miner pest of rice growing areas but after the existence, high yielding and Basmati rice varieties increasing the importance of these pests. Feeding rates of the first three larval instars rice leaf folder on rice plants were significantly lower than those of the fourth and fifth instars. The first three instars consumed less than 10% of the larva's total consumption. Feeding also decreased with increasing plant age. To understand about life cycle and management’s tactics is help to reduce the yield losses. In present review articles discusses about life cycle and abundance of rice leaf folder. Key word Cnaphalocrocis medinalis , life cycle, abundance

Potentially Toxic Trace Element Contamination of the Little Akaki River of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Abstract: In this study, river water samples taken from 26 different locations along the course of the Little Akaka River in Addis Ababa were analyzed to determine potentially toxic trace element concentrations. The mean concentrations in ?g L -1 for Mn 1540.04, Fe 1075.92, B 383.04, Sr 336.75, Ba 132.17, Cr 67.04, Sb 42.80, Zn 25.50, Ni 6.66, Cu 5.61, V 4.87, Pb 3.13, Co 2.62, As 1.46, Cd 0.06 and Hg Fe > B > Sr > Ba > Cr > Sb > Zn > Ni > Cu > V > Pb > Co > As > Cd > Hg. A strong positive correlation was observed between several of the trace elements indicating common sources. The concentrations of Cr, Mn, Sb, B and Pb exceeded the permissible limits of the Ethiopian, European Community and WHO for drinking water quality guidelines. Fe and Sr exceeded the permissible limits of the Ethiopian drinking water guideline and Sr exceeded the WHO thresholds. The concentration of Cr, Zn, Cu and Pb exceeded the annual average thresholds for surface waters set in SI 272 of 2009. The concentration of Cr, Mn and Sr were also higher than the international guidelines value for irrigation water. The pollution of the river water is increasing alarmingly and poses serious threat to human health. Many of the concentrations were higher than previously reported. It is, thus, necessary to take serious and essential measures from the concerned bodies. Adoption of adequate measures to remove the heavy metal load from the industrial waste water and upgrading of sewage treatment plants are suggested to avoid further deterioration of the river water quality. Keywords: River water, Potential toxic elements, Heavy metal contamination, Drinking water standards

Post Harvest Losses: A Dilemma in Ensuring Food Security in Nigeria

Abstract: Nigeria is a country rich in a great supply of agricultural products but post-harvest losses is a great concern. Majority of our farm produce are lost to pest, rodents, and deterioration, due to lack of proper post- harvest process and storage. The major problems are improper handling, lack of proper storage and packaging, This paper reviews this problems, the approach that can be used in reducing this problem, the role of government and individuals in combating this problem was also discussed. Keywords : Postharvest loss, Improper handling, Process, Storage

Comparison of Beta, Gamma Weibull Distributions for Characterising Tree Diameter in Oluwa Forest Reserve, Ondo State, Nigeria

Abstract: This study compared the accuracy of the Beta, 2-parameter Gamma (2P) and 3-parameter Weibull (3P) distributions, fitted with the method of moments, for characterising the tree diameter of the reserve. Comparison was based on the Kolmogorov-Smirnov statistic (K-S), bias, mean absolute error (MAE), and mean square error (MSE). Distributions with location parameter were fixed as the minimum inventoried diameter of each plot. A total of eight (8) temporary sample plots (TSPs) of size 50m x 50m were laid in the natural stand of the reserve. Systematic line transect was used in the laying of the plots. All trees with DBH ? 10.0cm in the selected plots were enumerated, identified and measured. The results from the goodness-of-fit statistics revealed that the Weibull (3P) distribution performed slightly better than the Beta distribution used in this study. The mean values for the K-S, bias, MAE, and MSE of the Weibull distribution were 0.11449, 0.00015, 0.00847, and 0.00022, respectively; as such ranked best. The Gamma (2P) distribution provided the worst fit to the dataset, with relatively large values for the goodness-of-fit statistics. It fits for the entire plot were far from the reverse J-shaped of natural forests, which implies that the Gamma (2P) distribution is inappropriate for determining the structure of the natural stand. Keywords: diameter characterisation, probability distribution, moments, natural forest

Relationship of Cassava Growth Parameters with Yield, Yield Related Components and Harvest Time in Ibadan, Southwestern Nigeria

Abstract: The relationship of major growth parameters with yield at various times of harvesting of cassava was investigated during 2007 and 2010 in a tropical Alfisol in Ibadan, Nigeria. Cassava (TMS 30572 and TMS 92/0326) was planted at 1m x 1m (10,000 plants per hectare) and fertilizer (NPK 15-15-15 and organomineral fertilizers) applied at planting using a split-plot arrangement in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replicates. Parameters assessed include plant height, number of leaves, leaf area index (LAI) up to 6 Months After Planting (MAP), fresh and dry root yield, shoot yield, number of roots and harvest index at harvest at 9, 12, 15 and 18 MAP. The LAI at 2-6 MAP in 2007 and 4-6 in 2008 contributed significantly to the root yield while plant height at 1 MAP exhibited a negative relationship with fresh root yield of cassava within the same period (r=0.47(n=37)p= ≤ 0.05). Root dry yield was positively correlated with fresh root yield (r=0.46(n=37) p= ≤ 0.05, in 2009) Plant growth parameters at 4-6 MAP all contributed to increased fresh root yield at 12 MAP harvest. Growth parameters at various stages had negative relationship with root yield at 18 MAP harvest. This delay made extra demand for assimilates partitioned in favour of the cassava shoot growth. Cassava should be harvested between 12-15 MAP; delaying harvest beyond this age did not result in significant addition to the root yield, instead, promoted bacterial rot especially in TMS 92/0326 cassava variety. Keywords: Growth parameters, Yield, Correlation coefficient, Months after planting

Food Security in the Middle East

Abstract: The Middle East region has been faced with various challenges that are associated with food security. These are perpetuated by water scarcity, an increase in the population numbers in the region, climate change and unemployment. Notably, these factors are intricate and self augmenting and thus, the problem is very complex. Most recently, the theory of virtual water has been proposed as the best approach of addressing this scenario. However, this study found out that various social, cultural, economic and political factors undermine its implication. The present trends indicate that the region is highly dependent on food imports and that the trend is set to increase in future. Besides highlighting the various challenges that the region faces in a bit to attain food security, this study presents viable approaches like the population control and the increased education levels and awareness creation that can be used to address the challenges in a sustainable manner. Keywords : Middle East, food security, virtual water, trends.

An Inventory of Medicinal Plants used to Treat Gynaecological-Obstetric-Urino-Genital Disorders in South Nandi Sub County in Kenya

Abstract: This survey aims at identifying plants that may contribute to the identification and development of new drugs.An ethnomedicinal survey was conducted among the communities in Aldai Division, South Nandi Sub County, Kenya. A total of 56 plants were documented with 30 families are included. The majority of species belong to the families namely Euphorbiaceae, Lamiaceae, Apocynaceae and Fabaceae. Over half of all plants recorded are used treat infections, while ¼ for used labour-child birth and copulation disorders. Keywords: Ethnomedicine, gynaecological-obstetric-urinary, medicinal plants, Nandi.

Forest Carbon Stock in Woody Plants of Ades Forest, Western Hararghe Zone of Ethiopia and its Variation along Environmental Factors: Implication for Climate Change Mitigation

Abstract: Forests play an important role in the global carbon cycle. They are not only having a significant impact on climate change, but also influence it. Through their destruction, forests can be serious sources of greenhouse gases and through their sustainable management they can be important sinks of the same gases. The study was accompanied to estimate the carbon stock and its variation along environmental gradient. The general objective of this study is to determine the carbon sequestration potential of Ades forest and indicating its contribution to climate change mitigation. Sample plots were laid along line transects based on altitudinal variation of the study area. A randomly sampling plot (10 m x 20 m) in each site was established. The procedures were based on data collection and analysis of carbon accumulating in different carbon pools. The forest was arranged in classes based on different criteria in order to use appropriate methods for estimation of forest biomass. The mean total carbon stock density of Ades forest was found to be 585.40ton/ha which is ranged about 97.54to5919.52 ton/ha, of which 259.17 ton/ha, 52.20 ton/ha, 2.34 ton /ha and 271.69 ton/ ha comprised by above the ground biomass, below the ground biomass, litter carbon and soil organic carbon respectively. Altitude, aspect and slop gradients are such a factors that affect the carbon stock potential in above ground biomass, below ground biomass, litter biomass and soil organic carbon. The middle altitudinal zone of the study site had better carbon stock potential than the rest classes due to the presence of high DBH class of individuals’ and suitable environmental condition whereas the carbon stock of AGC, BGC.LC and SOC showed an increasing trend with increasing slop. The total carbon stock value have direct relationship with altitude and slope, it increases with increasing slope and altitude. The amount of total carbon stock was higher on the southern aspect as compared to other aspects. The current study shows that carbon stock value of Ades forest was highly affected by environmental factors such as altitude, slope and aspects, but aspect was the only factor that showed significance difference in carbon stocks of the forest and this condition concluded that the forest should be conserved and managed for further carbon reservoirs. Keywords: Ades forest, biomass, carbon stock, environmental factors, global climate change

Nutritional Quality and Phytochemical Studies of Solanum anguivi (Lam.) Fruits

Abstract: Solanum anguivi (Lam.) is a wild or semi-domesticated vegetable locally consumed in Nigeria. The fruits of this plant were collected and subjected to nutritional and phytochemical investigation. The phytochemical constituents were investigated qualitatively and quantitatively and the results revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, phenols, steroids and triterpenoids. The presence of these bioactive secondary metabolites supports its medicinal values. Results obtained for the proximate analysis showed that the percentage composition values of moisture content were 4.58 14?"> 0.11, ash 8.89 14?"> 0.02, crude fat 5.68 14?"> 0.05, crude protein 36.35 14?"> 1.63, crude fiber 15.50 14?"> 0.71 and carbohydrate 28.98 14?"> 0.78. The high crude fiber, crude protein and carbohydrate content in the eggplant fruits together with substantial amount of mineral like Calcium, Sodium, Potassium, Phosphorus and Magnesium support its nutritional importance to man. Absence of mineral elements such as Nickel, Cadmium and Lead makes the fruits save for human consumption. Keyword s : phytochemical constituent, proximate analysis, eggplant, Solanum anguivi , Ekiti State.

Water Demand Analysis and Irrigation Requirement for Major Crops at Holetta Catchment, Awash Subbasin, Ethiopia

Abstract: The water demand and irrigation requirement of Holetta Catchment is not fully studied. In addition to this, due to scarcity of the available surface water and increase in water demand for irrigation, the major users of the river are facing a challenge to allocate the available water. Therefore, the aim of this research was to investigate the water demand of the major users of Holetta River and to study the irrigation requirement for major crops at Holetta catchment using questionnaire survey, statistical methods, and CropWat model. Structured questionnaire was used to identify information such as the number of Holetta River users, major crops grown by irrigation and the total area coverage. The major users are Holetta Agricultural Research Center (HARC), Tesdey Farm and Village Farmers. CropWat model was used to calculate the irrigation water requirement for major crops. Based on the result of CropWat model and survey analysis, the total irrigation requirement of all three users of Holetta River was 0.305, 0.575, 0.995, 0.865, and 0.332 MCM for January, February, March, April, and May respectively. The analysis also indicated the total water demand of all three major users of Holetta River during the irrigation season from January to May. The total water demand was 0.313, 0.583, 1.004, 0.873 and 0.341 million cubic meters (MCM) for January, February, March, April, and May respectively. The available river flow from January to May was 0.749, 0.419, 0.829, 0.623 and 0.471 MCM respectively. From the five months, the demand and the supply showed a gap during February, March and April. The total shortage of supply during these months was 0.59MCM. During these months, there was also conflict between users at diversion and water allocation. Therefore, in order to solve water shortage, alternative source of water supply like ground water and water harvesting technologies should be studied and integrated water management system should be implemented. In addition to this, to improve the efficiency of irrigation water, different irrigation methods like drip irrigation should be improved in the area.

Grain Yield Based Cluster Analysis and Correlation of Agronomic Traits of Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) Genotypes in Ethiopia

Abstract: The experiment was conducted in the western Tigray region of Northern Ethiopia in three locations and three growing seasons (a total of seven environments) The objective of the study was to assess the interrelation ship of the genotypes in their grain yield and other agronomic traits The experiment was laid out in RCBD with a total and harvestable plot size of 14m 2 and 10 m 2 respectively In the experiment a total of thirteen sesame genotypes were used and evaluated for the interrelation ship of their grain yield and other agronomic traits Based on their grain yield the thirteen genotypes were grouped in to four clusters and the maximum genetic divergence (D 2 = 21557) was observed between cluster-II and cluster-III Grain yield had a significant and positive correlation (P<001) with oil content (r = 079), number of branches (r = 07) and number of capsules (r =068) In contrast to this, yield was negatively correlated with days to maturity (r = -058 ) and days to flowering (r = -011) Exhaustive assessment of the association of grain yield and other agronomic traits is indispensably important for further breeding program and enhancing grain yield of sesame Key w ords: Cluster, Correlation, Genotype, Grain yield

Effect of Educational Program about Breast Cancer Knowledge and Breast Self-Examination Training on Building Accurate Information and Behavior among Women

Abstract: Breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer mortality in women world wide. It is the second to cervical cancer as a cause of death from cancer among women. The common age group affected is women above 30 years old. Aim: This study was conducted to assess the level of breast cancer knowledge and breast self-examination practice among women and also to examine the effect of educational program regarding breast cancer knowledge and breast Self-examination training on increasing awareness and changing behavior of women. Design and Setting: The study uses a quasi experimental design to collect data from the Faculty of Education for Science Departments in Dammam University at Hafer Al Batin Governate, Kingdome of Saudi Arabia. Sample: a convenience sample of 36 women who are working as a faculty and administrators in the Faculty of Education for Science Departments in Dammam University. Tools: Data collection tool consisted of 2 parts, socio-demographic part and assessment of knowledge and practice toward breast cancer and breast self-examination practice. Results: The program contributed to a significant improvement of the level of women’s knowledge regarding breast cancer and their practice of breast self-examination. Conclusion and Recommendation : Based on the findings of the study, women need to continue updating their knowledge of breast cancer and keep their practice for breast self-examination in order to improve their health and have a better health outcomes Keywords: breast cancer, breast self-examination, educational program.

Effect of Various Levels of Nitrogen, Phosphorus and Potash on the Yield of French Bean

Abstract: The experiment was conducted at the farm of Agricultural Research Station, Baffa (Mansehra) during August 2014 to monitor the effect of various levels of fertilizer treatments on plant height, number of branches plant -1 , pod length, pod weight and pod yield of French bean variety (paulista). The experimental results revealed that that all the fertilizer treatments increased the plant height, number of branches plant -1 , pod length, pod weight and pod yield of French bean significantly over control treatment. Maximum plant height (39.03 cm), number of branches plant -1 (18.25), pod length (14.10 cm), pod weight (5.37 gm) and pod yield (8.26 t ha -1 ) were recorded in the treatment receiving 120 kg N, 90 kg P 2 O 5 and 90 kg K 2 O ha -1 . The economics of fertilizers were also worked out on the basis of current market prices and it was found that use of fertilizer was profitable. The cost benefit ratio ranged between 4.90. to 6.05.

Precipitation and Rainfall Types with Their Characteristic Features

Abstract: Precipitation is the general name given to all forms of moisture that falls from the atmosphere on to the ground.It includes rainfalls, snow, sleet, glaze and hail. Rainfall is the amount of rain that falls in a location over aperiod of time and therefore a type of precipitation that occurs when water vapor in the atmosphere condensesinto droplets that can no longer be suspended in the air. This paper is written just to put readers on their toes inresponse to the formation of the three types of rainfall coupled with its relevance cum the abysmal performancesat times and their characteristic features in disparity. Suggestive measures are not left out of the witness box atthe latter part of it all.Keywords: precipitation, rainfall, characteristics, condensation, features.

Assessment of the Impacts and People'S Perception of Bush Burning on the Grasslands and Montane Ecosystems of the Obanliku Hills/Plateau, Cross River State, Nigeria

Abstract: The main purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of bush burning on the grassland and montane ecosystems of Obanliku Local Government Area of Cross River state. Three hypotheses were formulated for the study. The sample of the study consisted of 200 respondents, the sample distribution in terms of gender, location and occupation was equitable. A 21- item structured and validated questionnaire was used to gather information from the respondents. The hypotheses were tested using the Pearson Product Moment Correlation Coefficient analysis. Based on the results obtained the following findings were made: significant relationship exists between bush burning and between people level of perception and their attitude toward bush burning on grassland and montane ecosystems conclusions were drawn and recommendations such as employing the service of environmentalists to serve as extension agents in communities, provision of articles in journal and textbooks in community and / or public libraries treating bush burning it’s impacts and the various mitigation measures to curb the problem were made. Keywords : bush burning, grasslands, montane ecosystems.

A comparison of some test statistics for multivariate analysis of variance model with non-normal responses.

Abstract: The Multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) is often used to model responses from more than one response variable on a single factor or a set of factors of interest. The existing statistical methods for MANOVA modelling generally assume that the set of responses, and by extension the model error term have a Gaussian distribution. However, in many real life situations, the vector of responses are not normally distributed, thereby rendering some of the existing methods inefficient, especially under small sample size situations. This study therefore, investigates, through Monte-Carlo studies, the behaviours of three of the existing techniques for performing MANOVA tests when normality assumption on the error term is violated. Two truncated test statistics for MANOVA testing on data with non-normal responses were developed from the existing test methods. The Monte-Carlo results showed that the original Roy’s test method and the two proposed truncated test statistics are relatively more efficient for MANOVA testing on data with inherent non-Gaussian responses under small sample sizes situations. Keywords: MANOVA Tests, Non-normal error term, Wilks, Pillai, Roy’s statistics, Power