Global Journal of Pure and Applied Sciences

Evaluation Of Laboratory And Radiology Health Records Influence On Healthcare Service Delivery In Government Owned Hospitals In The Southern Zone Of Cross River State Nigeria

Ifere Mimi Patricia Eugene, Oluwaseun Omowumi Akin Fakorede, Angereke Felicia — Wed, 23 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

This study investigated the influence of laboratory and radiology electronic health records and healthcare service delivery in the Southern zone of Cross River State, Nigeria. Adopting a survey design using stratified proportionate random sampling technique, a One-way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) was used to test the hypotheses which revealed a significant main effect of laboratory and radiology health records on healthcare service delivery of *P<0.05 and df=2:354. Findings based on the hypotheses revealed that the p-value of (.000) is < .05 level of significance; thereby rejecting the null hypotheses and accepting the alternate hypotheses. This further revealed that, laboratory; radiology electronic health records exert a significant influence on healthcare service delivery. Therefore, it was concluded that the low level of healthcare service delivery in the Southern zone of Cross River State could be associated with low utilization of laboratory and radiology electronic health records which have negative impact on healthcare service delivery.

Towards Developing A Radiation Protection Culture In Diagnostic Radiography In Nigeria: A Pilot Survey

Bassey Eyo Archibong, Nneoyi Onen Egbe, Samuel Okon Inyang — Wed, 23 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Effective utility of Radiation Protection (RP) is premised on the adoption of its practice as a culture. There have been concerns for the observed poor adherence to radiation protection guidelines in diagnostic radiology service delivery in Nigeria.

Objective: This study sought to identify reasons for this position and explore the challenges militating against development of a radiation protection culture among medical radiation workers in the country.

Materials and Methods: Self-study questionnaires were used to access information on familiarity with and knowledge of the ‘as low as reasonably achievable’ (ALARA) principle and the National Commission for Radiological Protection (NCRP) guidelines, attitudes, procedures and techniques in radiation protection and dose optimization, individual participation, methods and challenges of optimization and protection, quality of personnel, legislation and level of training received on radiation protection by radiation users from practicing radiographers and radiologists in Nigeria. Information obtained from the responses was organized and presented in simple percentages.

Result: While all respondents claimed familiarity with ALARA and NCRP guidelines for radiation protection, 76% were not usually involved in radiation protection. Reasons for this ranged from workload, unavailability of protection equipment and personnel. Findings generally reflect a poor RP culture deriving from poor practitioner attitudes, lack of equipment for RP, inadequate funding, a lack of sustained interest, inaccessible legislation and poor regulator monitoring. At least 87% of respondents felt that regular monitoring of protection protocols would compel them to adopt RP practice as a routine.

Conclusion: The findings are suggestive of a need for attitudinal change among radiation users and regulators as a first step towards adopting a radiation protection culture in Nigeria.

Addition Of Smaller Unit’s Efficiency In Network Data Envelopment Analysis

J O Ushie, J A Abuchu, J O Achuobi, L B Akaegbu — Wed, 23 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

In this work, we present data envelopment analysis modeling approach for network data envelopment analysis where addition of efficiency is assumed for sub units or stages. The approach is applied under both constant return to scale and variable return to scale assumptions. We looked at the general multi stage processes classified as serial, parallel and non-immediate flow processes. The overall efficiency is expressed as a weighted sum of the efficiencies of the individual stages. We observe the more general problem of an open multistage process where some output from a given stage may leave the system while others become inputs to the next stage. We finally apply our approach to the numerical example.

Antibacterial Activity Of Anonna Muricata (Soursop) Leaves Extracts On Urogenital Isolates Of Enterococcus Faecalis From Patients Attending A Tertiary Hospital In Calabar, Nigeria

Nse Umoh, Mfoniso Udonkang, Precious Uloaku — Wed, 23 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Annona (A.) muricata leaves extracts were evaluated for antibacterial activity against urogenital isolates of Enterococcus (E.) faecalis obtained from University of Calabar Teaching Hospital, Calabar, Nigeria. Ethanol and aqueous extracts of A. muricata leaves were prepared by Soxhlet extraction method, and tested for antibacterial activity against 20 pre-identified isolates of E. faecalis using agar-well diffusion method. Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) of the extracts was determined using broth dilution method. Antibiotic susceptibility of the isolates was determined using Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method. Both extracts of A. muricata leaves produced significant, concentration-dependent, antibacterial activity against E. faecalis isolates with MIC of 50 mg/ml (p= 0.0032). The ethanol extract showed a higher efficacy and inhibited more isolates [12(60%)] than the aqueous extract [10(50%)], with a mean inhibition-zone diameter of 16.5 ± 2.3 mm and 15.0 ± 1.0 mm, respectively. The size of the inhibition-zones correlated significantly, in direct proportion, with concentrations of the extracts (p= 0.012). The efficacy of the ethanol and aqueous extracts was lower than that of Ciprofloxacin (90%), Levofloxacin (80%), and Meropenem (65%), but corresponded with that of Cefoxitin (60%) and Gentamicin (55%), respectively. Identification and isolation of specific antimicrobial compounds present in A. muricata leaves crude extracts would likely optimize its potency against bacterial pathogens, such as E. faecalis, particularly multidrug resistant strains.

Comparative study of the insecticidal efficacy of polyalthia longifolia (sonn.) Thwaites and acalypha wilkesiana (muell arg) powder on callosobruchus maculatus (f.) (coleoptera: bruchidae)

Ishado S A, Ndor Odok P O, Ogar E O, Amades B, Nshabum T G, Okang P I — Wed, 23 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Concerns over the environmental impact of synthetic pesticides have shifted attention toward bioactive plant products for the control of stored-product insect pests. This laboratory study evaluated the insecticidal efficacy of Polyalthia longifolia and Acalypha wilkesiana leaf powders against the cowpea weevil (Callosobruchus maculatus). The study aimed to assess mortality effects, damage reduction and emergence inhibition. Four treatment concentrations (0%, 1%, 2%, and 3%) of each plant leaf powder were tested in a completely randomized design, with three replicates per treatment. Each replicate consisted of 100 g of sterilized cowpea grains. Results showed that A. wilkesiana caused the highest mortality rates of 30.23% at 3%, 23.35% at 2%, and 20.76% at 1%. P. longifolia exhibited mortality rates of 25.46% at 3%, 21.65% at 2%, and 16.65% at 1%. Both plant powders significantly increased mortality compared to the control (P < 0.05). Damage reduction was also significant, with A. wilkesiana reducing damage to 25.80% at 3% and P. longifolia to 32.35% at 3%. Additionally, emergence inhibition was notable, with A. wilkesiana suppressing F₁ progeny emergence by 78.74% at 3% and P. longifolia by 71.15% at 3%. The study concludes that both plants possess insecticidal properties capable of suppressing cowpea weevils, with A. wilkesiana demonstrating greater efficacy than P. longifolia. These findings highlight the potential of these plant-based powders for sustainable pest management, contributing to food security and environmental safety.

Factors Influencing The Uptake Of Human Papillomavirus Vaccine Among Female Undergraduate Students At The University Of Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection is the most prevalent viral infection affecting the reproductive tract, and it is a leading cause of cervical cancer—the fourth most common cancer among women globally. Vaccination against HPV serves as an effective preventive measure, particularly among young adults, who are at increased risk.

Objective: This study examined factors influencing HPV vaccine uptake among female undergraduate students at the University of Calabar, Nigeria

Methods: A non-experimental quantitative approach utilizing a descriptive cross-sectional survey design was adopted. The study included 213 female undergraduate students selected through a multi-staged sampling technique. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire administered face-to-face, ensuring ethical considerations such as informed consent and confidentiality. Data analysis was performed with SPSS version 23, and results were presented using percentages and Chi-Square test to explore associations.

Results: Findings revealed a low rate of HPV vaccine uptake among participants, with only 2.3% of the 213 students reporting they had received the vaccine. Lack of awareness emerged as a major barrier to uptake, with 58.2% of students indicating they had not heard of the HPV vaccine prior to the study. Additionally, fears of vaccine side effects (mean=3.17), religious beliefs (mean=2.95), and misconceptions associating vaccination with promiscuity (mean=1.73) contributed to hesitancy. Notably, students who were married (13.1% of participants) or had higher monthly incomes (10.8% earning above ₦100,000) showed higher uptake rates. Furthermore, students with higher knowledge levels about HPV demonstrated significantly higher rates of vaccine acceptance, as indicated by the significant association between knowledge levels and vaccine uptake (p=0.003). Conclusion: This study highlights the urgent need for tailored educational interventions to improve HPV vaccine awareness and address misconceptions among female undergraduates.

Effects Of Pyrethroid Insecticide (Ballistic) On Serum Lipid Profile And Some Sex Hormones Level Of Adult Female Albino Rats

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Ballistic is a pyrethroid insecticide containing deltamethrin and aromatic hydrocarbons as active ingredients. Twenty-four (24) female albino rats were divided into three groups of 8 animals. Rats of the control group I were fed normal rat feed and water, while rats of the treatment groups II and III were administered 0.5ml/kg body weight of ballistic insecticide from the stock solution of 0.1ml (low dose) and 0.15ml (high dose) respectively in addition to being fed normal rat feed and water ad libitum for 21 days. At the end of the experiment, animals were euthanized and blood samples collected for analyses. Results of this study showed a significant body weight reduction from 146.1±10.93g to 135.3±4.82g in group II and 172.9±6.42g to 160.3±1.45g in group III, whereas the control group recorded a significant body weight increase. This study recorded a significant (p=0.001; p<0.05) increase in the lipid profile of the two treatment groups. The respective values for group I, II and III were: 1.9±0.051mmol/L, 2.1±0.041mmol/L and 2.3±0.041mol/L for total cholesterol, 0.63±0.011mmol/L, 0.68±0.007mmol/L and 0.69±0.007mmol/L for triglyceride, 0.5±0.037mmol/L, 0.8±0.041mmol/L and 0.8±0.058mmol/L for low density lipoprotein, 0.28±0.008mmol/L, 0.31±0.004mmol/L and 0.34±0.004mmol/L for very low density lipoprotein. There was however a decrease in the high density lipoprotein of the treated rats (1.22±0.037mmol/L, 1.20±0.108mmol/L and 1.05±0.065mmol/L). Follicle stimulating hormones decreased significantly in the treatment groups while luteinizing hormones levels were significantly increased. This study has revealed that ballistic is cytotoxic and deleterious to the physical traits and some biochemical parameters of female albino rats.

Radiographer’s Job Satisfaction And Its Impact On Service Delivery

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

BACKGROUND: Job satisfaction has become an essential issue for healthcare organizations in recent years because of potential labour shortages and their effect on patient care. Rapid changes in radiology services have placed more interest on radiographers who face increased physical risk in the form of exposure to ionizing radiation which highlights the importance of analysing their working conditions and satisfaction.

OBJECTIVE: To assess radiographers job satisfaction and its impact on service delivery.

MATERIALS AND METHOD: A cross-sectional, prospective survey of 77 Nigerian radiographers was conducted. The data collection instrument was a 31-item questionnaire distributed to the radiographers. Descriptive and inferential statistics was done. Pearson’s correlation was used to reveal the relationship between selected demographic characteristics and job satisfaction.

RESULTS: Radiographers got their highest satisfaction from communication with a mean Likert scale of (3.491.21). Radiographers were somewhat satisfied with other areas such as interpersonal relationship, nature of work, opportunities, job security, supervision, operating procedures, method/change/innovation, conflict resolution, utilization of skills, flexibility and independence, organizational structure and quality of service with points ranging from (2.652.00) to (3.381.47). The least satisfaction point (2.161.39) was observed on the subject of pay, followed by working conditions (2.481.28) and participation in decision making (2.481.65). Based on overall job satisfaction, it was observed that radiographers under study were somewhat satisfied with their job with a mean scale of (2.950.37). Majority of the radiographers affirmed that their job satisfaction affected their performance, working hours and daily attendance to work respectively. Half the number of respondents said that they would prefer another job apart from their current job if given a choice. Results also showed that there exists no significant correlation between gender, age, educational qualification, rank, work experience with general job satisfaction.

CONCLUSION: Nigerian radiographers within the study location are somewhat satisfied with their job and half of them would prefer another job if given a choice.

Assessment Of Morphometric Components Of The Grey Mullet (Mugil Cephalus) In Uta Ewa River Estuary, Southeastern Nigeria

Asuquo Idopiseabasi Ekpe, Udofia Nyetiobong Patrick — Wed, 23 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The morphological diversity and growth patterns of fish populations provide crucial insights into their ecology, reproductive strategies, and responses to environmental changes. This study aimed to investigate the variability in morphometric traits of Grey Mullet (Mugil cephalus) from Utaewa Beach, Imo River, Akwa Ibom State. The study involved the monthly measurement of 17 morphometric traits on a total of 290 samples of M. cephalus for six months from May to October 2023. The study applied descriptive statistics, T-test for sex difference, correlation analysis for trait-length relationships, and principal component analysis. The findings revealed a wide range of variability across all measured morphometric traits. Notably, body weight (BW) varied from 7.9g to 273.2g, with a mean of 65.2g. Total length (TL) measurements ranged from 9.9cm to 31.1cm, indicating significant diversity within the population. Also, statistical analysis unveiled significant sexual dimorphism across most traits, with females generally larger than males (e.g., body weight in females: mean = 65.2g, males: significantly lower, p < 0.05). Strong correlations between fish length and morphometric traits such as the distance from the snout to the dorsal fins (DDF1 and DDF2; r > 0.9) were observed, indicating proportional growth patterns. Principal component analysis showed that the first component accounted for 74.13% of the variance, highlighting key morphometric traits contributing to overall variability. These findings underline the necessity for sex-specific management strategies in Grey Mullet fisheries to support sustainable exploitation and conservation, advocating for further research into the environmental and genetic determinants of morphometric diversity.

Analysis And Performance Evaluation Of Device-To-Device Communication Using Multiple Input Multiple Output Technology

Ogri James Ushie, Eleng Ekoro Edu, Peter O Ohiero, G A Fischer — Wed, 23 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Device-to-Device (D2D) communications is a term used to describe the technology that allows two devices to communicate with each other directly without using the Base Transceiver Station (BTS) or indirectly with the BTS. Device-to-device (D2D) communication plays a very significant role in the traditional cellular networks as it promises ultra-low latency for communication among users. Device-to-Device emerged as the key technology advances in mobile wireless communications. This paper analysed the performance metrics, using Multiple Input Multiple Output (MIMO) techniques for enhancing signal transmission in (D2D) communication. The system parameters Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR), Interference-to-Signal Ratio (ISR), Received Signal Strength Indicator (RSSI), distance and Capacity were analysed; using MIMO technique and comparing the signal flow across the different signal interference and probation delay. MATLAB/SIMULINK is used in simulating the different parameters in comparing the performances of the network. The MIMO technique enhances to a greater degree the signal propagation and path strength improvement over other traditional systems techniques, as a result of multi-path signal navigation improves signal reliability across paths with better fidelity. In the simulation results, increasing the number of antennas at the transmitter and the receiver end gave spatial diversity gain. Which results in a simultaneous increase in signal strength at the transmitter and receiver with a decrease in communicated interference.

Performance Of Sheep Fed Napier Grass Hay Supplemented With Nymphaea Lotus Leaf Meal For Sustainable Production

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The effect of feeding Napier grass hay supplemented with Nymphaea lotus leaf meal (NLLM) on the performance of Yankassa rams was investigated. A total of thirty rams were randomly divided into five treatments with six animals each using a completely randomized design (CRD), with the rams weighing an average of 15.05±1.39 kg. The basal diet consisted of Napier grass hay, while NLLM was supplemented at 0, 10, 20, 30 and 40%. Daily feeding rate for the diets was 3% body weight per animal. The feeding experiment lasted for 120 days following a 28-day period of adaption. Digestibility was investigated using three (3) animals per treatment. Results showed that nutrient composition of NLLM was richer than Napier grass hay, except fibre fractions. The feeding trial indicated that feed consumption and body weight measurement of rams on supplemented diets increased proportionally to the supplementation level of NLLM from 10 - 40% (421.00 – 561.40 g/day) as compared to the sole Napier grass hay diet (350.30 g/day).Yankasa rams fed NLLM supplemented diets (40.30 - 52.10 g/day) gained significantly (p<0.05) more weight than rams fed only Napier grass hay (31.20 g/day). The daily water consumption varied between 3.10 and 3.35 litres and was comparable (p>0.05) for all treatments. Diets comprising 30 and 40 % NLLM yielded feed conversion ratios of 9.08 and 9.43, respectively which were significantly (p<0.05) lower than diets with 0, 10 and 20 % NLLM. Feeding cost per kilogram of weight gain showed no significant impact (p>0.05) with inclusion of NLLM. The study concluded that feed consumption, nutrient digestibility and growth performance of Yankasa rams can all be positively impacted by 40% NLLM in their diets.

Chemical Composition And Feeding Value Of Sandbox (Hura Crepitans) Seed Meal As An Alternative Plant Protein Source For Rabbits In Southern Nigeria

Nsa E E, Ozung P O, Archibong E E — Wed, 23 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The chemical composition and feeding value of sandbox seed meal (SBSM) were evaluated in this study. The mature pods were harvested from sandbox trees and broken to obtain the seeds. The seeds were sun dried to constant weight before milling and the oil was extracted. The final samples were subjected to chemical analyses. Sixty cross bred weaned rabbits of mixed sexes between the ages of 7 and 8 weeks old, with mean body weight (933.66±2.53g) were used in the determination of the feeding value of SBSM. Five experimental diets were formulated where SBSM replaced soybean meal at 0, 25, 50, 75 and 100 % for T₁, T₂, T₃, T₄and T₅, respectively. The feeding trial lasted for 60 days. At the end, 6 rabbits per treatment were sacrificed for carcass evaluation. All data obtained were subjected to one way analysis of variance. Result showed the proximate composition of SBSM as 90.75 % dry matter, 26.88 % ether extract, 5.02 % ash, 24.41 % crude protein,11.49 % crude fibre and 33.20 % nitrogen free extracts. The anti-nutrients were 19.10 mg/g oxalate, 1.67 mg/g tannins, 3.45 mg/g alkaloids, 6.44 mg/g saponins, 0.20 mg/g flavonoids, 2.56 mg/g cyanogenic glucosides and 1.05 mg/g trypsin inhibitors. The fatty acids were linoleic acid (10.03%), oleic acid (7.48%, stearic acid (4.62%), linolenic acid (4.49%), palmitoleic acid (2.44%), lauric acid (0.21%) and palmitic acid (1.00%). The mineral composition showed potassium (189.51 mg/g), calcium (7.45 mg/g), sodium (5.08 mg/g), zinc (1.94 mg/g), iron (6.95 mg/g), copper (0.86 mg/g) and phosphorus (0.41 mg/g); while vitamins A, E, K, C and D were 405.72 IU, 0.87, 0.41, 0.03 and 1.80 mg/100g, respectively. Growth performance parameters showed significant (p<0.05) effect on final weight, daily weight gain, daily feed intake and FCR, respectively. Carcass characteristics showed significant (p<0.05) effect in the relative weight of the thigh, back cut and rack. The study concluded that sandbox seed meal is rich in nutrients and moderate in anti-nutrients. Therefore, can serve as a good alternative plant protein. Sandbox seed meal can conveniently replace soybean meal up to 75 % without adverse effects on performance of rabbits.

Anti-Inflammatory Potentials Of Ethanol Root Extract Of Salacia Lehmbachii In Wistar Rats

Iwegim Samuel Franklin, Francis Vincent Udoh — Wed, 23 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

It is well known that many diseases are accompanied by inflammation and pain. Inflammation and pain results from cell injury. Inflammation is critical for the development of many complex diseases and disorders including autoimmune diseases, metabolic syndrome, neuro-degenerative diseases, cancers and cardiovascular diseases. Salacia lehmbachii is commonly found in the tropical forest of Cameroon and South Eastern Nigeria, it has been reported to possess Analgesic and anti-inflammatory potentials and anti-abortificient activities in rat model. In this study we compared the anti-inflammatory effects of Ethanol root extract of Salacia lehmbachii (ERESL), prednisolone and acetysalicyclic acid on carrageenan-induced air pouch inflammation in Wistar rats; the study focused on oxidative stress and inflammatory biomarkers in rat model since there is great similarity and homology between the genomes of humans and rodents. The anti-inflammatory activity of ERESL in Wistar rats at graded doses (200mg/kg and 400mg/kg) were compared with two standard drugs (aspirin 0.93mg/kg and prednisolone 5mg/kg) using Carrageenan-induced air pouch inflammation. The effects of ERESL and standard drugs on inflammatory biomarkers and oxidative stress markers were compared, the results were analyzed using a one-way ANOVA followed by a Bonferroni post hoc test. Pretreatment with ERESL (200 and 400 mg/kg, p.o.) and PRE (5 mg/kg, p.o.) significantly (p < 0.05) prevented carrageenan-induced GSH alteration when compared with carrageenan (control group). But pretreatment with ASP (100 mg/kg, p.o.) failed to prevent carrageenan-induced alteration on GSH concentration in rats. Post-hoc analysis by bonferroni test revealed that carrageenan injection into the 6^th day old pouches significantly (p < 0.05) increase the MDA concentration when compared with vehicle group. On the other hand, pretreatment with ERSL (200 and 400 mg/kg, p.o.), PRE (5 mg/kg, p.o.) and ASP (100 mg/kg, p.o.) significantly (p < 0.05) inhibited carrageenan-induced increased MDA concentration when compared with carrageenan (control group), Histopathological studies revealed that administration of carrageenan to air pouches produced tissue damage characterized by prominent congested blood flow, inflammatory cellular infiltrates occupying the lower two-third of the deeper dermis tissue and cellular enlargement of pouch wall, suggesting tissue damage. However, pretreatment with ASP (100 mg/kg, p.o.), PRE (5 mg/kg, p.o.) and ERESL (200 and 400 mg/kg, p.o.) showed tissues with intact epidermis consisting of stratified squamous epithelium displaying reduced odema and inflammatory tissue infiltration. In conclusion, the results from the study provides evidence, which suggest that ethanol root extract of Salacia lemhbachii attenuated air pouch inflammatory reactions induced by carrageenan via mechanisms related to anti-oxidant, inhibition of cellular migration and tissue protection

Anatomical Assessment Of The Morphological Changes Of Placentas Following Parturition In South- South, Nigeria

Nna Mercy Eyo, Intelligence Aniedi Effiong — Wed, 23 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The usefulness of the placenta in the developing fetus cannot be overemphasized due to its elaborate functions. The placenta is formed by the cooperative effort between the extra embryonic tissue of the embryo and the endometrial tissue of the mother thus representing a symbiosis between the two without any rejection. This study is aimed at assessing the morphological changes of 150 placentas following parturition in five hospitals and different tribes in South-South, Nigeria. Questionnaires were distributed within the delivery suites in the five major hospitals, (University of Calabar Teaching Hospital, General Hospital Calabar, Kendox Hospital Rivers State, Obio Hospital Rivers State and Alphonso Hospital Rivers State.) where the mother’s age, parity and maternal medical conditions were recorded (Tribe Andoni: Maternal age 18-25, Parity 1-5, Placenta Weight 0.7kg, Medical condition Nil). (Tribe Ibibio: Maternal age 20-31, Parity 1-6, Placenta Weight 0.7kg, Medical Nil). (Tribe Annang: Maternal age 19-30, Parity 1-4, Placenta Weight 0.7kg, Medical condition Nil). (Tribe Oron: Maternal age 20-30, Parity 1-8, Placenta Weight 0.7kg, Medical condition Nil). (Tribe Eket: Maternal age 19-42, Parity 1-8, Placenta Weight 0.5kg, Medical condition diabetes mellitus). (Tribe Ogoni: Maternal age 19-35, Parity 1-5, Placenta Weight 0.6kg, Medical condition Nil). (Tribe Ikwere: Maternal age 19-28, Parity 1-6, Placenta Weight 0.7kg, Medical condition Nil). (Tribe Efik: Maternal age 19-45, Parity 1-7, Placenta Weight 0.5k, Medical condition Hypertension). Placental weight was measured using the basinet weighing scale after excising the umbilicus and squeezing out blood. All these were guided by the midwife on duty. The result showed that placenta weight varied significantly (P < 0.05) among different tribes. Eket and Oron had the highest mean parity of 9.00± 0.001 with Annang had the least mean parity of 0.60 ±0.03. Maternal age correlated significantly with placenta weight with a positive but weak relationship (P <0.05) at r=0.214. The parity was also significantly related to placenta weight (P <0.05) at r=0.277 where a weak but positive relationship was observed.

Length-Weight Relationship And Condition Index Of The Red Belly Tilapia (Coptodon Zillii) In The Great Kwa River

Tue, 06 May 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The Red Belly Tilapia (Coptodon zilli) is a widely distributed fish species in freshwater ecosystems, including the Great Kwa River in Nigeria. This study aimed to investigate the length-weight relationship and condition index of C. zilli in the Great Kwa River. The research involved data collection over a three-month period, from January to March 2023. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the length and weight measurements of C. zilli. The total length of the fish ranged from 2.4 cm to 20.5 cm, with mean values ranging from 8.77 cm to 9.51 cm. Similarly, the weight of the fish varied from 0.2 g to 67.0 g, with mean values ranging from 8.91 to 11.88 g. Regression analysis indicated a significant relationship between length and weight, with R values ranging from 0.9875 to 0.9921, suggesting a strong correlation. Furthermore, the length and weight regression parameters indicated isometric growth for C. zilli in all the months and pooled data. The values of the regression slope (b) did not deviate significantly from the standard value of 3 for isometric growth. Additionally, the t-test for isometry confirmed the results, as the calculated t-values were less than the critical t-values, indicating isometric growth of C. zilli in the Great Kwa River. The study also examined the condition factor of C. zilli. The condition factor ranged from 0.7 to 1.3, with no significant difference observed between the sampling months. This suggests that the fish maintained a relatively stable condition throughout the study period. Overall, this research provides valuable insights into the length-weight relationship, isometric growth, and condition factor of C. zilli in the Great Kwa River. The findings contribute to the understanding of the fish population dynamics and can serve as a basis for further studies on the species' ecology and conservation in Nigerian freshwater ecosystems.

Real-Time Implementation Of A Self-Sustaining Flywheel-Assisted Photovoltaic Power System For Nighttime Load Management

Faithpraise F O, Otosi F B, Udie C A, Awafung E A, Obisung O O — Tue, 06 May 2025 00:00:00 +0000

This study shows how a flywheel-powered solar energy system works in real-time to manage electricity use at night in places without a power grid. The system integrates a 1.5 kW PV array, a 24 V 200 Ah battery bank, a 1.5 kW DC motor, a 90 kg hollow cylindrical flywheel, a 3.5 kVA alternator, and a 695 W residential load operating for 12 hours daily. Two system configurations are investigated: one with a conventional battery-only supply and the other augmented by a flywheel energy storage system and a rechargeable feedback loop that partially restores battery charge from the alternator output.

Results indicate that in the absence of the flywheel, the battery undergoes daily energy stress exceeding its capacity, discharging up to 174% of its rated limit and risking premature failure. In contrast, the hybrid setup significantly reduces the battery's net discharge to 1.56 kWh/day, an 81.3% reduction by contributing 1.8 kWh from flywheel kinetic energy and recovering an additional 1.8 kWh via the recharge circuit. This results in a safer daily Depth of Discharge (DoD) of approximately 32.5%, effectively extending battery lifespan and enhancing load reliability.

The findings underscore the efficacy of mechanical-electrical hybrid energy systems in reducing battery dependence, improving overall efficiency, and ensuring uninterrupted energy availability in low-sunlight or resource-constrained environments. The proposed system offers a robust model for sustainable, autonomous energy solutions, particularly in regions facing grid unreliability or energy poverty.