This paper analyses the impact of oil and gas pipelines on the environment and settlements from the perspective of environmental justice,using a case study of the oil-producing communities in the Niger Delta region of...This paper analyses the impact of oil and gas pipelines on the environment and settlements from the perspective of environmental justice,using a case study of the oil-producing communities in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria.The paper mobilises theories of environmental justice to support an in-depth empirical analysis of the development and management of oil and gas pipelines in the region.The empirical evidence equally suggests that the lack of community involvement and appropriate recognition of some groups of stakeholders in the management of the oil and gas pipeline project is strongly related to the incidence of pipeline impacts on the communities[1].The paper advocates a new approach,based on the core principles of environmental justice that promotes inclusion of the necessary stakeholders,including the physical planners,and would incorporate local knowledge and experience into the environmental management of the region in a way to protect the environment and people from the impacts of the pipeline[2].展开更多
In Niger, farms have been facing negative effects of climate change for several decades. The objective of this work is to assess the vulnerability of farms in Tillabery department by proposing an adaptation approach. ...In Niger, farms have been facing negative effects of climate change for several decades. The objective of this work is to assess the vulnerability of farms in Tillabery department by proposing an adaptation approach. A five-step method and descriptive analysis were used on a sample of 250 farmers. The degree of damage caused by pests and crop diseases is significant, with respective proportions of 52.50% and 40.40%. It appears that the main climate risk factors for vulnerability are droughts, floods, soil degradation, and pest invasions. Additionally, the average level of exposure to agricultural operations is very high, with an index of 0.6. The sensitivity index remained constant in the range of 0.3 to 0.6 and is significant (reaching an index of 0.8). However, 61.2% of farms have a medium level of vulnerability and 33.3% have a high vulnerability to the effects of climate change. Nonetheless, a concerning trend regarding the vulnerability of farms has been observed. To assist policymakers and development actors in improving the vulnerability level of these production units, four phases of action are proposed: a diagnostic phase, evaluation, estimation of adaptation needs, implementation, and proper monitoring of actions.展开更多
Millet [Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br. (Poaceae)] is one of the most widely consumed crops in Niger. Its production, despite the efforts of farmers, is confronted with weed problems, in particular Sesbania pachycarpa ...Millet [Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br. (Poaceae)] is one of the most widely consumed crops in Niger. Its production, despite the efforts of farmers, is confronted with weed problems, in particular Sesbania pachycarpa DC. (Fabaceae). The aim of the present study in this area is to assess the impact of Sesbania pachycarpa on millet growth and yield. To achieve this objective, a completely randomized Fisher block design of twenty-four elementary plots was set up with four replications. The data collected were millet plant heights and plot yields. The data collected were subjected to analysis of variance and Duncan’s test at the 5% threshold for comparisons of mean heights and yields with the control kept clean from sowing to millet harvesting. The results showed the sensitivity of millet plants to Sesbania pachycarpa. The results revealed that the threshold density for damage could be estimated at 6 Sesbania pachycarpa plants/m2 and the critical interference period at the fourth week after sowing. This study showed that the presence of Sesbania pachycarpa influences millet yield. Indeed, the best yields were obtained in plots without Sesbania pachycarpa. Millet yield decreased with increasing Sesbania pachycarpa density. The average percentage yield reduction was 36.79%, with a minimum of 21.25% and a maximum of 80%. The findings of this study complete the efforts of developing weed control techniques in pearl millet fields densely populated with Sesbania pachycarpa.展开更多
Cowpea, Vigna unguiculata L. Walp, is an important food grain legume in Niger facing production losses due to insect pests. This study aims to determine the efficiency of non-chemical methods for managing these pests....Cowpea, Vigna unguiculata L. Walp, is an important food grain legume in Niger facing production losses due to insect pests. This study aims to determine the efficiency of non-chemical methods for managing these pests. A trial was conducted during the 2020 and 2022 cropping seasons at the INRAN station in the Maradi region. A Fischer experimental design with 6 repetitions was used to compare 4 treatments: synthetic chemical pesticide;the entomopathogenic fungus Beauveria bassiana;aqueous extracts of neem seeds, and control. Observations were carried out every three days. The cowpea pod-sucking bug, pod borer, and thrips were the main insect pests recorded. In terms of effectiveness, the synthetic pesticide was the best treatment. It reduced insect pest densities by 71.35% to 90.40% in 2020 and by 35.11% to 42.13% in 2022. Grain yields varied between treatments. Neem seed extract followed the synthetic pesticide and significantly reduced insect infestations in both years. The synthetic pesticide and neem seed extract resulted in yields 3 to 5 times higher than the control treatment in 2020. By contrast, B. bassiana 115 and neem seed extract produced similar yields in 2022. Therefore, the results of this study showed that B. bassiana 115 and neem seed extract have insecticidal potential and could be used as an ecological alternative for managing cowpea insect pests in the Sahel.展开更多
Rationale: The contamination of soil with crude oil poses significant environmental and ecological threats. Bioremediation, particularly through the use of organisms like Pleurotus ostreatus (mushroom) and Eisenia fet...Rationale: The contamination of soil with crude oil poses significant environmental and ecological threats. Bioremediation, particularly through the use of organisms like Pleurotus ostreatus (mushroom) and Eisenia fetida (earthworm), has emerged as a promising approach to mitigate crude oil pollution. Understanding the effectiveness of these organisms in reducing hydrocarbon levels in contaminated soil is crucial for devising sustainable remediation strategies. Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of Pleurotus ostreatus and Eisenia fetida in remediating crude oil-polluted soil. Specifically, it sought to assess the hydrocarbon profiles in soil treated with these organisms across varying concentrations of crude oil pollution. Method: Crude oil concentration levels ranging from 0% to 10% were applied to soil samples alongside control treatments, including soil only, soil with earthworms, and soil with mushrooms. Each treatment was replicated five times using a randomized complete block design. Standard methods were employed to determine the hydrocarbon contents of the soil. Results: The results indicated a significant increase (P Pleurotus ostreatus and Eisenia fetida exhibited noteworthy reductions in these hydrocarbon levels. At the three-month mark, mushrooms demonstrated a remarkable ability to reduce hydrocarbon content by 70% - 90% compared to the pollution treatment. In contrast, earthworms exhibited minimal potential for hydrocarbon reduction, particularly at both three and six-month intervals. For instance, TOC reduction reached a maximum of 96% with mushroom treatment and 85% with earthworm treatment at 5% crude oil pollution over six months. Conclusion: The findings highlight the effectiveness of Pleurotus ostreatus in significantly reducing hydrocarbon levels in crude oil-polluted soil compared to Eisenia fetida. Mushroom-treated soils consistently exhibited substantial reductions in TOC, TPH, TOG, PAH, and THC over the study period, suggesting their potential as a viable bioremediation agent. In contrast, while earthworms showed some capability in reducing hydrocarbon content, their effectiveness was comparatively limited. Recommendation: Based on the results, it is recommended to utilize Pleurotus ostreatus for the bioremediation of crude oil-polluted soils. Further research could explore optimizing remediation protocols involving mushroom-based treatments for enhanced efficiency. Statement of Significance: This study contributes valuable insights into the application of bioremediation techniques for mitigating crude oil contamination in soil. The demonstrated efficacy of Pleurotus ostreatus underscores its potential as a sustainable and eco-friendly solution for remediating hydrocarbon-polluted environments, offering a promising avenue for environmental restoration and conservation efforts.展开更多
Cowpea, Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp. is an economically important seed legume that helps combat food and nutrition insecurity in the Sahel, particularly Niger. However, its yield remains low due to insect pest attacks...Cowpea, Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp. is an economically important seed legume that helps combat food and nutrition insecurity in the Sahel, particularly Niger. However, its yield remains low due to insect pest attacks. This study was conducted at a station and in seven villages in the Maradi and Tahoua regions. It aimed to test the effectiveness of neem seed biopesticides [Azadirachta indica A. Juss] and sanitized human urine for integrated insect pest management. The cowpea variety UAM09 1055-6 was used for the experiments. The experimental trial was a Fisher block design consisting of five treatments: neem oil, neem seed extract (NSE), hygienized human urine (HHU), chemical pesticide, and a control, replicated five times at the station and twice in farmers’ environments. The study shows that Megalurothrips sjostedti Trybom, Clavigralla tomentosicollis Stål and Maruca vitrata Fabricius are the main insect pests. Plots treated with synthetic pesticides were the least infested by C. tomentosicollis. They were followed by neem seed extract and HHU treatments, which recorded an infestation level of 2.44 and 20.5 times lower than controls at the station and in farming environments. The density of thrips was 1.06 to 32.6 times lower in treated plots compared to controls. The proportion of pods damaged by M. vitrata was 1.95, 2.55, and 2.77 times lower in plots treated with HHU, NSE, and synthetic pesticide, respectively, compared to controls. Grain yields were 1.80 and 2.62 times higher in UHH and NSE treatments compared to control plots, both at the station and in farmers’ environments. A yield increase of 44.58% and 61.92% was noted for these treatments at the station and in farmers’ environments, respectively. These results may promote the dissemination of NSE and HHU biopesticide technologies in rural areas as an alternative method for integrated pest management of cowpeas.展开更多
Introduction: Lower respiratory infections in general, and acute bronchiolitis in particular, represent a major cause of morbidity in children in Niger. The aim of this study was to investigate the epidemiological, di...Introduction: Lower respiratory infections in general, and acute bronchiolitis in particular, represent a major cause of morbidity in children in Niger. The aim of this study was to investigate the epidemiological, diagnostic and therapeutic features of acute bronchiolitis in infants in the Pediatrics A department of the National Hospital in Zinder. Patients and Methods: This was a descriptive, cross-sectional study with prospective data collection conducted from April 1 to May 31, 2024. All infants aged 0 to 24 months hospitalized with acute bronchiolitis in the pediatric ward A of Zinder National Hospital were included in the study. Epidemiological, diagnostic and therapeutic aspects were the characteristics studied. Data analysis was performed using Epi info 7 software. Results: During the study period, acute bronchiolitis accounted for 51% of hospitalizations, and infants aged 3 - 11 months were the most affected (52.90%). The sex ratio was 1.6. The average age of patients was 10.40 ± 6.91 months, with extremes of 1 and 24 months. 98.50% of patients came from urban areas, and the socioeconomic level of families was average in 47.49% of cases. Mixed breastfeeding was practiced in 59.63% of cases. Average hospital admission time was 4.22 days. The main clinical signs were cough (43.18%), rhinorrhea (70.85%), ronchi (35.33%), crepitating rales (26.54%), sibilant rales (24.11%), signs of struggle (14.02%) and polypnea (70.85%). Paraclinical findings included chest distension, hyperleukocytosis and anemia, with 47.48%, 55.14% and 78.31% respectively. Therapeutically, nebulization was used in 93.08% of cases, respiratory physiotherapy (41.34%), corticosteroid therapy (34.08%), antibiotic therapy (21.50%), oxygen therapy (20.11%) and antipyretics (4.68%) were prescribed. Progression was favorable in 93.08% of patients, with a case-fatality rate of 1.12%. Conclusion: With its high frequency, acute bronchiolitis is a public health problem. Boys were the most affected by the condition, and the predominant age group was 3 to 11 months. Management was essentially based on nebulization and physiotherapy.展开更多
Pearl millet, Pennisetum glaucum (Leeke) R. Br, is the main cereal crop in Niger. This crop is seriously attacked by the millet Head miner (MHM), Heliocheilus albipunctella (de Joannis) (Lepidoptera, Noctuidae) causin...Pearl millet, Pennisetum glaucum (Leeke) R. Br, is the main cereal crop in Niger. This crop is seriously attacked by the millet Head miner (MHM), Heliocheilus albipunctella (de Joannis) (Lepidoptera, Noctuidae) causing significant yield losses. This study to optimize biological control of this pest was carried out in Niger in the laboratory and in a farming environment. In the laboratory, the larval paralysis and emergence of the parasitoid Habrobracon hebetor Say (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) were compared between release jute bags, plastic boxes and cardboard boxes. In a farming environment, direct releases were carried out with plastic boxes and releases with jute bags in 12 villages of the Maradi region during the cropping seasons of 2021 and 2022. The results indicated that 25 larvae of Corcyra cephalonica Stainton (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) in the boxes were all paralyzed by 2 females of H. hebetor within 7 hours 30 minutes. The emergence of adults began on the 7th day after the beginning of the experiment for a period of two weeks and three weeks respectively in the boxes and jute bags. The production varied from 107.08 to 110.17 parasitoids and was comparable between the Jute bags, plastic boxes and cardboard boxes. In Farmers’ fields, the parasitoid release with the two methods caused the parasitism rates that varied from 64.32 to 66.52% depending on the year but in 2022 the rate of parasitism was higher in the fields with direct releases using plastic boxes (72.66%) compared to those released with jute bags (56.35%). Plastic boxes and cardboard boxes can be used for the production of the H. hebetor parasitoids. These results can be recommended to the cottage industries in the Sahel in order to improve the production and release methods of H. hebetor and make them more adapted to farmers’ fields.展开更多
Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry(GC-MS)was used to analyze the pentacyclic triterpenoid distributions,specifically hopane and oleanane fingerprints,in 24 crude oil samples from the Niger Delta depobelts,with the a...Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry(GC-MS)was used to analyze the pentacyclic triterpenoid distributions,specifically hopane and oleanane fingerprints,in 24 crude oil samples from the Niger Delta depobelts,with the aim of defining the petroleum system,filling history,and the age of source rock producing these oils.The results indicate that the Niger Delta oils belong to a single fluvio-deltaic petroleum system,reflecting similar source organic facies and depositional environments.Geochemical parameters,including C29/C30hopane ratios,oleanane index,Ts/Tm,(Ts/(Ts+Tm)),moretane/C30hopane ratios,and C3222S/(22S+22R)ratios,suggest oxic conditions during source rock deposition and thermal maturity of the oils.The presence of terrigenous organic matter and complex filling history are also evident and influenced by multiple phases of sedimentation,and petroleum generation.A comparative plot of geologic time(Paleogene-Neogene age)and oleanane percentage composition show that the crude oils are constrained to the chronostratigraphic ages of their respective depobelts,demonstrating the potential of oleanane-derived parameters for relative dating of hydrocarbon sources,complementing traditional index fossil methods.展开更多
Nature fermented dry-cured hams may be contaminated by ochratoxin A(OTA)due to the colonization of OTA-producing fungi.Yeast plays essential roles in the formation of the special flavor of ham as well as the potential...Nature fermented dry-cured hams may be contaminated by ochratoxin A(OTA)due to the colonization of OTA-producing fungi.Yeast plays essential roles in the formation of the special flavor of ham as well as the potential to retard OTA biosynthesis.In this study,the yeast diversity of Panxian hams fermented from 1 year to 2 years was investigated,revealing a total of 9 yeast genera.The dominant genus switched from Debaryomyces hansenii to Yamadazyma triangularis,while the yeast diversity increased with the prolongation of the fermentation period.Notably,Yarrawia lipolitica GZPX-3Y-1 was identified as a biocontrol yeast strain that can effectively inhibit the OTA biosynthesis up to 82%in OTA-producing modeling media and 55%in ham media when cocultivated with a previously identified OTA producing fungi from Panxian ham,specifically Aspergillus niger A-8.The double-plate methods experiment unveiled that Y.lipolitica GZPX-3Y-1 can only inhibit the growth of A.niger A-8 under the anoxic conditions.Characteristics of Y.lipolitica GZPX-3Y-1 were explored,showing its ability to grow at wide range of temperature(18-33℃)and pH levels(pH 3-12).Additionally,it exhibited tolerance to high salt conditions(8%)and demonstrated lipolysis ability without hemolytic ability.These findings indicate the great potential of Y.lipolitica GZPX-3Y-1 to be applied in the fermentation of Panxian ham as a biocontrol strain.展开更多
A laboratory experiment was conducted to demonstrate the importance of improving the efficiency of six isolates of Aspergillus niger fungi.Four isolates were exposed to UV-rays radiation at a distance of 30 cm,a wavel...A laboratory experiment was conducted to demonstrate the importance of improving the efficiency of six isolates of Aspergillus niger fungi.Four isolates were exposed to UV-rays radiation at a distance of 30 cm,a wavelength of 254–255 nm during M15,M30,and M45 minutes.Exposure periods,both of wild(no UV-rays exposure)and no A.niger(C)as controls,all six isolates were identified molecularly by polymerase chain reaction technique extracted DNA of A.niger was analyzed to ensure gene completion through multiple sequence alignment by bioinformatic programs to study the improvement of dissolving efficiency of mutant and wild A.niger.They were incubated after the addition of superphosphate fertilizer(47%P2O5)at 90 mg P kg–1 applied to soil with controls(no A.niger or no superphosphate)for I,II,III,and IV weeks of incubation periods at 28±1°C.In addition,the DNA extraction and purification by NanoDrop of Thermo Scientific-200 A280/A260 ratio was 2.01 and confirmed that the sequences of nitrogenous bases by the method of multiple sequence alignment(MSA)as compared to the reference sequence of A.niger recorded in the gene bank under the accession number LC632396.Results proved that the M30 minutes exposure UV-rays radiation period was the superior dose when mutant Aspergillus niger obtained the highest amount of dissolved phosphate,reducing soil-pH with maximum biomass of A.niger during the M30 isolate during the third week(III).展开更多
This study integrates seismic and petrophysical data to evaluate the subsurface geology of the Keva Field,located onshore in the Niger Delta,with the objective of constructing a 3D geological model and estimating the ...This study integrates seismic and petrophysical data to evaluate the subsurface geology of the Keva Field,located onshore in the Niger Delta,with the objective of constructing a 3D geological model and estimating the recoverable hydrocarbon volumes.Seismic lines and well log data from six wells—KV-2,KV-3,KV-4,KV-5,KV-6,and KV-7—were utilized for the interpretation.The seismic profiles revealed that the KV-4 well is the only well drilled on the up-thrown side of a significant horst fault block,bounded by four major normal faults,while all the other wells penetrated the downthrown side.Petrophysical analysis identified three key reservoirs,C500,D200,and E900,which exhibit excellent reservoir quality with high net-to-gross ratios,good porosity,and high hydrocarbon saturation.The identified depositional environments are tidal-and fluvial-dominated shoreface settings,with sheet sands deposited in distributary splay systems.The C500,D200,and E900 reservoirs have Gas Initially in Place(GIIP)values of 156.37,28.44,and 27.89 BSCF,respectively,with corresponding Estimated Ultimate Recovery(EUR)values of 104.77,19.06,and 18.69 BSCF,respectively.The Stock Tank Original Oil in Place(STOOIP)values are 24.43,91.29,and 86.41 MMSTB,with EURs of 7.32,27.4,and 25.92 MMSTB,respectively.The combined GIIP is 212.72 BSCF with EUR of 142.52 BSCF,while the total STOOIP is 202.13 MMSTB with a recoverable volume of 60.64 MMSTB.The reservoirs present an average porosity of 22.62%,with gas saturation of 84.66%and oil saturation of 73%.The evaluated reservoir qualities suggest high potential for optimized hydrocarbon production.展开更多
[Objective]The aim was to induce and screen the high producing pectinase Aspergillus niger Strain based on the original preservation strains.[Method]The original strain was induced by ultraviolet,and the highst enzyme...[Objective]The aim was to induce and screen the high producing pectinase Aspergillus niger Strain based on the original preservation strains.[Method]The original strain was induced by ultraviolet,and the highst enzyme activity and cultivated time were detected through the inspection of transparent circle and enzyme activity determination of flask fermentation.[Result] The enzyme activity of strain D1-4 achieved its highest after cultivated for 96 h in suitable conditions,which was 141.13 U/ml.[Conclusion] The induced strain D1-4 had the strong ability of producing pectinase.展开更多
[Objective] The research aimed to breed the high-yield production strain of cellulase.[Method] Aspergillus niger was used as the starting strain,and a high-yield production strain of cellulase was selected after UV mu...[Objective] The research aimed to breed the high-yield production strain of cellulase.[Method] Aspergillus niger was used as the starting strain,and a high-yield production strain of cellulase was selected after UV mutation treatment.[Result] Under the suitable condition,the strain 2（15） with the highest CMC production capacity was selected,which nearly increased 50% than that of the starting strain.[Conclusion] The research provided the foundation for its appliation in the feed production in the future.展开更多
Thirty-nine crude oils and twenty-one rock samples from Niger Delta Basin,Nigeria have been characterized based on their isotope compositions by elemental analysis-isotope ratio mass spectrometry and gas chromatograph...Thirty-nine crude oils and twenty-one rock samples from Niger Delta Basin,Nigeria have been characterized based on their isotope compositions by elemental analysis-isotope ratio mass spectrometry and gas chromatography-isotope ratio mass spectrometry.The bulk carbon isotopic values of the whole rock extracts,saturate and aromatic fractions range from–28.7‰to–26.8‰,–29.2‰to–27.2‰and–28.5‰to–26.7‰,respectively while the bulk carbon isotopic values of the whole oils,saturate and aromatic fractions range from–25.4‰to–27.8‰,–25.9‰to–28.4‰and–23.5‰to–26.9‰,respectively.The average carbon isotopic compositions of individual alkanes(nC12-nC33)in the rock samples range from–34.9‰to–28.2‰whereas the average isotopic values of individual n-alkanes in the oils range from–31.1‰to–23.8‰.Theδ13C isotope ratios of pristane and phytane in the rock samples range from–29.2‰to–28.2‰and–30.2‰to–27.4‰respectively while the pristane and phytane isotopic values range from–32.1‰to–21.9‰and–30.5‰to–26.9‰,respectively.The isotopic values recorded for the samples indicated that the crude oils were formed from the mixed input of terrigenous and marine organic matter and deposited under oxic to sub-oxic condition in lacustrine-fluvial/deltaic environments.The stable carbon isotopic compositions were found to be effective in assessing the origin and depositional environments of crude oils in the Niger Delta Basin.展开更多
文摘This paper analyses the impact of oil and gas pipelines on the environment and settlements from the perspective of environmental justice,using a case study of the oil-producing communities in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria.The paper mobilises theories of environmental justice to support an in-depth empirical analysis of the development and management of oil and gas pipelines in the region.The empirical evidence equally suggests that the lack of community involvement and appropriate recognition of some groups of stakeholders in the management of the oil and gas pipeline project is strongly related to the incidence of pipeline impacts on the communities[1].The paper advocates a new approach,based on the core principles of environmental justice that promotes inclusion of the necessary stakeholders,including the physical planners,and would incorporate local knowledge and experience into the environmental management of the region in a way to protect the environment and people from the impacts of the pipeline[2].
文摘In Niger, farms have been facing negative effects of climate change for several decades. The objective of this work is to assess the vulnerability of farms in Tillabery department by proposing an adaptation approach. A five-step method and descriptive analysis were used on a sample of 250 farmers. The degree of damage caused by pests and crop diseases is significant, with respective proportions of 52.50% and 40.40%. It appears that the main climate risk factors for vulnerability are droughts, floods, soil degradation, and pest invasions. Additionally, the average level of exposure to agricultural operations is very high, with an index of 0.6. The sensitivity index remained constant in the range of 0.3 to 0.6 and is significant (reaching an index of 0.8). However, 61.2% of farms have a medium level of vulnerability and 33.3% have a high vulnerability to the effects of climate change. Nonetheless, a concerning trend regarding the vulnerability of farms has been observed. To assist policymakers and development actors in improving the vulnerability level of these production units, four phases of action are proposed: a diagnostic phase, evaluation, estimation of adaptation needs, implementation, and proper monitoring of actions.
文摘Millet [Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br. (Poaceae)] is one of the most widely consumed crops in Niger. Its production, despite the efforts of farmers, is confronted with weed problems, in particular Sesbania pachycarpa DC. (Fabaceae). The aim of the present study in this area is to assess the impact of Sesbania pachycarpa on millet growth and yield. To achieve this objective, a completely randomized Fisher block design of twenty-four elementary plots was set up with four replications. The data collected were millet plant heights and plot yields. The data collected were subjected to analysis of variance and Duncan’s test at the 5% threshold for comparisons of mean heights and yields with the control kept clean from sowing to millet harvesting. The results showed the sensitivity of millet plants to Sesbania pachycarpa. The results revealed that the threshold density for damage could be estimated at 6 Sesbania pachycarpa plants/m2 and the critical interference period at the fourth week after sowing. This study showed that the presence of Sesbania pachycarpa influences millet yield. Indeed, the best yields were obtained in plots without Sesbania pachycarpa. Millet yield decreased with increasing Sesbania pachycarpa density. The average percentage yield reduction was 36.79%, with a minimum of 21.25% and a maximum of 80%. The findings of this study complete the efforts of developing weed control techniques in pearl millet fields densely populated with Sesbania pachycarpa.
文摘Cowpea, Vigna unguiculata L. Walp, is an important food grain legume in Niger facing production losses due to insect pests. This study aims to determine the efficiency of non-chemical methods for managing these pests. A trial was conducted during the 2020 and 2022 cropping seasons at the INRAN station in the Maradi region. A Fischer experimental design with 6 repetitions was used to compare 4 treatments: synthetic chemical pesticide;the entomopathogenic fungus Beauveria bassiana;aqueous extracts of neem seeds, and control. Observations were carried out every three days. The cowpea pod-sucking bug, pod borer, and thrips were the main insect pests recorded. In terms of effectiveness, the synthetic pesticide was the best treatment. It reduced insect pest densities by 71.35% to 90.40% in 2020 and by 35.11% to 42.13% in 2022. Grain yields varied between treatments. Neem seed extract followed the synthetic pesticide and significantly reduced insect infestations in both years. The synthetic pesticide and neem seed extract resulted in yields 3 to 5 times higher than the control treatment in 2020. By contrast, B. bassiana 115 and neem seed extract produced similar yields in 2022. Therefore, the results of this study showed that B. bassiana 115 and neem seed extract have insecticidal potential and could be used as an ecological alternative for managing cowpea insect pests in the Sahel.
文摘Rationale: The contamination of soil with crude oil poses significant environmental and ecological threats. Bioremediation, particularly through the use of organisms like Pleurotus ostreatus (mushroom) and Eisenia fetida (earthworm), has emerged as a promising approach to mitigate crude oil pollution. Understanding the effectiveness of these organisms in reducing hydrocarbon levels in contaminated soil is crucial for devising sustainable remediation strategies. Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of Pleurotus ostreatus and Eisenia fetida in remediating crude oil-polluted soil. Specifically, it sought to assess the hydrocarbon profiles in soil treated with these organisms across varying concentrations of crude oil pollution. Method: Crude oil concentration levels ranging from 0% to 10% were applied to soil samples alongside control treatments, including soil only, soil with earthworms, and soil with mushrooms. Each treatment was replicated five times using a randomized complete block design. Standard methods were employed to determine the hydrocarbon contents of the soil. Results: The results indicated a significant increase (P Pleurotus ostreatus and Eisenia fetida exhibited noteworthy reductions in these hydrocarbon levels. At the three-month mark, mushrooms demonstrated a remarkable ability to reduce hydrocarbon content by 70% - 90% compared to the pollution treatment. In contrast, earthworms exhibited minimal potential for hydrocarbon reduction, particularly at both three and six-month intervals. For instance, TOC reduction reached a maximum of 96% with mushroom treatment and 85% with earthworm treatment at 5% crude oil pollution over six months. Conclusion: The findings highlight the effectiveness of Pleurotus ostreatus in significantly reducing hydrocarbon levels in crude oil-polluted soil compared to Eisenia fetida. Mushroom-treated soils consistently exhibited substantial reductions in TOC, TPH, TOG, PAH, and THC over the study period, suggesting their potential as a viable bioremediation agent. In contrast, while earthworms showed some capability in reducing hydrocarbon content, their effectiveness was comparatively limited. Recommendation: Based on the results, it is recommended to utilize Pleurotus ostreatus for the bioremediation of crude oil-polluted soils. Further research could explore optimizing remediation protocols involving mushroom-based treatments for enhanced efficiency. Statement of Significance: This study contributes valuable insights into the application of bioremediation techniques for mitigating crude oil contamination in soil. The demonstrated efficacy of Pleurotus ostreatus underscores its potential as a sustainable and eco-friendly solution for remediating hydrocarbon-polluted environments, offering a promising avenue for environmental restoration and conservation efforts.
文摘Cowpea, Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp. is an economically important seed legume that helps combat food and nutrition insecurity in the Sahel, particularly Niger. However, its yield remains low due to insect pest attacks. This study was conducted at a station and in seven villages in the Maradi and Tahoua regions. It aimed to test the effectiveness of neem seed biopesticides [Azadirachta indica A. Juss] and sanitized human urine for integrated insect pest management. The cowpea variety UAM09 1055-6 was used for the experiments. The experimental trial was a Fisher block design consisting of five treatments: neem oil, neem seed extract (NSE), hygienized human urine (HHU), chemical pesticide, and a control, replicated five times at the station and twice in farmers’ environments. The study shows that Megalurothrips sjostedti Trybom, Clavigralla tomentosicollis Stål and Maruca vitrata Fabricius are the main insect pests. Plots treated with synthetic pesticides were the least infested by C. tomentosicollis. They were followed by neem seed extract and HHU treatments, which recorded an infestation level of 2.44 and 20.5 times lower than controls at the station and in farming environments. The density of thrips was 1.06 to 32.6 times lower in treated plots compared to controls. The proportion of pods damaged by M. vitrata was 1.95, 2.55, and 2.77 times lower in plots treated with HHU, NSE, and synthetic pesticide, respectively, compared to controls. Grain yields were 1.80 and 2.62 times higher in UHH and NSE treatments compared to control plots, both at the station and in farmers’ environments. A yield increase of 44.58% and 61.92% was noted for these treatments at the station and in farmers’ environments, respectively. These results may promote the dissemination of NSE and HHU biopesticide technologies in rural areas as an alternative method for integrated pest management of cowpeas.
文摘Introduction: Lower respiratory infections in general, and acute bronchiolitis in particular, represent a major cause of morbidity in children in Niger. The aim of this study was to investigate the epidemiological, diagnostic and therapeutic features of acute bronchiolitis in infants in the Pediatrics A department of the National Hospital in Zinder. Patients and Methods: This was a descriptive, cross-sectional study with prospective data collection conducted from April 1 to May 31, 2024. All infants aged 0 to 24 months hospitalized with acute bronchiolitis in the pediatric ward A of Zinder National Hospital were included in the study. Epidemiological, diagnostic and therapeutic aspects were the characteristics studied. Data analysis was performed using Epi info 7 software. Results: During the study period, acute bronchiolitis accounted for 51% of hospitalizations, and infants aged 3 - 11 months were the most affected (52.90%). The sex ratio was 1.6. The average age of patients was 10.40 ± 6.91 months, with extremes of 1 and 24 months. 98.50% of patients came from urban areas, and the socioeconomic level of families was average in 47.49% of cases. Mixed breastfeeding was practiced in 59.63% of cases. Average hospital admission time was 4.22 days. The main clinical signs were cough (43.18%), rhinorrhea (70.85%), ronchi (35.33%), crepitating rales (26.54%), sibilant rales (24.11%), signs of struggle (14.02%) and polypnea (70.85%). Paraclinical findings included chest distension, hyperleukocytosis and anemia, with 47.48%, 55.14% and 78.31% respectively. Therapeutically, nebulization was used in 93.08% of cases, respiratory physiotherapy (41.34%), corticosteroid therapy (34.08%), antibiotic therapy (21.50%), oxygen therapy (20.11%) and antipyretics (4.68%) were prescribed. Progression was favorable in 93.08% of patients, with a case-fatality rate of 1.12%. Conclusion: With its high frequency, acute bronchiolitis is a public health problem. Boys were the most affected by the condition, and the predominant age group was 3 to 11 months. Management was essentially based on nebulization and physiotherapy.
文摘Pearl millet, Pennisetum glaucum (Leeke) R. Br, is the main cereal crop in Niger. This crop is seriously attacked by the millet Head miner (MHM), Heliocheilus albipunctella (de Joannis) (Lepidoptera, Noctuidae) causing significant yield losses. This study to optimize biological control of this pest was carried out in Niger in the laboratory and in a farming environment. In the laboratory, the larval paralysis and emergence of the parasitoid Habrobracon hebetor Say (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) were compared between release jute bags, plastic boxes and cardboard boxes. In a farming environment, direct releases were carried out with plastic boxes and releases with jute bags in 12 villages of the Maradi region during the cropping seasons of 2021 and 2022. The results indicated that 25 larvae of Corcyra cephalonica Stainton (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) in the boxes were all paralyzed by 2 females of H. hebetor within 7 hours 30 minutes. The emergence of adults began on the 7th day after the beginning of the experiment for a period of two weeks and three weeks respectively in the boxes and jute bags. The production varied from 107.08 to 110.17 parasitoids and was comparable between the Jute bags, plastic boxes and cardboard boxes. In Farmers’ fields, the parasitoid release with the two methods caused the parasitism rates that varied from 64.32 to 66.52% depending on the year but in 2022 the rate of parasitism was higher in the fields with direct releases using plastic boxes (72.66%) compared to those released with jute bags (56.35%). Plastic boxes and cardboard boxes can be used for the production of the H. hebetor parasitoids. These results can be recommended to the cottage industries in the Sahel in order to improve the production and release methods of H. hebetor and make them more adapted to farmers’ fields.
文摘Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry(GC-MS)was used to analyze the pentacyclic triterpenoid distributions,specifically hopane and oleanane fingerprints,in 24 crude oil samples from the Niger Delta depobelts,with the aim of defining the petroleum system,filling history,and the age of source rock producing these oils.The results indicate that the Niger Delta oils belong to a single fluvio-deltaic petroleum system,reflecting similar source organic facies and depositional environments.Geochemical parameters,including C29/C30hopane ratios,oleanane index,Ts/Tm,(Ts/(Ts+Tm)),moretane/C30hopane ratios,and C3222S/(22S+22R)ratios,suggest oxic conditions during source rock deposition and thermal maturity of the oils.The presence of terrigenous organic matter and complex filling history are also evident and influenced by multiple phases of sedimentation,and petroleum generation.A comparative plot of geologic time(Paleogene-Neogene age)and oleanane percentage composition show that the crude oils are constrained to the chronostratigraphic ages of their respective depobelts,demonstrating the potential of oleanane-derived parameters for relative dating of hydrocarbon sources,complementing traditional index fossil methods.
基金supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China(32160607)the Basic Scientific Research Program from Guizhou Science and Technology Agency(Qian Ke He Ji Chu-ZK[2021]176).
文摘Nature fermented dry-cured hams may be contaminated by ochratoxin A(OTA)due to the colonization of OTA-producing fungi.Yeast plays essential roles in the formation of the special flavor of ham as well as the potential to retard OTA biosynthesis.In this study,the yeast diversity of Panxian hams fermented from 1 year to 2 years was investigated,revealing a total of 9 yeast genera.The dominant genus switched from Debaryomyces hansenii to Yamadazyma triangularis,while the yeast diversity increased with the prolongation of the fermentation period.Notably,Yarrawia lipolitica GZPX-3Y-1 was identified as a biocontrol yeast strain that can effectively inhibit the OTA biosynthesis up to 82%in OTA-producing modeling media and 55%in ham media when cocultivated with a previously identified OTA producing fungi from Panxian ham,specifically Aspergillus niger A-8.The double-plate methods experiment unveiled that Y.lipolitica GZPX-3Y-1 can only inhibit the growth of A.niger A-8 under the anoxic conditions.Characteristics of Y.lipolitica GZPX-3Y-1 were explored,showing its ability to grow at wide range of temperature(18-33℃)and pH levels(pH 3-12).Additionally,it exhibited tolerance to high salt conditions(8%)and demonstrated lipolysis ability without hemolytic ability.These findings indicate the great potential of Y.lipolitica GZPX-3Y-1 to be applied in the fermentation of Panxian ham as a biocontrol strain.
文摘A laboratory experiment was conducted to demonstrate the importance of improving the efficiency of six isolates of Aspergillus niger fungi.Four isolates were exposed to UV-rays radiation at a distance of 30 cm,a wavelength of 254–255 nm during M15,M30,and M45 minutes.Exposure periods,both of wild(no UV-rays exposure)and no A.niger(C)as controls,all six isolates were identified molecularly by polymerase chain reaction technique extracted DNA of A.niger was analyzed to ensure gene completion through multiple sequence alignment by bioinformatic programs to study the improvement of dissolving efficiency of mutant and wild A.niger.They were incubated after the addition of superphosphate fertilizer(47%P2O5)at 90 mg P kg–1 applied to soil with controls(no A.niger or no superphosphate)for I,II,III,and IV weeks of incubation periods at 28±1°C.In addition,the DNA extraction and purification by NanoDrop of Thermo Scientific-200 A280/A260 ratio was 2.01 and confirmed that the sequences of nitrogenous bases by the method of multiple sequence alignment(MSA)as compared to the reference sequence of A.niger recorded in the gene bank under the accession number LC632396.Results proved that the M30 minutes exposure UV-rays radiation period was the superior dose when mutant Aspergillus niger obtained the highest amount of dissolved phosphate,reducing soil-pH with maximum biomass of A.niger during the M30 isolate during the third week(III).
基金the support of African Union Commission through the Pan African University Life and Earth Sciences Institute(including Health and Agriculture),Ibadan,Nigeria,for funding this study。
文摘This study integrates seismic and petrophysical data to evaluate the subsurface geology of the Keva Field,located onshore in the Niger Delta,with the objective of constructing a 3D geological model and estimating the recoverable hydrocarbon volumes.Seismic lines and well log data from six wells—KV-2,KV-3,KV-4,KV-5,KV-6,and KV-7—were utilized for the interpretation.The seismic profiles revealed that the KV-4 well is the only well drilled on the up-thrown side of a significant horst fault block,bounded by four major normal faults,while all the other wells penetrated the downthrown side.Petrophysical analysis identified three key reservoirs,C500,D200,and E900,which exhibit excellent reservoir quality with high net-to-gross ratios,good porosity,and high hydrocarbon saturation.The identified depositional environments are tidal-and fluvial-dominated shoreface settings,with sheet sands deposited in distributary splay systems.The C500,D200,and E900 reservoirs have Gas Initially in Place(GIIP)values of 156.37,28.44,and 27.89 BSCF,respectively,with corresponding Estimated Ultimate Recovery(EUR)values of 104.77,19.06,and 18.69 BSCF,respectively.The Stock Tank Original Oil in Place(STOOIP)values are 24.43,91.29,and 86.41 MMSTB,with EURs of 7.32,27.4,and 25.92 MMSTB,respectively.The combined GIIP is 212.72 BSCF with EUR of 142.52 BSCF,while the total STOOIP is 202.13 MMSTB with a recoverable volume of 60.64 MMSTB.The reservoirs present an average porosity of 22.62%,with gas saturation of 84.66%and oil saturation of 73%.The evaluated reservoir qualities suggest high potential for optimized hydrocarbon production.
文摘[Objective]The aim was to induce and screen the high producing pectinase Aspergillus niger Strain based on the original preservation strains.[Method]The original strain was induced by ultraviolet,and the highst enzyme activity and cultivated time were detected through the inspection of transparent circle and enzyme activity determination of flask fermentation.[Result] The enzyme activity of strain D1-4 achieved its highest after cultivated for 96 h in suitable conditions,which was 141.13 U/ml.[Conclusion] The induced strain D1-4 had the strong ability of producing pectinase.
基金Supported by Natural Foundation of Education Department of HenanProvince (2010B530001)Research Project of Department of Sci-ence and Technology in Henan Province (102102310391)~~
文摘[Objective] The research aimed to breed the high-yield production strain of cellulase.[Method] Aspergillus niger was used as the starting strain,and a high-yield production strain of cellulase was selected after UV mutation treatment.[Result] Under the suitable condition,the strain 2（15） with the highest CMC production capacity was selected,which nearly increased 50% than that of the starting strain.[Conclusion] The research provided the foundation for its appliation in the feed production in the future.
文摘Thirty-nine crude oils and twenty-one rock samples from Niger Delta Basin,Nigeria have been characterized based on their isotope compositions by elemental analysis-isotope ratio mass spectrometry and gas chromatography-isotope ratio mass spectrometry.The bulk carbon isotopic values of the whole rock extracts,saturate and aromatic fractions range from–28.7‰to–26.8‰,–29.2‰to–27.2‰and–28.5‰to–26.7‰,respectively while the bulk carbon isotopic values of the whole oils,saturate and aromatic fractions range from–25.4‰to–27.8‰,–25.9‰to–28.4‰and–23.5‰to–26.9‰,respectively.The average carbon isotopic compositions of individual alkanes(nC12-nC33)in the rock samples range from–34.9‰to–28.2‰whereas the average isotopic values of individual n-alkanes in the oils range from–31.1‰to–23.8‰.Theδ13C isotope ratios of pristane and phytane in the rock samples range from–29.2‰to–28.2‰and–30.2‰to–27.4‰respectively while the pristane and phytane isotopic values range from–32.1‰to–21.9‰and–30.5‰to–26.9‰,respectively.The isotopic values recorded for the samples indicated that the crude oils were formed from the mixed input of terrigenous and marine organic matter and deposited under oxic to sub-oxic condition in lacustrine-fluvial/deltaic environments.The stable carbon isotopic compositions were found to be effective in assessing the origin and depositional environments of crude oils in the Niger Delta Basin.
