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This study explores the technical and vocational education and training (TVET) teachers' pedagogical practices and how such practices can help the teachers' use of relevant guiding pedagogical principles in practice in Nigerian TVET system to facilitate quality learning. Employing a three-tiered ethnographic case study approach, we learned how 24 TVET teachers from purposively selected six Nigerian public universities used guiding pedagogical principles in practice to facilitate quality student learning. Focusing on five guiding pedagogical principles in practice identified from the thematic analysis, we analysed different pedagogical practices that teachers can adopt to facilitate quality TVET learning which include demonstration of learning, problem-based learning, seeing learners as knowers, active learning, and questioning. Drawing upon the thematic analysis, participants made recommendations for the continuous professional development of TVET teachers to enable them to improve in their use of the guiding pedagogical principles in practice to facilitate quality learning and graduate outcomes.

The bacteriological and physicochemical properties of 3 samples of borehole water collected from the Federal University of Technology hostels at Ihiagwa in Imo state were determined and contrasted with the WHO permissible limit. The study results indicated the presence of TCC and TTCC at 37 °C and 45 ℃ respectively. The values of TCC and TTCC in all the samples exceeded the WHO limit (0.00E+00± 0.00E+00). However, the value of TFCC in all the samples met the WHO standard. The means separation achieved using Turkey HSD showed that the means of TCC and TTCC of sample C were significantly different from those of samples A and B statistically at 5%. The physicochemical parameters showed that the samples were slightly acidic. They fell outside the acceptable pH limits by WHO and NIS (6.5 - 8.5). The study also showed that turbidity and total suspended solids (TSS) were not detected in any of the samples analyzed. Total dissolved solids were generally low across all the samples and fell within the WHO-approved standard limits of 500 mg/l. This shows that the borehole water in the area was quite fresh in the locations. The electrical conductivity (EC) for all samples fell within the permissible limit of 500 μS/cm set by WHO. From the analysis, it was observed that the electrical conductivity of the samples increased with increasing total dissolved solids. The study concluded that borehole water sources in the study area were polluted and unsafe for human consumption. The study recommended that water quality analysis should be carried out on all the boreholes in the hostels regularly. This will ensure that incidences of contamination are noticed earlier for remedial action to be taken, to minimize acute problems of water-related diseases, which are endemic to human health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examined the current state of careers advice, guidance, and counselling (CAGC) services and programmes in the technical, vocational education, and training (TVET) system of Nigerian higher education institutions (HEIs). This was to determine how well current CAGC services and programmes foster students' career development, aspirations, and choices. Forty-eight participants, who were members of the Nigerian National Board for Technical Education (8 participants), guidance counsellors (6), university TVET teachers (18), career experts from the National Directorate of Employment (7), and newly employed TVET graduates (9), volunteered for the study. A purposeful sampling procedure was adopted to recruit participants. Data were collected using a semi-structured interview approach, and we employed a thematic design for the coding and analysis of the transcribed data. The study found no CAGC services and programmes in the TVET system. It is recommended, therefore, that TVET systems should focus on providing career development enhanced learning rather than schooling only by revising the curriculum to include programmes and activities that promote CAGC activities and programmes.

The paper examined the effect of climate variables on poultry production efficacy in Nigeria with emphasis on broilers and layers. Multi-stage sampling was used to select 401 poultry farmers who provided useful information with the aid of a questionnaire. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, and logit regression model. Result shows that free range accounted for 22.7%, battery cage 11.2%, deep litter 54.6%, and semi-free range 11.5% were notable systems of poultry rearing in the state. Heat stress 75.1%, reduced egg 99.8% and meat production 88.5%, and reduction in quality of eggs 51.9% were some of the climate change effects on poultry production. Adaptation strategies of poultry farmers include; proper housing system 100%, proper feed formulation 99.8%, right stocking density 96.8% and adequate water and feed supply 82.8%. Age, education, off-farm activities, size of poultry pen and poultry farming experience were important adaptation determinants of poultry farmers to climate change. High price of feed 100%, lack of access to credit services 77.1%, disease outbreak and parasites 100% and high cost of poultry inputs 99.5% constrained poultry farming. The study concludes that climate variables affect poultry farming. Farmers were recommended to practice climate smart poultry production to mitigate adverse effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rapid development of the information and communication technologies has brought about the modernization of teaching and learning across the globe. Today, teaching and learning are made easy through the use of computer technologies and/or the electronic and other multi-media elements. It is widely accepted that electronic learning naturally leads to electronic assessments or examinations. e-assessments and e-examinations are widely used all over the world in the Open and Distance Learning institutions and some conventional face to face institutions. We are thus, moving from the pen and paper assessments to a paperless e-platform and e-assessments, which are necessary constants in the Open and Distance Learning (ODL) system. e-assessments tend to eliminate the limitations and give answers to many questions emanating from the traditional assessments/examinations. Higher institutions in Nigeria are therefore advised to embrace it. The rest of the paper looks at e-assessment as a global change in assessment, benefits of e-assessment, challenges, requirements and responsibilities.

This study examined key areas in which Nigerian technical college teachers need improvements to effectively teach vocational and technical subjects to foster skills acquisition and improve the quality of graduates. The study was conducted in nine technical colleges in the south-eastern region of Nigeria. It adopted a mixed methods approach and data were collected through a structured questionnaire administered to 87 teachers and two focus groups with 14 of the teachers. The quantitative data were analysed using simple percentages, while the qualitative data were analysed thematically. Patterns of responses among respondents suggested that technical teachers need improvements in instructional planning, workshop management, student management, facilities and equipment management for effective teaching of vocational and technical subjects, and for improved learners' experience to acquire relevant skills to be either paid or self-employed.

This paper aims at investigating the use of mass media in distance education in Nigeria with a view to making suggestions for their effective use during the 21st century. Distance education programmes, especially those of the Universities of Ibadan and Lagos are examined. These two institutions made bold and commendable efforts. However, while the print media seemed successfully made use of, unfortunately the electronic media were beyond the capabilities of the two institutions. Based on the findings, for effective use of the mass media in distance education in Nigeria, suggestions are proffered. These include, establishment of a separate tertiary institution for the purpose, assigning special radio and television channels or establishment of separate radio and television stations.

Geochemical and biomarker characteristics of representative crude oil samples from selected fields in southern Nigeria were evaluated to determine the organic matter input, origin of biological material, depositional environment, thermal maturity, and genetic relationship between the oils. Four crude oil samples were obtained from various oil producing fields from Delta, Bayelsa and Abia state in southern Nigeria and labeled Kwale (KW), Kolo creek (KLC), Owaza (OWA1 and OWA2). The crude oil samples were fractionated into saturates, aromatic hydrocarbons and polar compounds using column chromatography on silica gel thereafter, analyzed using Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC–MS). The calculated ratios of normal alkanes, acyclic isoprenoids, carbon preference index (CPI), hopanes, and steranes showed the following results: Pr/Ph (0.34 to 0.89); C29/C27 (0.78 to 1.25); 20S/(20S + 20R)C29sterane (0.28 to 0.66); 22S/(22S + 22R)C32 homohopane (0.17 to 0.23); CPI (0.96 to 0.98); Ts/Ts + Tm (0.46 to 0.50); and sterane/hopane (0.16 to 0.87). The results obtained were used to correlate the crude oils with respect to depositional environment, thermal maturity, and organic matter source. The Pr/Ph ratios of KW and KLC were less than one, and the cross-plot of Pr/nC17 versus Ph/nC18 of KW and KLC suggested that the oils were deposited under anoxic environments, whereas OWA1 and OWA2 indicated oxic conditions with no biodegradation. From the calculated ratios of 22S (22S + 22R)C32 homohopane and CPI, the oils were mature and had entered the generating window. Sample OWA1 is the most mature, while KLC is the least mature. The calculated ratios also showed that the four oil samples were from a shale source rock with both terrestrial and marine inputs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study analyzed the food consumption patterns and food security status of cassava farmers in Imo State. Structured questionnaires were administered to 100 cassava farmers. The findings revealed that the cassava farmers mean age, farming experience, and farm sizes were 41 years, 22 years, and 0.66 hectares respectively. The food consumption pattern among the farming households showed that carbohydrate, ranked highest in the list of food items consumed daily (garri (31.18%), fufu (18.33%), plantain, and yam (13.07%). Only 35% of farming households were food secure, using the estimated Food Security Index of 0.003. The study recommends the implementation of pro-poor policies to boost farmers productivity and enhance balanced dietary food consumption among farmers. Farm families will be better able to make food decisions if they are informed about the importance of a healthy diet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background; Sickle cell anaemia is the most common monogenic hematologic disorder in Nigeria. Cardiovascular pathology, resulting in electrocardiographic abnormalities are a common finding in adult sickle cell patients. Objective; This study investigated the pattern of electrocardiographic (ECG) abnormalities in steady state adult sickle cell anaemia (HbSS) patients and compared the findings with that of age and sex matched Haemoglobin AA(HbAA) controls. Methodology; Fifty steady state adult HbSS participants were recruited from the haematology clinic at Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital while fifty age and sex matched HbAA controls were recruited from the hospital community. Participants underwent resting 12 lead ECG using a Schiller CARDIOVIT AT-1 ECG machine. Data was analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 21. Results; The prevalence of ECG abnormalities amongst the adult sickle cell participants and controls was 70% and 10% respectively. ECG abnormalities were more common amongst male sickle cell participants and left ventricle hypertrophy was the most frequent ECG abnormality detected. Conclusion; There is a high prevalence of ECG abnormalities amongst adult sickle cell anaemia patients. Regular Electrocardiography is recommended for early detection of these abnormalities for early treatment and improved quality of life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate change affects crops differently across different parts of the world. However, there is limited evidence on the impacts of climate change on several crops using models that simultaneously incorporate other production factors (such as credit, land and fertilizer) and account for both the short-run and long-run relationships of climate and factors of production on the output of different crops. We therefore investigated the impacts of climate change on six major crops in Nigeria using time-series data for a period of 39 years. We used the Augmented Dickey–Fuller and Phillips–Perron tests to determine the stationarity of the data and applied the Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) regression to model the impacts of climate change, factors of production on the outputs of the crops. All the six ARDL models were structurally stable and they exhibited both short-run and long-run relationships between climate change, production factors and outputs of the crops. Specifically, land exhibited long-run positive relationships with the outputs of all the crops except for millet. Temperature had a negative impact on crop yam, cassava, millet, rice and sorghum outputs in the long run while rainfall significantly increased rice and maize production but insignificantly reduced yam, cassava, millet, and sorghum production in the long run. Credit significantly increased cassava, maize, and rice in the long run, while fertilizers showed mixed impacts on yam, cassava, rice and sorghum production in the long run. We recommended policies and programs that would increase access to credit to farmers, encourage nutrient budgeting and precision use of fertilizer, and promote uptake of climate smart agriculture through research on crop improvement by breeding crop varieties that would be resilient to climate shocks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examined the impacts of climate change on okra and tomato yields. Fertilizer consumption and credit to the crop sector were considered as covariates in the analysis. Time-series data, spanning a period of 40 years, were obtained from various sources. An autoregressive distributed lag model was applied to analyze short- and long-term impacts of climate change and agricultural inputs on okra and tomato yields. Not all variables were stationary at levels (order zero), but they were all significant at first difference, indicating the presence of cointegration. The Bound's test F-ratio was statistically significant and implied the presence of long- and short-term relationships among the variables studied. The mean temperatures had negative impacts on okra and tomato yields in both the short and long terms. Credit guaranteed to the crop sector had positive short- and long-term impacts on tomato yield; fertilizer consumption had a negative long-term impact on okra yield. Our study concludes that climate change, particularly rising temperature, impacts herbaceous fruit crop production in Nigeria. Therefore, we recommend that breeding and disseminating climate-smart tomato and okra varieties will help fruit crop farmers respond to rising temperatures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Sida linifolia L. is a weed ubiquitously found in Africa with several folkloric applications. Traditional healers in the Southeastern part of Nigeria employ the alcoholic concoction of S. linifolia leaves as antidepressants, anti-malaria, antihypertensive, anti-abortifacients, and for managing painful whitlow; however, these claims lack scientific validation. The present study was aimed to explore the phytochemical profile of the plant, S. linifolia with special emphasis to its antioxidant and inhibitory actions on enzymes linked to inflammation, diabetes, and neurological disorders. Phytochemical profiling and in vitro antioxidant and enzyme inhibition assays were employed to assess the pharmacological profile of S. linifolia ethanolic leaf fraction (SLELF). Results: Preliminary phytochemical screening of SLELF revealed appreciable amounts of total phenolics (91.64 ± 7.61 mg GAE/g), total tannins (62.44 ± 3.86 mg TAE/g), and total flavonoids (27.35 ± 1.48 mg QE/g) present in SLELF. Results of HPLC analysis of SLELF revealed rich composition in bioactive compounds such as ellagic acid, quercetin, ferulic acid, 3,4-dimethoxy benzoic acid, gallic acid, 4-methoxy cinnamic acid, sinapic acid, vanillic acid, and chlorogenic acid. Enzymatic antioxidants (catalase and superoxide dismutase), non-enzymatic antioxidants (reduced glutathione (GSH), Vit A, C, and E), elemental minerals (Cu, Mn, Zn, Cr, Fe, and Ca), and γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) were present in SLELF in appreciable levels. At various concentrations (0.2–1.0 mg/ml), SLELF exhibited potent and concentration-dependent hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and 2,2′-azinobis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic) acid (ABTS) radical scavenging activities and exerted moderate inhibitory actions on enzymes associated with inflammation (cyclooxogenase-2 (COX-2) and lipoxygenases (LOXs), diabetes (α-amylase, α-glucosidase), and neurological disorders (butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) and γ-aminobutyric acid transaminase (GABA-T), compared to respective standards (ascorbic acid, acarbose, indomethacin, galanthamine, and vigabatrin). Perhaps, the observed potent pharmacological activities of SLELF could be anchored to its phytoconstituents. Furthermore, the slightly higher ranges of IC50 values (0.57–0.87 mg/ml) of SLELF compared to standards (0.44–0.68 mg/ml) suggest moderation in enzyme inhibition that may preclude adverse side effects. Conclusion: This study lends credence to the folklore claims of S. linifolia leaves and revealed its potential as possible source of bioactive compounds for medicinal and pharmaceutical exploration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate change poses significant challenges to agriculture and land productivity particularly in regions heavily dependent on rain-fed agriculture like Ebonyi State, Nigeria. This study analyzed the effects of climate change on sweet potato production in Nigeria. Multi-stage sampling procedure was used to select 301 respondents. The drafted questionnaire was used for data collection following the specific objectives of study. Descriptive statistics, land productivity model, and multiple regression model were used for the data analysis. Results revealed that the majority of respondents (64.1%) were males, married (73.1%), young (42.2%), experienced (55.5%) and relatively educated (49.8%) with household and farm sizes of 7 and 1.8 hectares. The majority of the farmers (41.5%) were aware of changes in climate. Farm sizes of 1.1-2.0 hectares produced the highest land productivity (1769.831 hectares) in the state from about 51.5% of the farmers. Rising temperature, rainfall, and number of rainy days, influenced sweet potato production negatively; while sunshine hours and relative humidity had significant positive influences. Poor access to extension and services, land fragmentation, capital, inadequate information concerning climate change, and high cost of input resources constrained potato cultivation. The study recommends farmers to practice climate smart agricultural techniques and to seek early climate change information to mitigate negative effects of changing climate on sweet potato production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The object of the research is anchored on the introduction of the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS) by the Federal Government of Nigeria and the opposition by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) and the implication of the dispute on the development of university education in Nigeria. The main objectives of the study were to determine the major motives and examine the suitability of IPPIS for the development of university education in Nigeria. The paper employs the equity theory of motivation to explain how Nigeria’s payment system affects effective service delivery in the entire university education system. The study was based on secondary sources from existing literature. The findings of the paper show IPPIS was primarily introduced by the federal government to curb corruption in the university system. The paper also revealed that IPPIS does not capture the peculiarities of university lecturers. The study concluded that IPPIS will contribute to the development of university education in Nigeria if it can accommodate the peculiarities of academic staff. The paper recommended that the Federal Government of Nigeria and Academic Staff Union of Universities engage in dialogue to harmonize the payment system for the overall interest of university education in Nigeria. And the Federal Government of Nigeria should show some level of sincerity in the testing of UTAS (University Transparency and Accountability Solution), the alternative payment platform provided by ASUU to build confidence among disputing members. This will also encourage the development of local content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Nigeria, low-dose prophylaxis is the standard of care as it reduces bleeding, development of target joints, arthropathy, and improvement of quality of life. Non-adherence or poor adherence can prevent the achievement of these outcomes. The levels and determinants of (non-)adherence among persons with haaemophilia (PWH) in Sub-Saharan Africa have not been evidenced. We aimed to evaluate self-reported adherence among PWH, provide evidence of determinants/predictors of adherence, and establish the associations between nonadherence and presence of target joints and annualized bleed rate. A cross-sectional survey of 42 participants on low-dose prophylaxis recruited during outpatient appointments in 5 haemophilia treatment centers in Nigeria. We used the validated Haemophilia Regimen Treatment Adherence Scale- Prophylaxis (VERITAS -Pro), 24 questions on six subscales (time, dose, plan, remember, skip, and communicate) questionnaire. The options of VERITAS -Pro were represented in a 5 Likert scale and the possible subscale ranged from 4 points (most adherent) to 20 points (least adherent) and the possible total score ranged from 24 (most adherent) to 120 (least adherent) the cutoff for overall adherence put at > 61 to indicate nonadherence. Information on the presence of target joints, the number of target joints, and annualized bleeding rates were collected from medical files. The mean age of the participants was 9.79 (6.29) years, with 96.6% having hemophilia A and 79.3% having target joints. Overall adherence to the prophylaxis regimen was 81.0%. The mean total VERITAS-Pro for the adherent group and the non-adherent group was 37.35 ±9.08 and 63.0± 6.37, respectively. The mean subscale scores for the adherent group ranged from 0.67 (communication) to 8.68 (planning), while the mean subscale scores range from 1.0 communication to 13.88 (planning) for the nonadherent group. The mean difference of all except the dosing subscale was statistically significant with p<0.05. Only the skipping subscale showed a statistically significant positive correlation with ABR in the non-adherent group p = 0.02. The findings indicate that adherence was very good, and most were in communication with their treatment centers. The skipping subscale was significantly associated with ABR for the nonadherent group. Interventions aimed at improving adherence are the key to better treatment outcomes. A multicenter study was needed to assess the reason for poor adherence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study investigated entrepreneurship education skills acquisition for self-employment among librarians and library educators in universities in South East, Nigeria. The study guided by five objectives, adopted descriptive survey design with a study population of 149 librarians and library educators from five (5) university-based Library and Information Science schools in South East, Nigeria. A survey census was used since the population is a manageable one, thus no sampling was conducted. Data for the study was collected using questionnaire titled, Entrepreneurship Education Skills Acquisition for Self-Employment among Librarians and Library Educators in Universities in South East Nigeria (EESALLE). 140 out of 149 questionnaires administered were retrieved and found usable, representing 94%. The findings of the study revealed that librarians and library educators are required to possess entrepreneurial skills, not only for self-employment, but also to create employment for others. Also, the level of adequacy of entrepreneurial librarianship courses was found to be adequate. Numerous entrepreneurial opportunities open to librarians and library educators were identified as well as challenges militating against the acquisition of entrepreneurship education skills acquisition. A host of strategies to encourage the acquisition of entrepreneurship education skills were identified. The findings of the study further revealed that lack of funding, workshops/laboratories, inadequate skilled entrepreneurship lecturers, poor power supply, etc, impeded acquisition of entrepreneurship education skills and recommended that government at all levels, in collaboration with the private sector, should make concerted efforts to address these militating factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We adopt the FMOLS and Granger causality technique to analyse the effect of energy use and carbon emissions on output growth in selected West African economies, which includes Nigeria, Gambia and Ghana, from 1970 to 2019. Findings confirm that energy use enhances growth in the three selected West African economies. But in terms of significance, energy consumption is significant in Nigeria and Gambia at a 1% level of significance while it is insignificant for the Gambia. CO2 emission positively and significantly propels economic growth for the three selected West African economies. For Nigeria, causality evidence shows no direct influence among the variables. For Ghana, we find a bi-causal association between output growth and carbon emissions and a unidirectional causality from pollution to energy consumption. For Gambia, economic growth causes CO2 emissions. We recommend that the West African government reinforce their stand on a sustainable growth path through energy conservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research was designed to investigate some molecular biomarker signatures of weathered crude oils and automotive gas oil as a means of distinguishing them. Three samples of crude oil were collected from two producing field in the Niger Delta Nigeria and labelled UG7, UG8, AZU. A sample of automotive gas oil was collected from a dispensing station and labelled AGO. The samples were subject to a laboratory oil-weathering technique by rotary evaporation and thereafter to Gas Chromatography Mass Spectroscopy. The biomarker fingerprints of the acyclic isoprenoids and hopanes were used in calculating some diagnostic biomarker ratios such as Pr/Ph, CPI, %Σ(nC15 + C17 + C19)/Total normal alkanes, Σ(C21 - C31)/Σ(C15 - C20), Pr + nC17, Ph + nC18, Pr + nC17/Ph + nC18, C29Ts/C30-H, Ts/Ts + Tm, C35HH/C34HH, HHI, Moretane Index, Oleanane Index, C31(S)/C31(R), C29ββ/(ββ + αα). These ratios distinguished the samples in terms of the organic matter source, thermal maturity, redox environment degree of weathering and waxiness. Statistical plots such as the ternary plot, (nC17 + nC18)/Pr + Ph vs Pr + nC17/Ph + nC18 obtained from computed ratios gave a clear segregation of the samples. Similarly a dendrogram plot delineated samples UG7, U 0.00% similarity between the crude oils and the AGO. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There are global reports of rising cardiovascular burden in persons living with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients. The presence of coronary artery disease (CAD) increases mortality risk in T2DM patients. There are currently no data on the determinants of CAD in Nigerian T2DM patients. Objective: The objective was to determine the determinants of CAD in persons with T2DM. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study involving T2DM patients with and without CAD attending the diabetes clinic of Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital, Nnewi, Nigeria. The diagnosis of CAD was made based on personal information obtained using the Rose angina questionnaire and resting electrocardiogram findings. Medical history and other clinical evaluations were done to identify the socioeconomic and clinical variables in the study participants. Data obtained were analyzed using appropriate statistical software. Results: The study involved 400 asymptomatic T2DM patients with a median age of 60 years and a female-to-male ratio of 1.3:1. Sixty-four (16%) participants had CAD. The male: female ratio in CAD and non-CAD groups was 1.8:1 and 0.7:1 (X2 = 1.7, P = 0.22). Formal education (X2 = 4.1, P = 0.02), upper socioeconomic class (X2 = 5.1, P = 0.02), hypertension (X2 = 2.2, P = 0.03), dyslipidemia (X2 = 4.7, P = 0.02), cerebrovascular disease (X2 = 5.2, P = 0.01), smoking (X2 = 9.1, P = 0.01), waist circumference (Mann-Whitney U = 358, P = 0.02), carotid intima-media thickness (Mann-Whitney U = 300, P = 0.01), and ankle brachial pressure index (Mann-Whitney U = 315, P = 0.01) were significantly associated with CAD in the study participants. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that formal education had the least odds of predicting CAD (odd ratio [OR] =2.1, 95% confidence interval [CI] =1.6-6.2; P = 0.02), while low-density lipoprotein cholesterol had the highest odds of predicting CAD (OR = 5.2, 95% CI = 2.1-9.5, P = 0.01) among the study participants. Conclusions: Early screening for comorbidities and lipid abnormalities in T2DM patients is required, especially in those with formal education and within the high socioeconomic class. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Maintenance haemodialysis (MHD) is the major form of renal replacement therapy in Nigeria, and may have a significant impact on cardiovascular (CV) and metabolic burden in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients. Methods: This is a prospective cohort study involving 40 CKD dialysis-naïve end-stage renal disease patients who were assessed at first contact before commencing dialysis and assessments repeated 3 months later while on MHD. Clinical, echocardiographic and biochemical indices were assessed on both occasions. We studied the impact of MHD on CV risk factors such as left ventricular hypertrophy, left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), high calcium-phosphate product, hypoalbuminaemia, anaemia and dyslipidaemia. Results: The mean serum calcium-phosphate product, plasma total cholesterol, triglycerides and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol were significantly higher at baseline than at three months; while the mean haemoglobin, serum albumin and plasma high-density lipoprotein were significantly lower at baseline than at 3 months (P < 0.01). There was a significant difference in echocardiographic indices at baseline and at 3 months in CKD patients on MHD. Left ventricular mass and left ventricular mass index were significantly higher at baseline than at 3 months (P < 0.01); while LVEF was significantly lower at baseline than at 3 months (P < 0.01). Conclusions: Our study showed statistically significant improvements in CV risk factors among CKD patients after 3 months on maintenance haemodialysis. Early and effective maintenance haemodialysis reduce CV risk factors in Nigerian CKD patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated the level of heavy metal pollution in soils within the vicinity of hot mix asphalt (HMA) plants and the health risk consequences of human exposure to the heavy metals. Soil samples collected from two asphalt plants during dry and rainy seasons were analyzed for Cr, Co, Cu, Ni, Mn, Cd, Pb, and Zn with atomic absorption spectrophotometer (AAS). Health risk indices were assessed as chronic daily intake (CDI), hazard quotient (HQ), hazard index (HI), and carcinogenic risk (CR) while the degree of pollution was assessed with geo-accumulation index (Igeo) and contamination factor (CF). The pollution assessment revealed that the soil samples were moderately to highly polluted with Cd. In both seasons, Zn and Mn, respectively, had the highest CDI values for ingestion, inhalation, and dermal route for both asphalt plants while Cd has the least CDI values for all the routes in both plants. The HQ and HI values for all the metals were less than 1.00E + 00 indicating no non-carcinogenic risk from exposure to any of the metals. Furthermore, the dermal route was found to be the least likely model for health risks associated with human exposure to soil heavy metals within the vicinity of the plants. The CR values for the metals were also within threshold value indicating non-significant cancer risk from exposure to the metals. Though no significant health risks were observed in the study, clean and efficient production of hot mix asphalt should be encouraged to minimize health risks and environmental pollution during production and usage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Most blood transfusion centres in Nigeria including the University of Abuja Teaching Hospital (UATH), Gwagwalada, Abuja use rapid test kit for screening blood donors. Though it is simple, robust with speedy results, it has some limitations. This cross-sectional study determined the prevalence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) antibodies by the currently used rapid detection assay among blood donors tested positive by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and described the HCV risk factors and socio-demographic characters among the blood donor participants. Methods: Blood samples were collected from 365 blood donors attending UATH blood bank, screened for HCV antibodies using ELISA kit (CTK Biotech, USA). Positive samples were retested using Aria rapid test kit. Structured questionnaires were used to collate subjects' socio-demographic data and risk factors of infection. Results: Out of 365 blood donors tested, 55 (15.1%) were positive for HCV antibodies. Of the 55 ELISA positive samples, 9(16.4%) samples were negative by Aria rapid test kit. Sociodemographic data showed that females had a higher prevalence (16.3%) than males (14.9%) (p= 0.81). The age group with the highest rate of infection was 31-45 years (p<0.0001). Marital status of the blood donors was significantly associated with HCV seropositivity, as singles were more infected than married blood donors (p<0.0001). The most predictive risk factors associated with the HCV infection among blood donors at UATH included lack of knowledge of HCV, sharp and needle injury and tribal marks. Conclusion/Recommendations: The study revealed the superiority of ELISA over Aria rapid test kit in the detection of HCV antibodies. The missed positive cases by the currently used rapid test could pose a risk to blood transfusion safety and necessitates for preventive measures to be intensified, as blood donors with high risk factors be deferred from blood donation to reduce HCV transfusion risk in Nigeria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Agriculture which is the main occupation of majority of rural dwellers in Nigeria has suffered a huge setback due to mostly total neglect and abandonment by successive government coupled with climatic variations and unsuitable soil management practices employed by the household farmers, and thus the essence of this study; economic implication of climate change and soil management practices in Nigeria. The devastating impacts of climate change in Nigeria cannot be ruled off with its significant evidences across the agro-ecological zones. The havoc caused by variations in climate change is second to none. These impacts have been felt virtually across all sectors of the economy namely health, security, energy, transportation, agriculture, etc. However, in as much as climate change poses adverse effects in Nigeria, its positive side though highly debatable cannot be ruled out for instance, rising temperatures and heat waves in most cases activate and aid soil microbial organisms, thus enhancing soil aeration, soil structure and texture which further aid and support agricultural production of the household farmers. Greater attention is thus being given to intensification of sustainable soil management technologies. Key benefits of these technologies are; increasing food production without depleting soil and water resources, restoring soil fertility, increasing the resilience of farming systems to climatic risk, and improving their capacity to sequester carbon and climate change mitigation. Conclusively, farmers should embraced climate change mitigation strategies and adaptative principles and incorporate efficient and effective soil management techniques to forestall future climatic occurrences and boost farm production and income. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper examined climate change adaptation strategies in fish farming and the effect of such methods on the profit of fish farmers in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria, Africa's most populous country. Using cross‐sectional data obtained from 420 fish farmers from the region and applying multivariate probit and instrumental variable regressions, the study found that fish farmers have adopted a broad range of strategies to address climate risk and that these have significantly increased farmers' profit. Our findings indicated important relationships between certain farm, socio‐economic and institutional characteristics and the adaptation actions. The study provides useful insight into factors that potentially encourage the adoption of livelihood‐enhancing climate risk adaptation strategies by fish farmers in the Niger Delta region and similar contexts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A study of the patterns of vocational choice and aspiration of a group of postprimary schools in Nigeria revealed a durable and early crystalization of vocational decision and commitment. Excepting the girls, socio-economic status of the students had little influence on their level of vocational aspiration. This pattern is discussed. (Author/EJT)

The study examined the adjustment of 414 disabled persons admitted into an industrial rehabilitation program in Nigeria. Hypotheses that the ability to stick to a course of rehabilitation and the ability to perform well upon completion would be a function of the level of acceptance of loss were upheld. (Author/DB)

The effects on students' vocational aspirations because of the ecological differences that exist between urban and rural areas in developing countries are discussed. The results of a study of secondary students showed rural students were inferior in their levels of vocational aspiration, found job information more difficult to get, etc. (Author/MLW)

The effects of attending school in urban and rural areas on vocational aspirations of students in Nigeria is discussed, based on a survey of students in those schools. (JMF)

Watermelon [Citrullus lanatus (Thunb.)] marketing efficient distribution is needed to maximize economic returns to marketers and consumers. An economic analysis of watermelon marketing was done in Lagos state, Nigeria, between January and February 2018. Data were collected using a questionnaire employed to collect information from 56 marketers in the study area. Half of the marketers used urban markets as points of sale and watermelon were supplied weekly. Watermelon marketing was profitable. The major constraint encountered by marketers was their inability to access credit. Regardless of level of education sufficient market information enhanced economic returns of watermelon marketers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The practice of diabetes self-care behaviors has been cited as a foundation for achieving optimal glycemic control. Proper motivation of people with diabetes mellitus is, however, needed for the performance of these behaviors. It is therefore pertinent to know if motivation by the family will improve glycemic control in people with type 2 diabetes mellitus. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between glycemic control and perceived family support among Nigerians with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conduced on 316 adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus who attended a medical outpatient clinic. Data were collected through a pretested intervieweradministered questionnaire and a standardized tool (Perceived Social Support - Family scale). Hemoglobin A1c level was used as an indicator of glycemic control. Results: The proportion of participants with good glycemic control was 40.6%. Most of the participants (137, 43.8%) had strong perceived family support. Strong perceived family support (P = 0.00001, odds ratio 112.51) was an independent predictor of good glycemic control. Conclusion: This study shows that strong perception of family support is a predictor of glycemic control among the adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus studied. Physicians working in sub- Saharan African countries with rich kinship networks should harness the available family support of people with type 2 diabetes mellitus in their management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Farm output of farmers can be increased if farmers can be engaged in the use of sustainable soil practices that improve soil fertility. Hence, this study assessed the impact of sustainable soil management techniques on farm output of arable crop farmers in Imo State, Nigeria. Multi-stage random sampling technique was used to select 209 arable crop farmers. Objectives of this study were elicited from the sampled respondents through a well structured questionnaire. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistical tools, average treatment effect (ATE) and local average treatment effect (LATE) models. The socio-economic features of the farmers reveals a mean age of 53 years, 6 persons per household, 6 years educational attainment, 17 years farming experience and 1.0 hectare of land. The Table reveals that the major source of farmland for farm households in the area was inheritance which accounted for 95.0 percent. Cassava production dominated the roots and tuber crops with more than 97 percent of the farmers engaging in its production. The PSM and IPSW had values of 51353.76kg/ha and 49561.02kg/ha while the LATE estimates by WALD and IV had values of 55346.88kg/ha and 71036.01kg/ha. Hence, appropriate agric-policies should be channeled towards encouraging the farmers to adopting sustainable soil management techniques for effective food output and production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The physico-chemical properties of lateritic soils in Ado Ekiti Area of Ekiti State, Nigeria were evaluated. The study area was divided into Six Zones: A total of 30 samples were collected with five samples per zone. Laboratory tests such as: X-ray fluorescence (X-RF) and X-ray diffraction (X-RD) in other to evaluate their chemical composition. Natural Moisture Content (NMC), Specific gravity, Grain size analysis, Consistency tests,were carried out on each of the samples the purpose of which to study their physical properties. These tests were carried out in accordance with (BS1377:1990). The laboratory results indicated that the NMC ranged from 1.1 to 18.7%; specific gravity ranged from 2.23 to 2.79 ; the liquid limit ranged from 25 to 65%, plastic limit ranged from 17 to 43%, plasticity index ranged from 10 to 30%; linear shrinkage ranged from 3.6 to 15.5%.The soils were classified as clay of low compressibility (CL) for zones 1 and 2, clay of high compressibility (CH) for Zone 3 samples 1,2 and 5 and Zone 4 sample 2,Zone 5 samples 2 and 5 and Zone 6 samples 1and 2 according to (USCS,1986) and A-2-4, A-2-6, A-6, and A-7-5. From the foregoing, the soils classified some as low plasticity, sandy gravelly clay, clayey soils and others as medium compressibility soils. Based on Sesquioxide (S-S) ratio the soils grouped into True laterite and lateritics soils which indicate poor laterisation for zones 1 and 2 while other zones have undergone considerable degree of laterisation. Major clay mineral found were: illite, heamatite, and to lesser amount of halloysite. It was concluded that the research work has provided information for all construction personnel within the study area. The soils are not expected to perform very well as concrete aggregates since they contain high amounts of SiO2 and Fe2O3.since the oxides have deleterious effects on construction materials, particularly concrete aggregate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study evaluated the factors influencing the use intensity of improved soil management practices in Imo State, Nigeria. Data were obtained from 209 farmers with the aid of structured questionnaire. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistical tools such as the mean, frequency and percentages. The findings revealed that age, education, farming experience, household size, occupation and farm size etc are important factors influencing the use intensity of improved agricultural practices in the area. These factors probably could either mar or enhance the use intensity of improved agricultural practices. The study revealed that extension contacts are very vital in exposing the farmers to new innovations and modern farming technologies which improves the farm productivity and income of the farmers. Therefore, there is the need for increased extension services and technological education of the rural farmers via both the government and private enterprises to enhance farmers' perception and dispositions to socioeconomic factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of variant agricultural practices has marred the productivity of the farmers to an immeasurable extent. Hence the study evaluated the implications of agricultural practices on land productivity of the farming households in Imo State, Nigeria. Multi-stage sampling technique was used to select 120 crop farmers from the three agricultural zones of the State. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and ordinary least squares multiple regression technique. Results showed that farmers have a mean household size of 7 persons, 19 years farming experience with a net income of N84, 000 per cropping season. Result further showed farmers completed their post primary education and cultivated less than 2.0 hectares per unit area of land. The use of agricultural practices such as crop rotation, continuous cropping, bush burning, mixed cropping and mulching are significant at various levels and therefore have strong implications on land productivity of the farmers. Farmers are faced with series of constraints' such as capital, technical known-how, land tenure difficulties, etc. which limits land productivity and adoption capacity of the farmers. Hence farmers are encouraged to drop agricultural practices that are concomitant to land productivity and embrace improved ones that are technically appropriate, socially acceptable, environmentally friendly and economically suitable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low income of the arable crop farmers is sine qua-non to abject poverty associated with most of the farmers; hence the study evaluated the determinants of poverty among arable crop farmers using sustainable soil management techniques (SSMT) in Imo State, Nigeria. Multi-stage random sampling technique was used to select 209 arable crop farmers for this study. Information on the objectives of this study was elicited from the sampled respondents through a well structured questionnaire. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistical tools, Foster-Greer Thorbeck (FGT) model and the Logit model. Results showed that the mean per capita consumption expenditure among the farm households was N360.30 ($1.81) with a poverty line of N240.20 ($1.21) per person, per day. The incidence of poverty among the farm households increased with advancing age of the household heads. Poverty headcount, gap and severity were 0.766, 0.614 and 0.713, respectively. Variables such as age of farmer, education, household size, access to micro credit, net farm income, extension contacts and participation in agricultural workshop were significant and important determinants of poverty levels among arable crop farmers in the area. Hence, polices on income savings, diversification and redistribution should be encouraged amongst the arable crop farmers to drive poverty reduction in the area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Male partner involvement has the potential to increase uptake of interventions to prevent mother-to-child transmission of HIV (PMTCT). Finding cultural appropriate strategies to promote male partner involvement in PMTCT programs remains an abiding public health challenge. We assessed whether a congregation-based intervention, the Healthy Beginning Initiative (HBI), would lead to increased uptake of HIV testing among male partners of pregnant women during pregnancy. A cluster-randomized controlled trial of forty churches in Southeastern Nigeria randomly assigned to either the HBI (intervention group; IG) or standard of care referral to a health facility (control group; CG) was conducted. Participants in the IG received education and were offered onsite HIV testing. Overall, 2498 male partners enrolled and participated, a participation rate of 88.9%. Results showed that male partners in the IG were 12 times more likely to have had an HIV test compared to male partners of pregnant women in the CG (CG = 37.71% vs. IG = 84.00%; adjusted odds ratio = 11.9; p < .01). Culturally appropriate and community-based interventions can be effective in increasing HIV testing and counseling among male partners of pregnant women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The frequency of delay, diversion and outright cancellation occasioned by poor weather has affected the Nigerian aviation industry and serious safety implication. This study therefore examines the influence of weather conditions on aviation safety in Nigeria. Secondary data basically from Nigeria Meteorological Agency such as information on thunderstorm, fog occurrence and rainfall from 2004 to 2013 and data obtained from Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria on air accident induced by extreme weather within the same period were analysed using Multiple Regression Analysis. Results show that low visibility as a result of fog occurrence causes four (4) air traffic accidents more than other weather conditions and that Lagos experienced two (2) air accidents more than other airports during the period under study. So also the value of R2 shows a value of 77.8% which implies that there is variation in the dependent variable (Airport Operation) which can be predicted by independent variables (Weather conditions). The F-statistic value of 62.892 is also found to be statistically significant at 5% (p<0.05) which shows that weather condition has significant influence on aviation safety. Baseline studies on flight operation, government intervention in aviation industry, maintenance culture were recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Despite the growing body of evidence on use of modern contraceptives among women in sub-Saharan African countries, little is known about the broader context in which female decision-making concerning contraceptive use occurs, particularly the role of their male partners' awareness and support of modern contraceptives.Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional survey of 2468 pregnant women and their male partners enrolled in the Healthy Beginning Initiative (HBI), an intervention to increase HIV testing among pregnant women in Enugu, southeast Nigeria. The aims of this study were to determine: 1) male partners' awareness of, and support for, female contraceptive methods, and 2) influence of male partners' contraceptive awareness and support on pregnant women's expressed desire to use contraception. We used logistic regression models to examine the association between male partners' awareness and support of modern contraceptives on their spouses' desire to use contraceptives.Results: Men's awareness of, and support for, use of modern contraceptives were significantly associated with their female partners' desire to use contraception. A majority of the men who were aware of modern contraceptives (66.5 %) and those who supported their spouses' use of contraception (72.5 %) had partners who expressed a desire to use contraception. Men who were aware of female contraception were 3 times more likely to have spouses who desired to use contraception (AOR = 3.17, 95 % C.I: 2.70-3.75). In addition, men who showed support for their spouses' use of contraception were over 5 times more likely to have spouses who indicated a desire to use contraception (AOR = 5.76, 95 % C.I: 4.82-6.88). Living in a household of 5 or more people (AOR = 1.45, 95 % C.I: 1.23-1.72) and residing in an urban area (AOR = 0.81, 95 % C.I: 0.67-0.97) were also significantly associated with women's expressed desire to use modern contraception.Conclusion: Men's awareness of, and support for, use of modern contraceptives were markedly associated with their spouses' desire to use contraception. This underscores the need for men's involvement in programs that seek to address women's uptake of contraception in low and middle income countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper examines the effect of seawater found the Excravos area of the Nigerian delta in concrete production. It is well-known that the use of seawater for mixing concrete does not appreciably reduce the strength and other properties of concrete but may lead to corrosion of reinforcement in some certain cases. Seawater obtained from Excravos area of the Niger Delta was analysed and the compressive strength of concrete produced and cured with it was obtained from the laboratory. Concrete cubes cast and cured with seawater were observed to have a higher strength at 28 days i.e. about 115% when compared with concrete cast with fresh water. Increase in concentration of seawater used in preparation of cement paste lowers the setting time: initial and final setting time. It is subsequently recommended that the use of seawater for concrete casting and curing should not be rejected or turned down. However, in the case of reinforced concrete, it is recommended that reinforcement be prevented from corrosion by using stainless steels where available and corrosion inhibitors. However, long-term effect of seawater concentration on properties of concrete such as creep and durability were not investigated in this work. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Saturated biomarker source and maturity parameters obtained from Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry were analyzed using multivariate statistical methods to maximize diagnostic information on the hopanes and sterane spectrum. This statistical method provided the identification of structural relationships (similarities and differences) between various fingerprint descriptors for the crude oil samples. The results emphasized the separation of the oil samples in regards to their locations into two genetic families. This separation pattern is more evident when principal component analysis was applied to biomarker data compared with the standard biomarker cross-plots. Such compositional differences are commonly attributed to unique source rock paleodepositional environments. The plotted source and maturity diagnostic parameter in a dendrogram separated the oils into two families both having terrestrial input. The group that have higher terrestrial input contain more oleananes, and have the highest Pr/Ph ratio. They are generated from source rocks with a high abundance of terrestrial organic matter. The second groups of oils have mixes of terrestrial and marine organic matter with lesser amount of oleananes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The bulk properties of seven crude oil samples from two oil fields in the Niger Delta were investigated. Results show °API gravity with the range of 29.00–85.00°, specific gravity 0.65–0.88, Reid vapor pressure 3.00–9.00 kPa, kinematic viscosity 0.90–10.10 cSt, dynamic viscosity 0.70–8.90, moisture content 0.13–126.00%, gum content 6271–45846 mg/100 mL, cloud point 3.00–12.00°C, pour point 7.00–4.00°C, and flash point <30.00°C. Values of aliphatic biomarkers were used as supporting tool to deduce the geochemical characteristics such as thermal maturity, depositional environments, source OM, and extent of biodegradation. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Seven different crude oil samples were collected from two oil fields in the Niger Delta Nigeria. The bulk properties of these crude oils which include API gravity, reid vapour pressure; kinematic viscosity, dynamic viscosity, moisture, gum content and cloud point were analysed. Aliphatic biomarkers were used as supporting tool to deduce the geochemical characteristics such as thermal maturity, depositional environments, source of organic matter and extent of biodegradation. Results show that API° gravity ranged from 29.00° to 85.00°, specific gravity 0.65 to 0.88, 3.00 to 9.00, reid vapour pressure 3.00 to 9.00kPa, kinematic viscosity 0.90 to 10.10cSt, dynamic viscosity 0.70 to 8.90cP, moisture content 0.13% to 26.00%, gum content 6.27 to 45.84mg/L, cloud point 3.00 to 12.00°C, pour point −7.00 to 4.00°C and flash point <30.00°C. Distribution of n-alkanes (Pr/Ph, and isoprenoide/n-alkanes ratios) reflects that the oil samples originated mainly from terrestrial organic sources deposited in an oxic paleoenvironment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Objective: To determine the antioxidant status of HIV and malaria co-infected participants. Methods: Blood samples collected from the 193 randomly recruited participants were used for HIV screening, Plasmodium falciparum antigen screening, malaria parasite density count, CD4+ T cell count, glutathione reductase, glutathione peroxidase and total antioxidant status measurement. Standard laboratory methods were used for the analysis. Results: The results showed that glutathione reductase, glutathione peroxidase, total antioxidant status and CD4+ T cell count were significantly lowered in symptomatic HIV participants with and without malaria co-infection (P<0.01) in each case compared with control participants. Also, glutathione reductase, glutathione peroxidise, total antioxidant status and CD4+ T cell count were significantly lowered in asymptomatic HIV participants with and without malaria co-infection (P<0.05) in each case, compared with control participants without malaria. Similarly, these antioxidants were significantly lowered in control participants with malaria infection (P<0.05) compared with control participants without malaria. The malaria parasite density in symptomatic HIV infected participants was negatively associated with glutathione reductase (r = −0.906, P<0.01), glutathione peroxidase (r = −0.719, P<0.01) and total antioxidant status (r = −0.824, P<0.01). Conclusions: The antioxidant activity was affected in HIV infected participants with malaria co-infection. Malaria co-infection in HIV seems to exert additional burden on antioxidants. This calls for concern in malaria endemic areas with increasing prevalence of HIV infection. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]