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
DYNAMICS OF SUTTERBY NANOFLUID FLOW PAST A LINEARLY STRETCHING SHEET WITH SORET AND DUFOUR EFFECTS IN THE PRESENCE OF HOMOGENEOUS–HETEROGENEOUS REACTIONS
This paper investigates the effect of Dufour and Soret in the presence of homogeneous-heterogeneous reaction on the Sutterby nanofluid model over a stretching sheet. The problem of heat and mass transfer behavior of sutter by nanofluid a non-Newtonian fluid model represents dilute polymer solution which previously has not been treated together. The boundary layer partial differential equations are converted using appropriate transformations into ordinary differential equations. The homotopy analysis technique is used to solve nonlinear ordinary differential equations. The effects of various relevant parameters on velocity, temperature, and concentration profiles are graphically discussed. The behavior of the skin friction coefficient and the Nusselt number are also investigated.
Mathematical, Computer & Statistical Sciences
Copyright (c) 2026 Hamisu Usman Auwalu, Muhammad Auwal Danjuma https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
HEAVY METAL DISTRIBUTION, BIOACCUMULATION AND HEALTH RISK ASSESSMENT OF RICE CULTIVATED IN IDAH, KOGI STATE
This study evaluated the distribution, bioaccumulation, and health risks of heavy metals in soil, water, and different parts of rice plants (roots, stems, and grains) cultivated in the floodplain of River Niger in Idah, Kogi State. Soil, water, and plant samples were collected and analyzed for arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), zinc (Zn), chromium (Cr), and nickel (Ni) using standard analytical procedures. Soil physicochemical properties were also determined, and statistical and risk assessment models were applied. Results showed that mean metal concentrations in soil followed the order Cr (22.7 mg/kg) > Pb (18.3 mg/kg) > Cd (0.83 mg/kg), indicating moderate contamination. Water samples contained lower concentrations, while rice grains accumulated detectable levels of Pb (4.45 mg/kg) and Cd (0.35 mg/kg). Significant variation (p < 0.05) in metal distribution across plant parts was observed, with accumulation highest in roots and lowest in grains. Bioaccumulation analysis revealed Cd as a strong accumulator (BAF = 1.08), while translocation factors indicated moderate movement of metals within the plant system. Health risk assessment indicated that individual Target Hazard Quotients were below 1; however, the cumulative Hazard Index exceeded unity, suggesting potential health risks from combined exposure. Cancer risk values for Cd and As (~10⁻³) exceeded acceptable limits. The findings highlight the need for continuous monitoring and improved agricultural practices to minimize heavy metal contamination and ensure food safety.
Copyright (c) 2026 Veronica Amina Owoleke, Gloria Taiye Olubiyo, Haruna Mohammed Isah, Oluwafemi Stephen Owoleke, Ojo Isah John https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
ENHANCING RANSOMWARE CLASSIFICATION USING LIGHT WEIGHT MACHINE LEARNING ALGORITHM AND ENSEMBLE METHODS
The increasing sophistication and frequency of ransomware attacks pose significant challenges to cybersecurity, particularly in resource-constrained environments where computational efficiency is essential. Traditional detection models often struggle to maintain high accuracy while minimizing false positives and computational overhead, limiting their practical deployment in real-time systems. Addressing this challenge, this research aims to develop a lightweight, efficient, and adaptive machine learning framework that enhances ransomware classification by integrating ensemble learning with advanced feature selection techniques. The study’s objectives include designing a soft voting ensemble model that combines multiple high-performing classifiers to improve accuracy and reduce misclassification rates, applying Recursive Feature Elimination (RFE) to systematically identify and retain the most relevant features for improved efficiency and reduced overfitting, and employing Principal Component Analysis (PCA) to compress the feature space into a set of uncorrelated components while preserving critical detection information. The proposed framework was trained and tested on the “Ransomware-All” subset of the CIC-AndMal2017 dataset containing 348,943 samples with 84 features, and its performance was evaluated using accuracy, precision, recall, and F1 score as metrics. Results show that the soft voting ensemble achieved an accuracy of 99.10%, with both precision and recall at 0.989, outperforming all individual classifiers while significantly lowering false positive and false negative rates. These outcomes demonstrate that the integration of lightweight algorithms, ensemble learning, and feature selection offers a robust and scalable solution for ransomware detection, making it highly suitable for deployment in environments such as IoT devices, mobile platforms, and edge computing systems.
Copyright (c) 2026 Victor Uneojo Akuboh, Olalekan J. Awujoola, Lasisi A. Monsuru, Saifulahi S. Shitu, Amina Adebola, Catherine A. Abimuku, Badamasi A. Musa, Ejima U. Innocent https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
ALLELOPATHIC EFFECTS OF Tithonia diversifolia N-BUTANOLIC SUB-FRACTIONS ON WEED SUPPRESSION, GERMINATION, AND CYTOTOXICITY IN TWO COWPEA VARIETIES
The search for sustainable alternatives to synthetic herbicides has intensified interest in plant-derived allelochemicals for weed management. This study evaluated the effects of Tithonia diversifolia n-butanolic sub-fractions on weed suppression indices, germination, seedling growth, and cytotoxicity in two varieties of Vigna unguiculata (Vital-5 and K-28). Germination was significantly reduced in all treated groups compared to the control, with sub-fraction G exhibiting the strongest inhibitory effect, particularly in Vital-5, while K-28 showed relatively higher tolerance. Seedling growth responses revealed consistent inhibition of radicle elongation across treatments, whereas some sub-fractions (E and H) stimulated plumule growth in K-28, suggesting a hormetic response. All sub-fractions demonstrated measurable weed suppression, with G showing the highest suppression and E exhibiting the greatest weed suppression efficiency. Cytological analyses revealed pronounced mitotic abnormalities, including micronuclei formation, chromosomal fragmentation, spindle disruption, and complete mitotic arrest, indicating strong cytotoxic and effects. Overall, the findings highlight the significant allelopathic and bioherbicidal potential of T. diversifolia n-butanolic sub-fractions. However, the observed phytotoxicity to cowpea underscores the need for optimization to achieve selective weed control in sustainable agricultural systems.
Copyright (c) 2026 AbdulAziz Ayinla, Wasiu O Opadokun, AbdulRasheed O Koiki, Umar B Olayinka, Amudalat R. Lawal, Lukman B. AbdulRauf, AbdulAzeez Balogun, AbdulToyyeeb Bello, Isiaka Kareem, Fatimoh T Ridwan,, Ganiyat T Abdulkareem, Zainab N Abubakar, Khadijah Mohammed, Asiaw Abdulganiy https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
STRUCTURE-BASED DISCOVERY OF ABSCISIC ACID RECEPTOR AGONISTS TARGETING ZMPYL9 AND ZMPYL12 FOR AGROCHEMICAL DEVELOPMENT
Abiotic stress, particularly drought, remains a major limitation to crop productivity, necessitating innovative strategies to enhance plant resilience. Abscisic acid (ABA) signalling, mediated by PYR/PYL/RCAR receptors, plays a central role in stress adaptation; however, structural and functional insights into specific maize receptors such as ZmPYL9 and ZmPYL12 remain limited. This study employed an integrated computational approach to characterize these receptors and identify potential ABA-mimicking agrochemicals. High-quality homology models of ZmPYL9 and ZmPYL12 were constructed using templates with >94% sequence identity, yielding structurally robust models validated by stereochemical and non-bonded interaction metrics. Pharmacophore modelling and molecular docking revealed key ligand-binding features consistent with the canonical gate-latch-lock activation mechanism. Several compounds exhibited strong binding affinities (≤ −10 kcal/mol), while MM-GBSA analysis identified compounds 10661840 (−96.18 kcal/mol) and 10588337 (−93.21 kcal/mol) as the most stable ligands for ZmPYL9, and compound 134611692 (−94.73 kcal/mol) for ZmPYL12. Drug-likeness evaluation confirmed compliance with agrochemical criteria, while ADMET profiling indicated high bioavailability, low metabolic interference, and minimal toxicity. Notably, ZmPYL9 demonstrated superior ligand-binding performance, suggesting greater suitability for targeted modulation. This study therefore provide novel insights into receptor-specific ligand interactions and establishes a robust structure-based framework for the rational design of ABA agonists. The identified lead compounds represent promising candidates for developing environmentally safe agrochemicals aimed at improving crop tolerance to abiotic stress.Top of Form
Copyright (c) 2026 AbdulAziz Ayinla, Ahmad S. Ibrahim, Wasiu O Opadokun, Umar B. Olayinka, Amudalat R Lawal, AbdulAzeez Balogun, AbdulRasheed O Koiki, Quam A Alao, Sunday A. Oyelekan https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
A REVIEW ON THE EFFECT OF CASSAVA PEEL MEAL IN LIVESTOCK PRODUCTION
Cassava peels are abundant agro-industrial by-products generated during cassava processing particularly in major producing countries such as Nigeria. Despite its availability, their utilization in livestock feeding is constrained by low protein content, poor digestibility and the presence of anti-nutritional factors such as cyanogenic glycosides and phytate. This review evaluates the potential of cassava peels as an alternative energy source in livestock diets, focusing on its nutritional characteristics, limitations, and methods for improvement. Processing techniques, especially fermentation, have been shown to reduce toxic compounds and enhance nutrient availability. Evidence from various studies indicates that properly processed cassava peels can partially or completely replace conventional feed ingredients like maize in poultry, ruminant, rabbit and swine diets without adverse effects on performance. Their inclusion also contributes to reduced feed costs and improved sustainability through waste utilization. However, further research is therefore required to evaluate long-term safety, particularly the accumulation of residual hydrogen cyanide in animal tissues.
Copyright (c) 2026 Chukwuma Marley Obado, samson Ade, Peter Irikefe-Ekeke, Oghale Evelyn Agadama, Alex Ifo Amata https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
IN-OVO INJECTION OF Citrus aurantifolia EXTRACT AT DAY 18 OF INCUBATION: EFFECTS ON INCUBATION TRAITS, HATCHABILITY, GROWTH PERFORMANCE, AND HAEMATOLOGICAL INDICES OF ISA BROWN LAYER CHICKS
This study evaluated the effects of in-ovo injection of extract of Citrus aurantifolia administered at day 18 of incubation-on-incubation characteristics, hatchability traits, post-hatch growth performance (to day 28), and haematological indices of ISA Brown layer chicks. A fresh matured Citrus aurantifolia seeds were air-dried at room temperature for 3 weeks and extraction was done using water and ethanol. A total of 360 fertile eggs (120 eggs per treatment; 3 replicates of 40 eggs each) were assigned to three treatments: uninjected control (0 µg/ml; T1), 0.4 µg/ml extract (T2), and 0.6 µg/ml of Citrus aurantiifolia seed extract (T3). Percentage egg weight loss (PEWL) was determined between 0–12, 12–18, and 0–18 d of incubation. Hatchability, chick yield, hatch residue analysis, growth performance, and day-old haematology were evaluated. Data were subjected to analysis of variance. There was significantly (P ≤ 0.05) reduction of PEWL across incubation periods. Whereas hatchability and chick yield were not significant (P > 0.05). Chicks from T3 showed improved feed conversion ratio (FCR) and higher packed cell volume (PCV), haemoglobin (Hb), and red blood cell (RBC) counts. However, dead chick percentage increased at the higher dose. These findings indicate that low-volume in-ovo administration of C. aurantifolia extract (CASE) can enhance physiological status and feed efficiency of ISA Brown chicks, although proper dose adjustment is needed.
Copyright (c) 2026 Muhammad Umar Dogara, Sani M. Sani, Ramalan H. Abdullahi, Harirat L. Mundi, Zainab Abdullahi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
SOLVENT-DEPENDENT ANTIBACTERIAL, PHYTOCHEMICAL AND ANTIOXIDANT ACTIVITIES OF Zingiber officinale RHIZOME FROM KAURA LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF SOUTHERN KADUNA, NIGERIA
The increasing prevalence of antimicrobial resistance and oxidative stress–related disorders has stimulated interest in medicinal plants as sources of bioactive compounds. This study evaluated the antibacterial, phytochemical, and antioxidant activities of Zingiber officinale rhizome extracts obtained from Kaura Local Government Area of Southern Kaduna, Nigeria. Powdered rhizomes were extracted using n-hexane, ethyl acetate, and methanol by cold maceration. Antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecalis, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa was determined using the agar well diffusion method, while minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) were evaluated using broth dilution assays. Phytochemical screening and antioxidant activity were assessed using standard qualitative methods, total phenolic and flavonoid content determination, and the DPPH radical scavenging assay. The methanol extract exhibited the strongest antibacterial activity, producing inhibition zones of 13.00–18.00 mm at 50 mg/mL, with S. aureus showing the highest susceptibility (MIC = 12.5 mg/mL). Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, phenols, terpenoids, glycosides, and saponins. The methanol extract showed the highest total phenolic content (1907.67 mg GAE/100 g), whereas the ethyl acetate extract had the highest flavonoid content (207.33 mg QE/100 g). Antioxidant evaluation demonstrated concentration-dependent radical scavenging activity, with the methanol extract exhibiting the strongest activity (IC₅₀ = 30.12 µg/mL). These results highlight the potential of Z. officinale from Southern Kaduna as a natural source of antibacterial and antioxidant compounds.
Copyright (c) 2026 Isah A. Jaafaru, Shuaibu B. Sanusi, Nura Mohammed, Aisha Usman, Shitu M. Lawal, Ahmad Muhammad https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
EXAMINING CYBERSECURITY VULNERABILITIES IN CONSTRUCTION COMPANIES IN NIGERIA
The increasing adoption of digital technologies in the construction industry has improved project coordination, communication, and efficiency. Tools such as Building Information Modeling (BIM), cloud-based platforms, and mobile communication systems are now widely used by construction firms. However, the growing reliance on these digital systems has also exposed construction companies to significant cybersecurity risks. In Nigeria, where the construction sector plays a key role in infrastructure development, many firms lack adequate cybersecurity preparedness, making them vulnerable to cyber threats. This study examines the vulnerabilities of construction companies to cybersecurity threats within Lagos State construction industry. A quantitative research approach was adopted using a cross-sectional survey design. Data were collected from 300 construction professionals, including architects, builders, engineers, quantity surveyors, estate valuers, and town planners, through a structured questionnaire. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, a one-sample t-test, and exploratory factor analysis with the aid of SPSS. The findings revealed several major cybersecurity vulnerabilities, including the use of unsecured networks, risks associated with remote work, limited cybersecurity resources, unpatched software vulnerabilities, insufficient data protection, and inadequate access control. The t-test results confirmed that all identified vulnerabilities were statistically significant (p < 0.05). Factor analysis further grouped the vulnerabilities into three key components: technical weaknesses, organizational and policy gaps, and human and external risks. The study concludes that strengthening cybersecurity policies, improving awareness, and investing in secure digital systems are essential for protecting construction firms from cyber threats and ensuring safer digital operations in the Nigerian construction industry.
Copyright (c) 2026 Idowu Albert, Ayodeji Opeyemi Osadola https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
DOSE-DEPENDENT EFFECTS OF ORAL ADMINISTRATION OF ORANGE JUICE ON EPIDIDYMAL SPERM RESERVE AND SEMEN QUALITY IN ADULT MALE RABBITS
Citrus sinensis (sweet orange) is rich in vitamins, flavonoids, and bioactive compounds with antioxidant and immunomodulatory properties, which may influence growth performance, haematological parameters, and male reproductive function. This study evaluated the effects of graded doses of Citrus sinensis juice on growth performance, haematology, immune response, and epididymal sperm reserve in adult male rabbits. A total of twenty (20) rabbits were assigned to control, low (3 ml), medium (5 ml), and high (10 ml) juice dose groups and treated for six weeks. Body weight, average daily gain, haematological indices, white blood cell counts, and epididymal sperm parameters were assessed. Administration of Citrus sinensis juice resulted in a dose-dependent increase in body weight gain and average daily gain, particularly in the medium and high-dose groups, although differences were not statistically significant (p > 0.05). Haematological parameters, including packed cell volume and haemoglobin, remained stable, while white blood cell counts increased significantly (p < 0.05) in medium and high-dose groups, indicating enhanced immune activity without pathological lesions. Epididymal sperm reserve and morphometric indices exhibited trends toward improvement at higher doses, consistent with the antioxidant-mediated protection of spermatozoa; however, these changes were generally not statistically significant (p > 0.05). Some variability in sperm motility and morphometric parameters suggests dose-dependent and individual physiological responses. Citrus sinensis juice supplementation may support growth, maintain haematological stability, enhance immune function, and potentially improve male reproductive parameters in rabbits. Observed variability underscores the need for further studies to optimize dosing and clarify mechanisms of action.
Copyright (c) 2026 Mbursa Chiroma, Mapida Agabus Nuhu, Kwaru Mbursa Chiroma, Ijuptil Chiroma, Mubarak Sambo, Maryam Suleiman Bello, Mustapha Muhammad Aisami, Abubakkar Muhammad Wakil, Hannah A. Madziga, William Arastus Arastus https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
POTENTIALLY TOXIC METALS, SEDIMENT–WATER PARTITIONING AND ECOLOGICAL RISK ASSESSMENT IN A TROPICAL INDUSTRIAL DRAINAGE SYSTEM: IMPLICATIONS FOR REMEDIATION STRATEGIES IN LAGOS, NIGERIA
The drainage canal within the Ikeja industrial area along the Agidingbi axis in Lagos, Nigeria serves as a major receptor for effluents generated from surrounding industrial and residential activities. This study evaluated the physicochemical characteristics and concentrations of selected potentially toxic metals in wastewater and canal sediments. Wastewater and sediment samples were collected from upstream and downstream locations during morning and evening periods over five consecutive days between October and November 2023. Physicochemical parameters were determined using standard analytical procedures, while metal concentrations were quantified using inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry (ICP-AES). The results revealed pH values ranging from 6.25 to 8.80, temperatures between 29.0 and 31.0 °C, electrical conductivity of 422–1035 µS/cm, biological oxygen demand (BOD) of 34–100 mg/L, and chemical oxygen demand (COD) of 233–973 mg/L. While pH, temperature, and BOD largely complied with National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) limits, conductivity and COD exceeded recommended thresholds. Mean concentrations of Cd, Cr, Fe, Pb, and Zn in wastewater were within regulatory limits, whereas iron concentrations in sediments exceeded permissible values. The results indicate progressive environmental stress within the Agidingbi industrial corridor, driven primarily by sustained industrial and domestic discharges (Figure 1).
Copyright (c) 2026 Temitayo Richard Kuteyi, Nurudeen Akinwale Akinsanya, Christopher Opeoluwa Awonubi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
A SYSTEMATIC STUDY OF CYBERSECURITY MESH ARCHITECTURE
In recent times, technological advancements—spanning across decentralized devices, cloud platforms, widespread Internet of Things (IOT) ecosystems—have rendered traditional perimeter-centric defense systems insufficient, and this has drawn much attention. In response, Cybersecurity Mesh Architecture (CSMA) emerges as the essential framework for securing modern, distributed environments, by providing organizations with a strategic edge in protecting their digital transformation efforts. To better understand this trend, this study systematically reviews developments in CSMA researches, drawing insights from previous literatures. It examines the architecture’s core components and practical implementations. Additionally, organizations benefit from increased operational efficiency through security automation, critical infrastructure and extended enterprise ecosystems. The study presents a conceptual model of CSMA and critically evaluates recent scholarly works that address its application, integration challenges (notably with legacy systems), and risk mitigation strategies. It highlights key unresolved issues and research challenges that need to be addressed to strengthen cyber security. Ultimately, this study examines CSMA’s growing significance as a strategic solution in today’s dynamic and challenging threat environment and its ability to transform cybersecurity practices in digitally evolving organizations. Findings indicate that the adoption of CSMA yields significant improvements in organizational security performance. Across multiple studies, CSMA is associated with enhanced threat detection capabilities, faster incident response times, and more consistent policy enforcement. Empirical evidence further demonstrates that when integrated with advanced techniques such as edge computing and adaptive policy mechanisms, CSMA contributes to higher detection accuracy, reduced response latency, and lower false-positive rates.
Copyright (c) 2026 Suleman Idris Zubairu, Rabiu Ibrahim Suleiman, Aliyu Abdullahi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
COMPARATIVE EVALUATION OF MORPHOMETRIC TRAITS AND THEIR ASSOCIATION WITH SEX AND BODY WEIGHT IN THREE INDIGENOUS CHICKEN ECOTYPES OF NORTH-CENTRAL NIGERIA
The future improvement of indigenous chicken production systems largely depends on the availability and effective utilization of their genetic variability. The relationship between body weight and morphometric traits is important in planning breeding. Therefore, this study evaluated morphometric traits and their relationships with body weight and sex in three indigenous chicken ecotypes from Nasarawa, Benue, and Plateau States, Nigeria. A total of 120 mature chickens, comprising 40 birds each from the Fulani, Kwalla, and Tiv ecotypes aged 18–24 weeks, were used. The birds were managed under a semi-intensive system. Body weight was measured weekly using a weighing balance. Linear body measurements including breast girth, body length, shank length, wing length, and keel length were obtained using a measuring tape (cm), while comb length, wattle length, beak length, comb height, spur thickness, wattle width and height, and ocular dimensions were measured using a digital vernier caliper. Data were subjected to analysis of variance and correlation analyses. Significant (P < 0.05) differences in body weight were observed among the ecotypes. The Kwalla ecotype had the highest mean body weight (1.50 kg), followed by the Tiv (1.38 kg) and Fulani (1.25 kg) ecotypes. Sex had a highly significant effect (P < 0.05) on body weight. Several morphometric traits, including beak length, comb height, wattle length, ocular length, and spur thickness, differed significantly (P < 0.05) across ecotypes and sexes.
Copyright (c) 2026 Umar M. Sani, Umar M. Dogara, Harirat H. Mundi, Hudu R. Abdullahi, Zainab Abdullahi, Ismaila Mundi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
EFFECTS OF CASTRATION, DEHORNING, AND DOCKING ON GROWTH PERFORMANCE AND FEED INTAKE OF YANKASA LAMB
This study aimed to investigate the effects of castration, dehorning, and docking on the growth performance and feed intake of Yankasa lambs. A total of twelve (12) three-month-old male lambs were used for this study. The lambs were sourced from a reputable farm in Lafia, Nasarawa State. The animals were tagged and allowed to acclimatize for four weeks prior to the commencement of the experiment. The lambs were grouped into six treatment groups as follows: Control, castrated, dehorned, dehorned and docked, docked and castrated, and docked, dehorned, and castrated. The procedures were carried out based on established humane veterinary standards. Data were analyzed using analysis of variance (ANOVA) with SAS software. All the lambs had an average initial weight of 14,075 ± 75.0 g. The group that was docked, dehorned, and castrated had the highest final weight (21,650 ± 650 g) and total weight gain (7,525 ± 275 g), followed by the control group. However, the differences were not statistically significant (P > 0.05). Daily and weekly weight gains also did not differ significantly among the treatment groups. There was no statistically significant difference in daily feed intake, although the docked and castrated group (766.67 ± 66.6 g) and the docked, dehorned, and castrated group (766.67 ± 42.1 g) consumed slightly less feed compared to the other groups.
Copyright (c) 2026 Harrat . L. Mundi, Umar M. Sani, Zikrullah Z. Yusuf, Umar M. Dogara, Ismaila Mundi, Zainab Abdullahi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
PROXIMATE PROPERTIES AND MICROBIAL LOAD OF MEATLESS MEAT PRODUCED FROM THE BLENDS OF COW MILK AND COCONUT MILK
Meat is one of the primary sources of dietary protein, widely acknowledged for its high-quality protein and nutritional value. However, due to various dietary and health concerns surrounding red meat, there's a growing need for palatable and nourishing alternatives. This study evaluates the proximate composition and microbial load of meatless meat produced from a blend of cow's milk and coconut milk. Four dehusked coconuts weighing 540 g, 543 g, 550 g, and 555 g were processed to extract coconut milk using three litres of warm water filtered through a cotton cloth. The extracted coconut milk was blended with raw cow’s milk at varying proportions (90:10, 80:20, 70:30, and 60:40). Cheese produced from each blend was sliced, seasoned with spices, coloured using hibiscus flower extract to simulate the appearance of red meat, and deep-fried to produce the meat analogue. A sample containing 100% red meat served as the control. Results showed that yield decreased as the proportion of coconut milk increased, while processing time increased. The 90:10 cow milk–coconut milk blends produced the highest yield (486 g) with the shortest processing time (8 minutes). Proximate analysis revealed moisture (36.30–49.81%), ash (4.47–6.42%), crude fibre (13.93–22.91%), crude protein (17.98–29.13%), and carbohydrate (5.25–15.75%), with significant differences (p < 0.05) among samples. Microbiological analysis indicated the absence of coliform contamination. Overall, the cow milk–coconut milk blend demonstrates potential as a safe, nutritious, and innovative meat substitute with promising yield and functional properties.
Copyright (c) 2026 Kikelomo Elizabeth Alaba, Emmanuel Gabriel https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
IMPACT OF VIRTUAL LEARNING ON CHEMISTRY STUDENTS’ ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE IN DISTANCE LEARNING INSTITUTE, UNIVERSITY OF LAGOS, NIGERIA
In recent times, the growing popularity of virtual learning in higher institutions has been observed, however, there is a limited research on the effect of distance learning institutions, especially Chemistry, on students’ academic performance. Chemistry is viewed as an abstract and a difficult course by many students; hence, this study examined the effects of virtual learning on the academic performance of Chemistry students in Distance Learning Institute (DLI), University of Lagos. Virtual Learning and Academic Performance Questionnaire was distributed via stratified random sampling technique. Descriptive statistics was used in analyzing the data related to the research questions while inferential statistics used in testing the hypotheses was Chi-square. The findings showed that the physical facilities in terms of structures and computers were adequate for Chemistry students, revealing a significant effect of virtual learning on academic performances of learners of Chemistry Education of the Distance Learning Institute. The study indicated that there is better access and use of virtual tools with better academic performance in DLI, at 0.05 significant level, leading to a positive relationship between engagement in virtual activities and Chemistry performance. The internet quality, timely academic support, and interactive virtual sessions significantly affect students’ virtual learning experience. Based on these findings, it is recommended that government and school management should improve the internet infrastructure, provide adequate learning materials, adopt multiple learning platforms, provide better e-learning environment for facilitators, provide better student support services and ultimately integrate interactive and gamified tools in higher Institutions.
Copyright (c) 2026 Adedoyin Oluseyi Adesoji, Titilayo Adeoye Ajadib https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
A WAKE CALL TO SEEING THE POTENTIALS OF AUTONOMOUS VEHICLES IN REVOLUTIONIZING INTELLIGENT TRANSPORTATION SYSTEMS IN NIGERIA: A MIXED-METHOD APPROACH
The adoption of autonomous vehicle (AVs) has sparked considerable interest across diverse industries, including public transportation, underground mining, and agriculture sectors. The autonomous vehicle is about to hit the mass-market. The question is not about when it will happen but in which conditions, under which form or who will be the first autonomous vehicle manufacturer to release an efficient and reliable final product in Nigeria. By now, the equation has not been solved, due to the high price of the technologies needed, the lack of solutions to provide a reliable network, and the necessity to change conventions established before now in terms of responsibility of drivers. Nevertheless, the autonomous vehicle is not only an evolution of a previous product, which is able to evaluate and to progressively transform into a self-driven vehicle. This innovation is one step further and is challenging everything that had been established until now in terms of objective criteria expected from a vehicle. This is why it was called a disruptive innovation, or even a revolution, in the sense that it has the power to totally change the way we interact with our everyday transportation system. To enter into the market, this technology, will have to overcome some challenges, on the technological side but also on the psychological side of his future clients. Therefore, an heterogeneous method approach was employed, hybridizing quantitative data from surveys of approximately 2000 randomly selected individuals and qualitative insights from in-depth interviews with policymakers, traffic engineers, and industry representatives.
Copyright (c) 2026 Emekumeh Okpala Sanctus, Abel E. Edje https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
MICROBIAL LOAD AND BACTERIAL DIVERSITY ON FACEMASKS USED BY STUDENTS OF CALEB UNIVERSITY, IMOTA, LAGOS STATE, NIGERIA
Facemasks are essential in limiting bacterial shedding from the mouth and nose, thereby reducing the spread of infectious agents. This study aimed to isolate and identify bacterial species present on used facemasks worn by students of Caleb University, Imota, Lagos State. Forty (40) used facemasks were collected and analyzed microbiologically using phenotypic and biochemical methods. Results indicated that the majority of isolates were gram-negative rods. Identified bacteria included Klebsiella pneumonia, Yersinia pestis, Salmonella enterica, Citrobacter werkmanii, Escherichia albertii, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Salmonella typhi, Staphylococcus saprophyticus, and Yersinia pseudotuberculosis, Citrobacter werkmanii (14%), while several species including Klebsiella pneumoniae and Salmonella typhi were frequent (4% each). A higher bacterial load was observed on facemasks used by female students compared to males. The primary source of contamination was identified as the students’ own body surfaces, including the face, nose, mouth, and hands. These findings underscore the importance of proper facemask hygiene and it is strongly recommended that students replace masks daily after each use to reduce microbial contamination and the risk of infection.
Copyright (c) 2026 Onoja Oda, Aisha Mohammed, Imasuen Michelle Osayuwamen https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
LITHOFACIES STUDY OF BIMA SANDSTONE IN GURIN AND ITS ENVIRONS, YOLA SUB-BASIN, NORTHERN BENUE TROUGH, NIGERIA
Understanding the distribution of various lithological units, along with the environmental conditions and depositional settings, is essential for building a geological understanding of an area. This study focuses on the lithofacies in Gurin and its environs to enhance geological and paleoenvironmental understanding. The study involved field mapping and laboratory analysis. The mapping involved the identification of rocks, their lithological contacts and sampling while petrographic analysis was performed on the fifteen (15) representative sampled rocks. The rocks in the area are predominantly composed of sandstone and a few volcanic plugs. The study identified five (5) lithofacies within the Bima sandstone: trough cross-bedded sandstone (St), planar cross-bedded sandstone (Sp), ripple cross-laminated sandstone (Sr), parallel laminated sandstone (Sh), and mudstone facies (Fm) in which the planar cross-bedded (Sp) dominated the area. These lithofacies indicate a fluvial depositional setting, specifically a braided river environment, based on the fining upward sequence and primary structures identified. Petrographic analysis revealed that the Bima sandstone is predominantly composed of quartz (70-99%), with minor amounts of feldspars (1-28%) and rock fragments (1-5%). Based on their composition, the sandstones are predominantly quartz arenite with minor subarkosic and arkosic sandstone. Petrographic studies show that the sandstone is predominantly composed of monocrystalline quartz grains with intercrystalline boundaries; the abundance of monocrystalline quartz grains with intercrystalline boundaries suggests derivation from plutonic source rocks. This study provides valuable insights into the lithofacies, depositional environments, and petrographic characteristics of the Bima Sandstone, contributing to the geological understanding of the area.
Copyright (c) 2026 Useiju James Margimari, Yusuf Dabari Mamman, Yunis Boga Valdon, Amodu Adeniyi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
EFFECTIVE METHOD OF SOLVING ONE-THIRD THIRD-ORDER IVPS WITH TWO OFF-GRID POINTS ORDINARY DIFFERENTIAL EQUATIONS
This article explores the effectiveness of a technique for solving one-third third-order initial value problems (IVPs) in ordinary differential equations by incorporating two off-grid points. A truncated power series was used as the basis function to construct the approximate solution. The resulting multistep methods were obtained through interpolation at selected grid points, while the third derivatives of the approximate solution were enforced at non-interpolating points through collocation. The system of linear equations arising from the collocation and interpolation of the approximate solution was solved to obtain the unknown coefficients. These computed values were then substituted back into the approximate expression to produce a continuous linear multistep method, from which the proposed scheme was derived through extrapolation. The method’s performance was tested on nonlinear problems involving general third-order ordinary differential equations, and the results showed good agreement with several existing methods documented in the literature.
Copyright (c) 2026 Rafiu Sunday Lawal, Eunice Kehinde Adeusi, Nwanneka Peter Okafor https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
INCIDENCE AND PREDICTORS OF HYPOCALCAEMIA AMONG PREGNANT AND POSTPARTUM WOMEN ATTENDING SELECTED HOSPITALS IN KANO METROPOLIS, NIGERIA
Hypocalcaemia during pregnancy is a significant public health concern in many developing countries and is associated with adverse maternal and fetal outcomes. This study assessed the incidence and predictors of hypocalcaemia among pregnant women attending antenatal care in some selected hospital in Kano Metropolis, Nigeria. A cross-sectional study design was adopted involving 400 women recruited from antenatal clinics. Data were collected using structured questionnaires covering socio-demographic characteristics, obstetric history, dietary practices, and clinical symptoms related to calcium deficiency. Descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and logistic regression analysis were used to identify predictors of hypocalcaemia. The majority of respondents were aged 20–30 years (48.3%), and most attended antenatal care during the second trimester (55.2%). Clinical manifestations commonly associated with calcium deficiency were widely reported, including headache (53.5%), vomiting (47.0%), muscle cramps (42.3%), and dizziness (40.5%). Although dietary diversity among respondents was relatively high, the intake of calcium-rich foods such as milk and dairy products was inconsistent. Chi-square analysis showed no statistically significant association between hypocalcaemia and most socio-demographic variables, although occupation, calcium supplement use, and milk consumption showed marginal associations. Logistic regression analysis further indicated that none of the variables independently predicted hypocalcaemia at the 5% level of significance. The findings suggest that maternal hypocalcaemia in the study population may be primarily influenced by inadequate dietary calcium intake rather than demographic factors. Strengthening maternal nutrition education and improving access to calcium-rich foods and antenatal supplementation programs are therefore recommended.
Copyright (c) 2026 Lawan Yusuf Sufyanu, Aminu Idi, Zakiyya Ali Baba, Harisu Saleh, Auwal Magaji Sa’eedu, Abdulmalik Rabiu Musa, Aisha Idris Ali, Safiya Yakubu https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
ANALYSIS OF COUPLED INTERPOLATIVE KANNAN-TYPE CONTRACTION MAPPINGS IN METRIC SPACES
Many Researchers have used the notion of interpolative Kannan contraction due to its wider range in applications and its flexibility, rather than the normal Banach contraction. This paper studies the existence, uniqueness, and convergence of fixed points for coupled interpolative Kannan-type contractions in metric spaces. Using Picard and Mann iterative schemes, sufficient conditions ensuring convergence to a unique fixed point are established. The results extend and generalize several existing findings in fixed-point theory.
Copyright (c) 2026 Festus Tope Ogunwe, Adenike Olusola Adeniji, Morufu Mogbolagade Mogbonju, Taiwo Ogunlusi, Felix Damilola Ajibade https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
HEALTH SYSTEM UNDER PRESSURE ASSESSING THE IMPACTS OF FUNDING VOLATILITY ON MATERNAL, CHILD, AND INFECTIOUS DISEASE SERVICES IN NIGERIA
Nigeria's health system faces chronic funding instability; however, the impact of financing volatility on service delivery failures remains poorly understood. This systematic review examines the impact of funding volatility on maternal, child, and infectious disease services in Nigeria. Following PRISMA guidelines, we searched PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and institutional repositories for literature published between 2010 and 2026. From 1,247 initial records, 87 studies met the inclusion criteria. An integrated theoretical framework combining the WHO Health System Building Blocks and Health Financing Functions guided the analysis. Financing volatility operates through three mechanisms: revenue collection inadequacy with government spending below one percent of GDP, pooling fragmentation with out-of-pocket payments exceeding seventy percent of health expenditure, and purchasing inefficiency characterized by delayed budget releases. These cascade through the health system, producing medicine stock-outs in sixty-eight percent of facilities, health worker demoralization contributing to forty-five percent attrition in some areas, and catastrophic household expenditure affecting fifteen to twenty-five percent of families. Policy responses, for instance, the Basic Health Care Provision Funds, were affected by political economy constraints and governance fragmentation. Financing volatility fundamentally drives health system fragility in Nigeria. The study recommended to meet the 15% Abuja Declaration health funding target; subsidize insurance for pregnant women, children, and the poor; and require 40% female representation on facility committees and report equity-disaggregated data.
Copyright (c) 2026 Ismail Tukur, Bello Almu, Tijjani Suleman, Shafiu Dauda, Jamilu Umar Gora https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
ASSESSMENT OF KAOLIN DEPOSITS IN OGBADIBO AND OTUKPO LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREAS OF BENUE STATE USING NUCLEAR ANALYTICAL TECHNIQUE AND THEIR POSSIBLE APPLICATIONS IN INDUSTRY
An assessment of the kaolin deposits in Ogbadibo and Otukpo Local Government Areas of Benue State, Nigeria, was carried out using X-Ray Fluorescence Spectrometry–Fundamental Parameter (XRF-FP). This was to determine the elemental compositions and physicochemical characteristics and geological formation differences as well as their industrial suitability. Kaolin is versatile industrial clay which has found important applications in paper coating, ceramics, paints and plastics due to its high opacity, soft texture, and chemical inertness. Thus, knowledge of their composition as well as the purity and impurity concentrations would be of economic advantage to local industries which oftentimes import their raw materials. In addition, it will increase the economic base of the state. In this work four (4) kaolin samples were collected, oven-dried at 105°C, pulverized, homogenised, and pelletized with 15% boric acid binder and analysed at the National Steel Raw Materials Exploration Agency (NSRMEA), Kaduna. The results obtained revealed that silicon oxide (SiO₂) and aluminium oxide (Al₂O₃) were the dominant oxides in both locations, confirming kaolinite (Al₂Si₂O₅(OH)₄) as the major mineral phase.
Copyright (c) 2026 Ojegburu Shadrach Obonyilo, Matthew Nnamdi Agu https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
ANTIFUNGAL EFFECTS OF Azadirachta indica AND OCIMUM GRATISSIMUM ON DERMATOPHYTES
Dermatophytes pose a global burden with a worldwide prevalence of 20 - 25%. This study was aimed at the evaluation of antifungal effects of leaf extracts of Azadirachta indica and Ocimum gratissimum on dermatophytes. Forty nine skin scrapings were obtained from patients at the Skin Disease Clinic, Lagos University Teaching Hospital Annex, Yaba. Dermatophytes were isolated on Sabouraud dextrose agar and identified by microscopic and biochemical methods. The aqueous and ethanolic extractions of the plant leaves was done by maceration and Soxhlet method respectively. The antifungal activity was evaluated using the broth dilution method. Trichophyton mentagrophytes had the highest percentage occurrence of 43.24, followed by T. equinum (27.03), and the lowest was 5.41 for Microsporum gypseum. The aqueous extracts of both plants completely inhibited all the dermatophytes at 250mgml. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of A. indica was 125mg/ml against all the dermatophytes. However, for O. gratissimum, the MIC was 63mg/ml against T. equinum, T. verrucosum and 125 mg/ml against T. mentagrophytes. For ethanol extract of A. indica, the highest percentage reduction in radial growth (%RRG) was 94.84 at 50 mg/ml against T. equinum and the lowest %RRG was 0.33 at 5 mg/ml against E. fIoccosum. For ethanol extract of O. gratissimum, the highest %RRG was 95.71 at 50 mg/ml against T. verrucosum and the lowest was 23.6 at 5 mg/ml against M. gypseum even as E. fIoccosum was not inhibited at that concentration. The results indicated the effectiveness of studied plant extracts in controlling the growth of dermatophytes.
Percentage reduction in radial growth (%RRG)
Copyright (c) 2026 Adebayo Joseph Grillo, Oluchi Ukhureigbe, Louis Osayenum Egwari, Nurudeen Ayoade Olasupo, Bolanle Adeniyi 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
HATCHING AND GROWTH OF TRIPLOID AND TETRAPLOID OF (Heterobranchus longifilis) AND (Hetrobranchus bidorsalis) SUBJECTED TO ERYTHROCYTES MEASUREMENT
The study experimented (to exposed the hatching and growth) of triploid and tetraploid of heterobranchus longifilis and heterobranchus bidorsalis subjected to erythrocyte (measured),The purposed was to produce better stock of heterobranchus species in terms of growth performance through erythrocyte measurement,also to determine diploid, triploid,and tetraploid red blood cells for aquaculture benefits.This application is one of the major areas of biotechnology whose application to fish breeding lead to increase fish yield. triploid induction is a process whereby an entire chromosome set is added to a fertilized egg. Normal individuals are diploid (2N), receiving one chromosome set (1N) from each parent. Triploid (3N) individuals have an additional chromosome set derived from the second polar body (1N). The second polar body is produced during an egg’s meiotic cell division and is normally lost soon after fertilization. If appropriate shock is applied soon after fertilization, the second polar body is retained by the fertilized egg, thus producing a triploid individual. The fish was separated into three tanks of 500 litres water holding capacity of 1m x 1m3 representing the treatments. The data on red blood cells analysis and erythrocyte measurement were analysed using duncam multiple wide range test.This study shows that triploidy and tetraploidy could be induced in (H.longifilis and H.bidorsalis) by cold shock treatment, 3 minutes after fertilization at 50C for 20 minutes while tetraploidy could be induced by administering cold shock treatment, 30 minutes after fertilization at 50C for 10 minutes.
Tetraploid (H. longifilis, H. bidorsalis)
Copyright (c) 2026 Kabir Y. Hassan, Abubakar Y. Galambi, Labaran H. Bashir, Garba A. Abubakar, Mohammed Ismail, Mohammad S. Bununu, Oateju O. Philip, Abdullahi M. Yahaya, Farida, I. Mashi, Kabiru A. Nuhu, Bala M. Sani https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Modelling Childhood Mortality Patterns in Nigeria: Insights from 2024 National Survey Data
Childhood mortality remains a major public health concern in Nigeria, with persistent regional disparities and uneven progress in child survival outcomes. This study examines the determinants and spatial distribution of childhood mortality using data from the 2024 national demographic survey. A Negative-Binomial Zero-inflated geo-additive regression modelling approach was applied to account for overdispersion, excess zero counts, nonlinear relationships, and spatial dependence in child death outcomes. Vital socioeconomic, demographic, and healthcare-related predictors were included in the analysis. The results show significantly higher childhood mortality risk in the North-West and North-East, as well as in selected southern states, compared with the North-Central region. Also, higher maternal education, richer household, health insurance enrolment, modern transportation to health facilities, and urban place of residence are associated with increased child survival at the 5% significance level. Moreover, the age of the mother, age at first birth, and parity show nonlinear effects, suggesting complex reproductive health patterns. Spatial clustering of mortality is evident, especially in northern states. These findings suggest that reducing childhood mortality in Nigeria requires coordinated efforts that address socioeconomic inequalities, improve access to quality healthcare, and target high-risk regions. Policies promoting female education, expanded health insurance coverage, and improved healthcare infrastructure are recommended.
Copyright (c) 2026 Saheed Jabaru https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
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
ANALYSIS OF RADIATION SHIELDING PARAMETERS OF PRISTINE AND GADOLINIUM OXIDE DOPED ZINC BOROTELLURITE GLASS SYSTEM
Convectional radiation shielding materials such as lead and concrete present significant toxicity and structural limitations, underscoring the need for safe, high performance glass based alternatives. This paper studies the radiation shielding parameter for the glass of Gd2O3-doped zinc borotellurite glasses, with varying concentrations of Gd2O3 (x = 0.0 to 0.05 mol, coded as S1 to S6). Theoretical calculations using Phy-X and WinXCom software reveal that the glass sample with 5% Gd2O3 (S6) exhibits superior radiation shielding performance, with the highest mass attenuation coefficient (MAC = 0.07623 cm2/g at 0.662 MeV), linear attenuation coefficient (LAC) and effective atomic number (Zeff = 19.10 at 0.662 MeV), as well as the lowest half-value layer (HVL = 1.857 cm at 0.662 MeV) and mean free path (MFP = 2.679 cm at 0.662 MeV) values. The results show a direct correlation between the concentration of Gd2O3 and the material's radiation shielding properties, with S6 demonstrating the best performance. Comparison with lead-free and concrete radiation shielding materials for gamma energies 0.662 MeV, 1.17 MeV and 1.332 MeV reveals that S6 outperforms all compared materials in HVL, MFP and Zeff, highlighting its potential as a superior radiation shielding material. The maximum deviation between MAC value calculated via Phy-X and WinXCom results is 0.088%, confirming the reliability of the calculations.
Copyright (c) 2026 Reuben Abraham Solomon, Oluwatosin Mary Kayode https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0