Plantain Peel Research Articles

Exploring the probiotic potential of yeast strains isolated from ripe banana and plantain peels: in vitro and in vivo assessment.

Probiotics have been shown to improve host access to vitamins, generate vitamins and improve gastrointestinal tract functions throughout transit yeasts which are indicated to potentially function as probiotics with some health benefits. The aim of this study was to evaluate the probiotic potential of yeast isolates from banana and plantain peels. Yeast strains were isolated from ripe banana and plantain peels, using the standard procedures. Isolates that showed negativity for pathogenicity assays were used for in vitro and in vivo probiotic screening. For the in vivo assay, 30 male Wistar rats, divided into six treatment groups (five rats per treatment), were used. At the expiration of administration, the rats were euthanized for the estimation of yeast translocation and haematological parameters. A total of 16 yeasts were isolated, out of which, five (Hanseniaspora uvarum, Hanseniaspora lachancei, Hanseniaspora opuntiae and two species of Kodamaea ohmeri) isolates that showed negative results for pathogenicity assays were used for in vitro and in vivo assays. The study revealed the growth of the test yeast strains at the different incubation temperatures (25-45°C) and pH (4-9). However, significantly highest growths were observed at pH 4 and 5 and NaCl concentration of 4%. All the isolates showed remarkable growth at the bile concentrations used. In addition, the strains showed resistance to the antibiotics and antimycotics at the concentration used for investigation. In vivo assay results showed no significant differences between weight gain, haematological parameters and behavioural scores between control and treatment groups of the rats. The ability of the yeasts to show tolerance to stress conditions and lack of negative impacts to haematological, behavioural and yeast translocations are indications of their probiotic capabilities.

Evaluation of physico-chemical properties of unripe plantain peels as affected by different drying temperature regimes

This study is aimed at evaluating the physico-chemical properties of unripe plantain peel, as affected by different drying temperature regimes. The plantain peels were subjected to different drying temperatures of 60, 75, 90 and 105 oC for 12 hours, using a laboratory Oven to produce flour samples. Standard analytical methods were used in evaluating the flour sample parameters. Results of the physico-chemical analysis of the flour samples showed that samples dried at 60, 75, 90 and 105 oC had moisture contents of 2.67, 2.00, 1.38 and 0.66%, respectively; ash contents of 15.83, 15.35, 15.08 and 14.97%, respectively; fibre contents of 12.84, 13.34, 13.68 and 14.10%, respectively; protein contents of 9.80, 8.40, 7.35 and 7.00%, respectively; lipid contents of 77.43, 7.55, 7.80 and 7.94%, respectively; carbohydrate contents of 54.09, 55.02, 56.32 and 56.43%, respectively; caloric values of 321.47, 322.63, 324.32 and 325.74 kcal, respectively. There was a significant difference (p < 0.05) in moisture, ash, fibre, protein, lipid and carbohydrate contents, as well as the caloric value of the unripe plantain peel flour samples. The different drying temperature regimes had significant effect on the physico-chemical properties of the unripe plantain peel. Moisture, ash, fibre and protein contents decreased with corresponding increase in drying temperature, while lipid content, carbohydrate content and caloric value increased with increase in drying temperature.

Effects of slurry concentration and co-digestion on biogas yields from unseeded Phaseolus vulgaris (bean) peels chaff and unseeded Musa paradisiaca (plantain) peels chaff

This study explored converting agricultural wastes of Bean peel chaff (Bu) and Plantain peel chaff (Pu) into biogas, an eco-friendly biofuel, without cow rumen liquor. By digesting these wastes anaerobically in various combinations and slurry concentrations, the study assessed their individual and combined biogas yields. Bean and plantain peels were digested alone and in two mixtures: BP1u (bean-to-plantain ratio 0.691:1) and BP2u (1:1 ratio). Three waste-to-water slurry concentrations (1:6, 1:11, and 1:16) were used, with anaerobic digestion lasting 37 days in triplicate 1000ml mini digesters. Biogas production was measured via water displacement. The study found total solids percentages of 96.03% for Bu, 90.12% for Pu, 84.15% for BP1u, and 84.94% for BP2u. The carbon/nitrogen (C/N) ratios ranged from 9.04 to 15.3. Average biogas yields showed BP1u produced the highest (11.12 ml/day), followed by Bu (9.8 ml/day), BP2u (7.5 ml/day), and Pu (0.55 ml/day). Among slurry concentrations, 1:6 (C1) yielded the most biogas (17.45 ml/day), followed by 1:11 (C2) and 1:16 (C3). ANOVA indicated significant effects from both slurry concentration and co-digestion on biogas yield, along with a notable interaction between both factors. In conclusion, both bean and plantain peels can generate biogas effectively, especially when combined and digested in higher slurry concentrations for improved yield. This approach supports waste management and renewable energy goals by transforming agricultural residues into valuable biofuel.

A highly efficient and magnetically separable Fe3O4/WO3 catalyst for the synthesis of some benzimidazoles, benzoxazoles, and benzothiazoles, serving as potential drugs to treat nephropathy diseases

Benzimidazole derivatives have shown potential in treating certain kidney diseases, renin inhibitors, and modulate inflammatory responses to address underlying mechanisms in nephropathy. Herein, Fe3O4/WO3 heterojunction catalyst, derived from the reducing aqueous extract of Plantain peel, is recommended as an innovative catalyst for the one-pot synthesis of various benzimidazoles, benzoxazoles, and benzothiazoles in mild conditions. Through characterization methods like XRD, EDS, TEM, FE-SEM, VSM, DRS, XPS, and FT-IR, its structure and properties are understood. This cutting-edge protocol showcases high yield across a broad range of substrates, all while being eco-friendly and efficient. Moreover, the catalyst exhibited remarkable stability over five cycles, illustrating its reusability without compromising catalytic efficiency. The hot filtration test further underlines its stability in the reaction medium. We believe that Fe3O4/WO3 catalyst offers several advantages in the synthesis of benzimidazoles, benzoxazoles, and benzothiazoles, including enhanced catalytic activity that promotes efficient formation of the desired heterocyclic compounds compared to many reported protocols. Furthermore, its magnetic properties guarantee high reusability and a straightforward work up by using an external magnet. This feature facilitates its reuse in multiple synthesis cycles, ultimately reducing waste and lowering costs. In addition, the Fe3O4/WO3 catalyst operates under mild conditions, minimizing the need for harsh reagents and contributing to a more environmental-friendly synthesis. With cost-effectiveness and easy recovery of the catalyst, this approach sets a new approach for the sustainable and efficient synthesis of substituted benzimidazoles, benzoxazoles, and benzothiazoles.

Unripe Plantain Peel Biohydrogel for Methylene Blue Removal from Aqueous Solution.

Dye contamination is a serious environmental issue, particularly affecting water bodies, driving efforts to synthesize adsorbent materials with high dye-removal capacities. In this context, eco-friendly and cost-effective materials derived from bioresidues are being explored to recycle and valorize waste. This study investigates the synthesis, characterization, and application of a biohydrogel made from unripe plantain peel (PP), modified with carboxymethyl groups and crosslinked using varying concentrations of citric acid (CA), an eco-friendly and economical organic acid. The materials were characterized by ATR-FTIR, TGA, and SEM, confirming the successful synthesis of hydrogels, which exhibited rough, irregular surfaces with micropores. Additionally, the materials were analyzed for their pH point of zero charge, swelling capacity, and methylene blue (MB) dye removal efficiency. The results indicate that the biohydrogel formed with 1% CA exhibited the most favorable characteristics for MB removal. Kinetic studies revealed that the adsorption mechanism is pH-dependent, with equilibrium being reached in 720 min. The Freundlich isotherm model provided the best fit for the adsorption data, suggesting a heterogeneous surface and a multilayer adsorption process, with a maximum retention capacity of 600.8 ± 2.1 mg/g at pH 4. These findings contribute to the development of cost-effective and efficient materials for dye removal, particularly from water bodies.

Efecto del uso de harina de plátano dominico (Musa simmonds) y tapioca (Manihot esculenta) como fuente de carbono en el cultivo de Barbo tigre (Puntius tetrazona) en sistema biofloc

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of three carbon sources: molasses (Control), tapioca flour and banana peel, for the development of a biofloc system in the culture of the ornamental fish Puntius tetrazona. To ensure floc formation, a C/N ratio=20:1 was maintained for each of the carbon sources, considering three replicates per treatment. According to the results, the environmental parameters showed fluctuations, especially in the first three weeks of culture, within the optimal ranges for the species. Fish growth expressed as biomass gain did not show significant differences (P > 0.05) among treatments, but the standard length did (P < 0.05). The highest absolute and specific growth rates were obtained in plantain peel and tapioca, regarding the feed conversion factor, molasses had the highest value (0.91 g), followed by tapioca with 0.27 g, and banana peel with 0.25 g. Survival was 100% in the banana peel group, followed by tapioca, and molasses. The Phyla of microfauna recorded in the experimental groups were, Ciliphora, Rotifera, Annelida, Nematoda, Plathelmintes, Gastrotricha, and Amoebozoa with variations among treatments throughout the experiment. The results of the present study demonstrate the potential of using Dominican plantain hull meal as a carbon source for the development of ornamental fish cultures in biofloc, being an option that, due to its low cost, will increase the profitability of the cultures. Key words: Biofloc, tiger barbel, molasses, banana peel, tapioca.

Evaluation of the mineral and physicochemical characteristics of plant salts produced and consumed in rural areas of western Côte d'Ivoire

Salts made from palmaceae (palm and coconut) and plantain peels are the main plant salts produced and consumed in West of Côte d’Ivoire. However, their physicochemical characteristics, which may justify their use in the diet of people on low-sodium diets, are not known. The present study aimed to identify and localize plant salts presenting the best physicochemical characteristics for domestic but also industrial food use. Thus, the pH, particle size, level of insoluble matter and mineral composition of the three salts were studied. The study shows that these salts are alkaline products: their pH is between 10.9 and 11.33. Those produced from palmaceae branches have at least 75% of particles less than 0.25 mm in size, while salt from plantain peels is mainly composed of lumps larger than 10 mm. In addition, palm salts are very water soluble. They contain less than 1% of insoluble matter while plantain peel salt contains 67.37%. Salts made from palmaceae branches are therefore more easily used as seasoning. However, the 3 plant salts studied have sodium/potassium ratios lower than 0.1. On this basis, they could all easily contribute to improving the diet of people following low-sodium diets and reducing the prevalence of metabolic diseases linked to high sodium chloride consumption.

Enhancing Wound Healing with Nanohydrogel-Entrapped Plant Extracts and Nanosilver: An In Vitro Investigation.

Wound healing is a complex process that can be improved through advanced biomedical approaches. Incorporating nanopolymers and plant extracts into wound dressings offers a favorable strategy for promoting tissue repair. Nanopolymers provide a controlled environment for sustained drug release while also protecting the wound from external contaminants. When combined with bioactive compounds from plant extracts, which possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties, this hybrid approach can accelerate healing, reduce infection, and improve tissue regeneration. Hence, in this study, we have synthesized alginate/gelatin hydrogel blended with only nanosilver (Alg/gel-Ag) and with nanosilver and plant extracts like aloe vera, curcumin, plantain peel extract, and Calendula flower petal extract (Alg/gel-AgP). The synthesized hydrogels were characterized using different photophysical tools, and the cytotoxicity effect was studied using a fibroblast cell line (V79). The antibacterial effect of the hydrogels was also observed against E. coli and S. aureus, determining the MIC and MBC. The wound healing in vitro was also assessed using scratch assay which depicted a rapid wound closure for Alg/gel-AgP compared to the untreated control and Alg/gel-Ag. The combined effect between nanotechnology and natural extracts represents a novel and effective approach for enhancing the wound healing process.

Influence of synthesis parameters on the optical properties of carbon dots

Photoluminescent carbon dots were synthesized by hydrothermal treatment from agricultural waste. Considering that the composition of the dots’ surface depends on the precursor source and that this composition influences the optical properties, this study focused on analyzing the effect of synthesis parameters on the formation of functional groups, on the core structure, on the morphology, and their influence on the absorption, excitation, emission, and quantum performance properties. It was obtained that by increasing the synthesis temperature, functional groups C = O, C = N, and CO were formed in the carbon dots obtained from the three precursors, and an additional group C = C in dots obtained from plantain peels, which are the only one that showed a degradation of the cellulose band. The absorption response indicated the formation of graphitic nuclei with oxygenated groups responsible for the red shift of the absorption maximum moving from 266 to 283 nm. The Raman response indicates that there are graphitic domains in the nucleus, where the defects band has a high intensity for the three precursors. The higher quantum yield value presented by the plantain dots is due to the surface, not the graphitic core. The spherical shape and size of around 2 nm were observed by TEM.

Effect of plantain peel ash as an admixture on concrete properties

This study investigates the effect of plantain peel ash as an admixture on concrete properties, which is a sustainable alternative to conventional concrete production. The aim is to optimize the mix design of concrete required for improved performance, investigate the effect of the plantain peel ash on the compressive strength of the concrete, and examine the effects of plantain peel ash as a supplementary material on the durability and service life of concrete. The use of plantain peel ash as an admixture for cement in concrete has gained increasing popularity due to its ability to reduce the environmental impact of concrete production. This study contributes to the understanding of the durability and performance of plantain peel ash in concrete which is crucial for sustainable construction practices. The methodology involves mix design according to IS 10262:2009 for M15 grade of concrete with 5%, 10%, 15% and 20% plantain peel ash replacement, testing of compressive strength and durability of the concrete samples and also the optimal dosage required, in comparison with conventional concrete. The result of this study shows that the addition of 5% plantain peel ash increases the compressive strength of the concrete with obtained value of 27.30 N/mm2 and also has the standard workability for a normal concrete at 45 mm for the control and 60 mm for 5% PPA. The 10%, 15% and 20% shows a decrease in their compressive strength compared to the control mix (0%) with a value of 18.42 N/mm2 for 28 days curing. Overall, it can be said that 5% plantain peel ash has provided a strong basis for the use of plantain peel ash in concrete mixtures. The 5% is equivalent to 0.72 kg PPA.

Determination of proximate analysis of individual and combined samples of <i>Dioscorea alata</i>, <i>Musa parasidiaca</i> and <i>Xanthosoma sagittifolium</i> peels

This study investigates the proximate composition of yam (Dioscorea alata), cocoyam (Musa parasidiaca) and plantain (Xanthosoma sagittifolium) plant wastes, with a focus on evaluating the impact of the individual and combined plant wastes. Tubers of yam (Dioscorea alata), cocoyam (Musa parasidiaca) and plantain (Xanthosoma sagittifolium) used in this study were obtained from Obibi in Etche Local Government Area of Rivers State, Nigeria. Yams are tubers, plantains are fruits, whereas cocoyam is derived from corms, underground stems, and swollen hypocotyls. All these crops can be propagated by vegetative parts and these include tubers (yams), sucker (Plantain) and side shoots, stolons, or corm heads (cocoyam). Peels from the yam tubers were obtained by using a kitchen knife to carefully remove the peels. The peels were then immediately oven dried at 45oC for 24 hours. The dried peels were then ground through a 40-mesh screen using a Wiley. Analyses conducted isproximate determination using AOAC method. The results highlight the high ash content of Yam and Cocoyam Peel, which contributes to mineral enrichment; the enhanced moisture content of Plantain Peel, which has implications for water retention; and the low fat and oil content of Cocoyam Peel, which suggests that it is appropriate for use as a low-fat organic material. Yam Peel has a high crude fiber level, which indicates that it has the capacity to improve the structure of the soil. On the other hand, Yam and Cocoyam Peel stand out because it has largest protein content, which is essential for the development of plants. Plantain and cocoyam peel have the largest carbohydrate content, making it an excellent source of energy for the bacteria and plants that live in the soil below it. These findings have practical implications for sustainable agriculture by optimizing crop yields in diverse agro ecosystems.

Study of multifaceted eco-friendly nanoparticle zinc coating incorporation on mild steel.

Mild steel's versatile application in various fields makes it a pivotal material, yet its vulnerability to corrosion demands effective protection methods. This work explores the potential synergy between plantain peel (PP) and snail shell particle (SSP) nanoparticles when combined in a Zn–MgO matrix to improve corrosion resistance in mild steel coatings. After a thorough investigation of various bath compositions and process conditions, the ZnO–MgO–20SSP–20PP coating was found to have improved electrical characteristics, decreased thickness with high-quality films, higher hardness (78 HRB), and excellent corrosion resistance. Corrosion tests showed a notable decrease (∼70% for the ZnO–MgO–20SSP–20PP sample) in the rate of corrosion, and optical micrographs confirmed the coating's capacity to reduce damage. A reliable predictive model (ANOVA) was produced by mathematical optimization utilising a central composite design, which highlighted the interplay of SSP and PP concentrations on corrosion rate. This extensive study provides eco-friendly alternatives for improved mild steel corrosion prevention by showcasing the diverse contributions of SSP and PP nanoparticles.

Characterization of fresh biowastes for biogas production and environmental health in Niger Delta, Nigeria

BackgroundEnvironmental pollution is a public health problem in Niger Delta, Nigeria. Therefore, the aims of the present study were to: identify the major fresh biowastes in Bayelsa State, Niger Delta; quantify the biogas yields from mono-digestion and co-digestion of identified biowastes; determine the first day of biogas production during hydraulic retention time; assess pH variations during anaerobic digestion; and evaluate biogas flame colours.MethodsFifteen communities in Bayelsa State were randomly selected, and on-the-spot assessment and quantification of the biowastes found in each community were carried out daily per week. Mono-digestion of 20 kg of each biowaste and co-digestion of 10 kg of animal waste with 10 kg of plant waste were carried out respectively under anaerobic conditions. Cumulative biogas yield and pH were measured using a pH meter and weighing scale respectively. Biogas flame colours during combustion were visually assessed.ResultsExactly 120.61 metric ton of fresh biowastes was found to be generated per week in Bayelsa State, Niger Delta. Industrial biowastes were the highest [47.6 tonnes, (39.46%)], followed by abattoir biowastes [33 tonnes (27%)], market and roadside sellers biowastes [25.5 tonnes (21.14%)], and farm biowastes [14.51 (12.03%)]. Biogas yields (kg) were: 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 17, 14, 2, 18, 16, 17, 15 and 1 kg for palm oil mill effluent (POME), orange fruit waste (OFW), pineapple peels (PP), plantain peels, cassava mill effluent (CME), rumen digesta (RD), cow dung, sewage, PP-RD, plantain peels-cow dung, POME-rumen digesta, OFW-cow dung, and CME-sewage respectively. The first day of biogas production for RD, cow dung, sewage, PP-RD, plantain peels-cow dung, POME-RD, OFW-cow dung, and CME-sewage was on the 6th, 32nd. 56th, 1st, 26th, 18th, 25th, and 60th day of hydraulic retention time respectively. A dominant blue flame colour mixed reddish yellow or orange flames were found during biogas combustion. A slight increase in pH was found in all the biodigester media.ConclusionsIn the present study, a variety of biowastes yielding various quantities and qualities of biogas were identified in Bayelsa State, Niger Delta. The study’s findings have provided evidence-based data that might be explored as a road map and catalyst for policy creation against inadequate biowaste management and as sustainable alternatives to the expensive liquefied petroleum gas. The potential of current research study to be scaled up for commercial use is implicated in the present study.

Synthesis of plantain peel powder-based biofilm

The present study investigated the use of ripe plantain peel powder, crude glycerol, vinegar, egg shell powder and cassava starch as source raw materials for producing plantain peel-based biodegradable biofilm (P-BF). The synthesized biofilm was characterized by chemical test (FTIR, GC-MS, morphology test, water absorption property, biodegradation test, solubility test and swelling test) and mechanical test (ultimate tensile test, flexural, hardness test, % elongation and thermogravimetric analysis). Results showed successful production of P-BF. A non-plantain bioplastic (NP-BF) served as control. The FTIR analysis showed eight functional groups; ether, ethene, amine, carboxylic acid, nitriles, methylene, cyclic ester, primary, secondary and tertiary alcohols common to hydrocarbons. The biodegradation test showed the P-BF degraded at the same pace as NP-BF which degraded on the 6th day of the test. The mechanical test showed P-BF had higher thermal stability and water absorption property compared to the NP-BF. However, P-BF showed lower ultimate tensile test, flexural, hardness test, percentage elongation compared to the NP-BF. Morphology test showed that there was uneven distribution of constituents materials in P-BF compared to the NP-BF which affected its mechanical properties. In conclusion, the study successfully produced plantain peel-based biodegradable biofilm with good mechanical properties, biodegradability, thermal stability, fair water absorption property.

FTIR and GC-MS analyses of raw materials produced from food wastes used in synthesis of biofilms

The present study carried out the GC-MS and FTIR analyses of raw materials (ripe plantain peel powder, cassava starch, glycerol, acetic acid (vinegar) and eggshell powder) produced from food wastes that are used in production of biofilm. The GC-MS results revealed the presence of pentadecane, bis (2-methylpropyl) ester and benzoic acid, 3-(2-Hydroxy-6-methylphenyl)-4(3H)-quinazolinone). The FTIR analysis revealed 17 peaks for glycerol, 16 peaks for vinegar, 15 peaks for cassava starch, 16 peaks for eggshell; representing the functional groups of ether, ethene, amine, carboxylic acid, nitriles, methylene cyclic ester, primary, secondary and tertiary alcohols common to hydrocarbons. The presence of carboxylic acid was important for enhancing the mechanical and chemical properties of biofilms thereby making them viable alternatives to petroleum-based plastics. Amines contributed to the flexibility, strength, and thermal degradation resistance of biofilms, thus aiding in their biodegradability. In conclusion, the study showed that the raw materials possessed biological activities and their functional groups indicated that the raw materials are safe to humans and the environment.

Evaluation of scarless wound healing through nanohydrogel infused with selected plant extracts

In this study, a CMC-based hydrogel nanocomposite was prepared and loaded with bioactive components along with silver nanoparticles. For aesthetic reasons, an alternative was found that can result in scar-free wound healing. To accelerate scar-free wound healing, bioactive phytoproducts such as aloe vera, curcumin, and peel of plantain were blended along with the nanocomposite hydrogel that contained silver nanoparticles (CMC + Ag + P). The prepared hydrogels proved to have good antibacterial activity against both Gram-positive (S.aureus) and Gram-negative (E.coli) non-pathogenic bacteria. The prepared hydrogel had an excellent wound-healing ability which was studied using in vitro scratch assay against A375 cell line. The biocompatibility of the hydrogels was proved using an MTT assay. The scar free wound healing was established in Wistar rat model where burn wounds were healed using CMC + Ag + P. The wound healed were compared with only silver (CMC + Ag) and saline treated animals and the histopathological studies, VEGF and PDGF analysis confirmed that the wound healing was scar free after CMC + Ag + P treatment. We could conclude that the presence of plantain peel extract which is a source of ascorbic acid and is rich in vitamin C can aid in scar-free wound healing.

Influence of air staging variation on agglomeration behavior of biomass fuels in fluidized bed technology

The fluidized bed system is an effective approach widely accepted and commonly used for the thermochemical conversion of solid fuel such as biomass and agricultural residue. In most instances, there are some demerits usually associated with this approach such as development of eutectic mass, increased process of melting and bed agglomeration. This work was carried out to study the behavior of five readily available biomass fuels (Palm tree fronds, corn straw, plantain peels, sugarcane bagasse and domestic woods) in a bubbling fluidized bed (BFB) combustor. Characterization of the bed materials and ash samples were done using SEM-EDX, XRF and XRD. The effect of physical factors on the composition of obtained ash and particles from the bed was assessed. Also, the interaction between the fuel ash and bed particle was evaluated to reveal its influence on bed materials morphology. The results obtained revealed a combustion efficiency that varies between 96.2 to 99.6 % with the highest value obtained for sugarcane bagasse. The corn straw has the highest Potassium (K) content, while the domestic wood ash contained the highest Calcium (Ca) content. The XRF analysis revealed the conversion of the major potassium content of the corn straw to K2O. Meanwhile, bed agglomeration was absent when combustion was carried out with no staging-air as well as with staging air, despite high temperature above 800 oC used. Data obtained from this work revealed that agglomeration effect will be minimal issue when carrying out fluidized bed combustion of the selected biomass.

Effects of Agro-based Adsorbents on the Biochemical Profiles of Wistar Rats Exposed to Cyanide

Background: Cyanide is a very toxic chemical that reacts with the ferric cytochrome oxidase in the mitochondrial system to form a stable complex. This complex inhibits the process of oxidative phosphorylation, thereby interrupting aerobic respiration in the organism. It is postulated that activated charcoal (AC) intercepts the ingested cyanide in the gastrointestinal tract before it is absorbed into the system. Methods: A single dose of 3 mg/kg body weight of potassium cyanide (KCN) was orally administered to the rats in each of the five groups, each consisting of 6 rats. After 15 minutes, all rats in each group were given AC from different agro-based materials. The control group (group 1) received standard commercial AC orally at 1 g/kg. group 2 received AC from plantain peels, group 3 received AC from castor oil seed shell, group 4 received AC from coconut shell and group 5 received a combination of AC from plantain peels, castor oil seed shell, and coconut shell. Blood samples were collected sequentially from rats in each group for biochemical assays using standard procedures. Results: The control group, which received KCN and standard commercial AC, exhibited the highest alanine transaminase (ALT) value (60.09±0.10 U/L) on day seven. Similarly, the highest aspartate transaminase (AST) value (196.28±0.72 U/L) was observed in the control group. Alkaline phosphate (ALP) levels followed a similar pattern. On day seven, the serum creatinine levels were 3.81±0.11 mg/dL for group 1 and 3.45±0.05 mg/dL for group 5. Subsequently, all biochemical parameters decreased after day 7, with the lowest levels recorded in rats that received AC derived from coconut shells. Conclusion: The administration of locally prepared agro-based adsorbents to Wistar rats after exposure to sublethal doses of cyanide significantly mitigated the effects of the cyanide on the liver, kidneys, and heart, as indicated by the biochemical parameters of the albino Wistar rats in the study.

Removal of hexachlorocyclohexane isomers from wastewater using activated carbon from Musa paradisiaca peel: Adsorption isotherms, kinetic, and thermodynamic studies

The potential usage of activated carbon from plantain peel (Musa paradisiaca) (TPPC) and unactivated carbon from plantain peel (UPPC) for the removal of Hexachlorocyclohexanes (HCHs) from water systems was investigated. The TPPC and UPPC were characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Adsorption experiments were conducted as a function of adsorbent weight (2 – 10 g), temperature (30 -50 °C), and solution pH (2 - 9) under an adsorbent packed column. The Optimum removal efficiency of 98.23 % was achieved in the column studies under the following conditions: pH = 5, the dosage of adsorbent = 5 g/100 mL, temperature = 30 °C. The batch adsorption process was employed to evaluate the kinetics, equilibrium, and thermodynamics of the adsorption processes. The equilibrium study showed that Langmuir among other isotherm models applied performed better in fitting the data. Additionally, the kinetic data was best described by the pseudo-second-order model (R2 > 0.97), indicating a chemisorption mechanism. Furthermore, the thermodynamic calculations of the adsorption process suggest that HCH adsorption was exothermic (ΔH = -110.87) and spontaneous (-ΔG).

EFFECT OF FEEDING CASSAVA PEELS AND PLANTAIN PEELS ON PERFORMANCE AND SERUM BIOCHEMISTRY WEANER PIGS

The experiment was conducted to determine the effect of feeding agro-industrial by-product (cassava peels and plantain peels) on performance, serum biochemistry and cost of production of weaner pigs. A total of forty-eight pigs were used for the study. The animals were randomly allotted to three treatments and three replicates with four animals per replicate. The treatments include T1 - 100% concentrates (control), T2 (cassava peels supplemented diet), T3 (plantain peels supplemented diet). The diets were fed in ratio of 40:60 (concentrates: supplement). The experiment lasted for 6 weeks. Parameters measured were performance (feed intake, weight gain, feed conversion ratio), serum metabolites (HDL, AST, ALT, Glucose, Total protein, Triglycerides). All data were analysed using ANOVA procedure of the SAS 2010. The result obtained showed that there was significant difference (P< 0.05) in the final weight and FCR of the pigs placed on the different treatment. The final weight for pigs on treatment I was significantly (P< 0.05) higher (9.17) compared to pigs on treatment 2 (cassava peels) and treatment 3 (plantain peels). The FCR was also shown to be better in pigs on treatment I with mean value of 4.60 compared to the other treatments. There was also a significant difference (P< 0.05) in the Triglyceride, HDL, AST and ALT levels of the serum biochemical indices of the pigs across the treatments. The triglyceride level of treatment 1 (41.29) was not different (P>0.05) from treatment 3 (51.61) but significantly different (P< 0.05) from 2 (81.55). The AST values for treatment 1 (26.00) was significantly different (P< 0.05) from treatment 2 (29.74) and treatment 3 (57.77). It can be concluded that supplementation of the diet using cassava peels and plantain peels does not have any adverse effect on the performance and health status of the weaner pigs. The use of cassava peels and plantain peels conferred better economic benefits in terms of cost per gain which reduces production cost.