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Introduction Paediatric gastroenterology has become an established subspecialty in the last five decades in developed and some developing countries. Endoscopy is the cornerstone of this sub-specialty. In Nigeria, it is still at its infancy stage, though with increasing local interest. This is a report of the first Paediatric Endoscopy Workshop in Nigeria organized as a pre -conference by the Paediatric Association of Nigeria (PAN) and the Nigerian Society of Paediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition (NISPGHAN). Aim: The aim of the conference was to promote and create awareness on paediatric gastroenterology as a subspecialty and introduce participants to the practice of paediatric endoscopy. Method: This was a two day preconference workshop. Paediatricians, paediatric resisdents andnurses were in atten dance. One International and three National resource persons were on ground to impart the needed knowledge and skills. Training involved didactic lectures, hands-on sessions using manikins and three live sessions involving the upper gastrointestinal tract. Results: There were 40 attendees on day 1: 22 (55%) paediatric residents, 12 (30%) consultant paediatricians and six (15%) nurses. Day 2: 22 (52%) paediatric residents, 12 (29%) consultant paediatricians and eight (19%) nurses. Three children (two females and one male) had upper GI endoscopy (with biopsy done in two cases) during the pre-conference workshop as live sessions. They were aged eight, nine and 16 years. Indications for endoscopy were recurrent haematemesis in an eight year old female patient and recurrent upper abdominal pain in the other two patients (a male and a female). Gastritis was found in the two patients and this was confirmed histologically in one of the patients. Conclusion: The training stirred up participant’s interest in this subspecialty of paediatrics. It brought to fore the need for paediatric endoscopy to be developed in Nigeria. The procedure should be performed at tertiary centres at this stage of our development and the cost of it covered by the National Health Insurance Scheme. Four training centres to aid interested paediatricians and paediatric trained nurses acquire the needed skills are recommended.

Abstract Groundwater is considered the most important natural resource to mankind. Groundwater constitutes an important part of the hydrological cycle and is more prone to pollution. Dumpsite located in close proximity to groundwater resources is highly susceptible to leachates pollution. Predicting the susceptibility of groundwater pollution is crucial to address industry-standard codes for groundwater flow, contaminant transport, local to regional-scale water quality, and source water protection issues. Therefore, predicting heavy metal transport in groundwater around Lemna dumpsite in Cross River State, Nigeria, was examined. Soil samples were purposively collected with a soil Auger, along a straight line at (5 m, 25 m and 50 m) in the dumpsite. Water samples were purposively collected from five (5) boreholes close to Lemna dumpsite. The study utilized pumping test method to obtain data for the analysis of heavy metal transport in groundwater. Data analysis of the laboratory results of soil and borehole water quality focuses on arsenic, lead, cadmium, chromium, nickel, and mercury. Paired sample t test was used to analyse the soil and borehole water quality. Visual Modflow was also used to analyse the solute transport of heavy metals in groundwater around Lemna dumpsite. The paired sample t test of the analysis of heavy metals in soil exhibited a significant difference (p

Groundwater is considered the most important natural resource to mankind. Groundwater constitutes an important part of the hydrological cycle and is more prone to pollution. Dumpsite located in close proximity to groundwater resources is highly susceptible to leachates pollution. Predicting the susceptibility of groundwater pollution is crucial to address industry-standard codes for groundwater flow, contaminant transport, local to regional-scale water quality, and source water protection issues. Therefore, predicting heavy metal transport in groundwater around Lemna dumpsite in Cross River State, Nigeria, was examined. Soil samples were purposively collected with a soil Auger, along a straight line at (5 m, 25 m and 50 m) in the dumpsite. Water samples were purposively collected from five (5) boreholes close to Lemna dumpsite. The study utilized pumping test method to obtain data for the analysis of heavy metal transport in groundwater. Data analysis of the laboratory results of soil and borehole water quality focuses on arsenic, lead, cadmium, chromium, nickel, and mercury. Paired sample t test was used to analyse the soil and borehole water quality. Visual Modflow was also used to analyse the solute transport of heavy metals in groundwater around Lemna dumpsite. The paired sample t test of the analysis of heavy metals in soil exhibited a significant difference (p < 0.05) compared to National Environmental Standard Regulation and Enforcement Agency limits. The paired sample t test of the analysis of heavy metals in borehole water exhibited a significant difference (p < 0.05) compared to World Health Organization limits. The significant level indicates contamination of the soil and borehole water. The findings revealed a spatial spread of 259.2000 m2/day, with the contaminant travelling up to 94,608 m2/year. The extent of heavy metals concentration exhibited a maximum of 0.991 mg/l to a minimum of (− 6.72 × 10–18 mg/l), with concentrations decreasing as the plume extend. The study recommends the need for remediation and stringent monitoring to mitigate heavy metal contamination of boreholes near Lemna dumpsite. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is a global health problem and continues to be a major disease burden in the world, associated with serious health challenges including liver cirrhosis, cancer, lymphomas and death. This study was carried out to determine the prevalence of HCV infection among students of the University of Calabar. Methodology: In a cross-sectional study, 200 students were tested for the presence of anti-HCV antibodies using a rapid immunochromatographic (ICT) assay (CTK Biotech, Inc. USA). Seropositive samples were confirmed using reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) assay for detection of HCV RNA. Structured questionnaires were used to collect subjects' socio-demographic data and risk factors of infection. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 16.0, with the level of significance set at p<0.05. Results: Of the 200 students screened, the seroprevalence of HCV was 15.0% (n=30) and 9.5% (n=19) was positive for HCV RNA by RT-PCR assay. The prevalence of anti-HCV antibody was significantly higher in females (18.8%, 12/64) than males (13.2%, 18/136) (x²=3.84, p=0.036). Alcohol consumption (OR=4.67, 95% CI=2.04-10.67, p=0.002), skin piercing (OR=32.99, 95% CI=5.95-72.37, p<0.0001), multiple sexual partners (OR=4.03, 95% CI=1.7-9.6, p=0.0018), and history of blood transfusion (OR=8.00, 95% CI=2.97-21.58, p<0.001) were risk factors significantly associated with HCV infection in the study participants. Conclusion: The findings of 15.0% and 9.5% prevalence of HCV infection by anti-HCV antibody and HCV RNA, respectively in this study, showed that there is relatively high prevalence of HCV infection among the students' population in University of Calabar, Nigeria. Hence, routine medical screening of students for HCV infection using rapid ICT and RT-PCR techniques is hereby recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Flooding remains a major environmental problem in many parts of the world including Nigeria, causing untold losses. This study modelled the flood susceptibility of Calabar Metropolis using frequency ratio and geographical information system (GIS). Direct field observation and key informant approaches were used to obtain 127 previous and current flood locations in the study area from which a database of historical flood occurrence was developed. Using the geostatistical analyst tool within a geographical information environment the flood locations were split into two parts in the ratio of 70:30 percent for the training and testing processes, respectively. Eight flood conditioning factors (elevation, slope, aspect, curvature topographic position index, topographic wetness index, land cover and normalized difference vegetation index) were extracted from SRTM-30m DEM and Landsat 8 data accordingly and used in the geospatial analysis of flood occurrence within the GIS. The frequency ratio model was then developed using the training dataset. The final product was the flood susceptibility map of the study area. The results revealed that 9.3 percent of the study area was considered to have very high flood susceptibility, 19.97 percent was classified as high flood susceptibility while 31.79 percent was under moderate risk area. About 39 percent of the study area was classified at least under low flood susceptibility. The order of contribution of the conditioning factors to the model were topographic position index (TPI), elevation, normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI), land cover, curvature, aspect, slope, and topographic wetness index (TWI). The validation of the model using the receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curve returned an AUC value of 74.81 percent. Hence, the result was acceptable for the prediction of flood locations in the study area. The findings would assist urban planners, environmental managers, risk reduction and management agencies, land developers, policy makers, and indeed the general public.

The electrical resistivity, i.e. electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) and direct current-resistivity sounding (DC-ERS), and ground penetrating radar (GPR) methods were deployed to assess a gully erosion site in Bacoco area of Calabar, Nigeria. The study aims to assess the mechanism and dynamics of the gully erosion conditions in the area based on shallow lithostratigraphic evaluations. The results revealed good contrast in the operative properties (i.e. electrical resistivity and dielectric permittivity) between competent and weak zones along the profiles close to the gully head. The joint interpretations provided reliable shallow subsurface models and lithologies that consist predominantly of lateritic top cover and sands. However, the ERT model delineates the contrast between lithologies and demarcates the weak zones from the relatively competent zones, in contrast to the responses generated by the GPR technique. This joint interpretation approach minimizes the uncertainty due to the non-uniqueness problems common to the geophysical technique. Also, the geophysical interpretations were constrained using lithologic information from the gully walls and one-dimensional (1-D) DC-ERS inverted model to provide additional validity. Our findings suggest the influence of structural control on gully formation and demonstrate its contribution to the complex interactions with other drivers, such as seepages through porous media and high-energy runoff due to intense rainfall. The rapid, non-invasive and environmentally friendly characteristics of ERT and GPR techniques favour their applicability in assessing shallow subsurface environmental problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Dry eye disease (DED) is a frequently encountered ocular morbidity seen among adult patients attending ophthalmic clinics in Nigeria. It can be assessed using different methods although there is differing consensus on reliable tests for accurate diagnosis. Aim: The aim of this study was to assess DED using Schirmer 1 without anaesthesia among adult patients attending the Eye Clinic in a tertiary hospital in Calabar. Methodology: This was a cross sectional study among adult patients who attended the Eye Clinic of University of Calabar Teaching Hospital who were recruited consecutively from January 1st to March 31st, 2019. All consenting participants had comprehensive eye examination and were assessed for DED using the Schirmer 1 Test. Test values of less than 10mm were diagnostic of aqueous tear deficiency. Initial data categorization yielded frequencies, percentages and proportions. Categorical variables were analysed using Chi-square test and continuous variables using Student’s t-test. Statistical significance was found where p-values were

This study examined pavement failure in some roads in Calabar Metropolis using electrical resistivity tomography method. Seven (7) measurements were taken at the natural soil opposite the failed and stable segments of the road with the aid of Wenner electrode configuration at spacing of 5.0, 10.0, 15.0, 20.0, 25.0, 30.0 and 35.0m with spread length of 105m. The findings of this study revealed that along Jonathan by-pass - Lafarge - Akansoko road, low resistivity values were 8.0 Ωm - 73.0 Ωm at Akansoko a stable segment; 6.0 Ωm - 17.0 Ωm at Ukwua Itiat and 30.0 Ωm - 94.0 Ωm at Idundu market a failed segment. Along Atimbo - Jonathan - Parliamentary road, moderate/high electrical resistivity values in the range 331.0 Ωm - 1018.0 Ωm across the profile was obtained at Federal Government Girls' College by airport a control segment; 26.0 Ωm - 68.0 Ωm at opposite rice seedling site a failed segment and 49.0 Ωm - 74.0 Ωm at Message point Assembly Church. These results showed that the remote cause of road failure in the area is clay/shale/weathered geologic materials with low resistivity values. It was recommended that detailed geophysical investigation should always be conducted on any proposed site for road construction and/or rehabilitation before embarking on the project. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study examined the perceived effect of vegetable farming on the socio-economic well-being of urban households in Calabar Metropolis, Cross River State, Nigeria. The specific objectives were to; describe the socio-economic characteristics of vegetable farmers, ascertain the types of vegetables cultivated in the area, and determine the perceived effect of vegetable farming on the socio-economic well-being of urban households. The study was carried out in Calabar Metropolis using a survey research design. The population consisted of all registered vegetable farmers in the area, while the sample comprised 400 vegetable farmers selected using simple random sampling technique. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed using frequency counts, percentages, mean, standard deviation and ranking. The results revealed that 78.75% of the vegetable farmers were women, 65% were married and 49.75% of the farmers were 41years and above. It was also found that pumpkin (Cucurbita spp) (96.75%), waterleaf (Amaranthus spp) (87.25%), amaranthus (Talinum fruticosum) (53.5%) and afang/editan/atama (Gnetum africanum/Lasianthera Africana/Heinsia crinita) (50%) were the predominant vegetables cultivated in the area. The results further showed that vegetable farming brings additional income to farmers (ranked = 1st), enable them to take care of medical bills (ranked = 2nd) and enhance food supply (ranked = 3rd) etc. It was recommended that special land allocation for vegetable cultivation, credit facilities and training should be provided to urban households to enhance vegetable production in the area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: COVID-19 vaccine is one of the most effective public health intervention approaches for prevention of COVID-19. Despite its well-known efficacy and safety, significant proportion of frontline COVID-19 healthcare workers remain hesitant about accepting the vaccine for whatever reasons. This study aimed to determine acceptance rate and determinants of vaccine refusal among doctors in Cross River State, Nigeria. Methodology: This was a cross-sectional survey of doctors using structured online questionnaire administered via the WhatsApp platform of the medical doctors' association, in order to assess their rate of acceptance of COVID-19 vaccines, and reasons for vaccine refusal. The predictors of vaccine acceptance were analysed by univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses. Results: Of the 443 medical doctors targeted on the WhatsApp platform, 164 responded to the questionnaire survey, giving a response rate of 37.0% (164/443). The mean age of the respondents is 38 ±6.28 years, 91 (55.5%) are 38 years old and above, 97 (59.1%) are males and 67 (40.9%) are females, giving a male-to-female ratio of 1.4:1. The greater proportion of the respondents are physicians (70/148, 47.3%) and about three-quarter of the participants (127/164, 77.4%) had received COVID-19 vaccine. The proportion of physicians who had received COVID-19 vaccine (57/70, 81.4%) was more than the proportion of general practitioners (31/42, 73.8%) and surgeons (24/35, 68.6%). Low perceived benefit of vaccination was the main reason given for COVID-19 vaccine refusal (45.9%, 17/37). No significant association was found between vaccine refusal and suspected predictors (p>0.05). Conclusion: Our study revealed high rate of COVID-19 vaccine acceptance among medical doctors especially among the physicians, with the surgeons showing lowest acceptance rate. A significant proportion would not take vaccine because they perceived it lacks much benefits. To raise vaccine acceptance among doctors, more efforts on vaccine literacy that would target doctors from all sub-specialties especially surgeons and incorporate vaccine benefits should be made. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista de la Academia Colombiana de Ciencias Exactas, Físicas y Naturales is the property of Academia Colombiana de Ciencias Exactas, Fisicas y Naturales and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Rainwater (RW) over the Calabar metropolis was analyzed to establish its chemistry, influences, and agricultural suitability. Sampling was done in the rainy and dry seasonal cycles for three years (2018–2020). pH, electrical conductivity (EC), and major ions (Ca2+, Na+, Mg2+, K+, HCO3-, Cl-, and SO42-) were registered and the principal component analysis (PCA) and ionic ratios were used to establish relationships between ionic species and project their sources. RW suitability for agriculture was determined by calculating the sodium and magnesium absorption ratios. Results indicated a relative abundance trend of cations towards Ca2+ > Mg2+ > K+ > Na+ while HCO3- > SO42- > Cl- was the trend for anions. pH varied from 6.1 to 7.8 (mean = 6.60). This and the EC reflected influences from atmospheric gases and in-cloud dissolved solids. The volume-weighted mean (VWM) of ions (Ca2+, Mg2+, K+, Na+, HCO3-, SO42-, and Cl-) was 246 eq/l in the rainy season and 198 eq/l in the dry season indicating low-moderate atmospheric pollution. Wet deposition (WD) fluxes for total ionic contents in RW were higher in the rainy season indicating the impact of rainfall. The PCA and the ionic ratios showed that the ionic concentrations were of crustal and marine origins predominantly. RW chemical characteristics in the study area compared with the concentration ranges of other local and global locations with similar geologic settings and low to moderate pollution indices showed close similarity. The RW assessment for agricultural use based on sodium and magnesium absorption ratios indicated good levels of suitability.

Copyright of Historia y Sociedad (01218417) is the property of Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Facultad de Ciencias Humanas y Economicas and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Marketing strategies adopted by the organisers of the Iboku Boat Regatta practised by the Efik people of South Eastern Nigeria have been assessed. Purposive sampling was adopted to select the study area. Data were acquired from both primary and secondary sources. Results show that several marketing strategies and product packaging techniques were adopted in publicising the festival between 2015 and 2020. However, only 52,780 tourists attended the festival between 2015 and 2020, showing that the adopted strategies are not penetrating enough. Therefore, there is an urgent need for the state government and its relevant agencies to develop a more dynamic and holistic policy framework that incorporates the State Niche Tourism Master Plan or Strategy. The Plan or Strategy should identify niche tourism sites and products with high potential and design marketing goals for the products to attract a significant segment of the specialised tourist market with interest in niche products. The study concludes that the festival could not attract more national and international tourists due to inappropriate marketing strategies adopted by the organisers and the obsolete tourism policy adopted by the state government.

Background: Paediatric cataracts is a leading cause of treatable blindness and a major cause of blindness in developing nations. Aim: To present an audit of paediatric cataract and paediatric cataract surgery in a Tertiary Eye Care facility in the South-South Geopolitical Zone of Nigeria during the Seeing is Believing Project intervention. Materials and Methods: A retrospective study of case notes of children who received surgical and adjunctive treatment for cataracts in the Calabar Children's Eye Centre during the 24-month study period from November 1, 2017, to October 31, 2019, was undertaken. Results: Of the 128 children who met the inclusion criteria, 73 (57.0%) were males and 55 (43.0%) were females, giving a male: female ratio of 1.3:1.0. The mean age of patients in years was 5.9 ± 4.1 years, median/interquartile range was 5.0/5. The most frequent diagnosis was bilateral cataracts affecting 80 (62.5%) children. Systemic comorbidities were found in 13/128 (10.2%), of which 7/13 (53.8%) were congenital rubella syndrome. Ocular comorbidities (40.6%) were more common than systemic comorbidities, and sensory esotropia presented most frequently (16.4%). More patients with congenital cataracts had ocular comorbidities, and this association was statistically significant, P < 0.001. The proportion of patients with good visual outcomes was highest among those with bilateral cataracts (64.8%), and ocular comorbidities were a significant negative predictor of best corrected postoperative visual acuity. A total of 94/128 (73.4%) patients received intraocular lens implants, and the most common postoperative complications were visual axis opacification (VAO) 37/69 (53.6%) and fibrinous uveitis 26/69 (37.7). Conclusion: Paediatric cataracts were often bilateral and congenital. Postoperative complications like VAO are common and can be detected early and treated to improve visual outcomes with good follow-up strategies.

Background: Retinoblastoma, although rare, is the most frequently occurring primary intraocular tumor of childhood. While a cure is often achieved where appropriate treatment is instituted early in the disease, late presentation often leads to unsuccessful treatment interventions. Aim: The aim of this study is to provide baseline information on the clinical presentation of retinoblastoma as seen in a tertiary pediatric eye care facility in Calabar, Nigeria. Materials and Methods: A retrospective review of case files of children presenting to the Calabar Children's Eye Center (CCEC) with retinoblastoma over 18 months from January 1, 2018 to June 30, 2019 was done. Results: Data were collected from 39 children with retinoblastoma who met the inclusion criteria. There were 22 (56.4%) males and 17 (43.6%) females, and the age range was 7–41 months, with a mean age of 25.6 (±9.0) months. Unilateral disease was seen in 27 (69.2%) participants, whereas 12 (30.8%) had bilateral disease. Although multiple symptoms were seen in many participants protrusion of eye was the most frequently occurring first symptom, (17, 44.0%) followed by red eye (13, 33.0%), whitespot in eye (5, 13.0%), and abnormal alignment (4, 10.0%) among study participants. The lag time from recognition of symptoms to initial consultation ranged from 1 to 25 months, with a mean lag time of 9.13 ± 5.68 months. The ICRB classification system was most frequently used, 27 (69.2%), followed by cTNMH 11 (28.2%), and International Intraocular Retinoblastoma Classification 1 (2.6%). The International Retinoblastoma Staging System was representative. Of the 78 eyes studied, (51, 65.3%) had different stages of retinoblastoma with the majority presenting as advanced retinoblastoma (46, 90.2%). Conclusions: Retinoblastoma is seen at the CCEC. Although the most frequent symptom was protrusion of eye, the lag time was often several months long. Most patients presented late with advanced ocular retinoblastoma and or extraocular disease.

este texto rastreó el lenguaje utilizado por los inquisidores en dos expedientes y los objetos enviados desde la Inquisición de Veracruz a la de Ciudad de México. Para este fi n se realizó un análisis cruzado de los expedientes con las descripciones escritas por misioneros y viajeros que estuvieron en África durante el siglo XVII y que dieron cuenta de algunas características que ayudan a entender el signifi cado religioso que había detrás de los objetos. Al mismo tiempo, se analizó la narrativa de los acusados y los hechos descritos en ambos expedientes. En estos documentos de la Inquisición se encontraron registros de los objetos incautados por los inquisidores, lo que permitió conocer parte de las culturas africanas y por tanto se pudieron identifi car algunas de las dinámicas a las que se enfrentaron los acusados cuando estaban ante la justicia y, asimismo, se examinaron algunas prácticas rituales y religiosas en la diáspora africana en las Américas.

Introduction: there is little or no progress towards the attainment of sexual and reproductive health (SRH) targets of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in many developing country settings. Key SRH gap in these settings includes suboptimal knowledge-based safe sexual practices, especially among adolescent girls as a vulnerable subpopulation. Unique features of school environmental settings including gender segregation have not been harnessed for cost-effective sexual health education, perhaps due to the current paucity of literature. This study was aimed at comparing sexual health knowledge and practices, between sexually active adolescent girls in co-educational and girl-only secondary schools in Calabar, Nigeria. Methods: cross-sectional comparative study design was used. Sexually active adolescent girls were randomly recruited from co-educational and girl-only secondary schools in Calabar, Nigeria. Validated questionnaire developed by the United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), was used to assess sexual health knowledge and behavioral practice. Factors associated with a satisfactory level of knowledge were assessed using the Chi-square test. Data analysis was done using SPSS version 24.0, with the p-value set at 0.05. Ethical approval was obtained before data collection. Results: one hundred and twenty respondents were studied, comprising an equal proportion of sixty (60) in co-educational and girl-only schools. Mean age and age at sexual debut were 16.4 ± 1.8 and 14.3 ± 2.2 years, respectively. Compared with group 1 (co-education), respondents in group 2 (girl-only) had significantly higher mean knowledge scores (26.1 vs. 30.4, p<0.05). Fifty respondents (41.7%) had a satisfactory level of knowledge of sexual health. There was no significant difference in mean practice scores comparing groups 1 and 2 (20.4 vs. 21.5, p>0.05). Internet use, unmarried parental status, and not living with both parents, were associated with unsatisfactory levels of knowledge on sexual health. Conclusion: compared with co-educational schools, girl-only schools have better sexual health knowledge, but a similar level of behavioral practices. There is a need for improvement in sexual health education efforts among adolescent girls, perhaps with more focus on coed schools, within the context of potential inherent disadvantage in the school environmental setting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: mammography has the potential for identifying high risk women with breast cancer. Early detection is important in reducing mortality and morbidity, and crucial for better prognosis. Mammography is poorly practiced in Nigeria. This study assessed the association between socio-demographic characteristics and uptake of mammography among women ≥40 years. Methods: a cross-sectional descriptive study design was employed and data was collected from 365 consenting participants in Calabar, Nigeria, using pre-tested questionnaire. SPSS Version 20 was used for data entry and analysis. The results were descriptively presented by frequencies and percentages. Pearson Chi-Square (χ²) analysis was performed to detect the association between variables at 5% level of significance (p-value of =0.05). Results: only 9.9% of participants had a mammography, majority 90.1% never had. Uptake was highest among respondents with tertiary education, married, Civil/Public Servants, and those in the high income level categorization. Educational status, marital status, occupation and age were not statistically significantly associated with mammography uptake (p>0.05). Only religious denominational affiliation (p = 0.02) and income level (p = 0.002) were statistically significantly associated with uptake. Barriers to uptake were poor knowledge about mammography (49.8%), psychosocial (37.8%), economic (17.1%) and health systems (11.5%). Key facilitators to uptake were encouragement/counselling by health workers (44.0%) and presence of breast problems (37.4%). Conclusion: mammography uptake in Calabar, Nigeria was extremely low. Therefore, regular awareness campaigns targeting women at faith-based settings, and provision of mammography screening services at subsidized rates will enhance knowledge level and uptake of mammography. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of African Journal of Reproductive Health is the property of Women's Health & Action Research Centre and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

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.

Abstract Background Globally, diabetes is a leading cause of impairment of quality of life. In the sub-Saharan African region, there is a need for studies that provide more valid assessment of effect of diabetes on quality of life (QoL). This study aimed at assessing quality of life among patients with diabetes attending a tertiary health service in Nigeria. Methods The study design was a case-control. Diabetic cases were randomly recruited from the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital, while non-diabetic controls were civil servants and retirees. The validated and pretested WHOQoL-BREF instrument was used to assess quality of life, with higher scores indicating higher quality of life. Results Three hundred and thirty subjects were studied, with mean ages of males and females of 55.2 ± 4.8 and 51.8 ± 6.3 years, respectively. The mean total QoL score was 75.77 ± 11.2, with no significant difference between males and females. Among male and female cases, the mean score of the physical health domain was significantly lower for cases compared with controls (p = 0.05). Male cases compared with controls had higher scores for the environment domain (p < 0.05). Older age and higher systemic blood pressure were associated with lower QoL scores for both sexes (p < 0.05). Unmarried status, obesity, and poor glycemic control (HbA1c > 7%) were associated with lower QoL scores (p < 0.05). Fasting blood sugar (FBS) level and lipid profile were not significantly correlated with QoL score in both sexes (p > 0.05). Conclusion Diabetes contributes to low quality of life among males and females, with significant differences in the affected domains. Diabetes care providers should identify affected domains during clinic consultation, in order to improve provision of more effective care.

Background: The advent of community-based care and de-institutionalization of persons with mental disorders have led to a progressive shift of care from formal health-care systems to informal care providers such as the family. This shift of care, from hospitals to the families, has led to a significant level of the burden on the family caregiver. This study aimed to identify factors which are associated with burden of care among caregivers of patients with bipolar affective disorder (BAD) seen at the Federal Psychiatric Hospital, Calabar. Materials and Methods: A simple random sampling technique of “yes or no” balloting was utilized to select 105 caregivers of bipolar patients seen at the outpatient clinic of the hospital. The selected caregivers (those who picked “yes”) were recruited along with their respective patients after obtaining their consent. They were assessed using a set of five questionnaires, of which three (Patient Health Questionnaire-9 [PHQ-9], Young Mania Rating Scale [YMRS] and Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale [BPRS]) were administered by the researchers on the patients whereas the remaining two (sociodemographic questionnaire and Family Burden Interview Schedule) were self-completed by the caregivers. Results: One hundred out of the 105 caregivers who were recruited completed the study procedure and returned properly filled questionnaires. The rates of objective and subjective burden on the caregivers were 79% and 74%, respectively. While the objective burden was associated with the patient's educational attainment and his/her scores on the YMRS and BPRS, the subjective burden was associated with the caregiver's monthly income and marital status, the patient's gender, number of suicide attempts, and scores on PHQ-9, YMRS, and BPRS. Of all the variables, the patients' scores on YMRS (P = 0.025) and PHQ-9 (P = 0.011) were the significant predictors of objective and subjective burden, respectively. Conclusion: This study identified the extent and factors associated with burden of care on caregivers of patients with BAD. Awareness of those factors might guide clinicians in instituting treatment strategies toward reducing the burden on caregivers.

Background: Helminthic infections and diarrheal diseases have remained public health problem worldwide, especially in developing countries. Children below five years of age are at a higher risk. This study therefore aims to determine the prevalence, and intensity of intestinal helminths in children with and without the diarrheal disease. Materials and Methods: This was a cross-sectional analytical study of 130 children aged 6 to 59 months, carried out in the Children Emergency Room and the Diarrhea Treatment and Training Unit of the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital (U. C. T. H), Calabar, Nigeria. Those admitted with and without diarrhoea were consecutively recruited. Data were obtained by administration of questionnaires to parents/caregivers whose children met the inclusion criteria. Clinical examinations including anthropometric parameters (weight and length/height) were carried out on all the children recruited for the study while mid-upper arm circumference was done for children aged 12–59 months. Stool samples were collected from each child into a wide mouth universal, clean, dry, leak-proof, container, with the help of their parents/guardians. Microscopy was carried out on the stool samples collected within 1 h in the microbiology laboratory for the presence of ova, larva, or worm segment using direct microscopy with saline and iodine wet preparation and formol ether concentration. Ova were identified and quantified. The type of worm and intensity were recorded. Results: Out of the 130 children, 65 (50%) had diarrhea while the other 65 (50%) were without diarrhoea. The mean age of subjects with diarrhea was 16.86 ± 11.7 months and 17.60 ± 9.9 months for those without diarrhoea. There was no significant difference in sex distribution between the age groups (P = 0.86). The overall prevalence of intestinal helminthic infection in the study population was 1.5%. The prevalence of intestinal helminths in those with diarrhea and those without diarrhea was 3.1% and 0.0%, respectively, (P = 0.496). Only Ancylostoma duodenale (hookworm) was isolated in those with diarrhea and it was of light intensity. There was no significant difference in the method of disposal and source of water, comparing subjects having diarrhea and those not having diarrhea (P > 0.05). The proportions of subjects that usually played in the sand, go on footwear outside home, and go on footwear at home, were not significantly different comparing those having diarrhea and those not having diarrhea (P > 0.05). Conclusions: The prevalence rate of intestinal helminths in children with and without diarrhoea was low. There was general environmental cleanliness and personal hygiene in the study population which were likely responsible for the low helminthic infection thus emphasizing the need for maintenance of good hygiene, access to good water supply and periodic intake of anti-helminthic drugs in view of the public health importance of helminthic infection and diarrhoea.

O presente artigo analisa o processo da escuna francesa Clementina, apreendida no dia 21 de janeiro de 1831, com 175 africanos escravizados, suspeita de realizar o tráfico transatlântico para o Brasil. O objetivo geral desse artigo é elaborar um estudo de caso, tendo como fontes primárias a correspondência intercambiada entre o consulado francês no Recife e o governo da Província de Pernambuco, assim como as sentenças prolatadas no Brasil e na França, inserindo nossa análise no contexto do debate que antecede a primeira lei antitráfico de 7 de novembro de 1831 e seus desdobramentos. Em particular, buscamos entender como a apreensão da Clementina pode ser reveladora de uma conjuntura social característica, da qual inferimos, ao mesmo tempo, a participação dos traficantes estabelecidos no Recife e suas estratégias para perpetuarem a ilegalidade do contrabando de seres humanos, bem como compreender o papel desse governo no combate a este infame comércio.

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, contentvalidated 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 socioeconomic 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. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) is a major root crop in sub-Saharan Africa, including Cross River State, Nigeria, where the crop is cultivated as a staple food in many communities. Cassava mosaic begomoviruses (CMBs) have limited cassava production across Africa. Thus, between March and August 2021, forty-five samples of symptomatic cassava leaves across the State were collected and evaluated for CMBs using molecular techniques. Partial sequencing of the African cassava mosaic virus (ACMV) and East African cassava mosaic virus (EACMV) coat protein genes produced sequence lengths of 620 bp for representative isolates from Okpoma (MZ507578), Ababene (MZ507579) and Idundu (MZ507580), and 554 bp for an Ovonum isolate, respectively. BLASTn results for MZ507578 and MZ507580 showed a percentage similarity of 99.35 and 99.03%, respectively with the nucleotide sequence of ACMV (MH251339) from Nigeria for MZ507579, percentage similarity was 99.84% with ACMV (MG250088) from Ghana. Conversely, the Ovonum isolate showed a 100% percentage similarity with EACMV (MW826364) from Nigeria. Phylogenetic analysis clustered the Calabar isolates (MZ507578, MZ507579 and MZ507580) with MH251339 from Nigeria, MG250088 from Ghana and EU155147 from Togo while the Ovonum isolate was grouped with MW826364 and MT571462, both from Nigeria. The two main CMBs in Nigeria, ACMV and EACMV, were identified and characterized from Cross River state in this study, indicating that disease monitoring should be continuous and more virus-resistant cultivars should be introduced for proper virus management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background This study aimed at assessing knowledge of cardiovascular disease risk factors and prevention, among hypertensive patients in a developing country setting with high cardiometabolic disease morbidity and mortality. Methods Using descriptive cross-sectional study design and random sampling method, a 30-item questionnaire was used to obtain quantitative data on knowledge of key aspects of cardiovascular disease and practice of preventive measures among hypertensive patients in Calabar. Result Two hundred and twelve (212) respondents were surveyed with mean age of 45.5 ± 10.8 years. Approximately two-thirds of respondents (67.9%) had unsatisfactory level of knowledge of CVD. Most respondents had unsatisfactory level of knowledge of appropriate diet (77.4%), basic epidemiology (80.2%), risk factors (63.2%), and symptoms of CVD (74.5%). The mean score for knowledge of risk factors was significantly higher among females compared with males (p < 0.05). Consumers compared with non-consumers of alcohol had significantly lower mean scores for knowledge of appropriate diet and symptoms of CVD (p < 0.05). Except for medical knowledge where mean score of knowledge was significantly higher among respondents occasionally exercised or consumed fresh fruits compared with other groups, there was no significant difference in mean score of knowledge for other components comparing the various categories of active exercise and consumption of fresh fruits (p > 0.05). Conclusion Unsatisfactory level of knowledge of cardiovascular disease among hypertensive patients in the study setting was high. There is urgent need to improve efforts and strategies for health education and counseling of patients toward sustainable adoption of preventive behaviors.

This research was aimed at assessing the prevalence of rheumatoid factor (RF) in people of our locality to aid the inclusion of rheumatoid factor test for the diagnosis of the disease. Specifically, this research sought to: determine and compare the presence of rheumatoid factor in both young and old adults; find out which gender is more affected in our locality, and determine the uric acid levels in both symptomatic and asymptomatic subjects. The presence of rheumatoid factor in the se-rum of 100 subjects aged above 25 years in Calabar metropolis was determined using a Rheumatoid Factor rapid agglutination test. Six (6) out of eighty-two (82) males and two (2) out of eighteen (18) females were positive for rheumatoid factor, giving a total of eight (8) rheuma-toid factor +ve subjects. The mean age, body mass index (BMI) and serum uric acid (SUA) level for rheumatoid factor +ve subjects were 45.13±14.13 years, 26.69±2.23 kg/m2 and 10.02±6.78 mg/dl respec-tively while the mean age, BMI and SUA level for rheumatoid factor ve were 37.57±5.76 years, 24.46±3.92 kg/m2, 7.04±3.88 mg/dl respectively. The mean age and serum uric acid level in rheumatoid factor +ve subjects were significantly higher (p˂0.05) when compared with rheu-matoid factor -ve subjects. The mean BMI for rheumatoid factor +ve subjects was also significantly higher (p˂0.05) when compared with rheumatoid factor -ve subjects. This research work shows that the prevalence of rheumatoid factor in this locality, though low, is higher than those studied in other countries. Women are more affected than men with rheumatoid arthritis. There is an increased level of serum uric acid in RF +ve and symptomatic subjects. Therefore, there is a need to introduce rheumatoid factor analysis in the medical laboratories for proper diagnosis and treatment of individuals with rheumatoid arthritis. [J Med Allied Sci 2020; 10(1.000): 9-13]

Background: Knowledge of mental disorders is poor in developing countries and often has a negative impact on the ways the public relate to persons with mentaldisorders. The present study seeks to explore changes in knowledge and attitude of student nurses to mental disorders following an educational program. Materials / Method: The study involved first and second-year students from two schools of basic nursing: the State School of Nursing, Calabar (intervention group) and the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital’s School of Nursing (control). A total of 191 students from both schools were assessed at different times (pre and post-intervention periods) using the modified World Psychiatric Association (WPA) questionnaire. The educational intervention was performed only on the students in the intervention group using the WPA semi-structured educational material. Results: The baseline results show that while a small proportion of the respondents (28.1% in the intervention group and 37.9% of control) attributed the cause of mental illness to witchcraft, majority had poor attitudes to mental disorders. One week post-intervention assessment shows some improvement in knowledgeof the respondents in the intervention group. This improvement was significant for those that endorsed witchcraft (P=0.01) and God’s punishment (P=0.01) as causes of mental disorders. This significant improvement was sustained at the one-month post-intervention assessment. Conclusion: The study shows that an educational program is capable of improving knowledge of aetiology of mental disorders and attitudes towards persons with such disorders.

Background: Contraception is known to contribute to a reduction in maternal mortality rates directly. Jadelle implant is a long-lasting, reversible contraceptive that is safe, highly effective, and convenient. Objectives: The objectives of this study were to determine the sociodemographic profile, side effects, and reasons for discontinuation among users of Jadelle in the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital (UCTH), Calabar, Nigeria. Methodology: This was a 5-year retrospective study carried out at UCTH, Calabar, Nigeria. Case files of women who accepted and inserted Jadelle implant between January 1, 2013, and December 31, 2017, were retrieved, and data were extracted for the study. Descriptive and analytical statistics of the data using mean and standard deviation were done, and results were presented in frequency and percentage tables. Results: A total of 270 women accepted and inserted Jadelle implant during the period under review with a mean age of 33.0 ± 6.2. Majority of the clients were Christians 98.1%, and 85.9% had at least secondary school education. About half (49.6%) of these women had a desire for future fertility, whereas 49.7% have had four or more children. Sixty-one percent (61.5%) of the clients had previously used a form of contraception. Menstrual irregularities were the most commonly reported side effect (55.0%) as well as the most common reason for removal and discontinuation of the implant (43.3%). Conclusion: Jadelle is a highly effective, safe, and reversible method of contraception. The most commonly reported side effect was menstrual irregularities, which was also the most common reason for discontinuation in the UCTH, Calabar, Nigeria.

HIV/AIDS remains a global public health challenge especially in countries in sub-Saharan Africa. Management of HIV/AIDS with ART enables patients to lead longer lives but causes changes in biochemical mechanisms, one of which is oxidative stress. The replication of HIV provirus by various pathways is activated by oxidative stress due to high cytokine and antigenic activities. However, there is a paucity of data on oxidative stress among HIV infected patients in Nigeria. The aim of this study was to compare the occurrence of oxidative stress among HIV/AIDs patients on ART and ART-naïve patients at the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital, Calabar, Nigeria.Between January 2017 and February 2018, three groups of participants (n = 225) namely; ART-naïve patients, patients on ART and controls were recruited. Serum uric acid, malondialdehyde, vitamin C and total plasma peroxides concentrations were determined using colorimetric methods. Total serum antioxidant capacity was determined using enzyme –linked immunosorbent assay. The association between each marker of oxidative stress and CD4+ cell count was determined by Pearson's correlation.Male participants had a higher (P ≤ 0.05) serum uric acid level compared to the female participants. HIV negative individuals had a higher (p

Background: Hepatitis B virus (HBV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) are viral infections that are transmitted through transfusion of unscreened blood products, needlestick injuries, and unprotected sex. This was a study to determine the prevalence of Hepatitis B and HIV infection among pregnant women accessing antenatal care. Materials and Methods: Two ml of venous blood was also collected into ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid bottles for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and HIV test using a rapid diagnostic test kit following the standard algorithm of performing diagnosis. Results: Of the 250 participants examined for the presence of HBV and HIV among pregnant women attending the antenatal clinic in Calabar, 14 (5.6%) and 3 (1.2%) were positive for HBsAg and HIV. Participants aged 26–30 years had the highest prevalence of HBsAg 8 (7.0%) and participants aged 31–35 had the highest prevalence of HIV 1 (3.2%). The seroprevalence of HBsAg and HIV infection among pregnant women attending antenatal clinics by occupation shows that students had the highest infection rate of 3 (9%) and 2 (6%) for HBsAg and HIV. Of the 250 participants enrolled, the level of HIV and HBV awareness was 178 (71.2%) and 242 (96.8%), respectively. Conclusions: The study has revealed that the prevalence of HBV and HIV is on the increase among pregnant women, with a prevalence of 5.6% and 1.2%, respectively. General precautions need to be strictly adhered to in the hospital and particularly in blood transfusion and handling of sharps objects.

A survey was carried out to investigate the knowledge, perception and interest of secondary school students about biotechnology. A total of 334 questionnaires were distributed to students in Senior Secondary 3 classes from eight secondary schools within Calabar metropolis. Data was collected and analyzed using SPSS version 7.5. Results revealed 105 (34.21%) of students had limited knowledge of medical biotechnology, genetic engineering and genetically modified products. 91 (30.03%) of the students agreed that biotechnology is the use of living organisms to produce goods and services while 102 (33.41%) accepted that biotechnology is a new technology based on biology 62 (20.39%) were willing to embrace the applications of biotechnology. 152 (50.03%) do not agree that biotech will improve services for mankind; 90 (29.51) had no idea about the applications of biotechnology; 31 (10.24%) students disagreed that cloning results in perfectly identical individuals while the highest positive responses; 92 (30.31%) was recorded for questions regarding in vitro fertilization. The students also showed a very low interest 76 (25%) in pursuing biotechnology as a degree in the University. Generally students' knowledge, perception, and interest in Biotechnology were low among Secondary School students in Calabar. There is a need to immediately increase enlightenment and emphasis on the applications of biotechnology among Secondary school students to enable them appreciate the benefits of biotechnology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Despite the numerous intervention programmes, HIV still remains a public health concern with a high impact in Sub-Saharan Africa region. Oxidative stress has been documented in HIV subjects as viral infection promotes prolonged activation of immune system, hence, production of increased reactive oxygen species. Methods We studied 180 subjects. Of these, 60 were HIV-infected on antiretroviral therapy (ART), 40 were ART naïve HIV-infected and 80 were apparent healthy non HIV-infected subjects. The complete blood count was performed by automated hemoanalyzer, the CD4+ T-cell count was performed by cyflow cytometer, while the antioxidant assay was performed using ELISA technique. Result All evaluated parameters; glutathione (GSH), glutathione peroxidase (GPX), CD4+ T-cell count, haemoglobin (Hb), total white blood cell count (WBC) and platelet count were significantly (P

BACKGROUND: Street sweeping is an increasing popular outdoor occupation in major cities of Nigeria. These workers are chronically exposed to diverse occupational and environmental sources of ocular hazards, that they may not be aware of. This may impair their adoption and compliance with the requisite safety practices. This study was aimed at assessing levels of awareness, knowledge, and practice of ocular safety among street sweepers in Calabar, Southern Nigeria. MATERIALS AND METHOD: The study was a cross sectional study among one hundred and fifteen (115) street sweepers in Calabar Urban Development Authority, Nigeria over a period of three months. A systematic random sampling method was used to select respondents eligible for the study and a pretested semi-structured interviewer administered questionnaire was used to obtain data. Data obtained was analysed using statistical package for social sciences version 20 (Armonk, NY:IBM Corp.). RESULTS: One hundred and fifteen (115) subjects were studied, with mean age of 41.8 ± 10.4 years, and female to male ratio of 1:0.03. Seventy percent had good knowledge of ocular health safety; while 68% were aware of the occupational hazards associated with the job. Less than a quarter (19%) of workers used personal protective devices (PPD). Only 1% of the total who used PPD wore protective goggles while at work. CONCLUSION: Good knowledge and a high level of awareness on ocular health safety was seen among street sweepers. However, there was poor utilization of personal protective devices especially protective goggles among the workers which will increase their risk to occupational hazards. RUNNING TITLE: Awareness and practice knowledge of ocular health safety

In this study, Calabar annual total rainfall was analysed for trend and climatic variability events with focus on drought occurrence. Monthly rainfall data from in situ measurements over a 41-year period (1972-2012) were used for the study. Standard tests were used to evaluate the trends and variability in annual rainfall. Rainfall variability was estimated as standardized rainfall departures and used to identify and delimitate the dry and wet spell sequences of Calabar rainfall. The rainfall series were analysed for Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI) using SPSS Version 17 software. The least squares regression plot was executed using Excel 2010 to depict the trend, variability and regression parameters. The average annual rainfall for Calabar is 2984.64 mm with standard deviation of 394.9 mm. 36.59% of the period showed positive SPI while 63.41% of the period indicated negative SPI values. Wet spell dominated the later part of the period but sandwiched with dry spells whereas dry spell was dominant from 1972 to 1994. The area experienced a non-significant upward trend of 15.21 mm per year over the interval. The SPI values indicate that Calabar experienced distinct inter-annual rainfall cycles that represent mild to extreme droughts and wet spells which are a demonstration of consequential annual rainfall variability. The results underscore the need for effective monitoring of Calabar rainfall for prompt warnings and responses that would guarantee effective risk reduction and management in the run-in to the occurrence of the extreme events. The paper further highlights the need for data-driven approach to policy making in water resources management. This would provide a fascinating insight into the improvement in long-term water resources management in the city and its suburbs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Globally, diabetes is a leading cause of impairment of quality of life. In the sub-Saharan African region, there is a need for studies that provide more valid assessment of effect of diabetes on quality of life (QoL). This study aimed at assessing quality of life among patients with diabetes attending a tertiary health service in Nigeria. Methods: The study design was a case-control. Diabetic cases were randomly recruited from the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital, while non-diabetic controls were civil servants and retirees. The validated and pretested WHOQoL-BREF instrument was used to assess quality of life, with higher scores indicating higher quality of life. Results: Three hundred and thirty subjects were studied, with mean ages of males and females of 55.2 ± 4.8 and 51.8 ± 6.3 years, respectively. The mean total QoL score was 75.77 ± 11.2, with no significant difference between males and females. Among male and female cases, the mean score of the physical health domain was significantly lower for cases compared with controls (p = 0.05). Male cases compared with controls had higher scores for the environment domain (p < 0.05). Older age and higher systemic blood pressure were associated with lower QoL scores for both sexes (p < 0.05). Unmarried status, obesity, and poor glycemic control (HbA1c > 7%) were associated with lower QoL scores (p < 0.05). Fasting blood sugar (FBS) level and lipid profile were not significantly correlated with QoL score in both sexes (p > 0.05). Conclusion: Diabetes contributes to low quality of life among males and females, with significant differences in the affected domains. Diabetes care providers should identify affected domains during clinic consultation, in order to improve provision of more effective care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Bacteriuria is considered a common bacterial infection in women particularly in postmenopausal women which consequently may warrant the need to treat the disease for prevention of bacteriuria developing complications. Aims and Objectives: This work was to investigate the prevalence of asymptomatic bacteriuria among menopausal women in Calabar, the incriminating bacterial pathogens and their antibiotic susceptibility pattern. Materials and Methods: Early morning mid stream urine samples from randomly selected 200 women (comprising of 50 premenopausal, 50 menopausal, 50 postmenopausal women and 50 apparently healthy young ladies of menstruating age (control subjects)) between the ages of 50 to 90 years were cultured by Leigh and Williams’s method. Questionnaires were also administered. Results: 24 (16%) of the test group while 3 (6%) of the control group had infection (p=0.008). Subjects aged 35-40 years had the highest prevalence of infection 6 (18.5%), while age group 66-70yrs had the lowest infection rate 0(0%)( P = 0.841). Post-menopausal women had the highest prevalence of asymptomatic bacteriuria 10(20%) while pre-menopausal and menopausal women had a lower prevalence rate of 7 (14%) each (p=0.0687). The most frequently isolated organism was Staphylococcus aureus (33%) and Ciprofloxacin was the most sensitive antibiotic observed. Conclusion: This work has revealed a high prevalence rate of asymptomatic bacteriuria high level of asymptomatic bacteriuria among menopausal women and the need for routine screening of this category of women for a standard healthy living.

Background: Malaria and hookworm infections independently have been known to cause anaemia. Coinfection of these two parasites can aggravated the morbidity of these infections with a resulting impact on anaemia especially in pregnancy. Aims and Objective: This work was aimed at assessing the prevalence of malaria and hookworm co-infection and their effects on anaemia among pregnant women in Calabar Metroplis. Materials and Methods: Giemsa stained film of venous blood was examined microscopically for malaria parasites while cyanmethaemoglobin method was used for haemoglobin level estimation. Stool samples were examined microscopically while Stoll’s technique was used in counting the ova of hookworm. Results: 19(6.3%) of the subjects were infected with hookworm, 45(15.0%) with malaria, while 9(3.0%) were infected with both parasites. Severe anaemia of 4(44.4%) was observed amongst the test (infected) subjects while the control (uninfected) subjects had a severe anaemia of 3(1.0%). The highest prevalence of co-infections of malaria and hookworm 4(38.6%) occurred among the age group of 26-30years (p=0.371). Subjects in their 3rd trimester had the highest prevalence of co-infection of 4(4.4%) (p=0.412). The highest prevalence of severe anaemia 1(100.0%) occurred among the age group of 16-20years (p=0.002). Conclusion: This work has shown a low prevalence of malaria and hookworm co-infection. The level of severe anaemia among infected pregnant women was more than that observed among subjects without any of the two infections.

Objective: The present study aims to determine the association between clinical-demographic variables and length of stay of patients admitted into Federal Psychiatric Hospital, Calabar. Design: Retrospective review of case records. Methods: 280 case records of patients (discharged from September 1st, 2015 to August 31st, 2016) were assembled for review, out of which twelve cases were excluded for various reasons. Clinical and demographic data collected from the remaining 268 case records were subjected to univariate and multivariate analyses to determine variables associated with prolonged length of stay. Results: Mean length of stay was 56.2 ± 40.9 and the commonest clinical diagnosis was schizophrenia (45.9%). Although gender, age, marital status and clinical diagnoses tended to influence length of stay, gender (p =0.007) and clinical diagnosis of schizophrenia (p =0.044) were the only variables that significantly predicted prolonged length of stay. Conclusion: We found that gender and clinical diagnoses were important determinants of length of stay. If validated in future studies, these factors may help in accurate identification of cases at risk of prolonged hospitalization and act as guide to clinicians who may need to optimize intervention strategies early enough in managing such cases.

Co-infection of Human Immunodeficiency Virus/Acquired Immune Disease Syndrome (HIV/AIDS) with hepatitis is linked with amplified morbidity and mortality. This study was to investigate the prevalence of hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV) and hepatitis D virus (HDV) among patients on highly active antiretroviral drug therapy (HAART). A total of 200 subjects currently on HAART and 50 non-HIV positive individuals (control subjects) aged 10-75 years were recruited for the study. Hepatitis B surface antigen and hepatitis C viral antibodies were screened with ACON test strip while HDV was screened with human hepatitis D virus ELISA kit. Demographic data of subjects were obtained with questionnaires. Determination of the CD4 counts was done using the Cytoflow counter. Among the test subjects, prevalence of HBV infection was 16(8%), HCV was 6(3%), mixed infection with HBV and HCV was 2(1%), and HDV was 0(0%). Among the control subjects, infection with HBV was 6(12%), 4(8%) for HCV and none for HDV or mixed infection. There was no statistically significant difference (p=0.491). Males had a higher occurrence of HBV infection 9(11.4%) and HCV infection 4(5.1%) than the females who had 7(5.8%) for HBV and 2(1.6%) for HCV, but this was not statistically significant (p=0.0879). Subjects with CD4 count range of 1401-1600 had the highest occurrence 1(20%) for HBV and 1201-1400 range for HCV 1(8.3%) but the difference was not statistically significant (p=0.504). In conclusion, infection with HBV and HCV is widespread among patients on HAART and routine screening is advocated for efficient management of the disease. [J Med Allied Sci 2018; 8(1.000): 17-21]

BACKGROUND: The presence of breast lump(s) is one of the most common reasons for hospital visits by women especially those of reproductive age. Despite the heightened anxiety associated with the discovery of breast lump often erroneously thought to be breast cancer, majority of these lumps are usually found to be benign histologically. The aim of this study is to determine the prevalence of benign breast diseases in Calabar , Nigeria and to profile their histologic patterns. METHOD: A descriptive retrospective review over a period of 5 years (January 2012 – December 2017) of laboratory request forms and histopathology records of all patients whose specimens were received in the Department of Histopathology, University of Calabar Teaching Hospital, Calabar, Nigeria were analysed for clinical findings, histopathology reports and demographic data like age, sex etc. RESULTS: Of the 380 reports retrieved 8(2.1%) were male and 372(97.9%) were females. The mean age of the nd rd patients was 25.4 ± 9.9 years with majority of the patients in the 2nd and 3rd decade of life. Gynaecomastia (62.5%) was the commonest benign breast lesion found in males. Fibroadenoma (59.3%) was most frequently found among the females followed by fibrocystic disease and fibrocystic changes (16.4%). Atypical ductal hyperplasia (0.8%) was less commonly found. CONCLUSION: Benign breast diseases are common amongst young female patients within the 2nd and 3rd decades of life in Calabar, Nigeria with fibroadenoma being the commonest histologic type.

Background: There has been a rise in burden and risk factors for development and progression of diabetes mellitus in developing countries. The associated multisystemic complications and the burden of care potentially impair mental health status of sufferers. This study was aimed at assessing mental health status among diabetic patients in a developing country setting. Methods: Case-control study design was used, and subjects were recruited using random sampling method. Cases were recruited from medical wards and clinics in the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital, Calabar, for 14 weeks beginning mid-April through mid-July 2019. Age- and sex-matched non-diabetic normotensive controls were civil servants. Validated and pretested PHQ-9 instrument was used to assess mental health status, and clinical depression was defined as score > 10. p value was set at 0.05. Results: One hundred and sixty-five diabetic patients and their matched controls were studied, with male/female ratio of 1:0.9. Mean age was 54.9 ± 9.6 years. Prevalence of clinical depression was 17.2% and 23.1% for male and female diabetics, respectively. For both male and female subjects, significantly higher proportion of cases compared with controls had clinical depression (p < 0.05). Among female cases, presence of comorbid hypertension, BMI, level of blood pressure, and duration of diabetes were directly associated with depression (p < 0.05). Among male cases, older age, occasional consumption of alcohol, and better glycemic control were associated with depression (p < 0.05). Conclusion: There is high prevalence of depression among diabetic males and females, with potential untoward effects on outcome of care. More robust collaboration between diabetologist and mental health specialist is therefore recommended to address this unmet need. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Background: This study aimed at assessing knowledge of cardiovascular disease risk factors and prevention, among hypertensive patients in a developing country setting with high cardiometabolic disease morbidity and mortality. Methods: Using descriptive cross-sectional study design and random sampling method, a 30-item questionnaire was used to obtain quantitative data on knowledge of key aspects of cardiovascular disease and practice of preventive measures among hypertensive patients in Calabar. Result: Two hundred and twelve (212) respondents were surveyed with mean age of 45.5 ± 10.8 years. Approximately two-thirds of respondents (67.9%) had unsatisfactory level of knowledge of CVD. Most respondents had unsatisfactory level of knowledge of appropriate diet (77.4%), basic epidemiology (80.2%), risk factors (63.2%), and symptoms of CVD (74.5%). The mean score for knowledge of risk factors was significantly higher among females compared with males (p < 0.05). Consumers compared with non-consumers of alcohol had significantly lower mean scores for knowledge of appropriate diet and symptoms of CVD (p < 0.05). Except for medical knowledge where mean score of knowledge was significantly higher among respondents occasionally exercised or consumed fresh fruits compared with other groups, there was no significant difference in mean score of knowledge for other components comparing the various categories of active exercise and consumption of fresh fruits (p > 0.05). Conclusion: Unsatisfactory level of knowledge of cardiovascular disease among hypertensive patients in the study setting was high. There is urgent need to improve efforts and strategies for health education and counseling of patients toward sustainable adoption of preventive behaviors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is a heterogeneous group of monoclonal forms of lymphoproliferative disorder, which is usually common among older adults. There is an increasing trend in the number of patients presenting with the disease. Aim: This study aims to determine the epidemiology pattern of CLL in Cross River state. Methodology: A retrospective study with 10-years data (2010–2019) obtained from the register of the Department of Haematology and Blood Transfusion, University of Calabar Teaching Hospital, Calabar. The data collected include the date of presentation, the age, gender, location of residence, and occupations of the patients. Results: A total of 47 cases were seen during the 10-year period, with a male: female ratio of 1:1. The mean age at presentation was 59 years. The majority of the patients were in their fifth and sixth decades of life. Most patients (44.68%) practice farming as their profession. Conclusion: The study has reawaken our consciousness on the increasing trend on the epidemiological burden of CLL in our environment and will help to enhance further investigation into the relationship between the rising trend and available possible risk factors in our environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]