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A review on the role of biochar in agricultural productivity revealed the importance of biochar as a soil amendment system for sustainable agriculture. There is a growing interest in its use, as a fertilizing material or as incorporation into farming systems for amending soils. It is a fact that biochar is fast assuming the status of a quick fix solution to all soil degradation problems associated with the sustainable management of plant nutrients for strategic increases in crop yields. These call for a careful examination of the benefits and definite drawbacks of biochar. To avoid the abuse of biochar, there is need to quantitatively and qualitatively study its application and deployment for soil amelioration and nutrient boost for crop production. This involves field studies and extensive review of available literatures, to clear any doubt that may exist in the use of biochar. A well-established knowledge based on its beneficial potentials will inform both scientists and farm practitioners how best to engage biochar. This review essentially seeks to highlight the usefulness of biochar and its possible applications and drawbacks as a tool in sustainable agriculture.

Cancer is a human cellular error with a high mortality rate, especially in developing regions. Resolving this error with therapy may render patients immunologically depressed and susceptible to opportunistic infections including parasitic. The gut parasites, Cluster of Differentiation four (CD4) cells and haemoglobin (Hb) levels of cancer patients on oncology therapy in Calabar, Nigeria were studied. Stool and blood samples were collected from 317 (186 cancer and 131 apparently healthy) subjects. Parasites were identified using direct smear and formol ether concentration techniques while CD4 and Hb estimation were done using BD-fascount and fluorescent flow cytometric techniques, respectively. Data were analysed using chi-square and independent sample t-test. Overall parasitosis prevalence in this study was (27.44%) with cancer showing an association with intestinal parasitosis (P=0.001) and CD4 level (P=0.002), respectively but none with Hb level. Parasiteinfected cancer subjects had significantly lower mean haemoglobin concentration than their non-infected counterpart (t = - 4.869, P12 months of treatment duration (P=0.1038). There was a correlation between duration of treatment and CD4 levels (r = - 0.231, P0.05) of cancer subjects. In conclusion, although this study has shown that cancer as a condition increases parasite prevalence and reduces mean CD4 counts in subjects, their haemoglobin levels were not significantly affected, except for subjects with intestinal parasite infections. Treatment with cancer therapy did not also affect the haemoglobin concentration, but significantly reduced the CD4 cell number of subjects. Subjects who had majorly, chemotherapy were mostly infected with the parasite but with no noticeable effect on their CD4 and haemoglobin levels. A prolonged duration of treatment increased parasitosis and reduced the CD4 level of subjects but did not affect haemoglobin levels. Apart from the oncological treatments given to cancer subjects, management of cancer subjects should include parasitological examination and treatment, periodic monitoring of their hematologic profile and regular immune revitalization procedures, especially for those placed on prolonged therapy.&nbsp

The fight against terrorism has been unabated because as military forces kill members of terrorists groups, the terrorists are recruiting new members. So, there is a need to imbue in every society's psyche, a strong revulsion to be conscripted for terrorism. This study, therefore, uses Drums of War performances which were staged at different times of groups and communal hostilities with a glaring atmosphere of imminent bloodbaths in Nigeria, as paradigms with which to investigate the potential of theatre designs (in rousing the stark horrors of war/violence) as a psychological strategy for engineering in a people, a mindset that eschews violence or terror against fellow mankind. This study adopts a qualitative research methodology (which includes: participatory observation, focus group discussions with members of the audience community and interviews with the playwright and play director) for primary data gathering; while secondary data are gathered from journals and other library materials. This study anchors its argument on the Hypodermic Needle Theory and submits that: if every society (especially ones that are easy targets for terrorist recruitment) is strategically and effectively saturated with dramas that arouse an anti-terrorist vibe, the people (who are potential recruits for terrorist’s acts) would be indoctrinated against becoming willing conscripts into terrorism; hence, a dwindling in the manpower for the continuous proliferation of terrorism.

Benthic macroinvertebrates are helpful bio-indicators providing better understanding of modified and perturbed aquatic ecosystems. This study seeks to determine the ecological status and diversity of the macroinvertebrate community in relation to environmental variables in western Nigerian offshore waters within the Gulf of Guinea. Macroinvertebrate samples were collected from five (5) sampling stations using a Van-veen grab following standard protocols. Water samples were collected and the physico-chemical parameters measured onboard using a multi-parameter checker, HORIBA-U53. The physico-chemical parameters of the water varied significantly (p

Contamination of inanimate objects and environmental surfaces by microorganisms plays a significant role in the transmission of infection. This study was carried out to ascertain the role of countertops as infection source. A total of 240 public counters including wood granite, tiles and plastics in different establishments were screened for the presence of potential bacterial and fungal pathogens using standard microbiological and biochemical methods. Countertops were swabbed using sterile moist swabs and cultured using peptone water, Blood Agar, CLED, and Sabouraud dextrose agar. Of the 240 countertops examined, 220 (91.6%) harbored microbes with Police Stations counters ranking highest 50 (100%) followed by Banks counters 58 (97.0%) while Bakeries counters had the least 10 (66.7%). The prevalence of microbes by location statistically significant (p= 0.0001). Wooden countertops carried more microbes 35 (97.2%) than other countertops p=0.3295). Generally, the studied countertops carried more bacteria (90.8%) than fungi (12.5%). Countertops of banks carried more bacteria (96.6%) while those of bakeries carried the least (66.7%) whereas countertops of police station harbored more fungi (24.0%) than those in other establishments with eateries counters carrying no fungi at all. Staphylococcus aureus was the most frequently encountered bacteria (95.0%) followed by Proteus mirabilis and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (1.8% each), and Shigella species (1.3%). Candida albicans dominated among the fungal isolates (80.0%) followed by Aspergillus (13.3%) and Trichophyton rubrum (6.6%). This study has demonstrated high prevalence of potential microbial pathogens on public counters which may constitute a public health risk to users. Regular cleaning, periodical microbiological assessment of public countertops and cautiousness whenever interacting with environment is recommended.

In this paper, DC servomechanism parameters were identified offline using Jellyfish, particle swarm and constraint optimization techniques in a MATLAB simulation environment with experimental data. Specifically, the unknown parameters of the servomechanism were identified using a two-step approach. Initially, the first-order transfer function of the servomechanism which is characterized by a DC gain and time constant was determined analytically using the experimental open-loop speed step response of the servo motor. Next, by iterative minimization of a fitness score derived from the root mean squared error between the experimental and simulated position response of the servomechanism of an equivalent state-space model structure, the servomechanism parameters were identified. The simulated angular position step response of the servomechanism with the particle swarm, Jellyfish and constraint optimization algorithm, showed excellent agreement with the experimental data in descending order and was consistent with the fitness score of 1.9035, 0.0083, and 0.00706 respectively.

Entamoeba histolytica is one of the common pathogenic protozoa encountered in Calabar, Nigeria. Differentiating it from the non-pathogenic species, Entamoeba dispar is not a routine practice in our medical laboratories leading to misdiagnosis, overdiagnosis and drug abuse. Studies suggested that stool antigen assays are more sensitive and specific than microscopy for the diagnosis of Entamoeba histolytica infection. This study was carried out to detect and differentiate E. histolytica from E. dispar, hence determining the actual prevalence of E. histolytica among primary school children in Calabar, Nigeria between February and July 2019. A total of 384 stool samples collected from public and private primary school children, aged 5-15years were examined. Direct stool microscopy and ELISA kit-abnova KA3201 were used for Entamoeba histolytica/dispar complex detection while differentiation between E. histolytica and E. dispar was performed using E. histolytica 11IgG ELISA Kit-abnova KA5130. Prevalence of E. histolytica/E. dispar by microscopy and ELISA were 15(3.91%) and 21(5.47%), respectively. The prevalence of Entamoeba histolytica and that of E. dispar after differentiation were 7(1.82%) and 14(3.65%), respectively. Children in public schools were more significantly infected with E. histolytica 6(3.13%) than their private school counterpart 1(0.52%), (P = 0.0211). Although there was no association between Entamoeba infection and gender, males had an insignificantly higher prevalence of E. histolytica and E. dispar 5(3.0%) and 10(6.2%), respectively than females 2(0.9%) and 4(1.8%), respectively (P = 0.1210). There was no association between Entamoeba infection and age but children between the age of 8-10years were more infected with E. histolytica 5(3.70%) and E. dispar 9(6.67%) than others (P =0.2358). Calabar South recorded an insignificantly higher prevalence for E. histolytica 4(2.08%) and E. dispar 8(4.17%) than Calabar municipal 3(1.56%) and 6(3.13%), respectively (P = 0.7029). To avoid andom treatments, the improved diagnostic technique (ELISA) should be included in our routine laboratory practice.

Sweet potato is one of the major staple crops in Nigeria and most parts Africa sub-region. Its importance continues to rise due to increased urbanization. This increase definitely come with its share of challenges that need to be addressed. The study was conducted within the framework of the rural farming households who constitute the backbone of the Nigerian agricultural sector, producing about 80 per cent of the total national agricultural output. It examined resource use in sweet potato production in Delta state, Nigeria. The specific objectives are to determine the technical efficiency of sweet potato farmers, assess the factors determining the technical efficiency of potato farmers and to determine the technical efficiency distribution of sweet potato farmers. Multi-stage random sampling technique was adopted to select 120 respondents and stochastic frontier production function employed to realize the objectives. Result of analysis showed that the least technically efficient farmers have to increase their level of production given their inputs and technology to at least 68 % for them to operate at the production frontier while the most technically efficient farmers have to increase their production to at least by 4% for them to operate on the production frontier and be fully efficient with a mean technical efficiency of 0.71. The estimates of the parameters of the production function (sweet potato seeds, labour, fertilizers and agrochemical) were positive and significant at 5% and 1% levels respectively, while capital input was positive and not significant. Factors affecting technical inefficiency of sweet potato farmers among others included: age of farmers and farm size which were negative and significant, while household size, educational qualification, type of cropping and farming experience were all positive and significant. The following recommendations were proffered: sweet potato farmers should have access to improved sweet potato varieties, modern storage technologies, markets and extension services. Adequate financial assistance and credit facilities should also be made available to the sweet potato farmers to enable them expand their crop output.

Biological agents are microorganisms or their products that can be potentially applied in biological warfare. The use of biological agents as weapons in conflicts has been prevalent throughout history. With the increase in terrorism incidents globally and within the Nigerian environment, as well as the graduation of terrorist groups from their previous objectives of fighting governments to inflicting mass damage and national carnage, bioterrorism actions are becoming a possibility that Nigeria needs to be aware and prepare for. The anthrax-laden letter attacks in the USA in 2001 led to realization of the possibilities of, and dangers posed in bioterrorism actions, and increased investment in preparedness for a potential bioterrorism attack by the US and other developed nations. Defending the nation against possible events involving such agents obviously requires being prepared. The Nigerian security and emergency management sector seem to be totally unprepared for most emergency situations, and therefore may not cope in the face of a biological attack, leading to the increase in spread and effects of such incidents. This article aims to look at the challenges posed to emergency preparedness for potential biological incidents in Nigeria and outline steps that can be taken to prepare for them.

Forensic samples may need to be preserved for an extended period, therefore determining an optimal temperature that allows for quality DNA to be obtained when required is essential. This study seeks to ascertain the influence of temperature and postmortem time on the quality of brain DNA for forensic studies. Seven (7) albino Sprague-Dawley mice weighing between 20 – 30 grams were used for this study. One (1) mouse which served as the control was sacrificed and the brain tissue harvested for DNA extraction immediately. The remaining six (6) were divided into two groups, where one group's harvested brain tissues were stored at room temperature of 24°C and the other group's harvested brain tissues were preserved by freezing at -18°C. DNA was extracted from the brain tissues of one mouse each from the two groups after they had been stored at the different temperatures for 24, 48 and 72 hours. DNA extraction was done using DNA extraction kit from APS Life Tech West Africa Limited and PCR was carried out on each of the DNA extracts using RAPD-OPC-04 primer. DNA concentration and # extracted DNA was determined by spectrophotometry analysis, and the gel electrophoresis was also done to determine the DNA band quality. The results the best nuclear DNA quality is obtained from freshly harvested brain tissues, the quality of nuclear DNA from brain tissue is better preserved by freezing the brain tissue for long periods than at room temperature.

Edible palm oil has been the parity of the human diet from generation to generation and has contributed both to nutrition and health. These studies investigated some selected heavy metals and physicochemical parameters in palm oil. Eleven (11) samples of ready-consumed edible palm oil were bought randomly from the selected market in calabar metropolis. The samples were digested with 25ml of concentrated H2SO4, for heavy metals analysis using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS). The physiochemical parameters in selected markets include the following FFA, IV, PV, and protein content were also analyzed using standard methods. The results showed that FFA value range from 9.26 to 12%, Iodine value range from 45.78 to 21.40 MgKOH/g, Peroxide value range from 3.60 to 0.03 Meq/kg, and protein content ranges from 0.06 to 0.2 mg were significantly (p

Liquid accumulation is a major problem in gas wells. The inability of gas to lift coproduced liquids to the surface imposes back pressure on the reservoir, limits the ultimate recovery and ultimately kills the well if improperly managed. Therefore, accurate prediction of its occurrence and reliable monitoring strategy is key to effectively handling liquid accumulation in gas wells. In this study, machine learning algorithms were used to develop regression and classification models to accurately predict the critical flowrate and the loading status of individual wells. The regression models used are the feed-forward neural network and a least squares support vector machine models while the decision trees model was used as the classification model to characterize the loading status of the wells investigated. These models were validated using actual published data and it was observed that the feed-forward neural network performed better in predicting the critical rate compared to the least squares support vector machine model with an R2 value of 0.9833, and thus was adopted. The feed-forward neural network model was further compared with other critical rate models; and a consistent result with least percent error of 5.571% was also observed. Form this study, it is obvious that the neural network model provide benefits and good prospects in investigating liquid loading phenomena in gas wells compared to empirical models that apply so many simplifying assumptions.

The study aims at differentiating lithologic units, general structural trends and orogenic implications of crystalline rocks within part of Oban Massif, Southeastern Nigeria. Field study involve geological mapping, rock description and structural measurement, while laboratory analysis covered photomicrograph. Field observation and microscopic analysis reveal five petrological units; gneisses, schists, granodiorite, pegmatite and quartz veins. The rocks are generally siliceous and quartzo-feldspathic. The schist show foliation planes trending majorly in the NE-SW direction. The gneisses were highly fractured, indicative of a polyphase deformation. Structural elements such as joints, fractures, foliations and veins show series of deformational episodes that affected the area. Rose diagram plot for these structures show the NE-SW direction indicative of the Pan-African orogeny (600±150 Ma) and interpreted as the most recent event affecting the area. NW and NE trending joints are consideredto be tectonic in origin based on their alignments with major structures of the area. Furthermore, the structures also showed weak NW-SE and E-W trends, an imprint of older (Kibaran orogeny) deformational episodes.

The study on the action of Acetylcholine and Rivastigmine as Corrosion Inhibitors of Cu – Sn - Zn – Pb Alloy in Hydrochloric Acid Environment was carried out using density functional theory, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, Potentiodynamic polarization, Scanning electron microscopy and weight loss. The result revealed that both Acetylcholine and Rivastigmine expired drugs were good inhibitors of Cu – Sn - Zn – Pb Alloy in Hydrochloric Acid Environment. This was confirmed from results of weight loss (99.1 % and 95.0 %), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) (92.5 % and 91.8 %), and Potentiodynamic polarization (97.4 % and 87.1 %). Both inhibitors were able to increase the charge transfer resistance and corrosion current densities of the electrical solution and reduce the double layer capacitance of the metal – solution interface. Inhibition was as a result of adsorption of inhibitor molecules on the Cu – Sn - Zn – Pb surface. Thermodynamically, inhibitors showed greater stability on metal surface, spontaneous in the forward direction and reduction in level of disorderliness. Inhibitors demonstrated a mixed type inhibition while physical adsorption mechanism was proposed for the inhibitor – metal interaction. Langmuir adsorption isotherm was obeyed as data fitted adequately to the isotherm and regression coefficient was approximately unity. A monolayer adsorption was deduces.

Assessment of the duration exposure-dependent effect of carbamate treated net on hepatic and renal functions of albino Wistar rats after 30 and 60 days was carried out. Serum ALT, AST and ALP levels were determined to assess liver function while serum creatinine and urea levels were measured for kidney function. Eighteen (18) male albino Wstar rats weighing 138-146g were divided into 3 groups of 6 rats each. Group 1 served as control, group 2 animals were exposed to carbamate treated net for 30 days and group 3 animals exposed for 60 days. The results showed that the levels of serum AST and ALT increased in all the experimental groups exposed when compared to the control group. ALT increased significantly (p0.05) in the group exposed for 30 days but decreased in the group exposed for 60 days while serum urea level in the group exposed for 30 days remain unchanged but decreased after 60 days when compared to the control group. Statistically, there was a significant increase (p

Many HIV/AIDS patients still present with low CD4 count and other complications even when placed on highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART). Prevalence of intestinal parasitoses and their influence on CD4 levels of HIV/AIDS patients attending a Hospital in Nigeria was studied to determine their role in low CD4 levels during treatment. Two hundred and fifty HIV sero-positive and 100 sero-negative subjects were recruited for the study. HIV screening was done using Determine and confirmed with Unigold with Start Park as tie breaker. Questionnaires were used to obtain subject’s bio-data, Partec Cyflow counter (GEM Laboratories, Germany) was used for estimation and differentiation of CD4 cells while parasites were detected using direct stool microscopy, formal ether and modified Ziehl Neelson techniques. Prevalence of parasites was 25 (7.1%) with test subjects being more infected (7.6%) than controls (6.0%) (P < 0.001). The parasites detected were Entamoeba histolytica/dispar (7.8%), Ascaris lumbricoides (4.2%), Gairdia intestinalis (1.2%), Cryptosporidium parvum (0.6%), and Hookworm (0.4%). Parasite positive subjects had significantly lower mean CD4 count (373.3±275.6 c/μl) than their parasite negative counterpart (626.7±337.6 c/μl), P = 0.028, and likewise in the control group. HIV/parasite infected subjects on ART had significantly lower mean CD4 count (391.8±270 c/μl) than HIV/parasite negative subjects on ART (659.8±331.1), P = 0.01. Intestinal parasitoses may aggravate CD4 reduction in HIV/AIDS patients even when on HAART, hence undermine the potency of ART and hinder their successful management. Screening tests before baseline treatment for HIV/AIDS patients should include parasitological diagnosis.

The study of high-resolution aeromagnetic data was carried out over the Gongola basin, upper Benue trough, northeastern Nigeria, for analytic signal depth determination. Total intensity magnetic map obtained from the data using the Oasis Montaj TM programming software was used to get the residual map by polynomial fitting, from where the analytic signal was obtained with the use of anomaly width at half the amplitude (X1/2). This was used to carry out depth estimations over the study area. The results showed that it peaks over the magnetic structure with local maxima over its edges (boundaries or contact), and the amplitude is simply related to magnetization, likewise results also showed that the depth estimates were in the range of 1.2 to 5.9 km and were calculated for contact, dyke/sill and horizontal cylinder respectively. The lowest values are from DD profiles, while the highs are from AA profiles. This work is important in identifying dykes, contacts and intrusives over an area.

Background: Spondias mombin L. belongs to the family Anacardiaceae. Despite its wide ethnomedicinal applications in the management of diverse diseases, there is a paucity of documented reports on its standardization.Objectives: The present study evaluated microscopical characters and some physicochemical properties of different parts of the plant for its identification and standardization.Material and Methods: Epidermal tissue preparation of the leaf of Spondias mombin (SM) was obtained using physical method while thin sections (10-12 μm) of the stem bark and root were obtained using a rotary microtome. Physicochemical parameters were determined for the powdered samples of SM using standard methods.Results: Diagnostic characters from the epidermal tissue of the leaf revealed anomocytic, paracytic stomatal type, non-glandular trichome, smooth to slightly wavy anticlinal walls while sections of the stem bark and root were characterized with abundant sclereids and calcium oxalate crystals. The stomatal number and stomatal index of the abaxial epidermis were 23.70±0.86 and 24.62±0.78 %, respectively. Ethanol had the highest extractive value (17.84±0.50) % in the leaf whereas it was lowest in petroleum ether (1.92±0.08) %. The leaf had the lowest ash value (7.13±0.76) %.Conclusion: The microscopical characterization and some of the physicochemical parameters reported herein could be useful in the compilation of monograph for the correct identification of Spondias mombin, thus contributing to the knowledge of its collection and preservation.

Bryophyllum pinnatum is an important enthnomedicinal plant. The study assessed the effect of crude aqueous leaves extract of Bryophyllum pinnatum (CALEBP) on fasting plasma glucose (FPG), antioxidant status, lipid profile, liver and renal function indices in albino rats. The rats were housed under standard laboratory conditions (12h light: 12h dark photoperiod), 23± 2 ºC and were given rat pellets and tap water ad libitum. Twenty four rats weighing 190-232g were randomized into four groups (A-D) of six rats each. Group A (control) received normal feed and water only. Groups B, C and D received orally 180, 360 and 540 mg/kg body weight respectively of CALEBP for 28 days. Serum aminotransferases, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), superoxide dismutase, catalase, FPG, lipid profile, urea, creatinine, bilirubin, proteins, malondialdehyde, glutathione (GSH) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and electrolytes were assessed by standard methods. Data were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance and p

Water wells are usually dug by artisans who lack professional skills. Such wells are used at various homes in Gwagwalada Area Council of Abuja for domestic purpose, on the assumption that underground water is safe. Thus, the suitability of such well water was assessed. The objectives were to assess their properties and compare with regulatory standard for domestic purpose. Thirty (30) water samples were purposely collected from six wards (Dobi, Ibwa, Paikon-Kore, Tungan Maje, Zuba and Ikwa). Five water samples were randomly collected from each ward for laboratory analysis. Laboratory results were statistically analyzed using range, mean, correlation and multiple determination coefficients. Suitability of water properties for domestic purposes was determined by comparing range and mean values with NSDWQ and WHO standard for domestic uses. Result showed that the concentrations of water properties ranges as follows: temperature (26.59-30.73oC), pH (7.17-8.23), electrical conductivity EC (222-354 μs/cm3), TDS (12.14-21.54mg/l), Turbidity (0.29-0.93NTU) hardness (13.58-39.72mg/l), chloride Cl-(4.29-8.93mg/l), Fe (0.54-0.71mg/l) and Cu (0.02-0.06mg/l).Water samples generally had low electrical conductivity (222-354 μs/cm3), and mineral nutrients but elevated concentration of some heavy metals. The twenty- three water quality parameters tested could explain 96% of the overall water quality leaving only 4% unexplained. All the samples fell short of regulatory standard in terms of EC, Fe and Cu while well water from Ikwa fell short of many heavy metals for domestic purpose. It was concluded that well water in Gwagwalada Area Council are not potable. Thus, treatment before direct consumption and precautionary use of well water were recommended for the residents. Keywords: Water quality, Heavy metals, Water pollution, Well

2-D modeling of high-resolution aeromagnetic data over the area investigated was carried out with the aid of Oasis MontajTM software in order to get the total magnetic intensity map as well as the residual map from where the modeling was carried out. The data was acquired for Nigeria Geological Survey Agency (NGSA) in 2010 by Fugro international of Netherlands. The specifications of the data were terrain clearance of 80 m, flight line spacing of 500 m and a tie line spacing of 5000 m. The area investigated in this work is located between longitude 120 00' - 130 30' E and Latitude 80 00' – 100 00'N. GM-SYS module of the Oasis montaj was used for this research, with depocentres, structural patterns, basement geometry and morphology as well as estimates of the physical character of the cause to an investigated anomaly determined. The models reveal the horst and graben structures of the basement and the various faults that segmented the area into block patterns. The results revealed sediment thickness in the range of 2-5 km for the models which are in agreement with the results obtained by various researchers in the area. Horst and graben were identified in the models which confirmed the rifting nature of the Benue Trough. The authors of this research are of the view that these depocentres, structural patterns and basement geometry may be a promising site for hydrocarbon traps and reservoirs. Keywords: Aeromagnetic Data, GM-SYS, Modeling, Horst, Graben.

The marble deposits at Ubo and Ikpeshi areas of Edo state, Southwestern Nigeria, were studied in order to determine the major elements and the paleo-depositional environment of the original sediments using standard methods. Results obtained using test of difference between Ubo and Ikpeshi marbles showed that CaO (51.977±0.922 & 54.726±0.23), MgO (3.034±0.829 & 0.499±0.115), Na2O (1.7±0.73 & 0.024±0.008), MgCO3 (6.337±1.734 & 1.034±0.238), Cu (24.589±0.692 & 27.447±0.711), Ni (23.907±0.854 & 30.979±0.494), all for Ubo and Ikpeshi respectively; with Ni showing highest significance with P

The study broadly examined the socio-economic factors affecting training and visit system of extension among yam farmers in Eket Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria The study had three specific objectives, namely: to: describe the socio-economic characteristics of the yam farmer; 2 determine the socio-economic factors affecting training and visit system of extension among yam farmers and describe the problems militating against yam production in the study area. The study adopted a purposive/judgmental sampling technique to select two hundred respondents for the study. Both primary and secondary data were collected and analyzed using descriptive statistics, multiple regression and Likert scale. Data was collected through the use of a set of questionnaires administered to selected respondents. The findings of the socio-economic characteristics of the yam farmers revealed that majority 77.5% were males, with 37% of them being matured adults in the age range of 51 years and above and 66.5% of the yam farmers were married with household size of 4-7 members per family. Majority of the farmers had secondary education (55%), 46.5% had farming experience of 10 years and above with monthly farm income between N20,000 - N50,000 (46.5%). Majority 88.5% of the farmers were Christians and had monthly contact with extension agents (47%). Gender, age, religion, level of education, farm income and maritalstatus statistically and significantly affect training and visit system at 1% and 5% respectively. The major constraints faced by farmers in yam production in the study area were found to include low soil fertility (3.12), low income (2.64) and land tenure system (2.52). It is recommended that in order to improve yam production, the government of Nigeria should provide favourable environment and invest heavily in yam cultivation by providing farm inputs such as fertilizers to smallholder farmers at subsidized rates. In addition, the government should provide more loans to farmers at zero or low-interest rate. Improved extension services should be provided to farmers with new technologies in order to increase their gross margins income. Social amenities and infrastructural facilities such as; good roads network, electricity as well clean sources of water should be provided in rural areas to encourage young and educated men and women to take up yam production. Keywords: Agricultural Extension; Training and Visit , Communication, Farmers, Production, Demonstration

Histiocytoses are a rare group of proliferative disorders with very similar clinical and histological pictures. We present a case report of two variants seen in an eight-month-old female and five-month-old male in a tertiary hospital in southern Nigeria. They both presented with painless neck swellings and fever, leucocytosis, neutrophilia and lymphopenia. Initial histologic examinations of the cervical lymph nodes biopsy posed a diagnostic conundrum. However, Immuno-histochemical analysis done on both sample showed CD1a, positive S100 in keeping with Langerhans cell histiocytosis in the former. While, that of the latter showed strongly positive CD68, positive S-100 in 30% cells in keeping with Sinus histiocytosis with massive lymphadenopathy (SLMH) in the latter. Clinicians should have a high index of suspicion for histiocytosis in children presenting with generalised lymphadenopathy. Also, apart from the routine histology, immunohistochemistry analysis is recommended for all cases

Introduction : Moderate acute malnutrition (MAM) is a leading cause of under-five morbidity and mortality globally. Supplementary feeding is a strategy recommended by WHO for managing the condition.Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness and tolerability of standardized milk-based formulation (SMBF), standardized non-milk based formulation (SNMBF) and hospital-based formulation (HBF) in under-fives with MAM.Method: This was an open label randomized clinical trial in which eligible children aged 6 – 59 months with MAM were assigned to receive the SMBF, SNMBF or HBF at 50% of their daily caloric requirement with their regular family diet for four months. Their baseline characteristics and anthropometric indices were noted. They were followed up on two weekly basis during which further assessments were performed. The analysis for effectiveness and tolerability of the formulations were based on “per protocol”.Results: A total of 687 children were screened and 188 enrolled. Seventy children received SMBF, 63 received SNMBF while 55 received HBF. There were 54/70 (77.1%), 57/64 (89.1%) and 46/55 (83.6%) evaluable participants in the SMBF, SNMBF and HBF group respectively. Recovery from MAM was 43/54 (79.6%), 40/57 (70.2%) and 32/46 (69.6%) in the SMBF, SNMBF and HBF group respectively. Normal nutritional status was attained by 13 (24.0%), 10 (17.6%) and 5 (10.9%) children in the SMBF, SNMBF and HBF group respectively. Diarrhea and skin rashes were the main features of poor tolerability.Conclusions: The formulations were effective in managing MAM in childhood but the SMBF was the most effective. Diarrhea and skin rashes were the main features of poor tolerability.

The study examined consumers’ perception and acceptability of local rice brands produced, processed and packaged in Akwa Ibom State. The target population for the study comprised all the local rice consumers in the various households of the study area. A multi-stage sampling procedure was used in selecting 340 respondents for the study. Data were collected with the use of structured questionnaire and analysed using, means, standard deviation and rankings. Findings showed that consumers’ perception of local rice in the study area was highly positive. The respondents perceived that local rice is tasty ( x̄ =3.63), both the rich and the poor have access to local rice ( x̄ =3.63), the rice has high nutritive contents ( x̄ =3.56) and is cheaper when compared to foreign rice ( x̄ =3.54). Also, respondents demonstrated good level of acceptability of local rice with an index value of 0.4029. Since the perception of the respondents promotes acceptability of the locally produced rice, more should be done to promote the positive perception while increasing acceptability level of the respondents through improvement of the quality of local rice produced by the state, product availability, advertisement, brand promotions and of course improved packaging of the rice products. Keywords: Perception of Nigeria rice, acceptability of local rice in Akwa Ibom State

Health risk associated with the consumption of contaminated seafood has become of global concern. The study evaluated potential human health risk associated with heavy metal contamination of Tympanotonus fuscatus along Oron water channel Cross River Estuary. The following metals: chromium (Cr), cadmium (Cd), nickel (Ni), lead (Pb) and zinc (Zn) were analyzed using standard procedure. The target hazard quotient (THQ) and cancer risk (TCR) were estimated using USEPA guidelines. Results showed significant differences (p

The phytochemical screening and antibacterial effects of Aframomum melegueta (K. Schum)on Salmonella typhi and Klebsiella pneumoniae was carried out. The phytochemical screening revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, steroids, anthraquinones, terpenoids, glycosides and phenols in the seed extract. The susceptibility test showedzones of inhibition (ZOI) of S. typhi (11.0mm) and K. pneumonia (13.0mm)with methanolic seed extract (MSE), while the hot aqueous seed extract (HASE) recorded 3.0mmas ZOI for both test organisms. The Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 200mg/ml and 100mg/ml were recorded against S. typhi and K. pneumoniae respectively with MSE, while HASE indicated 400mg/ml and 200mg/ml MICs against S. typhi and K. pneumoniae respectively. The Minimum Bactericidal Concentration (MBC) obtained from MSE were 200 mg/ml and 25mg/ml for S. typhiand K. pneumoniae, while HASE had > 400mg/ml for test microbes. The effectiveness of different concentrations of the test plant extracts on the test organisms was significant (P

Study on assessmentof biodiesel fuel potentials of seed crude oil extracts of Balanites aegyptiaaca (L.) Del was carriedout. Standard methods of the Association of Official and Analytical Chemist (AOAC) were adopted to evaluate the proximate, physico-chemical properties and fatty acid compositions of crude seed oil extracts of the test plant. The proximate constituents of the crude seed oil extract gave crude protein (22.09%), crude fat (56.75%), moisturecontent (1.35%), ash (4.70%), crudefiber (12.75%) and carbohydrate (2.36%). The crude oil physicochemical properties included saponification value(216.439mgKOH/g), peroxide value(4.84meq/kg), acid value(2.18mgKOH/g), iodine value(77.08g/100g), viscosity value(150.3@30°C) and cetane number(54.08), refractive index(1.487 @30°C), relative density (0.949g/cm3) while calorific value was 39.03(MJ/kg). The fatty acids composition of crude kernel oil extract of B. aegyptiaca indicated the presence of four (4) fatty acids, with relative percentage abundance (RPA) in the order of 67.17% (9,12-Octadecanoic acid (C19 H3402)) > 16.22% (Pentadecanoic acid (C17H3402)) > 11.8kg% (Heptacosanoic acid (C28H5602)) > 4.72% (Oleic acid(C18H3402)). These properties conferred relative prospects on the crude oil of the test plant as a suitable potential biodiesel substrate and consequently, large scale aforestation efforts be renewed, to guarantee ready availability of the raw materials. Keywords: Balanites aegyptiaca, Biodiesel, proximate, physicochemical, crude seed oil extracts

The study investigated fungi associated with sea foods, fish (Pellonula leonensis) and crayfish (Parapandalus pritis) from different wetlands (Ibeno, Ikot Abasi, Eket and Itu) in Akwa Ibom State. Samples were collected and cultured on Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA) and the isolated fungi were identified using molecular technique. Based on PCR amplification, sequencing of the internal transcribed spacer and phylogenetic analysis, the fungi identified were: Aspergillus niger, A. felis, A. foetidus, A. aculeatus, A. japonicus, A. flavus, A. tamari, A. terreus, Penicilium citrinum, Candida tropicalis and Trametes polyzona. The most commonly isolated fungi from fish for the four locations were A. niger (52.8) in Itu, P. citrinum (51.7) in Ibeno, A. foetidus (53.5) in Ikot Abasi and A. aculeatus (51.6) in Eket. For samples of crayfish, the most commonly isolated fungi were A. niger (25.1) in Itu and A. foetidus (20.1) in Ikot Abasi. Generally, Ibeno recorded the highest frequencies of fungal isolates while Ikot Abasi had the least. Percentage occurrence of fungi isolated from fish samples were significantly higher (p

Objective: To assess the level of satisfaction of patients who access the Ophthalmic counselling services anchored by trained social workers of the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital, Calabar, NigeriaMethods: A cross-sectional study of serial consenting participants was done. Ethical approval was obtained from the University of Calabar Teaching hospitals’ ethics committee. Data was obtained using a semi-structured intervieweradministeredquestionnaire. Data were collated and analyzed using the SPSS for Windows (version 20, SPSS inc. Chicago, IL, USA). Modified Likert scale (very satisfied, satisfied and not satisfied) was used to rate the satisfaction level.Results: A total of 120 respondents met the inclusion criteria and were enrolled into the study. Majority of the respondents (60%) were male with an overall mean age of 45.32± 1.82. Over a quarter (28.3%) of the respondents were in the age bracket of 41-50. Glaucoma (48.3%) was the most common eye condition of the respondents. Seventy-five percent of the respondents were satisfied with the average time spent for the counselling services while 76.7% were satisfied with the overall ophthalmic counselling services they received with 46.7% believing that the service was provided by a social worker.Conclusion: Majority of the Patients were satisfied with the Ophthalmic counselling services mainly anchored by social workers. Training and retraining of allied support staff to render ophthalmic counselling services in order to ease the workload of the Ophthalmologist should be encouraged in resource-limited settings.Keywords: Patients satisfaction, ophthalmic counselling service, NigeriaFunding: None declared

Malaria is still regarded as a major public health problem in sub-Saharan African countries. Anopheles mosquitoes have been implicated as the major malaria vectors. However, species abundance, composition and distribution vary between different ecological zones. This study investigated the composition and distribution of Anopheles gambiae mosquitoes in Itu Local Government Area, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. Adult Anopheles mosquitoes were sampled bi-weekly from 15 randomly selected houses each from three communities in the study area by pyrethroid spray capture (PSC) method. Adult Anopheles species were identified morphologically and sibling species were further subjected to species- specific polymerase chain reaction (PCR) typing. A total of 269 female Anopheles species were caught between July and December, 2015. The study indicated significant (p

This work introduces a newly developed kinetic mechanism and thermodynamic study that gives a clear theoretical insight between the iodine and chromium in acid solution. The paper mainly focuses on evaluating kinetic mechanism and thermodynamic properties of the oxidation of iodide by dichromate ion in acidic medium. This study was investigated using iodometric method. The rate has been studied by appropriate choice of concentrated conditions at constant temperature and ionic strength. The kinetic studies revealed half order reaction with respect to dichromate ion, first order for iodide ion and second order for hydrogen ion concentration. The dependence of reaction rate on the temperature was monitored in order to generate some thermodynamic parameters, which can be used in predicting the direction and spontaneity of the reaction. The thermodynamic studies of this reaction revealed negative values for ΔG, ΔS and positive values for ΔH which is an indication that the reaction wasspontaneous and endothermic. The oxidant chromium (vi) exist in acidic media as H2CrO4. The effect of ionic strength on the rate of redox reaction was investigated. The ionic strength was adjusted by varying the concentration of the nitrate to maximum. The effect of temperature was also studied to evaluate the thermodynamic parameters. Transition metals should be use as catalyst for future purpose to monitor the rate of redox reaction. The techniques employed on this research are very useful in determining the rate of a redox reaction. Keywords: Kinetic, thermodynamic, oxidation, iodometric method