Kinetics, thermodynamics and mechanisms of the oxidation of L-cysteine (Cyst) with [AuCl3(OH)]- was studied spectrophotometrically in aqueous perchloric acid at ionic strength, µ = 0.05 mol dm–3 (NaClO4) and T = 30.0 ± 1 °C. Stoichiometry of the reaction was 2:1 (Cyst: AuCl3OH-). The rate of reaction was first order in [Cyst] as well as in [AuCl3(OH)-] and second order overall. The reaction was biphasic revealing an initial substitution step and final electron transfer phase. Addition of acid within the range 5.0 x 10-4 - 1.4 x 10-2 mol dm-3 decreased the rate of the reactions. The rate equation is written as: where k2 (dm3 mol-1 s-1) is 1.743±0.083 for the electron transfer phase and 0.3874±0.015 for the substitution process implying a redox-controlled reaction. Increasing µ from 2.0 x10-2 to 1.2 x10-1 mol dm-3 (NaClO4) increased rate of reaction from 1.74 - 2.20 dm3 mol-1 s-1, similar trend was observed on varying dielectric constant from 78.40 - 73.59. Added anion concentrations from 2.0 x10 -3 – 1.4 x 10 -2 mol dm-3 decreased the rate of reaction while added cation within the same concentration range led to increase in reaction rate. Michaelis – Menten’s type plot was linear and with negligible intercept. The results of thermodynamic investigation indicated that entropy of activation (JK-1 mol-1) was 0.15 while activation enthalpy (kJ mol-1) was 65.80. Cystine was obtained for cysteine oxidation by FTIR analysis at 452 cm-1 while Au(I) was the product of [AuCl3(OH)]- reduction. Evidences from this study confirmed that the reaction occurred through the outer - sphere pathway.
This study examines the structure–odour relationship of methyl eugenol through systematic modification of its molecular framework. The work focused on converting hydroxyether derivatives of methyl eugenol into monoesters. Two derivatives were synthesized. These include 1-(3,4-dimethoxyphenyl)-3-ethoxypropan-2-yl benzoate with a yield of 43.66 percent, and 1-(3,4-dimethoxyphenyl)-3-ethoxypropan-2-yl acetate with a yield of 65.71 percent. Olfactory evaluation showed clear differences in scent profiles. The benzoate derivative produced a floral, fresh, slightly lime-like, and sweet aroma. The acetate derivative showed a glue-like, pungent, and caramel-like odour. The results show that functional group modification and positional changes, including replacement of the double bond, strongly influence the olfactory character of methyl eugenol derivatives. The structural changes increased odour strength and diversity, supporting their relevance for developing new fragrance materials.
The increasing use of inorganic fertilizers in agriculture has raised concerns about nutrient contamination of water resources. This study assessed the concentrations of nitrate (NO₃⁻), phosphate (PO₄³⁻), and ammonium (NH₄⁺) ions in dam water (DW), borehole water (BW), and sachet water (SW) in Gadau, Itas/Gadau LGA, Bauchi State, Nigeria. Water samples were collected using standard sampling procedures and analyzed using UV–Visible spectrophotometry after appropriate chemical digestion and color development methods. Results showed Nitrate concentrations of 3.213±0.632 mg/L (DW), 0.397±0.1289 mg/L (SW), and 0.051±0.0365 mg/L (BW), phosphate concentrations were 3.015±0.176 mg/L (DW), 3.214±0.201 mg/L (SW), and 2.301±0.1713 mg/L (BW), ammonium concentrations were 2.314±0.201 mg/L (DW), 0.057±0.0352 mg/L (SW), and 0.030±0.00866 mg/L (BW). P-values and R2 in all the nutrient ions analyses are generally (< 0.05) and (> 87%) respectively. All nitrate values were below WHO limits (≤10 mg/L). However, ammonium in dam water exceeded the recommended limit (≤0.39 mg/L). The study concludes that while most water sources remain within safe limits for nitrate and phosphate, dam water shows elevated ammonium levels with a general trend DW > SW > BW, suggesting fertilizer runoff influence. Continuous monitoring and sustainable fertilizer management practices are recommended.
The viabilities of Hura crepitans and rubber seed oils as industrial raw materials for the preparations of metal soaps and alkyd resin synthesis were investigated. Dried and ground H. crepitans and rubber seeds were extracted with petroleum ether. Fatty acid composition of H. crepitans and rubber seed oils were characterized by Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry method. The oil contents (%) of H. crepitans and rubber seed oils are 53.60 ± 0.17and 54.25 ± 0.16 (w/w) respectively. The acid, iodine and saponification values of H. crepitans and rubber seed oils were 28.05 ± 2.30; 35.60 ± 0.21 mgKOH/g, 177.66 ± 0.3; 135.66 ± 0.16 g/100g and 246.40 ± 1.43; 206.70 ± 0.11 mgKOH/g, respectively. The iodine values (177.66 ± 0.3, 135.66 ± 0.16 g/100g) suggested H. crepitans and rubber seed oils as drying and semi–drying oils respectively. The fatty acids %composition of H. crepitans and rubber seed oils revealed total saturation (20.63 and 8.9) while total unsaturation are 78.78 and 66.49 respectively. The iodine, saponification, acid values and oil lengths confirmed the desirability of H. crepitans and rubber seed oils as potential raw materials for industrial usage.
Four transition metal complexes of barbitone were synthesized in ratio 1:1 equimolar concentration by a direct mixing method in water-methanol medium. The physical characterization of the transition metal complexes examined were the colour, meltingpoint and %yield. Characterization of the complexes was also done using UV- visible and FTIR spectrometric methods. Antimicrobial activities of metal complexes against some selected fungi which include Serpula lacrymans, Epidermophyton floccosum and Trichophyton verrucosum and bacteria such as Salmonella typhi, Ralstonia solanacearum, Streptoccum faecalis , Erwinia carrrotovora and Pseudomonas glycinea .The results of physical analysis of the metals complexes of barbitone showed colour variations, revealing the dominating effects of the ligand on metals. The percentage yield was high and reproducible with sharp melting points, confirming purity of the complexes and non – hygroscopic in characters. The results of solubility tests on transparent organic solvents of metal complexes proved that complexes were non – polar. The results of spectroscopic analysis using UV-visible spectroscopy revealed the presence of unsaturated π-π* transition and charge transfers while the FTIR Spectroscopy confirmed the metal-ligand coordination through the nitrogen and oxygen atoms of the ligand bidentately by dative bond. The results of antimicrobial screening against the selected fungi and bacteria showed that metal complexes are far more proactive than the free ligand.
Pencil electrodes are gaining popularity as a low-cost, disposable alternative to traditional electrodes due to their ease of fabrication and modification. This study explores how polyaniline (PANI) was used to enhance the properties of affordable pencil graphite electrode (PGE). FTIR spectroscopy was used to characterize the substance and verify its composition and presence on the sensor as well as to identify unique functional group and ensure the doping process was a success. To enhance conductivity and surface functionality, PANI was electropolymerized onto the PGE surface using cyclic voltammetry. The combined spectroscopic data provide essential insights into the chemical interactions happening within the modified electrode, supporting its potential use in future sensor development. GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT
This research determined the cyanogenic glucosides of raw, cooked and baked Irish potatoes (Solanum tuberosum); and the pH effects on the cyanogenic glucosides of the processed Irish potato using a colorimeter through the formation of cyanomethemoglobin. The results show a variation in the cyanogenic glucoside concentration at various pHs. The highest cyanogenic glucoside concentration of 1.18 ± 0.2316 mg/kg was recorded in raw potatoes at pH 8.6 while the lowest cyanogenic glucoside concentration of 0.79 ± 0.1179 mg/kg was recorded in baked Irish potato at pH of 7.8 For processed samples of Solanum tuberosum with Methaemoglobin complex; surprisingly, boiled Irish potatoes has the highest value of cyanide concentration of 0.98 ± 0.1510 mg/kg at pH of 7.8, followed by cooked potatoes at 0.79 ± 0.1179 mg/kg at pH of 7.8. The highest mean cyanide concentration (0.83 mg/kg) was recorded at pH 8.6 (basic medium) while the lowest mean cyanide concentration (0.0034 mg/kg) was recorded at pH 6.2 (very weak acidic medium). The values obtained for the various methods used in processing Irish potatoes were in tandem with recommended standard by World Health Organization (WHO) and International Standard Organization (ISO). The values are lower than the maximum accepted standard of 10 mg of HCN /10 kg body weights. This research summarizes critical information on nutritional profiles of Irish potatoes and their processed products and describes the state of the science relative to the influence of in-home and common commercial processing on nutritional quality and potential impacts on human health.
The increasing presence of persistent organic pollutants in water bodies has created a need for efficient and sustainable treatment materials. In this study, a silver African seed nanocatalyst (Ag-ASN) was synthesized using African pear seed biochar as a low-cost support material, African pear leaf extract as a green reducing and stabilizing agent, and silver nitrate as the metal precursor, and characterized using Fourier Infra-Red spectroscopy (FT-IR) and Scanning Electron Microscopy Energy Dispersed X-ray (SEM/EDX). Photo-catalytic degradation of Dibutyl phthalate (DBP) was investigated at variable catalyst dose and DBP concentrations in a batch reactor using the prepared Ag-ASN as a photocatalyst. SEM-EDX results confirmed a carbon-rich material with a rough surface morphology, indicative of good dispersion of silver within the biochar matrix. FTIR analysis revealed the presence of -OH, -NH, and -CH functional groups. Photocatalytic studies showed that increased catalyst dosage from 0.01 to 0.07g resulted to an increase in degradation efficiency up to an optimum level (74.8 to 97.4%), and then a decline from 0.09 to 0.11g (89.6 to 81.9%), while at low initial DBP concentrations (0.0001 mg/L), degradation efficiency reached 97.8 %. The results showed that African pear seed biochar-based silver nanocomposite is a promising green photocatalyst for the removal of organic pollutants from aqueous systems.
This study investigates the heavy metals, physicochemical, and microbial properties of water and soil in Zuba, Dei Dei, and Utako Motor Parks using the American Public Health Association(APHA) methods (2005). The study aimed to assess the environmental impact of vehicular emissions and anthropogenic activities on the underground water from these areas. The Heavy metals concentration in mg/l of the water of the study areas are as follows; 0.64, 0.42, 1.34, 1.75, 0.020, 0.32, 0.082, 8.47 and 0.023 for Ni, Cu, Pb, Mn, Cd, Cr, Fe, Zn and Ar respectively for Deidei Motor Park, 0.037, 2.78, 1.36, 1.64, 0.066, 0.21, 0.063, 7.06 and 0.02 for Ni, Cu, Pb, Mn, Cd, Cr, Fe, Zn and Ar respectively for Zuba Motor Park and 1.02, 3.22, 1.58, 1.66, 0.06, 0.58, 0.21, 9.16 and 0.02 for Ni, Cu, Pb, Mn, Cd, Cr, Fe, Zn and Ar respectively for Utako Motor Park. The results of the physicochemical properties of water obtained from the study areas in their various standards units are as follows; Dei Dei Motor park; pH7.42, Temp 25.9, Cond 207, Hardness 7.39, Chloride 201.8, Turbidity 0.44, Nitrate 11.06, Sulfate 122.7, phosphate2.52 and TDS 523.3, Zuba Motor park water; pH7.2, Temp 26.1, Cond 363.3, Hardness 7.33, Chloride 120.1, Turbidity 0.2, Nitrate 6.98, Sulfate 112.3, phosphate1.3 and TDS 647 and Utako Motor park; pH7.43, Temp 29.26, Cond270, Hardness11.25, Chloride344.8, Turbidity0.76, Nitrate13.27, Sulfate139.7, phosphate1.26 and TDS 586. The results showed that the concentration of Ni, Cr, Pb, Mn, Cd, Zn, and Fe in water samples obtained from the parks were above WHO limits. The pH, temperature, total dissolved solids (TDS), and chloride levels of all the water samples exceeded WHO permissible limit. Microbial analysis indicated the presence of only total bacterial counts (TBC) which remained within WHO safety limits. The Heavy metals and the physicochemical parameters correlate both positively and negatively among themselves. The finding shows that the water in the study areas are significantly contaminated with some heavy metals (Zinc, Nickel, Chromium, Lead)
The release of synthetic dyes into wastewater poses serious environmental and health risks, necessitating efficient and low-cost treatment solutions. This study investigates the adsorption performance of maize cob-derived activated carbon for bromophenol blue removal, integrating adsorbent characterization, process optimization, and mechanistic modeling. Activated carbon produced via phosphoric acid activation and thermochemical carbonization was characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy, which confirmed the development of functionalized surfaces and well-defined porosity. A Box–Behnken design was applied to optimize agitation speed, dye concentration, contact time, and adsorbent dosage, achieving a maximum removal efficiency of 99.95% under optimal conditions. Kinetic modeling showed that the pseudo-second-order model best described the adsorption process ( = 0.9983), indicating chemisorption as the rate-controlling mechanism. Equilibrium data were most consistent with the Temkin isotherm ( = 0.9722), suggesting adsorption on energetically heterogeneous surfaces with a gradual decrease in adsorption energy as coverage increased. Overall, the results demonstrate that maize cob–derived activated carbon is an effective, sustainable adsorbent for dye remediation and highlight its potential for application in wastewater treatment systems. Keywords: Bromophenol blue, Maize cob-derived activated carbon, Pseudo-second-order kinetic model, Response surface methodology, Temkin isotherm model The release of synthetic dyes into wastewater poses serious environmental and health risks, necessitating efficient and low-cost treatment solutions. This study investigates the adsorption performance of maize cob-derived activated carbon for bromophenol blue removal, integrating adsorbent characterization, process optimization, and mechanistic modeling. Activated carbon produced via phosphoric acid activation and thermochemical carbonization was characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy, which confirmed the development of functionalized surfaces and well-defined porosity. A Box–Behnken design was applied to optimize agitation speed, dye concentration, contact time, and adsorbent dosage, achieving a maximum removal efficiency of 99.95% under optimal conditions. Kinetic modeling showed that the pseudo-second-order model best described the adsorption process ( = 0.9983), indicating chemisorption as the rate-controlling mechanism. Equilibrium data were most consistent with the Temkin isotherm ( = 0.9722), suggesting adsorption on energetically heterogeneous surfaces with a gradual decrease in adsorption energy as coverage increased. Overall, the results demonstrate that maize cob–derived activated carbon is an effective, sustainable adsorbent for dye remediation and highlight its potential for application in wastewater treatment systems.
Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are chlorine rich compounds of attention due to their reported hazards to ecology and humans. PCB residues in water and sediment from River Benue within Makurdi City were analysed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The total of seven PCB homologues in water (ng L-1) ranged from 0.004 to 0.050, average of 0.0197±0.0021, and the cumulative concentration (∑7PCBs) of 0.179 during rainy season whereas, the range of 0.001 to 0.050, average of 0.0205±0.0016 and ∑7PCBs of 0.176 were recorded during dry season. In sediment, the ∑7PCBs (ng g-1) was 23.428 with the total ranging from 0.715 to 7.411 and average of 2.603±0.250 during rainy season, while the ∑7PCBs of 27.331, range of 1.092 to 8.746, and average of 3.037±0.280 were obtained during dry season. ∑7PCBs in water and sediment were lower than the 14 ng L-1 guideline values set for water by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA), and the 1000 ng g-1 Dutch guideline value for sediments. Toxic equivalence (TEQ) was less than the 1.00 pg L-1 TEQ set for water by the Japanese government, and the standard sediment quality guidelines of 21.5 pg g-1 TEQ set by the Canadian Council of Ministers of Environment (CCME). Concentrations of PCBs in sediment were below threshold effect level (TEL), effect range low (ERL) and threshold effect concentration (TEC). Human health risk assessment values for ingestion of water and sediment were lower than the threshold value of 1.0 x 10-6 set by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA). Results obtained from this study indicated that River Benue was minimally contaminated with PCBs, hence potentially safe for ecological and human life. This study provides baseline data on risk assessment of PCBs in water and sediment from River Benue.
The Mountain Top University water treatment plant is a commercial venture for internal revenue generation that uses multi-media filtration. Quality challenges has been occurring in the treatment process as a result of non monitored performance of the filter media. Expiration of the filter media had been based on a period and not on the actual number of times used. The recharge of filtration media is a function of the volume of operation engaged by the media. The degree of depreciation in media retention shall thus determine the discharged time of spent media. This work quantified the number of contaminants retained on the filter media per a period of time as a measure of the filtration efficiency and life span of the media. The data obtained from the filter media clean-up (back wash operation (BO) of the media) over a scheduled period shall be used as a tool to determine the rate of contaminants retention. Samples were taken weekly before backwash operations (BBO) and after backwash operations (ABO) from inlet and outlet of each of the three sequentially connected filtration cylinders containing akdolite with sand, carbon with sand and resin with sand respectively. Both Inlet (inflow into filtration cylinder) and Outlet (outflow from the filtration cylinder samples were taken for a span of 11 weeks. The sampling was taken while the system was on treatment mode just before embarking on back wash operations (BBO) and immediately after back wash operation (ABO) when the system have been reversed to treatment mode. Physicochemical analysis such as Turbidity, Colour, and Total Solids (TS), were carried out on the samples. Turbidity, Iron content and Ca/Mg Hardness were determined spectrophotometerically with appropriate reagents. While gravimetric methods of analysis were used to determine, Total dissolved solids (TDS) and Total suspended solids (TSS). The extent of treatment and filter rejuvenating evaluation were evaluated. The parallel difference of about 1mg/L between the graph of BBO and ABO in Figure 3 across the weeks from the combinations of filteration cylinders containing multimedia of Akdolite and sand by which Turbidity was measured. The same occurs in Figure 2 where colour was monitored. Figure 3 also reveals fluctuations in total hardness from the filter rejuvenating evaluation in which 1mg/L to about 15mg/L on an average was retained on the filter bed This as indicated an imperfect exchange of ions on the charged resins. It implies weakness in the ion exchange capacity of the resin. The filter rejuvenating evaluation from the sand components of the multimedia in all the three filtration cylinders as indicated an insignificant contaminants retention at both operations of both BBO and ABO. The ABO contaminants were of minimal difference to that of BBO which indicated that the media is spent. However, turbidity and colour FRE remained constant (∆ ≈ 1 unit) about the same input, showing those media are still active. Thus, exhaustion is specific parameter‑, not uniform across the multimedia components. Filter Rejuvenation Evaluation (FRE) gaps between the graphs closing to near‑zero for TSS, TDS, hardness and iron is an indication of exhausted filter layers. The wider in the graph indicates high efficiency of the media. Due to the difference in the functional modes of the multimedia components, therefore the value or range of filter rejuvenating evaluation to determine a spent media cannot parallelly applied to all multimedia components. In multimedia filtration cylinder, media of different functions loaded in the same chamber are not spent at the same time.
Uapaca Bail (Phyllanthaceae) comprises 28 accepted woody species native to Tropical Africa and Madagascar. This review summarizes the phylogeny, distribution, botanical features, ethnomedicinal uses, pharmacology, phytochemistry, isolated compounds across the genus, and highlights verified activities (notably antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimalarial, and antiproliferative effects). It compiles published data on Uapaca species to organize evidence, appraise methodologies, and identify gaps for further study.
The physicochemical parameters (temperature, pH, EC and TDS) and heavy metals (Ni, Cd, Pb, Sn, Co and Cr) in hand dug well water samples collected from ten (10) wells along Bukuru Jos express-way, Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria. The physicochemical parameters were determined using a pcstestr 35 multi-parameter meter. The results revealed that all the parameters measured were within the World health Organization (WHO) limits of standards for drinking water quality. The heavy metals were analyzed using Buck Scientific Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS), model 210 VGP. The results were in the range: Ni (0.153-1.77 mg/L); Cd (0.989-5.80 mg/L); Pb (0.404-2.46 mg/L); Sn (0.351-4.90 mg/L); Co (0.111-0.854 mg/L) and Cr (1.48-11.1 mg/L) respectively. These concentrations exceed the WHO limits of standards for heavy metals in drinking water. The results indicate some level of contamination of the well water with heavy metals. Therefore, recommended that: the well water should be treated before consumption. Also, there is need for proper construction, maintenance and protection of the wells to ensure a safe and reliable water supply.
Diabetes mellitus is a prevalent metabolic disorder characterized by chronic hyperglycemia, often resulting in severe complications. The limitations of conventional treatments, including resistance and side effects, have driven interest in alternative therapies. This study investigated the anti-diabetic and toxicity efficacy of the plant Annona squamosa Linn using Drosophila melanogaster as a model organism. Phytochemical screening of the plant extracts revealed the presence of bioactive compounds such as alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, and terpenoids, suggesting potential therapeutic benefits. The toxicity (LD50 = 759.8mg/10g) revealed low lethality. The Antidiabetes result (6.65mml/L) for the induced in Drosophila melanogaster revealed a positive value demonstrating a significant reduction in glucose levels, improved locomotor activity, and enhanced eclosion rates compared to untreated diabetic flies. GC-MS of the extract revealed key bioactive compounds, including esters, glycolipids and fatty acids, which may contribute to the observed anti-diabetic effects. The column chromatographic isolation followed by spectroscopic analysis, including, NMR and IR of the chloroform extract afforded a digalactosyldiglyceride (DGDG). The study revealed that Annona squamosa Linn exhibited promising anti-diabetic properties with varying toxicity levels. Further research was recommended to further isolate and characterize more bioactive compounds for potential pharmaceutical development.
This study investigated the potential of Bentonite-Chitosan (Bt-Ch) beads for the removal of trivalent arsenic (As(III)) ions from aqueous solutions using a batch adsorption procedure. The experimental adsorption data from equilibrium, kinetic, and thermodynamic studies were subjected to various adsorption models to determine the best fits, and the obtained parameters were compared. The Langmuir, Freundlich and Dubinin-Radushkevich (D-R) isotherm models were found to correlate well with the adsorption equilibrium data describing the adsorption process of As(III) ions onto the Bt-Ch beads. Although lower values of maximum adsorption capacities (Qmax) were recorded for Bt-Ch beads at three different temperatures but can still be compared (or even better) with some adsorbents previously reported regarding the adsorption of As(III) ions. The pseudo-second-order equation was found to better explain the adsorption kinetics. According to thermodynamic results, the adsorption process can proceed spontaneously and occurs exothermically. Except for dihydrogen-phosphates (H2PO4-), other anions investigated have no inhibition effects on the adsorption of As(III) ions. The adsorption of As(III) onto Bt-Ch beads occurs by physical process as evidenced by the D-R isotherm model and thermodynamic analysis. However, Kinetic investigations suggest that the adsorption of As(III) onto Bt-Ch beads may occur via a chemical process. Overall, the poor loading capacity and low adsorption efficiencies suggest the need for modification of Bt-Ch beads for effective removal of As(III) ions from aqueous solution.
Diabetes mellitus, particularly type 2 diabetes, is a growing global health concern characterized by persistently high blood sugar levels due to impaired insulin function. Current synthetic enzyme inhibitors used to manage post-meal glucose spikes often result in gastrointestinal side effects. This study investigated the potential of the n-hexane extract of Picralima nitida as a natural inhibitor of the enzymes α-glucosidase and α-amylase, which are involved in carbohydrate digestion. In silico analyses were conducted using computer-aided drug design (CADD) tools to assess the binding affinities of thirty compounds from the extract against α-glucosidase (PDB: 3TOP) and α-amylase (PDB: 4W93). The in vitro results demonstrated that the extract exhibited moderate yet significant inhibitory activity against both enzymes, suggesting potential antidiabetic effects. Specifically, the extract's highest α-amylase inhibition was 66.97% at a concentration of 10 mg/ml, although this activity slightly decreased at higher concentrations, indicating a non-linear response. In contrast, α-glucosidase inhibition increased with concentration, reaching 64.04% at 100 mg/ml, indicating a dose-dependent effect. In silico findings identified compounds such as 2-methoxy-4-vinylphenol (6.4 and 5.2 kcal/mol), tetrahydroionone (5.7 and 5.5 kcal/mol), and alpha-D-mannofuranoside (5.5 and 5.4 kcal/mol) as strong dual inhibitors, outperforming metformin (5.8 and 4.6 kcal/mol). Additionally, medium-chain fatty acids like lauric and pelargonic acids demonstrated considerable inhibitory potential, while compounds such as ethyl palmitate showed weaker binding. Overall, these results suggest that P. nitida contains promising natural inhibitors that could provide safer alternatives to synthetic medications. Further in vitro and in vivo studies are recommended to validate these findings and support the development of formulations for antidiabetic therapy.
The wound healing activity, antimicrobial and phytochemical constituents of Azadirachta indica seeds were investigated. The methanolic extract of A. indica was prepared, labeled as AIME and studied for phytochemical constituents, antimicrobial activity on transient flora microorganisms of the skin using standard methods. Wound healing study was conducted on 28 Wistar rats distributed into four groups of seven rats each and incised with wound area of 550 mm2. Rats from Groups 1 and 2 were treated with 15 % and 20 % of AIME respectively, Group 3 with 100 % ointment (positive control) while Group 4 were left untreated (negative control). The wound healing activity of the prepared ointments were assessed by the rate of wound contraction, wound area and epitheliazation time on every four days interval. The wound effect on the rats (feed intake, growth parameters, change in body weight, and specific growth rate) were also assessed. The phytochemical analysis of AIME revealed the presence of different bioactive compounds such as alkaloid, reducing sugar, cardiac glycosides, flavonoids, terpenoids and sterols in AIME. The two prepared ointments exhibited significant antimicrobial activity on S. aureus, B. subtilis and P. aeroginosa. The results of the wound healing activity indicated that 15 % AIME had the most potent wound healing capacity as evident from epitheliazation time (15.50±0.55 days), followed by its 20 % counterpart with the epitheliazation time of 23.33±2.73 days; that of the positive control was 18.00±1.87. The activity of the endogenous enzymes on the scar areas were also found to be regulated by the seed extract. The increased wound contraction, the antioxidative and moderate antimicrobial activities of the methanolic extract are indicative of the wound healing potential of A. indica seeds. Keywords: Seed extract; phytochemical; antimicrobial; wound healing; epitheliazation period
This study was undertaken to determine the nutritional benefits of selected energy drinks commonly consumed in Abuja metropolis. Ten different energy drinks were bought and coded E1E2E3………. E10. Proximate analysis was used to determine the total ash, crude protein, moisture, crude fiber, lipids, carbohydrate and energy value. The result of the moisture content of the different samples showed the moisture ranged from 89.10% to 91.19%. the highest value in E2 of all the energy drinks sampled. The result also showed that E6 has the highest ash content with 0.29% of all brands of energy drinks while the lowest ash content was 0.001% in E1. The nutritional values showed that E5 was found to be the highest on protein among the ten energy drinks. E4 was the highest in carbohydrate but the least among for protein. E9 was found to be the highest in fat content while E7 was found to have the highest energy level but also happens to have the lowest moisture and fat present.
Soil properties may change due to climate change, but in recent times, the changes occurred as a result of anthropogenic activities such as metal workshop operations. This study was conducted to investigate the presence of heavy metals in the soil of mechanical workshops and how it affects health risk assessment in Nigeria, especially as it concerns Asaba metropolis. five different workshops, Opposite former deputy (OFD), SIO, Federal College (FC)), Officer’s Mess (OM) and Former Deputy (FD) all in Asaba town, Delta State were sampled for the study and analyzed for four heavy metals (Pb, Ar, Cr, Cd,) levels using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS). A descriptive cross-sectional survey was carried out to assess the knowledge, attitudes and perceptions of people living around the study area. The analytical data was subjected to statistical tests of significance using ANOVA and (P<0.05) to determine whether there was any significant difference between the study sites. It was revealed that the concentrations of (Pb, Cr, As, and Cd) were found to increase slightly higher at one point or the other than control values. However, this study indicated that the mechanic workshop clusters was indeed polluted with these metals (Pb, Cr, As, and Cd) as all the indices of contamination considered indicate significant to considerable degree of contamination therefore constitutes major health risk to the local population. It was recommended that government should provide appropriate places that will serve as automobile village where auto repairs are kept at safe distances from human habitation.
