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Manual paddy threshing using metal drums with attendant low output and high losses is still being widely used in the Kano-Kura rice cluster. An existing stationary Hold-on thresher designed to address these, was modified and evaluated. The thresher was designed taking all peculiar technical considerations. It was then fabricated using available materials. Paddy Faro 44 variety at a mean moisture content of 13 % (w. b.) was used for evaluation in this study. The independent variables consist of three different speeds 500, 600 and 700 rpm and two feed rates of 200 and 300 kg/h were used. Factorial experiments were conducted in a completely randomized design with three replications. The performance dependent indices used were output capacity, threshing efficiency and cleaning efficiency. The analysis was done using GENSTAT statistical package. It was found out that the effects of variables on the performance indices were highly significant. The mean highest value of the output capacity was 229.09 kg/h at the combination of 700 rpm speed and 300 kg/h feed rate. The mean value obtained for the threshing was 99.99 % and is statistically similar for all the combinations. The cleaning efficiency indicate highest value of 85 % at the combination of 500 rpm speed and 200 kg/h feed rate. T-test for comparison between machine performance and manual threshing showed that the mean value for output capacity, threshing efficiency and cleaning efficiency for the machine are significantly higher than the manual threshing, the, the machine performance has promising prospect.

A family of exponential-type estimator for estimating population mean in two-phase sampling when the population proportion of the auxiliary character is available is proposed in this paper. Theoretically, the bias and minimum mean square error (MSE) for the proposed estimator are obtained. The expression for MSE of the proposed exponential-type of estimator is compared with the existing estimators in the literature. The optimum values of the parameters are determined. An empirical study was carried out by comparing the proposed estimators with some of the existing estimators reviewed in the literature based on the criteria of bias, mean square error (MSE) and relative efficiency using life datasets. The result of the comparisons showed that the proposed exponential-type estimators produce a better estimate of finite population mean than the existing estimators in the sense of having higher percentage relative efficiency which implies lesser mean square error and bias. Furthermore, the realistic conditions under which the proposed class of exponential-type estimators is more efficient were also presented. Thus, the proposed estimators can be considered as significant alternatives to estimating population characteristics of real life datasets.

Introduction Lichen sclerosus (LS) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition predominantly affecting the vulva. Studies have shown high rates of sexual dysfunction in patients with LS; however, the sexual effects of the condition are poorly acknowledged. Objectives We sought to identify sexual health consequences among women with vulvar LS through systematic review of available literature. Methods A systematic review of the literature was conducted to find reports on sexual health consequences among women with LS. PubMed, MEDLINE, and Scopus were queried. Included articles were observational studies evaluating women with LS and their sexual health and randomized controlled trials or comparative studies utilizing a validated sexual health measure before intervention among the same population. Articles must have been written in English and published from January 1991 to April 2022. Results The search produced 683 references, including 32 articles that met criteria for full-text review and 20 reported studies that met inclusion criteria. Two studies investigated the impact of LS on interpersonal relationships, 6 studies evaluated sexual symptoms, 16%-60% reported sexual dysfunction, and 22%-56.7% reported dyspareunia. Also described were decreased sexual frequency and satisfaction, negative impact on sexual relationships, and feelings of inadequacy. Eight publications evaluated the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI); all described studies that demonstrated a central tendency less than 26.55. Four publications evaluated the Female Sexual Distress Scale (FSDS); all demonstrated average scores greater than 12. Two publications evaluated the Female Genital Self-Image Scale (FGSIS), both found decreased scores compared to controls. Four publications evaluated the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI); impact on quality of life was small to very large, with sexual difficulties affecting most study patients. One publication evaluated the Vulvar Quality of Life Index (VQLI); sexuality was the second highest-scoring subgroup. Conclusions Sexual health consequences of LS include sexual pain, dysfunction, and distress; negative genital self-image; and negative impact on sexual relationships. Women with LS experience a negative impact on quality of life, particularly related to sexual functioning.

This paper focused on the discussion to answer the problems of regional economic governance and how scientific evidence of the use of Technology can be a prospect and challenge in Indonesia's efforts to develop poor areas into prosperous areas. We study with a phenomenological approach that begins with in-depth data analysis techniques, thorough evaluations, and high interpretations to obtain valid data to answer existing problems. After we develop the data and discuss the results, it can be concluded that the government and other parties can develop the national and local economy by utilizing what Technology works with the prospects and challenges. Technology has brought a life that is now wholly industrialized. Therefore, resources are needed that can manage to see Technology in terms of prospects and challenges so that regional economic governance in Indonesia can be implemented.

Snakebite poisoning is a public health concern to persons in agrarian environments and Langtang North Local Government Area is not an exception. Agricultural and field workers have been reported to be at higher risk of snakebite in this area. The objective of this paper is to examine the prevalence rate and factors predisposed to snakebite. The primary data was gotten from information drive from questionnaire interview of the respondents (victims) while secondary data was obtained from hospital records at Zamko Comprehensive Health Centre (CHC) and National Population Commission and was analysed by using frequency table and trend line as well as the prevalence rate formula (equation). The results showed that the highest number of snakebites incidence was recorded in 2017 with 117 cases, followed by 2008 and 2018 with 109 cases each. The lowest was recorded in 2014 with 33 cases of snakebites. The result further depicts that the highest number of the snakebite cases was recorded at Zamko ward with 117 cases, followed by Nyer with 100 cases, Lipchok and Kuffen C ward had 78 cases each. The prevalence rate of snakebite cases in Langtang north LGA was found to be 424/100000. The findings of the study shows that majority of the snakebite victims were farmers with 36.23% and was observed from the findings that majority 37.68% of the bites occurred in the morning time as compared to the number in the night with 33.33%. Thus, the major factors found to be associated with snakebites included farming activities

Background and objectives: The plant kingdom has proven to be the most useful in the treatment of diseases and they provide an important source of all the world’s pharmaceuticals. Balanites aegyptiaca is an evergreen plant containing large varieties of chemical substances which possess important therapeutic properties and can be utilized as food supplement. The aim of the study was to carry out proximate, phytochemicals and identification of chemical compounds using aqueous fruit extract of Balanites aegyptiaca. Methods: The proximate and phytochemicals analysis were carried out by standard protocols of AOAC, While The phyto-constitutes of Balanites aegyptiaca aqueous fruit extract were determined by Gas Chromatography (Agilent 6890 series) coupled with HP-5MS column mass spectrometer. The helium was used as carrier gas at a flow of 1.0ml/min. The identification of the constituents of aqueous fruit extract was performed by matching their mass spectra and retention indices with those obtained from authentic samples and/or NSIT/Wiley spectra libraries, using different types of search (PBM/NIST/AMDIS) and available literature data. Results: The phytochemical analysis reveals that the aqueous fruit extract of Balanites aegyptiaca contained flavonoids (288.33+3.01 mg/100g), tannins (20.50+0.4mg/100g) saponin (320.90+10.28mg/100g), Glycoside (163.92+0.33), steroids (36.40+0.80mg/100g), alkaloids (78.67+1.03mg/100g) and phenols (227.43+1.01mg/100g) while Terpenoids and Anthraquinones, Anthocyanines were found to be absent. The proximate analysis of the fruits of Balanites aegyptiaca; revealed that the moisture content was 2.3±0.2%, crude protein 3.2±0.08%, crude fibre 16.4±0.5%, lipid content 3.1±0.7, carbohydrates 72.6±1.6% and ash content 2.4±0.2%. The GC-MS Analysis shows the presents of many important organic compounds in which three were reported to have biological activity this includes Benzene, [(methoxymethoxy)m ethyl]-, Undecanoic acid Hexadecanoic acid, ....

Introduction and Objectives: The fatty acid profile of cotton seed oil, can be used to assess its nutritional value as ell the industrial applications of the oil as well. The significant amino acids such as Lipase, phytase, and lecithin were confirmed to found in cotton seed oil .Additionally, cotton seed oil is made to contained substantial natural antioxidants and α-tocopherols which give it shelf life longer than other related edible oils. The aim of this study is evaluate the physicochemical properties and characterized the Gossypium hirsutum oil using GC-MS analysis. Materials and Methods: The cotton seed oil was extracted using soxhlet extraction procedure. The physicochemical parameters such as Acid value, Free Fatty acids content, Iodine value, Saponification value, Peroxide value, Viscosity(40°C), Refractive Index, Moisture content, Specific gravity (30°C), and colour index were determined by standard procedures described by AOAC , while the ester value was determined by baltes method. The oil was characterized using gas chromatography mass spectrophotometry (GC-MS) analysis. Results: The physicochemical parameters showed that the acid value, free fatty acids content, iodine value, Saponification value, ester value, Peroxide value, viscosity, refractive index, moisture content, Specific gravity of the oil were 0.94±0.020 (mgKOH/gOil), 0.34±0.016%, 75.70±0.150gI/100g, 210.9±0.023millieqv/g, 209.4±0.027mgKOH/gOil, 8.82±0.010meq/kg, 4.41±0.113cSt, 1.383±0.003, 0.22±0.010%, 0.915±0.001 respectively. While the the oil was found to be Dark red in color. The GC-MS analysis of cotton seed oil shows the presence of twenty five (25) chemical compound ,in which six (6) where found to have biological activity related to Antibacterial activity, Anticancer Drug, Antiseborrhoeic , Anti-inflammatory, Hypocholesterolemic, Cancer Preventive, Insectifuge, Antiarthritic, Antieczemic Hepatoprotective, Antiandrogenic, Nematicide, Antihistaminic, Cytoprotective activity and Anti-inflammatory this includes 4,8-Diaza-2,9-dibenzoyl-5, 6-diphenyl-2,8-decadienedioic acid tridecan-7-ol, Undecanoic acid, octadecanoic acid, 9,12-Octadecadienoic acid(Z,Z)-, (E)-hexadec-7-enal and (Z)-7-Hexadecenoic acid respectively. Conclusion: Cotton seed oil's physicochemical parameters were found to be within the NAFDAC and Cordex standards, liquids in nature, unsaturated, and slow to oxidation and rancidity and it is suitable for consumption . The GC-MS analysis of cotton seed oil reveals the presence of twenty-five (25) chemical compounds, six (6) of which exhibit biological activity and can be used in industrial, food, additive, and pharmacological formulations.

Identifying the dissemination patterns and impacts of a virus of economic or health importance during a pandemic is crucial, as it informs the public on policies for containment in order to reduce the spread of the virus. In this study, we integrated genomic and travel data to investigate the emergence and spread of the B.1.1.318 and B.1.525 variants of interest in Nigeria and the wider Africa region. By integrating travel data and phylogeographic reconstructions, we find that these two variants that arose during the second wave emerged from within Africa, with the B.1.525 from Nigeria, and then spread to other parts of the world. Our results show how regional connectivity in downsampled regions like Africa can often influence virus transmissions between neighbouring countries. Our findings demonstrate the power of genomic analysis when combined with mobility and epidemiological data to identify the drivers of transmission in the region, generating actionable information for public health decision makers in the region.

The Arewa Atlas Team (AAT) in northern Nigeria has set an example for a robust methodological data collection and made a big impact for the African Bird Atlas Project. To broaden national bird atlas projects and coverage across the continent, this paper reports on the activities and protocols of the AAT. We set out how we have galvanised bird clubs and bird club members to participate in this important monitoring project. We then focus on a bird atlas expedition conducted to the Bauchi State as an example. The outing was carried out from 24 to 28 September 2020 in line with the BirdMap protocol. For the first time, the AAT atlased 100 pentads and recorded 8 591 individual birds of 222 species (24.21% of Nigerian birds) from 67 families. We explore what can be done with these data, by presenting a summary of descriptions of the birds observed. For instance, we recorded 184 resident species, nine intra-African and 24 Palearctic migrants. The highest bird abundance (120 individuals) was recorded at 11°00′26.9″ N, 9°29′46.5″ E, pentad 1105C0925. Furthermore, the Rock Firefinch Lagonosticta sanguinodorsalis was out-of-range from Lumba. The Tawny Eagle Aquila rapax (Vulnerable) and Pallid Harrier Circus macrourus (Near Threatened) were species of conservation concern. Results of this survey shows that citizen science is a powerful tool to make rapid biodiversity assessments of bird species richness and abundance and provides insights into bird occurrence and composition. This can be extended to distribution over time at a local geographic scale. Continuous efforts to map bird distributions are therefore recommended, mostly in regions and countries where atlas projects have not been established or still in the formative stages. It is important that bird atlas teams maximise ways to accomplish more noteworthy coverage in their respective national bird atlas projects and here we outline how we accomplished this as motivation and a model for the African Bird Atlas Project. Keywords: African bird atlas project; Bauchi State; bird distribution; bird conservation; volunteers; public awareness

Over the last decade, Sitophilus zeamais are being control using synthetic insecticides. The overuse of these chemicals has lead to the development of insecticides resistance, environmental pollution, and killing of non-target organisms. The efficacy of Hyptis suaveolens, Ocimum gratissimum, and Psidium guajava leaf oils combination against adult S. zeamais was investigated on maize grain during the study. The leaves of the plants were grounded into powders and oils were extracted using Soxhlet apparatus separately. Maize variety 99% EDVT used was obtained from the International Institute for Tropical Agriculture (IITA) Kano. The insects were cultured in a containers and identified using a standard taxonomic key for Sitophilus spp. Different oils combination of two plants leaves oils were made in the ratio of 50%:50% of the test dose 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, and 0.4ml/20g.Ten newly emerged S. zeamais were introduced separately for examination of adult mortality test and lethal concentration determination. Results showed that mortality increases with exposure period. The leaves oils combination show a significant difference in adult mortality of S. zeamais (P

Objectives This study sought to determine the safety of the BASILICA (bioprosthetic or native aortic scallop intentional laceration to prevent iatrogenic coronary artery obstruction) procedure. Background Transcatheter aortic valve replacement causes coronary artery obstruction in 0.7% of cases, with 40% to 50% mortality. BASILICA is a procedure to prevent coronary obstruction. Safety and feasibility in a large patient cohort is lacking. Methods The international BASILICA registry was a retrospective, multicenter, real-world registry of patients at risk of coronary artery obstruction undergoing BASILICA and transcatheter aortic valve replacement. Valve Academic Research Consortium-2 definitions were used to adjudicate events. Results Between June 2017 and December 2020, 214 patients were included from 25 centers in North America and Europe; 72.8% had bioprosthetic aortic valves and 78.5% underwent solo BASILICA. Leaflet traversal was successful in 94.9% and leaflet laceration in 94.4%. Partial or complete coronary artery obstruction was seen in 4.7%. Procedure success, defined as successful BASILICA traversal and laceration without mortality, coronary obstruction, or emergency intervention, was achieved in 86.9%. Thirty-day mortality was 2.8% and stroke was 2.8%, with 0.5% disabling stroke. Thirty-day death and disabling stroke were seen in 3.4%. Valve Academic Research Consortium-2 composite safety was achieved in 82.8%. One-year survival was 83.9%. Outcomes were similar between solo and doppio BASILICA, between native and bioprosthetic valves, and with the use of cerebral embolic protection. Conclusions BASILICA is safe, with low reported rates of stroke and death. BASILICA is feasible in the real-world setting, with a high procedure success rate and low rates of coronary artery obstruction.

Background: Filling Station Attendants are exposed to hazards in their workplaces, which could be physical, chemical, ergonomic, biological, mechanical, or psychosocial. The study aimed to assess the work practices and health problems among filling station attendants in Ile-Ife. Methods: This study was conducted in Ile Ife, Osun State, Nigeria using a descriptive cross-sectional study design. There are 218 filling stations in Ile Ife. The total sampling method was used for selection and a sample size of 200 was obtained. Data was collected via Interviewer administered questionnaires with sections assessing sociodemographic characteristics, work practices, occupational hazards, and health problems using close-ended questions. An observational Checklist assessing the safety measures put in place by the management was also obtained. Data were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) and a p-value of 0.05 was found to be statistically significant. Results: Majority of the filling station attendants (74%) were not aware of workplace safety practices. Of those that were aware, 78% were aware of PPE while the commonest available PPE was working clothes (36%). One hundred and twelve attendants (56%) indicated that the PPEs available for them were not adequate. Concerning training, about 62.5% had prior safety training of which only 66% and 56% of them could use fire extinguishers and spill kits respectively. Regarding occupational hazards,74.5% of the attendants were aware of the various hazards, the commonest being fire outbreak (69.5). The commonest work-related problem was musculoskeletal disorders (60.5%) while the least common was gastro-intestinal tract problems (8%). There was a significant association between age, working durations of the respondents, and skin problems with p-values of 0.021 and 0.035 respectively. There was also a significant association between BMI and respiratory problems with a p-value of 0.029. Conclusion: This study assessed work practices and health problems among filling station attendants. There was poor availability of PPE, inadequate use of PPE as well as poor work safety practices among filling station attendants. Regarding health problems, neurological and eye problems were found to be the commonest among filling station attendants in Ile Ife. There were also significant associations between some sociodemographic characteristics and some health problems such as age and skin problems, working duration and skin problems, BMI, and respiratory problems.

The consumer price for poultry products in Nigeria and the expansion of the commercial poultry industry are negatively affected by the utilization of competitive and costly ingredients in making poultry diets. Consequently, the identification and utilization of locally available alternatives would greatly reduce cost of poultry production and products. In this regard, a study was undertaken to examine the effects of replacement of yellow maize (YM) with gayamba pearl millet variety as dietary energy source on carcass yield and blood parameters of broiler chickens. Three hundred (300) Ross 308 broiler chicks weighing 167.94 – 173.07g were randomly assigned to four dietary treatments of 75 birds each. Each treatment was replicated thrice with 25 birds in a completely randomized design. The experimental diets contained 0, 33.33, 66.67 and 100% gayamba millet as replacement for YM designated as diets 1, 2, 3 and 4 respectively. Full-fat soya bean and groundnut cake meal were the main vegetable protein sources used in the diets. Feed and water were provided ad libitum and the experiment lasted for 49 days. Results for carcass yield indicated a significant (P

Objective: The aim of this study is to determine the functional outcomes and mean duration of union in femoral shaft fracture in children treated with elastic intra-medullary nailing. Study Design:Retrospective Place and Duration: Conducted at Orthopaedic Unit Ayub Medical Teaching Institute Abbottabad and District Headquarter Teaching Hospital Gomal Medical College Dera Ismail Khan for duration from May 2020 to January 2021 (09 months). Methods: Total sixty eight patients with age ranges between 5-12 years were presented in this study. Patients detailed demographics age, sex and BMI were calculated after taking informed written consent. Complete patients were treated with elastic intramedullary nailing. Radiological assessment was done. Mean union time and complications associated to procedure were examined. Functional outcomes were analyzed according to the Flyn’s criteria. Follow-up was taken at 8 months postoperatively. Complete data was analyzed by SPSS 22.0 version. Results: Out of 68 patients, there were 48 (68.6%) males and 20 (31.4%) females. Most of the patients 41 (60.35) were aged between 8-12 years and the rest 27 (39.65%) were between 5-8 years.34 (50%) fractures were caused because of road accidents, falling from height were 20 (29.41%), due to sports were 10 (14.70%) and 4 (5.9%) were due to simple fall. 32 (47.06%) patients had left side fracture and 36 (52.94%) had right side fracture. Mean union time among patients was 4.14±2.72 months and there was no any case of non union. According to Flyn’s criteria, 50 (73.53%) cases had excellent results, 14 (20.6%) patients had good and fair results were among 4 (5.9%) cases. Complications were observed bone stiffness, delayed union and varus deformity among all cases. Conclusion: We concluded in this study thatElastic intramedullary nailing for femoral shaft fractures in children is safe and effective treatment modality. Union of bone achieved all the patients and majority of patients had excellent functional outcomes. Keywords: Femoral shaft fractures, Children, Elastic intra-medullary nail

Objective: The aim of this study is to determine the outcomes between percutaneous cross pinning vs two lateral pinning in treatment of closed reduction supracondylar fracture of humerus in children. Study Design: Prospective study Place and Duration: Study was conducted in Orthopaedic Unit Ayub Medical Teaching Institute Abbottabad and DHQ Teaching Hospital Gomal Medical College Dera Ismail Khan during from October 2019 to May 2020 (09 months duration). Methods: Total 60 patients of both genders were presented in this study. Baseline demographically details of patients age, sex and body mass index were recorded after taking consent. Patients were aged between 2-14 years were included. Children who had supracondylar humerus fractures were enrolled and divided equally into 2-groups. Group I had 30 patients and received percutaneous cross pinning technique and group II had 35 patients underwent for lateral pinning. Radiological and functional results were assessed by Flynn’s criteria among both groups, frequency of complications was also observed. Complete date was analyzed by SPSS 22.0 version. Results: Total 36 (60%) were males (18 in each group) and 24 (40%) were females (12 in each group. Mean age of the patients in group I was 6.14±3.12 years and in group II mean age was 5.66±5.28 years. Sports 45 (75%) was the most common cause of fracture followed by traffic accidents 10 (16.67%) and the rest were 5 (8.33%) fall from the height. Mean surgical time in group I was 31.24±2.16 minutes while in group II mean time was 33.42±1.61 minutes. Mean radiation time in group I was 2.01±1.1 sec and in group II radiation time was 1.34±1.1 sec. According flynn’s criteria excellent results were found in 20 (66.7%) cases, good results in 8 (26.7%) and fair results found in 2 (6.7%) while in group II excellent results were found in 19 (63.33%), good results in 9 (30%) and fair results in 2 (6.7%). Significantly no any difference in outcomes was observed among both groups. Conclusion: We concluded in this study that the both techniques are safe and effective for the treatment of closed reduction supracondylar fracture of humerus in children but less operative and high radiation time was observed in percutaneous cross pinning as compared to two lateral pinning. Keywords: Percutaneous cross pinning, Two lateral pinning, Supracondylar humerus fracture, Children

Objective: The aim of this study is to determine the effectiveness of reamed interlocking nail in the management of closed tibal shaft fractures. Study Design: Descriptive/ Observational study Place and Duration: Study was conducted in Orthopaedic Unit Ayub Medical Teaching Institute Abbottabad and DHQ Teaching Hospital Gomal Medical College Dera Ismail Khan for nine months duration from January 2019 to September 2019. Methods: Total 80 patients of both genders were presented in this study. Age ranges of enrolled cases were 20-70 years. Demographically details of enrolled cases were recorded after taking written consent. Patients who had tibial shaft fractures were admitted in emergency ward and underwent for reamed interlocking nail. Postoperatively union time and rate of complications were assessed. Complete follow up of the patients were take place in duration of 14-months. Data was analyzed by SPSS 20.0 version. Results: Mean age of the patients was 28.65±8.77 years with mean BMI 24.16±6.23 kg/m2. Out of 80 patients, 47 (58.6%) were males and 33 (41.4%) were females. Traffic accident was the most common cause of fracture found in 60 (75%) cases, followed by fall from the height 15 (18.75%) and the rest were others 5 (6.25%). Mean united time of simple fractures were 13.14±4.14 weeks while among segmental fractures union time observed 18.13±6.17 weeks. Frequency of union fractures was 62 (77.5%), delayed unions were 13 (16.25%) and non-unions were 5 (6.25%). Satisfaction rate was 72 (90%) among all cases. Conclusion: We concluded in this study that reamed interlocking nail was an effective and safest method for the management of closed tibal shaft fractures. Overall union rate in this study was 93.75% and showed less morbidity among cases. Keywords: Interlocking nail, Tibial shaft fractures, Union

Objective: The aim of this study is to determine the response of sofosbuvir and velpatasvir combination in chronic hepatitis C with hemodialysis patients. Study Design: Prospective/observational study Place and Duration: The study was conducted at department of Nephrology Nawaz Sharif Kidney Hospital, Swat for duration of six months from 1st July to 31st December, 2020. Methods: Total 27 patients of both genders were presented in this study. Patients were aged between 18-85 years. Patients details demographics age, sex and body mass index were recorded after taking written consent. Patients diagnosis hepatitis C with recognized genotypes were presented. Enrolled patients received combination of sofosbuvir and velpatasvir regime (SOF/VLP) for 14 weeks and follow up was taken. Effectiveness and safety among HCV patients on hemodialysis were observed. Complete data was analyzed by SPSS 22.0 version. Results: Out of 27 patients 17 (62.96%) were males 10 (37.04%) were females. Mean age of the patients was 35.14±5.18 years with mean BMI 24.41±6.25 kg/m2. Hypertension was the most common comorbidity found in 15 (55.55%) patients followed by obesity 8 (29.63%) and diabetes found in 3 (14.81%). Among 27 cases 20 (74.04%) were naïve and 7 (25.96%) were treatment experienced. Sustained virological response was found in 26 (96.3%) and 1(3.7%) patients were lost at follow up. Significantly improvement was found in hemoglobin level 12.11 ± 5.24, alanine aminotransferase (ALT) 28.51 ± 9.62 and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) 35.24 ± 7.08 after treatment. Headache, fatigue and nausea were the most common adverse outcomes. Conclusion: We concluded in this study that the use of sofosbuvir and velpatasvir was effective safe and well tolerated in the treatment of hepatitis C patients with hemodialysis. Keywords: Hemodialysis, Hepatitis C, Sofosbuvir, Velpatasvir, Complications

The study was conducted to evaluate the factors associated with common mental disorders among women of reproductive age in Sumaila Local Government Area of Kano state. Cross-sectional descriptive design was used. A total of 163 women were recruited for the study using multi-stage sampling technique. A close-ended structured questionnaire was used for data collection. Data collected were organized and analyzed with Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20.0 and results were presented using frequency distribution and percentages, and mean±standard deviation. Chi-square analysis was used to test for association between factors associated with and development of common mental disorders at 5% level of significant within 95% confidence interval. Findings from the study revealed that 28.4% of the respondents had Common Mental Disorders, awareness of the respondents were low as most of them believed that demonic possession (73.5%) and witchcraft (58.6%) were the causes of mental illness. Significant association was found between factors associated with common mental disorders and age at first marriage (χ2=3.395, p=0.048) and low social integration (χ2=5.414, p=0.020), of the women. The study concluded that common mental disorders in rural communities are mostly related to age at first marriage It is recommended that mental health personnel should conduct advocacy to traditional and religious leaders, also the male parents in rural areas on the influence of early marriage on mental disorders and clear their misconceptions on its causes, for early prevention and improved mental health seeking behaviour.

The study was aimed to explore and summarized Financial Entrepreneurial Competencies (FECs) through Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) for the development of a model for technical college programs in the North-West geo-political zone of Nigeria. The quantitative research approach was used to develop insight to stakeholders’ perspective: teachers and entrepreneurs. The study used survey questionnaires. The sample of the study involved 331 participants, including 249 technical college teachers and 82 SMEs entrepreneurs form the three states in the zone. Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 24, was used to analysed the data collected and a value of 0.72 Cronbach’s alpha was achieved. From the EFA, the study found that a three-factor structure is an appropriate method for describing the elements of FECs. Additionally, the value for KMO measure of sampling adequacy amount to 0.821 and the value for Bartlett’s test was significant at the 0.000 level this indicated that correlation between the variables are sufficiently large for factor analysis. The study also identified 61.99% as a total variance explained which is greater than the accepted threshold value. All the 12 items had a sizable inter-item correlation > 0.4, except FEC9 and FECP14 were eventually removed due to the complexity of the variable and were omitted in EFA. The study also highlights; it has been concluded FECs are worthy for inclusion into technical college programs as entrepreneurial competencies required by technical college students for self-employment in Nigeria.

Homotopic solutions for Jeffrey material in frames of buoyancy forces are constructed in this research. The improved Fourier-Fick laws are considered for formulation. In addition, variable liquid aspects (thermal conductivity, mass diffusiv?ity) along with heat source are accounted. Prandtl?s boundary-layer idea is utilized to model the problem. Involvement of similarity variables resulted into non-linear system of coupled equations. The well-known homotopic scheme is employed for non-linear analysis. Besides, a comprehensive discussion is reported for arising dimensionless variables vs. significant profiles. Our results indicate a rise in thermal and solutal fields when variable conductivity and mass diffusivity parameters are increased.

In this paper, a compact wearable antipodal Vivaldi antenna resonating at 3.5 GHz is proposed for 5G n77 and n78 bands. It is designed on a flexible polyester substrate with a dielectric constant (ɛ r ) of 2 and loss tangent (tan δ) of 0.005. The antenna parameters were optimized via parametric analyses using CST software with a size of 33 × 33 mm² (length × width). The antenna is evaluated in terms of reflection coefficient (S 11 ), gain, efficiency, radiation pattern and surface current density and its reflection coefficient is verified with measurement. This antenna attained a maximum simulated gain of 4.17 dBi and an efficiency of 98.18 % in the resonating band.

This work presents a patch antenna with defected ground structure (DGS) on flexible materials for wearable applications. It is fed a 50 Ω inset feed and designed for operation at 2.45 GHz on a thermoplastic polyurethane-polyester fabric substrate. The DGS are integrated to ensure a compact design and improved bandwidth, efficiency, and gain. Simulations indicated that the antenna bandwidth is enhanced from 28.4 MHz without DGS to 79.3 MHz. Besides that, its gain is also improved from 2.01 dBi without DGS to 3.62 dBi and efficiency from 30% to 74%. Both antenna designs are fabricated and measured and provide good results and performance with efficiency greater than 50%.

The pallid emperor moth, Cirina forda, is a prominent edible insect in Niger State but currently at great risk of extinction. The incidence, abundance and distribution of Cirina forda, was investigated for four consecutive seasons, i.e. May-June 2010, 2011, 2012 and 2013 to ascertain the effect of the depletion of its host plant, Shea butter trees, Vitellaria paradoxa. in Niger State, Nigeria. C. forda egg clusters located on the host plants were enumerated to ascertain the seasonal abundance by visual counting using hand lenses and binoculars (MARCO-model 750/8 m-988000 m). At each location, 100m2 land area in which three 10m2 portions were mapped as replicate sites, were investigated for host plant density, egg cluster abundance and distribution within three host plant canopy height ranges. The 41 locations in six Local Government Areas (LGAs) where C. forda occurred in Niger State in 2010 were investigated. The result indicated the GPS of each of the locations and showed that Niger state had a very rich but fast dwindling population of V. paradoxa. C. forda egg cluster abundance across the six LGAs showed Niger state as highly endowed but ephemeral and highly unpredictable, especially in terms of location where they occurred. The egg cluster abundance reduced drastically from 58.1± 12.1 and 56.1±24.1 egg cluster/host plant in 2010 and 2011, respectively to 41.3 ± 8.3 and 29.7 ±5.1 egg cluster/host plant in 2012 and 2013 cropping seasons, respectively. Locational similarities were observed in the trends of C. forda host plant density reduction and egg cluster abundance over the four cropping seasons and these were corroborated across the State. The decreasing densities of Shea butter trees was identified as posing serious threats to egg laying by C. forda. The possibility of the extinction of C. forda was identified as imminent and a conservation approach that stems the indiscriminate destruction of host tree, V. paradoxa (Shea butter trees) was proposed.

A robust model is essential for the design of system components such as controllers, observers state estimators, and simulators. State estimators are becoming increasingly important in modern systems, especially systems with states that may not be measured with sensors. Therefore, it is imperative to analyze the performance of different modelling and state estimator design techniques. In this research work, a parametric model of a pick and place robotic arm was obtained using system identification technique. Pick and place robotic arms have a lot of industrial applications. The parameters of the obtained model were determined using the general second-order characteristics equation and manual tuning. Furthermore, five state estimators were designed based on the developed model. The accuracy of the model, and the performance of the observers were analyzed. The model was found to provide a good representation of the system. Nonetheless, with very small divergence between the model and the real system. The performance of the observers was found to be dependent on their pole locations; the higher the magnitude of the poles, the higher the state estimators’ gain and the better the estimation provided. It was found out that the state estimators with high gains were more susceptible to measurement noise. Keywords— Modelling, pick and place robots, observers, and state estimators.

In recent years, the manufacturing sector in India has been witnessing a continuous growth in output production due to increase in investment in the sector and the government’s commitment to reduce reliance on imports and boost exports considering the country’s huge domestic market. However, this development is not environmentally friendly as increase in production entails increase in energy consumption, which result in an increased carbon emission that damage the environment. In view of the foregoing situation, this study is set out to investigate the impact of manufacturing value-added on environmental degradation in India over the 1965-2016 period. The study used autoregressive and distributed lag (ARDL) model to achieve its objective. Carbon dioxide emission was used to proxy environmental degradation in the model. In order to serve as control variables in the model, some selected relevant macroeconomic variables such as energy use, trade openness, and economic growth were employed. The estimated result showed that manufacturing value added has positive impact on environmental degradation in India. It infers that the increasing production in the manufacturing sector is degrading the environment through carbon emission. This suggests that an increase in manufacturing sector value added contributes to reducing the quality of environmental in India. Also, the environmental Kuznets curve (EKC) hypothesis was tested and found to be invalid and non-existent. Since the manufacturing sector consumes a lot of energy in its productive activities, the result does not come as a surprise. Thus, we suggest that policymakers in India should apply appropriate measures to improve the quality of the environment through adoption of new technology that will ensure energy efficiency and reduce carbon emission from the country’s manufacturing sector.