Asian Journal of Research in Agriculture and Forestry
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Determination of Heavy Metals in Edible Palm Oil Adultrated with Plant Dye: Experimental Investigation
No full textFrom generation to generation, edible palm oil has been a staple of the human diet and has improved both nutrition and health. The goal of the current research was to determine whether it was possible to tamper with palm oil by adding natural potash (lake salt) and red dye made from the leaf sheath of sorghum bicolor. In order to create tainted palm oil with known concentrations and adulterant ratios, concentrations of potash and red dye ranging from 0.01-0.1% and 0.1-1.0%, respectively, were produced in water and added to fresh palm oil at oil/adulterant ratios ranging from 10:1-10:10. Adulterated samples underwent visual inspection for appearance, as well as sensory evaluation for quality indicators. Even at concentrations below 0.01%, the addition of potash caused the typical orange red hue of palm oil to become yellowish red, and it also produced a product with improved consistency. Zn 8.060.06, Cd 1.010.05, Ni 1.000.00, Co 125.910.09, Pb 9.300.07 Cobalt, Lead, and other heavy metals were found to be over the detectable level of the WHO standard, whereas Cd and Ni were within the permissibility limit. The findings of this study suggest that if sufficient oversight is not provided by regulatory bodies, palm oil might pose a risk to the public's health. As a result, from the point of production to the point of consumption, our local processed palm oil has to be better screened
Biofortification: A Promising Solution for Combating Micronutrient Deficiencies and Enhancing Human Health
No full textBiofortification is a promising strategy aimed at addressing widespread micronutrient deficiencies and improving human health. Micronutrient deficiencies, such as vitamin A, iron, and zinc deficiencies, pose significant public health challenges, particularly in developing countries where access to diverse and nutritious diets is limited. Biofortification involves the breeding or genetic modification of staple food crops to increase their micronutrient content, thereby providing a sustainable and cost-effective solution to tackle these deficiencies
Effect of Particle Sizes on the Physio-Mechanical Properties of Bamboo Particleboard
No full textThe focus on timber species as the main source of raw material for wood based panel is alarming. This research work evaluated the effect of particle sizes on bamboo particleboard. The study was carried out in the Scientific Equipment Development Institution, Awkuke Enugu State. Laboratory tests were conducted both for physical and mechanical properties of the board at the Fredrick Research Centre, Agbani in Enugu state. Board density, moisture content and weight were variables measured for physical properties while internal bond, Modulus of elasticity (MOE), Modulus of rupture (MOR) were measured for mechanical properties using Shimadzu Universal Testing Machine. Data collected were analyzed using analysis of variance (ANOVA) and significant means separated with Duncan Multiple Range Test (DMRT) at 5% level of probability. Results recorded that T1 (fine particle) at 1.0 mm had higher values of MOR, MOE and internal bonding at 29.57, 1958.10 and 1.54 respectively followed by T3 (mixture of fine and coarse) and T2 (coarse particles). T2 had the highest moisture content of 8.22%, followed by T3 8.05% and T1 7.91% while T1 had the highest density (0.364g/cm3) and weight of 1.13 kg respectively. This study showed that particleboard made of fine particles (T1) of bamboo at 1.0 mm had better properties than T2and T3 in terms of their mechanical properties and physical properties with the exception of moisture content. It could be proposed that the finer the particles, the higher the strength of the board, thus recommends that smaller particles sizes like 0.5mm, 0.1mm and 0.3mm be used to increase the board strength
Aspects of Tree Species Phenology and Diversity for Conservation in the Chimpanzee Forest Habitat Kwano, Gashaka Gumti National Park, Nigeria
No full textChanges in lifecycle forms of tree species seriously affect their production leading to global warming which has a lot of influence on peoples’ economic status through the provision of ecosystem services. It is important to study the lifecycle changes occurring in tree species and their diversity as a result of global warming since a lot of tree species serves as food to wild animals their absence means animals which depend on them for food will starve to death or migrate thereby affecting conservation activities as well as the wellbeing of people who depends on the park and conservation projects operating within the park for a means of livelihood.
An aspect of Tree species Phenology and Diversity for Conservation in Chimpanzee Forest Habitat at Kwano, Gashaka Gumti National Park, Nigeria was conducted with the view to examine the phenology and diversity of tree species in the forest for better conservation strategy. An 8km transect with tagged trees was monitored on foot for phenological activities of leafing, flowering, fruiting and leaf shedding for 3 months. Shannon-Wiener’s Diversity Index (SWDI) was used to determine tree species diversity. ANOVA was used to compare the phenological data among the months of study. SWDI was 4.115. A total of 867 individual tree species consisting of 127 species from 45 families and with 4 unidentified tree species found on this transect indicated that Anogeissus leiocarpus (7.04%) is the highest in the number of the tree species, Trichilia martineani (6.34%) and Crossopteryx febrifuga (5.65%). Euphorbiaceae family (17.42%) was the highest among the diverse tree species observed in Kwano forest followed by Combretaceae (9.80%) and third by Caesalpinoideae (8.65%). Cappar idaceae, Lecythidaceae, Calophyllaceae, Melianthaceae, Celtidaceae, Celastraceae, Ma esaceae, Burseraceae, Rutaceae, and Dracaeroaceae each with 0.12% were the least family es observed. Only 0.12% tree species was observed leafing, 3.92%, 2.19% and 1.73% flowering I n June, July and August respectively while 3.92%, 7.27% and 7.96% were fruiting in June, July and August respectively, none was observed shedding leaves. Comparison of the phenological data reveals significant differences in fruiting and flowering (P < 0.05), none in leafing and leaf shedding (P >0.05). Understanding the phenology and tree species diversity of this forest could enhance better conservation strategies. More phenological studies are recommended in the Park
Thermodynamic Entropy: A Natural Metric for Landcover Classification
No full textMost landcover (LC) studies employ physical characteristics involving spectral reflectance. This study employs the concept of energy and entropy for LC classification. Satellite imageries from Landsat-8, the Operational Land Imager (OLI) and the Thermal Infra-Red Sensor (TIRS) captured at 100 m for three years (2013, 2015 and 2017) and resampled to a spatial resolution of 30 m for multispectral measurements were acquired. The normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) of the study area was computed for both the wet (September/October) and dry (March) seasons of years 2013, 2015 and 2017, respectively; and the vegetation cover maps and landcover classification of the area based on the NDVI values were generated. Land surface temperature (LST) and net radiation of the surface area were computed and used as inputs for computing the surface entropy flux (SEF) of the study area. Overall, the dry season of 2017 had the highest vegetation cover while the wet season vegetation cover was highest in 2015. The high dry season vegetation cover in 2017 is attributable to higher level of living biomass than previous years. NDVI-based LC classification of the area showed an overlap in distinguishing between built-up areas and vegetation cover as well as between bare (land) surface and free water bodies. This is attributable to skewed measure of centrality for the sample distribution possibly resulting from the quality (resolution) of data used or sampling techniques. Free water bodies had the highest SEF values that fall within expected behavior for bodies of such state (liquids). The vegetation covers had the second highest SEF values for the entire site and the highest on land surface, which could be attributed to higher latent heat fluxes of such covers resulting from the evapotranspiration processes. The bare surfaces and built-up area of the study area were observed to have the lowest SEF values. The LC of the study area was reclassified based on SEF values via ground truthing i.e., by taking statistical distribution of well-known surface classes across the years under study. This was successful in distinguishing vegetation cover, surfaces of free water bodies and bare surfaces. A regression analysis revealed that LST influences SEF by up to 69 – 75% while vegetation cover has no appreciable influence on SEF. A two-sample t-test showed a significant (P = 0.05) difference between the SEF for bare surfaces and that for vegetation cover. All these presents SEF as a reliable natural metric for LC classification
A Comparative Financial Analysis of Four Crops Based Cropping Patterns with Existing Cropping Patterns in Different Locations of Bangladesh
No full textThis study was undertaken to assess the comparative financial analysis of four crops based cropping pattern (FCP) with existing cropping pattern (ECP) in 35 upazilas of 25 districts under 7 divisions during the year of 2018-19 and 2019-20. Tabular technique and statistical analysis were done to achieve the objectives of the study. The Cobb-Douglas production function model was used for estimating the factors affecting FCP as well as ECP in the study areas. The major findings of the study were that cultivation of FCP was more profitable and feasible than ECP in terms of agronomic and economic point of view. The average total return per hectare for FCP was Tk. 529320.00 and Tk. 547896.00 and for ECP was an average Tk. 346788.00 and Tk. 348819.00 in 2018-19 and 2019-20 respectively. The total variable cost per hectare for FCP was Tk. 237134.00 and Tk. 238584.00 and for ECP was an average Tk. 175968.00 and Tk. 178294.00 in 2018-19 and 2019-20 respectively. Again the gross margin for FCP was Tk. 292186.00 and Tk. 309312.00 and for ECP was an average Tk. 170820.00 and Tk. 170525.00 in 2018-19 and 2019-20 respectively. The Benefit Cost Ratio (BCR) for FCP was 2.23 and 2.30 in 2018-19 and 2019-20 respectively. On the other hand, the BCR for ECP was 1.97 and 1.96 in 2018-19 and 2019-20 respectively. The average marginal benefit cost ratio (MBCR) in FCP over ECP was 2.98 and 3.30 in 2018-19 and 2019-20 respectively. Irrespective of locations, rice equivalent yield (REY), crop productivity, land use efficiency and profitability were higher in FCP than in ECP. The study also showed that FCP faced some problems mainly related to production and marketing of the crops. It may be concluded that the farmers should be encouraged to grow four crops in a calendar year rather than existing two or three crops to enhance productivity and profitability
Enhancing Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) Tolerance to Salinity through Plant Growth Regulators
No full textDuring the period of 2020-21, a research study was carried out at the Plant Protective Culture Unit within the semi-controlled environmental settings of the Bangladesh Agricultural Research Institute. The aim of the study was to mitigate the negative impacts of salinity stress on chickpea by applying various concentrations of salicylic acid (SA) and gibberellic acid (GA3). Plants were subjected to four different levels of salinity stress, including a control group, mild stress, moderate stress, and severe stress. This was achieved by irrigating them with four varying concentrations of saline water (5, 7.5, 10 and 12.5 dSm-1) starting from the 14th day after sowing (DAS) and continuing until maturity at 100 DAS. On the other hand, the control plants received regular irrigation with tap water. Two concentrations of salicylic acid (SA) specifically 200 ppm and 400 ppm, along with gibberellic acid (GA3) at 10 ppm and 20 ppm, were administered as a foliar spray once a week, commencing at 20 days after sowing (DAS) and continuing until the flowering stage. Data related to chlorophyll levels in the leaves and water-related traits, including relative water content (RWC) and water retention capacity (WRC) were collected seven days after the foliar spray of these plant growth regulators at the flowering stage. Additionally, measurements of total dry weight, yield, and various yield-contributing factors were taken at the point of maturity. The results indicated that chickpea suffered adverse consequences due to salinity stress which included a reduction in chlorophyll content, a decrease in relative water content, a decline in water retention capacity, a decrease in total dry weight and a lower overall yield. However, the foliar application of different doses of salicylic acid (SA) and gibberellic acid (GA3) under varying levels of salinity stress had beneficial effects in alleviating the impact of salinity stress. Interestingly, it was observed that lower concentrations of SA at 200 ppm and GA3 at 10 ppm were more effective in mitigating the adverse effects of salinity stress and improving salinity tolerance in chickpea, especially under mild salinity stress conditions (5 dSm-1) as evidenced by the positive influence on the parameters mentioned above
The Impact of Decreasing Forest Areas on Increasing Global Temperatures
No full textForests act as a producer of oxygen which is essential for the survival of living things. Degradation of forest areas causes the extinction of various species. It creates a greenhouse gas effect that impacts global warming, triggering regional climate change. This study aimed to determine the effect of decreasing forest area on increasing the annual average temperature in the world. The data used in this study are world forest area data and world average yearly temperature during the 1990-2020 period, with the addition of carbon emission data as a control. The analytical method uses Ordinary Least Square (OLS). The results obtained in this study, namely a decrease in every 1 km2 of forest area, will have a positive impact on increasing the annual average temperature. There was a significant influence in 1990-2010 with an increase in the country's average temperature of 0.0037225oC. An increase in carbon emissions of 1 ppm increases temperature by 1.046833oC. The results of this study illustrate that the reduction in forest area increases temperature, which triggers global climate change. Particular policies are needed from the government to maintain forest sustainability so that the ecosystem is maintained
The Impact of Increasing Forest Loss Areas on the Global Temperature, and Tourism Industry
No full textThis paper aims to investigate the relationship between deforestation, climate change, and the tourism industry, and to explore the potential impacts of decreasing forest areas on these phenomena. The background of the study is that deforestation has become a major environmental problem in many parts of the world, with significant consequences for the global climate and natural ecosystems. Climate change, in turn, has a range of impacts on human societies, including changes in weather patterns, rising sea levels, and altered ecosystems.
The study found that decreasing forest areas have a significant impact on increasing global temperatures, as forests play a critical role in absorbing and storing carbon dioxide, one of the main greenhouse gases responsible for climate change. As a result, deforestation contributes to the release of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, which contributes to global warming. The study also highlighted the impact of climate change on the tourism industry, which can alter weather patterns and affect the availability of natural attractions.
In terms of concrete values, the study provides specific data on the forest area and the annual change in forest area for six countries, including Brazil, Indonesia, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Peru, Thailand, and Costa Rica. The study also provides data on the average annual temperature increase from 1990 to 2019 for these countries, as well as international tourist arrivals in 2019.
The study further emphasizes the role of sustainable forest management and eco-tourism in mitigating the negative impacts of deforestation on the tourism industry. This includes promoting responsible tourism practices, such as minimizing environmental impacts, supporting local communities, and conserving natural resources. Overall, the study provides valuable insights into the complex relationship between forest conservation, climate change, and the tourism industry, and highlights the importance of sustainable practices for the long-term viability of both the natural environment and the tourism sector
Effects of Pretilachor Pyribenzoxim Pollution on the Water Quality, Serum Biochemical Indices, and Behavioural Response of Oreochromis niloticus Juveniles
No full textAims: The effects of Pretilachor pyribenzoxim (PP) pollution on the water quality, serum biochemical indices, and behavioural response of Oreochromis niloticus Juveniles were studied.
Study Design: The completely randomized design was used in this study.
Place and Duration of Study: The experiment was carried out in the Central Laboratory of the Fisheries and Aquaculture Department, Faculty of Agriculture, Adekunle Ajasin University Akungba-Akoko, Nigeria, between January and March 2023.
Methodology: The experiment was carried out in 30 L of non-chlorinated and aerated water in rectangular plastic tanks (45cm x 30cm x 30cm). 250 juveniles O. niloticus of both sexes were collected from Federal University of Technology, Akure, Ondo state and acclimatized for 14days in the laboratory. During rearing period, the fish were fed coppen feed at 2% body weight. In a definitive test, a group of 10 fish specimen (11.3-17.5cm length and 10.5-32.3g weight) were treated at random to nominal PP doses of 0.0, 0.10, 0.125, 0.150, 0.175, and 0.2 ml being diluted in 30 litres of water and labelled T1. T2, T3, T4, T5 and T6, respectively in triplicate. The LC50 of PP, test water's physicochemical, behavioural responses and serum biochemical indices were determined.
Results: The dissolved oxygen depleted (P<0.05) in T5 and T6, compared to T1 and the rest of the treatments. The water conductivity increases (P<0.05) with an increased concentration of PP contamination. The water's total dissolved solids levels increased progressively with an increase in PP concentration. The total dissolved solids in T5 and T6 were similar (P>0.05) to T4 but lower (P<0.05) than T1 and T2. Juveniles in treatments 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 shows behavioural responses such as loss of reflex, fin deformation, erratic swimming, air gulping, and moulting. The serum total protein of the juveniles in treatments 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 was lower (P<0.05) than T1. Serum creatinine level increased with increased PP contamination from treatments 1 to 6. The serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST) of the juvenile in T3, T4, T5 and T6 were higher (P<0.05) than in T1. The serum Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) of the juvenile in T2, T3, T4, T5 and T6 were significantly (P<0.05) higher than T1.
Conclusion: The exposure of juvenile O.niloticus to PP contamination affected the physicochemical properties of water, behaviour and Serum biochemicals of juvenile O. niloticus fish. Hence, leaching of pp into water bodies through Agricultural activities should be mornitored to reduce lost of fish which can lead to economic detune.