Predictors of Female Health Care Providers’ Knowledge on Symptoms and Risk Factors of Ovarian Cancer: A Tertiary Health Care Institutional Based Cross-sectional Study

Context: Ovarian cancer is responsible for more deaths per year than all other gynaecological cancers combined, and its overall mortality is high because of late presentation. Aims: To evaluate the predictors of knowledge of the symptoms and the risk factors of ovarian cancer among female healthcare providers in Enugu, Nigeria. Settings and Design: Cross‑sectional survey conducted at the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital (UNTH), Enugu from June to August 2018. Subjects and Methods: A self‑administered, structured questionnaire on symptoms and risk factors of ovarian cancer was given to 422 randomly selected female healthcare providers working at UNTH. Statistical Analysis: Data were analysed using SPSS version 22.0 for  Windows (Chicago, IL, USA). Predictors of knowledge level were determined using logistic regression. P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Mean age of the respondents was 39.22 ± 7.89 years. Less than 50% of participants know the other symptoms of ovarian cancer outside increased abdominal size (n = 268, [63.5%]). Also, <50% of participants know the other risk factors of ovarian cancer outside family history of cancer (n = 288, [68.2%]) and genetic predisposition (n = 251, [59.5%]). Female doctors are less likely not to know about the symptoms (odds ratio [OR] = 0.011, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.004–0.024, P < 0.001) and risk factors (OR = 0.005, 95% CI = 0.002–0.013, P < 0.001) of ovarian cancer. Conclusions: Female healthcare providers had a reduced level of awareness of the risk factors and symptoms of ovarian cancer, while  female doctors are less likely not to know about the symptoms and the risk factors. Keywords: Female health care workers, knowledge, ovarian cancer, predictors, risk factors, symptom

Nutritional Status of Under-five Children living in Orphanages compared with their Counterparts living with their Families in Host Communities in Lagos State

Background: The prevalence of malnutrition in Nigerian orphanages is not clearly defined despite the high burden. This study was conducted to determine and compare the nutritional status of children living in orphanages and children living in the host communities.Methods: It was a comparative cross-sectional study. A multistage sampling technique was used to select 180 under-five children each from orphanages and host communities. A pre-tested questionnaire was used to obtain data on socio-demographic characteristics and nutrient intake. Weight, height, mid-upper-arm circumference and nutrient intake were assessed following standard procedures. SPSS (version 20.0) was used for data entry and analysis. Association between variables was determined using Chi-square, t-test or Fisher’s exact tests and level of significance was set at p < 0.05.Result: The mean age of the children in orphanages was 38.5 months while that of the children in the host communities was 38.3 months. Wasting and over-nutrition were significantly lower among children living in orphanages compared with those living in the host communities, (5.6% versus 14.4%, p=0.006) and (5.6% versus 13.9%, p=0.008), respectively. The proportion of children living in orphanages who met the Recommended Dietary Allowance for proteins (95%) was significantly higher than those in the host communities (88.9%), (p=0.033).Conclusion: The nutritional status of children living in the orphanages was better than that of the children living in their host communities. More interventions on feeding infant and young children are needed in communities in Lagos State to ensure better nutritional status

Unlocking Solar Power For Surveillance A Review Of Solar Powered CCTV And Surveillance Technologies

Solar-powered surveillance technologies have gained prominence for their sustainable, autonomous, and versatile solutions. This comprehensive review explores three key solar-powered surveillance technologies: solar-powered CCTV cameras, solar drones, and solar-powered sensor networks. Each technology offers distinct strengths and weaknesses, making them suitable for various applications. Solar-powered CCTV cameras provide adaptability, energy independence, and rapid deployment, while solar drones offer an aerial perspective, extended endurance, and versatility. Solar-powered sensor networks excel in localized environmental monitoring. The choice of technology depends on factors such as the surveillance environment, budget constraints, required surveillance range, and specific monitoring needs. Organizations can benefit from hybrid solutions that integrate multiple technologies for comprehensive coverage. Future trends include advanced energy storage solutions, AI integration, enhanced power efficiency, and cloud-based data analytics, promising to improve performance and sustainability. Public-private collaborations and sustainable urban planning initiatives will drive further adoption and integration. Solar-powered surveillance technologies empower effective and environmentally sustainable surveillance solutions, contributing to a safer and more sustainable future

Antibacterial and antifungal activities of methanol extracts of Desmodium adscendens root and Bombax buonopozense leaves

In-vitro antibacterial and antifungal activities of methanol extracts of Desmodium adscendens (Sw.) DC root and Bombax buonopozense P. Beauv. leaves against some bacterial and fungal isolates implicated in oro-dental, urogenital and other opportunistic infections were investigated using standard microbiological methods. The extracts of D. adscendens exhibited significant inhibitory action against all twelve organisms tested at a concentration of 2.00 mg/ml, while that of B. buonopozense inhibited nine organisms at the same concentration and conditions. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) exhibited by extract of D. adscendens ranged between 0.0625 and 0.25 mg/ml while that of B. buonopozense ranged between 0.125 and 0.50 mg/ml. Phytochemical analysis of the two plant extracts revealed the presence of tannins and saponins while D. adscendens has alkaloids and flavonoids in addition. Between 92 and 100% of Staphylococcus aureus SA 1199 were killed within 120 minutes of contact time with a concentration of 0.25 - 0.50 mg/ml, while 98 - 100% of Candida albicans ATCC 90029 were killed within the same period and  concentration by the same extract (D. adscendens). Therefore, this study justified the antimicrobial properties of these plants, hence the plants could be recommended for use as source of new drugs for fungal and bacterial infections. © 2013 International Formulae Group. All rights reserved.Keywords: Desmodium adscendens, Bombax buonopozense, antibacterial, antifungal, Minimum Inhibitory Concentratio

Powering Rural Healthcare With Sustainable Energy: A Global Review Of Solar Solutions

Access to reliable healthcare and sustainable energy remains a global challenge, particularly in rural and underserved communities. This review paper explores the integration of solar energy solutions in rural healthcare settings, shedding light on the transformative impact of this innovative approach. This paper also explores the multifaceted benefits, challenges, and future directions of solar-powered healthcare through a comprehensive examination of the literature. Solar energy solutions in rural healthcare provide reliable power for medical equipment, extend operating hours, and improve lighting, leading to enhanced healthcare services and more accurate diagnoses. Moreover, solar-powered vaccine refrigeration ensures the potency and safety of vaccines, contributing to improved public health outcomes. Financial sustainability is bolstered as solar solutions reduce healthcare costs and offer financial independence to facilities. Environmental sustainability is achieved through reduced carbon footprints and responsible resource use. Beyond healthcare services, solar initiatives empower local communities by creating employment opportunities and enhancing resilience in emergencies. Challenges such as initial costs, maintenance, adverse weather conditions, scalability, and policy hurdles are addressed through innovative financing models, capacity building, climate-resilient solutions, standardized monitoring systems, advocacy, and technological advancements. As the world seeks to achieve universal healthcare and sustainable development, solar-powered healthcare exemplifies the potential of renewable energy to drive positive change. This review paper emphasizes that we can improve healthcare access, quality, and sustainability by harnessing the sun's energy, ultimately illuminating the path toward brighter, healthier, and more equitable rural communities

Solar Energy Adaptation And Efficiency Across Diverse Nigerian And Global Climates A Review Of Technological Advancement

Solar energy stands as a transformative force in addressing the world's energy needs while mitigating the effects of climate change. This comprehensive review paper explores solar energy adaptation and efficiency across diverse climates, focusing on Nigeria, a nation grappling with energy access disparities and environmental challenges. The paper surveys technological advancements, climate-specific considerations, policy and regulation, environmental and economic impacts, challenges, and future directions in solar energy. Real-world case studies from rural Nigeria to Canada illustrate the versatility of solar technologies, while policy frameworks and regulatory approaches are analyzed to provide insights into effective solar energy promotion. The paper underscores the interconnected nature of environmental and economic benefits. It emphasizes the importance of tailored solutions and community engagement. Technological innovation, policy alignment, and capacity building address challenges such as intermittency, climate-related factors, and upfront costs. Future directions emphasize technological innovation, policy alignment, energy access, capacity building, international collaboration, public awareness, and monitoring and evaluation. As Nigeria and the world navigate a sustainable and solar-powered future, the sun emerges as a boundless energy source, illuminating homes, powering industries, and fueling economic growth while preserving the environment for future generations

Predictors of Psychoactive Substance Abuse Among Eastern Nigeran Youth

AbstractPsychoactive substance (PAS) abuse is a major public health problem leading to increased morbidity and mortality. In Nigeria, the incidence rate of PAS abuse has remained high, particularly in the youth population. The purpose of this study was to examine the influence of social factors and school enrollment status on PAS abuse in youth in Southeast Nigeria. The social ecological model and the theory of reasoned action were the theoretical frameworks used for this study; they were selected due to their focus on multiple levels of factors that influence behavior. A quantitative cross-sectional study design approach was used to determine the relationship between social factors, school enrollment status, and PAS abuse. Primary data with a sample size of 420 (school enrolled = 240, school unenrolled = 180) were collected from the target population and analyzed using binary logistic regression analyses. The results of the analyses showed that social factors had a statistically significant influence on PAS abuse in both school enrolled and unenrolled youths (p \u3c 0.001). Also, a statistically significant difference was observed between school enrollment status and PAS abuse in youth (p \u3c 0.001); school unenrolled youths were more likely to abuse PAS compared to their school enrolled counterpart. Implications for positive social change include increased awareness on the influence of the social factors on PAS abuse in youth, existence of gap between school enrolled and unrolled youth in terms of PAS abuse; all will help to develop evidence-based policies and programs tailored at individual, interpersonal, community, and societal levels towards ameliorating incidents of PAS abuse in youths

Predictors of Psychoactive Substance Abuse Among Eastern Nigeran Youth

AbstractPsychoactive substance (PAS) abuse is a major public health problem leading to increased morbidity and mortality. In Nigeria, the incidence rate of PAS abuse has remained high, particularly in the youth population. The purpose of this study was to examine the influence of social factors and school enrollment status on PAS abuse in youth in Southeast Nigeria. The social ecological model and the theory of reasoned action were the theoretical frameworks used for this study; they were selected due to their focus on multiple levels of factors that influence behavior. A quantitative cross-sectional study design approach was used to determine the relationship between social factors, school enrollment status, and PAS abuse. Primary data with a sample size of 420 (school enrolled = 240, school unenrolled = 180) were collected from the target population and analyzed using binary logistic regression analyses. The results of the analyses showed that social factors had a statistically significant influence on PAS abuse in both school enrolled and unenrolled youths (p \u3c 0.001). Also, a statistically significant difference was observed between school enrollment status and PAS abuse in youth (p \u3c 0.001); school unenrolled youths were more likely to abuse PAS compared to their school enrolled counterpart. Implications for positive social change include increased awareness on the influence of the social factors on PAS abuse in youth, existence of gap between school enrolled and unrolled youth in terms of PAS abuse; all will help to develop evidence-based policies and programs tailored at individual, interpersonal, community, and societal levels towards ameliorating incidents of PAS abuse in youths