International Journal of Scientific Research in Biological Sciences
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Botanical Field Notes from Rajasthan with Records of New Plant Species
Get PDFThis study explores the flora of Rajasthan, India, with a specific focus on documenting the species records new to flora of Rajasthan and the naturalization of some garden species in the wild. We identified several species exhibiting the phenomenon of naturalization, including Iochroma arborescens, Dysphania pumilio, Opuntia cylindrica, Cyperus alternifolius and Alternanthera philoxeroides. These five species are new also to the flora of Rajasthan. Additionally, the naturalization of cultivated species like Dodonaea angustifolia, Nerium oleander, and Tithonia diversifolia is also documented. The findings highlight the importance of continuous monitoring and updating of flora to reflect changes in the plant composition of a region. The study also reports interesting plant species occurrence in the gorges of Shahabad Tehsil area in Baran District which were earlier not reported for this region. New locations of occurrence of Borassus flabellifer is also listed in the present paper.
 
Morphological Characteristics of Endemic Species of Araceae to Al-Jabal Al-Akhdar, Libya (Field Simulation)
Get PDFFlora of Libya database includes about 168 plant families that need to be updated periodically. This review is submitted as a modern field simulation of Araceae species endemic herbaceous to Libya. This study included field visits to ten sites in Al-Jabal Akhdar region, an inventory of species belonging to Araceae, a comparison was made between our study`s morphological measurements and those found in flora of Libya. This Study revealed a distribution of three herbaceous species belonging to Araceae in Al-Jabal Al-Akhdar represented by (Arisarum vulgare, Arum cyrenaicum and Biarum bovei). Biarum bovei was the least found species by 40%. The results of the morphological study also showed some discrepancies, especially in morphological measurements such as plant height, number of leaves and some floral characteristics (length of spathe and spadix), which may have high taxonomic values in identification and classification of the members of Araceae.
 
The Physicochemical Dynamics of Epie Creek, Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, Nigeria
Get PDFThe Physicochemical Dynamics of Epie Creek, Yenagoa, Bayelsa State was investigated. This was done to measure the degree of direct and indirect human impacts on receiving systems of Epie creek, Bayelsa State. Physicochemical samples were collected for analyses once monthly from Four (4) stations for twelve (12) consecutive months between April 2021 and March 2022. Samples were collected between the hours of 08:00hrs to 12:00hrs during each sampling day using standard techniques. Physicochemical samples were analyzed for Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD5), Dissolved Oxygen (DO), Alkalinity, Temperature, pH and Electrical conductivity (EC). Means and standard deviation were calculated for all physicochemical variables for both dry and wet seasons. Physicochemical data were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) at the 95% confidence limit (P=0.05) in order to check the sources of variability and similarities in the measured values at stations within seasons. T-test was employed to determine the degree of variability of physicochemical parameters between seasons. This was aided by the SPSS® 20.0 statistics tool kit. Results indicate that all the physicochemical parameters were within the internationally permissible threshold for physicochemical parameters in fresh water. There were significant differences (P<0.05) of certain physicochemical parameters between the wet and dry seasons and between stations. It can be concluded that Epie creek in not under any immediate threat of pollution and the current practices around the creek be sustained or improved upon.
 
Antioxidant Enzyme Activities Estimation In vicia faba Leaves
Get PDFPlant cells have the inherent ability to produce reactive oxygen species and oxygen radicals as secondary products during various physiological processes associated with abiotic stress. The disruption of the equilibrium between the generation of reactive oxygen species and the defense systems against oxidative harm is a significant consequence of abiotic stress in plants. As a consequence, the accumulation of reactive oxygen species occurs, hence triggering the onset of oxidative stress. Jasmonates represent a class of plant hormones that exert significant regulatory influence over several physiological processes. These processes include gene and metabolic regulation, immune mechanisms, responses to stress, reproductive activities, and interaction between cells, among other roles. The presence of oxidative stress induces the synthesis of metabolites possessing antioxidant characteristics and augments the efficacy of antioxidant enzymes, hence conferring a safeguarding impact on plant tissues. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of methyl jasmonate (JAME) administration on reactive oxygen species and the activities of H2O2 scavenging enzymes, namely superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione in vicia faba leaves. After implementing a therapy strategy with JAME, there was an elevation in the activity levels of the enzyme superoxide dismutase , catalase , and glutathione.
 
Physico-Chemical Properties and Species Diversity of Crustacean Zooplankton in Ikarama River, Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, Nigeria
Get PDFThis study was aimed at investigating the physicochemical properties and species diversity of crustacean zooplankton in Ikarama River. It was carried out from 16th of September to 18th of August. Four stations were examined consecutively, moving from a point higher up in the stream to a point lower down. The distance between each station was approximately 400 metres. The water was tested for seventeen different physicochemical parameters according to the AOAC`s official techniques of analysis and the Standard Method for the Examination of Water and Wastewater. The Air and water surface temperatures results ranged from 28.0oC to 29.5oC. Transparency (1.8 m – 1.9 m) and Total suspended solids (70.5 mg-1-75.0 mg-1) showed inverse relationship. Depth ranged from 65 cm to 80 cm, while turbidity ranged from 50 NTU to 55 NTU. TDS ranged between 65 mg-1 and 72 mg-1, total solids ranged between 6.1 mg-1 and 7.0 mg-1. pH values ranged from 5.5 to 6.5. Dissolved oxygen value ranged from 8.5 mg-1 to 10.0 mg-1, while the BOD5 (2.9 mg-1 and 4.5 mg-1) indicated no form of pollution or stress on the water body. Conductivity and chloride values ranged from 9.0 ?scm-1 to 10.7 ?scm-1 and 60.0 mg-1 to 60.5 mg-1 respectively. The water of River Ikarama was relatively low in its assemblage of crustacean zooplankton. A total of 11 crustacean zooplankton species belonging to 9 genera in 5 families and 3 orders were obtained during the study period. The family Cyclopoidae was the dominant group in the order Cyclopoida while the family Chydoridae was the only family recorded in the order Cladocera. All the eleven taxa were recorded in all stations. In all stations, the Copepoda were more abundant than the Cladocera and Harpacticoida. The study also established that the overall density of copepod was not significantly different (P<0.05) between the study stations. All the species recorded were almost evenly distributed in all the stations. No evidence of water pollution recorded in any of the stations sampled. The river was relatively homogenous across the different stations and all the parameters were within the WHO recommended standards for domestic use.
 
Revolutionizing Mosquito Control: A Nobel Approach with Cow Dung-Based Herbal Repellents
Get PDFMosquito-borne diseases pose significant health threats worldwide, emphasizing the urgent need for effective and affordable mosquito repellents. This study investigates the development and efficacy of a novel mosquito repellent derived from cow dung supplemented with herbal ingredients. The primary objective was to assess the feasibility and effectiveness of utilizing cow dung as a base for mosquito repellent formulation, comparing its efficacy with commercially available alternatives. Through a series of experiments and comparative analyses, it was determined that the cow dung-based mosquito repellent exhibited a remarkable effectiveness, surpassing commercial repellents by 20%. The formulation process was meticulously examined, detailing the incorporation of herbal ingredients to enhance repellent properties. Moreover, the study sheds light on the potential health and environmental implications associated with the use of conventional mosquito repellents containing synthetic pyrethroids and DDT, emphasizing the need for safer alternatives. The herbal mosquito repellent developed in this study offers a cost-effective, eco-friendly solution with minimal health risks, thereby advocating for its adoption as a viable alternative to commercial repellents. Furthermore, this research underscores the importance of industry adoption to facilitate the widespread availability and utilization of herbal mosquito repellents, thereby mitigating health risks associated with conventional alternatives. Overall, this study contributes to the growing body of knowledge on sustainable vector control methods and highlights the potential of natural remedies in combating mosquito-borne diseases.
 
Isolation and Characterization of Bacteria for Bio-surfactant production from oil-contaminated and Ffarmland Soil in Dutsin-Ma L.G.A
Get PDFSurface-active substances that are secreted by microorganisms are called biosurfactants. Although there are a number of known microorganisms that create biosurfactants, more research is needed to determine which ones could produce the chemical more quickly and profitably for commercial usage. These kinds of bacteria were identified in the Dutsin-Ma metropolitan investigation as being involved in the production of biosurfactant. Six soil samples in all were gathered from various locations within the Dutsin-Ma city. Six soil samples in all were gathered from various locations within the Dutsin Ma city. The tests included isolating the bacteria, identifying the group to which the organisms belong using gram staining, testing the isolated bacteria biochemically, and performing additional tests to identify bacteria that create biosurfactants. Prior to microscopic examination, the bacteria used in this investigation were first acquired macroscopically. It was noted that several colony characteristics included colour, texture, border, and height. It was noted that B. subtilis had an entire border, a smooth texture, and a yellowish coloration. The isolates` biochemical examination reveals Bacillus subtilis, Pseudomonas sp., and pseudomonas aeruginosa. The fact that the bacteria are there indicates that the soil is a natural habitat for them. based on the biosurfactant activity screening using the oil spread, drop collapse, and haemolysis tests. Every isolate underwent a hemolysis test, and every one of them proved positive (Pseudomonas spp., however, had a negative result). The haemolysis result demonstrates beta hemolysis activity, a sign of the strain`s capacity to generate biosurfactants. With the exception of pseudomonas sp., all isolates showed positive for the drop collapse and oil spread tests. Further research is required to determine the precise features of the type and structure of the biosurfactant that these bacteria eat, based on the results of this study.
 
Evaluation of Aqueous Seed Extracts of Garcinia Kola and Allium Sativum in Hair Loss Reduction
Get PDFAim: The medicinal effect of a mixture of aqueous seed extracts of Garcinia Kola and Allium Sativum extracts, applied directly to the scalp of West African females with type 4B and 4C Afro textured hair and their impact in reducing hair shedding/loss over the period of application was investigated in this study. Experimental Design: A placebo human study, enrolling nine participants from West Africa between the ages 15 and 52, were used as the experimental subjects for this study. Subjects were divided into 3 groups (A-C) with group A as the control having 2 females and 1 male, applying no solution to their scalp or hair. The females had sewed in braids and the male was low-cut. Group B was the test group with the aqueous seed extracts applied directly on the scalp and hair strands, and had 2 females and 1 male, while Group C maintained their existing hair cleansing routine, had 3 females and was used as the placebo. Hair loss was analyzed through observation. Hair shedding and breakage was calculated, monitored and recorded. Place and Duration of Study: The research work and administration of the extracts was carried out at the homes of the participants in Lagos, Nigeria for a period of two months. Methodology: Nine West Africans of both male and female sexes between the ages of 15 and 52 and with Afro-textured type 4B and 4C hair were selected for the research. Treatment was done on Group B, with 250mls of Administration of the extracts applied directly to their scalp every 3 days between the hours of 6am to 8am, with the hair braided and left for 10 minutes, after which it was rinsed off with clean water. The extract was not applied to Group A (Control) and Group C (Placebo). Measurements of the amount of hair fall and shedding was carried out every 2 weeks for a period of 2 months for all groups.  
Land Degradation and Its Occurrence in Nigeria: Drivers and Mitigation
Get PDFLand or soil degradation can be influenced by land use and land cover (LULC) changes brought on by both human and natural influences. One of the biggest environmental issues endangering the world`s ecosystem is land degradation, which is more prevalent in developing nations. This review focuses on land degradation in Nigeria. Specifically, it provides evidence of land degradation in Nigeria, the sources and effects of land degradation in Nigeria, and potential solutions to land degradation in Nigeria. Process of land degradation mapping and assessment was discussed. It was demonstrated in this study that the application of remote sensing in monitoring land degradation is of high benefit, which is in its ability to offer cost-effective, timely, accurate, and dependable information on degraded lands. Although there is much literature on land degradation, technological advancements point to the necessity for a review that will capture the most recent advanced methodology used in identifying causes and assessing soil degradation. As a result, this review`s importance cannot be overstated.
 
Genetics and Liver Function Tests: Unraveling the Molecular Landscape of Hepatic Health
Get PDFThe liver, a complex organ with multifaceted functions, is subject to a myriad of genetic influences that contribute to individual variations in liver function. This review article explores the intricate relationship between genetics and liver function tests (LFTs), shedding light on the molecular basis of hepatic health. We delve into the key genetic determinants influencing various LFT markers, including alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), bilirubin, and others. Advancements in genomics, particularly through genome-wide association studies (GWAS), have unveiled a wealth of genetic variants associated with alterations in LFT parameters across diverse populations. This review synthesizes findings from these studies, providing insights into the genetic architecture of liver function and its implications for clinical practice. We discuss the clinical significance of genetic polymorphisms in the context of liver diseases, emphasizing their potential as biomarkers for disease risk stratification. Furthermore, the review elucidates the genetic underpinnings of specific liver conditions, such as hemochromatosis, Wilson`s disease, and alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency, highlighting how genetic factors contribute to variations in liver function tests and disease progression. The impact of genetic diversity on drug metabolism and hepatotoxicity is also explored, emphasizing the importance of personalized medicine in optimizing treatment outcomes. The integration of genetic information into the interpretation of LFT results is discussed, emphasizing the evolving landscape of precision medicine in hepatology. We address challenges and opportunities in incorporating genetic data into routine clinical practice, considering ethical considerations and potential benefits for patient care. In conclusion, this review consolidates current knowledge on the interplay between genetics and liver function, providing a comprehensive overview of the molecular basis of hepatic health. Understanding the genetic determinants of liver function not only enhances diagnostic accuracy but also opens avenues for the development of targeted therapeutic interventions, ultimately paving the way for personalized approaches to liver health assessment and management.