DNA evidence plays a critical role in forensic science, providing precise identification in criminal investigations. However, intentional tampering using chemical agents such as acids, bleach, and fuel can degrade DNA and affect forensic conclusions. This study examines the impact of these chemical agents on the integrity of DNA and the detectability of gender-determining genes, SOX9 and FOXL2, in human blood samples. Human blood samples (n=50) were analyzed under four experimental conditions. The same set of 50 samples were independently treated with bleach, acid (HCl) and fuel (petrol), while untreated aliquots of the same 50 samples served as controls and were stored under controlled conditions before DNA extraction using the salting-out method. DNA concentration and purity were assessed using a Nanodrop spectrophotometer, and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was performed to amplify SOX9 and FOXL2 genes. Gel electrophoresis was used to determine the extent of DNA damage. Results indicate that acid treatment caused the most severe degradation, significantly reducing mean DNA concentration by ~94.9% with the lowest mean concentration (27.24ng/μl), and inhibiting PCR amplification. Bleach exposure led to oxidative DNA damage, resulting in inconsistent purity levels, while fuel (petrol) treatment caused moderate degradation, with partial loss of amplifiable DNA. The study highlights the vulnerability of forensic DNA to chemical tampering and the differential impact on specific genetic markers. The need for enhanced forensic methods to identify and retrieve damaged genetic material is highlighted by these findings. Alternative recovery techniques and the impact of additional chemical agents on the integrity of forensic DNA should be investigated in future studies.

African trypanosomiasis remains a major public challenge in sub-Saharan Africa, compounded by the emergence of drug-resistant Trypanosoma bruceibrucei strain. In this study,molecular docking modelling was used to determine the anti-trypanosomal inhibitory effect of Acacia nilotica. The molecular docking was carried out through AutoDock Vina in open-source Python Prescription 0.8. Twenty-five (25) compounds were identified as potential candidates andanalyzed (in silico) for their drug likeness from the rules of Lipinski, Egan, and Veber through the Swiss Adme server. The 3D conformers of drug-like compounds were uploaded in Python prescription suit (PyRx) and optimized via Open babel in PyRx (version 0.8). The anti-trypanosomal activity of these compounds was investigated using a molecular docking assay against two proteins from T. brucei brucei, namely arginine kinase 3 (Accession No. EAN76668.1) and trans-sialidase (AlphaFold ID: AF-Q57YTZ-F1). The returned binding energy (kcal/mol) suggested five suitable candidates: Epicatechin (-6.2 and -7.9 kcal/mol), Kaempferol (-5.9 and -7.2 kcal/mol), Taxifolin (-6.2 and -7.9 kcal/mol), 1-acetyl-beta carboline (-5.9 and -6.9 kcal/mol), and 3,4,7-trimethylquercetin(-5.7 and -7.4 kcal/mol). In conclusion, the drug-like compounds of A. nilotica demonstrated favourable binding energies (kcal/mol). With five biomolecule showing effective interaction with the enzyme active site. According to the druglike compounds of A. nilotica's returning binding energy (kcal/mol), the five appropriate biomolecules in this investigation bind effectively to the two enzymes' active sites. Due to its greater accessibility, more research is necessary to evaluate A. nilotica in vitro or in vivo to determine whether it might be employed as a less costly and effective medication.

Effective abattoir hygiene is crucial for preventing meat contamination and ensuring public health safety. This study was carried out to assess the physical operational facilities and hygienic practices of workers in five (5) major abattoirs (Dei-Dei, Karu, Kubwa, Gwagwalada, and Abaji) in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja. Twenty (20) workers were identified from each of the abattoirs. This assessment wasbased oninteractions and real-time observation of the activitiesof the workers at the point of meat processing. Some key hygieneindicators were pointed;personal protective equipment (PPE), knife sterilization, carcass washing, and availability of functional hand-washing stations. The results revealed wide disparities in compliance across the abattoirs. Dei-Dei consistently demonstrated the highest level of hygiene (60% PPE, 45% knife sterilization, 80% carcass washing, and a functional hand-washing station), while Abaji showed the poorest performance of PPE, knife sterilization, and carcass washing (25%, 20%, 40%, respectively, and no hand-washing facilities). Chi-square analysis indicated statistically significant variation in hygienic indicators across locations (p<0.05), and logistic regression identified PPE use, knife sterilization, and functional hand-washing stations as significant predictors of good hygiene (p<0.05). These findings highlight critical gaps in hygiene and infrastructure in several abattoirs, particularly at Abaji, Karu, and Gwagwalada, posing risks for carcass contamination and potential food-borne disease transmission. The study underscores the need for standardized hygiene enforcement, infrastructure upgrades, and worker training to enhance meat safety within abattoirs in the Federal Capital Territory.

Snakebite is a significant public health issue in many African nations, yet effective treatment is often inaccessible due to the high cost and limited availability of antivenoms. This study evaluates the effects of Cayratia japonica root aqueous extract on toxicity induced by Echis ocellatus venom in male Wistar albino rats. A total of 20 rats (average weight: 225 ± 0.28 g) were divided into five groups: Group 1 (normal control) received distilled water; Group 2 received 0.055 mg/kg E. ocellatus venom without treatment; Groups 3, 4, and 5 received 0.055 mg/kg venom alongside 1000 mg/kg, 2000 mg/kg, and 0.6 mg/ml standard drug, respectively. Blood samples were collected for biochemical analysis, including antioxidant parameters, serum electrolytes (calcium and potassium), and clotting time. Phytochemical analysis of C. japonica root extract revealed alkaloids, saponins, terpenoids, steroids, tannins, carbohydrates, quinones, and glycosides, with GC-MS identifying 48 compounds, five of which have antivenom properties. A significant decrease (p < 0.05) in superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) levels, along with an increase in malondialdehyde (MDA) in the venom-only group (Group 2), indicating oxidative stress. However, Groups 3 and 4 showed significant increases in SOD levels (p < 0.05) compared to Group 2. These findings suggest that C. japonica root extract has potential as a novel anti-snake venom agent.

Heavy metal pollution indices are used to rate aquatic systems, which are useful tools for determining the trace and heavy metal content of water. This study was conducted to evaluate the pollution state of Bakolori Dam in Zamfara State. The water was collected from each of the four study sites using 750 ml plastic bottles. Standard operating protocols of the WHO and UNEP were used for determination of the water samples. The findings indicated that there was a significant amount of iron (Fe), with global mean concentrations exceeding the WHO limit. While within acceptable limit’s area zink, copper and cadmium. The order of the trace heavy metals' total mean concentrations in mg/l was Fe (12.46 mg/l), Zn (0.39 mg/l), Cu (0.19 mg/l), and Cd (0.03 mg/l). Monthly Pollution Index of the Dam was; Metal Pollution Index reached maximum value in December (MPI= 199.17) and its lowest value in June (MPI=3.99). The Trace Metal Pollution Index (TPI) status indicated that April and June had the highest and lowest values obtained, respectively, at TPI=39.47 and TPI=0.35. In comparison to the wet season (18.54 and 6.54, respectively), the dry season had the highest MPI value (85.43) and the greatest TPI value (12.57). Therefore, it is essential to frequently monitor the dam to make sure the water is suitable for drinking and agricultural practices.

Tannery effluent is a wastewater containing complex toxic chemical compounds affecting the environment and the exposed organisms. This study is aimed to evaluate the physicochemical parameters and microbial composition of soil contaminated by tannery effluents.The results showed that the contaminated soil recorded highest levels of chromium and ammonia in site C, which ranges from a minimum of 0.40mg/g to a maximum of 0.43mg/g and lowest concentration of 0.60 to a maximum of 0.70mg/g respectively.Similarly, sulphide ranges from 0.40 mg/g concentration to 0.44mg/g in the same site. The recorded values exceeded the tolerable levels of <0.1, 0.2 and 0.2 mg/g for chromium, ammonia and sulphide respectively, set by Federal Ministry of Environment. Additionally, the results revealed variety of bacteria inhabiting the contaminated soil, such as Bacillus cereus, Bacillus subtilis, Proteus mirabilis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Escherichia coli, Serratia marcensces, and Streptococcus pyogenes. Moreover, the fungal species analysed in the contaminated soil includes Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus fumigatus, Penicillium notatum, Mucor pusillus and Fusarium sporotrichioides. High counts of bacteria and fungi were recorded in the soil contaminated with tannery effluent. The viable soil microbialcounts were found in the range of 7.90±1.60 – 8.00±0.70 ×105cfu/g and 1.50±0.10 – 1.2±0.20 × 104cfu/g for the bacteria and fungi, respectively.The presence of these chemical substances and microorganisms in the contaminated soil samples poses a potential threat to environmental sustainability. Future research should focus on sustainable waste disposal solutions and evaluate the long-term ecological impacts of tannery-related pollution.

Dystocia in queens may arise from maternal or fetal causes, with most parturition completed within a few hours. A 4-year-old queen weighing 3 kg was presented to Gwale Veterinary Hospital, Kano, Kano State, after delivering two kittens and continuing to strain unsuccessfully for several hours. Clinical examination, revealed normal vital parameters and abdominal palpation confirmed the presence of another fetus within the uterus. An emergency caesarean section was performed, resulting in delivery of viable kitten. However, the ventral abdominal wall of the fetus failed to fuse, exposing the abdominal contents and the heart, displacing the organs from their normal anatomical position, which led to a congenital abnormality called ventral abdominal wall defect/Gastroschisis. The kitten died 35 minutes postpartum. This case highlight the rarity of gastroschisis as a cause of dystocia in feline species and underscores the importance of antenatal monitoring and timely obstetrical intervention to improve neonatal outcomes.

Medicinal plants are extensively used in traditional medicine globally, necessitating thorough safety evaluations to ensure therapeutic benefits outweigh risks. Ficus platyphylla, a West African medicinal plant, is traditionally used for various ailments including insomnia, epilepsy, and inflammation. However, its safety profile requires scientific validation.This study aimed to investigate the acute toxicity and median lethal dose (LD50) of the methanol leaf extract of Ficus platyphylla in Wistar rats and to assess its phytochemical composition, effects on organ weight, and hepatic enzyme activities. The methanol leaf extract was orally administered to Wistar rats in two phases using Lorke’s method: phase one doses of 10, 100, and 1000 mg/kg, and phase two doses of 1500, 3000, and 5000 mg/kg. Animals were monitored for behavioral changes, toxicity signs, and mortality over 24 hours and 14 days. Qualitative phytochemical screening was conducted. Organ weights and serum activities of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) were measured.Phytochemical analysis revealed alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, phenols, steroids, cardiac glycosides, and terpenoids. No mortality occurred at any dose, although transient toxicity signs including shivering, hair loss, and dizziness appeared at 5000 mg/kg. There were no significant changes (p > 0.05) in body weight, relative organ weights, or serum ALT and AST activities between treated and control groups, indicating low hepatotoxic potential. The oral LD₅₀ was estimated to exceed 5000 mg/kg. Ficus platyphylla methanol leaf extract demonstrated a high margin of acute safety in Wistar rats, supporting its ethnomedicinal use. The absence of significant toxicity and liver enzyme elevation suggests minimal risk under short-term exposure. Further sub-chronic and chronic toxicity studies are recommended for comprehensive safety evaluation.

Wastewater discharged from rice processing mills increasingly poses environmental and health risks. They distort water quality and increase biological activity. This study assessed the physicochemical characteristics, mineral elements and heavy metal composition of wastewater from two rice processing mills (EX: effluent wastewater from factory X and EY: effluent wastewater from factory Y) and drinking water sources around the effluent discharge sites (DWX: Drinking water from water sources around factory X and DWY: Drinking water from water sources around factory Y) in Birnin Kebbi metropolis. The outcomes indicated significantly elevated levels (p<0.05) of electrical conductivity (EC) and total dissolved solids (TDS) of effluent wastewater in comparison to drinking water. The highest EC was observed in EX (3932.00±538.54 S/m), this was followed by the EC of EY (2545.60±90.23 S/m). The ECs of drinking water from the effluents discharge sites were 294.20±18.42 S/m and 85.60±6.84 S/m for DWX and DWY respectively. The TDS of EX and EY (1962.20±268.77mg/L and 1268.80±40.29mg/L) were comparatively higher than that of their corresponding drinking water samples; DWX and DWY (146.40±9.15mg/L and 43.00 ±3.08mg/L respectively). The pH and temperature of the tested samples indicated no significant difference (p>0.05). The pH ranged from 5.81 to 7.86, while temperature ranged from 26.02 to 28.20°C. Amongst mineral elements, K was highest, followed by Na and then Ca. Moderately low levels of Mg and Mn were observed in all samples. The levels of Fe and Mn in in effluent wastewater were above the WHO recommended limits of ≤ 0.3 and 0.40mg/L for Fe and Mn respectively. Except for Cr and Pb, all the analysed heavy metal were below WHO recommended limits. Rice effluent discharge was observed to distort water quality, thus reinforcement the need for stringent environmental monitoring and control.

Globally and in Nigeria, a zoonotic bacterial disease commonly seen in cattle is bovine tuberculosis (bTB), usually chronic and caused by the members of Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC), primarily Mycobacterium bovis and Mycobacterium caprae, and occasionally Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Despite its public health relevance, rapid identification of specific MTBC species responsible for bTB in cattle across Nigeria remains limited. This study aimed to determine the specific MTBC species causing bTB and assess their zoonotic implications among high-risk groups in selected Nigerian states. Surveillance and diagnostic lung tissue samples were collected from subclinical cattle in abattoirs located in Jos (Plateau State), Maiduguri (Borno State) and Jalingo (Taraba State), Nigeria. A total of 120 lung tissues were processed between April and July 2024 using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for MTBC detection. Out of the 120 samples analyzed, 52% tested positive for MTBC. Among the positive cases, 69% were from female cattle and 31% from males, with M. bovis specifically detected in 17% of the total samples. These results indicate ongoing circulation of MTBC, particularly M. bovis within the cattle population. This study confirms the continued presence and transmission of MTBC species, especially M. bovis, in cattle across the study locations, underscoring their zoonotic potential. Strengthening integrated, rapid and routine surveillance systems is recommended to enhance early detection, control transmission, and protect both animal and human health.

Carrot is grown extensive in northern Nigeria for consumption and income generation. However, carrot production in the Sudan Savanna Zone of Nigeria is curbed with low yields as a result of inappropriate fertilizer scheduling and poorplant spacing. The aim was to determine the yield of carrot to NPK rates and inter-row spacing.Based on this, two field experiments were carried out during dry seasons at the Teaching and Research Farmsof Abdullahi Fodio University of Science and Technology Aliero located at Jega. The experiment was laid out in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications. The treatments consisted of five NPK rates (0, 150, 300, 450, and 600 kg ha-1) and four inter-row spacing levels (10, 15, 20, and 25cm). Results showed that application of NPK fertilizer significantly (p>0.05) enhanced yield parameters. The highest root yield (10.42 t ha-1) was observed with the application of 600 kg NPK ha-1; coupled with 10cm inter- row spacing. The study concludes that the application of 600 kg ha-1 combined with a 10cm spacing is recommended for maximizing carrot yield in the Sudan Savanna Zone of Kebbi State, Nigeria.

The study assessed and analyzed the soils of Abdullahi Fodiyo University of Science and Technology Teaching and Research Farm, Aliero, Kebbi State, Nigeria. The study considered; soil chemical properties, map and analyze the soils of the Study Area. A preliminary survey was initiated to familiarize and select sampling locations, followed by grid survey on 50ha land at a scale of 1:25,000. Land gridding at 100m x 100m intervals apart was undertaken. Baseline was established, followed by augering along intersects for surface sampling of soils to determine boundaries based on differences in soil properties. In each soil mapping unit identified, soil profile pit was dug, described, soil sample collected and labeled from genetic horizon, from bottom up to minimize falling debris contaminants, for laboratory analysis. Each profile pit was dug to standard size; 150cm length, 100cm width and 200cm depth. The description was in accordance with international guidelines. Data set of measured parameters were subjected to descriptive statistics using mean, range and percentages. Three mapping units were identified and labeled ARF1, ARF2 and ARF3. Result from laboratory analysis revealed that soils fertility was low as indicated by low values of 0.09gkg-1, 1.26%, 0.73% 6.70mgkg-1 and 1.46cmolkg-1 representing TN, OM, OC, AP, and CEC respectively. The soils were slightly sodic and non-saline based on ESP and EC ratings. Data on soil chemical properties, would enable understanding, fertility and potential uses of soil, while assisting stakeholders, researchers, farmer and extension agents to properly manage soils of the study area.

Oxidative stress, driven by an imbalance between reactive oxygen species (ROS) and endogenous antioxidants, is a key pathological driver in numerous chronic diseases. While synthetic antioxidants exist, growing concerns over their potential toxicity and side effects have shifted global interest towards natural, plant-derived alternatives. This study investigated the in vitro antioxidant potential of the methanol stem bark extract of Acacia polyacantha (Farar Kaya). A multi-assay approach was employed to comprehensively evaluate its free radical scavenging capacity, ferric ion reduction capacity, and intrinsic vitamin content. The extract demonstrated a potent and dose-dependent ability to scavenge 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radicals, indicating strong electron-donating capabilities, with no statistical significant difference (p > 0.05) compared with the standard at the tested concentrations of 25–200 µg/mL. The ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assay also revealed a concentration-dependent efficacy with no statistically significant difference between the extract and the standard. Quantitative analysis revealed remarkably high concentrations of key antioxidant vitamins, including vitamin A (0.19 ± 0.11 mg/g), vitamin C (32.41 ± 2.12 mg/g), and vitamin E (0.46 ± 0.01 mg/g). These findings collectively suggest that A. polyacantha stem bark is a rich source ofantioxidants, functioning through direct radical neutralization, metal ion reduction, and the provision of essential micronutrients.

Dystocia poses a considerable obstacle to successful reproduction in small ruminants, frequently leading to significant lamb mortality and diminished productivity. This report details the clinical intervention for a case of difficult birth caused by improper foetal positioning in a 3.5-year-old Uda ewe from Sokoto, Nigeria. During the second stage of labor, a physical examination revealed that the foetus had failed to extend its limbs correctly. The veterinary team successfully performed a manual repositioning (per-vagina mutation), followed by controlled traction, which resulted in the delivery of triplet lambs. The ewe received postpartum care, including uterine irrigation with an antiseptic solution, while the lambs’ umbilical cords were disinfected. Both the ewe and lambs were given a tetanus shot. To combat neonatal hypothermia and boost survival odds, the newborn lambs were provided with warm shelter and supplemental colostrum. The successful outcome of this case highlights the critical importance of a prompt diagnosis, effective obstetrical techniques, and comprehensive care for both the dam and lambs.

Pleurotus ostreatus is an edible mushroom valued for its nutritional richness and therapeutic potential, largely attributed to its diverse phytochemical constituents. This study aimed to characterize the` phytochemical makeup and proximate composition of P. ostreatus using qualitative and quantitative assays together with gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Ethanolic extracts of oven-dried mushroom samples were subjected to standard phytochemical and proximate assays, while GC–MS analysis was applied to detect and characterize the bioactive constituents. The extract tested positive for alkaloids, tannins, saponins, terpenoids, cardiac glycosides, steroids, reducing sugars, flavonoids, and phenols, with saponins occurring in the highest concentration (52.50 mg/100 g). Proximate analysis revealed high levels of protein (31.15 %) and crude fiber (37.02 %), alongside low fat content (0.097 %), indicating substantial nutritional value. GC–MS profiling identified twenty-nine compounds, including 2(5H)-Furanone, 3-methyl-, L-arabinitol, Bromoacetic acid octadecyl ester, 9,17-Octadecadienal (Z)-, and Didodecyl phthalate, metabolites associated with antioxidant, antimicrobial, and cytoprotective properties. The findings suggest that P. ostreatus is an abundant source of bioactive and nutritionally beneficial compounds, capable of supporting human health through multiple biochemical mechanisms. The findings affirm the mushroom’s role as a functional food and natural reservoir of therapeutic agents, underscoring its potential for use in nutraceutical and pharmaceutical applications.

Sweet potatoes have become an increasing popular food source in Kebbi State due to its nutritional benefits, medicinal value, and economic importance. Fungal species plays a pivotal role in declineit production and promoting food insecurity of this tuber crop. This research is aimed for isolating and identifying fungi associated with sweet potato tubers (Ipomoea batatas Lam) using needle mount method. The pathogenicity studies revealed the incidence of three fungal species: Rhizopus oryzae, which produced the highest virulence zone (73 mm), while Aspergillus niger and Alternaria spp. each produced 13.5 mm virulence zones.The rotten tissues yielded an identical fungus with the original fungus inoculated. Isolated fungal species causes significant losses of sweet potato tubers both before and after harvest. Hence, there is a need to develop alternative disease control methods using plants that may be effective against the isolated species.

Natural bioactive compounds targeting pancreatic β-cells have gained increasing attention as potential therapeutic agents for diabetes management. Conventional antidiabetic drugs effectively control hyperglycemia but exhibit limited capacity to restore β-cell function or regeneration and are often associated with adverse effects such as weight fluctuations, hypoglycemia, and gastrointestinal discomfort. This study investigated the protective and restorative effects of hydroethanolic (HEE) and ethyl acetate (EAE) extracts of Enantia chlorantha stem bark on pancreatic damage in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic Wistar rats. Thirty-five rats were randomly assigned to seven groups (n = 5). Except for the normal control, all animals received a high-fat diet followed by STZ (35 mg/kg, i.p.) to induce diabetes. Treatments included metformin (50 mg/kg), HEE (200 and 400 mg/kg), and EAE (200 and 400 mg/kg), administered orally for 28 days. The extracts were well tolerated, with no significant effect on final body weight or pancreatic indices (p > 0.05). STZ caused mild pancreatic atrophy, whereas extract treatment restored pancreatic mass and architecture in a dose-dependent manner, comparable to metformin. Both HEE and EAE significantly reduced fasting blood glucose on Days 7 and 28, with the 400 mg/kg HEE showing the greatest ameliorative effect. Histopathological analysis confirmed attenuation of STZ-induced pancreatic degeneration. These findings indicate that E. chlorantha extracts possess β-cell–protective and regenerative potential, supporting their promise as complementary agents in diabetes management.

Agricultural productivity in the Sudan Savanna Zone of Kebbi State, northwestern Nigeria, is under considerable strain due to declining soil fertility, inadequate soil management practices, and environmental degradation. Field experiment was conducted at Birnin Kebbi Local Government Area of Kebbi State to analyze the soil productivity indices for sustainable crop production in the Sudan Savanna Zone of Kebbi State. Soil samples were collected from two soil strata. From each stratum, two composite samples were obtained; three borings were made using systematic random sampling, at the depth of 0-30 cm, 30-60cm and 60-90cm giving a total of six composite soil samples. The soil samples were analyzed in the laboratory using standard analytical techniques. Total Nitrogen (N), available Phosphorus(P), Potassium (K), pH, Moisture content (MC) and Electrical conductivity (EC) were determined and the data was analyzed using ANOVA where treatments show significant differences DMRT was used for mean separation. It was found that Soil NPK was high 30-60cm at sampling depth(1.1%, 8.0mg/kg-1, 0.6cmol/kg-1) in low land but found high at 0-30cm sampling depth (0.4% and 0.3cmol/kg-1) in upland except P which was found high (0.8mg/kg-1) in 60-90cm sampling depth. EC recorded highest mean value at 60-90cm sampling depth, while other parameters tested showed no significant differences. The research concluded that soil fertility is dynamics in Birnin Kebbi and is largely controlled by topography, drainage, and depth, underscoring the need for site-specific soil fertility management practices. Fertility management in uplands should emphasize organic matter addition and nitrogen supplementation at the surface layer to sustain crop productivity.

Despite the widespread consumption of papaya (Carica papaya) seeds for therapeutic purposes, limited research exists on their nutritional and anti-nutritional composition. This study evaluated the nutritional profile and anti-nutrient content of papaya seeds sourced from Bida, Niger State, Nigeria, focusing on their potential health benefits and safety. The AOAC recommendations were followed in the analysis of the proximate composition. AAS method was used to determine mineral content while the Phytate and oxalate were analysed using spectroscopic and titrimetric methods, respectively. Proximate analysis revealed a high carbohydrate (20.93% DW) and fibre (28.48% DW) content, indicating their role as an energy source and in cholesterol management. The seeds also contained residual moisture (5.35% DW) and ash (6.74% DW), suggesting low inorganic mineral levels. Elemental analysis identified magnesium (64.0 mg/kg) and calcium (658 mg/kg) as key minerals. Anti-nutrient assessment detected phytate (3.12 mg/100g), oxalate (7.50 mg/100g), hydrogen cyanide (0.25 mg/100g), tannins (0.1195 mg/100g), flavonoids (6.98 mg/100g), and steroids (1.08 mg/100g) at safe levels, while alkaloids (1.85 mg/100g) warranted caution. Findings suggest that papaya seeds are a nutrient-rich dietary component with therapeutic potential, though moderate consumption is advised due to alkaloid content. This study provides valuable insights for their safe utilization in food and traditional medicine.

Medicinal plants play a vital role in the treatment of illnesses. Among these plants, Pterocarpus erinaceus (African kino tree) is used as blood tonic to treat haematological problems. However, there is dearth of information on the safety of the plant, which necessitates scientific studies. This study evaluated the toxicity of the stem bark aqueous extract of P. erinaceus on albino rats (Rattus norvegicus). Fifteen rats were divided into three groups, comprising 5 rats each. Group 1 was made the control and received normal feed and water. Groups 2 and 3 received 250mg/kg bw and 500mg/kg bw of the extracts, respectively. After 28 days of administration, the liver, kidney and haematological function parameters of the rats were evaluated.The results of the liver function analysis revealed a significant increase (P<0.05) inbilirubin (0.83±0.03) and alanine transaminase (23.33±5.18) at 250mg/kg bw and 500mg/kg bw respectively compared to control (0.77±0.09 and 17.33±0.88). Furthermore, 5000mg/kg bw and 250mg/kg bw of the extract showed a significant increase (P<0.05) in kidney function parameters including serum concentration of urea (5.83±2.13) and creatinine (36.33±5.51) compared to control (3.03±0.32 and 29.3±1.15). It also showed a significant (P<0.05) reduction in the concentration of potassium (3.87±0.55) compared to control (4.27±0.27). There was a significant increase (P<0.05) in haematological parameters (white blood cells, red blood cells, platelet, hemoglobin and hematocrit) in a concentration dependent manner compared to control. It can be inferred from these results that extract of the plant boosted haematological parameters and had no toxic effects on liver and kidney function parameters.

Water is one of the most essential resources for sustaining life on Earth, playing a vital role in human survival, socioeconomic development, and the maintenance of ecosystems. This experiment was conducted during 2024 dry season with the aim of assessing the quality of surface water for irrigation along Dukku River in Kebbi State. Water samples were taken from the sampling point of the River designated as (P1, P2 and P3). From each sampling point, five samples of water were collected in clean PVC bottles. Each water sample was analyzed for pH, Electrical Conductivity (Ec), Sodium Adsorption Ratio (SAR), Calcium (Ca), Magnesium (Mg), Potassium (K). Sodium (Na), Chloride (Cl-) Ion (Fe), Boron (Br), Carbonate (CO3-) and Bicarbonate (HCO3-) using standard procedures in the Soil Science Laboratory of Abdullahi Fodio University of Science and Technology Aliero for about Two (2) weeks. Results obtained showed ranges and the overall means of pH, EC, Mg, Na, K, Ca, Fe, Bo, Cl, CO3, HCO3, SAR, for each location to be 6.72-7.22 (7.01), 2.44-3.01(2.66)mg/l, 0.12-0.19 (0.15)mg/l, 0.01(0.01)mg/l, 1.65-1.95(1.78)mg/l, 0.30-0.32(0.31)mg/l, 0.01-0.04 (0.02)mg/l, 0.03 (0.03)mg/l, 14.04-14.08 (14.06)mg/l, 27.06-27.09 (27.07)mg/l and 0.20-0.29 (0.24)mg/l, respectively. Furthermore, results obtained revealed that all the parameters analyzed were within the permissible limit of irrigation of most of agricultural crops under good management and therefore could be considered Safe for irrigation activities.