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
ENVIRONMENTAL PREDICTORS OF UNDER-FIVE IMMUNIZATION UTILIZATION AMONG WOMEN OF CHILDBEARING AGE IN PLATEAU NORTH SENATORIAL DISTRICT OF PLATEAU STATE, NIGERIA.
Immunization remains a cornerstone of child survival strategies globally. Environmental barriers often limit mothers’ access to vaccination services such as poor road infrastructure continue to hinder the accessibility of immunization services in many low-resource settings. In the study area, there are still gaps for under-five immunization service. Despite studies to attain full immunization and enhance the immunization programmes. It is important to understand the underlying environmental predictors to fill the existing gaps using the following objective: to investigate the environmental predictors affecting under-five immunization utilization among women of childbearing age and to assess the association between environmental predictors and childhood immunization status.in study area. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 400 women of childbearing age (15-49 years) selected using a multistage random sampling technique. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and in-depth interview (IDI). The data collected were analyzed descriptively, while inferential employed multiple linear regression analysis to examine relationships between independent and dependent variables of under-five immunization utilization among women of childbearing age in the study area. Broken structure statistically significant (p = 0.008); descriptively, with 66.5% “deteriorated road” and 37.50% having the highest number of respondents and non-immunized respectively, of under-five more likely affecting utilization of childhood immunization in the study area. Also, raining season effects is significant (p = 0.005), and descriptively, having highest (82%) number of respondents “not attempting” to immunized their children during raining season” with 43.00% immunized against 39.00% of non-immunized under-five in the study area.
Copyright (c) 2025 Joel Oladejo Abiodun, Mundi Rhoda, Oluwatoyin Akanbi Adewuyi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
ANALYSIS OF PETROLEUM TANKER FIRE AND EXPLOSION ACCIDENTS IN NIGERIA
The menace of petroleum tanker fire and explosion accidents in Nigeria continues to increase in recent years with attendant consequences of loss of lives and properties. The present study performed a 16-year in-depth analysis of petroleum tanker fire and explosion accidents in Nigeria using secondary sources of data. It employed a mixed-method relating both qualitative and quantitative data collection and analysis techniques using 171 accident cases, 1822 deaths and 811 injuries. Year 2019 recorded the highest number of accidents of injuries as 29 and 178 respectively. However, the highest number of fatalities of 294 occurred in 2024. Also, the entire tanker accidents fall within “unacceptable” risk level in relation to societal risk curves. Five major aggravating factors namely mechanical, collision, impact, scooping and human were found to increase the severity of the accidents. Human factor accounted for both the highest number of accidents and injuries as 101 and 416 respectively, whereas, scooping of spilled petroleum products led to the peak number of fatalities of 730. Finally, an overview of the causes and aggravating factors of petroleum tanker accidents in Nigeria as well as the corresponding preventive/mitigative measures was given in Haddon Matrix. Regulatory agencies should strengthen tanker safety enforcement through rigorous vehicle inspection, driver training, and strict penalties for traffic violations. Public education campaigns must discourage fuel scooping. Investment in road infrastructure, emergency response systems, and pre-event preventive strategies, guided by the Haddon Matrix, is essential to reduce tanker fire and explosion risks.
Copyright (c) 2025 Na’inna Abdulmajid M., Ani Chukwuemeka L., Kassimua Abdullahi A. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
STABILIZATION OF EMULSIONS BY Monodora myristica SEED PROTEIN HYDROLYSATE: EFFECT OF MOLECULAR WEIGHT DISTRIBUTIONS ON SURFACE, EMULSIFYING AND FOAMING PROPERTIES
Development of sustainable benign emulsifiers from bioresource for industrial applications has continued to dominate research frontiers. Therefore, this research aimed to investigate the effect of varied molecular weights of Monodora myristica seed protein on the surface, emulsifying and foaming properties of emulsion systems. M. myristica seed protein was extracted via dialysis and fluxed into > 12, 000 kDa (MPF1), 12, 000-10, 000 kDa (MPF2), 10, 000-8, 000 kDa (MPF3), 8, 000-4, 000 kDa (MPF4) and < 4, 000 kDa (MPF5) molecular weights distributions. The results showed that the lower molecular weights M. myristica seed polypeptides fluxes were more distributed with aliphatic, hydrophilic and polar amino acids, whereas aromatic, hydrophobic, non-polar and sulphur-based amino acids residues were inherently found in the higher molecular weights variant. The surface tension of the amphoteric polypeptides increased with molecular weights, but decreased with protein flux concentration, consistent with their refractive index (1.2835-1.4612) and surface hydrophobicity index (17.55-48.22). The interfacial protein concentration and adsorbed protein, increased with molecular weight distributions of the protein fluxes. The emulsifying stability index (55.38-78.44 min.), average particle size of droplets (63.92-188.50 µm) and protein solubility (58.48-78.44 %), revealed that the higher molecular weights M. myristica seed protein fluxes has a greater tendency to form viscous stable emulsion with reduced foaming properties. The physicochemical properties exhibited by M. myristica seed polypeptide fluxes, were largely influenced by their amino acids residues and molecular weight distributions and present these specialty biopolymers with auspicious potential as suitable emulsifiers in food, pharmaceutical and chemical formulations
Copyright (c) 2025 Adeiza Emmanuel Samuel, Aishatu Abubakar Usman, Bwala Yusuf Hyeladzira, Babajide Michael Odejobi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
ECOGEOGRAPHICAL AND GERMPLASM CHARACTERIZATION OF JATROPHA CURCAS LINNAEUS (L.) IN JIGAWA STATE: IMPLICATIONS FOR BIOFUEL PRODUCTION
Jatropha curcas L. is a multipurpose plant species with significant potential for biofuel production, soil conservation, and livelihood improvement. Despite its importance, there is a dearth of information on the ecogeographical distribution, genetic diversity, and germplasm characteristics of J. curcas in Jigawa State, Nigeria. This study aims to conduct an ecogeographical and germplasm characterization of J. curcas in Jigawa State, with a view to informing and enhancing biofuel production, conservation, and sustainable utilization of this species. This study presents an ecogeographical and germplasm characterization of Jatropha curcas L. in Jigawa State, Nigeria, with implications for biofuel production, conservation, and sustainable utilization. Five accessions were collected from Hadejia, Kazaure, Gumel, Birnin Kudu, and Miga, representing diverse ecological conditions. Ecogeographical data (latitude, longitude, soil type, climate characteristics) and morphological traits (plant height, stem diameter, leaf dimensions, fruit yield, oil content) were recorded. Analysis using descriptive statistics, ANOVA, correlation matrix, PCA, and cluster analysis revealed variability in growth performance and genetic diversity across accessions. The study provides insights into J. curcas' adaptability, yield potential, and genetic diversity, informing strategies for biofuel production, conservation, and sustainable utilization in Jigawa State, Nigeria.
Copyright (c) 2025 Wada Abubakar A, Adeniyi K., Sadiq Abdurrahman Y., Dele Salami K., Titilope Bello Z., Yusuf Daudu O. A. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
COMPARATIVE BAYESIAN AND CLASSICAL ESTIMATION OF THE SCALE PARAMETER IN THE WEIBULL POWER FUNCTION DISTRIBUTION
We investigate the scale parameter of the Weibull power function distribution (WPFD) via both Bayesian and traditional statistical methodologies. Diverse estimations for the scale parameter were derived from the Bayesian framework, employing three distinct loss functions. The findings revealed that quadratic loss functions, utilising Jeffrey's and Gamma priors, consistently yielded better results than precautionary and squared error loss functions, irrespective of sample size. As the sample size increased, the estimation errors diminished, and the calculated values converged towards the true scale parameter. In conclusion, the Bayesian estimates for the scale parameter, particularly those utilising Jeffrey's and Gamma priors with a quadratic loss function, demonstrated superior performance compared to other estimation techniques
Mathematical, Computer & Statistical Sciences
Copyright (c) 2025 Ibrahim Abubakar Sadiq, Hauwa Abdulrahman Dangana, Abubakar Usman, Jamilu Garba https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
THE COMPARATIVE AND HEALTH RISK ASSESSMENT OF HEAVY METALS IN SOME LOCAL AND FOREIGN LIPSTICK BRANDS SOLD IN DOMESTIC AND INTERNATIONAL MARKETS: A RECENT REVIEW
Heavy metals such as lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), arsenic (As), and mercury (Hg) are toxic, non-biodegradable substances that pose significant health risks through bioaccumulation. Their presence in cosmetics, particularly lipsticks, which are semi-ingested during use, is a major public health concern. Long-term exposure to these metals is linked to neurotoxicity, renal dysfunction, endocrine disruption, and carcinogenic effects. While numerous international and regional studies in Southern Nigeria have documented alarming concentrations of these metals in cosmetics, a significant empirical data gap exists for Northern Nigeria, specifically Katsina State. This review synthesizes existing literature to highlight the prevalence, concentration ranges, and associated health risks of heavy metals in lipsticks globally and within Nigeria. Findings reveal recurrent exceedances of international safety limits (e.g., US FDA, WHO) in various markets, with Pb and Hg being the most critical contaminants. The absence of localized data for Katsina impedes effective regulatory enforcement by bodies like NAFDAC and SON and leaves consumers vulnerable. This review underscores the urgent need for original research in Katsina to quantify heavy metal levels in commonly sold lipstick brands, conduct a science-based health risk assessment, and provide evidence for robust public health interventions and policy formulation to ensure consumer safety.
Copyright (c) 2025 Muhammad Nuradeen Rukayya, Lawal Abubakar https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
IMPACT OF LUFFA CYLINDRICAL FIBER ASH ADDITION ON CEMENT PASTE AND CONCRETE CHARACTERISTICS
This study investigates the impact of luffa cylindrical fiber ash (LCFA) on behaviour of cement paste and concrete. LCFA was blended with cement from 0 to 10% by its weight, and laboratory tests were carried out to examine the chemical composition of the ash, as well as its physical properties such as standard consistency and setting time. Standard concrete cubes were cast and cured for 7, 14, and 28 days to determine density and compressive strength, following the requirements of BS EN 12390-3. The results of the oxide composition of LCFA revealed that it cannot act as a cement replacement material due to modest SiO₂ content and disproportionately high K₂O level that supports its classification as a low-reactivity and non-pozzolanic biomass ash. Although, the workability results indicated insignificant reduction in slump at high LCFA level, the hardened properties of cement paste and concrete at 28 days curing period, revealed that both density and compressive strength significantly reduced with high LCFA levels; for example, mixes showed reduced compressive strengths from 29.19 to 18.39 MPa. These findings suggest that LCFA lowers the overall performance of concrete when used as additive in cement-based composite. It is therefore more appropriate for non-structural or low-load bearing applications where reduced strength is not a major concern.
Copyright (c) 2025 Kabiru Umar Dangoma, Muhammad Tanko, Aminu Bazata Yusuf, Aminu Alhaji Musa https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
PHYTOCHEMICAL SCREENING AND COMPARATIVE BRINE SHRIMP CYTOTOXICITY EVALUATION OF ETHANOLIC CRUDE EXTRACT AND FRACTIONS OF Parquetina nigrescens LEAVE
Parquetina nigrescens is extensively used in African traditional medicine, yet a systematic, solvent-polarity-guided evaluation of its cytotoxic potential is lacking. This study aimed to validate its ethnomedicinal use by investigating the phytochemical constituents and cytotoxic activity of its extracts, with a focus on how solvent polarity influences bioactivity. Methods: The P. nigrescens leaves was exhaustively extracted with absolute ethanol then sequentially fractionated using solvents of increasing polarity (n-hexane, chloroform, ethyl acetate, n-butanol, and water). Phytochemical profiling was conducted via standard qualitative methods, and cytotoxicity was evaluated using the Brine Shrimp Lethality Assay (BSLA). Results: Phytochemical screening confirmed a rich profile of alkaloids, flavonoids, and triterpenoids in the plant. The BSLA revealed that all extracts demonstrated significant cytotoxicity (LC₅₀ < 1000 µg/mL). Most importantly, a statistically significant difference in potency was observed across the fractions (p < 0.0001), revealing a critical solvent-polarity dependency. The butanol and aqueous fractions exhibited superior and remarkably similar potency (LC₅₀ = 70 and 72 µg/mL, respectively), significantly more cytotoxic than the mid-polar ethyl acetate (142 µg/mL) and non-polar fractions (n-hexane: 366 µg/mL; chloroform: 555 µg/mL). The crude ethanol extract was the least potent (LC₅₀ = 660 µg/mL) obviously due to the masking effect of other compounds in the matrix. Conclusion: This study provides robust evidence that the cytotoxic potential of P. nigrescens is significantly influenced by solvent polarity (p < 0.0001). The high potency of the butanol and aqueous fractions validates the plant's traditional use in water-based preparations.
Copyright (c) 2025 K. O Adebayo, Y Isah, Khan M. E https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
LOGISTIC REGRESSION ANALYSIS OF THE IMPACT OF MALARIA AND OTHER FACTORS ON MISCARRIAGES IN GOMBE STATE
Malaria remains a significant public health challenge in Nigeria, particularly in regions like Gombe State, where the disease is endemic. Pregnant women are especially vulnerable to malaria, which can lead to adverse pregnancy outcomes, including miscarriage. This study aims to investigate the impact of malaria on miscarriage among pregnant women in Gombe State, Nigeria, using binary logistic regression. Data were retrospectively collected from medical records of 272 pregnant women admitted to the Gombe Specialist Hospital from August to December 2024. The study examined the association between malaria infection and miscarriage in, while controlling for demographic factors such as maternal age, coexisting health conditions, gestational age at diagnosis of malaria, level of education, and previous pregnancy history Using SPSS and MS Excel packages. Results at 5% significance level revealed that malaria infection was a significant predictor of miscarriage (p < 0.001), with an extremely high odds ratio of 107.932 at 95% confidence interval. Other factors, such as maternal age, gestational age at diagnosis of malaria and coexisting health conditions, were not statistically significant. Previous pregnancy history was also significant (p = 0.035), suggesting that women with a history of previous pregnancies were less likely to experience miscarriage compared to those without such a history. The study concluded that malaria is a major risk factor for miscarriage and emphasized the need for targeted interventions by the government and other non-governmental organizations towards prevention
Copyright (c) 2025 Chajire Pwalakino Buba, Ibrahim Muhammad, Alaba Ajibola Lamidi-Sarumoh, D.A. Shitu https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
PREVALENCE AND ECOLOGICAL RISK OF POLYCHLORINATED BIPHENYLS (PCBS) IN AGRICULTURAL SOILS OF DADIN KOWA DAM BASIN, GOMBE STATE NIGERIA
Pesticide residues are “forever chemicals” considered to be pollutants of environmental and human health. The study was aimed at analysing the PCBs pesticides residue composition of four different soil samples from selected areas of Dadin kowa Dam Basin where agricultural activities dominated their occupation. Physicochemical parameters such as the pH of soil samples were analysed and showed pH values range from 7.54 in Sb3 to 7.21 in Sb2. The conductivity of the soil sample ranging from 337.25 µScm-1 inSb4 to 178 µScm-1 in Sb3.The soil texture analysis investigated showed Sb1 has the highest percentage of sand with 44.44% and soil sample Sb2 has highest percentage of slit soil at 40.90% while soil sample Sb4 has the highest percentage of clay soil with 41.66%. The PCBs composition of soil samples was determined showed that 2,2,3,4,4,5,6-Heptachlorobiphenyl in sample Sb3 revealed highest composition of 0.25 ppm concentration while 2-Chlorobiphenyl in all samples Showed the least composition of 0.00 ppm concentration. The result of soil the analysed at Dadinkowa Dam Basin was free from threats of pollutants residues investigated except Sb3 soil were below the permissible value range of 0.1 to 0.6 ppm.
Copyright (c) 2025 Y. M Usman, Umar Saidu, Baka E. F, A. A Maria, S. J Takkani https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
DEVELOPING THE ODD BURR III–BURR III (OBIII–BIII) DISTRIBUTION: THEORETICAL FOUNDATIONS AND APPLICATIONS TO SURVIVAL DATA
The normal, exponential, gamma, Dagum, and Burr distributions are commonly used to model uni-modal datasets. While the Burr III distribution is widely applied in reliability and income modeling, it is limited by its inherently decreasing hazard rate, inability to analyze complex survival datasets, bathtub shape hazard rates and asymmetric datasets, which makes it unsuitable for multimodal observations, hence the need to extend the classical Burr III distribution. In response, the study introduced the modified form of Burr III distribution called Odd Burr III-Burr III distribution with four parameters. The new distribution has the ability to capture various data behaviors, including heavy tails, skewness other shapes that the conventional Burr III distribution can’t captured. The probability density function (PDF) and cumulative distribution function (CDF) of the propose model were derived and Log-likelihood function were also sorted out, the goodness of fit and information criteria were adapted to assess the performance of the proposed model using simulated data and real-life applications.
Copyright (c) 2025 Abdulaziz M. Ndatsu, Boubakar Dodo https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
USING THE JACOBI LAST MULTIPLIER APPROACH TO LINEARIZE THE MATHEW-LAKSHMANAN OSCILLATOR EQUATION
The Mathews–Lakshmanan (ML) oscillator is a remarkable nonlinear dynamical system that preserves several features of the linear harmonic oscillator while exhibiting inherent nonlinearity. Owing to its exact solvability, linearizability, and relevance in classical and quantum mechanics, the ML oscillator has attracted significant research interest across physics, engineering, and applied mathematics. Parallel to this, the Jacobi Last Multiplier (JLM) method originally developed by Carl Gustav Jacobi has re-emerged as a powerful analytical tool for deriving Lagrangians, identifying first integrals, and revealing variational structures of nonlinear differential equations. In this study, we apply the JLM framework to the ML oscillator in order to construct its corresponding Lagrangian and perform an explicit linearization.
Copyright (c) 2025 Joel Mvendaga Orverem https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
ELECTRICAL OPTIMIZATION OF NATURAL DYE-SENSITIZED SOLAR CELLS THROUGH CO-SENSITIZATION AND NANOSTRUCTURAL ENGINEERING
Natural dye-sensitised solar cells offer a cheap and eco-friendly alternative to conventional photovoltaics, but their inefficient light harvesting and charge transport limit their efficiency. This research addresses these challenges by optimizing natural DSSCs through co-sensitization and nano-structural engineering. The study investigates TiO₂-based photoanodes sensitized with Hibiscus, Beetroot, and Turmeric dyes, comparing their performance with the synthetic N719 dye. Optimization involved co-sensitization, TiO₂ nanostructural modifications, and dye bath calibration. Electrical performance and EIS parameters were analyzed. Results show co-sensitized Beetroot-based DSSC achieved a PCE of 5.88%, compared to 8.39% for N719-based control device. EIS Nyquist plots revealed higher R_ct values in un-optimized devices, reduced after optimization. Improvements in electron injection efficiency and suppressed charge recombination contributed to PCE enhancements. The findings demonstrate optimized natural dyes with engineering strategies like nano-structured TiO₂, co-sensitization, and electrolyte tuning can serve as cost-effective and sustainable alternatives to synthetic dyes in DSSC applications.
Copyright (c) 2025 Ogbonnaya U. Uduma, Muhammad Uthman, Sani O. Aliyu, Jacob K. Ogunjuyigbe https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
AN EVALUATION OF FERTILITY CAPABILITY CLASSIFICATION OF MBAMBA SOILS IN YOLA SOUTH LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA NORTH-EASTERN NIGERIA
Understanding soil fertility capability status is considered as one of the most important tool towards improving and managing soil nutrients for profitable and sustainable farming. This study aimed to evaluates fertility capability classification of Mbamba soils in Yola South Local Government Area North-eastern Nigeria. Three (3) profile pits were dug based on the topo-sequence variation where core soils samples of the soils were collected from the identified distinct horizons. The results revealed that fertility capability classification (FCC) of the soils at profile 1 and 3 was classified as LLdn-km dominated with loamy soil developed under ustic moisture regime having 6-15 % Na saturation, low nutrient reserve and organic matter. In addition, at profile 3 site of the area it was classified as SLdn-km characterized as soil dominated with sandy texture at surface and loamy at subsurface horizons with low nutrient reserve, low exchangeable cation exchange capacity and organic matter content. Generally, the soils were classified as low fertility capability soils to support effective crop growth and development. Therefore, there is ardent need for the farmers in the area to employ integrated nutrients management techniques with the aim of improving and sustaining the soil nutrients for sustainable food production in the area.
Copyright (c) 2025 Muhammed Bashir Jungudo, Abubakar Sadiq Abdulqadir https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
COMPARATIVE STUDIES OF LENGTH-WEIGHT RELATIONSHIP AND CONDITION FACTOR OF CICHLIDAE SPECIES (Oreochromis nilotucus (Linneus, 1758) AND Sarotherodon melanotheron (Ruppell, 1852) OF GUBI RESERVOIR, BAUCHI STATE, NIGERIA
The objective of the research was to assess the length-weight and condition factor of Cichlidae: Oreochromis niloticus and Sarotherodon melanotheron. The research carried out for eighteen months February 2024-July 2025. 360 fish sampled were assessed, 180 each specie and 90 each male and female compared. The result of fish length-weight relationship subjected to (W = aLb) results recorded b value for males Oreochromis niloticus 2.1306 and 0.6211 male Sarotherodon melanotheron; 1.7497 female Oreochromis niloticus, 01.1396 female Sarotherodon melanotheron; combined sexes 1.6831 Oreochromis niloticus, 0.8189 Sarotherodon melanotheron. The results indicated negative allometric growth pattern. Linear regression analysis at (P>0.05) with no significant difference for males Oreochromis niloticus 0.8248, Sarotherodon melanotheron 0.3821; females 0.7783 Oreochromis niloticus, 0.5916 Sarotherodon melanotheron; combined sexes 0.6936 Oreochromis niloticus, 0.8561 Sarotherodon melanotheron. Monthly mean condition factor subjected to (K = W×100/ L3) males Oreochromis niloticus ranged 0.026 to 0.098, Sarotherodon melanotheron 0.022 to 0.087; Female Oreochromis niloticus 0.034 to 0.11, Sarotherodon melanotheron 0.012 to 0.215; combined sexes Oreochromis niloticus 0.046 to 0.087, Sarotherodon melanotheron 0.023 to 0.240. The mean condition factors of two species were less than 1, indicating poor condition. The study will serve as reference for future research works.
Copyright (c) 2025 A. Alkasim, M. Kefas, A. B. Modu https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
IN SILICO PREDICTION OF ANTICANCER POTENTIAL OF CAMEL GUT MICROBIAL METABOLIC PEPTIDES
Anti-cancer potential of metabolic peptides derived from Camel gut microbial samples was evaluated using computational methods. Genomic data on the microorganisms (Accession number SRR 13205865) was relieved from database of Notational Centre for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). The PATRIC database was used for genome assembly. Metabolic peptides were identified using the Anti SMASH server. The Anti cancer prediction server 2.0 was set at SVM threshold of 0.45 for prediction of Anti-cancer activity of the metabolic peptides. Arylpolyene, Phosphonate and NRPS were identified as metabolic peptides derived from the Camel gut microbial samples. The results indicated that three metabolic peptides (Arylpolyene, Phosphonate and NRPS) identified from Camel gut microbes were predicted to exhibit anti cancer potential using anti CP 2.0 with a score of 0.58 surpassing the 0.45 SVM threshold. Further studies on the therapeutic potential and safety of Camel derived metabolic peptides is recommended.
Copyright (c) 2025 Ibrahim Suleiman Musa https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
EFFICACY OF SYNTHESIZED SILVER NANO-PARTICLES USING Picralima nitida CRUDE SEED EXTRACT (ABEERE) ON Plasmodium berghei INFECTED MICE
Malaria is a potentially fatal disease caused by Plasmodium parasites. The synthesis of silver nano-particles using plant extracts is getting more attention, due to their application in biomedical sciences such as anti-parasitic, anti-malarial, bactericidal and fungicidal activity. This study was designed to evaluate the efficacy of synthesized silver nano-particles using crude seed extract of Picralima nitida on Plasmodium berghei infected mice focusing on weight, percentage parasitemia, packed cell volume (PCV) and white blood cell (WBC) count. Thirty mice were randomly divided into six groups of five animals each. Infection was established using Plasmodium berghei, and treatment was administered following a 4-day curative protocol. The infected groups received 25 mg/kg and 50 mg/kg of P. nitida-synthesized silver nanoparticles, while comparison groups received 100 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg of P. nitida crude extract. Changes in weight, parasitemia, PCV, and WBC count were determined using standard hematological and microscopic techniques. Mice treated with 50mg/kg of Picralima nitida synthesized silver nano-particles showed significant improvement in weight, increased packed cell volume, decreased percentage parasitemia and white blood cell count at the post infection period. The findings demonstrated that Picralima nitida synthesized silver nano-particles is more effective as an antimalarial agent and preserves red blood cell integrity than Picralima nitida crude extract and hence can be used as an antimalarial drug.
Copyright (c) 2025 Ahmmed Bayo Opalekunde, Nuhu Abdulrazaq Abdulrazaq, Nassar Sulaiman Adebayo, Aminat Ahmed, Aishat Bolanle Ahmed, Halimat Opeyemi Akanbi, Abdulmumeen Bolakale Shuaib, Mashood Bolaji, Sanda Idiat Modupe https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
RURAL FARMER’S PREFERENCE FOR SEED ATTRIBUTES AND SUPPORT SERVICE FROM GRAIN TRADERS INFLUENCE THE ADOPTION OF IMPROVED VARIETIES IN MUBI REGION, ADAMAWA STATE, NIGERIA
This study examined the joint association of traders’ support services and seed attribute preferences on the adoption of improved sorghum, beans, and groundnut seed varieties in Mubi region. The study involved 961 farmers from major production districts of beans, sorghum and groundnuts. 315 bean, 317 sorghum, and 329 groundnut farmers from five (5) local government area (4 districts per crop) in Adamawa State, Nigeria. Data collection was conducted using a household survey via Survey CTO, and data analysis was analyzed using descriptive statistics, independent sample T test and Chi-square test. Results show that 89.2% credit on improved seed such as sorghum and groundnuts significantly enhances adoption when paired with key traits such as high yield (P Value 0.003), grain price (P Value 0.000), grain size (P. Value 0.000), drought tolerance (P Value 0.000), and pest-disease resistance (P Value 0.001). Market-based supports like market guarantee (63.6%) and market linkage (74.5%) also demonstrate strong joint effects with traits like attractive price (0.996), grain color (0.838), and maturity time (0.789), particularly in common beans and groundnuts. These findings highlight the critical role of integrated traders’ support and seed trait alignment in driving smallholder farmers’ seed adoption decisions.
Copyright (c) 2025 Danjuma Ijudigal Garandi, Hyelnacha A. Bukar, Paulinus I. Chukwu, Hassan S. Tanko, Phelimon Wesley, Mohammed Saadu Dasin, Peter Gabul https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
SOCIOECONOMIC DETERMINANTS AND PATTERNS OF CHARCOAL UTILIZATION AMONG URBAN DWELLERS IN KADUNA METROPOLIS, NIGERIA
Domestic energy poverty continues to be a problem for a lot of households in Kaduna Metropolis. However, with the rising use of charcoal by a lot of families, it is important to understand the drivers of energy use. This study assessed the socioeconomic factors influencing the utilization of charcoal as a domestic energy source among urban households in Kaduna Metropolis, Nigeria. Data were collected from 364 households using a structured questionnaire. Sociodemographic characteristics were analyzed using descriptive statistics, while binary and ordinal logistic regression models were used to examine the predictors of charcoal use and the factors influencing the frequency of charcoal use. The results revealed that 15.7% of the respondents use charcoal as their main cooking fuel. The result also revealed that 55.8% use charcoal more than once a week. Also, 67.3% of the respondents use charcoal, mainly due to affordability and availability, despite widespread awareness of cleaner alternatives such as gas. Educational attainment (B = 0.370, p = 0.005) and household size (B = -1.149, p < 0.001) significantly influenced charcoal use, while income and gender showed no significant effect (p > 0.05). The results revealed that an increase in household income significantly reduces the frequency of charcoal use (B = -0.380, p = 0.004). The study concludes that socioeconomic factors, not preference, are the predictors of household dependence on charcoal. The study recommends that stakeholders should enhance access to affordable clean energy, and energy education will be critical for achieving a sustainable urban energy transition in Nigeria.
Copyright (c) 2025 Mustapha Abubakar, Bala Dogo, Aliyu Jafar Abubakar https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
RELIABILITY ASSESSMENT OF EKPOMA 33/11KV INJECTION SUBSTATION DISTRIBUTION NETWORK
Power system reliability is the probability that an electric power system can perform required functions satisfactorily under given conditions for a given time interval. This study investigates the reliability assessment of Ekpoma 33/11kV Injection substation distribution network on Iruekpen, Irrua, and Express feeders. The reliability indices data were collected from the distribution network daily operational logbook from January to December, 2024; and used to analyzed the reliability indices including power interruptions and outage durations, and customers’ reliability indices using statistical database and Microsoft Excel to plots the Pie charts. Results shown that, Irrua feeder has the least average annual failure rate of 0.1624 event/hr. followed by Express feeder with 0.1647 event/hr. while Iruekpen feeder has the highest recorded failure rate of 0.1716. Iruekpen, Irrua, and Express feeders has Availability values of 61.47%, 63.42%, and 63.71%. These values were considered relatively “fair and consistent” in performance, compared to 99.99% stipulated by IEEE 1366-2022 standard. Express feeder registered the highest SAIFI values of 1.2418, followed by Irrua feeder with values of 0.2868, and Iruekpen feeder with the least values of 0.1324. Meanwhile, MTBF, MDT, SAIDI, CAIDI, ASAI and ASUI were as well analyzed and results presented. Also, interrupted frequency and outage duration were 1503, 1423, 1443; and 3375, 3204 and 3179 in hours for Iruekpen, Irrua, and Express feeders respectively. Major causes of power interruption on these feeders was largely due to long circuits length, configurations, ageing equipment, complete system collapse as a result of under frequency operation, scheduled and forced outages.
Copyright (c) 2025 J.O AIBANGBEE, S.O. IKHELOA https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
ASSESSMENT OF AVAILABILITY AND UTILIZATION OF INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS FOR TEACHING IN SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN AGEGE, LAGOS STATE, NIGERIA
Instructional materials are wide range of teaching devices through which core educational values are disseminated to the learners by the facilitators, aiding and lubricating teaching–learning processes. Its application in education is imperative as it makes learning effective and efficient. The study examined Biology teaching using available and utilized instructional materials considering the senior secondary schools from Agege, Lagos. The study was guided by four objectives; evaluating the adequacy and extent of utilization of instructional materials in the teaching and learning of Biology; and ensuring the academic performance of Biology students. The survey design used was descriptive while stratified sampling technique was used in selecting 160 students via structured questionnaire from the population of the selected secondary school. The analysis of the data was achieved with the aid of frequency tables; and the hypothesis test was done with the employment of chi-square inferential statistical tool. It was evident, from the study that availability and utilization of instructional materials were very low. Moreover, from the study, it is expedient that instructional materials facilitate effective teaching and learning of Biology. The study therefore recommends that the government and head of schools should provide and make available, adequate instructional materials as teachers are expected to utilize same optimally.
Copyright (c) 2025 Adedoyin Oluseyi Adesoji, Taofeek Muhammed Adeyinka https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
TIME SERIES MODELLING OF HYPERTENSION CASES IN BORNO STATE: A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF ARIMA AND SARIMA
Hypertension remains a major public health challenge in Nigeria, especially in conflict-affected regions such as Borno State, where disruptions in healthcare delivery hinder effective disease monitoring. Accurate forecasting of hypertension cases is essential for planning, resource allocation, and early intervention. This study applied Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA) and Seasonal ARIMA (SARIMA) models to monthly hypertension data recorded from major hospitals in Maiduguri between January 2015 and December 2024 (N = 120). Data preprocessing involved handling missing values, log transformation, stationarity checks, and model identification using ACF and PACF diagnostics. Competing models were evaluated using Akaike Information Criterion (AIC), Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE), and Mean Squared Error (MSE). Results showed that the SARIMA model significantly outperformed the non-seasonal ARIMA model across all forecasting metrics, demonstrating its ability to capture the strong seasonal fluctuations in the series. SARIMA produced lower forecasting errors, narrower confidence intervals, and more stable predictions for 2025. While the study relied on hospital-based data that may not fully represent community-wide burden, the findings highlight the effectiveness of seasonal forecasting methods for strengthening public health planning in Maiduguri. Future work should incorporate exogenous predictors such as environmental variables, displacement trends, and socioeconomic conditions, as well as explore hybrid time-series and machine-learning models.
Copyright (c) 2025 Abubakar Alhaji Umar, Babagana Babakura https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
BIOREMEDIATION EFFICIENCY OF Exiguobacterium Profundum AND Bacillus Thuringiensis IN THE REMEDIATION OF BITUMEN
Industrial activities are major contributors to environmental pollution, particularly in soil and aquatic ecosystems. As petroleum remains a primary energy source, its by-products, such as bitumen, are prevalent environmental contaminants. This study investigates the bioremediation potential of Exiguobacterium profundum and Bacillus thuringiensis in degrading bitumen. These bacteria were isolated from bitumen-contaminated soil in Ondo State, Nigeria, and identified through standard biochemical and molecular techniques. After 30 days of incubation, both strains exhibited significant bitumen-degrading capabilities. GC-MS analysis revealed that E. profundum (PP278055) transformed n-alkanes (C3–C20) into fatty acids including hexadecanoic acid, oleic, octadecanoic acid, pentadecanoic acid, octanoic acids and octadecenal compounds. Similarly, B. thuringiensis (PP278059) degraded n-alkanes (C5–C19) into acetic, hexadecanoic acid, oleic acids, and octadecenal compounds. These transformations indicate effective hydrocarbon biodegradation. Quantitative analysis showed that E. profundum achieved a higher bitumen weight loss (36.2%) compared to B. thuringiensis (31.6%). These findings suggest that both bacterial strains, particularly E. profundum, hold promise for the bioremediation of bitumen-contaminated environments.
Copyright (c) 2025 Amarachi N Ugwuja, Deke V Adegunloye, Adewale O Olalemi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
NUMERICAL INVESTIGATION OF NONLINEAR DISPERSIVE WAVE STRUCTURES IN THEROSENAU – HYMAN AND GILSON–PICKERING EQUATIONS
This paper investigates the nonlinear Gilson–Pickering equation, a model unifying several key dispersive equations. We employ to derive a new numerical approach and diverse family of exact traveling wave solutions. These solutions include bright solitons, dark solitons, singular solitons, and periodic solutions, which generalize and extend previously known results(Akgül et al., 2020, Ak et al., 2016& Barretta et al., 2004).The physical characteristics of the obtained solutions are analyzed graphically, providing insight into the wave dynamics governed by the equation. Our results confirm the efficacy of the chosen method and enrich the set of analytical solutions available for this important class of nonlinear evolutionary equations.
Copyright (c) 2025 Adebisi Ajimot . F, Kolawole Mutairu K., Babalola Olutola. O. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
PATIENT AWARENESS AND PERCEIVED HEALTH RISKS OF DIAGNOSTIC RADIATION IN NORTHERN NIGERIA
Diagnostic imaging is essential in contemporary clinical practice, yet many patients have limited understanding of radiation exposure and its associated risks. Insufficient awareness may influence anxiety, informed consent quality and willingness to undergo necessary imaging procedures. This study assessed patients’ knowledge and perception of radiation exposure during diagnostic imaging at a Nigerian teaching hospital. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at the radiology department of Ahmadu Bello University teaching hospital, Shika. A structured, self-administered questionnaire was distributed to 210 patients undergoing diagnostic imaging. The questionnaire assessed demographic information, knowledge of radiation, perception of radiation effects, sources of information, and previous experiences with diagnostic imaging. Data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Overall awareness of radiation was low, with many respondents unable to correctly identify which imaging modalities use ionising radiation. Misconceptions were widespread, including the erroneous belief that ultrasound and MRI emit radiation. Knowledge of potential health risks was limited, and perceptions varied considerably across participants. Educational level demonstrated a significant association with radiation awareness, while many respondents reported never receiving radiation-related information from healthcare professionals, relying instead on informal sources such as family, friends or media. The study demonstrates substantial gaps in patient knowledge and perception of diagnostic radiation exposure. Improved communication within radiology departments is required, including structured counselling, simple educational materials and enhanced engagement by radiographers. Strengthening patient education may reduce misconceptions, support informed decision-making and promote safer use of diagnostic imaging services.
Copyright (c) 2025 Umaru Abdulrahman, Fatima Umar Goni, Mohammed Ibrahim, Shuaibu Abdullahi, Bamanga Abdulrazaq, Isah Tasiu https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
CONTROL OF SORGHUM ANTHRACNOSE CAUSED BY colletotrichum sublineolum WITH moringa oleifera LEAF EXTRACT
Sorghum anthracnose, caused by Colletotrichum sublineolum, is a serious disease causing substantial yield losses in Nigeria. The overdependence on chemical fungicides necessitates the need for sustainable alternatives. This study evaluated the bio-fungicidal and growth-promoting efficacy of Moringa oleifera leaf extract (MLE) on sorghum under field conditions. A randomized complete block design was used with five treatments: MLE at 10%, 20%, and 30% (v/v), a synthetic fungicide (Azoxystrobin) as a positive control, and a distilled water control. Disease incidence and severity were assessed at 15-day intervals beginning from 40 days after sowing, while growth and yield parameters were recorded at physiological maturity. Results showed that MLE application significantly reduced anthracnose incidence and severity in a concentration-dependent manner. The 30% (v/v) of MLE treatment was the most effective, showing results statistically similar to Azoxystrobin at final assessment. Furthermore, MLE at 30% significantly enhanced key growth parameters, including leaf area, stem girth, and number of leaves, and improved yield components such as panicle length and number of spikes per panicle. Consequently, grain yield from the 30% MLE treatment (2.92 ton/ha) was statistically on par with the synthetic fungicide (3.40 ton/ha). The study concluded that 30% (v/v) MLE is a potent bio-fungicide and biostimulant, offering a sustainable and effective strategy for integrated management of sorghum anthracnose and yield enhancement.
Copyright (c) 2025 Musa Habu, Yakubu Haruna https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
SURFACE CHARACTERIZATION AND POINT OF ZERO CHARGE OF A CU²+ BASED COORDINATION COMPOUND AND ITS POTENTIAL FOR ADSORPTION OF POLLUTANTS
Coordination polymers or compounds have been used as multifaceted materials for different application due to their porosity and high surface area, availability of multicomponent organic ligands and the possibility of using different inorganic metal atoms in their fabrication. Thus, in this study, a Cu²+ based coordination compound was synthesized from 1,2,4,5–benzenetetracarboxylic acid, 4–aminomethylbenzoic acid, NaOH and copper (II) acetate monohydrate by refluxing and characterized for its potential application in the removal of pollutants. Characterization techniques studied includes Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) surface area analysis, and X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS). FTIR confirmed successful metal–ligand coordination through O–H, C=O, and Cu–O vibrations, while TEM revealed a porous and heterogeneous morphology, the BET analysis gave a surface area of 72.20 m²g-¹. XPS spectra showed the coexistence of Cu²+ and Cu+ oxidation states. The point of zero charge (PZC) determined by the pH drift method was 5.7, suggesting selective adsorption of anionic pollutants below this pH and cationic pollutants above it. These results demonstrate that the Cu2+ based coordination compound exhibits typical characteristics that favours adsorption of pollutants.
Copyright (c) 2025 Elaigwu Sunday E., Adimula Vincent O., Rasheed Olanrewaju A., Efunwole Bisola R., Tella Adedibu C. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
MACHINE LEARNING MODELS FOR HAUSA-BASED LANGUAGE (WORDS) LEMMATIZATION
Lemmatization, the process of reducing inflected word forms to their canonical dictionary form (lemma), is a foundational task in Natural Language Processing (NLP) that significantly enhances the performance of downstream applications like information retrieval, machine translation, and sentiment analysis. For morphologically rich, low-resource languages like Hausa—spoken by over 50 million people—this task is particularly challenging due to the absence of annotated datasets and the limitations of traditional rule-based systems, which are labor-intensive and fail to generalize. This paper presents the first comparative study of classical supervised machine learning models, Support Vector Machine (SVM) and Random Forest (RF), for Hausa word lemmatization. To address the critical data scarcity, we manually curated and linguistically validated a novel dataset of 4,530 Hausa word-lemma pairs sourced from diverse corpora including BBC Hausa, VOA Hausa, and BUK FM radio transcripts. Our methodology involved comprehensive text preprocessing (normalization of diacritics, clitic handling, stopword removal) and sophisticated feature engineering, extracting character trigrams, word length, prefix/suffix flags, and reduplication indicators. Models were trained on an 80:20 split and optimized using GridSearchCV. Our results demonstrate that the Random Forest model outperformed SVM significantly, achieving an accuracy of 63.25% and an F1-score of 60.26%, compared to SVM’s 56.73% accuracy and 54.75% F1-score. Crucially, RF was also six times faster to train (180 seconds vs. 1,094 seconds), making it far more practical for deployment. Feature importance analysis revealed that character trigrams and word length were the most predictive features, highlighting the efficacy of subword morphological cues.
Copyright (c) 2025 Muhammad Adamu, Rasheed Phd. Rasheed A. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
SOIL ERODIBILITY INDICES ALONG RIVER BENUE BANKS AT MAKURDI, NIGERIA.
Soil erosion along riverbanks is a major environmental challenge in Nigeria, particularly in Makurdi where the River Benue predisposes surrounding soils to degradation due to high rainfall, runoff, and fragile soil conditions. Understanding soil erodibility is crucial for predicting erosion rates and designing effective conservation measures. This study was conducted to determine the erodibility factor (K) of soils at different locations along the River Benue bank at Makurdi and to assess variations in soil erodibility within the study area. Six locations along the bank behind Benue state university were selected and named as location 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6, respectively. Samples were collected at 30 and 60cm soil depth at each location to represent the crop root zone of the area. Particle size determination was carried out and hydrometer test to determine the various particle size distribution of soils in various location. The analysis of result showed that the erodibility factor (K) of soils varies with locations. The average k-values for the different locations were: 6.35 at 30cm;4.68 at 60cm soil depths for Location 1 respectively. At Location 2, at 30cm soil depth 7.6, at 60cm soil depth was 5.4, Location 3, at 30cm soil depth was 16.9; at 60cm soil depth 12.2, Location 4, 30cm soil depth was 9.42,at 60cm soil depth was 12.2, Location 5, at 30cm was 7.6, at 60cm soil depth was 6.35, Location 6 at 30cm soil depth was 9.42, at 60cm soil depth was 7.93 respectively.
Copyright (c) 2025 Japhet Flayin Malum, Ejike Colins Eze, Izuchukwu John Okafor https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
ISOLATION AND EVALUATION OF NICKEL-TOLERANT BACTERIA FROM AQUATIC PLANT ROOTS FOR NICKEL BIOSORPTION IN LOKOJA, KOGI STATE
Nickel contamination in aquatic ecosystems poses increasing ecological and public-health risks, particularly in rapidly urbanizing riverine environments. This study aimed to isolate and evaluate nickel-tolerant bacteria associated with the roots of aquatic plants for their potential application in nickel biosorption within Lokoja, Kogi State, Nigeria. Water and root samples of Eichhornia crassipes, Nymphaea lotus, and Limnocharis flava were collected from three pollution-prone riverbank locations. Standard microbiological procedures were used for bacterial enumeration, isolation, and phenotypic characterization, while nickel tolerance was assessed using NiCl₂-supplemented media. Biosorption assays were conducted using dried bacterial biomass across varying nickel concentrations (5–20 ppm) and pH values (3–8). Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA at p < 0.05. Four isolates: Pseudomonas putida, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Enterobacter cloacae, and Bacillus subtilis, exhibited significant nickel tolerance (MIC > 3.0 mg/mL). P. aeruginosa demostrated the highest biosorption efficiency (84.63% at 20 ppm), with maximum removal for all isolates occurring at pH 7. Physicochemical analysis of water indicated moderate but increasing pollution downstream. These findings suggest that water plant root-associated bacteria, notably Pseudomonas spp. possess substantial potential for effective nickel bioremediation. It is therefore recommended that these isolates be further evaluated in pilot-scale bioremediation trials, particularly in resource-limited or nickel-impacted water systems.
Copyright (c) 2025 Ogu Gideon I., Odoh Joshua A., Ojiego Beatrice O., Obioh Gloria I.B., Madu Josephine https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0