bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing the challenges of viability of borehole through the extraction of lineaments from aeromagnetic data within a hostel at Air Force Institute of Technology, Kaduna, Nigeria
Authors: Bello YA , Abdulhakeem AJ , Yakubu MB
Published: July 2024

The study area has received little attention from scholars due to being within a military facility. The Institute is relatively young, thus undergoing development including but not limited to providing portable water supply. However, boreholes are the primary source of water supply. Four of the nine boreholes sunk within the hostel failed and there’s no published work looking into the potential reason for the failure. The aeromagnetic data of the study area were subjected to an edge-detecting technique, the second vertical derivative, to reveal lineaments within the study area. The lineaments represent structures like faults, fractures, and other features that could act as secondary porosity in the aquifer. Moreover, the Euler depth technique was also applied to determine the possible depth of the lineament. A NE trending lineament was mapped around the boreholes within the hostel. The depth of the lineaments around boreholes is about 300 m deep suggesting the area may not be viable for sinking a borehole, the cost of drilling to that depth will be huge.
Bacteriological profile of bacterial isolates from the hands and nasal swabs of food vendors in University of Benin, Nigeria
Authors: Aziegbemhin A.S. , Dunkwu-Okafor A.
Published: July 2024

This research was undertaken to investigate the bacteriological profile of bacterial isolates from the hands and nasal swabs of food vendors at the University of Benin, Benin City, Edo State. A total of 20 different samples were randomly collected from ten (10) different food vendors at the University of Benin Food Court, Benin City, Nigeria. Swab samples were inoculated using streak plate and incubated at 24 hours at 37oC. The samples were sub-cultured after 24 hours and identified based on cultural characteristics, morphology and biochemical tests. The bacteria isolated include Staphylococcus epidermidis, Staphylococcus aureus, and Bacillus cereus from nasal swab samples while Staphylococcus epidermidis and Staphylococcus aureus were isolated from hand swab samples. The frequency of occurrence of the bacteria recovered from hand was Staphylococcus epidermidis 7(70%), Staphylococcus aureus 3(30%) while Staphylococcus aureus 5(50%), Staphylococcus epidermidis 2(20%) and Bacillus cereus 3(30%) were recovered from nasal swab respectively. The antibiotic susceptibility and resistance pattern exhibited by the recovered isolates from the nasal swab showed that 10(100%) of all the isolates were susceptible to Pefloxacin, Ciprofloxacin, Streptomycin and Co-trimoxazole(septrin) respectively while 0(0%) of the recovered isolates were resistant to Cefuroxime respectively whereas the recovered Staphylococcus epidermidis from the hand swab had 5 (71.4%) which were susceptible to Gentamycin, 3(42.9%) which were susceptible to Ampiclox, 2(28.6%) which were susceptible to Rocephin, and 5(57.1%) were susceptible to Erythromycin. Consequently, it is suggested that the food vendors should adhere strictly to good hygiene practices and health practices in line with regulatory standards.
From waste to wealth: investigating the economic contributions of primary waste scavengers in Yola North Urban Area, Nigeria
Authors: Yusuf Farouk Idi , Ismail Hafiz
Published: July 2024

Poor waste management and extreme poverty are twin challenges that threaten most of the cities of Nigeria including Yola north urban area, presenting waste scavengers as an alternative for solutions. This research paper explores the economic contributions of primary waste scavengers (i.e waste pickers) in Urban Yola North, highlighting their significant contribution in turning waste into money. The paper focuses on how scavenging helps to build a more sustainable urban environment by producing cash, employment, and raw materials for the recycling sector. Drawing on a sample of 205 waste scavengers through surveys and interview, the findings reveal that majority (88.73%) derive economic benefits from their work; in addition to 1.95% presented environmental motivations. More than half of the respondents (54.15%) report a monthly income between N11,000 and N20,000, with smaller proportions earning higher incomes. These findings offer valuable insights into the economic contributions of waste scavengers in Urban Yola North. This research expands our understanding of waste-to-wealth initiatives in similar urban settings, laying the groundwork for broader discussions and strategies to enhance the well-being and livelihoods of waste scavengers, ultimately contributing to sustainable livelihoods in urban centres. The study recommends provision of social security such as social assistance programs and other interventions to reduce their social exclusion, and employer and employee rights should be maintained by law, between the waste pickers and their masters (middlemen) in order to reduce extortion in the industry. Formalization of the occupation will also be considered to improve the nature of their operation and ensure their safety.
Effects of plant derived salicylic acid on growth and development of moringa budworm larva, Noorda moringae (Lepidoptera: Crambidae)
Authors: Audi A. H. , Adejo E. E.
Published: July 2024

The experimental trials were carried out to evaluate the impact of plant-derived salicylic acid (SA) treatment on the development of moringa budworm. The SA obtained from plant sources were form into three different concentrations (5mg/l, 10mg/l, and 20mg/l) by serial dilution. Moringa plants were treated by spraying with varying doses of SA hormones at week intervals. The treated plants were blocked in screened cages in a completely randomized blocked pattern. Five pairs of freshly emerged Noorda moringae were maintained in the various blocks for mating and oviposition, after which all adult insects were removed thereafter. The treated moringa plants exhibited different responses to budworm development. There was a significant (P<0.001) effect among hormone concentrations and spray regimes, with 20mg/l salicylic acid (SA) showing greater influence on various developmental stages of larval N. moringae compared to lower concentrations (10 & 5mg/l SA) and the control (Distilled H2O). The higher levels of SA at median spray regime (2 weeks after spray) hindered larval development more, as evidenced by low growth rate (RGR) and Larval Fitness Indices (LFI) respectively. Phytochemical analysis of the extracts revealed notable concentrations of 9-octadecanoic acid methyl ester, Methyl tetradecanoate, Methyl 4-hydroxy butanoate, and Hexadecanoic acid methyl ester, which displayed toxic effects on the developing larvae.
Phytostimulatory Effects of Moringa oleifera leaf extract on the growth and chlorophyll composition of Amaranthus hybridus using phytopriming and foliar spraying techniques
Authors: Keshinro O. M , Sharaibi O. J. , Oluwa O. K. , Giwa A. O. , Mohammed O. E.
Published: July 2024

The consistent dependence of agriculturalist on inorganic fertilizer not only continues to pose an environmental threat, but also remains unsafe for human consumption. In this study, Moringa oleifera leaf extract (MLE) was used as a plant growth stimulator for Amaranthus hybridus, using two different application techniques (priming and foliar spraying). The treatments used for the experiment were 10%, 20%, and 30% MLE solutions, and 10%, 20%, and 30% mg/L gibberellic acid (GA3) solutions, and distilled water. Viable seeds of A. hybridus were primed with MLE treatments and sown in 21 different polythene bags filled with top soils. Similarly, seeds of A. hybridus were sown in another 21 polythene bags and sprayed foliarly every two days for four weeks. All the 42 bags were arranged in a Completely Randomized Design at the screened house of the Botanical Garden, Lagos State University. The results from the growth analysis showed that although 20% GA3 had the highest value of 14.37 cm for shoot height (p<0.05), 30% MLE was the closest among the MLE treatments with 9.12 cm. While there was no significant difference across the samples for stem girth and number of leaves (p>0.05), there was a standout performer for chlorophylls. 30% MLE recorded the highest values of 9.33 mg/100g, 4.67 mg/100g, 14.00 mg/100g for Chlorophyll a, b, and total chlorophyll, and all with significant differences. Interestingly, all the best performing treatments were from A. hybridus plants cultivated using the foliar spraying techniques, thereby making it a better application technique than the phytopriming. Generally, the 30% MLE displayed the best potential in the stimulation of growth and enhancement of chlorophyll contents of A. hybridus which could be of great value to those in the agriculture, food and pharmaceutical industries.
Synthesis and characterization of silica nanoparticles from sorghum straw (Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench) and the evaluation of its effect on seed germination of Beta vulgaris (Beetroot)
Authors: Umoru Patricia Ese , Maimuna Abdullahi , Akoji Jibrin Noah , Salihu Labaran
Published: July 2024

The synthesis of silica nanoparticles (Si-NPS) using the sol-gel method and characterization, as well as their impact on the germination of Beta vulgaris seeds were investigated. Si-NPs were synthesized using sorghum straw, characterized using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscopy, SEM/Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy, X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS). Assessment of the results carried out on the synthesized Si-NPs revealed the following: FTIR showed absorption bands at 790.20, 1051.10, 1636.30, and 3403.10 cm-1 indicating the presence of Si-H, Si-O-Si, Si-O and Si-OH respectively. XRD analysis showed that the Si-NPs had an average size of 30.46 nm. SEM analysis showed that the Si-NPs were made up of amorphous mesoporous structures. The elemental composition of the sample was found to be 65.33 % Si, 12.77 % O, 11.05 % Al, 5.23 % Fe, 3.42 % C and 2.20 % Na. The result from the germination study demonstrated that as the concentration of Si-NPs increased from (0-8 g/L), the germination rate and vigour index of seeds also increased, with 8 g/L having the highest germinated seedlings. The control which has no Si-NPs recorded the least seedling growth. The study of the germination time also showed that seeds with the highest Si-NPs concentration of 8 g/L, germinated within the least germination period (2 days) when compared with the germination period of the control. This research has shown that increase in concentration of Si-NPs have a positive effect on the germination of Beta vulgaris (Beetroot).
Response Surface Methodology on Optimization of Kinematic Viscosity of a Lubricant, Function of Temperature and Pressure
Authors: Kikelomo Bodunwa Oluwatoyin
Published: July 2024

No Abstract
Performance Evaluation of a Modified Mobile Melon Depodding Machine
Authors: Aderinlewo A.A. , Oshoneye J.O. , Adebowale O.B. , Omotainse P.O. , Oresanya B.O.
Published: July 2024

Melons, a vital crop rich in proteins and oils, are predominantly cultivated in West Africa and used extensively in local cuisines. This study  focused on the performance evaluation of a modified mobile melon depodding machine, designed to overcome the limitations of  stationary, electricity-dependent machines through enhanced mobility and a petrol engine. The machine's efficiency was assessed at various operating speeds (230, 255, 272, 287, and 310 rpm), examining metrics such as seed and pulp discharge efficiencies, depodding  efficiency, material discharge efficiency, and overall efficiency. Results revealed that seed discharge efficiency ranged between 66.50%  and 70.61%, and pulp discharge efficiency increased with speed, reaching up to 90.18%. The optimal performance was noted at 272 rpm with a depodding efficiency of 89.05% and an overall efficiency of 69.10%. These findings underscore the modified machine's capacity to  enhance melon seed extraction processes significantly, providing a robust solution for agricultural productivity in areas lacking electrical  infrastructure.
Assessing The Impact of Cryptocurrency on Nigeria’s Digital Economic Advancement
Authors: Umar Maniru Malami , Ahmad Sadiq Aliyu , Abdulazeez Abdulhakeem , Shehu Asma'u , Buhari Bello Alhaji , Bello Ziya'u
Published: July 2024

Cryptocurrency is a type of virtual money whereby transactions are conducted and validated using a decentralized system that employs  cryptography. This paper discusses the concept of cryptocurrency by highlighting some of the key features in which are decentralization  and the use of cryptography. It further discusses the concept of digital economy which is the economy that focused on digital technologies. Benefits and some drawbacks of the economy are briefly highlighted. Next, using an analysis of the National Digital  Economy Policy and Strategy (2020–2030), the article discusses Nigeria's digital economy. Eight pillars were defined under the policy to  hasten the growth of the Nigerian digital economy. The consequences of cryptocurrencies on Nigeria's move toward a digital economy  were finally examined in the study.
Assessment of Catastrophic Health Expenditure Incurred by Hypertensive Patients Attending a SemiUrban Tertiary Hospital in South-South Nigeria
Authors: Igben Fredrick Aigbe , Gold Oyibo Patrick , Iru Ntaji Maureen , Opeyemi Adesoye Oluwaseun
Published: July 2024

The cost of managing hypertension poses a huge financial burden on individuals and households, especially those paying out-of-pocket.  This has a significant consequence on patients' compliance with management, and many have been thrown into huge financial crisis as a  result of the catastrophic expenditure resulting from the management of hypertension. This study assessed the direct cost of hypertensive health care; determined the presence of catastrophic health expenditure (CHE) or otherwise and its associates/predictors  (when present) among hypertensive patients accessing care in a semiurban tertiary hospital in South-South Nigeria, using a cross- sectional study design. Three hundred and twenty respondents were selected using a systematic random sampling technique. Data on sociodemographic indices, monthly cost of accessing hypertensive care, cost of living and sundry matters were collected using a pre- tested interviewer-administered questionnaire and analyzed using IBM® SPSS version 23. The mean age of respondents was 54.8 years (±  16.5), and 43.4% was at least 60 years old. The majority Of the respondents (55.9%), were females. The average monthly cost of managing hypertension was ₦36,814; with the highest amount spent on laboratory investigations and drugs. Nine out of ten respondents  were exposed to CHE. Patients’ educational status and presence of co-morbidities were associated with CHE. However  being self-employed was the only predictor of CHE, with self-employed respondents having 5 times more odds of CHE than the  unemployed. The study showed that the vast majority of hypertensives paying out-of -pocket suffer a substantial financial burden and are  exposed to financial catastrophe. Governments at all levels need to formulate polices that will lead to increase in the access to  affordable and timely quality health care for hypertensive patients in order to reduce the huge financial burden currently incurred by  them.
Tramadol Causes Weight, Nissl Substance, and Astrocytic Changes in the Hippocampal Formation's Structures
Authors: Ekpo Ubong Udeme , Ikpa James Onah , Onimisi Bethel Onyinoyi , Ochai Joy , Gbenga Oderinde Peter
Published: July 2024

Tramadol hydrochloride is a centrally acting synthetic opioid which is used to treat moderate to moderately severe pain and is reported  to have neurotoxic potential. Therefore, this study investigated the effects of tramadol on weight, Nissl bodies and astrocytic changes in  the structures of the hippocampal formation. 2ml/kg of distilled water was given to the control group and 50mg/kg tramadol to group 2  orally for 21 days. The weight of the rats was taken before and after the experiment. The rats were euthanized, brains harvested and  weighed. The harvested brains were fixed in 10% formol saline, and processed routinely, stained with Cresyl fast violet (CFV) for  demonstration of Nissl substance and glial fibriliary acidic protein (GFAP) for demonstration of astrocytes expression. CFV stain revealed  a reduced staining intensity of these regions with pathological changes in the tramadoltreated group. GFAP showed numerous reactive  astrocyte processes; overlapping and interdigitation of astrocyte processes; astrocyte proliferation; astrocyte cell body hypertrophy and  thickening of astrocyte processes. This study's findings revealed changes in weight, Nissl bodies and hippocampal formation  histopathology.
Genetic Variability and Evaluation of Cowpea [Vigna Unguiculata L.) Genotypes for Resistance to Cowpea Aphid Borne Mosaic Virus
Authors: Nuraddeen M. , Babura S.R.
Published: July 2024

Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L. Walp) is one of the most important leguminous crop to mankind because of its use as food, soil cover and  Nitrogen fixation. Despite this, viral diseases have been reported to be a major biotic constrain against cowpea production and can lead  to total crop failure (100% yield loss). Field studies were conducted using 44 cowpea varieties laid down in Randomized Completely Block  Design (RCBD) with three replications. There was a significant difference P ≤ 0.05 for disease incidence among cowpea genotype in both  locations and for both seasons except for incidence in Minjibir 2021. IT17-1157-3-2 recorded the least disease incidence (7.33), while  IT18KD-391 recorded the highest disease incidence (32.08). In total, six genotypes showed resistant response, twenty showed tolerant and the remaining eighteen genotypes showed susceptible response. In terms of location, BUK 2022 recorded the highest disease  incidence (34.30%) while Minjibir 2021 had the least incidence (1.33%). The results of genetic variability indicated that there was a  considerable variability response to cowpea aphid borne mosaic virus (CABMV) which to a larger extent is influenced by the environment,  as evidenced by the higher environmental variance (EV), environmental coefficient of variation (ECV), and lower heritability  values.
Phytochemical and Mosquito Repellent activities of Citrus sinensis, Citrus reticulate and Citrus limon Leaves
Authors: Yakasai B.D. , Yunusa A.Y. , Fatima M.I. , Sani A. , Salisu A. , Aminu M.A. , Namadina M.M. , Maryam S.I.
Published: July 2024

Given their primary role as the cause of numerous vector-borne illnesses, mosquitoes constitute a major contributor to Nigeria's disease  burden. In an effort to slow the disease's spread, a variety of techniques are currently being employed to manage the vector. Plants are  considered as a rich source of phytochemical and they may be an alternative source of mosquito control agents in mosquito control program due to their excellent larvicidal and adulticidal properties. The study was aimed to evaluate the phytochemical and repellent  activities of Citrus sinensis, Citrus reticulate and Citrus limon leaves. The extracts were subjected to phytochemical screening in order to  identify the phytochemical constituents of the plant species using standard methods. The extracts were evaluated for its repellent activities against female Anopheles using the human – bait technique. The results of phytochemical screening showed the presence of  alkaloids, phenols, flavonoids, tannins and carbohydrate. Concentrations of plant extracts (2.0, 3.0 and 4.0 mg/mL) used exhibited  repellent activity against female Anopheles mosquitoes which indicates that the methanol extract of Citrus reticulate was more effective  in exhibiting a repellency action against the mosquito tested when compared to the control. The result showed that the selected plant  extracts had repellent activity against Anopheles mosquitoes tested with different complete protection time (CPT) when compared with  the control. The percentage repellency of Citrus sinensis (36%), Citrus reticulate (20%) and Citrus limon (35%) It has also showed low  biting activity compare to control with highest biting deterrence recorded for the selected concentrations.
A Study on Unsteady Magneto-Hydrodynamics (Mhd) Free Convective Flow Past a Vertical Oscillating Plate Through a Porous Medium in the Presence of Heat Source
Authors: Dakin-Gari Sufiyanu Muhammad , Sarki M.N. , Gari A.U. Dakin , Yale I.D.
Published: July 2024

This study investigate time dependent MHD natural convective flow past a vertical oscillating plate through a porous medium in the  presence of heat source. The governing differential equations of the flow characteristics are solved numerically by using the implicit finite  difference scheme. The results obtained for the velocity, temperature and concentration were analysed. The effects of different  physical parameters appear on the present situation such as Prandtl number (Pr), Schmidt number (Sc), thermal Grashof number (Gr),  mass Grashof number (Gc), radiation (R), magnetic field (M), Time (t) and Heat source (Q) were presented graphically and discussed in  detail. It is observed that the fluid velocity significantly increases as the value of Grashof number (Gr), mass Grashof number (Gc),  Permeability parameter (K) and Time (t) increased, while the opposite phenomenon is noticed for growing values of magnetic field  parameter (M), Prandtl number (Pr), radiation parameter (R), Schmidt number (Sc) respectively.
Effects of Zinc supplementation on male reproductive function in night shift work model of chronic sleep deprivation
Authors: Muhammad Shihabuddeen , Salisu Ahmed Ibrahim , Tanko Yusuf
Published: July 2024

Modernization and industrialization have changed human lifestyle with night shift work (NSW) becoming necessary part of regular  working hours. NSW is invariably associated with sleep deprivation (SD). Coincidentally, there is remarkable decline in fertility rates in  these modern societies, which is believed to be due to lifestyle modifications. NSW model of SD, was therefore created to study its effects on male reproductive functions and role of concomitant Zinc supplementation on those effects. Twenty four (24) male Wistar rats (aged  12- 14 weeks) were equally divided into three groups; Control, NSW and NSWZ models. NSW and NSWZ models were subjected to SD for  12 hours (07:00am – 07:00pm) using Modified Multiple Platform Method (MMPM) every day for the 56 days of the study. Each rat received  either distilled water (1ml/animal/day) for Control and NSW models, or Zinc sulphates (5mg/animal/day) for NSWZ model, by  gavage daily respectively. Testicular tissue Malondialdehyde (MDA) and Total Antioxidant Capacity (TAC), male reproductive hormones  (FSH, LH, Testosterone and Estradiol) and Sperm parameters (sperm count, morphology and motility) were evaluated and statistically  compared. Sleep deprivation in NSW model resulted in significant (p<0.05) increase in testicular tissue MDA, serum FSH and significant  (p<0.05) decrease in TAC, serum Testosterone, serum Estradiol, sperm count and percentage of sperm with active progressive motility  (APM) compared to the control. Concomitant Zinc supplementation significantly (p<0.05) increases testicular tissue TAC, serum Estradiol  and significantly (p<0.05) decreases testicular tissue MDA and serum FSH. The NSW model of Sleep deprivation negatively affects male  reproductive functions, while concomitant Zinc supplementation ameliorates some of these negative effects.
Quality evaluation of ciprofloxacin, metronidazole, albendazole tablets and amoxicillin suspension, marketed in Mwanza, Tanzania: A cross sectional study
Authors: Kimaro Emmanuel , Mafuru Tanga , Kapala James , Matinde Raphael , Hamasaki Kayo , Shedafa Raphael , Damiano Prisca , Marwa Karol Julius , Kaale Eliangiringa
Published: July 2024

In Tanzania, essential medicines like amoxicillin, ciprofloxacin, metronidazole, and albendazole face potential quality challenges due to the risk of substandard and falsified drugs in the market. This study was carried out in Mwanza town, Tanzania to assess the quality of these drugs in order to address concerns about antimicrobial resistance and public safety. For this purpose, physical parameters, assay, and dissolution tests were conducted on samples of various brands according to the USP and BP monographs. All samples met USP standards for physical parameters and assay. But one brand of amoxicillin suspension failed assay test. Ciprofloxacin met dissolution criteria, but only one albendazole sample complied. About 47.6% of samples failed the quality tests performed. These results provide vital insights into pharmaceutical quality, safety and efficacy in the study area.
Quality of commercial alcohol-based hand sanitizers marketed in Kampala, Uganda during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Okidi Oscar P Okello , Amugune Beatrice K , Ongarora Dennis S B , Thoithi Grace N , Okaru Alex O , King'ondu Obed K , Abuga Kennedy O
Published: July 2024

In the year 2020, coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) became a global public health emergency. The World Health Organization recommended wearing of masks, regular hand washing with soap or use of alcohol-based hand sanitizers to prevent human-to-human transmission of the disease. As a result, there was a rapid proliferation of hand sanitizers in the market, leading to concerns about the quality of these products. This study aimed to conduct a qualitative and quantitative evaluation of commercial alcohol-based hand sanitizers marketed in Kampala, Uganda. Commercial products (130) were sampled from five divisions of Kampala city and assessed for appearance, packaging, labelling and conformity with regulator’s mark of quality. Additionally, the pH of the samples was determined. Gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry and flame ionization detectors were used for qualitative and quantitative analysis of the alcohol-based hand sanitizers, respectively. Only 15 samples (12%) met all the specifications for appearance, packaging, labelling, and regulation characteristics assessed. Alcohol was detected in 128 samples (98%). The permitted alcohols detected in the samples were ethanol (86%), isopropyl alcohol (4%) and ethanol/isopropyl alcohol admixture (3%). However, samples containing methanol, either alone (4%) or mixed with ethanol (1.5%) were encountered. Isopropyl alcohol was found as a denaturant in only one sample contrary to the label claims in seven samples. Twenty-two samples (17%) had a different alcohol from that declared on the label. Seventy-eight samples (60%) had alcohol content within the requisite range of 60-95% v/v while forty-two had less than 60% v/v alcohol, and one contained more than 95% v/v. Sixty-seven samples did not comply with the specifications for pH. The results obtained from the study underscore the need for market surveillance of these products.
Breaking the barriers for conducting clinical trials in Africa: A need for higher commitment and collaborations
Authors: Daniel Yilma
Published: July 2024

Editorial message
Household Air Pollution Related to Housing Characteristics and Cooking Conditions in Jimma Town, Ethiopia
Authors: Elias Mulat  , Dessalegn Tamiru  , Kalkidan Hassen Abate
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND: Globally, a substantial burden of disease is attributable to environmental risk factors including indoor air pollution. Nearly half of the world's population relies on solid fuel. Almost all (98.8%) residents in Ethiopia are dependent on biomass fuel as their basic source of energy for cooking. Thus, we set out to quantify the concentration of indoor air pollutants and household exposures in different housing characteristics and cooking conditions
METHODS: A survey was conducted in 280 randomly selected households in Jimma town, Ethiopia. A real-time concentration of fine particulate matters (PM2.5, PM10) and pollutants including carbon monoxide (CO), carbon dioxide (CO2), and volatile organic compounds (VOC) were measured using Laser PM2.5 Meter-5800D/5800E and Aeroqual's TM series 500 portable air quality monitors. Data on housing characteristics, kitchen configuration, and ventilation status were collected using observation checklist.
RESULTS: The median concentrations of pollutants in all measured households were PM2.5; 294 µg/m3, PM10; 270 µg/m3, CO2; 577 mg/m3, CO; 7.9 mg/m3, and VOC; 1077 mg/m3. Households that used solid fuels had significantly higher concentration of PM2.5 (U = 53.0, p < 0.001), PM10 (U =63.0, p < 0.001),CO2 (U = 3519.50, p < 0.001), and CO (U = 3246.0, p < 0.001) than households that used clean fuel.
CONCLUSIONS: All households in this study were exposed to high concentration of indoor air pollutants that exceeded WHO’s air quality standard. Effective strategy should be put in place to reduce the emission of air pollutants and to set air quality management and improvements policy
The Relationship between Weight Bias Internalization and Quality of Life among Overweight and Obese Youths in Thailand
Authors: Suneerat Yangyuen  , Supattra Keawmuang  , Atchara Chaichan
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND: Youth with overweight and obesity are susceptible to weight bias internalization (WBI) and tend to experience impaired quality of life (QOL). However, the evidence regarding the relationship between WBI and QOL remains scarce among Thai youth. Thus, this study aimed to assess the association between WBI and QOL among Thai youth with overweight and obesity.
METHODS: A cross-sectional design was conducted with 667 university youths with overweight and obesity from northeastern Thailand selected by a multistage sampling method. A self-reported questionnaire was used for data collection. Multivariable logistic regression was applied to examine the association between WBI and QOL.
RESULTS: More than half of the youths (51.4%) were females with a mean body mass index (BMI) of 26.5 kg/m2 (SD = 2.5). More than one third (37.8%) of the participants had a high level of WBI, and 48.9% reported being dissatisfied with their body image. Our results indicate higher BMI and greater WBI, and body image dissatisfactions were strongly associated with worse QOL overall and across all domains (physical health, psychological health, social relationships, and environment) after adjusting for all covariates.
CONCLUSIONS: WBI, BMI, and body dissatisfaction play an important role in impaired QOL. Thus, the development of intervention strategies or programs should consider the reduction of these factors as a key component of care or treatment for youth with overweight and obesity to improve QOL.
Prevalence and Associated Factors of Anal Incontinence at Six Weeks after Vaginal Delivery: A Cross-sectional Study at Three Teaching Hospitals in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Authors: Kumasa Abdissa  , Eyasu Mesfin  , Kiflom Tesfaye
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND:  Anal incontinence is defined as the involuntary loss of fecal material or flatus. The reported prevalence at 6 weeks postpartum varies from 4% to 39%. It is associated with reduced quality of life, negative psychogenic effects and social stigma. This study was done to assess its prevalence at 6 weeks after vaginal delivery and identify the associated factors.
METHODS: This is a cross-sectional descriptive study. Data was collected using questionnaire adapted from International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire on Urinary Incontinence–Short Form. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 20.5.
RESULT: The prevalence of anal incontinence at 6 weeks after vaginal delivery was 8.6%. The majority of the cases, 28 (84.8%), had only flatus incontinence. Participants of age group 20-35 years had significantly lower odds of having anal incontinence compared to those above age 35 (P < 0.05). The odds of having incontinence compared to spontaneous vaginal delivery was about 5 times higher for forceps (AOR= 4.93 (95%CI:1.48, 16.44)) and vacuum (AOR= 5.53 (95%CI:1.18, 25.96)) deliveries. Second stage of labor duration of >120 minutes had more than 4 times odds of developing incontinence compared to duration of <30 minutes (AOR= 4.79 (95%CI:1.01, 22.82)). Second degree perineal tear was the most significantly associated variable compared to those without tear (AOR= 12.31 (95%CI:3.89, 39.00)).
CONCLUSION: The prevalence of anal incontinence at 6 weeks after vaginal delivery was 8.6%. Maternal age, mode of delivery, duration of second stage of labor and perineal tear were the significantly associated factors.
Effect of stocking density on the physico-chemical characteristics of pond water and survival rate of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) fish in Bahir Dar, Ethiopia
Authors: Mulugeta Haimanot , Yalew Alayu , Tilahun Gashaw , Melaku Adane
Published: July 2024

The quality of culture water is an important parameter in fish farming as it is the major factor that affects the survival, growth, reproduction and health of the culture animal. With fish stocking density, the physical and chemical characteristics of pond water changes frequently to the extent that affects the performance of the fish. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of stocking density on the physico-chemical characteristics of pond water and the survival rate of Nile tilapia. The study was conducted at the Fishery Research Center in Bahir Dar, Ethiopia, from February to August 2021. Throughout the culture period, the physical water quality parameters of each treatment were recorded twice a day and the measurements of fish growth and chemical parameters of pond water were taken every month. Data recorded during the experimental period was analyzed using Microsoft Excel and the variation between the different means was compared using the SAS software version 9.4. The result of this experiment indicated the existence of significant differences in most water quality parameters at different densities of fish stocking. There was also a difference in the survival of the experimental fishes between treatments. However, the difference in fish survival was not significant and there was no problem on the welfare of fishes. Temperature, dissolved oxygen (DO), pH, conductivity, and salinity ranged between 22.07 °C to 29.43 °C, 3 mg/L to 8.15 mg/L, 6.4 to 10.39, 178 µS/cm to 241µS/cm, and 0.035 psu to 0.12 psu respectively. Secchi depth and chlorophyll-a (Chl-a) ranged between 22 cm to 39 cm and 0.0153µg/L and 0.0513 µg/L respectively. The differences in DO, pH, conductivity, secchi depth, and chl-a between treatments were significant with stocking density (p < 0.05). The variation in the level of ammonia was highly significant (p < 0.001) between treatments and water quality deteriorated with density. However, the mean ranges of Physico-chemical water quality parameters were at the recommended range for tilapia culture and hence the survival rate of O. niloticus at different stocking densities was higher. For the sake of getting higher production per unit area, it is recommended to stock 7 fishes/m2.
Editor’s Note
Authors: Ikoro Nwakaego
Published: July 2024

No Abstract
Comparative study between phacoemulsification and small incision cataract surgery on the axial length and anterior chamber depth
Authors: Ifeanyi Okechukwu Clinton , Fortune Benjamin Obuchi , Eghosasere Iyamu
Published: July 2024

Aim: To compare the effect of phacoemulsification and small incision cataract surgery on axial length and anterior chamber depth.
Method: An observational cohort study was conducted on 90 participants (48 females and 42 males) who were scheduled to undergo  cataract surgeries at Adetula Opticals Eye Clinic, Oshodi-Isolo, Lagos State, Nigeria. The participants were divided equally into two groups  to receive phacoemulsification and small incision cataract surgeries respectively, their eyes’ axial lengths and anterior chamber depths  were measured before and after the respective surgical procedures. Unpaired T-test and Paired T-test were employed to analyze data,  with the use of the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS version 22.0).
Results: The paired T-test showed significant changes (p <  0.05) with a decrease in axial length and increased anterior chamber depth measurements before and after Phacoemulsification and  small incision cataract surgery. However, the Unpaired T-test showed no significant differences when comparing changes in axial length  and anterior chamber depth between the two surgical procedures (p > 0.05).
Conclusion: Both procedures led to increased anterior  chamber depths along with a reduction in axial lengths, nevertheless, the variations between the surgical techniques were not significant.
Vital Sign alterations within 24 hours prior to death in children with retinopathy-positive Cerebral Malaria at Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital Malawi
Authors: Chintsanya Milcent , Talham Charlotte , Zhang Bo , Taylor Terrie E. , Seydel Karl B.
Published: July 2024

BackgroundMalaria is a significant obstacle to child health and survival. Plasmodium falciparum infections, especially in children under five, lead to high morbidity and mortality. Cerebral malaria (CM) is a life-threatening complication characterized by coma, and its diagnosis can be improved by observing malarial retinopathy in children. Monitoring vital signs is essential for managing patients with CM.ObjectivesTo determine if changes in vital signs predict death in children with retinopathy positive cerebral malaria (RPCM). MethodsThis was a retrospective case-control study using data collected from children admitted to the Paediatric Research Ward at Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital in Blantyre between 1997 and 2020. Patients who died 24 hours or more after admission were matched with control patients who survived. Linear regression analyses were used to assess the differential time trends of each vital sign in the survivor group and death group. Classification models were used to quantify various vital signs’ predictive power of death.Results Among the population that died, the estimated change in average respiratory rate per hour approaching death was 0.02 breaths per minute compared to -0.25 breaths per minute among those who survive (p < 0.001), and the estimated change in average BCS per hour approaching death was -0.01 compared to 0.06 among the survivors (p < 0.001). Changes in temperature and heart rate were not associated with clinical deterioration. Three models were developed, and the best receiver operating characteristic curve was 100% sensitive, the corresponding false positive rate was 75%. ConclusionChanges in respiratory rate and BCS have prognostic significance in the final 24 hours before death in children with cerebral malaria. Extra attention should be paid to these two vital signs as they may help to identify children who are at increased risk of deteriorating.
Health-related quality of life and its predictors among hypertensive adults 45 years and older in rural Malawi: a population-based study
Authors: Banda Susan , Kohler Iliana V. , Kohler Hans-Peter , Chichlowska Susan C.
Published: July 2024

Background Hypertension is associated with impaired Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQOL), but its assessment is rarely done in the management of hypertension in Malawi. This study aimed to evaluate the HRQOL of hypertensive adults compared to normotensive individuals and suggest possible predictors of HRQOL in hypertensive adults in rural Malawi. MethodsThis was a cross-sectional study utilizing data from the 2017 Mature Adults Cohort of the Malawi Longitudinal Study for Families and Health (MLSFH-MAC). The study included 1489 adults aged 45 and above from Rumphi, Mchinji, and Balaka districts. HRQOL was measured using the Short Form 12-item (SF-12) questionnaire. Univariable logistic regression, followed by multivariable logistic regression, was used to identify independent predictors of HRQOL in hypertensive adults. A p-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant. ResultsThe prevalence of hypertension was 44.1%. Hypertensive participants had significantly lower physical and mental HRQOL than their normotensive counterparts (p<0.05). Multiple regression analysis showed that female sex, age, presence of comorbidities, and use of antihypertensive medications were significant predictors of poor physical HRQOL. Being female was a significant predictor of poor mental HRQOL (all p-values <0.05).ConclusionIn rural Malawi, hypertensive adults presented with lower physical and mental HRQOL. Interventions aimed at improving HRQOL should focus on hypertensive adults who are female, older, on antihypertensive medications, and with comorbidities.
Factors influencing the choice of place of delivery among mothers of children less than two years in Oghara Delta State, Nigeria
Authors: Awunor Nyemike S. , Okoro Abedi H. , Olise O. , Best A. , Avbunudiogba Isaac O. , Bello Aisosa Desmond A. , Chukwuma Jerry O.
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND: Nigeria has a high maternal mortality ratio (MMR) and a high neonatal morbidity and mortality rate. These mortalities can be ameliorated if women deliver in safe healthcare facilities manned by qualified healthcare personnel.  This study assessed the factors that affect the choice of place of delivery among mothers in Oghara, Delta State, Nigeria. 
METHODS: This cross-sectional study was conducted in Oghara, Ethiope-West Local Government Area of Delta State. A total of 190 mothers, who delivered at term in the last two years were interviewed using structured questionnaires. Data analysis was done using SPSS v.24. 
RESULTS: Most of the respondents (81%) were 25 years and above; 58.4% had a tertiary level of education. Seventy-three of them attended antenatal clinics, and Sixty-three percent of them had previously delivered in a health facility. Factors that influenced the choice of delivery were the mother’s level of education (p < 0.001), the partner’s level of education (p = 0.020), monthly household income (p = 0.016), and previous place of delivery (p < 0.001). 
CONCLUSION: Two-fifths of the women were delivered at home/traditional birth attendant home, while three-fifths were delivered at a health facility. The choice of place of delivery was influenced by the level of education of the women, the educational level of their partners, monthly household income, and previous delivery sites. It is recommended that the education of women, and further strengthening of the Delta State free maternal health care program to encourage delivery at the health facility, and the reduction of maternal mortality is imperative.
Prevalence and forms of violence against healthcare workers in the emergency department of a teaching hospital in Nigeria
Authors: Isara A. R. , Akpososo M. W. , Aigbovbiosa D. O.
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND: The incidence of workplace violence (WPV) is peculiar to both developing and developed countries, with more workers at risk in developing countries, especially in sub- Saharan Africa, due to poorly developed work environment. The objective of this study was to assess the prevalence and forms of violence against healthcare workers (HCWs) in the Emergency Department (ED) of the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), Benin City, Nigeria. 
METHODS: A cross-sectional study of all the 282 healthcare workers in the ED of the hospital. A standardized, interviewer-administered questionnaire was used for data collection. Data was analyzed using IBM SPSS version 25.0. Descriptive statistics were presented as frequencies and proportions. 
RESULTS: The mean age of the HCWs was 36.1 ± 8.4 years, comprised of doctors 53 (18.8%), nurses 50 (17.7%), paramedics 36 (12.7%), porters 29 (10.3%), and laboratory scientist 19 (6.7%), among others. The prevalence of physical violence was 63 (22.3%) while that of psychological violence was 247 (87.6%). The predominant forms of violence were verbal abuse (99.5%), kicking (96.8%), slapping (60.3%), bullying (45.3%), threat (40.4%), and sexual harassment (32.4%). The perpetrators were mainly patient relatives, 93.6% and 96.7% for physical and psychological violence, respectively. The majority experienced post-traumatic stress disorder, and loss of job satisfaction following the violence. 
CONCLUSION: This study showed a high prevalence of WPV among the healthcare workers. There is an urgent need for intervention programmes to be initiated to curb the menace of violence against healthcare workers. A surveillance system to monitor the mental health status of victims of WPV should be instituted.
Impact of educational interventions on knowledge, attitude, practice toward pharmacovigilance and adverse drug reaction reporting among healthcare professionals at the University Teaching Hospital, Rwanda
Authors: Uwambajimana Gashumba O. , Munyaneza E. , Twahirwa S. , Nzamukosha A. , Musengamana V. , Ryamukuru D.
Published: July 2024

INTRODUCTION: Pharmacovigilance (PV) is crucial in healthcare for detecting, understanding, and preventing adverse drug reactions (ADRs). Despite its significance, there persists underreporting of ADRs due to gaps in knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) among healthcare professionals (HCPs), leading to global impacts on patient safety and healthcare costs. This study aimed to enhance the KAP regarding PV and ADR reporting among HCPs at the University Teaching Hospital of Kigali (CHUK), Rwanda. The study's focus was on implementing an educational intervention (EI) to address these gaps and assess its impact on HCPs' confidence in ADR monitoring and reporting, alongside the actual number of reported drug adverse events in the hospital post-EI. 
METHODS: A quasi-experimental study was conducted at CHUK, Rwanda, using a one-group pretest-posttest design. The study involved 217 HCPs, assessing their KAP on PV and ADR reporting before and after an EI. A self-administered questionnaire and data on reported ADRs were used for the evaluation of the EI. 
RESULTS: The EI significantly enhanced HCPs' KAP regarding PV and ADR reporting. The proportion of participants understanding the purpose of PV increased from 61.9% to 78.8% (p=0.001), while awareness of the national PV in Rwanda surged from 38.1% to 96.6% (p<0.001). Attitudes among HCPs notably improved, particularly in identifying events as serious, escalating from 59.8% to 79.5% (p < 0.001). The observed improvement in practice was solely in the availability of ADR reporting forms, rising from 58.7% to 82.2% (p < 0.001). However, no significant changes were observed in certain KAP aspects. Participants exhibited increased confidence in monitoring and reporting ADRs post-intervention. Furthermore, a significant increase in reported drug adverse events to the quality assurance office was observed (p<0.001). 
CONCLUSION: The study underscores the effectiveness of EI in enhancing HCPs' KAP concerning PV and ADR reporting. While improvements were evident, sustaining education initiatives remain critical for optimal ADR reporting and patient safety.
Error Analysis in Multibeam Hydrographic Survey System
Authors: Devote Basil Daniel
Published: July 2024

Hydrographic surveying involves the integration of a depth-measuring sonar (Sound navigation and ranging) with a positioning system or Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS); a motion sensor or Inertia Measuring Unit (IMU); and an azimuth sensor (gyroscope). The various sensors acquire data in terms of their respective reference frame and time. The challenge lies in integrating the various sensor frames and time, and in transforming the vessel frame coordinate system into a terrestrial reference frame. The integration of the various sensor frames and time is necessary to minimize systematic errors in the bathymetric data that result from latency, and calibration uncertainty. The focus of this research is to model the systematic bias associated with the integration of the various sensor reference frames. In so doing, the quality of the acquired data is enhanced, and error budgeting and uncertainty prediction can be effectively carried out during the preparation, acquisition, and processing stages of the bathymetric exercise. As such, the required project specification and hydrographic standards, as defined by the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO), are met.