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Background: Maternal health is the mother's state of well being before, during, and after conception. Studies have suggested that the increasing maternal mortality rate is preventable provided maternal health services are accessible during pregnancy. This study explored the association between socioeconomic status and the utilization of maternal health services in the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Abeokuta, Ogun State. Materials and Methods: This study is a cross sectional survey. One hundred and eighty eight pregnant women from the antenatal unit of a tertiary hospital in Southwestern Nigeria were selected using a convenience sampling technique. Data were collected via a pretested, self designed questionnaire. The descriptive statistics were used to analyze the resulting data, and the hypotheses were tested using the Pearson product moment correlation at 0.05 level of significance. Result: From the study, 72 (38.30%) and 58 (30.90%) agreed that their income and occupation influence their maternal health services utilization. Significant relationship (p < 0.05) existed between maternal health service utilization and age and between socioeconomic factors (occupation and income level) and utilization of maternal health services of pregnant women. Conclusions: Overall, this study revealed that the level of utilization of maternal health services among expectant women attending FMC is moderate. As this study has shown that socioeconomic factors influence the utilization of maternal health services, we recommend that interventions by health workers targeted at improving the utilization of maternal health services should consider these factors when designing such interventions. It is hoped that this will contribute to reducing maternal mortality and morbidity in this state. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cadmium is an established carcinogen. Cadmium exposure resulted in skin carcinogenesis in rats. Furthermore, neurotransmitter-cancer interaction, tissue innervation, and angiogenesis influence cancer prognosis, metastasis, and survival. In this study, we evaluated the anticancer and neuro-protective potentials of MO 11 (isolated from Moringa oleífera leaves) and MS06 (isolated from Musa sapientum suckers) against in-vivo Cadmium Chloride (CdCI2)- induced skin toxicity. Methods: Twenty-four adult male wistar rats were randomly divided into six groups (n = 4). Group 1 was control. Groups 2-4 and 6 received a single intraperitoneal administration of 1.5 mg/kg CdCI2 on Day 1. Thereafter, Groups 3, 4, and 6 were post-treated with 15 mg/kg MO 11,15 mg/kg MO11 + 7 mg/kg MS06, and 3.35 mg/kg Doxorubicin respectively (Days 1-17). Group 5 received an olive oil dose (vehicle) (Days 1-17). Skin histopathology and tissue-enzyme-linked-immunosorbent assays (Tissue-ELISA) of neurotransmitters (Dopamine and Glutamate), biomarkers of myelination (Myelin Basic Protein), drug metabolism and carcinogenesis (Cytochrome-p450), apoptosis (Caspase-3 and p53), proliferation (Ki67), and angiogenesis (sVEGFR) were evaluated in skin homogenates. Data were statistically analyzed using the Mann-Whitney-U test at Z'<0.05. Results: Histopathological analyses revealed normal skin histology (Groups 3 and 4), mild skin histo-alterations (Group 6), and gross skin histopathological alterations (Group 2). Tissue-ELISA analyses showed upregulations of dopamine, Glutamate and Cytochrome-p450, but downregulations of Myelin Basic Protein, Caspase-3, KÍ67, p53, and sVEGFR in groups 3, 4, and 6, compared with group 2. MO 11 and MS06 achieved better anticancer effects than doxorubicin. Conclusion: Overall, MO 11 and MS06 possess histo-protective, neuro-protective, re-myelination, anti-proliferation, anti-angiogenesis, and anti-cancer potentials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cadmium (Cd) is an established carcinogen. Cd-induced renotoxicity resulted in oxidative stress, loss of excretory kidney functions, and apoptosis of murine kidney cells. Objectives: This study evaluated renoprotective potentials of MO11 (isolated from Moringa oleifera leaves) and MS06 (isolated from Musa sapientum suckers) against Cd chloride (CdCl2)-induced renotoxicity, renal hyperplasia, and apoptosis in rats. Materials and Methods: Twenty-four adult male Wistar rats (average weight of 155 g) were randomly divided into seven groups (n = 4). Group 1 received physiological saline. Groups 2-4 and 6 received single intraperitoneal (i.p) administration of 1.5 mg/kg body weight of CdCl2 (i.p) (Day 1). Groups 3-4 and 6 were posttreated with 15 mg/kg body weight of MO11, 15 mg/kg body weight of MO11 +7 mg/kg body weight of MS06, and 3.35 mg/kg body weight of doxorubicin, respectively (days: 1-17). Group 5 received only olive oil dose (vehicle), respectively (days: 1-17). Kidney histopathology (hematoxylin and eosin technique) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay concentrations of biomarkers of proliferation (Ki67) and apoptosis (p53) in kidney homogenates of rats of Groups 1-6 were evaluated. Results: Histopathological analyses showed normal kidney histology in the rats of Groups 1-6. Posttreatments of CdCl2 -induced renotoxicity with MO11, MO11+MS06, and doxorubicin resulted in downregulations of Ki67 and p53 in Groups 3, 4, and 6 as compared with Group 2. Conclusion: MO11 and MS06 possess renoprotective, anti-proliferation, and anti-apoptosis potentials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated the repro-protective potentials of MOF6 (isolated from Moringa oleifera leaves) and Trimyristin (TR) (isolated from Myristica fragrans seeds) in sodium arsenite (SA)- induced toxicity in rats. Sixty-five adult male rats were randomly divided into 13 groups (n = 5). Groups 1 and 3 received 9-week administrations of physiological saline and olive oil, respectively. Group 2 received 20 mg/kg bodyweight SA-only for 3 weeks and was untreated for 6 weeks. Groups 4-7 received a 3 week SA dose, followed by 6 weeks post-treatments with 5 mg and 7.5 mg/kg bodyweight MOF6, 15 mg, and 30 mg/kg bodyweight TR, respectively. Groups 8-11 received only MOF6 doses (6 weeks) or TR doses (9-weeks). Groups 12 and 13 received 6-week administrations of high-doses of MOF6 and TR, respectively, followed by 3-week co-administrations of SA with extracts' high doses. Testicular histopathology, sperm cell count (SCC), and plasma concentrations of luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), and testosterone were evaluated. Results showed testicular histopathology in Group 2 compared with normal testicular histology in Groups 4-7. FSH levels were normal in all groups. Statistical analyses showed significant (P = 0.05) decreased levels of SCC, LH, and testosterone in Groups 2, 6, and 7, compared with Groups 1, 4, and 5. Overall, MOF6 but not TR ameliorated SA-induced toxicity on the testes and sex hormones of rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examined neuro-protective potentials of N-acetyl-cysteine (NAC) and Zinc on expression levels of Dopamine and Glutamate in the Cerebrum, Hypothalami and Pituitary Glands in Di(2-ethylhexyl)-phthalate (DEHP)-induced neurotoxicity in rats. Thirty-six adult male Wistar rats were randomly divided into 6 groups (n = 6). Group 1 was control. Groups 2-6 received oral administrations of 100 mg/kg NAC, 0.5 mg/kg Zinc, 750 mg/kg DEHP, DEHP + NAC doses and DEHP + Zinc doses respectively for 21 days. Brain histology (Heamatoxyline and Eosine technique), histochemical and enzyme-linked-immunosorbent assays of Dopamine and Glutamate in homogenates of Cerebrum, Hypothalami and Pituitary Glands were evaluated. Data were statistically analyzed using One-way-ANOVA with Tukey-post-hoc test at p ≤ 0.05. Histo-pathological evaluations of Cerebrum, Hypothalami and Pituitary Glands showed gross histo-alterations and neurodegenerative changes (Group 4), mild histo- and neuro-degenerative changes (Groups 5 and 6) and normal histology (Group 1). Histochemical analyses showed higher Dopamine levels in Hypothalami (Group 5) and Pituitary Glands (Groups 5 and 6), compared with Group 4. Furthermore, results showed lower Glutamate levels in Cerebrum, Hypothalami and Pituitary Glands of Groups 5 and 6, compared with Group 4. Overall, NAC and Zinc conferred neuro-protection and histo-protection against DEHP-induced neuro-toxicity, neuro-histopathology, decreased Dopamine levels and increased Glutamate levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: We developed a national survey to assess the changes implemented by respiratory departments across England in response to the first wave of the COVID‐19 pandemic. Methods: An online survey was sent to the respiratory clinical leads in 132 NHS trusts in England. The survey was open between 10 August 2020 and 25 September 2020. Results: Fifty‐three responses (42%) are included in our results. The total number of non‐critical care led Level 2 beds (requiring care for single organ failure—capable of managing continuous positive airways pressure, CPAP) increased by 159% at peak COVID activity from levels prior to COVID‐19. CPAP was used solely in side‐rooms in 9% of sites, and 57% and 31% of sites used CPAP in closed bays and closed wards, respectively. Fifteen sites (28%) reported shortages of non‐vented non‐invasive ventilation (NIV) masks and 12 sites (23%) CPAP machines. There was regional variation. Conclusions: The number of beds capable of managing patients requiring CPAP increased significantly. We found deviations from previous standards of care, which likely reflects the pressure faced by hospitals in managing patients with COVID‐19. The regional variation in equipment shortages suggests moving resources between regions may have been beneficial. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• R134a flow boiling 3D simulations were performed in smooth tubes using ANSYS fluent. • Effect of saturation condition, heat and mass flux was studied at varying diameter. • Heat transfer and pressure drop results are in dimensional and non-dimensional forms. • Results agree well with relevant correlations and experiments with low deviations. • Findings contribute to understanding flow boiling and optimizing heat exchangers. Three-dimensional transient simulations using ANSYS Fluentʼs mixture multiphase model was conducted to investigate the impact of heat flux, mass flux, and saturation temperature variations on pressure drop behaviour and heat transfer characteristics during flow boiling of R134a refrigerant in smooth horizontal tubes of different diameters. The simulations employ an implicit numerical method to solve the governing equations, with relevant source terms for mass and energy transfer, incorporating the continuum surface force (CSF) and shear stress transport (SST) κ-ω models to account for surface tension and flow turbulence respectively. The results are presented in both dimensional (heat transfer coefficient and pressure drop) and non-dimensional (Nusselt number and two-phase frictional factor) forms. The Nusselt number shows a direct relationship with the Reynolds number, while the two-phase friction factor exhibits different behaviour. At higher vapor quality, mass flux significantly affects heat transfer performance and pressure drop. Heat flux plays a crucial role in heat transfer, but its impact on pressure drop is negligible. Higher saturation temperatures enhance heat transfer while reducing pressure gradients. The obtained results demonstrate good agreement with existing correlations, with mean absolute deviations (MAD) as low as 1.2 % for the heat transfer coefficient and 23.7 % for the pressure drop behaviour. This highlights the model's accuracy in predicting flow boiling behaviour of R134a in smooth horizontal channels, providing valuable insights for thermal analysis. The findings contribute to the understanding of flow boiling processes and aid in designing and optimizing efficient heat exchangers for various engineering applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The study aims to establish the pattern of fetal heart rates in the first and second trimesters and determine whether there is a statistically significant difference in the first-trimester fetal heart rate (FHR) of males and females. Methods: This retrospective observational research is a study of FHRs measured at 11+0-13+6 wk and 18+0-23+6 wk, and ultrasound scan-diagnosed fetal sex at 18+0-23+6 wk. Singleton fetuses with nonambiguous external genitalia were recruited. The FHR was measured in B or M mode with Pulsed Wave Doppler, while ultrasound appearance of external genitalia determined the fetal sex at 18+0-23+6 weeks. Student's t-test and Chi-square test were used for data analysis, and statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Results: A total of 2437 pregnancies meeting the study criteria were analyzed. The fetal sexes were 1398 (57.4%) males and 1039 (42.6%) females. There was no statistically significant difference in the first-trimester FHR between males and females (p = 0.74). However, females had higher mean FHR in both the first and second trimesters (First trimester: 165.4 ± 18.2 bpm vs 163.2 ± 17.1 bpm and Second trimester: 150.9 ±22.6 bpm vs 141.9 ±23.1 bpm). The FHR reduces with the increase in gestational age. Conclusion: There is no statistically significant difference in the first-trimester FHRs between sexes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

What is known and objective: Proton pump inhibitors are potent suppressors of gastric acid secretion, and are commonly prescribed in palliative medicine. Despite multiple relevant indications in patients at the end‐of‐life, their use is often precluded as oral and intravenous administration is frequently inappropriate or not possible. Limited anecdotal evidence suggests proton pump inhibitors may be administered subcutaneously. Our objective was to investigate the tolerability and effectiveness of the administration of esomeprazole as a continuous subcutaneous infusion over 24 h via a syringe driver. Methods: Case series (n = 7) design assessing sequential patients admitted to a specialist inpatient centre for palliative care, who required parenteral proton pump inhibitor therapy. Results and Discussion: Four patients reported complete resolution of dyspeptic and reflux symptoms post commencement of esomeprazole. Two patients developed upper gastrointestinal bleeding, which via observation of vomitus and stools, resolved with the initiation of esomeprazole. A single patient, deemed high risk of gastrointestinal bleeding, was commenced on esomeprazole and no bleeding events occurred. What is new and conclusion: Esomeprazole when administered via a syringe driver over 24 h appears well tolerated and effective for the symptomatic management of dyspepsia and treatment of gastrointestinal bleeding. Overall, this series adds to the limited evidence base for using subcutaneous proton pump inhibitors in the palliative demographic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fish and fisheries products are considered as one of the most substantial parts of Nigeria economy. Demand for these products is on the high side due to the rapid growth of human population, changes in lifestyle and eating habits. Fishery is thus serving as a source of employment, income generation and food security. This paper made use of the data gathered from the farm and household levels to analyse the economics of catfish hatchery farming and its contribution to household poverty alleviation in Oyo and Osun States, Southwest Nigeria, using profitability analyses, Foster‑Greer‑Thorbecke index and Tobit regression models. The findings indicate that fish hatchery farming is profitable, altough 43.1% of fish hatchery farmers interviewed were above the poverty line. Thus, the enterprise significantly (p < 0.05) reduced poverty in the study area. Furthermore, the effects of socioeconomic variables, gender, education level, and framing experience (p < 0.01); marital status and household size (p < 0.1); labour employed, hatchery units, quality of fish seed produced and membership of cooperative society (p < 0.05) indicating several interactions between poverty and the variables analysed. In conclusion, policy makers, government and non‑governmental organisation should give the enterprise adequate attention and support as this could be adopted in lifting the country from poverty. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study applies constructal theory to conduct a numerical optimization of three-dimensional cylindrical microcooling channels with the solid structure subjected to internal heat generation. The cylindrical channels are designed as variable cross-section configurations that experience conjugate heat transfer and fluid flow, where water is used as the coolant. The research aims to optimize the channel configurations subject to a fixed global solid material volume constraint. The key objectives are to minimize the global thermal resistance and friction factor. The coolant is pushed through the channels by pressure drop represented as Bejan number. The main design parameters are the inlet and outlet diameters at a given porosity. The channel configuration and the structure elemental volume are permitted to change to find the best design parameters that minimized thermal resistance and friction factor, so that the cooling effect is enhanced. An ANSYS FLUENT code is used to obtain the best optimal parameter of the configuration that enhances thermal performance. The influence of Bejan number on optimized inlet and outlet diameters led to minimization of thermal resistance and friction factor and maximization of Nusselt number. The results show distinctive optimal inlet and outlet diameters that enhance the overall performance of the system in the range of 1.018×10−2≤(𝑑in/𝐿)opt≤1.5381×10−2 and 1.0838×10−2≤(𝑑out/𝐿)opt≤1.6134×10−2, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, experiments were conducted for the flow of R-134a condensing in an enhanced inclined tube at a saturation condensing temperature of 40 °C. The enhanced tube had a helix angle of 14° with a mean internal diameter of 8.71 mm. The mass velocities were varied from 200 to 600 kg m−2 s−1, while the inclination angles were varied from − 90° to + 90°. It was found that the inclination angle had a considerable effect on the flow patterns and the thermal performance. It was also found that the maximum heat transfer coefficients were obtained at tube inclinations of between − 15° and − 5° (downward flows). By using the experimental data and artificial neural networks (ANN), a model was proposed to predict the heat transfer coefficients during condensation inside the enhanced inclined tube. By using four statistical criteria, the performance of the proposed model was examined against experimental data, and it was found that ANN was a useful tool for the prediction of the heat transfer coefficients based on the effective parameters of vapour quality, mass velocity and inclination angle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the numerical analysis of conjugate heat transfer of laminar flow in a functionally graded hollow cylinder (FGHC) made of metal/ceramic for a two‐dimensional fluid and wall conduction subject to Newton boundary condition is considered. The fluid and FGHC energy equations are coupled through the continuity of temperature and heat flux at the inner wall‐fluid interface while the outer surface is subject to convective heat transfer. The continuity, momentum, and energy equations of the fluid are discretized using the finite volume approach. The effects of fluid and functionally graded material parameters, such as volume fraction index, volume composition, time history, wall‐to‐fluid thermal diffusivity ratio, wall‐to‐fluid thermal conductivity ratio, Biot number, Peclet number, and Prandtl number are investigated on the temperature field in the FGHC. The result shows that on account of the inhomogeneity of the material property, the volume fraction index has a significant effect on the other parameters and the temperature variation along the thickness. The lower the volume fraction index, the higher the inner wall (metal side) temperature, and the temperature gradient along the thickness. However, except for the variation in the wall‐to‐fluid thermal conductivity ratio, the lower the volumetric fraction, the lower the outer wall (ceramic side) temperature distribution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The behaviour of axially loaded prestressed stayed columns is a commonly studied area. Despite the fact that load eccentricity in columns is commonplace in practice, the amount of investigation into these systems under eccentric loading is limited. This study employed finite element analysis to investigate the interactive post-buckling behaviour of prestressed stayed columns. Critical imperfection combination with respect to the load carrying capacity was established and a comparison of a planar and a three-dimensional model was carried out to investigate key differences in the models. In this work, it has been shown that the load carrying capacity of eccentrically loaded columns can be significantly reduced when buckling in interactive mode is observed. Furthermore, it was established that increase in eccentricity results in a decrease in load carrying capacity of columns for both planar and three-dimensional models. However, a major difference between the models is the twisting effect exhibited in the three-dimensional model under out-of-plane eccentric loading. This work highlights the importance of carefully designing prestressed stayed columns' connections to minimise loading eccentricity as it has been shown that the benefit of employing these systems over unstayed columns reduces with increasing load eccentricity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Some physico-mechanical properties of OPBF have been investigated for the first time. • The effect of OPBF inclusion on mechanical properties of concrete was studied. • OPBF-concrete displays increased energy absorption. • Use of OPBF in concrete is eco-friendly and can lower construction cost. Recent concerns on global environmental sustainability and climate change have favoured the use of natural fibres as alternatives to traditional reinforcing steel in concrete due to their low carbon footprint. Oil palm broom fibres (OPBF) which are the ribs of oil palm leaflets have average length, cross-sectional area, density and tensile strength of 900 mm, 1.837 mm2, 0.84 g/cm3 and 389 MPa respectively, hence making the fibres superior to steel in terms of strength-to-weight ratio. A study on the effect of OPBF on some mechanical properties of concrete mix of 1:1.5:3 of cement, sand and gravel respectively, was carried out. Short discrete OPBF of 50 mm length were incorporated in the fresh concrete mix at 0.5%, 1%, 1.5%, 2%, 3% and 4% of total aggregate volume. A total of two hundred and seventy-six (276) samples of 150 cubic, 63 cylindrical and 63 prismatic specimens were cast to assess compressive strength of OPBF-concrete at 7, 14, 28, 56 and 112 days, and flexural and split-tensile strengths at 28, 56 and 112 days. Bond strength between OPBF and concrete matrix was also investigated through pull-out tests. Flexural strength and splitting tensile strength of concrete were slightly improved for 0.5–1% OPBF inclusion at 28 days but do not show marked improvements at 112 days. Failure of hardened OPBF-concrete was characterised by more fibre-pull-outs than fibre-fracture but with an enhanced ductility of the composite at failure. The post-yield behaviour of OPBF-concrete shows enhanced energy absorption capacity of between 70 and 320% at 112 days, thereby possessing potential application in low-cost earthquake resistant housing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Timely entomological and insecticide resistance monitoring is a key to generating relevant data for vector management. We investigated the insecticide susceptibility status of Anopheles gambiae s.l. in eight rural farming communities in Southern Gombe, Nigeria. Methods: Overall, 3–5 days-old adult female Anopheles mosquitoes reared from field-collected immature stages between September and November, 2014 were exposed to the diagnostic doses of pyrethroids, organophosphate and carbamate insecticides using the Center for Disease Control Bottle bioassay. The observatory knockdown time from exposure to each insecticide was recorded up to two hours. The dead mosquitoes were then identified morphologically and by molecular assays. Results: Mortality results showed resistance in An. gambiae s.l. populations to bendiocarb (2.3–100%), deltamethrin (39–70%), pirimiphos-methyl (65–95%), dichloro-diphenyl-trichloroethane (0–38.1%), permethrin (0–46.3%) and lambda-cyhalothrin (42.5–86.4%). The few cases of full susceptibility were observed from lamdacyhalothrin exposed population of An. gambiae s.l. in Banbam and Pantami respectively. An. gambiae 177 (45%) was significantly higher (P< 0.05) than An. arabiensis 64 (16.3%), An. coluzzii 34 (8.7%) and An. gambiae/An. coluzzii hybrid 78 (19.8%). Conclusion: A strong evidence of widespread resistance in the major malaria vector species in Southern Gombe to all common classes of insecticides is a justification for the State Malaria Elimination Programme to consciously consider incorporating insecticide resistance management strategies into control programs in order to sustain the future of current control interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 39-year-old woman, gravida 4, para 2 + 1 (2 alive) for elective second repeat caesarean delivery on account of two previous caesarean sections and one open myomectomy. Following the caesarean section, she developed sudden cardiac failure and was transferred to the intensive care unit for mechanical ventilation support. Congestive cardiac failure secondary to non ST segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) was subsequently diagnosed following an electrocardiogram (ECG), echocardiography, and cardiac enzyme assay. The presented case demonstrates the importance of skilled delivery and efficient referral services in developing countries to minimize poor maternal and fetal outcomes in pregnancy-related heart disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• We investigate the impacts of COVID-19 containment policies on agricultural household incomes in Nigeria. • Stay-at-home orders and university closures mitigated possible negative impacts of COVID-19 on-farm income by enhancing available family labor. • However, directives to avoid gatherings had net negative impacts, thus exacerbating the loss in non-farm incomes of farm households. • Smallholder farmers and households with greater involvement in value-added activities were more resilient than others. • We argue that future policy responses to health shocks should consider the uniqueness of agriculture. Policy measures aimed at containing the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic had unintended consequences on economic activities globally. In this study, we isolate and investigate the short-term partial impacts of six such measures on the farm and nonfarm incomes of agricultural households and examine the related resilience factors. Using Nigeria as a case study, we find that the COVID containment measures had mixed effects on farm and non-farm incomes in the short run. These varying effects are due to households' resilience and vulnerability factors, including land size, wealth, income diversification, involvement in processing activities, and reliance on hired labor. Our findings highlight the need for more targeted health crisis containment measures which consider the uniqueness, diversity, and regional heterogeneity of agriculture, especially the potential implications for farm viability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The morphological characteristics of the humeral bone has been investigated in recent times with studies showing varying degrees of sexual dimorphism. Osteologists and forensic scientists have shown that sex determination methods based on skeletal measurements are population specific, and these population-specific variations are present in many body dimensions. The present study aims to establish sex identification using osteometric standards for the humerus in a contemporary KwaZulu-Natal population. A total of 11 parameters were measured in a sample of n=211 humeri (males, 113; females, 98) from the osteological collection in the Discipline of Clinical Anatomy, Nelson R. Mandela School of Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa. The difference in means for nearly all variables were found to be significantly higher in males compared to females (P<0.01) with the most effective single parameter for predicting sex being the vertical head diameter having an accuracy of 82.5%. Stepwise discriminant analysis increased the overall accuracy rate to 87.7% when all measurements were jointly applied. We conclude that the humerus is an important bone which can be reliably used for sex determination based on standard metric methods despite minor tribal or ancestral differences amongst an otherwise homogenous population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The indiscriminate use of the Sniper Branded pesticide (2,2-dichlorovinyl dimethyl phosphate (DDVP) containing pesticide) in recent times in the country and its reported persistence in the environment has made it an environmental and health concern for the country. This study investigated the ability of Pleurotus ostreatus in degrading the stated DDVP containing pesticide substance in contaminated soil samples under laboratory controlled environment. The experimental setup include soil samples contaminated with three concentrations of the pesticide: 10% v/w, 30% v/w and 60% v/w, the soil samples were then inoculated with vigorously growing spawns of P. ostreatus. The setup was then incubated for 90 days, after which the pesticide concentration, nutrient content, organic content, pH, and heavy metal content of the soil samples were determined. The results of the study showed that the nutrient and organic content of the soil decreased after 90 days' incubation with mushroom. Furthermore, the heavy metal contents of the soil samples incubated with mushroom had significantly (p<0.05) lower proportions of heavy metal content. Of note is the total clean-up of the lead ion concentration of the pesticide polluted soil for all concentrations prepared in the study. Additionally, incubation with P. ostreatus significantly (p<0.05) reduced the pesticide concentration in the soil by 57.74% for the 10% concentration and by 31.64% for 60% concentration. The results showed that P. ostreatus is useful in the bioremediation of soils contaminated with pesticides containing DDVP on a small scale project. Therefore, the study recommended that soil contaminated with the DDVP pesticides may be treated with P. ostreatus to reduce heavy metal contents and total pesticide concentration in the soil to the generally acceptable levels that may not be deleterious to the environment and human health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zinc (Zn) is known to interact with lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd) reversing their toxicity and reducing their concentrations. However, lactating women are at high risk of developing Zn deficiency, which may result in Pb and Cd intoxication or increased exposure of breast-fed infants to Pb and Cd from breast milk. The aim of this study was to determine Zn, Pb, and Cd concentrations and examine their relationship in serum and breast milk of lactating women in Ibadan, Nigeria. Ninety-two lactating women were recruited into this study. Anthropometric measurements were assessed by standard methods while serum and breast milk concentrations of Zn, Pb, and Cd were assessed by atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Data analyzed statistically by Student's t test, Pearson's correlation coefficient, and a multiple regression model were significant at p < 0.05. Zn deficiency was observed in 12 (17.1%) of lactating women. Breast milk levels of Zn, Pb, and Cd were significantly higher than their levels in serum, whereas the ratios Zn:Pb and Zn:Cd in milk were significantly less than serum ratios. Significant negative correlation was observed between milk Pb and serum Zn:Pb while milk Cd correlated positively with milk Zn. Significant positive correlations were observed between serum Zn and serum Zn:Pb, serum Zn and serum Zn:Cd, as well as serum Zn:Cd and serum Zn:Pb. Serum Cd and serum Zn were significantly negatively related. Significant negative correlations between serum Pb and serum Zn:Pb as well as milk Zn:Pb. Serum Cd and serum Zn:Pb as well as serum Zn:Cd correlated negatively. Milk Cd and Zn/Cd positively related with milk Pb while milk Zn was a negatively related with milk Pb in a multiple regression model (R² = 0.333; p = 0.023). Breast milk may be contaminated by toxic metals. However, Zn supplementation in deficient mothers may protect maternal and infant health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents an analytical solution for vibration and buckling of functionally graded (FG) sandwich beams using various quasi-3D theories, which consider effects of both shear and normal deformation. Sandwich beams with FG skins–homogeneous core and homogeneous skins–FG core are considered. By using the Hamilton’s principle, governing equations of motion are derived. An analytical solution is presented, and the obtained results by various quasi-3D theories are compared with each other and with the available solutions in the literature. The effects of normal strain, power-law indexes, skin–core–skin thickness and slenderness ratios on vibration and buckling behaviour of sandwich beams are investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Globally, renal replacement therapy especially haemodialysis remains pivotal in the effective care of patients with kidney diseases since its acceptance as a treatment modality. Despite being widely embraced as a therapeutic option, several factors still hamper its utilization. A clinical audit of this modality option will allow elucidation of haemodialysis practises and peculiarities. METHODS: The charts and records of 280 patients with renal impairments dialyzed between March 1st 2019 and February 28th 2023 were evaluated in retrospect. Data on retrieved demographic and clinical information were analyzed using SPSS 25 and patients' short-term survival was determined using the Kaplan Meier survival analysis and log rank test. RESULTS: Out of the 280 patients who had 1716 dialysis sessions, 184 (65.7%) were males. The mean age was 47.9 ± 17.5 years. The majority (80.7%) of the patients had chronic kidney disease (CKD), as 90.2% of the dialysis sessions were for CKD. There was a male preponderance (69.1%) in the population. Hypertension was the commonest cause of CKD (41.2%) while sepsis was the commonest cause of acute kidney injury (50%). The median number of dialysis session was 4.0. The mean pre-dialysis hematocrit was 24.4 ± 7.1% and the mean single pool Kt/V was 0.9 ± 0.02. The femoral vein was the most used vascular access (95.4%). The short-term survival was positively related to the dialysis frequency on Kaplan-Meier analysis. CONCLUSION: Haemodialytic therapy in patients with renal disease is still of huge impact on survival despite the numerous factors affecting its effective delivery, especially in low-income nations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tribolium castaneum also known as red flour beetle is one of the most important pests of stored grain product with a cosmopolitan distribution in Nigeria and all over the world contributing to food spoilage. The aim of this study was to characterize the T. castaneum by morphometric and molecular analyses. Samples of yam flour with evidence of the red flour beetles present inside were obtained from four locations in Kwara, Kogi, Oyo and Ekiti states in Nigeria. Morphological and molecular identifications of T. castaneum were carried out using standard methods. A dissecting microscope was used to identify the beetles and measurements were taken using ImageJ. Genomic DNA was extracted and checked on 1.5% agarose gel to confirm the presence of DNA. Species-specific primers were used to amplify mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase I (COI) gene of T. castaneum and the PCR amplicon size was also checked on 1.5% agarose. Morphometric measurements showed that the highest mean number (33.00±4.24 mm) of T. castaneum larvae observed was recorded on day 61 in Ilorin and the lowest was in Iwo, Osun state (4.00±0.00 mm) on the same day. The mean of the total body length of larvae from sampling sites was (1.31±0.37 mm) with minimum and (1.63±1.14 mm) maximum lengths respectively. There was no significant difference (p>0.05) between the mean length of the larvae collected from the study locations. Aligned cytochrome oxidase subunit 1 (COI) sequences of 313bp were analyzed. Phylogenetic analysis inferred by maximum likelihood method showed that the T. castaneum sequences analyzed for this study and sequences obtained from GenBank formed a monophyletic group. The molecular and phylogenetic analyses confirmed the presence of a single species of T. castaneum. The results from this study showed low levels of genetic diversity and variability in the studied T. castaneum populations. The observed genetic similarity in T. castaneum could be due to the fact that they were probably from similar origin when compared with those in the GenBank database. However, further studies are needed with more samples to characterize T. castaneum species from stored food grains across Nigeria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Study examines the food security impacts of forced displacement in host communities. • IDP influx reduces the food consumption scores (FCS) of host community households. • IDP influx due to conflicts also reduces the FCS. • However, IDP influx from natural disasters and communal violence raise the FCS. • Results suggest that humanitarian agencies respond slower to non-traditional shocks. In the last decade, the number of forcibly displaced people increased dramatically globally. In Africa, conflict has been one of the primary sources of forced displacement. Very few studies have examined the micro economic impacts of forced displacement on household welfare outcomes in host communities, especially on food security. In this study, we investigate how the inflow of Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) impacts on household-level food security outcomes in Nigeria, a country that has experienced significant displacements due to the Boko Haram insurgency, farmer-herder conflicts and other communal conflicts. To uncover the hypothesized effects, we use an Instrumental Variable (IV) approach, where a spatially weighted IDP outflow variable is used as an instrument for the main independent variable. We find that IDP influx negatively impacts the household level food security conditions in host communities. We specifically uncover differential impacts of displacement drivers such as armed conflicts, natural disasters and communal violence. The results are consistent across alternate model specifications and sensitivity analyses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the last decades, a number of technical solutions for the improvement of structural connections using new materials between masonry wall panels have been the subject of several studies. In this context, the increasing interest in titanium could be attributed to its high specific resistances and chemical stability. The emphasis of this study is therefore the understanding of the bond behavior between lime-based mortars and titanium-based reinforcing rods. Experimental results showed that the titanium-lime bond is characterized by low bond strength. With the aim of increasing bond stresses, different surface treatments were investigated based on chemical and mechanical interlocking. The effect of these treatments and the general problems related to masonry reinforcing techniques have been discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Induced abortion contributes significantly to maternal mortality in developing countries yet women still seek repeat induced abortion in spite of availability of contraceptive services. The aim of this study is to determine the rate of abortion and contraceptive use among women seeking repeat induced abortion in Western Nigeria. Method. A prospective cross-sectional study utilizing self-administered questionnaires was administered to women seeking abortion in private hospitals/clinics in four geopolitical areas of Ogun State, Western Nigeria, from January 1 to December 31 2012. Data were analyzed using SPSS 17.0. Results. The age range for those seeking repeat induced abortion was 15 to 51 years while the median age was 25 years. Of 2934 women seeking an abortion, 23% reported having had one or more previous abortions. Of those who had had more than one abortion, the level of awareness of contraceptives was 91.7% while only 21.5% used a contraceptive at their first intercourse after the procedure; 78.5% of the pregnancies were associated with non-contraceptive use while 17.5% were associated with contraceptive failure. The major reason for non-contraceptive use was fear of side effects. Conclusion. The rate of women seeking repeat abortions is high in Nigeria. The rate of contraceptive use is low while contraceptive failure rate is high. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The development of longitudinal reinforcement from oil palm broom fibres (OPBF) for concrete was carried out, • The OPBF tendons possess a tensile strength of 200 MPa which is about 50% of reinforcement steel, • Bond behaviour of the OPBF tendons in concrete was studied, • Experimental assessment and finite element modelling of OPBF-reinforced concrete were also carried out, • OPBF-reinforced concrete can be used for light structural members such as lintel beams for residential housing. Recent studies on affordability and sustainability of building materials have shown that broom fibres derived from the leaflets of oil palm tree have impressive tensile strength but poor bond strength with concrete. Although bonding has been reported to be improved when the fibres are combined in the form of tendons, the bond-slip failure between the tendons and concrete still compromises composite performance. This study, therefore, investigates the use of hose clamps in increasing slip resistance between oil palm broom fibres (OPBF) tendons and concrete matrix. A total of 64 concrete samples comprising of 46 beams (100x100x500 mm) reinforced with varying areas of OPBF tendons and 18 bond pull – out samples were prepared. The tendon reinforcements were fitted with hose clamps to improve the bond strength between the concrete and the reinforcement. Spacing between hose clamps was chosen as 45 mm and 85 mm. The flexural strength of the beams was tested under 4-point bending at 28, 56 and 112 days. Test results show improvement in the flexural capacity of the beams as a result of increased slip resistance induced by the hose clamps. Finite element modelling of the behaviour of the OPBF-tendon reinforced concrete was carried out and recommendations were made after ensuring that the ultimate and serviceability limit states are satisfied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the effects of saturation temperature and inclination angle on convective heat transfer during condensation of R134a in an inclined smooth tube of inner diameter of 8.38mm. Experiments were conducted for inclination angles ranging from −90° (vertical downwards) to +90° (vertical upwards) for mass fluxes between 100kg/m2 s and 400kg/m2 s and mean vapour qualities between 0.1 and 0.9 for saturation temperatures ranging between 30°C and 50°C in a test matrix of 637 test data points. The results showed that saturation temperature and inclination angle strongly influenced the heat transfer coefficient. With respect to saturation temperature, an increase in saturation temperature generally led to a decrease in heat transfer coefficient irrespective of the inclination angle. The effect of inclination angle was found to be more pronounced at mass fluxes of 100kg/m2 s and 200kg/m2 s for the range of mean vapour qualities considered. Within the region of influence of inclination, there was an optimum angle, which was between −15° and −30° (downward flow). The inclination effect corresponded to the predominance of the effect of gravity on the flow distribution. An increase in saturation temperature increased the effect of inclination on two-phase heat transfer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigated anti-ulcer properties of Musa sapientum sucker in rats. Group I was control. Indomethacin (40mg/kg/ bodyweight) was orally administered to rats of Groups II - VI for induction of ulcer. Four hours after administrations of the ulcerogen; 5, 10 and 20mg/kg/bodyweight of Musa sapientum sucker extract and 40mg/kg/bodyweight of Omeprazole were administered orally to rats of Groups III - VI respectively. Analyses of lipid profile status, kidney functions tests and activities of glutathione, superoxide dismutase and catalase in the serum and stomach samples of rats of Group II showed statistically significant higher activities (P0.05) of antioxidant enzymes, lipid peroxidation, total cholesterol, triglycerides, creatinine, bilirubin and urea when compared to rats of Groups III - VI. Non-statistically significant lower activities (P0.05) of antioxidant enzymes and lipid profile status were observed in rats of Groups III and IV when compared with rats of Group VI. Evaluations of creatinine, urea and bilirubin levels in sera samples of rats of Groups III - V showed non-statistically significant lower levels (P≤0.05) of kidney functions tests when compared to rats of Group VI. This study concluded that Musa sapientum attenuated total antioxidant and lipid profile values; served reno-protective functions in rats with Indomethacin-induced gastric ulceration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A full scale experimental investigation into the strength and behaviour of prestressed steel stayed columns in compression has been conducted. Results, including full load versus end-shortening curves, for a total of 18 test specimens are presented. Two critical modes of buckling — symmetric and antisymmetric — with interactive post-buckling are demonstrated experimentally and the imperfection sensitivity of the stayed columns is investigated. Interactive buckling is observed primarily when the individual buckling loads of the antisymmetric and symmetric modes are close or when the antisymmetric mode is critical. Analysis of the results reveals that increased prestress leads to an increased load-carrying capacity when instability occurs in the symmetric mode, but the reverse trend is found when the antisymmetric mode is critical. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Summary: This study investigated the effects of the administration of 25mg/kg/bodyweight of artemether for a period of 7 days on the trapezoid nuclei and behavioural functions in male Wistar rats. This was to establish the neurotoxic potential of artemether as an antimalarial drug. All rats showed normal morphological appearances at the completion of the experimental procedure. Statistical analyses showed no significant differences between the average brain weight of the control group and the experimental group. The assessment of brainstem nuclei showed patchychromatic appearance of neurons of the trapezoid nuclei in the experimental group as against the normal vesicular appearance of neurons of the trapezoid nuclei in the control group. The density of damaged trapezoid nuclei was significantly higher in the experimental group than in the control group. The rats in the control group displayed normal balance and coordination, while rats in the experimental group showed abnormalities in balance and coordination. This study observed that administration of 25mg/kg/bodyweight of artemether for a period of 7 days had neurotoxic effects on the trapezoid nuclei of Wistar rats. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Purpose - This paper aims to build a mathematical model to determine the price of an acre of developable land, whether it is part of a large open tract (farm) or a smaller residential parcel that can legally be subdivided. The primary purpose of the model is to explore the effect of various minimum lot-size regulations on the price of these two types of vacant land. The study also attempts to explain apparently conflicting findings that have recently appeared in empirical studies of "down-zoning" in the states of Maryland and New Jersey. Design/methodology/approach - The mathematical model of land value is based on principles of asset valuation under uncertainty at various locations within a metropolitan area. The price of an acre of land is modeled as the present value of a stream of indirect utility to homeowners, and economic rents to farmers, developers or landlords, depending on an endogenous date of development. The cases of New Jersey and Maryland are compared using parameterized simulations, with minimum lot size allowed to vary. Findings - The simulations reconcile earlier empirical studies on Maryland and New Jersey. The observed absence of any price effect of down-zoning in rural Maryland appears to be caused by the fact that development is not imminent there. In New Jersey, development is imminent virtually everywhere, and a high proportion of today's vacant land value is due to its development potential. This means that down-zoning will typically lead to dramatic declines in vacant land value in New Jersey. Research limitations/implications - The study relies on state averages, so its results should not be applied to particular parcels in Maryland or New Jersey. The study incorporates uncertainty in expected developer profits, but not in future political decisions. Practical implications - By clarifying the context in which zoning changes will or will not lead to decline in a landowner's asset value, the study can inform legal and political debates over re-zonings in the USA. Included in these debates is the claim that some re-zonings violate the "takings" clause of the USA constitution. Originality/value - The majority of papers on this subject are empirical, using a hedonic or an appraisal methodology. This paper provides a coherent theoretical model of per-acre land prices under different levels of zoning restriction. It can be used for simulation or prediction with relatively few input parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To assess efforts by national programs in developing countries to improve maternal and neonatal health in 2005 in the context of the six-year trend. Methods A total of 14 components of effort based upon 81 questionnaire items were measured for 49–55 countries in 1999, 2002, and 2005, covering about 85% of the developing world’s population. A standard questionnaire was completed by 10–25 experts in each country, with all questionnaires analyzed centrally and results returned to each country. The 2005 round includes new items and analysis for malaria and newborn interventions. Findings An overall index of effort showed no significant improvement over the six-year period. The patterns of effort across the 14 components were quite similar in the three rounds, supporting the usefulness of the methodology while also confirming the consistency of non-improvement. Rural access to services, in essentially all countries, is very inferior to urban access. Effort scores for antenatal and neonatal care were among the highest while those for health center capacities were among the lowest. Conclusion Effort levels by maternal health programs in developing countries remain seriously deficient. Even by the standard set by the best scoring countries the ratings show only about 75% of maximum effort achieved. The overall average is just above half of maximum effort, at about 56% in all three years, whether countries are weighted equally or by their population sizes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Periodic assessments between 1972 and 1999 found consistent increases in the intensity and types of effort exerted by national family planning programs in developing countries. An updated evaluation was needed to examine whether these trends have been affected by recent changes in the family planning environment, such as decentralization, the HIV/AIDS pandemic and funding reductions. METHODS: In 2004, informants in 82 developing countries completed a questionnaire that assessed 30 dimensions of program effort and included several new scales to explore current issues. Selected results were compared with findings from prior rounds of the study. RESULTS: Family planning effort increased between 1999 and 2004, both globally and within regions. When the data were weighted by country population size, effort declined slightly overall but increased in four of six regions. Countries with low initial scores improved more than those with high initial scores. Contraceptive access varied by region and was lowest in Sub-Saharan Africa. The strongest justifications for programs were improving maternal and child health and preventing unwanted births. Changes in funding were often judged to have had negative effects on programs. Unmarried youth and women receiving postabortion care received the least emphasis among special populations of interest. CONCLUSIONS: Although average program effort scores have risen again, increases in effort, funding and access to contraceptive methods are still needed in many countries, especially in rural areas and among the poor. More emphasis should be placed on providing postpartum and postabortion family planning services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Objective: This work aims to evaluate the entrance surface dose (ESD), the body organ dose (BOD) and the effective dose (E) resulting from pediatric radiological procedures with the use of portable X-ray equipments. Materials and methods: The software DoseCal was used to evaluate the doses imparted to patients. The children were classified according to their weight and age groups, and the study included three sectors of the intensive care unit of a large reference pediatric hospital in Rio de Janeiro. Results: A total of 518 radiographs have been performed, (424 for chest and 94 for abdomen). The statistical data were compared with previously published results. The BOD is presented for the most exposed organs. Conclusion: The mean value of ESD and E varied widely among neonates. The highest number of radiographs per infant peaked 33 for chest examination in the age group 0–1 year. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

This study presents an improved correlation for predicting heat transfer coefficients for condensation inside smooth macro-tubes. Experimental data was obtained for various fluids, including R12, R1234yf, R1234ze, R134a, R22, R263fa, R245a, R32, R404a, R410a, and R600a. Tube diameters ranging from 3 to 14 mm, mass fluxes ranging from 50 to 1400 kg/m2s, and a vapor quality between 0 and 1 were used to cover a wide range of operating conditions. This data included 1683 data points from 50 sources. The comparison of the existing experimental data base with different correlations showed that the Cavallini et al. correlation had a mean absolute deviation of 19%, followed by those made by the correlations of Koyama and Yonemoto (24%), Dobson and Chato (24%), Huang et al. (24%), Shah (29%), and Haraguchi et al. (33%). Based on this comparison, an improved correlation modelled after the correlation of Cavallini et al. correlation was proposed. The accuracy and reliability of the proposed correlations were evaluated by comparing the predicted values with independent experimental data from the literature, wherein it was found that this new correlation predicted the databank with a mean absolute error of 17%. It was also found that this new proposed correlation provided better predictions of the heat transfer coefficient than existing correlations. The proposed correlation will improve the design and optimization of heat exchangers used in various industries, as well as provide valuable insights into condensation behavior inside smooth macro-tubes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A statistical-based regression approach and machine learning (ML) algorithms (response surface methodology (RSM), feed-forward backpropagation artificial neural network (ANN) and multi-layer adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS)) were explored for the optimization and prediction of biogas resulting from the anaerobic digestion (AD) of pretreated Ulva Intestinalis Linnaeus (UIL). ANFIS model was found to better predict and model the process of biogas production from the AD of pretreated UIL owing to low mean square error (MSE) and RMSE values (0.8841 and 0.9402-US, 0.9628 and 0.9812-O 3 , 0.1387 and 0.3724-MW and 0.3018 and 1.1410-Fe 3 O 4) and highest values of R2 (0.9998-US, 0.9996-O 3 , 0.9996-MW and 0.9995-Fe 3 O 4). Optimum conditions for biogas yield as a result of the various pretreatment processes based on the ANFIS model were US-15 power/time, time-40 min and the biogas yield-181.0 mL.gVS−1, O 3 -15.0 mg/min, time-40.0 min and biogas yield of 164.0 mL.gVS−1, MW-2.3 power/time, time-40.0 min and biogas yield-81.7 mL.gVS−1 and Fe 3 O 4 -20.0 mg L−1, time-40.0 min and biogas yield-154 mL.gVS−1. The results obtained show that the ML and statistical-based models were effective in approximating the biogas yield with high precision and low error and could be beneficial for the biogas production scale-up process. [Display omitted] • RSM, ANN and ANFIS models were explored for biogas production. • The biogas yield was predicted based on the low MSE and RMSE values and high R2 values. • The ANFIS model best modelled the pretreatment of UIL for obtaining biogas yield. • A prediction model with high precision and low error could be effective for the biogas production scale-up. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The effect of CFF and SBF on soil bricks were investigated. • The optimum content is 7% and 5% of 15 mm length fibres for CFF and SBF respectively. • Response Surface Models that fully predict soil brick properties for up to 180 days were developed. • Normalized design equations for uniaxial compression were proposed. In this paper, the physical, durability and mechanical properties of soil bricks reinforced with chicken feather fibres (CFF) and sugarcane bagasse fibres (SBF) were studied. The adopted optimum lengths of 15-mm of CFF and SBF were randomly distributed in the soil mix at 1%, 3%, 5%, 7%, 9% and 11% by weight. In total, 525 samples of cubic (3 5 0) and prismatic (1 7 5) soil samples were prepared for each fibre type and tested in accordance with the guidance in the British standards for bulk density, water absorption, compressive strength and tensile strength at 14, 28, 56, 90 and 180 days. With the addition of 7% CFF and 5% SBF, soil brick samples were found to be 98.8% and 78.7% stronger respectively in compression compared to the control mix. Based on the experimental results the stress-strain model describing the soil bricks response to compressive loading for each fibre type was obtained via regression analysis. This study contributes original data to the characterization of soil bricks and provides reference values that can be considered for design purposes. The soil bricks thus developed will contribute to the provision of affordable and sustainable housing construction across the world, particularly in developing countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study through a quantitative research methodology investigated mathematics productive disposition as a correlate of senior secondary school students' achievement in mathematics in Nigeria. A correlational research design was implemented for the study in which three research questions were answered. The sample consisted of 1600 senior secondary school year three mathematics students randomly selected from 40 schools in education district III of Lagos State, Nigeria. Two instruments namely: Mathematics Productive Disposition Scale (MPDS with a reliability coefficient of 0.88) and Mathematics Achievement Test (MAT with a reliability coefficient of 0.88) were used for data collection. The collected data were analysed using Pearson product-moment correlation and multiple regression analysis at 0.05 level of significance. Results showed that the senior secondary school students recorded high mathematics productive disposition. There were statistically significant relationships between mathematics productive disposition and its dimensions with achievement in mathematics among senior secondary school students. The eight dimensions of mathematics productive disposition made statistically significant contributions of 84.3% to the prediction of achievement in mathematics. Based on these findings, it was advocated that the senior secondary school mathematics teachers should develop students' mathematics productive disposition to stimulate their achievement in mathematics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Developmental disorders are frequently overlooked in the developing countries, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. Early identification of developmental delays (DDs) is critical to optimal outcomes. This study set out to determine the proportion of children who are at risk of DDs among infants attending immunization clinics at the University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria. Infants 6 weeks to 12 months of age (median age 6 months) who presented for routine immunization were screened for DDs using the Ages and Stages Questionnaire. A total of 587 infants [312 (53.2%) males] were enrolled. A total of 198 (33.7%) children showed signs of DDs. For the domains of communication skills, fine motor skills, gross motor skills, problem solving/cognition skills and personal/social skills, the prevalences of DDs were 7.5%, 15.0%, 10.7%, 14.1% and 14.8%, respectively, and 14.3% had global DDs. Factors that significantly predicted DDs included prematurity (odds ratio [OR] 2.64 [95% confidence interval {CI} 1.45 to 2.05]) and a history of perinatal asphyxia (OR 1.74 [95% CI 1.77 to 2.49]). There is a need to incorporate routine developmental screening into the Nigerian healthcare system for timely recognition of DDs and prompt interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents case study of a 60-year-old postmenopausal Hispanic woman who was diagnosed with sarcoidosis in an endometrial polyp. Topics discussed include information on endometrial sarcoidosis which is one of the rarest forms of extrapulmonary sarcoidosis; detection of an uterine fibroid and thickened endometrial stripe with the help of pelvic ultrasound; and observation of creation of calcium oxalate in the macrophages.

A survey of the malaria vectors in an area is a critical component of an effective vector control strategy. This study aimed to investigate the malaria vectors in four communities of Southern Gombe, Northeastern Nigeria. A total of 3200 adult female Anopheles reared from larvae in the four communities from two Local Government Areas (LGAs) in Southern Gombe were identified. Anopheles pretoriensis were dominant 1662 (51.9%) followed by An. gambiae sl 868(27.1%), An. maculipalpis267(8.3), An. rufipes252(7.9) and An. coustani 10(0.3%), and the least were An. pharoensis 6(0.2%). The remaining 135(4.3%) were unidentified. Of the 262 An. gambiae sl identified by species-specific PCR method, 135(51.5%) were found to be An. coluzzii, 60(22.9%) An. gambiae and only 1(0.4%) was An. arabiensis whereas hybrid constitutes 16(6.1%). To determine significant differences in species composition, the results from the four study sites were pooled together. Anopheles pretoriensis was significantly different from all the other species identified (p = <0.0001 - 0.0454). An. gambiae sl. was significantly different from An. coustani and An. pharoensis (p = 0.0258, 0.0249 respectively). There was no significant difference between An. maculipalpis, An. rufipes, An. coustani and An. pharoensis (p = 0.9261 - >0.9999). There was a significant difference between the number of species identified as An. coluzzii and An. arabiensis (p = 0.0025). But there was no significant difference between An. coluzzii and An. gambiae (p = 0.1212). The heterogeneity and sympatry of Anopheles species observed is a threat to malaria control as the secondary vectors have behaviour that evades the current vector control interventions. It is expedient to re-strategize the vector control interventions in the study area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Despite the availability of effective malaria vector control intervention tools, implementation of control programmes in Nigeria is challenged by inadequate entomological surveillance data. This study was designed to assess and build the existing capacity for malaria vector surveillance, control and research (MVSC&R) in Nigerian institutions. Methods: Application call to select qualified candidates for the capacity building (CB) intervention training programme was advertised in a widely read newspaper and online platforms of national and international professional bodies. Two trainings were organized to train selected applicants on field activities, laboratory tools and techniques relevant to malaria vector surveillance and control research. A semi-structured questionnaire was administered to collect data on socio-demographic characteristics of participants, knowledge and access of participants to field and laboratory techniques in MVSC&R. Similarly, pre and post-intervention tests were conducted to assess the performance and improvement in knowledge of the participants. Mentoring activities to sustain CB activities after the training were also carried out. Results: A total of 23 suitable applicants were shortlisted out of the 89 applications received. The South West, South East and North Central geopolitical zones of the country had the highest applications and the highest selected number of qualified applicants compared to the South South and North East geopolitical zones. The distribution with respect to gender indicated that males (72.7%) were more than females (27.3%). Mean score of participants' knowledge of field techniques was 27.8 (± 10.8) before training and 67.7 (± 9.8) after the training. Similarly, participants' knowledge on laboratory techniques also improved from 37.4 (± 5.6) to 77.2 (± 10.8). The difference in the mean scores at pre and post-test was statistically significant (p < 0.05). Access of participants to laboratory and field tools used in MVSC&R was generally low with insecticide susceptibility bioassays and pyrethrum spray collection methods being the most significant (p < 0.05). Conclusions: The capacity available for vector control research and surveillance at institutional level in Nigeria is weak and require further strengthening. Increased training and access of personnel to relevant tools for MVSC&R is required in higher institutions in the six geopolitical zones of the country. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mass spectrometry (MS) is the workhorse of metabolomics, proteomics and lipidomics. Mass spectrometry imaging (MSI), its extension to spatially resolved analysis of tissues, is a powerful tool for visualizing molecular information within the histological context of tissue. This review summarizes recent developments in MSI and highlights current challenges that remain to achieve molecular imaging at the cellular level of clinical specimens. We focus on matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI)-MSI. We discuss the current status of each of the analysis steps and remaining challenges to reach the desired level of cellular imaging. Currently, analyte delocalization and degradation, matrix crystal size, laser focus restrictions and detector sensitivity are factors that are limiting spatial resolution. New sample preparation devices and laser optic systems are being developed to push the boundaries of these limitations. Furthermore, we review the processing of cellular MSI data and images, and the systematic integration of these data in the light of available algorithms and databases. We discuss roadblocks in the data analysis pipeline and show how technology from other fields can be used to overcome these. Finally, we conclude with curative and community efforts that are needed to enable contextualization of the information obtained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study reports the synthesis of magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) using the co-precipitation method with the support of Vernonia Amygdalina (VA) (bitter leaf) extract for the efficient sequestration of rhodamine 6G dye (Rhd 6G) from a water-soluble solution. The prepared MNPs were characterized using Transmission electron microscopy (TEM,) X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) and Ultraviolet–visible (UV–Vis) spectrometry. The average particle sizes from TEM and XRD analyses were 4.81 ± 2.2 nm and 5.61 nm respectively. The sorption of Rhd 6G dye to the MNPs was pH-dependent, with ideal confiscation of dye molecules observed at pH 10 ( ∼ 91.4 %) . The sorption process of Rhd 6G dye was reported to follow the Freundlich (FRH) isotherm model, while the pseudo-first-order model (PFOM) best depicted the sorption process of Rhd 6G dye to the MNPs from the non-linear modelling. The determined sorption capacity of the MNPs was established to be 454 mg.g−1. Also, the sorption of Rhd 6G dye to the MNPs was observed to be thermodynamically spontaneous, endothermic and with increasing randomness between the interface of the water-soluble solution and the MNPs. Hence, the prepared MNPs have proven to be an effective potential magnetic sorbent for the removal of cationic dyes from an aqueous solution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite increasing reports and concerns about the development of resistance to public-health insecticides in malaria vectors, significant progress has been made in the search for alternative strategies to disrupt the disease transmission cycle by targeting insect vectors and thus sustaining vector management. The use of insecticidal plants is a strategy that can be employed and this study investigates the toxicity potential of insecticidal plant oils shortlisted in an ethnobotanical survey on Anopheles gambiae larvae and adult stages. The shortlisted plants parts, the leaves of Hyptis suaveolens, Ocimum gratissimum, Nicotiana tabacum, Ageratum conyzoides, and Citrus sinensis fruit-peel were collected and extracted using a Clevenger apparatus. Larvae and female adults of deltamethrin-susceptible Anopheles gambiae were obtained from an already-established colony at the University of Ilorin's Entomological Research Laboratory. In five replicates, twenty-five third instar stage larvae were used for larvicidal assays and twenty 2–5 days old adults were used for adulticidal assays. After 24 h, An. gambiae exposed to Hy. suaveolens and Ci. sinensis exhibited significantly higher larval toxicity (94.7–100%). The mortality induced by the oils of the four plants peaked at 100% after 48 h. Ni. tabacum (0.50 mg/ml) induced the highest percentage of adult mortality on An. gambiae (100%) when compared to the positive control Deltamethrin (0.05%). The lowest KdT50 was observed with 0.25 mg/ml of Ni. tabacum (20.3 min), and the lowest KdT95 was observed with 0.10 mg/ml of Ag. conyzoides (35.97 min) against adult An. gambiae. The evaluated plant oils demonstrated significant larval and adult mortality rates, lower lethal concentrations, and knockdown times, indicating promising results that can be further developed for malaria vector management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abundance, sustainability and environmental awareness are the impetuses for increasing global interest in new shades of the plant as an alternative to hazardous synthetic dyes for industrial applications. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the potential ability of dye extracts from Nigerian mango leaves (MLs) (obtained through microwave (MW)-assisted and aqueous extraction techniques) to color silk fabric with a range of appealing shades (yellow to brown) generated through metal- and bio-mordanting processes. The effects of pH, contact time, and temperature were studied to determine optimum conditions for dyeing silk fabric in the MLs dye bath. The pH value of 3, contact time of 60 min, and dyeing temperature of 70 °C were found to be the optimum dyeing parameters. MW as a modern heating tool enhanced the yield, dye exhaustion (E), and color strength (K / S) of MLs dyed silk fabric by 46.31 %, 23.65 %, and 9.27 %, respectively. It also improved the color properties (shade, color coordinates, and fastness properties) of the MLs dyed silk fabric. The satisfactory affinity of unmordanted silk fabric for MLs dye extract was enhanced and found to be very good for metal-mordanted and excellent for bio-mordanted silk fabric. Excellent anti-oxidant activity and UV protection were obtained after MLs dyed silk fabric was bio-mordanted. The bio-mordants used in this study were sustainable and eco-friendly alternatives to toxic transition metals, which are often used as mordants for natural dyed textile apparel. The study established MLs dye extracts as non-toxic, abundant and sustainable coloring materials for dyeing silk fabric on an industrial scale. • Microwave enhanced the mango leaves dye yield by 46.31 %. • Optimum dyeing parameters were 60 min, 70 °C and pH 3. • Mordanting enhanced satisfactory affinity of silk fabric for dye extracts. • Bio-mordants were sustainable green alternative to toxic metals salts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]