Journal of Medicinal Plants Research, Feb 25, 2013
The essential oils of the fresh leaves, dry leaves and dry stem of Tarchonanthus camphoratus from... more The essential oils of the fresh leaves, dry leaves and dry stem of Tarchonanthus camphoratus from Kwa-Zulu Natal, South Africa, were obtained by hydro-distillation and analyzed by gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The essential oils were evaluated for their antibacterial activity against 4 Gram positive and 5 Gram negative bacteria using the disc diffusion method and the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) method. A total of 33, 27 and 25 compounds were identified representing 85.9, 73.01 and 72.66% of the total oil composition from the fresh leaves, dry leaves and dry stem, respectively. Sesquiterpene hydrocarbons dominated the essential oil of the fresh leaves (36.46%) and of the dry leaves (59.18) whereas an aldehyde, butanal (35.77%) dominated the essential oil of the dry stem. The oils showed a broad spectrum of antibacterial activity. The zones of inhibition of the fresh leaves, dry leaves, dry stem and chloramphenicol ranged from 7.3 to 14.0, 7.3 to 16.7, 13.5 to 20.4 and 0.00 to 17.5 mm, respectively. The lowest MIC value for the oils was 125 µg/ml.
Diversification and expansion of the poultry industry with fast-growing and highly prolific birds... more Diversification and expansion of the poultry industry with fast-growing and highly prolific birds such as the quail (Coturnix coturnix), could contribute significantly in achieving global food and nutrition security. However, sustainable intensification of the quail relies on the cost of dietary ingredients used during feed formulations. The use of non-conventional energy sources such as sorghum, millet, and cassava in lieu of expensive energy sources such as maize, could ensure sustainable quail businesses. Generally, alternative feedstuffs should be cost-effective and possess comparable nutritional qualities as maize. In tropical countries such as South Africa, the use of sorghum, millet, and cassava in quail diets can serve as ideal alternatives because they have relatively comparable energy values as maize. Furthermore, these alternatives are largely available and easily accessible in many farming areas of South Africa. However, the presence of antinutritional factors such as ta...
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health
Heavy metals are unbreakable, and most of them are poisonous to animals and people. Metals are pa... more Heavy metals are unbreakable, and most of them are poisonous to animals and people. Metals are particularly concerning among environmental contaminants since they are less apparent, have extensive effects on ecosystems, are poisonous, and bioaccumulate in ecosystems, biological tissues, and organs. Therefore, there is a need to use biological agents and phytoremediation processes such as enzymes because they have a high potential for effectively transforming and detoxifying polluting substances. They can convert pollutants at a detectable rate and are potentially suitable for restoring polluted environments. We investigated heavy metal concentrations in different soil samples collected in four sections in Alice and determined the enzyme activity levels present in the soil. The Pearson correlation analysis was conducted to check whether there was any relationship between heavy metal concentrations and enzyme activities in the soil. Samples were randomly collected in three weeks, and ...
Asian journal of agriculture and rural development, Feb 28, 2022
A survey of rural turkey farmers was conducted in three villages in the Eastern part of Nigeria, ... more A survey of rural turkey farmers was conducted in three villages in the Eastern part of Nigeria, namely: Amukwa, Amaeze and Nguru. The aim of the study was to assess the prevailing management and production practices of turkey farmers in the area. Information obtained included flock size, reasons for keeping birds, breeding and management practices among others. The multistage random sampling method was used to collect information from 180 respondents. Results obtained revealed variability in response among flock sizes (1-20), with most (90%) respondents being part-time farmers. Mean scores, in terms of the level of adoption of standard management practices by turkey farmers, were given as cleaning and disinfection of pen before restocking ( = 4.60), removal of droppings ( = 4.57), and changing and replacement of litters ( = 4.4). Beak trimming ( = 1.27) was the lowestranked farm practice by farmers. It was concluded that the management practices and production of turkey in the study area are below standard when compared to those in developed societies. Adequate support for farmers in terms of finance and regular training, among others, by relevant agencies including the government may help improve the production of turkey in the area. Contribution/Originality: This study contributes in the existing literature on the prevailing management practice of local turkey-farming among rural communities in the Eastern Region of Nigeria.
International Journal of Agriculture and Biology, 2017
Swiss chard cultivar was raised in greenhouse and irrigated with different concentrations of leac... more Swiss chard cultivar was raised in greenhouse and irrigated with different concentrations of leachate obtained from the municipal landfill in Bellville, Cape Town, South Africa. The greenhouse experiment was laid out in a completely randomised design (CRD) replicated three times. Soil and crops sample were taken weekly after transplant and analysed to assess soil properties, growth and mineral contents of Swiss chard, post-irrigation. The leachate samples had a high electrical conductivity (mean = 383 mS cm -1 ) and high soluble salts content (mean values, Na: 714.5 mg/L, K: 56.8 mg/L, Ca: 133.7 mg/L, Mg: 68.8 mg/L, Cl: 983 mg/L); while the composition of heavy metals in the wastewater leachates were of low concentrations. The application of different concentrations of leachates as source of irrigation resulted in increased soil cation concentrations, particularly Na ions (increased sodicity). Similarly, an increase in electrical conductivity and pH were recorded in the soils after ...
Pearl millet is an alternative source of livelihood for poor farmers who use it to supplement foo... more Pearl millet is an alternative source of livelihood for poor farmers who use it to supplement food and income. Pearl millet has high medicinal value and its consumption reduces the risk of type 2 diabetes, constipation, and anemia. Pearl millets are an excellent source of protein and fiber, and a great source of starch, making it a high-energy food. It is an exceptional food source for babies from six months of age because it has high nutrients and is easily digestible. Pearl millet is the most widely cultivated millet varieties in the world. The cereal crop is grown in arid, infertile, marginal lands in Africa and Asia, and cope with unpredictable climatic conditions. Nigeria is the second-largest producer of pearl millet in the world with a tremendous amount of pearl millet diversity. However, there is growing recognition that the diversity of pearl millet in northern Nigeria is vastly diminishing thereby affecting the livelihood of smallholder farmers. This paper reviews the eros...
The gut histological traits, gut micro-flora and growth parameters of boiler birds fed different ... more The gut histological traits, gut micro-flora and growth parameters of boiler birds fed different inclusion levels of sodium butyrate and rosemary leaf meal was investigated. A total of 320 one-day "Arbor acre strain" broiler chicks were allotted to 10 dietary treatments with 4 replicates of 8 birds each. The treatments includes : T1 = Basal diet (BD: Negative control); T2 = BD + 1g/Kg diet of Oxytetracycline (positive control); T3 = BD+2g sodium butyrate (SB) /kg diet; T4 = BD+4g SB/Kg diet; T5 = BD + 2.5g rosemary leaf meal (RLM) /kg diet; T6 = BD +5.0g RLM/kg diet; T7 = BD +2g SB + 2.5g RLM/kg diet; T8 = BD + 2g SB +5.0g RLM/kg diet; T9 = BD + 4g SB + 2.5g RLM/kg diet; and T10 = BD + 4g SB + 5.0g RLM/kg diet. The results showed that birds fed T3, T4, and T5 had the highest (p<0.05) body weight with an improved feed conversion ratio in both trial phases (starter and finisher). During the starter phase, the highest (p<0.05) villus length, crypth depth, thickness of the epithelium, thickness of muscularis in duodenum, jejunum and ileum was recorded for birds fed T4. During the finisher phase, the villus length, crypt depth, thickness of epithelium and muscularis of the duodenum, jejunum and ileum were higher (p<0.05) for birds fed 4g/ kg sodium butyrate and 5g/kg rosemary leaf meal (except for crypth depth of jejunum and ileum). At the end of the starter phase, the data for the Lactobacillus counts of the ileum was highest (p<0.05) for birds fed dietary 4g/kg sodium butyrate and 5g/kg rosemary leaf meal, while, the Lactobacillus counts of the caecum was highest (p<0.05) for birds fed 4g/kg sodium butyrate, 2.5g/kg rosemary leaf meal and 5g/kg rosemary leaf meal. The highest (p<0.05) E.coli and Salmonella populations in both ileum and caecum during the starter phase was seen in birds fed the negative control diet. At the end of the finisher phase, the highest (p<0.05) proliferation of Lactobacillus in the ileum section of the gut was recorded for birds fed 2g/kg diet sodium butyrate, 4g/kg sodium butyrate, 2.5g/kg rosemary leaf meal, 5g/kg rosemary leaf meal and 4g/kg sodium butyrate +2.5g/kg rosemary leaf meal, while Lactobacillus counts in the caecum was highest (p<0.05) for birds fed 2g/kg diet sodium butyrate, 4g/kg sodium butyrate, 2.5g/kg rosemary leaf meal and 5g/ kg rosemary leaf meal. The populations of Lactobacillus were lowest (p<0.05) in both ileum and caecum parts of the gut for birds fed negative control (T1) diet, while the E.coli and Salmonella counts in the caecum were highest (p<0.05) for birds fed the negative control (T1) diet compared with other dietary treatments. It was concluded that T4 and T6 had a better gut integrity and improved histological traits. Moreover, 2g/kg diet sodium butyrate, 4g/kg sodium butyrate or 2.5g/kg rosemary leaf meal can be used safely for a better performance as they enhanced the growth traits of the birds.
Vegetables are essential components in human diets because they are rich in vitamins, minerals, a... more Vegetables are essential components in human diets because they are rich in vitamins, minerals, and dietary fibre. There is a growing interest in human nutrition enhancement through vegetable consumption to reduce micro mineral deficiencies, especially in households with low buying power. A greenhouse pot experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of zeolite amendment on the mineral composition of cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata L.), in relation to the soil chemical status. The experiment was carried out over two growing seasons (winter/spring) of 2018 and 2019. The treatments were in the ratios of 0:10, 1:9, 2:8, 3:7 zeolite to sandy soil, on a weight-to-weight basis. Zeolite improved soil chemical status (p < 0.05), except for soil iron (Fe) and phosphorus (P) contents. There was also a general improvement of macro minerals in cabbage with increased zeolite application, especially in the second season. Zeolite did not improve the micronutrients of the vegetable. T...
The best management options for cover cropping are largely unknown, including the growth patterns... more The best management options for cover cropping are largely unknown, including the growth patterns of cover crop (CC) species, optimum termination stages and termination methods. A greenhouse experiment was conducted to explore the following: (i) Effect of two termination stages (vegetative and flowering) on the chemical composition (N and C:N) of four CCs; (ii) Short-term impacts of living CCs and residues on soil pH, total N, urease and phosphatase activities at the two termination stages, and under two termination methods (slash and spray). Species tested as CCs were, vetch (Vicia dasycarpa L.), field pea (Pisum sativum L.), oats (Avena sativa L.), rye (Secale cereal L.) and a control (no CC). The experiment was set up in a randomized block design with three replications. Soil was sampled at kill and one year after CC kill. Delaying termination from vegetative till flowering stage decreased N in the tissue of P. sativum, A. sativa, V. dasycarpa and S. cereal by 59%, 65%, 44% and 56%, respectively, while their C:N ratios increased. Cover crop presence had no effect on soil pH. Living CCs had no significant effect on soil N concentration. The activities of urease and phosphatase were stimulated by all the living CC species. Unlike urease, all CC residues had a positive impact on phosphatase activity at one year. Only P. sativum and V. dasycarpa residues increased soil N concentration in the short-term. Compared to flowering, termination at vegetative stage improved soil N concentrations and phosphatase activity at both sampling times. Termination method had no effect on soil N, urease and phosphatase activity at one year. The significant interaction (P < 0.05) of sampling time, CC and termination stage effects on soil N concentration and phosphatase activity observed in this study indicates that these management approaches can optimize CC benefits and improve soil chemical and biological properties.
Heavy metals are unique environmental and industrial pollutants scattered naturally and found alm... more Heavy metals are unique environmental and industrial pollutants scattered naturally and found almost in all phases of the environment. In certain limited areas in several parts of the world, many people and animals have suffered from several severe diseases caused by trace elements or heavy metal deficiencies and their toxicities, unaware of their existence. The compounds of Pb and Cd are classified as human carcinogens by numerous regulatory agencies. The soil samples digested using the aqua regia method, and concentration quantified through the Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). In this study, Pb, Cd, and Hg concentrations were recorded high on the landfill site compared to the control site. Their concentration exceeded the permissible limits from WHO. Pb concentration ranges between 0.46ppm to 1.81ppm, Cd range from 0.98ppm and 0.56ppm, and Hg has a high concentration that varies between 6.28ppm and 1.69ppm. On the contrary, the Cu concentration reportable to ...
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 2020
The soil pollution as a product of xenobiotics, industrial action, agricultural chemicals, or ina... more The soil pollution as a product of xenobiotics, industrial action, agricultural chemicals, or inappropriate disposal of waste can change the natural environment of soil indices and trigger life-threatening situations. Soil enzyme activity is the suitable bio-indicator or parameter for monitoring soil pollution due to their sensitivity that quickly responds to any soil disturbances. Also, they are known to play an essential role in maintaining soil health and a quality environment. This study aimed to determine the levels of enzyme activity in soil from polluted and unpolluted sites and study the relationship between the physicochemical properties and soil enzyme activity to manage soil pollution. Four selected enzymes (Urease, Invertase, Catalase, and Phosphatase) were examined for their activity from forty samples using the assay method for 24 h; the colorimetry spectrophotometer measured their activity. The obtained data revealed that Invertase activity was a predominant enzyme in...
Journal of Evidence-Based Integrative Medicine, 2020
This study examined the toxicity and antimicrobial effects of ethanol and aqueous extracts from A... more This study examined the toxicity and antimicrobial effects of ethanol and aqueous extracts from Amaranthus caudatus grown on soils formulated from parent particles of silt, sand and clay in a glasshouse. Four different soils namely; sandy clay loam, loam, clayey loam and silty clay loam from were formulated were used for cultivation with the unfractionated soil which was the control. Crude extracts obtained from the plant shoots harvested at different growth stages were tested on some certain gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria and some fungi via agar dilution assay. The toxicity of the water and ethanol extracts was also examined via Artemia salina assay and the level of lethality was measured against Clarkson’s lethality scale. All aqueous samples, as well as ethanol extracts of flowering and pre-flowering harvests of control soil tested, were non-toxic (LC50 > 1 mg/mL). At post flowering, the ethanolic extracts were highly toxic mostly in clayey loam, control, sandy-claye...
Burdock (Arctium lappa L.) is a medicinal plant, highly rich in phytochemicals which contribute t... more Burdock (Arctium lappa L.) is a medicinal plant, highly rich in phytochemicals which contribute towards its antioxidant properties and treatment of chronic diseases. It is also consumed as a vegetable in some regions of the world because of its high nutritive value. Currently, the plant material is imported for its medicinal purposes by herbal practitioners and pharmaceutical industries in the different countries of the world, including South Africa. However, the cultivation of this plant is lacking in South Africa and Africa as a whole. In order to achieve consistent supply of quality products and eliminate batch-to-batch variability of plant materials, a factorial experiment was conducted on Takinogawa long cultivar with eight treatments (T1=N423P210K315, T2=N423P280k315, T3=N635P210K315, T4=N635P280K315, T5=N846P210K315, T6=N846P280K315, T7=N1058P210K315 andT8=N1058P280K315 Kg/ha) and five collection time of data laid out in a completely randomized design replicated five times under 40% shade net. Fertilizer treatments were split into two equal doses at seedling transplant and four weeks after transplant. Data on morphological characteristics and yield were collected and analyzed using SAS software. There was a significant (P<0.05) difference across fertilizer treatments on morphological characteristics as well as the interactions between treatments and time of data collection. Significant differences (P<0.05) were also recorded on the yield parameters. Two treatments (N635P210 K315 and N635P280K315Kg/ha) significantly outperformed the other treatments. However, more research needs to be done on the enhancement of secondary metabolites of interest for the sustainable supply of quality plant materials for herbal practitioners and pharmaceutical industries.
This study investigated variations in the concentration of nutrients, antinutrients and mineral c... more This study investigated variations in the concentration of nutrients, antinutrients and mineral content of Amaranthus caudatus harvested from different soil types at various stages of maturity. Four out the five soils namely; sandy clay loam, silty clay loam, clayey loam and loam were experimentally formulated from primary particles of silt, clay and sand in line with the United State Department of Agriculture's (USDA) soil triangle protocol. The unfractionated soil was used as the control. After harvesting at preflowering (61 days after planting), flowering (71 days after planting) and post-flowering (91 days after planting) stages, nutrient and antinutrient analyses were carried out following Association of Official Analytical Chemists (AOAC) and other referenced methods while the Inductively Coupled Plasma-Optical Emission Spectrometer was used to determine mineral compositions of the plant samples. The results of the study revealed that particle size and physicochemical properties of the soil influenced the number of minerals deposited in plant tissues. It was further observed that the nutritional properties of the plant change as plant ages. For an optimal yield of vitamins A and E, clayey loam proved to be the best soil particularly when A. caudatus is harvested before flowering but for vitamin C, sandy clayey loam yielded the highest output at the same stage. Similarly, clayey loam and loam soils yielded the highest proximate compositions at flowering and pre-flowering; however, mineral elements (micro and macro) were highest in control and loam soils.
Cover crop (CC) management can be improved to enhance carbon storage, microbial activity and fert... more Cover crop (CC) management can be improved to enhance carbon storage, microbial activity and fertility in agricultural soils. This study assessed the immediate effect of living CCs and residues, two termination stages (vegetative and flowering) and two termination methods (slash and spray) on soil β-glucosidase activity and soil organic carbon (SOC) levels in a pot experiment. Species tested as CCs were, vetch (Vicia dasycarpa Ten.), pea (Pisum sativum L.), oats (Avena sativa L.), rye (Seale cereal L.) and control (no CC). Delay in termination until flowering stage significantly increased C and C:N ratio content of all the CCs. Living CCs did not influence SOC but stimulated β-glucosidase compared to the control. At one year, rye and oats residues increased SOC compared to other CC residues, while β-glucosidase activity was greater under rye, oats and pea residues than vetch and control. Termination of CCs at flowering stage resulted in greater β-glucosidase activity and SOC levels than the vegetative stage at one year. Termination by slashing had a positive impact on SOC and β-glucosidase activity compared to spraying. The results of this study indicate significant (p < 0.05) sampling time, CC and termination stage interaction effects on SOC and β-glucosidase activity showing that these management factors are important for maximizing CC benefits and improving soil fertility.
Cover crop (CC) cultivation can improve crop yield, soil and environmental quality. Cover crops a... more Cover crop (CC) cultivation can improve crop yield, soil and environmental quality. Cover crops are multifunctional and contribute to soil quality by improving soil physical, chemical and biological properties. The crops also enhance organic matter and increase nutrient release, suppress weeds, and control pests. There is a need to continually explore and appropriately manage CC utilization to obtain their full benefits. This paper reviews literature on the impacts and benefits of CCs on soil quality in different cropping systems in terms of species selection, termination stage and termination methods.
The endophytic plant-fungi symbiotic relationship can be explored to improve cultivation of targe... more The endophytic plant-fungi symbiotic relationship can be explored to improve cultivation of targeted medicinal plant species. The objective of this study was to assess the effects of the cultivation of chive (Allium schoenoprasum) in plant growth medium inoculated with the entomopathogenic fungus, Beauveria bassiana (Hypocreales). Twelve replicates of chive seedlings were exposed to B. bassiana inoculum formulated at concentrations of 0, 1 Â 10 5 , 1 Â 10 4 and 1 Â 10 3 conidia mL À1 in a completely randomized design. We assessed plant growth parameters, such as leaf number and plant height weekly and root length, leaf and root fresh and dry weights and secondary metabolites three weeks post-fungal inoculation. The fungus was re-isolated from some of the leaves and roots of the treated plants suggesting that the fungus successfully colonized the plant tissue. Generally, the results indicated that the fungal inoculation had minimal effect on most of the growth parameters assessed in relation to the control. Remarkably, plants exposed to the fungus recorded greater (p < 0.05) total alkaloid, ranging from 2.98 -3.76 mg atropine equivalent (AE)/g dry weight (DW) compared to the control plants (1.96 mg AE/g DW) for the leaves. This study demonstrated that endophytic fungi could be used to improve the yield of active chemical constituents in cultivated medicinal plants.
Journal of Medicinal Plants Research, Feb 25, 2013
The essential oils of the fresh leaves, dry leaves and dry stem of Tarchonanthus camphoratus from... more The essential oils of the fresh leaves, dry leaves and dry stem of Tarchonanthus camphoratus from Kwa-Zulu Natal, South Africa, were obtained by hydro-distillation and analyzed by gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The essential oils were evaluated for their antibacterial activity against 4 Gram positive and 5 Gram negative bacteria using the disc diffusion method and the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) method. A total of 33, 27 and 25 compounds were identified representing 85.9, 73.01 and 72.66% of the total oil composition from the fresh leaves, dry leaves and dry stem, respectively. Sesquiterpene hydrocarbons dominated the essential oil of the fresh leaves (36.46%) and of the dry leaves (59.18) whereas an aldehyde, butanal (35.77%) dominated the essential oil of the dry stem. The oils showed a broad spectrum of antibacterial activity. The zones of inhibition of the fresh leaves, dry leaves, dry stem and chloramphenicol ranged from 7.3 to 14.0, 7.3 to 16.7, 13.5 to 20.4 and 0.00 to 17.5 mm, respectively. The lowest MIC value for the oils was 125 µg/ml.
Diversification and expansion of the poultry industry with fast-growing and highly prolific birds... more Diversification and expansion of the poultry industry with fast-growing and highly prolific birds such as the quail (Coturnix coturnix), could contribute significantly in achieving global food and nutrition security. However, sustainable intensification of the quail relies on the cost of dietary ingredients used during feed formulations. The use of non-conventional energy sources such as sorghum, millet, and cassava in lieu of expensive energy sources such as maize, could ensure sustainable quail businesses. Generally, alternative feedstuffs should be cost-effective and possess comparable nutritional qualities as maize. In tropical countries such as South Africa, the use of sorghum, millet, and cassava in quail diets can serve as ideal alternatives because they have relatively comparable energy values as maize. Furthermore, these alternatives are largely available and easily accessible in many farming areas of South Africa. However, the presence of antinutritional factors such as ta...
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health
Heavy metals are unbreakable, and most of them are poisonous to animals and people. Metals are pa... more Heavy metals are unbreakable, and most of them are poisonous to animals and people. Metals are particularly concerning among environmental contaminants since they are less apparent, have extensive effects on ecosystems, are poisonous, and bioaccumulate in ecosystems, biological tissues, and organs. Therefore, there is a need to use biological agents and phytoremediation processes such as enzymes because they have a high potential for effectively transforming and detoxifying polluting substances. They can convert pollutants at a detectable rate and are potentially suitable for restoring polluted environments. We investigated heavy metal concentrations in different soil samples collected in four sections in Alice and determined the enzyme activity levels present in the soil. The Pearson correlation analysis was conducted to check whether there was any relationship between heavy metal concentrations and enzyme activities in the soil. Samples were randomly collected in three weeks, and ...
Asian journal of agriculture and rural development, Feb 28, 2022
A survey of rural turkey farmers was conducted in three villages in the Eastern part of Nigeria, ... more A survey of rural turkey farmers was conducted in three villages in the Eastern part of Nigeria, namely: Amukwa, Amaeze and Nguru. The aim of the study was to assess the prevailing management and production practices of turkey farmers in the area. Information obtained included flock size, reasons for keeping birds, breeding and management practices among others. The multistage random sampling method was used to collect information from 180 respondents. Results obtained revealed variability in response among flock sizes (1-20), with most (90%) respondents being part-time farmers. Mean scores, in terms of the level of adoption of standard management practices by turkey farmers, were given as cleaning and disinfection of pen before restocking ( = 4.60), removal of droppings ( = 4.57), and changing and replacement of litters ( = 4.4). Beak trimming ( = 1.27) was the lowestranked farm practice by farmers. It was concluded that the management practices and production of turkey in the study area are below standard when compared to those in developed societies. Adequate support for farmers in terms of finance and regular training, among others, by relevant agencies including the government may help improve the production of turkey in the area. Contribution/Originality: This study contributes in the existing literature on the prevailing management practice of local turkey-farming among rural communities in the Eastern Region of Nigeria.
International Journal of Agriculture and Biology, 2017
Swiss chard cultivar was raised in greenhouse and irrigated with different concentrations of leac... more Swiss chard cultivar was raised in greenhouse and irrigated with different concentrations of leachate obtained from the municipal landfill in Bellville, Cape Town, South Africa. The greenhouse experiment was laid out in a completely randomised design (CRD) replicated three times. Soil and crops sample were taken weekly after transplant and analysed to assess soil properties, growth and mineral contents of Swiss chard, post-irrigation. The leachate samples had a high electrical conductivity (mean = 383 mS cm -1 ) and high soluble salts content (mean values, Na: 714.5 mg/L, K: 56.8 mg/L, Ca: 133.7 mg/L, Mg: 68.8 mg/L, Cl: 983 mg/L); while the composition of heavy metals in the wastewater leachates were of low concentrations. The application of different concentrations of leachates as source of irrigation resulted in increased soil cation concentrations, particularly Na ions (increased sodicity). Similarly, an increase in electrical conductivity and pH were recorded in the soils after ...
Pearl millet is an alternative source of livelihood for poor farmers who use it to supplement foo... more Pearl millet is an alternative source of livelihood for poor farmers who use it to supplement food and income. Pearl millet has high medicinal value and its consumption reduces the risk of type 2 diabetes, constipation, and anemia. Pearl millets are an excellent source of protein and fiber, and a great source of starch, making it a high-energy food. It is an exceptional food source for babies from six months of age because it has high nutrients and is easily digestible. Pearl millet is the most widely cultivated millet varieties in the world. The cereal crop is grown in arid, infertile, marginal lands in Africa and Asia, and cope with unpredictable climatic conditions. Nigeria is the second-largest producer of pearl millet in the world with a tremendous amount of pearl millet diversity. However, there is growing recognition that the diversity of pearl millet in northern Nigeria is vastly diminishing thereby affecting the livelihood of smallholder farmers. This paper reviews the eros...
The gut histological traits, gut micro-flora and growth parameters of boiler birds fed different ... more The gut histological traits, gut micro-flora and growth parameters of boiler birds fed different inclusion levels of sodium butyrate and rosemary leaf meal was investigated. A total of 320 one-day "Arbor acre strain" broiler chicks were allotted to 10 dietary treatments with 4 replicates of 8 birds each. The treatments includes : T1 = Basal diet (BD: Negative control); T2 = BD + 1g/Kg diet of Oxytetracycline (positive control); T3 = BD+2g sodium butyrate (SB) /kg diet; T4 = BD+4g SB/Kg diet; T5 = BD + 2.5g rosemary leaf meal (RLM) /kg diet; T6 = BD +5.0g RLM/kg diet; T7 = BD +2g SB + 2.5g RLM/kg diet; T8 = BD + 2g SB +5.0g RLM/kg diet; T9 = BD + 4g SB + 2.5g RLM/kg diet; and T10 = BD + 4g SB + 5.0g RLM/kg diet. The results showed that birds fed T3, T4, and T5 had the highest (p<0.05) body weight with an improved feed conversion ratio in both trial phases (starter and finisher). During the starter phase, the highest (p<0.05) villus length, crypth depth, thickness of the epithelium, thickness of muscularis in duodenum, jejunum and ileum was recorded for birds fed T4. During the finisher phase, the villus length, crypt depth, thickness of epithelium and muscularis of the duodenum, jejunum and ileum were higher (p<0.05) for birds fed 4g/ kg sodium butyrate and 5g/kg rosemary leaf meal (except for crypth depth of jejunum and ileum). At the end of the starter phase, the data for the Lactobacillus counts of the ileum was highest (p<0.05) for birds fed dietary 4g/kg sodium butyrate and 5g/kg rosemary leaf meal, while, the Lactobacillus counts of the caecum was highest (p<0.05) for birds fed 4g/kg sodium butyrate, 2.5g/kg rosemary leaf meal and 5g/kg rosemary leaf meal. The highest (p<0.05) E.coli and Salmonella populations in both ileum and caecum during the starter phase was seen in birds fed the negative control diet. At the end of the finisher phase, the highest (p<0.05) proliferation of Lactobacillus in the ileum section of the gut was recorded for birds fed 2g/kg diet sodium butyrate, 4g/kg sodium butyrate, 2.5g/kg rosemary leaf meal, 5g/kg rosemary leaf meal and 4g/kg sodium butyrate +2.5g/kg rosemary leaf meal, while Lactobacillus counts in the caecum was highest (p<0.05) for birds fed 2g/kg diet sodium butyrate, 4g/kg sodium butyrate, 2.5g/kg rosemary leaf meal and 5g/ kg rosemary leaf meal. The populations of Lactobacillus were lowest (p<0.05) in both ileum and caecum parts of the gut for birds fed negative control (T1) diet, while the E.coli and Salmonella counts in the caecum were highest (p<0.05) for birds fed the negative control (T1) diet compared with other dietary treatments. It was concluded that T4 and T6 had a better gut integrity and improved histological traits. Moreover, 2g/kg diet sodium butyrate, 4g/kg sodium butyrate or 2.5g/kg rosemary leaf meal can be used safely for a better performance as they enhanced the growth traits of the birds.
Vegetables are essential components in human diets because they are rich in vitamins, minerals, a... more Vegetables are essential components in human diets because they are rich in vitamins, minerals, and dietary fibre. There is a growing interest in human nutrition enhancement through vegetable consumption to reduce micro mineral deficiencies, especially in households with low buying power. A greenhouse pot experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of zeolite amendment on the mineral composition of cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata L.), in relation to the soil chemical status. The experiment was carried out over two growing seasons (winter/spring) of 2018 and 2019. The treatments were in the ratios of 0:10, 1:9, 2:8, 3:7 zeolite to sandy soil, on a weight-to-weight basis. Zeolite improved soil chemical status (p < 0.05), except for soil iron (Fe) and phosphorus (P) contents. There was also a general improvement of macro minerals in cabbage with increased zeolite application, especially in the second season. Zeolite did not improve the micronutrients of the vegetable. T...
The best management options for cover cropping are largely unknown, including the growth patterns... more The best management options for cover cropping are largely unknown, including the growth patterns of cover crop (CC) species, optimum termination stages and termination methods. A greenhouse experiment was conducted to explore the following: (i) Effect of two termination stages (vegetative and flowering) on the chemical composition (N and C:N) of four CCs; (ii) Short-term impacts of living CCs and residues on soil pH, total N, urease and phosphatase activities at the two termination stages, and under two termination methods (slash and spray). Species tested as CCs were, vetch (Vicia dasycarpa L.), field pea (Pisum sativum L.), oats (Avena sativa L.), rye (Secale cereal L.) and a control (no CC). The experiment was set up in a randomized block design with three replications. Soil was sampled at kill and one year after CC kill. Delaying termination from vegetative till flowering stage decreased N in the tissue of P. sativum, A. sativa, V. dasycarpa and S. cereal by 59%, 65%, 44% and 56%, respectively, while their C:N ratios increased. Cover crop presence had no effect on soil pH. Living CCs had no significant effect on soil N concentration. The activities of urease and phosphatase were stimulated by all the living CC species. Unlike urease, all CC residues had a positive impact on phosphatase activity at one year. Only P. sativum and V. dasycarpa residues increased soil N concentration in the short-term. Compared to flowering, termination at vegetative stage improved soil N concentrations and phosphatase activity at both sampling times. Termination method had no effect on soil N, urease and phosphatase activity at one year. The significant interaction (P < 0.05) of sampling time, CC and termination stage effects on soil N concentration and phosphatase activity observed in this study indicates that these management approaches can optimize CC benefits and improve soil chemical and biological properties.
Heavy metals are unique environmental and industrial pollutants scattered naturally and found alm... more Heavy metals are unique environmental and industrial pollutants scattered naturally and found almost in all phases of the environment. In certain limited areas in several parts of the world, many people and animals have suffered from several severe diseases caused by trace elements or heavy metal deficiencies and their toxicities, unaware of their existence. The compounds of Pb and Cd are classified as human carcinogens by numerous regulatory agencies. The soil samples digested using the aqua regia method, and concentration quantified through the Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). In this study, Pb, Cd, and Hg concentrations were recorded high on the landfill site compared to the control site. Their concentration exceeded the permissible limits from WHO. Pb concentration ranges between 0.46ppm to 1.81ppm, Cd range from 0.98ppm and 0.56ppm, and Hg has a high concentration that varies between 6.28ppm and 1.69ppm. On the contrary, the Cu concentration reportable to ...
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 2020
The soil pollution as a product of xenobiotics, industrial action, agricultural chemicals, or ina... more The soil pollution as a product of xenobiotics, industrial action, agricultural chemicals, or inappropriate disposal of waste can change the natural environment of soil indices and trigger life-threatening situations. Soil enzyme activity is the suitable bio-indicator or parameter for monitoring soil pollution due to their sensitivity that quickly responds to any soil disturbances. Also, they are known to play an essential role in maintaining soil health and a quality environment. This study aimed to determine the levels of enzyme activity in soil from polluted and unpolluted sites and study the relationship between the physicochemical properties and soil enzyme activity to manage soil pollution. Four selected enzymes (Urease, Invertase, Catalase, and Phosphatase) were examined for their activity from forty samples using the assay method for 24 h; the colorimetry spectrophotometer measured their activity. The obtained data revealed that Invertase activity was a predominant enzyme in...
Journal of Evidence-Based Integrative Medicine, 2020
This study examined the toxicity and antimicrobial effects of ethanol and aqueous extracts from A... more This study examined the toxicity and antimicrobial effects of ethanol and aqueous extracts from Amaranthus caudatus grown on soils formulated from parent particles of silt, sand and clay in a glasshouse. Four different soils namely; sandy clay loam, loam, clayey loam and silty clay loam from were formulated were used for cultivation with the unfractionated soil which was the control. Crude extracts obtained from the plant shoots harvested at different growth stages were tested on some certain gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria and some fungi via agar dilution assay. The toxicity of the water and ethanol extracts was also examined via Artemia salina assay and the level of lethality was measured against Clarkson’s lethality scale. All aqueous samples, as well as ethanol extracts of flowering and pre-flowering harvests of control soil tested, were non-toxic (LC50 > 1 mg/mL). At post flowering, the ethanolic extracts were highly toxic mostly in clayey loam, control, sandy-claye...
Burdock (Arctium lappa L.) is a medicinal plant, highly rich in phytochemicals which contribute t... more Burdock (Arctium lappa L.) is a medicinal plant, highly rich in phytochemicals which contribute towards its antioxidant properties and treatment of chronic diseases. It is also consumed as a vegetable in some regions of the world because of its high nutritive value. Currently, the plant material is imported for its medicinal purposes by herbal practitioners and pharmaceutical industries in the different countries of the world, including South Africa. However, the cultivation of this plant is lacking in South Africa and Africa as a whole. In order to achieve consistent supply of quality products and eliminate batch-to-batch variability of plant materials, a factorial experiment was conducted on Takinogawa long cultivar with eight treatments (T1=N423P210K315, T2=N423P280k315, T3=N635P210K315, T4=N635P280K315, T5=N846P210K315, T6=N846P280K315, T7=N1058P210K315 andT8=N1058P280K315 Kg/ha) and five collection time of data laid out in a completely randomized design replicated five times under 40% shade net. Fertilizer treatments were split into two equal doses at seedling transplant and four weeks after transplant. Data on morphological characteristics and yield were collected and analyzed using SAS software. There was a significant (P<0.05) difference across fertilizer treatments on morphological characteristics as well as the interactions between treatments and time of data collection. Significant differences (P<0.05) were also recorded on the yield parameters. Two treatments (N635P210 K315 and N635P280K315Kg/ha) significantly outperformed the other treatments. However, more research needs to be done on the enhancement of secondary metabolites of interest for the sustainable supply of quality plant materials for herbal practitioners and pharmaceutical industries.
This study investigated variations in the concentration of nutrients, antinutrients and mineral c... more This study investigated variations in the concentration of nutrients, antinutrients and mineral content of Amaranthus caudatus harvested from different soil types at various stages of maturity. Four out the five soils namely; sandy clay loam, silty clay loam, clayey loam and loam were experimentally formulated from primary particles of silt, clay and sand in line with the United State Department of Agriculture's (USDA) soil triangle protocol. The unfractionated soil was used as the control. After harvesting at preflowering (61 days after planting), flowering (71 days after planting) and post-flowering (91 days after planting) stages, nutrient and antinutrient analyses were carried out following Association of Official Analytical Chemists (AOAC) and other referenced methods while the Inductively Coupled Plasma-Optical Emission Spectrometer was used to determine mineral compositions of the plant samples. The results of the study revealed that particle size and physicochemical properties of the soil influenced the number of minerals deposited in plant tissues. It was further observed that the nutritional properties of the plant change as plant ages. For an optimal yield of vitamins A and E, clayey loam proved to be the best soil particularly when A. caudatus is harvested before flowering but for vitamin C, sandy clayey loam yielded the highest output at the same stage. Similarly, clayey loam and loam soils yielded the highest proximate compositions at flowering and pre-flowering; however, mineral elements (micro and macro) were highest in control and loam soils.
Cover crop (CC) management can be improved to enhance carbon storage, microbial activity and fert... more Cover crop (CC) management can be improved to enhance carbon storage, microbial activity and fertility in agricultural soils. This study assessed the immediate effect of living CCs and residues, two termination stages (vegetative and flowering) and two termination methods (slash and spray) on soil β-glucosidase activity and soil organic carbon (SOC) levels in a pot experiment. Species tested as CCs were, vetch (Vicia dasycarpa Ten.), pea (Pisum sativum L.), oats (Avena sativa L.), rye (Seale cereal L.) and control (no CC). Delay in termination until flowering stage significantly increased C and C:N ratio content of all the CCs. Living CCs did not influence SOC but stimulated β-glucosidase compared to the control. At one year, rye and oats residues increased SOC compared to other CC residues, while β-glucosidase activity was greater under rye, oats and pea residues than vetch and control. Termination of CCs at flowering stage resulted in greater β-glucosidase activity and SOC levels than the vegetative stage at one year. Termination by slashing had a positive impact on SOC and β-glucosidase activity compared to spraying. The results of this study indicate significant (p < 0.05) sampling time, CC and termination stage interaction effects on SOC and β-glucosidase activity showing that these management factors are important for maximizing CC benefits and improving soil fertility.
Cover crop (CC) cultivation can improve crop yield, soil and environmental quality. Cover crops a... more Cover crop (CC) cultivation can improve crop yield, soil and environmental quality. Cover crops are multifunctional and contribute to soil quality by improving soil physical, chemical and biological properties. The crops also enhance organic matter and increase nutrient release, suppress weeds, and control pests. There is a need to continually explore and appropriately manage CC utilization to obtain their full benefits. This paper reviews literature on the impacts and benefits of CCs on soil quality in different cropping systems in terms of species selection, termination stage and termination methods.
The endophytic plant-fungi symbiotic relationship can be explored to improve cultivation of targe... more The endophytic plant-fungi symbiotic relationship can be explored to improve cultivation of targeted medicinal plant species. The objective of this study was to assess the effects of the cultivation of chive (Allium schoenoprasum) in plant growth medium inoculated with the entomopathogenic fungus, Beauveria bassiana (Hypocreales). Twelve replicates of chive seedlings were exposed to B. bassiana inoculum formulated at concentrations of 0, 1 Â 10 5 , 1 Â 10 4 and 1 Â 10 3 conidia mL À1 in a completely randomized design. We assessed plant growth parameters, such as leaf number and plant height weekly and root length, leaf and root fresh and dry weights and secondary metabolites three weeks post-fungal inoculation. The fungus was re-isolated from some of the leaves and roots of the treated plants suggesting that the fungus successfully colonized the plant tissue. Generally, the results indicated that the fungal inoculation had minimal effect on most of the growth parameters assessed in relation to the control. Remarkably, plants exposed to the fungus recorded greater (p < 0.05) total alkaloid, ranging from 2.98 -3.76 mg atropine equivalent (AE)/g dry weight (DW) compared to the control plants (1.96 mg AE/g DW) for the leaves. This study demonstrated that endophytic fungi could be used to improve the yield of active chemical constituents in cultivated medicinal plants.
Uploads
Papers by Francis Lewu