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.
Assessment of Gross Alpha Radioactivity and Derived ²²²Rn Activity Concentrations in Groundwater Sources in Mubi-North Metropolis, Adamawa State, Nigeria
Groundwater abstracted from boreholes serves as the primary drinking water supply for many communities in Mubi-North Metropolis, Adamawa State, Nigeria, yet the radiological quality of these sources has received little systematic attention. This study quantified gross alpha radioactivity and derived radon (²²²Rn) activity concentrations in water samples drawn from five boreholes distributed across the metropolis. Samples were processed by evaporative concentration and the resulting residues were counted using a gas-flow proportional counting system (MPC 2000-DP) at the Centre for Energy Research and Training (CERT), Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. Radon activity was subsequently calculated from gross alpha measurements in units of Becquerels per litre (Bq/L). Recorded radon values ranged from 0.0082 Bq/L at Site B (Adamawa State University) to 0.1518 Bq/L at Site D (Lokuwa Community Borehole). Every site returned a concentration well beneath the 0.5 Bq/L screening guideline prescribed by the World Health Organization and allied radiation protection authorities, confirming that the examined groundwater sources are radiologically acceptable for potable and domestic application under present conditions.
Effects of Chloride Doping on Optical Absorption in Spray-Pyrolyzed CdS Thin Films
Cadmium sulfide (CdS) thin films, vital window layers in optoelectronic devices like solar cells, face performance challenges from chloride impurities introduced via common spray pyrolysis precursors. This study investigates these impurities' effects on absorption properties by depositing undoped and chloride-doped CdS films on glass substrates at 303 K, 333 K, and 363 K using cadmium nitrate tetrahydrate and thiourea precursors. UV-Vis spectrophotometry revealed chloride-doped films exhibiting peak UV absorbance of 1.96 at 303 K surpassing undoped films' maximum of 1.90 at 333 K with progressive decrease across wavelengths (285-500 nm), indicating defect-mediated enhancements. SEM analysis confirmed superior compact, crack-free morphologies with uniform grains and reduced pinholes in 363 K doped films versus undoped counterparts. These findings demonstrate controlled chloride doping maximizes absorption and microstructural integrity, providing key insights for impurity-tailored deposition to elevate photovoltaic efficiency.
Copyright (c) 2025 Abraham Ifeanyi Mgbebu, Friday Ukpai Nweke, Ikechukwu Christian Nworie, Collins Ogochukwu Nwuzor, Margareth Ngozi Ede
Monte Carlo Dosimetric Evaluation of Bismuth Oxide/Barium Sulfate–Epoxy Grid Block Collimators for Spatially Fractionated Radiotherapy
This study evaluates the dosimetric performance of Bi₂O₃/BaSO₄–epoxy composite grid block collimators for Spatially Fractionated Radiotherapy (SFRT) as lightweight, non-toxic alternatives to conventional brass and Cerrobend grids in LINAC-based treatments. Epoxy composites reinforced with Bi₂O₃ and BaSO₄ were synthesized and machined into clinically realistic grid geometries. Experimental linear and mass attenuation coefficients were measured at therapeutic photon energies and validated against the NIST XCOM database. Monte Carlo simulations were performed using TOPAS to model a 6 MV TrueBeam LINAC with a 22 × 22 × 7.5 cm³ grid block containing hexagonally arranged divergent circular apertures. Percentage Depth Dose (PDD), lateral dose profiles, surface dose, and Peak-to-Valley Dose Ratio (PVDR) were evaluated in a water phantom and compared with brass and Cerrobend grids. The composite reproduced PDD within ±5% of BJR 25 reference data, with dmax​ ≈ 1.5 cm for all materials. Surface dose was slightly higher than Cerrobend (+2.53%) and brass (+1.23%) but remained clinically acceptable. At 10 cm depth, PVDR values were 4.04 (composite), 4.13 (brass), and 4.78 (Cerrobend). Beam profiles were symmetric, and measured attenuation coefficients showed strong agreement with XCOM predictions (R² > 0.99). These results indicate that Bi₂O₃/BaSO₄–epoxy composite grid blocks achieve dosimetric performance comparable to conventional metallic grids and are suitable for SFRT applications.
Copyright (c) 2025 Oluniyi Samuel Makinde, Abiodun Emmanuel Oni, Olaosebikan Akanni Aremu, Adewale Abraham Aremu, Olatunde Michael Oni
Theoretical Paradigm: Computational Analysis of Proton Stopping Power in Material Targets using Einstein, Bahjat and New Mass-Energy Concepts
This research study the theoretical Paradigm: Computational Analysis of proton stopping power in materials target such as Air, tissue, water, skeletal, plastic, copper and lead within energy range of <!-- [if gte msEquation 12]><m:oMath>0.001MeV</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:43pt; 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]--> to <!-- [if gte msEquation 12]><m:oMath>0.2MeV</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:33pt;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]--> . The method employed Einstein mass-energy theory<!-- [if gte msEquation 12]><m:oMath><m:d><m:dPr><m:ctrlPr></m:ctrlPr></m:dPr><m:e><m:sSup><m:sSupPr><m:ctrlPr></m:ctrlPr></m:sSupPr><m:e><m:r><m:rPr><m:nor/></m:rPr>mc</m:r></m:e><m:sup><m:r><m:rPr><m:nor/></m:rPr>2</m:r></m:sup></m:sSup></m:e></m:d></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:24.5pt;height:13pt'> <v:imagedata src="file:///C:/Users/User/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image005.png" o:title="" chromakey="white"/> </v:shape><![endif]--> , Bahjat mass-energy concept <!-- [if gte msEquation 12]><m:oMath><m:d><m:dPr><m:ctrlPr></m:ctrlPr></m:dPr><m:e><m:r><m:rPr><m:nor/></m:rPr>mbc</m:r></m:e></m:d></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:25.5pt;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]--> and new mass- energy concept <!-- [if gte msEquation 12]><m:oMath><m:d><m:dPr><m:ctrlPr></m:ctrlPr></m:dPr><m:e><m:r><m:rPr><m:nor/></m:rPr>mvc</m:r></m:e></m:d></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:25.5pt;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]--> into the Beth-Bloch Stopping power formula for calculations stopping power of proton in the above mentioned materials target. The graphical extrapolations of stopping power as a function of energy, shows that, the Einstein mass-energy theory has been under estimated and the new mass-energy <!-- [if gte msEquation 12]><m:oMath><m:d><m:dPr><m:ctrlPr></m:ctrlPr></m:dPr><m:e><m:r><m:rPr><m:nor/></m:rPr>mvc</m:r></m:e></m:d></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:25.5pt;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]--> ride between the <!-- [if gte msEquation 12]><m:oMath><m:sSup><m:sSupPr><m:ctrlPr></m:ctrlPr></m:sSupPr><m:e><m:r><m:rPr><m:nor/></m:rPr>mc</m:r></m:e><m:sup><m:r><m:rPr><m:nor/></m:rPr>2</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;"><!-- [if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_i1025" type="#_x0000_t75" style='width:16pt;height:13pt'> <v:imagedata src="file:///C:/Users/User/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image012.png" o:title="" chromakey="white"/> </v:shape><![endif]--> and <!-- [if gte msEquation 12]><m:oMath>mbc;</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:20pt;height:12.5pt'> <v:imagedata src="file:///C:/Users/User/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image014.png" o:title="" chromakey="white"/> </v:shape><![endif]--> also close to<!-- [if gte msEquation 12]><m:oMath><m:sSup><m:sSupPr><m:ctrlPr></m:ctrlPr></m:sSupPr><m:e><m:r><m:rPr><m:nor/></m:rPr> mc</m:r></m:e><m:sup><m:r><m:rPr><m:nor/></m:rPr>2</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;"><!-- [if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_i1025" type="#_x0000_t75" style='width:18.5pt;height:13pt'> <v:imagedata src="file:///C:/Users/User/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image016.png" o:title="" chromakey="white"/> </v:shape><![endif]--> compared to <!-- [if gte msEquation 12]><m:oMath>mbc</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:17pt;height:12.5pt'> <v:imagedata src="file:///C:/Users/User/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image018.png" o:title="" chromakey="white"/> </v:shape><![endif]--> . In a graphical plot particle speed relative to speed of light (β)as a function of energy also depicted the same characteristics.Since in most literature, the einstein’s theory was either over estimate or underestimate nuclear reaction and the new mass-energy concept appeared in between the two theories. Hence,the new mass-energy <!-- [if gte msEquation 12]><m:oMath><m:d><m:dPr><m:ctrlPr></m:ctrlPr></m:dPr><m:e><m:r><m:rPr><m:nor/></m:rPr>mvc</m:r></m:e></m:d></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:25.5pt;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]--> it gives minimal energy loss compare Eintein’s and Bahjat Mass-energy theories and it can be use in studying atomic structures as well binding energy of atomic nuclei. The derived universal particle speed constant v, describing the speed of the Proton is more realistic since the proton has mass, hence moves slower than the photon (light).
Copyright (c) 2025 Adamu Z. Ngari, Muhammad Umar, Usman A. A. Abdulraheem, Oyono S. Job
Theoretical and Predictive Models of Particle Dynamics in Cassava Starch-Polyvinylpyrrolidone Nanocomposite Polymer Electrolytes for Lithium-Ion Batteries
Due to the growing demand for an eco-friendly lithium-ion battery sustainable energy storage system, this study investigated the theoretical and predictive models of particle dynamics in cassava starch (CS)-polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) nanocomposite polymer electrolytes for lithium-ion batteries. In this study, the material composition consists of CS and PVP in five different mass ratios, with the addition of fixed additives comprising glycerol, borax, TiO2 and lithium acetate dihydrate. These materials were condensed into nanocomposite polymer electrolyte films using the direct-heating solution casting method. The data collected from these samples were analyzed using ionic conductivity, Nernst-Einstein, Fick’s law of diffusion, Faraday’s law of electrolysis, stress-strain, and Kissinger activation theoretical models; while, multiple regression model was employed as the predictive model. Results indicated that Sample 3 recorded the highest ionic conductivity <!-- [if gte msEquation 12]><m:oMath><m:r>(</m:r><m:r><m:rPr><m:scr m:val="roman"/><m:sty m:val="p"/></m:rPr>1.74 x </m:r><m:sSup><m:sSupPr><m:ctrlPr></m:ctrlPr></m:sSupPr><m:e><m:r><m:rPr><m:scr m:val="roman"/><m:sty m:val="p"/></m:rPr>10</m:r></m:e><m:sup><m:r><m:rPr><m:scr m:val="roman"/><m:sty m:val="p"/></m:rPr>-</m:r><m:r><m:rPr><m:scr m:val="roman"/><m:sty m:val="p"/></m:rPr>3</m:r></m:sup></m:sSup><m:f><m:fPr><m:type m:val="lin"/><m:ctrlPr></m:ctrlPr></m:fPr><m:num><m:r><m:rPr><m:scr m:val="roman"/><m:sty m:val="p"/></m:rPr>s</m:r></m:num><m:den><m:r><m:rPr><m:scr m:val="roman"/><m:sty m:val="p"/></m:rPr>cm</m:r></m:den></m:f><m:r><m:rPr><m:scr m:val="roman"/><m:sty m:val="p"/></m:rPr>)</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:81pt; 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]--> , highest ionic diffusion coefficient <!-- [if gte msEquation 12]><m:oMath><m:r>(</m:r><m:r><m:rPr><m:scr m:val="roman"/><m:sty m:val="p"/></m:rPr>3.34 x </m:r><m:sSup><m:sSupPr><m:ctrlPr></m:ctrlPr></m:sSupPr><m:e><m:r><m:rPr><m:scr m:val="roman"/><m:sty m:val="p"/></m:rPr>10</m:r></m:e><m:sup><m:r><m:rPr><m:scr m:val="roman"/><m:sty m:val="p"/></m:rPr>-</m:r><m:r><m:rPr><m:scr m:val="roman"/><m:sty m:val="p"/></m:rPr>9</m:r></m:sup></m:sSup><m:f><m:fPr><m:type m:val="lin"/><m:ctrlPr></m:ctrlPr></m:fPr><m:num><m:sSup><m:sSupPr><m:ctrlPr></m:ctrlPr></m:sSupPr><m:e><m:r><m:rPr><m:scr m:val="roman"/><m:sty m:val="p"/></m:rPr>cm</m:r></m:e><m:sup><m:r><m:rPr><m:scr m:val="roman"/><m:sty m:val="p"/></m:rPr>2</m:r></m:sup></m:sSup></m:num><m:den><m:r><m:rPr><m:scr m:val="roman"/><m:sty m:val="p"/></m:rPr>s</m:r></m:den></m:f><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:85.5pt;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]--> , highest diffusion flux <!-- [if gte msEquation 12]><m:oMath><m:r><m:rPr><m:scr m:val="roman"/><m:sty m:val="p"/></m:rPr>(2.31 x </m:r><m:sSup><m:sSupPr><m:ctrlPr></m:ctrlPr></m:sSupPr><m:e><m:r><m:rPr><m:scr m:val="roman"/><m:sty m:val="p"/></m:rPr>10</m:r></m:e><m:sup><m:r><m:rPr><m:scr m:val="roman"/><m:sty m:val="p"/></m:rPr>-</m:r><m:r><m:rPr><m:scr m:val="roman"/><m:sty m:val="p"/></m:rPr>4</m:r></m:sup></m:sSup><m:f><m:fPr><m:type m:val="lin"/><m:ctrlPr></m:ctrlPr></m:fPr><m:num><m:r><m:rPr><m:scr m:val="roman"/><m:sty m:val="p"/></m:rPr>mol</m:r></m:num><m:den><m:sSup><m:sSupPr><m:ctrlPr></m:ctrlPr></m:sSupPr><m:e><m:r><m:rPr><m:scr m:val="roman"/><m:sty m:val="p"/></m:rPr>m</m:r></m:e><m:sup><m:r><m:rPr><m:scr m:val="roman"/><m:sty m:val="p"/></m:rPr>2</m:r></m:sup></m:sSup><m:r><m:rPr><m:scr m:val="roman"/><m:sty m:val="p"/></m:rPr>.s</m:r></m:den></m:f><m:r><m:rPr><m:scr m:val="roman"/><m:sty m:val="p"/></m:rPr>)</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:101pt;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]--> and highest electric charge <!-- [if gte msEquation 12]><m:oMath><m:r><m:rPr><m:scr m:val="roman"/><m:sty m:val="p"/></m:rPr>(3.94 x </m:r><m:sSup><m:sSupPr><m:ctrlPr></m:ctrlPr></m:sSupPr><m:e><m:r><m:rPr><m:scr m:val="roman"/><m:sty m:val="p"/></m:rPr>10</m:r></m:e><m:sup><m:r><m:rPr><m:scr m:val="roman"/><m:sty m:val="p"/></m:rPr>-</m:r><m:r><m:rPr><m:scr m:val="roman"/><m:sty m:val="p"/></m:rPr>3</m:r></m:sup></m:sSup><m:f><m:fPr><m:type m:val="lin"/><m:ctrlPr></m:ctrlPr></m:fPr><m:num><m:r><m:rPr><m:scr m:val="roman"/><m:sty m:val="p"/></m:rPr>C</m:r></m:num><m:den><m:r><m:rPr><m:scr m:val="roman"/><m:sty m:val="p"/></m:rPr>s</m:r></m:den></m:f><m:r><m:rPr><m:scr m:val="roman"/><m:sty m:val="p"/></m:rPr>)</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:74pt;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]--> . Tensile results showed that Sample 1 had the highest ultimate tensile strength <!-- [if gte msEquation 12]><m:oMath><m:r><m:rPr><m:scr m:val="roman"/><m:sty m:val="p"/></m:rPr>(0.589</m:r><m:f><m:fPr><m:type m:val="lin"/><m:ctrlPr></m:ctrlPr></m:fPr><m:num><m:r><m:rPr><m:scr m:val="roman"/><m:sty m:val="p"/></m:rPr>N</m:r></m:num><m:den><m:sSup><m:sSupPr><m:ctrlPr></m:ctrlPr></m:sSupPr><m:e><m:r><m:rPr><m:scr m:val="roman"/><m:sty m:val="p"/></m:rPr>mm</m:r></m:e><m:sup><m:r><m:rPr><m:scr m:val="roman"/><m:sty m:val="p"/></m:rPr>2</m:r></m:sup></m:sSup></m:den></m:f><m:r><m:rPr><m:scr m:val="roman"/><m:sty m:val="p"/></m:rPr>)</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:67.5pt;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]--> , and strain <!-- [if gte msEquation 12]><m:oMath><m:r><m:rPr><m:scr m:val="roman"/><m:sty m:val="p"/></m:rPr>(55.25 %)</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:43.5pt;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]--> . Thermal analysis revealed that Sample 5 recorded the highest thermal stability<!-- [if gte msEquation 12]><m:oMath><m:r>(</m:r><m:r><m:rPr><m:scr m:val="roman"/><m:sty m:val="p"/></m:rPr>194</m:r><m:f><m:fPr><m:type m:val="lin"/><m:ctrlPr></m:ctrlPr></m:fPr><m:num><m:r><m:rPr><m:scr m:val="roman"/><m:sty m:val="p"/></m:rPr>KJ</m:r></m:num><m:den><m:r><m:rPr><m:scr m:val="roman"/><m:sty m:val="p"/></m:rPr>mol</m:r></m:den></m:f><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:58pt;height:12.5pt'> <v:imagedata src="file:///C:/Users/User/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image013.png" o:title="" chromakey="white"/> </v:shape><![endif]--> . Predictive model showed a strong predictive performance for activation energy<!-- [if gte msEquation 12]><m:oMath><m:r> </m:r><m:r><m:rPr><m:scr m:val="roman"/><m:sty m:val="p"/></m:rPr>(</m:r><m:sSup><m:sSupPr><m:ctrlPr></m:ctrlPr></m:sSupPr><m:e><m:r><m:rPr><m:scr m:val="roman"/><m:sty m:val="p"/></m:rPr>R</m:r></m:e><m:sup><m:r><m:rPr><m:scr m:val="roman"/><m:sty m:val="p"/></m:rPr>2</m:r></m:sup></m:sSup><m:r><m:rPr><m:scr m:val="roman"/><m:sty m:val="p"/></m:rPr>=0.97)</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:53pt;height:12.5pt'> <v:imagedata src="file:///C:/Users/User/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image015.png" o:title="" chromakey="white"/> </v:shape><![endif]--> . Overall, Sample 3 (2.5 g CS: 2.5 g PVP) demonstrated the best combination of electrochemical, tensile, and thermal properties for an eco-friendly lithium-ion battery application.
Copyright (c) 2025 Ceasar Osaretin Iyamu, Ewa I. Inuwa, Lumbi I. Williams
AI-Enabled Investigation of the Effect of PCB Thickness on Conversion Losses and Efficiency of a DC–DC Buck Converter Under Heatsink-Assisted Operation
This paper presents an Artificial Intelligence–assisted simulation based on python algorithm to investigate the effects of FR-4 PCB thickness on conversion losses and conversion efficiency of a DC–DC buck converter operating with a heatsink. An XL4015-based buck converter delivering 5 V at 5 A from a 6–36 V input was used as case study and modeled over five PCB thicknesses (1.60 mm, 2.00 mm, 2.50 mm, 3.00 mm, 4.00 mm) while maintaining identical electrical components, copper weight, layout geometry, and switching frequency. The results obtained show that conversion loss decreased from 0.6016 to 0.3344 W at 6.00 V as the PCB thickness increased from 1.60 mm to 4.00 mm, and similarly, 0.5900 to 0.3299 W at 10.00 V, 0.5944 to 0.3316 W at 16.00 V, 0.6410 to 0.3498 W at 24.00 V, 0.7069 to 0.3756 at 30.00 V, 0.7998 to 0.4117 at 36.00 V, indicating reduced energy losses due to increase in thermal pathway for heat dissipation as the PCB thickness increases, and the corresponding conversion efficiency increased from 97.65 to 98.68 % at 6.00 V, 97.694 to 98.698 % at 10.00 V, 97.678 to 98.691 % at 16.00 V, 97.5 to 98.62 % at 24.00 V, 97.25 to 98.52 % at 30.00 V, 96.9 to 98.38 % at 36.00 V, demonstrating improved conversion efficiency as the PCB thickness increases. The findings established PCB thickness as a decisive board-level efficiency parameter and provide quantitative guidance for power electronics thermal management in converter design.
Copyright (c) 2025 Michael Olusope Alade, Akinola Stephen Adewole
Air Pollution by Carbon Monoxide (CO) Poisonous Gas in Nigeria: A Review Paper
Carbon monoxide (CO), as a colorless, odorless, and highly toxic gas, which poses a significant public health risk in Nigeria, due to increasing anthropogenic activities, rapid urbanization, vehicular emissions, biomass burning, and industrial growths. The high affinity of CO for hemoglobin impairs oxygen transport in the human body, leading to hypoxia and numerous cardiovascular and neurological complications. “Regardless of its harmfulness, CO consistently remains under-monitored and poorly regulated in many parts of Nigeria, contributing to a silent, but increasing public health afflictions.” This review evaluates the sources, distribution, health impacts, and regulatory responses to carbon monoxide pollution across Nigeria. Data were sourced from peer-reviewed articles, environmental agency reports, WHO air quality records, and field observations. Emphasis is placed on urban centers like Lagos, Abuja, Kano, and Port Harcourt, where CO levels frequently exceed WHO standards. The analysis also explores CO exposure pathways, including indoor pollution from generators, charcoal stoves, and gas heaters. Findings from previous studies reveal a strong correlation between elevated CO levels and hospital admissions due to respiratory and cardiovascular conditions. The paper concludes by highlighting policy lapses, weak enforcement of emissions standards, and lack of real-time air quality monitoring as major challenges. Recommendations include integrated CO surveillance systems, public awareness campaigns, and transition to cleaner energy sources. The article calls for a nationwide strategy to address the neglected but lethal implications of carbon monoxide pollution for sustainable environmental and public health governance in Nigeria.
The Role of Quantum Optics in Next-Generation Secure Telecommunications
Quantum optics, the study of light and its interactions with matter at the quantum level, has revolutionized modern telecommunications. By leveraging quantum phenomena such as entanglement, superposition, and photon manipulation, quantum optics enables ultra-secure communication, high-speed data transfer, and novel computing paradigms. The integration of quantum technologies into emerging communication infrastructures, particularly 6G networks, is becoming increasingly critical for overcoming the inherent limitations of classical communication and computation. In summary, quantum optics and quantum information have profoundly influenced modern physics and technology, where the field continues to bridge fundamental research and practical applications, promising further innovations in the future. The exponential growth of data traffic necessitates advancements in secure and high-speed communication technologies. Classical telecommunications rely on electromagnetic waves, but quantum optics introduces fundamentally new capabilities by exploiting quantum states of light. This paper explores the fundamental principles of quantum optics, its applications in quantum key distribution (QKD), quantum teleportation, and quantum repeaters, and its impact on next-generation telecommunications. We also discussed challenges and future prospects of the quantum optics in telecommunications.
Copyright (c) 2025 Bernard Aondofa Atsuwe, Akpenongun Roy Atser, Newton Felix Gesa, Iorkyaa Ahemen
Studies on Radon Concentration in Underground Water and the Associated Health Impact Around Bauchi Metropolis, Nigeria
Health risks of Radon in water is a global concern. Radon is the major radioactive carcinogen in water causing lung cancer among non-smokers. Radon activity concentration in underground water samples from Bauchi metropolis and their possible health risk was assessed. A total of 20 groundwater samples were analyzed using by liquid scintillation counter. The results show that the highest concentration of 25.17 Bq /L was found in sample BH1 (Hand pump borehole) and the lowest concentration of 8.35 Bq/L was in sample W9 (Hand-dug well), with a mean value 14.63 Bq /L, which is clearly above USEPA safety threshold of 11.1 Bq /L. The cumulative effective dose of ingestion and inhalation varied from 1.98 to 5.75 µSv/y with mean value of 3.76 µSv/y. The total annual effective dose obtained (3.76 µSv/y) is within the recommended safe limit of 0.1mSv/y provided by WHO (2017). The results of this study could support the efforts of authorities and regulators who are responsible for controlling and strategizing to ensure public safety against radon exposures.
Copyright (c) 2025 Hussaini Abdulkarim, Dauda Abubakar, Ladan Haruna, Auwalu Baballe
Artificial Neural Network Modelling of Performance and Emissions in Turbulent Biodiesel Combustion within a Compression Ignition Engine
Accurate prediction of engine performance and emissions is essential for optimizing biodiesel-fueled compression ignition engines under varying operating conditions. This study develops an artificial neural network (ANN) model to estimate in-cylinder temperature, specific fuel consumption (SFC), brake efficiency, hydrocarbon (HC), carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen oxides (NOₓ), and particulate matter (PM) based on key engine operating parameters. Experimental data covering a wide range of engine loads and speeds were used for training, validation, and testing of multiple multilayer perceptron (MLP) networks. The ANN demonstrated strong predictive capability, with correlation coefficients ranging from R = 0.755 to 0.997 and low root mean square errors, such as 21.33 °C for in-cylinder temperature and 8.49 ppm for CO. Excellent agreement was observed for SFC, brake efficiency, CO, and NOₓ, while moderate deviations in HC and PM were attributed to their inherently stochastic formation processes. These results confirm that the ANN provides a reliable, computationally efficient tool for modeling engine performance and emissions. The model can support engine optimization studies, and future work will focus on incorporating fuel physicochemical properties and hybrid modeling approaches to further enhance predictive accuracy.
Copyright (c) 2025 Samuel Oluyemi Adejuwon, Rufai Ogunlana, Olaosebikan Akanni Aremu, Oluniyi Samuel Makinde
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