Al-Hikmah Journal of Pure and Applied Sciences (AJPAS)
Al-Hikmah Journal of Pure and Applied Sciences (AJPAS) is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal published by the Faculty of Natural and Applied Sciences, Al-Hikmah University, Ilorin, Nigeria. The journal provides a platform for disseminating original scientific research, reviews, and emerging developments across all areas of pure and applied sciences. AJPAS is committed to upholding international publishing standards and fostering interdisciplinary scientific exchange among researchers, academics, and professionals. Publication Schedule: The journal is published biannually, with two regular issues released on March 3rd and September 9th of each year (Except for special issues). Submission and Acceptance Deadlines: Manuscripts accepted on or before 15th February will be included in the March issue. Manuscripts accepted on or before 15th August will be included in the September issue. AJPAS accepts submissions year-round, and authors are encouraged to submit manuscripts at any time for consideration in the next available issue.
Knowledge and Determinants of Vaccine Hesitancy among Residents of Ifako Ijaiye LGA, Lagos State
Vaccine hesitancy poses a significant challenge to public health efforts in Nigeria. However, vaccine hesitancy is not a matter of chance; such an attitude is shaped by a myriad of factors, among which the knowledge of vaccines plays a complex and sometimes paradoxical role in shaping attitudes toward vaccine uptake. Thus, this study assessed the knowledge and determinants of vaccine hesitancy among residents of Ifako-Ijaiye LGA, Lagos State. The study adopts a cross-sectional survey design, and a total of 427 respondents were selected through a multi-stage sampling. Data was collected using a well-structured questionnaire over a period of three months (June-August, 2025). The retrieved questionnaire was analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25.0, and the p-value was set at <0.05. The findings of the study showed that two-thirds of the respondents had good knowledge of vaccination, and 77.4% of the respondents noted that vaccines are easily accessible in their area. Prevalence rate of vaccine hesitancy observed in Ifako-Ijaiye LGA was 14.30%. Factors such as trust in healthcare institutions, knowledge of vaccinations, and occupation were found to be significantly associated with vaccine hesitancy. The study concludes that vaccine hesitancy is not merely a product of insufficient knowledge but arises from the interplay of religious identity, educational background, economic conditions, and most critically, levels of trust in vaccine safety.
Infectious disease Vaccination Hesitancy Public health
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Seismic Characterization of Tertiary-Cretaceous Formations of Lake Sub-Basin, Borno, Nigeria
The Borno Basin is a frontier basin within the Mesozoic–Tertiary African rift system that originated in the Early Cretaceous and is situated in northeastern Nigeria, part of the Mega-Chad Basin. This study integrates 3D seismic interpretation with limited well control to delineate the subsurface structural framework of Block 1 within the Lake Sub-Basin. Interpreted seismic horizons range from 250 ms to 3000 ms, indicating progressive eastward thinning of sedimentary units that reflect regional tectonostratigraphic variations. Structural analysis identifies simple anticlines within the Cretaceous succession as the dominant trapping structures, whereas fault systems exhibit significant deformation and poor lateral continuity. Most faults terminate at the angular unconformity separating Cretaceous and Tertiary strata, highlighting a major tectonic discontinuity. Two principal fault types were recognized: deep-seated synthetic faults propagating upward from the basement and antithetic relief faults confined to the sedimentary section. Fault orientation statistics show NW-SE trends as the most prevalent (45%), followed by NS (21%), NE–SW (27%) and E-W (7%) orientations, thereby refining earlier interpretations that emphasized NE-SW dominance. The results suggest that the Borno Basin is characterized by gentle folding, multidirectional faulting, and variable sediment thickness. These structural insights enhance understanding of the basin’s tectonostratigraphic evolution and improve constraints on hydrocarbon prospectivity in this underexplored frontier region.
Structural Interpretation, Seismic Image, Baga/Lake sub-basin, Borno Basin, Chad Basin.
Integration of Aeromagnetic Mapping and Audio-Magnetotelluric Data for Groundwater Investigation within the University of Ilorin Main Campus
This study integrates aeromagnetic mapping and audiomagnetotelluric data to investigate subsurface geological structures and assess groundwater potential within the University of Ilorin main campus. The aeromagnetic mapping was processed using several techniques, such as reduction to the equator, regional-residual separation, derivative techniques, and Euler deconvolution, to delineate magnetic lineaments and the structural geology of the study area. The results of this study revealed dominant weak zones in the northern and north-eastern areas and in some parts of the southeastern area of the University of Ilorin Main Campus, which are interpreted as potential groundwater pathways and zones of structural weakness. The 2D audio-magnetotelluric imaging characterized the subsurface resistivity distribution by identifying low-resistivity zones between 0.06 and 1.2 Ωm, associated with weathered and fractured basement aquifers at depths of 40-200 m across several locations. In addition, a selected borehole within the study area validated these interpretations, yielding high discharge rates that confirm the hydraulic significance of the identified conductive horizons. The integrated results highlight that deep-seated fracture zones and weathered layers control groundwater accumulation and yield within the study area. This study demonstrates the effectiveness of combining aeromagnetic and audio-magnetotelluric methods for delineating aquifer systems, which provides a reliable geophysical framework for sustainable groundwater exploration and development within crystalline basement terrains.
Groundwater Investigation, Aeromagnetic Mapping, Audio-magnetotelluric Data, Borehole Validation,
Bacteriological and Physicochemical Quality Assessment of Drinking Water Sources in Ilorin, Nigeria
Guarantee on safe drinking water is indispensable for public health; quality varying across sources in Nigeria. This work assessed sachet (SW), bottled (BW), and borehole (BH) drinking water from Tanke, Ilorin, exploring physicochemical profiling, culture-based microbiology (heterotrophic, fecal coliform counts), biochemical identification, and antimicrobial susceptibility testing measure against WHO guidelines. The results on physicochemical parameters revealed acceptable pH (6.567.30), chloride, hardness, sulphate and nitrate. Borehole samples had electrical conductivity (1163–1175 µS/cm) exceeded guidelines values ≤1000 µS/cm), total dissolved solids at borderline-high in BH (500 mg/L), a sachet sample (SW2: 743.5 mg/L) exceeding the ≤500 mg/L limit. Critically, lead concentrations in borehole were extremely elevated (2.032–2.070 mg/L; guideline ≤0.01 mg/L), severe chemical risk implicated. Heterotrophic bacterial counts (cfu/mL), were low in all sources: SW ranged 20–40, BW ranged 0–20, and BH ranged 0–40. Biochemical characterization recovered opportunistic Gram-negative rods from borehole water (Alcaligenes faecalis and Proteus vulgaris), environmental/handling-associated taxa from sachet water (Bacillus subtilis, Serratia marcescens, Staphylococcus aureus and Streptomyces sp.), and commensals from bottled water (Staphylococcus sp., Micrococcus luteus and Streptococcus sp.). Antimicrobial testing showed widespread resistance among several isolates, including Proteus vulgaris and Staphylococcus aureus, implying environmental reservoirs of resistance. Overall, packaged waters were microbiologically acceptable, having no coliforms and very low total heterotrophic bacterial counts, but, physiochemically non-compliant (SW2 TDS). Borehole water however, presented significant chemical hazards (lead, EC) and opportunistic organisms. Findings therefore, support urgent borehole remediation, tighter sachet production controls, and continued bottled water verification, integrating antimicrobial resistance surveillance into local water safety planning.
Antimicrobial susceptibility, WHO guidelines, Opportunistic organisms, Water safety planning Borehole, Remediation
Quality Assessment of Groundwater in Share and its Environs, Southwestern Nigeria
Groundwater quality assessment is of great concern for mankind due to its direct influence on human life. Increase in population of Share and its environs due to ongoing oil exploration in the Bida Basin and agricultural activities putting pressure on the groundwater resources. This study assessed the impact of human activities and urban growth on the quality of groundwater in Share and its environs, Southwestern Nigeria. Forty (40) groundwater samples were randomly taken in the study area from hand-dug wells and boreholes. Physicochemical characteristics of the groundwater were examined. Results shows that the pH of groundwater ranges between 6.5 to 6.9 with a mean value of 6.7. The pH is acidic and falls within the world health organization (WHO) acceptable standards for domestic use. The groundwater's electrical conductivity ranges from 103 to 235 μS/cm, with a mean of 173 μS/cm. The electrical conductivity (EC) complies with WHO guidelines. Total dissolved solids (TDS) values falls between 118 and 265 with a mean of 185, which below acceptable limit of 1500 mg/l. The average mean concentrations of major ions in mg/l are (Ca2⁺ = 4.9; Mg2⁺ = 5.7; Na⁺= 0.8; K⁺ = 1.5; SO4 2⁻ = 77.0; NO3⁻ = 36.1; Cl⁻ = 21.3; and HCO3- = 4.1) and all are found to be within WHO standard limits. The variations of chemical parameters are in order of abundance (Mg2⁺ > Ca2⁺ > K⁺ > Na⁺) and (SO4 2⁻ > NO3⁻ > Cl⁻ > HCO3-) for cations and anions, respectively. The Piper’s diagram characterized the hydrochemical facies of groundwater as Mg(Ca)SO4 2- - water type. Gibbs and Schoeller diagrams confirmed that the dominant process influencing groundwater chemistry in the study area is the interaction between water and host rock. The Wilcox diagram and Kelly's ratio indicated that groundwater in the study area is appropriate for irrigation use with values less than 1. In conclusion, findings from this study shows that the groundwater quality of the study area has not been adversely affected by the current human activities and population growth.
Quality, Groundwater, Hydrochemical Domestic Irrigation Share
Ameliorative Potentials of β-Aminobutyric Acid (BABA) on the Oxidative Stress Attributes of Ofada Rice Plant Subjected to Water Stress at the Vegetative Growth Stage
Ofada rice (Oryza sativa L.) is an extremely sensitive rice variety to drought stress. The study was aimed at utilizing the potentials of betaaminobutyric acid (BABA) to ameliorate the oxidative stress in Ofada rice subjected to water deficit stress at the vegetative growth stage of the plant. Field experiments was carried out at the University of Ilorin teaching and research farm during the dry season. The experimental setup followed a complete randomized block design with five treatments and four replications. Ofada rice plants were subjected to four concentrations of BABA treatments (0, 150, 300 and 600 µM) upon stress imposition at the vegetative stage of the plant growth, a full blown water regime was included as the positive control which is the fifth treatment. The result showed that BABA was able to delay the morphological manifestation of water stress in Ofada rice for a period of 12 days. Furthermore, a significant increase in superoxide dismutase, catalase, ascorbate peroxidase and nitrate reductase activity were also recorded in BABA treated water-stressed plant when compared to the negative control (0 µM BABA). All BABA treated water-stressed plants also showed a marked decrease in superoxide radical and hydrogen peroxide concentration as well as lipid peroxidation levels. Therefore, foliar application of BABA at the rate of 150- 300 µM should be incorporated in the cultivation of Ofada rice in the drought prone regions.
Beta-aminobutyric acid, Ofada rice, Free radicals, Oxidative stress, Antioxidants
Characterization and Application of Chicken Feather Activated Carbon for the Removal of Rhodamine B from Aqueous Solution
Chicken feather derived activated carbon (CFAC) was prepared via chemical activation using H₃PO₄ and evaluated for the removal of Rhodamine B (RhB) from aqueous solutions. The adsorbent was characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) analysis. CFAC exhibited a specific surface area of 48.140 m²/g, a pore volume of 0.057 cm³/g, and an average pore diameter of 2.647 nm. Batch adsorption experiments demonstrated efficient RhB removal, achieving an adsorption capacity of 99.28 mg/g and a removal efficiency of 98.42 % under optimal conditions (pH 6, contact time of 180 min, and temperature of 30 °C). The solution pH was adjusted using 0.1 M HCl or 0.1 M NaOH, and the effect of pH was investigated over a range of 2–12. The influences of solution pH, adsorbent dosage, and contact time on adsorption performance were systematically examined. Kinetic studies revealed that the adsorption process followed pseudo-first-order and Elovich models, while equilibrium data were best described by the Langmuir and Temkin isotherm models. Physicochemical properties, including bulk density, moisture content, ash content, iodine value, and conductivity, were also determined. The results indicate that TCFs-Pa is an effective and environmentally sustainable adsorbent with significant potential for the treatment of dye-contaminated wastewater.
Chicken Feather, Activated Carbon, Rhodamine B, Adsorption Phosphoric acid
Influence of S-Metolachlor and Nicosulfuron on Weed Flora, Density, and Yield Performance of Maize
Maize production in areas with heavy weed infestation depends largely on effective weed control. Therefore, field trials were conducted during 2021 and 2022 wet seasons at the Irewumi community in Ilorin West Local Government Area of Kwara State to examine the effects of Smetolachlor and nicosulfuron on weed population characteristics and maize performance. The study evaluated changes in weed species composition, weed density, weed suppression efficiency, and growth and yield parameters of maize. The experiment followed a randomized complete block design consisting of six treatment options replicated four times. These treatments included a weed-free plot, two application rates of S-metolachlor (3 and 6 L ha⁻¹), two rates of nicosulfuron (1.5 and 3 L ha⁻¹), and an untreated weedy control. Observations and measurements were taken on weed flora, weed density, weed control efficiency, and maize yield components. Findings revealed that plots treated with herbicides showed markedly lower weed density and improved weed control efficiency compared to the untreated plots. Among all treatments, nicosulfuron applied at 1.5 L ha⁻¹ produced the most effective weed suppression, followed closely by S-metolachlor at 3 L ha⁻¹. These treatments also resulted in superior maize yield performance. Based on the outcomes of the study, it was concluded that applying nicosulfuron at 1.5 L ha⁻¹ or S-metolachlor at 3 L ha⁻¹ provides effective weed control and enhances maize grain yield under the environmental conditions of the study area. The use of these herbicide rates is therefore recommended for maize production in similar agro-ecological zones.
S-metolachlor, Nicosulfuron Efficiency, Yield, Weed, Productivity
Physicochemical Characteristics of Groundwater Samples and Leachate from Gbagede Dumpsite, Amoyo, Kwara State, Nigeria
This study determined the physicochemical properties of groundwater and leachate samples obtained from dumpsite at Gbagede, Amoyo in Kwara State, Nigeria. Water samples collected from two wells located at a distance of 15 m and 150 m from the dumpsite and leachate at Gbagede were analyzed for physical and chemical properties using standard methods. The turbidity of the groundwater samples (GW1 and GW2) and leachate was higher than the World Health Organization (WHO) Standard and Nigeria Standard Drink and Quality Water (NSDWQ) (Reference Standards). The conductivity, nitrate, nitrite, chloride, sulphate, dissolved oxygen, biochemical oxygen demand, zinc, copper, aluminum and nickel of the three samples were generally lower than the Reference Standards while the total suspended solids was barely detected. The pH of the GW1 sample was within the Reference Standards whereas that of GW2 and leachate samples were higher than the WHO and NSDQW standards. The alkalinity of GW1 and GW2 was lower than the Reference Standards whereas that of leachate was higher than Reference Standards. Phosphate levels in the groundwater samples were lower whereas in the leachate, it was higher than the Reference Standards. The chemical oxygen demand was lower in GW1 and GW2 whereas it was higher than the WHO recommended limit in the leachates. Lead content in GW1 and GW2 was lower whereas in the leachate, it was higher than WHO standard. The cadmium content in GW1 was within the Reference Standards; cadmium content in GW2 was lower than that of the Reference Standards whereas it was higher than the Reference Standards in the leachates. In conclusion, the open dumpsite at Gbagede have minimally impacted (5% of the physicochemical characteristics exceeded the reference limit) on the physicochemical characteristics of the ground water whereas the dumpsite had more impact (53% of the physiochemical characteristics) on the physiochemical characteristics of the leachate.
Dumpsite, Groundwater, Physicochemical, Leachate
On Subgroups of Non-Commutative Orthogonal Rhotrix Group
This study investigates the algebraic structure of the noncommutative orthogonal rhotrix group under rhotrix rowcolumn multiplication. The special orthogonal, diagonal orthogonal, and special diagonal orthogonal rhotrix groups are identified as subgroups, and their internal relationships are explicitly characterized through subgroup inclusions and intersections. In particular, it is shown that the orthogonal rhotrix group embeds as a subgroup of the general linear rhotrix group. To the best of our knowledge, this work provides the first systematic subgroup structural analysis of non-commutative orthogonal rhotrix groups. These results clarify the internal organization of orthogonal rhotrix groups and provide a foundational framework for further studies on normal subgroups, quotient structures, and related noncommutative rhotrix construction.
General rhotrix group, Embedding, General linear group, Group homomorphism, Rhotrix multiplication.
An Overview of Methods Used in the Determination of Soil Hydraulic Conductivity
Hydraulic conductivity is one of the most important parameter for flow and transport related phenomena in soil. There is concern arising from the suitability, efficiency and ease of the different measuring methods under different conditions. The various methods of determining hydraulic conductivity include field, laboratory and correlation methods each with individual merits and demerits. Although selection of a specific method for a particular application will depend on the objectives to be achieved, most researchers prefer direct measurement of soil hydraulic conductivity. The estimation of soil hydraulic conductivity using correlation method depends on the local soil maps, soil particle size distribution, organic matter content and bulk density. Field methods are usually more expensive than laboratory methods. Consequently, when the question of cost becomes decisive, or when actual representation of field conditions is not of fundamental importance and in-situ hydraulic conductivity is not available, laboratory methods may be used to determine the saturated hydraulic conductivity K. Overall, this review explains the various methods that can be used to determine hydraulic conductivity in-situ or within the laboratory.
Correlation, Conductivity, Field, Laboratory, Permeameter
A Statistical Evaluation of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Big Data Analytics on National Security Performance Indicators in Nigeria: A Simulation-Based Analysis
The rise in the security threats in Nigeria calls for the adoption of advanced technological systems capable of improving detection accuracy, cyber resilience, and operational responsiveness. While Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Big Data Analytics (BDA) are widely promoted as transformative tools for modern security operations, direct empirical evaluation within Nigeria remains constrained by restricted access to sensitive operational data. This study therefore adopts an operationally grounded simulation approach to examine how AI and BDA could influence key national security performance indicators. Using parameters that are informed by documented Nigerian security practices, policy frameworks, and international benchmarks, 180 paired observations were simulated to represent operational performance pre and post-AI integration across five selected indicators: threat detection accuracy, response time, cyber-attack interceptions, false alarm rates, and a composite operational efficiency index. The model outputs suggest that AI-enabled systems are associated with considerable improvements across all indicators under plausible institutional conditions. Although the findings are derived from simulated data, they are empirically anchored in real operational contexts and provide structured perception into how AI adoption could reform security performance in Nigeria. The study contributes a methodological bridge between empirical constraints and policy-relevant analysis, offering a foundation for pilot implementation and also future empirical validation.
Artificial intelligence, Big data analytics, National security, Simulation Modelling, Operational performance.
Protective Potentials of Vernonia amygdalina Leaf Extracts on Cadmium-Induced Hepatic Damage
The protective potentials of Vernonia amygdalina (bitter leaf) leaf extracts on cadmium-induced hepatic damage were investigated. Thirty five (35) female Wistar rats were completely randomized into 7 groups (A-G) of 5 rats each. Group A received 0.5 ml distilled water only; group B received 10 mg/kg body weight CdCl2; group C received the standard drug, silymarin; groups D and E received 50 and 100 mg/kg body weight of leaf extract of V. amygdalina (LEVA) respectively; while groups F and G received 50 and 100 mg/kg body weight of squeezed leaf extract V. amygdalina (SLEVA) respectively. The animals in groups C-G were orally administered 10 mg/kg body weight CdCl2 3 hours after the oral administration of silymarin or the extract for 10 days. There was a significant reduction (p<0.05) in the serum total protein and albumin concentrations in the animals intoxicated with cadmium when compared to the normal control group with the pre-administration of silymarin or Vernonia amygdalina leaf extracts. There were also significant reduction (p<0.05) in the superoxide dismutase activity and reduced glutathione concentrations in the liver of intoxicated rats. The catalase activity and malondialdehyde concentrations in the liver of the intoxicated untreated rats were however, significantly increased (p<0.05) compared to the normal control group and the extract-treated groups. The results suggest that the processed Vernonia amygdalina leaf extract exhibited protective potentials against liver damage with the SLEVA having the highest potentials. This might be due to the antioxidant properties contained in the extract. It can therefore be concluded from the above results that processed Vernonia amygdalina leaf extract have protective effect against cadmium- induced hepatic damage in female albino rats.
Hepatic damage, cadmium, antioxidant, Vernonia amygdalina leaf
Antiplasmodial Activity and Toxicological Profile of Alkaloids Obtained from Securideca longipedunculata
Malaria is a public health problem that has reduced societal productivity particularly arising from resistance to common orthodox drugs. We hypothesized that the available diverse plant resources in Nigeria can be used to resolve the problem of resistance. Securideca longipedunculata is a medicinal herb, used locally in the treatment of malaria. Fifteen albino mice were grouped in five and administered 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg bw, while the last two groups represent the negative and positive controls. Twenty four Wistar rat were grouped into two for toxicological analysis. The test group was administered 200 mg/kg bw of the extract on alternate days while the control group was given normal saline for 4 weeks. Blood parameters were monitored on a weekly basis, with the liver, kidney, heart and spleen harvested for histopathology. The extract had both in vitro and in vivo antiplasmodial activity of IC50 of 4.65 µg/ml and 1216 parasite/µl. In the toxicity studies, RBC count and PCV continuously decreased compared to the control, while urea and bilirubin concentrations were significantly (p˂0.05) higher than the control, indicative of damage to the RBC, kidney and liver. Similarly, serum ALT and AST activities were significantly (p˂0.05) higher compared to the control, also indicative of liver damage and hemolysis. However, there was no significant (p˂0.05) change in the white blood cell indices. Histopathological analysis revealed leucocyte infiltration, vascular congestion and inflammation in the kidney and liver. Thus, the extract had adverse effect on RBC count, kidney and liver, although could serve as a potential target for malaria if bioassay guided fractionation is further carried out to differentiate between the toxic and the antiplasmodial agents.
Parasite, Urea, Haemoglobin, Inflammation, Histopathology
Characterization and Thermodynamics of a Natural Mineral Dye-Based Chromium Complex Dye on Cotton Fabric
Transition metal complex of a bisazo dye derived from p-phenylenediamine extracted from a natural mineral dye and p-nitroaniline was synthesized with the azo dye acting as ligand for the metal complex dye. The ligand, azo dye and the metal complex were characterized using UV-visible spectroscopy, IR spectroscopy and GC-MS. The IR spectroscopy of both the ligand and the complex reveal the presence of azo group (N=N) at 1597 cm-1, N-O at 1384 cm-1 and other Metal-Ligand (M-L) bonds at 418 cm-1. The results were used to establish the type of metal complex formed to be 1:1 (metal: ligand) and possible structure of the complex was proposed. The metal complex dye was applied on cotton fabric and the thermodynamics parameters of the dyeing process were determined. These parameters included the enthalpy change which was -58.94 KJmol-1 and the entropy which was 0.159 KJmol-1. The thermodynamics studies of the dye showed that the dye has high substantivity and fastness that can be useful in dyeing fabric.
Keywords: Mineral dye, p-phenylenediamine, bisazo dye, metal complex dye, cotton fabric
Partial Purification of Pectinases from Mutants of Aspergillus niger using Moringa oleifera
The constant importation of chemicals with scarce foreign currency for purification of pectinase in developing countries has become a major challenge. Pectinase producing A. niger was isolated from soil rich in fruits waste and mutated using NTG (0.3 mg/ml). The pectinase hyper producing wild type and mutants were identified as A. niger isolate SUMS0061, A. niger strain F7-02 and A. niger strain AL-30 using molecular tools. Pectinase from A. niger isolate SUMS0061 produced 1057.14 U/ml, A. niger strain F7-02 produced 2028.57 U/ml and A. niger strain AL-30 had 1242.86 U/ml. Purification with M. oleifera seed powder at optimum concentration (0.75 mg), pH (4-6), temperature (4°C) and contact time (4 hours) produced 10.08-fold for pectinase from isolate SUMS0061, 16.01-fold for pectinase from strain F7-02 and 14.19-fold for pectinase from strain AL-30. A stepwise purification using M. oleifera seed powder and silica gel gave 45.19-fold, 71.20-fold and 63.18-fold for pectinase from isolate SUMS0061, strain F7-02 and strain AL-30 respectively. Molecular weight of each pectinase was 40 kDa. TLC showed that galaturonic acid was the end product of each pectinase hydrolysis. The optimum temperature of pectinase from isolate SUMS0061, strain F7-02 and strain AL-30 were 50 °C, 65 °C and 60 °C respectively. Optimal activity of pectinase from isolate SUMS0061, strain F7-02 and strain AL-30 were at pH 6, 4 and 5 respectively. Each pectinase was stable between pH 3-6. The three pectinases indicated high activities in the presence Ca2+, while Cu2+, Zn2+, Mg2+ and Al3+ led to reduction in pectinase activity.
Moringa oleifera, mutants, purification steps, column chromatography
Development of Hybrid Gravitational Search Algorithm Based Support Vector Regression for Predicting Magnetic Ordering Temperature of Manganite using Ionic Radii Descriptors
Unique characteristic features of Magnetic Refrigeration Technology (MRT) which include environmental friendliness and better efficiency have promoted the chance of replacing the conventional Compression Gas System of Refrigeration (CGSR). One of the main challenges associated with practical implementation of MRT is the tuning of its magnetic ordering temperature (TC) to ambient value. The present work utilizes the ionic radii as potential descriptors to develop hybrid Support Vector Regression (SVR) and Gravitational Search Algorithms (GSA) based model for estimating magnetic ordering temperature. The outcomes of the proposed method agreed closely with the experimental values. With the outstanding performance of the proposed hybrid SVR-GSA model, the magnetic ordering temperature of manganite (which serves as the refrigerant) can be easily tuned to the ambient value while dependency on ozone-depleting CGSR can be minimized.
Manganite, Hybrid model, Curie temperature, Ionic radii
Establishment of Dissolution Kinetics and Mechanism of Direct Leaching of Gagi Phosphate Rock in Hydrochloric Acid Solution
Hydrochloric acid leaching kinetics of Gagi phosphate rock assaying 36.1% P2O5, 4.3% Al2O5, and 3.9% SiO2 was examined. The phosphate rock mineralogical characterization indicated that the major phase of the rock was Quartz (SiO2) with calcium aluminum phosphate as the major phosphate ore. The effect of different optimization parameters such as lixiviant concentration, system temperature, ore particle size and stirring speed were investigated. At selective extracted duration of 2 h with standard leaching condition of -70 + 63µm, 80°C, 0.20 M HCl and 300 rpm stirring speed, more than 84% P2O5 could be achieved. The leaching process kinetic mechanism was found to be surface diffusion controlling mechanism. The calculated reaction order and activation energy was 0.789 and 42.31 kJ/mol respectively. In addition, a mathematical expression including the experimental parameter to represent the kinetic of this leaching process was proposed in the study.
Phosphate rock, Kinetics, Hydrochloric acid, Leaching
Artemether-Lumefantrine Mixed Ligand Complexes: Synthesis and in vitro Antiplasmodial Activity Studies
Malaria is one of the main causes of mortality and morbidity in the world, endangering billions and affecting millions of people each year. Resistance to common antimalarial drugs has proven to be a challenging problem in malaria control. In an attempt to develop efficacious compounds against sensitive and multidrug resistant falciparum malaria, four new complexes of mixed ligands (artemether and lumefantrine) were synthesized using template method. Their antiplasmodial activity potential was evaluated and compared with chloroquine and the parent ligands. The compounds were active against the tested parasite strains. The presence of the metal ions significantly improved the antiplasmodial action against the drug-resistant parasite strains when compared to chloroquine. Additionally, their biological activity was assessed using several in vitro assays. Biological and physical properties were correlated to the antimalarial activity.
Malaria, Metal Complexes, Antiplasmodial, Biological activity
Gastroprotective Activity of Fruit Ethanolic Extract of Tetrapleura tetraptera on Indomethacin-Induced Ulcer in Rats
Tetrapleura tetraptera (Schum. & Thonn.) Taub. is an important fruit that has many ethno-medicinal uses such as anti-ulcer and nutritive agent. The present study investigated the gastro-protective activity of ethanolic extract of Tetrapleura tetraptera fruit against indomethacin-induced ulcer in rats. For this study, thirty six rats (150-200 g) were separated into six groups of six rats each. For 14 days before ulcer induction with indomethacin, the animals received once daily oral doses of distilled water (groups 1 and 2), omeprazole 20 mg/kg body weight (group 3), and ethanolic extract of T. tetraptera fruit at doses of 50, 100 or 200 mg/kg body weight (groups 4, 5 and 6 respectively). After the last treatment, all the animals except group 1 were fasted for 18 hours with access to water only and treated with 100 mg/kg body weight of indomethacin to induce ulcer. The animals were sacrificed 6 hours after ulcer induction and the stomach was removed for biochemical and histological analysis. T. tetraptera fruit extract significantly (p < 0.05) decreased gastric secretion volume, mean ulcer index, total acidity, total protein and pepsin secretion relative to indomethacin-induced ulcerated rats. The extract also significantly (p< 0.05) increased mucin content relative to the ulcerated untreated rats. These results were similar to those achieved by pretreatment with omeprazole. The activity of glutathione peroxidase and reduced glutathione concentration in the animals treated with 200 mg/kg body weight T. tetraptera fruit were significantly increased (P< 0.05) compared to the negative control. The fruit extract also significantly reduced (P< 0.05) the concentration of malondialdehyde and myeloperoxidase activity over the ulcerated untreated rats. Similarly, the histological analysis showed that T. tetraptera fruit extract prevented indomethacin-mediated disruption of the mucosal wall of the stomach. This study shows that Tetrapleura tetraptera possesses gastroprotective properties which may be attributed to the presence of flavonoids, phenolics and tannins.
stomach ulcer, gastric juice, omeprazole, pepsin, mucin
Design of Intelligence Gathering Model: A Semantic Web Based Approach
Intelligence information gathering, investigation and analysis are vital components of security management in any given society. The ability to know what, where and when events occur is a key element of investigation process especially in a large dataset. This is a thematic, spatial and temporal (TST) reporting issue. Semantic Web technologies such as Resource Description Framework (RDF), Resource Description Framework Schema (RDFS) and Web Ontology Language (OWL) have been discovered to be a good approach to solving this problem. In this study, the researchers proposed a semantic web based intelligence gathering model for TST using OWL ontology, which has more expressive constructs than RDF. The study further demonstrated the use of Semantic Query-enhanced Web Rule Language (SQWRL), Semantic Web Rule Language (SWRL), Jess and OWL APIs for ontology reasoning and inferences. The model presents university ontology, which could be applied in implementing security intelligence gathering in university community. Thus, this paper established the possibility of gathering intelligence information that satisfied TST through semantic web based tools.
Semantic web, Thematic, Spatial, Temporal, Intelligence Gathering
Liver and Kidney Function Indices of Male Wistar Rats after Oral Administration of Aqueous Extract of Massularia acuminata Root
This study was aimed at evaluating the effects of administration of aqueous extract of Massularia acuminata roots on the function indices of the liver and kidney of male Wistar rats. Male rats were completely randomized into four groups, A, B, C and D. Animals in group A (Control) received orally 1ml of distilled water while those in groups B, C and D (test groups) were treated like the control except that the male rats received 1 ml that corresponded to 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg body weight of the extract respectively, once daily for 21 days. The results revealed that the extract significantly (P<0.05) increased the liver and serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activities and reduced the kidney ALP activity. The reduction (P<0.05) in the activity of γ-glutamyl transferase (γ-GT) in both the liver and kidney was accompanied by corresponding increase in the serum γ-GT activity. The serum contents of total bilirubin, globulin and K+ increased significantly (P<0.05) on all the days of intervention, whereas the increases in creatinine and urea did not manifest until after seven daily doses of the extract. In contrast, the extract decreased (P<0.05) the serum Na+ concentration, liver- and kidney-body weight ratios. Ca2+, albumin and conjugated bilirubin in the serum of the animals increased at specific doses and days of exposure. Overall, the aqueous extract of M. acuminata roots at the doses (50, 100 and 200 mg/kg body weight) and the duration (21 days) investigated in this study has caused functional toxicity with adverse effects on the secretory and synthetic functions of the hepatocytes as well as tubular and glomerular dysfunction of the nephrons of the male rats. Therefore, the extract at these doses is not completely safe as oral remedy.
Massularia acuminata, hepatotoxicity, nephrotoxicity, rubiacea, function indices
Effect of Pregnancy on Serum Levels of Selected Antioxidant Vitamins and Minerals
Pregnancy places increased demand of adequate nutrients for the growing conceptus. Oxidative stress generated during normal pregnancy usually increases with decreased supply of antioxidant vitamins and minerals, resulting in adverse pregnancy outcome. In this study, the levels of antioxidant vitamins and minerals during pregnancy were evaluated. A total of 120 women of puberty age comprising 60 pregnant women attending antenatal care (ANC), Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital (UDUTH) and 60 apparently healthy non-pregnant women were recruited for this study. Serum levels of vitamin A, vitamin C and vitamin E were determined spectrophotometrically. The concentrations of zinc and copper were determined colorimetrically while BMI was evaluated using standard method. Results showed that serum levels of vitamin A, vitamin C and vitamin E in pregnant women (2.28±0.22, 44.67±3.09 and 17.94±1.5 respectively) were significantly lower (P<0.05) than their non-pregnant counterparts (5.33±0.36, 84.06±5.27 and 25.33±1.48 respectively). Our result further showed that the serum concentrations of zinc and copper in pregnant women (10.00±44 and 10.28±0.44 respectively) were significantly lower (p<0.05) (15.16±0.34 and 22.21±1.45 respectively) compared to the non-pregnant women. However, BMI were significantly higher (p<0.05) in pregnant women (28.76±0.08) compared to non-pregnant control (22.45±o.47). These findings suggest altered levels of vitamins and minerals during pregnancy. Therefore, supplement or food fortification will be a highly effective strategy to correct any adverse pregnancy outcome as a result of their deficiencies.
Pregnant women, Oxidative stress, Antioxidant vitamins, Minerals
Phytochemical Constituents and In Vitro Antitrypanosomal Activity of Ethanol Seed Extract of Buchholzia Coriacea
The medicinal efficacy of Buchholzia coriacea seed extract was screened for possible anti-trypanosomal activity in vitro. Whole Buchholzia coriacea seeds were extracted with 80% ethanol (EtOH) to obtained crude extract. The flavonoid fraction was extracted from crude ethanol extract using n-butanol and purified in column chromatography eluted with methanol. The crude extract and flavonoid fraction obtained were screened for in vitro antitrypanosomal activity by mixing 20 μl of blood sample containing about 20-25 parasites per field with 5 μl of crude ethanol extract and flavonoid fraction separately at 20.0, 2.0 and 0.2 mg/ml producing effective concentrations of 4, 0.4 and 0.04 mg/ml, respectively. Result indicated that flavonoid fraction of B. coriacea exhibited complete caesation of motility of T. b. brucei within 60 minutes at concentrations of 4 and 0.4 mg/ml while the crude ethanol extract recorded only reduction on parasite count and sluggishness in motility as compared to untreated control. Differences in the amount of phytochemical present could probably be responsible for the observed antitrypanosomal activity. This study therefore provides scientific evidence for the traditional use of ethanol crude extract and flavonoid fraction of Bucholzia coriacea seed for the management of trypanosomosis.
Buchholzia coriacea, Parasitaemia, Phytochemicals, Trypanosome
Chelation, Characterization and Antimicrobial Screening of Some Mixed Antituberculosis–Vitamin Metal Drug Complexes
In this study, mixed Zn(II), Cu(II), Co(II) complexes of Isoniazid and vitamin C were synthesized and characterized by melting point, conductivity measurement, Fourier Transform Infra-red (FT-IR), Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy and elemental analyses. The bonding nature of the mixed parent ligands and the structure of the complexes were based on analytical and spectroscopic techniques. The complexes were proposed to have the formula [M1L1L2(Cl2)], [M2L1L2(SO4)], [M3L1L2(Cl2)] where M1 = Zn(II), M2 = Cu(II), M3= Co (II) L1= Isoniazid and L2 = Vitamin C. The infra-red data relate to the results of the most informative and indicative region. The result of spectra data confirmed that the two ligands were bidentate in their mode of coordination with the metal ions. The complexes are in octahedral geometry and the molar conductance was found to be non-electrolytic in nature. Antimicrobial test was carried out against four bacterial species namely Bacillus subtilus, Staphylococuss aureus, Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeroginosa. All the complexes showed higher antibacterial activity at the same concentration against the microorganisms used compared to the ligands.
Coordination, Spectra, Evaluation, Bidentate.
Analysis of Indoor Air Microflora of Some Daycare Centres in Ilorin South Local Government Area, Nigeria
The microflora of air in ten daycare centres within Ilorin South Local Government Area of Kwara State, Nigeria was investigated by settling plate technique. The plates were exposed for a period of 10 minutes at each sampling point. The counts of bacteria, total coliform and fungi ranged from 10 to 200, 10 to 170 and 6 to 110 cfu/10 minutes respectively. A total of 23 microorganisms comprising 12 bacteria and 11 fungi were isolated in this study. These bacteria were Micrococcus sp., Staphylococcus arlettae, Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis, Staphylococcus haemolyticus, Corynebacterium kutscheri, Staphylococcus warneri, Staphylococcus aureus, Corynebacterium diphtheriae., Corynebacterium amycolatum, Bacillus pumilus, Corynebacterium matruchotii and Listeria grayi while the fungi were Aspergillus fumigatus, Aspergillus niger, Penicillium chrysogenum, Penicillium sp., Aspergillus flavus, Rhizopus stolonifer, Fusarium oxysporum, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Alternaria alternata, Aspergillus glaucus and Polyporus sp. The predominant bacterium and fungus in this study were Micrococcus sp. and Aspergillus fumigatus respectively. It can be concluded that the indoor air of the daycare centres used for this study had diverse species of Gram positive bacteria, high occurrence of non-pathogenic bacteria and fungi. Moulds dominate the fungal isolates and some of the bacterial species are commensals found on human body whereas the fungi are environmental in origin. A few pathogenic species were isolated among the bacteria and fungi.
Effect of Harvesting Time on Phytochemical Profile and Antioxidant Activity of Essential Oil from Citrus medica Leaves
Leaves (500 g) of Citrus medica L. harvested at interval of three hours from 7:00 am to 7:00 pm on a day during dry season were separately hydrodistilled for three hours. Oil yields from the leaves ranged from 0.22 - 0.34%. GC and GC-MS analyses revealed the predominance of monoterpenoids (50.5-70.3%) in the oils. The percentage composition of sesquiterpenoids was in the range of 29.7-29.5 %. The principal constituents of the oils were; β-ocimene (4.1–5.6 %), D-limonene (13.5 – 19.8 %), γ-terpinene (10.8 – 17.9 %), linalool (3.8 – 4.0 %), citronellal (2.7 – 7.5 %), terpinen4-ol (1.2 – 8.7 %), citronellol (10.1 – 13.7 %), linalylanthranilate (2.5 – 9.3 %), δ-elemene (3.0 – 6.4 %), α-bergamotene (4.1 – 6.6 %), humulene (1.2 – 2.8 %), β-caryophyllene (7.9 – 16.5 %), β-bisabolene (3.6 – 5.2 %). The oils were of Dlimonene and γ-terpinene chemotypes. Antioxidant activity assay on the oils revealed that they were biochemically active against DPPH radicals. The activity was concentration dependent with the oil from 7 am harvest having the highest activity and lowest EC50. Hence, the plant may be used as an alternative to synthetic antioxidants.
D-limonene, γ-terpinene, chemotypes, antioxidants, Citrus medica
A Non-Relativistic Rotational-Vibration Energy Study of Hydrogen Fluoride Molecule
The analytical approximate solution of a three-dimensional non-relativistic Schrӧdinger equation was obtained with a generalized Morse potential model for any arbitrary state in the framework of the parametric Nikiforov-Uvarov method. To test the accuracy of the energy equation, numerical results for various , n  and the screening parameter  were computed. These results were in good agreement when compared with other existing results. To show more practical applications of the results, the rotational-vibration transition frequencies for hydrogen fluoride molecule was calculated numerically and compared with existing results.
Schrödinger equation, Generalized Morse potential, Diatomic molecule, Rotational-transition frequencies
Serum Levels of Antioxidant Minerals in Relation to Severity of HIV Infection Among Patients Attending Specialist Hospital Sokoto, Nigeria
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) positive patients are under chronic stress due to excessive production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Micronutrients (including antioxidant minerals) deficiencies are common in HIV-related infections which may progress to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). The present study assessed the serum levels of antioxidant minerals in HIV-positive Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy-naïve (HAART-naïve) patients. The study involved 128 subjects that comprised 96 HIV-positive HAART- naive patients and 32 age- and gender-matched HIV-negative controls. Levels of CD4 + count were enumerated using Flow Cytometry while serum levels of antioxidant minerals (Cu, Zn, and Fe) were estimated using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS) in controls (group1) and patients with CD4 + count of ≥500 cells/µl (group 2), 200-499 cells/µl (group 3) and < 200 cells/µl (group 4). Results indicated that the HIV-positive HAART-naïve patients have significantly (p<0.05) reduced serum levels of antioxidant minerals when compared with different stages of CD4 + count. The result based on gender, indicated a significantly (p<0.05) higher levels of CD4 + count and antioxidant minerals in males compared to females. A significant (p<0.05) positive correlation was also established between CD4 + and antioxidant minerals with a decline in the latter as the severity of HIV-infection increased. This study recommends that HIV-positive HAART-naïve patients be supplemented with antioxidant minerals in order to prevent the oxidative onslaught by free radicals.
Antioxidants, minerals, HIV/AIDS patients, HAART-naive
Sero-Epidemiological Study of Hepatitis B and C Viruses among HIV-Positive Individuals Attending State Hospital Asaba, Nigeria
Hepatitis B and C virus infections are common among HIV-infected individuals. This study aimed at determining dual and triple infection rates of these viruses and correlating with immune status (CD4+ count) of HIV-infected individuals attending State Hospital Asaba, Nigeria. Blood samples and socio-demographic data were collected from 182 HIVinfected participants. HBsAg and anti-HCV antibody levels in blood samples were detected using Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA). Dual (HIV-HBV, HIV-HCV) and triple (HIV-HBV-HCV) infections were 6.6%, 6.6% and 0.6% respectively. HCV infection was strongly associated with gender, age and CD4+ count of the participants. Baseline screening of HIV-infected persons is recommended for early detection and appropriate treatment options.