Dr. KONYEME THELMA EWERE
Publication Title Intra-Specific Flavonoid Classes, Content and Relationships in African Yam Bean (Sphenostylis stenocarpa [Hochst ex A. Richmond] Harms] Tubers
Publication Type journal
Publisher Research Journal of Botany
Publication Authors Konyeme Thelma Ewere, Nyananyo Bio Louis and Tanee Franklin Banakuna Godson
Year Published 2024-01-01
Abstract Tubers of African yam bean [Sphenostylis stenocarpa (Hochst. ex
A. Richmond) Harms], family Fabaceae, are under-exploited, especially in West Africa by humans. The
tuber holds varying quantitative bioactive properties. The present study seeks to unveil inherent flavonoid
compounds in different accessions of African yam bean (AYB) tubers. Materials and Methods: Fresh
tubers were obtained from 17 accessions of AYB. The same was dried and flour samples were prepared.
Flour samples from the 17 accessions were analyzed and 38 flavonoid compounds were obtained for each
using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). Results: The 17 accessions differed in the
proportion of the 38 flavonoid compounds. Flavonoid compounds with >1.0 g/100 g in the study were:
Apigenin, didymin, daidzein, luteolin and isorharmmetic. The 38 flavonoid compounds were grouped into
six sub-classes, 55% were flavones and anthocyanidin which had anthocyanin as the only member in the
group, had the lowest (1%) component in the tubers of AYB. Conclusion: Variation in flavonoid content
in AYB tuber is a function of the genotypes. Mean content is higher than most tuberous crops. The AYB
tuber therefore promises to be an important industrial product for health benefits and promotion.
Publication Title ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS OF OIL SPILLS ON MARINE ECOSYSTEMS: A CASE STUDY OF THE NIGER-DELTA ENVIRONMENT.
Publication Type journal
Publisher African Journal of Health, Safety and Environment
Publication Authors UKPENE, A.O., IGBORGBOR, J.C., ODUMA, E. & KONYEME, T.E.
Year Published 2024-06-15
Abstract This work documented the effects of oil spills on the aquatic environment by analyzing changes in oil density, water chemistry and species abundance for 15 days in two locations in the Niger Delta. The main rationale was to assess the oil spill's environmental implications and determine the measures that should be implemented. Samples collected daily enabled measurements of the oil content, pH, and dissolved oxygen (DO) on the water surface. Key equipment included spectrophotometers for oil concentration analysis and multiparameter water quality tools for pH and DO measurements. Statistical tools such as regression analysis and ANOVA were employed to evaluate the data. Results indicate a significant decline in oil concentration at both sites. The results of Site A were reduced from 250 ?g/L to 170 ?g/L, having a regression slope of -5.33 ?g/L per day (p < 0.01). Site B's concentration dropped from 320 ?g/L to 250 ?g/L, with a slope of -4.67 ?g/L per day (p < 0.01). Water quality also deteriorated, with Site A’s pH dropping from 7.8 to 6.4 and DO from 8.5 mg/L to 7.1 mg/L. Site B exhibited similar trends, with pH decreasing from 7.9 to 6.5 and DO from 8.6 mg/L to 7.2 mg/L. The results of the ANOVA analysis indicated that the fish population significantly declined at both sites and to this extent, Site A lost eight kinds of fish while Site B lost only 10(p<0.01). Therefore, the study found that the oil spill adversely impacts water quality and the nature of various organisms. These discoveries would help in the current state of knowledge by quantifying the effects of oil spillage and proposing an improved approach to environmental management, which includes but is not limited to effectively mitigating the effects of oil spillage by increasing the monitoring of the effects and rendering timely remediation solutions, and engaging various stakeholders, enforcing strict measures and constantly monitoring the environment.
Publication Title Simple Sequence Repeats-Based Fingerprinting Reveals the Genetic Architecture of Tea Plant (Camellia sinensis (L.) O. Kuntze) in Mambilla Plateau, Taraba State, Nigeria
Publication Type journal
Publisher Journal of Proteomics & Bioinformatics
Publication Authors LI Emeagi, TL Thomas, LE Uduak1 TE Konyeme, OU Udensi
Year Published 2024-06-13
Abstract The tremendous therapeutic, nutritional and economic importance of tea plant (Camellia sinensis (L.) O. Kuntze) cannot be overemphasized. However, the precise determination of its Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA) polymorphisms and genetic diversity, especially using DNA sequence dataset obtained through molecular characterization assay is an important strategy in planning and designing breeding programs for the Mambilla tea. In the present study, we reported here that the Simple Sequence Repeats (SSR) marker of Histone Gene (H2A.Cs) amplicons revealed distinct band profiles, mean Heterozygosity (He) were 0.277 ± 0.051, 0.214 ± 0.070, 0.274 ± 0.078, 0.385 ± 0.043 and 0.262 ± 0.078 respectively. Five tea populations showed narrow Genetic Distance (GD) and very close Genetic Identity (GI). Phylogenetic analysis showed that two distinct clusters were generated with 6 tea clones in cluster 1 and 38 tea clones in cluster 11, but there was no marked pattern of clustering as the different populations were mixed up together with bootstrap values showing common ancestral relationship. Analysis of Molecular Variance (AMOVA) result revealed 99.9% within population variation and 0.1% among population variation while PCoA generated six clusters with percentage of variation in the tea populations as 65.93%, 33.61% and 0.46% (1st, 2nd and 3rd axes) respectively. Nucleotide frequencies were A (23.14%), T (32.53%), C (19.38%) and G (24.95%) while transition/transversion rate ratios are k1=14.562 for purines and k2=0.183 for pyrimidines. The overall transition/transversion bias Ratio (R)=3.414, R= (A*G*k1+T*C*k2)/((A+G)*(T+C)). Our result also showed that only the gene sequence of tea clone obtained from Bangoba (BAN3) did not evolve with the same pattern of substitution with other gene sequences of other tea clones using Monte Carlo test. We also reported the degree of differentiation among the five tea populations, which indicated that Fixation Index (FST) estimation was 67.81% (0.6781) (Karaka population (germplasm))>61.33% (0.6133) (cultivated population)>Bangoba tea population (0.5984)?0.5810 (Kasalasa population)?(0.5032) (Kusuku population). Structure analysis revealed that the populations were genetically similar with percentage of membership of the sample in each of the 5 population clusters as Kusuku (19.4%), Bangoba (15.2%), Kasalasa (25.5%), Kakara (15.8%) and cultivated population was 24.2%, respectively. The present study suggests that the tea populations in the Mambilla Plateau is very homogeneous and needs introduction of new elite genotype/germplasm for breeding and improvement.
Publication Title INVESTIGATION OF SIMILARITIES BETWEEN CLAPPERTONIA FICIFOLIA (WILLD.) DECNE. AND URENA LOBATA L. BASED ON MORPHOLOGY AND DISTRIBUTION
Publication Type journal
Publisher Nigerian Journal of Botany
Publication Authors Nichodemus, C. O., Konyeme. T. E. and Adewale, D. B.
Year Published 2022-12-18
Abstract Clappertonia ficifolia (Willd.) Decne. and Urena lobata L. are pantropical and indigenous African species with high socioeconomic importance, especially as sources of food and fiber. In this study, both species were investigated with respect to their shared similarities, habitat and geographical distribution. Qualitative and quantitative data on the vegetative and floral parts were recorded. Field records for various habitats and geographical distribution were made. Morphologically, both species have Malvoid leaf type, bristle fruits, simple to lobed (3-7) leaves, pubescent to tomentose vestiture with multiple branching patterns and are inhabitants of tropical evergreen forests. Both species differ in their inflorescence, fruit shape, number and metric measurements of their floral parts. U. lobata has secretory glands (1-3), axillary cyme to rarely solitary inflorescence, round fruits and 5 fused petals while C. ficifolia has no secretory gland, terminal, solitary to rarely paired inflorescence, oblong fruits, and 4 free petals and sepals. Clappertonia ficifolia is an indicator species for seasonally swamp forests and flowers when the forest is flooded. The similarities recorded for these species are a guide to their systematics. Although these species are found in a range of habitats and have a wide geographical distribution, their conservation is recommended.
Keywords: Clappertonia ficifolia; habitat; Malvoid; morphology; similarity; Urena lobata
Publication Title Preservation of Botanical Genetic Resources to Promote Sustainable Herbal Practices
Publication Type journal
Publisher FUPRE Journal of Scientific and Industrial Research
Publication Authors UKPENE, A.O., KONYEME, T.E. , CHIJINDU, P.C.
Year Published 2024-02-11
Abstract Botanical genetic resources are essential for sustaining herbal practices by preserving the biodiversity of medicinal plants, and this article underscores their significance, current challenges, and potential solutions. Through a comprehensive review of existing literature and diverse methodologies, it emphasizes the critical importance of safeguarding these resources. The study assesses the conservation status of medicinal plants, revealing the vulnerability of species like "Ginseng" and "St. John's Wort" in contrast to the stability of "Chamomile" and "Ashwagandha." A scatter plot demonstrates the need to preserve genetic diversity, with "Ashwagandha" boasting 40 genotypes and "Valerian" only three. The research explores the effectiveness of conservation methods, highlighting "Botanical Gardens" and "In Situ Conservation" as prominent choices, with a line chart showing significant population increases for "Aloe Vera" and "Chamomile" over time. Additionally, the study delves into scientific findings, revealing that various research studies have led to the discovery of therapeutic compounds, with "Ashwagandha" as a standout species, as depicted in a bar chart. In summary, this study emphasizes the pivotal role of preserving botanical genetic resources in sustaining herbal practices, stressing the need to protect vulnerable species, maintain genetic diversity, and showcasing the efficacy of diverse conservation methods. The research findings underscore the potential for scientific advancements that benefit both traditional and modern medicine, contributing to the broader discourse on the conservation of medicinal plants and the promotion of sustainable herbal practices.
Publication Title Intraspecific diversity of Vigna subterranea accessions obtained from multinational sources
Publication Type journal
Publisher Notulae Scientia Biologicae
Publication Authors Thelma E. KONYEME, Josephine U. AGOGBUA, Daniel B. ADEWALE, Chinedum OGAZIE
Year Published 2021-05-05
Abstract Bambara groundnut is a legume with balanced meal. The present study investigated agro-morphological
diversity of 61 Bambara groundnut accessions whose passport data were from 21 countries. The Genetic
Resources Centre (GRC), International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), Ibadan, Nigeria provided
the 61 accessions. The accessions were established in row plots of ten plants on the field at the Centre for
Ecological studies, University of Port Harcourt, Nigeria. Seventeen quantitative and two qualitative traits were
recorded from the sampling units for each accession. Descriptive and multivariate statistical analysis were
employed on the 61 x 19 matrix mean data. Significant variation exists among the 61 accessions for the 19
descriptors. Mean genetic similarity among the 61 accessions was 0.78, the least (0.48) similarity was between
TVSu1750 and TVSu250 and the highest (0.92) was between TVSu391 and TVSu415. TVSu1843 flowered
earliest at 35 days. The 61 accessions were grouped into three main clusters. TVSu1964 and two accessions
from Malawi (TVSu1748 and TVSu1750) in cluster III had high grain yield. Accessions in cluster II were
significant for both vigour and grain yield. Striking uniformity and diversity existed among accessions from the
same country. Genetic improvement in vigour and grain yield of Bambara groundnut is possible within each
country.
Publication Title Exploring the Correlation between Indoor Airflow Dynamics and the Accumulation of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons using Spider Silk as a Passive Sampler
Publication Type journal
Publisher Nigerian Journal of Physics (NJP)
Paper Link https://doi.org/10.62292/njp.v32i4.2023.168
Publication Authors Molua, O. C., Ukpene, A. O., Konyeme, T. E., Ighrakpata, F. C., Adu, M. E., and Igborgbor, J. C.
Year Published 2024-02-02
Abstract This study investigates the relationship between indoor air flow and accumulation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) using spider silk as a passive sample Through a combination of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations and experimental data, research di a significant difference under effective spider silk in controlled indoor air quality (IAQ). The study reveals significant variations in PAH accumulation within spider webs across different indoor environments, with stagnant airflow areas exhibiting higher PAH concentrations. Specific locations, such as corners and ventilation outlets, show consistent trends in PAH accumulation, underscoring the importance of strategic spider web placement for effective passive sampling. The research also highlights intriguing disparities in silk production among spider species and selective accumulation of different PAHs. The findings contribute to a nuanced understanding of indoor environmental dynamics and bio-monitoring outcomes, emphasizing the utility of spider silk as a reflective bio-monitor for assessing IAQ. This study provides valuable insights for future research endeavors aiming to enhance our understanding of indoor environmental quality and optimize passive sampling strategies.
Publication Title Diversity in Proximate Analysis of Tubers of some African Yam Bean (Sphenostylis stenocarpa) (Hochst Ex. A. Rich.) Harms (Fabaceae) accessions
Publication Type journal
Publisher Journal of Applied Science and Environmental Management
Paper Link https://dx.doi.org/10.4314/jasem.v24i10.12
Publication Authors KONYEME, TE, NYANANYO, BL, TANEE, FBG
Year Published 2020-11-03
Abstract This study was carried out to determine the proximate and mineral composition of fresh tubers of 17
African Yam Bean (AYB) accessions. Standard analytical procedures were adopted in the determination of bioactive
compounds in the tubers of the different accessions. Data were subjected to descriptive statistics, principal component and
clustering analysis. Ash content ranged between 4.59-9.99%, Carbohydrate (46.59-66.52%), Crude fibre (6.93-12.13), Fat
(1.06-4.04%), Moisture content ranged between 11.36-21.91% and Protein (4.91-14.50%). The range of mineral content
evaluated were: Calcium (1.53-5.82), Copper (10.59-44.93), Iron (63.52-240.48), Magnesium (0.59-2.26), Manganese
(42.25-160.01), Nitrogen (0.75-2.23%), Potassium (1.34-5.08), Sodium (0.05-0.22) and Zinc (28.24-106.93. The
proximate variables in the tubers significantly (P<0.05) distinguished the 17 AYB accessions. Three distinct clusters were
visible. The seven accessions in cluster I had the highest protein, carbohydrate and moisture content. Cluster II had the
least mineral content. Accessions with the highest fat and mineral content were grouped in cluster III. Food, nutritional
and medicinal values inherent in AYB tubers is high and promising, its utilization in human and livestock feeds is greatly
encourage.
Publication Title PHYTOCHEMICAL COMPOSITION OF TUBERS OF SELECTED ACCESSIONS OF AFRICAN YAM BEAN, SPHENOSTYLIS STENOCARPA (HOCHST.EX A. RICHMOND) HARMS (FAMILY FABACEAE)
Publication Type journal
Publisher Scientia Africana
Paper Link https://dx.doi.org/10.4314/sa.v20i1.1
Publication Authors Konyeme, TE, Nyananyo, BL, Tanee, FBG
Year Published 2021-04-23
Abstract This study is on the quantitative determination of phytochemical composition in tubers of 17 accessions of the African Yam Bean (AYB), Sphenostylis stenocarpa (Hochst.ex A. Richmond) Harms. Standard laboratory methods were followed to ascertain the presence and quantity of some phytochemicals in the tubers of the 17 AYB accessions. The result showed that variations existed among the studied accessions for the eleven phytochemical constituents. The ranges were: total alkaloid (22.195-183g\100g), Glycosides (4.338- 14.733g\100), Flavonoids (7.732-14.037g/100), Phenols (16.448-32.287g/100), Oxalate (2.519-8.938ppm), Tannin (1.22-4.340ppm), Saponin (1.475-5.232ppm), Hydrogen Cyanide (0.261-0.928ppm), Phytate (1.532-5.435ppm), Trypsin Inhibitor (1.088-3.858ppm), and Organic Acid (11.537-23.904ppm). A high significant correlation was observed among the first three principal component axes which accounted for 90.4% of the total variation among the accessions. The cluster analysis showed the existence of two significant divergent groups. The accessions in cluster II recorded the least values for oxalate, tannins, saponins, hydrogen cyanide, phytate, trypsin inhibitor, glycoside, flavonoid and phenols while cluster I had higher values for them. The identified phytochemicals with the significant intra-specific variations seem to provide clues which underscores the possibilities of selection and improvement of these tubers for food and medicine for humans.
Publication Title Phenotypic variability and diversity of some African Yam Bean accessions based on floral, pod and seed traits
Publication Type conferenceproceeding
Publisher SCHOOL OF AGRICULTURE, FOOD AND NATURAL RESOURCES (SAFNR) OLUSEGUN AGAGU UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY (OAUSTECH), OKITIPUPA, ONDO STATE, NIGERIA
Publication Authors Konyeme, Thelma E. and Adewale, B. Daniel
Year Published 2023-11-16
Abstract Understanding intra-specific variability of quantitative traits which determines grain yield in African yam bean (AYB) is necessary for a guided germplasm classification. Fifty-five AYB accessions were obtained from the Genetic Resources Centre, International Institute of Tropical Agriculture, Ibadan, Nigeria. The accessions were evaluated at the Teaching and Research farm of the University of Port Harcourt, Nigeria in a randomized complete block design with three replications. Data were collected on: days to flower bud initiation (DFBI) and flowering (DTF), individual pod weight, pod length, number of seeds/pod, shell weight, seed weight/pod, seed length and width. Data were subjected to analysis of variance and means separation by Tukey honestly significant difference. The 55 x 9 mean data matrix were subjected to Pearson correlation, principal component (PC) and cluster analysis. The accessions differed significantly (p?0.01) for the nine phenotypic traits. Pod weight had positive and significant (p?0.001) correlation with: shell weight (r=0.70), pod length (r=0.64), seed weight (r=0.84) and seeds/pod (r=0.68). Positive correlation (r = 0.45***) existed between DFBI and DTF. The first three PC axes explained 78% of the total variation among the 55 AYB accessions. The 55 accessions were grouped into five distinct clusters. Accessions in cluster IV had the highest mean value for pod and seed traits and accessions in cluster V initiated flower buds and flowered much earlier. The present result presents a reliable platform for trait-based selection of AYB for grain yield and earliness in flowering improvement.
Publication Title Microbial quality and antibacterial activity of water-processed herbal concoctions sold within Kaduna metropolis against urinary tract infection isolates
Publication Type journal
Publisher Journal of Pharmaceutical and Allied Sciences
Publication Authors SK Parom JC Igwe F George M Bello AM Abdullahi FP Udoh TE Konyeme
Year Published 2024-08-19
Abstract The use of herbal concoction in the treatment of diseases has been in existence from time immemorial. Many of these herbal mixtures are not produced under hygienic conditions and safety issues associated with them may have an exacerbated impact in immunocompromised and elderly individuals. This study assessed the microbial loads of locally- prepared water-processed herbal concoctions sold within Kaduna metropolis and their activity on urinary tract clinical isolates. In triplicates, eight (8) water - processed herbal concoctions sold in Kaduna metropolis, Nigeria purchased randomly from different locations were evaluated for the presence of microorganisms. The mean total viable bacterial count was determined by the plate count method. Bacteria were identified upon growth on culture media and using conventional biochemical tests. The antibiotics susceptibility profile of the isolates from the herbal concoctions as well as the susceptibility of urinary tract infection isolates to the herbal formulations were determined using Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion technique and analyzed using chi-square statistic. Bacteria isolated from the herbal samples had mean bacterial load that exceeded the safety limit set by the World Health Organization (WHO). They include Staphylococcus aureus (25%), Bacillus specie (16.67%), S. typhi (16.67%), Pseudomonas specie (12.50%), E. coli (8.33%), Enterococcus specie (8.33%), Streptococcus specie (8.33%) and Klebsiella specie (4.17%). The water- processed herbal concoctions showed poor antibacterial activity against the clinical isolates. The isolates from the herbal concoctions showed more resistance to standard antibiotics than the clinical isolates. The study thus shows the presence of microbial contaminants, which exceeded the safety limits of 105 CFU/ml or g according to World Health Organization for herbal preparation. The use of locally prepared water- processed herbal medicine sold in Kaduna could thus, pose a major health risk due to lack of microbial quality control.