Journal of Chemical Society of Nigeria

SYNTHESIS, CHARACTERIZATION, MOLECULAR DOCKING, AND COMPUTATIONAL STUDY OF SCHIFF BASE LIGAND DERIVED FROM 4-AMINOANTIPRINE AND 2-AMINOPHENOL AND ITS Nd (III), Sm(III), Gd (III) and Dy (III) COMPLEXES

2025-05-05T14:07:40+00:00

Schiff base ligand, (E)-2-((4-amino-1,5-dimethyl-2-phenyl-1,2-dihydro-3H-pyrazol-3-ylidene)amino)phenol, (4AAP-2AP) derived from the condensation reaction of 4-aminoantipyrine and 2-aminophenol along with its Nd (III), Sm (III), Gd (III) and Dy (III) complexes were synthesized and characterized using various spectroscopic methods. The molecular docking study was used to predict interaction against some antibacterial, antifungal, anticancer and anti-inflammatory protein targets. The physicochemical properties were studied to determine its drug-likeness. Density functional theory calculation was also performed. Possible structure was suggested for the Schiff base ligand, 4AAP-2AP and the lanthanide (III) complexes based on the various spectroscopic results. The molecular docking analysis revealed that the Schiff base ligand, 4AAP-2AP exhibited a good binding affinity on the antifungal protein target, (PDB ID: 7BR0). This was confirmed by the experimental antimicrobial studies which revealed that the synthesized compounds have higher antifungal activity indicating its possible use as antifungal therapeutic drug..The physicochemical properties indicated its drug-likeness ability. The HOMO and LUMO values were EH = -4.767 eV and EL = -0.979 eV respectively. The results of the molecular parameter are as follows: energy gap (?G) = 3.788, electronegativity (?) = 2.873, global hardness (?) = 1.894 and global softness (?) = 0.528. The small energy gap indicates its possible biological activity.

NUTRITIONAL COMPOSITION OF SELECTED ENERGY DRINKS COMMONLY CONSUMED IN ABUJA METROPOLIS

2025-05-21T11:58:33+00:00

This study was undertaken to determine the nutritional benefits of selected energy drinks commonly consumed in Abuja metropolis. Ten different energy drinks were bought and coded E1E2E3………. E10. Proximate analysis was used to determine the total ash, crude protein, moisture, crude fiber, lipids, carbohydrate and energy value. The result of the moisture content of the different samples showed the moisture ranged from 89.10% to 91.19%. the highest value in E2 of all the energy drinks sampled. The result also showed that E6 has the highest ash content with 0.29% of all brands of energy drinks while the lowest ash content was 0.001% in E1. The nutritional values showed that E5 was found to be the highest on protein among the ten energy drinks. E4 was the highest in carbohydrate but the least among for protein. E9 was found to be the highest in fat content while E7 was found to have the highest energy level but also happens to have the lowest moisture and fat present.

EVALUATION OF HEAVY METAL OF MECHANICAL WORKSHOPS IN ASABA AND THE ATTENDANT HEALTH RISK TO HUMANS

2025-05-19T06:30:28+00:00

Soil properties may change due to climate change, but in recent times, the changes occurred as a result of anthropogenic activities such as metal workshop operations. This study was conducted to investigate the presence of heavy metals in the soil of mechanical workshops and how it affects health risk assessment in Nigeria, especially as it concerns Asaba metropolis. five different workshops, Opposite former deputy (OFD), SIO, Federal College (FC)), Officer’s Mess (OM) and Former Deputy (FD) all in Asaba town, Delta State were sampled for the study and analyzed for four heavy metals (Pb, Ar, Cr, Cd,) levels using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS). A descriptive cross-sectional survey was carried out to assess the knowledge, attitudes and perceptions of people living around the study area. The analytical data was subjected to statistical tests of significance using ANOVA and (P<0.05) to determine whether there was any significant difference between the study sites. It was revealed that the concentrations of (Pb, Cr, As, and Cd) were found to increase slightly higher at one point or the other than control values. However, this study indicated that the mechanic workshop clusters was indeed polluted with these metals (Pb, Cr, As, and Cd) as all the indices of contamination considered indicate significant to considerable degree of contamination therefore constitutes major health risk to the local population. It was recommended that government should provide appropriate places that will serve as automobile village where auto repairs are kept at safe distances from human habitation.

ETHANOL PRODUCTION FROM CASSAVA PEELS AT HIGH TEMPERATURES VIA SIMULTANEOUS SACCHARIFICATION AND FERMENTATION USING Kluyveromyces marxianus.

2025-05-10T10:35:56+00:00

This study investigated the feasibility of producing ethanol from cassava peels at high temperatures (40°C) using simultaneous saccharification and fermentation (SSF) with Kluyveromyces marxianus. The SSF process was compared to separate hydrolysis and fermentation (SHF) and a modified SSF process where the microorganism was introduced after hydrolysis. The results showed that SSF produced the highest ethanol yield, with 53% of the theoretical yield for 5.5% cassava peels and 44.8% for 10% cassava peels. The SHF process resulted in a lower ethanol yield of 41%. The study also found that there was a significant amount of glucose remaining after fermentation, suggesting that further optimization of the fermentation process is needed to improve ethanol yields.

EFFECT OF STEAM EXPLOSION ON ENZYME HYDROLYSIS OF CASSAVA PEELS

2025-05-10T10:29:58+00:00

This study investigates the impact of steam explosion pretreatment on the enzymatic hydrolysis of cassava peels, a lignocellulosic biomass with high carbohydrate content. Steam explosion was conducted at 210°C for 5 minutes, followed by enzymatic hydrolysis using amylase, glucoamylase, and cellulolytic enzymes (Cassava C and Cassava R). The results demonstrate that steam explosion significantly enhances the hydrolysis efficiency of cellulose and hemicellulose components, achieving up to 37.04% reducing sugar yield at 10% w/v cassava peel concentration. However, steam explosion also led to the degradation of starch, reducing its availability for hydrolysis. The study highlights the potential of steam explosion as a pretreatment method for improving the enzymatic conversion of cassava peels into fermentable sugars, while also identifying challenges related to starch degradation and enzyme inhibition.

SYNTHESIS AND CHARACTERIZATION OF 2,4-di-tert-butyl-6-((2-(4-nitrophenyl)-1H-imidazol-3-yl)ethyl)imino)methyl)phenol FROM 1-(4-nitrophenyl)-1H-imidazole AND 2-(((2-bromoethyl)imino)methyl)-4,6-di-tert-butylphenol AND THEIR BIOLOGICAL STUDIES

2025-05-10T10:25:03+00:00

Bacterial and fungal infections remain a major challenge in healthcare systems worldwide, necessitating the continuous exploration of novel therapeutic agents. This study reports the synthesis, characterization, and antimicrobial evaluation of three compounds: 1-(4-nitrophenyl)-1H-imidazole (Compound 1), 2-(((2-bromoethyl)imino)methyl)-4,6-di-tert-butylphenol (Compound 2), and 2,4-di-tert-butyl-6-((2-(4-nitrophenyl)-1H-imidazol-3-yl)ethyl)imino)methyl)phenol (Compound 3). Syntheses were achieved with 70-87% yields, and structures were confirmed via 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR, IR, and LCMS. Antimicrobial assays revealed that Compound 2 exhibited the strongest antibacterial activity, especially against Klebsiella oxytoca (zone of inhibition: 23 mm, MIC: 500 µg/mL). Compound 1 showed moderate dual activity, notably against Mucor spp. (zone of inhibition: 12 mm MIC: 500 µg/mL). Despite their promising activity, the compounds demonstrated higher MBC and MFC values, indicating primarily bacteriostatic and fungistatic effects. This work provides insights into the structure-activity relationships of these compounds, highlighting their potential as lead structures for further antimicrobial development.

GREEN SYNTHESIS OF SOME SCHIFF BASED-METAL COMPLEXES: CHARACTERIZATION, BIOCIDAL, AND THE ADSORPTION EFFICIENCY STUDIES

2025-05-10T10:19:44+00:00

The green synthesis of compounds has attracted sizable attention for its eco-friendly and sustainable approach. N-(2-hydroxybenzyldene)-2-hydroxyaniline (N2HB2HA) and its complexes with Fe(II), Co(II), Cu(II), and Mn(II) ions were synthesised using the microwave method. The synthesised compounds were tested for antimicrobial and nematocidal activity and their ability to adsorb metal ions. The compounds were characterised using melting point, solubility, FTIR, UV-Vis, and ¹H NMR spectroscopy. The solubility results of N2HB2HA showed that it became more soluble in common organic solvents when it mixed with metal ions. The compounds were also fairly stable. The FTIR spectra confirmed bidentate ligand coordination, the UV spectra of N2HB2HA showed absorption bands at 268 and 322.5 nm, and the metal complexes displayed additional bands indicating complexation. The 1H NMR spectrum reveals hydrogen bonding, metal-ligand interactions, and downfield shifts for aromatic protons. The Cu(II) complex exhibited strong antimicrobial and nematocidal properties, with low MIC values and high nematode mortality percentages, suggesting potential applications as antimicrobial and nematocidal agents. The adsorption studies tested 0.1 and 0.2 g of N2HB2HA in removing metal ions from aqueous solutions. The results showed that as metal ion concentration increased, removal efficiency decreased. However, 0.2 g of N2HB2HA increased, achieving high removal efficiency at 100 mg/L. The results of this study reveal the potential of N2HB2HA and its complexes as an efficient material for water purification and biocidal applications, respectively.

CAFFEIC ACID: A PHARMACOLOGICALLY ACTIVE PHENOLIC ACID FOUND IN PROPOLIS OBTAINED FROM NIGERIA

2025-05-10T10:15:10+00:00

Studies reveal that chemical composition of propolis is influenced by vegetation surrounding the beehive. This study set out to isolate and characterize chemical compounds from propolis using hexane and ethyl acetate solvents, and to assess its antimicrobial activity in varying polarities; hexane, acetone, ethyl acetate and methanol. Isolation of chemical compounds was carried out by subjecting extract to column chromatography by gradient elution using two solvent mixtures - hexane: ethyl acetate and ethyl acetate: methanol. Isolated compounds were identified using 1H and 13C-NMR spectroscopy and Mass spectrometry with further verification of data on the compound by comparison with literature reports. Microbial assay was carried out using standard procedures. Isolated compound was identified as caffeic acid, a known phenolic acid useful for anti-oxidation, anti-inflammation and anti-carcinogenesis. Percentage (%) yield of propolis in the four solvents was high in hexane (85.60%) and acetone (64.95%). Methanol extract of propolis was active against Escherichia coli and Salmonella typhi at concentrations of 100 mg/mL, 50 mg/mL and 25 mg/mL. Ethyl acetate extract showed activity on Escherichia coli at 100 mg/mL, 50 mg/mL and 25 mg/mL concentrations while Salmonella typhi was inhibited at 100 mg/mL, 50 mg/mL, 25 mg/mL, 12.5 mg/mL and 6.25 mg/mL concentrations of propolis in ethyl acetate solvent. This suggests that, the more polar the solvent used for extraction of propolis obtained from Gboko, the stronger the antimicrobial activity.

SEASONAL VARIATION OF PHYSICOCHEMICAL AND BACTERIOLOGICAL QUALITY OF BOREHOLE WATER IN OGENGEN, OJU- BENUE STATE

2025-05-10T10:01:31+00:00

An investigative study was carried out to determine the physicochemical and bacteriological quality of borehole water available to residents of Ogengen Phase II and students of College of Education, Oju. The study was carried out in rainy and dry season and the results obtained were compared with the WHO standards for potable water. The range of results obtained for both seasons were: pH (6.60 -7.90), turbidity (0.99-35.1 NTU), total chlorine (0.25-0.50 mg/L), conductivity (410-697 µs/cm), and total dissolved solids (249-426 mg/L). The concentrations of the heavy metals determined were Fe (? 0.10 mg/L), Cu (0.12-0.21 mg/L) and Zn (0.22-1.34 mg/L). The range obtained for DO was 2.4- 6.30 mg/L while that of BOD was 0.5-2.50 mg/L and COD was 1.20-4.80 mg/L. The hardness showed that magnesium hardness (79-120 mg/L), calcium hardness (101-307.8 mg/L) and total hardness (213-427.6 mg/L). The results of the analysis showed that most of the parameters tested including the heavy metals concentrations were within the permissible limit of WHO standard for drinking water, however the hardness was far above the WHO standard. The findings also proved that the concentrations of the parameters measured were slightly higher in the rainy season. The bacteriological analysis showed that all the samples contained coliforms with coliform count of 45-140 cfu/L. The bacteria strains detected and isolated from the water samples were: Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella species and Lactbacillus species. The presence of microorganisms in the water samples proved that the water is not safe for direct consumption. Therefore proper treatment of water from these boreholes should be carried out before consumption.

ANALYSIS OF BOTTLED DRINKING WATER SOLD IN AWKA METROPOLIS, ANAMBRA STATE, NIGERIA.

2025-05-10T09:54:11+00:00

This research examines the physicochemical properties, heavy metal concentrations, and microbiological safety of bottled water sold in Awka, Anambra State, Nigeria, in response to increasing apprehensions regarding water contamination and its implications for public health. A total of five bottled water samples were subjected to analysis for various parameters, including pH, conductivity, total dissolved solids (TDS), heavy metals, and microbial content, with results compared to the standards set by the World Health Organization (WHO). The findings revealed that while most samples complied with certain physicochemical standards, lead levels in all samples surpassed the WHO permissible limit, with Sample A exhibiting the highest concentration at 0.1847 mg/L. Microbiological testing detected total plate bacteria in two of the samples, which raises considerable health concerns, even though E. coli and other fecal indicators were absent. This study highlights the critical necessity for ongoing monitoring and regulatory measures to safeguard the safety and quality of bottled water, particularly given the potential health hazards linked to heavy metal exposure and microbial contamination.

FOURIER-TRANSFORM INFRARED SPECTROSCOPIC CHARACTERISATION OF THE DIFFERENT FRACTIONS FROM Anthocleista vogelii PLANCH LEAF EXTRACTS

2025-05-05T12:51:07+00:00

Medicinal plants are used to treat and prevent ailments largely due to the presence of phytochemicals in them. This study was aimed at identifying the phytochemicals present in the leaf of Anthoclestia vogelii using established methods. The air-dried leaves were pulverized and One kilogram of the sample was extracted in absolute methanol for seventy two hours. The concentrated extract weighs 271.25 g. The crude extract (7.0 g) was loaded on a silica gel packed column using gradient elution of n-hexane (100%), ethyl acetate-methanol (50:50) and methanol (100%). Characterisation of the fractions was done using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy. Phytochemical screening of the lyophilized brown viscous methanol extract of A. vogelii shows the presence of tannins, saponins, flavonoids, alkaloids, and phenols. The fractionated and purified crude extract of A. vogelii with n-hexane, ethyl acetate-methanol and methanol yielded 1.75, 0.32 and 0.84 g labeled as X, Y and Z respectively. The FT-IR spectra revealed prominent absorption bands at 2855 – 2955, 1714, 1461 and 1379-1006 cm-1 in Fraction X, while 3321, 2885 – 2970, 1647, 1326 – 1449 and 1043 cm-1 in Fraction Y, and 3321, 2829 – 2981, 1416 – 1446, 1110 cm-1 in Fraction Z. The absorption bands suggested the presence of C=C bearing phytochemicals in Y, –OH bearing phytochemicals in Y and Z while C=O bearing phytochemicals in Fractions X.

SYNTHESIS AND CHARACTERIZATION OF MAGNETITE-Eichornia crassipes NANOCOMPOSITE BY CHEMICAL CO-PRECIPITATION METHOD FOR VARIOUS APPLICATIONS

2025-05-05T14:01:00+00:00

The combination of materials have seriously encouraged the removal of contaminants as these contaminants can pose threats to human and acquatic lives and general ecosysytem. In this work, magnetite-Eichornia crassipes nanocomposite (MECN) was synthesized by doping magnetite nanorpaticles with Eichornia crassipes at 2:1. The synthesized MECN was characterized for their functional groups, morphology and topography, particle size, composition and crystallinity. The Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) results showed prominent reactive functional groups for the absorption bands at 3765.00 cm-1. 2926 cm-1. 2860.50 cm-1. 2354.55 cm-1. 1876.00 cm-1. 1629.81 cm-1. 1381.20 cm-1. 1075.33 cm-1 and 776.62 cm-1 which represents C=C stretching of the alkenes, C-H asymmetric stretching, C-H symmetric stretching, C=O stretching of the carbonyl group, C=C stretching of the alkenes, N-H bending of the amide group, N-O symmetric stretching of the nitro group, C-O stretch of the ether group, Fe-O stretch of magnetite respectively. The energy dispersive x-ray (EDX) results revealed the elemental constituents in weight percentages showing Fe (12.22 %), O (7.20 %), Au (0.50 %), C (0.33 %), Ca (3.23 %), N (3.20 %), Si (66.10), Na (2.22 %), Mg (5 %) respectively. Powdered x-ray diffraction techniques (PXRD) revealed that the synthesized MECN is in a non-crystalline state. The morphology of the synthesized nanocomposite was found to be spherical with a porous surface topography from scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis. The average particle size of the nanoparticles as characterized by transmission electron microscope (TEM) was found to be 6.3 nm.

DETERMINATION OF HEAVY METALS (Cd, Pb, Ni) IN TILAPIA FISH, CRAB AND PERIWINKLE FROM TOMBIA RIVER IN RIVERS STATE.

2025-05-05T13:50:36+00:00

Fish and other seafood are important sources of human protein. Seafood is currently accepted as essential food for humans and widely consumed by many. Therefore, there is need for the evaluation of heavy metals in seafood to reduce health risk of these metals. This study was carried out to determine the levels of lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd) and Nickel (Ni) in crab, fish and periwinkle from the Tombia River in Rivers State. Samples were oven dried and ground into powder before acid digestion with aqua regia and analyzed using atomic absorption spectrophotometer. The results showed that the average concentration of Pb was 42.82± 0.601 mg/kg in crab, 18.05± 0.071 mg/kg in fish and 15.85± 0.078 mg/kg in periwinkle. Ni was 9.69± 0.085 mg/kg in crab, 8.23± 0.106 mg/kg in fish and 4.53± 0.177 mg/kg in periwinkle while the values for Cd were 4.75± 0.071 mg/kg in crab, 3.00± 0.056 mg/kg in fish and 2.87± 0.113 mg/kg in periwinkle. Average concentrations of Pb were found to be higher than other metals in the three seafoods studied. Based on the results obtained from this study crab, fish and periwinkle from Tombia River were found to be contaminated with Cd, Ni and Pb and their levels were found to be higher than the permissible limits set by WHO. Frequent consumption of these seafoods from this river may cause biochemical changes in humans and also lead to organ dysfunction as these metals have been categorized as carcinogens.

TITLE: PRODUCTION OF BIOETHANOL USING COMMON AND RARE YAM SPECIES

2025-05-05T13:29:06+00:00

This study investigates the production of bioethanol from three different yam species: Dioscorea Cayenensis, Dioscorea Bulbifera, and Dioscorea Rotundata, using hydrolysis, fermentation, and distillation processes. Yams are chosen due to their high starch content, making them a viable substrate for bioethanol production. The process involved preparing phosphate buffers, enzymatic hydrolysis to break down starch into fermentable sugars, followed by fermentation using Saccharomyces cerevisiae, and distillation to extract ethanol. The ethanol yields were found to be 13.06% for Dioscorea Rotundata, 15.92% for Dioscorea Cayenensis, and 15.51% for Dioscorea Bulbifera. Recent research corroborates the potential of using yam and other tubers for bioethanol production, pointing out their efficiency and sustainability as alternative energy sources. This research study contributes to the growing body of knowledge on bioethanol production from non-traditional sources, emphasizing the role of local varieties in enhancing biofuel yields. The findings indicate that underutilized yam species can provide significant ethanol yields, offering a sustainable solution to energy needs and reducing dependence on fossil fuels.

GREEN SYNTHESIS OF SILVER NANOPARTICLES USING AQUEOUS EXTRACT OF Lagenairia breviflora FRUIT AND ITS ANTIMICROBIAL APPLICATIONS

2025-05-05T13:23:31+00:00

Green synthesis of nanoparticles is a synthetic method that utilizes biological sources for their production. It is gaining attention due to its cost-effectiveness, eco-friendly nature, and compatibility with large-scale production. Herein is a detailed report on the green synthesis of AgNPs and evaluation of their antimicrobial activity. Aqueous extract of Lagenaria breviflora fruit was obtained via maceration and then screened to determine the presence of important phytochemicals. The synthesis of AgNPs was carried out in the dark to avoid photodegradation of silver nitrate solution. 0.005M AgNO? solution was added to aqueous extract of Lagenaria breviflora fruit in a ratio of 80:20. The mixture was maintained at 60°C for 6 hours under constant stirring. A color changes was observed, indicating the formation of AgNPs; which was confirmed by a visual color change from light yellow to dark brown due to the phenomenon of surface plasmon resonance. The biosynthesized AgNPs were characterized using UV-vis spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). SEM revealed the surface morphology and the average particle size of 73.20 nm, X-ray diffraction showed an average crystallites size of 12.83 nm in the range of 10-700, FTIR revealed the presence of important functional groups responsible for reduction of silver ions and UV-Visible spectrophotometer showed maximum absorbance peak of 435 nm in the range of 300-700nm. The antibacterial activity of the synthesized AgNPs were tested against clinical pathogens including gram negative (Escherichia coli and Salmonella typhi) and gram positive (Staphylococcus aureus) using agar well diffusion method. The result showed that the green synthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have a potential to inhibit the growth of bacterial with inhibition zones diameter of 12mm, 11mm and 11mm observed for the tested organisms compare to the 19mm of the control (Ciprofloxacin). Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of alkaloids, tannnis, flavonoids, terpenoids, saponins and carotenoids.

PHYSICOCHEMICAL PROPERTIES OF WATER FROM RIVERS OF SOME OIL-PRODUCING COMMUNITIES IN ANAMBRA STATE, SOUTH-EAST NIGERIA

2025-05-05T13:12:31+00:00

The physicochemical properties of water from ten rivers in some oil-rich communities in Anambra State used by the residents for drinking and other household activities were investigated. Total dissolved solids (TDS), electrical conductivity (EC), pH, total alkalinity (TA), total hardness (TH), dissolved oxygen (DO), biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), chemical oxygen demand (COD), phosphate ion (PO4-), nitrate ion (NO3-) and sulphate ion (SO4-) were determined using standard methods. The results show that TDS ranged from 6.10 – 268 mL, EC (50 – 167 µs/cm-1), pH (2.5 – 10), TA (25.25 – 50 mg/L), TH (6 - 230 mg/L), DO (27.4 – 41.6 mg/L), BOD (72-141 mg/L), COD (101 – 176 mg/L), PO4- (7.852 – 12.049 mg/L), NO3- (5.493 – 11.304 mg/L), SO4- (78.109 –94.873 mg/L). The Concentration of TDS in all the water samples were below the World Health Organization (WHO) recommended permissible limits except I and F. The pH of all the samples were below the recommended limit except J and C which were within the limit while that of B was above the permissible limit. The concentrations of EC, COD, NO3- and SO4- in all the samples were below the recommended permissible limits while those of DO, BOD and PO4- were above the limits as TA and TH were within the limits except the TA of A and TH of D that were below the limits. The study has shown that water from the rivers in the oil-rich communities of Anambra State could not be said to be potable and the need for government intervention for sustainable potable water supply to the communities.

PHYSICOCHEMICAL ANALYSIS OF STORMWATER RUNOFF FROM A CEMENT MANUFACTURING PLANT IN NIGERIA

2025-05-05T13:08:07+00:00

This study evaluates the physicochemical characteristics of stormwater runoff from a cement manufacturing plant in Kogi State, Nigeria, during the rainy season (June to August 2024). The objective was to assess the environmental impact of cement production processes on stormwater quality. The parameters analyzed include pH, electrical conductivity (EC), total suspended solids (TSS), total dissolved solids (TDS), dissolved oxygen (DO), biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), chemical oxygen demand (COD), chloride and sulphate ions, and heavy metal concentrations. Results revealed pH values ranging from 6.52 to 11.50, with alkaline runoff exceeding regulatory limits during peak production activities. The TSS levels (288 ± 2.65 to 420 ± 5.57 mg/L) and TDS concentrations (200 ± 2.74 to 312 ± 3.21 mg/L) were within the permissible limits of the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) of Nigeria. The BOD and COD values occasionally exceeded thresholds, indicating organic pollution during certain conditions. Sulphate levels were significantly elevated (up to 540 mg/L), suggesting atmospheric deposition of industrial emissions. Heavy metal analysis revealed variable concentrations of Fe, Zn, Cu, Pb, and Mn ions, with some samples exceeding NESREA limits for Fe and Cu. The findings underscore the need for effective stormwater management strategies in cement plants to mitigate environmental impacts and ecological risks associated with industrial stormwater discharges in Nigeria, and to ensure compliance with regulatory standards.

PHYTOCHEMICAL, PROXIMATE, VITAMIN AND MINERAL COMPOSITION OF CRUDE EXTRACT OF ZANTHOXYLUM ZANTHOXYLOIDES STEM BARK.

2025-05-05T13:04:03+00:00

Zanthoxylum zanthoxyloides, a member of the Rutaceae family, is renowned for its extensive traditional medicinal applications, including the treatment of infections, pain, inflammation, gastrointestinal disorders, and parasitic diseases. Despite its widespread use, there is a need to further explore its rich phytochemical, proximate, vitamin, and mineral composition to scientifically validate its therapeutic and nutritional potential. This study analyzed the crude extract of Zanthoxylum zanthoxyloides stem bark using standard methods, and revealed significant concentrations of bioactive compounds such as phenols (853.49 ± 2.86 mg/100 g), flavonoids (748.95 ± 0.32 mg/100 g), tannins (729.36 ± 1.89 mg/100 g), alkaloids (517.79 ± 1.56 mg/100 g), and glycosides (332.37 ± 1.64 mg/100 g), which are known for their potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. Proximate analysis demonstrated a rich nutritional profile with carbohydrates (81.81 ± 0.01 mg/100 g), protein (5.70 mg/100 g), fiber (2.22 mg/100 g), and low-fat content (1.03 mg/100 g), positioning it as a potential dietary resource. The vitamin profile included Vitamin A (0.69 mg/100 g), Vitamin C (0.34 mg/100 g), and essential B-complex vitamins, including B1, B2, B3, B6, and B12, which are crucial for energy metabolism, immune support, and overall well-being. Mineral analysis highlighted sodium (190.46 mg/100 g), potassium (142.13 ± 1.01 mg/100 g), magnesium (183.06 ± 0.01 mg/100 g), calcium (181.49 mg/100 g), and trace elements like iron and zinc, reinforcing its potential in combating micronutrient deficiencies. These findings provide comprehensive scientific validation for the traditional applications of Zanthoxylum zanthoxyloides, highlighting its utility in nutraceutical and pharmaceutical industries. Further investigations are recommended to explore its pharmacological properties, safety profile, and therapeutic efficacy in clinical applications.

ELEMENTAL ANALYSIS, CHARACTERIZATION OF MINERAL PHASES, AND ELECTRICAL PROPERTIES OF FLY ASH-MODIFIED PORCELAIN SHACKLES IN NIGERIA

2025-05-05T13:00:19+00:00

In Nigeria, numerous shackle insulators are only effective within a specific temperature range, beyond which they lose their insulating and dielectric capabilities, resulting in electrical fires. Those that are available are quite expensive and not easily within budget. This investigation aims to develop and manufacture high-voltage porcelain insulators that have been modified using fly ash. The aims of the project are to conduct an elemental analysis of metal oxide concentrations in the samples; characterize the mineral phases present in the samples; measure the porosity of the samples; and assess the electrical resistivity of the samples. The elemental analysis of metal oxide concentrations was conducted with a SPECTRO XEPOS energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence (ED-XRF) spectrometer, which is manufactured by Spectro Analytical Instruments, a company based in Kleve, Germany. Characteristics of mineral phases were determined by X-ray powder diffraction using XRD patterns. The ceramic samples' porosity was assessed with a mercury intrusion porosimeter, specifically the AutoPore IV 9500 model produced by Micromeritics Instrument Corporation, located in Norcross, GA, USA. The tests for electrical conductivity and electrical insulation were conducted in compliance with ASTM B 193-87 and ASTM D495, respectively. The study found that porosity values varied from 4.30% to 9.62%. The maximum value was recorded at a FA/P ratio of 10:0. Upon achieving a suitable blend ratio of 6:4 FA to P, a maximum porosity of 7.61% was attained. Cost-effective and functional electrical porcelain shackles can be produced from local materials such as clay, kaolin and fly ash; Locally made electrical porcelain shackles can match the performance of their imported counterparts. Consequently, the study suggests the manufacture and deployment of locally produced porcelain shackles in Nigeria.