Kwaghe International Journal of Sciences and Technology
Kwaghe International Journal of Sciences and Technology aims to publish rigorous, peer-reviewed scholarship that advances natural sciences, agriculture, and technology through high-quality quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-methods research. The journal prioritizes methodological transparency, scholarly relevance, and contributions that strengthen scientific knowledge and applied innovation. • Natural Sciences: promote robust research that advances knowledge in core scientific fields and their applications. • Agricultural Development: support scholarship that strengthens agriculture, food systems, environmental sustainability, and rural productivity. • Scientific Methods: welcome research using quantitative, qualitative, or combined approaches, provided the design and analysis are clearly justified. • Technology and Application: encourage work that connects scientific findings to technological innovation, practical implementation, and real-world problem-solving. Submissions should clearly state the research problem, explain the methodological approach transparently, present defensible evidence, and demonstrate a meaningful contribution to science, technology, and/or agriculture. Scope KIJST welcomes articles in natural sciences, agriculture, and related scientific fields. The journal accepts research employing surveys, experiments, content analysis, observation, interviews, focus groups, documentary analysis, and other acceptable approaches, provided the analytic logic is rigorous and clearly reported. • Natural Sciences: physics, biology, chemistry, and related scientific disciplines. • Agriculture: soil science, animal husbandry, crop protection, fisheries, and allied agricultural studies. • Life and Environmental Sciences: ecology, environmental science, biological systems, and applied natural-science research. • Technology and Applied Science: scientific and technological studies with clear practical, industrial, environmental, or agricultural relevance. • Interdisciplinary Research: studies bridging science, agriculture, and technology to address complex societal, environmental, or development-related issues. Priority is given to original research articles that contribute clearly to the body of knowledge, demonstrate appropriate methodological rigor, and offer implications for scientific advancement, agricultural improvement, or technological application.
Articles
109 Documents
<![CDATA[Efficacy of Selected Biopesticides as Protectants Against Dermestes maculatus on Smoked Clarias gariepinus and Oreochromis niloticus in Wukari Metropolis, Taraba State ]]>
<![CDATA[Alase N.]]>;
<![CDATA[Okrikata E.]]>;
<![CDATA[Tidi J. A.]]>
<![CDATA[ Kwaghe International Journal of Sciences and Technology Vol 3 No 2 (2026): Kwaghe International Journal of Sciences and Technology ]]>
Publisher : <![CDATA[Darul Yasin Al Sys ]]>
Show Abstract
|
Download Original
|
Original Source
|
Check in Google Scholar
|
DOI: 10.58578/kijst.v3i2.9478
<![CDATA[Fish is an affordable source of animal protein and is increasingly utilized to address nutritional deficiencies in tropical regions; however, post-harvest losses caused by insect infestation remain a major challenge to its preservation and utilization. This study aimed to assess the repellent effects of selected biopesticides against adult D. maculatus on smoked fish and to determine their effects on weight loss in smoked fish infested with the pest. Three newly emerged adult insects were introduced into transparent containers containing fish samples admixed with powders of C. annuum, P. guajava leaves, and C. papaya leaves at concentrations of 5.0 g, 7.0 g, and 10 g per 15 ± 5 g of fish. The results showed that the highest mean percentage repellency of adult D. maculatus on smoked catfish was recorded with 10 g of C. annuum powder, yielding 99.92 ± 0.00%, whereas the lowest mean percentage repellency was observed with 5 g of C. papaya powder, with a value of 0.08 ± 0.00%. Overall, C. annuum powder at all tested concentrations demonstrated the greatest repellent effect, while C. papaya showed the lowest repellency among the three plant treatments. The findings further indicated that, for most observation periods, increasing the concentration of plant treatment tended to reduce weight loss in tilapia, although this pattern was not entirely consistent; conversely, weight loss generally increased with longer storage duration at each treatment concentration. The study concludes that the tested biopesticides have potential as alternatives to synthetic pesticides for the control of Dermestes maculatus infestation in smoked fish, with C. annuum showing the greatest promise for enhancing protection and reducing post-harvest losses.]]>
<![CDATA[Extraction and Characterization of Dye Extract from Bridelia ferruginea ]]>
<![CDATA[Joshua Yakubu]]>;
<![CDATA[Andema Aaron Kanadi]]>;
<![CDATA[Bifam Mathias]]>;
<![CDATA[Peter Michael Dass]]>
<![CDATA[ Kwaghe International Journal of Sciences and Technology Vol 3 No 2 (2026): Kwaghe International Journal of Sciences and Technology ]]>
Publisher : <![CDATA[Darul Yasin Al Sys ]]>
Show Abstract
|
Download Original
|
Original Source
|
Check in Google Scholar
|
DOI: 10.58578/kijst.v3i2.10007
<![CDATA[Natural dyes have attracted increasing attention as sustainable alternatives to synthetic colorants, particularly because of their potential functional and bioactive properties. This study aimed to extract and characterize a natural dye from the stem of Bridelia ferruginea and evaluate its physicochemical, phytochemical, antimicrobial, thermal, morphological, and spectroscopic properties. The dye was extracted using the Soxhlet method, yielding 32%. The physical characterization showed that the extract was maroon in color, had a pH of 5.10, a melting range of 200–210°C, a density of 1.20, partial solubility in water, and complete solubility in methanol. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of alkaloids, glycosides, flavonoids, terpenoids, saponins, tannins, and steroids, while phenols and anthraquinones were absent. The dye extract also inhibited the growth of selected bacterial and fungal organisms. Instrumental characterization was conducted using FTIR, UV–Visible spectroscopy, SEM, TGA, and GC–MS. FTIR analysis indicated the presence of O–H stretching, C–H stretching, C=C stretching, C–H bending, and C–O stretching vibrations. UV–Visible spectroscopy showed distinct absorption peaks, with the most prominent peak observed at 304 nm and an absorbance value of 2.4889. SEM analysis revealed compact, fused, and crystalline-like structures, while TGA indicated three stages of thermal stability: initial weight loss between 30 and 150°C, major weight loss between 250 and 450°C, and residual mass above 500°C. GC–MS analysis identified 18 compounds with their respective retention times and intensities; maltose showed the highest intensity at 2.50, whereas propanoic acid and tetral gyvcol showed lower intensities of 0.20. The study concludes that B. ferruginea stem extract possesses promising dye characteristics, bioactive constituents, antimicrobial potential, and measurable thermal stability. These findings contribute to the development of plant-based natural dyes for sustainable material and bioresource applications.]]>
<![CDATA[Field Evaluation of Biological Control Measures against Bacterial Soft Rot (Pectobacterium carotovorum) on Tomato in Taraba State, Nigeria ]]>
<![CDATA[Yakubu Umaru]]>;
<![CDATA[Bilkoya Adamu Tunwari]]>;
<![CDATA[Benjamin Luka]]>
<![CDATA[ Kwaghe International Journal of Sciences and Technology Vol 3 No 2 (2026): Kwaghe International Journal of Sciences and Technology ]]>
Publisher : <![CDATA[Darul Yasin Al Sys ]]>
Show Abstract
|
Download Original
|
Original Source
|
Check in Google Scholar
|
DOI: 10.58578/kijst.v3i2.10009
<![CDATA[Bacterial soft rot caused by Pectobacterium carotovorum is one of the most destructive diseases affecting tomato production worldwide, creating a need for sustainable and effective management strategies under field conditions. This study evaluated the effectiveness of selected biological control agents and botanical extracts in managing bacterial soft rot of tomato in Wukari, Taraba State, Nigeria. The experiment was conducted using a randomized complete block design with three replications. The treatments consisted of neem extract, garlic extract, Bacillus subtilis, Trichoderma harzianum, Mancozeb, and an untreated control. Data were collected on disease incidence, disease severity, plant growth parameters, including plant height and number of leaves, and yield parameters, including number of fruits per plant, fruit weight, and total yield. The data were analyzed using analysis of variance, and treatment means were separated using Duncan’s multiple range test at the 5% probability level. The results showed that all treatments significantly reduced disease incidence and severity compared with the untreated control. The lowest disease incidence and severity were recorded in plots treated with B. subtilis and T. harzianum, which also significantly improved plant growth and yield parameters. The highest fruit yield, 19.8 t ha⁻¹, was obtained from plots treated with B. subtilis, whereas the untreated control recorded the lowest yield, 12.4 t ha⁻¹. The study concludes that biological control agents, particularly B. subtilis and T. harzianum, are effective in suppressing bacterial soft rot and improving tomato productivity. These findings contribute to sustainable tomato disease management by highlighting the potential of biological control agents as environmentally compatible alternatives for reducing disease pressure and enhancing yield under field conditions.]]>
<![CDATA[Assessment of Cow Dung on Nutrient Uptake, Soil Physicochemical Properties, Growth and Yield of Okra in Jalingo, Taraba State, Nigeria ]]>
<![CDATA[Clement Alex Onwu]]>;
<![CDATA[Danladi Emmanuel]]>;
<![CDATA[Lanki Dairus Amadu]]>
<![CDATA[ Kwaghe International Journal of Sciences and Technology Vol 3 No 2 (2026): Kwaghe International Journal of Sciences and Technology ]]>
Publisher : <![CDATA[Darul Yasin Al Sys ]]>
Show Abstract
|
Download Original
|
Original Source
|
Check in Google Scholar
|
DOI: 10.58578/kijst.v3i2.10010
<![CDATA[Declining soil fertility remains a major constraint to sustainable agricultural production in the Guinea Savannah zone of Nigeria, necessitating the evaluation of organic amendments that can improve soil quality and crop productivity. This study evaluated the effects of cow dung application on nutrient uptake, soil physicochemical properties, growth, and yield of okra in Jalingo, Taraba State, Nigeria. A field experiment was conducted during the 2022 cropping season using a randomized complete block design with three replications. Five treatments were applied: control at 0 t ha⁻¹ and cow dung at 15, 20, 25, and 30 t ha⁻¹. Okra leaves were sampled for nutrient uptake at 50% flowering, while soil samples were collected at a depth of 0–30 cm before planting and after harvest for the analysis of particle size distribution, pH, organic carbon, total nitrogen, available phosphorus, exchangeable bases, and cation exchange capacity. The findings showed that cow dung significantly enhanced nutrient uptake, with the 30 t ha⁻¹ treatment recording the highest values for nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium uptake. Soil analysis further indicated that higher cow dung rates, particularly 25–30 t ha⁻¹, significantly improved soil pH, organic carbon, available phosphorus, exchangeable bases, and cation exchange capacity compared with the control treatment. Significant differences were also observed in plant height, pod length, pod width, and pod weight across cow dung application rates. The highest pod yield of 8.65 t ha⁻¹ was recorded under the 30 t ha⁻¹ treatment, which was statistically similar to the 25 t ha⁻¹ treatment, with 8.28 t ha⁻¹. The study concludes that cow dung application at 25–30 t ha⁻¹ is more effective in improving soil fertility, nutrient uptake, okra growth, and yield under the conditions of the study area. These findings contribute to sustainable soil fertility management by supporting the use of cow dung as an organic amendment for enhancing okra production in the Guinea Savannah zone of Nigeria.]]>
<![CDATA[Optimization of the Dyeing Conditions of Natural Dye from African Locust Bean (Parkia biglobosa) Pod on Cotton Fabrics ]]>
<![CDATA[Andama Aaron Kanadi]]>;
<![CDATA[Joshua Yakubu]]>;
<![CDATA[James Yakubu]]>;
<![CDATA[Abdulkadir Junior Bilyamin]]>;
<![CDATA[Akinterinwa Ayo]]>;
<![CDATA[Peter Micheal Dass]]>
<![CDATA[ Kwaghe International Journal of Sciences and Technology Vol 3 No 2 (2026): Kwaghe International Journal of Sciences and Technology ]]>
Publisher : <![CDATA[Darul Yasin Al Sys ]]>
Show Abstract
|
Download Original
|
Original Source
|
Check in Google Scholar
|
DOI: 10.58578/kijst.v3i2.10011
<![CDATA[This study examines the dyeing performance, color fastness, surface morphology, and antimicrobial properties of cotton fabrics dyed with natural dye extract, both with and without mordant treatment. The dye extract was applied to treated and untreated cotton fabrics, while CuSO₄, FeSO₄, and KAl(SO₄)₂ were used as mordants to produce different color shades. The optimum dyeing conditions for treated and untreated cotton fabrics were identified at dye concentrations of 2% and 1.5%, temperatures of 90°C and 80°C, and dyeing times of 60 and 50 minutes, respectively. Color fastness to washing and sunlight was evaluated, and the surface morphology of dyed and undyed fabrics was investigated using SEM. The dyed cotton fabrics demonstrated good color fastness, with ratings ranging from 3 to 5 under washing and sunlight exposure. Antimicrobial analysis showed that all dyed fabrics, with and without mordants, produced no inhibition zone against the bacteria Bacillus subtilis and Salmonella typhi, with values of 0.00 ± 0.00. However, the dyed fabrics exhibited varying inhibition zones against the fungus Penicillium notatum. Treated cotton dyed with copper sulphate mordant showed the highest inhibition zone of 1.1 ± 0.00 mm, whereas untreated cotton dyed with potassium aluminium sulphate mordant showed the lowest inhibition zone of 0.4 ± 0.00 mm. The study concludes that mordant-assisted dyeing can improve shade variation and maintain acceptable color fastness in cotton fabrics, while the antifungal activity of the dyed fabrics suggests potential functional value for naturally dyed textile applications.]]>
<![CDATA[Monitoring Carbonation Levels in Beverage Production Using X-Bar/R-Charts and Tabular CUSUM: A Statistical Process Control Study at Seven-Up Bottling Company, Kaduna, Nigeria ]]>
<![CDATA[Chinedu Samuel Onyedika]]>
<![CDATA[ Kwaghe International Journal of Sciences and Technology Vol 3 No 2 (2026): Kwaghe International Journal of Sciences and Technology ]]>
Publisher : <![CDATA[Darul Yasin Al Sys ]]>
Show Abstract
|
Download Original
|
Original Source
|
Check in Google Scholar
|
DOI: 10.58578/kijst.v3i2.11203
<![CDATA[Carbonation is a defining sensory attribute of carbonated soft drinks and a critical determinant of product quality because carbon dioxide (CO₂) volume directly influences taste, perceived freshness, mouthfeel, and consumer acceptability. Deviations from specified carbonation levels can result in under-carbonated beverages that taste flat and stale or over-carbonated products characterized by excessive foaming, premature cap ejection, and potential bottle-integrity failures. Maintaining consistent CO₂ volume is particularly challenging in high-capacity bottling operations such as Seven-Up Bottling Company, Kaduna, which produces up to 800,000 bottles daily across multiple product types and bottle sizes. Carbonation levels may fluctuate because of variations in beverage temperature, syrup concentration, filling pressure, and machine calibration across production shifts. This study aims to evaluate the statistical stability of the carbonation process and distinguish common-cause variation from assignable-cause variation in CO₂ volume. A dataset comprising 30 production subgroups, generated through the facility’s 30-minute gas-volume monitoring procedure, was analyzed using Statistical Process Control techniques. The X-bar and R-chart combination was applied to assess process central tendency and dispersion, while the Cumulative Sum chart was used to detect small and persistent shifts that might not be readily identified through conventional control charts. The combined application of these methods provides a systematic framework for identifying abnormal carbonation patterns, supporting timely corrective action, and strengthening process-control decisions. This study contributes the first documented Statistical Process Control analysis of carbonation quality at the Kaduna facility and offers a practical basis for improving product consistency, reducing quality failures, and enhancing consumer acceptability in large-scale beverage production.]]>
<![CDATA[Gastrointestinal Parasites in Children and Dogs (Canis lupus familiaris) in Agbarho, Delta State, Nigeria: Prevalence, Intensity, and Seasonal Distribution ]]>
<![CDATA[Yvonne O Okuma]]>;
<![CDATA[Patrick O. G. Nmorsi]]>
<![CDATA[ Kwaghe International Journal of Sciences and Technology Vol 3 No 3 (2026): Kwaghe International Journal of Sciences and Technology ]]>
Publisher : <![CDATA[Darul Yasin Al Sys ]]>
Show Abstract
|
Download Original
|
Original Source
|
Check in Google Scholar
|
DOI: 10.58578/kijst.v3i3.11645
<![CDATA[Intestinal parasitic infections remain a major public health challenge in resource-limited settings, particularly in communities where humans and domestic animals share environments that facilitate parasite transmission. This study aimed to determine the prevalence, infection intensity, and seasonal distribution of intestinal parasites among children and dogs in Ughelli North Local Government Area, Delta State, Nigeria. A cross-sectional design was employed, involving the examination of 200 stool samples from children and 186 fecal samples from dogs using standard parasitological techniques. Among children, 226 parasite infections were recorded because of co-infections, with Ascaris lumbricoides being the most prevalent species (57.9%), followed by Entamoeba coli (24.7%), Entamoeba histolytica (9.7%), Trichuris trichiura (7.0%), and Giardia duodenalis (0.4%). Among dogs, 357 parasite detections were recorded, predominantly comprising Trichuris vulpis (74.7%), Toxocara canis (59.6%), and Ancylostoma caninum (57.5%). Infection intensity was highest for A. lumbricoides in children (22.56 ± 20.23 eggs per gram [EPG]) and T. canis in dogs (38.02 ± 29.25 EPG). Parasite prevalence was higher during the wet season, with transmission peaking between July and August. However, statistical analyses revealed no significant associations among the parasite species examined (p > .05). These findings demonstrate a substantial burden of intestinal parasitic infections, indicating extensive environmental contamination and potential zoonotic overlap between children and dogs. Integrated control measures combining mass deworming, improved sanitation, health education, and coordinated One Health interventions are therefore essential to reduce transmission and the associated disease burden.]]>
<![CDATA[Toxicological and Biosafety Evaluation of Polyherbal Tea Formulation ]]>
<![CDATA[Uwaya OD]]>;
<![CDATA[Ehichioya S]]>
<![CDATA[ Kwaghe International Journal of Sciences and Technology Vol 3 No 3 (2026): Kwaghe International Journal of Sciences and Technology ]]>
Publisher : <![CDATA[Darul Yasin Al Sys ]]>
Show Abstract
|
Download Original
|
Original Source
|
Check in Google Scholar
|
DOI: 10.58578/kijst.v3i3.11646
<![CDATA[The safety evaluation of herbal formulations is essential for establishing their suitability for therapeutic development and use. This study assessed the acute and subacute toxicity profiles of a polyherbal tea formulated from Ageratum conyzoides, Azanza garckeana, Anthocleista djalonensis, Allium sativum, and Zingiber officinale. Acute toxicity was evaluated in mice using a modified Lorke’s method, whereas subacute toxicity was assessed in albino rats administered the formulation at doses of 0.25, 0.5, and 1.0 g/kg according to a standard protocol. No mortality occurred at 10 g/kg; therefore, the median lethal dose could not be determined. The formulation significantly increased body weight at all tested doses compared with the control group (p < .05). It reduced the spleen-to-body weight ratio (p < .05) but produced no significant changes in the relative weights of the heart, liver, kidneys, or lungs (p > .05). At 0.5 g/kg, haemoglobin concentration and platelet count decreased significantly (p < .05), whereas the remaining haematological parameters were unchanged. Alkaline phosphatase, creatinine, urea, total cholesterol, and triglyceride levels decreased significantly at all tested doses (p < .05). Aspartate aminotransferase and albumin levels decreased at 0.5 g/kg, while alanine aminotransferase decreased at 0.25 and 0.5 g/kg (p < .05); all other biochemical parameters remained stable. Histopathological examination revealed normal architecture of the kidneys, heart, lungs, and spleen, although hepatic steatosis was observed. Overall, the formulation demonstrated a high acute tolerance and limited subacute alterations at the tested doses. However, the reductions in haemoglobin and platelet counts and the presence of hepatic steatosis indicate that its biosafety profile should be interpreted cautiously. These findings provide preliminary evidence for the toxicological characterisation of the polyherbal tea and support further dose-dependent and long-term safety investigations.]]>
<![CDATA[Thermal, Structural and Flammability Characteristics of Polypropylene Composites Reinforced with Untreated Canarium schweinfurthii Nut-Shell Particles ]]>
<![CDATA[Ago Mikyitsabu Atoshi]]>;
<![CDATA[Garindo Boro]]>;
<![CDATA[Martha Jimwan]]>;
<![CDATA[Fildan Selbyen Comfort]]>
<![CDATA[ Kwaghe International Journal of Sciences and Technology Vol 3 No 3 (2026): Kwaghe International Journal of Sciences and Technology ]]>
Publisher : <![CDATA[Darul Yasin Al Sys ]]>
Show Abstract
|
Download Original
|
Original Source
|
Check in Google Scholar
|
DOI: 10.58578/kijst.v3i3.11829
<![CDATA[The increasing demand for sustainable materials has intensified interest in converting agricultural residues into functional fillers for polymer composites. This study investigated the thermal, structural, and flammability characteristics of polypropylene (PP) composites containing untreated Canarium schweinfurthii nut-shell (CFN) particles. The particles were processed to a size of 45 µm and incorporated into PP at loadings of 0, 10, 15, 20, 25, and 30 wt.% using solvent casting. The resulting composites were characterized through density measurement, flame-propagation testing, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Composite density increased progressively with CFN loading. However, flame-propagation rates also increased at higher loadings, a response consistent with the combustible lignocellulosic composition of the particles and the generation of volatile degradation products. FTIR spectra displayed the characteristic functional groups of both PP and CFN, while the absence of new absorption bands indicated that filler–matrix interactions were predominantly physical. DSC revealed thermal events associated with moisture removal, PP crystallization, and degradation of the lignocellulosic constituents, demonstrating that CFN incorporation modified the matrix’s thermal response. XRD analysis confirmed that the characteristic α-crystalline structure of PP was retained after particle incorporation, although the degree of crystallinity varied with filler loading. These findings demonstrate that untreated C. schweinfurthii nut-shell particles can function as sustainable biofillers in PP composites for nonstructural applications. The study further establishes how CFN loading influences composite density, thermal behavior, crystallinity, and flame propagation, although the increased flammability at higher loadings should be considered in subsequent material development.]]>
