International Journal of Science for Global Sustainability

Hydrochemical Characterization and Pollution Assessment of Groundwater in Yendogo and Its Environs, Sokoto Basin, Northwestern Nigeria

Aisha Abubakar — 2026-10-06

Groundwater is the principal source of water for domestic and agricultural activities in Yendogo and its environs, Sokoto Basin, northwestern Nigeria. Assessing its hydrochemical characteristics and pollution status is essential for sustainable groundwater management under changing climatic conditions. This study assessed the hydrochemical characteristics, pollution status, and suitability of groundwater for domestic use. Field investigations, groundwater sampling, and in-situ measurements of pH, temperature, electrical conductivity (EC), and total dissolved solids (TDS) were carried out. Laboratory analyses were conducted to determine major ions and selected heavy metals, while the analytical data were processed using AquaChem, Microsoft Excel, and Surfer software and compared with World Health Organization (WHO) drinking water guidelines. Groundwater was generally fresh, slightly acidic, and moderately mineralized, with temperature ranging from 28.0–31.8°C, pH 4.78–5.90, EC 159–772 µS/cm, and TDS 112–360 mg/L. Hydrochemical analysis showed that groundwater is predominantly of the Ca–Mg–HCO₃ hydrochemical facies, indicating that groundwater chemistry is mainly controlled by carbonate dissolution and natural rock–water interactions. Most physicochemical parameters and major ions and the selected heavy metals were within WHO permissible limits. However, lead (Pb) concentrations exceeded the WHO guideline value in some sampling locations, indicating localized contamination and the need for continuous groundwater quality monitoring. Overall, the groundwater is generally suitable for domestic use; however, appropriate treatment is recommended before consumptions in areas where elevated lead concentrations were observed.

Face Detection Technique Using Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) and MobileNet

Anas Abdullahi — 2026-10-06

Facial detection has become a significant advantage in the field of image forensic and computer vision. These provide help in detecting an image that are doctored in order to hide or conceal information/message. Researchers used extensive deep learning applications particularly those algorithms that highlight potential for detecting facial recognition to address issues such as high computation, long operation time and low accuracy in traditional and lightweight face recognition algorithms, we introduce a face recognition method that incorporates a lightweight neural network and multi-hash recognition degree weighting. Firstly, the front-end feature extraction in the SSD detection network utilizes the improved MobileNet model instead of the VGG model. The pruned SSD model is employed as the detection network, reducing calculation time and preventing overfitting. Secondly, face matching involves weighing the calculated mean hash similarity and perceived hash similarity using a specific weight. The proposed improved method is trained and evaluated on WiderFace, LFW and FDDB datasets. Experimental results demonstrate that the method enhances running speed by ap proximately 29% on LFW datasets while achieving a high face recognition rate and maintaining detection performance. This research introduces a novel and high-performance approach to the field of face recognition.

Mycological Assessment of Garri Sold in Utako Market, Abuja, Nigeria

S Bello — 2026-10-06

Garri is a fermented cassava based product and forms a significant part of people’s diet in Nigeria. It is a product of mostly spontaneous fermentation in rural settings and susceptible to unhygienic practices during its processing and handling with potential for contamination with spoilage and potential pathogenic microorganisms like moulds. This study assessed the mycological quality of garri sold in Utako market, Abuja. Twenty (20) sample of garri comprising of ten (10) samples each of white and yellow garri were purchased fromvendors in Utako market, Abuja. One millilitre of appropriate dilutions obtained from ten fold serial dilutions of sample homogenates were plated onto sterile Petri dishes containing acidified potato dextrose agar (PDA) using spread plate method . Mould isolates were characterized and identified macroscopically and microscopically. Mould counts ranged from 4.3log₁₀- 4.9log₁₀cfu/g for white garri and from 4.0log₁₀-4.9log₁₀cfu/g for yellow garri. Moulds were isolated from all garri samples (100%). Isolates were identified as Aspergillus spp, Penicillium spp, Alternaria spp and Rhizopus spp. Penicillium spp recorded highest frequency of 38% for white garri, while Aspergillus spp. and Alternaria spp. recorded highest frequencies of 36% for yellow garri. Lowest frequencies were recorded for Rhizopus spp. in white garri (8%), whereas Penicillium spp. recorded lowest frequencies for yellow garri (9%). Statistical analysis of counts using student’s t-test showed no significant differences in mean counts between the groups of samples at 5% level of significance with calculated t-value (0.16) being less than table value (2.26). Findings suggests high frequency of occurrence of moulds in some garri sold in some markets in Abuja at levels beyond acceptable limits set by regulatory bodies suggesting a high chance of exposure to moulds by consumers of the product to potential mycotoxigenic mould species. It is recommended that the enlightenment, training and certification of producers on safe and standard practices of garri processing be enforced by relevant regulatory agencies.

Comparative Bacteriological Quality of Retail Roast Meat Products in Parts of Kaduna and Zaria Towns, Nigeria

S. Bello — 2026-10-06

Bacillus cereus is an opportunistic pathogen of humans, and a frequent cause of food poisoning. Widely distributed in the environment, it is easily spread to many types of foods and has been referred to as the major problem in convenience foods and mass catering owing to its spore forming ability. This study compared the bacteriological quality of 3 street-vended roast meat products of northern Nigeria- suya (spiced roast meat), balangu (unspiced roast meat), and soye (hawked spiced roast meat) in some parts of Kaduna and Zaria towns of Nigeria, particularly as it relates to their quantitative bacteriological quality, and to the presence of B.cereus. A total of 129 samples comprising 43 samples each of Suya, Balangu and Soye were subjected to 10 fold serial dilutions and plated onto sterile plates of Nutrient agar and Mannitol Egg-yolk Polymyxin Agar (MYP) for Total Aerobic Plate Count (TAPC) and B.cereus isolation respectively. Presumptive B.cereus colonies were identified biochemically using a Microgen^TMBacillus ID. Mean TAPC was highest for soye (6.3±1.0log₁₀cfu/g) and lowest for suya (3.9±0.9log₁₀ cfu/g). Similarly, mean B.cereus counts was highest for soye (2.4±0.3log₁₀cfu/g), and lowest for suya (1.4±0.3log₁₀ cfu/g). Frequency of occurrence of B.cereus was highest for balangu at 7 (16%) and lowest for Soye at 3 (7%). There were no significant differences in B. cereus count and TAPC amongst samples of the same product at 5% level (P>0.05). Study revealed TAPC and B.cereus counts being at levels considered satisfactory and marginal for suya and balangu respectively at the point of sale but unsatisfactory for Soye. The study highlights the need for regulatory agencies to educate Soye vendors on the implications of the use of substandard practices in the handling and sale of the product, and also guide consumers in their choices of vended roast meat products.

Evaluation of Heavy Metal Accumulation in Fish from Nguru LGA, Yobe State, Nigeria

Abdussamad Mukhtar Mohammed — 2026-10-06

This study aimed to determine heavy metal contents in the fish of Nguru Local Government Area (LGA), Yobe State, Nigeria, and assess the potential health risks associated with their consumption. The work seeks to enhance public health awareness and promote environmental sustainability in the region. Heavy metals, including Lead, Cadmium, Chromium, Arsenic, and Copper, pose significant threats to aquatic ecosystems and human health. The study used a descriptive experimental design and collected fish samples from major fishing sites within the Hadejia-Nguru Wetlands. A total of nine samples of common edible fish species, including African arowana, Tilapia, and Catfish, were analyzed for heavy metal concentrations using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry (AAS). Significant findings of environmental contamination and the accompanying health risks were highlighted. All three fish species contained varied amounts of heavy metals. Surprisingly, all of the samples contained very high levels of lead, cadmium, and copper, exceeding the World Health Organization (WHO) and Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) permissible limits. Arsenic and chromium were found to be within permitted limits. The catfish had the highest lead content, followed by the African Arowana and the Tilapia. African Arowana had the greatest levels of cadmium, followed by Tilapia and Catfish. Similarly, Tilapia has a greater copper level than Catfish and African Arowana. The findings raised major concerns regarding neurological and renal health risks for consumers, particularly in that region of the country, which is presently one of the epicenters for chronic kidney disease. The findings highlight the urgent need for regular monitoring of heavy metal levels in aquatic habitats, as well as the implementation of stronger industrial discharge laws and the promotion of ecologically friendly agricultural practices.

Multi-Indicator Assessment of Desertification Dynamics in Kebbi State, Nigeria

Ishaq Abbati Adamu — 2026-10-06

This study assessed desertification in Kebbi State over a 32-year period (1991-2023) using a multi-indicator approach comprising thirteen indicators. Vegetation indicators included the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), Modified Soil-Adjusted Vegetation Index (MSAVI), and Normalized Difference Moisture Index (NDMI). The Modified Normalized Difference Water Index (MNDWI) was used to extract surface water. Soil indicators included the Normalized Difference Salinity Index (NDSI) and the Topsoil Grain Size Index (TGSI). Land use and land cover indicators were the Normalized Difference Built-Up Index (NDBI) and the Normalized Difference Bareness Index (NDBaI). Climate indicators included Land Surface Temperature (LST), Air Temperature (TMP), Precipitation (PRE), Aridity Index (AI), and Surface Albedo. We computed Remote sensing indices from Landsat 4 TM and Landsat 8 OLI/TIRS for 1991 and 2023, respectively, and obtained climate data from the Climate Research Unit (CRU) gridded datasets. Results revealed a decline in vegetation and moisture conditions. Maximum NDVI decreased from 0.4695 to 0.3925, and MSAVI declined from 0.5931 to 0.5637. NDMI reduced from 0.5271 to 0.2388, and MNDWI from 0.3215 to 0.1375. Soil salinity declined, with NDSI decreasing from 0.3661 to 0.1019 and TGSI from 0.6356 to 0.4399, indicating a shift to fine soil. Built-up intensity increased as NDBI rose from 0.7180 to 0.7354, while surface bareness (NDBaI) declined from 0.7411 to 0.6065. Climatic stress intensified: maximum LST decreased from 64.04°C to 56.26°C, mean temperature increased from 29.28°C to 30.34°C, annual precipitation declined from 1232.33 mm to 1004.80 mm, and AI declined from 0.96 to 0.65. Surface albedo increased from 0.2589 to 0.3020, indicating increased land exposure and degradation. This study underscores the effectiveness of employing a multi-indicator framework for desertification monitoring and understanding its dynamics in Kebbi State and other semi-arid regions.

Nutritional Quality and Vitamin Composition of Complementary Foods Formulated from Traditionally Processed Food Ingredients

Ijeoma Okoro — 2026-10-06

Malnutrition continues to be a serious public health concern in Nigeria, particularly among newborns and children, emphasizing the need for affordable, nutrient-dense diets made from locally available ingredients. This study evaluated the nutritional quality and vitamin composition of complementary foods formulated from traditionally processed maize, millet and sorghum. The grains were subjected to roasting, fermentation or left unprocessed (control), then blended with soybean, groundnut, pumpkin seed, watermelon seed and tomato in a fixed ratio (35:21:11:10:2:3:2:3:13), producing nine formulations: roasted maize (RMZ), roasted millet (RM), roasted guinea corn (RGC), fermented maize (FMZ), fermented millet (FM), fermented guinea corn (FGC), unprocessed maize (UMZ), unprocessed millet (UM) and unprocessed guinea corn (UGC). Proximate composition was determined using standard AOAC methods, while vitamins A, E and C were quantified spectrophotometrically. Protein content ranged from 0.15% (UGC) to 10.76% (FM), while crude fat ranged from 2.48% (FMZ) to 6.24% (RGC). Carbohydrate content ranged from 70.07% (UM) to 86.68% (RMZ), with RMZ also recording the highest energy value (406.72 kcal). Vitamin A ranged from 0.72 mg/100 g (RMZ) to 1.77 mg/100 g (RM); vitamin E from 14.27 mg/100 g (RMZ) to 31.71 mg/100 g (UM); and vitamin C from 16.24 mg/100 g (RGC) to 52.87 mg/100 g (RM). Overall, roasted millet (RM) emerged as the most nutritionally balanced formulation, reaching or exceeding baby Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDAs). The findings demonstrate the potential of affordable, locally sourced and traditionally processed cereal-legume complementary foods as practical interventions for reducing infant undernutrition and improving child nutritional outcomes in resource-limited settings.

Breast Cancer: Biochemical Insights and the Therapeutic Potential of Plant-Derived Bioactive Compounds

Bilya Bashir — 2026-10-06

Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer and the leading cause of cancer-related mortality among women worldwide. This review examines the biochemical mechanisms underlying breast cancer development and progression and evaluates the therapeutic potential of plant-derived bioactive compounds, with emphasis on their molecular targets, anticancer activities, and translational prospects. Breast cancer is a heterogeneous and multifactorial disease driven by genetic and epigenetic alterations that disrupt cellular proliferation, differentiation, survival, and genomic stability. Molecular classification commonly includes hormone receptor-positive and HER2-positive tumours, as well as major subtypes such as luminal A, luminal B, HER2-enriched, and triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). Breast cancer progression is associated with the hallmarks of cancer, including sustained proliferative signaling, evasion of growth suppression and cell death, replicative immortality, angiogenesis, invasion and metastasis, metabolic reprogramming, and immune evasion. Metabolic alterations support the energetic and biosynthetic demands of tumour cells. Plant-derived bioactive compounds, including polyphenols, flavonoids, isoflavones, catechins, and isothiocyanates, have emerged as promising candidates for breast cancer prevention and management. Compounds such as curcumin, resveratrol, genistein, sulforaphane, quercetin, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), and corn silk-derived constituents exhibit anticancer activities through interconnected mechanisms, including cell-cycle arrest, apoptosis induction, modulation of tumour suppressor and oncogenic signaling, and regulation of hormone receptor pathways. These compounds influence pathways involving p53, PTEN, PI3K/AKT/mTOR, MAPK, NF-κB, ER, PR, and HER2. Overall, the evidence supports the potential of plant-derived bioactive compounds as promising candidates for breast cancer prevention and treatment. However, most evidence remains preclinical, highlighting the need for further mechanistic, pharmacokinetic, safety, and well-designed clinical studies.

Neuroprotective effects of zinc oxide nanoparticles of epigallocatechin-3-gallate on rotenone-induced cerebellar neurotoxicity and histological alterations in rats

Isaac Olawale Babatunde — 2026-10-06

Rotenone, an environmental neurotoxicant, induces neurotoxicity by promoting mitochondrial function impairment, redox inflammation, and neurodegeneration. The study examined the neuroprotective efficacy of zinc oxide nanoparticles of epigallocatechin-3-gallate (ZnONP-EGCG) in cerebellar neurotoxicity mediated by rotenone in rats. A total of fifty-four male adult Wistar rats (180 – 220 g) were randomized to nine groups: Control, RTN (2.5 mg/kg, rotenone); RTN + Sinemet®, and groups treated with ZnONP-EGCG at doses of 10, 20, or 40 mg/kg, administered either alone or alongside rotenone once daily for 14 days. Post-treatment analyses of cerebellar homogenate were performed to assess biomarkers of oxidative stress, inflammation, neurotransmission, and cellular integrity, as well as histopathological examination. Rotenone administration significantly altered cerebellar redox homeostasis as it decreased the endogenous antioxidant enzyme activity (glutathione-S-transferase, glutathione peroxidase, catalase, and superoxide dismutase), with a concomitant increase in lipid peroxidation. It also markedly decreased neurotransmitter (dopamine and γ-aminobutyric acid) levels, intensified inflammatory signaling by elevating inflammatory cytokines (interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-α) levels, and mediators (C-reactive protein, cyclooxygenase-2, and nitric oxide levels, as well as the activity of myeloperoxidase); whereas it increased DNA fragmentation, decreased glucose and total protein levels, and caused histopathological alterations in the cerebellar neuron architecture. Conversely, treatment with ZnONPs-EGCG restored antioxidant enzyme activities, suppressed lipid peroxidation and the inflammatory cascade, preserved dopaminergic and GABAergic neurotransmission, normalized cerebellar metabolic alterations, maintained cellular integrity, and minimized DNA damage and cerebellar histopathological alterations. Overall, these findings support ZnONPs-EGCG as a promising nanotherapeutic strategy for mitigating cerebellar neurotoxicity associated with environmental exposures.

Iron-Deficiency Anaemia in Pregnancy: Dietary Patterns, Risk Factors and Preventive Strategies—A Review

Sanusi Bello Mada — 2026-10-06

Iron-deficiency anaemia (IDA) remains a major public health concern during pregnancy, which accounts for approximately one-half of all anemia cases, affecting several pregnant women in resource-constrained settings due to inadequate intake of iron-rich diets, poor dietary diversity, socioeconomic constraints and infections. This review highlights IDA and dietary patterns in pregnancy focusing on the major risk factors and preventive measures. This review searched and used relevant literatures on Iron metabolism, pregnancy-related Iron requirements, epidemiology, dietary patterns, and determinants of Iron status, diagnosis, consequences, and strategies for prevention of IDA. Pregnancy substantially increases iron requirements due to maternal erythropoiesis, fetal growth, and placental development. Diets dominated by starchy staples may provide inadequate bioavailable iron, while phytates, tannins, calcium, oxalates, and phosphates inhibits absorption. Heme iron and vitamin C enhance iron availability. Reported risk factors include food insecurity, poverty, poor dietary diversity, infections, blood loss, restrictive dietary practices, and older maternal age. IDA was associated with maternal morbidity, postpartum haemorrhage, preterm birth, low birth weight, and adverse fetal development. Minimizing IDA requires integrated interventions combining nutrition education, dietary diversification, locally available iron-rich foods, appropriate iron supplementation, food fortification, and strengthened antenatal nutrition services for improvement of maternal and fetal health.

Macroeconomic Instability and Population Growth in Nigeria: Evidence from Inflation and Exchange Rate Dynamics, 2000–2024

Gbenga I Bamidele — 2026-10-06

This study investigates the empirical link between macroeconomic instability measured via inflation and official exchange rate dynamics and population growth rates in Nigeria across a 25-year operational horizon (2000–2024). Secondary annual time-series data sourced from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), and the World Bank are analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics Version 25. Addressing key econometric assumptions, the analytical framework executes descriptive profiling, formal linear regression assumption testing (including multicollinearity diagnostics via Variance Inflation Factors, error independence via Durbin Watson statistics, residual normality via the Shapiro Wilk test, and homoscedasticity), simple linear specifications, an additive multiple linear regression, and an interactive model specification to capture the joint compounding pressure of currency depreciation and consumer price inflation. The empirical findings reveal that standalone annual inflation ( ) and exchange rate depreciation ( ) exert statistically significant negative effects on population growth. In the additive multiple regression model, both variables jointly account for of demographic variance ( ), though individual coefficients lose statistical significance due to strong collinear shared variance ( ). Incorporating an interaction term ( ) isolates the compounding transmission channels of cost-push shocks on demographic slowdown. The study concludes that macroeconomic hardship acts as an active constraint on demographic expansion, corroborating the modern tenets of Malthusian preventive checks and Demographic Transition Theory. Strategic policy interventions focused on foreign exchange stabilization, domestic price restraint, and targeted social safety nets are recommended.

Assuring Information Integrity in Mobile Cloud Computing: A Multi-Level Transaction Security Approach

Tajudeen Olanrewaju Toyyib — 2026-10-06

The spread of mobile cloud computing has made data integrity harder to guarantee. Transmitting data across distributed, resource-constrained environments exposes it to corruption, interception, and makes the transaction not complete in ways that existing single-layer security mechanisms do not adequately address. Encryption, blockchain, and provable data possession each target distinct points in the data lifecycle; none protects the full transaction. This study applies design science research to identify those limitations and to build a multi-layer transaction security framework that addresses them directly. The framework is organised around four interdependent components: identity authentication, data verification, fault tolerance, and efficiency optimisation. Testing was conducted in a simulation environment configured with 100 mobile devices, five cloud nodes, and 5,000 transactions across three scenario types. The framework achieved a 96% data integrity rate, compared with 85% for traditional encryption models. Transaction latency was 1.8 seconds, against 2.5 seconds for blockchain-only systems. Reliability under fault conditions reached 94%. The results support the case for integrated, lifecycle-aware security architectures in mobile banking, healthcare, and Internet of Things (IOT) deployments.

Individual and Contextual Factors Associated with Skilled Birth Attendance in Kogi State, Nigeria: Evidence from the 2021 Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey

Dolapo Shobanke — 2026-10-06

Skilled birth attendance (SBA) is a core indicator of progress toward reducing maternal and newborn mortality, yet substantial subnational disparities persist across Nigeria, and evidence specific to Kogi State remains scarce. This study analyzed data on women aged 15–49 years with a live birth in the two years preceding the 2021 Nigeria Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS6), restricted to the Kogi State subsample (n = 155). Survey-weighted prevalence was estimated, and multilevel logistic regression models with a random intercept for PSU were fitted to identify correlates of SBA, with model selection guided by AIC, BIC, and likelihood-ratio comparison; a survey-weighted regression served as a sensitivity check. Weighted SBA prevalence was 73.5% (95% CI: 58.8–84.3%), rising from 52.6% in poorer households to 93.7% in richer households, and higher in urban (93.1%) than rural areas (59.5%). A model containing residence, wealth, and household size (Model 2) provided the best fit (AIC = 175.69, BIC = 193.95). Women in richer households had substantially higher odds of SBA than those in poorer households (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 6.14, 95% CI: 1.60–23.48), while rural residence and household size were not independently associated with SBA after adjustment, though the small sample limits precision. Meaningful between-cluster variation was observed (ICC = 0.215, MOR = 2.47), and the sensitivity analysis produced directionally consistent estimates. Household wealth is the dominant correlate of SBA in Kogi State; interventions reducing financial and geographic barriers for poorer and rural households are likely to yield the largest gains in SBA coverage.

iSTIR-RPL: Trust-Aware Routing-State Protection Against Colluding Routing Table Overload Attack in Storing-Mode RPL

Faisal Ali Garba — 2026-10-06

A memory exhaustion attack in the Internet Protocol version 6 (IPv6) Routing for Low Power and Lossy Networks (RPL) where attacking node inject fake Destination Advertisement Object (DAO) messages to saturate routing tables and isolate legitimate nodes is known by the name Routing Table Overload Attack (RTOA). Short-Interval Routing for RPL (STIR-RPL) is the only published countermeasure which provides zero measurable protection against RTOA and produced results similar to Baseline RPL (RFC 6550) when evaluated in this study. This paper proposes iSTIR-RPL, which addresses three fundamental deficiencies of STIR-RPL through three coordinated enhancements: (1) trust-aware routing-state admission using a three-tier pool system that allocates routing table capacity proportionally to verified, new-node, and suspicious nodes based on legitimate trust scores from iMSecTrust-RPL; (2) adaptive memory reservation that scales interval sizes continuously with trust level; and (3) suspicion-based routing-state control with colluding group detection. The proposed iSTIR-RPL eliminated node isolation completely across all evaluation runs, reduced routing table size by 69 to 72 percent relative to Baseline RPL (RFC 6550), and dropped DAO rejection events to zero, whilst maintaining statistically equivalent Packet Delivery Ratio to all comparison schemes (all p > 0.05) when evaluated across 180 simulation runs spanning three topologies, two RTOA variants, three attacker densities, and ten seeds per configuration. These results revealed that trust-conditioned routing-state admission is necessary and sufficient to prevent RTOA-induced node isolation in storing-mode RPL.

Nutritional Composition, Amino Acid Profile and Sensory Acceptability of Biscuits Produced from Wheat, Walnut and Orange-Fleshed Sweet Potato Flour Blends

A.A. Shehu — 2026-10-06

This work examined how blending wheat flour with walnut and orange-fleshed sweet potato (OFSP) flours affects the nutrient content, amino acid makeup, and sensory appeal of biscuits. Four biscuit formulations were prepared: a 100% wheat-flour control alongside 80:10:10, 60:20:20, and 40:30:30 wheat–walnut–OFSP blends. Nutrient composition was assessed through proximate analysis, amino acids were quantified by High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), and consumer acceptance was evaluated sensorially, all following standard procedures. As the level of substitution rose, fibre, fat, ash, and energy values all increased significantly, and the essential amino acids lysine, methionine, and tryptophan were markedly higher in the composite biscuits than in the control. On sensory testing, the blend containing 80% wheat, 10% walnut, and 10% OFSP flour was rated as acceptable as the control. These findings indicate that moderate substitution with walnut and OFSP flours can boost the nutritional value of biscuits without sacrificing consumer acceptability.

A q-Version of the Residue Theorem and Contour Integration: Theory, Computation and Python Applications

Tanko Adamu — 2026-10-06

The classical Residue Theorem is a fundamental result in complex analysis with extensive applications in evaluating contour and improper real integrals. Recent computational developments have demonstrated the effectiveness of combining residue calculus with symbolic computation for numerical verification and visualization. Motivated by these advances, this paper extends the classical residue-theoretic framework to Jackson q-calculus. A Jackson q-Residue-Type Operator and a q-contour-type integral are introduced, leading to a q-Residue Theorem and a corresponding q-Integral Evaluation Formula for the computation of q-integrals. We establish fundamental lemmas to investigate the operator's limiting behaviour and linearity, while the main theorems provide a theoretical foundation for evaluating representative q-integrals. We complement the analytical developments with computational verification in Python, using SymPy, NumPy, mpmath, and Matplotlib for symbolic computation, numerical approximation, and graphical visualisation. Illustrative examples demonstrate the approach's applicability and confirm that the derived q-formulations converge to their classical counterparts as . The results bridge classical residue calculus, quantum calculus, and computational mathematics, providing a foundation for further investigations in q-special functions, q-difference equations, and related areas of mathematical analysis.

Comparative Analysis of Different Clinical Detection Technique for Down Syndrome Babies Using Machine Learning Algorithm

Samaila Musa, — 2026-10-06

Machine learning (ML) algorithms have potentially revolutionized a number of industries, including healthcare. In recent years, the healthcare sector has paid close consideration to the potential of ML to improve diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment planning for a number of illnesses, including Down Syndrome (DS). These techniques may analyze complex medical data, identify patterns and trends, and provide medical professionals and DS families with useful information. This paper presented researches conducted based on machine learning techniques for analysing different clinical detection techniques for DS babies. The paper also presented a proposed Improved Particle Swap Optimization (IPSO) technique for clinical detection technique for DS babies. The IPSO is expected to provide better technique for clinical detection technique for DS babies when implemented.

Molecular Detection of Aflatoxins-producing Fungi in Maize Sold in Gusau Major Markets. Implications for Food Safety and Public Health.

Nusaiba Ibrahim Danmaliki — 2026-10-06

A staple crop that is vital to maintaining food security, maize is consumed by millions of people worldwide. For this study, three samples of maize were gathered from important markets in the Gusau city of Tudun Wada, Sabon Gari, and Damba. The study's objective was to detect fungal contamination in maize samples acquired from specific vendors using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique. Following the extraction of genomic DNA from cultured fungal isolates, PCR amplification and molecular analysis were carried out. Following amplification using universal primers and agarose gel electrophoresis, the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) gene was detected in all samples, yielding amplicons of roughly 700 base pairs (bp). The findings show that the examined maize samples had fungal contamination. These results show that PCR is a very specific and sensitive technique for identifying fungal pathogens in food samples.

Gender Differences in the Prevalence of Blood-Borne Infectious Diseases Among University Students: A Chi-Square and Risk-Ratio Analysis

Muhammad Bala Maradun — 2026-10-06

Blood-borne infectious diseases — namely Hepatitis B virus (HBV), Hepatitis C virus (HCV), and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) — remain a significant public health challenge in sub-Saharan Africa. University students represent a particularly vulnerable group owing to their age profile, potential sexual activity, and variable health literacy. This study aimed to determine whether gender-based differences in the seroprevalence of HBsAg, HCV, and HIV are statistically significant among newly admitted students at Federal University Gusau. A cross-sectional analytical design was employed using the complete 2024/2025 serological screening register (N = 1,707; male = 1,230; female = 477). For each infection, a 2 × 2 contingency table was constructed, and chi-square statistics, relative risk (RR), and odds ratio (OR) were computed analytically. HBsAg prevalence was 8.54% in males and 5.66% in females (χ²[1] = 3.59, p = 0.058; RR = 1.51, 95% CI [1.00, 2.27]; OR = 1.56, 95% CI [1.01, 2.41]). HCV prevalence was 1.22% (male) versus 0.84% (female) (χ²[1] = 0.17, p = 0.677), whilst HIV prevalence was 0.73% (male) versus 1.05% (female) (χ²[1] = 0.12, p = 0.725). HBsAg exhibited a borderline-significant gender disparity in which male students carried a 51% higher relative risk than their female counterparts. No statistically significant gender differences were detected for HCV or HIV. These findings support gender-targeted HBV vaccination campaigns and underscore the need for larger, adequately powered multi-cohort studies.

Chitosan-Based Adsorption for Heavy Metal Removal in Electroplating Wastewater: A Sustainable and Cost-Effective Approach

Salisu Mohammed — 2026-10-06

Electroplating wastewater contains significant concentrations of toxic heavy metals including copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), nickel (Ni), and iron (Fe), which pose severe environmental and public health risks when discharged without adequate treatment. Conventional treatment technologies such as chemical precipitation, membrane filtration, ion exchange, and electrochemical methods, while effective, are often associated with high operational costs, secondary pollution, and excessive energy consumption. Chitosan, a biopolymer derived from the deacetylation of chitin found abundantly in crustacean shells, has emerged as a promising, sustainable, and cost-effective adsorbent for heavy metal removal from aqueous solutions. This review comprehensively examines the application of chitosan-based adsorbents for the removal of Cu(II), Zn(II), Ni(II), and Fe(II/III) from electroplating wastewater. The production process of chitosan from arthropod and mollusc sources was discussed, along with detailed characterization techniques including Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscopy with Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (SEM-EDS), Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA), X-ray Fluorescence (XRF), and textural property analysis. The adsorption mechanisms, including complexation, electrostatic attraction, and ion exchange, are critically evaluated. Furthermore, the influence of environmental factors such as pH, temperature, contact time, adsorbent dosage, and initial metal concentration on chitosan adsorption performance is assessed.

HyMoTrust-RPL: A Trust-Aware Hybrid Routing Protocol for Mobile IoT Networks

Shamsuddeen Ismail Mohammad — 2026-10-06

The IPv6 Routing Protocol for Low-Power and Lossy Networks (RPL) although widely accepted for use in the Internet of Things (IoT) remains very much exposed to mobility-induced instability and routing attacks such as: blackhole and rank manipulation. These existing challenges have been addressed independently by existing extensions like HRP which is a mobility aware variant that stablizes changes and MSecTrust which is a trust-based protocol that strengthen security but none combine both dimensions within a unified framework. This paper proposes HyMoTrust-RPL a hybrid, trust-aware extension that integrates HRP’s proactive–reactive routing with MSecTrust’s decentralized trust evaluation. HyMoTrust has been implemented in Python Simpy-based simulation framework and it introduces end-to-end trust propagation, adaptive trust thresholds, backup path caching, and a soft-fail fallback to maintain connectivity under attack. Comparative simulations with 30 mixed static and mobile nodes under combined blackhole and rank attacks show that HyMoTrust improves packet delivery ratio (PDR) by up to fourfold, reduces energy consumption by an order of magnitude, and doubles throughput relative to HRP, with only a modest increase in delay. These results demonstrate that integrating mobility and trust mechanisms yields a more resilient RPL, suitable for dynamic IoT environments such as smart cities and vehicular networks.

Impact of Armed Banditry on Agricultural Productivity Among Rural Farm Households in North Central Nigeria: A Propensity Score Matching Approach

M. Zakari — 2026-10-06

Armed banditry has emerged as a major threat to rural livelihoods and agricultural production in Nigeria, particularly in North Central Nigeria, a major food-producing region. Despite growing evidence linking insecurity to agricultural decline, empirical evidence on the causal effects of banditry on household’s farm productivity remains limited. This study examines the impact of banditry on agricultural productivity among rural farm households in Niger and Plateau States Nigeria. A multistage sampling technique was used to select 399 households, comprising 194 from banditry-affected and 205 from non-affected communities. Total Factor Productivity (TFP) was estimated as the ratio of total output value to total input value per hectare. Propensity Score Matching (PSM), using one-to-one, nearest neighbour, radius and kernel matching, was employed to estimate the Average Treatment Effect on the Treated (ATT), while probit regression identified productivity determinants. Mean TFP was 3.83 among affected farmers compared with 5.31 among non-affected farmers, representing a 1.48-unit productivity gap. Radius matching produced an ATT of −1.2041 (p < 0.01), indicating that banditry reduced productivity by approximately 1.2 units. Frequency of attacks and livestock loss negatively influenced productivity, whereas: education, credit access, extension contact, farmer association membership and farming experience had positive effects. This study concludes that banditry substantially constrains agricultural productivity and recommends labour saving, climate smart technologies and secure farming systems, including home based bag farming, improved seeds, mechanisation, irrigation, dry-season farming and digital extension, to sustain productivity while reducing farmers’ exposure to insecurity.

Role of Heat and Mass Transfer on Time Dependent Natural Convection Flow in a Vertical Channel with Adiabatic and Isoflux Thermal Boundary Conditions

Abdulrahman Muhammad — 2026-10-06

This study investigates transient natural-convection flow with coupled heat and mass transfer in a vertical porous channel subject to adiabatic and isoflux thermal boundary conditions. A mathematical model is formulated to describe the evolution of the velocity, temperature, and concentration fields for a two-dimensional, incompressible, laminar flow through a homogeneous and isotropic porous medium. The governing continuity, momentum, energy, and concentration equations are nondimensionalized and solved analytically using the Laplace transformation technique. The resulting solutions are inverted through the Riemann-Sum Approximation (RSA), while MATLAB PDEPE is employed to validate the analytical results. The effects of thermal and solutal buoyancy, heat generation or absorption, and wall suction/injection on the transport characteristics are examined. The results indicate that increasing thermal and solutal buoyancy enhances the fluid velocity and strengthens the associated heat and mass transfer. Higher Prandtl and Schmidt numbers reduce the temperature and concentration distributions, respectively, leading to thinner thermal and solutal boundary layers. Heat generation increases the fluid temperature and wall heat-transfer rate, whereas heat absorption produces the reverse effect. Suction suppresses the velocity, mass flow, and mass-transfer characteristics, while injection enhances them. The skin-friction coefficient increases with buoyancy forces and injection but decreases with suction. The analytical solutions obtained using the Laplace-transform and RSA procedures show close agreement with the numerical results from MATLAB PDEPE. The study demonstrates that buoyancy, thermal transport, and mass diffusion significantly influence transient natural-convection behaviour in porous channels and provides useful insights into coupled heat and mass transfer under adiabatic and isoflux boundary conditions.

Financial Development, Exchange Rate Volatility and Cross-Border Economic Activity in the Nigeria, Niger and Benin Corridor: A Panel ARDL Approach in the 14th Century

A. W. Babayemi — 2026-10-06

This study investigates the relationship between financial development, exchange rate volatility, cross-border economic activity, and economic growth within the Nigeria, Niger and Benin border corridor, with particular focus on North-Western Nigeria's frontier states of Jigawa, Katsina, Kebbi, Sokoto and Zamfara. Motivated by the persistent underperformance of financial intermediation, currency instability, and largely informal cross-border commerce in the region despite its strategic economic position, the research pursues three specific objectives: (i) to assess the state of financial development and the pattern of cross-border activities in North-Western Nigeria; (ii) to examine the linkages among financial development, exchange rate volatility, cross-border activities and economic growth in the zone; and (iii) to determine the direction and magnitude of the influence that financial development, exchange rate volatility and cross-border activities exert on economic growth. The study is envisaged to contribute to knowledge in three respects: by supplying empirical evidence from an under-researched but strategically important border corridor; by applying a rigorous dynamic panel methodology validated through first- and second-generation stationarity diagnostics; and by extending the finance–growth and exchange-rate literature through treating the exchange rate level and its volatility as analytically distinct constructs, and by offering a structural explanation for the muted growth contribution of cross-border remittance flows. Methodologically, the study adopts a quantitative panel research design covering Nigeria, Niger and Benin annually from 1999 to 2024 (78 observations), using GDP growth, the nominal exchange rate, exchange rate volatility, domestic credit to the private sector, and personal remittances received, sourced from the Central Bank of Nigeria, the World Bank's World Development Indicators, and Nigeria's National Bureau of Statistics. The analytical strategy proceeds in stages: descriptive and correlation analysis; panel unit root testing using first-generation (Levin–Lin–Chu, Im–Pesaran–Shin, Fisher-type) and second-generation (Pesaran CIPS/CADF) procedures to establish orders of integration and account for cross-sectional dependence; panel cointegration testing (Pedroni and Kao) to establish long-run equilibrium; and, given the mixed order of integration among the series, estimation of a Panel Autoregressive Distributed Lag model in error-correction form using the Dynamic Fixed Effects estimator, chosen for its suitability to a panel with a small cross-sectional dimension and moderate time span. The findings show that GDP growth and exchange rate volatility are stationary in levels, while the exchange rate, domestic credit and remittances are integrated of order one, and both cointegration tests confirm a robust long-run equilibrium relationship among the variables. The error-correction coefficient is negative, near unity, and highly significant, indicating rapid correction of disequilibrium. Domestic credit to the private sector exerts a positive and statistically significant long-run effect on growth, the study's strongest result. The exchange rate level exerts a negative and marginally significant long-run effect, indicating that sustained depreciation weakens growth, whereas exchange rate volatility and remittance inflows show no statistically significant long-run or short-run effects. These findings imply that financial deepening, rather than the mere presence of cross-border trade or currency fluctuation is the principal lever for sustainable growth in the corridor, and that persistent currency depreciation carries real developmental costs. The insignificance of remittances points to structural and institutional weaknesses, informality, limited financial inclusion, and weak regulatory infrastructure, that prevent cross-border flows from translating into productive investment, underscoring the need for policies that formalise remittance channels, deepen financial intermediation, and stabilise the exchange rate.

Persistent Chloroquine use in Nigeria: Evidence, Drivers, Drug Resistance and Implications for Antimalarial Stewardship

K. Abdullahi — 2026-10-06

Chloroquine was once the mainstay of uncomplicated malaria treatment in Nigeria because of its low cost, wide availability, simple dosing regimen, and long history of use. However, widespread use and increasing Plasmodium falciparum resistance led to declining therapeutic effectiveness and the subsequent adoption of artemisinin-based combination therapies (ACTs) as the recommended treatment for uncomplicated malaria. Despite its withdrawal from national treatment policy, chloroquine remains available and is reportedly used in some Nigerian communities and medicine outlets. This review examines the persistence of chloroquine use in Nigeria, with particular attention to Northern Nigeria, and considers its implications for antimalarial stewardship, drug-resistance containment, and sustainable malaria control. A narrative review of published evidence and relevant malaria-treatment policies was undertaken. Evidence on continued chloroquine use, medicine availability, self-medication, treatment-seeking behaviour, provider and vendor practices, and molecular markers of chloroquine resistance was examined. Available evidence indicates that chloroquine remains accessible and is still used in some settings despite its withdrawal from recommended malaria-treatment protocols. Its continued use appears to be associated with historical familiarity, low cost, easy access, self-medication, presumptive treatment of fever, limited diagnostic services, variable availability or affordability of ACTs, and practices among medicine vendors and health-care providers. Molecular surveillance indicates that chloroquine-resistance markers have declined in some settings following withdrawal of chloroquine, but resistant parasite genotypes remain detectable. However, declining resistance-marker frequencies alone do not provide sufficient evidence to support routine reintroduction of chloroquine. Persistent chloroquine use remains a policy-practice concern with implications for appropriate malaria case management and sustainable malaria control. Strengthening antimalarial stewardship requires reliable access to quality-assured ACTs and rapid diagnostic tests, improved regulation of medicine outlets, provider and vendor training, community education, routine surveillance of antimalarial medicine use, and continued molecular and therapeutic-efficacy surveillance.

Production and Physicochemical Characterization of Biodiesel from Senegalia macrostachya seed oil

Aminu Shehu Zagga — 2026-10-06

The search for locally available, non-edible and renewable feedstocks for biodiesel production has increased interest in underutilized oil-bearing plants. This study investigated the physicochemical characteristics of Senegalia macrostachya seed oil before and after refining and evaluated its suitability for biodiesel production. Mature seeds collected from Wanke village, Shagari Local Government Area, Sokoto State, Nigeria, were dried, milled and extracted with n-hexane using Soxhlet extraction. The crude oil was refined by degumming, neutralization and bleaching, and its physicochemical properties and fatty-acid profile were determined. Biodiesel was produced by methanol-based transesterification using a calcium oxide catalyst prepared from mussel shells. The crude oil yield was 32.50 ± 0.20%, while the reported refined-oil recovery was 13.95 ± 0.32%. Refining reduced moisture, viscosity, acid value, free fatty acids and peroxide value from 1.24 ± 0.05 to 0.31 ± 0.02%, 42.65 ± 0.72 to 38.41 ± 0.63 cSt, 5.84 ± 0.16 to 1.92 ± 0.08 mg KOH/g, 2.94 ± 0.08 to 0.96 ± 0.04%, and 6.32 ± 0.21 to 2.14 ± 0.11 meq/kg, respectively. The major fatty acids reported in the oil were 9-hexadecenoic acid, oleic acid, linoleic acid, palmitic acid and stearic acid. Biodiesel yield was 86.34%, with specific gravity of 0.83 ± 0.01, kinematic viscosity of 2.92 ± 0.24 cSt at 40 °C, moisture content of 0.03 ± 0.00%, acid value of 0.48 ± 0.02 mg KOH/g, iodine value of 42.36 ± 0.02 g I₂/100 g, cetane number of 58.12 ± 0.20, copper-strip corrosion rating of 1b and higher heating value of 42.06 ± 0.013 MJ/kg. Sulfated ash was 0.009 ± 0.001%, the results indicate that S. macrostachya seed oil is a promising underutilized feedstock for biodiesel production, although further work should include full ASTM/EN fuel-quality testing, oxidative-stability measurement, FAME purity determination and engine-performance evaluation.

Prevalence and Age–Sex Variation of Urogenital Schistosomiasis Among School-Aged Children around Ajiwa Reservoir, Katsina State, Nigeria

Abdullahi Sanusi Abdullahi — 2026-10-06

Urogenital schistosomiasis is a freshwater-associated parasitic disease strongly influenced by human–water interactions and environmental conditions that support transmission. This study assessed the prevalence of urogenital schistosomiasis caused by Schistosoma haematobium and described its variation by age and sex among school-aged children living in communities around Ajiwa Reservoir, Katsina State, Nigeria. A cross-sectional survey was conducted between August and September 2023 among 105 pupils aged 8–15 years. Urine samples were screened using reagent strips and examined microscopically following centrifugation–sedimentation. The overall prevalence was 42.9% (95% CI: 33.8–52.4%). Infection was descriptively more frequent among males (46.9%) than females (36.6%; OR 1.53, 95% CI: 0.69–3.41; p = 0.299) and among younger age groups (50.0% at age 8–10 years declining to 31.3% at age 15; χ² = 1.558, df = 3, p = 0.669); however, neither difference was statistically significant. The findings indicate that urogenital schistosomiasis remains an important public health concern among school-aged children in communities around Ajiwa Reservoir and underscore the importance of preventive chemotherapy, health education, improved water, sanitation and hygiene practices, and reduction of risky freshwater contact.

Prediction of Malaria Incidence using Machine Learning Models in the Presence of Climatic Factors in Kebbi State, Nigeria

Hadiza Sai’d Madawaki — 2026-10-06

Malaria remains a critical public health challenge in Nigeria, with Kebbi State experiencing significant transmission burdens influenced by climatic variability. Traditional statistical methods, while useful for identifying associations, often fail to capture the complex, nonlinear, and delayed effects of climatic variables on malaria transmission. This study aimed to assess the impact of key climatic variables on malaria incidence and develop predictive models using machine learning approaches, specifically Random Forest (RF) and Artificial Neural Networks (ANN), in Kebbi State, Nigeria. Monthly malaria incidence data from 2014 to 2022 across all 21 Local Government Areas in Kebbi State were combined with corresponding meteorological records from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency. Preprocessing included normalization, temporal feature engineering (lagged and rolling means), and creation of both regression and binary classification targets. Model performance was evaluated on an independent test set (20% of data) using R², RMSE, MAE for regression, and accuracy, precision, recall, and F1-score for classification. RF regression achieved R² = 0.997, RMSE = 110.93, and MAE = 37.52 on the test set, while ANN achieved R² = 0.991, RMSE = 178.43, and MAE = 84.57. For classification, RF achieved 89.5% test set accuracy with balanced precision and recall, whereas ANN achieved 89.1% test set accuracy. Feature importance analysis confirmed lagged rainfall and humidity as the most influential predictors. Traditional statistical models (MLR) showed limited explanatory power (R² = 0.068-0.097), justifying the machine learning approach. Machine learning models, particularly Random Forest, effectively capture the nonlinear, time-dependent relationships between climate and malaria transmission, significantly outperforming conventional statistical approaches. This study provides a robust predictive framework for malaria surveillance and early warning systems in Kebbi State, highlighting the importance of integrating climatic and temporal predictors for improved disease forecasting.

Alkaline Pre-treatment of Gmelina arborea Leaves and Bark for Enhanced Bioethanol Production

M. S Kabir — 2026-10-06

Lignocellulosic biomass from Gmelina arborea leaves and bark represents a promising non-edible feedstock for second-generation bioethanol, addressing food-fuel conflicts and environmental concerns associated with fossil fuels. The structural complexity of lignocellulose limits the accessibility of fermentable sugars during hydrolysis. Pre-treatment methods such as alkaline treatment are widely employed to disrupt lignin structures and enhance cellulose availability. This study investigated the effectiveness of alkaline pre-treatment using sodium hydroxide (NaOH) on the leaves and bark of Gmelina arborea for bioethanol production. Biomass samples were treated with 2.0 M, 2.5 M, and 3.0 M NaOH solutions for 24 hours at room temperature, washed, neutralized to pH 4–6 with 1 M H₂SO₄, and fermented with Saccharomyces cerevisiae for 5 days under anaerobic conditions. Ethanol was recovered by distillation (78 °C) and purified by rotary evaporation. The highest ethanol yield (25 ml) was obtained from leaf biomass pre-treated with 2.5 M NaOH, while bark biomass yielded the highest ethanol volume (18 ml) at 3.0 M NaOH. Lower concentrations (2.0 M) produced lower yields but higher purity (densities as low as 0.724 ± 0.013 g/cm³ for bark). Ethanol density ranged from 0.724 ± 0.013 to 0.952 ± 0.01 g/cm³. Residue fermentation yielded no ethanol, confirming the necessity of hydrolysate processing. Alkaline pre-treatment improved ethanol recovery from both tissues, with biomass-specific optima (2.5 M for leaves; 3.0 M for bark). Gmelina arborea residues therefore warrant further investigation as a second-generation bioethanol feedstock, provided yields are confirmed by sugar quantification and mass-balance calculations in future work.Gmelina arborea

An Enhanced Hybrid Artificial Bee Colony Algorithm for Automated Test Case Generation Using Multi-Objective Optimization 1

Nurudeen Muhammad Bala — 2026-10-06

Automated test case generation plays a vital role in improving software quality by enhancing coverage, reducing human effort, and increasing fault detection efficiency. However, existing approaches face challenges such as: handling multi-objective optimization, maintaining diversity, and avoiding premature convergence. The typical Artificial Bee Colony ABC algorithm is one of many conventional and metaheuristic methods that frequently fail to successfully strike a balance between exploration and exploitation. In order to overcome these constraints, this paper suggests an improved hybrid ABC algorithm for automated test case generation that makes use of a multi-objective optimisation framework. To enhance the quality of the answer, the suggested method combines hybrid search techniques with Pareto-based selection. According to experimental findings, the Hybrid ABC produces a more varied and evenly distributed Pareto front than the traditional ABC in terms of coverage and fault detection potential. The study's findings, hybridisation greatly improves optimisation performance. Future research should concentrate on adaptive hybrid techniques and practical applications.

Microcontroller-Based Security Systems for Restricted Buildings: A Review of Existing Approaches and Research Gaps.

Nosike C Maduka — 2026-10-06

The protection of restricted buildings is important because unauthorized access, intrusion, theft, and other security threats can compromise property, information, and human safety. Traditional security approaches often depend on physical guards or single authentication mechanisms, which may provide limited coverage and may not support rapid detection and notification of security incidents. This paper reviews recent microcontroller-based and Internet of Things (IoT)-enabled security systems, with emphasis on access control, intrusion detection, vehicle identification, monitoring, communication, and simulation. A systematic search was carried out across major academic databases and indexing platforms, including IEEE Xplore, ScienceDirect, SpringerLink, and Google Scholar for studies published between 2016 to 2026 to identify relevant studies and ensure broad coverage of the existing literature. The search initially identified 145 publications. After title screening, 43 studies were retained for further assessment, and 17 studies were selected for detailed analysis following abstract and full-text screening. The selected studies were compared according to their major security functions, technologies, limitations, cost and research gaps. The review shows that Radio frequency identification (RFID), biometric authentication, sensors, License Plate Recognition (LPR), computer vision, IoT, cloud and fog computing have been applied to address different security requirements. However, the reviewed systems generally concentrate on specific security functions rather than integrating access control, intrusion detection, vehicle identification, monitoring, and notification within a single platform. The review therefore identifies an opportunity for an integrated microcontroller-based security system for restricted buildings and provides a basis for its proposed design and simulation.

Adherence and Barriers to Effective CT Dose Management Among Radiographers in Northeastern Nigeria: A Multicentre Study

Abdulrazaq Bamanga — 2026-10-06

Computed Tomography (CT) accounts for a substantial proportion of medical radiation exposure globally. Although the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) recommends structured dose management strategies, including the use of Diagnostic Reference Levels (DRLs) and dose monitoring systems, implementation remains inconsistent in many low-resource settings, with limited evidence from northeastern Nigeria. This study assessed adherence to recommended CT dose management practices and identify challenges to the effective implementation among radiographers in northeastern Nigeria. A cross-sectional study was conducted among radiographers working in public and private facilities with functional CT scanners across selected northeastern states. Data was collected using a validated questionnaire and structured observational checklist (S-CVI/Ave of 0.87), (Cronbach’s α = 0.724). Descriptive statistics and the Mann–Whitney U test was used for data analysis. A total of 110 radiographers participated (64.5% male; mean experience 6.21 ± 4.39 years). Only 36.7% reported active patient dose monitoring, 38.2% acknowledged established DRLs, and 30.9% regularly reviewed dose reports. Protocol selection based on clinical indication was observed in only 4.5% of cases. Patient dose tracking was absent in 90.9% of observed examinations. Major barriers included lack of training (75.5%), limited awareness (62.7%), time constraints (40.0%), equipment limitations (38.2%), and resistance to change (30.9%). CT dose optimization in northeastern Nigeria remains suboptimal and requires structured training, institutional reform, and mandatory dose monitoring frameworks to align practice with international standards.

Assessment of Natural Radionuclides, Soil-to-Plant Transfer and Radiological Significance of a Municipal Waste Dumpsite in Kaura Namoda, Zamfara State, Nigeria

Hassan Isah — 2026-10-06

This study investigated the occurrence of natural radionuclides in soil and vegetation at a municipal waste dumpsite in Kaura Namoda, Zamfara State, Nigeria, with emphasis on soil-to-plant transfer and radiological significance. Soil and corresponding plant samples collected from six sampling locations were analysed for ⁴⁰K, ²²⁶Ra, and ²³²Th using NaI(Tl) gamma-ray spectrometry. Soil-to-plant transfer factors (TFs) were determined from the activity concentrations in paired soil and plant samples. The absorbed dose rate (D_air), annual effective dose equivalent (AEDE), radium equivalent activity (Ra_eq), external hazard index (H_ex), and excess lifetime cancer risk (ELCR) were also evaluated. Mean soil activity concentrations were 237.46, 51.01, and 159.03 Bqkg⁻¹ for ⁴⁰K, ²²⁶Ra, and ²³²Th, respectively, while corresponding mean plant activities were 216.54, 37.48, and 82.97 Bqkg⁻¹, respectively. The mean TFs were 1.80 for ⁴⁰K, 0.79 for ²²⁶Ra, and 0.80 for ²³²Th, indicating comparatively greater transfer of ⁴⁰K into vegetation. Mean D_air, AEDE, Ra_eq, H_ex, and ELCR were 131.61 nGyh⁻¹, 0.16 mSv y⁻¹, 295.28 Bqkg⁻¹, 0.80, and 0.42 × 10⁻³, respectively. KRN 01 recorded the highest radiological values, including a D_air of 278.68 nGyh⁻¹, a Ra_eq of 625.13 Bqkg⁻¹, an H_ex of 1.69, and an ELCR of 0.89 × 10⁻³. Although the site-wide mean Ra_eq and H_ex were below their conventional reference levels, the elevated values at KRN 01 demonstrate considerable spatial variability within the dumpsite. The findings confirm measurable transfer of natural radionuclides from soil to vegetation and provide baseline information for continued environmental monitoring and prudent management of agricultural activities within and around the dumpsite.

From Biodiesel Byproducts to Biogas: A Circular Economy Review of Oilseed Cakes, Glycerol, and Microalgal Biomass

Lubabatu Muazu Jodi — 2026-10-06

The global transition toward renewable energy has accelerated biodiesel production, generating substantial quantities of byproducts including oilseed cakes, crude glycerol, and microalgal biomass residues. Conventional disposal of these byproducts poses environmental challenges, yet they represent valuable feedstocks for biogas production through anaerobic digestion. This review synthesizes current knowledge on the valorization of biodiesel byproducts for biogas generation within a circular economy framework. Oilseed cakes—particularly palm kernel, rapeseed, jatropha, and sesame—exhibit significant biogas potential due to their nutrient-rich composition, with methane yields enhanced by 14–226% through co-digestion strategies. Crude glycerol, a major byproduct constituting approximately 10% of biodiesel output, demonstrates remarkable synergy as a co-substrate, improving biogas yields when maintained at concentrations below 8% v/v to avoid inhibition. Microalgal biomass residues, representing 60–70% of total biomass after oil extraction, offer additional energy recovery through anaerobic digestion, with co-digestion of rapeseed oil cake and microalgae achieving methane contents of 62.42% and energy yields of 3.76 kWh·kg⁻¹ DM. Nigeria's position as a major palm oil producer and emerging biodiesel market presents significant opportunities for integrating biodiesel byproduct valorization into the national energy mix. However, challenges including substrate C/N ratio imbalances, inhibitory compounds, limited technical capacity, and weak policy frameworks must be addressed. This review identifies critical research gaps and proposes a strategic framework for implementing biodiesel byproduct-to-biogas systems in Nigeria, contributing to waste reduction, energy security, and sustainable agricultural practices.

Risk Assessment of Heavy Metal Levels in Vegetables Grown in the Vicinity of Local Mining Areas in Odu, Dekina Local Government Area, Kogi State, Nigeria

E.M. Ameh — 2026-10-06

This study assessed the concentrations of selected heavy metals and the associated non-carcinogenic health risk in vegetables cultivated in the vicinity of the Odu local mining area in Dekina Local Government Area, Kogi State, Nigeria. Five vegetable species—Amaranthus hybridus, Abelmoschus esculentus, Lycopersicon esculentum, Capsicum frutescens, and Solanum incanum—were collected from mining-affected locations. The samples were dried, pulverized, digested by a wet-acid procedure using aqua regia, and analyzed for cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), copper (Cu), nickel (Ni), lead (Pb), and arsenic (As) using atomic absorption spectrophotometry. The reported concentrations of Cd, Cr, Cu, Ni, and Pb ranged from 0.01–0.05, 0.01–0.11, 0.04–0.09, 0.04–0.09, and 0.03–0.21 mg/kg, respectively, while As was below the instrumental detection limit in all samples. Comparison with the permissible limits reported in the original study indicates that Cd and Pb warrant particular attention, while Ni exceeded some of the cited guideline values in three vegetable samples. The calculated target hazard quotients (THQs) and summed health risk indices (HRIs) were below 1 for the reported exposure scenario. These findings indicate that, although the calculated non-carcinogenic risk was below the conventional threshold, continued consumption of vegetables cultivated near mining areas may warrant precaution because heavy metals can persist in environmental media and enter the food chain. Regular monitoring, farmer education, and cultivation of vegetables away from potentially contaminated mining-affected soils are recommended.

Veterinary Antimicrobial Use and Food-Safety Implications Among Food-Producing Animals in Sokoto, Nigeria: A Three-Year Retrospective Study

Asiyah Sadiq Yelwa — 2026-10-06

Background: Antimicrobial use (AMU) in food-producing animals is a recognised driver of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) selection under the One Health framework, and when medicines are used close to slaughter or without withdrawal-period compliance, it’s a direct contributor to antimicrobial residues in foods of animal origin. Residues and resistant foodborne pathogens both represent tangible consumer-protection hazards distinct from, though related to, the resistance-selection concern that dominates most veterinary AMU literature. This study assessed patterns and temporal trends of AMU among food-producing animals at a multi-species veterinary clinic in Sokoto, Nigeria, between 2021 and 2023, with particular attention to the food-safety implications of the observed prescribing pattern. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted using timestamped clinical records for avian, bovine, caprine, and ovine cases documented between January 2021 and December 2023. AMU was defined as documentation of at least one antimicrobial agent in a clinical case record. Antimicrobial agents were standardised by generic name, grouped into pharmacological classes, and further mapped, exploratorily, to the WHO Access, Watch, Reserve (AWaRe) framework. Differences in AMU and antimicrobial class distribution across years and species were evaluated using Pearson's chi-square tests of independence, with Cramér's V as effect size; all statistics were computed specifically on the four-species food-producing subset. Results: A total of 14,252 food-producing animal clinical cases were recorded, comprising 7,014 ovine (49.2%), 4,736 caprine (33.2%), 2,214 avian (15.5%), and 288 bovine (2.0%) cases. Antimicrobials were documented in 12,169 cases (85.4%), rising from 84.2% in 2021 to 87.0% in 2022 and 86.2% in 2023 (χ² = 15.32, df = 2, p < 0.001; Cramér's V = 0.033). AMU varied significantly by species (χ² = 298.05, df = 3, p < 0.001; Cramér's V = 0.145). Oxytetracycline was the most frequently documented antimicrobial (5,387 of 14,367 entries; 37.5%), a compound independently confirmed to exceed regulatory maximum residue limits (MRLs) in Nigerian beef, poultry, and fish in multiple prior residue-testing studies. Tetracyclines constituted the largest antimicrobial class (41.2%), and antimicrobial class distribution differed significantly by year (χ² = 542.53, df = 20, p < 0.001) and species (χ² = 1894.72, df = 30, p < 0.001; Cramér's V = 0.210). Exploratory AWaRe classification indicated 84.1% Access-category and 15.9% Watch-category entries, with Watch use highest in avian cases (22.3%), a species in which enrofloxacin and tylosin, both documented above MRLs in independent Nigerian poultry-residue analyses, were disproportionately represented. Conclusion: The prescribing pattern documented at this clinic, dominated by tetracyclines and administered without recorded withdrawal-period guidance or residue testing, aligns closely with the antimicrobial classes independently confirmed to exceed maximum residue limits in Nigerian meat, milk, and poultry products in the published residue-surveillance literature. This convergence between prescribing volume and documented residue risk supports treating veterinary antimicrobial stewardship and food-safety residue surveillance as a single, linked priority for food-producing animal practice in Sokoto State, rather than as separate concerns.

Predictive Validity of UTME and Post-UTME Chemistry Scores as Joint Predictors of First-Year Achievement in Chemistry-Based Courses in Enugu State Public Universities

Nweze, Bernardine Ngozi — 2026-10-06

This study investigated the predictive validity of UTME and Post-UTME Chemistry scores as joint predictors of first-year achievement in chemistry-based courses in Enugu State public universities. A predictive correlational survey design was adopted. The population was 2,396 students admitted in 2007/2008 and 2008/2009 academic sessions into Agricultural Economics and Biochemistry in University of Nigeria, Nsukka (Federal) and Enugu State University of Science and Technology (State). Purposive sampling was used to select 349 students with complete records (UNN = 190, ESUT = 159). A broadsheet proforma was used for data collection. Data were analyzed using Pearson correlation and Multiple Linear Regression at 0.05 alpha. Results showed low to moderate inter-correlation between UTME and Post-UTME (r = 0.01 - 0.48) indicating no serious multicollinearity. For Federal university, UTME and Post-UTME jointly predicted first-year achievement significantly; Agricultural Economics: Multiple r = 0.58, R² = 0.34, F = 35.42, p < .001; Biochemistry: r = 0.51, R² = 0.26, p < .001. For State university, joint prediction was lower; Agricultural Economics: r = 0.41, R² = 0.17, p = .001; Biochemistry: r = 0.38, R² = 0.14, p = .055. Combined model explained 27% variance, F(2, 346) = 64.18, p < .001. Post-UTME had higher standardized Beta (β = 0.40, p < .001) than UTME (β = 0.17, p = .003). It was concluded that UTME and Post-UTME Chemistry have moderate predictive validity in Federal but low in State university, suggesting institutional differences in Post-UTME standard. Recommendation was made to retain Post-UTME while standardizing its conduct in State universities.

Beyond Knowledge: A Dual-Perspective Needs Assessment of Maternal Health Care-Seeking Barriers and mHealth Design Requirements in

Hilal Bello — 2026-10-06

Formative assessment is needed to determine whether maternal mobile health (mHealth) applications should prioritise educational information, support for timely care-seeking, or both. Methods: A descriptive needs assessment included 50 pregnant women and 30 midwives in Sokoto State, Nigeria. Structured questionnaires examined maternal-health knowledge, perceived care-seeking barriers, phone access, communication preferences and proposed app features. Responses were summarised using frequencies, percentages, knowledge scores and weighted rankings. Results: Women obtained a mean score of 10.44/12 (87.0%) on prompted knowledge questions; 49/50 (98.0%) identified reduced or absent fetal movement correctly. However, 22/30 midwives (73.3%) selected failure to recognise danger signs as a care-seeking barrier. Husband/family permission was reported by 38/50 women (76.0%) and 24/30 midwives (80.0%). Of the women, 45/50 (90.0%) preferred Hausa-language information and 39/50 (78.0%) preferred audio only. Danger-sign guidance received the highest reported provider-weighted feature score (105). Conclusion: Prompted knowledge responses and midwives' perceptions indicate potentially different dimensions of care-seeking. The findings support testing a Hausa audio-first application that combines practical danger-sign guidance, facility information, discreet communication and optional household-shareable messages. The descriptive design cannot establish which barrier is causal or most important in the wider population.

Qualitative Phytoconstituents Determination, FTIR, Toxicity Profiling and Antivenin Potential of Indigofera Conferta

M.S Gayari — 2026-10-06

The plant from family fabaceae has reportedly been used in traditional medicine to treat sore feet and snake bite. This research work is aimed at evaluating the toxicity profile and antivenin potential of the plant using standard procedures. Preliminary phytochemical screening on crude methanol extract revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, steroids/terpenes, cardiac glycosides, saponin, lipids, carbohydrate and anthraquinones. Hexane fraction showed the presence of steroids and lipids only. Chloroform fraction showed the significant presence of steroids, alkaloids, and lipids while ethyl acetate showed the presence of all the constituents identified in the crude methanol extract. FTIR spectroscopic analysis on the crude methanol extract revealed various characteristic band values related to structural features in complex organic compound and aromatic structures. The toxicity investigation showed that both crude methanol extract and fractions are nontoxic and safe at the tested doses. The antivenin activity evaluated on the chloroform fraction of I. conferta yielded significant result with 40% protection at both 125 and 250mg/kg, but no protection was observed at 500 mg /kg. The activity observed might be attributed to individual or combined secondary metabolites identified.

Delineation of Subsurface Groundwater Potential Zones Using 2D Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT): A Case Study of Tudun Wada, Kaduna State, Nigeria

K. A. Ja’Afar — 2026-10-06

Groundwater constitutes a critical resource for domestic, agricultural, and industrial purposes in Nigeria's basement complex terrain, which covers approximately 60% of the country's landmass. However, groundwater occurrence in these terrains is highly erratic and largely controlled by the presence of weathered overburden and fractured crystalline rocks, making borehole siting notoriously difficult. This study applied 2D Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT) to delineate groundwater potential zones within Tudun Wada, Kaduna State, Nigeria. The primary aim was to characterize the subsurface hydrogeological conditions and identify areas with the highest probability of yielding adequate groundwater for domestic and institutional use. Ten ERT profile lines (K1–K10) were acquired using a multi-electrode resistivity meter with a Wenner-Schlumberger array configuration and a uniform electrode spacing of 5.00 m. The acquired data were processed and inverted using RES2DINV software, employing a smoothness-constrained least-squares algorithm. Both resistivity and chargeability (induced polarization) data were inverted to generate two-dimensional models of the subsurface. The inverted models revealed a typical basement complex subsurface architecture, consisting of a resistive lateritic top layer, a variable weathered zone, and fresh basement rock at depth. The weathered zone varied in thickness from about 5 m to over 30 m across the study area. Low-resistivity anomalies (below 100 Ωm) indicative of water-saturated weathered or fractured zones were identified in several profiles, particularly K1, K3, K6, and K8. Chargeability data provided complementary information that helped discriminate between clay-rich low-resistivity zones (high chargeability) and clean water-bearing zones (low chargeability), improving the reliability of aquifer identification. The study area was classified into high, medium, and low groundwater potential zones. High-potential zones, characterized by extensive low-resistivity zones more than 20 m thick at depths shallower than 40 m, were concentrated in the central and eastern parts of the study area (profiles K1, K3, K6, and K8). Medium-potential zones were identified in profiles K2, K4, K7, and K10, while low-potential zones dominated by high-resistivity fresh basement were found in the western and northwestern parts (profiles K5 and K9). The depth to fresh basement ranged from about 10 m to over 30 m, with the deeper weathering profiles corresponding to areas of higher groundwater potential. The findings of this study confirm that 2D ERT, particularly when integrated with chargeability data, is a reliable and cost-effective tool for groundwater exploration in basement complex terrains. The groundwater potential map produced from this research will serve as a practical guide for future borehole siting and water resource development in Tudun Wada and surrounding areas, contributing to reduced drilling failure rates and improved water supply for Kaduna Polytechnic and the surrounding residential communities.

Isotherm, Kinetics and Thermodynamic Studies of Congo Red Dye Adsorption onto Zeolite/Activated Carbon Hybrid Adsorbent

Hawawu Salami — 2026-10-06

The rapid growth of industrial activities has significantly increased the volume of wastewater discharged into natural water bodies, creating serious environmental and public health challenges worldwide. This study focused on the application of Zeolite Y/Coconut Shell Activated Carbon (CSAC) hybrid adsorbent for the removal of Congo Red Dye from textile wastewater. Activated carbon was produced from coconut shell through phosphoric acid activation and subsequently combined with zeolite at different proportions to produce hybrid adsorbents, through mechanical mixing and wet impregnation method. Batch experiment was carried out to study the effect of process variables (adsorbent dosage, contact time, solution pH, and temperature) on adsorption of Congo Red Dye onto the hybrid adsorbents. Adsorption isotherm, kinetics and thermodynamic models were employed to analyse the experimental data obtained from the batch adsorption study. The study revealed that the adsorbents effectively removed the investigated dye from aqueous solution, recording removal efficiency of 91.36 % at adsorbent dosage of 0.8 g/50 mL, pH of 4, contact time of 60 mins and temperature of 25 ^oC and a monolayer adsorption capacity of 30.2 mg/g. The adsorption process was found to follow Langmuir isotherm and Pseudo-second-order kinetic models. Thermodynamic studies revealed exothermic and non-spontaneous behaviour; however, the reaction was found to be feasible at low temperature.

Production and Characterization of Zeolite Y/Coconut Shell Activated Carbon Hybrid Adsorbent and its Suitability for Textile Wastewater Treatment

Hawawu Salami — 2026-10-06

Textile effluents contain persistent organic dyes and ionic pollutants that are inadequately treated by single-component adsorbents. In this work, hybrid adsorbents composed of Zeolite Y and Coconut Shell-derived Activated Carbon (CSAC) were synthesized at different mass ratios using a wet impregnation technique. Structural and surface properties were characterized using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), X-ray Fluorescence (XRF), X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), and Brunauer, Emmett and Teller (BET)-N₂ adsorption analyses, revealing complementary features of the two components. Thus, CSAC exhibited heterogeneous porosity and abundant oxygenated functional groups favourable to hydrophobic dye adsorption, whereas Zeolite Y displayed large crystallite sizes, high crystallinity, and revealed ion-exchange capacity. The hybrids displayed coexisting amorphous carbon domains and crystalline Faujasite phases, alongside oxygenated carbon functionalities and aluminosilicate framework vibrations. Textural properties improved significantly after activation and hybridization, yielding high surface areas (≈512–580 m² g⁻¹) and hierarchical micro-mesoporous structures. Carbon-rich hybrids showed potential affinity towards adsorbing bulky hydrophobic dyes through pore filling and π–π interactions, whereas zeolite-rich materials enhanced electrostatic adsorption and ion exchange towards cationic dyes. Incorporation of zeolite into carbon matrices enhanced mechanical stability, rigidity, and selective ion-exchange behaviour, while retaining the broad adsorption capacity of activated carbon. These findings underscore the promise of Zeolite Y/CSAC hybrids as sustainable, high-performance adsorbents for complex textile wastewater remediation.