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Bacteriophages were isolated from raw sewage and selected based on the size and clarity of plaque that were formed. The selected phages were further enriched and purified. The isolated bacteriophages were found to be able to lyse Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolate from raw sewage. The virulent bacterial viruses of Pseudomonas aeruginosa were found to be of widespread occurrence in nature Bacterial viruses were applied to control pathogenic bacteria in different fields and successfully. Therefore, this work aimed to study is to isolate bacteriophages capable of lysing Pseudomonas aeruginosa as a potential therapeutic alternative to antibiotics.

We investigated the influence of soil properties on the availability or otherwise of micronutrients in agricultural soils impacted by inorganic and organic manures in the South-South Area of Nigeria. The levels of pH, organic matter (OM), cation exchange capacity (CEC), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), and zinc (Zn) in the understudy soil were examined. The measured pH, OM, CEC, Cu, Fe, Mn and Zn levels revealed: 6.04±0.49, 17.68±4.78 %, 7.97±0.81 Cmolkg-1, 5.27±0.82 mgkg-1, 232.49±16.01 mgkg-1, 109.30±9.85 mgkg-1, and 8.40±1.15 mgkg-1, for pH, OM, CEC, Cu, Fe, Mn, and Zn, respectively. The values were within the acceptable limits set by national and international standards. The study revealed variable relationships between the soil properties and micronutrients in the studied soils at p < 0.05. Soil pH exhibited a strong negative association with all the micronutrients except Zn. However, a strong positive correlation (p< 0.10) was recorded between pH and Zn. OM showed a significant positive correlation (p< 0.10) with Fe, a weak positive correlation with Zn, and a non-significant negative correlation (p< 0.10) with Cu and Mn at p < 0.10. CEC exhibited a fair positive association with Fe and Zn, and a non-significant negative correlation (p< 0.10) with Cu and Mn. The principal component analysis (PCA) identified a combination of anthropogenic and natural impact and the impact of agrochemicals applied as the major factors influencing the properties determined in the studied soils. The study concluded that soil properties have a strong influence on the availability or otherwise of micronutrients in the soil.

Electron transfer reaction of theobromine (hereafter referred to as TB) and permanganate ion has been studied using spectrophotometric technique under pseudo first-order conditions at T = 24, [H+] = 3.2 × 10–1 mol dm–3and I = 1.0 mol dm–3 (Na2SO4). Stoichiometric study depicted that two moles of TB were consumed by one mole of permanganate ion. The rate of the reaction is first order in both [TB] and [MnO4-] and second order overall. It was observed that, [H+] and ionic strength respectively enhanced the rate of the reaction in the range studied. Michaelis-Mentens analysis showed no evidence of intermediate complex formation. Added anions and cations were observed to catalyze the reaction rate. The reaction conforms to the rate law as shown below: -d [MnO4-]/dt = (a+b [H+]) [TB] [MnO4-] where a = 0.041 dm3mol–1 s–1 and b= 0.028 dm3mol–1 s–1. The reaction thus occurs by an outer-sphere pathway and plausible mechanism is proposed for the reaction.

As monitoring preclinical MRI is essential, it is important that the equipment used must be MRI-compatible. This is because interaction with an MRI radiofrequency (RF) transmitting field can cause RF burns due to inappropriate equipment. And non-compatible MRI monitoring equipment can give inaccurate readings in the MRI system if the equipment has ferromagnetic components. Preclinical MRI is designed for animals, the model used to study diseases related to humans. Animal models are imaged using a smaller scanner with high magnetic fields like the 4.7T. The main parameters of interest are the respiratory rate, the temperature, the pressure transducer and the electrocardiogram (ECG), this is because the animal model is used as a laboratory experiment for human disease. An MRI-compatible lead Ⅱ ECG simulator, with approximately 0.5 mV output amplitude was attached to the input of the ECG preamplifier to represent a small animal’s signal. The transmitted signal is the ECG, the pressure sensor, the temperature, and the battery (voltage), these are all linked to different channels (outside, near and inside magnet) and were acquired with the pressure sensor pad taped on a male adult volunteer’s thumb to record the human pulse of 70 bpm, which is similar to the respiration rate of an anaesthetized mouse or rat. The use of a signal gating generator should be explored in future work, this could make the monitoring parameters to be independent of the RF pulse influence. Finally, fibre optics should be included in the design process.

Aim: Enumeration of bacterial counts is an important index of assessing the safety and quality of food products. This study aimed to investigate the occurrence of pathogenic bacteria in white shrimp samples obtained from major markets serving consumers in Calabar. Study Design: This study was a cross sectional study conducted between April 2017 and April 2018. Methodology: One hundred and twenty (120) samples of smoked dried Nematopalaemon hastatus (white shrimp) were analyzed for the presence of bacterial pathogens. Bacterial loads and identification of isolated organisms was determined using standard microbiological methods. Results: The results showed that 66.7% of the analyzed shrimps had aerobic bacterial counts exceeding the upper permissible limit (

Sharing of make-up tools by multiple users is a possible means of transfer of fungal infections, such as dermatophytoses. With abrasion on the skin, it is possible for HIV, Hepatitis B virus, Spirochaetes and other pathogens to be carried via contaminated make-up tools, from one person to another. Using sterilized swab sticks, surfaces of make-up tools (sponge and brush) were cleansed. Materials deposited on the swab sticks were cultured aerobically on Chocolate and Cysteine Lactose Electrolyte Deficient Agar plates overnight at 37oC. After overnight aerobic incubation, the culture plates were read macroscopically for growth. Bacterial isolates were subjected to microscopic examination using Gram’s staining technique and biochemical tests (e.g. coagulase, catalase, oxidase, and motility). Results showed that the predominant bacterial growths obtained from the make-up tools were Staphylococcus aureus (51.5%), Coagulase-negative Staphylococcus (25.8%), Klebsiella pneumoniae (6.2%), and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (16.5%). The different genera of bacteria were harvested from make-up brushes (66.2%) and make-up sponges (85.7%). There was no bacterial growth from 33.8% and 14.3% of make-up brushes and make-up sponges respectively. There was no statistical difference in terms of bacterial growth between the two tools (brush and sponge) sampled (P>0.05). This study has shown that there is a moderate possibility for the transfer of bacterial organisms (both skin flora and pathogens) from one person to another, through make-up tools, in our local communities. It is hereby recommended that health education talks should be carried out regularly among beauticians to encourage them to use disposable make-up tools with disinfectants.

Sustained ventricular tachycardia is a ventricular rhythm greater than 100 bpm usually lasting more than 30 seconds. It manifests with a broad QRS tachyarrhythmia which has a similar QRS configuration. This happens from one beat to another, showing a similar chain of ventricular depolarization for every beat. Ventricular tachyarrhythmia has its origin from a stable focus. However, in conditions like structural cardiac disease, the substrate is the place that has patchy replacement fibrosis because of infarction which may originate functional reentry or anatomical pathways. Symptoms of VT rely on the underlying heart function, and rate of arrhythmia. The prognosis depends on the existing heart disease and the first treatment always follows advanced cardiac life support.

Background: Human activities adversely affect the distribution and diversity of zooplankton. They are diverse group of organisms with little or no locomotive ability and quickly respond to changes in their environment. This research was aimed at providing updated information on the distribution and seasonal variation of zooplankton in Great Kwa River. Materials and Methods: Two sampling stations (S1- Obufa Esuk and S2- Esuk Atu) were mapped along the river bank, samples were collected using plankton net of 55µm mesh size and preserved in 4% formalin. Species were identified using taxonomic keys. Data were analyzed using ecological indices. Results: The results revealed 12 taxa; belonging to 38 species. Tintinnida, Protozoa, Cladocera, Copepoda were 23.1%, 18.5%, 15.4% and 13.3% respectively. The lowest taxonomic groups were Diptera, Foraminitera, Atenatadata and Trichoptera having 1.85% for each order. The highest species was recorded in S2 having 31 species. In both Stations Ascampbelliella acuta was dominance over other species. Shannon-Weiner index (H) were 2.997 and 2.40 in S2 and S1 respectively. The evenness index were 0.576 and 0.547 for S1 and S2 respectively. Margalef,s diversity index were 8.171 and 4.111 for Esuk Atu-S2 and Obufa Esuk-S1 respectively. Zooplankton species were abundant in wet season than dry season. Conclusion: This present study provide updated information on the zooplankton distribution, diversity and seasonal variations of the Great Kwa River. The high dominance of Tintinnida in this study indicates a natural linkage between nano-planktons and macro-planktons in the food webs of the river.

Alcohol withdrawal is a clinical state characterized by symptoms such as tremors, tachycardia, sweating, nausea and vomiting, headache, malaise, insomnia, grand mal convulsions amongst others. Patients typically present acutely with a history of recent cessation or reduction of heavy alcohol use after a long period of repeated, persistent use. It may feature perceptual disturbances such as illusions or hallucinations. It may present with delirium in a condition known as delirium tremens, which typically occurs after recent cessation or reduction of very heavy alcohol use in patients with a long-standing history of alcohol dependence syndrome, who may also have coexisting medical conditions. We herein report a case of a 40 year old man, with a 12-month history of persistent alcohol use, who presented with classical symptoms of alcohol withdrawal including inability to sleep, excessive sweating, tachycardia, vomiting, and hallucinations. There is no associated history of convulsions or co-morbid medical conditions. Features of this case are discussed, as well as evaluation and treatment of alcohol withdrawal.

Background: Senna alata is an underutilized shrub found in many countries and is known for its traditional use in the treatment of dermatophytes and other related diseases. Therefore, this study aimed at evaluating the phytochemical and antibacterial effects of S. alata leaves extracts against bacterial isolates obtained from urinary tract infection patients in Calabar. Methodology: Matured fresh leaves of Senna alata were collected within Calabar, Cross River state, Nigeria, in May 2022 and identified by a botanist in the Department of Botany, University of Calabar. The leaves of S. alata were extracted with water, methanol and ethyl acetate using maceration and soxhlet methods. Phytochemical analysis was conducted to detect the presence of bioactive compounds using standard methods. The crude extracts of S. alata were investigated for antibacterial properties using agar well diffusion method and mechanisms of antibiosis determined using MBC/MIC ratio. Results: In both methods of extraction, methanol yielded more extracts compared to other solvents. Soxhlet methanol extract (SaMeSh) had the highest (12.21%) percentage yield while maceration ethyl acetate extract (SaEaMa) had the least (4.77%) percentage yield. The phytochemicals assayed revealed the presence of saponins, tannins, flavonoids, anthraquinones, terpenoids and steroids. However, terpenoids was not detected in methanol and ethyl acetate extracts. Senna alata extracts demonstrated broad spectrum of activity against the tested isolates at various concentrations with organic solvents exhibiting the highest antibacterial activity. However, the observed activity varied with respect to concentration of extract and types of organisms. The MIC values ranged from 31.25 to 250 mg/mL and MBC values from 62.5 to 500 mg/mL. The MIC index of the crude extracts against the test uropathogens was ≤8. Conclusion: This study indicates that S. alata could be a source of novel antimicrobial agent. Further research is required to isolate, characterize and identify bioactive constituents responsible for the observed activity.

Asthma is a long-term heterogeneous inflammatory condition of the airways. It is marked by shortness of breath, wheezing, intermittent cough and bronchial hyperreactivity. It has several phenotypes and people living with asthma have atopy. Asthma can occur at any age. However, it is more common in males before puberty; then, has equal sex ratio by adulthood.

Aims: Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are very toxic and persistent environmental contaminants. The paper is aimed at investigating the cancer risk exposure of PAHs in borehole water collected around five automobile repair workshops within Eket metropolis. Place and Duration of Study: Samples were collected between June - August (2018) in wet season and November (2018) – January (2019) in dry season from boreholes around the vicinity of five automobile repair workshops within Eket metropolis. Methodology: The water samples were prepared in the laboratory following standard procedures and analysed for 16 United States Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA) priority PAHs using Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometer (GC–MS). A total of fifteen PAH congeners were detected in the samples. Results: Total PAHs concentrations in borehole water from all sampling sites were in the range of 1.71–16.07 mg/L and 1.07–12.97 mg/L for both dry and wet seasons respectively. The low PAHs levels recorded in water for the wet season was linked to dilution effect. Low molecular weight PAHs were more dominant in all samples. The estimated cancer risks of exposure to PAHs by ingestion in the water samples ranged from 7.10 × 10-7 to 1.12 × 10-4 and 6.76 × 10-6 to 3.69 × 10-1 for adults and children respectively in both seasons. The estimated cancer risks due to dermal exposure to PAHs in the water samples ranged from to 7.18 × 10-3 to 1.07 × 10-1 and 5.67 × 10-3 to 1.08 × 10-1 for adults and children respectively in both seasons. Conclusion: Carcinogenic risks due to dermal exposure calculated for both adults and children were higher than the US EPA acceptable cancer risk and much higher for children, which suggest that children could be prone to cancer and need to be monitored.

Aim: Increasing cases of Cryptococcus laurentii infection are being reported globally possibly due to advances in medicine, the use of immunosuppressants and invasive therapies such as endotracheal intubation, parenteral nutrition, central vascular catheters and exposure to broad-spectrum antimicrobial agents. Cryptococcus species are ubiquitously distributed in the environment, abundant in contaminated soil and bird droppings. Four cases of Cryptococcus laurentii fungemia have been described in neonates, all were premature low/very low-birth-weight. Our case is likely the 5th reported globally and the 1st from Nigeria and Africa across all age groups. Case Presentation: The patient presented at 34 hours of life with complaints of fever and multiple convulsions after delivery in a traditional birth attendant facility. Mother drained liquor for 5 days with poor cord care. A diagnosis of severe birth asphyxia with sepsis was made and baby received antibiotics (ceftriaxone and genticin) in addition to the management of severe birth asphyxia but showed no improvement. Blood culture yielded cream-colored smooth colonies, identified by Vitek 2 (bioMerieux, France) as Cryptococcus laurentii. Baby was treated with fluconazole, had good recovery and was discharged home. Conclusion: Our case report emphasizes the need for high index of suspicion for non-bacterial organisms (fungi) as possible causes of sepsis in newborns. Improved fungal diagnosis and timely commencement of antifungal medications will improve clinical outcomes.

Dysfunctional pancreatic beta cell and impaired glucose metabolism in the liver has been implicated in streptozotocin (STZ)-type 2 diabetes mellitus and this has been linked with increased oxidative stress. Whether methanol extract of Dryopteris dilatata (MEDd), a flavonoid-rich plant can ameliorate STZ- type 2 diabetes liver damage remains an issue. Hence, this study investigated the effect of methanol extract of Dryopteris dilatata on STZ- type 2 diabetes mellitus in male Wistar rat. Animals were randomly selected into five groups (n=5) and were treated as follows; group 1 received distilled water (10ml/kg), Group 2 received only STZ (60mg/kg), Group 3 and 4 received STZ then 400 and 800mg/kg of MEDd respectively while Group 5 received STZ then pioglitazone (10mg/kg). Following 14 days of treatment, animals were euthanized and blood as well as spleen, liver, pancreas and kidney tissues were collected for further studies. Our results revealed that MEDd significantly reduced STZ-induced hyperglycaemia in Diabetic rats. Markers of oxidative injury (MDA, NO and GSH) were also significantly ameliorated in the pancreas and liver of the diabetic rats following treatment with MEDd. However, liver injury markers (ALT, AST and ALP) were significantly attenuated with marked decreased in organ weight in the diabetic rats after treatment with MEDd. We found that methanol extract of Dryopteris dilatata demonstrated anti-diabetogenic and hepato-protective potential by enhancing in vivo hepato-pancreatic antioxidant defence system.

Fish oils are good sources of essential fatty acids beneficial to human health by helping the body in preventing diseases and enhancing proper growth and development. This study is aimed at investigating the quantitative and qualitative composition of fatty acids in two commonly consumed and most abundant freshwater fishes (Clarias gariepinus and Chrysichthyes nigrodigitatus) from the Cross River at Ahaha, Obubra. The oil was converted to fatty acids methyl esters (FAME) and the fatty acids evaluated by gas chromatography – mass spectrometry using retention time method. The fatty acids profiles include saturated fatty acids (SFAs), monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs) and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs). The composition varied from 0.06 – 24.00% of SFAs, 0.23 – 21.40% of MUFAs and 0.23 – 12.22% of PUFAs in the both species. The major SFAs were palmitic (C16:0) and stearic (C18:0) acids while the most abundant MUFA was oleic (C18:1) acid. Dominant PUFAs in the both specie were linoleic (C18:2), eicosapentaenoic (EPA, C20:5) and docosahexaenoic (DHA, C22:6) acids. Quantitatively the composition of various fatty acids was in the order SFAs < MUFAs < PUFAs although not significantly different (p< 0.05) in the species. Chrysichthys nigrodigitatus had higher total fatty acids (TFA), PUFAs and omega –3 / omega –6 ratio than C. gariepinus with higher levels omega -6 fatty acids. The ratios of PUFA/SFA were higher in C. nigrodigitatus although both were greater than the minimum value (0.4) recommended by World Health Organization. The result indicates that the species had high quality essential fatty acids especially DHA and EPA although relatively higher in C. nigrodigitatus. Hence these species have the potentials to serve as the natural dietary supplement for all important omega -3 fatty acids.

Alterations in the diversity of the ichthyofauna of a tropical waterfalls system can be affected by unsustainable utilisation of the fisheries resources, anthropogenic activities, runoff from faulty agricultural practices and environmental perturbation. To re-establish the status of the fish composition and diversity of Agbokim Waterfalls, monthly fish samples obtained from the fishery and physico-chemical properties were investigated in rainy and dry seasons, for six months along the length of the three reaches of the waterfalls. The results revealed a total of 833 fish specimens representing 18 species belonging to 15 genera from 9 families which is in deficit of four fish species, in the previous study which are Alestes nurse (Characidae), Aphyosemion gardneri (Cyprinodontidae), Pelmatochromis guntheri and Hemichromis fasciatus (Cichlidae). Cichlidae, Clariidae and Bagridae were the most abundant families accounting for 54.4% of the total catch with Cichlidae (23.17%) as the most dominant family and Mockokidae (1.68%) as the least with Tilapia zillii (15.4%), Clarias gariepinus (10.9% ) and Chrysichthys nigrodigitatus (9.5%) as the most dominant species accounting for 35.8% and Synodontis clarias (1.7%) with the least abundance. Fish species distribution in the downstream reach was dominant with 15 taxa and 607 (72.9%) individuals and in the midstream reach with 11 taxa but least (12.6%) number of individuals. Shannon Wiener diversity index for the six months was 2.7101 with Evenness value of 0.9376. The Richness index of Margalef’s was 2.5279 and Menhinick’s 0.6237. Seasonal variations in physico-chemical properties showed that, dissolved oxygen and conductivity were significantly (P< 0.05) higher in the raining season while pH showed no significant difference (P > 0.05). Temperature was significantly higher (p < 0.05) in the dry season than in the raining season. The hydrological properties showed a significantly higher mean values of rainfall (364.67± 0.00 mm) in the rainy and transparency (45.55± 1.58) in the dry season at (P < 0.05). In order to determine the cause of decline in fish species composition and abundance, further research on the heavy metals profile of the waterfalls is suggested.

This paper analyzes the dissociation behavior of children from pregnancy to birth and resultant sub-normality using genetic counseling in an attempt to mainstream children with birth disabilities and the challenges of the genetic counselor. Genetic counseling is a process of communication to provide information about a genetic condition, or inheritance, and support decision making and adjustment in families with the inheritance gene. It uses children that need special needs, the blind, deaf and dumb. Genetic counseling approach, re-affirmation, care and integration, and confidence-building institutionalized in school and family life remains some of the vital tools needed to support these children using genetic guidance and counseling as the best approach to adjusting the different maladaptive behavior of children. The genetic counseling approach includes information about the implications of testing positive for the genetic disorder, including the psychological impact and other consequences, whether to inform relatives of your intention to test, or not to test and the usual pattern of progression of the sub-normality identified tested for and its potential treatments. Thus, the paper seems to analyze sub-normality as classified within the adequacy of social adaptation. Analysis of dissociation behavior associated with sub mentality shows discouragement, contempt, and neglect from an early age, emotionally and maladjusted social growth. Therefore, the counselor must experience sub-normality by getting involved and clarifying their feeling toward the children with these disabilities.

Plant based medicines have been a part of traditional healthcare in most parts of the world for thousands of years. The medicinal plants are of great interest to human health. It has been proven that antimicrobials of plant origin work more efficiently with fewer side effects. The study aimed to identify the phytochemicals in the extracts of Helianthus annus and Anthocleista djalonensis and examine the effects of extracts of these plants on the growth of clinical bacterial isolates. Leaves of Helianthus annus and Anthocleista djalonensis were extracted in methanol, distilled water and hot water. The extract solution (100%) was further diluted to various concentrations (75%, 50%, and 25%). The data obtained were analyzed by Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) to determine significant (P< 0.05) effects. Significant differences between means were determined using Duncan’s Multiple Range Test (DMRT). The phytochemical screening indicated the presence of alkaloids, phenols, glycosides, flavonoids, terpenoids, saponins and quinone. The extracts of the plants inhibited the growth of the bacteria tested with varied effectiveness. The maximum antibacterial activities were observed in the aqueous extracts. Thus the extracts of Helianthus annus and Anthocleista djalonensis can be used in the development of new pharmaceuticals that address unmet therapeutic use.

It has been proven that antimicrobials of plant origin work more efficiently with fewer side effects. This study aimed to identify the phytochemicals in extracts of Dillenia indica and Ficus exasperata and also to examine their antibacterial effect on clinical bacterial isolates (Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes). Dry leaves of D. indica and F. exasperata were extracted in ethanol, methanol, distilled water and hot water. The 100% extract solution was further diluted to different concentrations (75%, 50%, and 25%). The extracts were concentrated using a rotary evaporator. Using the agar well diffusion method, the isolates were subjected to the antibacterial action of various concentrations of these extracts. The diameter of the zones of inhibition were measured in millimeters. The data obtained were analyzed by Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) to determine significant (P

Background: Gynecological cancer is a major public health problem and an important cause of morbidity and mortality in women worldwide. There are only few researches on the overall mortality attributed to gynecological cancers in Nigeria. Objectives: To determine the case fatality rate, prevalence and reason for mortality amongst gynecological oncology patients at the oncology unit of the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH). Study Design: This was a retrospective study of mortality from gynecological cancers in UPTH between 1st January, 2014 and 31st December, 2018. Case files of patients with mortality from genital tract malignancies were reviewed and relevant information extracted Results: A total of 2070 gynecological admissions were recorded out of which 399 were gynecological cancer patients, giving a 19.3% prevalence of gynecological cancer. Fifty-six gynecological cancer related deaths were reported within the study period with an overall cancer mortality rate of 14.0%. Ovarian cancer was responsible for the highest number of deaths 48.2% with a case-fatality rate of 18.6% while cervical cancer had a case fatality rate of 13.1%. Majority of the patients 96.6% presented at advanced stage of the disease. Those with financial constraints totaled 62.5% while 89.3% had challenges accessing specialized health care. Conclusion: The study shows that the case-fatality rate of mortalities from gynaecological cancers at UPTH is very high with ovarian malignancy accounting for most deaths. Late presentation, low socioeconomic status and delay in accessing specialized health care were the main factors responsible for these mortalities. Proper screening, early diagnosis. prompt treatment and improvement in the socioeconomic status of gynaecological cancer patients will improve the case fatality rate in UPTH.

In late December, 2019, patients diagnosed with viral pneumonia due to an unidentified microbial agent were reported in Wuhan, China. A novel coronavirus was subsequently identified as the causative pathogen, provisionally named 2019 novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV). As at November 10, 2020, confirmed cases had reached an alarming 50,994,215 with a global death toll of 1,264,077 from 2019-nCoV infections, most of which involved people living in or visiting countries with high rate of prevalence and thus increasing the human-to-human transmission. A random sampling of 150 inmates in a Psychiatric clinic revealed that the advent of the COVID 19 pandemic in Nigeria left many youths stressed up, depressed, traumatized with excited state of anxiety leading to mental health challenges and some of which resort to committing suicide.The post COVID 19 era plunged many youths into joblessness. Many youths who were into artisans and gainfully employed with private outfits and organizations such as private schools lost their jobs (20.67%) due to the COVID 19 disease outbreak which shut down schools, businesses and government. The state of joblessness of the youths in the current post COVID 19 era has further affected the mental health of some of the youths in Nigeria. Absence of government palliatives (4.00%), ASUU Strike (3.33%), High level of poverty, isolation, Sicknesses (13.33%), High level of Despondency, Loss of accommodation (16.67%), Inflation (increased prices of food and other items), Increased transportation cost, Persistent lockdown, Social unrest, High level of insecurity (17.33%), Security personnel brutality and Increase crime rates. The counselor’s intervention strategy should focus on helping the youths with poor mental health due to COVID 19 to regain self- confidence, regain self –esteem, seek medical attention for them, canvass for free medication for affected ones, create awareness on job opportunity for them, engage governments on behalf of the youths for employment opportunities as well as giving them palliatives, reopening of schools/universities and linking them to credit facilities, social safety nets and other available opportunities.

Background: Cola millenii K. Schum. is a member of Cola which is lesser-known in the family Malvaceae. The leaf is used in the treatment of ringworm, scabies, gonorrhoea, diarrhoea, cough and ophthalmia by the locals. Aim: The study determines various taxonomic, pharmacognostic and phytochemical standards helpful to ensure the identity, purity, safety and efficacy of the medicinal plant, C. millenii. Methodology: The pharmacognostic characterization was determined following the guidelines given by the World Health Organization (WHO). Parameters determined included macroscopy, microscopy, powder microscopy, petiole anatomy, chemomicroscopy, micromeritic properties, ash values, extractive values, fluorescence analysis and preliminary phytochemical screening. Results: Preliminary phytochemical screening for both the leaf and stem ethanol extracts showed the presence of phytochemicals. Epidermal cell shapes were polygonal with straight anticlinal walls. Stomatal distribution was hypostomatic with hexacytic, anisocytic and anomocytic stomata on the abaxial surface. Unicellular and glandular trichomes were observed on the abaxial surface. Areolation was quadrangular with calcium oxalate crystals observed along the veins. The chemomicroscopic study revealed the presence of lignin, starch, cellulose, oils, calcium oxalate crystals, mucilage and protein for both leaf and stem respectively. The fluorescence characteristics showed the presence of different colours supporting the presence of various phytoconstituents for both leaf and stem. The flow properties for both leaf and stem were fair and passable with the angle of repose of 40.6o and 36.8o respectively. The quantitative epidermal studies, chemomicroscopic and fluorescence characteristics revealed characteristic features for the drug. The physico-chemical results for leaf and stem gave total ash of 5.5 % and 12.07 %, water-soluble ash of 1.19 % and 3.39 %, acid-insoluble ash of 0.90 % and 2.29 % and moisture content of 4.49 % and 16.33 %, water-soluble extractive of 26.30 % and 22.50 %, ethanol-soluble extractive of 24.30 % and 16.80 %, methanol-soluble extractive of 20.90 % and 2.50 % and ethyl-acetate acetate-soluble extractive of 6.60 % and 1.10 % respectively. The GC-MS analysis revealed the presence of 31 and 45 phytochemical constituents for the leaf and stem respectively. Conclusion: The data generated from the present study would help to authenticate C. millenii and also affirm its folklore use in traditional medicine.

Background: Healthcare environments are considered as potential reservoirs for pathogenic microorganisms especially those responsible for nosocomial infections. Such microorganisms often present with varying degrees of drugs resistance. This study was aimed at evaluating the Cross River University of Technology (CRUTECH) Medical Center Environment for the presence of pathogenic bacterial contaminants and antibiotics susceptibility profile of such isolates. Materials and Methodology: A total of 72 swab samples were collected from nineteen frequently touched hospital surfaces and processed using the standard bacteriological procedures. The emergent bacterial colonies were identified using phenotypic and biochemical tests. Antibiotic susceptibility testing of the presumptively identified isolates was carried out using Kirby-Bauer’s method. Results: Out of 72 swab samples collected, 44 (61.1%) were positive for Enteric bacterial pathogens. The mean viable count ranged from 1.8 x 106 Cfu/cm2 (weighing scales) to 2.41 x 107 Cfu/cm2 (wash sinks). The most prevalent isolate was E. coli (48 of 127, 37.8%) followed by Klebseilla sp (27 of 127, 21.3%), Salmonella sp (19 of 127, 14.9%), Proteus sp (12 of 127, 9.4%), Citrobacter sp (11 of 127, 8.7%), Enterobacter sp (7 of 127, 5.5%) while Shigella sp (3 of 127, 2.4%) was least isolated. Isolates demonstrated high level of susceptibility to Norfloxacin 124 (97.6%), Imipenem 116 (91.3%) and Chloramphenicol 105 (82.7%). Resistance to Erythromycin was 95 (74.8%), Gentamycin 84 (66.1%) and Amikacin 82 (64.6%). Conclusion: Contamination of healthcare surfaces by multi-drugs resistant pathogens is a potential risk, especially to hospitalized patients and health care workers. Thus, it is therefore imperative that appropriate hygienic measures be implemented to suppress any potential microbial cross-contamination.

The Lower Benue Trough, in South-eastern Nigeria, hosts several lead-zinc deposits. The mineralization is frequently hosted by Cretaceous black shales that appear to have undergone low grade metamorphism, and subordinate sandstones. Most parts of the deposits have been epigenetically formed, and occur as blocky shaped, discordant veins, fracture, and possibly open-space fillings, of hydrothermal origin. For this reason, structural evaluation constitutes an important criterion for the investigation of the mineralization. In particular, the orientation of fractures occurring at the Pb-Zn deposits can be useful in the differentiation of the relative ages of the mineral vein deposits. A total of one thousand, one hundred and forty-seven fractures around mineralized zones, at the study localities, were measured and analysed. Results indicate that the vein deposits are structurally controlled, have four main orientations, and most likely formed by crack-seal process. The most prominent fracture sets show NW-SE, NNE-SSW to N-S orientations, while the less prominent ones are displayed in the NE-SW and ESE-WNW directions. The NW-SE, NNE-SSW to N-S fracture sets is interpreted as ‘ac’ extension fractures from two different deformation episodes that affected the trough, while the NE-SW, ESE-WNW to E-W sets is the two ‘bc’ tensile fractures, respectively parallel to the axes of F1 and F2 folds which occur in the trough. Small variations of the NNE-SSW and ESE-WNW brought about the occurrences of N-S and E-W sets respectively. Indication are that the two deformation episodes affected the trough: the first episode produce the NE-SW (F1) fold axes, while the second less intensity episode produce the ESE-WNW (F2) folds. The most dominant mineral vein trends in the study area are the NW-SE and NNE-SSW to N-S orientations, in which mineral veins are loaded in the ‘ac’ extension fractures. The less dominant mineral vein trends are the NE-SW and ESE-WNW orientations, which are in the ‘bc’ tensile fractures. At the NW-SE trend, vein minerals mainly occur along 150-160o from N, although it ranges from 135-175o from N. Vein width up to 7.0m can be obtained from both the NW-SE and NNE-SSW directions. The Lower Cretaceous sediments appear to be characterized by the NW-SE (major) and NE-SW (minor) sets of veins, while the upper Cretaceous sequence is most likely characterized by the NNE-SSW (major) and ESE-WNW (minor) vein sets. The widest Pb-Zn vein in the study area is 11.5m wide, located in the Enyigba axes sub-area and trends in the NE-SW direction with evidence of slickensides which indicates faulting.

This study assesses environmental knowledge of some selected secondary school students in Katsina, Nigeria. Three representative schools out of total 39 were selected for the purpose of this study. These are (i) Ulul Al-Bab Science Secondary School (Co-educational School, both girls and boys), (ii) Government College, Katsina (Boys only school) and (iii) Government girls college Katsina (Girls only school). 150 students (25 students per each of levels 1-6 of secondary education) were sampled in each of the three selected schools. The selected students were issued with the prepared questionnaire addressing some key issues that probe students’ depth of knowledge of environmental problems, their consequences and solutions of solving them. ANOVA statistical test was used to test for significant variation in the level of environmental knowledge of the students within the individual schools studied in order to identify the extent to which variation in levels of study (i.e. age-grade) on environmental knowledge level of the students. The same test was also used to test for significant difference in the environmental knowledge of the students between different schools in order to determine the effect of variation in gender characteristics on the knowledge level. The results obtained indicate in general that the secondary school students in the town display medium to high level of knowledge on the causes, consequences and solutions of environmental problems, but gender and level of study have generally significant influences the environmental knowledge levels of the students. Appropriate recommendations were made to help improve the level of student’s knowledge of environmental issues in the area.

Introduction: Transfusion of blood is a life-saving intervention in the care of ill neonates. Donated blood is a scarce national resource and must be used in the most efficient way. Exchange blood transfusion using the blood bag is the commonest mode of blood delivery employed. Other modalities of safe and sustainable blood delivery should also be explored, especially where paucity of funds predominates. This study aims to assess the usefulness of the direct push method where applicable, as an alternative to blood bag delivery in neonatal units of resource poor settings. Methods: A two year retrospective study of newborns admitted in the neonatal wards of the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital. Data obtained were the age, gender, indication for admission, packed cell volume (PCV) before and after transfusion. Blood transfusion was done in aliquots over 24 hours under aseptic conditions, via a peripheral vein. The push and pull method was employed, with no anticoagulant in the syringe. Post-transfusion PCV was done at least 24 hours after the procedure. Results: Of the one thousand and seventy-seven (1077) admitted neonates, two hundred and thirty-nine (22.2%), received blood products. Of these, twenty-one (8.8%), received a direct whole blood transfusion. Age (days) of the neonates transfused ranged from 1 to 26 days, with a mean of 10.4 ± 8.13. The Packed Cell Volume (PCV) pre-transfusion ranged between 20% - 44%, with a mean of 30.05 ± 6.39 while post-transfusion PCV ranged between 31% to 51%, with a mean of 38.17 ± 5.52(Fig. 1). The commonest indication for transfusion was prematurity, 9(42.8%) and neonatal sepsis 5 (23.8%). Conclusion: The direct transfusion of blood occasionally used, seems a relatively safe practice to correct mild/moderate anaemia. It also provides sufficient blood, with the advantage of usage when the umbilical cord access is no longer feasible and where cost of blood would otherwise, hinder quick intervention. This practice may need further evaluation by other centers.