FACULTY OF PHYSICAL SCIENCE

This study investigates the phytochemical composition of Panicum maximum leaves and its brown liquid extract, emphasizing their potential in bioremediation. The leaves were processed by chopping, washing, grinding, filtering, and boiling to extract the brown liquid. Quantitative phytochemical analysis revealed the concentration of bioactive compounds in the leaf extract, including flavonoids (5.34 mg/g), phenolics (12.78 mg/g), saponins (8.23 mg/g), tannins (3.65 mg/g), oxalates (1.45 mg/g), phytates (0.98 mg/g), and alkaloids (6.12 mg/g). The brown liquid showed phenolics (10.45 mg/g) and flavonoids (4.87 mg/g) as dominant compounds. Qualitative screening confirmed the presence of saponins, phenolics, steroids, flavonoids, alkaloids, and tannins in both samples. The abundance of saponins and phenolics, known for their emulsifying and antimicrobial properties, suggests that Panicum maximum and its brown liquid can enhance microbial degradation of hydrocarbons in contaminated soils, positioning it as a valuable resource for eco-friendly bioremediation strategies.

This study evaluated the phytochemical and physicochemical properties of raw wheat grains (Triticum aestivum L.) sourced from Warri, Delta State, to provide region-specific data on its nutritional and functional potential. Although wheat is a globally important staple, localized compositional data for Southern Nigeria are limited; this research addresses that gap by characterizing bioactive constituents, proximate composition, mineral content, and vitamin C level in locally obtained grain. The objectives were to qualitatively screen for major phytochemicals, determine proximate composition (moisture, ash, crude fat, crude fibre, crude protein, carbohydrate), quantify selected minerals (Na, K, Mg, Ca, Fe, Zn), and measure vitamin C content. Standard laboratory protocols were used: reagent-based qualitative assays for phytochemicals (e.g., Wagner’s, Salkowski, ferric chloride, Fehling’s tests), AOAC procedures for proximate analysis, atomic absorption spectrophotometry for mineral quantification following acid digestion, and a titrimetric method for vitamin C. Key findings show the presence of glycosides, saponins, alkaloids, phenolics, terpenoids, flavonoids, and reducing sugars, while tannins and steroids were absent. Proximate values were: moisture 12.78%, ash 2.15%, crude fat 1.92%, crude fibre 2.39%, crude protein 10.81%, and carbohydrate 69.95%. Mineral concentrations (mg/kg) were: K 3650, Mg 1635.5, Ca 272, Fe 67, Zn 28.51, and Na 62.86. Vitamin C was low (mean 0.260 ± 0.01 mg/100 g). These results indicate that the wheat sample is energy-dense, storage-stable (moisture <14%), and rich in bioactive phenolics and flavonoids that confer antioxidant and potential cardioprotective benefits. The absence of tannins suggests reduced antinutritional effects, although mineral bioavailability may still be influenced by other factors (e.g., phytates). Implications include supporting promotion of whole-wheat consumption to maximize intake of fibre, minerals, and phytochemicals, and recommending dietary complementation with vitamin C–rich foods to improve micronutrient utilization. The study provides data for Warri-sourced wheat and underscores the need for quantitative phytochemical assays, bioavailability studies post-processing, and region-wide comparisons or biofortification efforts.

In most educational institutions, the process of taking student attendance is often done manually, which makes it time-consuming, error-prone, and susceptible to manipulation. This project focuses on the design and implementation of a web-based attendance management system that uses QR (Quick Response) codes to automate the attendance process. The system enables lecturers to generate a unique, time-limited QR code for each class session, while students scan the code through a web interface to mark their attendance. The backend is built using Node.js and Express.js, with a local JSON file (data.json) serving as the data storage layer using the Node.js fs module. The frontend utilizes HTML, CSS, and JavaScript for interaction and visualization. The system’s design emphasizes simplicity, real-time verification, and accessibility through any modern browser. Testing showed that the system minimizes human error, improves accuracy, and enhances the efficiency of attendance record management. The developed prototype provides a practical, secure, and user-friendly solution for both lecturers and students.

The growing global concern of antimicrobial resistance has fueled the hunt for alternative nanomaterials with therapeutic promise. This work used a green approach to create manganese– magnesium binary oxide (Mn–MgO) nanoparticles. Ficus exasperata leaf extract in alkaline environments (pH 9–10) act as a stabilizing and reducing agent. The nanoparticles' crystalline structure was validated by X-ray diffraction (XRD) examination, with distinctive peaks at 2θ values of 29.4°, 42.9°, and 62.0°, with an average crystallite size of 18 nm determined by the Debye–Scherrer equation. FTIR (Fourier Transform Infrared) spectrum showed notable peaks at 3339.69 cm⁻¹ (O–H stretching), 1543.11 cm⁻¹ (amide/aromatic C=C), and 1017.50 cm⁻¹ (C–O stretching), suggesting the existence of capping agents made of phytochemicals. Highly aggregated, irregular particles were found using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) that created a porous cluster structure. Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS) was used to verify the elemental composition; manganese (51.40 wt%), magnesium (35.00 wt%), and oxygen (5.20 wt%) were the primary elements. A primarily mesoporous structure was indicated by Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) analysis, which showed a high specific surface area of 212.13 m²/g, a total pore volume of 0.106 cm³/g, and average pore diameters of 2.11 nm (BJH), 2.65 nm (DFT), and 3.04 nm (DA). A hybrid micro–mesoporous architecture was confirmed by the classification of the nitrogen adsorption–desorption isotherm as Type IV with an H3 hysteresis loop. There were no zones of inhibition (0 mm) against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Aspergillus niger, and Candida albicans when antimicrobial activity was assessed using the agar well diffusion method at doses ranging from 7.813 to 62.5 mg/mL. As a result, values for minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) were not determined. The Mn–MgO nanoparticles showed no discernible antibacterial activity despite having a large surface area and nanoscale crystallinity. This was probably caused by particle aggregation and surface passivation by phytochemical residues. These results demonstrate how important surface shape and accessibility are in influencing the bioactivity of green-synthesised nanoparticles.

This study investigates the relationship between crop performance, fertilizer application, and soil types using multivariate statistical analysis. The main objective is to determine how different fertilizer types and the rate of application, in combination with soil characteristics, influence major growth and yield parameters of crops. Data were collected on soil properties
(such as pH, organic matter, nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and texture) and crop growth parameters (including germination percentage, plant height, number of leaves, leaf area, biomass, and yield). The canonical correlation analysis was employed to identify patterns and quantify the strength of associations among these variables. The results revealed that soil fertility factors and fertilizer applications significantly influenced crop growth and yield performance, with organic matter and fertilizer rate producing optimal responses. The analysis demonstrates the usefulness of Canonical Correlation Analysis in handling complex agricultural data.

Research works in the field of electronic learning are represented by a broad spectrum of applications, ranging from virtual classrooms to remote courses or distance learning. In this project work I used a simple web-based training and quizzes system, in which, teachers and trainers can conduct any type of courses and set different types of quizzes and exams. The system allows potential users to store, update, and delete questions from the database using the web, in a very easy and simplified manner. In addition, teachers can track the activities of their students and can guide them to reach the pre- determined objectives of the courses. This system is used successfully in distance learning as well as in self-training. This system has been tested, ranged from basic to advanced namely: introduction to computer science, programming concepts using C++, digital logic design and fundamentals of database systems. The feedbacks of both teachers and students were highly promising

This study represents a comparative mineralogical and geochemical evaluation of clay deposits from Igo and Okhoro, located within the Benin Formation of Southern Nigeria, with the aim of determining their industrial suitability and economic potential. Field observations revealed that the Igo clay occurs as reddish to brownish lateritic clay interbedded with sands, whereas the khoro clay is predominantly light grey with brown patches and is more quartz-rich. X-ray Fluorescence (XRF) analysis of the Igo samples shows high concentrations of silica (SiO₂: with mean value 68.57%) and alumina (Al₂O₃: with mean value 22.59%), with relatively low levels of fluxing oxides. In contrast, the Okhoro samples contain lower silica (mean 59.25%), comparable alumina (mean 21.86%), but noticeably higher iron oxide (Fe₂O₃: up to 7.34%) Trace element concentrations in both locations were generally low, indicating minimal impurity influence on industrial applications. The X-ray Diffraction (XRD) data reveal that the Igo clays are dominated by kaolinite (24.5–45%) and quartz (36–62%), with significant amounts of feldspar minerals (orthoclase and albite) and muscovite. Okhoro samples, however, are overwhelmingly quartz-dominated (88.6–98.04%) with only minor kaolinite (0.98–9.42%) and no detectable feldspars, signifying a highly mature, intensely weathered sediment. These mineralogical differences indicate that Igo represents a submature kaolinite-quartz-feldspathic clay, while Okhoro represents a supermature quartzose deposit. Comparisons with industrial specifications show that both clay types meet some requirements for refractory bricks, hough beneficiation is needed to adjust fluxing oxide levels. Igo clays, due to their higher kaolinite content and natural feldspar fluxes, exhibit stronger potential for ceramic applications, including tiles, earthenware, and fillers for paint or rubber after processing. Okhoro clays, because of their extreme quartz dominance , are more suitable as construction fillers, low-grade refractory blends, or materials for brick manufacturing. Overall, the Igo clay deposit displays broader and more economically valuable industrial potential than the Okhoro deposit, which is limited by its mineralogical maturity.

The increasing environmental impact of petroleum-based plastics has intensified the global search for renewable, biodegradable alternatives. Agricultural wastes, particularly cassava and potato peels, offer promising sources of starch for sustainable bioplastic production. This study focused on the comparative development and evaluation of bioplastic films produced from cassava peel starch (CPS) and potato peel starch (PPS), using identical formulation and processing conditions. The aim was to assess how starch source influences the physicochemical, mechanical, structural, and biodegradation characteristics of the resulting films.Starch was extracted from the peels through sedimentation and drying processes, and the yield was determined gravimetrically. Bioplastic films were prepared using a standard casting method. The films were characterized for tensile strength, elongation at break, thickness, water absorption, solubility, and biodegradability. Structural and morphological properties were examined through visual observation and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results revealed that cassava peel produced a higher starch yield (18.6%) compared to potato peel (14.9%), confirming its superior extraction efficiency. CPS films exhibited greater tensile strength (4.85 MPa) and Young’s modulus (62 MPa), indicating stronger and more rigid films, while PPS films displayed higher elongation at break (32%), signifying greater flexibility. SEM analysis showed smoother and more homogeneous surfaces in CPS films, whereas PPS films exhibited minor surface irregularities. Both films demonstrated good biodegradability under soil burial, with PPS degrading slightly faster due to its higher hydrophilicity. Overall, the findings establish cassava and potato peel starches as viable raw materials for biodegradable film production, promoting waste valorization and environmental sustainability. The higher yield and superior mechanical integrity of cassava peel starch films suggest greater industrial potential, particularly for ecofriendly packaging applications.

Efficient healthcare delivery relies heavily on accurate, accessible, and secure patient information. In Nigeria, the current method of managing patient records remains largely manual, fragmented, and uncoordinated across different healthcare facilities. This has led to frequent duplication of medical tests, prolonged waiting times, and poor continuity of care. The need for a centralized and interoperable digital solution is therefore essential in improving patient outcomes and overall healthcare efficiency. This roject focuses on the design and prototype implementation of a web-based Electronic Health Record (EHR) system named HealthHive. The system aims to consolidate patient medical data from multiple hospitals into a single, secure, and user-friendly platform accessible to patients, healthcare providers, and administrators. HealthHive emphasize interoperability, scalability, and data security while ensuring that patient privacy is upheld through role-based access control and encrypted communication. The project adopts the Object-Oriented Analysis and Design (OOAD) approach, with modeling tools such as Use Case Diagrams and Class Diagrams utilized to represent the system’s architecture and interactions. The proposed system demonstrates how centralized digital records can minimize redundancies, promote data sharing between healthcare institutions, and enhance decision-making through accurate medical histories. Ultimately, this prototype lays the foundation for a national EHR framework capable of transforming healthcare management in Nigeria by improving accessibility, efficiency, and trust within the healthcare ecosystem.

Nanotechnology has gained significant attention in various fields due to its potential in developing advanced materials with unique properties. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are widely used in medicine, electronics, and environmental applications due to their antibacterial and catalytic properties. This study explores a practical approach to synthesizing AgNPs using a chemical method, where silver salts are reduced in the presence of stabilizing and reducing agents. By adjusting factors such as precursor concentration, temperature, and reaction time, the size and stability of AgNPs can be controlled. Common chemical techniques like the Turkevich and polyol methods provide efficient and scalable synthesis. The resulting nanoparticles are analyzed using UV-Vis Spectroscopy, DLS, XRD, and TEM to confirm their size and structure. While chemical synthesis is effective, challenges like toxicity and environmental impact must be considered for safe and sustainable use