Showing papers by "Rivers State University of Science and Technology published in 2021"

Self-Medication Practices and Associated Factors in the Prevention and/or Treatment of COVID-19 Virus: A Population-Based Survey in Nigeria.

Abstract: Background: The anxiety caused by the emergence of the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) globally has made many Nigerians resort to self-medication for purported protection against the disease, amid fear of contracting it from health workers and hospital environments. Therefore, this study aimed to estimate the knowledge level, causes, prevalence, and determinants of self-medication practices for the prevention and/or treatment of COVID-19 in Nigeria. Methods: A web-based cross-sectional survey was conducted between June and July 2020 among the Nigerian population, using a self-reported questionnaire. Statistical analysis of descriptive, bivariate, and multivariate analyses was done using STATA 15. Results: A total of 461 respondents participated in the survey. Almost all the respondents had sufficient knowledge about self-medication (96.7%). The overall prevalence of self-medication for the prevention and treatment of COVID-19 was 41%. The contributing factors were fear of stigmatization or discrimination (79.5%), fear of being quarantine (77.3%), and fear of infection or contact with a suspected person (76.3%). The proximal reasons for self-medication were emergency illness (49.1%), delays in receiving hospital services (28.1%), distance to the health facility (23%), and proximity of the pharmacy (21%). The most commonly used drugs for self-medication were vitamin C and multivitamin (51.8%) and antimalarials (24.9%). These drugs were bought mainly from pharmacies (73.9%). From the multivariable logistic regression model, males (OR: 0.79; 95% CI: 0.07-0.54), and sufficient knowledge on SM (OR: 0.64; 95% CI: 0.19-0.77) were significantly associated with self-medication. Conclusion: The key finding of this study was the use of different over-the-counter medications for the prevention (mainly vitamin C and multivitamins) and treatment (antibiotics/antimicrobial) of perceived COVID-19 infection by Nigerians with mainly tertiary education. This is despite their high knowledge and risk associated with self-medication. We suggest that medication outlets, media and community should be engaged to support the rational use of medication.

Mechanical performance of concrete incorporating wheat straw ash as partial replacement of cement

Abstract: This paper presents the results from the experimental investigation of the use of wheat straw ash (WSA) as a partial replacement of Portland cement in concrete mixtures. The WSA was used to replace PC up to 20% and the corresponding mechanical performance of the concrete mixtures evaluated. The mechanical performance of the concrete mixtures was evaluated in terms of its compressive strength, modulus of elasticity, split tensile strength and flexural strength. The effect of the WSA on the workability of the mixtures was also evaluated by assessing the slump of each mixture. The findings from this research showed that the use of WSA as a 10% replacement of the PC is optimum. Concrete mixtures made with 10% WSA as replacement of PC is 12%, 10% and 11% higher in the compressive strength, split tensile strength and flexural strength, respectively compared to the control. It was also found out that the high surface area and absorption of WSA resulted in a decrease in the slump of the concrete mixtures with increasing WSA content. Nonetheless, it was recommended that future studies on the durability performance of these concrete mixtures to be carried out in order to understand the performance of these mixtures in different environments.

Dynamic logistics disruption risk model for offshore supply vessel operations in Arctic waters

Abstract: In harsh environments, offshore oil and gas support operations are subjected to frequent logistics and supply chain operational disruption, due to harsh environmental factors with their associated risks. To capture these stochastic influential factors and support related decision making, it is helpful to develop a robust and dynamic probabilistic model. The current study presents a proactive methodology that integrates the Pure-Birth Markovian process (PBMP) with the Bayesian network (BN) for the effective analysis of offshore logistics disruption risk. The PBMP captures the stochasticity in the failure characteristics of the engineering systems for estimating the time-evolution degradation probability. The BN explores the dynamic interactions among the most important offshore logistics influential factors to analyze the disruption risk in a harsh environment. The effects of influential factors’ non-linear dependencies are propagated and updated, given evidence on the degree of disruption. The level of logistics disruption is further assessed using cost aggregation-based expectation theory. The theory explores the incurred cost/economic risk under different operational scenarios. The proposed methodology is tested on an offshore supply vessel operation to estimate the likely operational disruption risk in terms of financial loss in a harsh operating environment. The most critical influential functions are assessed to establish their degree of impact on the logistics disruption. At the upper bound probability of disruption occurrence, an economic risk/additional incurred cost of US$2.38E+05 with a variance (𝜎²) of 3.05 × 10⁹ was predicted. The result obtained suggests that the proposed methodology is adaptive and effective for dynamic logistics disruption risk analysis in harsh offshore environments.

Insight into the Adsorption and Inhibitive Effect of Spironolactone Drug on C38 Carbon Steel Corrosion in Hydrochloric Acid Environment

Abstract: The inhibitive effect of spironolactone drug (SPR) on C38 carbon steel corrosion in 10% hydrochloric acid solution was investigated using weight loss and two electrochemical techniques, namely electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and potentiodynamic polarization (PDP), in the temperature range between 30 and 60 °C. Spironolactone was found to act as an inhibitor for the acid corrosion of C38 carbon steel. Inhibition efficiency of the drug increased with an increase in concentration of SPR but decreased with increase in temperature. The maximum inhibition efficiencies obtained with 7.2 × 10–3 M SPR at 30 °C were 98.1%, 95.0% and 95.8% for weight loss, EIS and PDP technique, respectively. Anodic and cathodic polarization curves reveal that SPR is a mixed-type inhibitor. Impedance data show that charge transfer process controlled the mechanism of corrosion. The adsorption of SPR on the C38 steel surface was found to be spontaneous and obeyed Langmuir isotherm at all studied temperatures. The adsorption is a mixed adsorption involving both chemisorption and physisorption. The carbon steel surface was assessed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), which also revealed the protective ability of the drug for C38 carbon steel in 10% HCl solution. Quantum chemical calculations in the framework of the density functional theory were undertaken to theoretically describe the adsorption and inhibition action of SPR on the C38 steel surface.

Physicochemical, nutritional, and sensory properties of chips produced from germinated African yam bean (Sphenostylis stenocarpa)

Abstract: There is a growing interest in the use of low-cost and adoptable technologies in the development of nutritious healthy snacks. The physicochemical, nutritional, and antioxidant properties of germinated (24–72 h) African yam bean (AYB) flour, and the prepared chips were determined. Germination significantly increased the ash (2.86–3.52 g/100 g), protein (21.60–24.58 g/100 g), essential amino acids in adequate quantity, in vitro protein digestibility, IVPD, (73.67–88.90%). calcium, magnesium, iron (3.04–5.70 mg/100 g), phosphorus, zinc (3.77–4.63 mg/100 g), total phenolic content (TPC), and antioxidant activities. There was a reduction in phytic acid and trypsin inhibitor activity, by 10.31–33.59 and 13.58–36.09%, respectively, as germination progressed. The 72 h germinated AYB chips (GCS) contained higher protein (24.52 g/100 g) with adequate quantity of essential amino acids, IVPD (89.50%), minerals, TPC, antioxidant activities, and low residual antinutrients compared to the non-germinated AYB chips (NGC). The texture (hardness) of GCS (4.10 N) was significantly higher than NGC. Also, GCS had better colour and sensory attributes compared to NGC. Germination improved the physicochemical, nutritional, and antioxidant properties of AYB and the resultant chips.

Assessment of heavy metal pollution in soils and health risk consequences of human exposure within the vicinity of hot mix asphalt plants in Rivers State, Nigeria

Abstract: This study evaluated the level of heavy metal pollution in soils within the vicinity of hot mix asphalt (HMA) plants and the health risk consequences of human exposure to the heavy metals. Soil samples collected from two asphalt plants during dry and rainy seasons were analyzed for Cr, Co, Cu, Ni, Mn, Cd, Pb, and Zn with atomic absorption spectrophotometer (AAS). Health risk indices were assessed as chronic daily intake (CDI), hazard quotient (HQ), hazard index (HI), and carcinogenic risk (CR) while the degree of pollution was assessed with geo-accumulation index (Igeo) and contamination factor (CF). The pollution assessment revealed that the soil samples were moderately to highly polluted with Cd. In both seasons, Zn and Mn, respectively, had the highest CDI values for ingestion, inhalation, and dermal route for both asphalt plants while Cd has the least CDI values for all the routes in both plants. The HQ and HI values for all the metals were less than 1.00E + 00 indicating no non-carcinogenic risk from exposure to any of the metals. Furthermore, the dermal route was found to be the least likely model for health risks associated with human exposure to soil heavy metals within the vicinity of the plants. The CR values for the metals were also within threshold value indicating non-significant cancer risk from exposure to the metals. Though no significant health risks were observed in the study, clean and efficient production of hot mix asphalt should be encouraged to minimize health risks and environmental pollution during production and usage.

Tidal Influence on Nutrients Status and Phytoplankton Population of Okpoka Creek, Upper Bonny Estuary, Nigeria

Abstract: Okpoka Creek of the Upper Bonny Estuary in the Niger Delta is a tidal creek receiving organic anthropogenic effluents from its environs. The study investigated the influence of tides (low and high) on the species composition, diversity, abundance, and distribution of phytoplankton. The surface water and phytoplankton samples were collected monthly from May 2004 to April 2006 at both tides from ten stations according to standard methods. Phytoplankton was identified microscopically. Species diversity was calculated using standard indices. Data analyses were done using analysis of variance, Duncan multiple range, and descriptive statistics. Phosphate and ammonia exceeded international acceptable levels of 0.10 mg/L for natural water bodies indicating high nutrient status, organic matter, and potential pollutants. A total of 158 species of phytoplankton were identified. Diatoms dominated the phytoplankton (62.9%). Diversity indices of diatoms were 1.5±0.03 (Margalef) and 0.8±0.01(Shannon). Pollution-indicator species such as Navicula microcephala, Nitzschia sigma, Synedra ulna (diatoms), Cladophora glomerata (green alga), Euglena acus (euglenoid), Anabeana spiroides (blue-green alga) and Ceratium furca (dinoflagellate) were recorded at either only low, high or both tides. Concerted environmental surveillance on Upper Bonny Estuary is advocated to reduce the inflow of pollutants from the Bonny Estuary into this Creek caused by tidal influence.

Assessment of rural households food insecurity during covid-19 pandemic in south-east nigeria

Abstract: The problem of food insecurity remains a challenge in developing countries, especially in rural areas. Despite the rising level of food insecurity, COVID-19 set in and was said to pose a threat to food security globally if adequate measures are not quickly put in place. This study, therefore, described the socio-economic characteristics of the respondents; examined the extent to which the rural households are food secure or otherwise during the COVID-19 pandemic and examine the drivers of food security status among rural households in South-East Nigeria. Primary data were collected from 200 households with the use of structured questionnaires. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, food security index and logistics regression. Results of the findings revealed that the majority of the household heads were male (92%), married (93.5%), educated (87.5%) and had an average age of 54 years. They had an average household size of 7 persons, an average farming experience of 22 years, an average monthly income of N14, 305.5 and majority (83%) do not belong to a cooperative society. Majority (69.5%) of the households were food insecure, while only (30.5%) were food secure. The food-secure households had an average household size of 5 persons, while the food insecure households had 9 persons in their households. The headcount ratio of food secure households was 0.30, while it was 0.70 for food-insecure households. This shows that at least two out of three persons were food insecure in the study area. The surplus/shortfall index indicates that the food secure households exceeded the calorie requirement by 12%, while the food insecure fell short of the recommended calorie intake by 39%. Square food insecure gap or square shortfall index which indicate the severity of food insecurity among the food insecure household was 0.0056. The average calorie available (adult equivalent per day) for food secure households was 2523.5kcal, while average calorie available (AE/day) for food-insecure households was 1389.05kcal. The identified positive drivers of food security were marital status, educational level, cooperative members and annual income of the household heads. While, age of household head, household size and COVID-19 negatively influenced food security status. The study recommends, among others, putting in place immediate policy measures to reduce the effect of COVID-19 pandemic on rural household’s food security through the provision of enough palliatives which should be monitored so that it gets to the targeted population. Effective household size management and enlightenment programs on modern family planning techniques should be encouraged in rural areas. Rural households should also be educated on the nutritional implication of the various food items such as egg, milk, soybean and fish, especially for children to increase their protein intake and boost their immune system against COVID-19.

Insights into the status and distribution of pangolins in Togo (West Africa)

Abstract: Pangolins are considered among the most threatened mammal species, both globally and also in Africa. However, almost nothing is known on their status and distribution across wide areas of their range, particularly in West African countries. Here, we assess the status and distribution of pangolin species in Togo. Fieldwork was carried out in five localities around the Fazao Malfakassa National Park, five sites around the Togodo Protected Areas Complex (Togodo North and Togodo South National Parks), ‘Les Deux Bena’ and Missahohe Forest Reserves, Yikpa‐Dzigbe, Evou and Afagnan Community Forests. In all of these protected areas and forest islands, only one pangolin species was recorded: the white‐bellied pangolin (Phataginus tricuspis); we found no evidence of the giant ground pangolin (Smutsia gigantea), a species that now appears unlikely for Togo. Due to their nocturnal behaviour, we searched for pangolins by spotlighting and estimated their relative abundance using the Kilometric Index of Abundance. Our results show that P. tricuspis is still relatively abundant in suitable habitats in Fazao‐Malfakassa National Park, in Togodo North National Park and in the Assoukoko Forest Reserve. These habitats are dense remnant forest patches where numerous termite mounds and ant nests occur. The present study provides unprecedented information on the status of pangolins in Togo to help inform the development of a conservation programme for this species in this country.

Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices of Pregnant Women Attending the Antenatal Clinic of Rivers State University Teaching Hospital, Nigeria towards the Coronavirus (COVID-19) Pandemic

Abstract: Background: COVID-19, a new respiratory infection was declared a global pandemic in 2020. Pregnant women are at risk because of their physiologic and immunologic changes. Preventive measures are essential as there is no definite cure. This study was therefore carried out to determine the knowledge, attitudes and practices of pregnant women attending antenatal clinic of Rivers State University Teaching hospital, Nigeria towards the COVID-19 pandemic. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional questionnaire-based study was conducted at the antenatal clinic of the hospital over 6weeks. Scores assessing knowledge, attitudes and practices were allocated and graded based on specific stratified demarcations. Results: Two hundred and six respondents (81.4%) were assessed to have good knowledge. Fifty-one (20.2%) had overall good attitude while 67(26.5%) had good practice of preventive measures. The commonest symptoms of COVID-19 recalled were cough 169(27.8%), shortness of breath 153(25.1%) and fever 145(23.7%). Parity, mother’s and spouse’s level of education and occupation were significantly associated with knowledge levels while age of the mothers was associated with the attitude towards COVID-19 infection. Parity, mother’s and spouse’s level of education and occupation were significantly associated with the practice levels. There was an association of good knowledge and good attitude levels with good practice level (p>0.05). Conclusion: Although pregnant women in Port Harcourt generally had good knowledge, majority of them had poor attitude and practice towards the pandemic. We therefore recommend strengthening public health education campaigns (including via antenatal clinic health talks, television and social media), providing evidence-based policies and debunking of wrong beliefs.

Knowledge, acceptance, and hesitancy of COVID-19 vaccine among health care workers in Nigeria

Abstract: Introduction: Health Care Workers are major influencers in vaccination, thus their acceptance or hesitancy to the covid-19 vaccine would either aid its acceptance among the populace. Materials and Methods: The study was a cross-sectional survey using a self-administered questionnaire from December 15, 2020 to January 10, 2021 among healthcare providers living in Nigeria. The questionnaire was made up of segments that include demographics information, knowledge of the COVID-19 vaccine, its acceptance or hesitancy. The questionnaire was fashioned using Likert scale multiple questions of three options: YES, NO, and I Don’t know (No opinion) and Aware, Somewhat aware, and Not aware. Data collected were entered into the spreadsheet using IBM SPSS version 22.0 statistical software and analyzed with descriptive statistics. The results were presented as percentages, frequency, tables, and figures. Results: A total of 1094 responses were retrieved. The majority are males (56.67%) with 36.93% of the respondents aged 30–39 years. PHC Worker forms 14.90% of the respondents and social media was the greatest source of information. A percentage of 45.74% have no confidence in the vaccine and 39.68% rejecting, the majority been males (47.38%). The reasons for hesitancy are concerns of effectiveness, side effects, fear of the unknown, and safety. The highest rejection was by Dental Technicians (53.03%) while the highest acceptance was Medical consultants (72.22%). Conclusion: The study shows that about 3 out of every 10 health workers showed COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy for various reasons. The study recommends effective education, training, and public enlightenment to change the narrative.

From diurnal to nocturnal activity: a case study of night-light niche expansion in Agama agama lizards

Abstract: Most species of lizard are either diurnal or nocturnal, and it is extremely rare to find species that operate both diurnally and nocturnally, or that may shift from diurnality to partial nocturnali...

Strategies to Mitigate the Impact of COVID-19 on Food Security and Malnutrition in Nigeria

Abstract: As a developing nation and the most populous nation in Africa, Nigeria has faced challenges associated with meeting the food needs of its expanding population over the years. This is due to the nation transitioning from a net exporter of foods to being dependent on food imports, leading to many people suffering from stunting and severe malnourishment. The COVID-19 pandemic has compounded this food insufficiency within the country with its attendant global impacts. The restrictions in the movement of people and goods in the country, due to the current pandemic, have affected access to food and agricultural input, heavily affecting the financial ability of families. This Short Communication Onyeaka et al.; EJNFS, 13(2): 103-109, 2021; Article no.EJNFS.66864 104 mini-review highlights the impact of COVID-19 on the country's nutritional status, the rising incidence of food insecurity and proposes approaches that can be employed to mitigate these adverse effects. Approaches to improving food security and the nutritional status of the country during the pandemic and post-pandemic era will involve deliberate policies of the government which focuses on increasing funding to local food producers, lifting restrictions on the transport of food commodities, encouraging markets for the retail of locally produced foods and more importantly instituting nutritional intervention programmes for children and the vulnerable within the community.

Effectiveness of Mobile Phone-Based Support on Exclusive Breastfeeding and Infant Growth in Nigeria: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

Abstract: Background This study examined whether mobile phone-based support improve the rates, duration of exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) as well as infant growth patterns in Nigeria. Methods A 6-month prospective randomized controlled trial with 75 participants assigned to receive 'usual care' or 'mobile phone-based support in addition to usual care' EBF rates and duration as well as anthropometric measurements of infants before and after intervention were compared using proportions and mean differences. Results Attrition rates of 10.7% and 14.7% were observed in the intervention and control groups, respectively. Treatment groups were identical in all baseline characteristics and participants in the intervention group showed a slower rate of decline in the practice of EBF. The mean difference of 0.6 months (95% confidence interval: -0.22, 1.42) in EBF duration between intervention and control groups was not statistically significant (t = 1.45; p = 0.149). Similarly, the difference in the EBF rates at the 6th month for the intervention (55.2%) and control (46.8%) groups was not statistically significant (χ2 = 0.623; p = 0.430). Although the intervention group had significantly higher mean weight (p = 0.030) and length (p = 0.044) at the 6th month, the difference in the gain in weight and length of these infants over the period was only significant for the weight (p = 0.044). Although the incidence of adverse clinical nutritional status was more in the control group, these differences were not statistically significant. Conclusion Mobile phone-based intervention has positive effects on the rate and duration of EBF as well as the growth of young infants. Sustaining this simple and cheap technology will improve infant wellbeing especially in resource-constrained settings.

Molecular Characterisation and Antibiogram of Vaginal Flora from Students Attending a Tertiary Institution in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria

Abstract: The microbiome of the vagina is characterized by a community bacteria playing important roles in the overall health status of the female genital tract. This study was conducted to isolate and characterize bacteria from the female genital tract and as well evaluate the antibiotics susceptibility pattern of the vaginal bacterial isolates. For this purpose, a total of fifty (50) vaginal swab samples were collected (using sterile swab sticks) from females attending a tertiary institution in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria, and subjected to standard bacteriological analysis. Antibiotics sensitivity analysis was carried out using the modified Kirby Bauer disc diffusion method. A total of 160 bacterial isolates were obtained from the subjects of different age brackets in the study population. Molecular identification based on the nucleic acid sequence of the bacterial isolates revealed the isolates to be Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Bacillus flexus and Lysinibacillus macrolides. The result further showed that Escherichia coli was the most occurring bacterial isolate. Also, female subjects within the age bracket 21-23 years recorded the highest number of bacterial isolates (67) and 24-26 years had the least number of bacterial isolates (36). The antibiotic sensitivity analysis revealed that Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus were resistant to 50% of the antibiotics tested, whereas Klebsiella Original Research Article Sampson et al.; IJPR, 7(1): 17-27, 2021; Article no.IJPR.69130 18 pneumoniae was resistant to all (100% of) the antibiotics tested. The study has revealed that the vaginal microbiome of healthy female subjects is characterised by diverse species of bacteria, including opportunistic bacterial pathogens. The study therefore, recommended that regular screening for bacterial vaginosis as well as personal hygiene, sensitization programs to improve knowledge of women, should be encouraged.

Evaluating the Nitrate to Phosphate Ratio and Other Physicochemical Characteristics of Different Water Sources in Yeghe Community, Rivers State, Nigeria

Abstract: Water quality determination has become essential in characterising the nature of water used by humans for various purposes. This study was therefore carried out to assess the nitrate to phosphate ratio and other physical and chemical parameters influencing the quality of water used for domestic purposes in Yeghe Community, Rivers State, Nigeria. Water samples (from 3 boreholes, 3 river points and 3 wells) were collected randomly for each study period, and subjected to standard laboratory procedures to analyse for parameters such as temperature, pH, nitrate nitrogen, phosphate, total dissolved solid (TDS), dissolved oxygen (DO) and electrical conductivity, using standard procedures. Nutrient limitation in the water sources was evaluated based on critical ratios produced by Redfield, using nitrate and phosphate as limiting nutrients. The nitrate to phosphate ratios indicated that there were more of phosphate limitations in the samples, as only two of the samples showed nitrate limitation, with the well water samples showing no nitrate limitation. The study also showed that all the physico-chemical parameters were within the WHO limits, except for pH that had values below the regulatory standard. Statistical evaluation of the data showed a significant difference (p < 0.05) between the physicochemical parameters of the different water sources (river, tap and well), except for temperature that recorded no significant difference (p > 0.05). This novel study on physicochemical water quality determinants has provided baseline and Original Research Article Wemedo et al.; AJEE, 15(1): 1-9, 2021; Article no.AJEE.68609 2 reference data set for monitoring the pollution status of the different water sources of this rural community. Local health authorities should however regulate anthropogenic activities around these water sources to ensure the availability of safe for use water sources in this locality.

Community Characteristics of Sympatric Freshwater Turtles from Savannah Waterbodies in Ghana

Abstract: Despite increasing pressures on freshwater resources worldwide, and the threatened status of most freshwater turtles, there is still limited knowledge of habitat use and niche partitioning in Afrotropical freshwater turtle communities. In this study, we describe habitat associations, community diversity, and temporal patterns of occurrence of freshwater turtle species in the Dahomey Gap ecoregion of Ghana (West Africa). We gathered data from 13 sites in central Ghana and along the Sene Arm of Lake Volta in the Digya National Park (Bono East Region). We employed opportunistic short-term surveys (at seven sites) together with longer-term (six-months duration) standardized evaluations of turtle presence and numbers in different habitats (at six sites). Overall, a total of 210 turtle individuals of four species (Trionyx triunguis, Cyclanorbis senegalensis, Pelomedusa sp. and Pelusios castaneus) were recorded; precise capture sites and habitat type were recorded for 139 individuals, but the 71 individuals observed in marketplaces were not considered in our analyses. At a local scale, we observed three sympatric species in various study sites. In each of these sites, the dominant species was either C. senegalensis or Pelomedusa sp., with the latter species being more abundant in temporary waterbodies and C. senegalensis more numerous in permanent ones. A Multiple Correspondence Analysis suggested that, in permanent waterbodies all species were associated with similar physical habitat variables. In a Canonical Correspondence Analysis, we showed that the density of herbaceous emergent vegetation was more important for P. castaneus than for C. senegalensis. Comparisons of diversity metrics between our study sites and previous studies revealed that turtle community composition was similar across savannah sites.

Financial Inclusion in Developing Countries: Applying Financial Technology as a Panacea

Abstract: Traditional banking methods of addressing the problem of financial inclusion in developing countries are not working efficiently. As it is becoming obvious, opening operational and functional banking business offices in many developing countries is not a financially viable option. Banking offices need an enormous amount of resources, equipment, and personnel to run efficiently. In most developing countries where low income is the norm rather than the exceptions, it is not possible to sustain a policy objective that employs the use of banking offices to address the problem of financial inclusion. Such initiative could start out well; however, the possibility of sustainability is called into question. Thus, whatever meaningful gains have been garnered from such policy will be reversed or lost over time. To address the financial inclusion problem, financial technology offers the instrument, tools, and mechanism to drive financial inclusion in ways traditional methods of banking cannot. Financial technology offers cost-effective and cheaper means of driving financial development. This chapter suggests that financial technology should be used as a means of driving financial development in developing countries as it offers a more sustainable and cost-effective solution to the problem of financial inclusion. Developing countries should embrace, adopt, and adapt financial technologies to address their financial development issues.

Comparative Analysis of the Physicochemical Characteristics, Phytochemical Components and Fatty Acid Profile of Avocado Pear (Persea Americana L) Pulp and Seed Oil

Abstract: The physiochemical properties, phytochemical content, and fatty acid profile of Avocado pear (Persea americana) pulp and seeds oils were investigated. The pulp oil was extracted using the hot water flotation method while the seed oil was extracted by the soxhlet extraction method. Extracted oils were analyzed. The pulp oil was emerald green while the seed oil was brownish red in colour. Pulp oil has significantly higher blue (27B) on Lovibond scale. The oil yield, smoke point and flash point of the pulp oil were 28.26%, 171.00 °C and 201.67 °C respectively. Which were higher than 13.64%, 100.00 and 130.66 °C seen in the seed oil. Iodine value, FFA, peroxide value and saponification value of the pulp oil were respectively 50.70 g/100 g, 0.53%, 1.10 mEq/kg and 218.66 mgKOH/g while those of the seed oil were 40.68 g/100 g, 2.85%, 2.16 mEq/kg and 198.31 mgKOH/g respectively. Saponins, alkaloid, phenol, tannin, and oxalate content of the seed oil were significantly higher than those of the pulp oil, with respective values of 12.23, 1.06, 5.06, 3.05 and 10.07 mg/100 g. Flavonoid was however higher in the pulp oil, at 6.20 mg/100 g. avocado pulp oil contained 43.23% oleic acid, 19.78% linoleic acid. It contains only 35.31% total saturated fatty acids. The seed oil was shown to contain 55% palmitic acid, as the predominant saturated fatty acid and contained a total of 69% saturated fatty acids. It is recommended that avocado seed oil be refined before use for culinary purposes.

Microbiology and Heavy Metal Content of Wetlands Impacted by Crude Oil Pollution in Rivers State, Southern Nigeria

Abstract: Wetland soils constitute vast, under-exploited and sometimes undiscovered ecologies in many countries of the World, including Nigeria. A total of 54 wetland soil samples including surface and subsurface soil at depths of 0-15 cm and 15-30 cm were collected using a sterile hand auger for a period of three months between August and October and subjected to standard and analytical microbiological procedures. The wetland soil samples were further subjected to atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS) to check for presence and concentration of heavy metals. Results obtained showed that apart from heterotrophic bacterial and fungal counts, hydrocarbon utilizing bacteria (HUB) counts were higher in the surface soil ranging from 12.06±3.43X10 cfu/g at Iwofe to 6.19±2.67 a X10 7 cfu/g at Chokocho while subsurface soil had HUB ranging from 8.91±6.67 a X10 3 cfu/g at Eagle Island to 4.93±3.95X10cfu/g at Chokocho. Heavy metals such as Fe, Pb, Cd and Ni were recorded in concentrations above FEPA permissible limit in the surface and subsurface soil across the three wetlands. The heavy metal concentration in each wetland however, decreased with an increase in soil depth. According to literatures, elevated levels of heavy metals in soils decrease Original Research Article Chibuike et al.; MRJI, 31(2): 53-63, 2021; Article no.MRJI.66612 54 microbial population, diversity and activities. However, the microbial population in this study increased with increasing heavy metal concentration which indicates that the microbes can tolerate or utilize heavy metals in their systems; as such can be used for bioremediation of heavy metal polluted soils.

Genomic Characterization and Plasmid Profile of Listeria and Salmonella Species Isolated from Oreochromis niloticus Sold in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria

Abstract: Fish are generally regarded as safe, nutritious and beneficial but aquaculture products have sometimes been associated with certain food safety issues. Consumption of fish may also cause diseases due to infection or intoxication, Hence, the aim of this study is to characterize using genomic analysis and plasmid profile of Listeria and Salmonella species isolated from Oreochromis niloticus sold in Port Harcourt. A total of one hundred and eighty samples (180) were collected from three different markets namely; Creek road, Mile one and Rumuokoro markets over a period of six months. The samples were labelled and transported in an ice packed coolers to the laboratory for analyses. Standard analytical protocols were employed to determine the Original Research Article Ogbonna et al.; IJPR, 6(3): 52-62, 2021; Article no.IJPR.66177 53 bacteriological characteristics of the various parts such as Intestine, Gill, flesh of the sample. Statistical analyses were carried out using ANOVA and All pairs tukey-kramer. Results obtained from the study showed that the total heterotrophic bacteria count ranged from 5.1 to 5.9 x10 x10 6 cfu/g across the markets for the flesh part, 6.0 to 7.7 x10 6 cfu/g (Gill) and 7.1 to 7.6 x10 6 cfu/g for the intestinal samples. Total coliform count ranged from 4.2 to 5.4 x10cfu/g (flesh), 5.2 to 5.4 x10 4 cfu/g ((Gill) and 6.1 to 8.0 x10 4 cfu/g (Intestine). Listeria count range from 2.7 to 2.9 x10 4 cfu/g (Fresh), 3.3 to 3.7 cfu/g (Gill)), and 3.8 to 4.3 cfu/g (Intestine), and Salmonella count ranged from 1.0 x10 1 .1 x10 cfu/g (Flesh) 1.0 to 1.6 x10 cfu/g (Gill) and 1.2 to 2.0 x10 cfu/g (intestine). This results shows that the intestines harbours more bacterial load than the gill and flesh. Mean values for all the microbial counts were significantly different (P<0.05) in the three samples across the sampled markets The result of the conventional and genomics identification confirms the following species of Listeria and Salmonella: L. grayi VD-Sfg with accession number MW020239 having a closest gene bank match with Listeria grayi CIP 100% identified, L. monocytogenes VD-Sfg with accession number MW020240 closest to L. monocytogenes NCTC 10357 with 99.73% identified, L. seeligeri VD-SFF accession number MW020241 closet to L. seeligeri ATCC 35967 with 98.95%, L. welshimeri VD-SF MW020242 closest to L. welshimeri ATCC 35897 with 99.9%, L. monocytogenes VD-Fg MW020243 closet to L. monocytogenes NCTC 10357 eith 99.73% identity, S. bongori VD-SwfiA MW020245 closest to S. bongori NCTC 12419 and S. enterica VD-SwfiD MW20244 closest with S. entrica LT2 both with 100% identity. Gel electrophoresis of the plasmid DNA showed that all the isolates possess plasmid. This finding is of public health concern as these organisms are the known causes of food-borne diseases and also serve as reservoirs for resistance plasmids that may be transferred to otherwise susceptible bacteria making them resistant, thus increasing the occurrence of antibiotic resistance among microorganisms.

Azadirachta indica aqueous leaf extracts ameliorates coccidiosis in broiler chickens experimentally infected with Eimeria oocysts

Abstract: Attention has recently been focused on the protective effect of naturally occurring antioxidants in biological systems against parasites. Available evidence suggests that Azadirachta indica has good antioxidant ability as well as promising potentials in the management of parasitism. Therefore, this study evaluated the ameliorative and therapeutic potentials of aqueous leaves extract of A. indica on some biological parameters such as weight gain, oocyst count, haematology, some biochemical and oxidative stress markers in broiler chicks experimentally infected with Eimeria oocyst. Phytochemical analysis of A. indica revealed the presence of tannins, saponins, cardiac glycosides, alkaloids, flavonoids, and steroids. We observed a dose dependent mean weight gained in the treated groups compared with the negative control. The aqueous leaves extract of A. indica demonstrated an inhibitory effect on the shedding of oocyst in faeces of broiler chicks with up to 87.44% in the 800 mg/kg. The extract did not have significant effects on the RBCs, PCV and Hb concentrations in all the treatment groups compared to the negative control. The heterophils decreased in a dose dependent manner similar to the heterophils/lymphocyte ratio as compared to the negative control. Furthermore, the extract had hepato- and nephron-protective potentials by ameliorating markers of liver and kidney function such as ALT, AST, albumin, direct bilirubin, total bilirubin, and urea. Finally, the extract had good antioxidant ability by decreasing the MDA levels and increasing the levels of SOD, GSH and catalase when compared to the negative control giving further credence to support the folkloric application of the plant in the management of parasitic infections.

Comparative Modelling of Price Volatility in Nigerian Crude Oil Markets Using Symmetric and Asymmetric GARCH Models

Abstract: DOI: 10.9734/ARJOM/2021/v17i330282 Editor(s): (1) Prof. Megan M. Khoshyaran, Economics Traffic Clinic ETC, France. (2) Danilo Costarelli, University of Perugia, Italy. (3) Dr. Nikolaos D. Bagis, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece. Reviewers: (1) Siwapong Dheera-aumpon, Kasetsart University, Thailand. (2) Pavel Levin, St. John’s University, USA. Complete Peer review History: http://www.sdiarticle4.com/review-history/68132

An overview of skin disorders in under-fives over a ten-year period in a tertiary institution in South: South, Nigeria

Abstract: Background: Skin disorders can be a significant cause of distress to both children and their care-givers. The scope of prevalent skin disorders differ from one country to the other. Therefore an insight into the occurrence, patterns and distribution of skin disorders in a target group will be beneficial to inform care and provide support that is relevant to that target population. The aim of this study is to determine the skin problems prevalent amongst children that are five years and below managed at the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital, Alakahia, Nigeria. Methods: This was a retrospective cross sectional study of children five years and below that visited the dermatology outpatient clinic at the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital, Alakahia between the period of January 2006 and December 2015. Results: There was equal ratio of male to female patients with slight female preponderance. The eleven most common lesions were papular urticaria, atopic dermatitis, scabies, warts, vitiligo, molluscum contagiosum, tinea corporis, impetigo, seborrhoeic dermatitis, pityriasis rosea and tinea capitis. Conclusions: Skin disorders are common among children under five years. Allergic skin disorders, bacterial, viral and fungal skin infections, skin infestation (scabies) and pigmentary disorders (vitiligo) are major skin manifestations in this study.

The effects of ductal size on the severity of pulmonary hypertension in children with patent ductus arteriosus (PDA): a multi-center study

Abstract: Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) is a common acyanotic heart disease that presents with variable symptoms. This study is therefore aimed at determining the relationship between gender, age, and size of PDA and pulmonary hypertension. This study also seeks to determine the prevalence of elevated pulmonary artery systolic pressure in children with PDA. A descriptive study of children with patent ductus arteriosus was carried out from 2016 to 2020 in three institutions. The data were analysed with the IBM SPSS statistics for windows, version 20 (IBM Corp, Chicago) The mean ductal size was 3.78 (2.39) mm, with a minimum of 1.0 mm and a maximum size of 10.0 mm. The mean ductal size for males, 4.02 (2.53) mm was comparable with that of the females, 3.61 (2.28) mm (Student T-test = 0.8, 0.4). The mean pulmonary artery systolic pressure (PASP) of the patients was 43.36 (24.46) mmHg. Also the mean PASP was comparable among the males and the females, 48.37 (26.69) mmHg versus 39.63 (22.16) mmHg (Student T-test = 1.81, p = 0.07). There was no correlation between age and PASP (correlation coefficient = 0.009, p = 0.92). Sixty point two percent (60.2%) (62/103) of children with PDA had pulmonary hypertension. The proportion of males with pulmonary hypertension, 48.39% (30/62) was comparable with that of the females, 51.61% (32/62) (Chi2 = 2.05, p = 0.15) and females are 1.8 times more likely to have pulmonary hypertension as males (odds ratio 1.81, 95% CI 0.8–4.1). There was a positive correlation between ductal size and PASP (Pearson correlation coefficient = 0.26, p value = 0.007). Those with moderate and large sized duct tend to have moderate and severe pulmonary hypertension respectively and this is statistically significant. Chi2 = 17.85, p = 0.007 The prevalence of pulmonary hypertension in children with PDA is 60.2%. Moderate and large size duct presents with moderate and severe pulmonary hypertension respectively. Females are 1.8 times more likely to have pulmonary hypertension than the males.