Showing papers by "University of Nigeria, Nsukka published in 2013"

Toxicological profile of chlorophenols and their derivatives in the environment: the public health perspective.

Abstract: Chlorophenol compounds and their derivatives are ubiquitous contaminants in the environment. These compounds are used as intermediates in manufacturing agricultural chemicals, pharmaceuticals, biocides, and dyes. Chlorophenols gets into the environment from a variety of sources such as industrial waste, pesticides, and insecticides, or by degradation of complex chlorinated hydrocarbons. Thermal and chemical degradation of chlorophenols leads to the formation of harmful substances which constitute public health problems. These compounds may cause histopathological alterations, genotoxicity, mutagenicity, and carcinogenicity amongst other abnormalities in humans and animals. Furthermore, the recalcitrant nature of chlorophenolic compounds to degradation constitutes an environmental nuisance, and a good understanding of the fate and transport of these compounds and their derivatives is needed for a clearer view of the associated risks and mechanisms of pathogenicity to humans and animals. This review looks at chlorophenols and their derivatives, explores current research on their effects on public health, and proffers measures for mitigation.

Bagasse filled recycled polyethylene bio-composites: Morphological and mechanical properties study

Abstract: Bagasse filled recycled polyethylene bio-composites were produced by the compounding and compressive molding method. Two sets of composites were produced using uncarbonized (UBp) and carbonized (CBp) bagasse particles by varying the bagasse particles from 10 to 50 wt%. The surface morphology and the mechanical properties of the composites were examined. The results showed that the uniform distribution of the bagasse particles in the microstructure of the polymer composites is the major factor responsible for the improvement of the mechanical properties. The bagasse particles added to the RLDPE polymer improved its rigidity and the hardness values of the composites. The tensile and bending strengths of the composite increased with increasing percentage of the bagasse to a maximum of 20 wt%UBp and 30 wt%CBp. The impact energy and fracture toughness decreases with wt% bagasse particles. The developed composites have the best properties in the ranges of 30 wt% bagasse particle additions and for optimum service condition, carbonized bagasse particles addition should not exceed 30 wt%.

The Effects of Rural-Urban Migration on Rural Communities of Southeastern Nigeria

Abstract: This paper examined the effects of rural-urban migration on the rural communities of Southeastern Nigeria. Data were obtained using mixed methods approach comprising questionnaire surveys and key informant interviews. Six rural local government areas (LGAs) were selected based on population size and spatial equity from two states of Southeastern Nigeria. From each of the rural LGAs, fifty migrant-sending households were sampled for the study. Multiple regression and hierarchical cluster analyses were used to estimate and categorize the effects of rural-urban migration due to remittances and community projects executed by the rural-urban migrants, respectively. In addition, the Chi-square and Kruskal-Wallis tests were utilized in prioritizing areas for development interventions in the rural communities. The regression analysis shows that rural-urban migration contributes significantly towards the development of their rural communities through monetary remittances and the involvement of the rural-urban migrants in community development projects. Based on the findings, recommendations such as initiation of development projects based on the identified needs of each of the rural communities to augment the effects of migration in the study area are made.

Electronic government as a paradigm shift for efficient public services: Opportunities and challenges for Nigerian government

Abstract: Purpose – Nigeria has set up an e‐government initiative termed the “National e‐Government Strategy” (NeGSt) for the purpose of using ICT infrastructure to enhance public services It was expected that e‐government would enable the Nigerian government at all levels to render efficiencies in the public sector, ensure higher productivity and economic growth, foster national competitiveness and lead to the attainment of the vision 20‐2020 Regrettably, the e‐services envisaged seem not to be impacting much on public service delivery in the country The aim of this paper is to examine the benefits and the status of e‐government in Nigeria, the barriers to the accomplishment of the goal, and some ways outDesign/methodology/approach – A total of ten federal government ministries in Nigeria that have an official website were sampled The study population was 100 randomly drawn employees in the ministries, and a structured questionnaire and oral interviews were used Data were analyzed using frequency tables, sim

Promoting universal financial protection: constraints and enabling factors in scaling-up coverage with social health insurance in Nigeria

Abstract: Background The National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) in Nigeria was launched in 2005 as part of efforts by the federal government to achieve universal coverage using financial risk protection mechanisms. However, only 4% of the population, and mainly federal government employees, are currently covered by health insurance and this is primarily through the Formal Sector Social Health Insurance Programme (FSSHIP) of the NHIS. This study aimed to understand why different state (sub-national) governments decided whether or not to adopt the FSSHIP for their employees.

Use of Indigenous Knowledge as a Strategy for Climate Change Adaptation among Farmers in sub-Saharan Africa: Implications for Policy

Abstract: The study discusses use of indigenous knowledge as a strategy for climate change adaptation among farmers in sub-Saharan Africa. The local farmers in this region through the indigenous knowledge systems have developed and implemented extensi ve adaptation strategies that have enabled them reduce vulnerability to climate variability and change over the years. However, this knowledge is rarely taken into consideration in the design and implementation of modern mitigation and adaptation strategie s. This paper highlights some indigenous adaptation strategies that have been practiced in sub Saharan Africa and the benefits of integrating such indigenous knowledge into formal climate change adaptation strategies. The study recommends the need to incor porate indigenous knowledge into climate change policies that can lead to the development of effective adaptation strategies that are cost -effective, participatory and sustainable.

The economic burden of malaria on households and the health system in Enugu State southeast Nigeria

Abstract: Background Malaria is the number one public health problem in Nigeria, responsible for about 30% of deaths in under-fives and 25% of deaths in infants and 11% maternal mortality. This study estimated the economic burden of malaria in Nigeria using the cost of illness approach. Methods A cross-sectional study was undertaken in two malaria holo-endemic communities in Nigeria, involving both community and hospital based surveys. A random sample of 500 households was interviewed using interviewer administered questionnaire. In addition, 125 exit interviews for inpatient department stays (IPD) and outpatient department visits (OPD) were conducted and these were complemented with data abstraction from 125 patient records. Results From the household survey, over half of the households (57.6%) had an episode of malaria within one month to the date of the interview. The average household expenditure per case was 12.57US$ and 23.20US$ for OPD and IPD respectively. Indirect consumer costs of treatment were higher than direct consumer medical costs. From a health system perspective, the recurrent provider costs per case was 30.42 US$ and 48.02 US$ for OPD and IPD while non recurrent provider costs were 133.07US$ and 1857.15US$ for OPD and IPD. The mode of payment was mainly through out-of-pocket spending (OOPS). Conclusion Private expenditure on treatment of malaria constitutes a high economic burden to households and to the health system. Removal of user fees and interventions that will decrease the use of OOPS for treatment of malaria will significantly decrease the economic burden of malaria to both households and the health system.

Single-phase 9-level hybridised cascaded multilevel inverter

Abstract: This study proposes a single-phase, 9-level, cascade multilevel inverter topology. The multicarrier, phase disposition pulse width modulation scheme is employed to generate the gating signals for the power switches. Operational principles with switching functions are given. By controlling the modulation index, the desired number of levels: 3, 5, 7 and 9, of the inverter's output voltage can be achieved. For modulation indices of: 0.24, 0.4, 0.6 and 0.8, the proposed inverter configuration was subjected to an R-L load and the respective numbers of output voltage level were synthesized. Fast Fourier transform analyses of the output voltage waveforms were carried out and the corresponding THD values were obtained. For a modulation index of 0.8, a THD value of 10.12% has been achieved in the output voltage waveform of the proposed inverter configuration. Comparison of the proposed inverter configuration and the classical single-phase topologies is given based on the power circuit component count. Moreover, analysis of the conduction power losses in the power semiconductor switches of the proposed inverter topology is given. To verify the performance of the proposed inverter architecture, simulations and experiments are carried out on a 2.12 kW rated prototype of the proposed inverter for an R-L load; and adequate results are presented.

Acceptability of human papilloma virus vaccine and cervical cancer screening among female health-care workers in Enugu Southeast Nigeria.

Abstract: Background: Cervical cancer, a leading cause of cancer deaths in women in developing countries can be prevented primarily by vaccinating adolescent girls and women against infection by the human papillomavirus (HPV) before their first sexual exposure, and secondarily through screening and treatment of identified precancerous lesions. Aim: To determine the awareness and acceptability of the HPV vaccine and screening for cervical cancer among female health-care workers in Enugu, southeastern Nigeria. Materials and Methods: Questionnaires were administered to a cross-section of 177 female health-care workers selected systematically from the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital (UNTH), Enugu, Nigeria. Statistical analysis was both descriptive and inferential at 95% confidence level using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) computer software version 16. A P value of less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The awareness of screening for cervical cancer (91%) was significantly higher than that of the HPV vaccine (62.7%) [odds ratio (OR): 0.17; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.09-0.30]. However, the acceptability rate of the HPV vaccine (91.0%) was significantly higher than that of cervical screening (71.4%) (OR: 4.04;95% CI: 1.94-8.42)]. Only 25 (14.1%) of the health-care workers had done cervical screening, but 30 (49.2%) of the 61respondents with adolescent daughters had immunized their daughters with the HPV vaccine. Although no reason was given for the low participation in cervical screening, cost and availability of HPV vaccine was a major deterrent for the latter. Conclusion: With more public enlightenment, available and affordable HPV vaccine appears to hold the key for prevention of cervical cancer in developing countries where the burden is high.

The readiness of universities in managing electronic records: A study of three federal universities in Nigeria

Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this study was to survey the level of readiness of three universities in Nigeria towards managing their digital records by assessing the e-records frameworks, infrastructures, and structural facilities that are available. Design/methodology/approach – The population of the study was 30 staff of the Registry Department in three Nigerian universities. Questionnaires, oral interviews, and check list were used during data collection. Data were analyzed using frequency tables, simple percentages, and bar charts. Findings – The paper found that universities in Nigeria are not ready to manage electronic records due to weak legislative and organizational frameworks. The paper recommends creation of awareness about e-records management, training of records personnel, adoption of hybrid records management and periodic auditing, provision of sustainable framework and infrastructure, among other things in Nigerian universities. Research limitations/implications – This study was carried out on...

Electricity Supply, Fossil fuel Consumption, Co2 Emissions and Economic Growth: Implications and Policy Options for Sustainable Development in Nigeria.

Abstract: 800x600 This paper investigates the causal relationship among electricity supply, fossil fuel consumption, CO 2 emissions and economic growth in Nigeria for the period 1971-2009, in a multivariate framework.Using the bound test approach to cointegration, we found a short-run as well as a long-run relationship among the variables with a positive and statistically significant relationship between CO 2 emissions and fossil fuel consumption. The findings also indicate that economic growth is associated with increased CO 2 emissions while a positive relationship exists between electricity supply and CO 2 emissions revealing the poor nature of electricity supply in Nigeria. Further, the Granger causality test results indicate that electricity supply has not impacted significantly on economic growth in Nigeria. The results also strongly imply that policies aimed at reducing carbon emissions in Nigeria will not impede economic growth. The paper therefore concludes that a holistic energy planning and investment in energy infrastructure is needed to drive economic growth. In the long-run however, it is possible to meet the energy needs of the country, ensure sustainable development and at the same time reduce CO 2 emissions by developing alternatives to fossil fuel consumption, the main source of CO 2 emissions. Keywords: CO 2 emissions; Economic growth; Electricity supply; Granger causality; Bounds testing; Fossil fuel consumption. JEL Classification: Q41; Q42; Q43 Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE MicrosoftInternetExplorer4

Hypertension and prehypertension among adolescents in secondary schools in Enugu, South East Nigeria

Abstract: Hypertension is a prevalent cardiovascular disease risk factor among blacks and adolescent hypertension can progress into adulthood. To determine the prevalence of hypertension and prehypertension among secondary school adolescents in Enugu South East Nigeria. A study of 2694 adolescents aged 10-18 years in Enugu metropolis was carried out. Socio-demographic profile anthropometric and blood pressure readings were obtained. Derived measurements such as Prehypertension, hypertension and BMI were obtained. The results showed that the mean systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure for males were 106.66+ 11.80 mmHg and 70.25 + 7.34 mmHg respectively. The mean SBP and DBP for females were 109.83+ 11.66 mmHg and 72.23 + 8.26 mmHg respectively (p < 0.01). Blood pressure was found to increase with age. Prevalence of hypertension and prehypertension was 5.4% and 17.3% respectively with a higher rate in females (6.9%) than males (3.8%). Prevalence of prehypertension among males and females were 14.3% and 20.1% respectively. The prevalence of obesity was 1.9%. Modifiable risk factors exist among adolescents. Early lifestyle modification and a strengthened school health are recommended.

Folic Acid Supplementation Use and the MTHFR C677T Polymorphism in Orofacial Clefts Etiology: An Individual Participant Data Pooled-Analysis

Abstract: BACKGROUNDThis study examines gene-environment interaction between the MTHFR C667T polymorphism and folic acid in the etiology of orofacial clefts (OFC). We used a pooled-analytical approach on four studies that used similar methods. METHODSWe used logistic regression to analyze the pooled sample of 1149 isolated cases and 1161 controls. Fetal and maternal MTHFR C677T genotypes, and maternal periconceptional exposure to smoking, alcohol, vitamin containing folic acid and folic acid supplements were contrasted between the cleft types [non-syndromic clefts lip or without cleft palate (CL(P)) and non-syndromic cleft palate (CP)] and control groups. RESULTSThere was a reduced risk of CL(P) with maternal folic acid use (p=0.008; OR=0.70, 95% CI: 0.65-0.94) and with supplements containing folic acid (p=0.028, OR=0.80, 95% CI: 0.65-0.94). Maternal smoking increased the risk of both CL(P) (p<10 e-3; OR=1.62, 95% CI: 1.35-1.95) and CP (p=0.028; OR=1.38, 95% CI: 1.04-1.83). No significant risk was observed with either maternal or fetal MTHFR C677T genotypes. CONCLUSIONThis individual participant data (IPD) meta-analysis affords greater statistical power and can help alleviate the problems associated with aggregate-level data-sharing. The result of this IPD meta-analysis is consistent with previous reports suggesting that folic acid and smoking influence OFC outcomes. Birth Defects Research (Part A) 97:509-514, 2013. (c) 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Sustained-release diclofenac potassium-loaded solid lipid microparticle based on solidified reverse micellar solution: in vitro and in vivo evaluation

Abstract: Objective: To formulate sustained-release diclofenac potassium-loaded solid lipid microparticles (SLMs) based on solidified reverse micellar solution (SRMS) and to evaluate the in vitro and in vivo properties.Methods: SRMS consisting of mixtures of Phospholipon® 90H and Softisan® 154 were used to formulate diclofenac potassium-loaded SLMs. Characterization based on the particle size and morphology, stability and encapsulation efficiency (EE%) were carried out on the SLMs. In vitro release was carried out in simulated intestinal fluid (pH 7.5). Anti-inflammatory and ulcerogenic properties were studied using rats.Results: Maximum EE% of 95%, 94% and 93% were obtained for SLMs formulated with SRMS 1:1, 2:1 and 1:2, respectively. In vitro release showed about 85–90% drug release at 13 h. Diclofenac potassium-loaded SLMs showed good anti-inflammatory and gastro-protective properties.Conclusion: Diclofenac potassium-loaded SLMs based on SRMS could be used orally or parenterally under controlled conditions, for ...

Determinants of preventive oral health behaviour among senior dental students in Nigeria.

Abstract: To study the association between oral health behaviour of senior dental students in Nigeria and their gender, age, knowledge of preventive care, and attitudes towards preventive dentistry. Questionnaires were administered to 179 senior dental students in the six dental schools in Nigeria. The questionnaire obtained information on age, gender, oral self-care, knowledge of preventive dental care and attitudes towards preventive dentistry. Attending a dental clinic for check-up by a dentist or a classmate within the last year was defined as preventive care use. Students who performed oral self-care and attended dental clinic for check-ups were noted to have complied with recommended oral self-care. Chi-square test and binary logistic regression models were used for statistical analyses. More male respondents agreed that the use of fluoride toothpaste was more important than the tooth brushing technique for caries prevention (P < 0.001). While the use of dental floss was very low (7.3%), more females were more likely to report using dental floss (p=0.03). Older students were also more likely to comply with recommended oral self-care (p<0.001). In binary regression models, respondents who were younger (p=0.04) and those with higher knowledge of preventive dental care (p=0.008) were more likely to consume sugary snacks less than once a day. Gender differences in the awareness of the superiority of using fluoridated toothpaste over brushing in caries prevention; and in the use of dental floss were observed. While older students were more likely to comply with recommended oral self-care measures, younger students with good knowledge of preventive dental care were more likely to consume sugary snacks less than once a day.

Size and Causes of the Informal Sector of the Nigerian Economy: Evidence From Error Correction Mimic Model

Abstract: This work was motivated mainly by the need to empirically examine the magnitude of economic loss attributed to informality in Nigeria. Specifically, the objective of the study is to examine the size, development, and causes of the informal sector of the Nigerian economy. In recent times, multiple indicators multiple causes (MIMIC) models are applied to time series estimating the size and development of the informal economy for a particular country. However, in order to obtain more accurate estimates about the size, development and causes of the informal economy in Nigeria, this work applied an error correction MIMIC (EMIMIC) model which estimates the cointegration equilibrium relationship and the error correction short run dynamics. The results show that since 1970, the size of the informal economy has hovered between 53.6 – 77.2% of GDP, and that the average size of the informal economy was about 64.6% of GDP. Specifically, the results indicate that informal sector was about three-quarters of GDP in 2010. Furthermore, the results show that unemployment, tax burden, government regulation, and inflation are the most important drivers of informality in Nigeria. Key words : Informal Sector, Nigerian Economy, Cointegration, Error Correction, MIMIC Model

Nonadherence Factors and Sociodemographic Characteristics of HIV-Infected Adults Receiving Antiretroviral Therapy in Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital, Nnewi, Nigeria

Abstract: Adherence to treatment instructions with antiretroviral therapy (ART) is very crucial for successful treatment outcome. However, sticking to treatment instructions pose-great challenges to HIV/AIDS patients. This cross-sectional study was on HIV infected adults attending ART clinic in Nigeria to explore nonadherence factors in relation to their socioeconomic characteristics. Validated structured questionnaire was administered to 221 participants. Results showed a high nonadherence rate of 85.1%. The commonest occurring factors of non-adherence were forgetfulness (53.8%), busy schedule (38.8%), side effects of drugs (31.9%), and stigma (31.9%). Males were more likely to complain from busy schedule, feeling healthy, fear of partner disclosure, long waiting period, and long term regimen. Patients with no formal education were more likely to attribute non-adherence to poor communication, side effects of drugs, and stigma. Employed patients seemed to miss their drugs more than the unemployed and artisans. The high non-adherence rate has serious implications for the control of HIV in infected individuals and management of HIV in general. Nurses should intensify efforts on patient education and counseling.

Prevalence and determinants of hypertension in Abia State Nigeria: results from the Abia State Non-Communicable Diseases and Cardiovascular Risk Factors Survey.

Abstract: OBJECTIVE : Hypertension is the most common non-communicable disease and risk factor for heart failure, stroke, chronic kidney disease and ischemic heart disease in sub-Saharan Africa. Few population-based studies have been conducted recently in Nigeria and , in Abia State, no previous study has been conducted on the prevalence and correlates of hypertension among the populace. The purpose of our study was, therefore, to determine the prevalence and determinants of high blood pressure in Abia State, southeastern Nigeria. We hypothesise that high blood pressure burden is high in Abia State. DESIGN: The study was a community based cross-sectional house-to-house survey aimed at ascertaining the burden/prevalence of hypertension in the state as well as identifying related risk factors associated with them. SETTING: The study was conducted in rural and urban communities in Abia State, Nigeria. PARTICIPANTS: Participants in the study were men and women aged > or =15 years and were recruited from the three senatorial zones in the state. MAIN OUTCOMES: A total of 2,999 respondents were selected for the survey and , 2,983 consented to be interviewed giving a response rate of 99.5%. The data for 2,928 participants were suitable for analysis. Of these, 1,399 (47.8%) were men. The mean age of the population was 41.7 +/- 18.5 years (range 18-96 years). About 54% of the population were < or =40 years. Ninety percent had at least primary education with about 47% having completed secondary education. Expectedly, 96% of the respondents were Ibos, the predominant tribe in the southeastern part of the country. Women had significantly higher BMI than the men. Similarly, waist circumference was also larger in women but waist-to-hip ratio was only significantly higher in women in the urban areas compared to those in rural areas. Thirty-one percent of all participants had systolic hypertension (33.5% in men and 30.5% in women). This sex difference was statistically different in the urban area. On the other hand, diastolic hypertension was 22.5% in all the population (23.4% in men and 25.4% in women). Age and indices of obesity were the strongest predictors of blood pressure. CONCLUSION: The prevalence of hypertension was high in our study both in rural and urban settings. The major determinants of blood pressure in our participants included age, sex, indices of obesity and pulse rate. ( Ethn Dis . 2013;23[2]:161–167)

Formulation Development and Evaluation of Drug Release Kinetics from Colon-Targeted Ibuprofen Tablets Based on Eudragit RL 100-Chitosan Interpolyelectrolyte Complexes

Abstract: Colon-targeted drug delivery systems (CTDDSs) could be useful for local treatment of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs). In this study, various interpolyelectrolyte complexes (IPECs), formed between Eudragit RL100 (EL) and chitosan (CS), by nonstoichiometric method, and tablets based on the IPECs, prepared by wet granulation, were evaluated as potential oral CTDDSs for ibuprofen (IBF). Results obtained showed that the tablets conformed to compendial requirements for acceptance and that CS and EL formed IPECs that showed pH-dependent swelling properties and prolonged the in vitro release of IBF from the tablets in the following descending order: 3 : 2 > 2 : 3 > 1 : 1 ratios of CS and EL. An electrostatic interaction between the carbonyl (-CO-) group of EL and amino (-NH3 (+)) group of CS of the tablets formulated with the IPECs was capable of preventing drug release in the stomach and small intestine and helped in delivering the drug to the colon. Kinetic analysis of drug release profiles showed that the systems predominantly released IBF in a zero-order manner. IPECs based on CS and EL could be exploited successfully for colon-targeted delivery of IBF in the treatment of IBDs.

Structural and Optical Properties of Chemical Bath Deposited Silver Oxide Thin Films: Role of Deposition Time

Abstract: Silver oxide thin films were deposited on glass substrates at a temperature of 50°C by chemical bath deposition technique under different deposition times using pure AgNO3 precursor and triethanolamine as the complexing agent. The chemical analysis based on EDX technique shows the presence of Ag and O at the appropriate energy levels. The morphological features obtained from SEM showed that the AgxO structures varied as the deposition time changes. The X-ray diffraction showed the peaks of Ag2O and AgO in the structure. The direct band gap and the refractive index increased as the deposition time increased and was in the range of 1.64–1.95 eV and 1.02–2.07, respectively. The values of the band gap and refractive index obtained indicate possible applications in photovoltaic and photothermal systems.

Reference values for the serum lipid profile of albino rats (Rattus norvegicus) of varied ages and sexes

Abstract: Albino rats (Rattus norvegicus) are the most commonly used laboratory animals for studies on the effects of drugs, supplements, herbal extracts and diets on the serum lipid profile (SLP), yet there is no comprehensive set of reference values for the SLP of albino rats of varied ages and sexes in available literature. This study was designed to assay the SLP of albino rats of varied ages and sexes. A total of 480 Sprague Dawley albino rats were used for the study, composed of 240 females and 240 males. The age sets studied were rats of 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 16, 20, 30, 40, and 50 weeks of age. For each age set, the SLP of 24 females and 24 males was assayed. Standard biochemical procedures were followed in the SLP assay after a 12-h overnight fast of the rats. Results showed that serum levels of total cholesterol (TC), high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDLC) and low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDLC) significantly rose (p 0.05) than that of the males. It was concluded that there were significant variations in the SLP of albino rats across the ages studied and also significant differences between the sexes at certain ages.

Investigating maternal mortality in a public teaching hospital, abakaliki, ebonyi state, Nigeria

Abstract: Background: Maternal mortality in sub‑Saharan Africa has remained high and this is a reflection of the poor quality of maternal services. Aim: To determine the causes, trends, and level of maternal mortality rate in Abakaliki, Ebonyi. Materials and Methods: This was a review of the records of all maternal deaths related to pregnancy over a ten‑year period, that is, January 1999 to December 2008. Relevant information on number of deaths, booking status, age, parity, educational level of women, mode of delivery, and causes of death were extracted and analyzed. Results: During the study period, there were 12,587 deliveries and 171 maternal deaths. The maternal mortality ratio (MMR) was 1,359 per 100,000 live births. The trend over the period was lowest in 2008 and highest in 1999 with an MMR of 757 per 100,000 live births and 4,000 per 100,000 live births, respectively. There was a progressive decline in the MMR over the period of study except in the years 2003 and 2006, when the ratio spiked a little, giving an MMR of 1,510 per 100,000 live births and 1,290 per 100,000 live births, respectively. The progressive decline in maternal mortality corresponded with the time that free maternal services were introduced. Hemorrhage was the most important cause of maternal death, accounting for 23.0% (38/165), whereas diabetic ketoacidosis, congestive cardiac failure, and asthma in pregnancy were the least important causes of maternal deaths, each accounting for 0.6% (1/165). Majority of the maternal deaths occurred in unbooked patients (82.4% (136/165)), whereas 17.6% (29/165) of the deaths occurred in booked cases. Forty‑seven (28.5% (47/165)) patients died following a cesarean section, 8.5% (14/165) died as a result of abortion complications, and 10.9% (18/165) died undelivered. Seventy‑seven (46.7% (77/165)) of the maternal death patients had no formal education. Low socioeconomic status, poor educational level, and grand multiparity were some of the risk factors for maternal mortality. Conclusion: There was a decline in MMR during the period of study. The free maternal health services and adequate staff recruitment, which may have contributed to the observed decline in maternal mortality, should be sustained in developing countries.

Measuring the role of forest income in mitigating poverty and inequality: Evidence from south-eastern Nigeria

Abstract: Income derived from forest extraction occupies a significant proportion of total household income for many forest communities in sub-Saharan African. However, there is a dearth of empirical evidence in general on the distributional implications of forest income on poverty and inequality. In addition, there is a gap in our knowledge on the factors underlying households' participation in forest extraction activities as well as income derived from forest extraction. We use data from a survey of 1457 households from nine local government areas (LGAs) in the Cross River State in south-eastern Nigeria. Results from poverty and inequality decomposition experiments suggest that forest income plays a significant role in mitigating poverty and inequality in the region with varying impacts across the LGAs. Furthermore, results from a Tobit model with sample selection on the determinants of forest income indicate that the age, education and sex of household heads, alternative household income sources, household size,...

Anticonvulsant effect of kaurenoic acid isolated from the root bark of Annona senegalensis.

Abstract: Context The herbal preparations of Annona senegalensis Pers. (Annonaceae) root bark are used in Nigerian ethnomedicine for the treatment of epilepsy and febrile seizures. The scientific evidence for this effect has been reported. Objective The aim of this study was to identify and characterize the active constituent responsible for the anticonvulsant effect. Materials and methods Bioactive-guided fractionation of the methanol-methylene chloride root bark extract (MME) of A. senegalensis using pentylenetetrazole (PTZ)-induced seizures in mice, afforded a potent anticonvulsant ethyl-acetate fraction (EF). Further fractionation of the EF yielded eight sub-fractions (F 1 –F 8 ) which were tested for anticonvulsant activity. The sub-fraction F 2 yielded white crystals that were purified to obtain A. senegalensis crystals, AS2. The AS2, which exhibited potent anticonvulsant effects, was characterized by 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopy, mass spectroscopy and X-ray crystallography. Results The AS2 was characterized as kaur-16-en-19-oic acid (KA), a diterpenoid. The AS2 indicated an oral LD 50 of 3800 mg/kg. The results showed that the MME, EF and AS2 significantly ( P Discussion and conclusion Kaurenoic acid was identified as the anticonvulsant principle in the root bark extract of A. senegalensis . The anticonvulsant effect of the MME, EF and AS2 is most likely being mediated through central inhibitory mechanisms.

New Direct Compression Excipient from Tigernut Starch: Physicochemical and Functional Properties

Abstract: Tigernut starch has been isolated and modified by forced retrogradation of the acidic gel by freezing and thawing processes. Relevant physicochemical and functional properties of the new excipient (tigernut starch modified by acid gelation and accelerated (forced) retrogradation (STAM)) were evaluated as a direct compression excipient in relation to the native tigernut starch (STNA), intermediate product (tigernut starch modified by acid gelation (STA)), and microcrystalline cellulose (MCC). The particle morphology, swelling capacity, moisture sorption, differential scanning calorimeter (DSC) thermographs and X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) patterns, flow, dilution capacity, and tablet disintegration efficiency were evaluated. The particles of STNA were either round or oval in shape, STA were smooth with thick round edges and hollowed center while STAM were long, smooth, and irregularly shaped typically resembling MCC. The DSC thermographs of STNA and MCC showed two endothermic transitions as compared with STA and STAM which showed an endothermic and an exothermic. The moisture uptake, swelling, flow, and dilution capacity of STAM were higher than those of MCC, STA, and STNA. The XRD pattern and moisture sorption profile of STAM showed similarities and differences with STNA, STA, and MCC that relate the modification. Acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) tablets containing STAM disintegrated at 3 ± 0.5 min as compared with the tablets containing STNA, STA, and MCC which disintegrated at 8.5 ± 0.5, 10 ± 0.5, and 58 ± 0.8 min, respectively. The study shows the physicochemical properties of tigernut starch modified by forced retrogradation as well as its potential as an efficient direct compression excipient with enhanced flow and disintegration abilities for tablets production.

A survey of the burden of management of chronic suppurative otitis media in a developing Country

Abstract: Background: Although the prevalence of chronic suppurative otitis media (CSOM) is much higher in developing counties, most surgical treatment techniques are not easily accessible in many poor resource countries. Aim: The survey aims to examine the extent to which health care facilities in Nigeria are equipped to address the management challenges of CSOM. Subjects and Methods: Online questionnaires were sent and received from otolaryngologists practicing in across Nigerian public health institutions to evaluate the institutional practice concerning management of CSOM. Information enquired include: Proportion of CSOM among the ear, nose and throat (ENT) patient load, routinely applied treatments and challenges facing availability of standard treatment options. Data were analyzed with Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 15 (Chicago Illinois, USA), and presented descriptively. Results: Responses were returned from 17 otolaryngologists (68% [17/25]) practicing in institutions across the six geopolitical zones with a mean duration of otolaryngology services of 22.4 (14.8) years. The CSOM patients constitute an average of 25.3% (13.1) of ENT patient load, with an average of 31 (15.3) % having significant hearing loss. Surgery have never been tried in 41% (7/17) of the institutions due to lack of facilities and/or expertise. Among institutions that offer surgery, 40% (4/10) offer only cortical mastoidectomy and only 30% (3/10) offer type 1 tympanoplasty. Achievements of permanent dry ears were reported more in institutions that offer surgery. Unaffordable cost of hearing aid and lack of expertise for tympanoplasty are the major challenging factors for rehabilitation of CSOM induced hearing loss. Conclusion: Considering the enormity of CSOM in Nigeria, and the fact that > 40% (7/17) of the public health institutions still lack facilities and/or expertise for surgical treatments for CSOM, public otolaryngological centers should not only be adequately equipped for tympanomastoid surgeries, attention should be focused on further training of experts in the operative techniques from within and outside the country.