Asian Journal of Physical and Chemical Sciences

Multiphysics Modeling and Optimization of Laser Therapy for Superficial Tumors: A Review Using COMSOL Multiphysics

Hana Gaber Mohamed Abdelrahman — 2026-02-21

Laser-induced thermal therapy has emerged as a promising minimally invasive strategy for the treatment of superficial tumors, offering spatially controlled energy delivery and reduced damage to surrounding healthy tissue. However, treatment efficacy depends critically on precise control of laser parameters, tissue optical properties, and bioheat transfer mechanisms. Computational multiphysics modeling has therefore become an essential tool for understanding laser–tissue interactions and optimizing therapeutic protocols prior to clinical application.

This review provides a structured synthesis of current research on the optimization of laser treatment for superficial tumors using multiphysics simulation frameworks, with particular emphasis on COMSOL Multiphysics® as a widely adopted finite-element modeling platform. The review analyzes the fundamental physical processes governing laser therapy, including optical absorption and scattering, heat transfer in perfused biological tissues, and thermally induced cellular damage. Established modeling approaches such as the Pennes bioheat equation, Beer–Lambert light attenuation, and Arrhenius damage kinetics are critically examined in relation to treatment planning, temperature prediction, and thermal dose control.

Recent advances including nanoparticle-assisted photothermal therapy, image-guided laser ablation, and real-time thermal monitoring are also evaluated to demonstrate how computational modeling improves prediction of temperature distributions, enhances fluence control, and supports safer treatment margins. By integrating optical, thermal, and physiological processes within a unified simulation environment, multiphysics models enable improved treatment selectivity and reduced collateral tissue injury.

Overall, this review highlights the central role of computational modeling in advancing precision laser therapy, identifies current limitations in model-based treatment planning, and outlines future research directions for improving clinical translation.

Spatial Assessment of Physicochemical and Microbiological Water Quality in Laligan River, Valencia City, Bukidnon, Philippines

Louize Gabriel C. Reyes — 2026-01-05

Rivers are one of the most vital freshwater resources on Earth, but human activities often cause degradation, emphasizing the need for water quality monitoring. To capture maximum environmental variability, water samples were collected from three strategically mapped sites along the Laligan River using standardized preservation and transport protocols. The analysis was compared against the Department of Environment and Natural Resources Class C water standards. Physicochemical results were mixed. Parameters like Total Dissolved Solids (188.41 mg/L), Turbidity (0.78 NTU), pH (7.76), and Total Alkalinity (98.11 mg/L) were compliant. However, two parameters exceeded the limit: Nitrate (8.81 mg/L average, limit 7 mg/L) and the toxic heavy metal Cadmium (0.006 mg/L average, limit 0.005 mg/L), with both peaking midstream. Most critically, the average Dissolved Oxygen (DO) was 4.48 mg/L, falling below the 5.0 mg/L minimum standard, decrease sharply midstream and downstream due to likely organic pollution. The microbiological quality showed severe contamination. Fecal Coliforms (FC) were already non-compliant upstream at 4,000 MPN/100 mL (limit 400 MPN/100 mL). This concentration dramatically escalated to 17,000 MPN/100 mL midstream and downstream, exceeding the standard by over 42 times and indicating a massive influx of domestic or animal waste. Total Coliforms (TC) mirrored this trend, soaring from a compliant 3,000 MPN/100 mL upstream to 15,000 MPN/100 mL mid- and downstream. While basic parameters are stable, the combination of low DO, elevated Nitrate and Cadmium, and overwhelmingly high Fecal Coliform counts renders the river unsuitable for Class C uses and poses a grave public health risk.

Computation of Zagreb Vector Index and Total Eccentricity in the Physical Properties of Linear Alkanes

Narendra V H — 2026-01-07

The structural complexity of organic molecules strongly influences their physicochemical properties. This study investigates the relationship between two graph-theoretical descriptors, the Zagreb Vector Index and Total Eccentricity, and selected physical properties of linear alkanes. Molecular graphs are used to compute these indices, which capture structural information based on vertex degrees and graph distances. Regression analysis performed in the R programming environment demonstrates the effectiveness of these topological indices as predictive tools for estimating alkane properties, highlighting their relevance in mathematical chemistry and molecular property prediction.

Assessment of Some Heavy Metals Level in Farmland along OPM- Aluu Dumpsite in Ikwerre LGA, Rivers State, Nigeria

Onwuka Maduabuchi — 2026-01-09

The assessment of some heavy metal levels in farmland along OPM –ALUU dumpsite near Port-Harcourt was carried out using soil auger and an Atomic Absorption spectrophotometer (AAS). The samples collected from site Allu 1 and Aluu 2 representing farmland near the dumpsite and control soil, respectively. The results obtained showed lead (Pb) 97.5mg/kg, Arsenic (As) 29.5mg/kg, cadmium (Cd) 0.82mg/kg, Copper (Cu) 37.2mg/kg, Zinc (Zu) 64.8mg/kg, Chromium (Cr) 108.5mg/kg, Manganese (Mn) 58.3mg/kg and Nickel (Ni) 31.0mg/kg. These results are all higher than the world Health organization (WHO) limits, apart from Nickel (Ni) that is lower than the limit. Similarly, all the results were found to be higher above the control soil, apart from cadmium (Cd) and Nickel (Ni), which were not detected. Base on these results, we conclude that the site is polluted with heavy metals, and should be abandoned for farming activities. Similarly, people already farming in this area should be discouraged and made to go for routine medical exercise to ascertain the level of heavy metals in their body system. Finally, further studies using other analytical equipment, such as chromatographic techniques, should be used apart from Atomic Absorption spectrophotometer, to authenticate our report.

Assessment of Groundwater Quality and Potential Non-carcinogenic Health Risk Around Epie Creek, Yenagoa, Nigeria

John Ebikienmo P. — 2026-01-14

Groundwater is the primary source of domestic water supply in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, yet increasing urbanisation and poor sanitation practices raise concerns about its quality and potential health implications, particularly around surface water bodies such as Epie Creek. This study assessed groundwater quality and evaluated non-carcinogenic human health risks associated with borehole water consumption around Epie Creek, Yenagoa. Groundwater samples were collected from 15 boreholes distributed across creek-side, residential, and peri-urban zones using a triplicate sampling design. In situ parameters, including temperature, pH, electrical conductivity, total dissolved solids, and turbidity, were measured using calibrated portable meters. Major ions were analysed using titrimetric and flame photometric methods, while heavy metals (Fe, Mn, Pb, Cd, Cr, Ni, and Zn) were quantified using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry after acid digestion. Non-carcinogenic health risks were assessed for adults and children using estimated daily intake, hazard quotient, and hazard index models. Groundwater was slightly acidic, with pH values ranging from 5.2 to 6.8. Electrical conductivity varied between 148 and 612 µS/cm, and turbidity reached up to 12.4 NTU in some boreholes. Iron concentrations ranged from 0.18 to 1.24 mg/L, exceeding recommended limits in most samples. Lead (0.002–0.031 mg/L) and cadmium (<0.001–0.006 mg/L) exceeded guideline values in several locations, particularly near Epie Creek. Hazard quotient values for children reached 0.91 for lead and 0.70 for cadmium, while the cumulative hazard index exceeded unity for children (HI = 2.82), indicating potential non-carcinogenic health risk. Groundwater around Epie Creek shows signs of metal contamination and potential non-carcinogenic health risks, especially for children. Continuous monitoring, improved sanitation, and appropriate household water treatment are necessary to safeguard public health.

A Comprehensive Study on the Chemical Composition of Essential Oil from Commiphora Myrrha Resin via Steam Distillation Method

Abdullahi Yusuf Mohamed — 2026-01-14

The essential oil of commiphora myrrha resin, commonly referred to as myrrha, has been utilized for centuries in a variety of traditional medicinal and fragrant applications. Myrrha has been an essential component in cultural practices, from religious ceremonies to therapeutic treatments for conditions such as inflammation, pain, and infections. this study investigates the chemical composition of steam-distilled essential oil derived from commiphora myrrha resin sourced from Somalia, the essential oil was extracted using steam distillation method, which is widely regarded for preserving the aromatic and therapeutic qualities of plant material. The chemical profile of the essential oil was analyzed using GC-MS, a highly effective technique for identifying and quantifying volatile compounds, the analysis revealed a complex composition dominated by terpenes and sesquiterpenes, with (alpha)α-pinene (24.54%), L-terpinen-4-ol (13.21%), and beta-ocimene (11.80%) identified as the major constituents. These compounds are known for their various bioactive properties, such as antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory, which contribute to the medicinal potential of the oil, in addition to the chemical composition, the physical properties of the essential oil were assessed. the steam distillation process resulted in a golden -yellow oil, which is typical for C. myrrha essential oil, the density and refractive index of the oil were found to be 0.8791 g per cm³and 1.481-1.485, respectively, as measured using a pycnometer and refractometer, these physical characteristics are important for determining the quality and purity of the oil, as well as its suitability for various industrial applications, including cosmetics and aromatherapy. overall, the results of this study provide a comprehensive understanding of the chemical and physical properties of commiphora myrrha essential oil, contributing to its potential for a wide range of applications in natural medicine and wellness.

pH as a Key Indicator of Water Quality: A Case Study on Natural and Industrial Water Sources in Malwa Region of Punjab, India

Nimisha Singh — 2026-01-28

pH is a critical factor that affects physicochemical processes in aquatic systems, especially in areas influenced by intensive agriculture and industrial activities. This study aimed to examine how pH influences key physicochemical characteristics of surface and groundwater in the Malwa region of Punjab, India. Water samples were taken from natural surface water bodies and groundwater sources using a stratified sampling design. We used standard analytical procedures from APHA and BIS to measure pH, electrical conductivity (EC), total dissolved solids (TDS), hardness, alkalinity, dissolved oxygen (DO), biochemical oxygen demand (BOD₅), and chemical oxygen demand (COD).

The results show that pH values ranged from 6.2 to 8.9, with several sampling locations exceeding BIS permissible limits. TDS concentrations varied from 310 to 2,480 mg/L, hardness values ranged from 180 to 1,120 mg/L, and COD levels reached up to 410 mg/L in areas affected by industrial and agricultural activities. Groundwater showed higher mineralization and organic load compared to surface water, which reflects increased geochemical interactions under confined conditions. Significant correlations between pH and factors like alkalinity, hardness, and TDS underline the role of pH in controlling water chemistry and the movement of contaminants.

This study identifies pH as a reliable indicator of physicochemical degradation in surface and groundwater systems and provides region-specific baseline data crucial for assessing water quality and monitoring the environment in the Malwa region.

Lifetime Attributable Cancer Risk from Terrestrial Gamma Radiation near Oil Wells in Rukpokwu and Aluu Communities, Nigeria

ORLUNTA, ALOYSIUS, NDUBISI — 2026-01-31

The Excess lifetime cancer risk has been computed from background ionizing radiation in Rukpokwu and Aluu communities using the GQ Nuclear radiation Detector (Gmc-300E plus). The geographical positioning system (GPS) was used to record the geographical coordinates of the measured sample points. The Excess Lifetime Cancer Risk (ELCR) describes the potential carcinogenic effects of ionizing radiation on humans. The measured Background ionizing radiation in Rukpokwu varied from 0.009 mR/hr-0.013 mR/hr with an overall average of 0.0107±0.0014 mR/hr while that of Aluu community ranged from 0.007mR/hr-0.013mR/hr with an overall mean of 0.0107±0.0062 mR/hr. The computed annual absorbed dose ranged from 75.4nGy/hr-113.1nGy/hr with an overall average of 91.64±3.69 nGy/hr for Rukpokwu town, while the absorbed dose for Aluu town varied from 58.0 nG/hr-116.0 nG/hr with an overall average of 92.51±4.90 nG/hr. Also, the annual effective dose rate (AEDR) calculated for Rukpokwu community varied from 0.12mSv/yr-0.17mSv/yr with an overall average of 0.140±0.06mSv/yr. While, the annual effective dose rate (AEDR) calculated for Aluu town ranged from 0.09mSv/yr-0.18 mSv/yr with an overall mean of 0.142±0.08mSv/yr. The excess lifetime cancer risk computed for Rukpokwu town ranged from 0.40×10^-3-0.61×10^-3 with an overall average of (0.19±0.062) ×10^-3. Also, the calculated excess lifetime cancer risk for Aluu community varied from 0.42×10^-3-0.62×10^-3with an overall average of (0.40±0.03) ×10^-3. The measured background ionizing radiation for both Rukpokwu and Aluu communities are all lower than the safe limit of 0.013 mR/hr by the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP, 2000). These values indicate that the people within these locations may not be in danger of any health hazard arising from the exposure to background ionizing radiation Although, the computed values of the absorbed dose, annual effective dose rate, and the excess lifetime cancer risk are all slightly above the safe limits of 59.0 nGy/hr, 1.0 mSv/yr and 0.29×10^-3respectively by the International Commission on radiological Protection (ICRP, 2000). However, there is presently no reported cases of health hazards arising from exposure to background ionizing radiation from the two communities. But a routine monitoring of the sample areas is required.

Gold Electrode Modified with an Alloy of Silver Nanoparticles and Cysteine-Coated Carbon Quantum Dots for the Electrochemical Detection of Melamine

KOFFI Koffi Kra Sylvestre — 2026-02-04

This study focuses on the development of a chemical electrode sensor for detecting melamine in powdered milk. The work in this study first involved fabricating the electrochemical sensor by modifying a gold electrode with an alloy of silver nanoparticles and carbon quantum dots functionalized with L-cysteine. This new electrode was then tested using cyclic voltammetry and subsequently pulsed differential voltammetry for melamine detection. This study is part of a doctoral thesis conducted at the Doctoral School of Science, Technology and Sustainable Agriculture at Félix Houphouët-Boigny University in Abidjan, Ivory Coast. To achieve our objectives, firstly, L-cysteine functionalized carbon quantum was synthesized hydrothermally from calcined lemon peel mixed with L-cysteine (cCDs). Once obtained, silver nanoparticles were synthesized in the presence of cCDs (cCDs/AgNPs), and this nanomaterial alloy was then used to modify a gold electrode to obtain our working electrode: cCDs/AgNPs/Au. Secondly, the newly fabricated electrode was applied for the electrochemical detection of melamine, both in isolation and in samples of locally consumed powdered milk. This electrochemical activity between the new electrode and melamine is only possible in sodium sulfate solution and is optimized at a concentration of 0.1 M at pH 7.5, with a scan rate of 50 mV/s during the voltammetric cycles. Furthermore, the pulsed differential voltammetry study, conducted under optimal cyclic voltammetry conditions, demonstrated the linearity of melamine detection by this new electrode. This study, carried out on a range of melamine concentrations from 5 ng/mL to 50 ng/mL, established a limit of detection of 3.488 µg/L and a limit of quantification of 11.627 µg/L. Performance analysis revealed a recovery rate between 98% and 100% in the absence of interfering substances, and between 90% and 98% in a food matrix such as powdered milk with a soluble solids (RSD) content of less than 8%.

The cCDs/AgNPs/Au working electrode showed strong sensitivity with melamine dissolved in the different samples tested; however, further studies could help improve the selectivity of the new electrode with certain mineral salts used to enrich powdered milks.

Effect of Oral Administration of Ethyl Acetate Leaf Extract of Gliricidia sepium on Blood Glucose and Liver Function Parameters in Wistar Rats

Yale BM — 2026-02-10

Introduction: Gliricidia sepium is a multipurpose leguminous plant of considerable commercial and medicinal importance. This study was designed to evaluate the effect of oral administration of ethyl acetate leaf extract of Gliricidia sepium on blood glucose and liver function parameters in Wistar rats.

Study Design: This is a completely randomized controlled experimental study.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted at the Animal House of the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences and the Chemical Pathology Laboratory of the School of Medical Laboratory Science, Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, between May 2024 and October 2025.

Methodology: Acute oral toxicity was assessed using Lorke’s method. Nine (9) male Wistar rats were randomly divided into three groups of three rats each. In phase one, groups I, II, and III received 10, 100, and 1000 mg/kg body weight of the extract, respectively. In phase two, three rats received single oral doses of 1600, 2900, and 5000 mg/kg body weight, respectively. For the sub-chronic toxicity study, forty-eight (48) adult Wistar rats (24 males and 24 females) were randomly assigned into four groups of twelve rats each (6 males and 6 females). Group I received 1 mL of normal saline, while Groups II, III, and IV received 500, 1000, and 1500 mg/kg body weight of the extract, respectively, for 28 consecutive days. After treatment, rats were fasted overnight, anesthetized, and blood samples were collected for analysis of blood glucose and liver function parameters. The rats were dissected and liver organ was harvested for histology.

Results: The acute toxicity study revealed that the oral LD₅₀ of the extract was greater than 5000 mg/kg body weight. Sub-chronic administration of the extract did not produce any significant changes (p > 0.05) in blood glucose, AST, ALT, ALP, total protein, total bilirubin, conjugated bilirubin, or GGT levels in treated groups compared with the control group. The histopathological evaluation revealed no adverse morphological changes in the liver.

Conclusion: The findings suggest that oral administration of ethyl acetate leaf extract of Gliricidia sepium at normal therapeutic doses is relatively safe and does not induce hepatotoxicity or alter glucose metabolism in Wistar rats.

Correlation of the Eccentricity Zagreb Index with Physical Properties of Alkanes

Narendra V. H — 2026-02-12

Topological indices are mathematical tools used to establish quantitative correlations between chemical structure and physical properties or chemical reactivity. In this study, the relationship between the molecular structures of alkanes and the eccentricity of the first Zagreb index is investigated. The results indicate that this index serves as a useful descriptor for predicting the physical properties of lower alkanes.

Study of Luminescence Dependence of ZnO and SiO\(_2\):Pr\(^3\)+ Nanophosphor Concentration and Temperature

Dhaneshwari Patle — 2026-02-14

The emission peaks located at 890 and 1005 nm relate to the ¹D₂→F_2,3,4transitions, respectively. They detected these at 884 and 1060 nm when Pr3+ was added to SiO₂. The primary broad emission peak occurs at 309 nm in the UV spectral region; SiO₂ samples with Pr³⁺ concentrations of 0.05, 0.1, 0.2, and 0.5 mole% showed single exponential luminescence decay. These represent the luminescence decay curves for ZnO, SiO₂:0.2 mole% Pr³⁺ and ZnO emissions captured at room temperature. When the temperature increases from 8 K to 300 K, the lifetime of ¹D₂ decreases. The rapid decrease of the Pr³⁺ ¹D₂→³H₄ emission from SiO₂: Pr³⁺, which has a lifetime of 144 µs, indicated that both SiO₂:Pr³⁺ and ZnO exhibited similar emission characteristics from the Pr³⁺ ion, primarily featuring red emission peaks at 605 nm when excited by VUV light targeting the 4f, 5d state of the Pr³⁺ phosphors containing SiO₂ and Pr³⁺ particles. The ultraviolet spectrum from 200 to 300 nm relate to particles with diameters ranging from 2 to 10 nm. The ³H₆ and ³H₄ produce red lines at 605 and 614 nm, correspondingly.

Electrochemical Detection of 4-Dimethylaminophenol Hydrochloride (DMAP·HCl): Development of a Highly Sensitive Voltammetric Method

Pomi Bi Bossou Narcisse — 2026-02-14

4-Dimethylaminophenol hydrochloride (DMAP-HCl) is widely recognized as a potent antidote for cyanide poisoning in both animal and human subjects. However, its clinical use is occasionally limited by severe in vivo toxicity, necessitating precise monitoring and quantification. In this study, we report the development of a highly sensitive differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) method employing a gold (Au) electrode modified with silver nanoparticles supported by carbon quantum dots (AgCDs). This modification significantly enhances the electrochemical properties of the gold electrode for the redox reaction of DMAP-HCl. Carbon quantum dots (CDs) were synthesized from pineapple peel juice via a hydrothermal approach and subsequently utilized as both reducing and stabilizing agents for the synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). Characterization of the CDs and the AgCDs composite using KMnO4/H2SO4, bromothymol blue (BTB), and Tollens reagents confirmed the presence of alcohol, carboxyl, and carbonyl functional groups on their surface, which are essential for electrochemical activity. Under optimized conditions in a Na₂SO₄ electrolytic solution, the AgCDs/Au electrode demonstrated a linear detection range from 3 ng/mL to 70 ng/mL, with an exceptionally low limit of detection of 0.1 ng/mL. These results highlight the potential of the AgCDs/Au electrode as a robust and sensitive platform for the accurate quantification of DMAP-HCl, offering promising applications in both clinical and environmental monitoring.

Simulation and Construction of an Internet of Things (IOT) Based Smart Home System with Real-Time Gas Leakage Detection

Samson Dauda Yusuf — 2026-02-24

Gas leakage poses serious threats to human safety and property, as many existing detection systems are either limited to local alarms or lack real-time remote monitoring capabilities which fail to notify users who are away or provide control over connected appliances. This study presents the simulation and construction of a WiFi-monitored smart home device with real time gas leakage detection alerts. The system integrates gas sensors (MQ-5 and MQ-7), an ESP32 microcontroller, an Organic Light Emitting Diode (OLED) display, a buzzer, and IoT cloud connectivity to provide real-time detection and monitoring of hazardous gases such as methane, Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), and carbon monoxide. The hardware and software designs were developed using Proteus 8.2 Professional and Arduino Integrated Development Environment (IDE), with the ESP32 configured as a Wi-Fi Access Point hosting a local web server and dashboard. Results of simulation and hardware tests show that the system successfully detected gas leaks, displayed concentration levels, and triggered a local alarm (buzzer). This confirmed stable power performance, efficient communication, and high reliability in both simulated and practical environments. The Response times were fast (<2 seconds), validating the system’s reliability for real-time safety monitoring. The system’s user-friendly interface, low-cost design, and autonomous operation make it a viable solution for modern smart homes. Its contribution brings a new architecture that enables fully offline monitoring through a locally hosted web server, ensuring low latency and enhanced deployment flexibility which extends to improving safety standards, enabling remote monitoring, and providing a foundation for integrating predictive safety features in future IoT applications. Future studies should focus on the Integration of artificial intelligence or machine learning algorithms for predictive gas leakage detection.

Characterization of Rainfall Regimes in the Middle Belt States of Nigeria Using a 3-State Hidden Markov Model

I. O. Agada — 2026-02-25

This study applies a 3-state Hidden Markov Model (HMM) to 30 years daily rainfall data for the core seven Middle Belt states (Benue, Plateau, Niger, Kogi, Nasarawa, Kwara, FCT) in Nigeria with the aim of identifying underlying rainfall regimes. Rainfall in Nigeria exhibits considerable spatial and temporal variability, particularly across the Middle Belt states, which play a vital role in agriculture and water resources. Rainfall data was categorized into seven classes: No rain, Very Light rain, Light rain, Moderate rain, Heavy rain, Very Heavy rain and Extreme rain. The rainfall regimes are classified as Dry, Moderate and Wet using the Hidden Markov Model. The results show that Dry rainfall regime (State 1) is dominated by Classes 1 (No rain) and 2 (Very Light rain), Moderate rainfall regime (State 2) corresponds mainly to Classes 3 (Light rain) and 4 (Moderate rain) and Wet rainfall regime (State 3) is associated with Classes 5(Heavy rain), 6(Very Heavy rain), and 7 (Extreme rain). Transition probabilities (ranges from 0.89-0.96) from moderate to dry regime and wet to moderate regime is very high over Benue, Niger, Kogi, Nasarawa, Kwara and FCT. The frequency of the hidden states indicates that the dry rainfall regime predominates over most days in Benue, Niger, Nasarawa, and the Federal Capital Territory. Using the seven rainfall amount classes, the HMM was able to correctly identify three hidden states that corresponded to the Dry, Moderate, and Wet rainfall regimes. This information is crucial for describing the climate, planning agricultural projects, and managing water resources in the Middle Belt. However, the classification of rainfall into discrete classes, while useful for interpretation and modelling simplicity, may reduce sensitivity to subtle variations in rainfall intensity. Further studies should integrate additional atmospheric variables such as temperature, humidity, and wind patterns into multi-variable Hidden Markov Models to enhance understanding of rainfall-driving mechanisms in the Middle Belt. Extending the analysis to climate change projections would also help assess future shifts in rainfall regime persistence and transition behavior.

The Influence of Chemical Redox Waste and Industrial Waste on River and Groundwater Quality in Bathinda, Punjab, India

Nimisha Singh — 2026-02-25

The Malwa region of Punjab, India, is an important agricultural and industrial centre, but it is also experiencing growing environmental problems because of industrialisation and the improper disposal of waste. This research aims to investigate the impact of chemical redox waste and industrial waste on the rivers and surrounding areas of the Malwa region. Redox processes of a chemical nature involving the transfer of electrons are commonly leading to contamination of water bodies through changing their chemical constitution and causing degradation of the quality of water. Furthermore, disposal of waste from industries consisting of heavy metals, toxic chemicals, and non-treated effluent contributes to aggravating water pollution affecting local rivers like the Sutlej, Beas, and Ravi. These rivers, crucial for irrigation, potable water supply, and local ecosystems, have been subjected to heavy levels of pollution, causing harmful effects on aquatic life and human health. The study employed a random stratified sampling approach to collect water samples from surface water locations, industrial effluent discharge points, and groundwater sources in Bathinda, Punjab, India. Samples were collected during the monsoon and winter seasons in pre-conditioned HDPE containers and preserved according to standard protocols. Physicochemical and heavy metal analyses were conducted using standard methods to assess water quality and identify major pollutants. The research analyses water and soil samples from different points throughout the region to determine the magnitude of pollution, the major pollutants, and their effects on the environment. The study shows that effluents from industries, agricultural run-offs, and untreated sewage play a role in changing the redox potential of river water, influencing levels of dissolved oxygen, metal toxicity, and loss of aquatic biodiversity. The effect is worse in rivers along industrial regions, where redox-active pollutants of high concentration have been identified. Through a focus on the patterns of chemical and industrial waste discharge, the study is set to highlight the negative impacts on water resources and the larger ecological system. The results accentuate the importance of proper waste management practices, environmental regulations, and public awareness to counter the harmful impacts of industrial pollution and protect the water quality and ecological well-being of the Malwa region for the coming generations.

Effect of Calcination on the Solubility of Natural Tahoua Phosphate in Perchloric Acid and in Water

Abdoul Bari Idi Awali — 2026-02-26

The natural phosphate from Tahoua is a sedimentary phosphate containing a range of impurities. However, their presence in apatite makes phosphorus less available to plants. This work aims to enrich the natural phosphate from Tahoua to increase its solubility. In the first step, we carried out a heat treatment of the commercial phosphate from Tahoua. Calcination was performed in a kiln at 900°C for two hours. After treatment, we observed a loss of phosphate mass (from 8 g to 7.36 g). We then proceeded to chemically characterize the calcined phosphate by X-ray fluorescence spectrometry to determine the quantity of impurities removed from the phosphate's chemical composition. The results obtained were Al₂O₃ (from 4.64% to 0.485%), SiO₂ (from 3.35% to 0.05%), and P₂O₅ (from 20.6% to 30.8%). Finally, we dissolved the product obtained in perchloric acid and in water. The solubilization rates of calcined and merchant phosphate in perchloric acid and water were 58.75% and 16.30%, and 27.70% and 6.99%, respectively. Calcination of merchant phosphate significantly increased the concentration of P₂O₅ dissolved in both acid and water.

Defect Engineering in UiO-66: Correlating Structural Modifications with Phenol Adsorption Performance through Comprehensive Kinetic, Isotherm and Thermodynamic Analysis

S. E. Egga — 2026-03-04

Aquatic habitats are seriously threatened by phenolic chemicals found in industrial effluents, which calls for effective remediation techniques. This study uses thorough kinetic, isotherm, and thermodynamic analyses to examine how defect engineering affects the adsorptive performance of UiO-66 metal-organic frameworks for phenol elimination. Hydrothermal synthesis was used to create both defective and non-defective UiO-66, with EDTA acting as a modifying agent to introduce defects. FT-IR, XRD, TGA, DSC, SEM, and nitrogen physisorption were used to characterise the materials. The faulty sample showed signs of missing-linker defects, such as hierarchical porosity, uncoordinated carboxylate groups, and noticeable peak broadening. Both adsorbents achieved >95 % phenol elimination in 30 minutes, according to batch adsorption experiments that assessed the effects of concentration, dose, pH, duration, and temperature. While defective UiO-66 demonstrated enhanced uptake at pH 1 (98.7 %) and minimal dosage (97.4 % at 0.1 g), which was attributed to hierarchical porosity from missing-linker defects, non-defective UiO-66 performed better at low concentrations (96.9 % at 10 mg/L) and across a range of pH conditions because of its uniform pore architecture. Although the defective framework also fitted Elovich and intraparticle diffusion models, demonstrating site heterogeneity, the kinetic data preferred pseudo-first-order models (R^2≈1.000), suggesting physisorption dominance. Differential model preferences were revealed by isotherm analysis; non-defective UiO-66 aligned with Freundlich and Redlich-Peterson formalisms, while defective UiO-66 best fit Langmuir and Temkin. For both materials, thermodynamic characteristics verified entropy-driven, exothermic, and spontaneous adsorption. These results show that UiO-66 adsorption qualities may be strategically tuned through defect engineering, with non-defective versions performing best in quick, ambient-temperature water purification treatments and defective frameworks being best suited for high-temperature, prolonged-contact situations.

Phytochemical Analysis, Bioactivity and Cytotoxicity Study of Crinum jagus Bulb Extracts from Ogbomoso, Southwestern Nigeria

Adewusi John Adepoju — 2026-03-09

This study evaluated the phytochemical composition, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and cytotoxic activities of C. jagus bulb collected from Oja-Igbo, Ogbomoso, Southwestern Nigeria, due to the documented traditional use of C. jagus in disease management in the region and the scarcity of region-specific phytochemical and bioactivity studies compared to other geographical locations. The air-dried bulbs were successively extracted with n-hexane, ethyl acetate, and ethanol, and then subjected to phytochemical screening, antioxidant assays (DPPH and FRAC), antimicrobial activity, cytotoxicity (brine shrimp lethality assay), and GC-MS analysis. The polar extracts were found to be rich in alkaloids, phenolics, flavonoids, saponins, and glycosides, with the ethyl acetate extract being rich in phenolic compounds and having high antioxidant activity (IC₅₀ = 182.77 µg/mL). The extracts showed broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity (10-18 mm; MIC 1.56-25 µg/mL) and moderate cytotoxicity. GC-MS analysis showed the presence of various bioactive compounds such as 5-hydroxymethylfurfural, n-hexadecanoic acid, linoleic acid, and β-bisabolene. These results confirm the ethnomedicinal significance of C. jagus and its potential as a region-specific source of bioactive compounds for antioxidant, antimicrobial, and future drug discovery purposes.

Phytochemical Analysis and Antimicrobial Activities of Successive Extracts of Diodia scandens Aerial Parts Collected from Ogbomoso, Nigeria

Adewusi John Adepoju — 2026-03-14

Diodia scandens is known to be used in traditional medicine; however, the antimicrobial activity is not well studied. The present study aimed to evaluate the phytoconstituents and antimicrobial activity of the successive solvent extracts of the aerial parts of D. scandens. Dried and powdered aerial parts were used for successive maceration with n-hexane, ethyl acetate, and ethanol solvents. Phytoconstituents were analyzed both qualitatively and quantitatively, while the antimicrobial activity was tested against the pathogens Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Candida albicans, and Aspergillus niger. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and MMC were also tested for the extracts. Phytoconstituents identified in the extracts included alkaloids, tannins, flavonoids, and coumarins. The ethyl acetate extract showed the highest antimicrobial potency, with a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 3.125 mg/mL against S. aureus and 1.56 mg/mL against C. albicans. In contrast, the ethanol extract showed limited antimicrobial activity (MIC > 50 mg/mL). These findings suggest that the ethyl acetate extract of D. scandens exhibits broad-spectrum antimicrobial potential. Further research is needed to isolate and characterize the bioactive compounds responsible for these effects, which could contribute to the development of new therapeutic agents.