The FUDMA Journal of Sciences (FJS) is a peer-reviewed publication of original research papers, review articles, technical reports and short communications in all aspects in the fields of science and technology such as Chemistry, Earth and atmospheric sciences, Biology in general, Agriculture, Biochemistry, Botany, Microbiology, Environmental Science, Computer Science, Engineering, Physics, Materials Science, Mechanics, Mathematics, Statistics, Nutrition and Food Science, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Polymer and Textile Sciences, Process Modeling and Computational Analysis, Renewable Energy and waste to resource processes.
Federal University Dutsin-Ma, Katsina State - Nigeria
MOLECULAR DIVERSITY OF ORANGE-FLESH SWEET POTATO (Ipomoea batatas [L.] Lam) GENOTYPES USING SIMPLE SEQUENCE REPEATS (SSR) MARKERS
All breeding programs aimed at developing new and improved cultivars with desired traits primarily rely on information related to genetic diversity. Molecular characterisation of plant material has been fundamental for crop improvement, and genetic diversity has long been recognised as vital for the rational management and utilisation of crops. In this study, twenty-seven (27) genotypes of orange-fleshed sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas [L.] Lam) and ten (10) simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers were used to assess genetic diversity. The ten SSR markers proved highly informative in discriminating among the genotypes. These markers exhibited moderate average values for the number of alleles per locus (3.7), with a total of 282 alleles detected across all loci. Additionally, polymorphic information content (PIC) values were high (PIC > 0.50), indicating strong marker informativeness. Using the unweighted pair-group method with arithmetic averages (UPGMA) based on similarity matrices, the 27 genotypes were clustered into eight primary groups at a similarity coefficient of 0.84. The findings of this study demonstrate that SSR markers can effectively estimate genetic diversity and analyse phylogenetic relationships. Moreover, these markers can assist sweet potato breeders in selecting desirable quantitative traits within their breeding programs.
Copyright (c) 2026 Ibrahim Musa, Usman Magaji, Idris Abbas, Jibrin Mohammed, Mohammed Usman https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
THE IMPACT OF CLIMATE CHANGE ON THE ECONOMIES OF AFRICAN COUNTRIES
This study investigates the impact of climate change on economic growth in African countries using panel data from the year 2000–2022. the analysis applies Panel Autoregressive Distributed Lag (Panel ARDL) model with the Pooled Mean Group (PMG) estimator, to capture both short-run and long-run equilibrium relationships between economic growth and key climate-related variables, including carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions, energy imports, and population growth. Prior to estimation, cross-sectional dependence and panel unit root tests were conducted, which confirmed the suitability of the Panel ARDL approach. The empirical findings indicates that CO₂ emissions and energy imports exert positive and statistically significant impacts on economic growth in the short run, reflecting that the emission and energy-intensive activities temporarily stimulate economic performance in African countries. On the other hand, in the long run, the effects of CO₂ emissions, energy imports, and population growth on economic growth are statistically insignificant, signifying that reliance on these factors does not translate into sustained economic growth over time. The error correction term is negative and highly significant, which implies rapid convergence to long-run stability following short-run shocks. These findings suggest that although climate-related factors may stimulate short-term economic growth, they are insufficient for achieving long-term sustainable growth. The study therefore, emphasizes the need for African countries to transition toward cleaner energy sources, strengthening climate adaptation measures, and promotes productivity enhancing investments to achieve sustainable economic development in African countries.
Mathematical, Computer & Statistical Sciences
Copyright (c) 2026 Sohlam P. Lar, Niri Martha Choji, Uji Iordye Michael, David Demshark Kefas https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
SHORELINE EXTRACTION FROM HIGH-RESOLUTION OPTICAL IMAGERY USING A U-NET-BASED SEMANTIC SEGMENTATION APPROACH
Accurate shoreline delineation is fundamental for coastal monitoring, environmental management, and hazard mitigation. This study presents a deep learning–based semantic segmentation framework for automated shoreline extraction from high-resolution optical imagery using a U-Net architecture. A dataset comprising 31 manually annotated coastal images was augmented through geometric transformations to generate 155 image–mask pairs for model training, validation, and testing. The network was optimized using the Adam optimizer and a hybrid Dice–Binary Cross-Entropy loss function to mitigate class imbalance between land and water pixels. Model performance was evaluated using Accuracy, Precision, Recall, F1-score, and Intersection over Union (IoU) metrics. Validation results demonstrated strong segmentation performance, achieving an Accuracy of 98.63%, Precision of 83.58%, Recall of 81.75%, and F1-score of 81.93%. On an independent test dataset representing diverse coastal environments, the model attained an Accuracy of 98.33% and an F1-score of 78.24%, indicating robust generalization under heterogeneous imaging conditions. Despite the limited dataset size, the results confirm the methodological feasibility and reliability of U-Net-based semantic segmentation for shoreline delineation. The proposed framework offers a reproducible and computationally efficient foundation for scalable shoreline mapping and future multi-temporal coastal monitoring applications.
Copyright (c) 2026 Godsent Efosa Felix, Destiny Osazee, Uchenna Ukeme, Stephen Olushola Oladosu https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
QUASI-EXACT SOLVABILITY OF TRI-CONFLUENT HEUN EQUATION
The Tri-confluent Heun Equations (TCHE) are second order differential equations in the complex domain obtained by a limiting process which merges regular singularities of the canonical Heun differential equation with a regular singularity at <!-- [if gte msEquation 12]><m:oMath><m:r>z</m:r><m:r><m:rPr><m:scr m:val="roman"/><m:sty m:val="p"/></m:rPr>=0</m:r></m:oMath><![endif]--> <!-- [if gte vml 1]><v:shapetype id="_x0000_t75" coordsize="21600,21600" o:spt="75" o:preferrelative="t" path="m@4@5l@4@11@9@11@9@5xe" filled="f" stroked="f"> <v:stroke joinstyle="miter"/> <v:formulas> <v:f eqn="if lineDrawn pixelLineWidth 0"/> <v:f eqn="sum @0 1 0"/> <v:f eqn="sum 0 0 @1"/> <v:f eqn="prod @2 1 2"/> <v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelWidth"/> <v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelHeight"/> <v:f eqn="sum @0 0 1"/> <v:f eqn="prod @6 1 2"/> <v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelWidth"/> <v:f eqn="sum @8 21600 0"/> <v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelHeight"/> <v:f eqn="sum @10 21600 0"/> </v:formulas> <v:path o:extrusionok="f" gradientshapeok="t" o:connecttype="rect"/> <o:lock v:ext="edit" aspectratio="t"/> </v:shapetype><v:shape id="_x0000_i1025" type="#_x0000_t75" style='width:21pt; height:12pt'> <v:imagedata src="file:///C:/Users/USER/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image001.png" o:title="" chromakey="white"/> </v:shape><![endif]--> and the irregular singularity at <!-- [if gte msEquation 12]><m:oMath><m:r>z</m:r><m:r><m:rPr><m:scr m:val="roman"/><m:sty m:val="p"/></m:rPr>=</m:r><m:r>∞</m:r></m:oMath><![endif]--> <!-- [if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_i1025" type="#_x0000_t75" style='width:24pt;height:12pt'> <v:imagedata src="file:///C:/Users/USER/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image003.png" o:title="" chromakey="white"/> </v:shape><![endif]--> of rank 3. In this paper, we present a new algebraisation of the TCHE by writing it as the linear combination of quadratic elements in the universal enveloping algebra of <!-- [if gte msEquation 12]><m:oMath><m:r>sl</m:r><m:r><m:rPr><m:scr m:val="roman"/><m:sty m:val="p"/></m:rPr>(2,</m:r><m:r><m:rPr><m:scr m:val="double-struck"/><m:sty m:val="p"/></m:rPr>C).</m:r></m:oMath><![endif]--> <!-- [if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_i1025" type="#_x0000_t75" style='width:30.5pt;height:12pt'> <v:imagedata src="file:///C:/Users/USER/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image005.png" o:title="" chromakey="white"/> </v:shape><![endif]--> We also obtain a new exactly solvable potential from TCHE using a suitable guage transformation.
Copyright (c) 2026 Ubong Sam Idiong, Ezekiel Abiodun Oluwafemi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
ASSESSMENT OF THE NUTRITIONAL STATUS, FOOD CONSUMPTION PATTERN AND SHORT CHAIN FATTY ACIDS AMONG ADOLESCENT SCHOOL GIRLS IN IGABI LGA, KADUNA STATE
Proper nutrition practice is critical during adolescence since it is the second opportunity to catch up growth, and have a strong eﬀect on lifetime nutritional status and health of the adolescent. This study was to assess the nutritional status, food consumption pattern, and short chain fatty acids among adolescent school girls in Igabi LGA, Kaduna State, Nigeria. A cross‑sectional study was conducted among 229 adolescent girls (mean age ≈ 15 years) attending public (n = 126) and private (n = 103) secondary schools in Nigeria. The study revealed that private‑school participants were slightly older (15.8 ± 1.7 vs 15.4 ± 1.9 years), more likely to be Hausa (55% vs 63% public), and came from households with higher parental education (49 % vs 24 % tertiary) and lower family‑size extremes. Finding of this study using (what method/technique/approach?) showed a higher prevalence of stunting (32% vs 19%) and underweight (28% vs 15%) in public schools, while overweight (12% vs 10%) and obesity (5% vs 8%) were comparable. Short chain fatty acids (SCFAs) demonstrated significantly lower concentrations in public schools (acetate 120.5 ± 20.5 µmol/g, propionate 30.2 ± 5.5 µmol/g, butyrate 20.1 ± 4.2 µmol/g) compared to private schools (150.8 ± 25.1, 40.5 ± 6.8, 28.5 ± 5.1 µmol/g). The relationship linked higher SCFA‑producing bacteria to greater dietary diversity, nutritional status and better socio-demographic characteristics (p < 0.05). These findings underscore that socioeconomic advantage, nutritional status, food‑consumption pattern, and dietary diversity co‑vary with a SCFAs profile, suggesting that integrated school‑based nutrition and counselling interventions could narrow the health gap between public and private school adolescents in Nigeria.
Copyright (c) 2026 Haruna Abdullahi, Uche Samuel Ndidi, Balarabe Sallau Abdullahi, Ibrahim Sani https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
AN ENSEMBLE EXPLAINABILITY FRAMEWORK FOR MULTIMODAL CHEST X-RAY DISEASE
This systematic literature review examines ensemble explainability frameworks for multimodal Chest X-ray (CXR) classification using SHAP, Grad-CAM, and LIME. Following PRISMA 2020 guidelines, we searched Scopus, Google Scholar, PubMed, and arXiv (2016-2025), identifying 945 records and including 30 high-quality papers after rigorous screening. Findings reveal a significant trend toward multimodal architectures combining imaging with clinical parameters, electronic health records, and expert annotations. Grad-CAM dominates as a visualization tool (97% of studies) for localizing pathological features, while SHAP and LIME are increasingly used for model-agnostic feature attribution. However, true ensemble frameworks integrating all three methods remain rare (13%). High-performing multimodal systems achieved AUROCs of 0.82-0.99 for mortality prediction and 0.85-0.96 for disease classification. Critical gaps include: (1) lack of standardized XAI validation protocols; (2) inconsistent reporting of metrics and datasets; (3) limited external validation; and (4) insufficient comparative analysis of XAI methods. This review synthesizes current methodologies and proposes future directions for developing interpretable AI systems in chest radiograph analysis.
Copyright (c) 2026 Dahiru Usman Haruna, Abubakar Sadiq Hassan, Idi Mohammed https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
SPATIAL RISK ASSESSMENT OF THIRD-PARTY INTERFERENCE ON PETROLEUM PIPELINES IN THE NIGER DELTA: A GIS-BASED SAFETY MANAGEMENT FRAMEWORK
Third-party interference (TPI) is a threat to petroleum pipeline integrity in Nigeria’s Niger Delta, yet existing protection approaches are largely reactive and lack spatial predictive capability. This study develops a GIS-based Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis framework, integrating the Analytical Hierarchy Process, to assess and map the spatial variability of TPI risk along selected pipeline corridors. The analysis incorporates environmental, infrastructural, and socioeconomic factors, including land-use, population density, proximity to roads and waterways, and terrain characteristics. Results indicate that 22% of the pipeline corridor falls within high to very high-risk categories, with risk hotspots concentrated in areas characterized by high accessibility and dense human activity. Accessibility-related variables is 55% to the composite risk index, highlighting their dominant influence. Socioeconomic factors such as poverty and unemployment show spatial association with high-risk zones, their role appears complementary rather than primary. The findings demonstrate the utility of geospatial modelling in identifying spatial patterns of vulnerability and supporting targeted intervention strategies. The study provides a scalable decision-support tool for prioritizing surveillance, infrastructure protection, and community-based interventions. The study recommend the use of automated sensors, remote sensing, and routine field inspections, for pipeline segments classified as high and extremely high risk in the Spatial Risk Index. This study contributes to the growing application of GIS-MCDA approaches in infrastructure risk assessment and offers a foundation for more predictive and evidence-based pipeline security management in complex socio-environmental settings. The study concluded that TPI risk is spatially heterogeneous and strongly influenced by accessibility and human activity in the study area.
Copyright (c) 2026 Saidu Hussaini, Ahmad Muhammad Aliyu, Musa Isa Muhammad, Zanuwa Mu’azu Audu https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
APPLICATION OF LINEAR PROGRAMMING IN PRODUCTION OPTIMISATION USING SIMPLEX METHOD: A CASE STUDY OF MAIZUBE FARM LIMITED
Efficient allocation of limited production resources is a major challenge faced by manufacturing and agro-processing industries seeking to maximise profit. This study examines the application of linear programming techniques in optimising production decisions at the dairy section of Maizube Farm Limited, with emphasis on the production of three yoghurt products: Big Yoghurt, Medium Yoghurt, and Small Yoghurt. The study investigates how available resources such as labour, production time, and raw materials can be optimally allocated among these products to achieve maximum profitability. A linear programming model was formulated to represent the production system, with profit maximisation as the objective function and production constraints reflecting the limited availability of key resources. The formulated model was solved using the Simplex tableau method, which iteratively evaluates feasible solutions until the optimal production plan is obtained. The results show that the optimal solution was obtained at the first tableau iteration with (X2= 5.5), yielding a maximum profit value of (Z=12,100). The results demonstrate the effectiveness of linear programming as a decision support tool for optimising production planning and improving resource utilisation in dairy processing operations. The study therefore highlights the practical relevance of mathematical optimisation techniques in enhancing productivity and profitability in agro-industrial systems.
Copyright (c) 2026 Umar G. Ahmed, Nathaniel Ogbada https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
THE ROOF AS A FUNCTIONAL COMPONENT OF BUILDINGS: A CASE STUDY OF AREA C STAFF RESIDENTIAL QUARTERS, AHMADU BELLO UNIVERSITY, SAMARU, ZARIA
The roof is a vital component of the building envelope, acting as the primary barrier against environmental elements while influencing thermal comfort, structural stability, aesthetics, and sustainability. In tropical savanna climates such as Zaria, which is characterized by high solar radiation, seasonal rainfall of about 1,100 mm, and temperatures ranging from 25–38°C, the roofing systems must effectively manage heat gain, rainfall, and wind loads. This study examines the functional performance of roofs using Area C Staff Residential Quarters at Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Samaru, Zaria, as a case study. A qualitative approach was adopted, drawing on architectural documentation, institutional reports, field observations, and relevant literature. Predominant roof types identified include gable and hipped forms, mainly constructed with corrugated galvanized iron and long-span aluminium sheets. Findings indicate that while earlier designs adequately provided basic shelter, their performance has declined due to ageing materials, inadequate maintenance, and unsystematic modifications. Emerging sustainable solutions, particularly green roofs, demonstrate the potential to reduce indoor temperatures and significantly lower surface heat gain. The study recommends improved maintenance, retrofitting with reflective and insulated materials, and adoption of sustainable roofing strategies to enhance overall building performance.
Roof Functionality, Tropical Architecture, Staff Residential Quarters, Green Roofs, Building Maintenance, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria
Copyright (c) 2025 Uma Helen Emmanuel https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
DIVERSITY ASSESSMENT OF FUNGAL COMMUNITIES ASSOCIATED WITH LEAF BLIGHT DISEASE OF MAIZE (Zea mays) AND PURPLE BLOTCH DISEASE OF ONION (Allium cepa) IN SAMARU, ZARIA, NIGERIA
Leaf blight of maize and purple blotch of onion are economically important foliar diseases that significantly reduce crop yield and quality in tropical and subtropical agro-ecosystems. This study comparatively investigated the fungal communities associated with leaf blight symptoms of maize (Zea mays L.) and purple blotch symptoms of onion (Allium cepa L.) in Samaru, Zaria, Nigeria. Diseased leaf samples were collected from farmers’ fields and analyzed using standard mycological techniques. Fungal isolates were cultured on Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA) supplemented with chloramphenicol and identified based on macroscopic and microscopic characteristics. The frequency of occurrence of each fungal genus was determined, and diversity indices were calculated to assess community structure. Three fungal genera were isolated from maize: Helminthosporium, Colletotrichum, and Fusarium, while onion samples yielded Alternaria, Botrytis, and Fusarium. Fusarium was the only genus common to both crops. The Jaccard similarity index (0.20) indicated low similarity between the fungal communities, despite the similarity in disease symptoms. Shannon diversity indices revealed moderate and comparable fungal diversity in both crops. Molecular identification and pathogenicity assays are recommended to confirm the causal roles of the isolated fungi and improve disease management strategies.
Copyright (c) 2026 Abba Khalid Adullahi, Alhaqqatu Abdullahi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
SYNTHESIS, CHARACTERIZATIONS AND CORROSION INHIBITION PERFORMANCE OF TRANSITION METAL (II) COMPLEXES DERIVED FROM; ACETOPHENONE AND 2,4-DINITROPHENYLHYDRAZINE
This study reports the synthesis, characterization, and corrosion inhibition performance of a hydrazone ligand derived from acetophenone and 2,4-dinitrophenylhydrazine, along with its Zn(II), Cu(II), Ni(II), Co(II), and Mn(II) complexes. The ligand and complexes were synthesized via condensation and metal-chelation reactions, and characterized using melting point determination, solubility tests, FTIR spectroscopy, conductivity measurements, and magnetic susceptibility analysis. Corrosion inhibition on mild steel was evaluated using the weight-loss method in 0.1 M HCl at varying concentrations (0.2–0.6 g/L) and temperatures (303–323 K). Results confirmed successful formation of the ligand (67.5% yield) and complexes (60.37–75.24% yield). The ligand melted at 120°C, while complexes decomposed between 160–175°C. Color changes from yellow (ligand) to pale yellow [Co(II)], brown [Cu(II)], yellow [Ni(II), Zn(II)], and black [Mn(II)] confirmed complexation. All compounds were soluble in polar solvents but insoluble in non-polar media. Conductivity measurements (3.57–8.47 Ω⁻¹cm²mol⁻¹) confirmed non-electrolytic behavior with coordinated chloride ions. Magnetic susceptibility data revealed high-spin octahedral geometries for Co(II) (5.01 B.M.), Ni(II) (2.80 B.M.), Mn(II) (7.00 B.M.), and distorted octahedral for Cu(II) (2.10 B.M.), while Zn(II) was diamagnetic. FTIR analysis confirmed coordination through azomethine nitrogen (C=N shift from 1618 cm⁻¹ to 1566–1600 cm⁻¹) and N–H groups, with new M–N bands at 732–899 cm⁻¹. Corrosion inhibition efficiency increased with concentration for all inhibitors. At 0.6 g/L and 303 K, efficiency followed: Zn(II) (85.19%) > Cu(II) (75.18%) > Ni(II) (68.83%) > Co(II) ≈ Mn(II) (67.13%) > Ligand (66.37%), with corrosion rates significantly reduced compared to the blank (249.22 mmy⁻¹).
Copyright (c) 2026 Halliru Muhammad, Ishaq Yahaya Lawan, Aminu Ahmad, Sunusi Yahaya, Khadija Aminu Mahmoud https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
FRAMEWORK OF A LIGHTWEIGHT BLOCKCHAIN-BASED MODEL FOR SECURE INTERNET OF MEDICAL THINGS (IOMT) DATA MANAGEMENT.
The widespread adoption of the Internet of Medical Things (IoMT) is the main factor that brought about big changes in the healthcare system but also at the same time made the system struggle with major issues like data breaches, device incompatibility, scalability problems, delays, and cyber security risks. The conventional security procedures and central cloud storage systems are always limited if one looks at the throughput, cost of implementation, and failure points along with threats to security that are associated with them. This research proposed a lightweight blockchain-based system for the protection of IoMT data while concurrently tackling the issues of performance and scalability. The proposed system consists of six interconnected layers: IoMT device layer, lightweight encryption layer, interoperability layer, lightweight consensus layer, blockchain network layer, and the InterPlanetary File System (IPFS) storage layer. In this architecture, IPFS has been picked as a replacement for traditional cloud storage with an intention to allow decentralized, tamper-proof, and efficient management of medical data. A lightweight consensus mechanism which is specifically designed for IoMT devices that consume low power and are resource constrained is incorporated into the system to bring down transaction processing overhead and at the same time raise system responsiveness. The proposed framework provides a high level of throughput with a low latency when executing transactions ranging from 50 transactions to 5000 transactions.
Copyright (c) 2026 Afolayan Ayodele Obiniyi, Leke Joseph Oloruntoba https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
ISOLATION OF ORAL PATHOGENS ASSOCIATED WITH PERIODONTAL CONDITIONS AND EVALUATION OF THE ANTIMICROBIAL EFFICACY OF SELECTED COMMERCIAL DENTIFRICES
Periodontal disease is a polymicrobial inflammatory condition linked to dental plaque accumulation. Dentifrices are commonly used to aid plaque control and may contain antimicrobial agents; however, their effectiveness varies depending on formulation. This study evaluated microorganisms associated with periodontal conditions and assessed the antimicrobial activity of ten commercially available dentifrices. Fifty oral swab samples were collected and processed using standard microbiological techniques. Streptococcus mutans, Escherichia coli, and Candida albicans were isolated and identified through culture and biochemical tests. The antimicrobial efficacy of ten dentifrices was determined using the Kirby–Bauer disc diffusion method. Zones of inhibition were measured in millimeters and analyzed statistically using one-way ANOVA. A total of 58 isolates were recovered, comprising S. mutans (48.28%), C. albicans (31.03%), and E. coli (20.69%). Antimicrobial activity varied among formulations. Dentifrice B showed the highest antibacterial activity against S. mutans (23.6 mm) and E. coli (24.8 mm), while dentifrice J demonstrated the strongest antifungal activity against C. albicans (23.4 mm). Some formulations exhibited no detectable antimicrobial effect. Commercial dentifrices differ significantly in antimicrobial efficacy. Fluoride-containing formulations demonstrated superior antibacterial activity. Further in vivo studies are required to confirm their clinical effectiveness.
Copyright (c) 2026 Ramatu Abdulkadir Musa, Salihu Ibrahim https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
ASSESSMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPLICATION OF OIL EXPLORATION IN AKKO LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA GOMBE STATE, NIGERIA
Harnessing and exploration of natural resources has become critical in stimulating socio-economic and technological development since industrial revolution, although with all its countless benefits, it also has some numerous environmental impacts that trigger global environmental menace. Therefore, the study assessed the environmental implication of oil exploration in Akko Local Government Area, Gombe State, Nigeria. A multi-stage sampling technique was used in selecting 384 respondents. Data was collected using structure questionnaire, key informant interview (KII) and focus group discussion (FGD). The data was analyzed using statistical tool (SPSS Version 20) and Geographic information system software. findings of the study revealed that, the satellite imagery of land use/land cover of the study area indicated clear changes especially places that were covered by vegetation before, are now occupied by buildings and road constructions and that attests and confirmed commencement of extraction of crude oil in the study area as confirmed by 37.5% of the respondents. Additionally, the study revealed that (79.7%) of the respondents were aware of the oil and gas exploration activities impact negatively on the environment. About 52.9%, 49.2% and 39.8% of the respondents perceived an increase in land crisis, worsen environmental pollution, health concerns, loss of livelihood and conflict of interest, may be the order of the day as their negative expectations respectively. Therefore, the study concluded that oil exploration has impacted negatively in the environment and the ecosystem
Copyright (c) 2026 Hassan Ali Mahmoud, Khalid Umar Shinga https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
STUDY ON PHYSICOCHEMICAL PARAMETERS AND PLANKTON COMPOSITION OF LAKE RIBADU IN FUFORE LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF ADAMAWA STATE, NIGERIA
This study assessed the physicochemical parameters and plankton composition of Lake Ribadu in Fufore Local Government Area of Adamawa State, Nigeria, to determine the influence of water quality on plankton distribution and its abundance. Water samples were collected monthly from three sampling stations (A, B, and C) between July and December 2025. Physicochemical parameters including temperature, turbidity, conductivity, dissolved oxygen (DO), biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), pH, total dissolved solids (TDS), and ammonia were analyzed using standard laboratory procedures. Plankton samples were collected using a 55 µm mesh net, preserved with Lugol’s iodine solution, and identified microscopically using standard identification keys. The Data was analyzed using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) to determine spatial variations among stations. The Results showed that temperature ranged from 22.00 to 29.04°C, turbidity from 38.00 to 66.00 cm, conductivity from 100 to 159 µS/cm, and dissolved oxygen from 3.7 to 6.6 mg/L. The pH ranged from 6.53 to 7.80, BOD from 5.0 to 7.6 mg/L, TDS from 100.60 to 106.86 mg/L, and ammonia from 0.03 to 0.08 mg/L. A total of 21 phytoplankton species belonging to four taxa (Bacillariophyceae, Chlorophyceae, Myxophyceae, and Chrysophyceae) with a total abundance of 433,677 cells/L were recorded. Bacillariophyceae was the dominant group (37.8%), followed by Chlorophyceae (35.12%), Myxophyceae (25.82%), and Chrysophyceae (1.53%). Zooplankton comprised 21 species (125,416 individuals/L), with Copepoda being most abundant (38.18%). The findings indicate that water quality conditions were within acceptable limits and supported diverse plankton communities, with seasonal variations influencing their distribution and abundance patterns.
Copyright (c) 2026 Emmanuel Hassan Inuwa, Abasiryu Apagu, Bamaiyi Chaka, Mshelia B. Mbilari, Musa Mohammed, Ngati Filibus https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
RETRIEVAL OF LAND SURFACE TEMPERATURE FROM EARTH OBSERVATION SATELLITES FOR GAS FLARING SITES IN THE NIGER DELTA, NIGERIA
Land Surface Temperature (LST) at gas flaring sites plays an essential role in various aspects such as monitoring vegetation and its growth; agricultural activities and productivity of several plant species; climate change and disaster monitoring. In the Niger Delta, limited researches have been undertaken on the LST measurement at flaring sites using Earth Observation Satellites (EOS) data. This research investigates the recording of LST by EOS for four gas flaring sites in Rivers State, Nigeria. Eleven Landsat 5 Thematic Mapper (TM) and Twenty Six Landsat 7 Enhanced Thematic Mapper Plus (ETM<!-- [if gte msEquation 12]><m:oMath><m:r>+</m:r></m:oMath><![endif]--> <span style="font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 107%; font-family: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-fareast; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; position: relative; top: 3.0pt; mso-text-raise: -3.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;"><!-- [if gte vml 1]><v:shapetype id="_x0000_t75" coordsize="21600,21600" o:spt="75" o:preferrelative="t" path="m@4@5l@4@11@9@11@9@5xe" filled="f" stroked="f"> <v:stroke joinstyle="miter"/> <v:formulas> <v:f eqn="if lineDrawn pixelLineWidth 0"/> <v:f eqn="sum @0 1 0"/> <v:f eqn="sum 0 0 @1"/> <v:f eqn="prod @2 1 2"/> <v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelWidth"/> <v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelHeight"/> <v:f eqn="sum @0 0 1"/> <v:f eqn="prod @6 1 2"/> <v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelWidth"/> <v:f eqn="sum @8 21600 0"/> <v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelHeight"/> <v:f eqn="sum @10 21600 0"/> </v:formulas> <v:path o:extrusionok="f" gradientshapeok="t" o:connecttype="rect"/> <o:lock v:ext="edit" aspectratio="t"/> </v:shapetype><v:shape id="_x0000_i1025" type="#_x0000_t75" style='width:9pt; height:14.25pt'> <v:imagedata src="file:///C:\Users\USER\AppData\Local\Temp\msohtmlclip1\01\clip_image001.png" o:title="" chromakey="white"/> </v:shape><![endif]--> ) from October 10, 1984 to March 08, 2013 with <!-- [if gte msEquation 12]><m:oMath><m:r><</m:r></m:oMath><![endif]--> <span style="font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 107%; font-family: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-fareast; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; position: relative; top: 3.0pt; mso-text-raise: -3.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;"><!-- [if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_i1025" type="#_x0000_t75" style='width:9pt;height:14.25pt'> <v:imagedata src="file:///C:\Users\USER\AppData\Local\Temp\msohtmlclip1\01\clip_image003.png" o:title="" chromakey="white"/> </v:shape><![endif]--> 5% cloud contamination were considered. Dark Object Subtraction (DOS) method and Atmospheric Correction Parameter (ATMCORR) Calculator were used to obtain the atmospheric correction (AC) effects parameters for the multispectral and the thermal bands respectively. The emissivity for each site is estimated by using standard values for determined land surface cover from the Look Up Table (LUT). The correction obtained from DOS method was applied to the computed reflectance to get the atmospherically corrected reflectance that was used for the classification of land cover. The thermal AC parameters obtained were applied to the calibrated at-sensor radiance band 6 (high gain) data to compute the surface-leaving radiance with the emissivity values obtained for each site. The Planck equation was inverted using the calibration constants to derive LST.
Copyright (c) 2026 Barnabas O. Morakinyo https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
ETHNOBOTANICAL POTENTIAL OF Carica papaya, Psidium guajava AND Azadirachta indica LEAF, BARK EXTRACTS AND THEIR COMBINATION IN INHIBITING THE GROWTH OF Salmonella typhi
The rise of antibiotic resistance among bacterial pathogens, including Salmonella typhi, represents a significant public health challenge worldwide. Salmonella typhi, the causative agent of typhoid fever, continues to cause high morbidity and mortality among people especially in developing countries. An Isolates of Salmonella typhi was obtained from Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital, Kano and treated with three different concentrations (50, 75 and 100 mg/ml) of Azadirachta indica, Psidium Guajava and Carica papaya using disc diffusion method. The results revealed that all the treatments were highly significantly effective against the test organism. The leaf extracts were more effective against the growth of Salmonella typhi than the bark and the combined. Similarly, Carica papaya performed better against the test organism than both A. indica and P. guajava. However, Azadirachta performed better (17.71 mm) than the other treatments (8.86 mm for P. guajava and 11.89 mm for C. papaya.) when combined. The effects of the concentration revealed that the concentration of 100 mg/ml was most effective across all the test materials. Based on the results obtained from this study, it can be concluded that the test materials highly inhibit the growth of Salmonella typhi. Similarly, the leaves of the test materials are more effective than the barks. Also, the leaf of Carica papaya inhibited more Salmonella than either P. guajava or Azadirachta indica.
Copyright (c) 2026 Salifu Christopher Odeje, Hanga Rabia https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
OCCUPATIONAL STRESS, MENTAL HEALTH AND IT’S CORRELATES AMONG HEALTHCARE WORKERS IN AHMADU BELLO UNIVERSITY TEACHING HOSPITAL, ZARIA, KADUNA STATE- NIGERIA
Healthcare workers (HCWs) face increasing occupational stress and poor mental health outcomes due to high workloads, long shifts, and resource constraints. This study assessed occupational stress, mental health, and their correlates among HCWs in Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital (ABUTH), Zaria, Nigeria. A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 110 HCWs (53 doctors, 48 nurses, 4 pharmacists, and 5 laboratory scientists). Participants were selected using proportional sampling. Data were collected using a structured, interviewer-administered questionnaire incorporating the Brief Job Stress Questionnaire (BJSQ) and the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-28). Respondents had a mean age of 34.5 years; 60% were female. Mental stress was prevalent, with 50.9% reporting sleep loss due to worry and 42.7% experiencing nervousness. Overall, 57.3% of HCWs reported work-related stress. Age (χ² = 12.34, df = 3, p = 0.015) and gender (χ² = 4.22, df = 1, p = 0.04) were significantly associated with mental stress. A positive correlation was observed between occupational stress and mental health problems (r = 0.56, p = 0.001), while job satisfaction negatively correlated with stress (r = -0.40, p = 0.021). This occupational stress is significantly associated with poor mental health among HCWs in ABUTH. Workload and low job satisfaction are key drivers. Interventions to reduce workload, improve job satisfaction, and provide mental health support are essential to safeguarding HCWs’ wellbeing.
Copyright (c) 2026 Hamza Isa, Zakiyya Hamza, Hassan Shehu Mohammed, Haruna Abdullahi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
ASSESSING ECOLOGICAL HEALTH: THE IMPACT OF HEAVY METAL CONTAMINATION IN LUHU DAM, ADAMAWA STATE
Water is an essential resource covering 75% of Earth's surface, providing habitat for various organisms and facilitating gas exchange and nutrient transport. However, human activities around Luhu Dam in the Michika Local Government Area of Adamawa State, Nigeria, have increased the presence of heavy metals, which pose significant ecological threats due to bioaccumulation and biomagnification. This study aimed to assess the concentrations of seven heavy metals-iron (Fe), zinc (Zn), cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), chromium (Cr), manganese (Mn), and copper (Cu)-in the surface water and sediments of Luhu Dam over six months (July 2025 to January 2026). Water and sediment samples were collected biweekly from three stations and analyzed using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry. The results revealed distinct spatial variations in metal concentrations. In water samples, significant differences in cadmium (0.01-0.04 mg/l) and manganese (0.057-0.166 mg/l) were observed (p<0.05), while iron, zinc, lead, chromium, and copper showed no significant variations. Mean concentrations of cadmium, lead, and iron exceeded FMEnv and WHO permissible limits, indicating potential health concerns. Sediment samples contained substantially higher metal concentrations, particularly at station 3, where iron (188.3-283.4 mg/kg), zinc (26.41-48.6 mg/kg), and manganese (16.88-30.83 mg/kg) were most prevalent. Significant spatial differences (p<0.05 to p<0.01) in cadmium, zinc, lead, and chromium suggest localized pollution from agricultural runoff and domestic activities. These findings highlight the urgent need for regular monitoring and pollution control strategies to safeguard the ecological integrity of Luhu Dam and the health of local communities.
Copyright (c) 2026 Apagu Abasiryu, Chaka Bamaiyi, Mbilari B. Mshelia, Mohammed Musa, Inuwa E. Hassan, Filibus Ngati https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
A HYBRID PREDICTION MODEL FOR CLASSIFYING STUDENT’S ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE USING VOTING ENSEMBLE METHOD
Single classification algorithms for predicting students’ academic performance often face limitations in accuracy and robustness, especially with high-dimensional educational data. This study proposes a hybrid prediction model that integrates K-Nearest Neighbour (K-NN) and Naïve Bayes (NB) algorithms using a soft voting ensemble technique to classify students’ academic performance into high, average, and low categories. The Cross-Industry Standard Process for Data Mining (CRISP-DM) and Object-Oriented Analysis and Design Methodology (OOADM) guided the study. Primary data were collected from 240 third-year nursing students of Abia State University, Uturu, across two academic semesters, using 38 demographic, academic, social, and prior performance features. The models were implemented in Python using Scikit-learn and related libraries, with an 80:20 train-test split after preprocessing and feature scaling. Performance was evaluated using accuracy, precision, recall, F1-score, ROC-AUC, and confusion matrices. Results show that the hybrid model achieved superior performance, attaining 100% accuracy and outperforming the standalone K-NN model. The classification results indicated that 51.7% of students were high performers, 10.8% average, and 37.5% low. The deployed system provides performance-based advisory support and demonstrates strong potential for early intervention, personalized learning, and academic planning in educational institutions.
Copyright (c) 2026 Jane Ngozi Oruh, Basil Chukwuemeka Iwuji https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
STATISTICAL EVALUATION AND OPTIMISATION OF BIODIESEL PRODUCTION FROM Gmelina arborea LEAF BIOMASS USING CALCIUM HYDROXIDE CATALYSIS UNDER MILD CONDITIONS
Amid growing demand for sustainable energy, this work explores the production of third-generation biodiesel from waste Gmelina arborea leaf biomass using calcium hydroxide as an earth-abundant heterogeneous catalyst under mild conditions. Biodiesel synthesis was systematically investigated using a Box-Behnken design with 17 runs, with yields quantified as both percentage yield and specific yield (mg/g). Biodiesel yields varied widely, ranging from 0.23 to 30.00% (17.1-1259.8 mg/g), indicating a strong dependence on synergistic interactions among operating parameters rather than on individual variables alone. Reproducibility analysis conducted under identical reaction conditions yielded a mean biodiesel yield of 6.38% with a coefficient of variation of 36.1%, indicating acceptable process stability for a heterogeneous lignocellulosic system. While one-way ANOVA indicated that temperature alone did not exert a statistically significant influence on biodiesel yield within the studied range (p > 0.05), the strong variation in yields across different parameter combinations, culminating in a peak yield of 30.00% at 50 °C, 40 min, and 2.0 wt% catalyst loading, suggests that temperature effects are highly dependent on synergistic interactions with catalyst loading and reaction time. Overall, the results demonstrate that waste leaf biomass can serve as a viable third-generation biodiesel feedstock when coupled with mild calcium hydroxide catalysis, offering an energy-efficient and sustainable pathway that minimises food-fuel competition and supports circular bioeconomy development.
Copyright (c) 2026 Abubakar M. Ali, Hadiza Shuaibu, Haruna Ibrahim https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
COMPARATIVE PERFORMANCE OF MACHINE LEARNING MODELS FOR CREDIT CARD FRAUD DETECTION ON IMBALANCED DATA: A STUDY USING SMOTE AND THE KAGGLE EUROPEAN DATASET
Credit card fraud continues to be a major challenge in financial systems, causing substantial monetary losses and undermining trust in electronic transactions. Detecting fraudulent activities is complicated by the highly imbalanced nature of transaction datasets. This study evaluates the performance of four machine learning models including LinearSVC (Fast SVM), Logistic Regression, Decision Tree, and Random Forest using a Kaggle credit card dataset. Data preprocessing involved handling class imbalance using the Synthetic Minority Oversampling Technique (SMOTE) and standardizing feature values to improve model training stability. Each model was trained and assessed using metrics such as accuracy, precision, recall, F1-score, and AUC–ROC, with confusion matrices and ROC curves providing visual evaluation. Experimental results demonstrate that LinearSVC achieved the highest balance between precision (0.9983) and F1-score (0.9881), while Random Forest achieved near-perfect accuracy (0.9999) but slightly lower precision (0.8800) and recall (0.9002), highlighting trade-offs between overall accuracy and fraud detection sensitivity. The findings emphasize the importance of careful model selection and preprocessing in imbalanced financial datasets. Future work will investigate the integration of deep learning models and real-time fraud detection frameworks, as well as validation on additional datasets from diverse financial environments to enhance model robustness and generalizability.
Copyright (c) 2026 Opeyemi Femi Ojo, Paul Olawale Otaru, Eunice O.Job, Benson Onoghojobi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
DYNAMIC ANALYSIS OF A NON-PRISMATIC DAMPED CANTILEVER THIN BEAM RESTING ON AN EXPONENTIALLY DECAYING ELASTIC FOUNDATION UNDER CONSTANT AND HARMONIC DISTRIBUTED LOADS
This research examines the dynamic response of a non-prismatic damped cantilever thin beam (NPDCTB) under constant distributed load (CDL) and harmonic distributed load (HDL). The beam governing equation is a fourth-order partial differential equation (PDE), which is reduced into a second-order ordinary differential equation (ODE) using the generalized Galerkin method (GGM). The resulting ODEs are solved analytically for both loading cases using Laplace transforms (LT) and convolution theory (CT) to evaluate the transverse deflection of the NPDCTB. The effects of load speed c, axial force, damping coefficient, beam depth, and beam breadth on the dynamic response are examined and presented in the curve. The results showed the significant influence of cantilever boundary conditions on the vibration characteristics of non-prismatic beams under dynamic loading. The results demonstrate that load speed significantly amplifies the transverse deflection, while increases in axial force, damping coefficient, beam depth, and beam breadth lead to reductions in vibration amplitude.
Copyright (c) 2026 Taiwo Aanu Ogunlusi, Lawrence Osa Adoghe, Adamu Bala, Ezekiel Olaoluwa Omole, Folasade Helen Odeniyan-Fakuade, Taiwo Stepen Fayose https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
FIRST ISOLATION OF LUPEOL FROM THE ETHYL ACETATE SOLUBLE FRACTION OF THE METHANOL ROOT BARK EXTRACT OF Pterocarpus erinaceus (POIR)
Lupeol, a known pentacyclic triterpenoid was isolated from ethyl acetate soluble fraction of the methanol extract of the root-bark of Pterocarpus erinaceus. The plant is used in ethno-medicine to treat inflammation, hemorrhoid, cancer, wounds healing, worm expulsion and abdominal pain. One kilogram (1.0 kg) of the plant material was extracted with 2.5 L of methanol yielding 100 g (10.0 %) of the methanol extract using cold maceration method. The methanol extract was partioned with ethyl acetate and n- hexane yielding 20.5 g (2.05 %) and 15.6 g (1.56. %) respectively. Fifteen (15 mg) of 6.0 g (0.25 %) of the ethyl acetate soluble fraction was isolated by a combination of thin layer chromatography (TLC), column chromatography (CC) and preparative thin layer chromatography (PTLC). The structure of the compound which was coded as PEB2 was determined by analyses of its FTIR and MS spectral data as well as comparison with reported literature. FTIR showed broad absorption frequency at 3302.4 cm-1 which is typical of a hydroxyl group. A fairly intense bands at 2922.2 cm-1 and 2851.4 cm-1 that can be assigned to an aliphatic C-H (stretch) was observed. The C=C vibration frequency was observed at 1640.0 cm-`1. Mass spectral data gave a molecular formula C30H50O with m/z 426. The compound appeared as white needle- like crystal with melting point of 217-218oC. The compound was further confirmed by positive Liebermann - Buchard test for triterpenoid. This is the first report of isolation of Lupeol from the root bark of Pterocarpus erinaceus.
Copyright (c) 2026 Manasseh Bidam Yakubu, James Yusuf, Victor Abarau Rwuaan https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
EFFECTS OF CHARCOAL UTILIZATION AS A SOURCE OF DOMESTIC ENERGY IN POTISKUM LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF YOBE STATE
Primary and secondary data were obtained through questionnaire administration, field observation, interview and observations, as well as data from journals, literature and Newspaper respectively. A simple random sampling technique was adopted for the purpose of the research where 150 questionnaires were administered in the selected sample ward. Thus, the finding of the study reveals that majority of the population (70%) utilized charcoal for domestic utilization not knowing it environmental health effect. It further reveals that charcoal as source of domestic energy has detrimental impact to the community as it causes health problem such as asthma, bronchioles, skin rashes and itching and eye problem and also environmental problem such as soil degradation, pollution among other. Hence the study recommended that provision of alternative source of energy such as cooking gases or the use biomass energy which will reduce emission and aid in reducing both health and environmental menace of charcoal as source of domestic energy. Government should provide alternative source of energy utilization which are less harm to the environment and to human health such as solar energy, electrical energy, wind energy among other. Government should also impose policy on the use of alternative energy and conducts public awareness and enlightenment with regard to the effects and consequences of charcoal utilization to reduce air pollution and other health related issues.
Copyright (c) 2026 Tijjani Yahaya Abdullahi, Faiz Tijjani Ismail, Aminu M. Gero https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
IN-VITRO AND IN-VIVO EVALUATION OF Adansonia digitata AND Azadirachta indica WOOD ASH AS NATURAL REPELLENTS AND ACARICIDES AGAINST LICE INFESTATION IN POULTRY FARMS IN KADUNA
Poultry production supports food security and economic growth, yet infestations by wing lice (Lipeurus caponis) and chicken body louse (Menacanthus stramineus) threaten productivity. Synthetic insecticides/acaricides raise safety concerns, prompting the search for eco-friendly alternatives. The study evaluated the acaricidal (insecticidal) and repellency efficacy of wood ash from Adansonia digitata (baobab) and Azadirachta indica (neem) against poultry lice collected in a selected poultry farm located in Kaduna metropolis, Kaduna state Nigeria. The selected stem-barks of the trees were collected, authenticated, vouchered and processed to wood-ash at the Department of Biological Sciences, Kaduna State University; Geochemical analysis assessed metal content and pH (9.01–10.75). In-vitro repellency and kill-time assays (0.25–1.0 g/cm³) used 20–25 lice per trial, while in-vivo assays and hematological evaluations (50–150 g/kg) determined physiological effects. A. digitata (baobab) showed higher repellency (84.4% at 0.25 g/cm2) and faster mortality (40 min at 1.0 g/cm³) than A. indica. Acaricidal / Insecticidal bioassay reveals A. digitata (1.0 g/cm²) achieved 93.3% mortality by 48 hours, while A. indica. (neem) reached 78.3%. Wood ashes, particularly from A. digitata, offer eco-safe, effective alternatives for sustainable poultry lice management.
Copyright (c) 2026 Hosea Chigari Yayock, Esther Godiya Kadani, Ibrahim Basira, Kato Ishaya Auta https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
IMPACT OF FLOODING ON HOUSING QUALITY AND LIVABILITY IN RIVERINE COMMUNITIES OF KEBBI STATE, NIGERIA: A REVIEW FOR SUSTAINABLE STRATEGIES
This study examines the impacts of flooding on residential infrastructure and community well-being in riverine settlements. Armchair analysis and review of recent literature were used to extract relevant information for the study. The review identifies four key impact dimensions: structural damage and material degradation, indoor environmental quality deterioration, socio-economic implications, and community resilience challenges. Findings demonstrate that flooding leads to structural damages and drastic decrease of property value of the degraded structures, compromised indoor air quality with mold spore concentrations 200-40%. The study also highlights critical gaps in insurance coverage affecting 70% of 500% above baseline, households and substantial socio-economic burdens, particularly on vulnerable populations. Additionally, the study explores the socioeconomic implications of flood-related housing damage, including property devaluation, increased maintenance costs, and insurance challenges. The paper concludes by proposing evidence-based recommendations for flood-resilient housing design, policy interventions, and community-level adaptation strategies to enhance housing sustainability in flood-prone areas. This comprehensive analysis contributes to the growing body of knowledge on climate change adaptation and sustainable urban development in vulnerable riverine settlements. Key recommendations for enhancing community resilience were advanced, including implementing flood-resistant construction strategies, updating building codes, developing comprehensive emergency response networks, and establishing financial assistance programs.
Copyright (c) 2026 Mustafa Muhammad Kwaifa, Lekan Mohammed Sanni, Olaide Sheerifdeen Akande, Bamiji Micheal Adeleye https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
ESTIMATION OF ENTRANCE SKIN DOSE IN ANALOGUE X-RAY FACILITIES OF SOUTHERN DELTA STATE, NIGERIA: A MATHEMATICAL APPROACH TO RADIOLOGICAL PROTECTION
Radiation dose optimisation in diagnostic radiography is essential for patient safety and adherence to international standards. In many developing regions, analogue X-ray systems remain in use, raising concerns about elevated exposure levels. This study evaluated entrance skin dose (ESD) and effective dose in four government-owned hospitals in southern Delta State, Nigeria, all operating analogue X-ray equipment. Patient examinations included three routine projections: chest (AP), pelvis (SV), and abdomen (LS). The mean ESD values obtained were BGH1 (1.04 mGy), BGH2 (0.94 mGy), DEXC1 (1.78 mGy), and DEXC2 (0.87 mGy). These values exceeded the international diagnostic reference level of 0.4 mGy, though they were lower than those reported in several previous studies and marginally higher than results published by the same authors elsewhere. The elevated doses may reflect suboptimal operator techniques and inadequate equipment maintenance. Although quality control assessments are mandated quarterly, inconsistent compliance likely contributes to the observed deviations. The findings emphasize the need for stricter enforcement of quality assurance protocols and enhanced operator training to reduce patient radiation exposure. While the recorded doses remain within diagnostic ranges, optimization of radiographic practice is imperative to align with international benchmarks and safeguard patient health.
Copyright (c) 2026 Anita F. Akpolile, Amanda A. Ukerun-Akpesiri, Crownbirth E. Eki, Francisca E. Abdul https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
EFFECT OF CLIMATE CHANGE ON WILDLIFE SPECIES IN DAJIN BATURIYA WETLAND AREA OF HADEJIA LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF JIGAWA STATE
The study focused on effects of climate change on wildlife species in Baturiya wetland Area in Jigawa state. The methodology employed in the study was sampled plots. The results reveal that decreasing cold fronts, decrease in precipitation, decreasing vegetation structure, soil moisture and increasing heat intensity are the effects of climate change and on other hand the causes of climate change on wildlife specie in Dajin baturiya wetland include overgrazing, logging, wildfires, illegal mining and erosion. It also identifies ant poaching, fire tracing, erosion control and tree planting as measures to mitigate the impacts of climate change in the study area.The findings show that in all the four plot there exist factors causing climate change. These causes identified include overgrazing Which expose the bare soil to sunlight and erosion. Illegal logging, wildfires which kills fauna and flora in the area. Erosion exposes the roots and uproot trees. The recommendations are the concern authorities should beef up ant poaching patrol so as to stop humans from entering the area and setting fires, cutting trees, grazing and killing animals. Environmental education campaigns, should be carried out in the communities around the area on conservation and the impacts of climate change and global warmingImproving legal and political frameworks for climate change, global warming and the environment in general. The work would help the policy makers, stakeholders to achieve goals especially in the area selected, Baturiya wetland of Kirikasamma local government in Jigawa State.
Copyright (c) 2026 Tijjani Yahaya Abdullahi, Abdulrasheed Muhammad Karage, Faiz Tijjani Ismail, Musa Musawa Ahmad, Shuaib Uba Babanta https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
ACUTE AND SUB-ACUTE ORAL TOXICITY EVALUATION OF METHANOL LEAF EXTRACT OF Vitellaria Paradoxa gaertn F. IN WISTAR RATS
Toxicity studies of medicinal plants are essential for regulatory approval and for their therapeutic application Aim:The study aimed at evaluating the acute and sub-acute toxicity of the methanol leaf extract of Vitellaria paradoxa Gaertn F. in Wistar rats.Methods:Phytochemical screening of the extract was done using the methods of Trease and Evans (2004).The LD50 was determined using OECD (2008) Guideline 425, while the sub-acute toxicity test was conducted for 14 days at extract doses of 250, 500 and 1000 mg/kg (n=10) using OECD(2008)Guideline407.Carbohydrates,alkaloids,flavonoids,saponins,tannins, steroids/terpenes and cardiac glycosides were found in the extract but anthraquinones were absent. No signs and symptoms of toxicity, and no mortality were recorded in the acute toxicity test and the LD50 of the extract was estimated to be greater than 5000 mg/kg. Sub-acute toxicity test of the extract produced significant increases (p<0.05) in liver enzymes such as ALT and AST at extract doses tested. All the extract doses significantly decreased (p<0.05) serum urea levels, but serum creatinine levels, potassium and chloride ions concentrations were similar to those of the control group. Histological examination of the liver and kidneys showed that the extract produced slight hepatic necrosis and tubular necrosis respectively. All extract doses tested did not significantly (p>0.05) alter haematological parameters in Wistar rats.The methanol leaf extract of Vitellaria paradoxa is non-toxic in acute toxicity test, but it should be used with caution on prolonged administration as it could be toxic to liver and kidneys.
Vitellaria paradoxa methanol leaf extract
Copyright (c) 2026 AbdulFatai Jimoh, Halima Mohammed, Rukayyat Bukola Oloyede, Musa Itopa Yakubu, Danjuma Mallam, Asma'u I-J Bashir, Micah Timothy, Safiya Suleiman Sambo https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0