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Background: Satisfaction surveys are periodically necessary to evaluate services rendered to clients/patients as a means of quality assurance and service improvement. Aim: To determine satisfaction to services rendered to ophthalmic patients in an outpatient eye clinic. Material and methods: It was an observational study carried out with validated questionnaires complemented with a focused group discussion. Statistical Package for Social Sciences (version 15.0) was used for data analysis. Observation: A total of 251 questionnaires were analyzed comprising 139 males and 112 females (M: F= 1: 0.8). Age range and mean age were 17-92 years and 37'2 ± 15'6 years respectively. Overall satisfaction with quality of services was 80'1%. Specifically, 95'6%, 92%, 80'9%, 70'9%, and 59'8% were satisfied with cleanliness of hospital premises, doctors' willingness to listen to complaints, nursing care; doctors' following-up on treatment, and time nurses administered treatments respectively. However, only 37'8%, 38'6%, 39'8%, and 47'4% were satisfied with drug costs, cost of transportation to hospital, laboratory charges, and record keeping profile respectively. Conclusion: Costs of uptake of eye care services and record keeping profile were key sources of dissatisfaction in this study [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper is aimed at the investigation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in contaminated soils collected at depths of 15 to 100cm from two spilled sites in the vicinity of a leaking pipeline (Calabar, Nigeria). The soils were prepared in the laboratory using standard procedure and were analyzed for sixteen priority PAHs using Gas Chromatography - Mass Spectrophotometer (GC - MS).The concentration of total PAHs (TPAHs) in the contaminated soils ranged from 4.28 to 29.77mg/Kg and decreased with depth. These levels are higher than values obtained from rural and semi urban soils but lower than values obtained from soils in the vicinity of some petroleum handling facilities in part of the study area. Generally the soils were relatively enriched with medium- and lower-molecular-weight PAHs. Phenanthrene/Anthracene, Fluoranthene/Pyrene, Fluorantine/Fluorantine+Pyrene and Benzo(A)Anthracene/Chrysene ratios and the relative abundance of PAHs according to the number of rings were used to access the sources of PAHs. In addition, the main mechanism of PAHs transport in the study area was proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Obesity is a risk factor for type 2 diabetes mellitus which may be addressed by application of intensive lifestyle interventions. Thus, establishing normative values of anthropometric indices in our environment is crucial. This study aimed to determine normative values of anthropometric indices of nutrition among residents of Calabar. Materials and Methods: This cross sectional observational study recruited residents of Calabar aged between 15-79 years using a multistage sampling method. Trained research assistants collected socio-demographic data and did anthropometric measurements. Results: There were 645 (56.5%) males and 489 (43.1%) females. Males had significantly lower general adiposity and hip circumference (HC) than females while females had significantly lower waist circumference (WC) and waist hip ratio (WHR) than males. The WHR increased with age particularly among males. Body mass index (BMI) also increased with age in both males and females with a peak in the middle age bracket, followed by a decline among the elderly. The mean (SD) BMI was 27.7 (5.0) kg/m². Males had a mean (SD) BMI of 27.0 (4.4) kg/m², while females had a mean (SD) BMI of 28.5 (5.5) kg/m² respectively. WC correlated positively and significantly with BMI and WHR in males and females. WHR correlated positively and significantly with BMI in males and females. Conclusion: There are positive linear inter relationships between the indices of nutrition which is strongest between WC and BMI. In view of the strong independent association of DM with indices of nutrition, it is appropriate to derive normal cut-off values for WC, WHR and BMI nationally. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The objective of this study was to define the injury types found intracranially when head trauma occurs and possibly predict the type of injury seen with the different mechanisms of injury. Methods: We prospectively studied ninety-one patients presenting at the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital (UCTH) over twenty-four months (February 2011 to February 2013) with head injury. Their socio-demographics and clinical data as well as the CT findings were collected. Statistical analysis was done using stata 10, stat corp, Texas USA, 2007. Frequency tables, bar chats, histograms and chi-square were used to analyse the data. Results: Ninety-one patients with head injury were seen. The age group of 20-29 and 40-49years were the commonest, median being twenty-nine years, interquartile range, 22-42years. Sixty four (70.3%) males, twenty seven (29.7%) females. The commonest mechanism of injury was RTA. Diffuse cerebral oedema, cerebral haemorrhage were the commonest brain events. No normal scan was seen. Skull fractures, especially comminuted ones were the commonest. CT findings in each case could not be predicted from the mechanism of injury. Conclusion: This study reveals that a typical head injured patient in our locality is a male aged 20 - 29 years, involved in an RTA. Since it is impossible to predict the CT scan findings using the mechanism of injury, CT scans should be made available in all hospitals so as to appropriately manage these types of patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To describe the profile of congenital limb abnormalities in Calabar. Methodology: A retrospective descriptive study of all patients presenting to the orthopaedic department of our hospital over a three year period. Patient information was retrieved from case notes and theatre records. Information obtained included the patients' socio-demographics, type of limb anomaly, limb affected, associated non-musculoskeletal congenital anomalies, type and duration of treatment given and follow up. Data obtained was analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 17.0 and results were presented as frequency tables and means. Results: Seventy two patients presented in our unit with congenital limb anomalies over the study period, age ranged from 1 day to 21 years (mean age 15 months). There were 43 males and 29 females, with male to female ratio of 1.48:1. Most of the anomalies (95.83%) affected the lower limbs, with the bilateral lesions occurring in 45.83% of patients. Two patients had multiple limb anomalies affecting upper and lower limbs. The most common limb anomaly was clubfoot constituting 65.28% while congenital genu recurvatum, polydactyly and syndactyly each constituted 6.94% of the cases. Three patients (4.17%) had associated non-musculoskeletal congenital anomalies - ventricular septal defect, myelomeningocele and congenital inguinal hernia constituting one each. Most of the patients (75.41%) were treated non-operatively. Majority of the patients (52.78%) defaulted at various stages of treatment. Conclusion: Congenital clubfoot is the commonest congenital limb anomaly in our centre. Associated non-musculoskeletal anomalies are uncommon. Patient default at various stages of treatment is a major issue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A common molecular variant of the angiotensinogen gene had been reported to predispose some ethnic groups to hypertension. This case-control study was designed to determine the frequency and association of the angiotensinogen M235T allele with hypertension in residents of Calabar and Uyo cities, south-south Nigeria. The study involved 1308 subjects, 612 patients and 696 controls. The M235T variant was investigated using an allele specific polymerase chain reaction and enzymatic digestion to determine allele frequencies. Hypertensinogenic factors such as dietary habits, physical activity, smoking and drinking habits were assessed using questionnaires. Descriptive statistics, chi-square and multiple regression analysis were used to analyze the data obtained. The M235T allele frequency was high (0.94 for hypertensives and 0.96 for controls) though it was not associated with hypertension status. The odds ratio for hypertension was 0.64 (95% confidence interval: 0.39-1.06) there were no significant differences between the genotype frequency of hypertensives and controls. By multiple regression, Hypertension was observed to be associated with age and was a predictor for systolic blood pressure in both patient r2= 0.359; p< 0.05 and control groups r2= 0.26. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We examined application of non-structural measures in addition to conventional structural approaches by Government Agency and community for flood management in Cross River State (Nigeria) at: regional-ambit and community levels. We used focus group discussion in depth interview, and observation methods to collect data from primary and secondary sources. Our findings include: emphasis on structural flood control measures by government agencies contrasted to use of rudimentary non-structural approaches by communities. Conceptual frames proposed for managing disasters include: emphasizing future climate change impacts based on multiple scales (temporal, spatial and societal) and emphasizing historical response to disasters without increasing the visibility of climate change. We conclude that community institutions, non-government/civil society organizations should lead public institutions in promoting flood resilience based on integrated non-structural to structural measures and show recent developments regarding civil society coalition committed towards promoting environmental governance in Nigeria. Frequent flooding associated with huge losses of lives and property in the study areas, as in most of urban Nigeria, persuade us to recommend that strategically placed civil society be supported by donor/funding organizations to promote integrated non-structural and traditional-structural measures to achieve urban flood resilience nationwide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The food security and nutrition of millions of people around the world is currently being threatened by the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, an evolving health crisis., Aim: To evaluate the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on nutrition and health of adults in Calabar, especially after the hard lockdown., Setting: Online cross-sectional survey in Calabar, Nigeria., Method: After sample size determination, an online questionnaire was designed, content-validated by nutrition experts and piloted on 20 respondents. The questionnaire link was circulated for 6 weeks (April-May, 2021). The questionnaire was structured to gather socio-economic data, lifestyles of the participants (especially younger adults) and changes in dietary intake and health. Descriptive statistics and Pearson's correlation were used to define the proportion of responses for each question and check for association., Results: No glaring nutrition or health problems was observed in the surveyed population (385 respondents), but many (50%) earned very low monthly income (< 50 000 naira). A drop in finances seemed to have indirectly caused a decrease in food consumption post-lockdown. A strong association between age and health risks was observed; similarly, alcohol intake was significantly affected by income and age., Conclusion: The pandemic caused many changes in people's dietary habits and lifestyles, including financial setbacks. Apparently, education and proper enlightenment play a major role in food choices (despite limited resources), thus ensuring adequate nutrition and reducing health risks in the face of a pandemic., Contribution: This study has affirmed the efficacy of nutrition education and proper awareness in ensuring healthy dietary choices, optimal health and reduced risks of diseases., Competing Interests: The authors declare that they have no financial or personal relationships that may have inappropriately influenced them in writing this article., (© 2022. The Authors.)

Although the extent to which human capital, economic policies and physical infrastructure contribute towards economic development continues to generate intense debate in development studies, there is a consensus that the human capital and the factors (including health care) that it (human capital) plays very significant roles in achieving sustainable development including economic, social and environmental aspects. Sadly, health care quality, as one of the essential components of life quality of most urban centres in developing countries (DCs), remains largely unknown. This paper analyses healthcare (including health institutions and professionals) available in Calabar city in southeastern Nigeria. Despite the recent emphasis of Cross River State Government on developing the local-regional and global preferred tourism destination in Calabar city, for over a decade (since 1999 to the present) as frequently and fondly advertised in the global media, the policy of health care improvement, as well as other welfare programmes, have lagged behind the efforts to invite tourists into the city. To increase the attractiveness of the city for residents, tourists and investors, policy must incorporate health care improvement programmes into economic growth and development plans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was designed to investigate impeding factors of HIV/AIDS information utilization by women in Calabar South Local Government Area. The survey design was used for the study. The instrument used for data collection was the questionnaire. Descriptive statistics of frequencies and percentages were used to analysis the data. The findings revealed that lack of access to information was a major problem hindering utilization of HIV/AIDS information. It is therefore, recommended that the preferred sources of HIV/AIDS information be made available and accessible for effective utilization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The coastal part of Nigeria where the study area is located depends on river and groundwater for domestic, agricultural and industrial use. An understanding of the chemical origin of the groundwater provides insight into the interaction of water with the environment and contributes to a better resource management. Data from systematic field sampling and analysis were integrated using descriptive statistics; correlation matrices, bivariant plots, geochemical modelling and a mixing model have been used to gain insight into the hydrogeochemical processes of water in the area. The dominant processes controlling groundwater chemistry are silicate weathering, cation exchange and human activity (waste disposal). The prevalent water type is Na-HCO, which make up 67% of all the water samples (53% of river water and 78% of groundwater); Na-HCO-Cl make up 19% of all the samples (comprising 20% of river water and 21% of groundwater) and 14% classified as Na-Cl (27% river water; 1% of groundwater). Deterioration in water quality has resulted from tidal flushing for river water and human activity (waste disposal) for groundwater. Presently, the estimated amount of freshwater decreases southwards towards the coast for both river and groundwater. In contrast, the amount of brackish water and wastewater increases southwards for the river water and groundwater, respectively. These findings are important since they contribute to identification of suitable areas for developing water resources that could yield relatively better quality of water and they may lead to strategies that ameliorate groundwater quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Abakuá mutual-aid society of Cuba, recreated from the Ékpè leopard society of West Africa's Cross River basin, is a richly detailed example of African cultural transmission to the Americas. Its material culture, such as masquerades and drum construction, as well as rhythmic structures, are largely based on Ékpè models. Its ritual language is expressed through hundreds of chants that identify source regions and historical events; many can be interpreted by speakers of Èfìk, the pre-colonial lingua franca of the Cross River region (Miller 2005). With the help of both Ékpè and Abakuá leaders, I have examined relationships between the musical practices of West African Ékpè, Cuban Abakuá, as well as Cuban migrants to the United States whose commercial recordings have evoked West African places and events historically relevant to Abakuá, meanwhile contributing to the evolution of North American jazz. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The missionary upsurge of the mid-nineteenth century resulted in the establishment of the Presbyterian Church of Nigeria (PCN) in 1846. The mission was undertaken through the sponsorship of the United Secession Church and later the United Presbyterian Church (UPC), which subsequently became part of the United Free Church of Scotland. In 1876, the 'white African mother' and 'Queen' of Calabar, Mary Slessor, arrived in Calabar as a missionary of the UPC. She served for thirty-nine years, died and was buried in Calabar. This paper presents a contextual background for understanding the missionary work of Miss Slessor. It critically surveys some of her legacies within Nigeria, and demonstrates how contemporary PCN and Nigerians are appropriating them. The paper further analyses the state of contemporary Nigerian-Scottish partnership and argues for new patterns of relationship between Nigeria and Scotland which draw on the model of Miss Slessor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Mandibular fracture is an important surgical condition in our environment and elsewhere in the world. Objective: The purpose of this study is to clinically determine the most common sites of the mandible prone to fracture. Patients and method: This two-year prospective study was carried out at the Dental and Maxillofacial clinic, University of Calabar Teaching Hospital, Nigeria, in 2007 and 2008. Results: One hundred and seventy four patients' ages between six to 70 years (mean 28.7± 5.3 years) were studied. One hundred and forty two (81.6%) of them were males and 32 (18.4%) females, with a male/female ratio of 4.4:1.Road traffic accident significantly (χ²=17.1607, P=0.0087) accounted for 139 (79.9%) of the fractures. There were 244 fracture sites in the 174 patients, with the body of the mandible being significantly (χ²2=21, P=0.0008) affected than other sites in fracture (n= 115, 47.1%). However, 96 (39.3%) and 132 (54.1%) of the fractures occurred on the right and left sides of the mandible respectively. Most patients had single (44.3%) and double (31.6%) fractures and this finding was significant (χ²2=60.9314, P=0.0000). The patients encountered were fully (62.6%) and partially dentate (37.4%). The fractures were successfully treated by conservative method, closed reduction and open reduction techniques. Conclusion: This study shows that the tooth-bearing portion, body, left and right sides of the mandible are most commonly prone to fracture when multiple aetiologies are considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the economic impacts of the Calabar Carnival Festival in Nigeria. A convenience sample of 464 attendees was used for the study. A semistructured, self-administered questionnaire was employed in collecting relevant social and economic data from respondents. The result supported the claim that event tourism has positive economic impacts on the host community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Despite several reports of the pattern of dermatoses in different geographical areas of Nigeria, information on skin diseases in South- South region of Nigeria is nonexistent perhaps because of the absence of a resident dermatologist. This prospective study was carried out over a period of 9 months by a visiting dermatologist at a novel skin clinic of the University Teaching Hospital in Calabar, the capital city of Cross River State located in South-South region of Nigeria. Methods: All the new cases of skin diagnosis made over this period were included. Diagnosis was made by a consultant dermatologist and confirmed by laboratory investigations and histology as at when required. Demographic and clinical data was collated and analyzed with descriptive statistics. The skin diseases seen were classified into 10 groups based on etiologic and morphologic criteria and a miscellaneous group. Results: A total of 252 patients were seen during this period and the ages ranged from less than one year to 69 years. There were 106 males and 146 females giving a male:female ratio of 1:1.4. The highest number of people in this series were between the range 20-29 years of age making 26% of the total. Infective skin disorders topped the list of the groupings with 32.5% followed by eczematous dermatitis with 25%. Fungal infections made up 67% of the infective dermatoses. Conclusions: The pattern of dermatoses presented here did not differ much from studies in other geographical parts of Nigeria and is an expression of poverty, ignorance, overcrowding and the humid climate. Attention is also drawn to the need for availability of dermatologists in every hospital setting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ten duplicate samples of fresh meat (beef) were randomly sampled from 2 major markets (Watt and Marian) in Calabar, Nigeria and analyzed microbiologically for the rates of Gram negative bacteria. The mean microbial load on the fresh meat from Watt market ranged between 2.62 × 104 4.84 x 104 cfu/g and total coliform count between 1.05 × 103 3.72 × 103 cfu/g while the fresh meat from Marian market ranged between 2.24 × 104 5.01 × 104 cfu/g and total coliform count between 1.23 x 103 3.42 × 103cfu/g. A total of 36 isolates belonging to eight genera include Klebsiella pneumoniae [6(16.7%)] which was the most predominant, followed by Enterobacter spp [5(13.9%)], Citrobacter freundii [5(13.9%)], Pseudomonas aeruginosa [4(11.1%)], Escherichia coli [4(11.1%)], Salmonella spp [4(11.1%)], Serratia marcescens [4(11.1%)], and Pseudomonas spp [3(8.3%)]. Proteus vulgaris [1(2.8%)] was less predominant. Statistical analysis of the mean microbial load and total coliform count showed no significant difference between the two markets (P>0.05). This study reveals that fresh meats are often contaminated with bacteria. The presence of higher number of pathogenic Klebsiella pneumoniae, Salmonella and Escherichia coli among others, encountered in fresh meat from conventional beef is alarming. The presence of these organisms in meat foods should receive particular attention, because their presence indicate public health hazard and give warning signal for the possible occurrence of food borne intoxication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Purpose: To obtain baseline data for implementing optimisation protocols in Nigeria, a study of the patient entrance surface doses (ESDs) and image quality for lumbar radiography in the two major hospitals in Calabar, Nigeria has been carried out. Method: A total of 74 patients cutting across the two hospitals were monitored during lumbar X-ray examination for entrance surface doses (ESDs) using Lithium Fluoride Thermoluminescent dosimeters (LiF-TLDs). Image quality of ensuing radiographs was studied by three experienced Radiologists using the European Commission (EC) criteria for lumbar radiography. Results: Mean patient entrance dose for the studied population was about 10.5mGy (AP) and 23.1mGy for the lateral projection. Third quartile ESD values suggest that up to 75% of the exposed population in lumbar radiography may be receiving doses above the EC reference level. Image quality scores against a reference image were marginally above average. There was no correlation between dose and image quality per radiograph. Results confirm the need for optimisation of procedure in the area. Conclusion: Procedural changes are suggested in order to lower the patient doses and improve on the image quality of radiographs. These results are to be used as a reference for future review after the optimisation protocol is put in place. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

A 12-month study was carried to assess the seasonal and tidal effects on the physical parameters of river and groundwater, which constitute the major potable water sources in Calabar (Nigeria). The study also included an evaluation of the chemical composition of the different water bodies and their relationship. The results show that there was a significant seasonal effect on dissolved oxygen (DO) and nitrate in groundwater on one hand, and on temperature, redox potential (Eh), and DO in river water on the other. Also, a significant tidal influence exists on DO in both river-and groundwater. Comparison between groundwater and river water show statistically significant difference in EC, TDS, Eh, DO, Na, Cl and NO3. The significant differences in EC, TDS, Na and Cl are due to tidal flushing. The difference in Eh is due to geology of the area while, NO3 is as a result of anthropogenic pollution. The concentrations of ions in the river and groundwater for the different seasons and tidal cycles show an inverse relationship, while the river water is generally more concentrated than the groundwater. Using a binary mixing model, estimates show that the degree of mixing of river water and groundwater is low, with values of between 1.93% and 2.76% respectively, in the western and eastern parts of the study area. The study concludes that tidal flushing, anthropogenic effects and oxygen supply during recharge contribute to the shaping of water chemistry in the area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Through a comparative analysis of ethnic relations in two multi-ethnic cities in southern Nigeria, this article seeks to isolate factors that might explain why some countries manage to avoid violence in the midst of longstanding ethnic conflicts while ethnic relations in other countries are characterised by periodic violence. The factors isolated include the persistence of horizontal inequalities, absence of mediating social capital, institutionalisation of politics of non-inclusion and construction of indigeneity and homeland discourses. The article explores the interconnections between the different factors. Its main contribution lies in its specification of the contexts in which horizontal inequalities are likely to result in violent ethnic conflicts. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Taking as a starting point Oswald de Andrade's concept of "anthropophagy" as a metaphor for cross-cultural interactions, this article examines some of the issues involved in translating (or adapting to a different cultural environment) a text that is itself a cannibalisation. Buarque and Guerra's play Calabar: In Praise of Treason (Editora Civilização Brasileira), originally published in 1973, was rewritten in 1979, adapting to the new socio-political climate under which it was to be staged. The writers make use of a number of intertextual sources in order to create a text that demands constant watchfulness of their reader-translator-reader. Introducing this important Brazilian play to Anglophone audiences, this article moves on to explore some of the more practical aspects of translation in general and, in particular, of translating a political stage musical. Drawing on post-colonial theories of translation (and from ideas contained in the play itself) the article makes the case for the ubiquity and indeed necessity of treason as tool in such interactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The level of concentrations of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in surface soils from petroleum handling facilities (kerosene tank, generating plant, petrol stations, mechanic workshops, leaking pipeline and air port fuel dump) from Calabar metropolis southeastern Nigeria was determined by gas chromatography/ mass spectrometry. The results show that total polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) varied from 1.80 to 334.43 mg/kg with a mean of 50.31 mg/kg. The lowest value of 1.80 mg/kg was obtained from petrol station while the highest value of 334.43 mg/kg was obtained from facility characterised by petrol stations and mechanic workshops. The ratio of phenanthrene/anthracene and fluoranthene/pyrene, varied from 0.43 to 27.72 and from 0.14 to 17.76 respectively. These ratios indicate various sources for the PAH. The two to three ring PAHs are the most abundant. Based on the PAH ratios and content alone it is not possible to distinguish between contribution from motor vehicle exhaust, gasoline spillage, used engine oil or petroleum production. However, considering the area of the study, it is very likely that the major source of soil contamination is originating from petroleum product. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In a recent study, involving the examination of 593 stool samples obtained from randomly selected children from three primary schools in Calabar, Shigella spp. were isolated from 123 (20.7%) of the samples. The infection rate was highest among the younger children with (64.2%) 79/123 of the isolates coming from children under 10 years of age. Infection rate was comparable among boys and girls (p=0.1). Only two species of Shigella were isolated viz: Shigella flexneri 12.0% (71/593) and Shigella sonnei 8.8% (52/593), in this study. The infection rate was highest in the Government Public Primary school, which also had the highest ratio of pupils per toilet. In all, 24 (19.5%) of the isolates were sensitive to all of the nine antimicrobial agents tested while 67 (54.5%) were resistant to two or more antibiotics. The data generated from this study show that there is a high infection rate of shigellosis among primary school children in this study area and calls for better health education, improved and sustainable sanitation and provision of more functional toilets with running water in the primary schools. Asia Pac J Public Health 2004; 16(1): 41-44. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

A combination of surface resistivity and hydrogeological data has been used to identify different water bearing horizons within the coastal plain sands of the Calabar area in southern Nigeria.Results show that two major water bearing horizons exist in the area: (i) an upper zone consisting of medium- to coarse-grained sands and gravels having a mean formation resistivity of 1500 Ωm (gravelly zone) and (ii) a lower zone consisting of fine- to medium-grained sands with a mean formation resistivity of 320 Ωm (sandy zone). The estimated aquifer parameters (hydraulic conductivity k, transmissivity T, specific capacity SC, specific capacity index I, coefficient of aquifer capacity CAC, coefficient of aquifer variability CAV) are higher in the gravelly zone in comparison to the sandy zone. Rating of these zones on the basis of formation resistivity (aquifer layer resistivity), FR, specific capacity, transmissivity, T and total dissolved solids, TDS show that the upper and the lower zones can best be described as very good (VG) and slightly good (SG), respectively, in terms of quantity of groundwater. However, the upper zone is highly vulnerable to surface pollution compared to the lower zone. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Two waste-disposal sites (old and new) in Calabar Municipality, SE Nigeria were evaluated to assess their suitability as landfill sites and their impact on the groundwater. The field investigation included surface geological/hydrogeological and geochemical studies. Leachate and groundwater were sampled and analysed for 3 months (April, May and June, 1997) for geochemical characterisation. The results indicate that the two waste-disposal sites in the Calabar Municipality do not meet the requirements as landfill sites. Physico-chemical analyses for temperature, pH, conductivity, dissolved oxygen, biological oxygen demand after 5 days of incubation (BOD5), sulphate, nitrates, nitrite, trace and major elements in the leachate known to impact human health and the environment, indicate high levels of pollution. The values for groundwater in the vicinity of the disposal sites were found to be within the World Health Organisation (WHO) permissible limit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Although an increasing access to ART in sub-Saharan Africa has made it possible for HIV/AIDS patients to live longer, clinicians managing such patients are faced with the challenge of drug-related metabolic complications., Methods: A cross -sectional study was carried out at the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital, Nigeria, on three groups of participants; namely HIV patients on ART, ART-naïve patients and HIV negative subjects (n =75). Demographic and anthropometric data were collected using a well-structured questionnaire while biochemical parameters were measured using colorimetric methods., Results: The highest prevalence of MS was associated with the HIV/AIDS patients on ART (i.e. 32.0 %, and 50.3% for NCEP-ATP III and IDF criteria respectively). Patients on ART had significant increases (p< 0.05) in waist to hip ratio, FPG, serum TG and LDL-c; and a significantly higher (p< 0.05) prevalence of hypertension, diabetes, low HDL-c and hypertriglyceridaemia compared to the ART-naïve patients. Low serum HDL-c was the most prevalent form of dyslipidaemia in all three groups and the most prevalent component of MS in HIV patients., Conclusion: ART increases the risk of MS and CVD. HIV/AIDS patients on ART should be advised on lifestyle modifications and undertake regular assessment of their cardiovascular risk factors., (© 2022 Ojong E et al.)

The clinical diagnosis of rubella is unreliable as the symptoms are often confused with other viral and non-viral exanthematic illnesses. Acquired forms are self-limiting whereas the congenital type has devastating consequences on the foetus. The aim of this study is to highlight rubella infections in children and to draw to the attention of relevant authorities the need for routine rubella immunization for children and women of childbearing ages. This was a prospective cross-sectional study conducted from February to December 2012. Thirty five children aged 2 to 18 years, were referred to selected health facilities in Calabar following reports of symptoms of fever and skin rash, clinically resembling measles. The demographic data of the children were obtained. Blood was collected from each child and sent for measles and rubella IgM ELISA. Data were analysed using SPSS version 16. Of the 35 children with fever and skin rash, 22 were males while 13 were females (1.7:1). Fourteen (40%) of the children were found to be IgM seropositive for rubella. Five (35.7%) of rubella IgM seropositive children were less than five years of age while 7 (50%) were 5-10 years old. There was no significant difference in the seropositivity for rubella IgM antibody according to age and sex of the patients and (P=12.5). Only one child (2.8%) was positive for measles IgM. Acute rubella infection is clinically indistinguishable from measles and is confirmed to be present in Calabar, Nigeria. We therefore advocate for routine immunisation of children and women of childbearing ages to prevent the damaging effects of rubella to the unborn baby. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]