Search

Understanding how neighborhood environments are related to older adults quality of life (QoL) and physical activity (PA) is important for public health actions on healthy ageing in sub-Saharan Africa. We examined associations of perceived neighborhood environment attributes with QoL among older adults in Nigeria and investigated the moderating effects of PA on these associations. We conducted a cross-sectional study of 353 older adults (mean age = 68.9 ± 9.1 years) selected from 5 high- and low-income communities in Maiduguri, Nigeria. QoL, attributes of the neighborhood environments and PA were self-reported using validated questionnaires. Multi-level models were used to examine the direct associations between neighborhood environment attributes and each of the four domains of QoL (physical health, psychological health, social relationships, and environmental health), as well as the moderating effects of leisure-time and total PA. Seven of nine neighborhood environment features were positively associated with multiple domains of QoL. Residential density, land-use diversity, land-use mix-access, walking infrastructure, traffic safety and overall walkability were positively related to both or either physical health and environmental health QoL among those who are physically active. In contrast, walking infrastructure, traffic safety, and overall walkability were negatively related to psychological health QoL among those not physically active. Our findings suggest being physically active moderates the association of neighborhood environments with QoL among Nigerian older adults. We suggest that designing age-friendly communities and simultaneously promoting PA may be needed to improve QoL and help prepare the Nigerian society for the predicted increase in the older adult population.

ABSTRACTCities are described as urban heat islands (UHI) due to the intensity of the heat generated by urban activities. Buildings, for example, absorb and emit heat, which contributes to urban heat. Cities contribute to global warming, which, over time, influences climate change. Cities contend with these challenges concurrently through mitigation and adaptation strategies. Through their unintended conflicts and trade-offs, the strategies may impact each other adversely. What are typologies of these trade-offs and conflicts, and how do they influence the effectiveness of UHI management by governments? To answer this research question, this paper used the desktop, case-study and evidence-based research techniques. The paper found and discussed specific conflicts and trade-offs between UHI mitigation and adaptation strategies, as well as effective integration, innovation and evaluation management mechanisms. The findings should provide actionable insights for urban policymakers and planners, on UHI management and long-term climate resilience in cities.

Living organisms especially human beings get exposed to harmful substances such as heavy metals through the plants and animals we consume. Human sources of food like Oryza sativa and Clarias gariepinus get contaminated by the soil as a result of pesticides used by farmers. This study aimed to determine heavy metals levels and pesticide residue in soil, sediment, Oryza sativa, and Clarias gariepinus in three locations namely, Gadau, Jama’are, and Zabi (Giade LGA) in Bauchi State Nigeria. Samples of Soil, sediments, Oryza sativa, and Clarias gariepinus were collected at three different locations namely Gadau, Zabi, and Jamaare, to assess the level of some heavy metals and pesticide residues. The heavy metals present were detected in this order Zn>As>Pd>Cd>Cr>Ni in soil, sediment, Oryza sativa, and Clarias gariepinus respectively. The detected heavy metals were higher than the WHO/FAO recommended maximum tolerance values in three locations in this study. Among the active residues observed Abamectin and Dichlovos were more active compared to others with a 1- >5ppm range. The presence of these harmful substances in the environment is of serious concern to human health. This study recommends strict regulations on the use of pesticides for food crops and fish in the study area.

Pengaruh gaya kepemimpinan transformasional kepala sekolah dan kinerja guru Kristen terhadap peningkatan mutu pendidikan, di SMP Negeri 5 Kota Kupang, strategi yang diterapkan selama ini, sudah berjalan namun belum maksimal, dikarenakan masih ada guru Kristen yang belum maksimal. Penelitian menganalisis dan menemukan ide dan inovasi baru pengaruh gaya kepemimpinan transformasional dan kinerja guru Kristen. Penelitian ini menggunakan desain penelitian kuantitatif. Analisis data yang dilakukan terhadap 41 guru, 1 kepala sekolah, (42 responden). Kepemimpinan transformasional kepala sekolah memberikan kekuatan pengaruh sebesar 16,5%. sedangkan 83,5% dipengaruhi oleh faktor lain. Pengaruh kinerja guru Kristen (X2) terhadap peningkatan mutu Pendidikan (Y) yaitu Sig. 0.000 0.05 dan r hitung t tabel yaitu 4.072 2.022. Artinya terdapat pengaruh kinerja guru Kristen (X2) terhadap peningkatan mutu Pendidikan (Y) secara signifikan. Dengan nilai determin koefisiennya sebesar 0,293. Jadi, kinerja guru Kristen memberikan pengaruh sebesar 29,3% terhadap mutu Pendidikan. Sedangkan 70,7% dipengaruhi oleh fantor lain. Pengaruh kepemimpinan transformasional kepala sekolah (X1) dan kinerja guru Kristen (X2) secara bersama-sama (simultan) terhadap peningkatan mutu Pendidikan (Y) secara signifikan. Berdasarkan hasil penelitian dan olahan data analitis dan kritis oleh penelti, maka disimpulkan bahwa terdapat pengaruh yang signifikan dari kepemimpinan transformasional kepala sekolah dan kinerja guru Kristen.

Abstract Deep borehole heat exchangers (DBHEs) with depths exceeding 500 m have been researched comprehensively in the literature, focusing on both applications and subsurface modelling. This review focuses on conventional (vertical) DBHEs and provides a critical literature survey to analyse (i) methodologies for modelling; (ii) results from heat extraction modelling; (iii) results from modelling deep borehole thermal energy storage; (iv) results from heating and cooling models; and (v) real case studies. Numerical models generally compare well to analytical models whilst maintaining more flexibility, but often with increased computational resources. Whilst in-situ geological parameters cannot be readily modified without resorting to well stimulation techniques (e.g. hydraulic or chemical stimulation), engineering system parameters (such as mass flow rate of the heat transfer fluid) can be optimised to increase thermal yield and overall system performance, and minimise pressure drops. In this active research area, gaps remain, such as limited detailed studies into the effects of geological heterogeneity on heat extraction. Other less studied areas include: DBHE arrays, boundary conditions and modes of operation. A small number of studies have been conducted to investigate the potential for deep borehole thermal energy storage (BTES) and an overview of storage efficiency metrics is provided herein to bring consistency to the reporting of thermal energy storage performance of such systems. The modifications required to accommodate cooling loads are also presented. Finally, the active field of DBHE research is generating a growing number of case studies, particularly in areas with low-cost drilling supply chains or abandoned hydrocarbon or geothermal wells suitable for repurposing. Existing and planned projects are thus presented for conventional (vertical) DBHEs. Despite growing interest in this area of research, further work is needed to explore DBHE systems for cooling and thermal energy storage.

Background: The impact of Digital Financial Services (DFS) on women’s economic empowerment (WEE) has aroused the attention of practitioners and scholars over the past decade. However, its influence on the WEE of women domestic workers has largely been overlooked, particularly in marginalised and vulnerable communities. Objectives: This study investigated the DFS that women domestic workers use and how they enhance the economic empowerment of women domestic workers. Method: The study utilised qualitative data from in-depth interviews with women domestic workers (n = 40) in Nigeria. Thematic analysis of qualitative data identified three themes, namely, financial security, privacy and agency, that constitute pathways to women domestic workers’ economic empowerment. Results: The findings indicate that the availability and user-friendliness of DFS play a significant role in promoting the extracted themes among women domestic workers, thereby enhancing their reputation, relevance in the affairs of the family and overall growth and development. The study indicated that ownership of a mobile phone is a foundational element that drives DFS, which powers WEE. Conclusion: Policymakers, employers and relevant stakeholders should acknowledge this importance and strive to establish mechanisms that enhance and safeguard the financial rights of domestic workers. Contribution: This study contributes to the ongoing endeavours of policymakers, governments and researchers in comprehending the expanding realm of women’s empowerment by exploring the potential of DFS as a viable means to empower all women and girls.

This study was conducted to synthesize MCM-48 based on the surfactants (cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) and Triton X-100). The effect of surfactant on MCM-48 was studied in the esterification of Nyamplung seed oil. Optimization of the amount of surfactant in the MCM-48 catalyst in the esterification of Nyamplung seed oil was carried out by washing and calcination methods. Comparison of GC-MS method and acid-base titration was also studied to determine the activity of the MCM-48 catalyst in the esterification. The results of the Mann-Whitney statistical test showed that there was no significant difference (Asymp. Sig. (2-tailed) = 0.967) for the two methods. The effect of the active site on the MCM-48 catalyst activity in the esterification was characterized by FTIR and XRD. The catalyst's activity is significantly influenced by both the percentage transmittance of the silanol active site and the surfactant removal method. The MCM-48 catalyst manufactured by calcination (CTAB-MCM-48/650) performed 12.31% better than the washing approach (CTAB-MCM-48/1w). However, the CTAB-MCM-48 catalyst can be applied to the simultaneous reaction (esterification and transesterification) of the conversion of Nyamplung seed oil into biodiesel.

Ticks transmit pathogens and harbour non-pathogenic, vertically transmitted intracellular bacteria termed endosymbionts. Almost all ticks studied to date contain 1 or more of Coxiella, Francisella, Rickettsia or Candidatus Midichloria mitochondrii endosymbionts, indicative of their importance to tick physiology. Genomic and experimental data suggest that endosymbionts promote tick development and reproductive success. Here, we review the limited information currently available on the potential roles endosymbionts play in enhancing tick metabolism and fitness. Future studies that expand on these findings are needed to better understand endosymbionts’ contributions to tick biology. This knowledge could potentially be applied to design novel strategies that target endosymbiont function to control the spread of ticks and pathogens they vector.

Cement is the most expensive ingredient in the process of making concrete. Reducing the quantity of cement used in the production of concrete with Pulverized glass powder (PGP) will reduce the cost of concrete production and help tackle environmental, disposal and CO2 emission challenges. The results of structural reliability assessment performed on Pulverized glass powder concrete produced using locally sourced Natural aggregate (NA) as coarse aggregate. Concrete cubes measuring 150 × 150 ×150 mm were cast, cured for 28 days and tested using the universal compressive testing machine. First order reliability method (FORM) was employed to determine the level of safety of the reinforced concrete beam. Result of sensitivity analysis under shearing forces shows the beam is structurally safe at a span of 3250 mm with Probability of failure (Pf) of 1.14 × 10-3, Effective depth of 459 mm and corresponding Probability of failure (Pf) of 5.77 × 10-8 and an Area of Shear reinforcement (Asv) of 201 mm2 with Probability of failure (Pf) of 5.01 × 10-5.

Abstract BackgroundThe COVID-19 pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2 is causing ongoing human and socioeconomic losses. ObjectiveTo know how far the virus has spread in Niger State, Nigeria, a pilot study was carried out to determine the SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence, patterns, dynamics, and risk factors in the state. MethodsA cross-sectional study design and clustered, stratified random sampling strategy were used to select 185 test participants across the state. SARS-CoV-2 IgG and IgM rapid test kits (colloidal gold immunochromatography lateral flow system) were used to determine the presence or absence of antibodies to the virus in the blood of sampled participants across Niger State from June 26 to 30, 2020. The test kits were validated using the blood samples of some of the Nigeria Center for Disease Control–confirmed positive and negative COVID-19 cases in the state. SARS-CoV-2 IgG and IgM test results were entered into the Epi Info questionnaire administered simultaneously with each test. Epi Info was then used to calculate the arithmetic mean and percentage, odds ratio, χ2 ResultsThe seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 in Niger State was found to be 25.4% (47/185) and 2.2% (4/185) for the positive IgG and IgM results, respectively. Seroprevalence among age groups, genders, and occupations varied widely. The COVID-19 asymptomatic rate in the state was found to be 46.8% (22/47). The risk analyses showed that the chances of infection are almost the same for both urban and rural dwellers in the state. However, health care workers, those who experienced flulike symptoms, and those who had contact with a person who traveled out of Nigeria in the last 6 months (February to June 2020) were at double the risk of being infected with the virus. More than half (101/185, 54.6%) of the participants in this study did not practice social distancing at any time since the pandemic started. Participants’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding COVID-19 are also discussed. ConclusionsThe observed Niger State SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence and infection patterns meansuggest that the virus has widely spread, far more SARS-CoV-2 infections have occurred than the reported cases, and there is a high asymptomatic COVID-19 rate across the state.

Estuarine and wetland ecosystems are becoming increasingly altered by the concentration of human population near the coastline. A major threat to biodiversity related to this human footprint is the introduction of invasive alien species, particularly in isolated ecosystems like islands where biological invasion is often harmful. The National Park of Ehotilés Islands is an archipelago of 6 islands and a RAMSAR site subjected to disturbances activities like agriculture, illegal fisheries, and tourism. These factors often act as an accelerator for the introduction of invasive species. However, there is a lack of research conducted on insects, specifically ants on these islands. This study aimed to inventory the present ant fauna and estimate the vulnerability to tramp and potential invasive ant species. Ants were collected using Winkler, pitfall, and funnel traps on five islands. In total, 76 ant species were recorded. These species are distributed into 20 genera and five subfamilies: Dolichoderinae (5 species), Formicinae (11 species), Myrmicinae (49 species), Ponerinae (11 species) and Proceratiinae (1 species). We also detected two tramp and potentially invasive species: the ghost ant Tapinoma melanocephalum and the big-headed ant Pheidole megacephala. Ant communities are dominated by six species, namely Odontomachus troglodytes, Oecophylla longinoda, Nylanderia lepida, Pheidole sp.2, Monomorium invidium, and the invasive ghost ant Tapinoma melanocephalum. This work is the first to inventory ants on the Islands of Ehotilés National Park and may serve as a basis for conservation decisions as it demonstrates that this park is not spared from the introduction of invasive ant species.

The eucalyptus plant (Melaleuca leucadendron Linn) is one of the essential oil production plants in the world. The plant has been widely used as an antiseptic and also for relieving colds, sore throat, and infections. This study aims to identify the whole essential oil compounds of this plant using GC-MS and test the antibacterial activity of the essential oil using the disc diffusion method. Based on the results of the GC-MS analysis of the essential oil content obtained by steam distillation and antibacterial test using discs diffusion method to Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, yielded 81 compound peaks with antibacterial activity analysis results classified as relatively very strong at 5 different concentrations. The results of the best antibacterial activity test were indicated by the diameter of the inhibition zone 26.42 ± 0.97 mm for Escherichia coli while Staphylococcus aureus 23.43 ± 2.09 mm at a concentration of 100%. The study of antibacterial compounds based on the 81-peak GC-MS analysis found that 8 compounds have been reported as antibacterial. These compounds belong to the terpenes group with total percentages of eucalyptol 20.97 %, terpineol 11.74 %, β-pinene 6.24%, 3-carene 1.95%, caryophyllene 4.96 %, (z)-geraniol 0.10%, farnesol 0.10%, and eugenol 0.18% respectively

ABSTRACTThis work investigates the fundamental photocatalytic properties of nitrogen-doped single-walled silicon carbide nanotubes (N-doped SWSiCNTs) for hydrogen evolution for the first time. Investigations of the structural, mechanical, electronic, and optical properties of the studied systems were carried out using popular density functional theory implemented in quantum ESPRESSO and Yambo codes. Analysis of the structural properties revealed high mechanical stability with the 3.6% and 7.4% N-doped SWSiCNT. The calculated band gap of the N-doped SWSiCNT with 3.6% demonstrated a value of 2.56 eV which is within the photocatalytic range of 2.3 eV−2.8 eV. The hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER) potentials of the 3.6% N-doped SWSiCNT also showed good agreement with previous theoretical data. The studied material showed the best photocatalytic performance in both parallel and perpendicular directions by absorbing photons in the visible region. Therefore, the observed structural, mechanical, electronic and optical behaviors demonstrated by the 3.6% N-doped SWSiCNT exposed it as a better photocatalyst for hydrogen production under visible light.

ABSTRACTBrucellosis is a worldwide zoonosis that is endemic in Namibia. This study estimated seroprevalence of brucellosis, and determined the presence of Brucella infection in slaughtered cattle using the genus-specific 16-23S rRNA interspacer PCR (ITS-PCR), and the species-specific AMOS-PCR. Between December 2018 and May 2019, sera (n = 304), pooled lymph nodes (n = 304), and individual spleen (n = 304) were collected from slaughtered cattle from 52 farms. Sera were tested for anti-Brucella antibodies using the Rose Bengal test (RBT), and the complement fixation test (CFT). Seroprevalence was 2.3% (7/304) (RBT) and 1.6% (5/304) (CFT). Prevalence of positive herds was 9.6% (5/52). Lymph node (n = 200) and spleen (n = 200) samples from seronegative cattle tested negative for Brucella spp. DNA on ITS-PCR, but Brucella spp. DNA was detected in lymph nodes (85.7%, 6/7) and spleen (85.7%, 6/7) from RBT positive cattle. ITS-PCR confirmed isolates from lymph node (51.4%, 4/7) and spleen (85.7%, 6/7) as Brucella spp.; while AMOS-PCR and Brucella abortus species specific (BaSS) PCR confirmed the isolates as Brucella abortus, and field strains, respectively. Provision of adequate protective gear, and the promotion of brucellosis awareness among abattoir workers is recommended to prevent zoonotic infection.

Abstract Background The epidemic surge in hypertension in sub-Saharan Africa is not matched by clinical trials of antihypertensive agents in Black patients recruited in this area of the world. We mounted the Newer versus Older Antihypertensive agents in African Hypertensive patients (NOAAH) trial to compare, in native African patients, a single-pill combination of newer drugs, not involving a diuretic, with a combination of older drugs including a diuretic. Methods Patients aged 30 to 69 years with uncomplicated hypertension (140 to 179/90 to 109 mmHg) and ≤2 associated risk factors are eligible. After a four week run-in period off treatment, 180 patients have to be randomized to once daily bisoprolol/hydrochlorothiazide 5/6.25 mg (R) or amlodipine/valsartan 5/160 mg (E). To attain blood pressure Results At the time of writing of this progress report, of 206 patients enrolled in the run-in period, 140 had been randomized. At randomization, the R and E groups were similar (P ≥ 0.11) with respect to mean age (50.7 years), body mass index (28.2 kg/m2), blood pressure (153.9/91.5 mmHg) and the proportions of women (53.6%) and treatment naïve patients (72.7%). After randomization, in the R and E groups combined, blood pressure dropped by 18.2/10.1 mmHg, 19.4/11.2 mmHg, 22.4/12.2 mmHg and 25.8/15.2 mmHg at weeks two (n = 122), four (n = 109), eight (n = 57), and 12 (n = 49), respectively. The control rate was >65% already at two weeks. At 12 weeks, 12 patients (24.5%) had progressed to the higher dose of R or E and/or had α-methyldopa added. Cohort analyses of 49 patients up to 12 weeks were confirmatory. Only two patients dropped out of the study. Conclusions NOAAH (NCT01030458) demonstrated that blood pressure control can be achieved fast in Black patients born and living in Africa with a simple regimen consisting of a single-pill combination of two antihypertensive agents. NOAAH proves that randomized clinical trials of cardiovascular drugs in the indigenous populations of sub-Saharan Africa are feasible.

Geomicrobiology is an interdisciplinary field of research that studies the role of microorganisms during the geological process from the inception of the earth and their perspective on the future of the earth. Scientists focused on microbe mineral interactions in various processes such as bioweathering, transformation, and the formation of biominerals to better understand the role of microbes in geological processes. Those processes are part of the geochemical cycles of elements, some of which are essential nutrients for life and others are toxic to life. Microorganisms, especially fungi and bacteria, as well as their exudates, are the major agents of geomicrobiology due to their important geological activities, which have a role in the bioweathering of rocks and minerals. Mobilization and immobilization of metals as well as the formation of new biominerals occur because of these activities and their fast growth. They are well known to be used in different strategies of bioremediation and they are genetically engineered to become more specific in removing and dissolving pollutants in the environment. The goal of the review was to outline the role of bacteria and fungi in bioremediation as well as in important geological processes, such as mineral alteration, bioweathering and biomineralization.

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, but few studies are available on CKD in Cote d'Ivoire. We aimed to assess the prevalence of CKD and identify its associated factors in the general population in Abidjan in 2016 in a cross-sectional study that included 1418 subjects. We did not receive laboratory data for 38 subjects, including serum creatinine data. Of the 1380 remaining subjects, 138 cases of CKD were included in the study (10% prevalence). We observed a female predominance (sex ratio = 0.81), and the mean age was 43.7 ± 14.5 years. Histories of hypertension (HTN) (29.7%) and diabetes (10.1%) were reported. The main clinical signs were high blood pressure (51.4%), obesity (21%), proteinuria (37.9%), and hematuria (37.4%). The glomerular filtration rate (GFR) was 55 years (P = 0.02), a history of HTN (P = 0.001), hypercholesterolemia (P = 0.010), and hyperlipidemia (P = 0.009) were associated with the risk of CKD. The prevalence of CKD was high in our study. The CG equation should not be used to estimate the GFR in the general population. Prevention involves managing modifiable risk factors.

One alternative to make biofuels and replace petroleum-based fuels is to convert non-food ingredients from Ulva reticulata seaweed into bioethanol. Seventy percent of the earth's surface is covered by microalgae and seaweeds that can be converted into bioethanol. Ulva seaweed contains 50.3% carbohydrates in the form of heteropolysaccharides such as glucose, arabinose, rhamnose and xylose. Optimization of the seaweed hydrolysis catalyzed by HNO3 using Microwave irradiation was done by varying acid concentration (1, 3, 5, 7%), hydrolysis time (30, 40, 50, and 60 minutes), and hydrolysis temperature (75, 100, 125, 150°C). Fermentation was carried out by varying inoculum concentrations (6, 8, and 10% (v/v)) for 5, 6 and 7 days at a temperature of 30°C and a pH of 4.5. Analysis of the surface texture of the sample was carried out by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). The analysis of reducing sugars concentration was carried out using the dinitrosalicylate (DNS) method. Ethanol analysis was carried out by Gas Chromatography (GC). The results of SEM analysis showed that prior to hydrolysis, the surface morphology of the powder was still compact and intact. Whereas after being hydrolyzed with HNO3 it was seen that the surface texture of the powder suffered significant damage. The hydrolysis results showed that the optimum conditions during the pretreatment of U. reticulata powder was at acid concentration of 7%, reaction time of 50 minutes, reaction temperature of 150°C and 250 watts of power which gave hydrolysate with reducing sugar concentration of 86.5 g/L. Fermentation of the hydrolysate using yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae produced bioethanol with concentration of 37.2% as analyzed using a gas chromatograph.

Abstract Background Mucociliary clearance is an important defense mechanism in human upper and lower respiratory airways. Impairment of this process by certain conditions such as cigarette smoking can predispose to chronic infection and neoplasm of the nose and paranasal sinuses. Methods This was a cross‐sectional study conducted in Kano metropolis, Nigeria. Eligible adults were enrolled, a saccharine test was conducted, and the nasal mucociliary clearance time was assessed. Analysis of the result was carried out using Statistical Product and Service Solutions version 23.0. Results There were 225 participants categorized into 75 active smokers (33.3%), 74 passive smokers (32.9%), and 76 nonsmokers (33.8%, living in a smoking‐free zone). The age range of the participants was between 18 and 50 years, with a mean age of (31.2 ± 5.6) years. All participants were males. There were 139 (61.8%) of Hausa‐Fulani ethnic group, 24 (10.7%) Yoruba, 18 (8.0%) Igbo, and 44 (19.5%) other ethnic groups. Findings in this study showed that the average mucociliary clearance time among active smokers was prolonged ([15.25 ± 6.20] min) compared to passive ([11.41 ± 4.25] min) and nonsmokers ([9.17 ± 2.76] min) respectively, with a statistical significance (F = 33.59, P

Attiéké, the most widely consumed cassava product in Côte d'Ivoire, has a short shelf life. This is largely due to microbial contamination. The aim of this study was therefore to assess the antioxidant activity and effectiveness of Garcinia kola seed oil against pathogenic and spoilage strains of attiéké. This was possible through an extraction of Garcinia kola oil by maceration in hexane. The antimicrobial activity of the oil was assessed using an agar diffusion method. The antioxidant activity of Garcinia kola oil was assessed using the DiPhenyl Picryl Hydrazyl (DPPH) free radical scavenging test and the Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power (FRAP) test. Garcinia kola oil showed significant antioxidant potential. A high percentage of DPPH radical inhibition was observed, with an IC50 of 2.57 mg/mL. Iron-reducing power was highest when the oil was used at a concentration of 100 %. Garcinia kola oil was able to inhibit the bacterial growth of Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli at a concentration of 100, 50 and 25 % respectively from 22 ± 0.05 to 16 ± 0.00 mm and 20 ± 0.05 to 14 ± 0.08 mm and Salmonella typhimurium (12 ± 00 mm) at a concentration of 100 %. Candida albicans (20 ± 0.07 to 18 ± 0.01 mm), Aspergillus flavus (28 ± 1.41 to 16 ± 0.00 mm) and Aspergillus niger (21 ± 1.01 to 15 ± 0.02) were inhibited at concentrations ranging from 100 to 12.5 %. Bacillus cereus, on the other hand, was resistant to Garcinia kola oil. Based on the findings of this study, Garcinia kola seed oil could be used to extend the shelf life of attiéké.

Understanding how neighborhood environments are related to older adults’ quality of life (QoL) and physical activity (PA) is important for public health actions on healthy ageing in sub-Saharan Africa. We examined associations of perceived neighborhood environment attributes with QoL among older adults in Nigeria and investigated the moderating effects of PA on these associations. We conducted a cross-sectional study of 353 older adults (mean age = 68.9 ± 9.1 years) selected from 5 high- and low-income communities in Maiduguri, Nigeria. QoL, attributes of the neighborhood environments and PA were self-reported using validated questionnaires. Multi-level models were used to examine the direct associations between neighborhood environment attributes and each of the four domains of QoL (physical health, psychological health, social relationships, and environmental health), as well as the moderating effects of leisure-time and total PA. Seven of nine neighborhood environment features were positively associated with multiple domains of QoL. Residential density, land-use diversity, land-use mix-access, walking infrastructure, traffic safety and ‘overall walkability’ were positively related to both or either physical health and environmental health QoL among those who are physically active. In contrast, walking infrastructure, traffic safety, and ‘overall walkability’ were negatively related to psychological health QoL among those not physically active. Our findings suggest being physically active moderates the association of neighborhood environments with QoL among Nigerian older adults. We suggest that designing age-friendly communities and simultaneously promoting PA may be needed to improve QoL and help prepare the Nigerian society for the predicted increase in the older adult population.

The nutritional composition of Africa star apple seeds (Chrysophyllum albidum) was carried out. This sample seed was obtained from Tunga Market, Minna Niger State, Nigeria. The proximate compositions (crude fats, proteins, ash, fiber, moisture, carbohydrate), minerals (phosphorous, potassium, calcium, sodium, and magnesium), and contents were determined using standard methods. For sample AS1, The moisture content yields 6.49%, crude ash 2.25%, fats yield 5.64%, crude fiber 0.84%, crude protein 10.50%, and carbohydrate content 74.28%. As for the AS2 sample, the moisture content yields 6.42%, crude ash 2.21%, fats 5.66%, crude fiber 0.81%, crude protein 10.50%, and carbohydrate content 74.30%. The AS1 sample had 92.36, 38.64, 229.10, 63.44,108.50/100g of calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium, and phosphorous respectively. Likewise, the AS2 sample had 90.58, 36.82, 28.64, 65.20,112.30/100g respectively. The seeds had a high concentration of minerals. The seed had significant levels of both essential and non-essential amino acids, and the values of anti-nutrients that were measured were below the accepted benchmark, allowing for safe consumption. The findings indicate that eating African star apple seeds will significantly help meet human nutritional needs for proper growth and provide appropriate protection from diseases brought on by malnutrition.

Men and women both experience space in different ways. Women are considered to occupy a high position in society due to their socio-cultural roles played. They are custodians of the domestic space; as such, they are positioned with how traditional spaces are constituted. Furthermore, spaces configured in vernacular architecture embody cultural meaning and values. One of the most important spaces within the home is the bedroom, often considered a space for copulation and rest. However, for the women, the cultural values of the bedroom go beyond its function as a resting place in most cultures. As such this study embarked on understanding the meaning and values of the bedroom of the Nupe woman and how it is spatially configured to meet her cultural identity and values. The research employed a qualitative approach toward a deep understanding of how the bedroom space of the Nupe woman is constituted spatially. The elicitation of data was carried out in 5 different Nupe communities and the content analysis of the transcribed interviews showcases a convergence in the character and meaning of the Nupe woman’s bedroom to be a space with distinctive cultural values, beyond it being a space for rest, but which is also filled with the history of the past and preserved for the future.

Autochthonous fungi are potential successful agents in the process of bioremediation through their efficient adaptation to pollutant toxicity and competition with other microorganisms that are present in the leachate treatment plant. The leachate from municipal waste landfills was an important source of fungi. Even though some of these fungi have the potential to be human pathogens, such strains when used in biological treatment approaches may serve as a possible tool for integrating the leachate bioremediation process because of the extracellular enzymes produced by fungal strains. In this study, the leachate sample was tested with regard to four parameters, including total dissolved solids (TDS), electrical conductivity (EC), pH, and the decolorization of the leachate sample by a number of indigenous species of fungi, which were observed by use of the culture techniques. The scanning electron microscope (SEM) coupled with energy dispersive x-ray analysis (EDX), UV-spectrum, and reflected and transmitted polarizing light microscope were used in the research project to observe and assess the obtained data from the experimental work. The results indicated the various levels of efficiency of the isolated fungal strains in eliminating color, lowering TDS, EC, and pH through their geoactivities potential in metal biosorption and immobilization by biomineralization of new minerals in the growth environment and eventually reducing the metal bioavailability and toxicity.

Feun Kase seed extract can be used as a corrosion inhibitor on zinc metal in HCl solution. This study aims to determine the secondary metabolites contained in Feun Kase seed extract, inhibition efficiency and corrosion rate, and surface morphology of zinc metal in the inhibition process using Feun Kase seed extract in HCl media. Feun Kase seed extract was obtained by maceration extraction using methanol. In the corrosion inhibition test, the concentration and temperature variations were carried out to determine the effect on the inhibition efficiency and the corrosion rate per year. The results showed that the methanol extract of Feun Kase seeds contained secondary metabolites of alkaloids, flavonoids and saponins. The optimum inhibition efficiency was obtained at an inhibitor concentration of 30 ppm of 82.70% with a corrosion rate of 5.80 mm/year and at a temperature of 35ºC of 75.84% with a corrosion rate of 7.28 mm/year in the test of increasing the temperature of the corrosion medium. The morphological analysis of the zinc plate using the SEM instrument showed that the zinc plate without surface treatment (not immersed in HCl media) was still smooth. This is indicated by the surface of the zinc plate which is still clearly visible because it has not been affected by the corrosion medium. The zinc plate when immersed in HCl media, is damaged which is indicated by the presence of pores or holes. Zinc plate when added with Feun Kase seed extract in HCl media, the zinc surface was damaged but the damage was not as prominent as in HCl media without using an inhibitor.

Fermentation improves the shelf life, texture, taste and aroma, nutritional value and digestibility and also lowers the content of antinutrients of fermented meals. This study investigated the effect of different fermenting agents on the quality of masa. The rice grains were sorted, cleaned, washed and soaked, wet milled and fermented separately with baker’s yeast, lactic acid culture (yogourmet) and tsamiyan gaye (citric acid) respectively. The final batter was fried and package for analysis. The different fermenting agent had significant (p

Abstract Ants are known to contribute to the physical and chemical improvement of the soil. In this context, the hypothesis put forward is that ants improve the nitrogen (N) supplementation necessary to ensure the high primary production measured in the Lamto savannah. Recent investigations in the humid savannah ecosystem showed that ant nests’ association with perennial grasses enhances their growth, productivity, and microorganism activity. This study aimed at understanding the effect of ant nests on organic matter (OM), carbon (C), and N flux beneath grass tufts. Under each grass tuft chosen to carry out this study, soil samples were taken from the depths of 0–10 cm using an auger at shrubby, clear grassy, and transitional grassy savannah. The analytical method by incineration of the loss on fire was used to determine the OM amount. The Kjeldahl method was used to determine the total N amount in the soil under grass tufts. The results showed that these components’ amount is higher beneath grass tufts associated with ant nests than those not associated with ant nests. The presence of ant nests increases OM and C amount in the soil under Hyparrhenia diplandra tufts than Andropogon schirensis, and Loudetia simplex tufts. In contrast, N amount is higher under L. simplex tufts than A. schirensis; but mean under H. diplandra. The carbon/nitrogen ratios less than 10 indicate high OM mineralization under grass tufts associated with ant nests. This provides the plants with an adequate supply of nutrients.

In livestock, brucellosis is mainly an asymptomatic disease except when abortion occurs; therefore, two serological tests are used for diagnosis as no single test is suitable. Abattoir samples enable a combination of culture, molecular, and serological tests to detect brucellosis. This study assessed Brucella-specific PCR (ITS-PCR) to detect brucellosis and to conduct a molecular characterization of Brucella spp. isolated from PCR-positive livestock (n = 565) slaughtered at abattoirs and the appropriate sample tissue(s). ITS-PCR detected Brucella DNA in 33.6% of cattle, 14.5% of sheep, and 4.7% of pig tissues. Impure Brucella cultures from PCR-positive tissues were 43.6% (44/94) of cattle, 51.7% (15/29) of sheep, and 50% (2/4) of pigs with predominantly B. abortus identification with AMOS-PCR and low isolation of mixed B. abortus and B. melitensis in all species. In cattle, 33% of isolates were from lymph nodes, while in sheep 38.0% were from the liver and kidney and only from tonsils in pigs (2/4). Brucella infections identified with AMOS-PCR were present in seropositive and mainly seronegative (75.6–100%) livestock with the potential to cause brucellosis during pregnancy or breeding. This study demonstrated the value of the polyphasic approach, especially with chronic infections and the potential risk of these asymptomatic animals.

Abattoir workers are liable to zoonotic infections from animals and animal products, primarily to diseases with asymptomatic and chronic clinical manifestations in animals, such as brucellosis. No published reports exist on the seroprevalence of brucellosis in abattoir workers in South Africa. Therefore, this cross-sectional study was conducted to estimate the occurrence and risk factors for Brucella exposure in abattoir workers in Gauteng Province. A total of 103 abattoir workers and managers from 6 abattoirs, where brucellosis-positive slaughtered cattle and sheep were previously detected, were interviewed and tested with serological assays using the Rose Bengal test (RBT), BrucellaCapt, and IgG-ELISA. A pre-tested questionnaire was administered to consenting respondents to obtain information on risk factors for brucellosis. Of the 103 respondents tested, the distribution of female and male workers was 16 (15.5%) and 87 (84.5%), respectively. The seroprevalence for exposure to brucellosis was 21/103 (20.4%, 95%CI: 13.1–29.5) using a combination of RBT, BrucellaCapt, or IgG-ELISA. For test-specific results, seroprevalences by RBT, BrucellaCapt, and IgG-ELISA were 13/103 (12.6%, 95%CI: 6.9–20.6), 9/103 (8.74%, 95%CI: 4.1–15.9), and 18/103 (17.5%, 95%CI: 10.7–26.2), respectively. Low-throughput abattoirs were identified as associated risks, as 29.3% of workers were seropositive compared with 12.7% of workers in high-throughput abattoirs, which highlights that direct contact at abattoirs poses higher risk to workers than indirect and direct contact outside abattoirs. This study confirms the occurrence of Brucella spp. antibodies among abattoir workers in South Africa, possibly due to occupational exposure to Brucella spp., and highlights the occupational hazard to workers. Furthermore, findings underscore that abattoir facilities can serve as points for active and passive surveillance for indicators of diseases of public health importance. We recommend periodic implementation of brucellosis testing of abattoir workers country-wide to establish baseline data for informing appropriate preventive practices and reducing the potential burden of infection rates among these high-risk workers.

This study reports on experimental observations during fungi–mineral substrate interactions. Selected mineral substrates of biotite, muscovite, bauxite, chromite, galena, malachite, manganite, and plagioclase were exposed in vitro to free fungal growth under open conditions. The interaction produced strong biochemical and biomechanical alterations to the mineral substrates. Specifically, reported here is a three-dimensional thigmotropic colonization pattern of the mineral surfaces that suggested a possible pattern of fungal metalophagus behavior. Authigenic secondary mineral biomineralization occurred: Ca- and Mg-Oxalates such as weddellite: CaC2O4·2H2O, whewellite: CaC2O4·H2O, and glushinskite: MgC2O4·2H2O; struvite: (NH4) MgPO4·6H2O; gibbsite: Al(OH)3; and gypsum: CaSO4·2H2O. The bioleached elements included Fe, Pb, S, Cu, and Al, which formed single crystals or aggregates, amorphous layers, amorphous aggregates, and linear forms influenced by the fungal filaments. The fungi bioleached Fe and Al from bauxite and Mn from manganite and deposited the metals as separate mineral species. Gypsum was deposited during the interaction with the manganite substrate, indicating a source of Ca and S either within manganite impurities or within the fungal growth environment. Other biochemical and biomechanical features such as tunneling, strong pitting, exfoliation, dissolution, perforations, and fragmentation of the mineral surfaces were also produced. The results of this study, besides emphasizing the role of fungi in bioweathering and mineral alteration, also show that, to produce these alterations, fungi employ a 3D fungal colonization pattern of mineral surfaces guided by thigmotropic and possible metalophagus behavior.

Previous studies have investigated the potential role of neighborhood walkability in reducing sedentary behavior. However, the majority of this research has been conducted in adults and Western developed countries. The purpose of the present study was to examine associations of neighborhood environmental attributes with sedentary time among older adults in Nigeria. Data from 353 randomly-selected community-dwelling older adults (60 years and above) in Maiduguri, Nigeria were analyzed. Perceived attributes of neighborhood environments and self-reported sedentary time were assessed using Nigerian-validated and reliable measures. Outcomes were weekly minutes of total sedentary time, minutes of sitting on a typical weekday, and minutes of sitting on a typical weekend day. In multivariate regression analyses, higher walkability index, proximity to destinations, access to services, traffic safety, and safety from crime were associated with less total sedentary time and sedentary time on both a weekday and a weekend day. Moderation analysis showed that only in men was higher walking infrastructure and safety found to be associated with less sedentary time, and higher street connectivity was associated with more sedentary time. The findings suggest that improving neighborhood walkability may be a mechanism for reducing sedentary time among older adults in Nigeria.

Abstract Background Abortions cause tremendous economic losses in food‐producing animals and may lead to food insecurity. Objectives This study aimed to characterize Brucella spp. and other abortigenic pathogens from aborted tissues of cattle. Methods For cattle, aborted tissues (n = 19) were cultured, and Brucella spp. were detected using the genus‐specific 16S‐23S ribosomal DNA interspacer region (ITS) assay and speciated using Brucella abortus, Brucella melitensis, Brucella ovis, and Brucella suis (AMOS) and Bruce‐ladder PCR assays. Brucella negative samples were screened using the eight abortigenic pathogens PCR panel. Samples from an abortion outbreak that occurred within a goat tribe were included in this investigation. Sera of females (n = 8) and males (n = 2) were analyzed using the Rose Bengal Test (RBT) and indirect enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (i‐ELISA), while vaginal swabs (n = 3) and aborted tissues (n = 1) were cultured and characterized. Results The ITS‐PCR detected Brucella DNA in cultures from two aborted tissues of cattle (10.5%, [2/19]), which were identified as B. melitensis (n = 1), and B. abortus (n = 1) using AMOS and Bruce‐ladder PCR assays. Campylobacter fetus (n = 7) and Leptospira spp. (n = 4) including co‐infections (n = 2) of C. fetus and Leptospira spp. were identified from the Brucella negative samples of cattle. Goats (100.0%, 10/10) were brucellosis seropositive on RBT and i‐ELISA. Mixed infections caused by B. melitensis and B. abortus were isolated from the vaginal swabs (n = 3) and aborted tissues (n = 1). Discussion and conclusions This is the first identification of abortion‐associated pathogens in aborted cattle indicating the enormous financial losses and a threat to public health. It is therefore essential to include these identified pathogens in the surveillance scheme of veterinary and human services.

During the last century, large scale production of halogenated organic compounds and heavy metals, specifically by industrial processes, and the inappropriate management of those products caused a wide spreading of a variety of hazardous contaminants into the environment including a massive contamination of the groundwater. Their presence and persistence have significantly influenced human health and the environment. Recently, many technologies have been employed in order to reduce their impacts. However, the majority of those technologies did not achieve the target, because of their high cost and low efficacy in the reduction of contaminants. Nevertheless, a new technology of synergetic interactions of (nZVI) zero-valent iron nanoparticles with two types of anaerobic bacteria; the organohalide respiring bacteria (OHRB) and sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB), have been investigated as a promising technology for in-situ groundwater remediation. This powerful technique was successfully utilized for the reduction of pollutants and converted to environmentally benign forms. This article reviews and emphasizes the coupling effect of (nZVI-OHRB) and (nZVI-SRB) on the remediation process of contaminated sites, in addition to a detailed illustration of the mechanism of the integration of (nZVI-OHRB) and (nZVI-SRBs), and discussion of the influencing factors on the integrated system. Actually, the technology presented here, though proven successfully, needs more case studies to better understanding of the interactions between microorganisms and nZVI, as well as with the surrounding environment for a better efficacy and finding the best solutions.

Ectothermic organisms including insects are highly vulnerable to climate warming which not only influences their biology, ecology and physiology but also affects their symbiotic gut microbiota. This study determined the impact of ambient (control) and simulated warmer (heating) climatic conditions on the microclimate of brood nest and gut bacterial abundance of two Apis mellifera subspecies i.e. A. mellifera ligustica and A. mellifera sinisxinyuan. For both subspecies, brood nest temperature and relative humidity under the heating treatment were significantly different (p≤0.001) than those under the control treatment. Quantitative PCR data revealed that the abundance of gut bacteria (16S rRNA gene copy numbers) of A. mellifera ligustica and A. mellifera sinisxinyuan larvae was significantly higher (P≤0.05), 1.73 and 5.32 fold higher respectively, during the heating treatment than those in control conditions. Although gut bacterial abundance of A. mellifera ligustica (1.67 × 107 copies g−1 fw) and A. mellifera sinisxinyuan (1.7 × 107 copies g−1 fw) larvae was similar during the control treatment, A. mellifera sinisxinyuan larvae exhibited three times greater gut bacterial abundance than A. mellifera ligustica during the heating treatment. Similarly, adult A. mellifera sinisxinyuan bees harboured significantly greater bacterial abundance during the heating treatment than control. These findings elucidate that climate warming may significantly affect the honeybee colony microclimate and their gut bacterial abundance. However, further studies are needed to better understand how gut microbial community may influence the learning, physiological and behavioural mechanisms of the host bees in a climate warming scenario.