DSpace Collection:

Microplastics distribution in the soil: A review

2026-03-31T21:49:05Z

Title: Microplastics distribution in the soil: A review Authors: Auta, Helen Shnada; Musa, Innocent Ojeba; Aransiola, Sesan Abiodun; Makun, H. A; Hassan, Auwalu; Ijah, Udeme Josiah Joshua; Aboyeji, David Oyeyemi; Fauziah, Shahul Hamid; Maddela, Naga Raju; Prasad, Ram Abstract: The pervasive use of plastics in modern society has led to significant environmental concerns about plastic pollution. As demand for plastic materials continues to rise, the improper disposal of plastic waste poses a substantial threat to both marine and terrestrial ecosystems. Microplastics, defined as plastic debris <5 mm in diameter, have emerged as a contaminant of global significance. While extensive research has focused on microplastic pollution in oceans, the impact on terrestrial environments remains understudied. The heterogeneous distribution of microplastics raises concerns about soil health, nutrient cycling, and crop productivity. Microplastics are not uniformly distributed across soil profiles. Instead, they often accumulate in topsoil layers where they interact with plant roots, microorganisms, and soil fauna. Their presence has been linked to changes in soil structure, reduced water holding capacity, and disruptions in microbial community dynamics. Understanding the patterns, pathways, and mechanisms governing microplastic distribution is therefore critical for developing informed mitigation strategies. If the food chain is disrupted, it can have negative impacts on soil biota, raising worries about human health. In this review, microplastics’ impacts on soil biogeochemistry and their interactions with soil organisms are discussed, along with their properties, research trends, and other factors. Recent findings suggest that soil serves as a primary sink and transporter of microplastics, which can then enter aquatic ecosystems and affect soil biota, potentially disrupting the food chain and human health. We emphasize the need for ongoing study into the impact of microplastics on terrestrial ecosystems.

Quantitative Appraisal of Total Aflatoxin in Ready-to-eat Groundnut in North-central Nigeria

2026-03-31T20:35:52Z

Title: Quantitative Appraisal of Total Aflatoxin in Ready-to-eat Groundnut in North-central Nigeria Authors: Adefolalu, Funmilola Sherifat; Apeh, Daniel Ojochenemi; Salubuyi, Susan B; Galadima, Mary; Agbo, Augustine; Anthony, Michaella Onyinye; Makun, H. A Abstract: Following the CODEX Alimentarius Commission's request for data to aid decision-making in the review of regulated limits of mycotoxin in groundnut, this study determined the incidence of total aflatoxin (AFT) in processed groundnut from Niger state, which is located in Nigeria's north-central region. A total of 180 ready-to-eat groundnut samples were collected across four microclimatic zones in Niger state, with 60 samples each of boiled groundnut, roasted groundnut, and groundnut cakes. The ELISA technique was used to test the samples. For groundnut cakes, roasted groundnut, and boiled groundnut, the incidence and mean concentrations of AFT were 100% (11.15±3.31 µg.kg-1), 83.3% (4.50±2.47 µg.kg-1) and 38.3% (1.51±2.13 µg.kg-1) respectively, across all areas, suggesting that groundnut cake had the highest incidence and concentrations of AFT. While, 95% of groundnut cake, 53.3% of roasted groundnut, and 18.3% of boiled groundnut samples had AFT levels above 4 µg.kg-1. The result of this research suggests that storage time had a negative effect on the safety of groundnut.

Assessment of Pesticide Residue Practices and Public Health Implications in Agro-Pastoral Communities of Niger State, Nigeria

2026-03-31T20:26:12Z

Title: Assessment of Pesticide Residue Practices and Public Health Implications in Agro-Pastoral Communities of Niger State, Nigeria Authors: Haruna, Aliyu Evuti; Alhaji, Nma Bida; Adama, John Yisa; Monday, Onakpa Michael; Muhammed, H. L; Makun, H. A Abstract: Pesticide residues in agricultural practices pose significant risks to public health, particularly in agro-pastoral communities where knowledge of pesticide usage is often limited. This study assesses pesticide residue practices among agro-pastoralists in Niger State, Nigeria, and examines the associated public health implications. A cross-sectional survey was conducted across three agro-ecological zones (A, B, and C) using structured questionnaires. The survey targeted nomadic and sedentary pastoral cattle herds to gather data on pesticide usage, exposure, and risk factors. Results revealed widespread pesticide misuse, largely driven by poor regulatory enforcement, low educational levels, and increasing demand for agricultural productivity. Additionally, significant variations were observed in pesticide knowledge and practices between the zones. This study highlights the urgent need for targeted interventions, stricter regulatory controls, and educational programs to mitigate health risks and enhance compliance with international safety standards.

Nutritional and Techno-Functional Properties of Flours Processed from Dioscorea bulbifera Fermented with Edible Calocybe indica and Pleurotus ostreatus

2026-03-31T20:14:09Z

Title: Nutritional and Techno-Functional Properties of Flours Processed from Dioscorea bulbifera Fermented with Edible Calocybe indica and Pleurotus ostreatus Authors: Bolaniran, Tolulope; Said, Abubakar Ndaman; Ocheme, Ocheme Boniface; Muhammad, H. L; Makun, H. A Abstract: A medicinal and nutritional value product that is underutilised is Dioscorea bulbifera (air yam). Its usage as a potential and functional foods have been compromised due to traditional belief and preparation challenges. This study aimed to enhance the nutritional, functional, and antioxidant properties of D. bulbifera by fermenting it with edible mushrooms, Calocybe indica and Pleurotus ostreatus. The treatment of D. bulbifera bulbils were segregated into four; A control thus unfermented (UDB), submerged fermented (FDB), fermented with C. indica (DBC), and fermented with P. ostreatus (DBP). The phytochemical composition, nutritional composition, protein digestibility, amino acid profiles, starch digestibility, antioxidant activity, colour indices, and functional properties of the samples were evaluated using standard analytical methods. The nutritional and functional qualities of D. bulbifera flours were improved significantly through fermentation. The amino acid phenylalanine and Leucine increased by 15.1 % and 32.5–32.8 % in DBC and DBP respectively as compared to UDB. In addition, the slowly digestible starch (SDS) content rose by 8.3–11.49 % in DBC and DBP as shown in UDB. The functional properties were also elevated in the treatment as compared to the control, with water absorption capacity and water solubility index increased by 131.3 % and 76.1 % in DBP as compared to UDB. However, there was decrease in the Bulk density of the fermented samples implying the flour has low texture. The study suggests that fermented D. bulbifera flours could be used to manage chronic conditions such as diabetes and oxidative stress because of enhanced antioxidant activity observed in the treatment (p < 0.05). Fermenting D. bulbifera flour with edible mushrooms have shown an improvement in nutritional and functional properties of the D. bulbifera flour and could be use as functional food. The study also sought to address nutritional and health challenges in relation to chronic conditions such as diabetes and oxidative stress.