Moshood Abiola Polytechnic

Malaria remains a significant public health challenge, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, despite ongoing efforts to eradicate the disease. Recent advancements, including the rollout of malaria vaccines, such as RTS,S/AS01 and R21/Matrix-M™, offer new avenues for prevention. However, the rise of resistance to anti-malarial medications necessitates innovative strategies. This review explores the potential integration of CRISPR/Cas9 gene drive technology with malaria vaccination efforts to enhance vector control and reduce transmission. By employing gene drive mechanisms for population suppression and replacement of malaria-transmitting Anopheles mosquitoes, combined with the immunogenic properties of vaccines, a synergistic approach can be established. This paper discussed the need for integrated strategies to address the biological complexities of malaria and socio-economic factors influencing its prevalence. Challenges such as regulatory hurdles, community acceptance, ecological impacts, and sustainable funding are examined, alongside strategies for implementation within existing malaria control programmes. This integrated approach could significantly contribute to achieving the World Health Organization's targets for malaria reduction by 2030, ultimately enhancing public health outcomes and supporting broader socio-economic development.

This study investigated the effect of fermentation durations (24,48 and 72 h) on the microstructure and nutritional quality of acha flour and resultant cookies. Results showed that there were significant differences (p < 0.05) in the functional and pasting properties of the flour and cookies samples. As increase in fermentation duration resulted increases in oil absorption capacity and dispersibility of the samples. The protein content of the fermented samples showed slight increase from 8.83 to 9.33%. There was significant difference (p < 0.05) in the all the minerals element. The Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectra increased the band intensities (3860-3650 cm-1). XRD patterns revealed slightly higher crystallinity, with A-type for flour and V-type for cookies. SEM revealed a shift from irregular compact grains to a regular, loose structure. Sensory tests affirmed that fermented acha flour holds promise for various food applications, including complementary foods, and gel formulations with reduced syneresis.

Effective lifestyle management is critical for blood glucose control, particularly in type 2 diabetes. Despite medical advancements, many patients struggle to maintain optimal levels due to suboptimal lifestyle choices. This review explores the impact of nutrition, physical activity, stress management, and sleep on blood glucose regulation, aiming to reduce complications and enhance quality of life. It also seeks to inform policies, guide program development, and prioritize future diabetes research. A scoping review of studies published between 2018 and 2024 was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. Keywords included “lifestyle management,” “blood glucose control,” “diabetes,” and “healthy habits.” Relevant studies were synthesized to evaluate lifestyle factors influencing blood glucose levels and provide practical recommendations for nursing practice, policy, and program guidance. Findings reveal that tailored nutrition, regular physical activity, stress management, and adequate sleep significantly enhance blood glucose control. In conclusion, Lifestyle choices play a pivotal role in managing blood glucose and reducing complications in type 2 diabetes. Encouraging balanced nutrition, physical activity, stress management, and sleep enhances better outcome. Healthcare providers must prioritize education and support, while policy initiatives and targeted programs should enable sustainable lifestyle changes and further research into long-term impacts is recommended.

Introduction Human Papillomavirus is responsible for about 5% of the global cancer burden. In Nigeria, cervical cancer is the second most common cancer among women. The Federal Government of Nigeria and partners recently introduced Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination into routine immunization beginning with 15 States and the Federal Capital Territory. This study assesses HPV vaccine knowledge, attitude and program satisfaction among parents and caregivers of vaccine recipients in Ogun State, Nigeria. Methods This is a cross-sectional study with sample size of 1012 respondents, carried out during the 5-day HPV immunization campaign in all 20 Local Government Areas in Ogun State, Nigeria. Data was collected using interviewer-administered questionnaires. Univariate analysis was done using frequency tables and bivariate analysis using Chi-square test. Multivariate analysis was carried out to identify the determinants of knowledge of HPV, knowledge of cervical cancer and programme satisfaction. Results All the respondents had heard of HPV vaccine and 67.5% had heard of cervical cancer. Eighty-two percent of the respondents heard of HPV vaccine for the first-time during the introduction programme. Eighty-two percent of respondents had good knowledge of HPV vaccine and 47.7% had good knowledge of cervical cancer. Forty-four percent of respondents heard about HPV vaccine via town/market announcers, 36.2% via radio, and 28.6% via social media. Common reasons respondents vaccinated their wards include, because there was a campaign (51.8%), to prevent cervical cancer (48.9%), and because it is free (38.3%). Twenty-nine percent were very satisfied with the HPV vaccination program and 63.2% were satisfied. All the respondents had positive attitude towards HPV vaccination, although 94.1% had heard messages discouraging people from vaccinating their wards. Respondents living in rural communities had higher odds of having good knowledge of HPV vaccine (aOR 2.232, 95% CI 1.527–3.263, p-value ≤ 0.001). Fathers with tertiary education were more likely to be satisfied with the programme (aOR 5.715, 95% CI 1.142–28.589, p-value = 0.034), Conclusion Knowledge of HPV vaccination was high and was informed by the HPV vaccination introduction programme. Use of outreaches, awareness drives, and provision of free vaccines should be intensified to further promote HPV vaccine uptake in Nigeria.

Cryptosporidium infection is a significant parasitic disease affecting both humans and animals worldwide. However, there is limited data on its prevalence in canine populations across Africa. This study was carried out between December 2021 and August 2022 to assess the burden of Cryptosporidium infection in dogs on the continent through a meta-analysis and a targeted survey of dogs presented at veterinary clinics in Nigeria. A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted using available studies on Cryptosporidium prevalence in dogs from African countries to determine the pooled prevalence. Additionally, a survey was carried out to determine the prevalence of Cryptosporidium oocysts in 309 dogs presented at veterinary clinics across several Nigerian states using microscopy and the presence of Cryptosporidium DNA was confirmed using the nested PCR methods. Data suitable for meta-analysis were found from only three African countries - Nigeria, Zambia, and Mozambique - highlighting a significant research gap across the continent. The pooled estimates of Cryptosporidium infection in Africa was 13.7% (95% CI: 7.7, 22.9), with country-specific rates of 22% in Nigeria, 5.9% in Zambia, and 6.4% in Mozambique. The survey conducted in Nigeria revealed a low prevalence of Cryptosporidium oocysts (6.7%) in dogs presented at clinics, while PCR confirmed the presence of Cryptosporidium DNA in positive samples. The findings highlight the significance of Cryptosporidium as a health concern in African canine populations, with prevalence rates comparable to global figures. The low prevalence observed in clinical settings indicates that routine screening should still be prioritized to ensure early detection and treatment, given the potential zoonotic risk posed by C. canis (the dominant species in dogs). Further research is needed to address the geographic and diagnostic gaps identified and to explore the clinical and public health implications of Cryptosporidium infection in dogs across Africa.

A satellite communication signal suffers from attenuation due to rain, and this offers many problems for effective signal transfer and quality, thereby affecting satellite communication services needed for day-to-day activities. This study has adopted a fade mitigation technique called site and path diversity because it creates an effective pathway for signal availability at the receiver through the selection of a less attenuated signal. In this study, 30-min integration time Global Precipitation Mission satellite rain rate data was converted to 1-min integration time using a reliable conversion model. The Synthetic Storm Technique (SST) time series rain attenuation model was used to calculate the diversity gain through time series rain rate data for nine locations between 2008 and 2018, covering the Southwestern region of Nigeria, which is a typical tropical location. The usual wet and dry seasons in Nigeria were re-categorized into onset (Mid-March to April), intense (May–September), cessation (October to Mid-November), and dry (November ending to February) seasons. The results on seasonal rain attenuation based on SST showed that the intense and dry months exhibited the highest and lowest rain attenuation, respectively, at 0.01 percent of the time. The ITU-R models on site and path diversity were modified using the data generated from each of the locations to produce a suitable model for the region. The results showed an improvement in diversity gain when compared with the existing ITU-R and Hodge models based on the least RMSE produced. The overall results will assist in improving the quality of signals provided by the satellite communication system within the study locations, especially during heavy downpours.

Background In Africa, peripheral nerve pathologies are a major source of disability, and the results of surgical therapies differ greatly among countries. The goal of this narrative review is to compile the most recent data on peripheral nerve surgery results in Africa, pinpoint critical variables that affect surgical outcomes, and offer suggestions for enhancing patient care. Methods A comprehensive literature review was conducted, focusing on studies published over the past four decades. The sources included peer-reviewed journals, hospital records, and reports from healthcare organizations. The review examined outcomes related to functional recovery, quality of life, and postoperative complications. Results The outcomes of peripheral nerve surgeries in Africa are influenced by the availability of medical infrastructure, the level of surgeon expertise, and the timeliness of the intervention. Urban centers with better resources tend to report more favorable outcomes, whereas rural areas face significant challenges. Common barriers include limited access to advanced surgical tools, a shortage of specialized surgeons, and inadequate postoperative care and rehabilitation services. Despite these challenges, successful interventions have been reported, particularly in settings where targeted training programs and international collaborations are in place. Conclusion Enhancing surgeon training programs, building comprehensive postoperative care and rehabilitation facilities, and investing in healthcare infrastructure are critical to improving peripheral nerve surgery results in Africa. International and regional collaborations can be extremely helpful in advancing these initiatives by enabling the sharing of knowledge and granting access to cutting-edge methods. Patients with peripheral nerve injuries across the continent may experience improved functional recovery and overall quality of life if these criteria are met.

This study investigated the effect of fermentation durations on the acha flour and resultant cookies. The acha sample was fermented at 24, 48 and 72 h, while the native acha flour served as the control sample. The functional, pasting, nutritional and micro-structural properties of the fermented acha flour and sensory evaluation of the cookies were examined. The results indicate significant differences (p<0.05) in the functional and pasting properties of the flour and cookies samples. An increase in fermentation duration enhances oil absorption capacity and dispersibility of the samples. The protein and ash content of the acha flour samples increased. The mineral element showed significant difference (p<0.05) in the calcium, sodium, and zinc content. The Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectra increase the band intensities. The peaks occurred in the range 3860 - 3650 cm . The X-ray diffraction (XRD) pattern revealed a slight increase in the crystallinity of the fermented flour samples. The flour samples exhibited an A-type XRD pattern while the cookies samples had V-type XRD pattern. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed that fermentation modified the microstructure of the flour, causing it to change from an irregular compact granular to a regular loose structure. Cookies samples produced from native and fermented acha flour were acceptable by the panelist. Therefore, cookies with improved nutritional and acceptable sensory properties were produced from native and acha flour fermented between 24 and 72 h. This suggests that fermented acha flour holds promise for various food applications, including complementary foods, and gel formulations with reduced syneresis.

Introduction The internship period is a peculiar time in a doctor's career, and some have described it as a "nuisance year" during which the junior doctor assumes many roles at the same time. Junior doctors especially house officers are faced with many unique challenges; this is even more pronounced in poor resource settings like Nigeria. This study aimed to unravel and improve understanding of the challenges faced by medical and dental interns in Nigeria. Methodology A nine-member House officers Research and Statistics Committee (HRSC) was immediately set up to include three senior colleagues - Senior Registrars and Registrar. To carry out her responsibility efficiently the committee created the House Officers Research Collaboration Network (HRCN), a 103- member team comprising medical and dental interns from across Nigeria under a collaborative - Medical INternship Training in Nigeria (MINTING) study. Results Out of a total of the 103 House Officers Research Collaboration Network, 80 of them participated in this survey giving a 78% response rate. Ten of the intern Collaborators had additional qualification and seven of them had BSc as an initial degree. About 66 % of the Collaborators have never authored any publication. Of the 27 that have published an article; three collaborators are said to have published 15, 13, 16 articles respectively. Male collaborators where more likely to have published at least one article in the past. Thirty one of the 80 Collaborators have never been in a research collaborative group prior to this MINTING collaborative. Conclusion This commentary is set out to describe in detail Nigerian House Officers initiative in terms of the structure, functions, operational modalities, and to investigate the demographics of the HRCN collaborators which showed that over two third of collaborators have never authored any publication and about a third of them have never been involved in collaborative research. We also believe the findings will serve as policy guide and benchmark in training the critical medical health force.

The current study focuses on the production and experimental examination of sandwich beams consisting of an aluminum face sheet and 3D-printed honeycomb cores that are filled with magnetorheological elastomer (MRE). These cores are loaded with different ratios of (75/25)% and (50/50)% elastomer and magnetic particles, measured by weight. In order to ascertain the dynamic characteristics of sandwich beams, the constructed specimens were subjected to classic shock (free vibration) experiments, and these experiments were conducted under two conditions: with and without the application of a changing magnetic field at the free end and center of the beam. The results of the experiments suggest that the attenuation of the damping ratio exhibited satisfactory performance, particularly with respect to the structures that were being examined. The sandwich beam constructions proposed exhibited the ability to alter the damping ratio, damping coefficient, and stiffness through the application of a magnetic field. Nevertheless, an escalation in the applied magnetic field resulted in a reduction in stiffness values, while the values of the damping ratio and damping coefficient increased. Furthermore, significant variations in damping were observed when the magnets were located in the central regions of the structures.

Keywords: Contemporary; Dakal; fizzling architectural features; Hausa vernacular architecture; Modernism; technological advancement Dakali is a unique feature that plays a functional role in the Hausa Vernacular Architecture (HVA). However, events have revealed a gradual extinction from the streetscape due to contemporary changes in the cityscapes and the general physical development with the concomitant effect of reduction in the performance of the expected function in buildings. This paper focuses on the enumeration and documentation of buildings with or without this significant feature. It also appraises the attendant contemporary architectural design-shift. The paper adopts quantitative research approach; purposive sampling and Content analysis method in the selection of potential respondents and review of related literature respectively. This was complimented with the conduct of field survey, selective interviews and observation. Information extracted therefrom was descriptively presented. Findings revealed that out of the total of 235 selected samples, 50 buildings (about 21%) reflects the HVA features; only 14 buildings (about 5.95%), though with retained feature HVA like the Dakali, but have significantly lost the features and transiting towards the contemporary/modern trends; while, 171 (about 72.7%) of the buildings in the study area have completely been transformed. The paper concludes that there is the need for the identification and comprehensive documentation other HVA features for posterity, so as not to allow their total loss without any form of record of their historical existence, due to fast changes been experienced arising from the advent of innovative design, challenges of rapid rate of global urbanization and the trending breakthrough in technological advancement within our urban/city settings.

This paper investigates the impact of modern and contemporary trends on an eighty-seven years' old mosque in Jos built in the typical Hausa Vernacular Architectural style, as well as the extent to which its vernacular features have been lost and/or retained. The study focused on selected architectural features which do not essentially affects the performance of the primary mosque's functions. A qualitative survey was adopted using case study approach and complemented with content analysis of related literature reviewed to extract information on the challenges of restoration and preservation or conservation of the key features of traditional Hausa Architecture on the Mosque buildings in the study area of Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria from the randomly selected traditional/indigenous builders and practicing architects. The Yandoka Street Mosque was purposively selected as a case study, because of its historical antecedence, religious and communal attachment, as well as its socio-political and cultural relevance in the study area. Information was collected using the unobtrusive observation method and were descriptively presented in the form of layout plan, material deduction, construction techniques and technology adopted for the mosque's construction. Findings shows that, the influence of the identified key factors have become a threatening phenomenon to the survival of the preservation and conservation historical values and heritages of Hausa mosque architectural style. The paper advocates preservation and conservation of the original mosque architectural style from the point of view of sustainability and made recommendations towards the preservation, development and execution of strategies for branding, national identity and protection of value systems for the public good

Background: Detection and management of female genital schistosomiasis (FGS) within primary healthcare is crucial for achieving schistosomiasis elimination, however, current technical strategies are not feasible in many settings. In Nigeria, there are currently no established standard operating procedures to support front-line health workers. This article presents an evaluation of piloting an FGS care package in two LGAs of Ogun State, Nigeria. Methods: We used quantitative and qualitative analysis, including 46 interviews with patients, health workers and the quality improvement team; observations of training, learning sessions and supervision across 23 heath facilities; and records of patients detected and managed. Results: Of 79 women and girls who were screened, 66 were treated and followed up. Health workers assimilated knowledge of FGS and effectively diagnosed and managed patients, demonstrating the feasibility of using symptomatic screening and treatment tools to diagnose and care for women or girls with suspected FGS. Challenges included establishing a referral pathway to tertiary care for patients with complications, insecurity, gender norms that limited uptake and sensitization, the limited capacity of the workforce, conflicting priorities and praziquantel acquisition. Conclusions: Simple tools can be used in primary healthcare settings to detect and manage women and girls with FGS. Contextual challenges must be addressed. Sustainability will require political and financial commitments.

Sweet potato and shea butter remain underutilized crops. Their potential in the production of ready-to-eat snacks could enhance food security. Hence, this study evaluated cookies from sweet potato flour using shea butter as a shortening. Cookies samples were produced from 100% sweet potato flour with margarine (SPM); 100% sweet potato flour with shea butter (SPS); 100% wheat flour with shea butter (WCS); 100% wheat flour with margarine (WMC), 50% wheat, 50% sweet potato flour with shea butter (WSS); 50% wheat, 50% sweet potato flour with margarine (WSM). Cookies samples were analysed for physical properties, colour, proximate composition and sensory acceptability. The physical properties of the cookies samples had the weight, diameter, thickness and spread ratio ranging from 5.99 to 7.7 g, 3.76 to 4.27 cm, 0.54 to 0.64 cm, and 10.59 to 13.86, respectively. The colour properties of the cookies sample had the L*, a* and b* values ranging from 33.99 to 61.08, -6.03 to 0.72 and 10.87 to 22.51, respectively. The proximate composition of the cookies sample was moisture content (2.39-4.98%), fat (11.74-14.41%), protein (2.71-3.54%), fibre (2.26- 2.83%), ash (1.92-1.99%), carbohydrate (74.28-78.66%), while the energy value ranged from 340.77 to 356.34 kCal. The use of shea butter as shortening led to a lower value of fat and spread ratio of cookies. In the sensorial acceptability ranking, the texture, crunchiness and aroma of cookies samples were not significantly different (p < 0.05). Sensory panellists adjudged cookies produced with sweet potato using shea butter shortening as liked moderately. Hence, the production of gluten-free cookies using sweet potato flour with shea butter shortening could serve as a low-cost, nutrient-dense, ready-to-eat snack.

The ab initio method is used to calculate the electronic, elastic, lattice-dynamic, and thermoelectric properties of the semimetal Half-Heusler compound HfIrAs. Density Functional Theory within Generalized Gradient Approximation is used to carry out calculations of lattice parameters, band structure, electronic density of states, phonon band structure, phonon density of states, elastic moduli, specific heat at constant volume, the Seebeck coefficient, electrical conductivity, the power factor, and the dimensionless figure of merit. The electronic band structure reveals that the compound is semimetal. The phonon dispersion shows that HfIrAs is dynamically stable. The projected phonon density of states, which shows the contribution of each constituent atom at every frequency level, is also reported. The ratio of bulk modulus to shear modulus is 2.89; i.e., the material is ductile, and it satisfies stability criteria. The thermoelectric properties of this compound at different temperatures of 300 K, 600 K, and 800 K are reported as a function of hole concentration for the first time to the best of our knowledge. The dimensionless figure of merit of HfIrAs is 0.57 at 800 K when the doping concentration is 0.01 × 10 20 cm −3. Therefore, this compound is predicted to be a good thermoelectric material.

Adopting Density Functional Theory (DFT) with Hubbard U correction implemented in Quantum Espresso, we have performed a comprehensive first-principles study of MPSe 3 (M = Cd. Fe and Ni) monolayers. The computed electronic properties revealed the semi-conductive nature of the monolayers with small indirect bandgaps. A free-standing single layer of MPSe 3 can be exfoliated from the parent compound by virtue of its structural stability and high in-plane stiffness. Hence, the elastic and dynamical properties were computed to establish the mechanical and dynamical stability. The results showed that CdPSe 3 and NiPSe 3 are stable in the trigonal structure while a single negative frequency observed in the phonon dispersion of FePSe 3 indicates the possibility to relax to another, less symmetric structure. In addition, these 2D systems showed relatively good response when subjected to strain hence, they can be said to be mechanically stable. The thermodynamic properties, such as internal energies, vibrational free energies, entropies and constant-volume heat capacities have been computed within the harmonic approximations using the phonon density of states. The computed thermoelectric properties show that CdPSe 3 and FePSe 3 have the peak figure of merit at low temperature of 50K. This work predicts a thermoelectric performance with an electronic figure of merit of 0.28 for p-doped CdPSe 3 . Moreover, the DFT+U method predicts an electronic figure of merit of 0.39 and 0.2 for p-doped FePSe 3 and NiPSe3, respectively.

The demand for good quality satellite signals in earth-space communication multimedia services has continuously increased due to the expansion of service providers for various telecommunication companies and internet network providers such as MTN, ETISALAT, GLOBACOM, and AIRTEL. Therefore, a radio engineer needs continuous information on the statistics of rain-induced attenuation to overcome the degradation of satellite signals due to heavy rain downpours. In the present study, an algorithm for the future prediction of rain attenuation based on the Feed Forward Neural Networks (FFNN) prediction model is presented. The seasonal assessment of rain rate and rain attenuation is also investigated for five stations (Okitipupa, Ikole-Ekiti, Ile-Ife, Ogbomosho, and Sagamu) covering the Southwestern region of Nigeria using the Global Precipitation Mission (GPM) satellite observations data. The study revealed that the intensive season exhibited the highest rainfall regime compared to the pre-monsoon, cessation, and dry seasons, which implies maximum rain attenuation during the intensive period of the year. The results of this study would be helpful for radio engineers to plan future link budgets for the provision of adequate signals for link availability.

Introduction Of the 182 million annual pregnancies in developing countries, 76 million are unintended and 66% of these are among non-users of contraception. Unintended pregnancy is a risk factor for abortion, disruption of education, future unemployment, and poor socio-economic status. This study aimed to determine the age of sexual debut, sexual education, abortion, awareness, and prevalence of contraceptives among female undergraduate students in public and private universities in Ekiti State. Methods A comparative cross-sectional study was carried out among 418 [public (208) and private (210)] female university undergraduate students in Ekiti State using a multi-stage sampling technique. Data was gathered using a semi-structured questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS (IBM Corp. Released 2015. IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Version 23.0. Armonk, NY: IBM Corp). Chi-square was used to assess the association between dependent and independent variables at the bivariate level of analysis. P-value<0.05 was taken as significant. Results The mean age of respondents was 21.1±2.5 years in the public univeristy and 19.3±2.1 years in the private university. About 53.8% of students in the public university have been engaged in sexual intercourse as against 30% of students in the private university. The mean age at first sexual debut was lower in the public university (14.2±4.1 years) than in the private university (16.9±3.3 years) while more public university students (87.5%) had access to sexual education than their counterparts at the private university (79.0%). Of those who had ever been pregnant in public university (18.8%), about four-fifth (81.1%) of them had an abortion while all those who ever got pregnant (15.9%) in private university had an abortion. All the respondents in both universities were aware of contraception with the majority getting to know through social media. The prevalence of contraceptive use was lower among public university students (39.3%) than those in the private university (60.3%). Conclusion Mean age at sexual debut and rate of abortion were lower in public university students than in private. While access to sexual education was higher in the public university than in the private university, the prevalence of contraceptive use was lower in the public university. Therefore it is recommended that the government and other relevant stakeholders need to institute continuous awareness campaign programs to increase contraception uptake and reduce the prevalence and effect of unwanted pregnancy as a result of unprotected sexual activities.