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Hoslundia opposita Vahl is a multi-purpose medicinal plant used traditionally to treat gonorrhea, cystitis, cough, fever, snake bites, convulsion in many parts of Africa. The objectives of this research are to evaluate the phytochemical profile, antioxidant activity of the leaves of Hoslundia opposita Vahl and to dock its phytochemical components with uropathogenic Escherichia coli strain F11(ID:3NRP) and NFeoB from Escherichia coli BL21(ID:5FH9). Harborne’s method was used for the identification of the class of phytochemicals while GC-MS was used to identify the type of phytochemicals. Folin-Ciocalteau method was used to determine the total phenolic content while aluminum colorimetric assay was used to estimate the total flavonoid content. 1, 1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) was used to evaluate the antioxidant activity. The molecular docking simulation method was used to investigate the interactions of the phytochemicals with the Escherichia coli receptors. In the phytochemical studies, flavonoids, terpenoids, cardiac glycosides and saponins were identified to be present in the methanolic leaf extract while steroids, alkaloids and anthraquinones were absent. The GC-MS analysis of the methanolic extract revealed presence of 17 compounds out of which 14 were identified. The compounds with appreciable quantity in the leaf extract were 1, 2, 3-benzetriol (38.11%), n-hexadacanoic acid (13.52%) and catechol (9.98%). Assessment of the antioxidant activity using DPPH gave a scavenging activity of 79.86% at 500ug/ml compared with ascorbic acid having a scavenging activity of 90.85% at the same concentration. Evaluation of the total phenolic and flavonoid contents at 500 ug/ml gave the values of 262.54 mg gallic acid equivalent/g extract and 6.24 mg quercetin equivalent/g extract respectively compared with gallic acid and quercetin with maximum concentrations of 385.12 and 12.46 respectively. This shows that the extract has significant antioxidant activity and can be explored as a valuable source of natural antioxidants. GC-MS analysis of the methanolic extract of Hoslundia opposita showed the presence of trans-3-(trifluoromethyl)cinnamic acid, octadecyl ester which was active against Escherichia coli. Docking results with 3NRP and 5FH9 showed binding affinities of -6.1, -6.6, 7.2and -7.0,7.4, 8.5 kJ/mol with the commercial drugs : ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin and tetracycline respectively while that of trans 3-(trifluoromethyl)cinnamic acid, octadecyl ester identified in the leaves were 5.6 and 5.9 kJ/mol.

Ocean and coast based economic activities are increasingly being recognized as key drivers for supporting global economies. This move towards a “blue economy” is becoming widespread in view of the paucity of land resources being experienced globally by promoting sustainable and inclusive economic growth using oceanic resources. The sustainability of these ocean-based activities must however be intricately linked with the existence of a comprehensive and cohesive legal framework to align marine conservation with the extractive and exploitative endeavors. This paper analyses the potential for a blue economy in Nigeria and examines the adequacy of the existing legal regimes on marine environmental protection meant to reduce the risks of intensified ocean-based activities resulting into unsustainable environmental impacts. The paper submits that deriving sustainable wealth from ocean-based activities in Nigeria is achievable given the existing legal framework for marine environmental protection in the country. It however recommends the need to further tighten the noose around the implementation protocols of these laws to better integrate the health of the ocean ecosystem into the development of the country’s ocean resources.

Silver nano particles (AgNPs) were green synthesized using Adansonia digitata leaf extract. The synthesized silver nano particles were characterized in terms of synthesis, size, shape, morphology and capping functionalities by UV-Visible Spectroscopy, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). Antimicrobial activity of the synthesized silver nano particles was investigated by well diffusion method. The antibacterial activity of the nano particle was studied against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Bacillus subtilis, Pseudomonas aeurigunosa, Salmonella typhi and Klebsiella pneumonae while the antifungal activity was studied against Candida albicans, Aspergillus niger, Penicillum notatum and Rhizopus stolomifer. The synthesized AgNPs was active against all the studied microorganisms. Staphylococcus aureus was the most susceptible bacterium (inhibition zones ranging from 12.00 to 28.00 mm, MIC: 30 µl, MBC: 50 µl) while Aspergillus niger was the most susceptible fungi (inhibition zones ranging from 10.00 to 18.00 mm, MIC: 90 µl, MFC: 120 µl. In conclusion the synthesized silver nanoparticles was found to have antimicrobial activity against the pathogenic bacteria and fungi tested and hence has a great potential in biomedical application for the treatment of microbial infections.

Ijeoma V Ezeome,1,2 Simisola O Akintola,2,3 Ayodele S Jegede,2,4 Emmanuel R Ezeome5 1Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Nigeria, Enugu, Nigeria; 2Department of Bioethics, Faculty of Multidisciplinary Studies and Faculty of Clinical Sciences, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria; 3Department of Business and Private Law, Faculty of Law, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria; 4Department of Sociology, Faculty of the Social Sciences, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria; 5Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Nigeria, Enugu, NigeriaCorrespondence: Ijeoma V EzeomeDepartment of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Nigeria, Ituku-Ozalla Campus, Enugu, NigeriaTel +234 805 812 4721Email ezeomeij@gmail.com; ijeoma.ezeome@unn.edu.ngPurpose: In the past decade, developments in the field of Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) have intensified the hopes and the desires of infertile people to overcome infertility, resulting in an increasing demand for such services worldwide. However, as developments in ART have evolved rapidly, so have ethical, social, and political controversies surrounding many aspects arisen. It is known that societal ethics is dependent on the values and culture of a given group. We sought to explore how practitioners and clients in Nigeria perceive some Key ethical issues surrounding ART.Materials and Methods: This was an explorative descriptive study involving in-depth interview of three ART providers and eight female ART clients, all domiciled in Southeastern Nigeria. Sampling was by purposive and snowballing techniques for providers and clients, respectively. Ethical approval was obtained from University of Ibadan/University College Hospital and University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital Research Ethics Committees. Responses were grouped into themes for ease of discussion.Results: Providers and clients were in support of sex selection for family balancing, and multiple embryo transfers. They also perceive that the health of the woman should be the factor considered and not biological age for service provision. However, views differed on marital status as an access factor. Participants were in support of legally binding regulations to guide practice.Conclusion: A culturally sensitive national regulation is recommended to guide practice in this vital area of reproduction.Keywords: new conception methods, societal ethics, national regulation, practitioners, patients

Synthesis of nanoparticles by biological methods using microorganisms, enzymes or plant extracts has been suggested as possible ecofriendly alternative to chemical and physical methods which involve the use of harmful reducing agents. In the current study, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were synthesized by green approach from methanolic leaf extract of Blighia sapida. The synthesized AgNPs were characterized by UV-visible (UV-vis) spectroscopy, Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). The antioxidant activity was evaluated using DPPH radical scavenging assay, determination of total reductive potential, total phenolics content (TPC) and total flavonoids content (TFC) of the synthesized AgNPs. SEM analysis revealed that the size of the synthesized silver nanoparticles ranged from 50-70 nm with maximum UV-vis absorbance at 413 nm. DPPH radical scavenging activity, reducing power, total phenolic and total flavonoid contents of the synthesized AgNPs increased in a dose dependent manner as compared to ascorbic acid the standard reference used. This result confirmed that Blighia sapida is a potential biomaterial for synthesizing AgNPs which can be exploited for its antioxidant activity. This study provides an insight into the usage of Blighia sapida leaf as a good source of naturally occurring antioxidant and could have great importance as therapeutic agent in preventing or ameliorating oxidative stress related diseases.

Background Teaching bioethics (BE) is one way to contribute to reflecting if research on humans, health policies and interventions are legitimate. Nonetheless, BE and law have been a relatively new subjects in medical schools in Nigeria, with increasing interest only since the late 1990s following the Pfizer Trovan study. Literature in this emerging field mostly refers to experiences from high-income countries (HIC), literature on low-and middle-income countries (LMIC) is scarce. Objectives This presentation describes over 10 years’ experience of teaching BE in the residency program, to doctors and within a Masters in BE Program of the University of Ibadan, Nigeria. The paper discusses the content, skills, teaching approach and tools employed in these activities. Challenges of the teaching process are identified and future teaching strategies suggested. Results The crop of students are largely unemployed young graduates, health professionals, ethics committee members. They come from Southern Nigeria; there is a weak representation from the Northern states of Nigeria. Based on students and lecturer evaluation reports, we can report that it is important to teach BE in LMICs such as Nigeria. A country that has experienced many ethically challenging and even evil activities in medicine and medical research coupled with a radically changing value system. Teaching universal norms of BE in a country with a high level of illiteracy and cultural differences where religion plays a major role in defining what is right, wrong or appropriate remains a challenge. Conclusions For BE training to be impactful and result in systemic and structural changes in health policy and education in Nigeria, the government must invest in proper institutionalization of research and clinical ethics in curricula in Nigeria. Key messages Efforts need to be increased in Nigeria and other LMICs to teach BE. HIC institutions could offer guidance by becoming partners organizing ethics training.

Adequate preparation for highly pathogenic infectious disease pandemic can reduce the incidence, prevalence and burden of diseases like COVID-19 pandemic. An antidote to the spread of the disease is adequate preparation for its control since there is no proven curative measure yet. Effective management of identified cases, social distancing, contact tracing and provision of basic infrastructure to facilitate compliance with preventive measures, testing are proven management strategies. Although these measures seem to be the best options presently, it is important to pay attention to ethical issues arising from the implementation process to ensure best practice. While disease epidemic is not alien to human societies, lessons from previous outbreaks are vital for addressing future outbreaks. For effective control of this pandemic, there should be a clear definition of social distancing in terms of distance and space in line with the WHO definition, adequate provision of basic amenities, screening and testing with specific criteria for selecting those to be screened. Also, there should be a free testing procedure, access to treatment opportunities for those who test positive, ethical free contact tracing practice, respect for the autonomy of those to be tested, and global best practice of open science, open data and data sharing practices. In conclusion, a framework/guideline for epidemic/pandemic ethics guidance should be developed while an ethical sensitive communication manual should be prepared for public engagement on epidemic and pandemic.

Previous studies have shown Costus afer to possess ethno-medical and ethno-veterinary properties, however, the link between C. afer and reproductive activities are not clear. The aim of this research was to assess the impact of C. afer leaf on semen quality characteristics and testosterone levels of adult buck rabbits. Eighteen adult crossbred New Zealand and Chinchilla breeds were divided into three treatments (A, B and C) (n=6) in a completely randomized design (CRD) for 12 weeks. The results showed significant (P 0.05) on parameters like appearance (normal), semen volume, and viscosity between the groups. Serum testosterone increased significantly (P < 0.05) in treated groups (C: 21.0 ng/mL; B: 11.6 ng/mL) than control (A: 11.0 ng/mL), respectively. These results indicate that C. afer has a negative fertility impact on buck rabbits. Key words: Costus afer, semen, testosterone, rabbit, buck.

An improved produced water reinjection (PWRI) model that incorporates filtration, geochemical reaction, molecular transport, and mass adsorption kinetics was developed to predict cake deposition and injectivity performance in hydrocarbon aquifers in Nigeria oil fields. Thus, the improved PWRI model considered contributions of geochemical reaction, adsorption kinetics, and hydrodynamic molecular dispersion mechanism to alter the injectivity and deposition of suspended solids on aquifer wall resulting in cake formation in pores during PWRI and transport of active constituents in hydrocarbon reservoirs. The injectivity decline and cake deposition for specific case studies of hydrocarbon aquifers in Nigeria oil fields were characterized with respect to its well geometry, lithology, and calibrations data and simulated in COMSOL multiphysics software environment. The PWRI model was validated by comparisons to assessments of previous field studies based on data and results supplied by operator and regulator. The results of simulation showed that PWRI performance was altered because of temporal variations and declinations of permeability, injectivity, and cake precipitation, which were observed to be dependent on active adsorption and geochemical reaction kinetics coupled with filtration scheme and molecular dispersion. From the observed results and findings, transition time t r to cake nucleation and growth were dependent on aquifer constituents, well capacity, filtration coefficients, particle-to-grain size ratio, water quality, and more importantly, particle-to-grain adsorption kinetics. Thus, the results showed that injectivity decline and permeability damage were direct contributions of geochemical reaction, hydrodynamic molecular diffusion, and adsorption kinetics to the internal filtration mechanism, which are largely dependent on the initial conditions of concentration of active constituents of produced water and aquifer capacity.

In Nigeria, reproduction is highly valued, with many people desiring to produce a child 'in their own image and likeness'. Previously, aspiring parents often resorted to adoption. Today, the availability of assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) has provided options other than adoption for those desiring to procreate. Through ARTs, aspirations for a family may be attained through an exchange of reproductive goods and services, and not necessarily through traditional heterosexual relationships. ARTs have altered the perception of parenthood as it exists in Nigeria, and courts face a difficult task in defining parenthood within Nigerian jurisprudence, as they can only adjudicate based on extant law. Although ARTs provide greater individual choices for fulfilling the desire to procreate, they raise a number of ethical and legal issues that evolving legal systems, such as that in Nigeria, are ill-equipped to manage. This paper describes the traditional assignment of parenthood under indigenous laws and other sources of law within the Nigerian jurisprudence. We carried out an in-depth study of the Nigerian legislative framework and found that there are no laws directly regulating parenthood, procreation and ARTs in Nigeria. We also found that the extant laws are only tangentially related and do not answer the relevant questions sufficiently well, especially concerning succession, nationality and assignment of responsibility in collaborative reproduction. We conclude by highlighting the need for and recommending a regulatory framework on ARTs with a particular focus on providing a definition for parenthood achieved through ARTs in Nigeria.

In this study, corn cobs (CC) and Cedrela odorata (CO) sawdust which are common waste materials in Nigeria were used as raw materials in the production of bio-oil through pyrolysis at 500°C, for 2 h. The biochar produced in the process was sulfonated with concentrated sulfuric acid under reflux at 150°C for 6 h and used as a solid acid catalyst for bio-oil upgrading. The bio-oil was upgraded by simultaneous olefination and esterification using 3,7-dimethyloct-1-ene and butanol which served as a reagent and cosolvent. FT-IR spectra of the activated biochar from CC and CO raw materials showed an absorbance in the range of 1032–1180 cm−1, which is indicative of asymmetric S=O bonds, and the spectra also revealed a band between 3400 and 3700 cm−1, which indicated presence of hydrogen-bonded hydroxyl groups and thus successful activation of the biochar. This observed IR absorbance was absent in the nonactivated biochar. Proximate analysis of upgraded bio-oils revealed a significant reduction in percentage water and oxygen contents, an increase in the high heating value (HHV) and flammability. The chemical composition of the bio-oils was determined using GC-MS, and it showed significant reduction in oxygenated compounds in the upgraded bio-oil as against their high composition in raw bio-oils.

Open defecation has continued to pose serious health and environmental challenges globally. This practice affects almost 1 billion people worldwide and is said to contribute significantly to an estimated 842,000 deaths resulting from sanitation related diseases. A survey conducted by UNICEF ranks Nigeria as the African country with the highest population practicing open defecation and the second next to India globally. To tackle this and to prevent an environmental and health crisis, a state of emergency was declared in the water supply, sanitation and hygiene services (WASH) sector that led to the signing of an executive order to end open defecation by 2025. The objective is to eliminate open defecation and also ensure that SDG 6 is achieved especially in the rural areas. This paper posits that achieving an open defecation free status has and still remains a primary target for the government in Nigeria at all levels and the machinery of law be deployed as a viable tool to achieve this target. It submits that for this target to be met, there is the need to recognize the right to sanitation as one of the key ways to address sanitation issues especially open defecation. Articulating this right in a way that respects equity, human rights and environmental sustainability will effectively aid in the realization of the goal of ending open defecation by 2025.

Synthesis of nanoparticles by biological methods using microorganisms, enzymes or plant extracts has been suggested as possible ecofriendly alternative to chemical and physical methods which involve the use of harmful reducing agents. In the current study, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were synthesized by green approach from methanolic leaf extract of Blighia sapida. The synthesized AgNPs were characterized by UV-visible (UV-vis) spectroscopy, Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). The antioxidant activity was evaluated using DPPH radical scavenging assay, determination of total reductive potential, total phenolics content (TPC) and total flavonoids content (TFC) of the synthesized AgNPs. SEM analysis revealed that the size of the synthesized silver nanoparticles ranged from 50-70 nm with maximum UV-vis absorbance at 413 nm. DPPH radical scavenging activity, reducing power, total phenolic and total flavonoid contents of the synthesized AgNPs increased in a dose dependent manner as compared to ascorbic acid the standard reference used. This result confirmed that Blighia sapida is a potential biomaterial for synthesizing AgNPs which can be exploited for its antioxidant activity.

Individuals with sickle cell anaemia (SCA) have lower systemic blood pressures compared to individuals with haemoglobin Hb AA phenotype.Seventy-nine (79) individuals with SCA (subjects) in steady state and 50 age-matched individuals with Hb AA (controls) were prospectively studied. Height, blood pressure (BP), weight, creatinine clearance (by 24-hour urine collection), full blood count (FBC) and reticulocyte count were obtained from all subjects and controls. Body mass index (BMI), corrected reticulocyte count, mean arterial pressure (MAP) and pulse pressure (PP) were calculated using standard protocols.The frequency of vaso-occlusive crises in the last one year and number of blood transfusions in the last two years were obtained from subjects. Data was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics and p ≤0.05 was used to define the level of statistical significance.Seventy-nine (79) individuals with SCA (subjects) in steady state and 50 age-matched individuals with Hb AA (controls) were prospectively studied. Height, blood pressure (BP), weight, creatinine clearance (by 24-hour urine collection), full blood count (FBC) and reticulocyte count were obtained from all subjects and controls. Body mass index (BMI), corrected reticulocyte count, mean arterial pressure (MAP) and pulse pressure (PP) were calculated using standard protocols.The frequency of vaso-occlusive crises in the last one year and number of blood transfusions in the last two years were obtained from subjects. Data was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics and p ≤0.05 was used to define the level of statistical significance.The systolic (105.52±11.75mmHg and 113.20±7.94mmHg respectively; P = 0.01), diastolic (62.59±9.33mmHg and 75.40±5.70mmHg respectively; P=0.03) and mean arterial pressures (76.90±8.81mmHg and 88.00±5.51mmHg respectively; P =0.04) were significantly lower in subjects when compared with controls. ; pulse pressure (PP) was however significantly higher in subjects than controls (42.92±10.91mmHg and 37.80±7.43mmHg respectively (P = 0.03). In female subjects, the white cell count was negatively correlated with systolic BP (r = -0.39;P = 0.01) and PP (r = -0.33; P = 0.03).Lower systolic and pulse pressures may predict worsening disease severity in individuals with sickle cell anaemia.

This paper examines the legal aspects of parenthood and how it is, or could be, determined in Nigeria given the wide popularity and uptake of assisted reproductive technology (ART). It aims to establish whether the existing national laws can sufficiently protect the interests of the child who is born and of the consumers, with an emphasis on the determination of the status of the parents. It also identifies problems and proposes solutions with regard to the specific issue of establishing legal parenthood following the use of ART, either with or without state regulation. The paper concludes by recommending specific ART legislation that could help solve the problems, and advises Nigerian law-makers to pay attention to statutes from other jurisdictions as a guide.

Economic issues are typically at the heart of migration decisions globally. Disparities in incomes between countries play a major role in motivating people with different levels of skills to migrate from Africa to countries with more developed economies in search of secure livelihoods and improved quality of life. South Africa, an upper middle income country, is the leading migration destination country in sub-Saharan Africa because of its buoyant economy. Research has focused on cross-border migration to South Africa while less attention has been on migration among low-skilled migrants from West Africa. We conducted an ethnographic study of 13 low-skilled Nigerian migrants working as street traders in a flea market in Durban. South Africa. Findings indicate that migrants were motivated to travel to South Africa because of misinformation from migrant returnees as well as friends and family resident in South Africa about their potential for considerable economic success abroad. Some were stuck while planning to use South Africa as a transit country to other countries in Europe and North America. Migrants encountered many challenges that prevented them from achieving their dreams of living a better life overseas and ended up as street traders in the flea market. There they endured a lesser quality of life than in their home country but were ashamed to return home preferring instead to eek out a living, and to request and receive financial support from their families at home. Findings have implications for migration policy highlighting the need for innovative ways of disseminating accurate information to potential migrants and assisting migrants to return home. Further research on migrant integration to host country and reverse remittances will be of great value.

Majority of the HIV/AIDS patients in South Africa receive health care services at home. However, limited studies have been conducted to examine the water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) situation in the homes of the care receivers and its impact on community-based care. The main objective of this study was to explore community health workers (CHW) perceptions on WASH in home-based care and the implications on people living with HIV/AIDS/TB, their family members and the CHW. Participants for this qualitative study were drawn from four community home-based care organizations in four marginalized communities in Durban providing care to HIV/AIDS/TB clients. Data was collected using participant observation of care-giving activities; semi-structured interviews with five home-based care project managers from the organizations and five focus group discussions with a total of 49 CHW. The study revealed that CHW had limited access to protective materials such as gloves and aprons and therefore tended to avoid carrying out activities that could help maintain proper hygiene in the homes for fear of infection. There was limited and unreliable access to water supply. CHW had to fetch water from immediate neighbours or surrounding areas and this created a time burden for caregivers taking away the time spent with patients. Inadequate access to water influences sanitation and hygiene, and this affects the work of CHW. Government needs to respond promptly to the water and sanitation needs of marginalized communities with limited resources. The findings of the study had implications for policy on WASH and community-based care in low in-come communities. Keywords: WASH, HIV/AIDS, Community-based care, Community health workers, Care-givers

Background Individuals with sickle cell anaemia (SCA) have lower systemic blood pressures compared to individuals with haemoglobin Hb AA phenotype. Objective Seventy-nine (79) individuals with SCA (subjects) in steady state and 50 age-matched individuals with Hb AA (controls) were prospectively studied. Height, blood pressure (BP), weight, creatinine clearance (by 24-hour urine collection), full blood count (FBC) and reticulocyte count were obtained from all subjects and controls. Body mass index (BMI), corrected reticulocyte count, mean arterial pressure (MAP) and pulse pressure (PP) were calculated using standard protocols.The frequency of vaso-occlusive crises in the last one year and number of blood transfusions in the last two years were obtained from subjects. Data was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics and p ≤0.05 was used to define the level of statistical significance. Methodology Seventy-nine (79) individuals with SCA (subjects) in steady state and 50 age-matched individuals with Hb AA (controls) were prospectively studied. Height, blood pressure (BP), weight, creatinine clearance (by 24-hour urine collection), full blood count (FBC) and reticulocyte count were obtained from all subjects and controls. Body mass index (BMI), corrected reticulocyte count, mean arterial pressure (MAP) and pulse pressure (PP) were calculated using standard protocols.The frequency of vaso-occlusive crises in the last one year and number of blood transfusions in the last two years were obtained from subjects. Data was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics and p ≤0.05 was used to define the level of statistical significance. Results The systolic (105.52±11.75mmHg and 113.20±7.94mmHg respectively; P = 0.01), diastolic (62.59±9.33mmHg and 75.40±5.70mmHg respectively; P=0.03) and mean arterial pressures (76.90±8.81mmHg and 88.00±5.51mmHg respectively; P =0.04) were significantly lower in subjects when compared with controls. ; pulse pressure (PP) was however significantly higher in subjects than controls (42.92±10.91mmHg and 37.80±7.43mmHg respectively (P = 0.03). In female subjects, the white cell count was negatively correlated with systolic BP (r = -0.39;P = 0.01) and PP (r = -0.33; P = 0.03). Conclusion Lower systolic and pulse pressures may predict worsening disease severity in individuals with sickle cell anaemia.

Surface wave dispersion can be inverted for S-wave 1D velocity models that can be used for static computation. We here show a method that, without the need of inverting the data, provides a direct estimate of not only S- but also P-wave time average velocity required for static computation. The method is based on the relationship between investigation depth of Rayleigh waves and their wavelength. We prove that this relationship is robust for estimate a set of VS time average velocity models requiring only a set of dispersion curves and the knowledge of one VS model. We also show that this relationship is sensitive to Poisson’s ratio and can therefore be used to estimate VP. We successfully apply the method to a synthetic dataset.

A number of adverse effects have been described with the use of gonadotropin releasing hormone agonist (GnRHa) therapy in children namely, localized reaction at the site of injection such as pain, erythema, rash, infection or abscess formation and systemic effects such as headache, syncope, fever, or weight gain. These effects have been reported in fewer than 2% of patients receiving GnRHa. While psychological changes have been reported in adult women receiving therapy, these types of adverse events have not been well documented in children. In this report, we describe 3 distinct cases of acute behavioral problems including emotional lability and aggression that were observed in patients being treated with GnRHa implant for central precocious puberty and with dramatic improvement of psychologic changes upon the discontinuation of therapy.

It is increasingly recognised that effective and appropriate data sharing in biobanking research requires the development of models of good data-sharing policy capable of ensuring that the rights and privacy interests of participants are protected. However, the effectiveness and efficacy of biobank research depend on data and samples. In the same vein, making such data available to the research community generates tension between two important goals: advancing scientific goals, and protecting the individual privacy interests of the tissue source. More critically, data sharing requires the development of models that promote an environment in which privacy rights and interests of participants are protected throughout the lifecycle of biobank initiatives. Many ethical issues are raised when genomics research is conducted on populations characterised by lower average income and literacy levels, such as populations included in lower-middle income countries (LMICs). These issues are further exacerbated in Nigeria by cultural and religious inflections. In this paper, to analyse the implications of data sharing within the legal framework of an LMIC, an analysis of existing laws in Nigeria was conducted. It was discovered that there were no provisions relating directly to data sharing, and its governance framework could only be gleaned from the patchwork of laws on privacy and confidentiality in Nigeria. There is a need for ethical guidelines in Nigeria to be adapted to the changing landscape of science, which increasingly involves storage and secondary use of samples and data. Current laws are inadequate for the challenges presented by biobanking.

Population pressure has diminished the role of the traditional bush fallow system in restoring the fertility of depleted soils following several years of cultivation in the derived savanna of southwest Nigeria. The search for alternative fallow systems led to the development of alley cropping using Leucaena leucocephala and cover cropping using Pueraria phaseoloides. These soil-conserving systems also embody the principles of sustainability by ensuring stable crop yields in spite of an increase in land-use intensity. Simulating smallholder farm conditions and based on a split-plot experiment with the three fallow systems as the main plots and four different land-use intensities (LUI) as the subplots, simple direct observation and record keeping were used to collect data on labour use in all farm operations including fuelwood cutting and stacking in alley cropping systems with fallow phases. Data collection covered a period of four years (1993–96), corresponding to one out of the three phases (or complete cycles) of the trial. Partial budget analysis was used to estimate profitability of cassava (Manihot utilissima)–maize (Zea mays) under each LUI. Results based on crop production indicate that each of the cassava-maize enterprises was profitable but the level of profit varied from 10 819 to 50 289 Naira ha−1. Production under cover cropping has a net benefit advantage of 4–25% (over that under bush fallow) and 25–60% (over alley cropping). Profitability increased as the LUI decreased, depicting the overall importance of fallow periods on soil fertility restoration. Results based on crop production plus fuelwood operations indicate that production with cover cropping has a net benefit advantage over that of both bush fallow and alley cropping under both zero-fallow and one-year fallow LUIs. However, results from two- and three-year fallows indicate that fuelwood yield generated sufficient revenue to put alley cropping at a net benefit advantage of 29–42% over bush fallow and 26–37% over cover cropping. From these results, cover cropping is recommended, especially to farmers in areas where, although land shortage is a problem, fuelwood and the other sources of domestic energy are still cheap and easily accessible. However, in areas with abundant land and where farmers can still wait for fallow periods of at least two years, alley cropping is recommended since, in addition to soil fertility improvement, substantial revenue is obtained. However, considerations of yield variability, labour scarcity, as well as risk-aversion behaviour among farmers may alter their technology choice.

Tuberculosis (TB) is of great public health burden globally especially in developing countries of Africa and Asia . Current TB regimen involves multiple therapies and of long duration leading to poor patient adherence. There is also the challenge of multidrug resistant TB. Hence, there is a need for discovery of new anti- TB drugs. This study was designed to investigate the in -vitro activity of the crude methanolic extract and chromatographic fractions of the bulb of Crinum jagus against Mycobacterium tuberculosis isolates. The extracts were screened for anti- TB activity against three different M. tuberculosis isolates and a drug susceptible reference strain H37Rv using Lowenstein Jensen (L-J) medium and Middlebrook 7H10agar. The crude extract was prepared using soxhlet extraction apparatus while the purified fractions were obtained by column chromatography. The two media were inoculated with M. tuberculosis strains, after which the crude and purified extracts were added. After 4-6 weeks incubation, colony forming units were counted and percentage inhibition calculated. The crude extract and the purified fractions showed inhibitory activity on all the isolates tested including the reference strain. Fraction 3 showed the highest inhibitory percentage (86%) among the extracts. At a concentration of 1.0mg/ml, the percentage inhibition of fraction 3, rifampicin and isoniazid against M. tuberculosis strain 3 were 83%, 95% and 86% in L-J medium respectively while 86%, 96% and 89% were obtained respectively in Middle brook medium. Results showed that the crude methanolic extract and the purified fractions of the bulb of Crinum jagus exhibited anti-mycobacterial activity which is an indication of promising potential of this plant for the development of anti-tuberculosis agent.

The pursuit of genomic research and biobanking has raised concerns and discussions about the ethical and legal implications. Given the specific challenges that surround such enterprise in low and middle income countries, it is pertinent to examine them in the light of the advent of Biobanking and Genomic research in Nigeria. In this paper I discuss the issues and suggest model solutions derived from advanced jurisdictions. These ethical and legal issues are discussed within the context of the legal system of a typical African country whose jurisprudence derives from that of its erstwhile colonial master, the United Kingdom. This includes issues relating to law and human rights, informed consent, native and customary law.

This study analyses some of the manpower and institutional constraints to urban water supplies in seven states in the northwestern sector of Nigeria. The study is based on an audit and analysis of the manpower situation in the state water agencies. The results show a very poor manpower situation and weaknesses in the policy, financial and institutional frameworks within which the agencies have to operate. The dismal manpower situation is obvious in the very small proportion of personnel with tertiary level technical and engineering qualifications. The impact of the shortage of qualified personnel is most felt in the operational field, especially in the area (district) offices. Low calibre of staff, poor funding and inadequate provision of transport and communication facilities greatly impair the operations of the area offices. The weak financial position of the water agencies and the civil service organizational and emolument structures under which they function have made it difficult for them to attract and retain highly qualified professionals, particularly, engineers. Much of the problems can be solved with greater autonomy of action especially in the fixing of water rates and service charges. Also, many of the constraints can be tackled with greater cooperation and coordination of effort between the state water agencies themselves.

The preservation of the public's health is one of the most important goals of government. The enactment and enforcement of law is the primary means by which government can encourage as well as compel conditions for healthier and safer lifestyles. The Law creates and assigns functions for public health authorities. In this regard, law is a fundamental element of effective public health policy and practice. It has played a crucial role in many of public health's greatest achievements. In spite of its contribution to effective Public Health practice, the potential for the application of law to chronic disease prevention and control is yet to be fully recognized. The development and implementation of legal frameworks could broaden the range of effective public health strategies and provide valuable tools for the public health workforce. In order to expand the range of effective public health interventions, the government should use the law as a tool to achieve the goal of preventing chronic diseases and ameliorate the growing epidemic of obesity, heart disease, stroke, cancer and other chronic diseases and their risk factors.

Intercropping food crops in oil palm plantations is a popular practice among oil palm farmers in Nigeria. However, farmers are not guided by economic rationale for the choice of food crops and oil palm. The study there for generated optimal farm plans in the dynamic decision environment of the farmers using a recursive linear programming model for oil palm/food crops enterprise combinations in Edo and Delta States of Nigeria. The model integrates technical and economic constraints with farmers’ objectives. The seven crop combinations identified were Oil palm/plantain (OP),Oilpalm/cocoyam(OC),Oilpalm/cassava/maize(OCAM),Oilpalm/cassava/cocoyam(OCAC),Oilpalm/p lantain/cocoyam(OPC),Oilpalm/maize/cocoyam(OMC)andOilpalm/plantain/cocoyam /maize (OPCM). Four situations: Resource Endowment of the Farmers (REFs), No Capital Borrowing and No Labour Hiring (NCLH), Labour Hiring (LH), Capital Borrowing and Labour Hiring (CBLH) were the variations in the plans. With the present REFs, optimal farm plan gave a farm income of N89,590 from 1.06 hectares OC with the use of Average Annual Quarterly Labour (AAQL) of 39 mandays and Average Annual Capital Requirement (AACR) of N67,880. The NCLH gave a total farm income of N77,885.3 from 1.15 hectares in the first year made up of 0.500ha of OC and 0.654ha of OMC using AAQL of 79 mandays and AACR of N150,561.The farm income increased by an average of 69.8% yearly in 5 years. The LH only, gave a total farm income of N423,255.7 from 1.4 hectares made up of 0.43ha of OC and 0.93ha of OMC using AAQL of 75 mandays and AACR of N150,561.The total farm income increased by an average of 69% yearly in 5 years .The CBLH from the first year gave a farm income of N101,335 from 4.06 hectares made up of 1.55 ha of OC and 2.51 ha of OMC using AAQL of 30.73 mandays and AACR of N569,508.The total farm income increased by an average of 112% yearly in 5 years. Oilpalm/cocoyam entered as a basic activity within the 5 years developed plans. Capital borrowing and labour hiring are essential prerequisites for faster acreage development. Consequently, the alternative farm plans developed will incorporate intercropping as an improved substitute to the existing mixed cropping practices. Intercropping of food crops in oil palm is profitable with potentials for growth if land is increased and capital is reinvested.

Insufficient attention has been paid to the health problems of school-age children in Nigeria due to the absence of baseline data on the health status of this group. This paper presents results of analysis of how school children perceive their own health from questionnaire survey originally designed to identify schools in which urinary schistosomiasis occurs by masking it with other health problems. School-based questionnaire asking about recent health problems was administered by teachers to school children in 101 public primary schools in Ogun State. A total of 8,422 children aged 5 to 16 years took part in this study. Of this, 90.8 % of children reported having had one health problem in the last 4 weeks. Of the 8 health problems asked, the average number reported by each child was 3.27. The distributions of the prevalence of each condition among schools were similar. For most conditions a greater percentage of boys than girls reported each health problem. This study concluded that school children in Ogun State do not perceive themselves to be healthy and suggest the use of school health questionnaire to assess and identify common health problems in school children. Keywords : School-age children, common health problems, questionnaire, Nigeria. Nigerian Journal of Parasitology Vol. 27 2006: pp. 81-84

This study examined the effect of a didactic skills training program for in-school adolescents in Ibadan on knowledge concerning prevention of sexual coercion, knowledge about HIV/AIDS, sexual role/responsibility and assertiveness/communication skills. A total of 73 in-school adolescents ages 15 – 19 years (χ = 18.2, SD 2.1) who were recruited from four secondary schools in a local government area took part in the study. Results showed a significant (p < 0.05) increase in knowledge about prevention of sexual coercion, HIV/AIDS, sexual role/responsibility and assertiveness/communication skills at post-intervention testing Also, being male, having good general self-efficacy, greater age and greater number of years of education significantly predicted a greater increase in skill acquisition. At 6 month follow-up, an appreciable number of adolescents were educated concerning various forms of topics, suggesting the ability of the adolescent to simulation of target behaviours. Our findings suggest that skills training can effectively empower adolescents with regard to safe sexual practice. IFE Psychologia (2003) 11(2), 34-52

The level of beef demand and consumption in Nigerian cities has been questionably and progressively low. This study empirically modeled a demand function of beef meat in Lagos city with the aim of identifying major demand shifters. Based on the regression analysis, unit retail price of beef and disposable income were found to have significant and direct influences on the quantity of beef demanded. Further, trend and policy shift variables represented as SAP dummy were found to have significant but inverse effect on quantity of beef demanded. The study further showed that the quantity of beef (in number and meat equivalent) slaughtered has been on the decline and as such, the per caput beef consumption has become considerably lower over the years, when compared with the minimum value recommended for Nigeria by FAO. The future demand of beef is however estimated to be high. To meet this demand there is the need for both farmers and government to increase production levels of cattle by removing the bottlenecks in livestock husbandry. Keywords: Beef, demand function, demand projection, animal protein, urban city. (Global Journal of Pure and Applied Sciences: 2002 9(1): 7-12)

This study surveyed 1,025 adolescent students and apprentices in Ibadan, Nigeria, to document their sexual behaviour and experience of sexual coercion including verbal threats, unwanted touch, unwanted kiss, assault, deception, drugging, attempted rape, and rape. Sixty five per cent of male and 48% of female apprentices were sexually experienced, compared to 32% of male and 24% of female students. More males than females reported sex with multiple partners and contact with a sex worker while females had exchanged sex for money and gifts. Fifty five per cent of all the subjects had been victims of at least one type of sexual coercion, the commonest being unwanted kiss and touch of breasts (47%). Although both males and females were victims of coercion, females were disproportionately affected--68% of female students and 70% of apprentices had experienced one coercive behaviour, compared to 42% of male students and 40% of apprentices. Female apprentices fared worst, with 19% of them raped. The main perpetrators of the coercion were persons well known to the victims including neighbours, peers and boy/girlfriends. We recommend multiple intervention programs including skills training for young persons, sensitisation workshop for training health workers, and media advocacy for the public to challenge stereotypes that favour sexual coercion of adolescents.