Master of Science (M.Sc.) Theses and Dissertations

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Open Access
A survey of ascaris lumbricodes infection among school age children in Ikirun , Osun State Nigeria.
(Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science Obafemi Awolowo University., 2022) FASANMI Oluwafunmilayo Blessing
This study determined the prevalence and intensity of infection of Ascaris lumbricoides and other soil transmitted helminths among school-age children, examined soil samples obtained from children environment for Ascaris eggs, surveyed on anthelminthic treatment and type of sanitation available to the school-age children in Ikirun, Osun State, Nigeria. These were with a view to providing information on the risk factors affecting the transmission of soil helminths among the school–age children in the study area. Stool samples were collected from 332 primary school pupils comprising 135 males (40.7%) and 197 females (59.3%), between the ages of 6 and 12 from July to October 2018. The stool samples were analysed using applicator stick and about 5 g faecal sample was collected from each pupil into clean and well-labelled universal sample bottle. The faecal samples were preserved with 2 ml of 10% formalin. Soil samples were also collected from around the school latrine, playground, classroom and residence of each pupil into a properly labelled polythene bag. The preserved faecal samples were later processed by modified Kato-katz techinique and the soil samples by centrifugal floatation techniques using sucrose solution at the Parasitology Laboratory of the Department of Zoology, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile–Ife. This was to determine the presence and number of Ascaris and other helminths eggs. The helminth eggs were identified based on morphological parameters. Data were analyzed using chi square and multivariate logistic regression from Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 17. The results of the study showed that out of the 332 faecal samples examined, 152 (45.8%) were positive for helminth eggs. The various helminth eggs observed and their prevalences were Ascaris lumbricoides (40.1%), hookworms (8.7%) and Trichuristrichiura (3.3%). Multiple infections were observed among 17(5.1%) of the pupils. The sex related prevalence was higher among females (48.2%) than males (42.2%). The prevalence of A. lumbricoides was highest among the children of age group 6-8 years (50.0%) and lowest (27.5%) among the children over 12 years of age. There was no significant difference (p > 0.05) in prevalence rates of different STHs infections in relation to age groups and gender across schools. The intensity of A. lumbricoides, hookworms and T. trichiura determined as mean egg count/gram of faeces were 733.77 ± 81.85, 20.05 ± 4.65 and 1.23 ± 0.43 respectively. A total of 88 helminth eggs (58.7%) were collected out of the 150 soil samples collected. The helminth eggs identified were Ascaris lumbricoides, 41.3%; Toxocara canis, 24.0%; Trichuris trichiura 9.3% and hookworms 6.7%. The intensities of A. lumbricoides, T. canis, T. trichiura and hookworms per 30 g soil were 100.16 ±15.71, 18.24 ± 6.33, 2.08 ± 0.553and 16.05 ± 4.46 respectively. The rate of contamination of soil was higher near latrines (67.4%) and lower around the classrooms (48.6%). The study concluded that Ascaris lumbricoides remains a public health concern among children in the study area. Provision of potable water, toilet facilities and regular de-worming will enhance control measures.
Open Access
ADEBAYO E .B (2022) Comparative assessment of plant-based extracts and synthetic insecticides on the growth, yield and proximate composition of cowpea (vigna unguiculata l. walp) institute of ecology and environmental studies, Faculty of Science, Obafemi Awolowo University.
(Institute of ecology and environmental studies, Faculty of Science, Obafemi Awolowo University., 2022) FOYINSOLAMI Ebunoluwa Adebayo
This study assessed the effect of plant-based and synthetic insecticides application on the growth response and yield of cowpea. It also investigated the effects of the insecticides application on the biomass, grain yield and proximate composition of cowpea grains produced. These were with a view to providing information on the use of plant-based extracts on quantity and quality of cowpea grains. The experiment was conducted on a vacant land measuring 11.75 m x 7.50 m behind the Institute of Ecology and Environmental Studies, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife. Viable seeds of Ife-brown cultivar of cowpea were purchased from the Institute of Agricultural Research and Training, Ibadan. The experimental location was cleared manually two times using a cutlass and hand-held hoe. The experiment consisted of four treatments which were: extracts of three plant-based (Azadirachta indica, Tithonia diversifolia, Chromolaena odorata) and cypermethrin that served as control. The extracts of fresh shoots of A. indica, T. diversifolia, and C. odorata were separately prepared using standard method. The experiment was made up of 12 plots, each measuring 1.5 m x 2.0 m and the plots were arranged in a randomized complete block design. Four seeds per stand were sown using 50 cm x 30 cm spacing and seedlings thinned to 2 stands per hole at 2 weeks after sowing (WAS). The plots were weeded at 3 and 6 WAS. The cowpea stands were sprayed with plant-based and cypermethrin using the rates 100 g/L/plot and 15 mL/L/plot respectively at 5, 6, 7 and 8 WAS. Growth parameters such as plant height, number of leaves and stem girth were measured bi-weekly from 2 to 8 WAS and extent of leaf damage at 7 and 8 WAS. Tagged cowpea stands were carefully uprooted at 10 WAS to determine the total biomass yield. Cowpea pods were harvested when the pods turned yellow at 10 WAS and threshed. Proximate composition of cowpea grains (crude protein, ash, fibre, carbohydrate, fat and dry matter), preand post-cropped soil analyses were carried out using standard methods. Data obtained were subjected to analysis of variance and their treatment means were separated using Tukey’s multiple comparison test at p < 0.05. The results showed that pH of the pre-cropped soil was 6.94 and soil texture was loamy sand. Organic carbon and total nitrogen were 0.64 and 5.82 g/kg, respectively and these values reduced to between 13 and 30% across the treatment plots for the post-cropped soil. The growth parameters; height (cm), number of leaves and stem girth (cm) at 6 WAS were: 23.06 ± 0.86, 55.29 ± 4.59 and 1.58 ± 0.05 for A. indica; 24.15 ± 0.75, 57.58 ± 3.94 and 1.69 ± 0.06 for T. diversifolia; 21.76 ± 0.68, 48.38 ± 2.15 and 1.55 ± 0.05 for C. odorata; and 21.99 ± 1.18, 45.26 ± 3.45 and 1.46 ± 0.07 for cypermethrin, respectively. Also, the grain yield of cowpea with cypermethrin, 1.08 t/ha was significantly (p < 0.05) higher than the best plant-based insecticide, T. diversifolia. Cowpea grains obtained with T. diversifolia and C. odorata had comparable and high values of crude protein (29.7%, 28.3%) and fibre (6.1%, 6.5%) respectively. The study concluded that T. diversifolia compared favourably with cypermethrin, in terms of grain yield of cowpea, whereas T. diversifolia and C. odorata gave higher proximate composition of cowpea.
Open Access
Analytic solutions of heat transfer problems with generalised arrhenius reaction rate in three symmetric geometries.
(Faculty of Science, Department of Mathematics, Obafemi Awolowo University., 2023) ADEBOWALE, Folasade Bolanle
This study formulated the one- dimensional thermal balance equation for a chemical substance at rest in three geometric under constant surface surface temperature and Newtonian cooling; Obtained analytical solution of the formulated thermal balance equation under realistic conditions; and examined the effects of constant surface temperature, the exponent of pre-exponential factor and biot number on criticality and transition. these were with a view to generalizing existing works in the literature on thermal explosion criticality and transition.
Open Access
Assessement of level of radioactivity and potentially toxic elements in locally pulverized plantain (musa paradislacal.) obtained from osun east senatorial district, Nigeria
(The Institute of Ecology and Environmental Studies, Faculty of Science, Obafemi Awolowo University., 2022) ABE, Toluwase Patience
This study assessed the concentrations of potentially toxic elements in the locally produced plantain flour. It also determined the radioactivity levels in the locally produced flour and assessed the human health risk associated with the contaminants. These were with a view to providing information on the concentrations and health risks of the potentially toxic elements and radionuclides in locally produced plantain flour in the study area. Potentially toxic elements were identified by using Proton/Particle Induced X-ray Emission Spectrometry. Correlation, principal component and cluster analyses suggested probable natural and anthropogenic sources of the elements in the pulverized plantain. The Human Health-Risk Assessment of toxic elements was assessed on the basis of geo-Estimated Daily Intake (EDI), Hazard Index (HI), Hazard Quotient (HQ), Carcinogenic Health Effect (Cr) and Ingestion Cancer Slope Factors. Gamma Ray Spectrometer was used to profile 238U, 232Th, and 40K levels in the samples. Activity Concentrations, Radium equivalent activity concentration index (Raeq), Absorbed Gamma Dose Rate (ADR), External Hazard Index (Hex), Internal Hazard Index (Hin), Excess Lifetime Cancer Risk (ELCR) and Annual Effective Dose Equivalent (AEDE) were subsequently evaluated. Twenty-seven elements were detected in the pulverized plantain samples and their concentrations determined. The concentration of elements analyzed in the pulverized plantain samples is in the order K > Cl > Mg > P > Sr > Ca > S > Si > Cd > Rb > Mo > Fe > Al > Ba > Br > Ti > Pb > Bi > Mn > Na > Ni > Cu > Cr > Sc > Zn > As > Co. The analysis of HI revealed extremely health risk. HQ values are lower than the Recommended value > 1 except Cu, Co, Ba, Cd, Pb and As which are comparatively higher. In the test pulverized plantain sample, the mean xvii activity concentrations of 40K, 232Th and 238U are 117.73 ± 2.52 Bq/kg, 1.66 ± 1.85 Bq/kg and 17.85 ± 17.61 Bq/kg respectively. For the control pulverized plantain samples, the mean activity concentrations of 40K, 232Th and 238U are 11.05±0.43 Bq/kg, 0.37±0.01 Bq/kg and 3.89±0.25 Bq/kg respectively. Although the ELCR calculated shows higher values compared to acceptable value of 2.9 x 10-3 stipulated by UNSCEAR the values of ADR, Raeq, Hex and Hin were significantly lower than or matched well with the permissible values indicating consumption safety for those who do not rely heavily on the consumption of pulverized plantain. The study concluded that the samples from the open markets of the study areas were contaminated with toxic elements, and could at long last pose major health problems to the consumers. However, the results obtained from the radioactivity level of the plantain were below their standard permissible limits. These assessments confirmed that the test pulverized plantain samples exhibited low gamma radiation
Open Access
ASSESSMENT OF LEVELS OF RADIOACTIVITY AND POTENTIALLY TOXIC ELEMENTS IN LOCALLY PULVERIZED PLANTAIN (MUSA PARADISIACA L.) OBTAINED FROM OSUN EAST SENATORIAL DISTRICT, NIGERIA
(INSTITUTE OF ECOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES, FACULTY OF SCIENCE, OBAFEMI AWOLOWO UNIVERSITY., 2022) TOLUWASE PATIENCE ABE
This study assessed the concentrations of potentially toxic elements in the locally produced plantain flour. It also determined the radioactivity levels in the locally produced flour and assessed the human health risk associated with the contaminants. These were with a view to providing information on the concentrations and health risks of the potentially toxic elements and radionuclides in locally produced plantain flour in the study area. Potentially toxic elements were identified by using Proton/Particle Induced X-ray Emission Spectrometry. Correlation, principal component and cluster analyses suggested probable natural and anthropogenic sources of the elements in the pulverized plantain. The Human Health-Risk Assessment of toxic elements was assessed on the basis of geo-Estimated Daily Intake (EDI), Hazard Index (HI), Hazard Quotient (HQ), Carcinogenic Health Effect (Cr) and Ingestion Cancer Slope Factors. Gamma Ray Spectrometer was used to profile 238U, 232Th, and 40K levels in the samples. Activity Concentrations, Radium equivalent activity concentration index (Raeq), Absorbed Gamma Dose Rate (ADR), External Hazard Index (Hex), Internal Hazard Index (Hin), Excess Lifetime Cancer Risk (ELCR) and Annual Effective Dose Equivalent (AEDE) were subsequently evaluated.
Open Access
Assessment of levels of radiocavity and potentily toxic elements pulverizd plantain (Musa Paradisiaca L ) obtained from osun east sentorial destrict, Nigeria
(Institute of ecology and envirinmental studies, faculty of science, OAU, 2022) ABE, Toluwase Patience
This study assessed the concentrations of potentially toxic elements in the locally produced plantain flour. It also determined the radioactivity levels in the locally produced flour and assessed the human health risk associated with the contaminants. These were with a view to providing information on the concentrations and health risks of the potentially toxic elements and radionuclides in locally produced plantain flour in the study area.
Open Access
Assessment of polyethylene Terephthalate Waste Carbon and periwinkle Shells-based Chitosan as Adsorbent for Trichloroacetic Acid Removal from Water
(Department of Institute of Ecology and environmental Studies, Faculty of Science, Obafemi Awolowo University., 2022) BABASANMI, Oluwole Abioye
The study determined the physicochemical parameters and trichloroacetic acid concentrations of the water samples before and after conventional treatment at the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife water treatment plant. It also investigated the adsorption efficiencies of chitosan modified and unmodified adsorbent prepared from polyethylene terephthalate waste and periwinkle shells for the removal of trichloroacetic acids in the water samples. The study further compared the adsorption efficiencies of commercially available activated carbon with the chitosan modified and unmodified adsorbents. These were with a view to providing information on the adsorption efficiencies of polyethylene terephthalate waste carbon and periwinkle shells-based chitosan with commercially available activated carbon for the removal of trichloroacetic acid from water. Polyethylene terephthalate was obtained from the Obafemi Awolowo University Campus, while the periwinkle shell utilized for chitosan extraction was obtained from the Eket Main Market in AkwaIbom State. Caustic alkali produced from cocoa pod husk was used to activate the PET. The activated carbon was made by carbonizing the caustic alkali impregnated Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) in a furnace at 500 °C for 1 hour. For elemental and surface morphology determinations, the activated carbon was evaluated using Energy Dispersive X-ray (EDX) and Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). The Fourier Transform-Infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopic technique was used to determine the structural chemical functional groups in activated carbon. Chitosan was made by deproteinizing, demineralizing, decolourizing, and deacetylating the periwinkle shell. Using a UVvis Spectrophotometer, the level of trichloroacetic acid (TCA) in water samples was detected at 530 nm. Batch adsorption tests were conducted to investigate the removal of TCA under a variety of conditions, including the effect of concentration, adsorbent dosage, pH, and agitation time. Adsorption isotherms were calculated using experimental data from various initial TCA xxii concentrations. The adsorption kinetics were also used to identify a potential rate-limiting phase during the adsorption process. The results showed that the TCA levels were 0.9900 mg/L in raw water and 2.8900 mg/L in conventionally treated water. The PETAC, PETMAC, and commercial activated carbon (CAC) gave mean TCA concentrations of 0.1900±0.0000, 0.0900±0.0000 and 0.0900±0.0000 mg/L before adsorption and 0.1400±0.0707, 0.0900±0.0000 and 0.0000±0.0000 mg/L after adsorption on raw water and conventionally treated water, respectively. There was significant (p < 0.05) difference when raw and conventional treated water were subjected to the three adsorbents. The TCA removed by the two adsorbents (PETAC and PETMAC) required 4 minutes, 1.2 g/L adsorbent dose, and a pH of 9. At 4 minutes of contact time, the highest adsorption efficiencies were 80.286 and 98.286% for PETAC and PETMAC, respectively. The reusability efficiencies of PETAC and PETMAC were 78.4 and 82.4%, respectively. The PETAC with R2 = 0.9377, showed that Langmuir model best fit the TCA adsorption in the isotherm models. The PETMAC with R2 = 0.9986 indicated that the pseudo-second order fitted the kinetic data. This study concluded that activated PET carbon was effective to remove TCA from water supply and could be improved by adding chitosan.
Open Access
Assesssment of the effectiveness of lead removal from helianthus annuus L. remediated soil using amaranthus hybridusL .
(The Institute Of Ecology And Environmental Studies, Faculty Of Sciences, Obafemi Awolowo University., 2023) AREGBESOLA Joshua Akin
This study determined the Physical and chemical properties of a Pb remediated soil and assessed the growth response of Amaranthus hybridus cultivated on this soil. It also determined the nutrients and Pb uptake by A. hybridus from the remediated soil. These were with a view to providing information on the effectiveness of Pb removal by Helianthus annuus from a Pb polluted soil. The study was carried out in the screenhouse of the Faculty of Pharmacy, Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife. The study was a follow-up on a previous study in which the topsoil was polluted to four levels of Lead concentrations. A total of 72 polythene bags, each containing 10 kilograms of Pb remediated soil obtained after this study showed the presence of Pb. The polythene pots had also received three rates of organic fertilizer; 0, 5 and 10 t ha-1, and two rates; 0 and 2 t ha-1 of Urea fertilizer, and four levels of Pb: 0, 400, 800, 1200 mg Pb kg-1 arranged in a complete randomized design. The seeds of A. hybridus earlier obtained from the Faculty of Agriculture, OAU, Ile-Ife were sown at six seeds per pot, and thereafter watered with distilled water to field moisture capacity. Growth parameters such as number of leaves, plant height and stem girths were collected at 3, 4, 5 and 6 weeks after sowing (WAS) using standard methods, and thereafter terminated. The harvested aboveground biomass of the plant was weighed and oven-dried to constant weight. The pre- and post-cropped remediated soils, and dried plant samples were analyzed to determine their properties, including Pb and Zn using standard methods. Data collected were subjected to descriptive and inferential statistics and the significance in their mean values of growth parameters and soil properties were separated at 95% confidence limit using Tukey‘s Multiple Range Test. The pH of the pre-cropped remediated soil ranged from 5.57 ± 0.02 to 7.43 ± 0.04. The soil organic Carbon and total Nitrogen values ranged from 3.90 ± 0.20 to 33.90 ± 0.30, and 0.30 ± 0.10 to 2.90 ± 0.10 g kg-1, respectively. The initial concentrations of Pb and Zn ranged; 75.16 ± 0.02 to 170.50 ± 8.04 and 3.81 ± 0.02 to 9.54 ± 0.03 mg kg-1, respectively. At harvest, the stem girth of A. hybridus ranged from 0.39 ± 0.06 to 2.81 ± 0.55 cm, while the aboveground biomass yield ranged from 0.11 ± 0.06 to 36.41 ± 9.47 and 0.06 ± 0.03 to 3.70 ± 1.28 g pot-1 for the wet and dry weight, respectively from the pot without Pb contamination, but with 2 t ha-1 of Urea and 5 t ha-1 of organic fertilizer. These growth parameters were significantly (p < 0.05) higher than the values obtained during the repeat experiment. The highest values obtained for Pb and Zn concentrations in the shoots of A. hybridus were 0.50 ± 0.01 and 3.05 ± 0.05 mg kg-1, respectively; which were higher than WHO/FAO permissible limits of 0.005 and 0.60 mg kg-1 for Pb and Zn respectively. The study concluded that Amaranthus hybridus cultivated on Lead remediated soil removed and transported Lead to aboveground biomass of the plant which could eventually enter into the food chain of humans, if ingested.
Open Access
Comparative assessment of plant-based extracts and synthetic insecticides on the growth, yield and proximate composition of cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L. Walp)
(Institute of Ecology and Environmental Studies, Faculty of Science, Obafemi Awolowo University., 2022) FOYINSOLAMI Ebunoluwa Adebayo
This study assessed the effect of plant-based and synthetic insecticides application on the growth response and yield of cowpea. It also investigated the effects of the insecticides application on the biomass, grain yield and proximate composition of cowpea grains produced. These were with a view to providing information on the use of plant-based extracts on quantity and quality of cowpea grains. The experiment was conducted on a vacant land measuring 11.75 m x 7.50 m behind the Institute of Ecology and Environmental Studies, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife. Viable seeds of Ife-brown cultivar of cowpea were purchased from the Institute of Agricultural Research and Training, Ibadan. The experimental location was cleared manually two times using a cutlass and hand-held hoe. The experiment consisted of four treatments which were: extracts of three plant-based (Azadirachta indica, Tithonia diversifolia, Chromolaena odorata) and cypermethrin that served as control. The extracts of fresh shoots of A. indica, T. diversifolia, and C. odorata were separately prepared using standard method. The experiment was made up of 12 plots, each measuring 1.5 m x 2.0 m and the plots were arranged in a randomized complete block design. Four seeds per stand were sown using 50 cm x 30 cm spacing and seedlings thinned to 2 stands per hole at 2 weeks after sowing (WAS). The plots were weeded at 3 and 6 WAS. The cowpea stands were sprayed with plant-based and cypermethrin using the rates 100 g/L/plot and 15 mL/L/plot respectively at 5, 6, 7 and 8 WAS. Growth parameters such as plant height, number of leaves and stem girth were measured bi-weekly from 2 to 8 WAS and extent of leaf damage at 7 and 8 WAS. Tagged cowpea stands were carefully uprooted at 10 WAS to determine the total biomass yield. Cowpea pods were harvested when the pods turned yellow at 10 WAS and threshed. Proximate composition of cowpea grains (crude protein, ash, fibre, carbohydrate, fat and dry matter), and post-cropped soil analyses were carried out using standard methods. Data obtained were subjected to analysis of variance and their treatment means were separated using Tukey’s multiple comparison test at p < 0.05. The results showed that pH of the pre-cropped soil was 6.94 and soil texture was loamy sand. Organic carbon and total nitrogen were 0.64 and 5.82 g/kg, respectively and these values reduced to between 13 and 30% across the treatment plots for the post-cropped soil. The growth parameters; height (cm), number of leaves and stem girth (cm) at 6 WAS were: 23.06 ± 0.86, 55.29 ± 4.59 and 1.58 ± 0.05 for A. indica; 24.15 ± 0.75, 57.58 ± 3.94 and 1.69 ± 0.06 for T. diversifolia; 21.76 ± 0.68, 48.38 ± 2.15 and 1.55 ± 0.05 for C. odorata; and 21.99 ± 1.18, 45.26 ± 3.45 and 1.46 ± 0.07 for cypermethrin, respectively. Also, the grain yield of cowpea with cypermethrin, 1.08 t/ha was significantly (p < 0.05) higher than the best plant-based insecticide, T. diversifolia. Cowpea grains obtained with T. diversifolia and C. odorata had comparable and high values of crude protein (29.7%, 28.3%) and fibre (6.1%, 6.5%) respectively. The study concluded that T. diversifolia compared favourably with cypermethrin, in terms of grain yield of cowpea, whereas T. diversifolia and C. odorata gave higher proximate composition of cowpea.
Open Access
Computer-aided taxonomic study of the angraecoids orchids of Nigeria and Cameroon.
(Department of Botany, Faculty of Science, Obafemi Awolowo University., 1991) Adeniyi Akanni JAYEOLA
The angraecoid orchids constitute a difficult assemblage of plants whose main line of classification has generated much controversy among taxonomists. Authorities differ in their inter- pretation of subtribal groups of this complex
Open Access
Elemental Characterisation of Pawpaw(carina papaya linn.) using Proton Induced x-ray Emission.
(Department of physics and engineering physics, Faculty of science, Obafemi Awolowo University., 2023) OMONIYI, Abiodun
The aim of this study was to examine the chemical makeup of Carica papaya samples obtained from Igbope in Oyo State and Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun State, with a focus on distinguishing between male and female specimens. The study assessed the differences in elemental concentrations found in the leaves, seeds, fruits, peel, and flowers of both genders. Additionally, the results were compared to established reference values to determine their applicability in traditional medicine for treating different diseases. The female and male pawpaw leaves, seeds, fruits, and peels collected from two distinct areas in southwestern Nigeria underwent a treatment process to eliminate any surface contaminants. This involved washing the samples with distilled water. Afterward, the washed samples were placed in an oven at the postgraduate laboratory (Department of Botany) and dried for 96 hours over a period of five (5) days. To enhance conductivity, the specimens were finely powdered utilizing an agate mortar. A thick pellet measuring 13 mm in diameter, consisting of ten percent (10%) ultra-pure graphite powder without a binder, was prepared and mixed with the ground samples. The levels of elemental composition in the samples collected from the two areas were assessed through the utilization of Proton Induced X-ray Emission (PIXE). The analysis of PIXE was performed by employing the Proton Ion Beam Analysis (IBA) accelerator, operating at an energy level of 2.5 MeV. The results showed that in all the samples analysed, K had the highest concentration.The concentrations of K were as follows: 58624 (46.9 ppm) for female fruits, 48729.9 (39.0 ppm) for male flowers, 46904.5 (37.5 ppm) for male leaves, 41629.9 (41.6 ppm) for female seeds, 39468.8 (35.5 ppm) for female peel, and 33036 (33.0 ppm) for female leaves. Notably, the concentration of potassium (K) was higher in the male leaves in comparison to the female leaves. Moreover, the male flowers displayed the greatest concentration of calcium (Ca), measuring 24891.8 (69.7 ppm). Interestingly, rubidium (Rb), a rare element in most plants, was found in all the samples. The male flowers exhibited the highest concentration of Rb, measuring 11090.3 (3389.2 ppm). All the samples from both locations contained the following elements: sodium (Na), magnesium (Mg), aluminum (Al), silicon (Si), phosphorus (P), sulfur (S), chlorine (Cl), potassium (K), calcium (Ca), titanium (Ti), manganese (Mn), fluorine (F), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), rubidium (Rb), and barium (Ba). The findings of this study indicate that Carica papaya, including its male and female components, contain a variety of essential trace and major elements that are important for human health. Furthermore, the study revealed that the male part of the plant had a significantly higher concentration of rubidium, an important element, when compared to the female part. In summary, this research indicates that the essential elemental composition of the male components of Carica papaya provides equal benefits compared to the female components.
Open Access
Evaluation of Entrance Skin Dose and Effective Dose of Adult Patients Undergoing Chest and Spine X-Ray Examination
(Department of physica and engineering, Faculty of science, Obafemi Awolowo University., 2023) SALAWU-ALARO Aishat olamide
This study evaluated the entrance surface dose (ESD) of adult patients undergoing chest and spine X-ray examination at Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital Complex (OAUTHC), Ile-Ife. It also estimated the effective dose (ED) and the probability of cancer incidence resulting from exposure to X-ray as a result of the examination. These were with a view to adding to frontier knowledge on the effect of exposure to ionizing radiation and emphasizing on the need for optimization of dose to patients.
Open Access
Evaluation of Insecticidal Activity of Pteris Ensiformis (burn.f.) Against Cowpea Weevii, Callosobruches Maculatus (Fabricius).
(Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Science, Obafemi Awolowo University., 2023) OBANA Giedia
This study investigated the toxicity bioassay of Pteris ensiformis leaf extracts against Callosobruchus maculatus. It assessed the oviposition and adult emergency effect of the most potent extract; as well as the sublethal effect of the most potent extract on some biochemical metabolites and on the neurotransmitting, detoxifying and antioxidant enzymes in C. maculatus and profiling the constituents of the extract using spectroscopic technique. These were with a view to providing an information on the insecticidal potential of Pteris ensiformis leaf on C. maculatus and the constituents responsible for this property. Fresh leaves of both sterile and fertile P. ensiformis were harvested and separately air-dried and milled into fine powder with the aid of an electrical grinder. The powdered samples (100 g) of sterile and fertile P. ensiformis leaves were soaked in 300 mL of 80% ethanol and n-hexane separately at room temperature for 72 h. Each sample was then filtered after 72 h through Whatman filter paper and the filtrates were concentrat(separately) on a rotary evaporator to give the fertile ethanolic (FE), fertile hexane (FH), sterile ethanolic (SE) and sterile hexane (SH) crude extracts of P. ensiformis leaf. Acute toxicity test was conducted by inhalation over a period of 24 h using five serial concentrations (0, 1.25, 2.5, 5 and 10 mg/mL) of each of the FE, FH, SE and SH extract on filter papers using standard method. Anti-oviposition test as well as repellency against the weevils were carried out on each of the extracts according to standard methods. Compared to others, FE showed highest mortality, anti-oviposition and repellency activities against C. maculatus. Thus, FE LC50 was determined using probit analysis and its sub-acute toxicity study at 80%, 40% and 20% of the LC50 was conducted for 6, 12, 18 and 24 h exposure periods. The tested insects at each exposure period were homogenized inphosphate buffer and the homogenate was assayed for the following biochemical parameters: alkaline phosphatase (ALP), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), reduced glutathione (GSH), glutathione transferase (GST), superoxide dismutase (SOD), acetylcholinesterase (AChE), acid phosphatase (ACP), glycogen and total protein. Also, the constituents of fertile P. ensiformis ethanolic leaf extract was profiled via GC-MS analysis. Analysis of data were carried out using GraphPad Prism, Statistical Analysis Software (SAS), Trimmed Spearman-Karber (TSK) program (Probit analysis), Turkey Post Test (GraphPad Software, San Diego, CA, USA). The difference weres considered to be significant if p ˂ 0.05. The results indicated 11.14 mg/mL as the LC50 value for fertile P. ensiformis ethanolic leaf extract. The result further revealed different patterns of inhibition (6 and 12 hours; p ˂ 0.05) and increases (18 and 24 hours; p< 0.05) in the activities of C. maculatus ALP, LDH, GSH, and AChE (p ˂ 0.05). Additionally, at all the exposure periods, GST activity was significantly stimulated while SOD activity was inhibited. Moreover, ACP activity (p ˂ 0.05) was consistently inhibited while glycogen and protein levels increased significantly at all the exposure periods. A total of 21 compounds were identified in fertile ethanolic leaf extract of P. ensiformis with four of the components (Cis-11-Hexadecenal, Octadecanal, Ethyl 9-hexadecenoate and n-Hexadecanoic acid) constituting 69.17% of the total extract. The study concluded that leaves of P. ensiformis (especially sporophylls) possess insecticidal properties that could be employed in the prevention of storage infestation of cowpeas.
Open Access
Evaluation of insecticidal activity of pteris ensiformis (Burn.F.) against cowpea weevil, callosobruchus maculatus (Fabricius)
(Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science , Obafemi Awolowo University Ile Ife,Nigeria., 2023) Gedia, Obana
This study investigated the toxicity bioassay of Pteris ensiformis leaf extracts against Callosobruchus maculatus. It assessed the oviposition and adult emergency effect of the most potent extract; as well as the sublethal effect of the most potent extract on some biochemical metabolites and on the neurotransmitting, detoxifying and antioxidant enzymes in C. maculatus and profiling the constituents of the extract using spectroscopic technique. These were with a view to providing aninformation on the insecticidal potential of Pteris ensiformis leaf on C. maculatus and the constituents responsible for this property. Fresh leaves of both sterile and fertile P. ensiformis were harvested and separately air-dried and milled into fine powder with the aid of an electrical grinder. The powdered samples (100 g) of sterile and fertile P. ensiformis leaves were soaked in 300 mL of 80% ethanol and n-hexane separately at room temperature for 72 h. Each sample was then filtered after 72 h through Whatman filter paper and the filtrates were concentrat(separately) on a rotary evaporator to give the fertile ethanolic (FE), fertile hexane (FH), sterile ethanolic (SE) and sterile hexane (SH) crude extracts of P. ensiformis leaf. Acute toxicity test was conducted by inhalation over a period of 24 h using five serial concentrations (0, 1.25, 2.5, 5 and 10 mg/mL) of each of the FE, FH, SE and SH extract on filter papers using standard method. Antioviposition test as well as repellency against the weevils were carried out on each of the extracts according to standard methods. Compared to others, FE showed highest mortality, anti-oviposition and repellency activities against C. maculatus. Thus, FE LC50 was determined using probit analysis and its sub-acute toxicity study at 80%, 40% and 20% of the LC50 was conducted for 6, 12, 18 and 24 h exposure periods. The tested insects at each exposure period were homogenized in phosphate buffer and the homogenate was assayed for the following biochemical parameters: alkaline phosphatase (ALP), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), reduced glutathione (GSH), glutathione transferase (GST), superoxide dismutase (SOD), acetylcholinesterase (AChE), acid phosphatase (ACP), glycogen and total protein. Also, the constituents of fertile P. ensiformis ethanolic leaf extract was profiled via GC-MS analysis. Analysis of data were carried out using GraphPad Prism, Statistical Analysis Software (SAS), Trimmed Spearman-Karber (TSK) program (Probit analysis), Turkey Post Test (GraphPad Software, San Diego, CA, USA). The difference were considered to be significant if p ˂ 0.05. The results indicated 11.14 mg/mL as the LC50 value for fertile P. ensiformis ethanolic leaf extract. The result further revealed different patterns of inhibition (6 and 12 hours; p ˂ 0.05) and increases (18 and 24 hours; p< 0.05) in the activities of C. maculatus ALP, LDH, GSH, and AChE (p ˂ 0.05). Additionally, at all the exposure periods, GST activity was significantly stimulated while SOD activity was inhibited. Moreover, ACP activity (p ˂ 0.05) was consistently inhibited while glycogen and protein levels increased significantly at all the exposure periods. A total of 21 compounds were identified in fertile ethanolic leaf extract of P. ensiformis with four of the components (Cis-11-Hexadecenal, Octadecanal, Ethyl 9-hexadecenoate and nHexadecanoic acid) constituting 69.17% of the total extract. The study concluded that leaves of P. ensiformis (especially sporophylls) possess insecticidal properties that could be employed in the prevention of storage infestation of cowpeas.
Open Access
Integrated seismicity and fault source characterisation of ground motion for seismic hazard assessment in Nigeria and parts of West Africa.
(Department of Geology, Faculty of Science, Obafemi Awolowo University., 2023) Olawoyin, Victor Timilehin
This study generated the seismicity and fault-based source model from current earthquake catalogue and estimated their expected ground motion and attenuation relationships. It also assessed the resulting seismic hazards potential of Nigeria and parts of West Africa. These were with a view to providing information on present and future levels of ground motion expected from quakes/tremors in Nigeria and parts of West Africa and serve as vital inputs to the design and development of earthquake resistant infrastructures.
Open Access
Ion-solvent Interaction and the effects on the specific volumes of some Salts and fatty acids
(Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Obafemi Awolowo University., 2015) ABDUL, Emmanuel Oluwaseun
This study measured the specific volumes of Ion (II) tetraoxosulphate (V) heptahydrate, chromium (III) tetraoxosulphate (VI) peatadecahydrate, sodium dodecyl sulphate(SIDS). Sodium laurate ,Potassium laurate, decanoic, dodeoanoic, and octadocanoic acids, evaluated the apparent molars volumes, established the extent of the solute-solvent interactions, examined the effect of the presence of some carboxylate head groups and carbon chain length on the specific volumes and provide data thermodynamic quantities such as enthalpy , entropy, and free energy changes associated with the viscous flow and the dissolution of the solutes. This was with a view 9to understanding micellar formation and the unit of viscous flow of the solutions.
Open Access
Isolation, biocontrol potential and Genomic healthy characterization of cyuclic lipopeptide-producing bacteria isolated from capsicum annum Root
(Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science, Obafemi Awolowo University., 2023) AGHUGHU, Michael Ewanlen
This study isolated fungi from wilted pepper tissues of Capsicum chinense, obtained bacteria from the root of healthy Capsicum annuum plants and characterized both by molecular methods. It also investigated the direct antagonism potential of the isolated bacteria and their cyclic lipopeptides against the fungal pathogens. The sturdy further characterized genes responsible for cyclic lipopeptides production, other traits, and the antagonistic potential of the bacteria. These were with a view to providing information on the biological control efficacy of the rhizospheric bacteria against fungal pathogens of wilted pepper. Fungi were isolated from the wilted roots and stem regions of C. chinense, and identified through the sequencing of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region; while bacteria were isolated from the healthy C. annuum roots, and characterized by 16S rRNA sequencing. CLP was extracted from isolated bacteria and the direct effect of the crude CLP at concentrations of 50, 25, 10, and 5 µg/mL on the fungal isolates was investigated in vitro. The in vitro plant growth promotion potential of the bacteria in this study was evaluated. The in vivo plant growth promotion traits and biocontrol potential of the bacteria were determined using potting soil supplemented with 1.5x10⁸ CFU/g of the bacteria. The genome of the bacteria of choice was sequenced and analyzed. The isolated fungi from the wilted C. chinense plants were all identified as Trichoderma species. Out of the six bacteria isolated from the healthy C. annuum, LPb1-3 had significant antagonistic effects on all the fungal isolates in a Petri dish assay and was identified as Enterobacter cloacae. The diameter of zones of inhibition (mm) of Enterobacter cloacaeLPb1-3 against the fungal pathogens was highest against Trichoderma erinaceum GP6(12.00), Trichoderma asperellum GP3 (11.00) and Trichoderma atroviride GP8 (8.00); xxand least against Trichoderma sp. GP7 (5.00) and Trichoderma atroviride WP4 (5.00), respectively. CLP produced by E. cloacae LPb1-3 had a direct effect on the fungi isolates at all tested concentrations, with the highest diameter of zones of inhibition of 11.33 mm at 25 µg/mL against T. asperellum GP3, and values of 16.67, 10.67, 10.33 and 9.00 mm at 50 µg/mL against Trichoderma sp. GP7, T. erinaceum GP6, T. atroviride WP4 and T.atroviride GP8, respectively. It caused structural damages such as extensive branching, coiling, blackening of the hyphal edge, hyphal digestion, hyphal breakage, hyphal leakage, and vacuolization, to the respective fungal hyphae. E. cloacae LPb1-3 showed successful phosphate solubilization and ammonia production, which could be responsible for the significant improvement in the shoot height, shoot weight and root weight of C. chinense. Interestingly, E. cloacae LPb1-3 reduced the disease severity caused by T. atroviride GP8, T. asperellum GP3 and T. erinaceum GP6 by 55%, 45% and 27%, respectively on C. chinense. Analysis of the bacterium’s genome confirmed the identity of LPb1-3 as Enterobacter cloacae and revealed genes coding for some pivotal secondary metabolites such as NI-siderophore, ladderane, aryl polyene, thiopeptide, and NRP-metallophore. The study concluded that Enterobacter cloacae LPb1-3 and its CLP efficiently suppressed the mycelial growth of pathogenic Trichoderma strains isolated from C. chinense in direct antagonism assays in vitro. It also improved C. chinense growth and its resilience against the pathogenic Trichoderma strains in vivo
Open Access
Propagation Studies On Piper Guineense Schumach. And Thonn. (African Black Pepper)
(Faculty of Science, Department of Botany, Obafemi Awolowo University., 2022) EZENU, Vivian Njideka.
This study identified germination requirements and characteristics of Piper guineense seeds, determined seedling growth rate, determined the optimal concentration of auxin needed for root induction in vegetative propagation, and further investigate the potential of Piper guineense for micropropagation. These were with a view to providing information on propagation of Piper guineense (Black pepper).
Open Access
Purification and characterization of rhodanese from a bacterium isolated from soil in a cassava processing site.
(Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Science, Obafemi Awolowo University., 2022) IDOWU Clement Oluwaseun
This study determined the cyanide content in the soil of cassava waste dumping site, isolated and identified a rhodanese-producing bacteria and optimized conditions for rhodanese production. It also purified and characterized the rhodanese. These were with a view to providing information on form of rhodanese for use in pretreatment of cyanide polluted environment. Soil samples were collected at garri processing site located at Tonkere gate, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria. The soil samples were soaked in distilled water at 1:3 (w/v) for 72 h. This was followed by centrifugation at 4000 rpm for 10 min. Cyanide concentration determination was carried out by the standard titrimetric method. The soil sample mixture was serially diluted with sterilized water and plated on Luria-Bertani (LB) agar medium to isolate bacteria. The bacterial isolates were screened for their ability to degrade free cyanide and the best rhodanese-producing strain was selected for further study. Optimization of culture conditions was carried out by varying incubation time, inoculum volume, temperature, pH and carbon and nitrogen sources. Rhodanese was assayed according to a standard method and activity expressed as Rhodanase Unit (RU). Rhodanese produced was partially purified with ion-exchange chromatography on CM-Sephadex C-50. The kinetic studies were carried out by varying the concentration of potassium cyanide and sodium thiosulphate, one at a time. Effects of pH, temperature and salts on the activity of the partially purified rhodanese were carried out. Sodium dodecyl sulphate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) was carried out to determine the subunit molecular weight of the enzyme. Three rhodanese-producing strains were identified based on cell morphology, cultural and biochemical characteristics. The optimized conditions for the growth of the bacterium include 1% casein, 50 mM potassium cyanide (KCN) (as sources of nitrogen and carbon respectivelyand 0.1 ml inoculum size for 24 h. The specific activity of the rhodanese enzyme was 152.8 RU/mg of protein with 35.7% yield and 2.08 purification fold. The subunit molecular weight was 25,990 Da. The kinetic studies gave the values of Km as 2.4108 ± 0.3697 mM and 3.0303 ± 0.5216 mM, Vmax as 13.44 ± 0.1735 RU and 13.97 ± 0.2354 RU for varied concentration of KCN and sodium thiosulphate (Na2S2O3) respectively. The activity of the enzyme was not affected by CaCl2, CuCl2, KCl, MgCl2, MnCl2 and NaCl, but inhibition occurred with CoCl2 at concentration as low as 0.01 mM. The optimum temperature for the activity of the enzyme was found to be 40 oC and optimum pH was 7.0. The enzyme was heat stable at 30 to 50 oC and was less stable at 60 oC. The Arrhenius graph was biphasic and the activation energies were 12.5 kJ/mol/K and 14.85 kJ/mol/K from the two phases. The study concluded that the rhodanese from a bacterium of the soil of cassava processing sites possessed good catalytic properties and could be used for bioremediation of cyanide polluted soil.
Open Access
Studies on the feeding and reproductive status of musca domestica and chrysomya chloropyga collected on Obafemi Awolowo University
(Department of Zoology, Faculty of Sceince, Obafemi Awolowo University., 2014) Abdul-Hamid, Nurat Bukola
Adults musca domestica (Linnacus and Chrysomya chloropyga (Wiedemann) were collected with sweep net from the refuse dump of Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile Ife. The collection was made three times in a month for a period for a period of twelve months. The different species were separated into male and female laboratory.

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