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Ultraviolet (UV) and X-ray radiation are the primary causes of ionization that produce electron density in sufficient quantities to promote the propagation of satellite radio signals in the ionosphere. The electron densities suffer from spatio-temporal variations, and this poses different degrees of threats to satellite radio signals propagating through the ionosphere. We aimed to characterize the maximum electron density of the F2 layer (NmF2) in the middle-latitude ionosphere over Grahamstown, South Africa (Geographic latitude: 33.30°S, Geographic longitude: 26.50°E; Geomagnetic Latitude: 33.92°S, Geomagnetic Longitude: 89.37°E). The mean NmF2 data for solar cycle 23 (1998–2008) were used for the studies. The data were grouped into the high solar activity (HSA: 2000–2002), moderate solar activity (MSA: 1998–1999, 2003–2005), and low solar activity (LSA: 2006–2008) years. NmF2 variations were characterized based on the diurnal, seasonal, monthly, and annual data. Also, the correlation between NmF2 and the sunspot number was investigated. Results on diurnal and seasonal variations revealed that noontime bite-out of NmF2 was observed during the June solstice every year. However, it was not observed in the other three seasons. Equinoctial asymmetry is observed to show insignificant annual and solar cycle variations. The seasonal and annual variations of NmF2 with sunspot number were linear (exception: June solstice for MSA, the year 1999; HSA, years 2000–2001). The results reveal that the correlation between NmF2 and the sunspot number was insignificant under conditions of the annual, solar cycle, and latitudinal variations (exception: MSA, the year 2005; negative correlation (0.64)).

Introduction: Klebsiella pneumoniae is a major pathogen implicated in healthcare-associated infections. Extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL) and carbapenemase-producing K. pneumoniae isolates are a public health concern. This study investigated the existence of some ESBL and carbapenemase genes among clinical isolates of K. pneumoniae in Southwest Nigeria and additionally determined their circulating clones. Materials and Methods: Various clinical samples from 420 patients from seven tertiary hospitals within Southwestern Nigeria were processed between February 2018 and July 2019. These samples were cultured on blood agar and MacConkey agar, and the isolated bacteria were identified by Microbact GNB 12E. All K. pneumoniae were confirmed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) using the 16s rRNA gene. Antibiotic susceptibility testing (AST) was done on these isolates, and the PCR was used to evaluate the common ESBL-encoding genes and carbapenem resistance genes. Genotyping was performed using multi-locus sequencing typing (MLST). Results: The overall prevalence of K. pneumoniae in Southwestern Nigeria was 30.5%. The AST revealed high resistance rates to tetracyclines (67.2%), oxacillin (61.7%), ampicillin (60.2%), ciprofloxacin (58.6%), chloramphenicol (56.3%), and lowest resistance to meropenem (43.0%). All isolates were susceptible to polymyxin B. The most prevalent ESBL gene was the TEM gene (47.7%), followed by CTX-M (43.8%), SHV (39.8%), OXA (27.3%), CTX-M-15 (19.5%), CTX-M-2 (11.1%), and CTX-M-9 (10.9%). Among the carbapenemase genes studied, the VIM gene (43.0%) was most detected, followed by OXA-48 (28.9%), IMP (22.7%), NDM (17.2%), KPC (13.3%), CMY (11.7%), and FOX (9.4%). GIM and SPM genes were not detected. MLST identified six different sequence types (STs) in this study. The most dominant ST was ST307 (50%, 5/10), while ST258, ST11, ST147, ST15, and ST321 had (10%, 1/10) each. Conclusion: High antimicrobial resistance in K. pneumoniae is a clear and present danger for managing infections in Nigeria. Additionally, the dominance of a successful international ST307 clone highlights the importance of ensuring that genomic surveillance remains a priority in the hospital environment in Nigeria.

This study attempts to examine the psycho-social impact of child sexual abuse on the victim’s total growth. Evidence has shown that a high percentage of adults are exposed to a traumatic event(s) in their childhood in Nigeria and around the world. This project is a theoretical work that discussed the concept of child sexual abuse, the perpetrator, the victims, and the immediate and long-term impact of the abuse on the victims’ psycho-social state. It also discussed the intervention of professional trauma-informed counselling in helping the victim(s) of child sexual abuse. This paper is based on the premise that trauma-informed counselling should be of help in removing or reducing the impact of a trauma on all aspects of a client’s life or some of the negative impacts should be removed, which would help the client to live a normal life. The researcher recommended that parents and caregivers should be vigilant when it comes to childcare or the protection of their child(ren); parents or caregivers should not trust their child(ren) to the care of people that are of questionable character. Children should also be encouraged to speak out and learn to object to unacceptable requests. Also, there should be some appreciable numbers of professional trauma-informed counsellors and centres due to the rate of occurrence of the case.&nbsp

This paper examines the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on educational activities in the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) community during and after the lockdown era. The pandemic affected almost all the facets of life including the educational sector. Though, the school closure during the lockdown is intended to control the spread of the virus but had widespread socio-economic impacts. Primary and secondary data were used for the study. The study revealed that the COVID-19 pandemic is a major factor of disruption in academic calendar this was as a result of the world being faced with the COVID-19 pandemic, which has held the economy at ransom not exempting the educational sector. Hence, the study conclude that the during COVID-19, educational activities in OAU was faced with many challenges as in other higher institution in Nigeria, such as school closure, loss of academic session, poor learning and limited social ties. The study recommended among others; government and the institution`s management should be proactive in ameliorating the negative impact identified in this study and develop measure to improve educational activities.

Development of high temperature dense refractory bricks using clay minerals and grog has been carried out with a view to determining the consequence of variation in percentages of Al2O3.2SiO2.2H2O and grog on the properties of locally produced dense bricks. The raw materials were used to compose five batches (of five samples each) from all the clay minerals and their blends (ED1–EN5). The clay bodies were hydraulically shaped and oven dried at 1100C. The properties of the produced bricks investigated after sintering at 13500C indicated that samples ED1–EN5 had shrinkage ranging from 8.4%-11.5% with corresponding bulk density of 1.57g/cm3–2.26g/cm3 respectively. The investigation revealed that samples ED1–EN5 of the bricks as stated above had compressive strength ranging from 13.5MPa–23.1MPa with corresponding porosity ranging from 12.84% -23.39% respectively. The estimated refractoriness using shuen’s formula shows that samples ED–EN5 had 16660c-17680c, while the result of the refractoriness using pyrometric cone equivalent indicated that samples ED1–EN5 had cone 30(16600C)–

PurposeThe study assessed the levels of organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) and their potential non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic health risks in four regularly consumed fruit vegetables.Design/methodology/approachThe OCPs’ residues were quantified using a gas chromatograph coupled with an electron capture detector (GC-ECD) and the dietary exposure of children, and adult consumers to the detected OCPs was evaluated using carcinogenic and systemic health risk estimations.FindingsAldrin, endrin, endrin aldehyde, a-endosulfan, β-endosulfan, endosulfan sulphate, heptachlor, heptachlor epoxide and dieldrin were detected in the four fruit vegetables. The predominant OCP residue in carrot, cucumber, tomatoes and watermelon was endosulfan sulphate with mean concentrations of 2.532 mg kg−1, 1.729 mg kg−1, 2.363 mg kg−1 and 1.154 mg kg−1, respectively. The residues levels in some of the fruit vegetables were higher than their respective maximum residue levels (MRLs) of 0.01–0.05 mg kg−1 set by the European Commission with concentrations above MRLs ranging between 25.5% and 100%. The systemic health risk estimations showed that the hazard index (HI) values for carrot (3.20), cucumber (9.25), tomatoes (50.21) and watermelon (16.76) were >1 for children consumers and the respective HI values of 2.87, 15.57 and 5.20 for adult consumers of cucumber, tomatoes and watermelon were >1 which implies potential systemic health risks. Four carcinogens (aldrin, dieldrin, heptachlor and heptachlor epoxide) had cancer risk index values greater than the acceptable risk of 1 in 1 million for both adult and children consumers.Originality/valueThe paper shows that despite the ban on the use of OCPs in Nigeria, they are still being used for agricultural production especially on some locally produced and regularly consumed fruit vegetables as reported in the present study. The non-existence of surveillance programmes on pesticide usage and the lack of proper monitoring of pesticide residues in food products including fruit and vegetables must have contributed to the levels of the detected OCP in the samples analysed. The current daily intake of OCP via contaminated vegetables may pose potential health risks to both the children and adult consumers of the fruit vegetables.

Hamburger seed coat is a readily available agricultural waste product generated in large quantities annually. In this study, activated charcoal was produced using hamburger seed coat activated with zinc chloride and its physicochemical properties such as fixed carbon, specific surface area, volatile matter, ash and moisture content were investigated. Scanning electron microscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectrometry techniques were used to study the surface morphology and variations in the absorption bands of functional groups, respectively. The adsorbent biosorption of pollutants abilities from contaminated water was investigated using standard methods with a view to ascertaining the adsorbent purification potential. The results showed that the adsorbent was of high porous structure with adsorption capacity significantly correlated with iodine value. The physicochemical properties of the contaminated water treated with the adsorbent were comparable with commercial activated charcoal (control)-treated water but indicated a significant decrease (p

Indigenous knowledge (IK), a key component of knowledge, is considered crucial in any country’s knowledge system. However, despite the importance of indigenous knowledge in promoting the knowledge ...

Objectives : This study characterizes the gaseous emission from the combustion of PMS of different volumes from Kaduna Refinery and Petrochemical Company.Methods : The E8500 plus combustion analyzer was used for gaseous emission characterization of different volumes. Oxygen (O2), Hydrocarbons (HC), carbon monoxide (CO), carbon dioxide (CO2), Oxides of Nitrogen NOx (NO, NO2), Sulphur dioxide (SO2), and Hydrogen Sulfide (H2S) were measured using the analyzer. The values were recorded and the descriptive statistics graph was plotted.Results and Discussion : The concentrations for the gaseous emission from the combustion of PMS were 69.85 mg/m3 HC, 117.33 mg/m3 CO, 334 mg/m3 NOx for 10 ml, 58.93 mg/m3 HC, 130.33 mg/m3 CO, 784.33 mg/m3 NOx for 20 ml, 50.20 mg/m3 HC, 84.00 mg/m3 CO, 798.67 mg/m3 NOx for 30 ml, 65.48 mg/m3 HC, 160.33 mg/m3 CO, 850.33 mg/m3 NOx for 40 ml, 87.31 mg/m3 HC, 212.67 mg/m3 CO, 801.33 mg/m3 NOx, 3.67 mg/m3 SO2 for 50 ml. This study shows that CO and HC exceeded the permissible limit for stationary sources while NOx and SO2 were below the permissible limit.Conclusions : Hence, there is a need for rapid response and urgent attention from government and regulatory bodies to develop and implement appropriate policies that will help in reducing the effect. Appropriate measures to control air emissions that may be embarked upon by regulatory bodies include increase in the use of low-emission fuels and renewable fuels such as bio-fuels and introduction of the use of devices with low CO emissions.

This forum builds on the discussion stimulated during an online salon in which the authors participated on June 25, 2020, entitled “Archaeology in the Time of Black Lives Matter,” and which was cosponsored by the Society of Black Archaeologists (SBA), the North American Theoretical Archaeology Group (TAG), and the Columbia Center for Archaeology. The online salon reflected on the social unrest that gripped the United States in the spring of 2020, gauged the history and conditions leading up to it, and considered its rippling throughout the disciplines of archaeology and heritage preservation. Within the forum, the authors go beyond reporting the generative conversation that took place in June by presenting a road map for an antiracist archaeology in which antiblackness is dismantled.

In a 56-day feeding trial, an experiment was conducted to determine the effects of replacing maize with different levels of ensiled cassava root-leaf blends (ECRLB) on growth, carcass yield, blood profile and economics of production of weaner rabbits. Five experimental diets were formulated and fed to the animals; diet 1= a maize based diet (control diet), diet 2= 30% maize + 10% ECRLB, diet 3 = 20% maize + 20% ECRLB, diet 4= 10 % maize + 30% ECRLB, diet 5= 40% ECRLB. A total number of forty weaner rabbits with an initial average weight of 574.09g±20.03g were randomly allocated to the five dietary treatments in a completely randomized design (CRD) with eight animals per treatment. Data were collected on growth indices, economics of production, carcass characteristics and blood profile Increased (P0.0) affected by the experimental diets. Rabbits fed ECRLB recorded lower (P0,0) affectés par les régimes expérimentaux. Les lapins nourris à l'ECRLB ont enregistré un taux de cholestérol sérique inférieur (P

The residues of dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethanes (DDTs) and hexachlorocyclohexanes (HCHs) in forty-eight (48) composite fruit and vegetable samples (carrot, cucumber, tomato, and watermelon) were qualitatively and quantitatively determined using gas chromatography equipped with electron capture detector (GC-ECD). Safety indices such as the estimated average daily intake (EADI), cancer benchmark concentration (CBC), hazard quotient (HQ) and index (HI), and hazard ratio (HR) were also estimated. Results showed the predominance of HCH and its isomers in the fruits and vegetables as compared with the DDTs. The most predominant HCHs in all the fruits was α-HCH with mean concentrations of 2.704 ± 2.488 mg kg-1 (carrot), 1.536 ± 1.036 mg kg-1 (cucumber), 6.814 ± 2.967 mg kg-1 (tomato), and 9.241 ± 2.735 mg kg-1 (watermelon). The analysis showed that the levels of pesticide residues detected in 25 to 100% of the fruit and vegetable samples were above the UK/European Commission Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs). The non-carcinogenic health risk estimates showed that only α-HCH in tomatoes and watermelon had HQ > 1 which indicates the possibility of systemic health risk in children consumers. The carcinogenic health risk showed that only α-HCH and γ-HCH in children and α-HCH in adults had HR > 1 for tomato and watermelon which implies the possibility of carcinogenic health risk from its consumption. It is therefore paramount to institute a policy and regulatory framework for regular monitoring of pesticide residues in fruits and vegetables in Nigeria in order to ensure food safety for consumers and protect human health.

The effects of organic and inorganic copper sources on the performance and blood characteristics of growing rabbits over a 10 week period were investigated. Six dietary treatments were formulated such that diets 1, 2 and 3 contained 10, 50, and 100ppm of organic copper (Copper proteinate (Cu Pro)) while diets 4, 5 and 6 contained 10, 50 and 100ppm of inorganic copper (copper sulphate (CuSO4). The final weight and daily weight gain were significantly (P

Background: The world is currently experiencing a healthcare crisis caused by Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Healthcare workers (HCWs) are at the forefront of controlling the spread of the disease; this response has resulted in a huge number of infections amongst HCWs and unfortunately some casualties. Infection prevention and control practices (IPC) are practical, proven methods that prevent avoidable harm to patients and protect health workers from contagious infection. This study was done to evaluate the effectiveness of IPC practices utilized in COVID-19 testing drive through facility in Lagos Nigeria. Method: The facility recruited 42 HCWs who were trained on IPC and use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPEs). Training on donning and doffing of PPEs, preparation of decontaminants and sample handling were done for relevant personnel. A daily log for monitoring COVID-19 symptoms was deployed to all HCWs; to help early detection of COVID-19 infection and prevent transmission amongst staff. Results: Of 42 personnel, 92.8% had a tertiary level of education while 71.4% had at least 5 years work experience. A total of 5 (11.9%) out of 42 HCWs were positive by week six of the study. All infected persons worked at the drive through centre. Most common symptom filled in the daily log tool was headache and fatigue. Conclusion: Despite all the measures introduced, 11.9% of HCWs became positive within 6 weeks, showing the highly infectious nature of the virus and the need to research into more effective measures in preventing the transmission of highly infectious pathogens to HCWs during outbreaks.

Chemical characterization of Portland limestone cement products collected across the nine existing cement manufacturing plants in Nigeria was conducted using Energy Dispersive X-ray Fluorescence Spectrometer (EDXRF) with the aim of determining conformity with global and local standards and investigating likely variation in quality resulting from differences in the sources of major raw materials, especially limestone used in production. The cement samples are composed essentially of CaO, SiO2, Al2O3, Fe2O3, MgO, Na2O, K2O and SO3 while P2O5, MnO and TiO2 were present in trace amount. In addition to oxide compositions, the mineralogical components: Alite (C3S), Belite (C2S), Celite (C3A), and Ferrite (C4AF), and other cement quality control variables such as Lime Saturation Factor, Silica Modulus and Alumina Modulus of all the nine cement samples analyzed in this study are in agreement with the specifications for Portland limestone cement published by the Standard Organisation of Nigeria (SON), the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), and the British Standards Institution (BSI). The nine cement products also have their compositions in close proportion indicating none of the products is superior in quality irrespective of manufacturer or production site, a common misconception in the Nigerian cement market.

The provision of essential and basic infrastructure, especially at the Local Government level in Nigeria constitutes a major role in socio-economic and political development, and in improving the standard of living at the grassroots. Sadly, the road infrastructures are in a state of dilemma particularly the Local government roads due to so many constraints. The paper intends to look at these constraints and proffer possible solutions. Both primary and secondary methods were employed. The paper discovered that local government roads constitute the highest trunks of roads, and which got increasing day-by-day due to its proximity to the populace, and yet, the most negligible trunk of road in Nigeria. Finally, some recommendations were articulated.

We earlier reported the protective effect of Solanum dasyphyllum against cyanide neurotoxicity. In furtherance to this, we investigated the protective effect of S. dasyphyllum against rotenone, a chemical toxin that causes brain-related diseases. Mitochondria fraction obtained from the brain of male Wistar rats was incubated with various solvents (hexane, dichloromethane, ethylacetate, and methanol) extracts of S. dasyphyllum before rotenone exposure. Mitochondria respiratory enzymes (MRE) were evaluated along with markers of oxidative stress. The inhibition of MRE by rotenone was reversed by treatment with various fractions of S. dasyphyllum. The oxidative stress induced by rotenone was also reversed by fractions of S. dasyphyllum. In addition, the ethylacetate fraction of S. dasyphyllum was most potent against rotenone-induced neurotoxicity. In conclusion, S. dasyphyllum is rich in active phytochemicals that can prevent some neurotoxic effects of rotenone exposure. Further study can be done in an in vivo model to substantiate our results.

The emerging drug resistance, especially among the Escherichia coli (E.coli) isolates from pregnant women, spread rapidly within the community. Urinary tract infection (UTI) is a well-known bacterial infection posing serious health problem in pregnant women. Also, multi-drug resistance is becoming rampant, and it is of serious public health concern. Treatment of E. coli is now a challenge due to continuous increase in resistance towards commonly prescribed antibiotics, thus posing a threat to treatment. Hence, the aim of the study is to determine antibiotic resistance genes in some multiple antibiotic resistant E.coli from apparently healthy pregnant women in Osun State. A cross-sectional study design was used to collect 150 mid-stream urine samples from apparently healthy pregnant women from March, 2018 to September, 2018. A well structured questionnaire and informed consent were used for data collection. Standard loop technique was used to place 0.001 ml of urine on Cysteine Lactose Electrolyte Deficient (CLED) medium, Blood agar, MacConkey agar and incubated at 37 °C for 24 h. A standard agar disc diffusion method was used to determine antimicrobial susceptibility pattern of the isolates. The molecular detection of the resistant genes was done using PCR techniques. The ages of women enrolled in this study ranges from 22 to 42 years (mean ± standard deviation = 31 ± 4.7 years). Escherichia coli showed high percentage of resistance to ampicillin and low resistance to ciprofloxacin and penicillin. All the E. coli isolates were sensitive to levofloxacin, and most were resistant to Meropenem. Multiple drug resistance was observed in all the isolates. Resistance genes in VIM 390bp, bla ctx-M 585bp and TEM 517bp were detected in some of the representative E. coli isolates profiled. This study identified the presence of Multi-drug resistance genes in E. coli associated UTI among pregnant women in Osogbo.

This research work focuses on finding an optimal trajectory for a robot manipulator taking into consideration the dynamics constraints of the manipulator. A 3–DOF planar robot was modeled using MATLAB/SIMULINK toolbox. The simulation of the robot manipulator was carried out using the Genetic Algorithm to find the optimal trajectory both in the workspace with and without obstacles. In both cases, the Genetic Algorithm (GA) generated optimal trajectories. The results of both environments were also compared. The increase in the simulation result in an obstacle existence environment made it possible for optimal trajectory devoid of collision with any obstacle in the working area. Thereafter, result comparison was done with a similar work and the GA method produced a more desired result in terms of execution time.

Electrical resistivity is one of the important particle–based factors influencing the performance of an Electrostatic Precipitator (ESP), a particulate control device commonly employed in most cement industries in Nigeria. Therefore, this study investigated the electrical resistivity of Cement Kiln Dust (CKD) across nine locally-operated cement manufacturing plants in Nigeria with the aim of tracing causes of performance problems associated with the ESP used for dust control in the plants. Samples of CKD were collected from the ESPs of these plants and tested for their resistance using the two probe method. The measured electrical resistivities were in the range of 108 – 1011 Ω·cm and showed strong dependence on temperature and slight variation with particle size. The CKD’s resistivity increases as temperature rises from ambient to about 250℃ and declines as temperature rises above 300℃; Nevertheless, the resistivities are adaptable for efficient ESP performance in the collection of cement dust.

The objective of this study was to determine the biochemical and morphological changes in the liver and kidney as a result of the acute administration of tramadol and diazepam with classic soft drink Coca-Cola (Coke ). Method: Thirty-six (36) adult male Wistar rats were divided into six groups: Group A-control (distilled water), Group B (Coke ), Group C (tramadol, 50 mg/kg), Group D (tramadol dissolved in Coke, 50 mg/kg), Group E (diazepam, 10 mg/kg) and Group F (diazepam dissolved in Coke 10 mg/kg). All administrations were done intraperitoneal. Twenty-four hours after administration, blood samples were collected via cardiac puncture for evaluation of the liver (Aspartate aminotransferase [AST] and Alanine aminotransferase [ALT]), kidney (urea and creatinine [CREA]) function and the organs were excised and processed for histopathological examination. Result: A significantly increased in AST, creatinine and urea concentrations was observed in Tramadol and Coke Groups compared to control (P0.05), though it caused a significant increase in urea and CREA (P

This study appraises the performance of local government on their mandatory roles, especially in delivery of essential services to the populace at the grassroots in southwestern Nigeria between 1999 and 2019. Data for this study were collected through the primary and secondary sources. The study revealed that generally, local government has not been able to perform to expectation in discharging their mandatory functions due to fact that state governments had been diverting their attention more to concurrent functions than their mandatory functions. The study also revealed that the performance of local government in their mandatory functions has been a story of good to bad from year 1999 and 2019. The paper highlighted some recommendations and concluded that local government in southwestern Nigeria has significantly, though at a low ebb, performed their mandatory functions in provision of essential service to the populace between 1999 and 2019.

Background Exposure to cadmium is implicated in the etiology of some neurodegenerative diseases. Compounds isolated from Ipomoea cairica extract are neuroprotective. However, there is no reported neuroprotective activity of the crude extract of I. cairica (ICE). We investigated the neuroprotective activity of I. cairica extract against cadmium-induced biochemical changes in the brain of male Wistar rats. Thirty-six animals were divided into four groups of 9 animals per group: group I (Control); group II (3.5 mg/kg CdCl2); group III (100 mg/kg ICE + CdCl2); and group IV (250 mg/kg ICE + CdCl2). Animals were pretreated with 100 and 250 mg/kg ICE before co-administration with cadmium chloride. Results CdCl2 treatment caused a significant increase in acetylcholineesterase activity, lipid peroxidation, beta-amyloid aggregation, caspase 3 and 9, p53, and glutamate concentration. In addition, CdCl2 caused a significant decrease in catalase activity, superoxide dismutase, glutathione-S-transferase, Na+/K+ ATPase, and glutamate dehydrogenase. ICE was able to reduce the neuronal damaging effect of CdCl2 by acting as an antioxidant, antiapoptotic, anticholinesterase, and antiexcitotoxicity. Conclusions Our findings show that Ipomoea cairica leaf can be developed and included in the natural product in the prevention of neurodegenerative diseases.

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a frequent nosocomial pathogen that causes severe disease in many clinical and community settings. The objective of this paper was to isolate Pseudomonas aeruginosa from clinical samples and to investigate the occurrence of metallo β- lactamase enzyme production by collecting 145 males and 90 females’ human clinical specimens from five selected health institutions within Kwara state, Nigeria. The samples were cultured immediately using standard microbiological procedures. Multiple drug resistance patterns of the bacteria to different antibiotics were determined using the Bauer Kirby disc diffusion technique. Metallo – β lactamase production was determined using E – test strip. Data were subjected to descriptive statistics using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) software. A total of 145 isolates were identified as Pseudomonas aeruginosa from the clinical samples.Thirty were positive for metallo β lactamase production; 11 (8 %) males and 19 (13 %) females. Absolute resistance to ceftazidime (100 %), gentamicin (100 %), ceftriaxone (100 %) were observed while low resistance to ciprofloxacin (12.4 %), piperacillin (6.9 %) and imipenem (6.9 %). All isolates were sensitive to colistin. This study had demonstrated that there is a high occurrence of metallo β lactamase enzyme producing and antibiotic-resistant strains of P. aeruginosa in clinical specimens from the studied area. Necessary measures must be implemented to stop the problems of this antibiotic resistance.

Introduction: Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa) is a frequent nosocomial pathogen that causes severe diseases in many clinical and community settings. The objectives were to investigate the occurrence of multiple antibiotic resistant P. aeruginosa strains among clinical samples and to detect the presence of antibiotic resistance genes in the DNA molecules of the strains.Methods: Clinical specimens were collected aseptically from various human anatomical sites in five selected health institutions within Kwara State, Nigeria. Multiple drug resistance patterns of isolated micro-organisms to different antibiotics were determined using the Bauer Kirby disc diffusion technique. The DNA samples of the multiple resistant P. aeruginosa strains were extracted and subjected to Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) for resistance gene determination.Results: A total of 145 isolates were identified as P. aeruginosa from the clinical samples. Absolute resistance to ceftazidime, gentamicin and ceftriaxone was observed while low resistance to ciprofloxacin, piperacillin and imipenem was documented. The prevalence of bla VIM , ,bla CTX-M and blaTEM were 34.4 %, 46.7 % and 16.7 % respectively.Conclusion: This study has shown that there is a high occurrence of metallo â-lactamase- producing and antibiotic-resistant strains of P. aeruginosa in clinical specimens from the studied area. Keywords: Metallo â-lactamase enzyme, P. aeruginosa, clinical samples, antibiotic-resistance genes

Picralima nitida is a valuable tree species in the humid zone of West and Central Africa whose natural regeneration is threatened by seed dormancy and over exploitation. This study investigated the rooting ability of P. nitida using mature leafy stem cuttings. Two cutting length (6 and 8 cm), cutting positions (apical and basal) and three concentrations (0, 0.1 and 0.2 mg/l) of Indole-butyric acid (IBA) were evaluated using a split-split plot design. The result showed that cutting length of 8 cm significantly influenced percentage of rooted and callused cuttings than cutting length of 6 cm. Significantly higher number of roots occurred in 8 cm cutting length than 6 cm cutting length. Cutting positions significantly affected percentage of callused cuttings only. Cuttings treated with IBA significantly enhanced rooting percentage, number of leaves and shoot height than untreated cuttings. Interactive effect of cutting positions, cutting length and IBA concentration was significant for only rooting percentage. Mature leafy stem cutting of P. nitida can be propagated asexually using cutting length of 8 cm from any position on the shoot to improve the rooting success. Stem cuttings of P. nitida should be treated with IBA to enhance the rooting capacity of the species

Background: Exposure to lead has been linked to biochemical changes similar to those patients suffering from Alzheimer’s disease. Trévo is a phytonutrient-rich product with antiaging and antioxidant properties. Purpose: To investigate the neuroprotective activity of trévo against lead-induced biochemical changes in male Wistar rats. Methods: The study involves 35 animals that were randomly divided into five groups of seven rats each. Group I (Control): Orally administered distilled water; Group II (Induced): Administered 15 mg/kg of lead acetate (PbA) intraperitoneally; Group III (Treatment group): Orally administered 2 mL/kg of trévo for two days before co-administration with PbA for 12 consecutive days; Group IV (Treatment group): Orally administered 5 mL/kg of trévo for two days prior to coadministration with PbA for 12 consecutive days; Group V: Orally administered 5 mL/kg of trévo for 14 consecutive days. Animals were anesthetized with diether and the brain excised and processed for the following biochemical assays: Malonedialdehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH), catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione-S-transferase (GT), acetylcholinesterase (AChE), beta-amyloid, glutamate, Na+/K+ ATPase, and glutamate dehydrogenase (GD). Results: PbA caused significant oxidative stress (increased MDA concentration, decreased GSH concentration, suppressed the activity of CAT, SOD), decreased GT activity, increased activity of AChE, increased the concentration of beta-amyloid, and caused glutamate excitotoxicity (increased concentration of glutamate, decreased activity of Na+/K+ ATPase, and GD) in rat brains. Treatment with trévo at the two different doses significantly prevented oxidative damage, beta-amyloid aggregation, glutamate excitotoxicity, and acetylcholine breakdown induced by lead acetate. Conclusion: Our findings added to the reported pharmacological activity of trévo and supported the antiaging potential of trévo.

BackgroundThis study investigated HLA Class I in Long Term Non-progressors (LTNPs) and plasma viral load in Sexually Transmitted and Reproductive Tract Infections (STIs/RTIs) associated with Heterosexual HIV-1 transmission among serodiscordant couples in Nigeria.MethodsA total of 271 serodiscordant and concordant couples (HIV positive and negative) were enrolled, blood samples were collected from the subjects by venipuncture. HLA class I (with specific primers), plasma viral load, CD4+ analysis was done. Endocervical/urethral swabs and early morning urine samples were collected by standard microbiological methods. These were screened by microscopy, culture, antibiogram, and biochemical tests with a view to identify aetiologic agents of co-infections with HIV.ResultsThe Participants age ranged from ≥ 21- < 50years. The index whose plasma viral loads were 10,001-100,000 copies/ml had STIs/RTIs 32(60.9% p=0.059). Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli (22.1%) were isolated from the index (HIV positive subject) while 14.5% of Staphylococcus aureus and 27.2% of E coli were isolated from their partners (HIV negative subject). Staphylococcus aureus and E coli are normal flora but because the patients are Immunocompromised as a result of positivity to HIV, Staphylococcus aureus and E. coli in this context becomes opportunistic thereby, causing genital tract infections. Staphylococcus from the index showed more sensitivity to Amoxicillin/clavulanate (95.4%/90.4%) compared to the partners (55.1%/73.5%) and more resistant to Ceftazidime (81.4%) compared to the partners (68.9%). LTNPs were 28(8.51%) among the index. HLA-B alleles: B*5701 (9.2%), B*5703 (4.6%) and B*5801(12.5%) were identified for viral control at late stage of HIV infection while A*1 (4.6%), and C*0701 (29.1%) were protective alleles observed. HLA-B*0702 (33.3%), B*4201/A*2301(4.6%) respectively were susceptible alleles associated with seroconversion among LTNPs.ConclusionThe microorganisms isolated from the index were associated with high viral loads and are independent makers to HIV-1 transmission among serodiscordant couples. Individuals associated with HLA class I alleles identified among LTNPs were those significantly associated with resistance and susceptible to HIV-1 infections.

The study investigated the effect of cassava peel on the growth and development of Gmelina arborea seedlings. The treatment was made up of cassava peel applied to top soil at 1 g, 2 g, 3 g, 4 g, 5 g, 6 g, 7 g, 8 g, 9 g, 10 g. The treatments were replicated three times. The treatments were mixed with 20 kg of soil thereby making a total of thirty three (33). The experiment, which lasted eight weeks, was laid out in Complete Randomized Design (CRD) and the following variables were assessed; stem height, stem diameter, leaf length and leaf production. The data collected were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) and mean separation was carried out using Least Significant Difference (LSD). The result obtained showed that treatment 6 g gave the best response in term of number of leaves with mean 16.35 while treatment 2 g had the least performance with mean 6.67. The treatment 3 g of cassava peel performed best in terms of leaf length with mean 18.00 while 10 g and 8 g treatments had the lowest stem diameter of 29 cm. With respect to plant height, the treatment of 6 g of cassava peel application had the best response with plant height of 46.67 cm, while the least value of 20.67 cm was recorded in treatment 8 g. Hence, the control (0 g) has significant difference from treatment 8 g. In all the variables assessed, the control showed close values with treatment 8 g, 9 g and 10 g. The result shows a higher level of significant difference to the control at p < 0.05. However, it is recommended that when raising Gmelina arborea where the traits, plant height and leaves are of importance, 6 g of cassava peel is better adapted. Hence, the plant could be raised in the absence of any treatment where appropriate soil is used.

This article analyses the nexus between Boko Haram insurgency and military corruption under the political regime of former President Goodluck Jonathan (2010–2015). The article considered general th...

The Cycas circinalis was first officially introduced into Nigeria by the Nigerian Institute for Oil Palm Research (NIFOR), Benin City. Cycas circinalis has adapted well as an ornamental crop in Nigeria. It belongs to the Division: Cycadophyta, Class: Cycadopsida, Order Cycadales, family Cycadaceae and genera Cycas. It was first recognized as a separate species in 1995. It is also known as Sago palm, Fern palm, Cycad or Starch palm. The floral biology of the plant is cone like as other cones in the Order Cycadales, the cone has the whorl of premature pinnate fronds embedded within the cone. This cone opens up and spreads out as the inflorescence reaches anthesis revealing the whorl of young leaves that will form the new generation crown. The mean number of fully formed fruits per stalk is 9.0 average fruit length is 5.24 cm, fruit circumference ranged from 8.6-9.6 cm while the average circumference is 9.03. Fruit weight range between 19.2 – 22.10 g (mean = 21.6 g), the length of dehusked fruit vary from 4.1 – 5.0 cm, while the circumference of the dehusked fruit range between 7.1 – 8.0 cm. The average circumference of dehusked fruit was 7.53 cm. The weight of the dehusked fruit range between 9.7– 18.6 g, with a mean weight of 13.9 g.

This article discusses how Co-Principal Investigators that designed and executed the Estate Little Princess Archaeology Project (ELPAP) came together as a community, to demonstrate how such a formation within the discipline, with all its ups and downs, facilitates the skills needed to conduct community archaeology. By using the ELPAP as a case study, this article provides a multiscale examination of the ELPAP, expanding the discourse on community archaeology to include community building practices among archaeologists, between organizations, and with communities impacted by archaeological work.

In an outbreak, effective detection of the aetiological agent(s) involved using molecular techniques is key to efficient diagnosis, early prevention and management of the spread. However, sequencing is necessary for mutation monitoring and tracking of clusters of transmission, development of diagnostics and for vaccines and drug development. Many sequencing methods are fast evolving to reduce test turn-around-time and to increase through-put compared to Sanger sequencing method; however, Sanger sequencing remains the gold standard for clinical research sequencing with its 99.99% accuracy This study sought to generate sequence data of SARS-CoV-2 using Sanger sequencing method and to characterize them for possible site(s) of mutations. About 30 pairs of primers were designed, synthesized, and optimized using endpoint PCR to generate amplicons for the full length of the virus. Cycle sequencing using BigDye Terminator v.3.1 and capillary gel electrophoresis on ABI 3130xl genetic analyser were performed according to the manufacturers’ instructions. The sequence data generated were assembled and analysed for variations using DNASTAR Lasergene 17 SeqMan Ultra. Total length of 29,760bp of SARS-CoV-2 was assembled from the sample analysed and deposited in GenBank with accession number: MT576584. Blast result of the sequence assembly shows a 99.97% identity with the reference sequence. Variations were noticed at positions: nt201, nt2997, nt14368, nt16535, nt20334, and nt28841-28843, which caused amino acid alterations at the S (aa614) and N (aa203-204) regions. The mutations observed at S and N-gene in this study may be indicative of a gradual changes in the genetic coding of the virus hence, the need for active surveillance of the viral genome.

The first case of COVID-19 in Nigeria was recorded on February 27, 2020, being an imported case by an Italian expatriate, to the country. Since then, there has been steady increase in the number of cases. However, the number of cases in Nigeria is low in comparison to cases reported by other countries with similar large populations, despite the poor health system prevailing in the country. This has been mainly attributed to the low testing capacity in Nigeria among other factors. Therefore, there is a need for innovative ways to increase the number of persons testing for COVID-19. The aim of the study was to pilot a nasopharyngeal swab self-sample collection model that would help increase COVID-19 testing while ensuring minimal person-to-person contact being experienced at the testing center. 216 participants took part in this study which was carried out at the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research between June and July 2020. Amongst the 216 participants, 174 tested negatives for both self-collected samples and samples collected by Professionals, 30 tested positive for both arms, with discrepancies occurring in 6 samples where the self-collected samples were positive while the ones collected by the professionals were negative. The same occurred in another set of 6 samples with the self-collected samples being negative and the professional—collected sample coming out positive, with a sensitivity of 83.3% and a specificity of 96.7%. The results of the interrater analysis are Kappa = 0.800 (95% CI, 0.690 to 0.910) which implies an outstanding agreement between the two COVID-19 sampling methods. Furthermore, since p< 0.001 Kappa (k) coefficient is statistically different from zero, our findings have shown that self-collected samples can be reliable in the diagnosis of COVID-19.

Building a new anti-racist archaeology will require an unprecedented level of structural changes in the practices, demographics, and power relations of archaeology. This article considers why this iteration of the Black Lives Matter (BLM) Movement is proving to be unique in terms of its potential to transform the field. We discuss how anti-racist archaeologists arrived at this juncture prepared to meet the challenges now before us, and how members of the Society of Black Archaeologists are collaborating with others to enact change. We acknowledge the significant social justice efforts of others and suggest how archaeologists can get involved to keep this critical momentum going.

The necessity of policing by all actors, both the state and non-state, becomes more expedient in Nigeria societies characterized by diver’s insecurities vices range from book-haram insurgency, kidnapping, banditry, armed robbery, herdsmen/ farmer clash, and ritual killing. The process of localizing security architecture is essential in Nigeria federation, so as tackled this menace of insecurities that have been threating the unity of Nigeria nation. This paper examines the modalities and theoretical insights of the operation Amotekun initiative in the Southwest Nigeria with a view to providing information on the prospects and challenges of the regional security network. Data was garnered basically from secondary sources. It is assumed that the criminality that have pervaded southwest Nigeria could be reduced to minimal, if the initiative is well managed, and in extension, to the entire federation. The paper identified some challenges that may confront the initiative, which range from; unnecessary suspicion among the nations in Nigeria federation, conflict with other statutory security agencies, and using the initiative to settle personal discord among others. It recommends the need for legal framework from each state of the region for its establishment, operations, and finance and appropriate synergy among all the tiers of government and agencies of government in security sector so as to achieve the ultimate goal of securing lives and properties. The paper concluded that operation Amotekun should be nurtured because there is nothing too big in securing the lives and properties of the citizen, which is the primary function of any government.

The global community is facing a health crisis caused by coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The coronavirus pandemic is severely disrupting the global economy. Countries are battling to slow the spread of the virus by testing, employing contact tracing, restricting travel, quarantining citizens, and encouraging use of face mask, hand hygiene and social distancing measures. The lockdown imposed in many countries including Nigeria has resulted in increased cost and shortages of reagents and supplies worldwide. Due to the highly contagious nature of the disease, rapid rate of spread, and lack of an effective therapy, it became necessary for nations of the world to mount an efficient response mechanism to curb the spread of the pandemic. The Nigerian Institute of Medical Research (NIMR) has responded actively to the current pandemic with some innovations with respect to sample collection systems, molecular diagnostics, kit development and validation. Due to the highly infectious nature of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) the causative agent of COVID-19, the institute also invested in the production of infection control tools. The extent of response by the institute would not have been possible but for collaboration and partnership with well-meaning organizations and stakeholders. National, State and public cooperation are very essential for effective response to any pandemic. The response of NIMR to the pandemic is herein discussed. Lessons learned and recommendations made are also shared to help institutions interested in combating this and future pandemics of similar nature.