School of Biological Sciences

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Open Access
Underground water quality of rock mining in Ishiagu, Ebonyi State, Nigeria
(2006-06) Obiekezie, S. O.; Okereke, J. N.; Anyalogbu, E.; Okorondu, S. F.; Ezejiofor, T. I. N.
Physicochemical and bacteriological analysis of underground water of Crush Rock mining pit in Ishiagu, Ebonyi State Nigeria were carried out to determine the pollution level and the potability of the groundwater due to mining and human activities. The results were compared with standards for water pollution and World Health Organization for drinking water. The results showed that total dissolved solids (TDS), total alkalinity, calcium and sodium, which had concentration ranges of 126-986ppm, 200.18-615.55ppm, 7.8- 30.10ppm and 64-88ppm respectively, were above standards. However, the mean concentration of dissolved oxygen (DO) (1.2-3.20ppm) was below the standard. Other parameters measured were found to be within the permissible acceptable standard. Pseudomonas, Chromabacterium, Bacillius, Escherichia, Staphylococcus, Flavobacterium, Micrococcus, Citrobacter, and Achromobacter species were identified as the major bacteria isolated from the underground water. The study revealed that the underground water from Crush Rock mining pit in Ishiagu Ebonyi State, Nigeria require some chemical and physical treatment as it is unsafe for human consumption.
Open Access
Bacterial quality of rainwater in selected communities in Imo State, Nigeria
(UP, 2006-06) Okereke, J. N.; Obasi, K. O.; Obiekezie, S. O.; Okechukwu, R. I.
Muitas comunidades rurais do estado de Imo, Nigéria oriental, não têm acesso à água potável, sendo que a á gua da chuva tem sido sua principal fonte. Neste estudo, foram determinados os níveis bacterianos da á gua da chuva em três comunidades, Umunumo, Egbema e Ihiagwa. As amostras foram colhidas direta mente de telhados de zinco, telhados de sapê e telhados de amianto em diferentes períodos de chuva, mês de maio (começo das chuvas), mês de julho (pico das chuvas) e outubro (final das chuvas). A água acumulada de telhados de zinco da comunidade de Umunumo também foi examinada. O nível bacteriano foi alto no começo das chuvas nas amostras coletadas nos telhados de sapê, sendo seu maior valor em Egbema (7,4 x 103 cfu/100 ml). Os níveis de coliformes totais e coliformes fecais ( °6± ² ³«´ µG¶G² ³ ¶G·•² ¸ ¹ ) tiveram picos no começo das chuvas, 10 – 36 cfu/100 ml e 1 – 5 cfu/100 ml, respectivamente. Também nos reservató rios subterrâneos a contagem total de bactérias, coliformes totais e coliformes fecais totais foi muito elevada. As amostras estudadas dos meses de julho (pico) e outubro (final) de todas as comunidades estavam dentro do padrão de qualidade de água potável da OMS. Usando um modelo estatístico (para a = 0.05), a hipó tese nula foi rejeitada para os métodos e o período da coleta, enquanto que o local de coleta foi aceito. Portanto, apenas o período e o método de coleta das águas das chuvas afetam os níveis bacterianos
Open Access
Microbial flora of oil-spilled sites in Egbema, Imo State, Nigeria
(Academic Journals, 2007-04-16) Okereke, J. N.; Obiekezie, S. O.; Obasi, K. O.
The microbial flora of areas with and without oil spillage within the Egbema oil field in Ohaji/Egbema of Imo State was determined by standard microbiological methods. Preliminary results show moderate biological activities in both environments studied. The average microbial population of the area with oil spillage was 3.08 x 107 cfu/g, while that of the adjoining environment was 3.14 x 107 cfu/g for bacteria. Fungi population was of the order 106. The microorganisms isolated were identified to species level. Majority of the microorganisms were true bacteria. Actinomycete species were also found. In general, species difference between the two environments tended to be considerably significant. Since species and microbial population differences in soils are directly proportional to the availability of carbon source (nutrient), soil acidity, oxygen level and other factors, the significant variation in species and slight difference in microbial population observed are indicative of the effects of oil spillage on microbial flora of a given area.
Open Access
Bacteriological assessment of packaged fruit juices consumed in some parts of Anambra, Nigeria
(Academic and Scientific Research Institute Publication, 2010) Okereke, J. N.; Onyeneto, T. C.
Bacteriological assessment of eighteen samples of different fruit juices consumed in parts of Anambra State was carried out using standard microbiological procedures. Both total heterotrophic bacteria count and total coliform counts were determined using 0.1ml of each seria11y diluted sample on nutrient and MacConkey agar plates respectively. Total elerolrophic bacteria count was of the order x I 04 cfu/ml while total coliform count was of the order x103 cfu/ml. Frequently isolated microorganisms were Laciobacilius spp, Bacillus spp, SJaphylococcus spp, Psuedomona.s spp and Micrococcus spp. Virtually all the sampled fruits juices had some degree of bacterial contamination
Open Access
Concentrations of heavy metals in some important rivers of Owerri Zone, Imo State, Nigeria
(Tapas Institute of Scientific Research and Development, 2010) Okereke, J. N.; Nnoli, M. C.
Analyses of heavy metals in water samples from different rivers of the Owerri zone in Imo State, Nigeria were carried out using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS). Water samples from Rivers Azaraegbelu, Ogochie, Okatankwu and Otamiri were analyzed for lead (Pb), arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd) and zinc (Zn). The concentration of lead was highest in water samples from Azaraegbelu River (0.054 ppm). Arsenic was present in lower concentration in Azaraegbelu, Ogochie and Okatankwu Rivers. Cadmium concentration was 0.511 ppm in Azaraegbelu River, 0.034 ppm in Ogochie River, 0.091 ppm in Okatankwu River and 0.166 ppm in Otamiri River. Concentration of Zinc was higher in Azaraegbelu River (0.288 ppm), while Ogochie River recorded the lowest concentration of 0.098 ppm. Comparatively, Azaraegbelu River recorded the highest concentration values of the heavy metals analyzed.
Open Access
Comparative evaluation of ethanol production from sweet potato (lpomoea Batalas) and maize (Zea Mays)
(Academic and Scientific Research Institute Publication, 2010) Okereke, J. N.; Okeke, O. A.; Okechukwu, R. I.
Comparative evaluation of ethanol production was carried out with sweet potato (Red and \\'hile Species) and Maize sourced from National Root Crop Research Institute (NRCRI), Umudikc a:1d National Seed Centre (NSC), Umudikc. About 200g (in powered form) of peeled, sliced, drkl; and ground samples of sweet potato, and maize were subjected to complete hydrolysis using /\z.ha ·, 1981 method. The filtrates (hydrolysates) from hydrolysis were later subjected to lcrmentatim1 process using Saccharomyce cerevisiae for 72-96 hours. Distillation was adopted to recover ethanol produced at 78°C. The average volume of ethanol produced from Red Potato, white potato and maize were 28.40ml, 30.00ml and 37.17ml respectively. Ethanol from maize had pl I value nr 3.6; Red potato, 4.0; White, 4.3. Percentage yield of ethanol was in the order: Maizc>White potato> Red potato as their values were 14.72%, 11.93% and I Ll9% respectively. The results showed that maire had the highest sugar content thus, highest percentage yield of ethanol
Open Access
Evaluation of groundwater quality in some parts of Imo State, Nigeria
(U. P, 2010-06) Okereke, J. N.; Nwigwe, H. C.; Iwuala, M. O. E.
Evaluation of groundwater quality in some parts of Imo State was done, based on analyses of N, Nq to samples from boreholes and springs. Analyses were based on American Public Health Association (APHA) guidelines. The overall average values of total heterotrophic bacteria, total; coliform counts and Escherichia coli counts were 7.2622 x 104 CFU/ml, 12.5 Cr/100m1 and 1.0 CFU/100m1 respectively. The average value of pH was 6.7 while hardness raged between 6.60mg/1 and 16.90mg/1; turbidity, 1.0mg/1-2.90mg/1; chloride, 8.96mg/1-2,1'.00mg/liron (II) ion, 2.6mg/1-3.71 mg/I, and nitrate, 4.88mg/1-6.4mg/1. Heavy metals were within the permissible limits except cadmium which recorded an overall average value of 0.1854pm. The study reveals that groundwater in Imo State, if well handled, remains a safer source Of drinking water supply to the populace
Open Access
Microbial and nutritional qualities of mushroom
(Society of Applied Science, 2011) Okechukwu, R. I; Okereke, J. N.; Onyedineke, N. E.; Obi, R. K.
The microbial and nutrient quality of two species, oyster mushroom (Pleurotus ostreatlis.) and wood ear mushroom (Auricularia polytrida) were investigated. The bacteria isolates belong to three genera, Mucor spp. Wood ear mushroom had more microbial load than oyster mushroom. The proximate and mineral composition of the two varieties of' mushroom were also analyzed and there were no significant differences (P>O. 05). Calcium, magnesium, iron and zinc were appreciably high in the two varieties while magnesium and copper were low. Carbohydrate, crude fibre and protein were also high. This makes them healthy valuable nutritional supplement for animals and humans. The findings also showed that the mushroom may be contaminated in farms and markets. Adequate sanitary measures and health education must be emphasized among other recommendations to safeguard the public health. The cultivation and consumption of mushroom by individuals/farmers will help in solving food security
Open Access
Effect of different concentrations of sucrose, glucose and fructose on microtuberization of sweet potato (Ipomoea Batatas)
(U. P, 2012-06) Okereke, J. N.; Nnoli, M. C.; Okechukwu, R. I.
The effect of different concentrations of sucrose, glucose and fructose on in vitro microtuberization of sweet potato (Iponwea Nitwits) was studied. Plantlets were obtained from explants excised from mother tubers of sweet potato and cultured on Murashige and Stoog (MS) media without growth regulators. Growth characteristics after three weeks revealed that plantlets developed roots within 12 hours with lengths of 20-38cm; and developed shoots within 3-5 days with plantlet heights of 12-16. 5cm. Also, the number of leaves per plantlet was 5-20 and the nodal number was 12-1.4 per plantlet. Microtubers were formed from plantlets cultured on 3%, 5% and 8% concentrations of the three sugars as basic. carbon sources; with 5% and 8% concentrations yielding the biggest sizes of microtubers. This implies that concentrations of sucrose, glucose and fructose ranging between 3% and 8% are capable of forming sweet potato microtubers in vitro, hence facilitating mass production of microtubers which can be supplied to farmers at subsidized rate
Open Access
Studies on the effects of burnt naira ash on soil properties
(U. P., 2013-08-29) Okereke, J. N.; Obasi, K. O.; Udensi, J. U.; Ahumibe, N. C.
Studies on the effects of burnt naira ash on soil properties was carried out using samples collected from the Central Bank of Nigeria dump site and the adjoining environment. The samples were subjected to microbial, physical and chemical analyses. Concentrations of heavy metals (Ni, As, Cd, and Hg) were also determined using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS). Microbial counts ranged from 60 CFU/g to 205 CFU/g with the isolation of the following bacteria species: Acetobacter sp, Epulopiscium sp, Shigella sp, Staphylococcus sp and Fusobacterium sp. The fungal isolates were Penicillium sp, Rhizopus sp and Aspergillus sp. The soil physical and chemical parameters analyzed, showed relative increase in comparison with the sample from the adjoining environment. While the pH of the control sample tended to be acidic, the samples from the dump site tended to be basic. The Chi-Square value of a = 0.05 for total microbial count was significant. Also, at a =0.05, the heavy metal concentration values showed significant difference while chemical and physical properties of the samples were however insignificant at a = 0.05. Burnt Naira ash affected the microbial, some physical and chemical properties of the polluted soil.
Open Access
Phytostimulation of agricultural soil differentially contaminated with crude oil, using vigna unguiculata
(UP, 2013-12) Ogbulie, T. E.; Okereke, J. N.; Chinnakwe, E. C.
Phytostimulation of crude oiI contaminated agricultural soil was carried out using vigna unguiculata. Different volumes of Bonny light crude oil vis-a-vis l00ml, 200ml, 400m1 and 800ml were used to pollute the soil after planting. Gas Chromatographic analysis revealed the total petroleum hydrocarbon (TPH) of the samples in the green house to be 56mg/kg, 129mg/kg, 146mg/kg and 552mg/kg for the four concentrations respectively. The TPH of the samples front field experiment also recorded 58mg/kg, 122mg/kg, 267mg/kg and 613 mg/kg for the different concentrations respectively. Results obtained from the gas chromatographic (GC) analysis during this treatment process also depicted tire different alkane groups that were removed from the interaction to be within the range of C7 to C12; and C33 to C40 alkanes for samples in the field. Samples in the greenhouse also gave similar results except for the pot polluted with 800ml of crude oil where the only alkane groups degraded were C7 to C9. Although, the values of the growth rate of the plants indicated that plants in the greenhouse performed much better than the plants in the field both before and after pollution, there was a general decrease in the rate of growth per plant after some days of pollution. Nevertheless, a steady growth was observed from 192h till a slight increase ensued at 384h. Statistical analysis using T-test of SPSS Software oil for Windows Evaluation Version however showed that there was no significant difference in the rate of crude absorption by plants in the green house and in the field. Generally, the results showed that V. unguiculata be a promising process in stimulating polluted soil for effective remediation.
Open Access
Efficiency of water-purifying devices used in homes and industries
(U. P., 2013-12-28) Okereke, J. N.; Nnoli, M. C.; Okereke, C. B. N.; Ahumibe, N. C.
The use of water-purifying devices are gaining popularity, as many homes and industries are using them to treat water for dinking. However, most of the users do not know much about the performance/efficiency of these devices, hence this investigation. Efficiency of water-purifying devices were evaluated to determine their efficiencies in treating water consumed by people. Raw water samples from groundwater source, borehole (a major source of drinking water) in Owerri, Nigeria were treated using commonly used water treatment devices: resin ion-exchanger, sand-bed filter, activated carbon filter, micron filter, reverse osmosis membrane filter, ozonator, and UV-sterilizer. The resulting purified water samples were labeled, and each were subjected to physical, chemical and bacteriological analyses using APHA (2006) water analysis method. Raw water (control) sample had pH value of 6.7 while the pH values of treated water samples fell within 6.9 – 7.1. Turbidity value of control sample was 6.0 NTU with other samples recording 4.0 NTU and below. Total heterotophic bacteria count and total coliforms counts of the raw water sample were 4.0 x 102 CFU/ml and 2.2 x 102 CFU/100ml respectively, but were below 2.5 x 102 CFU/ml and 1.9 x 102 CFU/100ml respectively in some of the treated samples, and nil in others. The overall efficiency of the treatment devices were of the order: Reverse osmosis membrane filter (76.25%) > UV-sterilizer (72.24%) > micron filter (65.85%) > Ozonator (62.97%) > Activated carbon filter (51.86%) > Resin ion-exchanger (46.67%) > Sand-bed filter (43.55%). This implies that not all water treatment devices used in homes and indutries are efficient enough to yield qualitative drinking water for unsuspecting users.
Open Access
Studies on the recovery potentials of a disturbed aquatic ecosystem: Focus on pre-and post-dredging analysis of Nworie River, Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria
(U. P, 2014-06) Udensi, Justina U.; Iwuala, Moses O. E.; Nwigwe, Harriet C.; Onyedineke, Nkechi E.; Okereke, Joseph N.; Mgbemena, Ifeyinwa C.
A study was done to monitor the recovery potential of Nworie river system, in Imo State, Ni- geria from July 2010 to January 2012. Water samples were collected from 5 Stations prior to, during and after dredging. Station 1 was the dredging point, Stations 2 and 3 were 250m and 500m upstream of the point, while Stations 4 and 5 were 250m and 500m downstream of the dredging point respectively. The physicochemical parameters of the water before dredging were assessed to be within acceptable limits of established water standards; pH 6.5-7.8, Tem- perature 27.6-29.9 °C, Conductivity 34-196us/cm, Turbidity 0-76NTU, TDS 22.1-127.4 mg/l, TSS 9-51mg/l, Nitrate 1.2-33.6mg/l, Phosphate 0.2-3.7mg/1, Sulphate 0-33mg/l, DO 4.3- 9.4mg/l and BOD5 9.5- 10.9mg/l. During the dredging, the water physicochemistry changed noticeably with indices outside the permissible limits of the standards. The pH values de- creased drastically to 4.6, DO to 1.3mg/l, Nitrate to 1.2mg/l, temperature increased to 30.2°C, Turbidity 620NTU, TSS 349mg/l, Conductivity 498 μs/cm, TDS 298.8 mg/l, BOD5 19.1mg/l, Sulphate 33mg/l and Phosphate 0.92mg/l. Three months after the dredging, the values for the parameters returned to their pre-dredging concentrations. However, during the rainy season, as the leachates and silts from the spoils were washed into the river, the recovery of the river sys- tem was prolonged to about 9 months. This implies that the effects of dredging on the river are short term, but improper disposal of dredge spoils compounded the impacts.
Open Access
Environmental challenges associated with oil spillage and gas flaring in Nigeria: A review
(U. P, 2014-12) Okereke, J. N.; Ogidi, O. I.; Nwachukwu, A. A.
A review is presented of the environmental challenges associated with oil spillage and gas flaring in Nigeria. It analyzes the types, causes, and remediation processes, for oil spillage and the prevention and control measures available for minimising environmental problems of oil spills in the oil-producing communities of Nigeria. Generally, Oil spills cause series of severe aquatic and terrestrial pollutions, and they impact negatively on crop production, due to soil infertility that results from the destruction of soil microorganisms, thereby causing dwindling agricultural productivity, plus other side effects on human health. The potential harmful effects of gas flaring on the environment including global warming and human exposure to acute harmful substances that cause respiratory problems (such as asthma and chronic bronchitis) are critically considered. Likewise other chemicals like benzapyrene, which causes cancer, and benzene, which causes leukemia and other blood-related disease are highlighted. Gas’ flaring also causes acid rain which corrodes homes and other local structures. Some techniques that should be utilized to prevent and control these challenges have been outlined and some policy recommendations made to help curb abuses by multinational oil and gas companies operating in the country.
Open Access
Geo-helminthes associated with geophagic pupils in selected primary schools in Oyi, Anambra State
(Science Publishing Group, 2015) Okereke, J. N.; Obasi, K. O.; Nwadike, P. O.; Ezeji, E. U.; Udebuani, A. C.
Identification of geo-helminthes associated with geophagy as well as risk factors predisposing to such infestations among primary school pupils were carried out. Ethical permissions were obtained from headteachers of schools and pupils to collect stool samples of 200 volunteer pupils, aged 5-13years (106 males and 94 females) from rural and urban primary schools in Oyi Local Government Area of Anambra State, Nigeria. Stool samples were examined microscopically using wet mount (normal saline and iodine) technique. Data collected via questionnaires were analyzed to assess the relationship between geophagia, regular ingestion of soil and soil-transmitted parasites. Three intestinal parasites: Ascaris lumbricoides (A.lumbricoides), Ancylostoma duodenale (A. duodenale) and Trichuris trichiura (T. trichiura) were commonly observed. A total of 178 pupils (89%) found to be infected with one or more of these worms. A.lumbricoides had the highest prevalence of 52.8%, while A.duodenale and T.trichiura had 32.58% and14.61% respectively in all five villages in the Local Government Area. Infection rates and geophagic habits were established to be highest in children between the ages of 5 and 7years (p>0.05). Location and sex were observed to be insignificant factors in the distribution of these parasites (p>0.05). Geophagy and any other form of contact with the topsoil and children orally should therefore be noted as an important risk factor for orally acquired parasitic infections among children. Education on geophagy prevention should be an integral component of all soil-transmitted parasite control programs.
Open Access
Bacteriological quality of water contaminated with faecal wastes from livestock
(Science Publishing Group, 2015) Anyadoh-Nwadike, S. O.; Okereke, J. N.; Odah, R.; Obijekwu, O.; Okorondu, S. I.; Obasi, K. O.
Water is very important to life but when contaminated, it can be deleterious to life. Livestock from various farms produce large amount of faecal wastes. Most cattle farmers move their animals from place to place around Imo State, Nigeria, in search of pasture, these animals defeacate indiscriminately. Again, many farmers indulge in indiscriminate disposal of animal wastes. These faecal wastes can be carried by runoff water into surrounding water sources causing them to become contaminated. This study was therefore carried out to determine the prevalence of possible pathogenic bacteria in water contaminated with poultry litters, cow and pig dungs. Faecal samples from poultry, cows and pigs were collected from School of Agriculture and Agricultural Technology (SAAT) farm in the Federal University of Technology Owerri (FUTO), Imo State, Nigeria. The contaminated water samples were examined for the prevalence of bacteria. Isolation and characterization of bacteria were done using standard microbiological protocols. Results revealed the presence of Escherichia coli, Enterobacter aerogenes, Serratia marcescens, Erwinia amylovora, Vibrio cholerae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Citrobacter freundii, Proteus vulgaris, Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, Streptococcus faecalis and Salmonella typhi. Pseudomonas aeruginosa was the most prevalent isolate followed by Escherichia coli and Vibrio cholerae. The presence of these organisms of public health importance in water contaminated by livestock faeces calls for continuous surveillance of various water sources prone to faecal contamination. Appropriate treatment and disposal methods of these faecal samples as well as appropriate treatment of water source prone to such contaminants should be adopted so as to avert the possible health hazards resulting from use of water from such contaminated sources.
Open Access
Physico-chemical and bacteriological assessement of Oyibo River in Ehime Mbano, Imo State
(U. P., 2015) Okereke, J. N.; Okanume, J. N.; Okereke, C. B. N.
The physico-chemical and bacteriological assessement of Oyibo river, Ehime Mbano, was carried out between 2011 and 2012. Considering the communities that make use of this river for different purposes, water samples were collected from four different sampling points along the river and subjected to physico-chemical and bacteriological analyses. Pour plate method was adopted to determine total heterotrophic bacteria, and membrane filtration technique, for total coliforms and E. coli counts. Standard procedures for water analysis by APHA were adopted for the determination of physical and chemical parameters. Atomic Absorption Spectrophptometer (AAS) was used to analyze for heavy metals. The average values of total heterotrophic bacteria were 5.8 x 103 cfu/ml and 1.51 x 103 cfu/ml for rainy and dry seasons respectively. Average values for total coliforms and E. coli counts were 33.75 cfu/100ml and 6 cfu/100ml for rainy season, and 17.38 cfu/100ml and 4 cfu/100ml for dry season. Bacterial isolates included E. coli, Salmonella spp, Lactobacilli spp, Klebsiella spp, Staphylococcus spp, Proteus spp, and Pseudomonas spp. In all the water samples, the pH values ranged from 6.04– 6.52. Average values of total hardness for rainy and dry seasons were 5.90mg/l and 5. 43mg/l respectively. The concentrations of nitrate, phosphate, chloride, and sulphate ranged from 0.00 16.40mg/l; 0.01– 1.24mg/l; 0.13– 0.35mg/l; 0.00– 15.95mg/l respectively. Average COD, BOD and DO values were 5.63mg/l, 2.07mg/l, and 3.17mg/l in dry season, and 9.24mg/l, 1.77mg/l, and 4.26mg/l in rainy season. The values of heavy metals during the rains were within the range of 0.0008ppm– 1.5605ppm, but 0.0001ppm– 0.0339ppm, in dry season. There were no significant differences in some bacteriological and chemical properties with season, but the physical parameters such as depth, flow rate, pH, and turbidity were, at p ˂ 0.05. The study revealed that Oyibo River is not safe for drinking (inasmuch as it serves as source of drinking water for some communities), unless subjected to appropriate treatment.
Open Access
Possible health implications associated with cosmetics: A review
(Science Publishing Group, 2015) Okereke, J. N.; Udebuani, A. C.; Ezeji, E. U.; Obasi, K. O.; Nnoli, M. C.
Cosmetics are products applied to the body or face to improve appearance. They cleanse, beautify, promote attractiveness and alter the appearance of the body. The concept of beauty and cosmetics is as old as mankind and civilization. Assorted beauty products such as skincare products, hair products, fragrances, oral hygiene, and nail products, which may contain toxic chemicals that can be harmful to health are used especially by women. Most cosmetic products contain hazardous chemicals like Sodium Laureth Sulphate, Talcum, Parabens, Coal tar dye, Phthalates, Fragrance, Mineral oil, Triethanolamine and some heavy metals eg, Lead, Arsenic, Nickel, Cadmium, and Mercury. The bioaccumulation of these harmful chemicals and metals in the body over time has been associated with cancer, reproductive and developmental disorders, contact dermatitis, hair loss, lung damage, ageing, skin disease and reaction, allergies, and damage of nails. The deleterious chemicals and metals can enter into the body by inhalation of perfumes, deodorant, nail polish, scented powder, etc; by absorption through penetration of harmful chemicals from body creams, moisturizers, cleanser, eye shadow, etc. It can also be by ingestion of chemicals and metals in lip sticks, lip balm, lip gloss, etc. through the mouth.
Open Access
Effect of dichlorvos on the fertility of adult male albino rats
(Science Publication, 2015) Ezeji, Ethelbert Uchechukwu; Ogueri, Oluchi Dominica; Udebuani, Angela Chika; Okereke, Josephath N; Obasi, Kalu O
Continuous use of pesticides could have adverse effects on the reproductive functions of humans and non-target organisms. This study was carried out to examine the effect of dichlorvos on the reproductive parameters of adult male albino rats. Twenty (20) adult male Wistar albino rats weighing between 130 – 225g were divided into 4 groups of 5 animals each. Three groups were given water contaminated with 0.01, 0.03 and 0.05% dichlorvos (DDVP) respectively. The control group was given distilled water without dichlorvos. All the animals were maintained on commercial animal feed (growers mash) throughout the period of the experiment which lasted for 28 days. There were significant reductions (p<0.05) in testosterone levels in rats exposed to dichlorvos. Testicular weight (testis and epididymis) and sperm count were significantly lowered in rats exposed to dichlorvos. Histological examination of the testes revealed levels of distortions in the cells of the seminiferous tubules as well as hypertrophy of the spermatogonia cells. These results show that dichlorvos has adverse effects in the reproductive functions of male albino rats.
Open Access
Analysis of heavy metals concentration in prawn (Macrobrachium Sp) harveted from Gberikoko River, in Sapele Delta State, Nigeria
(U. P., 2015-08) Obasi, kalu O.; Enemchukwu, S.; Okereke, J. N.; Ezeji, E. U.; Oparaigbo, M. I.
The concentrations of selected heavy metals: cadmium, arsenic, lead and mercury in prawn (Macrobrachium sp) were analyzed. The morphometric records of the prawn samples were taken. The specimens were subsequently weighed and individually pulverised to a uniform particle size. Ten(10)grams of each pulverised sample were put in a 200ml digestion conical flask, 30ml of aqua regia, which constitutes of hydrochloric acid, nitric acid and hydroflouric acid in the ratio 1:3:1 was added and placed uprightly for 10-15 minutes. The mixture was heated in a water bath until the whole sample dissolved and a yellow tint of the solution appeared. The solution was filtered using a filter paper into centrifuge tubes and made up to 50ml mark with deionized water. It was transferred into sample vials for analysis. The heavy metal analysis was done according to the standard methods for heavy metal determination using the FS 240 Varian Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer. Lead had the highest concentration in sample F and the lowest in sample H, with concentrations of 1.75ppm and 1.54ppm respectively. Also, the prawn samples exhibited the highest record of Mercury and lowest mean value of Arsenic with values of 6.9±3.95and0.00±0.00 respectively. For Mercury, the highest concentrations occurred in sample G and lowest in F, with concentrations of 12.6ppm and 4.1ppm respectively. Arsenic showed its highest concentration in sample F and lowest in sample H with concentrations of 0.65ppm and 0.64ppm, respectively, whereas Cadmium wasn’t detected in any of the samples. From the analysis of data, since F > Fcrit and p < 0.05, there is a significant difference in the mean concentrations of the prawn samples from Gberikoko river in Sapele, Delta State Nigeria.