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Spelling is a crucial skill for academic success however many pupils with learning disabilities lag behind in academic tasks because of poor spelling skills and its accompanying negative effects. Past studies on pupils with learning disabilities focused more on reading than on spelling skills. Thus, the objective of the study was to examine the core effects of visual imagery and cloze spelling instructional strategies on pupils with learning disabilities' performance in spelling. The pretest-posttest control group quasi-experimental design of 3 x 2 factorial matrix was adopted. Sixty pupils with learning disabilities (Male = 38, Female = 22, Mean age = 9.35) from three government-run primary schools were chosen using purposive sampling. Three instruments used were Pupil Rating Scale (Revised) (r = 0.76), Right Word Recognition (r = 0.91) and Pupils' Note Books on Dictated Words. Data were analysed using both descriptive and inferential statistics. The results showed that the core effect of treatment on the performance in spelling of pupils who experience disabilities in learning was significant F[subscript (3,56)] = 2.085. p<0.05, [eta squared] = 0.418), but gender had no significant core effect. Therefore, teachers should employ the visual imagery and cloze spelling instructional strategies while teaching spelling to pupils with learning disabilities.

Abstract Background Clozapine is the only recommended antipsychotic medication for individuals diagnosed with treatment-resistant schizophrenia. Unfortunately, its wider use is hindered by several possible adverse effects, some of which are rare but potentially life threatening. As such, there is a growing interest in studying clozapine use and safety in routinely collected healthcare data. However, previous attempts to characterise clozapine treatment have had low accuracy. Aim To develop a methodology for identifying clozapine treatment dates by combining several data sources and implement this on a large clinical database. Methods Non-identifiable electronic health records from a large mental health provider in London and a linked database from a national clozapine blood monitoring service were used to obtain information regarding patients' clozapine treatment status, blood tests and pharmacy dispensing records. A rule-based algorithm was developed to determine the dates of starting and stopping treatment based on these data, and more than 10% of the outcomes were validated by manual review of de-identified case note text. Results A total of 3,212 possible clozapine treatment periods were identified, of which 425 (13.2%) were excluded due to insufficient data to verify clozapine administration. Of the 2,787 treatments remaining, 1,902 (68.2%) had an identified start-date. On evaluation, the algorithm identified treatments with 96.4% accuracy; start dates were 96.2% accurate within 15 days, and end dates were 85.1% accurate within 30 days. Conclusions The algorithm produced a reliable database of clozapine treatment periods. Beyond underpinning future observational clozapine studies, we envisage it will facilitate similar implementations on additional large clinical databases worldwide.

Globally, effective and efficient healthcare is critical to the wellbeing and standard of living of any society. Unfortunately, several distant communities far from the national grid do not have access to reliable power supply, owing to economic, environmental, and technical challenges. Furthermore, unreliable, unavailable, and uneconomical power supply to these communities contributes significantly to the delivery of substandard or absence of qualitative healthcare services, resulting in higher mortality rates and associated difficulty in attracting qualified healthcare workers to the affected communities. Given these circumstances, this paper aims to conduct a comprehensive review of the status of renewable energy available to rural healthcare clinics around the globe, emphasizing its potential, analysis, procedures, modeling techniques, and case studies. In this light, several renewable energy modeling techniques were reviewed to examine the optimum power supply to the referenced healthcare centers in remote communities. To this end, analytical techniques and standard indices for reliable power supply to the isolated healthcare centers are suggested. Specifically, different battery storage systems that are suitable for rural healthcare systems are examined, and the most economical and realistic procedure for the maintenance of microgrid power systems for sustainable healthcare delivery is defined. Finally, this paper will serve as a valuable resource for policymakers, researchers, and experts in rural power supply to remote healthcare centers globally.

Introduction: Respiratory diseases represent some of the most common causes of hospital visits in childhood. Most of our decision making rely on clinical assessment without the benefit of objective measures of pulmonary function. The ability to measure pulmonary function provides a tool that can confirm clinical diagnosis, monitor response to therapy and follow progression of disease. Correct interpretation of pulmonary function test requires an appreciation of normal values. Patients and methods: Lung function test was performed on rural children in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria, to determine normal values among healthy children. One hundred and fifty two children aged 6-16 years old comprising 89 males and 63 females were included in this study. Anthropometric measurements including height, weight, sitting height, chest circumference and body surface area were obtained. The Peak Expiratory Flow (PEF), forced vital capacity (FVC) and Forced Expiratory Volume in one second (FEV1) were measured using the spirolab III electronic spirometer manufactured by Medical International Research (MIR) Italy. It was a descriptive cross sectional study. Results: One hundred and fifty-five children; 89 (58.6%) males and 63 (41.4%) females were studied. The mean age (±SD) of the males was 10.5+2.95 years while that of the females was 10.7 + 3.19 years. The mean PEFR, FVC and FEVI were 3.95±1.55 litres per second (l/s) 1.58±0.58 litres (l) and 1.57±0.56l in the males while for the f ema le s 3.73±1.03l / s , 1.45±0.43l and 1.41±0.41l respectively. The FVC and FEV1 of the males were significantly higher than that of the females (p=0.03 respectively). Height was the significant predictor of PEFR (p=0.04), while the height and sitting height were the important predictors of log FVC and FEV1 for the males respectively (p= 0.007 and 0.02; 0.004 and 0.027). For the female subjects, age was a significant predictor of log PEFR and Log FVC (p=0.047 and 0.003), while Age and Sitting height were the significant predictors of log FEV1 (p=0.02 and 0.03 respectively). Conclusion: The study has observed higher lung function indices in the males than in female children. In addition to age and height, sitting height has been observed as an important predictor of the lung function indices of the children studied. This study should be seen as a pilot study and will require data from a large population to establish normal values for our population.

Retained and neglected foreign bodies in the respiratory tract in children are a common occurrence. Undiagnosed foreign bodies can cause mechanical effects or chemical reactions and may present as chronic pulmonary infection, bronchiectasis, asthma, and lung collapse or lung abscess. Delay in diagnosis, appears to result from a failure to give serious consideration to the diagnosis, normal chest roentgenographic findings, and negative bronchoscopic findings. A case of left bronchial foreign body aspiration is herein reported to illustrate the causes and complications of the delayed diagnosis. It is hoped that this will help sensitize the medical practitioner of the need for a high index of suspicion in children presenting with symptoms suggestive of foreign body aspiration. This study will also serve as advocacy for the provision of adequate. bronchoscopic equipments for paediatric practice in our health facilities.

Background: Nigeria has a high neonatal mortality rate. Most of these deaths can be prevented by providing adequate training for health providers with available and functional basic resuscitation equipments. Our aim was to assess the effect of training on the cognitive knowledge of health practitioners on neonatal resuscitation. Method: We conducted neonatal resuscitation trainings for selected health professionals from all the senatorial districts of Akwa Ibom State, based on the Neonatal Resuscitation programme (NRP) of the American Academy of Paediatrics (AAP). The facilitators were trained and certified in the NRP train-the trainers program of the AAP conducted by the Paediatric Association of Nigeria (PAN). Pre -and post-test were organized during the training and the test scores analyzed to assess any improvement in the knowledge of the health professionals on neonatal resuscitation. Results: One hundred and eightyone health professionals were trained over a two year period. Sixty five (35.9%) were doctors, while 116 (64.9%) were nurses. Physicians had similar pre- test but significantly higher post- test scores compared to the nurses: 46.35±15.34 vs 43.70± 14.51; p=0.34 and 76.14±13.02vs 66.29±15.7; p=0.04 respectively. All the health professionals showed significantly higher posttest scores compared to the pre-test scores; p=0.001 respectively. There was also a negative relationship between the number of practice years and the pre-training scores for the physicians andnurses; spearman rho= -0.18; p=0.45 and -0.43;p=0.003 respectively. Conclusion: Neonatal resuscitation training leads to an improvement in the cognitive knowledge of health practitioners. All health practitioners should be trained irrespective of number of practice years. Further studies are required to assess its long term impact on neonatal mortality.

Pertussis is being increasingly found in previously immunized subjects. In Nigeria, the immunization coverage rates are low. This study was therefore carried out to highlight the cases of pertussis seen in a young Nigerian tertiary health facility, with emphasis on the clinical features, complications and the impact of prior immunization in the affected children. Methods : This was a hospital based retrospective study, in which data were obtained from case notes of children seen in the Paediatric department of the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital (UUTH) from January 2007 to December 2011 with a diagnosis of pertussis. Information sought included epidemiologic data, duration of illness, signs and symptoms, treatment, complications and outcome. Results: Fifty three patients werediagnosed with pertussis during the five year period, with majority (29; 54.7%) of cases in the year 2011. Twenty one (39.6%) of the subjects were males while 32 (60.4%) were females. The mean age of the subjects was 29.71 + 27.73 months. The most common symptoms were Post-tussive vomiting and paroxysmal cough occurring in 48(90%) and 39 (73.6%) of the patients respectively. The average interval between onset of symptoms and presentation at the health facility was 3.35 + 2.84 weeks. Majority of the patients (25; 47.2%) were adequately immunized for their age. Bronchopneumonia, either alone or in combination with other complications was the commonest complication occurring in nine (52.9%) patients.There was no mortality. Conclusion: Pertussis is still ofpublic health significance. Routine immunization should be strengthened and booster doses of vaccines should be considered for older children whose immunity may begin to wane.

Background: Neonatal Mortality rates continue to be high in spite of the general decline in under-5 mortality rates in Nigeria. Available evidence has shown that the availability of a skilled birth attendant and equipment for basic neonatal resuscitation is necessary for the prevention of early neonatal death which accounts for majority of neonatal mortality. This audit was, therefore, carried out to identify the quantity and quality of equipment available for basic neonatal resuscitation in some health facilities in southern Nigeria. Methods: This was a cross sectional questionnaire based study. Data was obtained from health care workers from 26 health facilities who attended Neonatal resuscitation training workshops from June 2010 to November 2012. Information obtained included type of health facility, obstetric and paediatric services provided and human and material resources available for neonatal resuscitation. Results: Twenty-three (88.5%) were government owned facilities while three (11.5%) were private facilities. Of the government owned facilities four were primary health facilities (17.3%), 18 were secondary (78.4%), while only one (4.3%) was a tertiary health facility. Most of the health facilities had annual deliveries, annual newborn resuscitation and birth asphyxiated babies in the 1-500 range. All the Paediatricians were in the tertiary health facility. Only three (11.5%) facilities had bag and mask and radiant warmer, respectively, while only five (19.2%) had radiant warmers. Conclusion: Equipment for basic neonatal resuscitation is grossly deficient in some health facilities in southern Nigeria. Therefore, urgent efforts should be made by the stakeholders involved in the delivery of child health services to provide basic resuscitation equipment to health facilities. This will contribute to a reduction in the neonatal mortality rate in Nigeria.

Introduction: Pneumonia is the highest killer of children worldwide. Nigeria is one of the high burden pneumonia countries. Studies have observed seasonal variations in the prevalence of pneumonia. Objective: To identify the prevalence and bio-demographics of childhood pneumonia, as well as its epidemiological pattern, seasonal variation, co-morbidities, complications and outcomes in the paediatric ward of a tertiary hospital in Southern Nigeria . Methods: This was a retrospective cross-sectional study. Information on all patients admitted into the paediatric medical ward with pneumonia from January 2013 to December 2017 were extracted from the ward register. Data were analysed using Stata version 12. Results: The prevalence of Pneumonia was 18% (590 out of 3276). Three hundred (50.9%) of the 590 children with pneumonia belonged to the 0-11 months age group. Pneumonia was commoner in males (57.8%). Five hundred and seventy three (97.3%) children had bronchopneumonia. The mortality rate for pneumonia was 1.2% The median duration of admission for all children with pneumonia was five days with a discharge rate of 96.9%. The commonest complication observed was congestive cardiac failure in 23 out of 29 (79.3%). The three most common co- morbidities with pneumonia were malaria, sepsis and congenital heart disease (27.8%, 10.7% and 8.8% respectively) pneumonia prevalence was higher in the rainy season with a double peak in March and October. Conclusion: Childhood community acquired Pneumonia prevalence is still high in Nigeria especially in the rainy season. Intensified efforts should be made in the prevention and early treatment of pneumonia so as to prevent prolonged morbidity and mortality.

This study aims to examine the internal determinants of financial performance of food supermarkets listed on the South African stock exchange. Food supermarkets play an integral role in socio-economic development of the country. The study employed an econometric approach utilizing fixed effect panel data. Drawing information from audited financial statements, data were gathered from four major listed food supermarkets in South Africa covering the period from 1994 to 2022, resulting in a total of 116 observations over 29 years. The robust longitudinal statistics obtained from balanced data revealed a significant positive correlation between equity financing, size of corporate governance, and current debt with financial performance, as measured by sales revenue at 0.0000, 0.054, and 0.000 significance levels, respectively. The findings indicate that as these variables increase, the financial performance of the studied food supermarkets (Shoprite, Woolworths, Spar, and Pick n Pay) also increases. Conversely, a negative and significant relationship is noted between company age, current assets, and financial performance at significance levels of 0.007 and 0.002, respectively. This suggests that as these variables increase, financial performance will decrease. As per the research findings, it is imperative for supermarkets to uphold a well-rounded blend of equity and debt and adopt inventive business approaches as they mature to improve financial outcomes. Therefore, the study proposes a framework focusing on internal factors that impact the financial performance of listed food supermarkets in South Africa.

Disadvantaged pupils are those pupils whose ability to learn in school is impeded by their family, social or economic situations which are often times beyond their control. Without adequate intervention, there are chances that this group of pupils could drop out of school. In Nigeria, there are many categories of disadvantaged pupils into which a vast majority of pupils can be grouped. Providing science education requires a lot of resources and organization. By its nature, the engagement of children in science education under an ideal environment is a huge task, let alone for pupils who are disadvantaged and must learn science under abnormal circumstances. The gravity of the disadvantage suffered by these pupils vary, hence, this paper focuses on two very critical groups of disadvantaged pupils in Nigeria (the pastoralist nomads and the Almajiris) and describes the challenges faced by educators in providing science education to them. The paper further presents a critical appraisal of some national and international educational programs which are designed to assist educationally disadvantaged pupils with an intention to explore the successes and failures of such programs within the Nigerian context. Some recommendations on how to tackle the identified challenges are proposed.

Abstract Electrochemical sensors based on self‐assembled monolayer (SAM) were synthesized using metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs), quantum dots (QDs) and their composite (QDs@MOFs) to modify gold electrode (AuE) that was used as electrochemical sensors for bisphenol A detection. The molecular layer was assembled on the surface of the gold electrode by adsorption and provide a highly flexible method to tailor the interfaces between analyte and the electrode. Single crystal X‐ray of the MOF revealed a six‐coordinate copper(II) ion that bidentately coordinate two molecules of p‐anisic acid and two molecules of 1H‐benzimidazole to form a distorted octahedral geometry around the copper(II) ion. Electrochemical studies revealed that under optimal conditions, the modified gold electrode sensors show excellent sensing of bisphenol A, however, QDs@MOFs modified electrode is the best sensor with the highest oxidation peak current of 8.43E‐05 μA and the lowest charge transfer resistance of 19.4 Ω within a wide concentration range of 0.1–1 μM and a limit of detection (LOD) of 0.252 μM. This could be attributed to the electrocatalytic activity of the composite (QDs@MOFs) modified sensor, and the synergistic effect of the MOFs and QDs in the composite. The LOD is comparable to other electrochemical methods of sensing BPA which indicates that QDs@MOFs modified gold electrode could be develop as sensor for BPA.

The objective of this study is to find out the impact of technology on the e-governance of Nigeria, examine e-governance and its implementation, and identify the challenges of e-governance in the State. A qualitative research method was adopted and the study made use of ex-post facto secondary data which involved an extensive literature review of related articles in journals. The study found that there have been notable improvements due to the application of e-governance in the daily transactions in Nigeria, especially, in the areas of communication, health, education, and banking system, yet there are flaws identified, such as inadequacy in the procedure for Information and Communication Technology (ICT) regulatory structure, problems of the corrupt bureaucrats who use their power to frustrate the effective application of e-governance, also the constant interruption of internet caused by unstable electricity. These have reduced the expected achievement, and unsatisfactory service delivery most times. This paper concludes that the Nigerian government must address obstacles hindering e-governance through ICTs. Improving government involvement in e-governance through the use of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) is crucial because efficient and accelerated service delivery requires pure technology and citizen feedback channels. Also, Government policy on e-governance must remain rigid to prevent corrupt bureaucrats from limiting the system.

Engineered outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) derived from Gram-negative bacteria are a promising technology for the creation of non-infectious, nanoparticle vaccines against diverse pathogens. However, antigen display on OMVs can be difficult to control and highly variable due to bottlenecks in protein expression and localization to the outer membrane of the host cell, especially for bulky and/or complex antigens. Here, we describe a universal approach for avidin-based vaccine antigen crosslinking (AvidVax) whereby biotinylated antigens are linked to the exterior of OMVs whose surfaces are remodeled with multiple copies of a synthetic antigen-binding protein (SNAP) comprised of an outer membrane scaffold protein fused to a biotin-binding protein. We show that SNAP-OMVs can be readily decorated with a molecularly diverse array of biotinylated subunit antigens, including globular and membrane proteins, glycans and glycoconjugates, haptens, lipids, and short peptides. When the resulting OMV formulations are injected in mice, strong antigen-specific antibody responses are observed that depend on the physical coupling between the antigen and SNAP-OMV delivery vehicle. Overall, these results demonstrate AvidVax as a modular platform that enables rapid and simplified assembly of antigen-studded OMVs for application as vaccines against pathogenic threats.

Grassroots, community organizations are trusted resources within communities, which puts them in an ideal position to effectively engage individuals impacted by health inequities in defining meaningful research priorities. A community-centered approach to HIV research is critical for African immigrants living in the United States, who experience stigma and other socio-structural barriers to HIV prevention, care, and research engagement. Supporting community organizations with financial resources and capacity building activities to lead the development of research agendas ensures better alignment with community interests and fosters sustainability. We developed a community-initiated and -led research engagement project—Tulumbe!, which prioritized community leadership in all project activities. Community forums, health care provider and community questionnaires, interviews, and report-back sessions were held to examine the research interests and health concerns voiced by African immigrants. The iterative, community-led engagement process of more than 200 African immigrants, health providers, and researchers resulted in a community-defined research agenda with six areas of focus: family communication; self-efficacy for African immigrant women; deconstructing masculinity for African immigrant men; sexual health education for African immigrant youth; HIV stigma; and health literacy. Time, resources, and flexibility are needed to develop a viable community-led research partnership. Investing in community leadership not only produced a patient-centered research agenda but also led to community ownership of the process and results; thus, all partners were committed to sustaining the work.

Prosopis africana, a traditional medicinal plant for malaria treatment, requires further scientific evidence. This study aimed to assess the antimalarial potential of Prosopis africana stem bark fractions in Plasmodium berghei-infected mice and identify the responsible compounds. The aqueous extract underwent partitioning with n-hexane, ethyl acetate, and methanol, followed by antimalarial evaluation. F5 was the most potent fraction based on its antimalarial potential. The study pooled 36 chromatographic separation sub-fractions into five using TLC analysis Rf values. In Plasmodium berghei-infected mice, fraction F5 at 6.25, 12.5, 25, and 50 mg/kg body weight (bw) was tested for antimalarial activity. Compound analysis of F5 utilized ultra-performance liquid chromatography-quadrupolar mass spectrometry. Statistical analysis employed Analysis of Variance and Duncan's multiple range tests (p < 0.05). The methanol, n-hexane, and ethylacetate extracts displayed suppression of P. berghei by 90%, 72.2%, and 73.6%, respectively. Methanol, n-hexane, and ethylacetate extracts suppressed P. berghei by 90%, 72.2%, and 73.6% respectively. F5 showed significantly higher chemo-suppression (67.21%) than F1 (63.94%), F2 (6.99%), F3 (2.81%), and F4 (37.3%). At 12.5 mg/kg bw, F5 suppressed P. berghei by 91.09%, surpassing chloroquine (87.79%), and restored altered hematological indices and CD4+ counts. Compounds identified in F5 included caffeate, linalool, terpinene-4-ol, quinovic acid, quercetin, prosopinine, catechin, and apigeninin. In conclusion, the fraction F5 of P. africana stem bark exhibited higher antimalarial activity than chloroquine and the identified compound might likely contribute to its activity.

Introduction: Sickle cell anaemia (SCA) occurs in 1-3% of the Nigerian population. It is the most common cause of stroke in children. The time-averaged mean of the maximum velocity (TAMMV) in the Middle cerebral arteries (MCA) measured by transcranial Doppler (TCD) ultrasonography can estimate the risk of stroke in SCA children. Some clinical factors associated with abnormal TAMMV flows and first stroke (infarctive) in children with SCA are age and low haemoglobin. Aim: To determine the association between TAMMV of the middle cerebral artery (MCA) in patients with SCA with their age and haemoglobin values and compare it with age and sex-matched children with Haemoglobin AA (HbAA) genotype. Method: This was a comparative cross-sectional descriptive study conducted among 40 confirmed HbSS patients in steady state and a comparison group of 40 healthy HbAA age and sex-matched children. Demographic and medical data were obtained using a structured proforma. Haemoglobin concentration was estimated for all participants. TCD ultrasound was performed for all participants using the Stroke Prevention Trial in Sickle Cell Anaemia (STOP) protocol. Data was analysed in Statistical Package for Social Science version 22.0 (SPSS Inc., IL, USA). Results: The mean and standard deviation (Mean±SD) age of HbSS patients was 9.1 ± 4.4 years. The majority (42.5%) of the HbSS children were in the 10-14 years age group. The HbSS patients had a consistently lower mean Hb than the HBAA participants across all age groups and this was statistically significant. (p=

Background: Tuberculosis (TB) remains a significant global health challenge, causing considerable morbidity and mortality worldwide. Despite advancements in healthcare, TB continues to prevail, particularly in resource-limited settings. Understanding latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) is critical for TB control strategies. Objective: This review aimed to assess LTBI epidemiology together with diagnostic and treatment challenges in Nigeria. Methods: Search of relevant articles on Latent tuberculosis in Nigeria compared to other countries published between 2008 and 2023 were undertaken mainly using Google scholar and PubMed. Related articles from websites of World Health Organization and Federal Ministry of Health, Nigeria were also retrieved and reviewed. Results: LTBI represents a substantial reservoir for TB, with one-quarter of the world's population harboring the infection. The epidemiology of LTBI in Nigeria mirrors the global pattern, with a high prevalence observed among vulnerable populations. Diagnosis of LTBI relies on indirect methods, including tuberculin skin tests (TST) and interferon-gamma release assays (IGRAs). Challenges in treating LTBI persist, including poor screening tools, low treatment compliance, and adverse drug reactions. Addressing these issues requires a comprehensive approach, including improved screening, patient education, and healthcare infrastructure strengthening, to enhance LTBI management and contribute to TB control efforts globally and in Nigeria. Conclusion: Screening and treatment of LTBI remains a crucial preventive intervention for TB eradication. Innovative dedicated policies with augmented research and strategies would be necessary to establish a successful LTBI program in Nigeria.

Purulent pericarditis is a rare complication of sepsis. It is almost exclusively a complication from an underlying condition rather than a primary infection. Staphylococcus aureus is the commonest aetiologic agent. Its diagnosis requires a high index of suspicion especially in the presence of persistent fever and signs of cardiac tamponade in spite of appropriate antibiotic use. A case of purulent pericarditis in an infant is here presented to illustrate the importance of a high index of suspicion and simple investigations in its diagnosis in resource limited practice. In addition, the importance of prompt treatment with drainage of the abscess and use of appropriate antibiotics to achieve a good prognosis is shown.

Trichilia monadelpha (Thonn) J.J. De Wilde (Meliaceae) is used in traditional medicine for the treatment of ulcers, cough and inflammatory disorders such as arthritis. In this present study, the essential oil of T. monadelpha root bark was obtained by hydrodistillation using an all-glass Clevenger apparatus. The identification and characterisation were done using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry. We also, aimed to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of the essential oil against ten micro-organisms using the Agar diffusion method and the free radical scavenging capacity was determined using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical (DPPH) methods. Twenty (20) different compounds made up the hydrodistilled essential oil, which made up 99.0% of the entire oil content. Sesquiterpene compounds made up about 73.3% of the essential oil from the root bark of T. monadelpha, which was described as sesquiterpenes-rich. Sesquiterpenes' most abundant constituents include (E)-Longipinene (18%), 10s,11s-Himachala-3-(12),4-diene (15.26%), Aromadendrene (11.12%), Alloaromadendrene oxide-(1) (8.82%), and β-Caryophyllene (5.92%). The essential oil inhibited growth against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Bacillus subtilis, Pseudomonas aerugunosa, Candida albicans, Aspergillus niger, Klebsiella Pneumonia and Salmonella typhi at concentrations of 200 mg/mL to 50 mg/mL with an inhibitory zone of 20 – 10 mm while the antioxidant analysis of the essential oil revealed low scavenging activity which reveals that the synthetic antioxidants were more effective with an Ascorbic acid; IC50 value of 1.47 mgmL-1, Butyl hydroxyanisole; 1.88 mgmL-1, α-Tocopherol; 4.83 mgmL-1 followed by the essential oil with an IC50 value of 9.95 mgmL-1. T. monadelpha root bark essential oil contains notable chemical compounds that are responsible for its antioxidant and antimicrobial activities.

Abstract Background Clozapine is an antipsychotic drug with unique efficacy, and it is the only recommended treatment for treatment-resistant schizophrenia (TRS: failure to respond to at least two different antipsychotics). However, clozapine is also associated with a range of adverse effects which restrict its use, including blood dyscrasias, for which haematological monitoring is required. As treatment resistance is recognised earlier in the illness, the question of whether clozapine should be prescribed in children and young people is increasingly important. However, most research to date has been in older, chronic patients, and evidence regarding the efficacy and safety of clozapine in people under age 25 is lacking. The CLEAR (CLozapine in EARly psychosis) trial will assess whether clozapine is more effective than treatment as usual (TAU), at the level of clinical symptoms, patient rated outcomes, quality of life and cost-effectiveness in people below 25 years of age. Additionally, a nested biomarker study will investigate the mechanisms of action of clozapine compared to TAU. Methods and design This is the protocol of a multi-centre, open label, blind-rated, randomised controlled effectiveness trial of clozapine vs TAU (any other oral antipsychotic monotherapy licenced in the British National Formulary) for 12 weeks in 260 children and young people with TRS (12–24 years old). Aim and objectives The primary outcome is the change in blind-rated Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale scores at 12 weeks from baseline. Secondary outcomes include blind-rated Clinical Global Impression, patient-rated outcomes, quality of life, adverse effects, and treatment adherence. Patients will be followed up for 12 months and will be invited to give consent for longer term follow-up using clinical records and potential re-contact for further research. For mechanism of action, change in brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) biomarkers and peripheral inflammatory markers will be measured over 12 weeks. Discussion The CLEAR trial will contribute knowledge on clozapine effectiveness, safety and cost-effectiveness compared to standard antipsychotics in young people with TRS, and the results may guide future clinical treatment recommendation for early psychosis. Trial registration ISRCTN Number: 37176025, IRAS Number: 1004947. Trial status In set-up. Protocol version 4.0 01/08/23. Current up to date protocol available here: https://fundingawards.nihr.ac.uk/award/NIHR131175# /.

This paper investigates green investments in energy and mining firms in South Africa to determine the efficiency level in terms of overinvestment and underinvestment. The general Richardson residual measurement model is employed, and an enhanced model is created by including variables that influence green investment, such as political connections and pollutant emissions. Data from 17 companies (5 energy and 12 mining) were used because of the significant effects of their operations on the environment over the period between 2015 and 2022. The study findings show that, in comparison to the estimated optimal investment level, South African energy and mining firms are not consistent regarding their investment level. It interplays between underinvestment and overinvestment. However, both firms demonstrated the tendency to green investment inefficiency due to underinvestment recorded in the latter years of the sample period. The study provides understanding as regards green investment levels of energy and mining firms and hence recommends adequate oversight and formulation of environmental policy by the government to ensure green investment efficiency in line with both national and international policies and regulations to facilitate a sustainable environment.

Rats’ exposure to radiation led to an increased free radical from sub-toxic (24 µg/mol) to toxic concentration (120 µg/mol) in the system of rats. Free radical level exacerbate oxidative stress, thus, leading to hepatic damage, lipid profile and antioxidant alterations.This study investigated the effects of the bioactive constituent of n-butanol subfractions (subf) 1, 2, 3 and 4 of Adansonia digitata (A. digitata) and 1, 2 and 3 of Corchorus olitorius (C. olitorius) leaves on irradiation-induced hepatic damage, lipid profile and antioxidant alterations in system of Rats.A total of 54 rats (198 ± 5.00 g) were distributed into 9 groups of 6 each. Group I were fed with rat chow and distilled water only, all other groups were exposed to a single dose of 6 grey gamma irradiation, such that groups II, III, IV, V, VI, VII, VIII and IX were administered distilled water only, 1000 mg/kg body weight subfractions 1, 2, 3 and 4 of A. digitata, subfraction 1, 2 and 3 of C. olitorius respectively for 7 days.HPLC fingerprinting of the bioactive constituents of the subf of A. digitata and C. olitorius revealed the presence of catechin, eleagnin, quercetin, epicatechin, epigallocatechin, luteolin, astragalin, tocopherol, quercetin and catechin respectively. Irradiation significantly (p

Diphtheria is a contagious and potentially fatal disease caused by Corynebacterium diphtheriae, a bacterium widely recognised for producing a potent exotoxin, and this disease has reemerged in Nigeria. In July 2023, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) published a report confirming an increase in Diphtheria cases in some states, especially in children between 1 and 14 years, the age group primarily affected by the disease. To battle the resurgence of Diphtheria, the NCDC started particular response activities, including training in the affected states, routine immunization, and media partnership. The Federal Ministry of Health also joined hands with the NCDC to plan and enact mass vaccination campaigns, among other key interventions. However, these efforts to curb the resurgence of diphtheria in Nigeria have been met with some challenges such as vaccination gaps, poor management and diagnosis of diphtheria cases, and inadequate strategies for timely response. As a form of a way forward for the prevention and management of diphtheria, effective collaboration, strategic increase in diphtheria booster vaccination in traced contacts, and vaccination in high-risk populations, mass education and sustainable practices are essential. There is also a need to ensure adequate access to vulnerable populations, especially the rural areas.

This study determines the extent to which loosening institutional shareholder monitoring intensity induces earnings management, thereby leading to accounting scandals. When there is intense monitoring of the corporate executives, their opportunistic tendencies are prevented, and corporate decisions align with the value-creation target. The study postulates that institutional shareholders' relaxed monitoring role positively and significantly impacts earnings management. The more robust Two-Step System GMM was used to analyse the collected data of companies listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) for 15 years from 2004 to 2019. The finding revealed that slack institutional shareholders' control affects earnings management positively.

Background: Childhood mortality has become one of the world’s targets for reduction as encapsulated in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG). Although mortality among children aged younger than 5 years has declined globally in the past two decades, considerable geographical differences exist and remain disproportionately high in sub-Saharan Africa and Southeast Asia. Many hospital-based studies in Nigeria have shown the predominance of infectious diseases such as sepsis, bronchopneumonia, and HIV/AIDS as the leading causes of childhood mortality. Methods: The study was conducted at the Department of Paediatrics of the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital (UUTH), Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. The study was a descriptive, cross-sectional and retrospective review of all the deaths among the hospitalized children from 1st January 2015 to 31st December 2021. Results: A total of 191 deaths in the Paediatrics Department of the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital were recorded, 99 males (51.3%) and 92 females (47.7%). This study shows that 27.00% of children who died where infants, 28.30% were children 1-5 years and 44.50% were children above 5 years. The commonest cause of childhood mortality in this study was severe sepsis (30.00%), followed by HIV/AIDS (11.40%), bronchopneumonia (9.84%). Conclusion: Most of the leading causes of childhood mortality in Nigeria are infectious diseases. These are largely preventable and leave room for improvement in our practice of Infection Prevention and Control (IPC), appropriate community education on hygienic practices and prevention of HIV/AIDS.

One of the metaphors for portraying pastoral leadership in Christianity is the imagery of the shepherd. Africans have a rich cultural heritage and understanding of shepherding, which also informs their perception and expectations of a pastor as a shepherd. The contemporary existential challenges Africans face, especially Christians, also demand a shepherding role. Reports from mass/social media suggest that some pastors could not live up to their shepherding responsibilities. A descriptive method was employed to ascertain this perception using the Biblical data, existing literature, and survey responses from 167 Africans – comprising church members, leaders, student pastors in theological schools, and church pastors. This paper explores the task of shepherding and its significance for pastoral ministry in Africa. It affirms God as the great shepherd and Jesus as the good shepherd. The research shows that shepherding is not limited to pastors but is also expected from parents and Christian leaders, as 76% of the respondents opined. A called pastor is required to have a loving capacity and selfless character. Their responsibilities entail feeding the flock with God’s word, caring for sick members, looking for backsliders, and bringing lost sinners to the fold. The research discovered a need for shepherding to be demonstrated more through teaching, discipleship, and visitation, as suggested by 97.6%. It thus underscores leading God’s people to absolute submission as the ultimate task of shepherding.

Learners play very significant roles in the teaching-learning process. Irrespective of how teachers teach, learners often have their own ways of learning. Three hundred senior secondary school II students selected from 10 senior secondary schools in Ilorin, Nigeria participated in the study. Simple random sampling technique was used to select 30 students from each of the 10 purposively sampled senior secondary schools. Data were collected using three instruments, namely, Chemistry Self-Efficacy Questionnaire, Chemistry Metacognition Questionnaire and Chemistry Achievement Test with reliability indices of 0.83, 0.73 and 0.86, respectively. Answers were provided to four research questions each of which has a corresponding hypothesis. The hypotheses were tested at 0.05 level of significance using Pearson Product Moment Correlation, regression and analysis of variance. Findings from the study indicates significant positive relationship among senior secondary school students' Chemistry self-efficacy, metacognition and their achievement in Chemistry F(2, 297) = 332.482, p < 0.05.

Abstract Periwinkle shells of Tympanotonus fuscatus, Pachymelania aurita, and Thais coronata were analyzed for their proximate composition, nutritionally significant minerals, trypsin inhibitors, and carotenoids. The mean values obtained were compared using an ANOVA test. The results showed that T. fuscatus had the highest mean moisture content of 0.96 ± 0.14% and a mean value of 0.49 ± 0.13% for crude fibre but was not significantly different (P > 0.05) from P. auritus. The crude protein and fibre content of T. fuscatus was significantly higher (P 0.05) from that of T. coronata. The mean values of CaCO3 in T. fuscatus, P. aurita, and T. coronata were 57.20 ± 2.46, 59.50 ± 3.23, and 62.36 ± 1.56 (mg/kg), respectively. T. coronata was significantly different (P