Jewel Journal of Scientific Research

Evaluation of Antibacterial Properties of Piliostigma reticulatum leaves

B. I. Isah — 2024-06-15

Piliostigma reticulatum is known for its extensive traditional applications, such as managing diarrhea in teething infants, treating wounds and ulcers, combating parasitic infections, stopping bleeding, and alleviating inflammation and bacterial conditions. It is also used in the treatment of gonorrhea, stomach pain, headaches, malaria, dysentery, fever, respiratory disorders, snakebites, hookworm infestations, and various skin infections. This study was conducted to assess the chemomicroscopic and antibacterial effects of Piliostigma reticulatum leaf extracts. Chemomicroscopic analysis of the powdered leaf material identified the presence of cellulose, tannins, starch, lignin, suberin, aleurone grains, and mucilage, while calcium carbonate, calcium oxalate, and inulin were not observed. Standardized procedures were employed to perform antibacterial evaluations. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, and Staphylococcus aureus were 15.625 mg/mL and 31.25 mg/mL, respectively.

Women Participation in Agricultural Development: A Case Study of Ikole LGA, Ekiti State

S. C. Anugwo — 2025-06-28

The study investigated how rural women contribute to agricultural growth in Ikole local government area, Ekiti State, Nigeria. A two-stage random sampling method was employed. Based on their degree of rurality, ten (10) rural settlements from Ikole Local Government Area were chosen at random for the first stage. To complete the sample size of hundred (100) respondents, ten (10) rural women were also randomly selected from the rural villages in the second stage. The study employed descriptive statistics like frequency distribution, percentages, and likert scale. Findings showed that 27.0% of the rural women were between the age ranges of 36 to 45years with 78% of them being married. (23.0%) of the respondents had no formal education while 77.0% have had some form of level of education also 25% of the respondents have been on the farm for between 6-10 years. Furthermore, the rural women engaged in agricultural activities that made use of seeds, pesticides and fertilizer with mean scores of (4.47, 4.22 and 4.17) respectively. In terms of their perception of agricultural development majority of the respondents had access to credit and financial resources with a mean score of (4.56), which was viewed as crucial in enabling rural women to participate in agricultural operations also respondents viewed agriculture as profitable with a mean score of (4.38). Challenges faced by rural women included insufficient capital and safety concerns due to insecurity in the study area.

Mathematical Model of Oxygen Concentration on County Solid Waste Management at Dumpsite

I. S. Iornumbe — 2025-06-17

This study presents the development of one-dimensional mathematical model capable of simulating simultaneous processes of oxygen flow. The resulting governing equations is partial differential equation (PDE) which have been solved by separation of variables method. The goal is to study the three transport parameters; effective diffusivity, decay constant rate and porosity on the oxygen concentration which results in degradation of refuse because after a long-term process in the dumpsite. Solutions of the model equation are obtained using Separation of variables. The results are presented graphically. From the simulated results it is found that for the particular time, oxygen concentration decreases with increase in reaction rate constant (k) with times and depths at the dumpsite. Oxygen concentration at the dumpsite increases with increase in porosity at a particular time at all depths. Oxygen concentration increases with increase in effective diffusivity () time and depth.

Locating Karstic Void using Resistivity and Gravity Methods in Gua Musang, Kelantan, Malaysia

I. A. Abir — 2025-06-28

Gravity and resistivity are geophysical methods used to delineate the subsurface of the Earth. The interpretation of subsurface layers can be useful for exploration purposes and detecting anomalies that could lead to hazardous events. In this study, a CG-5 Autograv Scintrex was used to measure and collect gravity data where gravity points were calculated at 5 to 10 meters between each station. This method is conducted in a looping manner whereby, after every three (3) hour interval, the gravity points are tied to the base for the closing of the loop. These data points were then transferred into a computer for further processing and interpretation. Similarly, the resistivity method investigates variations of electrical resistance by causing electrical current to flow through the subsurface using wires connected to the ground. In this research, a dipole-dipole protocol was implemented to a 200-meter-long survey line with each line representing 100 meters from the center. The electrodes were planted every 5 meters across 6 survey lines using ABEM Terrameter SAS 4000. The obtained resistivity data were also transferred into the computer for further processing using the RES2DINV programme to create a resistivity pseudosection model. The model was further interpreted to locate the karstic void from the difference in resistivity value at different depths. The combined results from both gravity and resistivity methods gave a more accurate representation of the Earth's subsurface layers which in turn enable the location of the void to be pinpointed more accurately.

Comparative Assessment of The Antibacterial Activity of Ethanolic and Aqueous Extract of Annona muricata against Staphylococcus aureus

A. O. Mohammed — 2025-04-29

In indigenous medicine, natural products particularly those derived from plants have long been utilized to support human health. Annona muricata is widely used in folkore medicine by indigenous people in South America and Africa because of its purported therapeutic benefits. This study was conducted to explore he phytochemical constituents and also ascertain the antibacterial activity of ethanol and aqueous extracts of Annona muricata leaf (soursop) leaves against Staphylococcus aureus. The extracts were screened qualitatively for the presence of phytochemicals and tannins, saponins, flavonoids and alkaloids were present. Antibacterial susceptibility profile of the isolate with standard antibiotics as well as the antibacterial activity of the plant extracts was determined using disc and agar diffusion method respectively. The inhibition zones of ethanolic and aqueous extracts of Annona muricata against Staphylococcus aureus were 37 ± 4.7 mm and 25 ± 3.75 mm respectively at 100 mg/ml concentration. The HPLC analysis of the phytochemicals revealed the presence of Limonime, Licorice, Geraniol, Strychnine, Chlorogenic acid, Quinine, Squalene and some unidentified compounds. This study revealed the antibacterial activity of crude Annona muricata leaf extracts against the clinical isolate in comparison to some standard antibiotics. Further research on the isolation and characterization of the bioactive agent in the plant is required to provide a variety of novel components for drug discovery.

Lead, Zinc and Chromium Accumulation Effect on the Germination and Growth of Maize (Zea mays) Seedlings

A. Babale — 2025-06-30

Population increase has significant impact on agricultural activities, over the past decades; introduction of many large Industries have serious consequences on environmental health. This can lead to dispensing pollutant in the environment. Some of the pollutants can affect crops in terms of germination and growth. Experimental plots of maize crop were established at Gombe State University (GSU) Botanical garden. The experiment started from 3^rd April- 3^th August, 2023 and laboratory analysis was conducted at biochemistry laboratory, Gombe State University (GSU). Plant height (cm), fresh roots weight (g), dry roots weight (g), fresh stems weight (g), dry stems weight (g), seeds weight (g), accumulated in roots (mg/l), accumulated in stems (mg/l), accumulated in leaves (mg/l) and accumulated in seed (mg/l) were amongst the morphological trait observed. The accumulation of heavy metals on various concentrations of Lead, Zinc and Chromium contributes to decreased and slightly increased in some growth of Maize (Zea mays) seedlings when compared with the control. However, Percentage of Maize germination under different concentration of Lead, Zinc and Chromium (25ppm, 50ppm, 75ppm and 100ppm with 0ppm as a control) varies, with increasing concentration. Similarly, germination and growth decreased with increasing concentration. Moreover, roots had the highest accumulation of heavy metals followed by stems, seeds while leaves showed lowest absorption of the metals. Finally, there was a strong relationship between plants (maize seedlings) growth and accumulation of heavy metals in the plants morphology. It shows that when concentrations of heavy metals are increasing, accumulations of the same metals are also increasing with decreased or slightly increased in plants morphological growth performance.

Assessment of Heavy Metals in Peppers Sold in Major Vegetable Markets of Kano State

B. I. Isah — 2024-06-15

Heavy metal concentrations in four pepper samples sold in major vegetable markets in Kano Sate, North western Nigeria was investigated in this research work. The heavy metals analyzed for include, Nickel, Lead (Pb) and Copper (Cu) using Atomic Absorption Spectrophometry method. The results of the analysis revealed that Nickel ranged from (0.011±0.001ppm to 0.022±0.001ppm), Lead (0.053±0.001 to 0.100±0.001 ppm), and Cupper (0.003±0.0001 to 0.007±0.001 ppm), for all the analyzed pepper samples. The heavy metals concentrations in the pepper’s samples were significantly different at p < 0.05 level of significance among the selected markets. From the results, the levels of contamination by these heavy metals on the pepper samples were very low compared to the permissible limits stipulated by FAO/WHO (2012).

Anti-Nutrient Composition of Anyan Ekpang and Otong Soup as traditional dishes in Efiks Cross River State and Oron, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria

S. O. Bassey — 2025-06-16

This study investigates the anti-nutrient composition of Anyan Ekpang and Otong Soup, two traditional dishes commonly consumed by the Efik and Oron ethnic groups in Nigeria. The objective is to evaluate the presence and concentration of saponins, phytates, oxalates, flavonoids, tannins, phenols, and hydrogen cyanide (HCN) in these meals, assessing their potential health implications. The soups were prepared following traditional recipes used by the Efik and Oron people. Anti-nutrient levels were analyzed using spectrophotometric and titrimetric techniques to ensure accurate quantification. Standardized laboratory procedures were applied to maintain data reliability and minimize analytical errors. Findings revealed notable concentrations of anti-nutrients in both dishes. In Otong Soup, saponin content ranged from 0.73–0.80 mg/100g, phytates from 0.70–0.73 mg/100g, and oxalates from 0.80–0.82 mg/100g for both ethnic groups. Anyan Ekpang exhibited saponin levels of 0.60–0.54 mg/100g, phytates between 0.69–0.48 mg/100g, and oxalates ranging from 0.76–0.52 mg/100g for Oron and Efik, respectively. Hydrogen cyanide (HCN) in Anyan Ekpang prepared with cassava was significantly higher (1.86–1.92 mg/100g) than the WHO safe consumption threshold of 1.52 mg/100g, indicating potential toxicity risks. Moderate levels of tannins, phenols, and flavonoids were detected, which may contribute to reduced mineral bioavailability, particularly calcium and iron, essential for bone health and anemia prevention. While Otong Soup and Anyan Ekpang are nutritionally valuable and culturally significant, their high anti-nutrient content, particularly elevated HCN levels in Anyan Ekpang, presents potential health concerns. Proper processing techniques or dietary modifications may be necessary to reduce toxicity risks while preserving their nutritional benefits. Further research into alternative preparation methods and fortification strategies could enhance their safety and dietary suitability.

Economic Analysis of Corchorus olitorius Production in Ebonyi State, Nigeria

S. C. Anugwo — 2025-06-26

The study analyzed the cost and returns of Corchorus olitorius L., vegetable production within three local government areas in Ebonyi State, which were Ezza South, Izzi and Ohaozara LGAs. Multi-stage sampling technique was adopted for data collection to select the respondents used for the study. A total number of 72 respondents were interviewed. The result revealed that the age range of 31 to 40 had the highest percentage with 34.7% suggesting that the farmers are experienced and young in the study area, females 65.3% were major producers while majority of the respondents were married 41.7% and households with 6 to 10 persons 43.1% having the highest sizes. Education-wise, a few percentage possess tertiary qualifications 19.4%, and just 29.2% lack formal education, implying they`ve had a relatively high level of basic education. Approximately 37.5% have 6 to 11 years of farming experience. Profitability analysis revealed that the total revenue generated by the vegetable farmers in the study area was ₦48,240,000 with a net revenue of ₦15,476,000 and a gross margin of ₦23,760,000. The rate of return was 47.23% implying its production was profitable. For factors affecting vegetables production in the study area, most of the variables were all positive and significant with R² value of 0.820 implying that the model accounted for 82.0% of the variability in vegetable production. The major constraints faced by vegetable farmers were competition from other producers, lack of labor and invasion of farms by cattles.

Evaluation of Seed Morphometrics, Germination and Oil Content of Collected Castor Landraces

C. O. Oke — 2025-05-21

Castor (Ricinus communis L.) is a valuable non-edible oilseed crop with industrial and medical applications, known for its high seed oil content (35–65%) and ricinoleic acid (85–90%). This study evaluated seed morphometrics, germination, and oil content of 15 castor landraces collected from six sites in Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria. Morphological traits such as stem color, leaf petiole texture, seed color, and size were analyzed, revealing significant variability. Light green stems (73.3%), dark chocolate seeds (66.7%) were predominant, while white, and light brown seeds were rare. Seed size varied, with small seeds (60%) being most common. Germination parameters showed high variability: germination percentage ranged from 32.67% to 78.00%, with a mean of 55.82%, while mean germination time varied from 3.78 to 8.75 days. Seed oil content ranged from 23.89% to 41.77%, with Samples 15 (41.77%) and 14 (39.72%) exhibiting the highest yields. Morphometric analysis using ImageJ software revealed significant differences in seed traits such as area, perimeter, and circularity, indicating diverse seed shapes and sizes. Correlation analysis showed weak relationships between seed morphometrics and oil content, suggesting that seed size and shape are poor predictors of oil yield. The findings highlight the genetic diversity among castor landraces in Ilorin, with implications for breeding programs aimed at improving oil yield and germination performance. The study underscores the need for integrated approaches combining morphological, biochemical, and genomic data to optimize castor cultivation for industrial applications.

Condition Factor and Observable Disease Manifestation of Clarias gariepinus (Burchell, 1822) obtained from Non-Wild Ponds in Ibadan, South-Western Nigeria.

A. A. R. Adebambo — 2025-06-30

The study compared the condition factor and observable disease manifestation in 405 randomly and maturely selected Clarias gariepinus in Ibadan. The condition factor as a measure of well-being was calculated using the formula K=100W/L³. Out of the 405 apparently healthy fish, 302(74.57%) were found within condition factor (CF) range of 0.6-0.79 and 62(15.31%) within those with 0.8-0.99. The condition factor of >1.0 had 13(3.21%) of fish, while the least number of fish 4(0.98%) were observed within the least CF of 0.39. The mean weight of fish progresses from 339.3±90.3g to 696.0±211.6g as the CF increased from (0.39 - >1.0) and so did the standard length increase from 30.78±3.61-35.52±3.50cm. Higher mean weight of fish (446.1±11.70g) found within 0.39 CF could be due to the little number of fish encountered in the category. There were significant differences between both mean of the weight, the standard lenght of fish and the CF (p<0.05). However, the relationship between the CF and the total length showed no significant difference (p>0.05). Microscopic observation of the organs studied revealed no gross significant signs in the fish organs as follow, skin (91.10%), gills (96.79%), intestine (96.79%) and liver (98.02%). Disease manifestation in the skin included white spots in 19(4.2%), tail rot 12(2.96%), peel in 5(1.23%) fishes, while in gills 13(3.21%) showed pale colour which suggest anaemic situation, however no physical diseases were manifested in the intestine except for observed varying contents such as green algae, coloured exudates, and cannibalized fish. The liver samples in each case had 3(0.74%) that showed poor texture and yellowish exudates. While most fish were in moderate condition (CF 0.60- 0.79) and appeared healthy both internally and externally, the study thus highlighted few signs of physical diseases. However, due to the absence of microbiological and histopathological screenings, the study recommends further aetiological investigations to improve fish diagnosis and management.

Mineral Composition and in Vitro Antioxidant activities of extracts of Bambara Groundnut (Vigna subtereanean) and Pigeon Pea (Cajanus cajan) Harvested in Ugep, Yakurr Local Government Area of Cross River State, Nigeria

G. I. Ekpo — 2025-04-08

The study evaluates the mineral and antioxidant content of Bambara groundnut (BG) and pigeon pea (PP) and their potential therapeutic benefits. Three different samples were taken: sample A was made up of Bambara groundnuts; sample B was made up of pigeon peas; and sample C was made up of 50% BG and 50% PP. Using accepted techniques, the samples were examined. The study shows that pigeon pea and the mixture (50%BG+50%PP), the mineral composition results indicated that Bambara groundnut had considerably greater levels of calcium, zinc, and potassium (P<0.05). Bambara groundnut and the combined sample, pigeon pea had substantially higher magnesium and iron levels at (p<0.05). Additionally, the mixed sample (50% BG+50% PP) demonstrated a notable increase in sodium when compared to Bambara groundnut and Pigeon pea. When compared to Bambara groundnut and pigeon pea, the combined sample (50%BG+50%PP) significantly increased at (p <0.05) the ability to inhibit DPPH, H₂O₂ scavenging activity, and lipid peroxidation. The ferric reducing activity of Bambara groundnut, however, significantly increased at (p>0.05). These medicinal plants' bioactive components have a high concentration of minerals and antioxidants. As a result, BG and PP might be utilized to treat conditions including high blood pressure, osteoporosis, anemia, and arthritis. This study supports the in-vitro study's assertion that Bambara groundnut and pigeon pea are therapeutic in nature. These researches come to the conclusion that the medicinal plants contain antioxidant scavenging capacity that may be advantageous for human health.

Isolation and Characterization of Flavonoids from Myosotis scorpioides L. (Boraginaceae) and Evaluation of Antimalarial Efficacy of Dichloromethane Extract of the Plant

Z. Abdu — 2025-06-30

The plant sample (Myosotis scorpioides L (Boraginaceae)) was selected based on its ethnomedicinal usage by the traditional Lala people in Adamawa State as a remedy to malarial disease. The extract was initially screened for the presence of phytocompounds and antiplasmodial assay and was run in the Vacuum Liquid Chromatography followed by Column Chromatography to obtain the pure compounds. The result of the phytochemical screening revealed that extract of the plant contained most of the important secondary metabolites such as alkaloids, flavonoids, terpenes, steroids, saponins etc. The antimalarial evaluation revealed a potential drug candidate to remedy malaria disease. The Vacuum Liquid Chromatography (VLC) followed by Column Chromatography of the plant extract afforded two pure Compounds: Ms-25-3 (1) and Ms-10-102 (2). The two Compounds were analyzed on FT-IR machine, BRUKER NMR-spectrophotometer (700MHz) and a HR-MS machine. The data obtained were used for the structural elucidation of the Compounds. 5,7-dihydroxy-2-(3-hydroxyphenyl)-3-((3,4,5,6tetrahydroxytetrahydro-2H-pyran-2-yl)methoxy)-4H-chromen-4-one (1) a new flavonoid and 2-(3,4-Dihydroxy-phenyl)-5,7-dihydroxy-3-[3,4,5-trihydroxy-6-(3,4,5-trihydroxy-6-hydroxymethyl-tetrahydro-pyran-2-yloxymethyl)-tetrahydro-pyran-2-yloxy]-chromen-4-one (2). The two flavonoids might be responsible for the antimalarial activity observed in the crude extract of the plant. The result has supported the ethnomedicinal use of the plant, confirmed its activity and has also provided a baseline data for future research on the plant. However, further phytochemical, biological, pharmacological investigations and exhaustive isolation and purification methods are highly recommended on the solvent extracts of the plants.