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This paper examines what some scholars of Economic History such as A.G. Hopkins described as ‘Domestic Economy’ or what others like T.B. Ingawa and G.O. Ogunremi referred to as ‘Pre-Colonial Economy’ of African people. The Economic History of a people is an account of how the people in a particular place or a community earned their living in the past. The primary focus of this paper is an examination of economic activities of the Gungawa before their forceful resettlement from their traditional homeland on the numerous islands and banks of River Niger in Yauri and Borgu Emirates to the eastern and western banks of the river as a result of the construction of Kainji Dam. Although discussions in the paper centre on the pre-colonial period, the scope of the paper is extended to almost two decades after colonial period because the resettlement in 1968 produced everlasting consequences on the pre-1968 economic activities of the Gungawa.

Background: Terminalia avicennioides is a medicinal plant used traditionally in Nigeria to treat numerous ailments and disorders which include coughs, purgative and emetic. Objective: This study scientifically evaluated the probable mechanism of the anti-emetic activity of methanol root extract of Terminalia avicennioides Guill. & Perr. on histaminergic and serotonergic receptors of isolated rabbit ileum. Methodology: Fresh root bark was extracted using methanol and the antiemetic effect was evaluated by experimenting on a small segment (3 cm) of isolated rabbit ileum, using the data capsule (Ugo Basile) and single chamber isolated tissue apparatus. Varying concentrations of histamine and serotonin (0.05, 0.1, 0.2, and 0.4 mg/ml) were used to obtain contractions as they act on histamine and serotonergic receptors respectively. Results: META (0.05 mg/ml, 0.1 mg/ml, 0.2 mg/ml, and 0.4 mg/ml) exhibited a significant concentration-dependent decrease at p

The creation of artificial boundaries by colonialist generates desire for cross-border trade as potential instrument for economic integration and development in West Africa. There appears, however, contradictions in states’ policies in Africa which tend to overlook the inviolable boundaries compelling the need for economic interaction across the border for economic development. Paradoxically, neighboring states in Africa, more often than not, capitalize on the trade differences along the border to restrict economic interaction rather than promoting it. Nigeria has recently found itself in the dilemma of either outright trade protection for her economy or liberalizing its trade in the midst of smuggling-induced neighboring countries. Consequently on August 19,2019 President Muhammadu Buhari closed Nigeria's borders with Benin and Niger, declaring that the time had come to end rampant smuggling from those countries. This paper offers a critique of Nigeria’s Border trade policies over the years. The paper intends to challenge the predominant protectionist tendencies among the policy makers in the country. It argued that policy makers in Nigeria should first take measures to refurbish our national economy and then engage all the stakeholders in regional decision making and implementation mechanisms for proper regional trade policies. This will go a long way in providing a framework for intra-regional trade so that the regional environment will encourage more of Nigeria’s trade with its ECOWAS neighbours vis-à-vis sustainable economic growth in the region. If ECOWAS is to succeed in achieving sustainable development in the region, then Nigeria will be the biggest beneficiary; hence, her need to sacrifice more.

Tertiary education is an important tool for jumpstarting development in almost all nations of the world. It serves as a lever for other sectors of the economy, with far-reaching imperativeness aimed at economic, technological, and governmental growth. The unfortunate outbreak of Coronavirus in 2019 has had devastating effects on every sector of the economy, from which tertiary education is not exempted. E-learning naturally becomes an option in order to grapple with and cope with the changes occasioned by the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. This study is an attempt to logically investigate the nature and dynamics of the challenges pursued by the adoption of the e-learning method as an avenue for coping with the enormous challenges associated with the effective delivery of tertiary education in emergencies. This is more expedient because e-learning has become a veritable tool for the global advancement of tertiary education. Mixed date method research was employed in the conduct of this research, and a sum of fourth (40) forms was distributed to the target audience, and the hypothesis was tested using chi-square. The findings of the study reveal that e-learning has aided the continuation of education amidst the SARS-19. The paper recommends that both stakeholders in the private and public education sectors of Nigeria should provide conducive e-learning facilities amidst and beyond covid -19 pandemic in Nigeria.

A comparative study was carried out for the determination of calcium, magnesium, iron and zinc contents in two brands of powdered milk samples, using the Microwave Plasma Atomic Emission Spectroscopy (MP-AES) and Flame Atomic Absorption spectroscopy (F-AAS) methods. The powdered milk samples were collected and placed in a muffle furnace at 550°C for 6 hours, and the ash contents obtained was used for the sample preparation. The percentage recoveries for the spikes were as follows: for MP-AES determination; the recoveries for the milk samples were within the range (116.9 – 163.1%) for calcium; (51.8 – 78.8%) for magnesium; (110.9 – 125.4%) for iron; (90.7 – 92.9%) for zinc. For FAAS determination; the recoveries for the milk samples were within the range (51.1 – 83.6%) for calcium; (52.2 – 61.9%) for magnesium; (77.7 – 84.8%) for iron; (46.5 – 71.7%) for zinc. The percentage recoveries showed a better recovery with MP-AES than the F-AAS method. The analysis of variance conducted using One way ANOVA method shows that there is no significant difference between the two methods used for the analysis, as the P-values (calculated probability) obtained were higher than 0.05. The values obtained for Ca, Mg, Fe and Zn content shows that only Ca was found to be within WHO/FAO standard, while Mg, Fe and Zn were found to be below the WHO/FAO standard. It is highly recommended that a 100g of any of the powdered milk used for the research work be consumed per day in order to meet up with the RDA per day, or other sources of these elements to be considered.Â

Vulture and raptor populations have declined across West Africa during recent decades due to numerous and widespread anthropogenic threats. To estimate encounter rates of vultures and raptors in northern Nigeria, we conducted a total of 248 km driven transects on 195 km and 53 km of paved and unpaved roads, respectively. We also conducted walked surveys beneath 79 km of power transmission lines to search for dead vultures and raptors; and visited 12 abattoirs, 11 slaughterhouses, and 12 dumpsites to assess the occurrence of vultures and raptors. All fieldwork was done between October and December 2018. Overall, 357 individuals of 23 species were detected, most of which were recorded at low encounter rates. Only one Hooded Vulture Necrosyrtes monachus was recorded across all surveys, and no other vulture species were seen. Yellow-billed Kite Milvus aegyptius, Grasshopper Buzzard Butastur rufipennis, and Black-winged Kite Elanus caeruleus had the highest encounter rates of 0.351, 0.262, and 0.189 individuals km-1, respectively. In contrast, the largest raptor species, Booted Eagle Hieraaetus pennatus, Short-toed Snake Eagle Circaetus gallicus, Beaudouin's Snake-eagle, and Bateleur Terathopius ecaudatus had the lowest encounter rate of 0.004 individuals km-1 (one individual each). No dead vultures or raptors were found during the walked surveys beneath power lines. Although historical data about vulture and raptor distribution and abundance in northern Nigeria are limited, our results show an apparent absence of vultures from the wider landscape and a low density of raptors. Support among local stakeholders for the conservation of vultures and raptors should be encouraged through wider dissemination of information about the importance of these birds, as well as stronger deterrents again illegal killing and trade.

This study entails the production of bioethanol from the peels of sweet potato of white cultivar variety obtained in Zaria, Kaduna State Nigeria. Fresh cultivar with the proximate composition of 72% moisture content, 9.71% ash content, 24.52% crude fiber, 78.74% total carbohydrate and crude protein of 6.42% were hydrolyzed with 3% sulphuric acid solution at 130oC and 60 minutes in an improvised reactor to generate 54.5ml of hydrolyzate after steam pretreatment step. The fermentable reducing sugar of 10.68% was achieved through glucose standardization with UV-spectrophotometer at 540nm wavelength. The fermentation of the hydrolyzate –yeast/media mixture (155ml) at 30oC for 72hours was achieved by commercial grade saccharomyces cerevisiae to yield 20.5g/54.5ml, which corresponds to 0.8198g/ml specific gravity and 93.6% ethanol concentration. The molecular sieve was eventually adopted in dehydrating the bioethanol to 99.9% (0.8072g/ml) concentration and the final yield of 1.61% per 50g of w. cultivar. FTIR spectrum that declares the ethanolic identity with the stretching vibrations of O-H, C-O and C-H at 3391, 1055 and 2981cm-1 respectively with the symmetric stretching vibration of the methyl groups at 2930cm-1.

This study, aimed at evaluating the link between maize farmer lands and infrastructures. The main objective of the study was to find out the existing links between farmlands and infrastructures within the maize supply chain in the North Central States of Nigeria. The investigation was carried out using questioners to assess the constraints of farmers in supply chains, multi-stage sampling procedure was adopted to sample the respondents in Kuje Area Council and Mararaba. A total of 130 respondents were interviewed using a structured interview guide. Results indicated that the majority of the farmers have no access to adequate infrastructural facilities such as roads, processing facilities, storage facilities and markets. Proximity analysis was also carried out analyzing GRID3 data for farmlands, roads and market points using ArcGIS 10.8. The result also shows that the majority of the maize farmlands are not close to the markets and there are no major roads connecting the farms to the transportation of farm produce. Farmers are infrastructural constraints at the production, transportation and marketing stage. The study, therefore, suggests a more viable infrastructural facility for farmers to interconnect farmland, to enable farmers to have access to good roads, storage and processing facilities which will enhance the maize value chain.

Maize products are very significant for domestic consumption as well as industrial uses both locally and globally. For there to truly appreciate the spread of maize production in Africa, the geospatial mapping and subsequent comparison of the value chain for Nigeria and Rwanda were necessitated hence the purpose of this study. Farm mapping geospatial techniques and remotely sensed data were used for both Nigeria and Rwanda in this study. GIMMS Global Agricultural Monitoring data from United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) were adopted for Nigeria and Rwanda. The crop calendars of both countries were examined which thereafter reviewed a marked distinction among them. The results of the agroecological zones for the two countries showed a significant variation in their distribution and types, which in turn affect both the planting and harvesting of maize; storage, marketing, processing, and policy framework for maize products value chain in Nigeria and Rwanda. Mapping of the two countries was carried out and the normalized differential vegetation index (NDVI) and the policy associated with maize value chains were checked and reported.

Bauxites are normally formed from underlying aluminosilicate rocks as a result of tropical weathering. In our previous 2 papers, we presented the Geology, possible host, mineralogy, and geochemistry of the bauxites of Mambila Plateau, NE Nigeria. The bauxite was formed from residual chemical weathering of trachyte and occurs as a blanket cover over saprolite. XRD results showed gibbsite as the major mineral with small amounts of hematite, kaolinite, and quartz. Geochemistry of the bauxite ore is characterized by enriched Al2O3 (39.50-78.20.0%), erratic amounts of SiO2 (2.89-5.13%) and Fe2O3 (5.98-21.96%). In this study, the resources of Mambilla Bauxite Deposits (Block I and Block II) have been estimated to be 7,529,312.5 metric tons using block method of vertical geological cross-section bearing in mind that the Mambilla Bauxite Deposits have been explored by pitting on a regular grid pattern of 100 m×100 m. The bauxite deposit in Block II has met the requirement for metallurgical grade bauxite as standard specification (IS: 5953-1985, Reaffirmed [1]). While, Block I deposit has not met such specifications. Sustained investment in bauxite exploration is required to upgrade the ore reserves for sustainable development of a mining enterprise.

Nowadays, theglobal navigation satellite system (GNSS) positioning techniques based on the International GNSS Service (IGS) products are extensively used for various precise applications. However, specific conditions such as the dual-frequency observations and the final IGS products are required. Consequently, the absence of the final IGS data and using single-frequency observations will degrade these techniques’ accuracy. In this paper, two algorithms through two separated stages are formulated for improving the single-frequency GNSS observations by using one GNSS receiver based on the broadcast ephemerides in real time or close to real time. The first algorithm represents the preparation stage for the second one. It classifies the observations by separating the optimal values of position dilution of precision (PDOP) and the number of satellites (NOS), as well as the corresponding values of coordinates. The second stage includes an algorithm based on the artificial neural network (ANN) approach, which is set at the ANN variables that produce the best precision through the applied tests at the present study. Binary numbers, log sigmoid-Purelin, cascade forward net, and one hidden layer with a size of 10 neurons are the optimal variables of ANN inputs format, transfer functions constellations, feedforward net type, and the number of hidden layers (NHL) and its size, respectively. The simulation results show that the designed algorithms produce a significant improvement in the horizontal and vertical components. Lastly, an evaluation stage is performed in the case of dual-frequency observations by using broadcast ephemerides. The simulation outputs indicate that the precision at applying the proposed integration is completely enhanced compared with the outputs of IGS final data.

The emergence of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) creates a serious public health concern due to its ability to colonize and infect humans and animals. This cross-sectional study investigated the prevalence, antibiotic susceptibility pattern of S. aureus and MRSA isolated from bovine raw milk in the Njombe region, Tanzania. A total of 470 samples, including 389 raw milk samples collected at farm level, 57 raw milk samples from bulk milk-can at collection centers, and 24 swab samples from bulk milk cans. The samples were cultured on mannitol salt agar, presumptive colonies were sub-cultured onto blood agar for the isolation of S. aureus which was subsequently preliminarily confirmed using microbiological and biochemical tests. Further, confirmation of isolates was done using conventional PCR targeting gltB gene for S. aureus and mecA gene for MRSA which was later sequenced. Isolates were tested for antibiotic susceptibility by using the disc agar diffusion method. The overall prevalence of S. aureus in the study was 22.6\% (106/470), with 2.9\% (14/470) being MRSA. Both S. aureus and MRSA showed high resistance to penicillin (74\%, 8.5\%) and ampicillin (78\%, 11.3\%), respectively. A total of 81 (77\%) isolates were resistant to at least one antibiotic and 14 isolates (13.2\%) showed multidrug-resistant (MDR); with frequent antibiotic resistance patterns being to cefoxitin, penicillin, ciprofloxacin, tetracycline, and erythromycin. In conclusion, the prevalence and the MDR patterns exhibited by S. aureus and MRSA observed in this study provide baseline data for planning mitigation measures to safeguard public health.

Cybercriminals frequently use phishing attempts to trick unwary individuals into disclosing their personal information. The detection of the cybersecurity (CS) state of Internet of Things (IoT) devices determines the necessity to search for and create techniques of detecting various threat types. Thanks to the unification used in the mass manufacture of IoT devices, it is simpler to make software and hardware modifications in order to prohibit some built-in protection mechanisms from the standpoint of a potential intruder. It becomes vital to offer standard ways of data analysis from both internal and external information sources in order to evaluate the level of device cybersecurity &nbsp

Scholars and policymakers continue to debate the ramifications of Chinese foreign direct investment (FDI) and infrastructure development in Africa. Some argue that China’s activities in Africa create mutual economic opportunities, while others postulate that Chinese presence on the continent simply advances Chinese Communist Party (CCP) interests. More granular research into specific countries is crucial to better assess this debate. Using a qualitative methodology, this thesis examines the financing and construction of Nigeria’s railways by Chinese companies in the 21st century. More broadly, it evaluates the regional context of Sino-African economic cooperation on infrastructure development. Through a close analysis of press and official reports as well as a review of scholarly work, this study establishes the ways, means, and consequences of China’s investment in Africa. Chinese FDIs have helped to strengthen infrastructure, power generation, and resource extraction industries in many African countries, though not without costs such as huge debt burdens and disadvantageous trade imbalances. This study documents that Chinese financing and construction of Nigeria’s railway system has generated local revenue and employment and has facilitated technology transfer in the country, but the engagement benefits China even more because it expands the CCP’s economic influence and reinforces the Sino-Nigerian political connection. Commander, Nigerian Navy Approved for public release. Distribution is unlimited.

The objective of this study is to examine the potential product yields and energy recovery of maize cobs (MC) through carbon dioxide-assisted torrefaction using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The CO2-assisted torrefaction of MC was performed from 240 °C to 300 °C (Δ 30 °C) for the residence time of 30 minutes based on the selected non-isothermal/isothermal heating program of the TGA. Furthermore, the physicochemical, microstructure and mineral characteristics of MC were examined. The results showed that the CO2-torrefaction of MC resulted in a mass loss (ML) ranging from 18.45% to 55.17%, which resulted in the mass yield (MY) ranging from 81.55% to 44.83%. The HHV of the solid product was in the range from 22.55 MJ/kg to 26 MJ/kg, which indicates the CO2-torrefaction process enhanced the energy content of MC by 40% – 60%. In conclusion, the findings showed that the CO2 torrefaction is a practical, sustainable, and cost-effective approach for the valorization of MC into a clean solid biofuel for enhanced energy recovery.

Camels are regarded as the ship of the desert, being used for transporting humans and their goods. They are also raised for milk, meat, hides and wool. Normal haematological values are important as disease diagnostic aid as they are vital indicator of the animals’ health status. Haematological parameters of one- humped camels (Camelusdromedarius) were determined in this study. 60 one- humped camels (Camelusdromedarius) were selected in sokoto and their blood samples were analyze using standard procedures for haematological parameters. [Packed cell volume (PCV), red blood cells (RBC), haemoglobin (Hb),white blood cells (WBC), neutrophils, eosinophils, Basophils, monocyte, lymphocyte, mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean corpuscular haemoglobin (MCH), and mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration (MCHC)].For all the parameters, only neutrophils and MCV values showed significant variation between sexes with male camels having higher values than females. There is variation in the range values for all the parameters between sexes except Basophils, Monocyte and Lymphocyte. Based on the results of this study, the values were similar in both sex except in neutrophils and mean corpuscular volume indicating insignificant effect of sex on most of the haematological parameters.

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PurposeDespite the growing unforeseen and catastrophic events that disrupt business operations, empirical studies on the impact of operational disruption (OD) on small and medium enterprises' (SMEs) performance dimensions are limited. The study aims to investigate the moderating effect of disruption orientation (DO) and government support (GS) on the relationship between coronavirus disease (COVID-19) OD and SMEs' performance.Design/methodology/approachQuantitative survey method was used to collect data from 170 SMEs in Nigeria, through hand-delivery questionnaires. Partial least square (PLS) structural equation modeling (SEM) was employed to analyze the data.FindingsThe result shows no significant relationship between COVID-19 OD, DO and GS with SMEs' financial performance (FP). However, the relationship between COVID-19 OD and non-financial performance (NFP) is negatively significant. The relationship between DO and NFP is positively significant. DO and GS have insignificant relationship with FP. Finally, DO and GS does not moderate any of the relationships between COVID-19 OD and the dimensions of SMEs' performance.Practical implicationsThe result implies that health-related disruptions such as COVID-19 affect only the NFP of SMEs. However, supply chain managers and SMEs are encouraged to adopt DO to enhance NFP of firms.Originality/valueThe current study is the first to evaluate the impact of health-related disruptions on the two major dimensions of SMEs' performance (FP and NFP) by incorporating the moderating role of internal (DO) and external (GS) factors in to a single framework. However, the paper revealed new theoretical and practical knowledge by illuminating the absence of significant relationship between COVID-19 OD and SMEs' FP, implying that COVID-19 disruption does not significantly affect SMEs' FP.

The study Evaluated the Impact of Effective Management Practices in Mitigating the Toxicity Symptoms of Pesticides Preparation, Storage and Application in Kebbi State, Nigeria. Structured Questionnaires were used to obtained information from the respondents. Descriptive statistics comprising frequency distribution tables and percentages and were used for Data Analysis. Likert scale was used to determine farmer’s perception on the toxicity symptoms of pesticides of pesticides preparation, storage and application employed by farmers when handling pesticides. The result of the study showed that majority of the respondents (90%) were male while female formed the minority in pesticide usage with only (10%). The study also showed that all the respondents (100%) were married and engaged in agricultural activities. The study further revealed that all the respondents never had any formal training on the use of pesticide from either governmental or non -governmental organizations. The research study also found out that all (100%) of the respondents were not aware of the toxicity of pesticides during preparation, storage and application. Likert Scale Analysis showed a negative perception by farmers on awareness of pesticide toxicity during preparation, storage and application. On perception of the respondents on the toxicity of pesticides during preparation, storage and application, the study revealed that Nausea, Dizziness, Diarrhea, Respiratory Difficulty, Skin Irritation, Rashes, Fever, Peeling of the Skin, Vomiting, and Headache were the serious toxicity effects of pesticide. It is concluded that respondents had negative perception on pesticide management of toxicity of pesticides during preparation, storage and application. It is therefore recommended that appropriate authorities should enforce the use of protective clothing, appropriate equipment and correct handling practices when using pesticides. Existing pesticide regulations and monitoring policies should be enforced. Government should also intensify efforts at registering and controlling distribution of pesticides and banning hazardous ones. It should also enforce the making of less toxic pesticides available to farmers.

So essential and imperative is national development plans to the success of any nation. If any country desires to attain sustainable economic growth and development, be it developed or developing, it must make plans for its goals and objectives. Since colonial period and after, Nigeria has committed itself on series of national development plans in order to attain sustainable economic growth and development. It is not a denying fact that Nigeria efforts towards development plans have not been achieved and also improves its economic situation. Over time, this has been proved from economic indicators such as increase in rate of unemployment, short life expectancy ratio, lack of infrastructural facilities and absolute poverty as a result of the spillover effect of its development plans to instill results. The main objective of this research work is to overview some of the previous Nigerian development plans and pin-point out the militating factors that serve as deterrent to the achievement of development plans in the country. This research work sourced its materials through secondary sources of materials. However, competent development expert, corruption free society, political leadership, harmonization and efficient resource allocation are part of the remedies or motor for a successful and sustainable national development plans.

Atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases are characterized by strokes and coronary artery disease. Hyperlipidemia and free radicals generation in the body are among the main risk factors for cardiovascular diseases. Statin drugs such as lovastatin and atorvastatin are mostly prescribed for the treatment of hyperlipidemia. However, many patients show intolerance toward these drugs and develops mild symptoms, which include myalgia and cramps, to the most severe Rhabdomyolysis. In this study, we have qualitatively determined the phytochemicals in Doum (Hyphaene thebaica) fruit aqueous extract and the antioxidant activity using the DPPH assay. Furthermore, we have investigated the hypolipidemic potential of the extract in Wistar rats. Freshly prepared aqueous extract of the Doum fruit with concentration 200 - 400 mg/kg and 20mg/kg of atorvastatin were orally administered to the Wistar rats fed with high - fat diet for two weeks and were sacrificed for hyperlipidemic analysis. The qualitative determination of the phytochemicals indicates the presence of steroids, saponin, tannins, phlobatannins, terpenoids, alkaloid, glycoside, and flavonoids. The fruit extract shows antioxidant activity by scavenging the DPPH radicals with IC50 of 128 µm/mL. Both the fruit extract and atorvastatin decreased serum total glyceride cholesterol, total cholesterol, LDL, and increased HDL level significantly (P < 0.05). This result revealed the anti-hyperlipidemic, and antioxidant potential of Doum fruit. Therefore, it could be useful in managing hyperlipidemia, thereby reducing the risk factor of cardiovascular diseases in the end.

Introduction. Despite the growing popularity of utilizing observational studies for determining associations with public health implications, there is limited literature using them for examining and quantifying the effects of exposures or treatments: The study compared traditional regression with scoring approaches in estimating treatment effects considering the noted limitations in the dataset.Methods. We conducted a secondary analysis of previously collected retrospective cohort data derived frommaternal-neonatal dyads delivered prematurely in a tertiary hospital. Propensity scores (PS) were estimated using logistic and boosting regression. These scores were implemented into matching, stratification, and weighting models. The estimated measures of effect from traditional regression and PS-adjusted models were compared using certain metrics (i.e., the width of CI, SE, AIC, BIC). Sensitivity analysis was also performed.Results. We included data from 562 patients (123 untreated and 439 treated). Both the estimated scores demonstrated satisfactory fit and reduction in the standardized differences between the groups. However, the logit-estimated scores had better prediction (AUC: 0.71 vs 0.66) and forecasting properties (Brier: 0.15 vs 0.17) than the boosting-estimated scores. All generated statistical models demonstrated a reduction in the occurrence of respiratory morbidity among preterm neonates exposed to a single-dose antenatal corticosteroid (ACS) (ORs ranged from 0.37 to 0.59). The estimated average treatment effects (ATE) and effect among those treated (ATET) from various models suggested a small benefit attributed to the single-dose ACS (ATEs range from -0.09 to -0.41; ATETs range from -0.07 to -0.17).Conclusion. PS estimated using logistic regression performed better than those estimated using machine learning strategies. The matching model using the said scores demonstrated better fit and parsimony over conventional and propensity-adjusted models. Future studies are recommended to improve the application of these analytic techniques in real-world data.

Introduction. Prematurity-related respiratory disorders are an important public health concern that should betreated efficiently and effectively. Antenatal corticosteroid (ACS) therapy has been recommended to hasten fetallung maturation in pregnancies at risk but has not been delivered adequately in low to middle-income countries. This study aimed to estimate the treatment effects associated with the use of a single-dose antenatal corticosteroid on the incidence of respiratory-associated morbidity among prematurely delivered neonates.Methods. This was a retrospective cohort study of neonates delivered at 24 to 33 weeks gestation at a tertiaryhospital comparing outcomes in those given single-dose ACS with those given no ACS. Association was estimated using logistic and propensity score (PS) analyses, as well as average treatment effect (ATE) and among those treated (ATET).Results. Most neonates (78.11%) received a single dose before delivery (single-dose ACS group) and only a few(21.89%) did not receive any dose (no ACS dose group). The odds ratio of respiratory morbidity in the single-dose ACS group was 0.44 (0.23-0.84) from an adjusted logistic regression model and 0.33 (0.17-0.80) from the PS matching model. The latter model was used to estimate that the average treatment effect from a single-ACS dose on the entire sample was -0.09 (-0.03 to -0.15), while its effect among the actual recipients was -0.08 (-0.02 to -0.15).Conclusion. There is a small benefit attributed to the single-dose ACS, reinforcing the need for dose administration and completion. Future studies are recommended to clarify the estimated association and improve on the methodological constraints encountered.

The burden of prostate cancer is high globally and especially among men of African descent. Serum prostate specific antigen(PSA) has long been used for diagnosis,however,its low specificity and indiscriminate use has led to unnecessary biopsies,over-diagnosis and over treatment of apparently indolent tumours.This weakness of PSA as a biomarker for cancer prostate has necessitated the search and identification of an alternative to it. To compare the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of serum Microseminoprotein-beta(MSMB) with serum total prostate specific antigen (tPSA) in the diagnosis of prostate cancer in African men. This is a 12-month prospective study of patients aged 50 years and above with lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), PSA greater than 4ng/ml and/or abnormal digital rectal examination, leading to the suspicion of prostate cancer. Patients with a histological diagnosis of prostate cancer formed the study group while those with negative biopsy/benign prostatic hyperplasia on histology served as the control group.All had detailed history and focused examination with serum levels of Microseminoproteinbeta(MSMB) and total PSA (tPSA) determined using Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay methods. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 20.0 for windows. The mean age of patients with prostate cancer and those with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)/negative biopsy was 67.40 ± 9.08 and 65.43 ± 9.68 years, with an age range of 50-91 and 50-89 years, respectively. Compared to MSMB, tPSA had a higher sensitivity (82.5 vs 57.5%), specificity (77.5 vs 30.0%), PPV (78.6 vs 45.1), NPV (81.6 vs 41.4%) and diagnostic accuracy (80.6 vs 43.8%). Serum total PSA had a higher validity than serum MSMB in diagnosing prostate cancer. Hence, tPSA remains a relevant serum tumour biomarker in diagnosing prostate cancer in our urological practice.

Despite the rich information of a cell’s physiological state encoded in the dynamic changes of cell-surface glycans, methods of capturing glycosylation states at the single-cell level are quite limited. Here we report a chemoenzymatic single-cell N-acetyllactosamine (LacNAc) detection method via tagging the LacNAc with a specific DNA barcode. Compared to the lectin-based glycan detection, the chemoenzymatic labeling does not change the transcriptional status of immune cells and is more compatible with scRNA-seq. Integrated analysis of LacNAc and transcriptome of T cells at a single-cell level reveals that the quantity of cell-surface LacNAc is significantly upregulated in activated CD8+ T cells but maintained at the basal level in quiescent CD8+ T cells (i.e., naive and central memory T cells). Further analysis confirms that the LacNAc level is positively correlated to the glycolytic activity of CD8+ T cells at all statues. Taken together, our study demonstrates the feasibility of chemoenzymatic detection of cell-surface glycan in single-cell RNA sequencing-based multiomics with information of TCR sequence and cell-surface epitopes (i.e., scTCR and CITE-seq) and offers a new way to characterize the biological role of glycan in diversified physiological states.

Azolla fern has traditionally been used over centuries as a source of nutrients for rice grown in paddies with minimal attention on crops grown terrestrially. In this study, we aimed at examining the feasibility of using Azolla pinnata green manure to improve soil fertility and yield of terrestrial crops using Eleusine coracana as a test plant. Infertile soil samples were subjected to five A. pinnata green manure treatment levels that were laid out in a completely randomized design and replicated five times in a screenhouse-based experiment. Seeds of E. coracana were germinated in the treated soils and their growth performance and yield assessed. Data were analyzed with the R statistical package and Graph Pad Prism 8. A. pinnata green manure treatment levels of 150 to 400 g/kg significantly improved the pH, Total N, Available P and cation exchange capacity of the soil. All the treatment levels significantly enhanced the growth performance, leaf width and length, number of ears per panicle, length of panicle ears, number of grains per panicle, and shoot dry matter production of E. coracana. Weight of 1000 grains, tiller formation and root dry matter production were only significantly enhanced by treatment levels of 150 to 400 g/kg. Correlation results demonstrated A. pinnata’s potential to improve soil fertility under terrestrial conditions and ultimately the yield of crops. The findings of this study are suggestive of a high potential of A. pinnata green manure for restoration of soil fertility and enhancement of terrestrial crop production.

In Zambia, poultry is a rapidly increasing sector contributing 4.8% of the Agricultural Gross Domestic Product (GDP), thus providing a significant income-generating activity. Worldwide, poultry is a major reservoir of Salmonella with an increasing incidence of extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) producing strains. ESBLs are enzymes produced by bacteria and are capable of inactivating a wide range of beta-lactam antibiotics. Salmonella enterica serovars Enteritidis and Typhimurium are the most important foodborne serotypes in many countries, infecting both humans and animals and are transmitted to humans through the food supply chain. CTX-M ESBLs have been described in Salmonella Typhimurium isolates with resistant genes located on transferable plasmids. This study aimed to detect S. Typhimurium, their antimicrobial resistance, and CTX-M-type ESBL Producing strains in commercial poultry farms in Copperbelt Province, Zambia. Five districts were considered for this study, where one poultry farm per district was randomly selected for sampling. An overall number of 384 fecal samples were analyzed using microbiological and molecular methods. S. Typhimurium was detected at 17.7% (CI: 14.2%-21.8%) in commercial poultry farms in Copperbelt Province, of which 12.8% (CI: 9.8%-16.5%) were found harboring the CTX-M-Type ESBL genes. S. Typhimurium isolates showed 88.2% resistance to at least one antimicrobial compound. All the isolates showed 100% resistance to tetracycline, followed by ampicillin and amoxicillin at 91.2%. These isolates also showed 58.8% resistance to cefotaxime and 54.4% to ceftazidime. Detection of CTX-M ESBL producing Salmonella Typhimurium suggests the contamination of chicken food chain at farm level and calls for public health protection measures.

A deterministic mathematical model of cholera infection incorporating health education campaign, vaccination of susceptible humans, treatment of infected human and water sanitation is developed. It is shown that the solution of the model uniquely exist, it is positive and bounded in a certain region. The disease-free equilibrium (DFE) state of the model was determined and used to compute the basic reproduction number as a threshold for effective disease management. The result from stability analysis for the disease-free equilibrium state (DFEs) shows that it is locally as well as globally asymptotically stable whenever the basic reproduction number is less than unity (). The results obtained from the sensitivity index of show that the control parameters of public health education campaign, vaccination of susceptible individuals, treatment of infected humans and water sanitation are crucial parameters to cholera management. Numerical simulations show that, expanded and improved vaccination among other interventions is crucial in decreasing cholera burden. Furthermore, from the numerical simulations and results it is recommended that a combination of mass and consistent public health education campaigns, expanded vaccination coverage, prompt treatment of infected individuals, with water sanitation, is vital to public health strategies in eradicating cholera infection and deaths in the shortest possible time

The study assessed farmers’ perception of the effectiveness of information and communication technologies (ICTs) in dissemination of Agricultural information to rural farmers in Bosso Local Government Area of Niger State, Nigeria. A multi-stage simple random sampling technique was used to select 100 farmers from the study area. Data generated were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results showed that 62% of the farmers were aware of the ICTs, 63% had access to ICTs, 41% owned radio, television, and mobile phone while 27% owned radio and mobile phone. The results further revealed that all ((100%) the farmers perceived ICTs as effective tools in extension service delivery. Also, 63% of the respondents considered access to mobile phone to be timely and relevant in accessing agricultural information. Mobile phone (40%) was ranked first as an effective means of accessing agricultural information by the farmers. It was also disclosed that television (32%) and mobile phone (40%) were the major factors leading to ICTs effectiveness. Erratic power supply (32.0%) and inadequate extension services (25%) were the major problems that militated against the use of ICTs among farmers in the study area. The study concluded that ICTs are effective tools in dissemination of agricultural information in the study area, and mobile phone was the most effective means of accessing agricultural information by the respondents due to its dual purpose. The study also concluded that erratic power supply and inadequate extension services are the major problems militating against the use of ICTs among farmers. It was recommended that in order for farmers to understand and appreciate the benefits of ICT to improved agricultural production, extension agents should educate farmers particularly on the use of mobile phone which is considered more accessible and convenient.

The study assessed the profitability of maize production and socio-economic determinants of maize output in Rijau Local Government Area of Niger State, Nigeria. A multi-stage sampling technique was used in selecting 120 maize farmers. Descriptive statistics was used to assess the socio-economic characteristics of the farmers, while budgetary technique was used to determine the profitability of maize production in the study area. Socio-economic determinants of maize output were assessed using multiple regression analysis. The result showed that 25.8% of the respondents had farming experience of 6 to 10 years; majority (34.2%) had non-formal education, and 46.7% were cultivating 0.1 to 2.0 hectares of land. The study further disclosed that total variable cost accounted for 96.8% (₦133,200.5) of the total cost of production and depreciation on fixed cost that represented 3.1% (₦4,246.41) of the total cost of maize production in the study area. The return per Naira invested was ₦3.47 inferring that for each naira invested, ₦2.47k was realised as profit, hence, maize production in the study area was found to be profitable. The regression analysis revealed that farm size (23.185) and household size (8.886) significantly (P≤0.01 and P≤0.05, respectively) determined the output level of maize producers in the study area. This could be an indication of non-adoption of improved farm practices. It was recommended that effort should be made in providing efficient and accessible extension service system in order to educate farmers on the importance of improved farming practices and adoption of advanced technology.

Cobra is a common snake throughout Africa and Asia, however, there are few literatures reporting neurotoxic cobra bite from Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), including Northern Nigeria. Here, we report 3 cases that were bitten by cobra in the savannah region of Nigeria. All the 3 cases presented with features of severe neurotoxic envenomation: generalized hypotonia, ptosis, and features of autonomic dysfunction, which include excessive salivation and sweating. One of the 3 victims progressed to develop respiratory paralysis that resulted in death. The other 2 cases survived after receiving polyvalent anti-snake venom.

Jamming attacks significantly degrade the performance of wireless communication systems and can lead to significant overhead in terms of re-transmissions and increased power consumption. Although different jamming techniques are discussed in the literature, numerous open-source implementations have used expensive equipment in the range of thousands of dollars with the exception of a few. These implementations have also tended to be partial band, and do not cover the whole available bandwidth of the system under attack. In this work, we demonstrate that flexible, reliable, and low priced software-defined radio (SDR) jamming is feasible by designing and implementing different types of jammers against IEEE 802.11n networks. First, to demonstrate the optimal jamming waveform, we present an analytical bit error rate expression of the system under attack by employing two common jamming waveforms: Gaussian noise and digitally modulated. Then, we validate this analysis through simulations using the MATLAB WLAN toolbox. Afterwards, we implement JamRF, a toolkit that employs a low-cost SDR to implement numerous types of jammers to validate the analysis. Obtained results showed that, to jam the whole 2.4GHz spectrum, a stateful-reactive jammer employing random channel hopping jamming strategy, achieves a packet loss ratio above 90%.

The existing methods of callose quantification include epifluorescence microscopy and fluorescence spectrophotometry of aniline blue-stained callose particles, immuno-fluorescence microscopy and indirect assessment of both callose synthase and β-(1,3)-glucanase enzyme activities. Some of these methods are laborious, time consuming, not callose-specific, biased and require high technical skills. Here, we describe a method of callose quantification based on Sandwich Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (S-ELISA). Tissue culture-derived banana plantlets were inoculated with Xanthomonas campestris pv. musacearum (Xcm) bacteria as a biotic stress factor inducing callose production. Banana leaf, pseudostem and corm tissue samples were collected at 14 days post-inoculation (dpi) for callose quantification. Callose levels were significantly different in banana tissues of Xcm-inoculated and control groups except in the pseudostems of both banana genotypes. The method described here could be applied for the quantification of callose in different plant species with satisfactory level of specificity to callose, and reproducibility. Additionally, the use of 96-well plate makes this method suitable for high throughput callose quantification studies with minimal sampling and analysis biases. We provide step-by-step detailed descriptions of the method.

The present study focused on the development of a simple, reliable, cost-effective, precise, and stable quality by design (QbD) RP-HPLC method for estimation of Abiraterone Acetate in bulk, pharmac...

Aim: To identify reasons behind the patronization of private tertiary institutions in Nigeria, their challenges, and also to examine if their patronage was as a result of service quality matter or otherwise. Study Design: This article adopt both qualitative and quantitative research strategy in which questionnaire were administered and hypothesis were tested using chi-square. Place and Duration: The case study for this research paper is AL-HIKMA University, Ilorin, Nigeria, from 7th October, 2019. Findings: It was discovered that majority of student patronizing private tertiary Institutions in Nigeria was the result of issues such as admission stress, strikes, cultism’s, congestions and irregularities characterizing public tertiary Institutions in Nigeria, etc. and not actually service quality. The major challenges encountered by private’s tertiary Institutions are lack of funds, stringent government policies, shortage of staff and infrastructural deficits etc. Implications: This has lead to production of half-baked graduate, brain drain, religious disparity, widening social gap, exorbitant fees and decline in the educational sector among others. Conclusion: In other to curb the problems associated with the above raised questions, government should allocate more fund for the establishment and rehabilitation of universities, adequate learning materials should be provided, conducive atmosphere accompanied by good remuneration and lastly issue of licensing should be strict.

Laboratory experiment was conducted to determine the insecticidal activity of leaves and stem bark powder of Sodom apple (Calotropis procera) and optimum concentration for the management of maize weevil (Sitophilus zeamais). Actellic dust was used a positive control and untreated maize seeds serving as negative control. The experiment was laid in Completely Randomized Design (CRD) comprising of Leaves powder (1 g, 3 g and 5 g), stem bark powder (1 g 3 g and 5 g), Actellic dust and control. These were applied to 100 g healthy maize seeds and repeated three times. Contact activity of the plant products were evaluated and data collected were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) and means were separated using NDMRT at 1% and 5% probability level. The results showed that the application of 5 g/100g leaves significantly (P

Laboratory experiment was carried out to evaluate the efficacy of Stembark and pod powders of locust bean (Pakia biglobossa) and their appropriate concentration for the management of cowpea weevils (Callosobruchus maculatus F.). Spintor (0.125%) and dust (0.125 g) was used a positive control and untreated cowpea seeds serving as negative control. The experiment was laid in Completely Randomized Design (CRD) comprising of Stem bark powder (1 g, 3 g and 5 g), Pod powder (1 g 3 g and 5 g), spintor 0.125% Dust (0.125 g) and control. These were applied to 100 g healthy cowpea seeds and repeated three times. Contact activity of the plant products were evaluated and data collected were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) using SPSS software (version 23) and means were separated using NDMRT at 1% and 5% probability level. The results showed that higher concentration (5 g/100g) of plant products significantly (P

The Global Positioning System (GPS) permanent stations at the equatorial and southern sub-tropical hydrobelts of South America undergo the highest seasonality on the Earth due to hydrological loadings. Fortunately, there are products that account for such variations, although some of them have not been properly evaluated. For instance, global solutions of Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE) are band-limited to lower frequencies; therefore, comparisons with GPS data must account for such spectral inconsistencies. It is proposed to spatially average 39 GPS sites by applying Gaussian smoothing, which allows comparisons with long-wavelength part of GRACE solutions by Center for Space Research (CSR), GeoForschungszentrum, and Jet Propulsion Laboratory. Comparisons are also carried out with loadings from Noah-driven Global Land Data Assimilation System (GLDAS) and GRACE mass concentration (mascon) solution by Goddard Space Flight Center. Results show that CSR best reduces the variances of the radial displacements considering both spatially filtered (70%) and unfiltered (53%) GPS data covering the period from Jan 2010 to Dec 2015. However, GLDAS-Noah underestimates the amplitudes of vertical loadings, which might be due to unmodeled inland water and groundwater storages. While acknowledging that a denser distribution of GPS stations is needed, the findings still shed light on the quality of the global hydrological loading products based on GRACE and GLDAS datasets, which might be of interest to the respective science teams.

We examine the impact of rural electrification on individuals and businesses within a community in order to test a resource-based theory of entrepreneurship. We show that access to electricity increases average households’ income and entrepreneurial activities. The impact of electricity on entrepreneurial activity has wide-ranging implications for development policy in countries where access to electricity is sparse. Results show a significant difference in entrepreneurial opportunities with respect to firm formation, with the electrified site reporting more new micro-enterprises (33) than the control site (20) after implementation. Electrification affects both households’ income, individuals’ perceptions of their social position, and opportunities for business development. Individuals’ future expectations and entrepreneurial activities are enhanced in the community that receives electricity. We also find evidence that women-led households benefit from electrification more than men-led ones, but this benefit does not eliminate the difference in income between women and men-led household. We discuss implications of the study for entrepreneurship and community social development interventions.

The proportions and similarities of extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL) producing K. pneumoniae (ESBL-KP) and E. coli (ESBL-EC) carrying multiple ESBL genes is poorly known at our setting. This study investigated the existence of multiple ESBL genes (blaCTX-M, blaTEM, and blaSHV) among ESBL-KP and ESBL-EC concurrently isolated from clinical, colonization, and contamination samples from neonatology units in Mwanza-Tanzania. Twenty and 55 presumptive ESBL-EC and ESBL-KP, respectively, from a previous study archived at −80 °C were successfully recovered for this study. Isolates were screened and confirmed for production of ESBLs by phenotypic methods followed by multiplex PCR assay to determine ESBL genes. All (100%) and 97.3% of presumptive ESBL isolates were phenotypically confirmed by Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) and modified double-disc synergy methods, respectively. About 93.3% (70/75) of phenotypically confirmed ESBL isolates had at least one ESBL gene, whereby for 62.9% (44/70), all ESBL genes (blaCTX-M, blaTEM, and blaSHV) were detected. Eight pairs of ESBL bacteria show similar patterns of antibiotics susceptibility and ESBL genes. ESBL-KP and ESBL-EC, concurrently isolated from clinical, colonization and contamination samples, harbored multiple ESBL genes. Further, eight pairs of ESBL isolates had similar patterns of antibiotics susceptibility and ESBL genes, suggesting transmission of and/or sharing of mobile genetic elements (MGEs) among ESBL-KP and ESBL-EC.

This cross-sectional study was conducted between January and June 2020, in five large poultry slaughter slabs in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Purposive sampling was used to select broilers and spent layers, from which meat and cloaca swabs were collected to determine the occurrence of multidrug resistant (MDR) Escherichia coli. Identification of isolates was done using API 20E, and antimicrobial susceptibility testing was performed as per CLSI (2018) guidelines. EBSL (CTX-M, TEM, SHV) and plasmid mediated quinolone (qnrA, qnrB, qnrS and aac(6′)-Ib-cr) were screened using PCR. Out of 384 samples, 212 (55.2%) were positive for E. coli, of which 147 (69.3%) were resistant to multiple drugs (MDR). Highest resistance was detected to tetracycline (91.9%), followed by sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim (80.5%), ampicillin (70.9%), ciprofloxacin (40.2%) and 25% cefotaxime, gentamycin (10.8%) and imipenem (8.6%) (95% CI, p < 0.01). Out of the E. coli-positive samples, ten (10/212) (4.7%) were ESBL producing E. coli, of which CTX-M was detected in two isolates and quinolones resistant gene (qnrS) in eight, while TEM, SHV, qnrA, qnrB and aac(6′)-lb-cr were not detected. The high level of resistance and multidrug resistance imply these antibiotics are ineffective, add unnecessary cost to poultry farmers and certainly facilitate emergence and spread of resistance.

Background: The burden of drug abuse is becoming a public health concern in Nigeria. Preventive measures should include identifying the root causes of the burden for targeted intervention. We, therefore, aim to conduct a scoping review of the literature to summarize the findings of epidemiological studies on drug abuse and provisions of drug laws in Nigeria. The review also provides appropriate recommendations as interventions for prevention.Methods: We conducted a systematic search of the literature on PubMed to identify information on drug abuse and drug laws in Nigeria from the inception of the database to March 2020. Additional information was retrieved from Google Scholar, a manual search of included articles, discussion with experts on the subject matter, and gray literature. Study selection was performed using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statements. Information from gray literature was assessed for quality and accuracy using the AACODS checklist (authority, accuracy, coverage, objectively, date, significance).Results: The systematic search of the literature generated 253 studies. Nine articles were obtained from other sources. After the selection process, 23 eligible studies were included for review. A prevalence of 20–40% and 20.9% of drug abuse was reported among students and youths, respectively. Commonly abused drugs include cannabis, cocaine, amphetamine, heroin, diazepam, codeine, cough syrup and tramadol. Sources where abusers obtained drugs, were pharmacies/patent medicine shops, open drug markets, drug hawkers, fellow drug abusers, friends, and drug pushers. Drug abuse was common among undergraduates and secondary school students, youths, commercial bus drivers, farmers, and sex workers. Reason for use included to increase physical performance, stress and to derive pleasure. Poor socioeconomic factors and low educational background were the common risk factors associated with drug abuse. We identified several drug laws and policies that were established under government agencies such as the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), National Agency for Foods and Drugs Administration and Control (NAFDAC), Pharmacists Council of Nigeria (PCN) and a Presidential Advisory Committee.Conclusion: Findings from epidemiological studies on drug abuse in Nigeria has demonstrated that the burden of drug abuse is still high despite the existing drug laws, policies, and strategies for prevention. Measures to reduce the burden should involve the community, government, and religious bodies. Preventive measures should target the youths, the students, identified sources of the drugs, reasons and risk factors associated with drug abuse in Nigeria.

sj-pdf-1-tai-10.1177_20499361211039379 for Knowledge assessment of anti-snake venom among healthcare practitioners in northern Nigeria by Auwal A. Bala, Abubakar I. Jatau, Ismaeel Yunusa, Mustapha Mohammed, Al-Kassim H. Mohammed, Abubakar M. Isa, Abubakar S. Wada, Kabiru A. Gulma, Inuwa Bello, Sani Malami, Godpower C. Michael and Basheer AZ. Chedi in Therapeutic Advances in Infectious Disease

sj-pdf-1-tai-10.1177_20499361211039379 for Knowledge assessment of anti-snake venom among healthcare practitioners in northern Nigeria by Auwal A. Bala, Abubakar I. Jatau, Ismaeel Yunusa, Mustapha Mohammed, Al-Kassim H. Mohammed, Abubakar M. Isa, Abubakar S. Wada, Kabiru A. Gulma, Inuwa Bello, Sani Malami, Godpower C. Michael and Basheer AZ. Chedi in Therapeutic Advances in Infectious Disease