The Nigerian Journal of Physics (NJP) is a peer-reviewed publication of original research papers, review articles, technical reports and short communications in all aspects in the fields of Physical Sciences, Engineering and Technology.
Studies of the Mechanical and Neutron Shielding Efficiency of Dy³⁺-Doped MgO–SrO–B₂O₃ Glass Systems
This study investigates the influence of dysprosium oxide doping on the mechanical and fast neutron removal cross-section of borate glass systems with the composition. The elastic behavior of the glass was assessed using the Makishima–Mackenzie theoretical model. Calculations of dissociation energy and packing density revealed that both properties increased as the Dy₂O₃ concentration rose from 0.2 to 1 mol%. Specifically, dissociation energy increased from 43.329 to 43.465 kJ/cm³, and packing density grew from 0.398 to 0.478 cm³/mol. This consistent upward trend indicates that adding Dy₂O₃ enhances the structural density and bond strength within the glass network, leading to improved rigidity and compactness of the glass structure. Also, all elastic mechanical moduli (such as Young’s, Bulk, Shear, and Longitudinal) increase with increasing the quantity of Dy3+ ions in the glass lattice. For the fast neutron shielding, materials with lower density and lighter atomic mass are generally more efficient. As a result, the S1 glass sample, with a lower density of 2.42 g/cm³, exhibited superior fast neutron attenuation compared to the denser S4 sample, which had a density of 2.52 g/cm³. Among all tested samples, S1 recorded the highest effective removal cross-section (ΣR) at 0.115 cm⁻¹, whereas S4 showed the lowest value at 0.104 cm⁻¹. The increase in B₂O₃ content contributed to the improvement in ΣR. Therefore, glass system will be served as promising candidate for radiation protection related applications.
Copyright (c) 2026 Umar Garba Musa, Mohammed Abdullahi, Saddiq Abubakar Dalhatu, Aliyu Mohammed Aliyu, Dauda Abubakar, Auwal Baballe
Determination of Photon Energy Absorption in Epoxy-Based Metallic Composite Samples
This study investigates the absorption of photon energy and the radiation-shielding efficacy of epoxy-based metallic composites that are reinforced with different weight fractions of bismuth oxide (Bi₂O₃) and barium sulfate (BaSO₄). Increasing the loading of Bi₂O₃ from 14.29% to 85.71% resulted in a corresponding increase in composite density, from 2.65 g/cm³ to 5.86 g/cm³. This enhancement in density, along with the higher atomic number of Bi₂O₃ relative to BaSO₄, contributed to improved ionizing-radiation absorption. Key attenuation parameters, such as mass attenuation coefficient (μm), effective atomic number (Zeff), effective electron density (Neff), and half-value layer (HVL), were assessed over photon energies ranging from 81 to 1332.5 keV. Experimental values closely aligned with theoretical XCOM data, validating significant photoelectric absorption at low energies, where the mass attenuation coefficient increased by up to 98% in high-Z-loaded samples. Composites containing increased Bi₂O₃ fractions exhibited enhanced photon attenuation, decreased half-value layer (HVL), and higher effective atomic number (Zeff) compared to BaSO₄-rich samples, indicating the shielding benefits of high-Z fillers. BaSO₄ enhanced structural uniformity and mechanical integrity, particularly complementing Bi₂O₃ in low-energy regimes. Neff diminished as photon energy increased, indicating a lower probability of photon–electron interactions at higher energies.
Copyright (c) 2026 Oluniyi Samuel Makinde, Olaosebikan Akanni Aremu, Oluyemi Samuel Adejuwon, Olatunde Michael Oni
Assessment of Intrinsic Aquifer Vulnerability Using GODTP Framework at Igbesa-Lusada, Southwestern Nigeria
Groundwater serves as a critical source of potable water in many parts of Nigeria, yet increasing waste generation and inadequate disposal practices continue to threaten its quality. This study applies a modified GODT, which is GODTP vulnerability assessment framework to evaluate the susceptibility of aquifers to contamination in a rapidly urbanizing area – Igbesa-Lusada of southwestern Nigeria. The framework integrates five parameters: Groundwater occurrence (G), Overlying strata characteristics (O), Depth to water table (D), Topography (T), and Protective capacity (P) derived from longitudinal conductance. Hydrogeophysical data from vertical electrical soundings (VES), topographic (elevations), and geological mapping were used to compute the GODTP index and classify the terrain into vulnerability zones. The introduction of the “P” parameter, representing aquifer protective capacity, improved framework sensitivity by capturing the influence of clay-rich or lateritic layers that attenuate contaminant migration. The GODTP results for the Igbesa-Lusada Road (Dump Corridor) indicate high vulnerability, with ~70% of VES stations in both the high and moderate. Frequency analysis further confirms that about 68.57% of the area exhibits low protective capacity, while only 8.57% shows high protection. These findings demonstrate that dumpsite activities significantly increase aquifer vulnerability in the study area, provide a spatially explicit evaluation of aquifer susceptibility, offering a practical tool for groundwater management and land-use planning in the region and highlight the importance of monitoring and remediation planning in this critical zone.
Copyright (c) 2025 Adedoyin E. Ojuolape, Joseph O. Coker, Hamid T. Oladunjoye, Busuyi E. Akeredolu, Sofiat A. Adekoya, Omolara A. Adenuga, Adesanya O. Atilade
Numerical Solution of the Modified Radioactive Decay Rate Equation Using the Runge-Kutta Fourth Order Method
The standard radioactive decay equation describes exponential decay but neglects possible production mechanisms that may arise in complex systems. This study investigates a modified radioactive decay rate equation that incorporates a quadratic production term, allowing for the modeling of coupled decay–production dynamics. The governing nonlinear ordinary differential equation was solved analytically for limiting cases and numerically using the fourth-order Runge–Kutta (RK4) method. Numerical simulations were performed for varying values of the production parameter β, while keeping the decay constant fixed, allowing for a direct comparison between standard decay and modified decay behaviors. The results show close agreement between analytical and numerical solutions at low β values, confirming the accuracy of the RK4 method. As β increases, deviations from simple exponential decay become significant, with the emergence of steady-state solutions where production balances decay. These steady states occur when the production term becomes comparable to the linear decay term. The study demonstrates that the modified model captures decay dynamics not represented by the standard equation and highlights the sensitivity of system behaviors to the quadratic production parameter. The findings confirm the suitability of the RK4 method for solving nonlinear radioactive decay models and provide a framework for extending the analysis to more complex decay systems involving spatial dependence or coupled nuclide chains.
Copyright (c) 2025 Daniel Abi Otor, Raymond Msughter Agaku, Timothy Terngu Bem, Ikpe Adoga Peter, Sesugh Emmanuel Nyiyongo, Ojodale Meshach Noah
Study of Gamma Ray Shielding Characteristics and Exposure Buildup Factor for some Natural Rocks
This study assessed the gamma-ray shielding potential and exposure build up factor of Gypsum, kaolin, limestone and granite commonly used as a building material in Northeastern, Nigeria. The elemental composition of the rocks was obtained through Energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) which examines the microstructural and localized area elemental analyses of the four rock samples. Phy-X software was used to determine and evaluate the radiation shielding parameters at energy range of from 0.015 MeV to 15 MeV originating from 137Cs and 60Co sources. The MAC and LAC showed a decreasing pattern as photon energy increased. In the energy interval of 0.1–0.8 MeV, the MAC and LAC values of all studied materials converged, suggesting comparable attenuation characteristics. A significant drop at lower photon energies was also observed, primarily due to the strong inverse relationship between the photoelectric effect and photon energy. Among all materials, kaolin exhibited higher MAC and LAC values, which can be explained by its higher density and the presence of heavy elements like Ba, Ti, and Fe. The study's findings showed that the natural rocks examined had strong cap abilities to block gamma rays indicating their potential use in radiation protection.
Copyright (c) 2025 Abdulkadir Adamu; Aliyu Mohammad Aliyu; Dauda Abubakar, Abubakar Abba Aji, Alameen Mustapha Muhammed, Umar Haruna
Effect of Atmospheric Parameters in Implementation of Agricultural Activities in Kebbi State, Northwestern Nigeria
This research presents comprehensive analysis of meteorological parameters and their effects on crop productivity in Kebbi State from 2014 to 2023. The results are presented through statistical analyses, correlation studies, temporal trends, and predictive modeling. Generally, rainfall reveal strongest positive correlations across all crops, with rice resulting higher dependence (r = +0.68, p<0.001) which explains 46% of rice production variability. However, temperature remained consistent revealing negative correlation soya beans most sensitive to temperature stress with threshold effects observed above 35°C. Relative humidity acts as moisture stress buffer and showed moderate positive correlations essentially beneficial for rice and soya beans cultivations. Crop specific seasonal responses revealed that, rice most responsive to rainy season conditions, millet shows significant dry season resilience while potato shows moderate seasonal adaptation. The seasonal production analysis showed at peak rainy season: 50.4% increases in rice production compared to dry season, 27.6% increase in maize production, 75.9% increase in millet production, 71.6% increase in soya-beans production, 44.7% increase in potato production. Climate trend analysis shows gradual temperature increase observed with corresponding slight decrease in rainfall amounts relative humidity patterns followed rainfall trends while wind patterns remained relatively stable. Production trend analysis, rice production fluctuates but overall stable trend, maize showed consistent upward trajectory (+18.4% over decade) adaptation evidence in post-2018 recovery patterns. Forecast interpretation revealed all crops show positive growth trajectories (2024-2028), soya-beans exhibit highest growth potential with projections assume to be continuation of current agricultural practices.
Copyright (c) 2025 Muhammad Naziru Yahaya, Muddassiru Abubakar, Faruk Abubakar Kaoje
Gamma Shielding Behavior of Zinc Doped Sodium Bismuth Borate Glass xZnO-(15-x)-Na2O-15Bi2O3-70B2O3
The radiation shielding properties of zinc doped sodium bismuth borate glasses were analyzed using Phy-X/PSD. The chemical composition of glass xZnO-(15-x)-Na2O-15Bi2O3-70B2O3 with 0 ≤ x ≤ 12 mol % glass, and are coded as ZNBB1, ZNBB2, ZNBB3, ZNBB4, and ZNBB5 in increasing xZnO content. Phy-X/PSD was used to determine the mass attenuation coefficient (MAC), linear attenuation coefficient (LAC), and half value layer (HVL), tenth value layer (TVL), and mean free path (MFP) of the investigated glasses. The maximum values for all the glasses can be observed at the lowest tested energy, 0.015 MeV and are equal to 27.017, 35.330, 42.036, 47.560, 52.190 (cm2/g) for the ZNBB1, ZNBB2, ZNBB3, ZNBB4, and ZNBB5 glasses, respectively. At this energy, the MAC of the glasses can be observed to increase as the Zinc oxide concentration of the sample increases, which is due to the increase in density that correlates with B2O3 content. The minimum HVL values occurred at the lowest tested energy, 0.15 MeV, and decreased with decreasing energy, meaning that the glasses are more effective at lower energies. The results proved that the glass with the highest content of zinc oxide, has the higher density with greatest potential for radiation shielding applications.
Copyright (c) 2025 Mohammed Abdullahi, Abubakar Saddiq Dalhatu, Aliyu Mohammed Aliyu, Dauda Abubakar, Auwal Baballe, Umar Garba Musa
Assessment of Activity Concentration of Radionuclides from Farmland Soils around Some Mining Communities of Plateau State using a Bismuth Germanate Oxide (BGO) Spectrometer
Mining activities can elevate the levels of naturally occurring radionuclides in surrounding agricultural soils, potentially increasing radiological exposure to farmers and food consumers. This study investigated the activity concentrations of 40K, 238U, and 232Th in farmland soils around selected mining communities within the Naraguta Sheet 168 of Plateau State, Nigeria, using a field-portable Bismuth Germanate Oxide (BGO) gamma-ray spectrometer. In situ measurements were conducted at fifty-six sampling points across Shen, Rayfield Resort, Bisichi, and Kuru farmlands, with Kassa serving as a control site. Radiological hazard indices, including absorbed dose rate (Dγ), radium equivalent activity (Raeq), external and internal hazard indices (Hex and Hin), annual effective dose equivalent (AEDE), and gamma activity index (Iγ), were evaluated to assess potential radiation risks. The results revealed notable spatial variations in radionuclide distribution, with 40K dominating across all locations. The greatest mean activity concentrations of 40K (1475.92 Bq kg⁻¹), 238U (24.14 Bq kg⁻¹), and 232Th (8.36 Bq kg⁻¹) were found in Bisichi farmland, with values for 40K surpassing the global average. Based on the result, Bisichi had radiological indices with the gamma activity index (Iγ) above unity and Hex and Hin below unity. This implies that although there is a risk to the gamma activity index (Iγ), there is no risk of occupational exposure to Hex and Hin. Additionally, farmlands in Shen, Rayfield, Kuru, and the control site recorded radionuclide concentration and radiological parameters largely within internationally recommended limits. Although most values remained below permissible exposure thresholds, the radiological indicators in mining-impacted farmlands highlight the need for continuous monitoring and appropriate environmental management strategies.
Copyright (c) 2025 Achide Samson Achide, S. D. Songden, W. E. Mangset
Energy Values of Titanium Hydride (TiH) Diatomic Molecule with Modified Kratzer Energy-Dependent Screened Coulomb Potential in the Presence of Magnetic and Aharonov-Bohm Flux Fields
In this study, the modified Kratzer energy-dependent screened Coulomb potential is analyzed in the presence of external magnetic and Aharonov–Bohm (AB) flux fields. The Schrödinger equation is solved using the Nikiforov–Uvarov Functional Analysis (NUFA) method, yielding closed-form expressions for the energy eigenvalues and the corresponding wavefunctions. The resulting solutions are applied to the Titanium Hydride (TiH) diatomic molecule to investigate how external fields and the slope parameter <!-- [if gte msEquation 12]><m:oMath><m:acc><m:accPr><m:chr m:val="̃"/><m:ctrlPr></m:ctrlPr></m:accPr><m:e><m:r><m:rPr><m:scr m:val="roman"/><m:sty m:val="p"/></m:rPr>g</m:r></m:e></m:acc></m:oMath><![endif]--> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 107%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; position: relative; top: 3.0pt; mso-text-raise: -3.0pt; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;"><!-- [if gte vml 1]><v:shapetype id="_x0000_t75" coordsize="21600,21600" o:spt="75" o:preferrelative="t" path="m@4@5l@4@11@9@11@9@5xe" filled="f" stroked="f"> <v:stroke joinstyle="miter"/> <v:formulas> <v:f eqn="if lineDrawn pixelLineWidth 0"/> <v:f eqn="sum @0 1 0"/> <v:f eqn="sum 0 0 @1"/> <v:f eqn="prod @2 1 2"/> <v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelWidth"/> <v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelHeight"/> <v:f eqn="sum @0 0 1"/> <v:f eqn="prod @6 1 2"/> <v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelWidth"/> <v:f eqn="sum @8 21600 0"/> <v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelHeight"/> <v:f eqn="sum @10 21600 0"/> </v:formulas> <v:path o:extrusionok="f" gradientshapeok="t" o:connecttype="rect"/> <o:lock v:ext="edit" aspectratio="t"/> </v:shapetype><v:shape id="_x0000_i1025" type="#_x0000_t75" style='width:5pt; height:12.5pt'> <v:imagedata src="file:///C:/Users/User/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image001.png" o:title="" chromakey="white"/> </v:shape><![endif]--> which characterizes the rate at which the screening strength and potential shape vary with internuclear separation affect the molecular energy spectrum. The slope parameter plays a key role in determining the stiffness and depth of the effective potential: negative values (<!-- [if gte msEquation 12]><m:oMath><m:acc><m:accPr><m:chr m:val="̃"/><m:ctrlPr></m:ctrlPr></m:accPr><m:e><m:r><m:rPr><m:scr m:val="roman"/><m:sty m:val="p"/></m:rPr>g</m:r></m:e></m:acc><m:r><0</m:r></m:oMath><![endif]--> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 107%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; position: relative; top: 3.0pt; mso-text-raise: -3.0pt; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;"><!-- [if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_i1025" type="#_x0000_t75" style='width:23.5pt;height:12.5pt'> <v:imagedata src="file:///C:/Users/User/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image003.png" o:title="" chromakey="white"/> </v:shape><![endif]--> ) enhance attractive behavior and support both positive and negative bound-state energies; zero slope (<!-- [if gte msEquation 12]><m:oMath><m:acc><m:accPr><m:chr m:val="̃"/><m:ctrlPr></m:ctrlPr></m:accPr><m:e><m:r><m:rPr><m:scr m:val="roman"/><m:sty m:val="p"/></m:rPr>g</m:r></m:e></m:acc><m:r>=0</m:r></m:oMath><![endif]--> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 107%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; position: relative; top: 3.0pt; mso-text-raise: -3.0pt; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;"><!-- [if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_i1025" type="#_x0000_t75" style='width:23.5pt;height:12.5pt'> <v:imagedata src="file:///C:/Users/User/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image005.png" o:title="" chromakey="white"/> </v:shape><![endif]--> ) produces only positive bound-state levels; and positive slope (<!-- [if gte msEquation 12]><m:oMath><m:acc><m:accPr><m:chr m:val="̃"/><m:ctrlPr></m:ctrlPr></m:accPr><m:e><m:r><m:rPr><m:scr m:val="roman"/><m:sty m:val="p"/></m:rPr>g</m:r></m:e></m:acc><m:r>>0</m:r></m:oMath><![endif]--> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 107%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; position: relative; top: 3.0pt; mso-text-raise: -3.0pt; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;"><!-- [if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_i1025" type="#_x0000_t75" style='width:23.5pt;height:12.5pt'> <v:imagedata src="file:///C:/Users/User/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image007.png" o:title="" chromakey="white"/> </v:shape><![endif]--> ) alters the spacing of the spectrum by increasing the sensitivity of the energy levels to external-field perturbations. Numerical results show that external fields strongly influence degeneracy patterns in TiH. Magnetic fields remove degeneracy across <!-- [if gte msEquation 12]><m:oMath><m:r>m</m:r><m:r>=±1</m:r></m:oMath><![endif]--> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 107%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; position: relative; top: 3.0pt; mso-text-raise: -3.0pt; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;"><!-- [if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_i1025" type="#_x0000_t75" style='width:34.5pt;height:12.5pt'> <v:imagedata src="file:///C:/Users/User/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image009.png" o:title="" chromakey="white"/> </v:shape><![endif]--> , AB-flux fields create quasi-degeneracy, and the combined fields produce the most significant degeneracy lifting. Energy values consistently decrease with increasing vibrational quantum number <!-- [if gte msEquation 12]><m:oMath><m:r>n</m:r></m:oMath><![endif]--> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 107%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; position: relative; top: 3.0pt; mso-text-raise: -3.0pt; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;"><!-- [if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_i1025" type="#_x0000_t75" style='width:6pt;height:12.5pt'> <v:imagedata src="file:///C:/Users/User/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image011.png" o:title="" chromakey="white"/> </v:shape><![endif]--> . Special cases obtained by varying the magnetic quantum number and slope parameter reduce to the known modified Kratzer–Coulomb potential, and the resulting spectra agree well with available literature. These findings highlight the sensitivity of TiH molecular states to the slope parameter and external fields.
Energy-dependent screened Coulomb potential
Titanium Hydride (TiH) diatomic molecule
Copyright (c) 2025 Sunday Danladi Ishaya, Yerima Jabil Yakubu, Davou Christopher Lawrence
Magnetic Properties of Titanium Hydride (TiH) Diatomic Molecule with Modified Kratzer Energy-Dependent Screened Coulomb Potential in the Presence of Magnetic and Aharonov-Bohm Flux Fields
In this study, the modified Kratzer energy-dependent screened Coulomb potential is analyzed in the presence of external magnetic and Aharonov–Bohm (AB) flux fields. The Schrödinger equation is solved using the Nikiforov–Uvarov Functional Analysis (NUFA) method, yielding closed-form expressions for the energy eigenvalues and the corresponding wavefunctions. These solutions are applied to investigate the magnetic properties of the titanium hydride (TiH) diatomic molecule, including the partition function, magnetization, magnetic susceptibility, and persistent current. The effects of the slope parameter are examined in detail and found to play a significant role in controlling the magnitude, ordering, and convergence behavior of all magnetic observables. Negative slope values enhance the magnetic and thermodynamic responses of the system, while positive slope values suppress them, with the zero-slope case acting as an intermediate regime. The magnetic field induces divergence and saturation effects, whereas the AB-flux field governs sharp transitions, minima, and convergence characteristics. Overall, the results demonstrate that both the slope parameter and external fields provide effective mechanisms for tuning the magnetic behavior of the TiH diatomic molecule.
Assessment of Wind Speed Distributions and Turbine Characteristics in Equatorial West Africa
Wind nullity, low wind, and bi- or multi-modality are common characteristics at high temporal resolution, especially in Equatorial regions. The traditional two-parameter Weibull (Weibull) distribution function (DF) is not designed to capture such peculiarities. Hourly mean wind speed data for eight locations that cut across different climate zones in an Equatorial region of West Africa have been analyzed using Weibull and Maximum Entropy Principle-based (MEP) distribution functions (DFs). Wind characteristics, such as power density, null wind speed, and modal distributions, together with turbine efficiency, capacity, and availability factors, were also assessed at a wind turbine hub height of 73 m using standard statistical tools. The results indicated that null wind speed and/or bimodality were present in the wind distributions at Abuja, Akure, Akungba, Nsukka, Makurdi, and Yola. The results of the assessments of the two DFs show that the MEP DF generated much better results across all time scales (R2: 0.83 - 0.98; RMSE: 0.0037 - 0.0109 m/s2) than the Weibull DF (R2: 0.47 - 0.98; RMSE: 0.0038 - 0.0191 m/s2), especially for locations where null wind speed and bimodality were prominent in the wind data distribution. MEP DF results further indicated that annual and rainy season periods were better modeled than the dry season in all the locations. The overall effect of all the turbine characteristics on annual and seasonal scales is that sufficient winds were available (Availability factor: 0.733 - 0.97; Capacity factor: 0.350 - 0.778) at the rated power for energy production in all the climate zones.
Copyright (c) 2025 Taofeek Abiodun Otunla
Angular-Dependent Sputtering and Implantation of Kr⁺ and Xe⁺ Ions in CoCrFeMnNi High-Entropy Alloy: A TRIM/SRIM Simulation Study
High-entropy alloys (HEAs) are increasingly considered for extreme-environment applications such as plasma-facing components and nuclear materials, where resistance to noble-gas ion bombardment is critical. This work presents a systematic TRIM/SRIM Monte Carlo investigation of 5–15 keV Kr⁺ and Xe⁺ ion interactions with the equiatomic CoCrFeMnNi (Cantor) alloy, with emphasis on the influence of incident angle (0°–89°). Longitudinal penetration depth and straggle decrease dramatically with increasing oblique angles, dropping to only a few atomic monolayers beyond 70°. Conversely, lateral and radial projected ranges and straggles rise strongly, reaching maximum values of ~65 Å and ~50 Å, respectively, for 15 keV Kr⁺ at near-grazing incidence. Total sputtering yields exhibit the classic angular dependence, peaking at 60°–70° and reaching 19 atoms/ion (Kr⁺) and 33–35 atoms/ion (Xe⁺) at 15 keV. Heavier Xe⁺ ions consistently produce 1.6–1.8 times higher yields than Kr⁺, while elemental yields reveal pronounced preferential sputtering in the order Mn > Ni > Co ≈ Fe > Cr, driven by differences in atomic mass and surface binding energy. The results agree quantitatively with established SRIM predictions and recent heavy-ion studies on transition-metal systems. These findings highlight the complex interplay of ion mass, incident angle, and target chemical complexity in HEAs, providing quantitative guidance for predicting surface erosion, near-surface implantation profiles, and compositional evolution of CoCrFeMnNi under divertor-relevant noble-gas exposure.
Copyright (c) 2025 Tersoo Atsue, Raymond Chivirter Abenga, Richard K. Tyokyaa
Geological Interpretation of Airborne Radiometric Data for Mineral Exploration Potential
This study interprets airborne radiometric data to evaluate mineral exploration potential within a basement complex terrain. Concentration maps of potassium (K), thorium (Th), and uranium (U), together with ternary composites, radiometric ratios, and the Efimov F-parameter, were used to delineate lithological units and hydrothermal alteration zones. Elevated K values exceeding 1.2% occur mainly in the southeastern and central regions, accompanied by high K/Th ratios (>0.09) and positive F-parameter anomalies (>0.2), indicating potassic alteration. Uranium highs exceeding 6 ppm and elevated U/Th ratios (>0.3) mark zones of uranium mobility and secondary enrichment. The integration of all radiometric products highlights extensive hydrothermal alteration in the southeastern and central sectors, which is spatially associated with structural trends typical of orogenic mineral systems. Comparison with earlier radiometric studies across Nigeria, Morocco, Egypt, and Senegal confirms the reliability of these indicators. The identified zones represent high-priority targets for gold and base-metal exploration.
Copyright (c) 2025 H. E. Ohaegbuchu, D. N. Ndubueze, O. O. Obiajulu, Y. C. Ahamefule
Effects of Artificial UVB Radiation on Growth, Survival, and Pigmentation of African Catfish (Clarias gariepinus) Fingerlings
Ultraviolet radiation B (UVB) is known to be detrimental to aquatic habitat; therefore, it's critical to understand how UVB affects Clarias gariepinus, which is widely cultured in Nigeria, in order to promote healthy growth of the fish. Two hundred fingerlings of the cat fish samples were obtained and divided into four equal groups, (A, B, C, and D) and kept in artificial ponds, and were respectively exposed to different UVB conditions [UVB-L (low)] 2.4<!-- [if gte msEquation 12]><m:oMath><m:r> ×</m:r></m:oMath><![endif]--> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 107%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; position: relative; top: 3.0pt; mso-text-raise: -3.0pt; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;"><!-- [if gte vml 1]><v:shapetype id="_x0000_t75" coordsize="21600,21600" o:spt="75" o:preferrelative="t" path="m@4@5l@4@11@9@11@9@5xe" filled="f" stroked="f"> <v:stroke joinstyle="miter"/> <v:formulas> <v:f eqn="if lineDrawn pixelLineWidth 0"/> <v:f eqn="sum @0 1 0"/> <v:f eqn="sum 0 0 @1"/> <v:f eqn="prod @2 1 2"/> <v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelWidth"/> <v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelHeight"/> <v:f eqn="sum @0 0 1"/> <v:f eqn="prod @6 1 2"/> <v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelWidth"/> <v:f eqn="sum @8 21600 0"/> <v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelHeight"/> <v:f eqn="sum @10 21600 0"/> </v:formulas> <v:path o:extrusionok="f" gradientshapeok="t" o:connecttype="rect"/> <o:lock v:ext="edit" aspectratio="t"/> </v:shapetype><v:shape id="_x0000_i1025" type="#_x0000_t75" style='width:9.5pt; height:12.5pt'> <v:imagedata src="file:///C:/Users/User/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image001.png" o:title="" chromakey="white"/> </v:shape><![endif]--> 10-7 mW/cm2, UVB-M (moderate) 6.0 <!-- [if gte msEquation 12]><m:oMath><m:r>×</m:r></m:oMath><![endif]--> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 107%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; position: relative; top: 3.0pt; mso-text-raise: -3.0pt; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;"><!-- [if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_i1025" type="#_x0000_t75" style='width:7pt;height:12.5pt'> <v:imagedata src="file:///C:/Users/User/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image003.png" o:title="" chromakey="white"/> </v:shape><![endif]--> 10-7 mW/cm2, UVB-H (high) 1.2 <!-- [if gte msEquation 12]><m:oMath><m:r>×</m:r></m:oMath><![endif]--> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 107%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; position: relative; top: 3.0pt; mso-text-raise: -3.0pt; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;"><!-- [if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_i1025" type="#_x0000_t75" style='width:7pt;height:12.5pt'> <v:imagedata src="file:///C:/Users/User/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image003.png" o:title="" chromakey="white"/> </v:shape><![endif]--> 10-6 mW/cm2] and group D was used as a control. The exposure period was 16 days and 51 days, respectively for the short and long term. The results of short and long-term exposure depict that UVB-L does not cause significant changes to the sample, while UVB-M rapidly increases the weight and growth but decreases mortality rate of the cat fish sampled, and UVB-H retarded weight and growth but increases mortality rate of the Clarias gariepinus. The result on color change indicated that, the control, UVB-L, and UVB-M samples maintained their dark color throughout the period of the experiment, while UVB-H sample undergoes morphological and functional changes resulting in a complete change from dark to pink color. UVB-M was found to be highly beneficial to the cat fish for both short and long terms, it can therefore, be adopted by fish farmers to improve the healthy fish growth of their farm.
Copyright (c) 2025 Alexander Ichaver, Alexender Aondongu Tyovenda, Aisha Adullahi Mohammed
Modeling Tropospheric Effects on Mobile Network Performance Using KPI-Based Metrics
Understanding how tropospheric variability influences mobile communication systems is critical for improving network reliability. This need is especially important in regions characterized by rapid atmospheric fluctuations. This study presents a quantitative modeling framework for evaluating tropospheric effects on mobile network performance using key performance indicators (KPIs). Tropospheric parameters including temperature, relative humidity, atmospheric pressure, and wind conditions were synchronized with corresponding network KPIs. These include Call Setup Success Rate (CSSR), Traffic Channel Congestion Rate (TCHCR), Handover Success Rate (HOSR), and Received Signal Strength. Statistical techniques comprising Pearson correlation, multiple regression modeling, and hypothesis testing were employed. These methods were used to determine the magnitude, direction, and significance of atmospheric influences. Results reveal that temperature and humidity exhibit strong, statistically significant associations with signal strength and call reliability. Pressure and wind parameters show moderate but noteworthy effects on congestion and handover performance. The developed models demonstrate that tropospheric conditions account for a substantial proportion of KPI variability. This indicates that atmospheric impairments play a measurable role in network degradation. The study provides a data-driven basis for proactive network optimization. It enables operators to incorporate atmospheric behaviors into predictive maintenance, link budgeting, and adaptive radio-resource management. The findings contribute to an improved understanding of environmental impacts on mobile communication systems. They also support the design of more resilient networks under dynamic tropospheric conditions.
Copyright (c) 2025 Akeem Lawal Sheu, Michael Olusope Alade, Olusegun Olabisi, Adebayo Segun Adewumi, Olaosebikan Akanni Aremu, Ibraheem Abiodun Azeez
Determination of Radionuclides Concentration and Transfer Factor in Selected Crops in Ganye Local Government Area of Adamawa State, Nigeria
The activity concentrations of natural radionuclides (238U, 232Th and 40K) in the food crops grown in Ganye Local Government Area of Adamawa State with their corresponding soil samples were measured using gamma-ray spectroscopy. The research was to determine the concentration of radionuclides in selected crops and their Transfer factor. The activity concentrations of eight (8) maize samples, eight (8) groundnut samples and four (4) yam samples with their corresponding soil samples were determined using gamma spectroscopy with a 3'' x 3'' NaI (Tl) detector. Soil radioactivity exceeded UNSCEAR recommended values for ²³⁸U and ⁴⁰K, while ²³²Th generally remained within safe limits. In crops, ⁴⁰K showed the highest activity (ranging 88.38 ± 5.02 Bq/kg -148.42 ± 8.07 Bq/kg), followed by ²³⁸U (12.62 ± 2.52 – 25.12±3.90 Bq/kg) and ²³²Th (3.95 ± 0.33 - 15.19 ± 0.42 Bq/kg ). Transfer factors for all crops were below 1, indicating low soil-to-plant transfer. Radiological hazard indices including absorbed dose rate, radium equivalent, hazard indices, annual effective dose, and gamma index were all below international safety limits. However, the excess lifetime cancer risk (ELCR) exceeded the recommended threshold of 1E-4 to 1E-6 across all crops. This suggests a potential long-term cancer risk from continual consumption, despite the minimal transfer of radionuclides into crops. The findings indicate that while soils in the study area have elevated natural radioactivity, crop contamination remains low and does not pose an immediate health threat. Continuous monitoring and soil management are advised to ensure sustainable agricultural safety.
Copyright (c) 2025 Peter Basho Matudi, Osita Chukwudi Meludu, Livinus Linus Dangari
Advancements in MoS2-based Nanocomposites for Photothermal and Chemotherapy Applications: A Mini-Review
Nanomaterials are recognized for their excellent properties and can be used in all areas of life. Nanomaterial-based drug delivery systems are increasingly promising and useful as tools in cancer therapy. Molybdenum sulfide (MoS2), a 2D material, is extensively studied today due to its exceptional characteristics and wide range of applications. Due to its unique properties and versatility for numerous applications, MoS2 has garnered considerable attention from researchers worldwide. MoS2 has been extensively explored for biomedical applications due to its excellent photothermal conversion ability. Multiple research papers have explored the advancements and applications of MoS2 materials, but this article aims to provide an overview of its photothermal and chemotherapy applications.
Copyright (c) 2025 Ismaila Taiwo Bello, Hope Kofoworola Adewumi, Paul Sola Ayanlola, Abraham Adewale Aremu, Emmanuel Abiodun Oni, Dauda Biodun Amuda
A Refined AQM Approach for Providing an Improved Performance in Communication Networks
Effective queue management for making certain of obtaining an improved network quality of service (QoS) is becoming a crucial challenge to the Internet owing to enormous increase in real-time communications. The widely reputed Random Early Detection (RED) and its offshoot amendment (Three-section RED, TRED) Active Queue Management (AQM) algorithms are considered inefficient for handling high congested network settings, leading to large end-to-end delay. In this paper, we propose a more sophisticated RED-based AQM design that leveraged TRED. We call this new scheme Ref-RED (an abbreviation of ‘Refined Random Early Detection’). Experimental investigations in ns-3 simulator demonstrated that Ref-RED's packet dropping strategy is more belligerent as it actively drops packets at heavy-load congested network, leading to the appreciable performance improvement.
Copyright (c) 2025 Samuel O. Hassan, Fatimah Adamu-Fika, Gloria Y. Amadi, Vivian O. Nwaocha, Adekunle A. Adeyelu, Olalere A. Abass, Olakunle O. Solanke
Effect of Students Exposure to Satellite Observations on their Achievement in Space Science Physics Study in Public Secondary Schools in Nsukka Local Government Area
The pedagogy of physics needs to transform into a more experiential, holistic, integrated, inquiry-driven, discovery-oriented, and learner-centered approach. This method emphasizes enhancing the learning process through discussion, flexibility, and enjoyment, shifting the focus from traditional knowledge retention to the methodologies of knowledge acquisition. As a result, this transformation improves students' ability to apply knowledge to real-world challenges. In this context, space science observation emerges as a strong pedagogical alternative. It involves learning through active, firsthand engagement in significant experiences, often going beyond the confines of the classroom. Students often struggle to grasp abstract astronomical concepts due to a lack of direct sensory or experiential familiarity with phenomena such as the vastness of the universe or the dynamics of planetary motion. Therefore, space science education can seem disconnected from tangible reality, making assimilation difficult. Therefore, this research focused on effect of exposure to satellite observation on achievement in satellite studies among senior secondary school 3 physics in Nsukka Local Government Area. The study utilized a quasi-experimental research design sampling 4 secondary schools purposively in the area making up 2820 SSS3 students. One research question was posed and one null hypothesis was formulated at 0.05 level of Significance to guide the study. The researcher developed physics test on satellite topics in the SSS current physics curriculum with face and content validation. Reliability coefficient of o.85 was obtained using kuder-Richardson formular- 20. Data was analysed using mean and t-test. Pre-test and post-test results showed that physics students taught with space observation in their satellite study performed better than students taught without space observation using conventional teaching method and that gender had no influence in achievement of the students in the space science study.
Copyright (c) 2025 Sabastine E. Ugwuanyi, C. D. Mgbadike, N. O. Anie
Measurement of Head and Flow of Bosso, Chanchaga and Tagwai Dams Proposed Storage and Off-Shore Hydroelectric Power Plants
Standard of living in Nigeria is significantly low with almost 90% of factories at moribund due to epileptic power supply with the effects ranging from domestic discomfort to national embarrassment. Hydropower is the most widely used source of power in the world today because of some of its remarkable advantages of being low cost and high reliability. The quantity of electrical power that can be obtained from hydropower is the product of head and flow. The study measured the gross head using hose level and direct meter rule methods and the gross head was also calculated using the relevant formula. The flow was measured using bucket/container method. The results showed that the gross heads for Bosso, Chanchaga and Tagwai proposed storage hydroelectric plant were 3.0 m, 7.0 m and 4.0 m respectively, while the alternative gross head for Bosso, Chanchaga and Tagwai dams were calculated to be;24.74 m, 31.38 m and 38.89m respectively. While the mean gross head of the proposed off shore plants for the three dams were 4.98 m, 1.08 m and 6.12 m respectively. The mean reservoir flows were found to be 111.91m3s-1, 759.45 m3s-1 and 1,571.03 m3s-1for proposed Bosso, Chanchaga and Tagwai storage and off-shore hydroelectric power plants respectively. The results showed that the heads and flows of the three dams satisfied the requirements for establishment of hydroelectric power plants that requires a minimum head of 0.2 m and minimum flow of 0.02 m3s-1.
Copyright (c) 2025 Abdullahi Yusuf, Musa Momoh, Davidson Odafe Akpootu, Aminu Shinkafi Bature, Evelyn Yisa Philip
Quantitative Analysis of Aeromagnetic Data Showing Magnetic Source Depth of Dutsin-Wai within Kubau Local Government Area, Kaduna State, Nigeria
Delineation of mineralization zone using Aeromagnetic data, sheet 125 (Dutsen -Wai) of NE part of Kaduna state. The result was delineated tom identify areas with high potential for cassiterite deposits by locating potential host structures, lithological contacts, and magnetic susceptibility contrast that give inside on the distribution of this mineral in prospect. It was obtained using quantitative techniques such as Euler Deconvolution and spectral analysis, the Euler deconvolution with a structural index of 1 and 0 for dyke mapping and contact respectively. The spectral analysis was used for the depth to the magnetic sources model for both regional and the residual anomaly sources, and all the results were incorporated with the geologic map of the area to map out the prominent structures and determine their depth and tend of those potential structures found within the host rock which is identified as the biotite granite. Three potential areas were identified from the interpretation and are mapped out on the geologic map around the host rock which is of Biotite granite component of the area.
Copyright (c) 2025 Benedicta E. Peter, Khalid N. Abdullahi, Hycienth O. Aboh
A Machine Learning–Based Adaptive Framework for Wind Energy Potential Assessment across Nigeria’s Climatic Zones
The current focus on transitioning of energy to cleaner and more sustainable energy systems has led to global increase in the search for effective methods to assess renewable energy potential. In this study, a machine learning-based adaptive framework is proposed for the assessment of wind energy potential across he different climatic zones in Nigeria. The framework proposed the modelling of a complex temporal and spatial dependencies in wind patterns by training a Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) algorithm, enhanced with the attention-based mechanism on the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) long-term data with attributes such as elevation, wind speed, wind direction, maximum temperature (Tmax), and minimum temperature (Tmin). The proposed framework incorporates the comparism of the enhanced deep learning model with the baseline statistical approach (Weibull distribution), to evaluate the robustness of the proposed model. Additionally, the proposed framework is designed to integrate the output of the deep learning model into the Geographic Information System (GIS) for spatial analysis and wind farm site suitability mapping. The proposed framework in this study addresses some limitations in previous studies, including the utilization of conventional statistical models, and the focus on single locations. The expected result from the proposed framework is a higher accuracy and precision, with improved spatial adaptability when compared with the Weibull-based models, enabling more reliable wind energy assessment across Nigeria’s climatic zones. This study provides a data-driven approach that can be utilized for forecasting wind energy with higher accuracy and precision, aiding decision-makers in renewable energy planning and national grid optimization.
Copyright (c) 2025 Chidozie N. Okpala, Bello I. Tijjani, Amara Yohanna
Determination of Power Density from Radiofrequency Exposure by Base Transceiver Stations and Implications for Ado-Ekiti Residents
The non-ionizing (RF) energy from base transceiver stations (BTS) is radiated into space through its antennas. The Human Body Surface Area (HBSA) can significantly influence the coupling of electromagnetic fields with the body, thereby resulting to energy absorption, increase in body temperature and possibly affect some physiological parameters. The health implications of RF exposure from telecommunication mast are becoming important as base stations get increasingly installed. In this study, the power density (PD) was measured using Pro Triple Axis RF/High Frequency Meter (HF-B8G) at distance (10 – 110 m) in thirty (30) active base transceiver stations (BTS) in Ado-Ekiti. Parameters of health importance such as blood pressure (BP), body temperature and body mass index (BMI) of 300 subjects around the base stations were monitored for 30 days using calibrated instruments. These measurements were recorded at a minimum of six symmetric locations around each individual BTS, with the coordinates of each location noted using portable Global Positioning System (GPS) device. The correlations among PD, HBSA and physiological parameters of nutritional/health importance were done using SPSS Vs 18 at 0.01 and 0.05 levels of significance. The results indicated that PD ranged from 0.32 to 96.89 mW/m2 while the average radiation received by HBSA ranged from 19.62 to 40.95 mWm-2. For the three classes of subjects (adult male, adult female and children), the power density in the observed active 30 base stations were below ICNIRP recommended limits (4.7 W/m2). At 0.05 level of significance, PD correlated positively with diastolic blood pressure (DBP, r = 0.695), HBSA (r = 0.661- 0.904) and at 0.01 level, BMI also correlated with Age, HBSA and PD (r = 0.688 – 0.948). This suggested the possibility of the influence of these physiological parameters by exposure to RF which could cause potential health risk to the residents.
Copyright (c) 2025 Ojo Emmanuel Oludare, Oyebamiji Oyedele Oketayo, Wilfred N. Igboama, Funmilayo Hannah Abejide, Oyewole David Ajadi, Tolulope Ebunoluwa Karokatose, Ayodele Philip Olufemi
In-Situ Gamma-Ray Logging as Diagnostic Tool for Failed Cased Water-Supply Boreholes, Lagos State
Frequent failure of water-supply boreholes in Lagos State, Nigeria, is often linked to poor delineation of sand-clay sequence within Coastal Plain Sands and recent alluvium. This study applies in-situ gamma-ray (GR) logging to diagnose the causes of failure in existing boreholes and to guide targeted rehabilitation. Continuous gamma-ray logs were acquired in a set of two non-productive or short-lived boreholes in Isolo, Lagos State. Log motifs were interpreted to distinguish clean, water-bearing sands (low GR) from clay-rich or silt horizons (high GR). Gamma-ray derived lithology picks were integrated with caliper logs of same boreholes. Results show that the failures are attributable to screen placement within or straddling high gamma-ray clay/silt intervals; targeting of thin sand bed bounded by clay layers that rapidly foul screens; incomplete casing through upper clay layer that allow fine particles migration and casing corrosion. The study demonstrates that in-situ gamma-ray logging is a rapid, low-cost tool for post-failure evaluation, enabling evidence-based decisions on borehole rehabilitation, optimal screen setting, and future well siting in Logos’ heterogeneous coastal aquifer system. This study also confirms beyond doubt the usefulness of gamma-ray logs for accurate borehole design and the importance of borehole geophysics for subsequent continual monitoring of groundwater quality of producing boreholes.
Copyright (c) 2025 Ikechukwu Chukwuemeka I. Agbodike, Chukwuemeka Y. Ahamefule, Emmanuel, A. Ozogbu, Kennedy O. Achilike, Tochukwu L. Ogbonna
Design and Construction of an Ultrasonic Cattle Deterrent Device to Curb Farmer-Herder Conflict in Nigeria
Cattle encroachment into farmlands has emerged as a critical issue in regions where agriculture is vital for livelihoods and food security, with Nigeria being no exception. This research aims to design and develop a cattle deterrent device tailored to the unique challenges of farmer-herder conflicts. The device incorporates an Arduino UNO board with an ATmega 2560 microcontroller which serves as the brain of the device, facilitating the integration and control of various sensors and components. Passive Infrared (PIR) sensors detect thermal radiation changes caused by animal movement. They trigger the device when cattle approach the protected area. Ultrasonic sensors detect the presence of cattle by emitting high-frequency sound waves and measuring the time it takes for the waves to bounce back. This information is used to calculate the distance to the cattle from the farmland. An LCD display unit provides real-time feedback and information about device status, helping farmers monitor its operation and effectiveness remotely by receiving feedback through a GSM module that is incorporated on the system. Tests on cattle reaction were carried out at a location in ‘Yan Shanu’ cow market, Jos, Plateau state, Nigeria. The auditory range of a cow is from 23HZ to 37,000Hz, an irritating sound frequency capable of causing cows to balk, stop, move away was achieved. It was observed that cattle got irritated by the sound at 30KHz (30000Hz) and 142 dB sound pressure level at 1 meter (3.3 feet) away from the device which is the source of the ultrasonic wave.
Copyright (c) 2025 Emmanuel N. Taddy, S. Iliya, P. J. Odaudu, T. N. Fanzhi, E. P. Bala
Assessing the Influence of Aluminum Dopant on the Morphological and Structural Characteristics of NiS Thin Film Material Deposited by Chemical Bath Deposition Technique
Based on the influence of dopant like aluminum on some sulphide based thin film materials it has become paramount to carry out an assessment of chemical bath deposited Nickel sulphide doped with aluminum has been carried with the intension to ascertain the impact of the dopant concentration on the morphological and structural properties of the as-deposited NiS thin film sample and the aluminum doped, AlNiS thin film with different concentration of aluminum. It was revealed from the result as obtained from the work that both the morphological and structural properties that there were tremendous effect on the crystallinity, grain-size as depicted in figures and computed values in which the values of the lattice constant, dislocation density, micro-strain and grain-size as computed at the same preferred plane within the same diffraction angles are found to vary thereby indicating that there is clear evidence of the effect of aluminum doping concentration on the Nickel sulphide thin film developed with aluminum.
Copyright (c) 2025 Emmanuel Ifeanyi Ugwu, Barnaba Abel Adeiza, Hilary Uche Igwe, Ikpughul Sunday Iyua
Electrical and Solid State Properties of Aluminum Doped Nickel Sulphide Thin Film by Chemical Bath Method
The rule of the electrical and solid state properties of sulphide based thin film has made it interesting for us to carry out a study on the electrical and solid-state properties of aluminum doped NiS deposited by chemical bath deposition method has been carried out in this work in order to ascertain the influence of the concentration of aluminum as a dopant on the electrical and solid state properties of NiS thin film material as pointed out. And from the results, it was obviously seen as showcased from the results such as the index of refraction, extinction coefficient, dielectric constants, optical conductance that there were significant influence of Al on the trends of these properties, in particular the electrical properties as obtained using four point probe that they were variations in trend of the graphs as the concentration of dopant, aluminum were varied indicating its effect on the behavior of the aforementioned properties of the thin film in question thereby clarifying the belief that generally doping is one of the parameters that can be used to modify the sulphide based chalcogenide.
A Bit-Optimal, Provably Secure Encryption Scheme from any Trapdoor Permutation
This study presents a provably secure asymmetric encryption scheme designed for optimal efficiency. A transmitter utilizes a <!-- [if gte msEquation 12]><m:oMath><m:r>k</m:r></m:oMath><![endif]--> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 107%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; position: relative; top: 3.0pt; mso-text-raise: -3.0pt; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;"> -bit one-way invertible function <!-- [if gte msEquation 12]><m:oMath><m:r>f</m:r></m:oMath><![endif]--> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 107%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; position: relative; top: 3.0pt; mso-text-raise: -3.0pt; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;"> to encode a message <!-- [if gte msEquation 12]><m:oMath><m:r>x</m:r></m:oMath><![endif]--> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 107%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; position: relative; top: 3.0pt; mso-text-raise: -3.0pt; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;"> for a receptor holding the inverse <!-- [if gte msEquation 12]><m:oMath><m:sSup><m:sSupPr><m:ctrlPr></m:ctrlPr></m:sSupPr><m:e><m:r>f</m:r></m:e><m:sup><m:r>-</m:r><m:r>1</m:r></m:sup></m:sSup></m:oMath><![endif]--> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 107%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; position: relative; top: 3.0pt; mso-text-raise: -3.0pt; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;"> . The construction ensures that encryption requires only a single computation of <!-- [if gte msEquation 12]><m:oMath><m:r>f</m:r></m:oMath><![endif]--> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 107%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; position: relative; top: 3.0pt; mso-text-raise: -3.0pt; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;"> , decryption requires only a single computation of <!-- [if gte msEquation 12]><m:oMath><m:sSup><m:sSupPr><m:ctrlPr></m:ctrlPr></m:sSupPr><m:e><m:r>f</m:r></m:e><m:sup><m:r>-</m:r><m:r>1</m:r></m:sup></m:sSup></m:oMath><![endif]--> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 107%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; position: relative; top: 3.0pt; mso-text-raise: -3.0pt; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;"> , the ciphertext length is exactly <!-- [if gte msEquation 12]><m:oMath><m:r>k</m:r></m:oMath><![endif]--> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 107%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; position: relative; top: 3.0pt; mso-text-raise: -3.0pt; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;"> bits, and the permissible message length <!-- [if gte msEquation 12]><m:oMath><m:r>n</m:r></m:oMath><![endif]--> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 107%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; position: relative; top: 3.0pt; mso-text-raise: -3.0pt; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;"> is nearly <!-- [if gte msEquation 12]><m:oMath><m:r>k</m:r></m:oMath><![endif]--> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 107%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; position: relative; top: 3.0pt; mso-text-raise: -3.0pt; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;"> . The method employs a probabilistic encoding of <!-- [if gte msEquation 12]><m:oMath><m:r>x</m:r></m:oMath><![endif]--> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 107%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; position: relative; top: 3.0pt; mso-text-raise: -3.0pt; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;"> into a string <!-- [if gte msEquation 12]><m:oMath><m:sSub><m:sSubPr><m:ctrlPr></m:ctrlPr></m:sSubPr><m:e><m:r>r</m:r></m:e><m:sub><m:r>x</m:r></m:sub></m:sSub></m:oMath><![endif]--> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 107%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; position: relative; top: 3.0pt; mso-text-raise: -3.0pt; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;"> , with the ciphertext given by <!-- [if gte msEquation 12]><m:oMath><m:r>f</m:r><m:r>(</m:r><m:sSub><m:sSubPr><m:ctrlPr></m:ctrlPr></m:sSubPr><m:e><m:r>r</m:r></m:e><m:sub><m:r>x</m:r></m:sub></m:sSub><m:r>)</m:r></m:oMath><![endif]--> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 107%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; position: relative; top: 3.0pt; mso-text-raise: -3.0pt; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;"> . Under the assumption of industry-standard compression function with any one-way invertible function, we describe and rigorously prove the security of this invertible enmesh scheme. The scheme is bit-optimal, allowing for the encryption of messages of length close to <!-- [if gte msEquation 12]><m:oMath><m:r>k</m:r></m:oMath><![endif]--> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 107%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; position: relative; top: 3.0pt; mso-text-raise: -3.0pt; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;"> , and achieves semantic security—a strong notion that implies security against chosen-ciphertext attacks (CCA) and non-malleability in the standard-hash model.
Copyright (c) 2025 Tola John Odule, Khadijat-Kubrat Adebisi Abdullah, Samuel Oluwatosin Hassan, Femi Emmanuel Ayo, Sefiu Adekunle Onitilo
Investigation of Half-Metallic, Magnetic, and Thermodynamic Properties of Quaternary Half-Heusler NiCoFeX(X=S,As and Ge) using First-Principle Calculations
The First Principle Density Functional Theory (DFT) method was used to investigate the half-metallic character, magnetic and thermodynamic properties of NiCoFeX(X=Si,As and Ge). Electronic and magnetic properties such as band structures,densities of states, and magnetic moments, spin – polarization indices of each alloy are also determined to confirm half-metallicity and ferromagnetism. Thermodynamic properties such as Free Energy, Entropy,Heat Capacity and Debye Temperature are also computed using Quantum Espresso-based Thermo_pw code. The half-metallic band gaps of NiCoFeAs, NiCoFeSi and NiCoFeGe are 0.206eV, 0.205eV and 0.203eV respectively.The spin-up channels in the electronic band structures of NiCoFeX(X=Si,As and Ge) have indirect energy band gap,indicating that they exhibit half-metallic character .The quaternary Heuslers NiCoFeX(X=Si,As and Ge) are accurately ferromagnetic as they all obey Slater Paulin’s rule having magnetic moments of 4.0215μB,4.1573μB and 4.6711μB respectively and are 100% spin-polarized.The Curie Temperatures Tc of NiCoFeX(X=Si,As and Ge) are 827K,3631K and 827K respectively ( above the room temperature of 300K). However, only NiCoFeAs, and NiCoFeGe preserved their ferromagnetism after undergoing strain field. This makes them preferable candidates in the field of semiconductor physics. The heat capacities of NiCoFeX(X=Si,As and Ge) obey Dulong-petit law showing that they have good thermal applications in optoelectronic devices e.g. magnetic tunnel Junctions (MTJs),giant magneto-resistance devices (GMRs),Photo diodes, Solar cells etc.
Copyright (c) 2025 Sunday Ogundola, Funmilayo M. Temenu
Hydrogeophysical Investigation of Groundwater Potential in the Complex Basement of Idu Industrial Area, Federal Capital Territory, Abuja
In this study, thirty-six (36) Vertical Electrical Sounding (VES) data points were collected to evaluate the groundwater potential around Idu Industrial Area, FCT, Abuja. Data collection was done with the use of PASI Resistivity meter (model – 16GL-N) adopting the Schlumberger electrode array configuration. The data acquired were analysed and interpreted using the partial curve matching technique and the results obtained were further aided using the Winresist geophysical software. The result of the interpreted VES revealed that the area is characterized by three to five geoelectric layers: the topsoil, weathered layer/weathered (clayey), fractured basement, and fresh basement associated with H, HKH, Q, HK, QQ, KH, and QH curve types, respectively. The topsoil has resistivity values ranging from 66 – 1036 Ωm with a depth range of about 0.7 – 1.4m, the partly weathered, weathered layer, and weathered (clayey) have resistivity values ranging from 37 – 884 Ωm and extend from a depth of about 2.5 – 22.6m, the fractured basement and fresh basement. The fresh basement having resistivity values between the range of 366 Ωm – 9027 Ωm. Out of the 36 VES points, only three (3) fractured zones were delineated for possible groundwater supply beneath VES 18, 21 and 36 respectively. The resistivity values of these fractured zones range from 225 Ωm – 498 Ωm with an average thickness of about 8.8m to 25.8 m respectively. However, the fractured basement represents the aquifer unit for groundwater exploration within the area. Thus, this research revealed that the area has poor groundwater potential due to the relatively shallow depth to the basement rock (thin overburden thickness).
Copyright (c) 2025 James Adeyemo Adegoke, Titus Taofik Ogunseye, Gabriel Nasara Tsado, Adesegun Adeleke Adefuwa, Ayooluwa Ayinla Adeleke