Faculty of Sciences

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Curing HIV-1 Infection via in vitro Ultra-Sensitive Modification of HIV-1 Uninfected CD4+ Cells using Antiviral Agents
(International Institute for Science, Technology and Education (IISTE), 2014-02-02) Odiba, Arome Solomon; Wannang, Noel; Joshua; Elijah Parker; Iroha; Okechukwu Kalu; Ukegbu; Chimere Young; Onosakponome; Kenneth Iruoghene; Chukwunonyelum; Anunobi Oluchukwu Ogechukwu
Curing HIV-1 Infection via in vitro ultra-sensitive modification of Human Immunodeficiency Virus-1 (HIV-1) uninfected CD4+ cells is a promising hypothetical procedure that links different established clinical/laboratory tools (methods) and channeling them towards a clinical trial to achieve the ultimate goal of curing HIV-1 infection. The In vitro ultra-sensitive chemical modification of HIV-1 uninfected CD4+ cells using selected antiviral agents towards curing HIV-1 infection entails a six step clinical/laboratory procedure. Isolation/purification of HIV-free CD4+ cells is the first step of this therapeutic procedure. In vitro CD4+ cell expansion/culture, ultrasensitive chemical modification, inhibition/suppression of CD4+ cell proliferation, administration of chemically modulated cells to HIV-infected patient, monitoring/maintaining the physiological/biochemical processes under intensive care make up the other steps of this procedure consecutively. The milestones in this therapeutic method include increased bioavailability, minimum dosage, minimal or no side effects, shorter duration of treatment, mop-up of free plasma virions. The principal reason for this adopted method is that, the therapy overcomes the limitations posed by the current methods of managing HIV-1 infection using anti-retrovirals.
Effect of Varying Drying Temperature on the Antibacterial Activity of Moringa oleifera Leaf (Lam)
(IOSR Journals (International Organization of Scientific Research Journals), 2015-02-02) Ibrahim I. Hussein; Miriam Mamman; Abdulrasheed Mansur
The use of herbal and medicinal plant for traditional therapeutic measure and health care services began since pre-historical time and currently exploited especially in modern medicine. This study investigated the effects of different drying temperature on the antibacterial activity of ethanolic extract of M. oleifera leaf. Fresh leaves of M. oleifera were dried separately at varying temperature by sun drying, oven drying and air drying methods, grinded into powdered form and extracted with ethanol. The ethanolic extracts were used for antibacterial susceptibility test using agar disc diffusion method. All the three clinical bacterial isolates such as E. coli, S. aureus and S. typhiwere susceptible to the ethanolic extract of M. oleifera leaf which signified its antibacterial potency. The air dried extract produced the highest zones of inhibition than the sun dried and oven dried ethanolic extract with 13 mm and 19 mm, 13 mm and 21 mm, 11 mm and 20 mm as the lowest and highest inhibition zones for E. coli, S. aureus and S. typhi respectively. This study inferred that drying temperature especially higher temperature has profound effects on the antibacterial activity of M. oleifera leaf as active component are depreciated
Effect of Soil pH on Composition and Abundance of Nitrite-oxidising Bacteria
(Hibiscus Publisher, 2018-02-02) Abdulrasheed Mansur; Hussein I. Ibrahim; Fatima Umar Maigari; Ahmed F. Umar; Salihu Ibrahim
Nitrification, the microbial oxidation of ammonia to nitrate (NO3-) via nitrite (NO2-) is a vital process in the biogeochemical nitrogen cycle and is performed by two distinct functional groups; ammonia oxidisers [comprised of ammonia oxidising bacteria (AOB) and ammonia oxidising archaea (AOA)] and nitrite oxidising bacteria. Autotrophic nitrification is said to occur in acidic soils, even though most laboratory cultures of isolated ammonia and nitrite oxidising bacteria fail to grow below neutral pH. Published studies revealed that soil pH is a major driver for determining the distribution and abundance of AOB and AOA. To determine whether distinct populations of nitrite oxidising bacteria within the lineages of Nitrospira and Nitrobacter are adapted to a particular range of pH as observed in ammonia oxidising organisms, the community structure of Nitrospira-like and Nitrobacter-like NOB were determined across a pH gradient (4.5 – 7.5) by amplifying nitrite oxidoreductase (nxrA) and 16S rRNA genes followed by denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE). The community structure of both Nitrospira and Nitrobacter changed with soil pH, with distinct populations observed in acidic and neutral soils. The abundance of Nitrospira-like 16S rRNA and Nitrobacter-like nxrA gene copies contrasted across the pH gradient. Nitrobacter-like nxrA gene abundance decreased with increasing soil pH, whereas Nitrospira-like 16S rRNA gene abundance increased with increasing pH. Nitrification activity of both Nitrospira-like and Nitrobacter-like NOB in acidic and neutral pH soil was investigated in a microcosm experiment incubated at 30 oC for 21 days, with high rates of nitrification observed in both soils. Findings indicated that abundance and distributions of soil NOB is influence by soil pH.
Mathematical Modelling of the Growth of Caulobacter crescentus on Caffeine
(Hibiscus Publisher, 2018-02-02) Salihu Ibrahim; Abdulrasheed Mansur; Siti Aqlima Ahmad
Caffeine is a purine alkaloid naturally found in many species of plant and can be degraded by bacteria. Prolong caffeine consumption is well-known to have serious adverse effects. The used of linearization technique using natural logarithm transformation, though standard, is erroneous and can just give an estimated value for the sole parameter measured; the specific growth rate. In this paper, for the first time we present different kinetics models such as Von Bertalanffy, Baranyi-Roberts, modified Schnute, modified Richards, modified Gompertz, modified Logistics and most recent Huang were used to get values for the above constants or parameters from Caulobacter crescentus bacterium growth on caffeine. Huang model was found to be the best model with the highest adjusted R2 value with the lowest RMSE value. The Accuracy and Bias Factors values were close to unity (1.0). The Huang parameters such as Ymax (bacterial growth upper asymptote), λ (lag time), µmax (maximum specific bacterial growth rate) and A or Y0 (bacterial growth lower asymptote) were found to be 1.367 (95% confidence interval of 1.322 - 1.412), 2.683 (95% confidence interval of 2.030 - 3.337), 0.322 (95% confidence interval of 0.252 - 0.392) and 0.324 (95% confidence interval of 0.278 - 0.370).
Response Surface Methodology Optimization and Kinetics of Diesel Degradation by a Cold-Adapted Antarctic Bacterium, Arthrobacter sp. Strain AQ5-05
(MDPI (Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute), 2020-02-02) Abdulrasheed Mansur; Azham Zulkharnain; Nur Nadhirah Zakaria; Ahmad Fareez Ahmad Roslee; Khalilah Abdul Khalil; Suhaimi Napis; Peter Convey; Claudio Gomez-Fuentes; Siti Aqlima Ahmad
Petroleum hydrocarbons, notably diesel oil, are the main energy source for running amenities in the Antarctic region and are the major cause of pollution in this area. Diesel oil spills are one of the major challenges facing management of the Antarctic environment. Bioremediation using bacteria can be an effective and eco-friendly approach for their remediation. However, since the introduction of non-native organisms, including microorganisms, into the Antarctic or between the distinct biogeographical regions within the continent is not permitted under the Antarctic Treaty, it is crucial to discover native oil-degrading, psychrotolerant microorganisms that can be used in diesel bioremediation. The primary aim of the current study is to optimize the conditions for growth and diesel degradation activity of an Antarctic local bacterium, Arthrobacter sp. strain AQ5-05, using the Plackett-Burman approach and response surface method (RSM) via a central composite design (CCD) approach. Based on this approach, temperature, pH, and salinity were calculated to be optimum at 16.30 ◦C, pH 7.67 and 1.12% (w/v), respectively. A second order polynomial regression model very accurately represented the experimental figures’ interpretation. These optimized environmental conditions increased diesel degradation from 34.5% (at 10 ◦C, pH 7.00 and 1.00% (w/v) salinity) to 56.4%. Further investigation of the kinetics of diesel reduction by strain AQ5-05 revealed that the Teissier model had the lowest RMSE and AICC values. The calculated values for the Teissier constants of maximal growth rate, half-saturation rate constant for the maximal growth, and half inhibition constants (µmax, Ks, and Ki), were 0.999 h−1, 1.971% (v/v) and 1.764% (v/v), respectively. The data obtained therefore confirmed the potential application of this cold-tolerant strain in the bioremediation of diesel-contaminated Antarctic soils at low temperature.
Computational and Preclinical Evidence of Anti-ischemic Properties of L-Carnitine-Rich Supplement via Stimulation of Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant Events in Testicular Torsed Rats
(Hindawi, 2021-02-02) Janet Olayemi Olugbodi; Keren Samaila; Bashir Lawal; Anunobi Oluchukwu Ogechukwu; Roua S. Baty; Omotayo Babatunde Ilesanmi; Gaber El-Saber Batiha
Ischemia-reperfusion injury is a urological emergency condition that could lead to necrosis, testicular damage subfertility, and infertility. The purpose of this study was to identify changes taking place in the rat testis at short-term (4hr) as well as long term (7 days) reperfusion following testicular torsion and to evaluate the effects of Proxeed Plus (PP), L-carnitine-rich antioxidant supplement, on preventing these changes using the biochemical parameters and histopathology. Thirty adult male rats were divided into five groups: in groups, 1-4 testicular ischemia was achieved by rotating the left testis 720° clockwise for 4h and dividing into the sham, torsion/detorsion (T/D), T/D+1000mg/kg BW PP, and T/D+5000mg/kg BW PP groups, respectively. PP was administered intraperitoneally 30min before detorsion while group 5 served as the normal control. All rats were sacrificed 4h after detorsion. The same experimental design was set up, and animals were sacrificed after 7 days of detorsion. The testicular levels of human cyclooxygenase-2; tumor necrosis factor; interleukins-1β, 6, and 10; hydrogen peroxide; malonaldehyde; superoxide dismutase; catalase; glutathione transferase; glutathione peroxidase; glutathione reductase; and histopathological damage were evaluated. Our results revealed that rats in the torsion/detorsion group exhibited elevated testicular levels of oxidative markers and proinflammatory cytokines, low levels of antioxidant enzymes, and severe histological alterations relative to the control and sham groups. Treatments with 1000 and 5000mg/kg BW of PP for 4hr and 7 days significantly (p <0:05) decreased the levels of the proinflammatory and oxidative markers while increasing the spermatogenesis, testicular levels of antioxidant enzymes, and anti-inflammatory cytokine (IL-10) in a dose-dependent manner. This suggested that PP exhibited anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities against I/R testes thus serving as an effective supplement to protect against testicular assault
Outlier and Normality Testing of the Residuals for the Morgan-Mercer-Flodin (MMF) Model Used for Modelling the Total Number of COVID-19 Cases for Brazil
(Hibiscus Publisher, 2021-02-02) Garba Uba; Nuhu Danladi Zandam; Abdurrashed Mansur; Mohd Yunus Abd Shukor
Traditionally, testing for outliers is performed by first creating a null hypothesis, H0, indicating that the suspected results do not differ significantly from those of other members of the data set, and then rejecting it if the likelihood of getting the experimental results is extremely low (e.g., p=0.05). Similarly, if H0 can be rejected, the questionable findings may be discarded as outliers as well. If H0 is retained in the data set, it is important to keep the dubious findings in the data set. In general, in nonlinear regression, the residuals of the curve must be normally distributed before any test for the existence of outliers is performed. This is often accomplished through the use of normalcy tests such as the Kolmogorov-Smirnov, Wilks-Shapiro, D'Agostino-Pearson, and Grubb's tests, the latter of which checks for the presence of an outlier and is the subject of this study. Normality tests for residues used in general nonlinear regression revealed that the usage of the Morgan-Mercer-Flodin (MMF) Model used for Modelling the Total Number of COVID19 Cases for Brazil was adequate due to lack of an outlier. The critical value of Z from statistical table for Grubbs’ test for a single outlier using mean and SD was 0.114 (n=50). The Grubbs (Alpha = 0.05) g value was 3.597. Individual Z value indicates that the residual with a value of 3 (row 3) was far from the rest and is deemed a significant outlier (p < 0.05). This outlier was removed, and subsequent Grubb’s test show the absence of other outliers. As the Grubbs’ test require for the normality of the residuals, several normality tests (Kolmogorov-Smirnov, WilksShapiro, Anderson-Darling and the D'Agostino-Pearson omnibus K2 test) were carried out and the results were found to conform to normality. In addition, a visual inspection of the model’s normal probability or Q-Q plot shows a nearly straight and appeared to exhibit no underlying pattern. The resulting histogram overlaid with the ensuing normal distribution curve also reveals that the residuals were truly random and that the model used was adequately fitted.
Antioxidant, Dermal and Acute Toxicological Effects of Eucalyptus camaldulensis (Dehn-Blakely) Essential Oil on Male Wistar Rats
(National Institute for Pharmaceutical Research and Development, 2022-02-02) Uju Dorathy Iliemene Ejike; Anunobi Oluchukwu Ogechukwu
During the era of the COVID-19 lockdown, many Nigerians resorted to home remedies like herbal mixtures for therapy because they could not have access to orthodox medicine. Eucalyptus camaldulensis (E. camaldulensis) essential oil was one of such remedies as many believed it had the potential to treat colds, flu, sore throats, bronchitis and even prevent SARS-CoV-2 infection. The objective of the study is to check the antioxidant, dermal and acute toxicological effects of the E. camaldulensis essential oil. Rats were grouped into 8 of 5 each. Normal and corn oil (2ml/kg body weight) control groups. E. camaldulensis essential oil from Jos, Niger, Nasarawa, Kogi, Kwara, and Benue zones were given at 2ml/kg body weight for 14 days as well as applied on the shaved skin of the rats. No mortality was recorded in the sub-acute toxicity study at low and high doses (10mg/kg and 5000mg/kg). The levels of AST, ALT, TNF-α and IL-6 did not significantly differ from normal control rats. Lungs Investigation recorded a significant increase in the TNF-α. Antioxidant enzyme assays showed a significant increase in catalase, superoxide dismutase and glutathione-s-transferase. Histological examination showed focal inflammation with moderate cytoplasmic clearing in the liver and focal mild epidermal sclerosis of the skin. Dermal application of the oil shows no significant toxic effect except some mild inflammation (skin irritation). Oral administrations were relatively safe with mild adverse effect observed in the lung inflammatory markers.
An overview of the general characteristics, pathogenicity, transmission, and diagnosis of human papilloma virus (HPV)
(Gadau Journal of Pure and Allied Sciences, 2022-02-02) Yahaya G.; Magaji Ibrahim; Kolo John Baba; Suleiman Kafilat Olayemi
Mucous membrane infections are brought on by the double-standard DNA virus known as human papillomavirus (HPV). Cervix cell alterations are caused by a sexually transmitted illness. E6 and E7 oncogenes play a critical role in HPV infection. Finding these genes to identify HPV strains, particularly the HPV16 strain, will have a significant impact due to its exceptional sensitivity, the dielectric electrochemical biosensor stands out among other pathogen detection methods. Recent evidence suggests that E6 and E7 are also important in inhibiting the innate immune response of the host cell to HPV. Viral replication is mediated by the E1 and E2 proteins in conjunction with other biological stimuli. E2 has also been linked to viral and cellular transcriptional regulation. Despite decades of research, the function of other viral proteins still remains unclear. Therefore, analysis of Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) characteristics, pathogenicity, transmission and diagnosis were reviewed. We concluded that we now have the tools and methodologies necessary to answer this critical question about viral tropism. The discovery of efficient treatments to cure or prevent HPV-induced illness is just as vital as studying the underlying mechanisms of HPV pathogenesis. The identification of drugs specifically to treat HPV infection has not been highly successful due to the complexities of the HPV life cycle and the limited number of enzymatic activities identified for HPV proteins. The development of drug treatments for existing HPV disease is an important undertaking that deserves further attention. In this regard, the development of therapeutic vaccines and self-protection are promising area of investigation and needs to be further supported.
A review on the applications of zinc tungstate (ZnWO4) photocatalyst for wastewater treatment
(Elsevier Ltd., 2022-02-02) Abubakar Ladio Hassana; Jimoh Oladejo Tijani; Saka Ambali Abdulkareem; Abdullahi Mann; Saheed Mustapha
The monoclinic wolframite-phase structure of ZnWO4 materials has been frequently synthesised, characterised, and applied in optical fibres, environmental decontamination, electrochemistry, photonics, catalysis, and not limited to magnetic applications. However, the problems of crystal growth conditions and mechanisms, growth, the crystal quality, stability, and the role of synthesis parameters of ZnWO4 nanoparticles remain a challenge limiting its commercial applications. This review presents recent advances of ZnWO4 as an advanced multi functional material for Industrial wastewater treatment. The review also examines the influence of the synthe sis parameters on the properties of ZnWO4 and provides insight into new perspectives on ZnWO4-based photo catalyst. Many researches have shown significant improvement in the efficiency of ZnWO4 by mixing with polymers and doping with metals, nonmetals, and other nanoparticles. The review also provides information on the mechanism of doping ZnWO4 with metals, non-metals, metalloids, metals oxides, and polymers based on different synthesis methods for bandgap reduction and extension of its photocatalytic activity to the visible region. The doped ZnWO4 photocatalyst was a more effective and environmentally friendly material for removing organic and inorganic contaminants in industrial wastewater than ordinary ZnWO4 nanocrystalline under suitable growth conditions.
Liver Enzymes and Blood Lactate Profile of Patients Diagnosed with Typhoid Fever in Abuja, Nigeria
(National Institute for Pharmaceutical Research and Development (NIPRD), 2023-02-02) Anunobi Oluchukwu Ogechukwu; OJO, Ewela Rita
Salmonella enterica serotype Typhi antibiotics resistance is on the increase and this frustrates efforts at treatment. Persistence of drug-resistant typhoid fever leads to higher mortality rate because treatment is evasive. Lactate is a marker of the severity of stress response in illnesses and liver function enzymes are indicative of the health of the liver. This study intended to identify the effect of drug resistant typhoid fever infection on liver enzymes and blood lactate levels of patients diagnosed with typhoid fever. Fifty subjects were recruited, forty-five were positive for Widal test and further subjected to stool culture examination for the identification of Salmonella Typhi. All patient’s blood were analysed for lactate, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP). Salmonella Typhi were identified in eight out of forty-five Widal positive test patients. The eight positive Salmonella Typhi isolates showed resistance to the Amoxicillin (30 mcg), Tetracycline (30 mcg), Cotrimoxazole (25 mcg), Ceftriazone (30 mcg), Levofloxacin (5 mcg), Gentamicin (30 mcg) and Netillin (30 mcg) but showed susceptibility to ofloxacin (5 mcg). ALP (158.1±8.32 IU/L), AST (55.1±6.78 U/L), ALT (65.2 ±4.96U/L) and blood lactate (10.5±2.4 mmol/L), were elevated in all drug resistant patients when compared to reference standard ALT (7-56 U/L), AST (10-40 U/L), ALP (20-120IU/L), lactate (0.8-2.2 mmol/L). ALT, AST and ALP enzyme levels increased with increasing number of resistances to antibiotics. Untreated typhoid fever infection exerts metabolic toll on liver functions.
Prevalence of carbapenem resistance in Acinetobacter baumannii and Pseudomonas aeruginosa in sub-Saharan Africa: A systematic review and meta-analysis
(Public Library of Science (PLOS), 2023-02-02) Margaret Toluwalayo Arowolo; Oluwatosin Qawiyy Orababa; Olaitan Morufat; Bisola Victoria Osibeluwo; Utibeima Udo Essiet; Olajumoke Hanah Batholomew; Oluwaseyi Gbotoluwa Ogunrinde; Oluwaseyi Aminat Lagoke; Jeffrey Difiye Soriwei; Olanrewaju David Ishola; Onyinye Maryann Ezeani; Aminat Oyeronke Onishile; Elizabeth Olumodeji
Carbapenems are effective drugs against bacterial pathogens and resistance to them is considered a great public health threat, especially in notorious nosocomial pathogens like Acinetobacter baumannii and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. In this study, we aimed to determine the prevalence of carbapenem resistance in A. baumannii and P. aeruginosa infections in Sub-Saharan Africa. Databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and African Journal Online) were systematically searched following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic review and meta-analysis protocols (PRISMA-P) 2020 statements for articles reporting carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (CRAB) and carbapenem-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa (CRPA) prevalence between 2012 and 2022. Pooled prevalence was determined with the random effect model and funnel plots were used to determine heterogeneity in R. A total of 47 articles were scanned for eligibility, among which 25 (14 for carbapenem-resistant A. baumannii and 11 for carbapenem-resistant P. aeruginosa) were included in the study after fulfilling the eligibility criteria. The pooled prevalence of CRPA in the present study was estimated at 8% (95% CI; 0.02–0.17; I2 = 98%; P < 0.01). There was high heterogeneity (Q = 591.71, I2 = 98.9%; P < 0.0001). In addition, this study’s pooled prevalence of CRAB was estimated at 20% (95% CI; 0.04–0.43; I2 = 99%; P < 0.01). There was high heterogeneity (Q = 1452.57, I2 = 99%; P < 0.0001). Also, a funnel plot analysis of the studies showed high degree of heterogeneity. The carbapenemase genes commonly isolated from A. baumannii in this study include blaOXA23, blaOXA48, blaGES, blaNDM, blaVIM, blaOXA24, blaOXA58, blaOXA51, blaSIM-1, blaOXA40, blaOXA66, blaOXA69, blaOXA91, with blaOXA23, blaOXA48, blaVIM, blaOXA51, blaSIM-1 being the most common. On the other hand, blaOXA181, blaKPC, blaOXA50, blaNDM, blaVIM, blaIMP were the commonly isolated carbapenemase genes in P. aeruginosa, with blaVIM and blaNDM genes being the most frequently isolated. Surveillance of drug-resistant pathogens in Sub-Saharan Africa is essential in reducing the region’s disease burden. This study has shown that the region has significantly high multidrug-resistant pathogen prevalence. This is a wake-up call for policymakers to put in place measures to reduce the spread of these critical priority pathogens.
Biodecolourization of Textile Effluents using Lignolytic Enzymes Produced from Selected Bacterial and Fungal Isolates from Waste Dump Site
(Nile University of Nigeria, 2023-02-02) Omotosho Olalekan Azeez; Ezeagu Gloria Ginikanwa; Sambo Datsugwai Mohammed Sani
Textile effluent contains enormous chemicals with detrimental environmental effects on both fauna and flora due to its chemical compositions. In this study, the effect of lignolytic enzymes produced by microorganisms for the treatment of textile effluent was examined using standard microbiological techniques. The potential of the isolates to produce laccase (L), lignin peroxidases (LiP) and manganase peroxidase (MnP) was investigated using streak plate method and assay methods. The L, LiP and MnP enzymes produced with the optimal processing parameter were used to decolorize textile effluent singly and as consortia for ten (10) days. Fourteen (14) microbial isolates which include eight (8) bacterial and four (4) fungi were isolated from soil contaminated with textile effluents. Aspergillus terreus and Aspergillus niger showed higher production of laccase with 8.0 mm diameter zone of inhibition. Bacillus licheniformis and Bacillus subtilis had the widest zone of inhibition (12.0 and 8.0 mm) respectively. Only Aspergillus flavus however had the potential to produce lignin peroxidase (with 10 mm zones of clearance) of all the fungi isolated in this study. Laccase recorded the highest decolourization (72.5%) comparable to 71.1% observed for the three-enzyme combination while LiP has 57.0%. This finding established the potential use of bacterial and fungal ligninocellulolytic enzymes for the decolourization of textile effluent.
Photocatalytic Degradation and Defluorination of Per- and Poly-Fluoroalkyl Substances (PFASs) Using Biosynthesized TiO2 Nanoparticles under UV–Visible Light
(MDPI, 2023-02-02) Mustapha Saheed; Tijani Jimoh Oladejo; Elabor Rabi; Etsuyankpa Muhammed Binin; Amigun Azeezah Taiwo; Shuaib Damola Taye; Sumaila Abdulmumuni; Olaoye Adekunle Jelili; Abubakar Ladio Hassana; Abdulkareem Saka Abdulkareem; Ndamitso Muhammed Muhammed
Per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are recalcitrant chemicals with stable carbon f environment, causing potential health effects on humans. luorine (C–F) bonds. These complex substances are difficult to degrade; therefore, they persist in the This study focused on the photocatalyticdegradation and defluorination of perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) in aqueous water using TiO2 nanoparticles under UV–visible light. The biosynthesized TiO2 catalysts at pH 8, 10, and 12 were characterized using XRD, HRTEM, and HRSEM. The XRD patterns of the respective TiO2 nanopar ticles at different synthesized pHs exhibited similar anatase phases, and it was observed that the crystallite sizes decreased with increasing pH. The HRSEM and HRTEM confirmed the spherical shapes of the produced nanoparticles with particle size distributions of 12.17 nm, 10.65 nm, and 8.81 nm for the synthesized TiO2 nanoparticles at pH 8, 10, and 12, respectively. The photodegra dation and defluorination of PFOS were performed at various initial solution pH values of 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, and 12 under UV irradiation for 150 min. The study showed 95.62 and 56.13% degradation and defluorination efficiency at pH 2. The degradation and defluorination efficiencies significantly decreased as the pH of the solution increased; hence, the degradation increases at lower solution pHs. Without UV–visible light, the photocatalysis achieved a lower degradation and defluorination efficiency. The photocatalysis showed that the pH of the solution and UV irradiation greatly influence the degradation and defluorination. Therefore, TiO2 nanoparticles were effective for the degradation and defluorination of PFOS under UV–visible light, which could also have an influence on the treatment of other PFASs in wastewater.
Isolation And Identification of Indoor Air Microflora in Microbiology Laboratory of Nile University of Nigeria
(Nile University of Nigeria, 2023-02-02) Ezeagu Gloria Ginikanwa; Nasir Ja'Afar Zainab
A study was conducted to isolate and identify air microflora in Microbiology Laboratory of Nile University of Nigeria, Abuja. Nutrient agar and Potato Dextrose agar were prepared and poured into petri dishes and exposed to the air in Microbiology laboratory for 30minutes in the morning before the commencement of class activities and in the afternoon, during class activities. The plates were incubated at 37 ºC and 25 ºC respectively to isolate bacteria and fungi. The isolated bacteria species were Staphyloccocus aureus, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella sp. and Alkaligenes faecalis, while the fungal species were Aspergillus niger, Penicillium sp. Aspergillus fumigatus, Mucor flavus and Fusariummoniliforme. The microbial counts of the afternoon exposure were much higher than those of the morning hours and the isolated bacterial species demonstrated relatively high sensitivity to antibacterial antibiotics used for the study except for Klebsiella sp. which had 20 % resistance and Alcaligenes faecalis with 30 % resistance. It is recommended that all environmental conditions that can facilitate the proliferation of these microorganisms in the laboratory should be prevented in order to protect the health of staff and students.
Microbiota Modulation in Oncology: Implications For Cancer Development And Therapeutic Strategies
(Published by Living Science Foundation, 2024-02-02) Okunlola Felix Oladele; Omowumi, O. S; Abidaku, O. M; Olajide, P. A; Ojueromi, O
In oncology, microbiota balance studies the complex relationship between the body’s microbial networks and cancerous development. The billions of microbes that comprise the human microbiota are essential for maintaining homeostasis and affecting a number of physiological functions. Recent research suggests that modifications to this microbial ecosystem may have an impact on the onset and course of cancer. An imbalance in the microbiota known as dysbiosis has been linked to irritability, safe brokenness, and—surprisingly—direct effects on carcinogenesis. Comprehending the relationships between microbiota and malignant growth facilitates the development of innovative restorative techniques. Analysts are investigating the potential implications of targeted microbiota modification for malignant growth therapy outcomes. It is becoming evident that probiotics, prebiotics, and fecal microbiota transplantation may be utilized to improve the efficacy of traditional cancer therapies by reestablishing the microbial balance. Moreover, there is a growing body of research on the influence of the microbiome on immunotherapy responses. All things considered, deciphering the astounding relationship between microbiota and cancerous development promises to advance our understanding of the causes of disease and improve treatment approaches. In this review, the part microbiota plays in carcinogenesis, how microbiota can lead to cancer and different therapeutic strategies such as diet, probiotics, phytochemical and so on were discussed.
Draft metagenome-assembled genomes of Pseudomonas putida isolated from human gut microbiome in Nasarawa State, Nigeria
(The African Journal of Clinical and Experimental Microbiology (AJCEM), 2024-02-02) Anunobi Oluchukwu Ogechukwu
The metagenome-assembled genome (MAG) sequences of Pseudomonas putida PP14A and PP20A were obtained by metagenomic sequencing from the gut microbiomes of a female and a male patient both 24 years old from the same household presenting to a health outreach laboratory with complaint of headache, and occasional diarrhoea in Mararaba, Nasarawa State, Nigeria. The phylogenetic relationship observed between the two PP MAGs with other Pseudomonas spp MAGs from human, points to the global spread of Pseudomonas putida through human activity and migration.
Charge Carrier Dynamics and Bandgap Modulation in Doped ZnWO4 Nanocomposites
(Bima Journal of Science and Technology, 2024-02-02) Abubakar Ladio Hassana; Abubakar A.A; Nasir Z. J
This study investigates the effects of doping on the bandgap energy of synthesized and doped ZnWO4 nanomaterials. The synthesized nanomaterials were doped with varying concentrations (1%, 3%, 5% & 7%) of the nonmetals nitrogen, carbon and boron. The optical, morphological and textural nature of the prepared nanomaterials were characterized by different analytical tools. The UV-Visible/HRTEM/XRD analysis confirmed that the incorporation of the dopants which had an impact on the band gap energy but did not significantly alter the host material's phase or produce defects, the orientation and growth pattern of the doped ZnWO4 along [021] plane was observed. There was an observed decrease in the bandgap energy upon doping from 4.68 eV to 2.31 eV, 2.0 eV and 2.30 eV for 7%N-ZnWO4, 7%C-ZnWO4 and 7%B-ZnWO4. There was also an increase in the relative crystallinity of the nanocomposite materials. The XRD results obtained showed a decrease in crystallite size of most of the nanomaterials with the lowest for each dopant being 8.11 nm, 7.64 nm, 7.25 nm for 1%N, 3%C and 3%B respectively, the XRD results also corroborated with the HRTEM results obtained. The results from the characterization revealed that doping was successful at improving the efficiency of the synthesized ZnWO4 nanoparticles.
Assessment of Heavy Metal Bioremediation Potential of Microbial Isolates Collected from Wupa Wastewater Treatment Plant Abuja
(Nile University of Nigeria, 2025-01-02) Ibrahim Umar Farouk; Adamu, K.M.; Mohammed, S.D.; Chukwu, M.N.; Mohammed, A.P.
Background: Municipal wastewater is a major source of pollution, accumulating contaminants into sludge. Discharge reduces dissolved oxygen levels and nutrient enrichment, allowing microorganisms to survive. Utilizing microorganisms to clean up the environment is known as bioremediation. Because it is safe, effective, and environmentally benign, biological treatment has been the method of choice for metal remediation in wastewater. This study was conducted to assess the physicochemical and microbial characteristics of Wupa wastewater and the potential of indigenous microbes in the bioremediation of heavy metals. Materials and Methods: Samples of wastewater from the Wupa Abuja treatment plant were analyzed for physicochemical parameters, including pH, electrical conductivity, and oxygen demand. Bacteria and fungi were isolated, and their bioremediation potential was assessed using a heavy metal solution. Results: The study found significant differences in physicochemical parameters between treated and untreated wastewater, except for pH and temperature. Heavy metals showed significant differences between influent and effluent, with manganese, iron, and zinc values varying. Eight bacterial and fungi species were isolated, with Aspergillus terreus having the highest bioremediation potential. Duganella callida had the highest absorbance. Conclusion: The Wupa Wastewater Treatment Plant’s assessment of microbial communities revealed potential for heavy metal remediation, serving as a baseline for removing toxic metals
Nanofiltration as an advanced wastewater treatment technique: a comprehensive review
(Springer, 2025-02-02) Djadjiti Namla; Mohammad Oves; Majed Ahmed Alshaeri; Saleh M. Al‑Maaqar; Hamdy Nasr Youssef Issa; George Mangse
Nanofiltration (NF) is a membrane-based filtration method that has gained prominence in modern technology because of its superior separation efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and ease of operation. With pore sizes ranging from 1 to 10 nm, and a molecular weight cut-off (MWCO) ranging from 100 to 2000 Da, NF membranes bridge the gap between reverse osmosis (RO) and ultrafiltration (UF) processes—and effectively removing a wide range of contaminants including suspended particles, oil emulsions, bacteria, cells, colloidal haze, viruses, macromolecules, proteins, sub-molecular organic groups, monovalent and divalent ions, and heavy metals. To enhance membrane selectivity and permeability, NF membranes have been fabricated from a variety of materials including polymer thin films, metals, polymers with inorganic nanofillers, carbon compounds, metal composites, and nano-semiconductors. Each of these materials contributes unique properties to NF membranes, such as high aspect ratios, biocompatibility, chemical resistance, and thermal stability, making them valuable in various separation processes. Despite the advancements in NF membrane materials, challenges such as membrane fouling and low permeate flux persist. This review provides an in-depth examination of NF as an innovative solution for wastewater treatment, focusing on its principles, applications, and recent advancements in NF technology. This highlights the challenges of current wastewater treatment methods and explores how NF offers a viable alternative for improving treatment efficiency and sustainability. This review also discusses the potential of integrating various membrane materials to optimize NF performance and outlines future trends and challenges in the widespread adoption of NF in wastewater management systems