Browsing by Author "Parker, Irshaad Ahmad"

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    Development of a computer vision pipeline for the analysis of Aliivibrio fischeri bioluminescence inhibition on solid media
    (Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2023-11) Parker, Irshaad Ahmad; Stone, W; Perold, WJ; Schreve, K.; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Engineering. Institute of Biomedical Engineering.
    ENGLISH ABSTRACT: The South African Government aims to promote a circular economy, particularly upcycling organic waste, to improve soil quality in the Western Cape. Notably, wastewater sludge, abundant with organic nutrients, also contains harmful micropollutants. Thus, a reliable, on-site toxicity measurement method is essential. This study introduces an in-field technology to assess micropollutant toxicity in soil and water leachate samples and gauge bioremediation or bioaccumulation levels post-sludge application. The study leverages the bioluminescent properties of Aliivibrio fischeri, commonly known as Vibrio fischeri, as a toxicity indicator. Initial experiments using an optical microbial biosensor in liquid media showed inconsistent results due to hypoxic culture conditions. Subsequent experiments on solid media, employing computer vision and machine learning, demonstrated the consistent inhibition of Vibrio fischeri bioluminescence, serving as an effective toxicity marker. Test compounds, zinc sulphate and atrazine, validated the approach, aligning with existing literature on their toxicity levels. Machine learning models predicted treatment states and concentrations accurately using EC50 estimates. This research is foundational for a mobile diagnostic application for farmers to swiftly and accessibly gauge soil and water quality.