The Nigerian Journal of Applied Physics
Temporal Variability and Predictability of Radio Refractivity in Four Selected Locations of Locations in Nigeria
Radio refractivity strongly influences atmospheric propagation and communication system reliability, yet its nonlinear dynamics remain underexplored in tropical West Africa. This study investigates the spatiotemporal variability and predictability of radio refractivity across four locations in Nigeria, using daily meteorological data of temperature, pressure and relative humidity from 1982–2022. Nonlinear methods were applied, including recurrence plots (RP), recurrence quantification analysis (RQA) and nonlinear indicators such as the Hurst exponent and Lyapunov exponent. Results reveal a strong climatic changes, Sudan/Sahelian states (Sokoto, Kano, Yobe and Borno) exhibit sparse RP structures, high recurrence rates (RR of 1.55–2.1%) and high determinism (DET of 0.23-0.30) and Hurst exponents of (0.71- 0.72). Across all the four locations, the Hurst exponent (HE > 0.5, which is > HT) exceeded the theoretical Hurst exponent (HT) baseline (HT = 0.5), indicating persistent long range dependence to initial conditions, meaning every location shows more persistence than the near random theoretical value of Hurst exponent. While, small but positive Lyapunov exponents (0.0040–0.0045 per day), defines the signature of weak chaos, radio refractivity is deterministic and future evolutions can be completely correlated to past behaviour and the predictability horizons of 250–222 days. The findings demonstrated that radio refractivity is persistent and predictable, though strongly modulated by climatic conditions. These result improve the understanding of tropical atmospheric variability and provide a foundation for refining radio propagation models and long term communication planning in the selected regions.
Copyright (c) 2025 Nigerian Journal of Applied Physics
Outdoor Radiation and Health Risk Assessment Near Fuel Filling Stations
Humans and man-made activities are well known processes that contribute to background radiation. In this study, the assessment of outdoor background radiation near fuel filling stations Kaduna state, Nigeria has been conducted. An in-situ measurement for outdoor background exposure rate for twenty (20) different locations was taken using a portable nuclear radiation detector model XR1- Tool0015, with G-M technology, at an elevation of 1.0 m above ground level with a geographical positioning system (GPS) for geographical location. Using established radiological relations, the radiological health hazards, values were obtained and compared with recommended permissible limits in order to determine the radiological hazard status of the environment. The mean values of the outdoor background exposure levels (0.13 µSv/h), Annual Effective Dose Equivalent (0.16×10-3 mSv/y), and excess lifetime cancer risk (0.57×10-3). The mean value of the background exposure and annual effective dose equivalent are below the recommended safe limit of 1.0 mSv/y. The mean value obtained is 0.57×10-3. This mean value is higher than the world average value of 0.29×10-3. This high value for excess lifetime cancer risk indicates that there exist the possibilities of cancer development by residents who wish to spend all their life time in the area. Generally, the study shows that the radiological indices evaluated was found to be within the acceptable safe limit of 1 mSv/y for the public and the excess lifetime cancer risk was found to be higher than the safe limit.it is therefore advisable that residence take precautionary measures as they live within this study area.
Radiation, Fuel Stations, Annual effective dose, Excess lifetime, background exposure
The Use of Instrumental Neutron Activation Technique to quantify Na, K, Fe, Co, and Zn in Ajiwa Dam Sediments Employing a Miniature Neutron Source Reactor
Identifying and quantifying trace amounts of chemical elements in a sample particularly in sediments has helped researchers to understand their characteristics. This study investigates the elemental composition of five essential elements for plants growth and radiological significance of Ajiwa Dam sediments using Instrumental Neutron Activation Analysis (INAA) at the NIRR-1 Miniature Neutron Source Reactor (MNSR), Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. Concentrations of Na, K, Fe, Co, and Zn were quantified in ten sediment samples collected from different locations around the dam randomly selected. The results show dominance of Fe and K, with mean concentrations of 19,811 mg/kg and 10,622 mg/kg respectively, followed by Na (1,400 mg/kg), Zn (43.3 mg/kg), and Co (4.9 mg/kg). Statistical analysis revealed moderate variation among elements (CV = 16–37%) and strong correlations between Fe–Co (r = 0.82) and Fe–Zn (r = 0.74), suggesting common lithogenic origins. Radiological evaluation based on potassium-40 (K-40) activity yielded an average absorbed dose rate of 4.2 nGy/h and an annual effective dose of 0.0051 mSv/year, well below the global average limit (0.07 mSv/year). The findings indicate that Ajiwa Dam sediments are geochemically natural and radiologically safe for aquatic life and human use.
Ajiwa Dam, INAA, trace elements, sediments, NIRR-1 reactor, radiological assessment
Assessment of Radiation Exposure in Chest And Abdomen: X-Ray Examination at Federal Teaching Hospital Gombe, Nigeria
Exposures from diagnostic medical x-rays are the most important artificial source of exposure to ionizing radiation in several countries. Even though, data on medical exposure of diagnostic x-rays is dispersed into international legislative strategies. In Federal Teaching Hospital Gombe, there is a conventional radiography in daily routine of diagnostic medical examinations. In this research, the mean ESD were calculated as 12.24 mSv for Chest and 3.35 mSv for Abdomen respectively. This indicates that the necessary need for optimizing the patient's dose to the acceptable levels recommended by the international commission on radiological protection (ICRP) from risk of higher exposure to diagnostic x-rays is needed also comparative chart between chest and abdomen, shows that patients with chest ailment are mostly common compared to the abdomen. It is therefore important to look and address factors leading to chest ailment.
Effects of Natural Fibre as Biomass Additive on the Structural and Mechanical Properties of High-Density Polyethylene Bio-Composite
The increasing global concern over plastic waste and environmental pollution has prompted growing interest in recycling and reinforcing polymeric materials with eco-friendly fillers. High-density polyethylene (HDPE), one of the most widely used thermoplastics, possesses excellent chemical resistance and processability but suffers from limited mechanical strength and wear resistance when recycled. To address these limitations, the use of agricultural by-products as sustainable bio-fillers offers an attractive alternative that simultaneously enhances material performance and promotes waste valorization. This study effects the mechanical and structural properties of recycled high-density polyethylene (HDPE) reinforced with Bambara groundnut shell ash (BGSA) as a sustainable bio-filler. Composites were developed with varying BGSA contents (0–25 wt%) and particle sizes (100–250μm) to evaluate their effects on ductility, strength, hardness, impact resistance, and wear behavior. The results show that elongation percentage decreased with increasing BGSA loading, dropping from 8.5% in neat HDPE to 4.5% at 25 wt%. Medium particle sizes, particularly 200μm, consistently maintained better ductility compared to smaller particles. Ultimate tensile strength (UTS) improved with BGSA addition, peaking at 28 MPa (12% above neat HDPE) at 15 wt% and 200μm, before declining at higher loadings. Hardness increased steadily with both higher BGSA content and smaller particle size, reaching a 51% improvement (68 BHN) at 25 wt%. Impact strength showed a decreasing trend with reinforcement, reducing from 18 kJ/m² to 12 kJ/m², though 200μm particles exhibited relatively better resistance. Wear resistance improved significantly, with wear rate reduced by 62% at optimal conditions (15–20 wt% and 200μm particle size), demonstrating potential for automotive applications such as brake pads. Scanning electron microscopy revealed improved particle dispersion with smaller BGSA sizes, while elemental analysis confirmed the presence of carbon, oxygen, silicon, and aluminum, supporting enhanced hardness at higher reinforcement levels. Overall, the results highlight that BGSA, particularly at 15 wt% and 200μm particle size, can effectively enhance the performance of recycled HDPE composites, offering an eco-friendly alternative to conventional fillers in engineering applications.
Geoelectrical Resistivity Approach to Groundwater Potential Mapping: A Case Study of Ginti Community, Ikorodu, Lagos
Groundwater potential of Ginti community was investigated using geophysical electrical resistivity method. Both the two dimensional (2D) electrical resistivity measurements and Vertical Electrical Soundings were carried out to delineate and identify fresh water aquifers in the area. In order to achieve these objectives, the 2-D electrical resistivity measurements using the Wenner-Schlumberger array along four traverses, each of length 200 m, and twenty-nine VES using the Schlumberger configuration with maximum (AB/2)in the range of 350 to 500 m, were manually carried out. The results of the 2-D resistivity measurements as inverted resistivity models (IRM) showed that three zones were delineated in terms of resistivity distributions. They were the high resistivity zones, the intermediate and the low resistivity zones represented. The VES results presented as geoelectric sections revealed that between four to six layers were delineated. Interpretation of the results was constrained using available borehole data obtained from the area. The lithology units delineated were topsoil (lateritic), lateritic clayey sand, clayey sand and sand with variations in their resistivity. Two aquifer types were identified; a shallow aquifer units which occurred between depths of about 2 to 45 m with thicknesses ranging from 2 to 44 m throughout the study area, and the second regarded as the deep aquifer units, it occurred between depths of about 53 to 176 m. The DarZarouk parameters computed in order to zone the aquifer characteristics for the groundwater potential suggested that three potential zones namely; the poor, low and moderate groundwater zones were classified.
Analysis of Electromagnetic Radiation of Radio Waves Propagation in Okene, Kogi State, Nigeria
The poor radio signals experienced in Okene and its environs have posed serious concern. This poor EM wave causes increased attenuation, which have resulted in distorted signals. This study considers two radio broadcast stations. The signal strengths of the two radio stations were compared and analysed. The signal strengths were measured using field strength meter. Sixteen locations were considered, while the wavelength and free space path-loss calculated. The approximate distances between the antennas were determined. The transmitting signal strength was 100.9dBµV (KA) and 102.2dBµV (KB). Receiving signal distances are 72.0km (KA) and 69.0km (KB). The free space path loss was 109.01dB (KA) and 109.39dB (KB). Though, transmitting signal strength of KA is lower with longer wavelength 3.21m and lower frequency 93.5MHz gives it an edge over KB which has higher frequency 109.5MHz and shorter wavelength 2.94m. It is however recommended that the FM stations should improve their network system for effective service delivery, mostly where low performances are experienced. Expectation is that at about 69km from transmitting antennas, booster stations will enhance signal effectively. This will lead to better signal quality and improved the satisfaction of the residents.
Optimisation of Polyacrylic Acid Usage as Surfactant in Hydrothermally Synthesised Cu2ZnSnS4 Thin Films for Application as Counter Electrode in Dye Sensitised Solar Cell
Cu2ZnSnS4 (CZTS) being an earth abundant material are non-toxic, low cost and belongs to the third generation photovoltaic (PV) material when used as counter electrode in dye sensitised solar cells. CZTS nanoparticle slurries were synthesised using hydrothermal method for application as counter electrode in dye sensitised solar cells. In order to optimise the synthesis process, the polyacrylic acid (PAA) used as surfactant in the precursor solution was varied thus: 0.0 g, 0.6 g, 1.0 g and 1.4 g. The XRD revealed peaks of CZTS (112) and (220) for the sample synthesised using 1.0 g PAA and in addition, numerous other peaks were observed for the remaining samples. The crystallite sizes ranged between 7 and 19 nm. Raman spectra of the films reveal CZTS peaks of 338, 351 and 252 cm-1 for samples synthesised using 1.0 g PAA precursor while ZnS, SnS, Cu3SnS3, Cu3SnS4, Sn2S3 secondary and ternary phases were observed for other amounts in addition to the 338 CZTS peak. SEM image show spherical nanoparticles and agglomerated nanosphere-like shapes. The Cu: Zn: Sn: S atom ratios were close to stoichiometry for 1.0 g polyacrylic acid and 0.6 g PAA. The surface roughness was between 800 and 1500 nm. The bandgap ranged between 1.51 eV and 1.54 eV. In order to test for the photovoltaic activity of the best CZTS materials film sample, it was used as a counter electrode in dye sensitised solar cell. The assembled cell after characterisation yielded an energy conversion efficiency of 3.2%.
Radiation Therapy for Cancer Treatment in Nigeria: Inception, Slow Progress and Challenges
The steady increase in cancer cases in the world is quite alarming, with the developing countries experiencing a disproportionate share of the rise. Recent estimates indicate that a large population of about 50-60% of cancer patients are likely to require radiotherapy at some points. This article presents an evaluation of the current radiotherapy capacity for cancer treatment in Nigeria, analyzed the present and future challenges and also the potentials and opportunities in the cancer radiotherapy. We present a comprehensive information on each radiotherapy center in Nigeria, types of procedure or instrumentation for the cancer treatment as well as the number of the machines available. Furthermore, information on personnel in each center and its training capacity have also been reported. It would be seen that Nigeria, despites its slow progress, has several radiotherapy sources of which nine (9) are brachytherapy units which include Iridium-192, colbalt-60 and Iodine-131 as well as Twelve (12) LINAC machines for cancer treatment. Additionally, the current status of radiotherapy equipment in Nigeria is compared with the years 2001, 2005 and 2010 previous statuses, revealing a slow positive progress, especially in the recent years. There is also prospective arrival of new equipment in a number of hospitals in the next one year, with advanced preparation already well in place. Despites this prospect, considering the population increase, the cancer treatment units have to be rapidly developed. The units also could require the need for sufficient professional staffing and training for capacity building.
Delineation of Oil – Polluted Sites in Emohua LGA of Rivers State Using Resistivity and Induced Polarization Techniques
A geophysical investigation was conducted in Obele Community in Emohua Local Government Area of Rivers State, Nigeria using the dipole-dipole electrode configuration to assess the impact of oil spillage on the environment. Oil spillage occurs due to a number of causes which include corrosion of pipelines, sabotage and oil production operations. Sabotage and oil siphoning has become a major issue in the Niger Delta States as well contributing to further environmental degradation. The study used vertical electrical sounding (VES) and resistivity/IP tomography to examine the extent of oil contamination in the soil and groundwater. The results showed that the study area is heavily impacted by oil spillage, with high resistivity values (up to 10,000Ω-m) indicating the presence of hydrocarbons. The contamination was found to be widespread, affecting both the soil and groundwater and originating from a possible point source along a pipeline section. The study also revealed that the aquifer in the area is unconfined, with high hydraulic conductivity values, making it vulnerable to contamination. The groundwater flow direction was found to be from NW to SE, indicating the potential direction of contaminant migration. The study recommends cleanup and remediation efforts to mitigate the environmental impact of the oil spillage. Going forward, security operatives should adopt a more robust way of handling apprehended vehicles and vessels containing stolen crude oil (oil Bunkry).
Modeling of Geo-Hydraulic Properties from Geophysical and Hydro-Geologic Data in the Imo River Basin, Southeast Nigeria and Similar Geological Formations.
This research aims to develop a unique geophysical model that can forecast aquifer geo-hydraulic features reliably from geophysical and hydro-geologic data in the Imo River Basin, Southeast Nigeria, and related geological Formations. To determine the Dar-Zarrouk characteristics, 569 vertical electrical soundings data were collected and analyzed. Dar-Zarrouk was integrated with the diagnostic association between the K values recorded in reference wells and electrical soundings data for the estimation. In the Ameki Formation, a mean transmissivity Tmean = 193.5 m2/day and a mean storativity 5.54 10-5 were calculated. A mean Transmissivity Tmean of 784 m2/day and a mean Storativity of 5.11 x 10-5 were found in the Benin formation. The mean storativity of the aquifers in the Imo Shale Formation is 3.48 10-5, and the mean transmissivity is 205.2 m2/day. The Ogwasi/Asaba Formation's aquifers have a mean transmissivity Tmean = 100.2 m2/day compared to the Nsukka Formation's aquifers' mean transmissivity Tmean = 211.5 m2/day with a mean storativity of 4.8 10-4. Niwas & Singhal, the Heigold model, and the newly generated geophysical model were used to estimate the hydraulic conductivity in the research area, with average values of 13.19 m/day, 1.74 m/day, and 4.62 m/day, respectively. The aquifer depth in the research region is 115.5m, whereas the average thickness of the aquiferous units is 39.8m. The average aquifer resistivity is 1963.2m and the average aquifer conductivity is 0.00186 sm-1. A comparison of the estimates of hydraulic conductivity obtained through the different methods and generated new model shows that the New Model values are very similar to the existing pumping test data.
Investigation of X-Ray Shielding Properties of Concretes Made with Cassava Flour, Sawdust and Charcoal
In this study, we fabricated concretes with cassava flour, sawdust and charcoal collected from Baissa, Kurmi Local Government Area, Taraba State, Nigeria. These composites were investigated on their abilities to shield x-ray reference qualities; 40 kV, 80 kV, and 120 kV at the radiology department of Jos University Teaching Hospital, Jos, Plateau State Nigeria, using a RAD 12 X-ray machine. The incident and the transmitted radiation dose were used to estimate the linear attenuation, mass attenuation and half value thickness of each composite shield. The transmitted photon intensities at 80 kVp and 120 kVp were then compared with the densities of the various sample blocks to investigate the effect of density on their shielding abilities. Pearson Correlation revealed that densities were negatively related to the transmitted photon intensities at 80 kVp and 120 kVp, with coefficients of [r(10) = -.589,p = .05] and [r(10) = -.925,p =.01] respectively. However, a high density obtained in the charcoal composite and a low mechanical strength observed in the cassava composite made the two aggregates unfit for x-ray shielding purposes where density is an important factor to be considered. The average densities and half value thickness (HVT) of the sawdust composite were compared with the densities and HVT of Lead and Concrete. A scatter plot analysis was used to generate model equations and estimate the Lead and concrete equivalent densities. The results show that lead shields can be replaced with the sawdust composite to shield against 80 kVp and 120 kVp x-ray sources at reduced densities of 66.5% and 52.5% respectively. Concrete shields can also be replaced with the sawdust composite in shielding against 80 kVp and 120 kVp x-ray sources at a reduced density of 7.2% and 4.94% respectively. This is a strong indication that sawdust composite can be very efficient in x-ray shielding applications, such as in mobile x-ray sources.
Determination of Epithermal Neutron Fluxes in the Cadmium-Lined Irradiation Channels of a Nuclear Reactor for Mineral Exploration
mineral deposits in soil or rock samples using method such as neutron activation analysis (NAA). Neutron flux is an important requirement for this method. Epithermal neutrons induced nuclear reactions more efficiently than with thermal neutrons when analyzing elements with high resonance integrals, it is also useful in analyzing element such as Uranium, Thorium and certain transition metals. In this study, epithermal neutron fluxes in channels of Nigeria Research Reactor-1 (NIRR-1) installed with Cadmium (Cd) were determined for use in NAA procedures. The measurements were performed after Low Enriched Uranium (LEU) fuel substituted the High enriched Uranium (HEU) fuel in the reactor. The epithermal neutron fluxes were experimentally determined using Al-0.1%Au monitor foil via 197Au(n,γ)198Au reaction. The epithermal neutron fluxes determined in the inner and outer Cd-lined irradiation channels A1 and A2 were found to be 2.539×1010 n/cm2s and 4.459×109 n/cm2s respectively at half operating power (15 kW) which corresponds to a thermal neutron flux of 5×1011 n/cm2s on the control console of NIRR-1. The values obtained before fuel conversion by previous authors in the A1-inner irradiation channel and in the A2-Outer Cd-lined irradiation channel were 2.72×1010 n/cm2s and 4.459×109 n/cm2s respectively. These values were both in agreement with the values of this study. This shows that the Cd installation and the fuel conversion from the (HEU LEU does not affect the epithermal neutron fluxes. It also implies that the stability of the neutrons in NIRR-1 were not altered. Thus, the facility is good for Epithermal NAA. The use of additional flux monitors, implementation of ENAA in geochemical analysis and evaluation of epithermal neutron shaping factor (α) were recommended.
The Effect of the Film-to-Focus Distance (FFD) Method on the Optical Density of the Organs and Anatomical Interest Parts in the Thoracic Cage
The effect of the Film-Focal Distance (FFD) technique on the optical density of the parts of anatomical interest and the organs within the thoracic cage was determined to identify a quality radiograph that is required by the Radiologists to accurately interpret and conclude the diagnosis from Chest X-ray (CXR) films. A PHILIPS MCD-105 mobile portable X-ray machine with a maximum voltage of 105 kVp was used in this study. AGFA X-ray films were used to obtain all the chest radiographs. A perspex phantom was constructed to house the rib cage of a human adult obtained from the anatomy laboratory. The whole phantom arrangement was to simulate the chest part of an adult human. The phantom was exposed five times, maintaining a constant voltage of 70 kV and a tube load of 10 mAs, by varying the FFDs at 110, 120, 130, 140, and 150 cm. A RaySafe Thin-X RAD dosemeter was used to determine the doses delivered to the Phantom. An X-Rite 331 transmission densitometer was used to determine the optical densities of the required areas. It was noted that both the FFDs and optical densities of the recorded areas have an inverse relationship, confirming that FFD has a significant effect on the quality of any X-ray film in chest X-ray examinations. Even though the radiograph at FFD 150 cm had the best contrast of them all due to low exposure, the radiograph at FFD 140 cm was found to give the optimum image quality of the parts of anatomical interest and the positions of the organs enclosed in the rib cage, with a dose even lower than the internationally accepted maximum value
Quantum Gravity Corrections to Black Hole Thermodynamics: Modified Hawking Radiation and Accretion Disk Physics
Black holes represent fundamental laboratories for testing quantum gravity theories, where extreme curvature and thermal physics provide unique opportunities to probe Planck-scale modifications to space time. We investigate quantum gravity corrections to black hole thermodynamics through the Generalized Uncertainty Principle (GUP), focusing on modifications to Hawking radiation and accretion disk physics. Our comprehensive analysis reveals that GUP effects systematically alter the temperature-mass relationship for black holes, leading to observable signatures in both the thermal emission spectrum and accretion disk properties. Through detailed calculations incorporating relativistic effects and advanced statistical mechanics, we demonstrate that quantum gravity modifications introduce spectral distortions in the X-ray regime that are potentially detectable with current and future high-energy missions. The modified thermodynamics also affects accretion efficiency, disk temperature profiles, and iron line emission, producing characteristic signatures in the observed continuum spectra. Our analysis of recent data from NuSTAR, XRISM, and other X-ray observatories places new constraints on the GUP parameter β≤1500 for stellar-mass black holes, representing the most stringent limits from black hole observations to date. These results demonstrate the potential for black hole observations to probe fundamental quantum gravity effects and provide complementary constraints to those derived from neutron star studies. The framework developed here establishes black hole systems as viable laboratories for testing quantum gravity theories through multi-messenger astronomy.
Assessment of Heavy Metal Contents and Associated Health Risks in Groundwater Samples Around Federal College of Animal Health and Production Technology, Ibadan, Nigeria Students' Residential Areas
Groundwater is a major source of water for students at the Federal College of Animal Health and Production Technology, Ibadan students’ residential areas. Hence, the quality of water of the study was determined by assessing the heavy metal contents and evaluating the associated health risks. A total of ten samples (five boreholes and five Wells) were collected from five different locations within the study area. Coordinates of the sampling points were taken with the aid of global pointing system while atomic absorption spectrometer was employed to determine the concentration of the heavy metal in the samples. Results of the heavy metal contents (mg/L) showed: Pb (BDL - 0.65), Zn (2.50 - 6.10), Mn (0.35 - 2.95), Cr (BDL - 20.43), Cd (0.18 - 0.88), Ni (1.25 - 7.80), Fe (BDL - 9.85) and Cu (0.35 - 6.40). Risk parameters such as contamination factor (CF), degree of contamination (DoC), and a Quantification of contamination index (QC) were also evaluated. DoC showed a very high indication of contamination of the groundwater samples of the study while QC indicates that most of the contamination is of anthropogenic origin. In order to assess the safety of the students’ populace due to oral and dermal exposure, average daily dose (ADD), hazard quotient (HQ) and hazard Index (HI) were evaluated. The values ranged as follows: ADDoral (0.0000 - 8.00 × 10-5) mg/L/day; ADDdermal (0.0000 - 9.63 × 10-12) mg/L/day ; HQoral (0.0000 - 9.77× 10-5) ; HQdermal (0.0000 - 9.65 × 10-15) ; HIoral (1.50 × 10-1) and HIdermal (0.0000 - 7.06 × 10-7). All the values obtained were below the provisional tolerable daily intake. Hence, there may be no potential risks for ingestion of the groundwater samples of the study. However, the routine monitoring of the groundwater samples should be encouraged to curtail health- related risks from exposure to heavy metal toxicity.
Depth to Basement Mapping using Source Parameter Imaging (SPI): A Case Study from Federal University of Agriculture Abeokuta
This research focuses on mapping the depth to the basement and delineating subsurface geological structures within the Federal University of Agriculture, southwestern Nigeria, using Source Parameter Imaging (SPI), a potential field technique. The research leverages ground magnetic data acquired using a Proton Precision Magnetometer, with measurements taken at 5 m intervals across a 100 m × 100 m study area. Data processing, including Total Magnetic Intensity (TMI) mapping, regional-residual separation, and analytical signal analysis, was conducted using Oasis Montaj software to enhance subsurface interpretation. The TMI map revealed magnetic anomalies ranging from 31,814.3 nT to 37,052.5 nT, with high-intensity anomalies in the southwestern and northwestern regions suggesting magnetically susceptible mineral concentrations, while low-intensity zones in the central and northeastern areas indicated sedimentary cover. The residual magnetic map further highlighted intrusive bodies and lithological variations, with anomalies between -2,359.7 nT and 2,712.8 nT. The analytical signal map, unaffected by magnetization direction, identified NS–SE trending discontinuities, likely fault zones, with intensities from 5.2 nT to 859.4 nT. SPI depth estimates ranged from 1.6 m to 9.5 m, revealing shallow magnetic sources (1.6–3.6 m) in the southeastern and northwestern regions and deeper sources (3.6–9.5 m) in the northeastern and southern areas. These findings underscore the undulating basement topography and structural complexity of the study area, which are critical for groundwater exploration and agricultural planning. The study demonstrates SPI’s efficacy in high-resolution basement mapping, offering valuable insights for resource management and environmental sustainability in geologically complex terrains.
The Impact of Robotic Telescopes on Time-Domain Astronomy
The field of time-domain astronomy has experienced unprecedented growth due to the increasing deployment of robotic telescopes capable of autonomous, round-the-clock sky monitoring. These instruments have revolutionized the detection and characterization of transient phenomena such as supernovae, gamma-ray bursts, variable stars, and gravitational wave counterparts. This paper explores the transformative role of robotic telescopes such as ZTF, ATLAS, and LCOGT in enabling rapid-response observations and building large time-series datasets. We review the design principles and scheduling algorithms behind robotic observatories and assess their scientific contributions across different wavelength regimes. Particular attention is given to the synergy between robotic systems and machine learning pipelines that enable real-time classification of transient events. We also discuss challenges such as data deluge, follow-up prioritization, and observational biases, as well as future directions in global telescope networks.
Innovative Enhancement of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) Toxicity for Effective Weevils Control
The research elucidates the innovative toxicity enhancement of ZnO NPs using a low-level laser of 405 nm wavelength (Ths-1220, China) for cowpea weevil control. Two batches of ZnO NPs were subjected to 15 and 30 minutes of laser irradiation. Irradiations were carried out in borosilicate glass test tubes using a 500 mW power laser beam spot of 4.0 mm. The 100 grams of non-infested cowpea samples were weighed in six replicates (R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, and R6) and a control. 90 active weevils (Callosbruchus maculatus) were obtained from an infested source of cowpea. The first batch of 15 minutes irradiated ZnO NPs was applied to the healthy beans in R1-R3, and the second batch of 30 minutes to R4-R6, likewise, the control. Replicates in the first batch registered weight losses between 0.70% and 1.20%, whereas the second batch showed minimal losses between 0.02% and 0.05%. By contrast, the control group experienced higher weight loss, between 1.10% and 2.80%. Statistical analysis via ANOVA did not reveal significant variations between groups and the Levene test indicated significant heterogeneity of variances (Sig. = 0.007). The application effect demonstrated a mortality rate of 99% compared to 70% in the 15-minute and 30-minute irradiated sample treatment groups, respectively, and 40% in the control group within 3 days. It is plausible that the 15-minute exposure delivered a concentration of nanoparticles sufficient to induce acute toxicity, facilitating maximal interaction without oversaturation. Therefore, exhibiting ZnO NPs with promising insecticidal properties against weevils, resulting in optimal maximal mortality.
GSM Signal Strength Measurement in Kwale Delta State Nigeria
This research work was carried out by investigating signal strength along the travelling path of two GSM network service provider in Kwale, Delta State using a network monitor. This study has to do with measurement of path loss models, a vital component in planning of wireless communication, as they assist in achieving optimal signal level in deploying mobile communication base stations. The distance of the network service provides Base Station (BS) to the mobile station (MS) and the difference in signal level were investigated. The effect of the properties of signal strength in relation to that of the environment were observed. To study this effect, measurement of signal power was taken by moving away from the Base Station with the use of standard parameters and the computed values of the free-space obtained; value of the signal power received and pathloss is less than the value obtain from measurement.
Physicochemical Characterization of Oil Spill Impacted Soils in Emohua LGA of Rivers State
Oil spillage on agricultural soil in the Niger Delta area of Nigeria is a serious threat to agricultural production and food security. This study was carried out to determine the effects of oil spillage on the physicochemical parameters of agricultural soils in Obele community of Emohua LGA. Thirty (30) triplicate soil samples at 3 depth (0-1.0, 1.1-2.0 and 2.1-3.0m) were collected from the study area and analyzed. The Physicochemical parameters were analyzed using standard methods and the results revealed that the total organic content (TOC) of the soils ranged from 0.28 – 1.29%. The lower levels observed may not be unconnected with the severe bush burning induced loss of organic matter at the location and the low level of vegetation cover. The pH values of the surface soils ranged from 4.50 – 5.9 making the soils acidic. The sulphate content (SO42-) of the surface and sub-surface soils at the location ranged from 0.013 – 1.25ppm while all the samples recorded low sulphate levels (<10ppm), most of the sample points recorded are considered extremely low sulphate levels (<0.1ppm). The nitrate content (NO3-) of the surface and sub-surface soils ranged from 0.14 – 1.47ppm. These values are also very low compared to the levels required for agricultural soils (15 -40ppm). These low levels will impact on the rate of biodegradation driven natural attenuation process. The phosphate (PO42-) content ranged between 0.015 – 2.819ppm. The values recorded were low as with the other agriculture/biologically critical anions. The suitable range for best biological function in soil is between 10-20ppm. This low-level like with sulphate and nitrate will negatively affect biodegradation. Sixteen (16) HA points out of 30 (53%) located predominantly at the periphery of the locations had TPH values >50ppm at a depth of 1.1-2m while a total of 14 HA points (46.7%) recorded TPH values >50ppm at depths of 2.1 – 3m. The study recommends cleanup and remediation efforts to mitigate the environmental impact of the oil spillage.
Sustainable Synthesis and Characterization of Graphene Nanosheets from Coconut Husk: A Green Approach for Advanced Materials
Graphene, a two-dimensional carbon material with exceptional mechanical, electrical, and thermal properties, has attracted significant interest for advanced material applications. Conventional production methods often rely on hazardous chemicals and non-renewable resources, creating a need for more sustainable and environmentally friendly approaches. This study explores the environmentally friendly synthesis and characterization of graphene derived from coconut husk waste. This approach contributes to the dual goals of waste valorization and sustainable material development by employing eco-friendly methodologies for graphene production, minimizing the environmental impact compared to traditional methods. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) analysis confirms the successful oxidation of graphite oxide into individual graphene oxide (GO) sheets with a layered and crumpled morphology, suggesting high surface area and self-assembly behavior, both crucial properties for various applications. Raman spectroscopy revealed two dominant peaks in the synthesized GO at 1378.89 cm⁻¹ and 1595.89 cm⁻¹, corresponding to the D and G bands, respectively, indicating the presence of both ordered sp² carbon and oxygen-induced defects. X-ray Diffraction (XRD) analysis unveiled the crystalline nature of the GO sample, with a prominent peak at 2θ = 10.13° corresponding to the (001) plane, characteristic of oxygen functional groups attached to the GO surface. This research demonstrates the successful conversion of coconut husk waste into high-quality graphene via a sustainable approach and emphasizes the potential for responsible production of advanced materials with diverse applications.