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Application of Nanochitosan in Fish Detoxification/Nano-Based Depuration
Get PDFThe chapter explores the application of nanochitosan in detoxification and
depuration of captive fish towards attainment of Sustainable Development
Goal 14. The application of nanochitosan in fish detoxification, often referred
to as nano-based depuration, represents a cutting-edge and sustainable
approach to addressing the challenges posed by environmental contaminants
in aquaculture. This innovative method harnesses the unique properties of
nanochitosan, a nanoscale derivative of chitosan, to capture, immobilize, and
gradually release contaminants in aquatic environments. Nanochitosan-based
fish detoxification or nano-depuration represents a forward-looking approach
to ensuring the safety and sustainability of aquaculture practices. This method
leverages nanochitosan’s unique properties, such as adsorption capacity and
controlled release, to reduce the bioavailability of contaminants, protect fish
health, and enhance the quality of seafood products. It aligns with the
principles of environmental responsibility and offers the flexibility to address
diverse contaminant profiles, making it a promising tool in the field of
aquaculture and environmental management
Resilience in Hyacinth Bean (Lablab purpureus (L.) Sweet): A Combined Approach of Relative Water Content and Gene Expression Analysis for Drought Tolerance.
Get PDFTo cope with water deficit, plants have evolved diverse drought tolerance mechanisms that involves
physiological, biochemical and gene regulatory networks for their effective survival. This research
investigated the relative water contents (RWC) and semi-reverse quantitative expression of plasma
membrane intrinsic proteins (PIPs) drought-tolerance genes in Hyacinth bean (HB). Five accessions were
randomly selected based on their seed morphology and were grown in planting buckets filled with
topsoil in a randomized complete block design. After two weeks of seedling growth under normal
conditions, drought stress was induced without water for 21 days in a greenhouse. In the same
experiment, well-watered potted HB seedlings served as controls. Determination of the RWC followed
an established protocol. RNA was isolated from leaf sample of the accessions and mRNA expression
levels of the PIP gene was determined using real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) with GAPDH
(glyceraldehyde – 3- phosphate dehydrogenase) gene as control. The results showed that the RWC of
drought-treated accessions ranged from 26.17% (TLn-6) to 48.78% (TLn-2), while that of control varied
from 49.61% (TLn-2) to 79.07% (TLn-70). The mean cycle quantification for the PIP amplification in the
drought-treated samples ranged from 31.33 ± 0.079 (TLn-2) to 32.02 ± 0.364 (TLn-7) which were found
to be higher than the control (28.63 ± 0.00).The expression level of drought-treated accessions was
higher than that of the control accessions. The expression of PIP in both drought-induced and well
hydrated accessions suggest the presence of drought regulatory genes in HB, thus making the crop a
suitable candidate for climate-smart agriculture in the tropics
Design and Construction of Fan and Bulb Automation System
Get PDFThe automation system described in this project leverages the power of Bluetooth wireless
communication to control the bulb and fan. The system utilize readily available components such as Arduino
Uno, HC-05 Bluetooth module, and 4-channel relay module, it provides a cost-effective solution for creating
a smart environment. The Arduino Uno acts as the central controller, receiving commands wirelessly via the
Bluetooth module and subsequently controlling the power supply to connect devices through the relay module.
This allows users to remotely turn on or off devices such as bulbs and fans, providing convenience and energy
efficiency. The measured response times for turning on/off the fan and bulb in the automation system were
found to be 15.47 μs for turning on the fan, 15.20 μs for turning off the fan, and 16.27 μs for turning on/off
the bulb. These results indicate that the system is highly efficient and reliable in controlling the devices. Future
enhancements can include the implementation of security measures to protect against unauthorized access and
integration with other smart devices. The Bluetooth automation system showcases the potential for creating
affordable and customizable automation solutions using easily accessible component
IMPLEMENTATION OF CIRCULATION STRATEGIES IN THE DESIGN OF A TRAIN STATION IN ILORIN
Get PDFNigeria, a populous and diversified nation, uses different modes of transportation to ease movement inside and between its cities. With the most popular of these modes being road, rail, air, and water, in which transport by road is the most patronized mode of transportation within the nation. It’s no news that most Nigerian roads are in very poor conditions leading to traffic congestion and delays, and in most cases are unsafe. It is therefore essential that the nation whilst not totally neglecting improving transportation by road, should begin to think forward in this forward moving age and era, in focusing on another means of transportation which is actually safe and will not give any woes of delay to commuters, which in this context is transport by rail, in order to meet the fast and growing need of the nations’ population for efficient transportation. In an increasingly urbanized world, the effective management of passenger flow and movement within train stations stands as a vital factor in shaping the overall travel experience. With a focus on the Nigerian environment, this thesis aims to investigate and resolve the complex dynamics of passenger mobility within train stations. The main goal of the study is to suggest design solutions that improve circulation paths and, in turn, improve user experience
SUSTAINABLE LANDSCAPE DESIGN AND USER SATISFACTION IN THE DESIGN OF A SHOPPING MALL IN PORT-HARCOURT, RIVERS STATE, NIGERIA.
Get PDFSustainability has advanced over the past few years, into more than just a term to an entire societal concept and norm. Sustainability in more modern times has been widely incorporated into more than just how energy and normal activities are carried out, but also into architecture and the building industry as a whole. In order to bridge the gap in literature on the relationship between sustainable landscape strategies and its impact on user-satisfaction. This study investigates sustainable landscape design strategies and how these strategies influence user satisfaction in the design of four selected shopping malls in Port-Harcourt. This study provides insight into the various design strategies adopted by architects such as; green roofs, bioswales and rain gardens which promote sustainability in the design of shopping malls, along with the challenges with integrating these strategies. The study focuses on identifying the various sustainable landscape design features integrated in shopping mall designs and how they affect the users, also to measure the extent to which the user’s satisfaction levels change as well as incorporating these findings into the design of a proposed shopping mall. The studys methodology makes use of a mixed method approach in which qualitative research approach methods were used to draw data from the field through observation tables and pictures, where by the selected shopping malls level of adoption of sustainable landscape strategies were evaluated and quantitative questionnaire approach in which questionnaires were distributed to shopping mall users to determine the level of user satisfaction within the mall in relation to the presence of sustainable landscape design strategies in the selected malls. The findings were organized into themes and presented with graphs, texts with the aid of tables and percentile rankings with the SPSS Statistics program which showed that majority of shopping mall users level of user satisfaction is influenced by the presence of sustainable landscape design strategies within the shopping malls. Based on the results, it is crucial that in the design of retail centers, the users satisfaction level is considered and the implementation of sustainable landscape design strategies should be integrated from the onset of the design process. This study will also serve as a useful reference material for building professionals, students, and researchers to consult and build upon
EXPLORING BIOMIMETIC ARCHITECTURAL PRINCIPLES IN THE DESIGN OF A PUBLIC LIBRARY IN MPAPE, ABUJA
Get PDFOver time, it has become increasingly evident that humans possess an inherent need to connect with their natural environment. This connection extends beyond aesthetics; it influences our well-being, productivity, and overall quality of life. In the context of architectural design, biomimetics—the practice of drawing inspiration from nature—has emerged as a promising avenue for creating more sustainable, user-friendly spaces. Acknowledging this, the study assesses ways to apply the insights gained from exploring biomimetic architectural principles and their impact on ergonomics in libraries located in Abuja, Nigeria. The study’s primary focus is biomimetic architecture and the effect it has on ergonomics. Given Abuja’s blend of diverse cultures and knowledge, its central position within the country, and its unique location- based characteristics, we selected it as our study location. This research adopts a pragmatic philosophy, employing a mixed-method research approach, we used convenience sampling to choose the libraries to select respondents. The study focused on 280 respondents from all over the country, utilizing observation guides and questionnaires to gather as much information. Our findings revealed a significant gap: the chosen libraries did not actively implement biomimetic architectural principles. However, respondents consistently highlighted the impact of these principles on ergonomics. Respondents expressed a preference for libraries with abundant natural light, greenery, and views of outdoor spaces. Biomimetic materials—such as those inspired by natural textures, patterns, and resilience—were rarely present. Yet, respondents recognized their potential to enhance ergonomics. Libraries that incorporated organic shapes, flexible seating arrangements, and adaptable spaces received favourable feedback. These features contributed to a more comfortable reading experience. Additionally, the study highlighted the influence of these principles on ergonomics. By applying biomimetic architecture in libraries, this study exposes opportunities to have more comfortable spaces that enable long-term reading. The findings of this study benefit a wide range of stakeholders, including residents, architects, designers, avid readers and the overall community of Abuja, Nigeria. Based on these results, we developed a library design proposal that prioritizes biomimetic architectural principles to enhance ergonomics within the library space
EVALUATION OF SINGLE NUCLEOTIDE POLYMORPHISMS OF MESENCHYMAL EPITHELIAL TRANSITION GENE IN NIGERIAN BREAST CANCER PATIENTS
Get PDFBreast cancer (BC) is a nationwide health issue, and understanding genetic risk factors is crucial for early detection and personalized treatment strategies. The Mesenchymal Epithelial Transition (MET) proto-oncogene, encoding the c-MET receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK), is key in BC progression and metastasis. This study identified single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of the MET gene, namely rs40239, rs1621, and rs41736, in Nigerian BC patients and their association with BC risk. The research involved 150 participants, including 75 BC patients and 75 healthy controls. DNA was extracted from participants' blood using the QIAamp DNA Mini Kit. The target SNPs (rs40239, rs1621, and rs41736) were genotyped on the DNA using the TaqMan SNP genotyping assay, and the allele frequencies were compared. An X2 test was employed to examine the association between the SNPs and BC risk. The results showed the presence of the SNPs with varying distributions in the participants. For MET rs40239, the AA genotype was more common in controls (60%) compared to patients (17%), though the association with BC risk was not statistically significant (OR=4.706, 95% CI: 0.959 – 23.096, p=0.062). For MET rs1621, no significant association with BC risk was found, with an odds ratio of 1.188 (95% CI: 0.516-2.733, p=0.426), and the genotype distribution showed minimal differences between controls and patients. Similarly, MET rs41736 also showed no significant association with BC risk (OR=0.954, 95% CI: 0.904 - 1.006, p=0.262), with genotype distributions showing minimal differences between groups. These findings suggest that while there were some differences in genotype distributions, none of the SNPs showed a statistically significant association with BC risk in this study. The results are crucial for understanding the genetic and functional implications of these MET gene variants of BC in the underrepresented African population. This would pave the way for future investigations that could influence strategies for early detection, diagnosis, and precision treatment of BC
ONLINE LEARNING INNOVATIONS IN ACCOUNTING EDUCATION: A STUDY OF STUDENTS’ ENGAGEMENT AND LEARNING OUTCOMES
Get PDFThis study explored online learning innovations in accounting education x-raying the effect of students’ engagement on learning outcomes. Survey research design was used because the study’s source of data was primary. A simple random sampling technique was adopted, and 101 questionnaires were randomly distributed to the respondents on the final year accounting departmental Telegram group for administration. Student’s Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) was used to measure learning outcome while proxies for the independent variables were used (Interactive Learning Activities, Environmental Support Features, Feedback and Support Mechanisms). Using SPSS 21 software, the data was analyzed using the multiple regression analysis, samples T-test and the descriptive analysis. The study’s findings revealed that online learning outcome of students in accounting courses during the study period was not significantly influenced by interactive learning activities while Environmental Support Features and Feedback & Support Mechanisms significantly influenced learning outcome. It also revealed that online learning is more effective in improving learning outcome than the conventional classroom experience. We therefore draw the conclusion that the integration of interactive learning activities, environmental support features, and feedback and support mechanisms significantly enhanced students' online learning outcomes and that online learning is more effective than the conventional classroom experiences. The study recommends that educational planners should incorporate multimedia tools such as videos and implement group projects, discussion forums, and peer-to peer activities to foster interaction among student, take into consideration the state of environmental support features in online accounting courses such as network, power supply, lighting, temperature, and space. The feedback and support mechanism and the technical support services should be swift in responding to students’ questions and the technical challenges they encounter while learning. There should be interactive content such as quizzes and polls, infographs, animations, badges, a leadership board, and shorter sessions to prevent fatigue and boredom
BIODEGRADATION OF OCHRATOXIN A IN SELECTED FOOD SPICES USING LACCASE OBTAINED FROM FUNGI ISOLATED IN OTA COVER
Get PDFThe carcinogenicity, hepatotoxicity, and nephrotoxicity associated with the ingestion of
ochratoxin A (OTA)-contaminated food spices demand an effective biodegradation approach
that ensures food safety and sustainability. The aim of this research was to produce and
characterise laccase from selected fungal specie and to determine its effectiveness in degrading
OTA present in selected food spices. Fungal species were isolated from soil samples and
screened for laccase production. Selected laccase-producing fungi was induced for quantitative
laccase production by solid-state fermentation using a laccase basal medium supplemented
with pre-treated corncobs. The produced laccase was extracted, characterised and enzyme
activity analysed. The OTA in the selected food spices was detected and quantified using High-
Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). Using computational tools, insights were also
provided on the mechanisms of biodegradation of OTA using obtained laccase. Eight fungi
species were isolated from the soil sample, of which three screened positive for laccase
production. The most efficient laccase-producing fungi (identified by intensity of the brown
colouration on the screening medium) was selected and identified as Pleurotus sp. The laccase
obtained from the selected fungi isolate had an activity of 51.93±1.8 U/mL. Following
characterization, the optimum condition of temperature and pH were 70oC and 7 respectively.
HPLC chromatogram showed the presence of OTA at peak area of 132.55 and 132.16 for both
chilli and turmeric respectively. There was a 29.5% and 29.9% reduction in OTA extracted
from the selected chilli and turmeric spices respectively after incubation with the obtained
laccase. Statistically, there were significant differences between the levels of detected OTA in
the spices before and after incubation with laccase (p<0.05). The laccase was computationally
predicted to bind to the phenol of the OTA which bears the chlorine atom responsible for the
toxicity of the OTA. This binding results in a cleavage of the phenol group resulting in the
breakdown of the OTA into OTα and L-β-phenylalanine. Therefore, treatment with laccase
serves as an effective method for the degradation of OTA in food spices
INFERRING GENE REGULATORY NETWORK FOR THE SPOROGENIC STAGE OF PLASMODIUM FALCIPARUM LIFE CYCLE USING GRAPH NEURAL NETWORKS AND scRNA-SEQ DATASET
Get PDFMalaria, primarily caused by the parasite Plasmodium falciparum, remains one of the most severe infectious diseases globally, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, where it leads to significant morbidity and mortality. A deep understanding of the molecular mechanisms that govern P. falciparum infection, especially during the sporogonic stage of the parasite’s life cycle, is crucial for controlling malaria and identifying new therapeutic targets. In this context, gene regulatory networks (GRNs) provide a valuable framework for exploring the gene interactions that drive the parasite's life cycle and its response to environmental changes. This research aims to the GRNs for the sporogenic stage of P. Falciparum life cycle using Graph Neural Networks (GNNs), a deep learning technique applied to single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) data. With the advent of scRNA-seq, gene expression can now be studied at the individual cell level. This is particularly important in the life cycle of P. falciparum, whose sporogonic stage is heterogeneous and involves different cell types throughout its life cycle. The study began with the preprocessing of scRNA-seq data, followed by clustering the cells to identify distinct stages of the parasite. A correlation-based co-expression network was then constructed to capture the relationships between genes within these clusters. Graph convolutional neural networks were employed to reconstruct the GRNs, leveraging their ability to learn the interactions between genes in the network. The performance of the inferred GRNs was evaluated using the AUC, AUPRC ratio, and EPR metrics, with average values of 0.6756, 1.51, and 2.48, respectively. This research not only enhances the understanding of the sporogonic stage of the life cycle of P. falciparum's gene regulatory mechanisms but also identifies potential master regulators and genes that play central roles in the parasite's survival and pathogenicity. Four master regulators were identified for four selected clusters of genes associated with the life cycle of the sporogonic stage, based on the centrality scores of genes in the network. Among these master regulators, PF3D7_0304500, PF3D7_1357200, PF3D7_0822300, and PF3D7_0212300 stood out as the most critical genes within their respective clusters