Technoscience Journal for Community Development in Africa
Technoscience Journal for Community Development in Africa is a peer-reviewed, biannual journal jointly published by the Faculties of Agriculture, Engineering and Technology, Pure and Applied Sciences, and Information and Communication Technology at Kwara State University. The journal publishes original and scientific problem-oriented collaborative research in Science and Engineering aimed towards community development in any part of Africa. ISSN 2659-0573
Copyright (c) 2024 Technoscience Journal for Community Development in Africa
Detection of Methicilin resistant Staphylococcus aureus in open displayed Ready-to-eat fish in some markets in Ilorin
Consumption of the open displayed ready-to-eat (RTE) fish is associated with health risks. This study investigated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) contamination of open displayed RTE fish samples in Oja Tuntun and Mandate markets in Ilorin Kwara State, Nigeria. Dried, smoked and fried fish samples obtained from the markets were subjected to bacteriological analysis to isolate and identify methicillinresistant Staphylococcus aureus using standard methods. Samples obtained from Oja Tuntun market had a higher count than those obtained from Mandate market. The mean MRSA count ranged from 18.00 ± 1.00 × 108 cfu/mg to 206.33 ± 1.53 × 108 cfu/mg. Dried fish samples obtained from Oja Tuntun had the highest mean count of MRSA. While the lowest mean count was found in fried fish sample from Mandate market. In summary, the RTE fish samples examined were contaminated with MRSA, and this portends tendency of RTE foodborne spread of MRSA
Sentinel prevalence study of zoonotic parasites of domestic dogs in Moro Local Government Area, Kwara State
Dogs are pets and they play a significant role as hosts and reservoirs of different pathogens shared with humans and wildlife. Close association between humans and dogs carries the risk of human exposure to parasites. In this study, we examine the prevalence and management of zoonotic parasitic infections in domestic dogs in Moro Local Government Area (LGA) of Kwara State, North-Central, Nigeria. One hundred and seventy-four (174) dog faecal samples collected from selected communities in the LGA were examined for the presence of gastrointestinal parasites. Formol ether concentration technique was used for the identification of the parasites. In the dog faecal samples examined, 53.7% (93/173) were infected, out of which 45.7% (48/105) and 65.2% (45/69) were from males and females, respectively. The parasites occurrence varies with sex, age, and breed, but the highest infection occurred in dogs aged ≥ 12 months old. The parasites found in the faecal samples and their order of occurrence include: Dipylidium caninum > Strongyloides stercoralis > Ancylostoma spp. > Ascaris lumbricoides > Toxocara canis > Taenia spp. > Balantidium coli. Tick (31) was the only ectoparasite found on the dogs. These dogs pose a threat to the health of both people and animals by contaminating the environment with endoparasites and ectoparasites. To reduce the potential health risks to the human and animal populations, methods for controlling the dog's faecal samples in the environment should be developed by public health workers.
Assessment of intestinal parasites of fruits and vegetables sold in selected markets in Ilorin, Nigeria
Fresh fruits and vegetables form an integral part of a healthy and nutritious diet. They are also potential conduits of transmission of gastrointestinal pathogens to hosts. This study aims to evaluate the level of parasitic contamination of selected fruits and vegetables across peri-urban markets in Ilorin metropolis. Fruits and vegetable samples were washed in normal saline solutions. Parasites in the wash solutions were concentrated by sedimentation method. Parasite detection was carried out using a binocular microscope and identification by comparison with the key from atlas of parasitology. The relationship between variables at 5% level of significance was determined by Pearson's chi-square analysis. Two hundred and thirteen (213) fruit and vegetable samples were assessed for parasitic contamination. Thirteen (13) parasites (5 protozoans and 8 helminths), namely: Giardia lamblia, Entamoeba histolytica, Entamoeba coli, Balantidium coli, Isospora coli, Schistosoma spp., Ascaris lumbricoides, Taenia spp., Trichuris trichura, Strongyloides stercoralis, Fasciola spp., Toxocara spp., and Ancylostoma duodenale, were detected and evaluated. Cabbage and lettuce were the most contaminated at 38.5% prevalence each. This is followed by Fluted pumpkin, Tomatoes, Carrot, Cucumber, Spinach and green pepper with 32.4%, 26.9%, 23.0%, 22.2%, 18.8%, and 7.5%, prevalence. The obtained order of prevalence of intestinal parasites was: G. lamblia > S. stercoralis/Taenia spp. > E. histolytica > A. lumbricoides/A. duodenale > B. coli/E. coli.
Development of a secured ignition and notification for an anti-theft vehicle detection system using one-time password
Criminals have devised various ways to steal vehicles by exploiting the loopholes associated with the vehicle anti-theft detection systems, and this has become a threat to vehicle owners. This paper aims to put forward an embedded system-based secured ignition and notification of an anti-theft vehicle detection system. The applied research was carried out to develop an embedded anti-theft vehicle detection system using an ESP32 microcontroller as a control unit. The control unit was programmed to control the peripheral devices interfacing, in line with the designed security functionalities of the system. The ignition vehicle system is secured to prevent unauthorized users using One-Time Password (OTP), and coded ignition key. The system is tested, and the response reveals the identity of the intruder through the SMS, and alarm system about the suspected unauthorized user. It is expected that this technology will assist in preventing the theft of a vehicle in the society.
An enhanced Honey Encryption to protect transmitted data using Residue Number System
This study proposed an Enhanced Honey Encryption to protect Transmitted Data using Residue Number System. This is to allow Honey Encryption (HE) carter for the security of numeric and text data transmitted through an unsecure network. Data is transmitted either offline or online, and as technology advances, online transmission of data gets more attention, and as a result, unauthorized people try to intrude on the privacy of the data being transmitted. Different encryption algorithms have been used to protect the privacy of this data. However, most of the existing methods are vulnerable to brute force attack because the cipher text remains unintelligible and unmeaningful. This confirms invalid key, until the original data is found. Honey Encryption (HE) helps to eliminate vulnerability and withstand brute force attack. However, its problem is that, it works only on numeric data. Hybridization of 'HE' with other algorithms like the Advanced Encryption Standard (AES), Blowfish, etc. were carried out by some researchers, to protect text data but these lead to computational problem and slow processing time. The proposed system hybridized HE with Residue Number System (RNS) improves the capability of HE in protecting text data with less processing time. Distribution Transformation Encoder (DTE) was used to encode each action word by mapping it to its perfect dictionary word and antonyms, and standard conversion table was use to convert each character ASCII code. Traditional Moduli Set (2n-1, 2n, 2n+1) was used to generate the key which produces the ciphertext while Chinese Remainder Theorem (CRT) together with DTE were used for decrypting the ciphertext. When an incorrect key is used to access the data, HE generates an indistinguishable fake but meaningful data, this helps deter attacker from trying further. The proposed system allows HE to protect text data with less processing time compared to other systems. N-values, message size, processing time and security were used to test and evaluate its efficiency. Comparing the obtained results with the existing ones, the proposed system processing time is lesser and more secured because the ciphertext produced is deceiving, and to decrypt it, it requires a lot of efforts like finding the sequence of algorithms used, getting the moduli set used, determining the value of n for the moduli set, knowing the character table and also determining the Distribution Transformation Encoder design.
Investigation of Nigerian kaolinite clays as additives in fire retardant formulations
In this work, kaolin clay from two deposits were characterized for material properties using X-ray diffraction analysis, X-ray florescence analysis, thermogravimetric analysis, scanning electron microscopy and fourier transform infra-red spectroscopy, in order to determine their suitability as additives in intumescing paints. Results indicated that compared to Kankara clay, Darazo clay has more crystalline kaolinite. Based on this, Darazo clay appeared more thermally stable, releasing less water of dehydroxylation. Kankara clay appeared less thermally stable producing consistent endothermic reaction that continuously drew heat away from the wood surface, creating a thermal plateau. The clays appeared to have no effect on the intumescent action. However, their high residual masses of over 90% reduced the total amount of fuel available at the flame front, thereby reducing flammability. At the end of the 10 minutes fire test, and using 11 wt% addition of both Kankara and Darazo clays, the reduction in backside temperature for Kankara is 13.6% while that of Darazo is 7.7%. The hybrid formulation gave the highest cooling effect at 20.56% temperature reduction compared to the control. All the coated boards recorded lower percent mass loss compared to the uncoated wood. Therefore, Nigerian kaolins have potential to serve as additives in fire retardant paints.
Influence of thermal ageing on the microstructural and mechanical characteristics of banana stem particles reinforced aluminium-alloy matrix composites
The influence of thermal ageing on the microstructural and mechanical characteristics of banana stem particles (BSp) reinforced aluminium-alloy matrix composites was investigated. Sand casting was used to produce the composites, comprising aluminium alloy matrix reinforced with BSp of varying weight ratio of 0 wt. %, 1 wt. %, 3 wt. %, 4 wt. %, 5 wt. % and 6 wt. % were thoroughly mixed. Test samples for mechanical characterisation were prepared from the sand cast (6 mm diameter by 125 mm rods for tensile test). Thermal ageing was done for 2 hours (hrs) at 350 0C. The composites were evaluated for tensile, modulus of elasticity, hardness, and microstructural characteristics. The thermally aged samples demonstrated greater tensile strength and toughness as the concentration of BSp increased up to 5 wt. % in the composite in comparison with the as-cast samples. The greatest characteristics were demonstrated at 5 wt. % BSp concentration. Lower hardness was demonstrated by the as-cast samples in comparison with the aged-hardened samples. There was 5 wt. % BSp concentration in the alloy enhanced thermal ageing. These indicate that greater mechanical characteristics of the composites can be obtained by thermal ageing.
Performance analysis of cellular mobile networks for QOS optimization
Records and performance analysis of cellular mobile networks usage can provide valuable information for understanding the network performance for Quality of Service (QoS) optimization by the mobile network providers. The network providers are interested in knowing their performance and that of their competitors based on location, phone category and operating system for various cellular networks technology. This can enhance an intelligent guide to invest in locations where they operate with poor performance. Thus, Key Performance Indicators (KPI) are usually of interest to all service providers. In this paper, the researchers investigate and analyze the 3rd generation (3G) and 4th generation (4G) mobile network performance in Malete, Kwara State using questionnaire and Testing Equipment for Mobile System (TEMS) software with map info professional for eventful and non-eventful days. Focusing on three different locations of TEMS, crowd-sourced dataset allows us to evaluate the network performance and determine the Call Setup Success Rate (CSSR), Call Completion Rate (CCR), Call Drop Rate (CDR), Call Handover Success Rate (CHSR), among others, of the locations investigated.
Evaluation of main factors that affect frying efficiency during gari production using a mechanical stirrer technique
Frying is a unit process operation during gari production and is mostly performed by using mechanical-assisted stirrer technique (MAST). The factors' affecting the frying effciency of MAST is not clear. The current study focuses on the evaluation of main factors affecting frying effciency during gari production using MAST. The MAST consists of a pan of dimension support 560 by 120 mm, rotating shaft, bevel gear, pulley, belt, heating chamber, stirrer, bearing sand, and electric motor. The main factors considered were stirring speeds (30, 45, 60 rpm), and heating time (10, 15, 20 minutes), following traditional method, and used as control. The performance evaluation investigated on the machine includes effciency, loss and sensory properties of gari, using standard methods. The results showed that the MAST produces good sensory qualities of gari, promotes higher effciency (94.50%) and lower loss (4.13%) at stirring rate and heating time of 45 rpm and 20 minutes respectively. Whereas, the samples stirred using traditional method have effciency and loss of 85.23% and 8.69%, respectively. It is hoped that the information on the factors affecting the frying effciency during gari production using MAST is useful for the food industry.
Effect of guinea corn husk ash as partial cement replacement in cement-admixed clay
Soil stabilization involves the incorporation of cement into the soil component of a road pavement to increase its strength. However, the production of cement emits carbon dioxide into the atmosphere leading to greenhouse effect, a major health hazard. A way out is the replacement of some portion of cement with agro-based pozzolanic materials. This study was carried out to find the consequence of using Guinea Corn Husk Ash (GCHA) as a cement replacement in cement admixed clay. The design mix was done with replacement of cement from 10 % - 30 % by weight and GCHA was varied from 5% - 35 % by weight of the cement replacement. X-ray Fluorescence (XRF) was used in obtaining the oxide components of GCHA while a Universal Testing Machine (UTM) was used in determining the Unconfined Compressive Strength (UCS) of the clay. The XRF results reveal that the sum of the oxides of silicon, Aluminium and Iron in the GCHA is 76.92 %. This is greater than the specification by ASTM C-618. The UCS test results indicate that 5 % by weight of GCHA, 20 % by weight of cement incorporation with 200 % by volume of water content had the optimal strength of 7.56 MPa for GCHA incorporation in the admixed clay samples. This strength is higher than the limits specified in IRC: SP 72-2015 for sub-base and base courses for pavement construction. Therefore, GCHA can be incorporated into admixed clay for road construction.
Thermal effect on TiO2-doped ZnO thin film and its evaluation as a transparent electrode material
There is a search for cleaner and sustainable lower cost transparent conductive oxide as an alternative to high cost and toxic indium tin oxide. This work examines post- deposition heat treatment properties of Titanium dioxide doped Zinc oxide as transparent conducting oxide. Titanium dioxide doped Zinc oxide solution was deposited via spin -coating deposition technique and annealed to investigate annealing temperature effect on the properties. Characterization was done with UV -Vis spectroscopy, Scanning Electron Microscopy, and X-ray diffraction. Xray diffraction revealed that the films grow preferentially oriented in the (014) crystallographic direction of the Zinc Oxide grains. Optical transmittance of thin film annealed at 400 ⁰C was approximately 80% in the visible solar spectrum which suggests a highly suitable material for transparent conducting oxide applications. Optical band gap energies varies between 3.74 and 3.78 eV and a low electrical resistivity values 2.04 x 10 - 3 ῼ-cm to 3.12 x 10 - 3 ῼ-cm. Scanning Electron Microscopy images show that the roughness and grain size of thin film increases with increase in temperature.
Identification and characterization of the percentage chemical compositions present in oil extracts from two pumpkin cultivars using GCMSD
Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrometry Detector (GCMSD) is a method used for the identification and characterization of the chemical constituents/ composition of the oil seeds so as to know the benefit of the oil seeds usage in the area of human consumption and production of soaps, lubricant and paint. This study focused on the identification and characterization of the chemical compositions (using Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrometer Detector) present in oil extracts from two pumpkin cultivars- Ugba (Telfairiapedata) and Ugwu (Telfairia occidentalis) using two methods, soaking and soxhlet apparatus. The solvent used for the soxhlet extraction was petroleum ether. The identification and characterization of fatty acid methyl ester (FAME) profile was determined by using GCMS. The transesterification process was done using 10g of methanol with 1g of KOH with the two cultivars. The results revealed higher percentage of Methylpalmitate (Palmitic Acid) and 9, 12-octadecadienoic acid (Z,Z) (Linoleic Acid) and Methyl Ester (Stearic Acid) are present in all samples. These compounds are useful in ceramic, cosmetics, paint and health sector.
Fish feed is one of the critical factors limiting the active participation of farmers due to the high cost that scares the poor farmers away from farming. The fabricated fish feed pelletizing machine was done to assist the farmers in producing fish feeds at a cheaper rate, improving the performance of the existing technology, and determining its implementation for future applications. Design calculations were carried out to determine the machine specification and parameters for its development, and the performance of the machine was evaluated. Data generated from the theoretical analysis were used to fabricate the machine using locally available and durable materials to encourage the local technology as most of those available are imported. The pelletizing machine was tested, using 2.5kg fish feed and the results obtained show that the pelleting efficiency and capacity are 90% and 30kg/h respectively. The cost of the machine is relatively cheap when compared with available pelletizers. Therefore the machine is suitable for small and medium-scale fish and poultry farming and can be used for pelletizing different materials provided the ingredient meets the required moisture content.
Congestion and service quality improvement of mobile telephone networks in Nigeria: A review
Telecommunications and the ability to connect and interact has become a fundamental part of how the society operates. It is now the foundation for families, communities, businesses, and governments to connect and seamlessly share information in today's digital ecosystem. Mobile telephone network enables wireless communication using devices which include mobile phones, smart tablets. The mobile telephone networks provide the necessary infrastructure which are operated by service providers. The networks are usually not without congestion which is caused by a number of factors, including traffic build-up during peak periods and at hot spots, insufficient network dimensioning, especially in the switching system, and network operators' advertising offers. The consequence of network congestion is that an increase in offered load leads to either a small increase in network throughput or even a decrease in the throughput. In this work, congestion of mobile telephone networks has thus been reviewed. Improvement of Quality of Service (QoS) has also been examined. The congestion as a results of irregularity of public power supply, terminal breakdown, etc. are given sufficient considerations, while inadequate dimensioning of the network, particularly the switching and base station system and transmission impairment are not being adequately considered.
Impact of biochar amended with compost and arbuscular mycorrhizal inoculation on soil chemical properties, root colonization, and yield of cowpea (Vigna unguiculata)
The use of biochar, compost, and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) provides many opportunities for soil improvement. Hence, it is important to understand their impacts on soil and plant development to optimally exploit their potentials. A screenhouse experiment was conducted to investigate the effect of biochar amended with compost and arbuscular mycorrhizal on soil chemical properties, root colonization, growth, and yield of cowpea. The experiment was laid out in a completely randomized design with control, using different combinations of Gateway compost with two types of biochar; Gliricidia and Panicum maximum,in percentage and at different rates (2.5, 3.0, 3.5, and 4.0 t/ha), with 2, 4, 6 and 8g of mycorrhizal and mineral fertilizer (RD of SSP -60 kg P2O5) in combination with mycorrhizal, making 13 treatment combinations replicated 3 times. The results of the investigation revealed that the application of biochar, compost and AMF significantly (p < 0.05) increased the growth and yield parameters of the cowpea plant. The treatment [70% Gateway compost + 30 % Biochar (Panicum maximum) at 3.5 t/ha + 6g mycorrhizal] enhanced root colonization percentage. Biochar amended with compost application remarkably improved total N, soil organic carbon, soil pH, and available P than mineral fertilizer.
Compliance of commercial bakeries to regulatory safety standards in the Ilorin metropolis
Potassium bromate (KBrO3) becomes important in bread as a flour-enhancing agent which gives fine and uniformly sized pores. However, it has been confirmed by the International Standard Organization that potassium bromate is carcinogenic, hence, its ban for bread production globally. This study was conducted to determine the level of compliance with the banon KBrO3 and the possible heavy metal contamination in bread within the Ilorin metropolis. Thirty (30) different brands of bread were purchased randomly in the rural, periurban, and urban areas within the Ilorin metropolis and evaluated for KBrO3 and heavy metals copper (Cu) and lead (Pb) contents, using standard methods. The results revealed that the KBrO3 content ranged from 1.09 - 3.25 mg/kg in rural areas, 1.43 - 3.11 mg/kg in peri-urban areas, and 1.67 - 3.04 mg/kg in urban areas. The copper content is 0.13 - 0.85 mg/kg in the rural area, 0.25 - 0.75 mg/kg in the peri-urban area, and 0.03 - 0.79 mg/kg in the urban area. The lead content of the bread samples ranged between 0.23mg/kg and 0.43 mg/kg in the rural area, 0.29 mg/kg and 0.43 mg/kg in the peri-urban area, and 0.24 - 0.52 mg/kg in the urban area. The potassium bromated content of the bread samples was higher than the United States Food and Drug Agency (UN FDA) and the National Agency for Food and Drug, Administration and Control (NAFDAC) regulatory standard of 0.02 mg/kg, while that of the copper and lead were below the NAFDAC regulatory standard of 1 mg/kg and 1.5 mg/kg respectively. Therefore, the relevant regulatory agencies in Nigeria must establish strict standards for the manufacturing of bread and carry out routine inspections of bakeries to ensure that bakers are not violating the law and that the environment and even the materials they use are free of any contamination for the safety of the consumers.
Gender differences in perceived effects of climate change and adaptation strategies among arable crop farmers in Iwo Local Government Area of Osun State, Nigeria
The study examined differences in perceived effects of climate change (CC) and adaptation strategies (AS) adopted by male and female arable crop farmers in Iwo Local Government. The study utilized a 2-stage sampling procedure to select a total of 120 arable crop farmers (84 males and 36 females) Data were collected using validated interview schedule and analyzed using frequency counts, percentages, independent t-test and Pearson's Product-Moment Correlation. Results showed that 39.3 percent of males and 55.6 percent of female arable crop farmers were between 41 and 50 years of age. Nearly 42.0 percent of males and 31.0 percent females had secondary education. Nearly all male and all female respondents (98.8 percent for males; 100.0 percent for females) perceived decreasing trend of rainfall as the most important effect of CC and perceived rise in temperature as the second most important (male 97.6 percent; female 97.2 percent). The adaptation strategies adopted by the male and female arable crop farmers were mixed cropping and mulching. The main constraints faced by the male and female farmers included inadequate information on weather and credit facilities. There was no significant difference in the perceived effects of CC by male and female farmers (t=1.41, p>0.05) and change their adaptation strategies (t=0.38, p>0.05). Correlation between perceived effects of CC and adaptability was significant for males (r=2.25, p<0.05) but not among females (r=0.200, p>0.05). In conclusion, male and female farmers are more likely to perceive the effects of CC the same way and more likely to adopt the same AS. Both the male and female farmers should be supported and empowered to mitigate the effects of climate change on their agricultural production activities.
Partial replacement of cocoa nibs with sorghum malt in chocolate: An evaluation of the blends' chemical compositions and sensory profiles
Sorghum is widely grown in Nigeria, but scientific data is sparse about the replacement of cocoa nibs with sorghum malt in chocolate production. The nutritional colour, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) spectrum bands and sensory characteristics of plain chocolate and chocolate barsamples partially replaced with malted sorghum grits were evaluated. The level of replacement with malted sorghum in the chocolate-sorghum malt blends varied from 10-50%.The protein content of the samples reduced with increased replacement of cocoa nibs with malted sorghum, varied from 7.29% (10% inclusion) to 6.27% (50% inclusion) while the control sample had 8.05%. The crude fat, fibre, ash, moisture and carbohydrate content of the samples varied from 34.46-38.10, 2.51-1.17, 2.68-2.43, 5.76-1.41 and 47.2-48.84 respectively. The control sample had crude fat and carbohydrates values higher than the values obtained in the malted sorghum chocolate samples. The L* colour characteristics ranges from 29.23-36.27 (10-50% inclusion), and the control sample had 34.11. The colour characteristics of the malted sorghum chocolate revealed a reduction in the darkness of the samples with increased inclusion of the sorghum malt. The *a and*b colour characteristics varied significantly from 12.86 - 27.22. There was no profound difference between the atomic spectrum plain chocolate sample and malted sorghum chocolate samples. The sensory results showed that there are significant differences in the taste (6.4- 8.1) and overall acceptability (6.8 - 8.5) of the samples. The acceptance of the malted sorghum chocolate samples beyond 20% was almost in-achievable.
Effects of N-Ethyl-N-Nitrosourea on semen quality traits of Nigerian local chicken
To improve the Nigerian local chicken (NLC), N-Ethyl-N-Nitrosourea (ENU) can be used to introduce mutations into the genome to characterise the genetic architecture of complex traits and develop novel trait models and lineages. The extent ENU is tolerated as an effective mutagen in chickens and the knowledge of its biology of action is however required before its application. This is measured by the induction and duration of sterility in the absence of lethality in male mice. The objective of this study was to characterise the ENU effects on the onset and duration of induced sterility through direct studies of sperm (count and motility) from mutagenized cocks. In a randomized design experiment, 22 mutagenized and 20 non-mutagenized (control) NLC cocks were intraperitoneally injected with 300mg ENU/kg body weight fractionated as 3 doses of 100mg, and sham respectively and administered in 3 successive weeks. Semen volume (ml), sperm concentration (x106/ml) and sperm motility were evaluated prior to ENU and Sham injected weekly up to week 13. Data were subjected to Mann-Whitney Wilcoxon at ᾳ0.05. The ENU significantly (P < 0.05) reduced sperm concentration and motility but had no significant effect on semen volume at week 2. The duration of sterility could not be determined in this study as treated cocks did not show complete fertility recovery and ENU administered can be used for mutagenesis in chickens at the examined dose and regime.
Characterization and pedogenetic study of soils of Onigambari Forest Reserve in South-West Nigeria
The use of forest resources requires accurate knowledge of land and soil properties. This necessitates detailed soil description and classification. This study was conducted to characterize and classify pedogenesis of Onigambari Forest Reserves in south-west Nigeria. A standard flexible rigidgrid method of survey was used to establish the mapping units. Three profile pits were dug under each land use type (Teak and Gmelina plantations), making six pits in the location. The profile pits were sampled at the pedogenic horizons for physical and chemical properties analyses. Soils obtained were classified using standard methods. The soils were classified as order Alfisols. Based on the moisture regimes, the soil belongs to Udalfs and Aqualfs suborder. At the great group level, the soil fell into the Kandic horizon. Under teak plantation, pedons 1 and 2 were classified as Plinthic Kandiudalfs (Eutric Lixisols), pedon 3 as Arenic Kandiaqualfs (Gleyic Lixisols) while under Gmelina, pedon 4 was classified as Typic Hapludalfs (Ferric Lixisols), pedon 5 Typic Kandiudalfs (EutricLixisols) and pedon 6 TypicKanhapluaqualfs (Gleyic Lixisols). At the soil series levels, pedons 1, 2, 4 and 5 belonged to Gambari series, pedons 3 and 6 belonged to Apomu series. Pedogenic processes identified were leaching, plinthization and desilication processes.
Copyright (c) 2025 Technoscience Journal for Community Development in Africa
Mitigation effect of aflatoxin on serum biochemical indices of broiler chickens
Aflatoxin has been known to be toxic to both crops and livestock. Several methods to mitigate aflatoxin effect have been employed. Knowledge on use of organic methods in aflatoxin mitigation has not been adequately documented. Therefore, effect of aflatoxin bio-control method (Aflasafe) on serum biochemistry of broiler chickens (BC) was investigated. One-day old Marshal BC (n=1020) were allotted to four treatments: Aflasafe maize-based diet (AMBD), farm feed (FF), aflatoxin-contaminated diet with toxin binder (ACDTB) and aflatoxin-contaminated diet without toxin binder (ACDWTB). The experimental design was completely randomised with five replicates (n=255) per treatment for 8 weeks. Blood (5mL) was collected at 8th week and serum was separated and stored for further analysis. Total protein (TP) value of birds fed ACDTWB was significantly lower compared to those of AMBD and FF at the starter and finisher phases. The highest TP values were observed in birds fed AMBD at starter (3.04±0.25g/dl) and finisher (3.41±0.14g/dl) phases. Birds fed AMBD (T1) had highest albumin value (1.39±0.05g/dl).), while birds fed ACDWTB was least (1.26±0.00g/dl).Use of AMBD in poultry is recommended as it has no adverse effect on chickens.
Evaluation of the antioxidant potentials of fruit peels extract
This study evaluates the antioxidant potentials of sweet orange, shaddock and lemon peel extracts as an alternative source of synthetic antioxidants like butylatedhydroxyanisole (BHA), butylatedhydroxytoluene (BHT) and tertiary butyl hydroquinone (TBHQ) often used in food industries to enhance the oxidative stability of food products. The peels of ripe sweet orange, shaddock and lemon fruits were oven-dried and extracted using a standard method. The qualitative and quantitative phytochemical contents, radical scavenging activities and 1,1 – diphenyl 2- picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) abilities of sweet orange peel extract (SOPE), shaddock peel extract (SHPE), and lemon peel extract (LMPE) were also evaluated. Phenolic compounds, steroids, flavonoids, coumarins triterpenes and alkaloids were found in SOPE, SHPE and LMPE. While phlobatannin, anthocyanin and amino acid were observed to be absent in SOPE, SHPE and LMPE. SOPE contains more steroids (34.43 mg/100g), flavonoids (161.82 mg/100g), terpenoids (17.09 mg/100g), triterpenes (128.27μg/100g) and alkaloids (32.44 mg/100g) than SHPE and LMPE. SHPE contains more phenolics (26.76 mg/100g) than SOPE and LMPE while LMPE contains more tannins (1.74 mg/100g), coumarins (18.15 μg/100g) than SOPE and SHPE. The study showed that SOPE, SHPE and LMPEcontain useful natural antioxidants that can serve as alternative preservative agents and antioxidants to butylatedhydroxyanisole (BHA), a synthetic antioxidant.
Effects of combined application of inorganic fertilizer and poultry manure on growth and yield of sweet maize (Zea mays linn. var. saccharata) in Southern Guinea Savannah, Nigeria
A field trial was carried out in 2014 cropping season at the nursery unit of the Kwara State Agricultural Development Project, Ilorin, in the Southern Guinea Savanna agro ecological zone of Nigeria. The aim of the study was to investigate the growth and yield responses of sweet maize to combined application of organic poultry manure and inorganic fertilizer. The treatments were: NPK 120 kgN/ha, Poultry manure (Pm) alone at 10 t/ha, 7.5 t/ha Pm + 90 kgN/ha, 5.0 t/ha Pm + 60 kgN/ha and 2.5 t/ha Pm + 25 kgN/ha. The control was without soil amendment. The treatments were arranged in a randomized complete block design and replicated three times. Among the treated plots, 5.0 t/ha Pm + 60 kgN/ha and 2.5 t/ha Pm + 25 kgN/ha were significantly lower in the grain weight and grain yield. The highest number of grains per cob (553.40) and thickest cob (14.18cm) were obtained at the treated plot where, 7.5t/ha Pm was combined with 90kgN/ha. There was no significant different in the grain yield between application of NPK at 120 kgN/ha and 7.5 t/ha Pm mixed with 90 kgN/ha. The study showed that combinations of poultry manure and inorganic fertilizer enhanced the growth and yield of sweet maize. Mixing inorganic fertilizer at 90kgN/ha and 7.5 t/ha, is recommended for adoption in sweet maize in the southern guinea savanna of Nigeria.
Comparative studies of the alpha decay half-lives of 197–220 Fr isotopes using the modified Gamow-like model and other empirical formulas
Alpha decay is an important decay mode that provides information about the structure and stability of heavy and superheavy nuclei. In this study, Gamow-like model (GLM), modified Gamow-like model (MGLM1), and four empirical formulas were employed to study the alpha decay half-lives of 197–220 Fr isotopes. The results obtained were compared with available experimental data and other theoretical calculations. The four empirical formulas used in the study are the Akrawy, new Ren B, AKRE, and Horoi formulas. Among the empirical formulas, the results of the calculations suggest that the new Ren B formula is the most suitable for the calculation of alpha-decay half-lives of the Fr isotopes. Calculated standard deviations showed that the MGLM1 gave a better description of the half-lives than the GLM model. New parameter values were obtained for the 197–220 Fr isotopes using the modified Gamow-like model (termed MGLM2). The MGLM2 model gave a lower deviation from experimental values when compared with the previous theoretical calculations using the temperature-dependent proximity potential model.
Mineralogy and collapse behaviour of compacted lateritic soils from North-central Nigeria
There is limited knowledge about the collapse behaviour of lateritic residual soils, particularly those from humid tropical climates like Nigeria. This work investigates the collapse potential (CP), at 200 kPa, of compacted lateritic soil specimens prepared from two lateritic soils of different mineralogy. The soils were compacted both at standard Proctor and modified Proctor energy levels. The soils consist mainly of silica, aluminium oxide and iron (iii) oxide. Both soils classify as silty sand (Unified Soil Classification System). However, sandstone derived lateritic soil from Gidansani (G sample) has lower liquid limit and plasticity index than the migmatite derived soil from Ilorin (R sample). CP varies from 5.3 % to 18.9 % for G soil and from 5.7 % to 16.6 % in the R specimens. This range of CP indicates that both G and R soils have moderately severe degrees of collapse. Specimens compacted dry of optimum exhibit a positive linear relationship with CP while specimens compacted wet of optimum exhibit reduced CP with increasing dry density. CP increased with moisture content and degree of saturation irrespective of the energy of compaction and soil type. Compaction at higher energy level reduces the tendency for large collapse.
Malathion and Pirimiphosmethyl susceptibility of bendiocarb resistant Anopheles gambiae s.l. mosquito populations in urban Lagos, Nigeria
This study assessed susceptibility status of Anopheles mosquito populations to organophosphate insecticides in selected areas within Lagos metropolis. The study also provides an update on the earlier established Anopheles mosquito resistance to some insecticides such as pyrethroids and carbamate. Adult Anopheles mosquito populations reared from larval collections at natural breeding sites in Yaba and Lekki areas in Lagos were exposed to World Health Organization (WHO) insecticide test papers. The insecticides used for the test include: two organophosphates (Malathion and Pirimiphos methyl), two pyrethroids (deltamethrin and permethrin) and one carbamate (bendiocarb). All the mosquitoes used in this study were identified as An. gambiae sensu lato. Results from the study showed that Anopheles populations from the two sites were fully susceptible (100% mortality rates) to the organophosphates (Malathion and Pirimiphos methyl). The Anopheles populations exhibited resistance to pyrethroid (permethrin and deltamethrin) (≤ 60% mortality rates) and carbamate bendiocarb (≤ 38% mortality rates). The resistance levels were higher compared to the reports of earlier studies.