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Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are major public health challenge especially in developing countries. This study was designed to determine the prevalence of Hepatitis B virus (HBV), Hepatitis C Virus (HCV), Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and Human T-cell lymphotropic Virus type I (HTLV-I) among pregnant women attending antenatal clinic, in Ladoke Akintola University Teaching Hospital, Osogbo, and South-Western Nigeria. One hundred and eighty two randomly selected pregnant women were screened for HBsAg, anti-HCV, anti-HIV and HTLV-1 IgM antibodies using commercially available ELISA kit. Of the182 blood samples of pregnant women screened whose age ranged from 15–49 years, 13 (7.1%), 5 (2.7%), 9 (4.9%), and 44 (24.2%) were positive for HBsAg, anti-HCV, anti-HIV, and HTLV-1 IgM antibodies, respectively. The co-infection rate of 0.5% was obtained for HBV/HCV, HBV/HIV, HIV/HTLV-1, and HCV/HTLV-1 while 1.1% and 0% was recorded for HBV/HTLV-1 and HCV/HIV co-infections, respectively. Expected risk factors such as history of surgery, circumcision, tattooing and incision showed no significant association with any of the viral STIs (P> 0.05). This study shows that there is the need for a comprehensive screening of all pregnant women for HBsAg, anti-HCV, anti-HIV and HTLV-1 to prevent mother to child transmission of these viral infections and its attending consequences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Production of extended-spectrum β-lactamases (ESBLs) producing E. coli in animals and different methods of identifications from Ado Ekiti, Ekiti State, Nigeria, were investigated. Three hundred and fifty fecal samples, collected from apparently healthy cattle and pigs, were cultured and identified following standard procedures. ESBL phenotypic detection was carried out using combination disc test, double disc synergism test, and ESBL brilliance agar screening. Molecular detection of TEM, SHV, and CTX-M genes was carried out using standard molecular method. One hundred and fourteen E. coli isolates were recovered from the 350 samples processed, out of which 72 (63.2%) isolates were positive for ESBLs with multiple resistance to the antibiotics used. Eighty-one (71%) isolates were positive for ESBL by combination disc test, 90 (78.9%) were positive for double disc synergism test, and 93 (81.6%) were positive for ESBL brilliance agar. TEM and CTX-M genes were detected in 48 (42.1%) and 51 (44.7%) isolates, respectively. SHV gene was not detected in any of the isolates while TEM and CTX-M were detected in 33 (28.9%) isolates. This study showed high resistance of E. coli to antibiotics, particularly to the third generation cephalosporins. Regular monitoring and regulated use of antibiotics in livestock should be encouraged. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: West Nile virus (WNV) is a mosquito-borne virus that circulates among avians, but can also affect other species, particularly humans and horses. The virus is transmissible via blood transfusion. Objectives: To determine the prevalence of the West Nile virus among blood donors in Nigeria. Materials and Methods: Serum samples from 185 blood donors who donated blood at blood bank units of Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching hospitals and Ladoke Akintola University Teaching Hospital, Nigeria were screened for WNV IgM antibody. Results: Out of the 185 donors recruited for the study, 175 (94.6%) were males. The age of the participant ranges from 18 - 65 years with the mean age (SD± 20.3). One hundred and sixty five (89.1%) donors are urban dwellers while twenty (10.8%) donors are rural dwellers. Twenty seven donors (15.4%), out of the urban group regularly use insecticides treated or mosquito repellant nets whereas none of the rural dwellers use insecticides or mosquito net. All the 185 donors screened were negative for West Nile virus- specific IgM antibody. Conclusion: This study reveals that there is no serological evidence of WNV infection in Osun state Nigeria. Although this is only a preliminary report, there would be the need for a more elaborate study cutting across different seasons of the year on the prevalence of WNV in Nigeria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Issues: Quality-management systems (QMS) are uncommon in clinical laboratories in Nigeria, and until recently, none of the nation's 5 349 clinical laboratories have been able to attain the certifications necessary to begin the process of attaining international accreditation. Nigeria's Human Virology Laboratory (HVL), however, began implementation of a QMS in 2006, and in 2008 it was determined that the laboratory conformed to the requirements of ISO 9001:2000 (now 2008), making it the first diagnostic laboratory to be certified in Nigeria. The HVL has now applied for the World Health Organization (WHO) accreditation preparedness scheme. The experience of the QMS implementation process and the lessons learned therein are shared here. Description: In 2005, two personnel from the HVL spent time studying quality systems in a certified clinical laboratory in Dakar, Senegal. Following this peer-to-peer technical assistance, several training sessions were undertaken by HVL staff, a baseline assessment was conducted, and processes were established. The HVL has monitored its quality indicators and conducted internal and external audits; these analyses (from 2007 to 2009) are presented herein. Lessons learned: Although there was improvement in the pre-analytical and analytical indicators analysed and although data-entry errors decreased in the post-analytical process, the delay in returning laboratory test results increased significantly. There were several factors identified as causes for this delay and all of these have now been addressed except for an identified need for automation of some high-volume assays (currently being negotiated). Internal and external audits showed a trend of increasing non-conformities which could be the result of personnel simply becoming lax over time. Application for laboratory accreditation, however, could provide the renewed vigour needed to correct these non-conformities. Recommendation: This experience shows that sustainability of the QMS at present is a cause for concern. However, the tiered system of accreditation being developed by WHO-Afro may act as a driving force to preserve the spirit of continual improvement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heterotopic pregnancy (HP) is the co-existence of intrauterine and ectopic pregnancies; it is said to be rare. We report the case of a 22 year old woman with HP after unsuccessful attempts at abortion. This report illustrates the treatment difficulties encountered in a delayed presentation, and the nature HP is assuming in rural practice. It also highlights the role of family physicians in reducing maternal mortality in resource-limited settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The prevalence of heart diseases, such as coronary artery disease and congestive heart failure, increases with age. Optimal therapeutic interventions that antagonize aging may reduce the occurrence and mortality of adult heart diseases. We discuss here how molecular mechanisms mediating life span extension affect aging of the heart and its resistance to pathological insults. In particular, we review our recent findings obtained from transgenic mice with cardiac-specific overexpression of Sirt1, which demonstrated delayed aging and protection against oxidative stress in the heart. We propose that activation of known longevity mechanisms in the heart may represent a novel cardioprotection strategy against aging and certain types of cardiac stress, such as oxidative stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Examines the ways in which rumors spread and how organizations can stop them. Definition of rumor; Effects of rumors; Three ways to manage rumor in a company; Importance of grapevines in informal communications.

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

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

Indigenous knowledge (IK), a key component of knowledge, is considered crucial in any country's knowledge system. However, despite the importance of indigenous knowledge in promoting the knowledge economy, it has been observed that many indigenous knowledge systems in developing countries such as Nigeria are gradually becoming extinct due to cultural, educational and economic developments. This paper investigated the preservation and use of indigenous knowledge in public libraries in Southwest Nigeria. A survey method anchored on the positivism paradigm was employed for the study. Based on this, copies of the questionnaire was used as a data collection instrument. One hundred and fifty (150) library personnel were randomly selected from the five (5) purposely chosen public libraries in Southwest Nigeria. The study's findings revealed that educational purposes were the primary reason for using the indigenous knowledge in the libraries. It was also revealed that video and audio recordings were significant sources of preserving IK in public libraries. Access to IK resources by the users was through the use of ICT tools such as computers and compact discs, while inadequate funding was identified as the major challenge facing the development of IK. The study recommends, among others, increased budgetary allocation to public libraries for the management of IK resources; and that practical steps should be taken to create awareness on the need to preserve IK activities in video or audio formats. This study contributes to knowledge in IK development by providing new data and information relevant to policymaking and IK research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soursop (Annona muricata) is a multipurpose fruit tree species, which is mostly propagated by seeds, thus producing plants that exhibit various degree of variability. The objective of this study was to assess the influence of scion length and point of attachment on rootstock on survival and growth on grafted Annona muricata. Varying points were marked out on the rootstock from the base of the plant and varying scion lengths (5, 10 and 15 cm) were collected. The modified cleft method of grafting was adopted and this was monitored daily for freshness and appearance of new shoot. At the end of two months, survived grafted plants were removed and arranged under a weaning shed, where they were further monitored for number of leaves, height of graft, diameter of scion and rootstock. Results showed that scion length varied significantly (P<0.05) for all the parameters assessed. The effect of point of attachment on rootstock was also significant on the number of leaves, as well as scion collar diameter. The effect rootstock on graft height and rootstock collar diameter was not significant. The interactive effect of scion and rootstock was significant (P<0.05) for all parameters, except height of graft. For successful graft, survival and growth of grafted A. muricata, 10 - 15 cm long scion should be used and this should be inserted at the upper part (15 cm) of the rootstock. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

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

The study investigated the competency training needs of lecturers for e-learning instructional delivery in teacher education programs. Two research questions and hypotheses guided the study. The sample size comprised 540 participants from the colleges of education and faculties of education in the universities in South West, Nigeria. Mean and standard deviation were used to answer the research questions while the hypotheses were tested using Z-test statistical tool. The results of data analysis showed that lecturers needed training for technology related competencies and pedagogical knowledge. It was recommended among others that workshops and seminars should be organized within and outside the country for cross fertilization of ideologies and skills, and regular up-grading of teaching and learning facilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has been ravaging Nigeria and the world with increasing morbidity and mortality. Despite efforts by the Nigerian government implemented through the Nigerian Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) to reduce the scourge of the disease through public enlightenment and regular updates, the number of new cases and mortalities from COVID-19 are still increasing. Family physicians (FPs) who are the first contact of care for most patients accessing private and public health facilities in Nigeria have been working tirelessly to reduce the scourge of the pandemic in Nigeria. They continuously update themselves through regular webinars and online resources and guidelines provided by the Society of Family Physicians of Nigeria (SOFPON). Measures adopted by FPs across the country in the fight against the scourge include triaging patients as they present to the family medicine clinics; health education and enlightenment of the populace; and ensuring social distancing, regular handwashing and compulsory use of face mask by both physicians and patients during clinical consultations. Other measures include incorporating family-focused behavioural interventions in their practice, home-based care to reduce the number of persons visiting the hospital, telemedicine and Hospice and palliative care services to the elderly and terminally ill. In conclusion, FPs in Nigeria are helping to reduce the scourge of COVID-19 through patient education and innovative healthcare delivery that does not put patients at increased risk of the disease whilst promptly recognising potential COVID-19 patients and referring them for early diagnosis and treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article discusses how Co-Principal Investigators that designed and executed the Estate Little Princess Archaeology Project (ELPAP) came together as a community, to demonstrate how such a formation within the discipline, with all its ups and downs, facilitates the skills needed to conduct community archaeology. By using the ELPAP as a case study, this article provides a multiscale examination of the ELPAP, expanding the discourse on community archaeology to include community building practices among archaeologists, between organizations, and with communities impacted by archaeological work., (© The Author(s) 2021.)