http://hdl.handle.net/11189/1891 2026-09-22T23:31:20Z http://hdl.handle.net/11189/10840 Title: Selected traditional Nigerian foods and their impact on chronic non-communicable diseases – a review Authors: Obilana, Anthony; Famakinwa, Abiodun; Oguntibeju, Oluwafemi Abstract: This review acknowledges the global rise in non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and highlights the specific impact on low- and middle-income nations like Nigeria. It underlines Nigeria's potential increase in health-related expenditures, aligning with international trends. The shift towards exploring the nutritional benefits of local foods is attributed to the escalating prevalence of NCDs, prompting a paradigm change favouring healthier dietary choices. This exploration aims to investigate and understand the nutritional and functional aspects of traditional Nigerian foods, such as beans, red palm oil, and ogi. The focus is on unravelling their impact on health, exploring their cultural significance, and promoting awareness of the health benefits of these foods within the Nigerian context. The exploration employs a comprehensive review methodology, analyzing existing literature and research on traditional Nigerian foods. Information is gathered on the nutritional content, biochemical composition, and techno-functional properties of staples like beans, red palm oil, and ogi. The investigation thoroughly examines traditional recipes, cooking methods, and cultural significance to provide insights into the health benefits of these foods. Additionally, the review considers studies on consumer awareness and industry efforts related to functional foods in Nigeria. The exploration results reveal a rich tapestry of nutritional and functional aspects associated with traditional Nigerian foods. Analyzing staples such as beans, red palm oil, and ogi highlights their diverse nutrient compositions, biochemical properties, and techno-functional attributes. Traditional recipes and cooking methods play a pivotal role in preserving the cultural significance of these foods, contributing to identity and community cohesion. The findings underscore the potential health benefits of incorporating these foods into daily diets and emphasize the need for increased consumer awareness, especially in rural areas. Overall, the results showcase the nutritional richness of traditional Nigerian cuisine and its potential positive impact on health. 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z http://hdl.handle.net/11189/10839 Title: Breaking seed dormancy and improving seedling growth of encephalartos altensteinii lehm. using seed hydration-dehydration treatment and acid scarification Authors: Mabuya, Ntuthuko; Jimoh, Muhali; October, Dr. John; Laubscher, Charles Abstract: Germination rate and percent germination are low for most cycads, including Encephalartos altensteinii, thereby affecting the production and conservation efforts for this endangered plant group. Although seed germination experiments for cycads have been done mainly on Zamia and Cycas, there is limited germination research on the African genus Encephalartos. The effects of hydration-dehydration treatment on seed longevity, embryo development, moisture content and viability were studied by hydrating seeds of E. altensteinii Lehm during storage for 24 hr and dehydrating for 96 hr every month for 8 months. Simultaneously, seeds were soaked in different concentrations (0%, 10%, 25%) of sulfuric acid (H2SO4, pH 0.3) and gibberellic acid (GA3) between 0.5 and 48 hr to break dormancy. Thereafter, seeds were sown in silica-sand-filled-sowing beds in the greenhouse and monitored over eight months. Hydration-dehydration treatments had positive effects on the viability of E. altensteinii seeds stored at room temperature and that further decreases in moisture content were detrimental. Also, a combination of H2SO4 and GA3 significantly improved germination percentage whereas no significant difference was recorded in seeds treated with only H2SO4. These results suggest that seed viability and germination of E. altensteinii can be improved with hydration-dehydration and acid scarification treatments. 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z http://hdl.handle.net/11189/10838 Title: The impact of urban pollution on the metal contamination of the Zandvlei estuary, Cape Town, South Africa Authors: Sidondi, Luzuko; Odendaal, James; Walker, David R.; Paulse, Arnelia Abstract: Metal contamination of aquatic systems is a global concern, negatively impacting ecosystems and human health. However, limited information is available on metal concentration levels in South African estuaries, including the Zandvlei estuary in Cape Town, a highly urbanised system with an extensive stormwater drainage network. The objective of this study was to determine spatial and temporal variations of metal concentrations (aluminium, zinc, lead, and copper) in water, sediment, and macroalgae (i.e. Enteromorpha spp.) in the Zandvlei estuary. Samples were collected from five sites over four seasons in 2017 and analysed using Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS), with metal levels were compared to water and sediment quality guidelines. Results revealed significant spatial and temporal variations, influenced by the proximity to pollution sources, physicochemical parameters, river inputs, sediment characteristics, weather conditions, and anthropogenic activities (i.e. industrial activities and urban development). In water samples, metals were most concentrated in the order Al > Zn > Cu > Pb; in sediment and macroalgae, the order was Al > Zn > Pb > Cu. Notably, Enteromorpha spp. accumulated higher metal concentrations than water and sediments, and some metal levels exceeded guideline thresholds, indicating contamination risks. These findings highlight the importance of Enteromorpha spp. as a biomonitoring tool for metal pollution in urban estuarine environments. This study addresses significant knowledge gaps in South African estuaries, supporting enhanced environmental monitoring and conservation strategies. 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z http://hdl.handle.net/11189/10837 Title: The perception of port users regarding pollution management at a port in the Western Cape, South Africa Authors: Melato, Aupaki Michael; Uys, Corrie; Schutte, De Wet; Odendaal, James Abstract: Ports in South Africa face numerous environmental challenges. This study focuses on the port of Cape Town. Without understanding the port user’s perception in relation to pollution, it is likely that current practices will continue, despite standards and legislation in place. The objectives of the study were to determine the perceptions of port users regarding pollution management and identify the potential barriers and opportunities for the port as it pertains to pollution management. Data was collected using questionnaires that were distributed to selected managerial and non-managerial employees of the TNPA, tenants, contractors, and waste license permit holders. This study suggests that pollution is managed differently in different parts of the Port of Cape Town, better in some parts than others. Although respondents generally perceive that fines are enforced to manage pollution issues, many still agree that pollution management is a problem at the port. As the landlord, the Ports Authority is not empowered to issue environmental fines, and there are also unpromulgated environmental legislations related to ports. Therefore, enforcement does not necessarily effectively address pollution management issues. Another concern is that many of the employees were unsure whether pollution management is a problem and whether penalties for pollution management enforcement have the desired effect. This seems to be due to certain employees not receiving the appropriate training and awareness programs at the time of this investigation. The GIS was one of the opportunities the Port of Cape Town could consider incorporating for monitoring and managing complex environmental challenges as continuous improvement. 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z