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An antiplasmodial activity-guided isolation was carried out on the dichloromethane extract of Tithonia diversifolia dried leaves. A total of five germacranolide type sesquiterpene lactones and a new flavonol, 3,6-dihydroxy-2-(4′-hydroxyphenyl)-7-methoxy-4H-chromen-4-one, were isolated. The flavonol reported an IC50 above 6.00 µM against the chloroquine sensitive strain, NF54. The antimalarial activity of the Tithonia diversifolia dichloromethane leaf extract was attributed to orizabin and tagitinin C.

Plant extracts can be used as an alternative to synthetic insecticides for the control of insect pests. This work aimed to evaluate the insecticidal effect of the ethyl acetate fractions and sesquiterpene lactones from Tithonia diversifolia (Asteraceae) leaf extract against the fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae). As a result, we found that the fraction A (20% methanol (MeOH)) at 100 ppm reduced pupal weight by 12.2% compared to the control. Fractions B (40% MeOH) and C (60% MeOH) at 100 ppm increased the duration of the larval period by 1.87 and 2.03 days, respectively. The sesquiterpene lactones tagitinin A (1), tagitinin C (2) and 1β-methoxydiversifolin (3) at 100, 50 and 10 ppm affected the larval development with reduction of the larval period and pupal weight. Neither the fractions nor the pure compounds interfered with the duration of the pupal phase, nor did they cause larval or pupal mortality.

This research monitored the level of some heavy metals in soil and a plant species around iron smelting industry. The soil in different depths D1 (0 -10 cm), D2 (10 – 20 cm) and D3 (20 -30 cm) and plant (Tithonia diversifolia) known as Mexican sunflower were sampled in four soil sampling points (SSP) and plant sampling points (PSP) which are 50, 100, 150 and 200 m away from the industry. The concentrations of Cr, Cu, Fe, Pb and Zn in the soil and plant digest were determined using Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS). Some physicochemical properties like pH, electrical conductivity and organic matter were also measured. The result of the analysis of the heavy metals in the soil was in the sequence Fe > Zn > Cu >Pb> Cr at SSP1 SSP2 and SSP4 while Fe > Zn > Cu > Cr > Pb at SSP3. In the plant, the result showed the presence of these heavy metals except Pb which was not present in any sampling points. The concentration of iron (Fe) in the plant decreased away from PSP1 to PSP4 around the industry. The physicochemical properties like pH which influenced the availability of metals in soil were found to increase away from SSP1 to SSP4 and consequently its effect on the concentration of these heavy metals in plants, particularly for Fe and Zn. Although, heavy metals monitored were within the permissible limit of WHO except Fe in soil, the trend of their presence in

Fusarium wilt can cause severe losses in many vegetables and flowers, field crops and plantation crops. The main method for controlling Fusarium wilt is through chemical methods which have the disadvantage of polluting the environment and are expensive. Thus, there is a need for more environmentally friendly and cheaper techniques for controlling Fusarium Wilt. This study screened the phytochemical compounds of two plant extracts; Tithonia diversifolia and Kigelia africana and assessed their potency in controlling plant fungal pathogen F. oxysporum, which causes fusarium wilt in tomatoes. The phytochemical analysis revealed that the two plant extracts contained saponins, tannins, terpenoids, flavonoids, glycosides and phenolics except alkaloids and steroids which were only found in T. diversifolia. The mean inhibitory zones ranged from 7.93 to 10.44 mm for T. diversifolia at 25 to 100 g/l. The mean inhibitory zones for K. Africana ranged from 12.07 to 15.56 mm at 25 to 100 g/l. K. Africana extracts had the highest inhibitory (antimicrobial) activity. Combining both extracts was more effective compared to the single extract. The effect of the combined plant extract and positive control was statistically significant (p < 0.05). This study provides scientific evidence that K. africana and T. diversifolia extract possess antifungal activity and can be used as a broad-spectrum in managing microbial diseases. Key words: Plant extracts, phytochemical screening, antimicrobial and antifungal properties, Fusarium oxysporum.

This study was conducted to determine the histopathological picture of the pancreas by induction of alloxan and extracts of the moon flower (tithonia diversifolia) in wistar rats (rattus norvegicus). A total of 24 male Wistar rats with 4 treatments were control P0, alloxan P1 with 1% CMC Na, P2 alloxan with 100mg / kgBB extract, alloxan P3 with 200mg / kgBB extract. Mice after said diabetes mellitus with a number> 135 mg / dL were then given treatment with 1% CMC Na on P1 and lunar leaf extract at P2 and P3, necropsy was carried out on the 15th day and the pancreatic organs were taken to be made in the form of preparations with coloring. HE, lesions observed Degeneration, Inflammatory Cells and Necrosis using a microscope, the results were analyzed using Kruskal wallis followed by Mann withney. The data obtained by degeneration in the kruskal wallis test were very significantly different because there were significant differences (P = 0.01), inflammation cells in the Kruskal wallis test were very significantly different because there were significant differences (P = 0.00), and for necrosis in the Kruskal wallis test significantly different because there are significant differences (0.02).

The consumption of alcoholic drinks have highly risen recently to a situation whereby there is a deficit in the stores, this is due to the higher demand compared to supply. Due to the high prices of most of the industrialized brews, consumers have opted for locally brewed drinks. Although locally manufactured brews are not recognized and certified by law, most are of good quality and with low cost of production. The use of Tithonia diversifolia can be employed to aid in improvement of the rate of production of local and industrialized brews. The main aim of this project was to improve the rate of fermentation of alcoholic beverage using both Tithonia diversifolia leaves extracts and iron II nanoparticles derived from it. It was observed that the plant catalyst reduced the time taken to produce alcohol. Alcohol fermentation rate in presence of yeast and with a tithonia extract as catalyst was measured, Rates of alcohol production was measured by UV VIS at intervals of one hour and deduced from a calibration curve. From the data, the alcohol content was higher in the sample catalyzed by the complexed extract and the one containing extracts as the catalyst as compared to the one without a catalyst. The percentage ethanol was able to be detected by finding absorbances (beer lambert law A = e l c.).

Phosphorus deficiency majorly constrains maize (Zea mays L.) production in acidic soils of western Kenya. This requires high doses of expensive inorganic P fertilizers to correct. Recommended rock phosphates and manures are lowly adopted because of low solubility and P content respectively. A Randomized Complete Block Design experiment was conducted for two seasons to assess effect of a cheaper alternative P source, Phosphorus fortified Tithonia compost (PCM), on growth and yield of maize and lablab-intercropped maize on two sites with different soil fertility. The experiment was set up on seven farms per site in Kapkerer (low fertility) and Koibem (higher fertility). Three P source treatments of Minjingu rock phosphate (MRP), Phosphorus fortified Tithonia compost and Triple Super Phosphate (TSP) were applied at an equivalent rate of 26 kg P/ha for maize and maize-lablab intercrop. Data on plant height, Leaf Area Index (LAI), aboveground biomass, leaf P concentration and grain yield were collected. PCM treatment significantly (p≤0.05) increased maize height, LAI, aboveground biomass and grain yield compared to TSP in Kapkerer. No significant differences were noted in leaf P concentrations. PCM is a good alternative to expensive inorganic P fertilizers in acidic soils of western Kenya. Key words: Tithonia P-fortified compost, Rock phosphate, intercropping, lablab.

Introduction. Sitophilus zeamais infestation is among the major setbacks to sustainable maize farming and availability. It causes an estimated annual loss of 5–10% and 20–30% of the total maize grains loss in the temperate and tropical zones, respectively. Although synthetic pesticides are quick and effective in managing crop pests, their overuse and misuse is discouraged due to their detrimental effects on human and environment. Natural pesticidal products that are extracted from plants are particularly gaining importance as an alternative to synthetic pesticides. They are available, easily biodegraded and have low toxicity to nontarget organisms. Most botanical pesticides act on insects by repelling them away from the crops in the field or in the stores. Therefore, this study aimed to determine repellency potential of organic leaf extracts of Tithonia diversifolia and Vernonia lasiopus on S. zeamais. Materials and methods. The phytochemical profile of T. diversifolia and V. lasiopus was determined using GC-MS. Laboratory-based experiments were carried out using area preference method to assess the efficacy of the extracts against weevils for a test period of 5 h. Six groups of experiments were set up with ten S. zeamais in each test: positive control (Actellic), negative control (solvent only), and four different experimental extract concentrations (25, 50, 75, and 100%). Results. The results indicated that T. diversifolia and V. lasiopus leaf extracts possess potent repellency effect on weevils. All the extracts simply discouraged S. zeamais from the treated areas recording significantly good levels of repellent activities between 26 and 96%. Furthermore, the GC-MS analysis manifested the presence of bioactive compound in the extracts which are associated with the repellency effects. Conclusion. The study scientifically confirms the traditional use of the T. diversifolia and V. lasiopus and provides important platform for further study on the extracts as bioresource of botanical repellent.

Objectives Tithonia diversifolia (Asteraceae) is used in Cameroonian traditional medicine for the treatment of several diseases amongst which are hepatic disorders. Anti-inflammatory, analgesic and anti-diabetic properties have been reported but, there is no scientific information on its hepato-protective effects. The aim of this study was to evaluate the curative effects of the Tithonia diversifolia (T. diversifolia) leaves aqueous extract on ethanol induced-hepatotoxicity in rats. Methods Ethanol 40° (4 g/kg) was administered daily by intragastric gavage for 21 days, and then the extract was administered concomitantly with ethanol for two more weeks. Some biochemical serum and tissue parameters were evaluated. Histopathologic analysis of the liver was carried out. Results The ingestion of ethanol induced a significant reduction of body weight and a significant increase in some markers of hepatic function (Alanine Amino-transferase, Aspartate Amino-transferase, alkaline phosphatase, gamma glutamyl-transferase, total bilirubin and albumin). These alterations were accompanied by a significant increase in the levels of serum triglycerides (p Conclusion Our study found that, the aqueous extract of T. diversifolia leaves has hepato-protective activity against ethanol-induced liver damages due partly to its antioxidant effect. This result justifies its empirical use for the treatment of liver problems.

A study that was aimed to examine the effect of rice straw + tithonia pruning compost and rice husk biochar application on N, P and K uptake and rice production of SRI (System of Rice Intensification) method, was carried out from November 2019 - February 2020 in Kuranji District, Padang City, West Sumatra. This study used a randomized block design consisting of 6 treatments and 3 replications. The treatments were A = control, B = 100% K (compost), C = 75% K + 25% B (biochar), D = 50% K + 50% B, E = 25% K + 75% B, and F = 100% B. The results showed that there was an increase of N, P and K uptake by rice with the application of 25% compost + 75% biochar. The treatment increased plant height, total tiller number and grain weight by 30 cm, 25.34 stems and 5.47 t ha-1, respectively higher than that in control.

Regosol has low fertility, especially carbon (C), nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K) and other macro elements, but it can be potential for agriculture cultivation. Addition of straw compost and tithonia granule (Kojeto granule) with clay binder can improve chemical soil fertility. This study aimed to determine the composition of the Kojeto granule with a clay binder and to define the interaction between type of Kojeto granule and dosage of compost granule in the chemical characteristics of Regosol. This research was conducted in a wirehouse and soil laboratory, Andalas University. The experiment used a completely randomized factorial design, with two factors and three replications. The first factor was the ratio between compost composition and clay binder 9:1 and 8:2. The second factor was 4 levels of granule compost doses (0; 7,5; 15; 22,5 t ha -1 ). The results showed that the best composition ratio between Kojeto and clay binder on chemical properties was 9:1. The type of Kojeto 8:2 and dosage (22 t ha -1 ) had an interaction on Ca -dd (3.75 me 100 g -1 ). The single effect on the type compost granule at type 9:1 was parameter C -org (2.23%), and single effect on increasing the dosage of granule compost at a dose of 15 t ha -1 was C- org (2.30%), N -tot (0.27%), P-available (14,30 ppm), pH (5,80), and K -dd (0.62 me 100 g -1 ). The optimal recommended dose is 15 t ha -1 .

The low level of soil fertility resulted in a decrease in productivity intensification of rice fields. One of the efforts conducted by farmers to improve fertility is the continuous application of synthetic fertilizer (PS). Intensive use made PS cause pollution and soil damage. This study was aimed to identification at the best combination the straw plus tithonia compost (J+T) and biochar to improve soil chemical properties intensification of rice fields, and then looked the effect of increasing compost (J+T) and biochar to soil chemical properties intensification of rice fields. This research was conducted in rice fields in Kuranji, Padang City, West Sumatera. The experimental design used a randomized complete block design. The treatments were 0% compost (J+T) and 0% biochar; 100% compost (J+T); 75% compost (J+T) and 25% biochar; 50% compost (J+T) and 50% biochar; 25% compost (J+T) and 75% biochar; 100% biochar. The results showed that the 25% compost (J+T) and 75% biochar was the best combination to improve soil chemical properties intensification of rice fields. The dosage increased soil pH by 6.30; Eh 65.00 mV; organic C 2.53%; organic M 4.35%; total N 0.93%; available P 26.00 ppm; CEC 40,48 cmol kg-1; exchangeable K 1.47 cmol kg-1; exchangeable Ca 1.06 cmol kg-1; exchangeable Na 0.67 cmol kg-1; and exchangeable Mg 0.57 cmol kg-1.

Plants are the most available sources of nutrients and phytochemicals; they have also played an important role in the development of drugs and treatment of various ailments in many countries. Therefore, this study was carried out to ascertain the preliminary phytochemical screening of bioactive chemicals in wild sunflower (Tithonia diversifolia) root. The solvents used for extraction includes: petroleum ether, methanol and distilled water. Results revealed that tannins, flavonoids, phenols, steroids, glycosides, carbohydrates and protein were present in the aqueous extract; only saponins were not detected in the sample. Methanol and petroleum ether follow similar pattern as tannins, flavonoids, phenols, steroids, glycosides, saponins carbohydrates and protein were all present in the sample. It was concluded that the extract contained several bioactive chemicals which could confer it the ability to have therapeutic or pharmacological effects on human and animals.

Several plants worldwide have exhibited potentiality in human pathogen eradication. The aim of this work was to characterize the compounds and determine antibacterial efficiency of Tithonia diversifolia essential oils and its iron II nanoparticles. The experimental test was done against gram positive bacteria (Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus) and gram negative bacteria (Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa). Characterization of the compounds was done using UV-VIS and FTIR to determine the functional groups that are present. Antibacterial activity was done using disc diffusion method by Beer Lambert. The results obtained indicated that the crude extract at 0.1% v/v concentration was effective against Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus only, while the complexed sample was significantly effective against all microbes under test at the corresponding concentration. The outcome showed comparable results to the positive controls used and therefore, the plant extract was effective against human disease causing microbes and is recommendable for use against them.

Two assays were conducted to study the Tithonia diversifolia (Td) plant: (1) chemical analysis and in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD) of plant parts and (2) productive performance of lambs fed a traditional diet or a Td diet (30% of Td plus 70% of the traditional diet). The plant parts studied were leaves (L), leaves and petioles (LP); and leaves, petioles and stems (LPS). Feed intake, weight gain and feed conversion were registered weekly during five weeks of experimentation. The L showed higher (P

This study investigates the physico-chemical properties of Tithonia diversifolia seed and oil using standard analytical methods and then compared the results with Sunflower oil. The results showed that Tithonia diversifolia seed contained 5.80% moisture, 18.83% crude protein, 30.40% crude fat, 17.85% crude fibre, 4.30% ash and 22.82% carbohydrate. The content of magnesium, copper, iron, zinc and calcium were 3930, 168, 277, 2091 and 432 mg/kg, respectively. Iodine value for T. diversifolia and Sunflower oils, respectively were 109.00 and 145.67 g iodine/kg; saponification values, 212.61 and 188.63 mg KOH/g; ester values, 184.15 and 206.86 mg KOH/g; peroxide values 4.0 and 5.87 meq peroxide/kg; acid values, 5.76 and 4.48 mg KOH / g; % unsaponifiable matter, 0.83 and 1.22 %; and total phenol content, 118.63 and 108.75 µg/g. Others include, specific gravity, 0.937 and 0.920; surface tension 0.042 and 0.051 N/m; viscosity 42.50 and 30.50 cSt; and smoke point, 215 and 245 0C. The study revealed that Tithonia diversifolia seed oil content and physicochemical parameters are comparable with those of Sunflower oil. Hence the oil could be used as raw materials for industrial processes, biodiesel production and a good source of dietary antioxidant which could complement or replace some conventional oils.

Probiotics allow establishing and controlling the beneficial microflora and gradually reduce the pathogenic microflora. Tithonia diversifola (TD) is an alternative to replace protein from other more expensive sources in diets for poultry; therefore, the treatments used TD replacements with 0, 5, 10 y 15% with probiotics (WP) and without probiotics (W/OP) addition: Saccharomyces cerevisiae (SC), Lactobacillus Acidophilus (LA) and Bacillus subtilis (BS) and the mix of these (MP) for estimating the in-vivo digestibility. 300 Cobb avian chickens were used, with an average weight of 453.4 ± 24 g randomly distributed with a factorial arrangement 4x5x3x5. Digestibility of dry matter (DM), crude protein (CP) and fiber (CF) was determined through the total feces collection method; additionally: Hemogram (CBC) and blood chemistry (BC) were analyzed. DM digestibility increased with the proportion of TD (15%) in the diet and reached 68% W/OP; while this variable rose to 70.67% with SC (P

Tithonia diversifolia, a well-known member of the sunflower family and is used as traditional medicine for the treatment of several diseases including diabetes. This study, therefore, evaluated the anti-diabetic effect of T. diversifolia aqueous fraction (TdF) in alloxan-induced diabetic mice through an investigation of glucose transporter 2 (GLUT2) expression. Alloxan-induced diabetic mice were treated with TdF 100, 200, and 300 mg/kg body weight (BW) and glibenclamide 60 mg/kg BW for a 30 days intervention study. Collected blood and liver samples of experimental animals were undertaken to analyze metabolic parameters, mRNA and protein expressions of GLUT2. Diabetic mice treated with TdF treatments were significantly (P

El objetivo del estudio fue determinar el valor nutritivo, la fermentación ruminal y la producción de metano in vitro del follaje de especies arbóreas y arbustivas con potencial forrajero como estrategias de alimentación en época de secas y mitigación de las emisiones de metano. El líquido ruminal fue extraído por medio de una sonda esofágica. Se utilizó un diseño en bloques repetidos en el tiempo. El contenido de proteína cruda (PC) y fibra detergente neutro y acida fluctuaron de 6.14% a 21.78%, 44.34% a 77.43% y 16.12% a 49.53% de materia seca (MS). No se encontró diferencia en el volumen máximo de gas (p > 0.05). La degradabilidad fue diferente, observando la mejor en Tithonia diversifolia (760.40 g/kg de MS), Morus alba (800.66 g/kg de MS) y Hibiscus rosa-sinensis (800.16 g/kg de MS), mientras que la más baja fue Megatryrsus maximus (390.40 g/kg de MS y 287.40 g/kg de materia orgánica (MO)) (p < 0.05). No se observó diferencia en la producción de metano (CH4) (p > 0.05). Se concluye que L. leucocephala, P. piscipula, B. alicastrum y G. ulmifolia, T. diversifolia y M. alba tienen un alto potencial para ser incluidos en la dieta de rumiantes como fuentes de proteína en época de secas y estrategias para mitigar las emisiones de metano.

The use of botanical insecticides is a tactic that can be highly useful for the management of Helicoverpa armigera populations in the field. However, most botanical insecticides are produced using primarily macerated leaves. The problem with this process is that all components of the leaves are present in the extract, and not just the plant defence chemicals. Therefore, the objective of this research was to evaluate the feeding deterrence of a tagitinin C-rich leaf rinse extract (TagCE) obtained from Tithonia diversifolia (which concentrates mainly the plant defence substances) towards H. armigera larvae. The RP-HPLC-PDA analytical method allowed the identification and quantification of the major constituent TagCE, showing that this compound is suitable to be considered as its chemical marker. Regarding biological activity, we observed high insect mortality, with up to 80%, and high antifeedant activity for H. armigera larvae for all host plant species treated with T. diversifolia extract. These results open up the possibility to use T. diversifolia extract as a potential botanical insecticide, mainly against plant-defoliating Lepidoptera.

Leaf methanol extract and fractions of Tithonia diversifolia (Hemsl.) A. Gray (Asteraceae) used in traditional medicine was evaluated for neutralization of toxicity induced by Bitis arietans and Naja nigricollis snake venoms in mice and rats. Inhibition of adenosine diphosphate-induced platelet aggregation, antioxidant activity, total phenol content and neutralization of venom-induced toxicity were evaluated by standard methods. The methanol extract was the most active inhibitor of platelet aggregation (66.7 - 84.8%) in the B. arietans model at 100 - 500 μg/ml. The methanol extract and fractions appear to be equipotent in inhibiting platelet aggregation (68 - 74%) induced by N. nigricollis. The aqueous fraction was more active against B. arietans venom at 500 μg/ml as an inhibitor of platelet aggregation (59.4% inhibition), while the dichloromethane (DCM) fraction was more potent against N. nigricollis (70.97% inhibition). The methanol extract showed highest DPPH radical scavenging activity followed by the aqueous and DCM fractions. Total phenolic content was in the order: methanol extract > DCM fraction > aqueous fraction. The aqueous fraction was a better antivenin agent in both B. arietans (complete protection at 24 h) and N. nigricollis-envenomed mice and rat models. Anti-snake venom activity was more prominent at 24 h. The results herein, being the very first report, indicate the potential antiophidic activity of T. diversifolia leaf particularly against B. arietans-induced toxicity.

Currently, large oil palm plantations are cultivated on ultisol. Ultisol has various constraints in its utilization for the cultivation of plants, because it has high exchangeable Al, low pH, low soil organic nutrient contained, and soil nutrients such as N, P, K, Ca, Mg. Large quantities and continuous fertilizer are needed for a long time. To solve these problems required to look for alternative fertilizers. These alternative fertilizers are expected to reduce the use of synthetic fertilizers without decreasing production and are available forever. Efforts to produce that location organic matter are the right choice. Tithonia can be grown in the form of alley cropping at young palm plantations. A series of experiments have been conducted at Andalas University experimental farm in Padang, West Sumatra Province. This study used the Factorial design. The treatments are tithonia compost and Lime application. There are 3 rd compost doses in 3 replication each treatment. The experimental obtained that tithonia compost dosage 25% and 50% + 25% and 50% synthetic fertilizer were changed soil chemical properties such as increased 0.94 units soil pH, availability of nutrient contained; 6.22% C-organic, 0.25% N-total, 0.37me/100g exchangeable K, 2.74 me/100g exchangeable-Ca, 0.29 me/100g exchangeable-Mg, in the soil, as well as the decrease of exchangeable Al. Furthermore supporting plant growth such as (plant height, plant length, and the number of the leaf). Liming not significantly different for soil chemical properties and growth of oil palm. The higher the compost dose is given the better the growth of oil palms. Cultivation of tithonia as alley cropping at oil palm plantation can be used as composite materials for synthetic fertilizer substitute source N and K

The objectives of this study were to assess (a) the efficiency of lemon and pineapple juices and the concentration and time needed to release more than 50% of available phosphorus from phosphate rock (PR), and (b) the effect of different types of PR management on carrot yields, nutrient uptake, and phosphorus use efficiency. Field trials were set up at two sites with humic andosols and orthic acrisols over two seasons in Kenya. In a randomized complete block design, replicated three times, the following treatments were compared: (i) composted dissolved PR in lemon juice; (ii) powdered PR composted; (iii) dissolved PR in lemon juice added to compost; (iv) powdered PR and compost; (v) triple superphosphate and compost; (vi) compost alone; (vii) triple superphosphate and Tithonia diversifolia mulch; with (viii) un-amended soil as a control. Lemon juice was effective in solubilizing PR, releasing 63% of the total phosphorus applied into available phosphorus, compared to 11% for pineapple juice and 6% for water. The combined application of compost and PR dissolved in lemon juice at planting significantly increased phosphorus and potassium uptake, phosphorus use efficiency, and carrot yields that was comparable to the use of triple superphosphate and compost. The study concludes that the dissolution of phosphate rock with lemon juice at a ratio of 1:5 phosphate rock to lemon juice and its combined application (immediately after dissolution) with compost at planting improves nutrient uptake, phosphorus use efficiency, and crop yields. We recommend further studies to explore the possibility of using citrus peels or other acidic organic materials to enhance the solubility of phosphate rock, and to assess their practical feasibility and the economic advantage(s) in the large-scale production of high value crops.

Cellulose is the most abundant biomass in nature with properties that have enabled its application in different industrial processes. Its derivative, sodium carboxymethyl cellulose serves as an additive in food and non-food products such as desserts, detergents, paints etc. In this study, carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) was synthesized from cellulose isolated from three ligno-cellulosic biomass, Tithonia diversifolia stalk (TDS), Musa parasidiaca stem (MPS) and unripe peel of Musa parasidiaca fruit (MPP). The isolation of cellulose was done by soda pulping and bleached using sodium hypochlorite, hydrogen peroxide, sodium hydroxide sequencing, followed by synthesis and purification of CMC. The physicochemical properties of the plant samples, isolated cellulose and bleached pulps including the synthesized CMC were determined. The effects of various processing stages on the properties of the cellulose and synthesized CMC were revealed in the study. CMC yield ranged from 62.57, 41.37 and 33.21% and the degree of substitution ranged from 0.33, 0.28 and 0.17 for TDS, MPS and MPP respectively. Further characterization of CMC using Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) confirmed the presence of major expected peaks that showed differences in terms of carboxymethyl substitution as compared to that of commercial CMC. The study revealed the potential of these plants for production of industrial grade CMC. Key words: Lignocellulosic biomass, cellulose, carboxymethyl cellulose, soda pulping, bleaching, etherification, Tithonia diversifolia, Musa paradisiaca.

The aim of this work was to study the effect of Cymbopogon citratus extract on nitrogen metabolism in relation to the increase of Nitrogen Use efficiency (NUE) in tomato plants. The culture substrates (δ) were prepared with fertilizations of 15g N and 5g N following the formula: δ + tomato plants + treatments (2%). Treatments included, Hydro Ethanol Extract (HEE) of C. citratus (2%), 2% Ridomil (R) and Control (C). The tomato seedlings were transplanted 32 days after sowing and (δ) sampled 12th, 24th, 36th and 48th days after transplanting and the following parameters determined: Total nitrogen, Electrical Conductivity (EC (dS/m)), Total Mineral content (TM (ppm)), pH water, nitrate (NO3- (ppm)), ammonium (NH4+ (ppm)) and NUE (kg-1 DM), using these techniques: Kjedahl, Electrochemistry, Spectrophotometry. The results from the dosage of N revealed that Tithonia diversifolia (Ti), Cow dung (Cd), soil/sand (2:1) mixture and NPK contained 3.32%, 2.13%, 0.23 %, and 23.00% of N respectively. The kinetics of mineralization in the δTi, δCd showed a primary mineralization while that in the δNPK and δC showed a secondary mineralization. The values of NUENPKHEE, NUENPKR, NUETiHEE, NUETiR, NUECdHEE, and NUECdR increased by 38.49%; 37.45%; 27.74%; 52.07%; 93.93%; 70.52%, respectively. The combination of plant spray with HEE of C. citratus and soil amendment with T. diversifolia or cow dung improved significantly the NUE of tomato plants confirming that T. diversifolia and cow dung are slow mineralization nitrogenous biofertilisers.

The impact of the combination of plant (Tithonia diversifolia) (Td) plus cow dung (Cd) as biofertilizer and aqueous extract of Callistemon citrinus (CAL) leaves as biofungicide on physicochemical properties, and the microbial biomass in carbon (MBC) and nitrogen (MBN) of soil and on tomato yield were assessed under field condition. The experimental design was a complete block design with 2 factors (soil amendment and plant sprays) and 3 repetitions. The soil treatment included organic amendment (OA): Td + Cd at the ratio of 3:4 (w/w)/plant; inorganic amendment (IA): 21:8:8 NPK (26.2g/plant) and potassium sulfate (4g/plant); and control (unamended soil). The field treatments were plants sprayed with: 5% (w/v) CAL; 5% (w/v) Mancozeb (M); and water (W). All amendments except IA did not significantly modify the soil organic matter (˂2.4mg.kg-1) and organic carbon content. An increase of 23.15% and 30.60% of calcium concentration and cation exchangeable capacity (CEC) respectively, was recorded in OA soil compared to the soil before cultivation (SBC) (P˂0.05). Copper and zinc contents in OA soil were reduced respectively by 49% and 48.5% compared to SBC. The highest concentration of MBC was recorded in OA.M plot. The different combine treatments (OA.CAL, IA.M, and OA.M) increased tomato yield by 3.4; 3; and 5.3 fold, respectively compared to their controls. This study provided new information about the organic amendment on soil and plant sprayed with C. citrinus extract as a green alternative to conventional input that might improve soil quality and crop yield.

Background: This study aimed to determine the pattern of N mineralization of tithonia (Tithonia diversifolia) and sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum) leaves and assess the uptake of N nutrients in maize by giving T. diversifolia and S. officinarum leaves with different qualities on sandy loam soil. Methods: The research used a completely randomized design (CRD) with following treatment: T1 (100% T. diversifolia), T2 (100% S. officinarum), T3 (75% T. diversifolia: 25% S. officinarum), T4 (50% S. officinarum: 50% T. diversifolia), T5 (25% T. diversifolia leaves: 75% S. officinarum), T6 (without T. diversifolia and S. officinarum or control). Result: The results showed that the N mineralization pattern of the organic matter combination was significantly higher than the control for all observations. The amount of N mineral released in each treatment was T1 (54.58-529.7 mg/kg), T2 (41.80-381 mg/kg), T3 (47.69-473.6 mg/kg), T4 (46.70-424.0 mg/kg), T5 (70.69-378.9 mg/kg) and T6 (47.14-303.6 9 mg/kg). The sequence of cumulative N release during 12 weeks of incubation was T1 (529 mg/kg) greater than T3 (573.6 mg/kg) greater than T4 (424.0 mg/kg) greater than T2 (381 mg/kg) greater than T5 (378.9 mg/kg) greater than T6 (303.6 mg/kg). These results suggested that T. diversifolia and S. officinarum leaves significantly increased N nutrient uptake in maize by 125% to 144.54%.

Pazla R, Jamarun N, Zain M, Yanti G, Chandra RH. 2021. Quality evaluation of tithonia (Tithonia diversifolia) with fermentation using Lactobacillus plantarum and Aspergillus ficuum at different incubation times. Biodiversitas 22: 3936-3942. This research aimed to evaluate the nutritional quality of tithonia (Tithonia diversifolia) fermented using Lactobacillus plantarum and Aspergillus ficuum with different incubation times on nutritional content, digestibility, phytase enzyme activity, and characteristics of rumen fluid. The research used an experimental method with a factorial completely randomized design to evaluate the nutritional content and phytase enzyme activity after fermentation (stage 1). A randomized block design was used to evaluate in vitro digestibility and rumen fluid characteristics (stage 2). For factorial completely randomized design, factor A is the type of microbe (L. plantarum and A. ficuum), then factor B is the incubation time (3,5,7 days). Parameters observed were the nutritional content of dry matter (DM), organic matter (OM), crude protein (CP), crude fiber (CF), and phytase enzyme activity. For the Randomized Block Design, the research treatments were A = A. ficuum + 5 days of incubation, B = A. ficuum + 7 days of incubation, C = L. plantarum + 3 days of incubation, D = L. plantarum + 5 days of incubation. Parameters measured were the digestibility of dry matter(DMD), organic matter (OMD), crude protein (CPD), crude fiber (CFD), rumen pH, VFA production, and NH3 rumen fluid. The results showed that there was an interaction between the type of microbe and incubation time. The treatment had a significantly different effect (P0.05) on DMD, OMD, CPD but had a significant effect (P0.05) on VFA but were significantly different (P

Locally available organic inputs to soil, solely or in combination with inorganic fertilizers, are used to reverse declining soil fertility and improve soil organic matter content (SOM) in smallholder farms of most Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) countries. Soil organic matter characterization can indicate soil organic input, carbon (C) sequestration potential, or even an authentication tool for soil C dynamics in C stocks accounting. This study determined the effects of the long-term application of selected integrated soil fertility management (ISFM) technologies on SOM functional group composition and maize yields. The study was carried out on an ongoing long-term soil fertility field experiment established in 2004 in Mbeere South sub-county, the drier part of upper Eastern Kenya. The experimental design was a randomized complete block design. The ISFM treatments were 60 kg ha−1 nitrogen (N) from goat manure (GM60); 30 kg ha−1 inorganic N fertilizer (IF30); 60 kg ha−1 inorganic N fertilizer (IF60); GM30+IF30; 90 kg ha−1 inorganic N fertilizer (IF90); 60 kg ha−1 N from lantana (Lantana camara) (LC60); LC30+IF30; 60 kg ha−1 N from mucuna beans (Mucuna pruriens) (MP60); MP30+IF30; 60 kg ha−1 N from Mexican sunflower (Tithonia diversifolia) (TD60); TD30+IF30, and a control with no inputs. The C compositions of ground soil samples and organic amendments were analyzed using 13C solid-state NMR. The GM60, GM30+IF30, LC60, and TD60 treatments had much higher Alkyl and O-Alkyl C SOM functional groups than the control and other treatments. The average soil C for the control was 7.47 mg kg−1 and ranged from 5.03 to 7.37, 9.57 to 18.77, and 7.03–14.50 mg kg−1 for inorganic fertilizers, organic fertilizers, and organic + inorganic fertilizers, respectively. The mean grain yield for the control was 0.56 Mg ha−1 and ranged from 1.51 to 1.99, 1.94 to 4.16, and 2.98–4.60 Mg ha−1 for inorganic fertilizers, organic fertilizers, and organic + inorganic fertilizers, respectively. The results showed that a long-term application of sole organic fertilizers or combined with inorganic fertilizers increases maize yield and soil C sequestration potential. The increase was attributed to high Alkyl and O-Alkyl C SOM functional groups. Hence, knowing the C fraction content of organic inputs is vital in determining the best-fit management technologies for ameliorating soil fertility and sustaining and/or improving crop yields., Grain yield; Carbon sequestration; Organic amendments; Soil carbon fractions; Soil fertility.

Mesoporous composite activated carbon (AC) prepared from cocoa (Theobroma cacao) pod and sunflower (Tithonia diversifolia) stalk were evaluated for the sorption of Pb(II) and Fe(II) from wastewater. The different biomasses were acid activated by wet impregnation with phosphoric acid and carbonised at 500 °C. Adsorbents studied were AC from Theobroma cacao (TC-AC) and Theobroma-Tithonia blend (TT-AC) in a mass ratio of 75–25 wt%. The adsorbent was characterised by FTIR, BET and SEM–EDS. The specific surface areas were 237.445 and 392.508 m2/g for TC-AC and TT-AC respectively. Parametric studies revealed that adsorbate uptake reduced with increased initial concentration and increased with increasing dosage and contact time. The monolayer adsorption capacities for Pb(II) sorption onto TC-AC and TT-AC were 47.17 and 46.95 mg/g and for Fe(II) sorption onto TC-AC and TT-AC was 37.45 and 37.04 mg/g respectively. Langmuir isotherm and pseudo-second-order kinetic models were the best fits for the adsorption process. From the study, it has been observed that high-quality mesoporous adsorbent can be obtained from the carbonisation of the cocoa pod and sunflower stalk for water treatment applications.

This study aims to determine the effect of phosphorus dosage and tithonia compost on the growth and of peanut.The research had been conducted fromNovember 2017 to March 2018atBentiring Permai Village, Muara Bangkahulu Sub-District, Bengkulu City, Indonesiaat ± 10 m above sea level using Completely Randomized Block Design, two factors. The experiment was replicated three times. The first factor was tithonia compost with 2 treatment levels namely 0 ton ha -1 (control)and 20 ton ha -1 . The second factor was dosage of phosphorus(SP-36)with 4 treatment levels, 25, 50, 75 and 100 kg ha -1 .The results showed no interaction between compost and phosphorus dosage treatment on the growth and yield of peanut crops. Tithonia compost at 20 ton ha -1 increase the growth and yield of peanut crop. Application of tithonia compost paitanat 20 ton ha -1 resulted in higher increase plant height, crop dry weight, pod weightand yield of peanut53%, 58%, 67% and 71% respectively, compared to that of control plants (not compost). Phosphorus dosage had no significant effect on the growth and yield of peanut. Keywords: P eanut, Tithonia c ompost, P hosphorus

The methanolic extract of aerial parts of Tithonia tubaeformis showed significant antioxidant activity in DPPH assay. It was subjected to bioassay guided fractionation affording more active ethyl a...

Pyroclastic materials from Mount Kelud eruption which deposited in surrounding areas has very low nutrient availability. Fertilizer efficiency is normally low due to a coarse texture. This research was an attempt to increase nutrient availability using zeolite and organic matter in combination with inorganic fertilizers. The materials was treated with three rates of inorganic fertilizers (100%, 70%; 40% of the recommended rates, i.e. Urea 400 kg/ha; SP-36 150 kg/ha, and KCl 75 kg/ha), in combination with three types of amendments (zeolite, Tithonia diversifolia leaves, and cow manure at the rate of 20 t/ha), and 100% inorganic fertilizer treated materials as control, and incubated for 60 days. Soil samples were taken every 10 days after incubation and analysed for soil pH, C-organic, available N, P, K content measurement. The results showed that total N content increased with the rates of inorganic fertilizers. At 10-20 days after incubation the content of NH 4 + is greater than NO 3 - but gradually changed after 30 days after incubation. Apparently, zeolite treated materials had lower NH 4 + content than organic treated samples at 10-20 days after incubation, however at 60 days after incubation its NO 3 - content was relatively higher than Tithonia leaves treated samples. At 60 days after incubation, the higher the fertilizer rates, the higher the content of available P and exchangeable K. The highest content of available P and exchangeable K occurred respectively in cow manure and Tithonia diversifolia leaves treated materials. Until 60 days after incubation, organic treated materials had a higher amount of available and exchangeable K than zeolite treated materials, because they originally contain considerable P and K. However, at 60 days after incubation, zeolite treated materials contained the highest amount of NO 3 - . This indicated that zeolite had a higher capability to retain mineral N, hindering N removal from leaching and volatilization. A higher nutrient holding capacity could be related to the increasing cation exchange capacity after the addition of amendments, and to a lesser extend to pH and % C.

In recent times, medicinal plants are being greatly used ethnomedicinally for the management and treatment of diseases and health conditions. One of such medicinal plants is Tithonia diversifolia. This study aimed at determining the phytochemical, elemental and proximate content of the powdered plant part to help infer what is responsible for the reported therapeutic characteristics of the plant as well as determine the quality, purity and safety profile of the plant. Leaves of T.diversifolia were subjected to phytochemical, proximate and mineral screening using standard laboratory procedures. Qualitative phytochemical observation revealed the presence of Tannins, saponins, flavonoids and terpenoids. Crude Protein content was the highest with 27.69% followed by Crude Fibre (14.89%), Ash (13.86%), Moisture Content (10.92%) and the least value 1.14% for Fat. Magnesium (Mg) content was highest with 6712.50mg/kg which is 22, 35, 122 & 144 times higher than the content of Iron (Fe) (291.5mg/kg), Manganese (Mn) (191.0mg/kg), Zinc (Zn) (54.9mg/kg) and Copper (Cu) (15.1mg/kg). However, elements (heavy metals) Lead (Pb), Cadmium (Cd), Chromium (Cr) and Cobalt (Co) were not detected. Results obtained in the study is indicative of a potential drug substitute which can be used to help manage and treat diseases due to the phytochemicals, nutrients, and minerals present in them. Also, the safety indices of this plant part have been established, thus, information obtained from the study can serve as a reference standard for the plant monograph.

El objetivo fue evaluar el efecto de reemplazo de la alfalfa (AA) con Tithonia diversifolia (TD) en dietas de corderos a base de ensilado de caña de azúcar (SCS), con o sin suplementación con pulidura de arroz (RP), sobre la digestibilidad in vitro, la retención de nitrógeno y el comportamiento productivo. Las dietas experimentales contenían lo siguiente: D1) 68.6 % de SCS y 29.4 % de TD; D2) 63.7 % de SCS y 34.3 % de AA; D3) 46 % de SCS, 22.6 % de TD y 29.4 % de RP; y, D4) 44.1 % de SCS, 24.5 % de AA y 29.4 % de RP. Las dietas fueron isoproteínicas e isocalóricas. La digestibilidad in vitro de la materia seca y materia orgánica fue mayor (P0.05) entre las dietas que contenían TD o AA. Sin embargo, RP mejoró (P

Declines in soil fertility and limited access to inorganic nitrogen (N) fertilizer constrain crop production in Sub-Saharan Africa. The incorporation of organic residues could increase nutrient mineralization and replenish soil carbon (C), however, the effect that long-term residue management (10+ years) has on maize (Zea mays L.) yields and soil nutrient pools (C and N) is largely unknown. In four identical long-term trials in Kenya that differ by soil type and climate, we compared maize yield and soil C (0–0.15 m) across four treatments comparing organic inputs of contrasting C:N ratios: tithonia [Tithonia diversifolia (Hemsl.) A. Gray] + N (120 kg N ha−1); tithonia − N (0 kg N ha−1); maize stover + N (120 kg N ha−1); maize stover − N (0 kg N ha−1). On average, maize yields were 92% greater under tithonia compared to maize stover at the sandy sites and in general followed this trend: tithonia + N > tithonia − N = stover + N > stover − N. The continuous application of tithonia also increased soil C and N pools; for instance, mineralizable C was up to 57% greater than that of maize stover at the sandy sites. Increases in yield and nutrient pools under tithonia were less apparent at the clay sites. When exploring the relationship between soil C and maize yield, we found that both mineralizable and processed pools were related to agronomic performance. Our findings demonstrate that low C:N residues could significantly benefit crop production and enhance soil organic matter at sandy sites across Kenya.

In this work, a polysaccharide from Tithonia diversifolia (TDP) was extracted and selenized to obtain Se-TDPs derivatives. Structural properties of TDP and Se-TDPs were characterized using HPLC, NM...

The use of Tithonia diversifolia (Tithonia) as green manure has spread over some parts of Africa, Latin America and Asia justified by its fast growth cycle, high nitrogen fixation capacity and high accumulation of phosphorus (P) in tissue, with improved capacity to explore nutrients like P in poor soils. We hypothesized here that P acquisition by Tithonia from poor soils is greatly facilitated by rapid root proliferation and by the formation of symbioses with native arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi; and that organic P sources are more suitable for Tithonia use than inorganic complexed ones. It was used a mesh exclusion technique in rhizotron to measure uptake of P by Tithonia plants from 33P-labelled sub-compartments into which either extra mycelial mycorrhizal hyphae and roots or only mycorrhizal hyphae could penetrate, in a poor P soil from Nepal. The sub-compartment labelled P was provided as either inorganic33P (33Pi), microbial33P or as 33Pi bound to either Ca or Fe. Root access to the sub-compartments containing 33Pi associated with added cations (Ca or Fe) did not increase 33Pi uptake relative to mycorrhizal hyphal access only. Uptake of microbial33P doubled when roots as well as mycorrhizal hyphae were present, indicating that extra mycelial mycorrhizal fungi associated with Tithonia contribute to uptake of mineral bound P, but do not participate in organic P cycles.

Short-term mitigation of ammonia (NH3) and nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions by biochar soil amendments has been reported, but limited knowledge of the mechanisms, particularly those associated with long term changes, remain relatively unknown. In order to investigate potential mechanisms and residual effect of biochar on NH3 and N2O emission, a 3-year field trial was set up on an Ultisol in western Kenya with a three-replicate full factorial treatment structure. The factors investigated include the following: biochar (from eucalyptus wood, pyrolyzed at 550 °C, applied once before the start of the experiment at either 0 or 2.5 t ha−1); tithonia green manure applied at the start of each season at either 0, 2.5, or 5.0 t ha−1; mineral nitrogen (N) (as urea applied each season at either 0 or 120 kg N ha−1). NH3 as well as N2O emission and water-filled pore space (WFPS) were monitored throughout the 3 years. In the third year, soil mineral nitrogen (exchangeable NH4+ and NO3−) contents were measured. Biochar reduced cumulative emissions of NH3 and N2O by 47 ± 5 and 22% ± 3, respectively, over the 3 years. Over the 3 years, the effect size of biochar was reduced by 53 and 59% for NH3 and N2O, respectively, indicating that the residual effect of biochar on NH3 and N2O persists at least up to 3 years under field conditions. Tithonia and urea additions increased both gas emissions by 13–68% compared to the control. Combination of the three amendments reduced cumulative NH3 emissions by 18 ± 3%, but had no effect on cumulative N2O. Our results show that biochar can influence emissions of NH3 and N2O longer than most previous studies have reported but is not explained by N dynamics. Other mechanisms such as direct interactions with oxidized biochar surfaces could be more likely to account for the residual effect of biochar on NH3 and N2O in agricultural soils.

Tagitinin C, a sesquiterpene lactone compound from Tithonia diversifolia, is known to have various bioactivities including anticancer effects. The disadvantages of tagitinin C which make its therap...

The inhibition effect of Tithonia diversifolia flower extract (TDF) on mild steel corrosion in 1M HCl has been studied by conventional mass loss, electrochemical impedance and Potentiodynamic polarization techniques. The inhibition efficiency increased with increase in concentration of plant extract. The adsorption of the TDF on the mild steel surface was found to obey Langmuir and Temkin adsorption isotherms. Potentiodynamic polarization curves inferred that TDF acted as a mixed inhibitor in hydrochloric acid. Impedance measurements which reflected a change in the charge transfer resistance and double layer capacitance indicating adsorption of TDF on the mild steel surface. Surface analytical techniques were carried out using FT-IR and Optical electron microscope. The overall result suggested that TDF extract could serve as an effective inhibitor to minimize corrosion of mild steel an acid medium.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of the tithonia (Tithonia diversifolia) and elephant grass (Pennisetum purpureum) on in vitro digestibility and rumen fluid characteristics. This research was carried out using a randomized block design with 3 treatments (the level of tithonia and elephant grass) and 5 replications. The following treatments were performed: T1 = 100% tithonia; T2 = 100% elephant grass; T3 = 50% tithonia + 50% elephant grass. The data were subjected to an analysis of variance (ANOVA), and differences between the treatment means were tested using Duncan’s Multiple Range Test (DMRT). The parameters measured were as follows: dry matter digestibility (DMD) (%), organic matter digestibility (OMD) (%), pH, volatile fatty acid (VFA) (mM) and NH3. The results revealed that DMD, OMD and VFA were significantly (P0.05) NH3 Concentration. The overall study indicates that tithonia plant successfully has the highest digestibility in vitro and characteristics of rumen fluid.

This study aims to evaluate the effect of Entada abyssinica and Tithonia diversifolia hidden on the ground compared to the NPK (17-17-17), only and in organomineral combination on the growth and the yield corn. The treatments, in three repetitions, consisted of a witness (T0), of five levels of fertilizer contribution: biomasses of E. abyssinica and T. diversifolia, NPK, E. abyssinica +NPK and T diversifolia +NPK. The observations had related to the parameters of growth and production. The results obtained inform that the corn answered positively in the phase of growth under effect of fertilizer indistinctly of their nature (p Tithonia diversifolia +NPK > Entada abyssinica > NPK > Tithonia diversifolia > Témoin (466.42 kg/ha). The application of the biomasses T. diversifolia and E. abyssinica in organo-mineral combination on a corn culture exploits a multiple role physics, the chemistry and the biology of the ground with like consequence an increase in the output of about 2186,91 kg of grains compared to the ground untreated. The biomasses used only also gave good results compared to the witness. Considering the difficulties of accessibility to mineral manure, the use of E. abyssinica and T.diversifolia in an environment as this one would contribute to the promotion of the contribution of this organic matter in the majority of the poor grounds.

Soil acidity and phosphorus deficiency are some of the constraints hampering agricultural production in tropical regions. The prevalence of soil acidity is associated with phosphorus (P) insufficiency and aluminum saturation. We conducted a two-seasons experiment to evaluate soil phosphorus availability and exchangeable aluminum in response to phosphate rock and organic inputs in acidic humic nitisols. The field experiment was installed in Tharaka Nithi County in the Central Highlands of Kenya. The experimental design was a randomized complete block design with treatments replicated thrice. The treatments were: Green manure (Tithonia diversifolia Hemsl.) (60 kg P ha−1), phosphate rock (60 kg P ha−1), goat manure (60 kg P ha−1), Tithonia diversifolia (20 kg P ha−1) combined with phosphate rock (40 kg P ha−1), manure (20 kg P ha−1) combined with phosphate rock (40 kg P ha−1), Triple Super Phosphate combined with Calcium Ammonium Nitrate (TSP + CAN) (60 kg P ha−1) and a control (no input). During the long rains of the 2018 season (LR2018), Tithonia diversifolia + phosphate rock had a significantly higher reduction (67%) of exchangeable aluminum than the sole use of Tithonia diversifolia. Grain yield under TSP + CAN was the highest, followed by the sole organics during the LR2018. Tithonia diversifolia + phosphate rock resulted in a 99% and a 90% increase in NaHCO3-Pi compared to sole phosphate rock and sole Tithonia diversifolia, respectively. Tithonia diversifolia led to 14% and 62% higher resin-Pi and NaOH-Pi, respectively, compared to manure in the short rains of 2017 (SR2017). The increase in NaOH-Po after the two seasons was statistically significant in sole TSP + CAN. Based on the observed reduced exchangeable aluminum and additional nutrients like Ca, Mg, and K in the soil, sole organic inputs or in combination with phosphate rock treatments are feasible alternatives for sustaining soil phosphorus. Our findings underscore an integrated approach utilizing organic amendments combined with phosphate rock in acidic humic nitisols' phosphorus nutrient management., Occluded phosphorus, Labile inorganic phosphorus, Phosphate rock, Humic nitisols, Tithonia diversifolia, and manure.

Se comparó el efecto del pastoreo de vacas Holstein en diferentes sistemas, sobre la producción y calidad de la leche. Los sistemas pastoriles (SP) evaluados fueron: kikuyo (Cenchrus clandestinus (Hochst. ex Chiov.) Morrone) (K), ryegrass (Lolium ssp.) (R), sistemas silvopastoriles de ryegrass, botón de oro (Tithonia diversifolia) y aliso (Alnus acuminata) (sspR), sistemas silvopastoriles de kikuyo, botón de oro y aliso (sspK) y sistemas silvopastoriles de ryegrass, kikuyo, botón de oro y aliso (sspRK). Las variables respuestas estuvieron dadas por la cantidad diaria de leche (PL), lactosa (L), grasa (G) y proteína (P), los porcentajes de proteína (% P) y grasa (% G) y niveles de nitrógeno ureico en leche (MUN) de 60 vacas holstein de 1 a 6 partos. Se emplearon modelos mixtos aditivos generalizados con efecto semiparamétrico suavizado para los días en lactancia (DEL), los efectos fijos de SP, número de partos y el efecto aleatorio de lactancia de las vacas. Los resultados indicaron ventajas en PL, L, P y G del SspR sobre los otros sistemas (P

The high cost of chemical pesticides and their negative impact on the environment prompted the search for natural pesticides from plants. The objective of our study was to control rice seed pathogenic fungi and bacteria using aqueous extract and essential oil from Tithonia diversifolia leaves. We obtained aqueous extract and essential oil, respectively, by maceration and hydrodistillation; the antimicrobial activities were determined in vitro on a solid medium by the food poisoning method. The secondary metabolites were determined by qualitative and quantitative assays; the chemical composition of the essential oil obtained from Titonia diversifolia was studied using gas-chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry. The results showed that phenols, tannins, flavonoids, alkaloids, terpenoids, sugars and saponins were present in the aqueous extract. The essential oil contained mainly hydrocarbonated, oxygenated monoterpenes, terpenoids and sesquiterpenes. α-terpineol (20.3%), eucalyptol (14.6%), camphor (14.3%) and α-pinene (13.5%) as the main compounds. Regarding the antimicrobial activity, all tested bacteria were sensitive to aqueous extract and essential oil. The activity of the aqueous extract on the tested fungi showed an inhibitory concentration 50 (IC50) of 50 mg/mL against Bipolaris oryzae and Fusarium moniliforme. The activity of the essential oil on bacteria and fungi showed MIC of 125 μg/mL (Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae and Pseudomonas fuscovaginae) and MFC of 5000 μg/mL (Bipolaris oryzae and Fusarium moniliforme). These results allow us to consider Tithonia diversifolia as a potential source of natural biopesticides against rice seed-borne pathogens.

A major constraint to crop production in Sub-Saharan Africa is nutrient deficiency, especially phosphorus deficiency. Phosphorus plays a crucial role in photosynthesis but is usually deficient in acidic soils since it is converted to less available forms, affecting crop yields. There is a need to improve phosphorus availability to crops for maximum production. This study assessed the impact of phosphate rock fertilizer application on maize yields, soil chemical composition, and cost-effectiveness in Tharaka Nithi County, Upper Eastern Kenya. We set a field experiment in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) during long rains (SR2017) and Short rains (LR2018) seasons. The treatments were phosphate rock + manure, Tithonia diversifolia + phosphate rock, Calcium Ammonium Nitrate (CAN) + Triple Superphosphate (TSP), and a control. Soil samples were collected at a depth of 0-20 cm before and at the end of the experiment for pH, P-sorption, and other soil nutrients determinations. Other auxiliary data collected included labor and input costs besides output prices. The CAN+TSP treatment had significantly higher grain yields, while phosphate rock on its own had the second-lowest than the control treatment (p

Two field experiments were conducted concurrently in 2019. The study investigated the effects of single and combined application of wood biochar (WB) and cow dung biochar (CDB) with green manure (GM) on soil properties, performance, and tuber qualities of tiger nut. The treatments consisted of: CDB at 10 t ha−1, WB at 10 t ha−1, GM—Tithonia diversifolia at 10 t ha−1, CDB + GM, WB + GM, control. The six treatments were arranged in RCBD with three replications. CDB, WB, and GM either sole or combined increased moisture content, SOC, nutrient contents, culturable microorganisms, performance, moisture, ash, fiber, and protein contents of the tiger nut compared with the control. CDB has a higher N, C: N ratio, P, K, Ca, Mg, CEC, and pH relative to. CDB alone and CDB + GM increased growth and yield compared with WB alone and WB + GM. CDB + GM has the highest value of growth and yield of tiger nut. GM alone improved growth and yield of tiger nut compared with the two sole biochar treatments. CDB + GM and WB + GM increased growth and yield of tiger nut compared with their sole forms. This was adduced to biochar allowing the retention of nutrients from rapidly decomposing Tithonia within the rooting zone, thereby promoting better effectiveness of nutrient uptake and increase in yield. Therefore, for good soil fertility and tiger nut yield, it is important that the addition of a fast releasing nutrient source to biochar be sought.