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

Empirical Verification of the Clients' Perception of the Adequacy of the Valuation Reports of Nigerian Valuers

The issue of professional valuation standards and quality of valuation reports has been subject of intensive debate at both local and international/eve/ in recent years. Studies on the subject of clients' perception of the quality of valuation reports have been extensively carried out in countries like UK, Australia and the US. However, the topic has not received much attention in most developing countries such as Nigeria. The purpose of this paper is to ascertain the perception of the clients who are the users of the valuation reports concerning the quality of valuations reports emanating from Nigerian Valuers. The survey was carried out with a view to addressing such issues regarding the quality of valuation reports with the intention of ascertaining the level of the clients satisfaction with the quality of valuations reports being given them by their professional valuers and to further identify the strengths/ weaknesses of the reports and make necessary suggestions for improvement if the views of clients suggest so. To achieve the objective of the study twenty four commercial banks and fifty property companies randomly selected were sampled in Lagos metropolis. Data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistical tools. The study revealed serious concern regarding the quality of valuation reports in Nigeria and necessary recommendations for addressing the identified problems were preferred

Analysis of Physicochemical and Bacteriological Quality of Surface and Groundwater Samples in Offa, Kwara State, Nigeria

The water quality assessment in First Baptist Church, Offa, Kwara State Nigeria was carried out by examining nine samples in and around the church premises. One surface water sample, five borehole water samples and three well water samples were examined. The result obtained from the physicochemical analysis showed a turbidity range of (2-6NTU), electrical conductivity EC (693-893 μs/cm), total dissolved solids TDS (346-542mg/L), pH (6.83-7.62), magnesium Mg (17-53mg/L), manganese Mn (0.02-0.1), aluminium Al (0.02-0.13mg/L), iron Fe (0.10-0.44mg/L), zinc Zn (0.8-3.60mg/L), chromium Cr (0.02-0.13mg/L), lead Pb (0.01-0.04), Sulphate SO4 (3- 20mg/L), Nitrate NO3 (3-18mg/L), phosphate PO4 (1.5-14mg/L), chlorine Cl (14-42mg/L), copper Cu (0.04- 0.7mg/L), chemical oxygen demand COD (62-120mg/L), total hardness TH (80-160mg/L) and total alkalinity TA (80-136mg/L). These results, together with that of the microbial analysis were compared with the standard provided by the World Health Organization WHO. Hence, it is crucial that the water supplies are regularly assessed and properly treated to provide the consumers with safe and healthy water

The application of immunohistochemistry as a research technique in veterinary medical schools in Nigeria

Immunohistochemistry involves the use of commercially prepared colour labelled antibodies to detect the presence and distribution of specific cellular proteins known as antigens. It is a diagnostic and research technique employed in medicine, but may have limited veterinary medical application in Nigeria. The present paper accessed the level of awareness and application of immunohistochemistry as a research technique among staff of the veterinary medical schools in Nigeria. As at the time of the study, ten veterinary schools were accredited by the Veterinary Council of Nigeria, thus used for the analysis. Respondents to a structured questionnaire from the veterinary schools included laboratory technologists and academic staff of the departments of veterinary anatomy, pathology and public health. Design of the questions progressed from mere awareness to theoretical and practical knowledge of the technique. Although 93.33 % of respondents who are academic staff were aware of the technique, and an equally high percentage of those aware of the technique have varying levels of theoretical knowledge, only 32.65 % of these respondents have practical experience of immunohistochemistry technique. Similarly, among the laboratory technologists who were aware of the technique, only 34.78 % have actively conducted it. Respondents of the veterinary anatomy specialty had the highest percentage of practical knowledge. Results also indicated that there was only one veterinary medical school with a functional immunohistochemistry laboratory in Nigeria. The paper recommended, among other things, the introduction of immunohistochemistry as a practical course in the curriculum of the veterinary schools in Nigeria.Keywords: Immunohistochemistry; Nigerian veterinary schools; NU

Evaluation of asymmetry using thumbprint minutiae among Hausa population of Kano State, Nigeria

The present study was aimed at determining the existence of FA in Hausa populations using thumbprint minutiae. The participants included 112 males and 105 females of Hausa Ethnic descent, aged between 18-25 years. The minutiae of the plain thumbprints were determined from a circle with radius that cut across the nucleus of the fingerprints. The result showed that in signed asymmetry bifurcation, crossbar, break, point/dot into ridges and point/dot between ridges exhibited sexual dimorphism. The left ward asymmetry in male was exhibited in bifurcation, cross bar, trifurcation bifurcation, break, bridge, opposite bifurcation, in "M" convergence, in "M" bifurcation and Point/Dot into ridges. Similarly, in female bifurcation, trifurcation bifurcation, enclosure big, opposite bifurcation, convergence, in "M" bifurcation and return exhibit left ward asymmetry. For absolute and composite asymmetry the significant differences was observed in end, enclosure (small), bridge and return. In the entire minutiae types only ridge bifurcation exhibited directional asymmetry in males and six other minutiae types in females. In conclusion, the presence of sexual dimorphism in thumbprint ridge minutiae was demonstrated in the present study. The leftward asymmetry was observed in both sexes in different types minutiae. Females were observed to exhibit directional type of asymmetry more than the males in this population.Keywords: Asymmetry, Environmental stress, Hausa population, Ridge minutiae, Sexual dimorphis

Wildlife conservation and agrarian economy in communities around Kainji Lake National Park, Niger State, Nigeria

This study was carried out to assess the wildlife conservation and agrarian economy in communities around Kainji lake national park of Niger state  Nigeria. The study was carried out in ten (10) randomly selected villages around Kainji Lake National Park namely (Luma, Kemenji, Kuble, New- Awuru, Old-Awuru, Dekera, Wawa, Woro, Malale, and Old Bussa). A total of 20 Questionnaires were administered in each community. Data was analysed using simple percentages, frequency counts and tables. The results revealed that most of the respondents (51.5%) engaged in farming for food production and income generation while about 31% of them engaged in farming for income generation only. Damages and destructions  caused by wild animals to crops in the study area is high and causes significant danger to the agrarian economy. Wild animals such as Hippopotamus (34.5%) raided the crop farms most, closely followed by Baboons (32.5%) and Patas monkey (24.5%). Farmers in retaliation adopted lethal methods such as using toxic chemicals (34%) and hunting (27.5%) to safeguard their crops. This study showed that conflict between man and animal is a serious problem in communities around conservation areas and this requires an urgent intervention to save animal in the study area  from extinction. Keywords: Wildlife, Conservation, Agrarian economy, Hunting and Extinction

Phytochemical, Proximate Analysis and Mineral Composition of Aqueous Crude Extract of Ficus Asperifolia Miq

To determine the chemical constituents, proximate, phytochemical analysis and mineral composition of the crude aqueous extract of the leaves of Ficus asperifolia. The extracts were subjected to proximate and phytochemical screening. The mineral contents were determined using standard biochemical methods and equipment. Phytochemical studies carried out on aqueous extract of Ficus asperifolia leaves showed the presence of alkaloid, saponin, phenol, tannin, cardiac glycoside, steroid, cardenolides and phlobatannins while terpenes, flavonoids, anthraquinones and chalcones were not detected. Analyses showed that the sample has high level of Carbohydrate (42.64%), moderate amount of Crude Fibre and Protein (18.41 and 14.73%), respectively and little amount of Ash content (9.78%) and Crude Fat (3.16%). Also a considerable level (11.29%) of moisture was shown. This composition shows that the sample could be a good source of Carbohydrate, Dietary Fibre and Protein. Sodium and Potassium content (0.185±0.002 and 0.367±0.007%), respectively indicates the tendency of Ficus asperifolia to be able to regulate or control the osmotic balance of the body fluid as well as body pH. Ficus asperifolia is also found to be rich in Phosphorus (0.349±0.002%) and Calcium (0.203±0.002%), which is essential for bone formation. Magnesium, (0.428±0.003%) is also present, which could help to lower the blood pressure. Antioxidant minerals Zinc (64.45±0.15 mg/kg), Iron (7.00±0.20 mg/kg), Copper (13.35±0.15 mg/kg) and Selenium (0.0027±0.01 mg/kg) are also present. Our findings therefore, suggest that there is an indication that Ficus asperifolia contains important phytochemicals, proximate and mineral compounds that may be linked to its beneficial effects on health

Biometric and morphologic studies of the female reproductive organs of the African giant rat (Cricetomys gambianus: Waterhouse)

Different segments of the reproductive tract of 100 adult, non-pregnant, female African giant rats (AGR) were carefully examined, weighed, and measured. The ovaries were observed to be small, pinkish, and kidney-shaped. The uterus of the AGR was found to be uterus duplex. The live weight of the AGR was 999.7 ± 16.86 g. The weight, length, and width of the ovary were 0.095 ± 0.003 g, 0.750 ± 0.01 cm, and 0.01± 0.02 cm, respectively. The length of the oviduct, uterus, and vagina/vestibule were 4.44 ± 0.06 cm, 4.877 ± 0.11 cm, and 4.345 ± 0.07 cm, respectively. The weight and length of the entire tubular organs were 3.171 ± 0.01 g and 13.559 ± 0.18 cm with corresponding range values of 1.61–7.10 g and 7.80–17.40 cm, respectively. (Folia Morphol 2010; 69, 4: 213-215

Differential grain yield performance of single cross hybrid maize in varied nitrogen conditions

Presence of genotypic differences in maize ( Zea mays L.) grain yield in multi-environments would help plant breeders to make logical decisions in improvement programmes of the crop. Hence, the grain yield performance, heterosis and stability in hybrid maize in varied soil nitrogen (N) conditions in Nigeria were assessed using multiple biometrical techniques. Grain yield performance, heterosis and stability of 150 single cross hybrid maize were assessed with checks in severe N stress, N stress and optimal conditions in a replicated trial laid out in 19 7 8 lattice design for 2 years. The grain yield was subjected to analysis of variance for each N condition and combined across years. Heterosis was estimated for the trait, additive mean effects and multiplicative interaction (AMMI); and genotype + genotype 7 environment (GGE) models were used to analyse the hybrids\u2019 yield stability. The AMMI captured 93.7%; while GGE bi-plot accounted for 88.7% of total variation among the hybrids. Eight hybrids had high yields across the N conditions. Genotypes and environments affected heterosis for grain yield. Hybrids TZEI7 7BD74-399, BD74-179 7BD74-55 and BD74-175 7BD74-147 were the most ideal genotypes for the N conditions; while severe N stress condition was ideal test environment. Hybrid BD74-170 7BD74-31 adapted most to N stress; while TZEI1 7BD74-399 adapted most to severe N stress and to optimal conditions. Based on yield, heterosis and stability, hybrids involving inbred line BD74-171 were recommended for N stress; while those with inbred lines TZEI1, TZEI4 BD74-170, BD74-128, BD74-179 and BD74-175 were adapted to N stress and optimal conditions.La pr\ue9sence de diff\ue9rences g\ue9notypiques dans le rendement en grains de ma\uefs ( Zea mays L.) dans plusieurs environnements aiderait les selectioneurs \ue0 prendre des d\ue9cisions logiques dans les programmes d\u2019am\ue9lioration de ma\uefs. Par cons\ue9quent, les performances de rendement en grain, l\u2019h\ue9t\ue9rosis et la stabilit\ue9 d\u2018 hybride de ma\uefs dans les diverses conditions d\u2019azote (N) du sol au Nig\ue9ria ont \ue9t\ue9 \ue9valu\ue9es \ue0 l\u2019aide de multiples techniques biom\ue9triques. La performance de rendement en grain, l\u2019h\ue9t\ue9rosis et la stabilit\ue9 de 150 des hybrides de ma\uefs simples crois\ue9s ont \ue9t\ue9 \ue9valu\ue9s avec des contr\uf4les du stress grave en N, du stress en N et des conditions optimales dans le cadre d\u2019un essai r\ue9p\ue9t\ue9 pr\ue9sent\ue9 sur un r\ue9seau 19 7 8 pendant 2 ans. Le rendement en grains a \ue9t\ue9 soumis \ue0 une analyse de variance pour chaque condition d\u2019azote et combin\ue9 sur plusieurs ann\ue9es. L\u2019h\ue9t\ue9rosis a \ue9t\ue9 estim\ue9e pour le trait, les effets moyens additifs et l\u2019interaction multiplicative (MAIM); et des mod\ue8les g\ue9notype + g\ue9notype 7 environnement (GGE) ont \ue9t\ue9 utilis\ue9s pour analyser la stabilit\ue9 du rendement des hybrides. Le MAIM a captur\ue9 93,7%; alors que les bi-parcelles GGE ont repr\ue9sent\ue9 88,7% de la variation totale parmi les hybrides. Huit hybrides ont eu des rendements \ue9lev\ue9s dans les conditions d\u2019azote (N) du sol. Les g\ue9notypes et les environnements ont affect\ue9 l\u2019h\ue9t\ue9rosis pour le rendement en grain. Les hybrides TZEI7 7 BD74-399, BD74-179 7 BD74-55 et BD74-175 7 BD74-147 \ue9taient les g\ue9notypes les plus id\ue9aux pour les conditions N; tandis que la condition de stress N grave \ue9tait l\u2019environnement de test id\ue9al. Les hybrides BD74-170 7 BD74-31 \ue9taient les mieux adapt\ue9s au stress N; TZEI1 7 BD74-399 \ue9taient plus adapt\ue9s \ue0 l\u2018 intense stress li\ue9 \ue0 l\u2019azote et aux conditions optimales. En se basant sur le rendement, l\u2019h\ue9t\ue9rosis et la stabilit\ue9, des hybrides impliquant la lign\ue9e consanguine BD74-171 ont \ue9t\ue9 recommand\ue9s pour le stress sous N; tandis que ceux avec des lign\ue9es consanguines TZEI1, TZEI4 BD74-170, BD74-128, BD74-179 et BD74-175 ont \ue9t\ue9 adapt\ue9s au stress N et \ue0 des conditions optimales

Engineering Innovations And Sustainable Entrepreneurship: A Comprehensive Literature Review

This comprehensive study explores the dynamic intersection of engineering innovations and sustainable entrepreneurship, a nexus that promises to redefine the contemporary business landscape. The research employs a systematic approach to literature review, critically analyzing recent scholarly works to unearth the prevailing trends, challenges, and opportunities in the sector. The primary aim of this paper is to delineate the transformative role of engineering tools in fostering sustainable entrepreneurship, with a keen focus on artificial intelligence, Internet of Things, and blockchain technology. Through a meticulous methodological approach, the study evaluates the impact of these innovations on sustainable practices, offering advanced interpretations and forecasts based on data analysis. The conclusion underscores a paradigm shift towards a more sustainable and future-oriented economy, driven by the integration of engineering innovations. It highlights the significant research gaps, indicating further exploration necessary to foster a deeper understanding of the sector's intricate dynamics. In light of the findings, the paper proposes strategic suggestions for the engineering sector, emphasizing the need for collaborative efforts, educational reforms, and policy initiatives to navigate the complexities of the evolving landscape. Furthermore, it outlines prospective developments and implications, highlighting the potential growth trajectories and the consequent socio-economic impacts. The study culminates in a set of robust recommendations, advocating for a harmonized approach that integrates technological advancements with sustainability principles, thereby fostering a landscape that thrives on innovation, sustainability, and entrepreneurship