Nigerian Journal of Science and Environment

Investigating the discriminating power and efficiency of Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) model based on Stochastic Data Envelopment Analysis

O.B. Ohoriemu — 2025-06-03

The problem associated with data envelopment analysis (DEA) is the lack of discrimination power among efficient decision-making units (DMUs), hence yielding many DMUs to be efficient. The issue is highlighted when the number of DMUs evaluated is significantly less than the number of inputs and outputs used in the evaluation. Therefore, other DEA models were proposed in the literature to overcome the discriminant power problems. However, the existing DEA models suffer from some other difficulties such as infeasible solutions for
efficient DMUs, the non- uniqueness of the input-output weights, etc. The focus of this article is to propose a stochastic data envelopment analysis (SDEA) model for improving the discriminating power of the DEA and to overcome those drawbacks. In this article, the data set was applied to demonstrate the efficiency of the proposed model. It can be concluded that the proposed SDEA model perform better than other methods in the aspect of discrimination power and efficiency.

Comparative Phytochemical Screening of Leaves, Seeds and Roots of Moringa Plant (Moringa oleifera Lam)

P.O. Ben-Uwabor — 2025-06-03

This research conducted a comparative analysis of the bioactive chemicals in Moringa oleifera parts (leaves, seeds and roots). phytochemical screening was conducted to identify and measure the essential bioactive compounds using qualitative and quantitative methodologies. The phytochemical profile of the various plant components was distinct with the leaves exhibiting significant levels of tannins (9.27± 0.18a mg100g), flavonoids (4.98± 0.11b mg100g), terpenoids (4.33± 0.29c mg100g), and steroids (3.18 ± 0.23d mg100g). The seeds contained notable number of alkaloids, with a concentration of 91.66 mg100g. Additionally, they included flavonoids at a concentration of 74.23± 0.22b mg100g, tannins (32.28 ± 0.10c mg100g), and saponins (32.91 ± 0.04c mg100g). The roots had the most elevated amounts of tannins, measuring at a concentration of 38.15 ± 0.25a mg100g, and phenolic acids, measuring at a concentration of 4.01 ± 0.15b mg100g. The bioactive components of leaves, seeds, and roots exhibited significant differences at p ≤0.05. Leaves provided promising qualities as both a nutritional supplement and an abundant reservoir of innate antioxidants. Roots contain a significant amount of tannin, suggesting their possible use in traditional medicine while the seeds indicated wide range of health benefits, making them important in both traditional medicine and modern pharmacology. The research showed the distinct medicinal and nutritional benefits of each individual part of the Moringa plant, promoting Moringa as a functional food and herbal remedy, and encouraging sustainable harvesting and utilization of all parts of the plant, emphasizing their potential uses in nutrition, traditional medicine, and
pharmacology.

Phytochemical Composition and Antioxidant Potential of Carica papaya Leaf and Stalk Litter

C.E. Otutu — 2025-06-03

This study evaluated the phytochemical content and in-vitro antioxidant capacity of Carica papaya leaf and stalk litter extracts using electrophotometric methods. Four solvents—aqueous, chloroform, methanol, and ethanol—were employed for extraction. Antioxidant assays, including total antioxidant capacity, reducing power assay, nitric oxide scavenging, and 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging, were conducted with ascorbic acid, gallic acid, aspirin, and catechin used as standard. Qualitative analysis revealed the presence of saponins,terpenes, and alkaloids in both leaf and stalk litter extracts. Quantitative phytochemical analysis indicated the presence of phenols, tannins, flavonoids, and alkaloids in the various extracts. The chloroform extract of the leaf litter exhibited the highest alkaloid and phenolic content, while the methanol extract of the leaf litter was richest in flavonoids. The chloroform extract of the
stalk litter contained the highest tannin levels. The antioxidant analysis showed significant activity in both leaf and stalk litter extracts compared to the standards. The IC₅₀ values indicated that the methanol extract of the stalk litter exhibited more potent antioxidant properties than the methanol extract of the leaf litter and other extracts. These results suggest that the leaf and stalk litter of Carica papaya are viable sources of bioactive compounds with strong antioxidant properties. This study reveals the higher antioxidant potency of the methanol extract of Carica papaya stalk litter over the Carica papaya leaf and stalk litter extracts analyzed.

Preliminary investigation of kaolin mineralization zones within the Oligocene-Miocene sediments of the Niger Delta basin using electrical resistivity

K.N. Nwakaji — 2025-06-03

This paper presents preliminary findings from electric resistivity study on OligoceneMiocene sediments of the Niger Delta with emphasis on identification of mineralization zones of kaolin. Fifteen (15) vertical electrical soundings (VES) data were obtained using Schlumberger configuration with maximum electrode spacing of 600 m. The results of the VES correlated with borehole data shows five (5) to six (6) geoelectric layers: top soil, sand/clay, kaolin/sand, sand/clay/kaolin, sand/clay and sand. The area is characterized by lateral lithologic heterogeneity resulting from gradational lithologic contacts, thus lithologic units are quite impersistent over a small area. Kaolin mineralization occur mainly in the third geoelectric layer, with resistivity values varying between 108 – 675 Ωm; thickness of kaolin increases from about 0.5 m around outcrops to 7.1 m in the study area. Depth to kaolin varied from 1.3 m at Ukwu-nzu to 19.1 m at Ubulu-uku; depth to mineralization generally increase with elevation in the area.

Delineation of subsurface lithology and aquifer structures using electrical resistivity surveys in parts of Ukwuani Local Government Area of Delta State

C.E. Ejije — 2025-06-03

This study investigates aquifer structures and properties in Ukwuani Local Government Area, Nigeria, using Vertical Electrical Soundings (VES) with Schlumberger and DipoleDipole configurations. The Schlumberger were conducted at Obiaruku (VES 1–6), Obinomba (VES 7–12), Umutu (VES 13–15), and Umuaja (VES 16–18), employing an ABEM SAS 1000 Terrameter for data acquisition. Interpretation was done using WinResist for VES and Dipro Software to generate 2D resistivity images, vertical profiles and delineate subsurface formations and aquifer zones in the study area. Near-surface high resistivity values of 200 to 1000 ohm-m corresponding to compact topsoil, transiting to clayey sands and laterite layers with moderate resistivity, indicating varying clay content and moisture retention. Deeper layers in Umutu and Umuaja exhibit high-resistivity coarse sands, highlighting viable groundwater formations. In contrast, stations located in Obiaruku and Obinomba predominantly show medium-grain sand and clay layers. The Dipole-Dipole survey further delineated profiles showing unconsolidated, moisture-bearing topsoil transitioning to dense, low-permeability formations. The first two layers in Obiaruku with resistivity values of 116–145 ohm-m, suggest the presence of shallow aquifers, while deeper layers characterized by resistivity values of 581–930 ohm-m consist of gravels that serve as confining layers. This geophysical approach identified promising aquifer zones in upper
layers and thick sand formations which are conducive to groundwater storage and flow. These findings provide valuable insights for sustainable groundwater exploration and management in Ukwuani Local Government Area.

An inventory of angiospermic flora of Ambrose Alli University Main Campus, Ekpoma, Edo State, Nigeria

P. Ogbevire — 2025-06-03

This study presents an inventory of angiospermic flora within Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, Nigeria, aimed at contributing to the understanding of plant biodiversity in the region. A systematic quadrat sampling technique was employed using 10m x 10m plots, spaced 20m apart along two major transects: a 4 km path from the Benin-Auchi Road to the campus boundary, and a 2 km path raversing the campus. To mitigate edge effects, sampling commenced 5m from the footpaths. Over a four-week period, a total of 152 quadrats were surveyed. Plant species were identified in situ when possible, with unidentified specimens taken to the university herbarium for taxonomic verification using standard floristic references. Data were analyzed using key biodiversity indices including abundance, density, frequency, and Simpson’s diversity index. A total of 173 species from 59 families were recorded, encompassing trees (78 species), shrubs (39), herbs (23), climbers (23), grasses (5), lianas (4), and epiphytes (1). The Fabaceae family exhibited the highest species diversity (30 species), followed by Apocynaceae (12), Euphorbiaceae (9), and Moraceae (8). These findings provide critical baseline data for conservation efforts and future ecological studies within the region.

Impact of Fermentation on Amino Acid Profile of Cold and Hot Water Extracts of Justicia carnea Leaves

P. Jeroh — 2025-06-03

This study investigates the impact of fermentation on the amino acid profile of Justicia carnea leaves extracts and the fermented must of the hot water extract. The cold water extract (C) (250C), hot water extract (H) at 1000 c and the fermented must (W) using bakers yeast
(Sacharamyces cerevisiae) were analyzed with High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) to determine changes in amino acid concentrations. The results show that fermentation significantly (p<0.05) alters the amino acid composition, with increases in key amino cids such as L-Proline, L-Serine, and L-Leucine relative to the hot water and cold water extracts. These findings highlight the potential of fermentation to enhance the amino acid profile of J.carnea water extract, a plant known for its medicinal properties.

Multi-drug resistance pattern of Pseudomonas aeruginosa amongst clinical samples from surgical unit in Edo Specialist Hospital Benin City, Nigeria

J.I. Ehiaghe — 2025-06-03

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a leading cause of nosocomial infections in surgical units, presenting significant challenges in hospital settings worldwide. The study aims to determine the prevalence and antimicrobial susceptibility patterns of Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolated from Surgical Unit in Edo specialist Hospital (ESH), Benin City, Edo State. This was a crosssectional based study conducted at Edo specialist Hospital, from November 2023 to July, 2024. A total of one hundred clinical wound swabs were obtained from the participants using pre-tested questionnaires. Samples were inoculated and bacteria were isolated using standard microbiological methods. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was performed by modified Kirby Bauer’s method. Multidrug resistant isolates were further subjected to molecular method of plasmid DNA analysis. Obtained data was analyzed using Statistical package for social science (SPSS). The prevalence of Pseudomonas aeruginosa was 21.3% irrespective of other bacteria isolates. Susceptibility profiles of P. aeruginosa isolates in our study were all 100% resistant to Cefuroxime, Ceftriaxone, Oxacillin, Augmentin and Erythromycin and 70% least resistant to Ciprofloxacin antibiotics used. The bacteria isolates exhibited a higher sensitivity pattern to the Imipenem antibiotic. The PCR techniques also revealed that all the P. aeruginosa that were resistant to Augmentin expressed the (SHV) resistance genes with bands at 100bp in the clinical isolates from surgical wound infections in ESH. In conclusion, there was a high prevalence of multi-drug-resistant P. aeruginosa in surgical wound infections at ESH. The genetic evidence of resistance mechanisms in this study indicates the need for rigorous infection control measures to prevent the spread of these resistant strains.

Geoelectric and Geotechnical Soil Characterization at the School of Engineering, Kogi State Polytechnic, Lokoja, Nigeria

T.O. Adeoye — 2025-06-03

This study examined waterlogging issues at Kogi State Polytechnic, Lokoja, Nigeria, by correlating resistivity measurements with geotechnical data. A 2D dipole-dipole electrical resistivity survey with 5-meter electrode spacing was conducted along three profiles. The
data were inverted to interpret subsurface layers. Geotechnical tests, including grain size analysis and Atterberg limits, were interpreted along the profiles to analyze soil properties. The resistivity data identified distinct subsurface layers: the topsoil showed low resistivity
between 11.3 and 21.8-Ohm meters, representing loose soils like sand and clay. A second layer (5-8 meters deep) had resistivity values between 20.9–121 Ohm meters, suggesting more compacted materials like clay. The third layer (6-11 meters deep) had resistivity between 60–338 Ohm meters and is interpreted as the weathered basement, while the deepest layer exhibited high resistivity (120–13,918 Ohm meters), indicating solid basement rock. Geotechnical tests revealed the presence of sand, clay, and silt. In addition, they showed varying plasticity and liquid limits: Profile 1 (PL = 26%, LL = 38%), Profile 2 (PL = 52%, LL = 58%), and Profile 3 (PL = 18%, LL = 23%). Profiles 1 and 2 had moderate plasticity, while Profile 3 had a much lower plasticity index of 5%. The inference from these results is
that waterlogging is mainly due to prolonged wet seasons. However, if rainfall persists, the presence of clay and silt makes lithology a key factor. Ongoing monitoring and multidisciplinary research efforts are essential for refining the current understanding of the
waterlogging process.

Influence of deposition temperature on the bandgap energy and optical characteristics of electrochemically prepared SrSe/ZrSe heterostructure

A.I. Agbrara — 2025-06-03

The thermoelectric advantages of chalcogenides allow for the conversion of temperature fluctuations into electrical voltage. On the other hand, thermoelectgric generators and coolers make use of strontium selenide (SrSe) and zirconium selenide (ZrSe) to enhance their energy efficiency and heat recovery in industries. In this study, the electrochemical deposition technique was employed to synthesize the SrSe/ZrSe heterostructure and to show its potential applications in electronic industries. The XRD spectrum reveals a
polycrystalline cubic structure with diffraction angles of 11.93^o, 13.87^o, 20.71^o, and 27.87^o at 2 thetas. Introducing ZrSe into SrSe to form the heterostructural films enhanced the crystallinity of films, as seen from the increased peak intensity. The lowest absorbance of 2.22 eV was obtained at 50 ^oC for the SrSe/ZrSe heterostructure prepared using electrochemical deposition, while the pure film had a slightly higher absorbance of 2.50 eV. The absorbance of the films increases with higher precursor temperatures, showing the strong impact of temperature on synthesis. A decrease in bandgap energy from 2.37 eV to 2.22 eV resulted from SrSe/ZrSe synthesis across precursor emperatures of 40oC to 50^oC, respectively.

Detection and antibiotic susceptibility of pathogenic Escherichia coli isolated from the final effluent of two wastewater treatment plants in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa

O. Osuolale — 2025-06-03

Wastewater effluent is a significant reservoir for pathogenic and antibiotic-resistant Escherichia coli, which can pose substantial acute asks if released into surface water without adequate treatment. This study examines the presence of pathogenic E. coli strains in treated effluents and determines their antibiotic profiles.. A culture-based approach was employed using E. coli differential chromogenic agar for isolation via the membrane filtration method. Confirmation of presumptive E. coli strains was achieved by PCR. The confirmed isolates were also genotyped to identify the species present. Antibiotic profiling of the confirmed isolates was performed using the CLSI-recommended first-line antibiotics for E. coli. Out of eight pathotypes screened, four were confirmed: Uropathogenic E. coli (UPEC) at 5.7%, Enteroaggregative E. coli (EAEC) at 2.3%, Neonatal Meningitis E. coli (NMEC) at 1.1%, and Enteropathogenic E. coli (EPEC) at 0.6%. The antibiotic susceptibility patterns showed that UPEC had low resistance to meropenem (100%), cefotaxime (100%), and gentamicin (88.9%), but high resistance to tetracycline (74.1%), ampicillin (74.1%), and cephalothin (66.7%). EAEC, NMEC, and EPEC exhibited high sensitivity 100%) to meropenem, gentamicin, and cefotaxime, with varying degrees of resistance to ampicillin, tetracycline, and cephalothin. The study indicates that the two treatment plants discharge effluents containing pathogenic E. coli, serving as reservoirs for these bacteria. The study highlights the inadequacy of the plants to produce effluents of acceptable quality.

Determining aquifer transmissivity and hydraulic conductivity in Kwale, Delta State, Nigeria, via integrated electrical resistivity and pump test data analysis

K.O. Mada — 2025-06-03

The integration of Vertical Electrical Soundings (VES) and pump test analysis has successfully determined the aquifer transmissivity and hydraulic conductivity in Kwale, Delta State, Nigeria. The VES data provided a detailed view of subsurface resistivity variations, identifying potential aquifer zones and layers with reduced permeability. Complementary pump test results confirmed these findings, showcasing the aquifer’s ability to sustain a stable water yield suitable for industrial and domestic purposes. Notably, data from VES 16 near the
pump test site highlight localized aquifer property variations, likely influenced by lithological differences. This study delivers crucial insights for groundwater resource management, offering a valuable framework to support water supply planning and sustainable land use in the region.

Utilization of acid treated cocoyam leaf for Congo red dye adsorption: Kinetics, equilibrium and thermodynamic studies

A.A. Ogundiran — 2025-06-03

With the ever-increasing leaves of industry-induced water contamination, the focus has been shifting towards the development of environmentally friendly systems for the removal of pollutants from effluents. In the current study, batch experiments were carried out to study the adsorption capacity of acid-treated cocoyam leaf to remove Congo red dye from aqueous solution. The acid-treated adsorbent was characterized by FTIR to determine the functional groups that may be responsible for the uptake of the dye. Different experimental parameters such as the contact time, dosage, initial concentration, pH and temperature were tested. Results from the study confirmed that optimum adsorption conditions were found at a pH 2, a temperature of 40 °C at the dosage of 0.6 g and contact time of 50 min at 30 ppm. Kinetic studies showed that the adsorption of Congo red followed the Lagergren pseudo-first-order kinetic model, while the Langmuir isotherm best described the equilibrium studies. The data from the thermodynamics study disclosed that the reaction is both feasible and spontaneous. The results obtained showed that acid-treated cocoyam leaf posed a very good potential green material for Congo red dye removal.

Antibiotic resistance of bacteria isolated from respiratory tract infections amongst patients in selected hospitals of delta state, Nigeria

E.O. Asidi — 2025-06-03

Antibiotic resistance is an alarming global health issue, specifically in developing countries like Nigeria, where misuse and overuse of antibiotics are significant contributors to the problem. This study aims to identify the microorganisms associated with respiratory tract infections in patients of selected hospitals and their antibiotic resistance patterns. A total of ninety (90) respiratory (Nasopharyngael) samples were collected from patients with suspected bacterial infections and cultured. The isolates were identified by standard microbiological techniques and assayed for their susceptibility to commonly used antibiotics using the disc-diffusion method. Out of the 106 isolates obtained, Streptococcus pyogenes was the most prevalent at 29.7% with high resistance to Amoxicillin (AM-30 µg) (65%) and Gentamicin (GN-10 µg) (32%) and low resistance to Ciprofloxacin (CPX-5ug) (16%) while Gram-negative isolates were most resistant to Ciprofloxacin (CPX-5ug) (100%) and most susceptible to Ceftriaxone (TRX30 µg) (100%). Multidrug resistance (MDR) was prevalent in both Gram-positive and Gramnegative isolates. Streptococcus pyogenes exhibited a 54% MDR rate, while Gram-negative bacteria, particularly Klebsiella pneumoniae and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, showed MDR rates as high as 100%. Chi-square analysis did not indicate any significant association between bacterial species and multidrug resistance presence (X2=2.004); (P=0.225). Only age was associated with the occurrence of respiratory infections amongst the socio-demographic variables tested (X2=35.714); (P=0.00) with those under 40 years of age exhibiting a higher incidence (35.7%) compared to those over 40. This study outcome draws attention to the growing incidence of antibiotic resistance in Delta State hospitals which should be of concern to public health regulatory agencies.

Assessment of optimal subsurface conditions for palm oil plantation in Abraka using geophysical data and soil analysis

I.E. Jeressa — 2025-06-03

The study utilized Vertical Electrical Sounding (VES) with a dipole-dipole configuration to investigate subsurface conditions in oil palm plantations in Abraka, Delta State, Nigeria. Complementary soil analysis assessed critical subsurface characteristics for oil palm cultivation. The ABEM SAS 1000 Terrameter was used for data acquisition. Results revealed significant variations in subsurface resistivity and soil properties. At Otorho Road plantation, low resistivity values (116–199 Ωm) indicated high moisture content and fine soil textures, favourable for palm growth. Areas with resistivity exceeding 200 Ωm suggested dry, coarse soils, potentially restricting root penetration and water retention. At Oria, resistivity ranged from low (0.99–45.5 Ωm), indicating high moisture, to moderate (50–300 Ωm), representing well-drained soils. High resistivity zones suggested soil compaction, which may hinder root development. In Erho, low-resistivity zones indicated optimal conditions, while high-resistivity regions suggested compacted soils or geological constraints. Soil analysis revealed differences in nutrient content and pH across locations. Otorho exhibited moderately acidic soil (pH 5.30–6.10), potentially leading to nutrient leaching, with sufficient but lower boron (61.10 mg/kg), nitrogen (0.24%), and phosphorus
(24.80 mg/kg). Oria had a near-neutral pH (6.30–6.70), higher boron (84.29 mg/kg), and nitrogen (0.29%), supporting better vegetative growth. Erho showed optimal conditions (pH 6.80) with the highest boron (91.82 mg/kg), nitrogen (0.34%), and phosphorus (61.43
mg/kg), enhancing plant development.

Physico-Chemical Assessment of Ogba River, Benin City, Southern Nigeria for Water Quality Index and Pollution Control

S.E. Unuafe — 2025-06-03

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the level of pollution in the Ogba river's surface water by utilizing physical, chemical, principal component analysis (PCA) and water quality index methods. Water samples for physicochemical characteristics were taken from four sites, and the resulting data were analyzed using the appropriate statistical software. With the exception of flow rate, air and water
temperatures, pH, DO, Cl-, P, NH4-N, NO2, and SO₄^2-, all other parameters varied significantly (P<0.05) between the study stations. however, all the parameters within Federal ministry of Environment (FMEnv) and World Health Organization (WHO) standards for surface water, with the exception of the DO, which was below allowable limits while BOD and COD were above FMEnv allowable levels. Water
Quality Index (WQI) revealed that stations 3 and 4 had poor water quality with values of 3.07 ±0.48 and 3.02±0.41 for BOD in station 3 and 4 and 19.70 ±7.33 and 27.55 ±13.20 for COD in both stations. The first five PCA explained 83.913% (the benchmark for water quality index(WQI) for suitable water is between 50-100), revealing that the main environmental factors influencing the water quality were color,
electrical conductivity, turbidity, sodium, phosphate, total dissolved solids and total suspended solids which were attributed to anthropogenic activities around the river. The presence of organic wastes as shown by low DO and increased BOD concentrations indicate that the river's water quality is deteriorating with potential health risks.

Susceptibility and resistance status of malaria vector to pyrethroid and organophosphate insecticides in Ondo State, South West, Nigeria

M.B. Ajayi — 2025-06-03

Malaria is a major infectious disease that still affects nearly half of the world’s population. In malaria control programs, understanding local resistance dynamics is crucial for effective vector management. Information on the susceptibility of malaria vectors in the study area is needed to improve malaria control efforts. This study investigates the susceptibility and resistance patterns of malaria vectors to pyrethroid and organophosphate insecticides in Ondo State, Nigeria. The research involved collection of mosquito larvae from six different locations conveniently selected from three senatorial districts in Ondo State, Nigeria. Mosquito larvae were collected and taken to the Laboratory insectary and reared to adults, and sorted. The results obtained indicates the female An. gambiae s. l. was the most
predominant malaria vector in the state (41%). A batch of 25 adult An. gambiae s. l per location were subjected to four insecticides for susceptibility testing using CDC WHO methods. The results show the Anopheles species were more susceptible to deltametrin 0.05%, (100%), alphacypermerin 0.05%, (95%), primiphos-methyl 0.25%, (99%), and compared to permethrin, 0.75% (73%), but the difference was not statistically significantly different p=0.12. Intensity assay conducted on mosquitoes resistant to x1 concentration of permethrin shows 100% susceptibility to x5 concentrations of permethrin except in Ipogun having 100% susceptibility with x10 concentration (p >0.005). The findings highlight a growing resistance to pyrethroids with some populations also showing reduced susceptibility to organophosphates an indication of need for continuous monitoring and to diversify vector control strategies to sustain the effectiveness of malaria efforts in the region.