bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Analysis of the determinants of savings among cassava processors in Imo State
Authors: Igwe L.U. , Igwe K.C. , Ibeagwa O.B. , Anyiam K.H. , Enoch O.C. 
Published: August 2024

This study analyzed the factors that determine savings of cassava processors in Imo State. 180 cassava processors were randomly selected from the 6 Local Government Areas of Imo State to constitute the sample size. Data were collected through the administration of structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistics and multiple linear regression analysis were used in the analysis of data. The results showed that 75% of the cassava processors were females, a relatively large proportion (38.9%) of the processors were within the age range of 41-50years with a mean age of 43years and a mean processing experience of 8years. 51.67% of the cassava processors saved using thrift (akawo), 33.89% of these processors saved between N20,000 and N40,000 and this percentage saved on a weekly basis. 53.33% of the processors processed their tubers into garri, 37.5% of the garri processors earned between N100,000-N150,000 monthly. The garri processing enterprise was seen to have an average propensity to save of 33.4%. Multiple linear regression analysis showed that total income from both processing and nonprocessing activity, marital status, household size, processing experience, interest, and membership of cooperative were significant in determining savings. It is therefore recommended that low interest loan should be given to the processors of cassava products to enable them expand their enterprises and thus enhance their income and savings. Also, local saving platforms should be developed so as to make it more responsive to modern day financial activities.
A PANDEMIA DE COVID-19: COMO CONTINUAR ‘FAZENDO’ SAÚDE DA FAMÍLIA? CONTEXTUALIZANDO O CENÁRIO
Authors: Bozola Amanda da Silva , Mottin Juliana Veiga , Seima Marcia Daniele , Faria Maria Fernanda 
Published: August 2024

Trata-se de estudo de campo exploratório quantitativo, cujo objetivo principal é analisar o impacto da pandemia de SARS-Cov-2 na Estratégia de Saúde da Família. A pesquisa foi realizada em um município de grande porte na região metropolitana da capital paranaense, contemplando Unidades Básicas de Saúde – não rurais, que mantiveram os atendimentos de Estratégia de Saúde da Família durante o período que compreende pandemia. Ao todo, foram elencados oito estabelecimentos do território de forma aleatória. Para a coleta de dados, foi utilizado um formulário próprio produzido no Google forms, desenvolvido exclusivamente para esta pesquisa, contendo sete (7) perguntas fechadas e uma (1) pergunta aberta. Os dados foram analisados no programa excell. A pesquisa transcorreu entre os dias 13 a 27 de agosto de 2021 e atingiu 75 profissionais dos oito estabelecimentos de saúde participantes. Do questionário emergiu oito eixos diferentes: qualificação dos atendimentos, qualificação do vínculo, qualificação da longitudinalidade, atendimentos a doentes crônicos, atendimentos a gestantes, atendimento a crianças menores de 2 anos, visitas domiciliares e perspectivas de futuro.
Health Risk Assessment of Lead and Cadmium in Roadside Roasted Corn from Selected Areas of Bwari Local Government Area, FCT, Nigeria
Authors: Yisa Abraham Gana , Oziamo Ahmed Sekinat , Chukwu Maureen Nkemdilim , Aletan Uduak Irene , Oniye Sonnie Joshua , Adams Abiodun Emmanuel , Adaora Osegbo , Saliu Oluremi Aduke , Blessing Edogbo , Omada Stephen  , Ayodeji Idowu Oluwafemi , Sekegor Crescentia Ojenikoh 
Published: August 2024

This research examined the presence of lead and cadmium in roasted corn sold by roadside vendors. Five locations (Market Square, Ade Femi Street, Abiola Road, SCC Road, and Primary School) were selected for the research according to the availability of vendors and vehicular activities. Roasted corns were oven-dried at 80°and digested according to standard methods. The concentrations of lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd) were determined with an Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer. The data generated was analyzed with the R statistical program version 4.3.0. Lead and cadmium concentrations in the roasted corn varied significantly (p < 0.05) across the study locations. The Pb content of the roasted corn varied from 0.08±0.00 mg Kg-1 – to 0.29±0.00 mg kg-1. While Cd was found to be within the range of 0.006±0.00 mg kg-1 – 0.09±0.00 mg kg-1. Lead levels in roasted corn at Market Square were above WHO limits of 0.2 mg kg-1. However, The Cd levels were within the acceptable limit of 0.1 mg kg-1. The strong positive correlation observed between Pb-Cd pairs in the roasted corn was a strong indication of similarity in the origin of the contamination. The potential risk associated with Pb and Cd exposure in roasted corn was determined by the Average Daily Intake of metals (ADI, Health Risk Index (HRI), and Incremental Lifetime Cancer Risk (ILCR). The risk assessment indices revealed that HRI was < 1, indicating a non-potential health risk for adults and children. Also, the estimated ILCR for Pb and Cd was within the acceptable limit of 1 x 10-4 – 1x 10-6. This study shows that consumers of roasted corn sold at Market Square may be at risk of lead toxicity with continuous exposure.
Determination of Bacterial Species Associated with Contamination of Poultry Feeds Produced by Three Different Companies in Abuja, Nigeria
Authors: Ezeagu Gloria G , Bukar Maryam , Fadayomi Morenike 
Published: August 2024

Poultry farming is an efficient source of income and nutrition. Feeds used for poultry are vulnerable to contamination by microorganisms. This study aimed to assess bacterial contaminants of the poultry produced from three different companies in Abuja, Nigeria. Samples of poultry feeds produced by three different companies were collected from three different batches and were processed and inoculated in nutrient agar, Eosin methylene blue agar (EMB), and Mannitol salt agar (MSA), incubated at 37 °C for 24 hours. Colonies were counted, characterized, and subcultured to obtain pure cultures. Pure isolates were identified using Gram reaction, cellular morphology, and biochemical characteristics. Antibiotic susceptibility profiles of the isolated bacterial species were determined using Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion. The total bacterial counts of samples analyzed showed that poultry feed from sample C had the highest mean bacterial counts of 2.49 x 105CFU/g. The lowest was poultry feed sample A, with a mean count of 1.06 x 105CFU/g. Sample B had a mean bacterial count of 2.14 x 105CFU/g. The bacterial species isolated in the present study are Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Salmonella sp., and Proteus mirabilis. Staphylococcus aureus was the most occurring isolate with a 47% occurrence rate and was present in all poultry feed samples. Escherichia coli is the second most occurring with a 35% occurrence rate, then Salmonella with a 10% occurrence rate. The least occurring was Proteus mirabilis, with an 8% occurrence rate. S. aureus showed 100% susceptibility to all the antibiotics used, while P. mirabilis recorded the highest resistance of 40 %, showing resistance to four of the ten antibiotics used. This study reveals the presence and high microbial count in the different poultry feeds investigated. This usually reflects the degree of hygienic procedures and biosecurity used in the feeds' handling, production, and storage.
The study of Candida albicans among Diabetic Patients attending some Selected Hospitals in Sokoto Metropolis
Authors: Iduh Michael Unata , Enitan Seyi Samson , Umar Asiya Iman , Mahmoud Abdurrhaman 
Published: August 2024

Candidiasis is an infection caused by the yeast genus Candida that lives in or on certain parts of the body, such as the gastrointestinal tract, the respiratory tract, the vagina, and even the skin. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of Candida albicans among diabetic patients attending some selected hospitals in metropolis. A total of 245 early-morning midstream urine samples were inoculated on SDA Saboraud dextrose agar. The isolates were identified using Gram staining, germ tube test, and KOH test. The prevalence of Candidiasis was 9. Females had a higher prevalence of 5.7% compared to males (3.7%) regarding gender (P = 0.247). Patients aged 30-34 years, 35-49 years, 40-44 years, 45-49 years and 50-54 years had prevalence of 0.0%, 0.4%, 0.4%, 0.4% and 8.0% respectively. Patients aged 55 years and above were the most infected in this study (7.3%) (P = 0.796). Due to high blood glucose levels and old age, regular clinic check-ups are highly recommended to prevent avoidable complications. These findings suggest that women are the most vulnerable compared to men. Therefore, it is necessary to continue evaluating the Candida albicans infection rate in diabetic patients in hospitals and the community.
Ultrasonography Analysis and Incidence of Urinary Schistosomiasis among some Selected Junior Secondary School Students in Rigachikun, Igabi Local Government Area, Kaduna State, Nigeria
Authors: Jibril Jamila , Lawal Sa’adatu Bagiwa , Musa Hauwa Rabiu 
Published: August 2024

Study’s Excerpt/Novelty

This study assesses urinary schistosomiasis prevalence and associated ultrasonographic abnormalities among school-aged children in Rigachikun, Igabi Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
By combining urine sample analysis and ultrasound examination, the research identifies a significant infection rate (5.00%) and highlights the presence of urinary tract abnormalities in 70% of infected subjects.
The findings underscore the ongoing disease burden of schistosomiasis in the region and advocate for expanded research on adult populations and snail intermediate hosts to inform targeted intervention strategies.

Full Abstract
This study evaluated urinary schistosomiasis and ultrasonography incidence among school-aged children in Rigachikun, Igabi Local Government Area of Kaduna State. Three hundred urine samples were collected from students within 5-16 years from 3 selected schools. The samples were tested for urinary schistosomiasis, and information was gathered using a standardized questionnaire. The weight and height of the samples were measured using an electronic scale (9201 SV3R) and a portable stadiometer (ADE MZ10042). 5.29% of males and 3.70% of females tested positive for urinary schistosomiasis. Ultrasound examination was performed on ten positive and one negative subjects for confirmation. The mean age was 11.00±5.72 years. Seven out of ten (70%) subjects showed urinary tract abnormalities. The ultrasound findings revealed two out of ten (20%) had bladder wall thickening, four out of ten (40%) had an irregular shape of the bladder wall, and ureteric dilatation was observed in one out of ten (10%) among the subjects. Ultrasound is a useful tool for identifying the morbidity of S. haematobium. Schistosomiasis infection amongst schools in Rigachikun was established at 5.00%. This has confirmed that schistosomiasis is still a disease burden amongst school-aged students in Rigachikun and, by extension, all the study area's inhabitants. It can be recommended that further studies need to be carried out on adults and snail intermediate hosts.
Assessing the Biodetoxification Potential of Enterococcus faecium on Aflatoxin M1 in Fresh Raw Cow Milk
Authors: Mukhtar Fatima 
Published: August 2024

Study’s Novelty/Excerpt

This study contributes to the field of food safety by exploring the bio-detoxification potential of E. faecium isolates from locally fermented cow milk for reducing Aflatoxin M1 (AFM1) contamination.
By employing both biochemical and molecular methods to identify and utilize these isolates, the research provides innovative insights into an environmentally friendly and health-beneficial approach to mitigating aflatoxin contamination.
The findings demonstrate a significant AFM1 binding capacity of E. faecium, highlighting its potential as a practical and safe biocontrol agent, which is critical for improving milk safety standards and public health protection.

Full Abstract
The adverse effects of aflatoxins on the economy and public health have prompted research into strategies to prevent their contamination in food and feed. Biological methods have become popular because they are environmentally friendly and beneficial for health. This research aims to determine the bio-detoxification potential of E. faecium, on Aflatoxin M1 (AFM1) in raw cow milk. Biochemical and molecular methods were used to identify the E. faecium isolates obtained from locally fermented cow milk (Nono). Three (3) distinct sampling locations in the Zaria metropolis, Dan-Magaji, Kufena, and Gabari, were used to gather nine (9) fresh milk samples. A quick test kit was used to screen the samples for AFM1 contamination. To determine the level of contamination, AFM1-contaminated samples were analyzed using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) analysis. The isolates were injected into the tainted milk samples at a cell density of 1.5 x 108cfu/mL and 3.0x108cfu/mL for 30 and 60 minutes at 4 and 37 degrees Celsius. The amount of unbound AFM1 in the samples was measured using HPLC analysis and surface binding assay. "ANOVA" single factor and two ways were used to analyze the data. All collected raw milk samples were contaminated with aflatoxin M1 at concentrations exceeding the EU/NAFDAC limit of ≤0.05 µg/L. The isolates bound AFM1 at 35-45% rates at a cell concentration of 3.0x108 cfu/mL at 37°C for 60 minutes. This research suggests that E. faecium could be an effective option for reducing AFM1 contamination in milk samples due to its harmless nature and recognition as generally safe. Additionally, regulatory agencies should implement thorough monitoring to ensure AFM1 levels in milk and milk products remain below acceptable limits.
Malaria and Typhoid Fever Coinfection among Febrile Patients Attending Kafin-Maiyaki Primary Health Centre
Authors: Sule Hamza , Ibrahim A I , Muhammad M 
Published: August 2024

Study’s Novelty/Excerpt

This study investigates the burden and co-existence of malaria and typhoid fever among febrile patients, providing a rare examination of these symptomatically similar but aetiologically distinct diseases in a single patient cohort.
The novelty of the research lies in its detailed analysis of co-infection rates across different age groups and genders, highlighting significant age-related disparities and suggesting the higher vulnerability of older patients.
These findings underscore the importance of concurrent screening for malaria and typhoid fever in febrile patients, offering critical insights for improving diagnostic and treatment strategies in the study area.

Full Abstract
Malaria and typhoid fever are two symptomatically similar but aetiologically dissimilar diseases: mala ria is caused by parasitic agents from Plasmodium species; ty phoid fever, on the other hand, is caused by Salmonella typhi. They both have no gender distinction in terms of their effect, but malaria appears to be more severe among children. The study aimed to determine the burden of these two diseases among febrile patients in the study area by collecting four (4) mL of blood from each participant, 2 mL of which were dispensed into EDTA bottles for use to detect microscopic parasites. The harvested serum from the remainder was used for the Widal agglutination test to detect the presence of antibodies to Salmonella species. Based on the results, malaria and typhoid fever co-existence was found to be 20.9%. The findings with respect to age group revealed that patients >60 years had a higher coinfection rate of 75% while the 1-12 years age group had the least coinfection (10.6%). There was a significant association between coinfection and age groups (p = 0.019). With respect to gender, females were more prone to be co-infected (53.6%) compared to their male counterparts (46.4%) out of the total positive cases (28) obtained, but the observed difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.016). We therefore recommend concurrent screening of these diseases in all febrile cases in the study area.
Prevalence of Hepatitis C Virus Infection among People Living with HIV/AIDS Attending Specialist Hospital Sokoto, Nigeria
Authors: Iduh, M. U.  , Enitan, S. S.  , Umar, A. I.  , Abbas, A.  
Published: August 2024

Study’s Novelty/Excerpt

This study assesses HIV/HCV coinfection and associated risk factors among patients at Specialist Hospital, Sokoto, highlighting the seroprevalence of HCV among HIV/AIDS reactive individuals.
The novelty lies in its detailed demographic analysis, revealing significant age, gender, tribal, educational, and occupational disparities, with a notably high seropositivity among people who inject drugs.
These findings underscore the necessity for targeted HCV screening and intervention strategies in HIV/AIDS patients, particularly in demographic subgroups identified as having higher seroprevalence, to improve early diagnosis and management.

Full Abstract
The Hepatitis C virus (HCV) remains a large healthcare burden. Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and HCV coinfection are major global health concerns worldwide. This study aimed to assess the HIV/HCV coinfection and the potential risk factors among people attending Specialist Hospital, Sokoto. A cross-sectional seroprevalence survey of HCV infection was carried out on 77 HIV/AIDS reactive subjects attending Specialist Hospital, Sokoto, from 30th March 2021 to 4th May 2021. Serum samples were tested for anti-HCV antibodies using immunochromatographic test. Of the 77 study participants, the overall anti-HCV antibody prevalence was 5.2%. The 36-40 age group revealed the highest seropositivity of 18.18%, followed by 51-55 years (14.29%) and the least (11.11%) among 26-30 years. Females had the highest seropositivity of 6.25% and males least (3.45%). The highest seropositivity was seen among the Hausa tribe (7.14%), while the least in Fulani (5.56%). The highest seropositivity was recorded among people with no formal education (6.82%), while people with formal education had the least (5.88%). The highest seropositivity was seen in self-employed individuals (6.52%) regarding occupational status, while employed individuals had the least (4.17%). Married individuals had the highest seropositivity of 7.69%, while the divorced and widow/widower had 5.26% and 4.76% respectively. People who injected drugs recorded the highest seropositivity of 33.33%, with multiple sex partners at 6.90%, while people who shared sharp objects had the least (6.67%). There were no significant differences statistically in HCV seroprevalence among the different age categories, gender, tribe, education, occupation, marital and risk factors (p>0.05). The HCV prevalence rate (5.8%) observed in this study underscored the need to intensify HCV screening among people living with HIV/AIDS for early diagnosis and management of cases.
Screening for Plasmid Mediated Antibiotic Resistance among Multi Drug Resistant Bacteria Isolated from Patients with Lower Respiratory Tract Infections Attending some Hospitals in Kano Metropolis
Authors: Mailafia, H. M.  , Aminu, A. I.  , Dutsinma, U. A.  
Published: August 2024

Study’s Novelty/Excerpt

This study investigates the prevalence and plasmid-mediated resistance of multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria isolated from patients with lower respiratory tract infections (LRTIs), revealing significant findings pertinent to public health.
The research demonstrates a high prevalence of MDR isolates (20%) and highlights the substantial role of plasmids, with 67.6% of MDR isolates containing plasmids, and 80% losing drug resistance post-plasmid curing.
These results underscore the necessity for treatment options based on antibiotic susceptibility testing and continuous plasmid profiling to combat plasmid-mediated resistance effectively, marking a critical advancement in the management of LRTIs.

Full Abstract
Lower Respiratory tract infections (LRTIs) are among the serious infections in humans that have been worsening by the emergence of drug resistant bacteria and aggravated by plasmids transfer. The study aimed to screen Multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria isolated from patients with LRTIs for the presence of Plasmid. Sputum samples (400) were collected from patients with LRTIs and processed using standard microbiological procedures to isolate lower respiratory tract bacteria. The identified isolates were subjected to antibacterial susceptibility testing using the disc diffusion method. Multidrug resistant isolates were further subjected to plasmid curing using Acridine orange and the cured isolates were tested for loss of drug resistance. Among the 400 samples, 185 (46.2 %) harbored significant bacterial growth, with 83 (44.9%) Gram-positive and 102 (55.1%) Gram-negative bacteria. Bacteria isolated include Escherichia coli (29), Klebsiella pneumonia (46), Moraxella catarrhalis (13), Pseudomonas aerugonosa (14), Staphylococcus aureus(24) and Streptococcus pneumoniae (59). A higher infection rate was recorded in males (46.99%) and patients aged 41-50 (52.59%). The highest resistance was exhibited by Klebsiella pneumoniae (93%) against cefuroxime, followed by Streptococcus pneumoniae against oxacillin (75%). Of the 185 isolates, 37 (20%) were MDR, out of which 25 (67.6%) isolates had Plasmids. Following curing, 20 (80%) of the isolates were cured, and only 5 (20%) retained their plasmids. Most importantly, Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumonia were found to be sensitive to levofloxacin, gentamicin, and imipenem but retained their resistance to Cefuroxime, while Streptococcus pneumoniae was found to be sensitive to levofloxacin only with the highest resistance to oxacillin, doxycycline, and erythromycin. The study establishes a high prevalence of MDR isolates among LRTIs, with some exhibiting plasmid-mediated resistance, and therefore recommends treatment options to be solely based on antibiotic susceptibility testing and continuous plasmid profiling to detect plasmid-mediated resistance to enable appropriate drug administration.