The West African Journal of Life Sciences is a multidisciplinary journal dedicated to scientific research in West Africa. The journal's mission is to advance knowledge through the publication of high-quality articles that meet global standards and adhere to strict publication ethics. The journal publishes research manuscripts, short communications, technical reports, review articles, and case studies.
Gas Chromatography– Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) Profiling of Bioactive Constituents and Antimicrobial Activities of Chrysophyllum albidum Seed Extracts
Chrysophyllum albidum (African star apple) is an important West African medicinal plant traditionally used in managing infectious and metabolic disorders. This study investigated the fruit parts (especially seed extracts) of Chrysophyllum albidum and their bioactive compounds were screened and characterized using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS). Antibacterial and antifungal activities of methanol, aqueous, and n-hexane (seed oil) extracts were evaluated against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, Candida albicans, and Aspergillus fumigatus. Phytochemical screening revealed high levels of alkaloids and steroids in the pulp and high carbohydrate content in the seed. The methanolic and aqueous seed extracts contained 29 and 25 GC–MS–identified compounds, respectively, while the seed oil contained 40 compounds. Major constituents included n-hexadecanoic acid, linoleic acid, oleic acid, palmitic acid ethyl ester, squalene, stigmasterol, and vitamin E, all known for antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and hypolipidemic activities. Antimicrobial assays showed concentration-dependent inhibition, with methanol extract exhibiting the highest inhibitory zones at 40 mg/mL: 23.5 mm (B. subtilis), 20.4 mm (S. aureus), 18.8 mm (K. pneumoniae), 17.3 mm (P. aeruginosa), 18.0 mm (C. albicans), and 17.5 mm (A. fumigatus). Minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) ranged from 12–18 mg/mL for methanol extract, 14–20 mg/mL for aqueous extract, and 4–16% v/v for seed oil. The findings indicate that C. albidum fruit parts—particularly the seed—harbor promising antimicrobial agents and bioactive phytochemicals supporting their traditional medicinal use.
Copyright (c) 2025 West African Journal Of Life Sciences
Effects of Different Land Use Types on Maize (Zea mays L.) Productivity: A Comparative Study of Soils from Farm, Dumpsite, Roadside, Field, and Built-up Areas
Land use plays a critical role in determining soil quality and crop productivity. This study investigated the effects of different land use types on the growth performance of maize (Zea mays L.) using soils collected from farm, dumpsite, roadside, field, and built-up areas. Maize seeds were planted in pots containing the soils, and data were collected on germination percentage, plant height, leaf area, and chlorophyll content for a period of 32 days. The results revealed significant variations in maize performance across the land use types. Germination percentage was highest in soils from built-up (86%) and field areas (82%), while the lowest was observed in dumpsite soils (54%). In contrast, vegetative growth and chlorophyll content were superior in maize grown in dumpsite soils, which recorded the tallest plants (42.6 cm) and largest leaf area (95.4 cm²). Farm soils performed least across most parameters, while roadside soils supported moderate growth but showed signs of stress, possibly due to compaction and contamination. This study concludes that land use history significantly influences the capacity of soils to support maize growth. Although soils from non-agricultural environments such as dumpsites enhanced vegetative growth, their low germination performance and potential contamination risks highlight the need for caution. Sustainable land management practices remain essential to improving soil quality and ensuring crop productivity.
Prevalence of Multi Drug Resistant Bacteria in Urine of Pregnant Women in Auchi, South-Southern Nigeria
Multidrug resistance of urinary tract pathogens constitutes an important public health problem, especially for pregnant women, who, due to their particular physiologic state, are more prone to developing urinary tract infections. The aim of the research was to investigate antibiotics and plasmid profile in multi-drug-resistant bacteria from urine sample of pregnant women (10-40 years) in Auchi, South-southern Nigeria. A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 29 pregnant women attending antenatal clinic at Hope Hospital in Auchi, South-Southern Nigeria. Urine samples were collected and cultured using standard microbiological techniques. Antibiotic susceptibility testing was performed using the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method. For different age group, bacteria counts were 31.57103cfu/mL in participants whose ages were from 21 to 30 years and 8.00103 cfu/mL for those between 10 and 20 years. Bacterial isolates discovered included Escherichia coli, Klebsiella spp., Enterococcus spp., Bacillus spp. and Staphylococcus aureus. In all samples, significant amount of bacterial growth was observed. The most frequent isolate was Escherichia coli (55%) while the least frequent was Klebsiella spp. (2%). Bacteria were found to exhibit varying degrees of resistance to commonly used antibiotics with the most resistant bacteria being E. coli (1.0 MRI) while the least resistance was Bacillus spp. (0.8 MRI). Plasmid profile revealed the presence of plasmid in Escherichia coli, Klebsiella spp., Bacillus spp. and Staphylococcus aureus. Antimicrobial sensitivity after plasmid curing revealed increased sensitivity to antibiotics as a result of antibiotics removal. Resistant gene aph(2")-If gene was detected in Escherichia coli, Enterococcus spp., Bacillus spp. and Staphylococcus aureus. Hemolysin gene was detected in Escherichia coli, Enterococcus spp. and Staphylococcus aureus. This study reveals a high prevalence of multidrug-resistant bacteria in the urine of pregnant women during the second and third trimesters. There is urgent need for mandatory routine microbial screenings during antenatal care.
Growth Responses of Chlorella Vulgaris to Varying Concentrations of Omo and Klin Detergents in Nigeria
This study assessed the effects of two widely used powdered detergents in Nigeria Omo and Klin on the growth of Chlorella vulgaris over 14 days under laboratory conditions. Detergent concentrations ranging from 0 g/l, 3.33g/l, 6.67 g/l, 10.00g/l, 13.33 g/l and 16.67g were tested. Results revealed that Klin stimulated algal growth by up to 25% at optimal concentrations, while Omo reduced growth by as much as 45% across most treatments. The stimulation by Klin is likely due to its phosphate content, while Omo's inhibition is attributed to potentially toxic additives. These findings suggest Chlorella vulgaris has potential as an early-warning indicator of detergent contamination, though further studies involving more detergent types are necessary to confirm generalizability.
Proximate, Functional and Sensory Properties of Doughnut Developed from Local Rice and White Maize Flour Blends
Nigeria's rising cost and import dependence on wheat flour have driven the search for sustainable, locally sourced alternatives in bakery products. This study assessed the proximate, functional, and sensory properties of doughnuts developed from composite flours comprising local rice (Oryza glaberrima), white maize (Zeamays), and wheat flour, formulated in varying ratios. Five blends were analyzed, comprising of 70% ARF: 30% WCF (sample A), 30% ARF: 70% WCF (sample B), 50% ARF: 50% WCF (sample C), 20% WF: 20% ARF: 60% WCF (sample D) and 100% WF (sample E). Standard procedures were adopted in determining the proximate and functional properties of the composite flours. Likewise, the sensory evaluations of the developed doughnuts were carried out by panelists using structured 9-point hedonic scale. The composite blends (Samples B and C) had lower moisture and fat content but higher fibre and carbohydrate content than the control (100% wheat), enhancing their nutritional profile. They also showed higher water absorption (55.14 g/mL and 60.49 g/mL), and good swelling capacity (4.75 g/mL and 4.78 g/mL for Samples B and D) was observed, making them suitable for dough development. Sample E (control) showed the highest acceptability in terms of taste (7.47), texture (7.40), aroma (7.50), appearance (7.33), and general acceptability (8.00). Doughnuts produced from sample B (30% ARF: 70% WCF) recorded encouraging scores in all the parameters- taste (5.80), texture (5.97), aroma (6.23), appearance (6.17), and general acceptability (6.20) evaluated. The study revealed that composite flour blends comprising maize and rice flour (samples B and C) compared favorably with the control sample (100% wheat) in moisture, fat, fiber, and carbohydrate compositions. Therefore, demonstrating that maize and African rice flour blends can successfully reduce wheat dominance in doughnut production while maintaining nutritional quality and other desirable quality attributes.
Assessment of Body Mass Index and the Influence of Fasting Blood Glucoseon Malaria-Recuperating Undergraduate Students
The measurement of body mass index (BMI) and Fasting blood glucose (FBG) serve as a public health guide for assessing health status of humans. While the Body Mass Index measures individual's body fat, FBG estimates blood glucose level usually conducted after 8 to 10 hours abstinence from food and liquids (except water). The cross-sectional study evaluated the BMI and the FBS in apparently healthy undergraduate in a malaria endemic region in Nigeria. A sample size consisting of 113 females and 50 male students with a minimum of three years of enrollment in the Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma were randomly recruited. The participants were informed of the purpose of the study and they submitted voluntarily. From each subject, fasting blood glucose was measured using glucometers, while BMI was calculated from height and weight measurement. Data was compiled, sorted and analysed using appropriate software. Results showed that 63.8% of participants had normal FBG levels, 34.4% were hypoglycemic, and 1.8% was pre-diabetic. Females exhibited slightly higher hypoglycemia rates of 20.25% and BMI with, 18.4% overweight and 7.3% obese scores compared to hypoglycemic rate of 14.11% in males with, 5% overweight and 0.65 case of obesity. A weak, non-significant positive correlation (r =0.121) was found between the BMI and FBG. The mean standard deviation values of FBG of malaria-asymptomatic, 73.50±14.52 and malaria-recuperating individuals 74.09±11.89 were close. Age-related trends indicated slightly elevated FBG among older participants 26 years and above (82.65±8.65), 22-25 years (78.81±5.72) and 18 -21years (81.57±8.10), possibly linked to declining insulin sensitivity. The findings highlight gender and age disparities in glucose regulation. A prevalence of 34.4% hypoglycemic state in an institution of higher learning can impact negatively on cognitive function and the overall well-being in affected students. Further research is recommended to investigate the relationship between clinical malaria infection and glucose metabolism.
Proximate and Vitamin Composition of Juice Based on Tropical Fruits(Star Fruits, Pineapple, Shaddock and Rose Apple)
The objective of this study was to evaluate the proximate and vitamin composition of juice blends prepared from pineapple (Ananas comosus), star fruit (Averrhoa carambola), shaddock (Citrus maxima), and rose apple (Syzygium samarangense) in varying proportions to create four different juice blends: Sample A: 50% pineapple, 20% star fruit, 10% shaddock, 10% rose apple; Sample B: 80% pineapple, 10% star fruit, 5% shaddock, 5% rose apple; Sample C: 70% pineapple, 10% star fruit, 10% shaddock, 10% rose apple and Sample D: 40% pineapple, 20% star fruit, 20% shaddock, 20% rose apple. The proximate and vitamin compositions of the fruit juice samples were determined using standard methods. Result obtained from the proximate composition of the fruit juice samples showed that moisture content ranged from 82.41+0.05 g (sample B) to 87.71+0.02 g (sample D), ash content ranged from 0.47+0.01g (sample D) to 0.92+0.02g (sample C), fibre content ranged from 0.60+0.00g (sample A) to 1.03+0.03g (sample D). Fat content ranged from 0.22+0.02g (sample D) to 0.92+0.02g (sample B), protein content ranged from 0.84+0.05g (sample D) to 1.34+0.02g (sample B) and carbohydrate content ranged from 9.72+0.01g (sample D) to 13.77+0.01g (sample B). Samples differed (p<0.05) significantly from each other except in fibre composition. Vitamin assessment showed that Sample D had the highest vitamin C content (71.50 mg/100 g), while Sample C exhibited the highest level of vitamin A (2.70 mg/100 g). The formulated fruit juice samples were found to be rich in carbohydrates, moisture, and vitamin C. Formulation of fruit juice using natural fruits are preferred more than the conventional artificial drinks that are harmful to health.
Efficacy of Select Botanical Extracts on the Control of the Fungal Pathogen Pythium aphanidermatum in Cucumber Cultivation
Pythium aphanidermatum, a highly aggressive soil-borne oomycete, is a major pathogen causing root and stem rot, leading to substantial crop losses in warm and humid environments. Given the growing concerns regarding the environmental hazards and resistance associated with synthetic fungicides, the exploration of botanical extracts as sustainable, eco-friendly alternatives is gaining traction. In this study, methanolic extracts from five plants—Ginger (rhizome), Bitter kola (seeds), Neem (leaves), Aloe vera (leaves), and Moringa (leaves)—were evaluated for their antifungal efficacy against P. aphanidermatum. Pathogen isolation was conducted using serial dilution and direct methods, with culture media including Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA), Malt Extract Agar (MEA), and Czapek Dox Agar (CDA). Pathogenicity was confirmed via Koch’s postulates, establishing P. aphanidermatum as the causal agent of root and stem rot. Growth assessments revealed that PDA supported the highest pathogen growth rate (2.85 cm/day), followed by CDA (2.38 cm/day) and MEA (1.78 cm/day). In vitro assays demonstrated that botanical extracts, tested at concentrations ranging from 40,000 to 80,000 ppm, significantly inhibited P. aphanidermatum growth, with Bitter kola exhibiting the highest inhibition (85.9%), followed by Ginger (83.6%), Neem (80.7%), Moringa (73.1%), and Aloe vera (67.6%). Synthetic fungicides, Benlate and Mancozeb, showed higher inhibition at 150 ppm (89.7% and 88.5%, respectively), but the botanical extracts provide a viable, lower-risk alternative. Phytochemical analysis of the extracts revealed the presence of alkaloids (2.09-5.45%), saponins (0.40-2.92%), flavonoids (0.83-4.70%), and tannins (0.28-5.09%), except for tannins in Moringa oleifera, while proximate analysis indicated variations in ash (1.91%–3.39%), protein (0.53%–3.19%), fibre (2.84%–9.60%), moisture (6.40%–27.0%), and carbohydrate content (75.21%–80.60%). These findings suggest that botanical extracts, with their rich phytochemical profiles, offer significant potential as sustainable biocontrol agents for P. aphanidermatum, contributing to safer and more environmentally friendly crop protection strategies.
Antibacterial Efficacy of Different Dentifrice on Some Selected BacteriaIsolates from Mouth of Students of Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, Edo State
Dental diseases are a major health concern in Nigeria. This study was designed to investigate the in vitro inhibition of bacteria by different concentrations of different toothpastes on the bacterial isolates. The purpose of the study was to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of four dentifrices designated A, B, C and D and their efficacy against different bacteria species. Pure cultures of Escherichia coli, Streptococcus mutaus and Lactobacilus acidophilus were obtained from the Microbiology Laboratory of Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital, Irrua Edo State. The agar well diffusion method was used for the antibacterial efficacy studies. Results obtained indicated that dentifrice B (contained triclosan and sodium fluoride), had highest inhibition zones (19.4) followed by dentifrice A (which contained sodium fluoride) and had inhibition zone diameter of 14.7mm. This is followed by dentifrices C and D with inhibition zone diameter of 12.7mm and 11.8mm respectively. Findings from this study also showed that Lactobacillus acidophilus posed more resistance to the antibacterial efficacy of these dentifrices. To achieve good oral health, there is need to balance up active ingredients to appropriate levels in all toothpastes so that in addition to providing protection against sensitivity, they can also protect the teeth from dental diseases caused by bacteria.
Mineral and Vitamin Composition of Yoghurt Flavoured with Banana and Pineapple
This study was conducted to evaluate the mineral and vitamin composition of yoghurt flavoured with locally available fruits, banana and pineapple added both before and after fermentation. The mineral analysis of the plain yoghurt revealed baseline concentrations of calcium (175 mg/100g), phosphorus (160 mg/100g), magnesium (164.50 mg/100g), sodium (110 mg/100g), potassium (119 mg/100g), and iron (reported at 175%). The incorporation of banana and pineapple resulted in an increase in mineral content, particularly calcium, magnesium, and potassium, with the most significant improvement observed when fruits were added after fermentation. Sodium levels remained unchanged in all the minerals analyzed 110.0mg/100g. For vitamin composition, plain yoghurt contained vitamin A (4.98 IU), vitamin C (3.28 mg/100g), riboflavin (0.67 mg/100g), thiamine (1.48 mg/100g), and niacin (2.00 mg/100g). The addition of pineapple before and after fermentation led to slight increases in vitamin A (5.02 and 5.01 IU) and vitamin C (5.22 and 5.25 mg/100g). More notably, a statistically significant (P < 0.05) increase in both vitamins A and C were observed with the addition of banana added after fermentation (5.86 IU and 5.86 mg/100g, respectively). The findings clearly indicate that banana and pineapple enhance the micronutrient quality of yoghurt without compromising its core characteristics. This suggests a promising approach to developing functional dairy products using locally available fruits to address nutritional deficiencies, particularly in low-resource settings. The study supports the notion that incorporating nutrient-rich fruits into yoghurt not only improves its health benefits but also aligns with consumer preferences for natural, flavourful, and nutritious food options.
Effects of Salt Treatment on the Development of Dermestes Maculatus in Smoked Fish
Dermestes maculatus infestation is a major threat to the quality of smoked fish. It results in reduced nutritional value and economic losses. This study explores the effect of salt treatment on the development of D. maculatus in smoked Catfish (Clarias gariepinus) and Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). The study was conducted in the Volta Region of Ghana. Fish samples were purchased from five major processing sites (Kpando, Kwame Krom, Dambae, Abutuase, and Jemeni). Salt content of smoked samples was determined using the Mohr method, while fresh fish sample were immersed in varying salt concentrations (0%, 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, and 25%), smoked before exposure to adult D. maculatus under controlled laboratory conditions for 68 days. Results showed that salt concentrations in smoked fish samples ranged from 16.0% in Abutuase to 22.8% in Jemeni, exceeding WHO-recommended sodium limits. There was a significant reduction in egg laying as salt concentration increases. In Catfish, mean egg counts dropped from 58.3±42.7 at 0% to 11.3±16.3 at 20%, while in Tilapia, egg counts decreased from 20.3 ± 9.0 at 0% to 8.00±8.5 at 20%. Salt treatment was more effective in Tilapia, which recorded lower egg counts compared to Catfish. Although salt concentration did not significantly affect egg to larva development, it inhibited larva to adult emergence with 0.0% adult emergence recorded at 25% salt concentration in both species. Weight loss decreased with increase in salt levels, from 60.0% at 0% to 14.0% at 25% in Catfish. These findings confirm that salt is effective against D. maculatus infestation through inhibition of its reproductive capacity and limiting adult emergence. However, the high salt levels used may raise public health concerns.
Physicochemical Limnology and Seasonal Water Quality Dynamics of Igbidin Stream in Edo State, Nigeria
This study investigated the physicochemical limnology and seasonal water quality dynamics of Igbidin Stream in Edo State, Nigeria. Monthly water samples were collected from three stations between January and June 2018, spanning both dry and wet seasons. Parameters analyzed included temperature, pH, turbidity, color, total dissolved solids (TDS), conductivity, alkalinity, total hardness, calcium, magnesium, nitrate, and phosphate. The results revealed marked seasonal variations, with elevated turbidity (up to 21 NTU), conductivity (up to 207.5 µS/cm), and TDS (up to 125 mg/L) during the dry season. Colour values peaked at 99 PtCoU in February, far exceeding WHO limits. Nitrate and phosphate concentrations remained generally low, with nitrate ranging from 0.005 to 0.053 mg/L and phosphate from 0.19 to 0.46 mg/L, although phosphate occasionally surpassed ecological thresholds. The pH showed significant seasonal fluctuation, peaking at 10.7 in April. The physical pollution index (PPI) remained above 1 throughout the study, indicating consistent pollution, particularly in the dry season. Water Quality Index (WQI) values showed significant spatial and temporal variation, with April exhibiting the poorest quality (mean WQI: 116.8), classifying the water as unsuitable for drinking. In contrast, June showed the best quality (mean WQI: 16.28), rated as excellent. Stations 1 and 2 were more affected by pollution, likely due to nearby anthropogenic activities such as farming, while Station 3 exhibited relatively stable and better water quality. The findings underscore the need for seasonal monitoring, targeted pollution mitigation, and provision of water treatment interventions, especially during high-risk months.
Effects of Preservation Methods on Nucleic Acid Yield and Integrity from African Yam Bean (Sphenostylis Stenocarpahochst. Ex A. Rich.) Tissues for Sustainable Molecular Research
The African yam bean (AYB) (Sphenostylis stenocarpa Hochst. Ex A. Rich.) is an underutilized legume native to sub-Saharan Africa, valued for its edible seeds and tubers rich in proteins, carbohydrates, and essential micronutrients. This study aimed to optimize cost-effective preservation methods for African Yam Bean leaf tissues to ensure high-quality Deoxyribonucleic acid extraction, critical for molecular biology applications. African Yam Bean leaves were subjected to various preservation conditions, including chemical buffers (1× CTAB, 1× TAE, and 70% ethanol) and temperature settings (-20°C, 4°C, 25°C, and >25°C). Results indicated that freezing at -20°C yielded the highest Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) purity and stability, with consistent A260/A280 ratios (1.7–2.0). Ethanol preservation also demonstrated strong performance, providing a viable alternative for resource-constrained environments. The DNA preserved with cetyltrimethylammonium bromide and Tris-acetate-ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid buffers exhibited lower stability and increased contamination over time. These findings highlight practical and scalable methods to enhance DNA integrity from plant tissues, advancing the utility of AYB in molecular biology research and sustainable agriculture.
Impact of School Feeding Program on the Anthropometric Indices of Preschool Children in Owerri West Local Government Area, Imo State.
This study assessed the impact of a school feeding program on the anthropometric indices of preschool children in Owerri West Local Government Area, of Imo State, Nigeria. A case-control study was conducted with 400 preschools (2-5 years) selected from 44 government-owned primary schools in the study location. Purposive sampling was used to identify the enrolled and non-enrolled schools, while simple random sampling was employed to select 200 preschool children from each category. Anthropometric measurements, including weight (kg) and height (m2), were obtained, and the WHO Anthro Software Analyzer was used to assess the wasting and underweight status of respondents. A student T-test was conducted to compare anthropometric indices and the nutrient composition of food samples between the two groups. The findings revealed a 50% improvement in underweight, and wasting among preschool children participating in the school lunch program over the 6-month study period, compared to the control group. It was found that 100% of preschool children in the intervention group met their recommended intakes for energy, protein, iron, vitamin A, and vitamin C, but did not meet requirements for fat and calcium. Similarly, 75% of children in the control group met their recommended intakes for energy, protein, zinc, and vitamin A, but did not meet fat, calcium, iron, and vitamin C requirements. In conclusion, the school feeding program had a positive impact on the anthropometric indices of preschool children. We recommend extending the program to more schools to further improve the nutritional status of preschool children in Imo State.
Physicochemical Properties and Acceptability of Staple-based Breakfast Cereals
Consumption of cereals is very essential due to the considerable amount of nutrients they provide, especially in wholesome nature. Staple-base breakfast cereals are nutrient dense, more readily available while meeting the traditional food habit of the people. The present study assessed the physicochemical and organoleptic properties of breakfast cereals produced from yellow corn, millet, sorghum, groundnuts, soybean and dates. Fermentation and boiling methods were used to process samples to flour. Applying food-to-food fortification principles, twelve ready-to-use composite gruel (50sg:50sy; 60sg:40sy; 40sg:60sy; 50m:50sy; 60m:40sy; 40m:60sy) and whole cereal (35yc:35sy:10g:20d; 50yc:30sy:10g:10d; 30yc:50sy:10g:10d; 35sg:35sy:10g:20d; 50sg:30sy:10g;10d; 30sg:50sy:10g:10d) flours were formulated and subjected to physical, chemical and sensory evaluations following standard methods. Result revealed high vitamin C (19.16-42.36 mg gruel and 22.77-39.20 mg whole cereal) and improved protein (7.86- 17.5%-gruel and 8.4-8.2% whole cereals) composition in cereal products. Anti-nutrient composition of cereal flours were found to be within the acceptable limit for human, ranging from 0.06-0.58% (phytate), 0.13-0.39% (oxalate), 0.51-0.86% (tannin) to 0.91-2.21% (saponin). Higher viscosity (trough-36-634, breakdown-42-255, setback-41-683, peak-164-889 & final-88-1317 RVU) and pasting temperature (82- 90°C) was observed in gruel flours while whole cereal flours recorded higher peak-time (5.2-6.9 RVU). The study revealed low microbial (7.2 x 104 -2.0 x105 cfu/g) and fungi (1.1x103 - 6.2 x104 sfu/g) counts in composite cereal flours. Breakfast gruels were found to be acceptable to the taste panel members, ranking higher than the control (100% millet) in all the parameters, though not significant (P>0.05). On the other hand, no significant (P>0.05) difference was found in the taste of the control (Golden Morn) and whole cereal with 20g dates. Slight increase in weight was recorded in gruel (0.05kg) and whole cereal (0.3kg) composite flours after fortification. The potential of dates as a natural sweetener in the traditional food production was explored and culturally acceptable staple-base cereals achieved.
Copyright (c) 2024 West African Journal Of Life Sciences
Exploring the Impact of Human Activities on Water Quality Characteristics of a Rural River in North-Central Nigeria using Macro invertebrates Structural Assemblage
Rural rivers play an important role as a major water supply in most parts of Northern Nigeria. Wanzum River is a major source of water to nearby communities. It serves various purposes, such as source of drinking water, fishing, irrigation and other domestic purpose. In this study, we explored the impact of human activities on macroinvertebrates assemblage and physicochemical data to ascertain the water quality status of the river. Samples of Physicochemical parameters and macroinvertebrates were collected from four (4) different stations for 12 months (December 2021-November 2022) using standard methods and procedures. The result of all the physicochemical data measured showed no significant (P>0.05) difference among the sampling stations except dissolved oxygen and turbidity. However, all the monitored physicochemical parameters differed significantly (P < 0.05) among the sampling months except dissolved oxygen. A total of 1385 individuals from 36 macroinvertebrates species were collected from all the sampled stations. Hemiptera had highest number with 760 individuals, Coleoptera (228 individuals), Odonata (138 individuals) and Trichoptera (3 individuals). The constructed Principal Component Analysis (PCA) correlation matrix was able to separate the perturbed and the less perturbed stations from each other as station1 and 4 which were the less perturbed, correlated positively with PCA axis 1. The canonical correspondence analysis (CCA) result showed little or no positive correlation between macroinvertebrate assemblages and the measured environmental variables as eigen value of both CCA axis is less than 1 (<1). The low abundance of Pollution sensitive taxa such as the Ephemeroptera and Trichoptera, as well as the high abundance of Hemiptera, and Coleoptera indicate that Wanzum River is being stressed along its course. Obviously, sampling stations 2 and 3 showed this stress as they recorded no members of Trichoptera group.
Copyright (c) 2023 West African Journal Of Life Sciences
Antioxidant Role of Vitamins in Malaria and the Implications of Antioxidants as Adjuvant in Malaria Therapy: A Review
The prooxidant role of malaria parasites and chloroquine an antimalaria is well established. The antioxidant role of ascorbic acid and folate administered alone or as adjuvant therapy during malaria treatment in a research series is highlighted in this review. It was observed that oxidative stress is implicated in the pathogenesis of malaria and the oxidative assault may be aggravated by chloroquine, which was at some point a frontline antimalarial drug. Owing to the established antioxidant roles of vitamins, the administration either as mono, combined or as adjuvant therapy ameliorated malaria-induced oxidative assault. Supplementation with antioxidants represents a promising and enhanced therapeutic approach in malaria treatment. This review emphasized the beneficial roles of ascorbic acid and folate as adjuvants in malaria therapy.
Ethnobotanical Survey of Commonly Used Indigenous Medicinal Plants by the Oka-Akoko People of Akoko SouthWest L.G.A., Ondo State, Nigeria
A survey of some indigenous medicinal plants used by the Oka-Akoko people of Ondo state was conducted through oral interviews using questionnaires administered to respondents. Plants were collected with the help of different informants (traditional herbalists, farmers, traders and herb sellers). Fifty plants species belonging to twenty-seven families were recorded. They were described using their botanical, common names, family and medicinal uses. The families Euphorbiaceae (12%), Asteraceae (10%) and Fabaceae (10%) recorded the highest number of plant species used in the study. The plants studied are used for a variety of remedies for different ailments. With respect to common ailments/diseases treated with the plants, headache/fever accounted for 20%, diarrhea (18%) malaria (14%), and veneral diseases (10%). From the study, the leaves had the highest percentage of plant parts used (70%) followed by barks (26%) and roots (10%). These medicinal plants cater for most of the health care needs of humans, especially the Oka-Akoko people and should therefore be conserved to ensure its sustainability to serve the people of the community in general and the world at large.
Occurrence and Distribution of Toxigenic Mycoflora and Nutritional Composition Content of Peanut Seeds Sold in Niger State, Nigeria
Despite the economic importance of Peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.), it suffers infestation from toxigenic fungi leading to its contaminations thereby reducing the nutritional contents. Therefore, this study investigated the associated toxigenic mycoflora and nutritional composition of Peanut seeds sold in ten (10) markets in Niger State, Nigeria. Thirty-six (36) samples of peanuts seeds were collected across the three Agricultural zones of Niger State, namely Bida, Mokwa (Zone I), Minna, Shiroro (Zone II), Kotongora, and Rafi (Zone III), respectively. Isolation of fungus species were done using dilution of 104 factor on PDA. Proximate composition analysis was done following standard procedures. Ninety-three (93) fungal isolates were identified, belonging to number of genera: Aspergillus, Penicillium, and Fusarium respectively. The highest was isolated from Bida samples (27.48%), while the least was obtained from Shiroro samples (7.27%). Significant difference (P > 0.05) was observed in the proximate composition of Peanut seeds across all the study areas. The highest percentages in moisture contents, Crude fat, Protein, and Carbohydrate were obtained, from Shiroro (4.64%), Mokwa (47.24%), Kotangora (22.15%) and Shiroro (29.27%) samples, respectively, while the least percentage was obtained from Minna (2.46%), Shiroro (41.6%), Kotangora (18.48%) and Rafi (23.37%) respectively. The result indicates that the majorities of fungi isolated from this research were mostly toxigenic moulds and may have a direct impact on its nutritional contents. Therefore, improved management of these oil-rich seeds will enhance the high-quality product and reduce the risk of health challenges that go with consuming contaminated peanut products.